November 2013 Student/Parent Newsletter
POST-SECONDARY
1. The University of Saskatchewan application for fall 2014 admission is online. Once
the application has been submitted and the application fee of $90 has been paid, students should
tell their career counsellor so that interim marks can be submitted in support of the application
for admission. Please note that the application is not always compatible with Internet Explorer 9
so if you find you are having difficulty, try an earlier version of Internet Explorer or Firefox.
2. The University of Saskatchewan will be hosting a Virtual Open House on November 21st,
2:00 to 6:00 pm. If you were unable to attend the on-campus Open House, this is a great
opportunity to learn more about becoming a student at the U of S. Register online for this
event.
3. Thinking of attending the University of Alberta Augustana Campus (in Camrose
AB)? Augustana offers students the opportunity to earn a U of A degree in a smaller-campus
setting of approximately 1,000 students. They have over 40 different majors and minors from
which students can choose in the following U of A programs: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of
Management in Business Economics, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Science and a combined
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Secondary Education Combined degree. Students at Augustana
can also take pre-professional studies towards programs such as Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy,
Education, Law, and Optometry. Augustana is also hosting a preview day on November 22,
2013 for which students can register online.
4. The University of Alberta is offering Dino 101, a high quality massive open online course
(MOOC) designed to teach learners the scientific method through the universal appeal of
dinosaurs. The course is available to the world for free (no exams). No background is required.
5. Great Plains College is happy to once again offer a series of Spend-A-Days over the next
month. All participating students will be able to meet staff, students and instructors and get a
preview of their chosen program before they apply. The dates are as follows:
Date
Location
Registration Deadline
Program(s)
Nov. 7th
Rosetown
Oct. 31st
Welding
Nov. 13th
Biggar
Nov. 6th
Electrician, Practical Nursing
Nov. 21st
Swift Current
Nov. 14th
Business, Electrician, Office
Admin, Power Engineering,
Practical Nursing,
Registered Nursing, Welding
 Students can pre-register online or call Maureen at (306) 778-5475.
6. Great Plains College is accepting applications to the Saskatchewan Collaborative
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (a.k.a. Registered Nursing) degree program. The deadline is
4:30 p.m. on Feb. 15, 2014. Applications are also being accepted to the Practical Nursing
diploma program until March 31, 2014. These are the only two programs at Great Plains
College with an application deadline, but students are encouraged to apply early for all programs
as seats are filled on a first-come, first-admitted basis. Call 1-866-296-2472 for more
information.
7. Saskatchewan Regional Colleges provide the opportunity to access post-secondary education
and training right in your own community. It is the largest post-secondary campus in the
province, comprising seven colleges with 27 locations. Check it out at www.saskcolleges.ca.
8. SIAST Campus Tours – General tours will be held at SIAST Kelsey Campus in Saskatoon on
November 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th, and December 3rd starting at 10:00 a.m. To pre-register, go
to myChoice or contact Debra Stevenson, student recruitment advisor, at 306-659-4715 or email stevensond@siastsk.ca. Tours at Woodlands Campus in Prince Albert will run at 10:00
a.m. on November 5th, 19th,26th and at 1:30 p.m. on November 14th and 28th. To register,
contact Christine Nemish, student recruitment advisor, at (306) 765-1615 or email
nemish@siast.sk.ca.
9. SIAST After Hours: Can't make it during the day? Parents and potential students are welcome
to attend general campus tours of SIAST Kelsey Campus at 7:00 p.m. on November 19th or
December 3rd. The session will include a tour of the campus, as well as an overview of the
programs and services SIAST provides. To register, contact Debra Stevenson at 306-659-4715 or
email stevensond@siast.sk.ca.
10. SIAST First Qualified, First-Admitted Programs (FQFA): Current high school students who
are enrolled in the grade level that will qualify them for admission to the program of their choice
may apply on or after September 1st each year for FQFA programs. It is to their advantage
to apply early for the best chance of being admitted.
11. A reminder to those students who are interested in Combined Laboratory and X-Ray
Technology, Dental Hygiene, Medical Laboratory Assistant, Medical Laboratory
Technology, Medical Radiologic Technology, Power Engineering Technology, or
Practical Nursing at SIAST -- each of these is a "High Demand Program" which means
that applications are open from October 1, 2013 to February 15, 2014. High-demand
programs consistently have more applicants than spaces available at each SIAST location at
which they are offered. High-demand programs have admission requirements plus additional
selection criteria. Start reviewing the application procedures now at www.gosiast.com.
12. Are you interested in the Alberta College of Art & Design? ACAD will be hosting Portfolio
Days at the Mendel Art Gallery in Saskatoon on Friday November 8th and Saturday
November 9th. Sit down with a representative to discuss your artwork and get your portfolio in
order. If possible, bring along 6-12 different pieces, your sketchbooks and if writing is your
thing, bring some samples. Someone will be available to walk you through the application and
answer any questions.
13. Are you thinking of going to the University of British Columbia next fall? Representatives
from UBC will be in Saskatoon on Saturday, November 9, 2013 at the Delta Bessborough Hotel
from 10:30 a.m. to noon. This is a great opportunity to learn more about what they have to
offer. Note that if you do apply to UBC and are admitted for the fall of 2014, UBC will fly you (for
free) to campus in May for a full-day introduction to life and learning at UBC.
14. McKay Career Training is a private vocational school in downtown Saskatoon. They offer 7
different programs with varying start dates throughout the year and have a job placement rate of
> 90% for their graduates. Their programs include: Massage &
Hydrotherapy diploma; Medical Office Assistant; Medical Administrative
Assistant; Veterinary Office Assistant; Graphic Design New Media
Production; Photographic Arts; and Criminal Justice.
15. Athabasca University offers year-round admissions, monthly start dates and online programs
that fit your schedule! Check out the 2013-2014 Course Calendar.
16. Interested in social work? The Social Work Partnership Degree allows students to study at
Briercrest for 3 years and at Minot State University for 2 years to earn a Bachelor of Arts in
Psychology from Briercrest and a Bachelor of Social Work from Minot State University.
17. Medicine Hat College is hosting their Student for a Day Program on November 18th – 22nd.
Students will have the opportunity to tour the college campus, attend a class in the program of
their choice, meet with instructors and have lunch with current students. Please call 403-5293819 for more information or to register. Participants must register in advance.
18. Grade 11 & 12 students are invited to attend an informative and event-filled day, "What is
Business Administration?" on December 5, 2013, to discover more about pursuing an
education at the Paul J. Hill School of Business at the University of Regina. The day will
include presentations on the programs offered at the Paul J. Hill School of Business, guest
speakers, workshops/mini-lectures, a draw for a $500 bursary, free pizza lunch and other great
prizes. Registration for this event will begin in November. Questions can be directed to
events.URBusiness@uregina.ca or 306-585-5016.
19. Are you considering applying to a college in the United States or in another country? Go
to www.commonapp.org to see if the institution you are considering is one of the 517
member institutions (spanning 47 States and 8 countries) of The Common Application. This is
a not-for-profit membership organization that, for 35 years, has been committed to providing
free, reliable services promoting equity, access and integrity in the college application process.
SCHOLARSHIPS
1. Students are reminded to set up accounts/profiles on web-based databases such as
www.studentawards.com, www.scholarshipscanada.com and
www.studentscholarships.org.
2. Grade 12 students: Are you a leader in your community? If so, consider applying for a TD
Scholarship (valued at up to $70,000). Apply before the deadline of December 6th, 2013.
3. Saskatchewan Agriculture Scholarships are available to grade 12 students and recent
graduates (the past two years) in Saskatchewan planning to take agriculture-related postsecondary education beginning in the fall of 2014. The winner will receive a $4000 scholarship
and three runner-ups will receive $2000 each. Agriculture in Saskatchewan, and Canada, is a
modern, prosperous industry; it reaches far beyond occupations typically associated with farming
and plays a large role in the strength of our economy. The scholarship is one of the first steps in
launching your exciting career in agriculture. Applicants need to produce a three-minute creative
video or write a well researched 1000-word essay that showcases one of the Ministry’s four
agricultural awareness key themes; and provide a letter of recommendation from an agriculture
teacher, industry leader or community leader. The application deadline is March 1, 2014 and
applicants have until April 1, 2014 to submit proof of enrollment.
4. Are you thinking of applying to the University of Toronto? The deadline to apply for the
National Scholarship Program is November 8th, 2013. Total value is between $45,000 to
$60,000 including tuition and incidental fees for 4 years, residence support in the first year, and
an additional renewable, monetary award (which ranges from $2,000 to $8,000 annually and is
determined on the basis of individual financial circumstances).
5. If you are in your final year of high school, and you are interested in studying STEM subjects in
university (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics), you could be a
potential Schulich Leader Nominee. Each school can nominate one Grade 12 student for this
prestigious scholarship (valued at $60,000). You must possess at least 2 of the following
attributes: (i) outstanding community, business or entrepreneurial leadership; (ii) academic
excellence; or (iii) financial need and be pursuing an undergraduate degree in one of the STEM
subjects. If you would like to apply to be your school's Schulich Leader Nominee for 2014, go
to www.schulichleaders.com/application to read more about the scholarship and download
the Schulich Leader Scholarships letterhead; use the letterhead to write a formal letter of interest
and explain why you should be the MHS Schulich Leader Nominee. Letters of interest may be
handed in to your school's' career counsellor or to the administration.
6. A reminder that the application for the 2014-2015 Competitive Entrance Awards at the U of S is
now available online. The deadline to apply is February 15, 2014.
7. Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship (SYA) Industry $1000 Scholarships are awarded
each year to 80 eligible high school graduates throughout the province that have completed the
SYA Program and will be pursuing a career in the skilled trades.
TRADES INFORMATION
1. Students who may be interested in pursuing a trade in the future are encouraged to sign up for
the Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship Program. To be eligible for the program,
students must be registered in school, be at least 15 years of age, and meet one of the following
criteria: (a) have experience with part-time or seasonal employment, (b) be registered in a
trade-related Practical & Applied Arts (PAA) class, (c) be registered in Career and Work
Exploration 10, 20 or 30, or (d) be registered in a PAA survey course with at least one-third
trade-related content. Apprenticeship credits are also available. Talk to your career counsellor
for more information.
2. Are you interested in a career in service, parts or sales in Agribusiness? Cervus
Equipment is now accepting applications from students for part-time (winter/spring) and fulltime (summer) employment at their Saskatoon John Deere location. Forward your resume
to nmakkar@cervusequipment.com before March 3, 2014 or call Nikki at 306-491-4827
to learn more about the opportunities available. Note that Cervus staff receives up to 100%
reimbursement for post-secondary education.
3. If you are interested in mechanics and are considering where to apply for work next year, The
City of Regina is hiring and looking for dedicated trades people, including apprentices. For
more information or to submit your online cover letter and resume go
to: www.GoToCareers.ca/CityofRegina or, call 1-866-235-9737.
4. Check out Trade Up Saskatchewan to explore the construction trades, institutes, apprentice
programs and available jobs.
CAREERS AND CAREER EVENTS
1. See Your Future - Education and Career Fair 2013 will be held on
Tuesday, November 5th at TCU Place in Saskatoon. Universities, colleges and
organizations from across Canada will have representatives in attendance to provide in-depth
information, technological demonstrations, seminar presentations and one-on-one
consultations for both students and parents.
2. Grade 10, 11 and 12 students: Spotlight on Careers offers a fantastic opportunity to
explore different options available in the following careers: Entrepreneurship and
Business (SIAST Business Certificate Program, Edward’s School of Business, and Ideas Inc.
includes a “Pitch Party with Brett Wilson of Dragon’s Den”), November 14th, 2013;
Nursing (SIAST/U of R and University of Saskatchewan Programs), November 14th, 2013;
Therapies (Occupational, Physical, Speech, Sport and Therapeutic Recreation — includes
College of Kinesiology, Sports Therapy and Physiotherapy), November 19th;
Pharmacy/Pharmacy Technology and Nutrition (SIAST Pharmacy Tech program +
presentations from pharmacists, technologists and pharmacy students), November 20th;
Professional Cooking/Prep Cook and Hotel & Restaurant Administration (get to
work alongside a Red Seal Chef!), November 20th. These Spotlights are limited to 25
students each so apply early! Pick up an application from your career counsellor or apply
online. The deadline to apply for any of the above Spotlights is Wednesday, November
6th. A second set of Spotlights will feature Emergency Services on Thursday, November
28th and Automotive on Tuesday, December 3rd. The deadline for application to
these Spotlights is Wednesday, November 20th.
3. Career Exploration for Medical Diagnostics: The Saskatoon Health Region and the
SIAST Medical Diagnostics Department host an informative session for anyone interested in
learning more about a wide variety of Medical Diagnostic professions including: Combined
Laboratory and X-ray Technology, Cytotechnology, Diagnostic Medical
Sonographer, Magnetic Resonance Technologist, Medical Laboratory Assistant,
Medical Laboratory Technology, Medical Radiologic Technology, and Nuclear
Medicine Technologist. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about these Medical
Diagnostic professions as well as the application and selection process to be accepted into
the SIAST Medical Diagnostic programs. This session will be held on November 15,
2013, and again on January 14, 2014. To register for your preferred session, please
contact Mary Ann Chapple, at 306-655-3986 or email
MaryAnn.Chapple@saskatoonhealthregion.ca.
4. Interested in a career in massage therapy? Go to www.massagetherapycanada.com
for a comprehensive review of programs offered across Canada.
5. The RCMP is hosting a Career Presentation on Tuesday, November 5th (6:00 p.m.) at
SIAST Kelsey Campus, Main Building, Room 317. This event provides students with the
opportunity to learn more about becoming a regular RCMP member and attendance at this
type of presentation is mandatory for anyone considering applying to the RCMP. Registration
is required -- to register, call 1-877-726-7472 or email NWR.SaskRecruiting@rcmpgrc.gc.ca. Be sure to include your name, address, phone numbers, e-mail address, location
of presentation (province and city), date and time of presentation.
OTHER OPPORTUNITIES
1. The Duke of Edinburgh Award Program is one of individual challenge to nurture inner
pride and empower young leaders. It offers young people a balanced, non-competitive
program of extra-curricular activities that encourages personal discovery and growth, selfreliance, perseverance, responsibility to themselves and service to their community. The
Award also acts to provide high quality learning opportunities that guide young people to be
motivated, learn how to communicate, become organized and become independent through
a program of goal setting, confidence & responsibility. It looks great on a resume or
scholarship application and it is fun to do! In addition, Grades 10, 11 or 12 students can
receive a Special Project Credit for each of the 3 levels they complete of the Program if they
would like - which would count towards the 24 high school credits they require to graduate
(SPC 10 for Bronze, SPC 20 for Silver, and SPC 30 for Gold) but doing it for credit is not
required.
2. Parents! Are you interested in learning more about The Duke of Edinburgh Award
program? Leader Training is being offered in Saskatoon on November 15 (6:30 to 9:00
p.m.) and November 16 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) at the Circle Drive Alliance
Church. Registration is $40 and includes breakfast & lunch on Saturday as well as the
leadership manual and resources. This is a great way to learn more about the program and
potentially to help out with your local Duke of Ed group. Contact Glenda Danbrook at
gdanbrook@dukeofed.org if you are interested in registering for the training -- even if
you can only attend on the Saturday.
3. Are you interested in parliamentary debate? Canadian politics? Going to University in the
National Capital region? If so, the House of Commons Page Program is for you! The
Pages for 2014-2015 will be contracted to work at the House of Commons for one year,
beginning in late August 2014. They work a minimum of 15 hours per week with their work
schedule coordinated with their university schedule. Each candidate must: (i) be a Canadian
citizen or permanent resident; (ii) be graduating from a Canadian high school and entering
full-time university studies in September 2014; (iii) have an overall academic average of at
least 80%; (iv) be able to communicate fluently in both official languages, as evaluated by
the House of Commons; and (v) apply to a university in the National Capital region, be
accepted and accept the offer of admission. The deadline to apply is Monday, December
9, 2013.
4. If you are in Grade 10, Grade 11 or Grade 12 and have: high overall academic
achievement (with a passion for math & sciences); a creative & entrepreneurial mind;
initiative & drive; excellent communication and interpersonal skills; leadership skills (as well
as the ability to work as a team member), and if you participate in extracurricular programs,
then Shad Valley is for you! Shad Valley is a 4 week summer program where students
gather with others who share the same drive for achievement and the same desire to make a
difference. One of the host universities is "home" for the month, where students pursue
interests in science, engineering, mathematics, technology and entrepreneurship. The focus
is on academics (including a business project where students are challenged to bring a new
science & engineering based invention to market) and on recreational activities like hiking
and camping. Intake dates for program applications are November 27,
2013 and December 12, 2013 but you are advised to apply early!
5. In recognition of young people who demonstrate outstanding service, positive contributions,
notable deeds, bravery or leadership, the Vimy Foundation has created the Vimy
Pilgrimage Award. Exceptional Canadian youth who have served their peers, schools,
communities, province or country are eligible. The Award consists of a fully funded, weeklong educational program in Europe to study Canada's tremendous First World War
effort. Scheduled in early April during Vimy week, the program will include classroom
education and daily field trips to significant WWI sites and memorials. Applications must
be submitted by November 11, 2013.
6. The Sanofi BioGENEius Challenge Canada is a national science competition open to all
high school students in Canada. The SBCC focuses on biotechnology: the science of
researching and developing biological solutions that can be applied to agriculture, the
environment, medicine, and many more areas that have a direct impact on people's daily
lives. Students in rural communities will have the opportunity to be mentored via
videoconferencing through VROC (Virtual Researcher on Call). Students will be matched with
professional mentors (real scientists in real labs) to perform their research and get a firsthand experience. Questions may be directed to Chelsea Abramoff at
cherished.events@hotmail.com.
7. The Beaverbrook Vimy Prize is a prestigious summer scholarship for youth ages 15-17 to
study the interwoven history of Canada, France and Great Britain during the Great Wars.
During the 2 week scholarship program, prize winners will visit key historical sites in Britain,
Belgium, and France. Highlights include visits to major museums, battle and grave sites,
lectures as well as meeting veterans and members of the French Resistance. Submission
criterion and application forms can be accessed online from November 11th to February
1st. Students are asked to submit a 1,500 word essay or project on a selected topic. The
submission deadline is midnight on February 1, 2014.
8. Are you interested in a degree in Social Work? Information sessions are held each
month at the Saskatoon Campus of the U of R Faculty of Social Work, located at 153 - 111
Research Drive (The Atrium, Innovation Place) in Saskatoon. The next information session is
scheduled for December 3rd, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. in Suite 143 of the Atrium. For further
information, call 306-664-7370.
9. StudentAwards is offering a free webinar -- "Perfecting the Personal Statement" -- on
Tuesday, November 12, 2013 at 5:00 p.m. (SK time). Topics will include: how to decide
what to include in your personal statement; how to turn your list of accomplishments into a
good story; how to handle the challenging or tough parts of your experience; and writing
do's and don'ts. E-mail info@studentawards.com to register.
10. WorkSafe Saskatchewan invites Grade 9-12 students to create a 2 minute videos with the
Work2Live message, “It’s your job: Just ask!” First prize is $1000. Last year’s winning
videos are posted on the website.
11. If you are searching for a part time job, check out Teenwork. Created by a Saskatoon teen
for teens, it has job listings that are applicable to young people, their skills and their
availability. The extensive job tool section is designed to guide young job seekers through
every step of their job search. If you have questions, they have answers! Its free, it’s
convenient and it works! Could job hunting be any easier?