Many students are familiar with the grandiose conglomeration of events encompassing the first few weeks of the fall semester (Orientation). However, something that students may not be as familiar with, or may not have been exposed to, is a second series of events taking place at the beginning of the winter semester with much of the same goal. Whereas Orientation brings us into the school year in the fall, Snowientation—Orientation’s winter counterpart—brings students back from the December break and into a new semester of school. This series of events can be especially useful for students who do not start their schooling at the beginning of the academic year, but rather begin in the beginning of the calendar year.
Beginning on Wednesday, January 4th, the Brandon University Students’ Union brings you a second dose of Clubs Day. This is a good time to check out some of the clubs that you can join on campus, pertaining either to your personal interests or to your academic interests. Some of the clubs and groups that were present at Club Day in the fall (in no particular order) were: The Quill, BUGA (Brandon University Gaming Association), the Women’s Collective, BUSL (Brandon University Students for Life), Enactus, BUASC (Brandon University Aboriginal Student Council), ISO (International Students’ Organization), Saint John’s Ambulance, Biological Society, VCF (Varsity Christian Fellowship), Psychology Club, and the Anthropology Club, among many others. A similar turnout is usually expected for the January clubs day. However, don’t let all of the exciting clubs distract you too much, as January 4th is also the first day of classes.
Thursday, January 5th brings a bit of normality into students’ school day. While BUSU does not have anything planned during the day for the Thursday, they are hosting Trivia Night in the evening at SUDS from 7:00PM until 10:00pm. While you’re there be sure to check out SUDS’ menu, and partake in some of the free nachos (courtesy of BUSU).
Friday, January 6th is a day of celebration. BUSU is helping students celebrate their first week back at school after the winter break by hosting the Snowientation Social in SUDS. DJ Rhoni, a Brandon University graduate, will be in charge of the music at this social. All are encouraged to come out and celebrate the new semester. This is also an extra special day as this day marks the 30th anniversary of SUDS’ operation at Brandon University.
Following the weekend, on Monday, January 9th BUSU will once again be touting their available services. For any information on how BUSU’s services can benefit or assist you, be sure to stop by and check them out either in the Mingling Area between 10:00am and 3:00pm, or in the BUSU office located on the 2nd floor of the KDC Building.
One of the hallmarks of any good Orientation or Snowientation is the presence of free food. Assuming that you enjoy pizza (as most people do), and are available during the free slot (12:40-1:30pm) on Tuesday, January 10th, I would recommend that you head on over to the Mingling Area. BUSU will be providing free pizza on a first come-first serve basis, so your best bet is to head over early to get your slice of deliciousness. Later in the evening you can show off your vocal talents at a Karaoke party in SUDS from 7:00pm until 10:00pm.
Concluding the events for Snowientation, there will be a Jazz Night at SUDS on Thursday, January 12th.
Republished from The Quill print edition, Volume 107, Issue 16, January 4, 2017.