UTSC Gets Latin Fever

Hello fellow readers! I know my post usually comes during the week, but I was recovering from LATIN FEVER. The source of this fever is none other than The Latin American Student Association (LASA for short). LASA is a new student club that has really taken this year by storm with a level of passion and dedication that I myself have not seen from a new club since I was a freshman. With an ever-growing list of members and successful events LASA is a top contender for the “Best new club” award.

Most recently LASA hosted a Latin themed Pub Night at Rex’s Den this past Thursday, Nov. 3^rd and I not only had the opportunity to be there but also DJ the event! – Yes I have other skills besides blogging and being awesome (haha). Despite being tied to the DJ booth (which was in a different room) all night, I did manage to find time (usually between songs) to walk amongst the crowd to get a feel of the night. The first thing that stood out to me about the crowd was its diversity and the size. I was very pleased to see that LASA had actually hit capacity for Rex’s Den with more people waiting to get in. It was interesting to see people from all walks of life in the crowd all there to enjoy Latin culture.

The night started at 9pm with Salsa dance lessons taught by none other than Miguel “The Artist” Pinzon who also teaches a hip-hop class in the gym. At first there were about 40 students ready to learn how to salsa and by about half way through the 1 hour lesson the group had swelled to approximately 60-70 students. It was actually a joy to see such a mass of students all dancing salsa in unison – In hindsight I wish I had taken a video. It was quite refreshing to see students enjoying themselves without the focus being alcohol. I was glad that many students took an interest in the salsa lessons because I didn’t want an empty dance floor if I played Latin dance music.

The majority of the crowd trickled in after 10pm, after the lessons were over, and that’s when the real party began. I saw many students grabbing some food and drinks while others hit the dance floor. At first selecting songs to play was a challenge because I couldn’t see the crowd’s reactions but with help from the Miguel who acted as MC it got easier as the night progressed. For those who attended the Pub-night I apologize for the shoddy music at the beginning. :P

A highlight of the night was a dance performance by none other than acclaimed UTSC Latin dance instructor Danny Perez & his beautiful partner Laura. They lit the dance floor on fire with their performance as well as ignited a round of Salsa and Merengue.

Despite being separated from the crowd for most of the night, I was no stranger to the heat of the night. At the night ended, I could see people leaving drenched in sweat but with huge smiles on their faces – a sign of a good night. Over all I believe the night was a huge success and the members of LASA should be proud of themselves. I challenge all clubs to put forth an effort to engage a range of students like LASA has.

If you never been to a LASA event or if you enjoyed the Pub Night and want more information about LASA and their events check out their Facebook page by clicking here. I also believe that is where the photos from the Pub Night will be. If you attended the Pub Night or any other LASA event, tell me about your experience there in the comment section below. Remember to follow me @malcolmwong1 on Twitter and subscribe to the blog!

Check up from the neck and up

Like I promised, your dutiful Wednesday blogger E.A.P is here to talk about my appointment with the "Health and Wellness" Centre.

2 things you have to have before entering the center, 1) T-CARD and 2) Health Card. They're nice enough to let you off the first time but, it's still a big deal.

I filled out a few forms, gave them my contact info and then sat there waiting. They also give flu shots, but I wasn't so keen on getting a needle shoved up my arm.

It's always awkward when you're in a room with a stranger who knows nothing about you and you have to talk about yourself. I tried not to be nervous and awkward but what can you do?

Going into my meeting, I tried not to regret coming here and just see things through.

I talked myself into staying. I tried the best I could to talk about my struggle. The person I was talking to recommended I start off with counseling and if things don't get better, I start on medications.

I left feeling somewhat better and hopeful knowing that I'm putting effort into my health and taking advantage of the resources that are made available to me. I just don't want to front and back out last minute because I was scared. I'm not alone.

If you take away anything from this post it's this: Nothing happens in epiphany moments where you wake up and discover a solution to your problems (whatever they may be). The best you can do is put yourself on the path of recovery. I say recovery in the sense that you are taking steps necessary to solve/resolve and make things better for you.  It's ALWAYS best to start in small, tiny, baby steps. This life is a process.

So here's what I did for Halloween. I went tricker-treatin. I'm not too old! Getting free candy is always in style. By the way.... this was my costume...

Me and my sister went as Mario and Luigi. Yes, we had a photo shoot while the street-car driver guy went for a smoke :D

GO CHECK THIS OUT! http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=237759232945072

#Dancemypantsoff Halloween themed song

Stay in school kids...until next week :)

It's hunting season

The tenth annual UTSC Duck Hunt took place at Varsity Arena Friday Oct. 28. The men’s UTSC tri-campus hockey team faced rivals UTM.

Every year, the first time the two teams play each other – it’s a fierce battle of East vs. West. Both teams laced their skates in front of a crowd of U of T students and supporters.

UTSC took the title last year and was prepared to defend it. A florescent red sign hung on the glass beside the UTSC bench reading, “The Cup Stays Home.”

The name Duck Hunt refers to the 80’s video game, where shooters aim at soaring ducks. In this case, the ducks are metaphorically UTM’s mascot. An eagle.

This year was the first time I've attended the Duck Hunt event. To my surprise, it started ten years ago to boost school spirit and celebrate hockey players within U of T.

A few UTSC alumni told me that a few years ago, this event used to be huge. It brought out larger crowds and was the most talked about event. This year, there still was a number of people who showed their support (around 50-60) with colourful signs, Duck Hunt shirts, and cowbells - but I believe this event can be attract a larger crowd with more publicity.

Some suggested it would be a great idea to make the Duck Hunt a homecoming event for UTSC.

Photo cred: Greg Danko

I took my seat just in time for the first puck drop. The game started with fast pace and full of energy from both teams.

Brodie Fitzpatrick, #16, scored the first goal with a one timer in the first. 

UTM came back, scoring a lucky goal through the five-hole of UTSC goalie Trevor Carozza, #30, making both teams scrounge for the puck until the third.  

Fitzpatrick striked again as the time whined down in the game, making UTSC lead 2-1.

As both teams filled the penalty box with seconds to go, the determination and strive of UTSC paid off as the game ended with the final score of 2-1 for UTSC.

Currently, the entire Duck Hunt series stands 5 wins for UTSC and 5 wins for UTM.

Indeed, the cup stayed home.

Photo cred: Greg Danko

EVAN VAREY

Major: Environmental Science

Year: Second
Position: Defence

Why did you join the hockey team? 
I got dragged into it by Danko (former SCHPA president) after Frosh week. I met Carozza (the goalie), a couple years ago and he saw me at campus the first week and told me to come out in my first year. And now I’m here.

Best part of being part of the team? 
All the guys are so much fun. Guys like Danko, make my day.

TREVOR CAROZZA

Major: French specialist

Year: Third
Position: Goalie

Why did you join the hockey team? 
I’ve been playing hockey ever since I was a little kid. I wasn’t ready to quit yet. I feel like my best years are still ahead of me. I’ve met a lot of great people in this program, so that’s what’s it’s good for too.

Best part of being part of the team? 
Good atmosphere. Anyone who hasn’t played a sport or been on a team, it’s like another family, another set of friends. Hockey players are their own special breed, so we all get along

Do you find the team conflicts with school? 
No, I wish we had more hockey, more practice time, more games because nothing compares to the feeling when you get on the ice.

Any pre-game traditions? 
I always get dressed in the same order, right pad always goes on before the left, right skate always goes on before my left. Same warm up, same stretches, same everything. Nothing changes.

I think I need Sugar Addicts Annonymous...

Just around this time of year I get the hankering for some post-Halloween candy. Ever since I outgrew my trick-or-treating years (is there such a thing?) I’ve been sad and alone holding my own day of sweet celebration that I call “Cavity-Inducing Day of Awesome” - CIDA for short. Not to be confused with the other important, government-y thing, CIDA is the one day of the year I let my glucose-coloured glasses colour my world awesome.

Every year, I used to gorge on fright-night loots (back in the glory years of candy bags and generous neighbours), but more recently I satiate my sweet tooth with CIDA! It’s been a few years now that I’ve been gone from the childish land of trick-or-treating, so this year I decided to grow up the right way. I wanted to branch out a little bit - away from the fun pack of chocolate and the dollar-store candy, into the land of refined pastries and top-tier baked goods.

I wanted to use terms like: “baked to perfection”, “heaven for my tastebuds”, “bite your way to bliss”…  and CIDA gave me just the excuse. But, being a creature of comforts, I didn’t want to travel very far. So I did my research and  here I am sharing with you all, the amazing bakeries and cafes we have in our own neighbourhood!

Sugarbuds –

Major Intersection: Military Trail and Meadowvale Rd.

Right down the street from campus, this cute part-bakery/part café/part awesome cake shoppe offers a variety of specialty cakes, cookies and pastries for all occasion (along with the cursory sandwiches and snack type thingamabobs!) A view of the blissful Highland Creek Village, let's you forget about the concrete walls of UTSC. This Katy Perry-esque dreamland of delectable delights is run by a husband-and-wife duo, so you know you'll always get the personal touch. This is a perfect spot for some catch-up over a plate of your favourite flavour of bite-sized baked goods and the food is as good as it looks.

Lamanna’s Bakery –

Major Intersection: Kingston Rd. and Sheppard Ave.

With music straight from the streets of Italy and a head chef that bakes like the Cake Boss, this place is a go-to for anyone craving tiramisu, cannelloni or any other authentic Italian cuisine. With the added bonus of being a café, a bakery and a mini-restaurant, the convenient location (right next to a Rogers!) also makes Bakery L just a stop on the road to a very good night. Impress your significant other with a signature personalized mini-cake. You won’t be disappointed - the bakers are more like artists here! Check out their Facebook page for albums of the delicious and decadent cakes!

Mr. Beans Coffee Co. –

Major Intersection: Lawrence Ave. East and Port Union Rd.

This favourite of former Mowat Collegiate students (and some proud UTSCers) is the best place for a quick bite during all seasons. In the winter, “Beans”, as it’s known, specializes in hot chocolate and mocha lattes of all kinds and combination. This is your mom-and-pop version of Starbucks. And if the servers (some of them high school students with promising careers as coffee baristas) feel good, they’ll even do a bit of latte art for you! Delight in the freshly baked, croissants, cream puff pastries and cozy up with your favourite brand of authentic Italian coffee. Ask any kid from "the Island" (Rouge Hill), even in the summer Beans is the top spot for anything that will please you palate.

Coffee Culture –

Major Intersection: Ellesmere Rd. and Markham Rd.

 Nothing goes better with your slice of triple chocolate hazelnut crusted brownie than a sip of your favourite blend of coffee. Or as the German and the super-stylish say: koffee. This café is a favourite hangout of Woburn Collegiate kids, but many a UTSCer has been known to frequent this haven of delicious coffees and cakes for a bite of some amazing baked goods topped with a generous dollop of nostalgia.Also, check out their other locations all over Canada! Tip: That entire plaza is a goldmine for food options off-campus (check out Tangerine!)

So if you have a craving for sugar, need your daily dosage of delicious baked goods, or just a post-exam pick-me-up don’t be shy to take a trip down the street. You’d be surprised to see all it has to offer!What other sweet spots do you know around campus? 

Where is your favourite place to hang out and take a break? Let me know in the comments below and as always, tweet me anything and everything :) Until next time, om nom nom!

Moviegoers Galore!

What's up moviegoers, this is Raphael back for Friday's blog!

Hopefully all of you have already finished your midterms and finally have some time off studying. We all have spent quite some time on campus  and we may think we know all about our school. Well, if you are a movie lover then you must know that our campus has been in a few movies. Yes, I know crazy right? Actually around this same time 2 years ago we had the Meeting Place used as a set for a popular movie. Can you guess what it was? If you remember from my last blog, I briefly mentioned it at the beginning.

Give up?

It's Resident Evil! Check out the photo below of the transformed Meeting Place.

Resident Evil: Afterlife

If you remember from last week, I mentioned that the striking architecture of the Humanities and Science Wing won awards, but what I didn't mention was that it won because of the "brutalist" nature of the buildings. The location manager for the movie saw the possibilities with the building and could manipulate the space with ease. When I first heard about a movie was filming at UTSC, I was ecstatic, as a first year I thought I could be a bystander in the movie. Unfortunately I didn't get my chance to be part of the movie, but I saw the movie sets and the lighting equipment they brought for the shot they needed. It's just great to actually see the movie and say, "Hey they filmed that scene at my school!" I mean not everyone can say that about their schools, right?

Ok here's another great one, can anyone guess which movie this strange "stormtrooper" look-alike (on the right) belongs to? No, it's not Star Wars. Give up? It's Total Recall! Never heard of it, huh? Ok, to be honest I didn't know about the movie either until I searched it up. Apparently Total Recall is a remake of an old 1990 sci-fi movie with Arnold Schwarzenegger. But this time the main star will be Colin Ferrell along with Kate Beckinsale. Yes it's a remake of a movie that was made before I was even born! I can't wait to see the shots of this movie! And what's even cooler is that one lucky student was chosen to be an extra (one of the storm troopers like the one on the right) to be part of the movie! Yes he was paid $11 an hour to be part of the movie and got a glimpse of the actors in the movie. Imagine being part of a movie, right in your own school! That definitely deserves major bragging rights, whoever he is, he is one lucky guy.

And once again the Meeting place was the place used for the set, to make a (what it looks like) a busy sci fi train station.


This really shows that University of Toronto Scarborough has always been destined for great things. Ever since the uni first opened up in 1966, its buildings has told a story, and it's our priority as students to carry on that legacy. I don't know about you guys, but as a student I feel much more connected with a school when others (such as movie producers) can see our school as a backdrop for their ideas to come to life. I am grateful to be in a school where one can explore new opportunities and every single student should be proud to be in school such as ours. This is Raphael with your weekly dose of interesting facts about our university, please subscribe to our blog by clicking the follow button at the top and have a great weekend everyone!

We Made it!

Hola beautiful blog readers! 

I hope all of you are enjoying our almost one month of daily blogging at UTSC PULSE! This is Moiz (PLUG: follow me at @Moizmaq) coming at you once again on this wonderful Thursday. I really had no idea what I was going to blog about until two days ago. So make sure you guys tweet/comment me ANYTHING you’d like me to write about… ANYTHING! Today’s post is for my fellow first year students and maybe even students that are still in High School right now! Being at University for almost two months made me realize how different High School and University really are. So I decided to write a blog post about it! :D

 

The biggest change is definitely the freedom we get in University. I mean this in an academic way and also in a social/personal way. Academically, freedom means that there isn’t anyone hunting you down for not handing in assignments, doing homework, keeping up with the lectures or even coming to class! In High School, most people were forced by others to go to class. In University, nobody cares if you go to class or not. So in a way, you have to force yourself to go to class!

It doesn’t end there, when you get to class the problem becomes paying attention. How many times has this happened to you; One second you swear that you’re paying attention to the prof, and the next second you’re magically on Facebook creeping your newsfeed!? I’m guilty of this myself but it’s not even my fault, I swear my computer automatically puts on Facebook when I’m not looking! In High School, the teacher is always picking on you to pay attention and not fall asleep or text so that was never a problem. Personally, it annoyed me when teachers did that in High School but now I feel like I took it for granted. I think I need someone to constantly make me pay attention in class now (I know you ALL can relate)! 

In a more personal way, freedom comes from being away from your parents and family. Most people choose to live on res when they go off to University. This means even more responsibility for a student! You have to cook, clean, manage your time, etc. A big thing about University is that you HAVE to be self-motivated. NOBODY really cares if you get your work done or not, you have to choose to do it yourself! Also, a lot of people think University is all about studying and doing well in all your classes. Although that is a big part of being at University, your social/extracurricular life is what will keep you sane! My advice to you first year students is to go out and get involved in any way you can.

photo credit- Ken Jones

Another change in University is the sizes of the classes and lectures! Most of my first year courses have classes of close to 500 people each! That’s a big change from High School where most classes had 30 people and even that was considered a lot! Another difference is that your final grade is usually based on 3 or 4 grades (midterms and finals) instead of about 20 grades (assignments, tests, quizzes, etc.). 

And finally, everyone’s favourite change… YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR UNIVERSITY! This is probably the change your parent’s will feel the most. This change doesn’t have to be negative though. It does benefit you in terms of motivation, if you feel like you don’t have enough motivation to work hard in school just think of all the money you put into your education and I’m sure you’ll be motivated in no time!

I feel like I got the major differences between High School and University down. If you guys feel like I forgot something, or if you have any changes you’d like to add, feel free to do so in the comments section below! And make sure you let me know if you have any blog post ideas you want me to write about! Until next week.

Peace and love.

October is 'Mental Health Awareness' month

In the spirit of this month, I thought I'd take time out and share my struggle with depression with you, here, now.

One way I deal with my depression is by writing creatively, here is a sample:

Today is one of THOSE days.
It's that day where you get out of bed and ask yourself why?
It's the day you've given up on before it even begins.
It feels like time is moving in slow motion.
It feels like you've made a cute little black hole inside yourself and you're being consumed, and you don't even know where it's headed.
You want to reach out but you're afraid that if you put your hand out, it'll freeze and be stuck. It was a nice idea at first; to make a nice little emotional cocoon and just hibernate there for a little while when the world got a bit...much.

Now it feels more like a never ending case of stairs you just want to reach the end of.


Now it's like you're sick...all the time...on the inside
Now it's like everything is giving up on you, or rather you're giving up on it, and you can't decipher which came first.
Now you're just decaying.
Now you're drowning in quicksand made of lack-of-oxygen and emptiness.
Now time is running out.
Now it feels like you have absolutely no motivation left to pursue anything.
You know you have reason to worry when the things that made you so happy leave you with that bitter taste in your mouth.
You know what the worst part is? It's when you know you're in pain and you just let it rule over you.
All these assignments, expectations, excuses.
Sympathy is such an easy emotion to evoke in you.
I'm hurting you, hurting me.
If I couldn't look at myself in the mirror what makes you think I'll look you in the eyes and admit the truth.
When you're in pain, you're in pain. Why fight, deny or repress it?

I received support in high school, and have come to realize I should reach out and look for support on this campus. I took a big step and I decided to book an appointment with the Health and Wellness Centre. (They are located on the second floor of the Student Centre)
I'll let you know how it went.

Until then stay strong.

Song of the week-