Knowledge = Opportunity

September is here, and with it classes will begin and students will be challenged academically, emotionally, physically, spiritually, etc. University is a great opportunity to expand your thinking and to gain intellectual knowledge and practical experience. As a student you will be stretched, your values will grow and change, your interactions with peers will adapt, and you will come out of your degree a different person than you were when you began. The life experiences you gain this year are invaluable, but in the making they often present you with challenges and adversity. There are countless services, events, and groups on campus that can help you on this journey of self-discovery.

Last February during the election I advertised my candidacy with posters branded by Knowledge = Opportunity, I know UNB. I said that I could help students to take advantage of the opportunites which exist for them at UNB as a direct result of the tuition and fees that they pay each semester. I want to take this opportunity to encourage all of you to sieze the opportunities afforded to you as students at UNB.

On a very personal note, I have changed since coming to UNB. I grew up in a very conservative Christian household, and I came to university with some very firm, but unquestioned beliefs. My experiences here with different student groups have given me the opportunity to explore what I believe and to develop those rigid beliefs into personal statements of faith.

This year as you continue exploring who you are and who you will be, challenge yourself to sieze the opportunities.

o Become a member of the SCUBA or Rock & Ice Climbing Club and learn a new activity
o Audition for a dramatic production with Theatre UNB
o Attend a cultural night hosted by one of the cultural groups
o Participate in career counselling to help ensure that you are pursuing your optimal career path
o Volunteer with the Best Buddies program and invest in another human being

… And don’t be afraid to ask for help

o Take advantage of the free private tutoring offered by the Math Help Centre
o Visit the student health centre when the need arises
o Take part in the stress management workshops put on by Counselling Services
o See your Academic Advisor for guidance when your semester is just too overwhelming

Maximize your experience at UNB. Let these siezed opportunities shape you. Educate yourself about your options at UNB because knowledge really does equal opportunity.

–
Shannon Carmont-McKinley
SU VP Academic 2009-2010
Senator