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I know, you’re probably saying Convo-what? Convocation is a large formal assembly of people. Or, the fancy word we use for graduation week around Memorial University. Getting to Convocation takes years of hard work and dedication. Be proud of making it to that stage and getting that piece of paper. You deserve it!

Here are a few things to know about Memorial’s Convocation ceremonies:

1. The happiness is contagious

This is one of the best times on campus. I volunteer throughout the week, and it’s honestly one of my favourite events. Everyone is so happy. I often find myself smiling after I leave for the day.

A post shared by Memorial University (@musicatmemorial) on Jun 1, 2017 at 10:50am PDT

2. It’s about the shoes

Many people will dress up better than they have during their entire time in university. However, you’re wearing a cap and gown, so no one can see your hair or outfit. So then it becomes all about the shoes. I however, wore flip flops.

via GIPHY

3. You will say convocated – but you shouldn’t

While you are attending Convocation, convocated, convocating and convocate are not actually words. I fell victim to this for a long time myself. You should stick with graduated, graduating and graduate when talking about what it is you are doing. 

4. There will be speeches – and a lot of them

This may sound boring, but they are usually from interesting people, sometimes honorary graduates. If you listen, they will often inspire you in ways you can’t even imagine. They’re there for a reason, so it will certainly be worth your time to listen.

5. You may not cross with your friends

With nine sessions on the St. John’s campus and over 2,100 people crossing the stage, it is sometimes necessary to split up the degrees. Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science sessions are often spread over two days and done alphabetically. That means unfortunately, as a Buckle, I wouldn’t graduate with my friend who’s last name is Walsh even though we did the same degree.

After all is said and done, we are very proud to welcome you to the Memorial Alumni family. Congrats graduates, you did it!

-Ashley B

Does Memorial offer an ocean science program?

Memorial is excited to now offer a major in ocean sciences! What better place to study ocean sciences than an island in the Atlantic Ocean? Our top-notch facilities and impressive research on cold oceans make studying ocean sciences here a unique opportunity. 

The program is a perfect fit for those interested in studying the marine environment and the interaction between ocean life and processes. Students will take courses in various disciplines to gain an understanding of the biological, geological, chemical, and physical makeup of our oceans. Students will learn from expert faculty members, both inside and outside of the classroom, including in hands-on laboratories and field courses. Some lab components will actually take place at Memorial’s Ocean Sciences Centre (OSC), located just 15 minutes from campus in Logy Bay. The OSC is a first-class cold ocean research facility equipped with the technology to study ecology, oceanography, aquaculture, fisheries, and more. 

There are lots of super cool opportunities for students to gain relevant experience in their program too. Students can work to educate the public with the OSC’s touch tank that’s filled with fascinating sea creatures. There’s also a group of harp seals on-site that students can study and work with as part of their undergraduate research or part-time employment. Interesting fact: the OSC is actually home to the first harp seal to give birth in captivity, Babette. 

Is ocean sciences something you’d be interested in studying? For more program information, visit http://www.mun.ca/undergrad/programs/science/.

Until next time, Ashley H

Saint Yves may be based out of Toronto, but they’re all locals here to us. In fact, the vocalist, Yvette Coleman is the only one new to the blog. Jeremy Kelly has been profiled with Rocket Rocket Ship and Jon Pike with Everglow.

Yvette has traditional been known for singing classical music, but has recently dipped into the pop music scene. She teamed up with Jeremy and Jon and together they became Saint Yves.

They popped out of nowhere with a video for their debut song called “Next To Me” last month. I heard about the song this past weekend and I’ve been singing it ever since.

They are planning on releasing more music, and maybe even picking up some shows in Newfoundland later this year. I have to admit, this is one album I’m looking forward to.

Check it out and let us know what you think!

Does Memorial have a Humanities program that will give me international knowledge and experience?

How does spending a semester abroad as part of your time at Memorial sound? If you caught my last post, you’ll know there are many opportunities to study abroad with Memorial. How about a program that allows you to study liberal arts and gain valuable global perspective? If this sounds like something that’s up your alley, our new international bachelor of arts (iBA) may be the right program for you!

Our iBA students choose a major from a selection provided by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and will spend a semester of their program either studying or working outside of Canada. Undergraduates in the program will develop an excellent knowledge basis in their major of choice and will heighten their skills in critical thinking and analysis, communication, adaptability and more by living in another part of the world. Those enrolled in the iBA have a choice of many go abroad opportunities at our Harlow Campus, programs organized by the Faculty, and exchange opportunities at partner institutions (see my last post for details). Students can also work with advisors to determine a suitable work placement, if they choose to work instead of studying.

Students complete additional courses in other languages to prepare them for experiencing new cultures and speaking, listening and writing during their stay in another country. The iBA program also has an international studies component that includes coursework in disciplines like anthropology, geography, history and others to expose students to worldwide topics.

If you were an iBA student what major would you study and which country would you like to live in for a semester? Let us know! If you’d like to learn more about the iBA program, visit our Future Students website. Until next time, Ashley H.

While studying in St. John’s is a unique adventure in and of itself, students at Memorial University can have the exciting chance to study abroad. There are many Memorial programs where studying in another part of the world is an option. With all sorts of different opportunities and supports readily available, we make it as simple as possible for students to have an unforgettable experience in a new country.

Harlow Campus

It’s pretty neat that Memorial has a part-time campus located in Harlow, England. We’re actually one of only two Canadian universities to have a campus in the United Kingdom. Students can spend a semester at the Harlow Campus attending classes and learning firsthand from the various landmarks and attractions in England. Faculty members regularly take groups of their students to the campus as part of programs like biology, business, education, English and fine arts, to name a few. 

Exchange Opportunities

If you don’t have the chance to attend the Harlow Campus, going abroad is absolutely still a possibility. Memorial has over 100 partnerships with universities from about 45 different countries around the world. Opportunities exist in countries like Australia, France, China and many others. Exchange coordinators can help you find the right study abroad experience that best fits you and your interests.

Go Abroad with the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

If you’re a bachelor of arts student, the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences also has study abroad programs that will have you experiencing new cultures, languages and landscapes. Our French students have spent time studying in Nice, France, Archaeology students have attended field school in Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, and students studying German have headed to Berlin and Heidelberg, Germany during the summer. 

Our students studying abroad are able to transfer their courses back to Memorial, gaining credit towards their programs. Their costs are also kept relatively low as they pay Memorial University tuition fees while studying at a partner institution. Where do you think it would be interesting to study abroad? 

Until next time, Ashley H

The start of summer means the start of festival season! There are countless festivals in Newfoundland, and there are plenty that take place right here in St. John’s. I chose a few to highlight here, but you can check out a full list of everything happening at http://www.stjohns.ca/living-st-johns/events-and-festivals/celebrate-st-johns.

1. Shakespeare by the Sea Festival

All summer long you can catch different Shakespeare plays throughout the city. Sometimes you’ll even catch one in a park. This is an amazing way to see some of St. John’s finest actors and catch up on your olde English!

2. Opera on the Avalon

Opera on the Avalon has a couple sessions throughout the year. This year, on July 1 & 2, they did a show called Ours. This new show looks at the aftermath of the battle of Beaumont  Hamel. This show has significant meaning to the legacy of Memorial University. Look to their Facebook page to learn more about additional shows that may pop up this summer.

3. The Victoria Park Lantern Festival

On July 29, the Lantern festival takes over Victoria Park. This one day festival starts early in the day with workshops on how to make lanterns. This is followed by the installation and lighting of lanterns. This is fun for all ages.

4. NL Folk Festival 

By now, you’re probably very well aware of our history in folk music here in Newfoundland. It’s no surprise then that one of the biggest festivals of the year is the Newfoundland & Labrador Folk Festival. This festival will showcase some amazing local talent, rising stars and will even feature a big headliner. This year, Sarah Harmer graces the stage with some of the locals. The festival runs from August 4-6 in Bannerman Park.

5. Hold Fast

This four day festival celebrates contemporary art in St. John’s. The events are free, and take place over four days.  Knowing some of the artists in the city, this is going to be a festival to check out for sure. Check it out August 10-13.

Until next time, -Ashley B

How do you know summer is upon us? It’s time for the Harbourside Park concert series. 

Every Friday from July 7- September 22 a local musician and a rising young star are showcased during a one hour lunch concert. It’s a great way to get outside and listen to some amazing local talent. I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my lunch break.

While the musicians haven’t been announced for the summer yet, but you can check out the schedule at http://www.stjohns.ca/living-st-johns/arts-and-culture/%27music-%40%27-concert-series.

Check out this throwback performance by Duane Andrew Quartet during the summer of 2008.

Keep dancing,  -Ashley B

I’m super excited that it’s June! That means that here in St. John’s, the trees are now in bloom and summer is on its way. With everything turning green, I’m reminded of some of the chances you’ll have here at Memorial to truly appreciate the environment that we have on and around campus. 

1. Green Mindfulness

Student Wellness offers a weekly drop-in group for students to relax and destress by planting potted plants. Gardening allows you to use your five senses and feel a little more Zen, which we can all use once in a while.

2. Community Garden

One of the great features of the St. John’s campus is the green space right around us. Students can get their hands dirty at our on-campus community garden next to Long Pond. Renting a plot and planting some seeds = awesome, home-grown food.

3. MUN Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Garden, Memorial’s botanical research centre, is a fantastic place to check out some gorgeous scenery and to get some peace of mind right here in the city. Spend an afternoon grabbing lunch at the Garden Café, walking the on-site nature trails, and taking in the beautiful gardens filled all sorts of plants and flowers.

4. BikeShare

If you won’t be bringing your bike to campus when you begin studies here, it’s super affordable to rent one from student group, MUN BikeShare. Riding your bike around the city have you feeling good knowing that there’s one less car on the roads. 

If you want to get more involved with environmental initiatives on campus, be sure to check out Memorial’s Sustainability Office and our green-minded clubs and societies!