Home Blog Page 189

Horoscopes July 24 – 30

By
Peak Web
-
0
An illustration of a girl with long flowing hair. Astrological signs and stars shine around her.
ILLUSTRATION: Marissa Ouyang / The Peak

By: Alex Ileto, Peak Associate

Aries
Thwip! Welcome to your Spiderverse era. Just like Miles, prepare to battle your parallel universe counterparts (AKA your inner demons) who are much cooler and more successful than you are. The alternate universe where you took up a career in the medical field that your mom always wanted you to pursue? Wham! Kapow! The alternate universe where you married Momo from TWICE? Bam! This week, put all those “what-if” scenarios to the test. 

Taurus
Embrace your inner superhero, The Flash, by making lightning-fast decisions that you probably needed to sit on longer) and sprint head first into friend group drama that shouldn’t really concern you! Alternatively, run away from all your problems! Zoom zoom!

Gemini
Have you been putting off goals this entire year because of yada yada yada? Embrace your inner Transformer and transform. Revive your Pinterest account from Grade 8, hit leg day at the on-campus gym (if you can brave the lack of AC and the lingering smell of sweat), and get onto productivity TikTok where 35-year-old men yell at you for wasting your time on people who aren’t at your level of intellect.

Cancer
You’re a Barbie girl, in your Barbie world. Say hello to your Barbie era. Get ready for all your wishes to be granted, all your houseplants to thrive, and all your days to be filled with impromptu musical numbers (with rehearsed choreography, of course). So strap on those rollerblades and act as if you come home to a Barbie Dreamhouse every day because life will truly be so fantastic.

Leo
An old fling will soon re-enter your life. Like in Past Lives, you will experience an upsetting array of confusing moments that will make you question every past decision you have made. If you don’t want to be bothered by your past, I suggest finding a new hyper fixation such as K-Pop-stanning, sticker collecting, and bouldering.

Virgo
Out with the old, in with new. Time to find some new friends! Kidnap a campus raccoon, uproot a tree, snatch a buff father and find a woman with green skin (good luck on that one) to assemble your very own Guardians of the Galaxy-inspired squad. Venture to the rest of the galaxy with your newfound friends to ignore the very real problems back at home.

Libra
Darling it’s better, down where it’s wetter (said no one ever). With the recent horror story about the Titan Submersible and the concerning reports of E. coli infested water in Vancouver, maybe it’s best to stay away from any body of water for now. So ignore that silly crab from The Little Mermaid — take it from me and stay dry.

Scorpio
Lately, you’ve been really uptight, so set aside some time in the week to let loose and have fun. Like the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, it’s time to bring back the gang again for a wild night out. Maybe go clubbing at Levels and bump into high school classmates that finally escaped the suburbs. Alternatively, have a night in, eating pizza with the gang. 

Sagittarius
Time to slay (literally and figuratively) like the doll, M3GAN from M3GAN. Just like M3GAN, spend the next week confronting those who have wronged you, haunt those who you want to get a rouse out of, and show off your dancing abilities during surprise dance battles. 

Capricorn
Congratulations! You’ve entered your Oppenheimer era! Now is the time to give into destructive tendencies. Use your brain power to show the world what you’re made of. You’ll have a blast.

Aquarius
A summer adventure awaits. Take inspiration from Indiana Jones and go on an adventure through nature. Vancouver is known for its amazing outdoor adventures, so pick one and head out! Explore the river rapids up in Squamish, go stand-up paddle boarding in Belcarra, and trek through the Chief. Trust me, you will be whip-ped by the outstanding views. 

Pisces
Have you heard of the movie, The Mother? Me neither, but I’m running out of Summer movies to reference! Based on the title and the fact that Jennifer Lopez plays the main character, I’m assuming it’s a movie about being a queen. So act like JLo this week and keep on mother-ing.

Summer Snack Quiz

By
Peak Web
-
0
Illustrations of summer fruit
ILLUSTRATION: Emily Xu / The Peak

By: Hana Hoffman, Peak Associate

Question 1: Which excuse are you most likely to use when you’re late?

  1. I am never late. Don’t believe me? Make plans with me and you’ll see.
  2. Every time I arrive on time, no one is there yet! What’s the point if I get no validation?
  3. The bus was delayed 25 minutes due to light rain. I literally checked Google Maps before leaving and it was supposed to come on time, but I guess those tires couldn’t handle some H2O. Shame on them.
  4. My electric scooter melted in the hot sunlight so I had to walk.

Question 2: What kind of shoes do you normally wear in the summer?

  1. Runners. I can’t go on jogs in the snowy winters, so why waste nice weather on sleeping?
  2. I wear something different every day. Always being the same is BORING.
  3. My Air Jordans go hard. #W
  4. Flip flops, because at the beach, I constantly have to go in the water to cool off. #hotdamn

Question 3: Which of these games do you like the most?

  1. Apples to Apples.
  2. Wii Sports.
  3. Wii Sports RESORT: I ain’t basic! I’m LUXURIOUS.
  4. Fantage. I’ve always got the hottest outfits at the fashion show.

Mostly 1’s and 2’s: You are the fruit platter! Always bringing something healthy to the table to help the other guests develop a balanced diet. Where would they get their nutrition without you? Vitamin D alone won’t save you!

Mostly 2’s and 3’s: You are the munchies! The casual snack that fits well for any occasion, whether it’s a quick hangout with a couple of friends or a big chaotic family reunion.

Mostly 3’s and 4’s: You are the BBQ chicken wings! You are too hot to handle and you really know how to spice up the party. Hope you’ll never fly away from us!

Numbers all over the place: You are the condiments. You go with everything! Ketchup on fries, cream cheese on fruit, ranch on pizza and salad, bbq sauce on meat . . . you name it. No picnic snack tastes good without you.

Theatre Under the Stars: much to love and room to improve

By
Peak Web
-
0
A photo of two characters from Matilda, Mr and Mrs Wormsworth standing on stage in front of an illustrated landscape backdrop. Mrs wormsworth has exaggerated makeup like red cheeks and pale foundation, and fluffy blonde hair. Her arms are crossed and she’s wearing a blue formal dress, staring at Mr. Wormsworth. Mr. Womswoth wears a purple checkered suit, has puffy brown hair and mustache, and has a mischievous look on his face, holding a vintage phone out in one hand.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Emily Cooper

By: Petra Chase, Arts & Culture Editor

Since 1940, Theatre Under the Stars has put on family-friendly plays in Stanley Park’s Malkin Bowl, an outdoor venue equipped with comfortable seating, a commissary kitchen, bar, and emergency ponchos. This season, which runs until August 25, features two high-spirit comedies all about  children and youth uprising. The Prom and Matilda’s stunning sets, synchronized dancing, and boisterous ballads will impress both musical theatre skeptics and Broadway buffs. I had the opportunity to attend and review these highly-anticipated shows.

The Prom

A photo of the cast of The Prom standing on the stage in from of a neon sign that says “prom” Everyone is dressed in sparkle and sequin prom dresses and colourful suits with their fists in the air and joyful expressions.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Emily Cooper

The Prom follows four Broadway stars whose careers are fading from the spotlight, as they ironically embark on a journey to raise their profiles through good deeds. Through Twitter, they find out about Emma, a teen in small-town Indiana. Emma’s high school cancelled prom because she wanted to bring her girlfriend as her date. Worlds collide when they crash a PTA meeting to demand justice.

Full of glamorous costumes and musical numbers, the play is perfect for singing your heart out. In particular, I was impressed by these performances: Matthew Valinho knocked it out of the park as washed-up Broadway star Trent, topping off his energetic renditions with impressive acrobatics. Anna Pontin and Brianna Clark also had beautiful chemistry as girlfriends Emma and Alyssa, making me giddy whenever the “Dance with You” reprise started playing. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention humble Broadway fanatic, Principal Hawkins, played by Kevin Khonje. As a lifelong performing arts lover himself, this lovable character was perfect for Khonje’s acting debut.

While the spirit of the cast kept energies high, the plot dragged on for the second act and the character development felt forced. There are far too many self-absorbed, one dimensional characters — like the Broadway actors chasing fame and the “cheerleader and jock” archetypes. Their change of heart was uninspired and surface-level. As Principle Hawkins sings in his hilarious ode to musical theatre, “We Look to You,” the beauty of Broadway is that “the answer to each problem is to burst into a song.” While this might be true to a certain extent, I would’ve at least liked to root for the supporting characters. At times, you could feel the on-stage chemistry was between the actors, but not the characters.

I liked the eye-catching details on set — the cast changed the sets in character, which was a nice touch. I just wish they’d tweaked the settings of the play to a small Canadian town and a local restaurant chain — I think a lot of kids, especially, would appreciate the reference. 

With the organization recognizing pride this year, I would’ve liked to see better queer representation among the supporting cast. I’m glad The Prom calls attention to some real life struggles of 2SLGBTQIA+ teens. However, some of the stereotypes felt outdated: gay Broadway actor Barry, whose notable traits are being materialistic and self-centred, swoops in to give Emma a prom makeover — a trope I’m tired of seeing. That being said, watch The Prom for the theatrics, the music, and the message of acceptance. The shimmery musical number during the final is joyous.

Matilda

A photo of a group of kids in school uniforms on stage, in a classroom set with desks. They’re all pointing towards a kid in the middle, with expressions of awe on their faces. He’s pointing his fork in the air, with an empty plate in front of him.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Emily Cooper

Matilda, based on the childrens’ book by Roald Dahl, was captivating from start to finish. The quirky dark comedy is about a young girl who uses books as an escape from her neglectful parents, who chastise her for reading. When Matilda and her classmates start school, they’re met with the wrath of children-hating headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. Luckily, there are adults who take the children under their wing — her teacher, Ms. Honey and the school librarian indulge Matilda’s lively imagination and brilliance. Together, the children and adults rise up and fight back.

Everyone involved in the production rose to the challenge of Dahl’s vivid characters and magical stories. The set consists of piles of giant books sprawled across the stage, and spines featuring titles of literary classics. The book cutouts were unexpectedly dynamic, acting as a staircase and bed. Beautifully painted backdrops flipped open like pages, transporting the story in a dreamy way.

I was blown away by the actors, some as young as 11: Siggi Kaldestad captured Matilda’s quiet mischievousness, even as she recited climactic monologues in a British accent and spoke Russian. Preston Culili’s Bruce got everyone in the crowd clapping as he led the kids in the epic “Revolting Children” dance number. The ensemble seemed to be having as much fun as the audience.

The antagonists took on the responsibility of being hateable seriously; Matilda’s ditzy parents and combatant Miss Trunchbull felt like storybook characters come to life. 

You could tell the production put care into every detail, with special effects that caught me off guard and a stand-up bit that broke the fourth wall and resonated with all ages. It’s empowering for child audiences and heartwarming for adults to watch children band together and reclaim their childhood in synchronized song and dance. I left the show wanting to come back and see it again.

Final Thoughts
It would be disingenuous to conclude this review without expressing my disappointment that TUTS is sponsored by real estate corporations, Re/Max and the Beedie Development Group. Beedie’s recently-approved multi-million dollar condo in Chinatown comes after months of protests from Chinatown residents, who are at risk of gentrification and displacement of low-income and senior residents. Their land acknowledgement at the beginning of each play appears performative, as it occurs right before thanking these companies who are commodifying stolen land.

While I had a clear favourite, both shows carried joyous energy in the cast and design, backed by an incredible orchestra under the stage. I wish we got to see and applaud more of the crew and musical team at the end, so they could get a standing ovation, too. I strongly urge Theatre Under The Stars to make better choices next season when it comes to choosing the right sponsors and scripts. They have a huge audience and need to keep in mind who they’re promoting and what kind of messages they’re sending out. That being said, their talent deserves all the attention!

Free resources of SFU

By
Peak Web
-
0
A photo of a fridge in a dimly lit room.
PHOTO: Krystal Chan / The Peak

By: Balqees Jama, SFU Student

The university offers many resources, and students self-organize a variety of supports too. This non-exhaustive list highlights lesser-known free* resources available on the SFU Burnaby campus for graduate and undergraduate students, including Fraser International College (FIC) students. SFU Burnaby campus, alongside the collaborative efforts of students and student-led organizations have made all this possible. Whether it’s addressing food insecurity or finding academic help, these resources are here to aid the well-being and success of the student community, so don’t doubt and make use of them when needed.

Results of a survey run by the Simon Fraser Student Society (SFSS) in January 2020 show 56.8% of students at SFU and FIC experience food insecurity, especially marginalized students. This statistic was likely exacerbated since the COVID-19 pandemic, and is in line with the fact that post-secondary students in Canada are a demographic who struggle with heightened food insecurity compared to the general population. For this reason, more than half of this article is dedicated exclusively to food-related resources. 

*“Free” meaning included in our hefty tuition, so you might as well get a bang for your buck.

Graduate Student Society (GSS) Emergency Grocery Card Program

This program is established by the GSS for masters and PhD students. Currently, qualifying recipients each receive two $70 cards per semester. Grocery cards can be used at any Canadian Superstore and Shoppers Drug Mart locations (or participating Loblaws banner stores). You can apply for the GSS Emergency Grocery Card Program on the service tab in the GSS website.

GSS Quest Food Exchange 

In addition to the aforementioned Grocery Card Program, GSS is partnered with Quest Food Exchange to refer graduate students to any Quest grocery store across the Greater Vancouver Area. Quest markets sell sustainably-sourced food and household items at “50–70% less than most retailers.” You can apply for a Quest Card on the service tab in the GSS website.

SFSS Emergency Food Bank program

The SFSS offers $75 worth of vouchers to food-insecure students. If selected after applying, students pick up their vouchers at the SFSS Student Centre, in the Student Union Building (SUB). Food vouchers can be redeemed at the following three locations:

  • Nesters Market (SFU Burnaby)
  • Nesters Woodwards (SFU Woodwards)
  • T&T Supermarket – Surrey Central City Shopping Centre (SFU Surrey)

To learn more and apply, visit the service tab in the SFSS website.

SFU Free Community Fridge

The free community fridge is located on the bottom floor of Maggie Benston Centre (MBC), Room 50, “opposite side to the entrance of Document Solutions Burnaby.” Based on the principle of mutual aid, students can take any food they need, or drop off fresh excess foods. To learn more about how it works, visit the “Food Security” section on the “What We Do” tab at SFU’s Office of Community Engagement website.

SFU Food Pantry

Also located at the bottom of MBC, the SFU Food Pantry provides limited assistance to students for food and hygiene supplies. Students are asked to bring a grocery bag and reusable sealed containers for dry items like oats, rice, flour, etc. According to the website, the Pantry serves “up to 10 lbs/5 kgs of fresh and dry food based on availability.” The Pantry is open from 12:30–3:00 p.m. every Wednesday. To learn more and register for the Food Pantry, visit the “Food Security” section on the “What We Do” tab at SFU’s Office of Community Engagement website

Embark Sustainability’s Food Justice Programs

Embark Sustainability is a student-led non-profit located on the first floor of the SUB. They have a variety of hands-on educational programming, setting an institutional example for food justice. Students are able to grow their own spices and vegetables in the “Learning Garden” located on top of the SUB. Embark also runs the Food Rescue program with Nesters Market, where they salvage perfectly edible produce that would have been disposed of for cosmetic reasons from going to landfills and re-distribute them to community members for free. Lastly, the “Community Kitchen” is a recurring staple the group runs, where a community member leads people through making a new and simple recipe.

Learn more about their programs and events schedules, visit Embark’s website

Other Free Resources 

Campus Community Shuttle 

SFU and FIC partnered to run a shuttle bus meant to “provide quick and safe options for traversing the Burnaby campus — especially on dark and rainy nights.” It runs on weekdays every 30 minutes from 8:00 a.m.–10:30 p.m. It starts at SFU Residences and has a total of six stops across campus. The shuttle is free and available for anyone to use. View the route map and schedule on SFU’s website. 

SFSS & GSS Legal Clinic

This is a joint service between SFSS and GSS to provide students with free 15 minute appointments with a lawyer via phone or in-person at the SUB. The clinic is open every other Thursday from 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. The lawyer’s legal specialty depends on the lawyer available that day. To book an appointment, use the form found on the service tab in the SFSS website.

SFU Library Media and Maker Commons

Whether students are interested in 3D printing, embroidery, or editing and virtual reality studios, the Media and Maker Commons is a creative haven on Burnaby campus. It’s located in the W.A.C. Bennett Library, and is open to all students, staff, and faculty. To see a full list of all maker tools and social media spaces, visit the Media and Maker Commons section of the SFU Library website.  

Student Learning Commons

Also based in the W.A.C. Bennett Library, students can access help in academic research, writing, and study strategies. There is also specific programming to support students learning English as an additional language. To see an exhaustive list of all offered services, and schedules, visit the Student Learning Commons section of the SFU Library website. 

Safe spaces in the Student Union Building (SUB)

There are several student-led equity groups on the 1st and 2nd floor of the SUB providing physical spaces and programming uniquely tailored for their constituents. The groups provide access to resources such as libraries, peer-support groups, food, microwaves, membership computers, safer sex and menstrual supplies, culturally-relevant referrals, and more. See their websites below: 

Located on the 1st (bottom) floor of the SUB:

  • The Disability and Neurodiversity Alliance (DNA)
  • The Simon Fraser Public Interest Research Group (SFPIRG)
  • Students of Caribbean and African Ancestry (SOCA)
  • The First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Students Association (FNMISA)

Located on the 2nd floor of the SUB (connected to MBC Foodcourt):

Indigenous Student Centre hosts information session

By
Peak Web
-
0
This is a photo of the Indigenous Student Centre on the SFU Burnaby campus. The doors to the office are shown, their name is printed on the door.
PHOTO: Afsaneh Keivanshekouh / The Peak

By: Olivia Sherman, News Writer

On June 12, coordinators from the Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) spoke on the academic, mental, and cultural supports available to students. The session, held by Indigenous Student Life coordinators Jasmin Glaw and Audrey Heath, discussed the ways the program has aided SFU’s Indigenous student body. 

Elder Marie Hooper opened the meeting, “Building Indigenous cultures of continuous learning is always progressing toward revitalization of our Indigenous cultures, values, and respect,” she said. “Indigenous art expresses the voices of people for generations and generations to come.” 

Audrey Heath began her journey at SFU as an undergraduate in 2018. Heath described the support systems the ISC offers, such as “culturally relevant workshops and support, Elders and Knowledge Keepers, academic resources and advising, mental wellness and counselling support from Indigenous counsellors.” This is in order to support the “physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being” of SFU’s Indigenous student body. 

Jasmin Glaw elaborated on the wellness spaces that opened up across Burnaby and Surrey campuses and introduced an upcoming 4th location at the Vancouver campus. “The goal there is to have a similar look, a similar feel, as well as programs and resources in that space.” She added, “Then we will have representation across all three campuses.”  

Heath said all of the ISC spaces are open for both undergraduate and graduate students. The amenities available in these spaces include a kitchenette with food and snacks, quiet study spaces, social areas, and a drumming room. 

“We’re currently running programs and workshops such as academic advising, library and student learning commons support, counselling, and cultural connections workshops,” Glaw said. “Pretty much everyday, there’s something happening.” 

The ISC is also working with Indigenous Elders in order to expand their Elder support program. Five Elders and Knowledge Keepers are in residence at the ISC, providing “further support and guidance,” for Indigenous students and faculty. 

The other offered by ISC include many different events to promote community outreach and education, including monthly lunches, holiday parties, welcome events, and more. These spaces and events allow Indigenous students to find a shared community, as well as to get in touch with ISC members to help them on their academic journeys. The ISC also hosts the annual Honouring Feast, which highlights and celebrates Indigenous graduates. 

Elder Marie Hooper noted she is glad to be a part of this welcoming community, and is “honoured to be a part of these safe spaces.”

For more information on Indigenous student support, academic advising, cultural workshops, counselling, or career opportunities, the ISC encourages questions to be sent to [email protected], or to check out their website at https://www.sfu.ca/students/indigenous.html

Sumaiya Tufail to deliver TEDxSFU talk on poetry as resistance

By
Peak Web
-
0
A headshot of Sumaiya Tufail smiling in front of an emerald ocean backdrop. She is wearing a pink head covering, and a dewy red lipstick.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Sumaiya Tufail

By: Saije Rusimovici, Staff Writer

Editor’s note: The Peak would like to note that Josh Ralla, one of our staff members, is an executive director of TEDxSFU, but had no involvement in writing this article. 

Sumaiya Tufail began the Slam Poetry Club at SFU last summer as a way of creating a safe space for racialized artists to express themselves through poetry. Growing up in Surrey, Tufail was inspired by her Grade 11 Humanities teacher after introducing her to spoken word poetry as a way for students to speak their truths. 

Tufail found it “a cool way to express [her] emotions and find power through art,” and began performing slam poetry. At the age of 20, she began to post her poetry on Instagram. Tufail has been blogging, writing, and building her platform over the last seven years. 

She said one of her biggest goals was to eventually become a TED Talk speaker, adding that she can’t believe it’s happened so quickly. The TEDxSFU annual program organizes independent TED conferences for “industry professionals, advocates, educators, and storytellers” in Vancouver. Tufail’s TEDxSFU Talk “unveils poetry as an act of resistance and advocacy,” informed by her journey as a slam poet.

Slam poetry, otherwise known as spoken word poetry, is an arts movement that began in the 1980s as a stage-based way for vocal delivery to convey the emotion in language, as opposed to formal written poetry. The roots of spoken word are linked to the anti-colonial Négritude movement, “a literary and ideological movement led by French-speaking Black writers and intellectuals from France’s colonies in Africa and the Caribbean in the 1930s.” Modern poets continue to carry on this tradition by divulging themes such as injustice in sex, race, and gender.

“In the Lower Mainland it is very difficult to find a poetry space with majority BIPOC representation,” Tufail said. The poetry club has become a space for many individuals to express themselves through the artform. Through poetry, members of the club can share their stories, hardships, triumphs, and experiences. 

“Poetry has always been a way for me to heal and resist,” Tufail explained. “It is deeply an intergenerational manifestation of truth telling for me.” As a second-generation Canadian Muslim settler, Tufail said that “to be the generation of dispossessed, displaced, and racialized within the Canadian context post 9/11 is symbolic.” She describes being “in a place of possibility and oppression simultaneously” as a result of Islamophobia and systemic racism. Tufail refers to poetry as “an art form of resistance through [her] body and her voice.

“It is deeply an intergenerational manifestation of truth telling for me. The previous generations of women in my family had their voices silenced or ignored but the women further back had been louder.”

One of the most impactful moments she’s had with SFU Slam Poetry was when one of the performers expressed to her that she no longer suffers panic attacks when performing. Tufail said this experience solidified to her that “creating this type of space does bring out the power in people who may have been shut down throughout her lives.”

This year’s TEDxSFU conference will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at The Centre for Performing Arts in Downtown Vancouver. Tickets will go on sale in August. 

Anyone can attend or perform at a poetry slam, held on Burnaby campus. The next slam takes place on July 27. Visit SFU Slam Poetry on Instagram @sfuslampoetry to learn more about becoming a club member, and events. 

A letter to my TA

By
Peak Web
-
0
A group of people in a room with a projector screen.
PHOTO: Kenny Eliason / Unsplash

By: Hailey Miller, Peak Associate

I’ve often wondered how teaching assistants find the time to actually manage being a TA. As if university isn’t tough enough, somehow you squeeze enough time into your schedule to assist in one more course — not to mention undertaking such a feat while still furthering your own studies. Clearly, you must have some kind of scholarly superpower, as it takes a special kind of person to relive such materials all over again. Granted, you’re probably assisting in a course you once excelled in, or a topic you found interesting, but regardless, props to you. 

Student or TA, we’re all in the same boat — the only difference is that you’re getting paid to talk to a fraction of the class about the course content you’ve already learned. We’re all just trying to make it through the semester without the tuition draining our bank accounts and the stress diminishing our degrees. It makes sense that you’ve secured yourself a TA side hustle in hopes of avoiding the ever-dreaded nightmare that is student debt. 

Being on the student side and not knowing what on earth goes on your end, there are a couple of things I want you to know. It’s not your fault that the material is brutally dry, or the criteria is preposterously vague. You’re doing your best to just make an extra buck on the side and cover those graduate costs. But between you and I, are the tutorials really that mandatory? 

Sometimes I wonder when we’ll ever get our grades back. Is there an unspoken rule between yourself and the professor regarding the lack of a reasonable turnaround? Sometimes it’s two weeks, sometimes it’s four. Sometimes we don’t even get to see what we got wrong on an exam, or what marks were docked on an assignment. On that note, some constructive feedback would be nice too — anything better than just a plain, old “well done” or “needs work.” But don’t worry, as much as I hate the anticipation of waiting for a grade, I get it. You’re busy and you’ve got a lot of papers to go through. 

Do you ever feel as exhausted and confused as we do? Do you get tired of being a teaching assistant for the same course, or are you just teaching the material as if you know it like the back of your hand at this point? Maybe you should consider being a professor next. Then again, maybe that’s why you’re a TA, and this kind of thing is in your wheelhouse.

On another note, I don’t want to waste your time, but do I really need to wait to attend your office hours? Speaking of, do you ever bother with your office hours, or do you dread them as much as the students do? Being the squeaky wheel that I am, though, I’m just going to stick around to bug you after class and beg for clarification on the brutally vague criteria that the professor didn’t even bother to explain. I’m sorry to be that student, but I want to succeed this semester as much as we both want it to be over.

Not to change the subject, but ever since I walked into your tutorial on the first day, I figured we’re probably the same age. The only difference is that you somewhat have your ducks in a row, and I, most certainly, do not. And by that I mean that you’re doing your graduate studies, while I’m over here still barely putting a dent in my undergrad. Did you start university a year early? Did you overload your full-time schedule? Burn through summer semesters? Study while doing co-op semesters at the same time? I wonder how you’re so far in advance.

All jokes aside, you really are doing a great job. I couldn’t do what you do if I were in your shoes. If it weren’t for your tutorials, the class probably wouldn’t have bothered keeping up with the course materials. You’re actually putting in the effort to make the material less dry — something that the professor could really take a note of. But don’t worry, I’m sure the class will put in a good word on your evaluation. After all, you deserve it. 

So, cheers to all the TAs, and best of luck with the rest of your studies.

5 things that actually deserve to be on the $20 bill

By
Peak Web
-
0
Image of a $20 dollar bill. Queen Elizabeth’s face has been defaced.
ILLUSTRATION: Jill Baccay, SFU Student

By: Hannah Kazemi, Peak Associate

Here ye, here ye. The Bank of Canada has announced that we should expect to see brand new $20 bills circulating in the next few years featuring none other than King Charles’ face. How lovely a thought that is! In honour of this announcement and how I visibly cringed when I heard the news, I present to you five things that I think actually deserve to be on the $20 bill and in the hands of Canadians immediately.

Barbie and Ken

Barbie has so many jobs. She’s an astronaut. A doctor. A fashion superstar. She slays in every outfit! Charles can’t do any of those things. Who better to be on money if not Barbie and Ken? To top it off, Ken is played by Ryan Gosling in the Barbie movie — a true Canadian king! I say Barbie and Ken should run the world and replace all three corporations that have a monopoly over Canadian everything. While we’re at it, we should just rename the $20 bill to the Kenergy bill. We all need a little more Kenergy in our lives — so why not give some to the $20 bill?!

Tim Horton’s Sprinkle Donut

Tim’s has some delicious treats, but there’s nothing better than biting into a soft, fluffy donut and crunching the sprinkles between your teeth. They’re so sweet and satisfying to eat. They deserve to be on the $20 bill as a display of patriotism. I dream of that sweet crunch, the way that the sprinkles fall half into your mouth and half down your shirt. It’s a god-like experience, if you will. I’m convinced the only good thing to come out of Canada’s history is this goddamn sprinkle donut. Write about this in the history books!!!

Razor Scooters

They’ve done less damage than colonialism and the monarchy ever has. And we know very well that most of the population have had their ankles absolutely fucked up by a razor scooter as a kid. Do I need to say more?

Shirley Temple (the drink, not the girl)

The feeling I get at a restaurant when I remember Shirley Temples exist is euphoric. My mom used to make a bootleg Shirley Temple for my sisters and I as a special treat when we were little, so it’s played a bigger part in my life than Charles (or any government leader, for that matter) ever has. It’s sweet. It’s bubbly. It’s what dreeeeams are made of! It’s only right that the Shirley Temple gets its time to shine on the $20 bill — let it live on in the hands and happy tummies of Canadians forever.

Baby Highland Cows

COME ONNN, DO I HAVE TO EXPLAIN? I love scrolling on TikTok and coming across a video of little Highland cows frolicking around and munching on grass. They’re so floofy, and their little bangs cover their eyes in the most adorable way. Highland cows are a gift to this Earth, and baby Highland cows bring me so much joy and childish glee that it would be BLASPHEMOUS not to put them on our money!!! Heck, let them run the corporate world alongside Miss Barbie and Mister Ken. Oh, what I would do for a baby Highland cow . . .

But I’m a Cheerleader brilliantly satirizes heteronormative society

By
Peak Web
-
0
A film still featuring a group of bored-looking teens sitting on a couch looking up at a projected video. The projector is shown pointed towards the camera and an older woman is clicking the remote. The girls are dressed in pink button-ups and skirts, and the boys are dressed in blue button ups with ties.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Ignite Entertainment

By: Cameron Palmer, SFU Student

Content warning: conversion therapy and queerphobia.

The first time I watched But I’m a Cheerleader (BIAC), I was a passionate “ally” of my high school gay-straight alliance club. Celebrating queer identities and making straight people the butt of the joke was controversial in the ‘90s, but even in 2014, watching it for our club’s first movie screening was the first time I saw a romcom that centered queer experiences. While Mean Girls and Clueless went down as household names, BIAC is a hidden gem in mainstream culture. As a hilarious, self-aware satire that tackles growing up queer in homophobic environments, it’s a comforting classic in queer communities.

The film follows Megan (Natasha Lyonne), a cheerleader and goody two-shoes straight-A student whose family, friend, and even boyfriend, suspect she’s a lesbian before she discovers it herself. After an intervention, they send her to True Directions, a gay conversion camp where boys and girls are separated, follow a five-step program, and are trained to perform normative gender roles to “fix” their sexuality; things like cooking and cleaning, for the girls, and fixing cars for the boys. It’s there where Megan meets Graham (Clea DuVall), who’s unapologetically lesbian, and confusingly endearing. Her defiance clashes with Megan’s naïvety and obedience.

With campy costumes that feel like a Dr. Seuss pastiche, a Barbie house style set, and hot pinks and baby blue contrasts which comically depict the rigidity of gender norms, the film’s over-the-top-ness accurately reflects the absurdity of conversion therapy and gender norms. The deadpan delivery of the campers professing their sexuality’s roots in group therapy, like being born in France and being vegetarian, is extra hilarious because it highlights how irrational these stereotypes are when they’re being regurgitated by teens.

The film touches on taboo topics like masturbation, and I’ll admit, a few jokes went over my head when I watched it as a teen, as I was very sheltered growing up. For instance, Megan learns she can shock herself with a small taser everytime she thinks about girls, and discovers why fellow camper, Sinead, says she likes pain and shocks herself under the covers throughout the night.

Megan’s character is cartoonish (when she realizes she’s lesbian, her jaw drops for so long, she drools), but you root for her because she’s simply gullible, and a product of a harmful environment. This is something I can relate to when I think of my younger self.

Watching this as an adult for the first time since high school, I could understand some of the themes better. Compulsive heterosexuality (comphet), coined by Adrienne Rich, means we often don’t have the same opportunities or motivations to explore non-heterosexual attraction, and therefore don’t question our sexuality until later in life. I considered myself an “ally,” and didn’t grasp I was bisexual until adulthood, because the possibility hadn’t even crossed my mind. Or, maybe it had, but I pushed those thoughts away due to the shame surrounding queerness that was conditioned by my religious upbringing. 

Megan’s response to the accusations of her lesbianism, “But, I’m a cheerleader!” exemplifies how gender stereotypes reinforce comphet — she assumed that being feminine and popular made her straight. On the flip side, Jan is a masc-presenting character who “likes balls,” and is sent to True Directions even though she insists she’s attracted to men. However, no one believes her because she looks stereotypically lesbian.

While the characters are one-dimensional and the plot follows typical formulas in the genre, like enemies-to-lovers, it’s self aware, playing into these expectations to subvert them. Plus, sometimes you just want to watch something familiar and easy, especially for processing difficult or traumatic experiences.

SFU’s “What’s Next” report outlines their upcoming priorities

By
Peak Web
-
0
This is a photo of the SFU Burnaby Campus. A small pond in a courtyard is surrounded by buildings and small trees.
PHOTO: Kriti Monga / The Peak

By: Eden Chipperfield, News Writer

SFU released their second “What’s Next” report on March 8. The 2023 report provides insight into what the SFU community can expect their faculties to be actively working on. This includes online discussions, and round table talks from the community to understand how the university can evolve to better serve its community. 

Central topics SFU addressed included: embracing accountability for student learning, promoting and protecting the mental health and well-being of students, advancing social justice, inclusion, and climate action. Each topic included various action points to create a strategy that addresses those goals.  

“We are living through a critical time in history. From a global pandemic and growing inequities to shifting geopolitics and the climate crisis, the challenges we face are complex and daunting,” said SFU president Joy Johnson in a statement announcing the report’s release. 

The report highlights accountability as a key priority. It noted the strategies used to address challenges will “succeed through implementation.” Various working groups and appropriate resources will be introduced to ensure these issues are appropriately discussed. Implementation reflects the conversations occurring through the working groups aligning with “executive and governance processes.” However, no specific details were provided about said working groups.

To aid in establishing the action items in “What’s Next?” SFU identified four priorities: upholding Truth and Reconciliation, engaging in global challenges, making a difference for BC, and transforming the student experience, according to a statement provided by the SFU administration to The Peak. 

Reconciliation is a primary subject of interest, and will be addressed under Chris (Syeta’xtn) Lewis, director of Indigenous Initiatives and Reconciliation, and president Johnson. The report stated its goal is to “strengthen Indigenous faculty and staff attraction and retention through targeted hires and permanent positions, embedding Indigenous knowledge systems and ways of knowing.” An Indigenous Strategic Plan is also in development and will be shared in time.

The report also touches on climate action relating to SFU’s progress with the Sustainability and Climate Action Plan released in September 2022. “SFU has already made significant progress toward reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, including announcing it will divest from fossil fuels,” the administration statement reported. “SFU cut greenhouse gases by more than 50 percent from 2007 levels in 2021, exceeding provincial interim targets and our own Race to Zero targets as well.”

Regarding their goal of making a difference for BC, the strategy describes a future medical school at SFU’s Surrey campus. “SFU is working closely with many partners, including First Nations Health Authority and Fraser Health Authority, to develop a medical school focused on educating community level specialists, including family physicians and being accountable to the province’s diverse communities it will serve,” the administration stated. SFU plans to begin student intake for the medical school in September 2026. It will “facilitate evidence-informed public dialogue that fosters pluralism and shared problem-solving across the province,” as featured in the report. 

The last priority discussed in the report is transforming the SFU student experience. This priority aims to “break barriers, reduce biases, and create systems that promote student success, improve campus vibrancy, and create space for everyone to do their best work”. The strategy includes actively changing the curriculum and providing service enhancements for the changing needs of learners, including more information on “mental health, affordability, and flexibility.  

“SFU will need to remain agile as the next months and years unfold, and this strategy serves as a vital compass to guide the university,” according to the “What’s Next” report. 

For more information on the What’s Next report, visit their website at sfu.ca/about/sfu-strategy.html. 

1...188189190...1,445Page 189 of 1,445

Simon Fraser University’s independent student newspaper since 1965.

For advertising inquiries: [email protected]
For promotional inquiries: [email protected]

© The Peak Publications Society

Simon Fraser University’s independent student newspaper since 1965.

For advertising inquiries: [email protected]
For promotional inquiries: [email protected]

© The Peak Publications Society