Written by: Toluwani Oni, First-Year Representative with contributions from Alyssa Gesualdo, First-Year Representative Not too long ago, the biggest decisions to make were what school? …And what program? What grades? … And which friends? What residence? …Or which house? Not too long ago, navigating campus without a GPS was filled with obstacles, and probably impossible. The difference between now and then is the friends made, the dinners shared, and that one class that trul

Written by: Dylan Thompson, President As wages remain stagnant and the cost of student life is increasing at an unsustainable rate for some students, they are finding it increasingly difficult to afford post secondary education and the additional costs that come with it. According to the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance, in a 10-year period between 2006 and 2016, the cost of textbooks increased at a rate four times higher than inflation. Furthermore, mandating the pur

Written by: Varshini Ramansivakumar, Policy Analyst What is Navitas? Navitas is a for-profit, private education provider that, in partnership with universities, offers pathway programs to international students. These programs are advertised as a way for international students to complete preparatory coursework before transitioning into their second year of university. The growing interest in partnering with private companies like Navitas is linked to broader financial pressu

Written by: Grace Achonu-Johnson, Policy Analyst Western University has identified advancing Truth and Reconciliation as a key priority, in alignment with the national Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action released in 2015. The university’s initiatives in support of its Indigenous community, namely the Office of Indigenous Initiatives, Wampum Learning Lodge, and campus-wide programming have expanded significantly over the past few years, helping to close g

Written by: Eric Quast, MOS Department Representative For many Western students, renting in London is a defining part of the university experience. Unfortunately, it is rarely the smooth and carefree transition into independence that people imagine. Behind the photos of Pinterest board bedrooms and house-warming parties lies a far more challenging reality. Student renters in London face rising costs, inconsistent landlord practices, and a competitive housing market that leave

Your guide to what’s happening in Social Science — events, involvement, and ways to make the most of your September at Western...