Entrepreneurship Is It In You? - New College VS The Raptors Greed & Hollywood A Day Out on the Town, For Cheap - York University
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Winter 2010
Entrepreneurship
Is It In You?
+
A Feature interview with: sarah prevette,
founder of sprouter.com
New College VS The Raptors
Greed & Hollywood
A Day Out on the Town, For Cheap
& much more ...
E D I TO R ’ S N O T E
CO-EDITORS David Alexander,
Dear New College Community, Danielle Fucchansky,
Laksh Vig
THE NEW BEAT would like to welcome its readers by first saying Happy ASSOCIATE EDITORS Weimin Yang
New Year!
ARTS DIRECTOR David Tal
We hope you all had a restful and memorable holiday and that
the beginning of a new decade has made you made you reflect and STAFF WRITERS Danielle Fucchansky,
Laksh Vig
think about what you want to accomplish in the following decade. We David Tal
would also like to thank all of those who supported our inaugural issue
that was released at the end of 2009. PROOFREADER John-Luc Picard
Here at the New Beat, we are constantly thinking of new ways ILLUSTRATOR David Tal,
to make the New Beat a much better resource for students to stay con- Weimin Yang
nected to the college. For this issue, we brought out our notepads,
LAYOUT DESIGNER David Tal,
sketchbooks and a whole bunch of other materials to help us brain- Weimin Yang
storm for this issue. You can expect that we will capture New College
PHOTOGRAPHER David Tal
life in a way that entertains, educates and promotes the student in-
terest. CONTRIBUTORS Lua Emilia
The theme of this issue is winter. Although there has not been Ryan Pacht
Alex Lee
much of a winter this year in terms of the level of snow, the winter is Nathan Schwartz
still a very important time for many of us, as it indicates that we have
another semester to go before we get into the summer!
SPECIAL THANKS Marie-Helene
In this edition of the New Beat, articles on entrepreneurship Budworth,
and what it takes to own your own business are sure to catch your eye, Michelle Fucchansky,
NCC Executive Team,
while an article on some of New College’s most dedicated athletes is Sarah Prevette,
sure to make you proud. The magazine will also make you aware of Moshe Lokshin,
the latest events happening with New College and will inform you of Jon Kerr,
Eri Tzortzis
what to expect going forward. Mark Schwartz
Everything seems to be getting brighter for New College and
the New Beat will be there for every moment just in case you are not. CONTACT newbeat@yorku.ca
We hope you enjoy reading this issue. We had a great time
coming up with the ideas to put together the second edition and we Founded October 21, 2009
are sure that the magazine will keep you up to date, as well as provide
good reading on your commute home The New Beat is a publication of the New Col-
lege, published every quarter. Entire contents
are property of the New College © 2009.
Sincerely,
Electronic versions of the New Beat are avail-
able free of charge at:
Laksh Vig http://www.yorku.ca/newcollege/
David Alexander
Danielle Fucchansky SUBMISSIONS: If you’re interested in submit-
ting a story idea, article, illustration, or any-
thing else that you think would work well
inside the New Beat, please write to us at:
beatsubs@yorku.ca
New JOIN THE NEW BEAT: The New Beat is actively
searching for new volunteer writers, design-
Beat ers, illustrators and photographers. If inter-
Fall 09 ested, please contact us at:
newbeat@yorku.ca
02
New Beat
Contents
Features
04 07 12
Columns
06 11 15
10 14
New College Directory
16 21
Sprouter
A talk with Sarah Prevette
MAny StudentS in university dream of landing a nice job when they graduate.
they want a job that will offer a great starting salary, a job where professional
development is encouraged and recognized and a job that provides them with
self-satisfaction.
Other students meanwhile dream of having their own business. they want
to be their own boss, they want to make their own hours and want to be re-
warded for everything they do.
these students want to be entrepreneurs.
While many students dream of all of their time and money and Entrepreneurship has tradition-
owning their own successful busi- the ones who can offer advice to ally not been an actively pro-
ness, few of them venture out to aspiring entrepreneurs. moted profession. In Canada,
do so because of the risks in- For you see, a business owner there is a systemic culture of
volved. It is a fact that 80% of was also once a student who was striving to be "number two"—a
new businesses close within the thinking of an idea and how to propensity to join larger compa-
first year. And with an economy market that idea. On Wednesday nies, climb the corporate ladder
still recovering from an ugly re- November 26 2009, Sarah Pre- and achieve success through di-
cession, the chances that a stu- vette, the founder of Sprouter (a rect reports and an executive
dent will take a risk and open up website that “enables collabora- title reporting to the president.
a business is very unlikely. tion and networking between en- The more visibility we can lend to
Still, some do find a passion in trepreneurs globally”), came to innovation and innovators, to new
working for themselves and being New College to speak to students. start-ups, the more we will en-
the one to make the important She had a wonderful presentation courage entrepreneurship as a vi-
decisions. As a result, they begin where she answered questions, as able career choice.
to execute their brilliant idea and well as gave students a chance to
open up shop. While some do not talk to her face to face. She What was your inspiration to be-
make it to their fiscal year, some taught them important lessons come an entrepreneur?
go above and beyond. such as toughening up, especially I was incredibly fortunate to have
York University students have in face of failure. had the opportunity to gain expe-
the privilege of getting to meet I also had the privilege of get- rience in a start-up while still a
and hear successful individuals ting a chance to interview her. student. Learning first-hand
speak and share their success sto- Here is what she said: under an exceptionally charis-
ries at events and conferences. matic and visionary entrepreneur
Many of them are from large cor- How did you come up with the was a great initiation. Being sub-
porations and well-established idea of being an entrepreneur, as mersed in an environment that
businesses. Who York students do entrepreneurship is not a well- fostered ongoing innovation, had
not often get to meet are the publicized profession and as it a culture of unyielding passion
business owners themselves: the can be a ‘risky business to enter and an ongoing sense of urgency
ones who took the risks, invested into’? was intoxicating. It was that first
SArAh Prevette is a serial entrepreneur in a classic sense. upon grad-
uating from school, soon after founded the online venture, Sprouter, of
which this feature article discusses. however, she is also the founder
of a variety of other ventures, including: redWire (an online collabora-
tion tool facilitating knowledge exchange between startups and business
leaders), Social Mastermind (a volunteer run initiative pairing social
media luminaries with charities to help causes build online market
share) and regular networking events, such as Wired Wednesday, Sprout
up and Break Out Camp.
experience that gave me the de- funds needed. What advice do able for the numbers.
sire and confidence to pursue my you have for students in this po-
own ideas. sition? What, in your opinion, are the ad-
A number of programs, loans and vantages (or disadvantages) of as-
How did you come up with the grants exist that are meant to fa- piring entrepreneurs starting up a
idea for Sprouter? cilitate new business creation - business during a recessionary
Sprouter was born to overcome they just tend to lack effective economic climate?
the traditional isolation of entre- visibility. I'm continually amazed A recessionary global economy
preneurs and create an instant, at the plethora of initiatives means tighter budgets, longer
plug-in network of support. Start- geared specifically at students. I sales cycles and a climate of fear-
up founders leverage Sprouter for would strongly recommend re- ful uncertainty. But, like with
advice, inspiration and real time searching opportunities and most issues, there lies opportunity
feedback on their for a resourceful in-
business. [t]here lies opportunity for a resourceful dividual offering a
individual offering a timely solution. timely solution.
Do you have any ad- Products positioned
vice to give University students speaking with not-for-profit or- to save money for example, might
who are interested in start-ups? ganizations like the Canadian particularly prosper in a reces-
I'd recommend that anyone inter- Youth Business Foundation sionary environment.
ested in start-ups first gain expe- (CYBF.CA) It's worth noting that at the
rience working at someone else's same that the economy has taken
start-up. The culture, uncer- What lessons have you learned a hit, technology becomes
tainty and hectic pace of a new from running your own busi- cheaper and the cost of starting
business is not for everyone—try it ness/what advice can you give your own business has lessens. It
on first and see how it fits before now? is an unprecedented time in his-
committing your life to it. Start-ups are ongoing evolutions: tory to start your own company—
Internship can be an incredible constant iterations, tiny refine- leverage free online tools, tap
foot in the door and beneficial to ments and adjustments to pre- into online networks of support
both parties—the student and the laid plans. Aim to fail early. and actively engage with your
start-up. Resources are hard to Establish what your minimal vi- market.
come by in the early days of a able product is and push to bring
company and a willing (unpaid) it to market as fast as possible. The advice that Sarah shared
worker is happily accepted in Get feedback before you even es- with us was definitely invaluable
most places. The intern benefits tablish a prototype—build your and aspiring entrepreneurs should
from hands on experience and the product around true, established play close attention to what she is
entrepreneur through having an needs. Embrace failure as a saying, as good advice on starting
extra set of hands to help. process of progression, i.e. strive your own business is hard to come
to fail early, fail often and commit by these days
Many people (especially students) to constant evaluation. Establish
want to run a business but are un- your key metrics, build a dash-
able to come up with the start up board and hold yourself account-
GREED IN MOVIES
HOW A CARNAL SIN IS SEEN THROUGH HOLLYWOOD
“Greed is Good,” a famous line
uttered by Gordon Gekko, aka
just came out this year. He says
that even though it's a Hollywood
Michael douglas, in the oliver movie, it focuses on the “notion of
stone movie Wall street. it was greed and the extent to which that
also the line that stuck in my head can lead to the displacement of na-
on prepetual rewind as i attended tives to extract their natural re-
the November 12th, 2009, lecture sources.”
by dr. Mark schwartz, titled: The i then asked dr. schwartz how
Portrayal of Greed as seen through exactly he was inspired about this
Hollywood Movies. topic of business ethics. He an-
i sat in the classroom in Accolade swered in a somewhat unexpected
east anticipating dr. schwartz’s way. “(i) saw the movie Monster’s
impending lecture. But my expec- inc. on an airplane, and while ac-
tations about the lecture changed knowledging it's a movie meant for
the second he started speaking. children, it had an appropriate
instead of what one would nor- message in terms of how greed can
mally consider to be a class about create unethical behaviour.”
business ethics; my curiosity was vania. Lastly, dr. schwartz mentioned
struck when relevant examples Quoting dr. schwartz, business there are a few York University
were shown about cases that hap- ethics “relates to matters of the courses which deal with business
pen in daily life, via movies that i recent economic crisis, which is ethics, including the Business and
watched as a child, such as one reason for its appeal. Also, it society program, the Philosophy
Matilda. This lecture was a bril- discusses the recent scandals; department, as well as the schulich
liant way to irk the interest of those such as Bernie Madoff and school of Business. The school of
those who may be ignorant about Conrad Black. Learning about Administrative studies also offers a
the moral struggle peopleare faced greed in turbulent times teaches us course that he teaches, titled
with everyday. useful lessons.” “Business ethics and Corporate re-
schwartz asked us questions dr. schwartz believes that, “Giv- sponsibility.”
about basic, intrinsic values that ing more lectures of this sort will He also said that to get involved
corporations respect, and some- hopefully aid the reflection on the in business ethics, there are many
times disrespect, every day and importance of business ethics and student clubs, such as schulich's
how they are represented in popu- seeing how greed can unfortunately student club which covers corpo-
lar movies. schwartz constantly in- lead to decisions that can harm rate social responsibility, offered
volved the audience, asking others, such as the various corpo- for both MBA and undergraduate
opinions and whatnot. rate scandals and beyond aware- students. He says there is also a
Following the lecture, i got to ness and reflection.” Business and society student club,
speak with dr. schwartz, who him- Later, he discussed his ability to which relates to business ethics.
self has been teaching ethics in the bring across meaning. He believes dr. Mark schwartz was nomi-
school of Administrative studies for that, “showing short clips from nated for TVo’s best lecturer award
25 years at York Univer- movies is potentially better a way
sity. He also has a degree to reach an audience and generate danielle Fucchansky
in political science and an interest in a topic, because many Co-editor
New
Beat MBA law degree with os- Hollywood movies contain business
Fall 09 goode; he got his Phd at ethics or even greed.” He even
the University of Pennsyl- used the example of Avatar, which
06
ENTREPRENEURISM IN A CLICK
What it takes to be an entrepreneur
and why now is the best time to
become one.
BY DAVID TAL, CO-EDITOR
balance with my business, how to man-
It’s scary out there. Graduating age into my schedule.”
“You see, for entrepreneurs, you
from university, students would have to do everything, because usually
when you first start out, you don’t
hope to whatever belief system have the capital to hire anybody. …
Those things, how to manage your
they holds dear that they’ll be time, you’re not born with them. It
takes time to learn.”
able to land a job within their In the end though, Moshe confirmed
that, for him, the pros outweighed the
chosen profession, to finally cons. “Entrepreneurship is my life.”
The conversation then shifted to the
start their adult lives in qualities a young professional needs to
succeed as an entrepreneur. “Gener-
earnest. “But what if that doesn’t ally, I would say (you need to) have
dedication, persistence, discipline,
happen?” they might wonder. adaptiveness and awareness. Things
are always changing in the market
“What are my options?” place. You have to be prepared for un-
certain situations. And you have to be
get- alert. You have to keep up on the mar-
ting into one stream of work and stay- ket, know who your competitors are
For many soon-to-be-graduates, the
ing in that work until retirement, those and if they make a mistake, know how
answer to this existential query is
days are long gone.” to capitalize on it.”
weighing more and more on their col-
But Moshe added that above all else,
lective minds. And even with the
So what options are there? For “I think that it is very important for en-
economy crawling out of a recession,
some, taking action, taking command trepreneurs to be okay with failure,
finding work—any work—remains a
of one’s life to create one’s own oppor- because it’s there all the time. You fail
bloodsport. They will be competing
tunities feels like a welcome refuge and you have to stand up and keep on
with thousands of other new graduates
from the thought of having to rely on going.”
and hundreds of thousands of other
adult professionals for the jobs they the whims of external employers. This
mindset is entrepreneurship at its If that last point
want.
heart and many young professionals hasn’t scared
Pile on to this the fact that since the
are viewing this profession/lifestyle as prospective
1980s, since the rise of globalization,
a viable option upon graduation. entrepre-
cost cutting trends have changed the
One such individual is Moshe Lok- neurs off,
rules of the game. Specifically, such
shin, President of the Entrepreneurship t h e n
movements as downsizing (reducing or-
Society at York. Growing up in Israel, t h e
ganizational size either through the
Moshe developed a strong background next
number of employees or the number or
breadth of departments); delayering in computers, so much so that at 17 he
(restructuring the organization to pos- decided to start his own business. To
sess fewer levels of bureaucracy); out- his surprise (and a great deal of luck he
sourcing (getting rid of organizational adds), his business, M.n.B. Computers
functions to instead purchase them Ltd, grew over three years to generate
from external specialists); and casual- annual sales of approximately 3.5 mil-
ization of work (part-time, flex-time, lion Shekels (950,000 CAN).
temp work, volunteer, etc) have led to Sitting down with him, we discussed
a complete shift in how most view the the lifestyle of the entrepreneur.
concept of work. Sure it provides the satisfaction of
Summarizing this shift, Professor Jon striking it out on your own and, if
Kerr, a lecturer and coordinator of the you’re successful, a great deal of
management area in the School of Ad- wealth, but is it for everybody?
ministrative Studies in the Faculty of Moshe grinned. Then with a Russ-
Liberal Arts and Professional Studies, ian accent confessed, “(When I first
stated, “The employment environment started out) I had to sacrifice—ini-
today is fundamentally different than tially it was a girlfriend, then friends,
the environment 30, 40, 50 years ago. my high school grades were lower, all
The idea of getting out of university, the things that I didn’t know how to
likely question one might ask is, could say, “the costs seem to high. load free design tools like Blender or
“Where do I begin?” Starting a business, running a business,Google’s SketchUp to create 3D ren-
During the discussion with Professor nowadays only the big corporations can derings of their product, then purchase
Kerr, he pointed out that a good place do that. How can I compete?” online the manufacturing equipment
to start is through networking. “Suc- This mindset would have been per- (which have fallen in price from the
cess in entrepreneurship is as much fectly valid and common only ten years hundred thousands to a few thousand,
who you know as what you know or ago. For many, the costs of starting e.g. MakerBot) they would need to
how innovative you are. On two sides, one’s own business, competing with build their products at home or in their
it helps you with getting the resources the ‘big boys’ were staggering, not to rented space.
you need to get your venture off the mention the sheer amount of industry The latter is the approach Moshe is
ground … and also, at the market in- or legal knowledge one would need to currently taking with his new venture,
terface, networking exposes you to dif- obtain to ensure their business lasted Up Entertainment. Started over a year
ferent channels, new potential past the first few years. But something ago, Moshe invented a new television
customers. arose this past decade, something screen system for condo elevators that
“All things together, it’s usually the which acted as a game-changer: the In- will show video and advertisements to
well-connected person who wins the ternet Revolution. riders, but do so wirelessly instead of
game versus the in- using long
dividual without You have to keep up on the market, know who your bundles of
connections.” competitors are and if they make a mistake, know how to c a b l e ,
Kerr went on to which is the
explain how, in
capitalize on it. industry
terms of lack of funding, there are also It seems quaint to say this now, es- standard.
a variety of modest funding grants and pecially with how comfortable many He programmed the software him-
loans offered by the government for Gen Nexters are with the Internet. But self and, with a business partner, con-
young entrepreneurs (that is, if you that’s the point! When one thinks structed a several prototypes of the
can’t get funding from family, friends, about it, the Internet—and the Infor- screens, which were later installed (as
the bank, etc). Moreover, the impor- mation Age it helped foster—has com- a trial run) in a number of smaller GTA
tance is pressed for those students who pletely democratized almost every condos. With their success, Moshe has
lack experience, to “weave (entrepre- aspect of starting a new venture. And already contacted a Chinese manufac-
neurship) into their education and for those Gen Nexter’s, currently in turing company to produce more of
choice of part time employ- their 20s, they’re the first generation these elevator screens at much lower
ment, (to expose them) to grow up with it, to know how to use costs. If all goes well, he plans to soon
to the entrepreneur- it intuitively. shift his business into full operation,
ial landscape (as So why pay huge sums of money to installing custom screens in condo ele-
early as possi- market one’s product or service on tel- vators throughout the GTA.
ble).” evision or in newspapers, when one In all, never before has it cost so lit-
can do so for free (or next to free) on- tle or been so easy to not only start
“But line (e.g. Ebay or SparkFun) and in a one’s own business, but make it survive
still,” much more targeted way? and even grow globally. The only thing
one Why shell out thousands in consul- stopping most from doing so is the will-
tancy costs, when one can access ingness to take risks and invest their
reams of industry, legal, regulatory, time to pursue those opportunities
pricing, logistical information, etc, for they see in front of them.
free online. For Moshe, there’s one thing he
Why invest millions of dollars in would tell a young counterpart inter-
owning manufacturing plants, ware- ested in trying entrepreneurship,
houses, shipping fleets, etc, when one “(It’s) a lifestyle, not just a career. So
can organize online the outsourcing of what do have to improve most? Your-
a product’s complete production to self. I am constantly trying to develop
foreign countries like China (e.g. Al- myself, looking for what I’m good at
ibaba.com: business-to-business mar- and what are my weaknesses and try-
ketplace), have it stored in a nearby ing to improve on them.
warehousing company, accept pay- “There is no stop. You can always
ments for products online (e.g. pay- be better, always continue, always im-
pal.com), then deliver one’s prove, always explore other opportu-
products anywhere in the world (e.g. nities. It’s like a never ending
government or premium mail carri- marathon ”
ers)?
Even for those archetypal, DIY
garage inventors, they can now down-
What Lua Says
Dos And Don'ts Of Wearing Winter Trends
By Lua Emilia
A LiTTLE COnFusED about the proper way to pull of winter trends? Lua Emilia saves the day with
some inside advice. The season’s trends have been worn in many ways, from the most eccentric
runway lines to the most subdued retail concepts. But unless you’re dressing for a magazine photo
shoot, there are certain extremes to be cautious of when wearing the season’s favourites.
Colour Me Beautiful nance.
DO: Anchor your colour. A simple chignon or a tidy low ponytail will do the trick. A
Wear a basic black or grey piece as part of a colourful out- low maintenance coiffure will also leave people wondering
fit. Too much colour is distracting, and it might make you how you make it look so easy.
look like a parrot. DON’T: Overdo or under do your 'do.
DON’T: Wear all black. A mountain of curls is severely tacky and will make you
Add some gold jewellery, a bright pair of shoes, a waist- look dated. Underdone hair is just as bad. If you’re in a
cinching belt or a cute clutch for some spunk. real hurry, at least brush your hair back, and do not ever
commit the most heinous of fashion crimes by using a
Feathered Friends scrunchie.
DO: Fall in love with feathers.
Throw on feather earrings, put a feather in your hair or Hourglass Figure
buy a purse with some plumage added on. DO: Love your curves.
DON’T: Dress like poultry. We all want to look tall and lean, but we also want to have
A huge feather on your hat will make you look like Robin a feminine curve to our bodies. Waist cinching belts and
Hood and a feather boa is the pinnacle of tackiness. Use skinny jeans are loved because they accentuate just the
small doses to pay homage to feathered friends. right curves in just the right places.
DON’T: Add extra curves.
Over the Top Clothes that are too tight won’t hug your body, they will
DO: Dress up your outerwear. choke it. Avoid looking like the Michelin Man and make
Throw a necklace over top of your coat or sew on new sure that bras and waistbands fit properly. Don’t squeeze
shiny, metallic buttons to jazz up a plain-jane jacket. into them. Clothes should sit just right over your skin and
DON’T: Try to make sporty look chic. allow ease of movement.
If I had a nickel for every time I saw someone with cute
heels and a parka, I could buy the Marc Jacobs boots I’ve Point of Focus
been coveting. Ladies, please, just don’t do it. DO: Choose a focal piece for your outfit.
Whether it’s an inventive neckline, a darling blouse or
Graphic Design magnificent boots, pick a main piece and dress the rest of
DO: Wear interesting designs. your outfit around it.
Novelty doesn’t have to mean a t-shirt with a huge Super- DON’T: Become the main exhibit.
man logo. Calligraphic writing or artistic drawings are easy If you try to add too many main pieces to an outfit, you
ways to jazz up an outfit without the need for extra ac- will find yourself wearing a mishmash of looks and the
cessories. overall impression will be ghastly. Keep it simple.
DON’T: Be a walking billboard.
Fashionable women don’t wear shirts just because some Fun with Fashion
brand name is emblazoned across the chest in glittery writ- If you love this season’s trends, let them love you back by
ing. You must exemplify the look of the brand, wearing them the right way. Remember that when done
not become an advertisement for it. Also, if you right, they shouldn’t take away from the main attraction,
haven’t already, please throw out any pants that YOU! Have fun experimenting with the styles. Play dress
New have adjectives written across the buttocks. up and let your creativity flow, and you’re sure to be re-
Beat warded with some great ensembles
Fall 09 Hair Handbook
DO: Keep hairstyles simple and low-mainte-
10Be Part Of The
EMPLOYMENT: At present, we are ACTIVELY searching for new writ-
ers, illustrators and designers to work for the NEW BEAT, New Col-
ADVERTISING!!!
lege’s student-run magazine. If interested, please send a cover
letter, résumé (and sample of your work) to: newbeat@yorku.ca
SUBMISSIONS: The NEW BEAT welcomes submissions from writers
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itors at: beatsubs@yorku.ca
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Suggestions for future issues? Kudos? Crit-
icisms? The NEW BEAT welcomes letters to the editor. They must
be signed by the writer and include city of origin. Email: new-
beat@yorku.ca
EVENTS: If you are affiliated with the New College and are interested in promoting an event (that benefits
New College students) for free in our upcoming issue, please contact: newbeat@yorku.ca
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published.
Ten Things I Wish I Knew Before Coming Into York!
By Alex Lee, New Beat Contributor
1. Study Area. Bronfman Business Library is a good al- industry. Companies like to hire students who are active
ternative to Scott and Stacie Library, if you are looking in their school.
for a quiet place to study. Schulich, Health Nursing En- 6. Study Tips. Studying in groups is important because it
vironment (HNE), Technology En- gives you an opportunity to ask
hanced Learning (TEL) buildings questions and get help, especially
also have designated study areas for quantitative courses.
for students. 7. Services. There are great serv-
2. Textbooks. Refer to the Used ices offered through the New Col-
Book stores online, sometimes lege. Students can access Peer
brand new books sell for a bargain online. Also confirm Mentoring, Academic Advising, Writing Centre, and many
with your professor to use the older editions for even big- others to improve your academic standings.
ger savings. 8. Career. If you are attending professional events or-
3. Courses. Prepare and plan courses in advance. There ganized by student clubs or Career Centre, dress profes-
are specific prerequisites for some courses, so course sionally, and make a good impression. Focus on a small
planning is important. Talk to peer mentors and senior number of individuals, and follow up with them after the
students about courses that you want to take for advice. event.
4. Clubs. There are great numbers of clubs that are as- 9. Internships. Be aware of dates. Companies
sociated with the New College for business and IT ma- have deadlines for application forms, and
jors. They organize great events for you to network with there are hiring seasons for specific industries.
professional from the industry. 10. Enjoy. Do not forget to meet new people,
New
5. Get involved. I highly recommend students to be ac- and have fun. Make sure to add people from Beat
tive with clubs because you can A) Build your resume B) your classes and groups on Facebook and MSN, Fall 09
Enhance your soft skills C) Network with people in the and keep in touch with them
11New College VS The Raptors
By Laksh Vig, Co-Editor
On Sunday nOVEmBEr 22, 2009, 100 york university ter came, raptor fans witnessed the lead evaporate
students went to the air Canada Centre to watch the and saw their team trailing as the game came to a
Toronto raptors take on the powerhouse Orlando close.
magic. Vince Carter—who started the game slow and was
booed every time he touched the ball—took control in
the fourth quarter, putting up a game-high 24 points.
The final score was 104-96 and Orlando
proved to the crowd in attendance why
they are among the elite in the
Eastern Conference.
Chris Bosh meanwhile,
had a solid game with 22
points and 5 re-
bounds, but his ef-
forts were not
enough to stop
the forces of
Superman,
a . k . a .
d w i g h t
Howard and
The york Federation of Students had been selling rashard
heavily discounted tickets for weeks in advance for Lewis, who
the game in both the lower bowl and upper bowl. The both com-
game also marked the first time raptor fans got to see bined for 28
ex-raptor Vince Carter in a magic uniform. points and
Orlando, who had been the favorite to win the game 16 rebounds
going in, opened up the game with poor shooting. The in the game.
raptors took advantage and had a double-digit lead after the
early on. game was
The raptors continued to play hard throughout the over, york stu-
first half. unfortunately, by the time the fourth quar- dents had the
o p -
portu-
nity of a
lifetime –
to play
against each
other on the Toronto
raptors basketball court!
This amazing experience was
given to students thanks in large part to
the efforts of the yFS.
40 students, representing three differ-
ent colleges at york as well as an outside
competitive team, competed against
each other for bragging rights as the top
college in basketball. The colleges thatwere repre-
sented were
new Col-
lege, Glen-
don and
Founders.
unlike the
other teams,
the team
representing
new College
was com-
prised of in-
dividual
co-ed play-
ers who had
never played
with each other prior
the tournament.
They battled hard
and played their
best in all
three games,
not going
down with-
out a
fight.
al-
though
t h e y
were not
able to
win the
champi-
onship,
they dis-
played good
sportsman-
ship and were
happy to have
the chance to play
on a real nBa court.
Glendon captured
first place, with Founders
finishing a close second. al-
though this is probably the closest
that anyone who participated will get
to the nBa, it was a great day to be a basket-
ball fanA Day Out on the Town … For Cheap.
By Danielle Fucchansky, Co-Editor
It’s readIng week. You’re broke. nathan Phillips square, located at
what to do? Instead of maxing out dundas and University, Mel Lastman’s
your credit card, why not find out square, at 5100 Yonge street, and
some cheap or even free ways to enjoy lastly, at the Harbourfront Centre, 235
your break in toronto or the gta? Queens Quay w.
Luckily, there are a few categories skating during the winter, whether
of activities/places to visit that are indoors or outdoors, is the perfect free
cheap or even free; a rarity these activity, because it combines exercise
days. these categories include: art and leisure at the same time. You can
gallery and museum visiting, skating go with your friends, co-workers, or
and day and night life. your romantic other. Just a word of
to start, there are two art galleries, caution: not all arenas rent or sharpen
which for a few hours during the skates, so make sure to borrow be-
week, offer free admittance. If you forehand, or make an investment that
enjoy art of any type (modern, post- is sure to last you a long time.
modern, classical, etc), then you may the next category is ‘day life.’
make the trip downtown worth your there is much to do downtown with-
while. the art gallery of Ontario out paying a lot of money. Firstly,
(agO) offers free admittance to the kensington Market is an interesting
public every wednesday from 6-8:30 place to walk around, even in the win-
pm. It’s located at 317 dundas street ter. there is a lot of bargain hunting
west; a minute away from st. Patrick that happens and is the perfect place
station. another art gallery, which of- to find something unique in one of the
fers an interesting, contemporary ex- many kiosks. as well, the st.
perience, is the Power Plant Lawrence Market is a diverse area,
Contemporary art gallery. It has free which offers different types of food to
hours on wednesday as well, opened try at cheap prices.
from 5-8 pm. It is located at 231 the last category is ‘night life.’
Queens Quay west. there aren’t many things that are
Museums on the other hand, do not cheap to do at nighttime; clubbing
solely include art: their content can generally entails a cover charge,
range from anthropology to fashion, so which might not be good for a budget.
on and so forth. the royal Ontario something interesting though, is that
Museum is free for university and col- on sunday nights, smokey Joe’s has
lege students on tuesdays. this is a karaoke, which is free. It is located at
place for everybody, as it contains 4899 Yonge street. gather a group of
many different exhibits and is very in- friends and have an excellent night,
teresting. It is located at 100 Queen’s filled with song, for free (excluding
Park, a second away from the Museum drinks, which are not mandatory).
subway station. another museum something that should be added is
that’s different from most, is the Bata that besides reading week, the YFs
shoe museum (located at 327 Bloor and other school organizations con-
street west); perfect for the fashion stantly sell cheap tickets to sports
lover. thursday evenings from 5-8 pm, games and excursions. they also sell
the museum offers ‘pay what you discount tickets to Famous Players and
can,’ which would be around 5 dollars; aMC theaters, and to YUk YUk’s, so
being better than the regular admis- take those offers to your best advan-
sion of 12 dollars. tage.
the next category is skating. there to end, I hope that all the readers
are a few arenas in the gta, both in- take this information to heart; be-
door and outdoor, which have free cause besides studying during the
skating offered, during the winter of break, we all deserve some time off
new course. One indoor arena that I know from our hard work and why not cele-
Beat of is called goulding, located at 45 brate with something which costs very
Fall 09 goulding ave, off Yonge st. the other little (even nothing)
arenas, which are outdoors, are
14OPINION
Education or Regurgitation learning much less than I should be. and I was left with a sense of ur-
Nathan Schwartz, New Beat Con- this is not due to the possibility gency to get the assignment done.
tributor that the classes are not intriguing. I stopped reading the course kit,
rather, it is because my mind is fix- aside from the authors that I
AS I StrOll through the halls of the ated on the essays and exams that needed for the assignment and I
many monoliths at York University, I have to write as opposed to the stopped caring about the lectures
I find myself grimacing when, with- course material. Furthermore, I because they were mostly irrele-
out the intention of eavesdropping, have no qualms with essays as long vant to my essay. What started off
I overhear fellow students dis- as they give me the freedom to de- as a wonderful jaunt into the mag-
cussing tests, grades and other velop my own arguments and con- nificent world of knowledge turned
things of that na- duct my into a frantic, stressful run for the
ture. the reason for own re- finish line.
this wincing is that search, this is not to say that all courses
their focus should which is are of this nature. I have had a few
not be on the tests exactly courses (a very small few mind
and assignments. what all you) where the focus of the class
On the contrary, it assign- was on learning as opposed to
should be on the grades. In particular,
subject matter it- I would like to men-
self. they should be tion Professor len
conversing about is- Karakowsky, who de-
sues discussed in the lectures, ments serves all the venera-
when, in reality, they focus their should tion he gets. He is
attention on issues that have very be. one of those diminu-
little to do with advancing knowl- Instead, tive few who keep
edge. this truly bothers me deep I have the fire of furthering
down and it is in no way the stu- o b - knowledge burning.
dents’ fault. It is the educational served though there are
institution that they belong to that that the more, they are but a
steers their minds off the contents majority of the essays I have to drop in the grade oriented bucket
of the courses and onto these, write ask me to regurgitate what a and that is a crying shame!
many times, pointless assignments. single author said, which is any- Our educational organization is in
let me make it clear that I am a thing but intellectually stimulating. dire need of a revamping; a re-
huge fan of school. I believe that Worse still, with the method that is assessment of its strategies. School
learning is a fundamental compo- being executed, I tend to forget should be about furthering intel-
nent to life that every person most of what I have learned shortly lect, not grades. It should be about
should endeavour. However, with after the course has ended. this, critical thinking, not regurgitation.
the way the system is organized, again, is due to the fact that the It should be about the excitement
the focus is on grades as opposed courses are not focused on learn- of learning, not the anguish of test-
to furthering our intellect. I am ing. ing.
not saying, by any means, that we By way of example, I will point to- Until the appropriate changes are
should abolish assignments or tests wards one of the courses I am cur- made, I don’t think it is proper to
altogether. there is some impor- rently taking. When the year call it an “educational institution,”
tance to evaluating our under- started, I was excited to begin because it is simply not true. And
standing of the course material. ploughing through the course kit to though I specify York in
However, that’s not what tests and read all the different opinions per- this article, I am quite
assignments have become to mean. taining to the subject matter of the certain that there are
they have become the crux of course. However, once the profes- many other schools out New
York’s current educational compo- sor started pressuring us to begin there that should heed Beat
sition. working on our final essays, all this advice Fall 09
I, in honesty, am finding that I am feelings of enthusiasm vanished
15Academic vs. Practical Experience
By Ryan Pacht, NCC VP Clubs and Resources
Undergraduate students are committed to a minimum of three years of university to
wisely invest in their future, but how should one best utilize this time in school?
Students will soon be competing in a highly saturated job market and it’s essential
to prioritize beyond a degree. How do you do that? Through practical experience.
This can be a combination of volunteerism (like mentoring, student clubs, student
council) or experiential education and work experience (like being an intern or em-
ployee). Students who utilize these options will have an edge on graduates, while
maintaining desirable degree requirements.
Of the several benefits to
attaining practical experi- *Academic Adviser’s are
ence, the most important is ideal for guidance in taking
the application of knowl- the right courses (drop in
edge. This will in turn de- appointments are available
crease an individual’s study in the mornings).
retention time by having *1:2 class to study ratio.
applicable experiences re- Every hour of class is the
lating to one’s study. Ex- equivalent of two hours of
ploring practical studying. The school rec-
experiences helps guide ommended amount is 1:3
students in the right direc- ratio.
tion in terms of finding a *Attend all classes. Even if
niche within ones program the class is recorded, dis-
or alternatively result in tractions are minimized in
pursuing alternative career class.
options. With experience *Sleep is very important for
also comes networking and memory retention and gen-
industry contacts that will eral alertness. 7.5hr is
increase employment op- ideal while minimizing naps
portunities and professional to 20 minutes.
references. *Take a full course load but
A fine balance should be consider spreading it
cal experience variable resulting
achieved in maintaining high ac- equally over summer.
in a reduction of the needed
ademic grades and gaining prac-
time to achieve my overall goal
tical experience. Personally, the I would strongly encourage
of a timely graduation. Over
work and voluntary experience you to reassess your time and
commitment with practical ex-
I’ve received, while being a stu- start now in differentiating
periences also resulted in uni-
dent, has been tremendous. yourself prior to graduation.
versity becoming a secondary
That said, I have University is a learning experi-
objective.
made the error of off- ence so I would recommend
Below are some critical tips
New
setting this school vs. maximizing it by getting in-
in managing the needed time
Beat practical experience volved. Remember, opportuni-
management obligations with a
Fall 09 balance. I had an over- ties are endless, but time is
strong positive work ethic.
emphasis on the practi- limited
16keting world, is an invaluable tool that allows stu-
dents to have a better perspective on what is going
on in the industry. their ability to bring in top com-
panies such as RiM, proves that the AMA brings the
best for New College!
-strategic Human Resource Profes-
sionals (sHRP): this club caters to
students who are enrolled in both the BAs HR stream,
as well as the BHRM program. with workshops that
CLUBS
provide knowledge on
how to dress appropri-
ately for different occa-
sions, as well as a public
speaking and networking
New College CoNsists of six clubs workshop, this club gives
that help define the college’s culture HR students an in depth
and students. the purpose each club look at what their career
serves relates to employment, network- options are. students
ing and, of course, having fun! Many who are a part of the
students within the college are involved By Laksh Vig club also have the op-
either through acting as executives of clubs or portunity to hear addresses from keynote speakers
through membership registration. Nonetheless, it is and learn more about the CHRP designation.
important for everyone in the college to know what -esay: this club focuses on supporting stu-
clubs are available to them and what resources each dents interested in entrepreneurialism,
offer. i.e. starting their own business. it,s an
open community club at York University
Here is a list and description of New College clubs: that promotes and stimulates entrepreneur-
ial activity and idea generation, development and im-
-Atkinson Professional Accounting Associ- plementation. this may involve activities and events,
ation (APAA): the only club to keep the such as having guest speakers, panel discussions, club
Atkinson name (for sponsorship reasons), outings to events in the city, brainstorming sessions,
the APAA is undoubtedly one of York’s most proactive etc. we also provide resources and tools to our mem-
clubs on campus. with year round events and a con- bers to be able to utilize in their own ventures (i.e.
stant membership base of 300 + students, the APAA books, videos and mentors).
shows no sign of slowing down. the main purpose of -iteC Club: this club helps connect students in the
the APAA is to give students interested in a career in iteC program at New College with pro-
accounting, the opportunity to network with profes- fessionals from the information tech-
sionals. this is a valuable resource for anyone looking nology industry. with the constant
to pursue their CA, CMA or CgA designation. demand for it professionals in the working world, any
-National Finance students Association student who is considering a career in it will want to
(NFsA): After undergoing rebranding over the become a member of this club. information on in-
last year, the NFsA has showed itself to be a ternship opportunities for notable companies, such as
successful club for new college. with insight- iBM and oracle, is available for any student who’s in-
ful events such as the CFA strategy workshop and the terested.
edward Jones Case Competition, this club has every-
thing a finance student pursuing a career in finance this club listing brings together both the academic
would need. their free, online publication, the Arbi- and social aspect of new college. Any student who is
trage, is very animated and shows the cre- looking to get a head start on their career, or who is
ativity and genius behind the club. looking to meet new people and obtain helpful con-
-American Marketing Association tacts, should definitely consider joining any one of
New @ York (AMA): the AMA chapter these clubs. Not only does it add relevant and im-
Beat at York is very connected to stu- pressive experience to your resume, but it also makes
Fall 09 dents on campus. their interactive website, your university experience that much more memo-
which has up-to-date information on the mar- rable!
18Atkinson Professional
Accounting Association
American Marketing Association
York University Collegiate Chapter The Atkinson Professional Accounting Association
(APAA) is a student-run organization that serves to
The American Marketing Association (AMA) is the encourage leadership, excellence, and profession-
world’s largest and most comprehensive profes- alism in New College Accounting students of York
sional society of marketers. It’s the only organiza- University. The association was founded in May 1998
tion that provides direct benefits to marketing by a group of graduating students for the purposes
professionals in both business and education and of promoting New College’s Bachelor of Administra-
services all levels of marketing practitioners, edu- tive Studies in Accounting (BAS) program, aiding stu-
cators and students. dents and soliciting support from University faculty
and potential employers.
Benefits to new members include:
-Information sessions with speakers who provide expert
insight into the field
Benefits to new members include:
-Access to exclusive events held by the AMA Toronto chap- -Access to networking events with recruiters from the Big
ter 4 accounting firms and representatives from CGA and CMA
-Networking opportunities with executives from large Ontario
companies -Access to our website, which has useful information such
-Access to AMA’s bi weekly magazine with the latest in- as how to improve your resume and how to prepare for
formation from the marketing world recruiting season
-Volunteering opportunities that look great on a resume! -Email notifications of upcoming events
-Possibly compete in external accounting competitions
National Finance Students Association eSAY is an
open commu-
The National Finance Students Association (NFSA) is nity club at
a non-profit, student-run initiative, that is currently York University
partnered with all GTA universities, with plans to that promotes and
expand nation-wide in the years to come. Our goal stimulates entrepre-
is to provide our membership with the seminars,
neurial activity and idea generation, devel-
workshops, competitions and networking sessions
they can use to develop their skills and character,
opment and implementation.
two things that will provide our members with a dis- This involves activities and events such
tinct competitive advantage in the marketplace. as having guest speakers, panel discussions,
club outings to events in the city, brain-
Benefits to new members include: storming sessions, etc.
-Free online subscription to the NFSA Arbitrage Magazine
-Invitations to finance related seminars, workshops, com- We also provide resources and tools to
petitions, networking events and more! our members to be able to utilize in their
-Notices of employment and internship possibilities own ventures - books, videos and mentors.
through our sponsors and affiliates. In short, we provide an environment for
-Be part of a national association and thus expand your
people to develop their entrepreneurial
contact list
-Gold members recieve personalized NFSA Business Cards skills and make their dreams a reality.Human Resources Student Association
Information Technology Club
The Human Resources Students Association (HRSA)
The ITEC Club is a body of students in the Informa- is a student-run organization that is continually
tion Technology program at York University. The striving to promote personal and professional devel-
ITEC Clubs main goal is to form a social network of opment among all Human Resources Management
students within the ITEC programe, in order for and business students of York University. Its strategy
them to help eachother, make new friends, and in is to develop, promote and help students to excel
general make their university experience a better in the professional realm.
one. The ITEC Club also aims to act as a primary li- Our aim is to initiate a strong academic &
aison between the faculty and students in the ITEC social network, which will result in an environment
program, in order to identify and communicate is- that is receptive to sharing ideas and providing sup-
sues relevant to improving the education and social port. HRSA facilitates close interaction among its
environment of ITEC students. members of students, industry professionals, faculty
and alumni through a variety of career and social
Benefits to new members include: events.
-Tutorials with senior year ITEC students for: assignment
help, exam prep, general Q&A about courses or programs, Benefits to new members include:
exchange and/or selling of textbooks -An organization that caters to HR majors or those who
-Provide students with past assignments and tests are interested in pursuing an HR related career
-Hosts events with professionals from top companies -Events with guest speakers who offer advice on a variety
-Provide classes that are potentially worth credits. of subjects
-Learn about internship opportunities with top companies -Gain information on how to best pursue CHRP certifica-
such RIM and IBM tion
Be Part Of The
EMPLOYMENT: At present, we are ACTIVELY searching for new writ-
ers, illustrators and designers to work for the NEW BEAT, New Col-
lege’s student-run magazine. If interested, please send a cover
letter, résumé (and sample of your work) to: newbeat@yorku.ca
ADVERTISING!!!
SUBMISSIONS: The NEW BEAT welcomes submissions from writers
and photographers. Please first send a query to the NEW BEAT's ed-
itors at: beatsubs@yorku.ca
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Suggestions for future issues? Kudos? Crit-
icisms? The NEW BEAT welcomes letters to the editor. They must
be signed by the writer and include city of origin. Email: new-
beat@yorku.ca
EVENTS: If you are affiliated with the New College and are interested in promoting an event (that benefits
New College students) for free in our upcoming issue, please contact: newbeat@yorku.ca
OTHER QUERIES, contact: newbeat@yorku.ca
LEGAL NOTE: All letters or pictures submitted may be published by the NEW BEAT, unless expressly forbidden
by the sender. Names will be withheld on request. NEW BEAT cannot be held responsible for the return of un-
solicited material. All submissions may be edited for punctuation, grammar, style and length. Not all may be
published.
NFSA.ca Fall 2009 The NFSA Arbitrage 01Directory
Club New College You You
Other
Contact Contact @ @ Pass
Departments
Information Information York LA&PS
Club Contact Information ITEC Student Association Website: http://shrp.ca/
E-mail: itecyork@gmail.com Facebook: http://www.face-
American Marketing Website: book.com/home.php#/group.p
Association http://www.sit.yorku.ca/itec- hp?gid=12515551071&ref=ts
Email: ama@yorku.ca club Office:
Website: Facebook: http://www.face- Strategic Human Resources Pro-
http://www.yorku.ca/ama/ book.com/home.php#/group.ph fessionals
Facebook: http://yorku.face- p?gid=7685409573&ref=ts 253 Atkinson Building
book.com/group.php?gid=2207 Office: York University
785685 TEL 3058 4700 Keele Street
Office: York University Toronto, Ontario
258D Atkinson Building 4700 Keele Street M3J 1P3
York University Toronto, Ontario
4700 Keele Street M3J 1P3 York Business Network
Toronto, Ontario E-Mail:
M3J 1P3 National Finance Students yorkbusinessnetwork@gmail.co
Association mWebsite: http://yorkbusi-
Atkinson Professional E-Mail: info@nfsa.ca nessnetwork.com
Accounting Association Website: http://www.nfsa.ca Facebook: http://www.face-
E-Mail: info@yuapaa.com Facebook: http://www.face- book.com/home.php#/group.p
W e b s i t e : book.com/home.php#/group.ph hp?gid=2263213033&ref=ts
http://www.yuapaa.com p?gid=38798185613&ref=ts
Facebook: http://www.face- Office: New College Contact Info
book.com/home.php#/group.p 140 Atkinson Building
hp?gid=2728790275&ref=ts York University Shahiryar Asif
Office: 4700 Keele Street Club Support
253 Atkinson Building Toronto, Ontario shahir16@yorku.ca
York University M3J 1P3
4700 Keele Street David Alexander
Toronto, Ontario Strategic Human Resources Newspaper Co-Editor New
M3J 1P3 Professionals da7385@gmail.com Beat
E-mail: shrp.yorku@gmail.com Fall 09
21Club New College You You
Other
Contact Contact @ @ Pass
Departments
Information Information York LA&PS
Danielle Fucchansky ncc@yorku.ca www.yorku.ca/laps/eso/stu-
Newspaper Co-Editor www.yorku.ca/ncc dents
danirose@yorku.ca Email: esohelp@yorku.ca
You @York 2120 TEL Building
Laksh Vig
Newspaper Co-Editor RO SC&LD
lakshvig@yorku.ca Registrar’s Office Student Community & Leader-
All information about procedures, ship Development
Weimin Yang online student records, access to Listing of Student Clubs &
course enrolment and other serv- Organizations & host of
Newspaper Volunteer
ices and information, such as pe- community development proj-
wmyang@yorku.ca
tition forms, are available at: ects
wmyang189@gmail.com
www.registrar.yorku.ca like the Student Leadership
Bennett Centre Development Program
Melody Yousefian www.yorku.ca/scld
Student Success Program Assis- South 172 Ross Building
YI
tant
York International
ymelody@yorku.ca CDC
Programs & services for
International Students & Counselling & Development Cen-
Hameed Azeez information about International tre
Career Planning Liaison Assis- Internships and Study Abroad Workshops for academic
tant Options learning skills, confidential
h.azeez@hotmail.com international.yorku.ca counselling & other services
108 Vanier College www.yorku.ca/cdc
Ameet Hurry N110 Bennett Centre
Alumni Connections Assistant The Career Centre
ameet.hurry@gmail.com Free Career Support Services ACMAPS
including individual advising, Atkinson Centre for Mature &
Christine Youssef skills workshops. Part-Time Students
Peer Mentor Program Assistant www.yorku.ca/careers Support and resources to
cyoussef@yorku.ca 202 McLaughlin College meet the needs of all mature
and part-time students
Lua Farnoush Security & goSAFE www.yorku.ca/acmaps
Security is important; be safe and 111 Central Square
Event Planner
lua@yorku.ca aware – utilize free security &
transport services to ensure your SFS
safety on campus. Student Financial Services
New College Council
www.yorku.ca/goSAFE For all information about your
140J Atkinson Student Account, financial mat-
228 William Small Centre
York University ters, OSAP and available Scholar-
4700 Keele Street ships & Bursaries
eSO eServices
Toronto, Ontario www.yorku.ca/osfs
New LA&PS Computing services and
M3J 1P3
Beat support, labs, distance Ed and Located in Bennett Centre for
416.736.2100 xt.33572 course web sites. Student Services
Fall 09
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