A new school year is beginning. For many, especially if you are—like me—going into your last term, this year is your last opportunity to experience student life.  I feel more passionately today than at any point in my undergraduate degree towards getting involved in extracurricular life at U of T.  Having spent the first two years of my undergrad almost completely uninvolved in anything outside of academia, I now only have one year left to make the most of this undergraduate experience.

On July 28, 2011 Hart House presented its fourth annual craft beer festival—a gathering of craft breweries from across Canada. With more than 20 breweries at the house, most offering several type of beer, the variety and choice was intoxicating. For $35 ($30 for students), I received 8 drink tickets and a scrumptious BBQ dinner of corn-on-the cob and pulled pork sandwiches. 

Like many students, I am currently looking for a place to rent for the upcoming year. Thankfully or unfortunately, depending on how you see it, I already have a wealth of experience looking for and renting accommodations. Over the past three years I have lived in four different locations, each year moving into a moderately better place. The first place I lived was too small, uncomfortable and, worst of all, located uptown.

It's 4:00 am and for some reason I can’t sleep, so here I am writing about my experience of Pride weekend.  Perhaps because I am a political science student or because I over analyse everything (a really distracting habit) I need to get these thoughts swirling in my head on paper (so to speak) or I definitely won’t be sleeping tonight. I know what many of you are already thinking....no, I won’t write about Mayor Rob Ford’s lack of attendance, I have heard way too much about that in recent days.

For many of us the next few weeks will be the busiest and hardest time of the year. Whether you’re working on essays, reports, studying for tests or exams, it’s a stressful time. This has certainly been reflected in a number of conversations I’ve had recently with peers—everyone seems to be studying or writing papers. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if you’re procrastinating between studying and writing, right now (if so, please don’t stop reading just yet).

I am no expert on this topic....far from it. In fact, the more I write about this, the more aware I am of how much I have yet to experience and learn. Nevertheless, I think this topic deserves a voice.

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