Thinking the Mount . . .

Apple Blossom Parade!!

2010-05-28T14:23:00.003-03:00

Hey Everyone!

This summer the Mount Summer Crew (equipped with Monty!) are traveling around the Maritimes and going in a variety of community festivals and events! Our first stop is tomorrow!

The Mount and Monty (The mascot!) are going to be taking over the Annapolis Valley! Look for us in the Apple Blossom Parade, which starts at 1PM. www.appleblossom.com

Show your Mount pride and wear a piece of Mount clothing (t-shirt, hat, sweat-shirt, etc.) and if we see you – we might have a little something something to give you. :) Also, if you are in the crowd and manage to get a picture of Monty or the Mount Summer Crew – send it to me at: julie.smith2@msvu.ca

I’ll see everyone tomorrow at 1 in the Valley!

Cheers,
Julie Smith

Earth Day

2010-04-22T13:53:00.006-03:00

It's Earth Day! The members of our Mount community take pride in trying to make efforts towards becoming more sustainable and contributing towards our community and the environment. One of the ways we do this is each year, on Earth Day, the staff and faculty of the Mount all pitch in to do a big campus clean-up. This is my third year going (of the four we’ve been doing it) and it’s always a great time. We show up at noon, get assigned a section of the campus, are handed out gloves and some garbage bags, and then we clean, clean, clean.

The group I went with this year included Courtney Barnhill and Erin Morice from our Recruitment Office, and Katie Belcher and Stefan Hancherow from the Art Gallery. We were assigned the green spaces in and around the Rosaria Student Centre parking lot. So what kind of garbage do you find in that area? We had everything from about a zillion cigarette butts and disintegrating pieces of paper, to Tim Horton’s and McDonald’s cups and wrappers, to a large metal pipe, and finally to an empty ring box (a proposal gone wrong perhaps?). We collected it all up and brought it back to the main area and they rewarded us with a barbeque, a reusable coffee mug and a tree of our own to plant somewhere.

The last part of the event included a big announcement – the Mount’s new sustainability webpage is live! It includes all of the information you ever wanted to know about how the Mount is becoming greener every day and what you can do to help.

Check out a few more photos of the day on our Facebook Fan page (and become a fan while you're at it!).

Happy Earth Day!

The Mount in 45 Minutes

2010-03-24T12:09:00.004-03:00

When I think about going on a tour, I get all excited and think of what I'll get to see and do, such as: going to a new place, meeting new people, doing something exciting, experiencing something fun. I believe these phrases really define the Mount campus tour.

As as prospective Mount student, a tour is something new and inspiring. You get to discover life at the Mount in 45 minutes packed with all the information you need to know. You get to see the main bulidings on campus and observe the typical day in the life of a Mount student. But most of all, you get to experience the Mount and all the excitement there is in being here in this lovely campus surrounded by outstanding professors, amazing staff and great students.

For the tour guide, it is something unique and delightful every time. Every tour is one of a kind. I always get asked interesting questions by prospective students and their parents. It feels good to be able to share how wonderful of an experience it is to be a Mount student.

Photo in this blog courtesy of Mount PR Students Luke Levy and Nicole Lawrence.

Six Hours in the Life of a Mount Student Volunteer

2010-03-16T10:11:00.004-03:00

For me, volunteering is always both fun and rewarding. Knowing that you are able to help and have fun as well is surely worth one's time. On March 5, I had a chance to put six hours of my time to very good use, when I was a volunteer at Explore the Mount, our winter Open Campus Day.

Sitting on the table for the speed networking was a very good way to start the day. I had the chance to share my life as a Mount student to prospective students and their parents, and to answer the questions they had about how fun it is here at the Mount. One student asked me if there was one thing I didn't like about the Mount, and it took me forever to think, because there are actually none! Well, ok, I said walking up the hill is always a challenge. But hey! I can attest that it's a good exercise. Doing it daily keeps me healthy and fit!

Breaking into groups and leading the students to their 'classrooms' brought back memories of when I was trying to find a classroom during my first term here at the Mount. It was great way to help future Mount students NOT to get lost in Seton!

Even lunch time was so much fun. Aramark did a very good job. The food they served was really fantastic. From the veggies to the wraps, it was all healthy. It's definitely one aspect that parents
can let out a sigh of relief, knowing that their children will be eating healthy while on campus.

The info session proved to be really informative even to a current Mount student like me. I had a chance to ask about the different services the library has to offer; the different countries a Mount student can go for an exchange; the different student societies and what they have to offer; the counseling services; the career planning services. It made me realize that there is absolutely a lot of assistance a Mount Student can take advantage of to help them become a well rounded individual!

Raffle time was SO exciting! How I wish I also had a chance to join. I wanted those amazing prices that they were giving away especially the NETBOOK!

Just when I thought the fun was over, there was still one final activity that I think was a very great way to end the funfilled day. The campus tour! Students were grouped into two, those who wanted to see the residences and the other group who is not thinking of living in residence. Other student volunteers lead the tours of our beautiful campus and it was equally fun for the prospective students and the student leaders as well.

Indeed, it was a very worthwhile six hours of my time! Until the next Explore the Mount!

Monty the Change Bandit

2010-02-24T09:33:00.006-04:00

Over the last couple of weeks the Admissions and Registrar's Office joined together to collect change as part of C100's (one of our local radio stations) fundraising efforts for Halifax's children's hospital the IWK. We ended up collecting a grand total of $566.11 just from spare change donated within the office and from the Mount students, staff and faculty who dropped in during that time!

The radio station was broadcasting live during the drop-off days of the event so Monty, our mascot, and some of our staffers decided to take the change down personally and say hello to the deejays and Liz Rigney who were hosting the event. Monty got to help out with counting the change and Wanda Mason from the Registrar's Office, spoke for him on the radio.

Great work everyone!

4 Types of Information Sessions This Month!

2010-02-19T09:53:00.005-04:00

Mount Saint Vincent University will be hosting information sessions during February. Please note that there are four types of sessions.

The NSCC 2+2 Articulation Agreement Sessions are only open to students currently enrolled at NSCC
Holland College 2+2 Articulation Agreement Sessions are only open to students currently enrolled at Holland College.
The Community Undergraduate Information Sessions are open to anyone considering or already accepted to the Mount in an undergraduate program.
The Individual Sessions are open to anyone who would like to arrange a meeting with an Admissions Officer to ask questions or have their application assessed for admission. Please email courtney.barnhill@msvu.ca three days before she will be in your area to arrange an appointment.

At all sessions students have a chance to submit their application to the Mount, and to have it reviewed for admission right away. All you need to bring is a completed application form, your official transcripts in sealed envelopes, and a cheque, credit card or cash to pay the application fee of $30!

Students who have already applied, or who are considering applying, can ask questions about opportunities at the Mount, including scholarships and the services we offer to our students. Check out this link to get more information on locations and times!

It's New Years Resolution Time

2010-01-11T10:45:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone, it’s Julie here again!
It’s that time again, when the calendars change and resolution talks are up in the air. I thought really hard about a resolution that I could make this year (and that I wouldn’t break!). I picked to do better in school. (Hopefully I achieve it! ha)

There are so many resources here at the mount that can help me achieve this resolution. My professors are really easy going and flexible for meetings and extra help. I’m not afraid to say I don’t understand. The mount has a writing resource center which can help me with all my essays that I will need to write. I can even take a workshop on procrastinating!

There a good thing the libraries are open late – because that’s where I’ll be if I’m not in class! The library staff is very helpful and friendly if I need help with information or just finding a book!

Another key thing I’m sure that will help me is to be organized! I have already bought my books (the Students’ Union has a great book fair going on, in with you support your students’ union and your fellow students!). The next step is to get my binders organized! Good thing the book store has tons of binders and school supplies!

One thing I’ll be sure to do is visit my academic advisor. Mine always makes sure that I’m on track in my program & gives me helpful tips and suggestions! They are a lifesaver!

These are just a few ideas that I have so far to getting the grades I want. I’ll update you guys and tell you how I’m doing! Oh! And if you guys have any tips or suggestions, reply to this message or go to the mount fan page or thinking the mount in 2010 page! J

Holiday Greetings from the Mount

2009-12-24T12:55:00.004-04:00

Well the season is upon us. Yesterday was the last day the university was open before the Christmas closure and it was a busy day indeed. Right up until we closed down for the holidays the doors (well, honestly, until an hour or so AFTER we closed down) Admissions Officers Courtney and Shannon were processing last-minute applications for January in the hopes of delivering acceptances until they went home. Everyone's left now though for a well-deserved break and we will reopen again January 4th.

We hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and a happy new year. Here is a little video the University put together to wish you a joyous holiday season (PS The Admissions crew is the group holding the "Acceptance" sign (from back row, left to right it's Randy, Michelle, Jue'Rissa, Shannon; then front row, left to right is Courtney, Victoria, Heidi, Andraya; missing this day were Erin and Ute).

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow

2009-12-21T16:52:00.005-04:00

Well we've got our first major winter storm here at the Mount this year. At about 10-15 cm the final amount wasn't that bad (honestly warm weather readers, that isn't too bad!). I took a few snapshots of campus late this afternoon to share the prettiness of the snow. Unfortunately the light wasn't so great and it had started raining but I posted the few decent ones on our facebook fan page (PS If you're not a fan, what are you waiting for? You should join today!)

Distance Education isn't just for students who are distant any more!

2009-12-21T16:39:00.004-04:00

Have you thought about continuing your education at a University, but are worried you don’t have the time? Do you want to work while you are in school? Who can blame you? Not us! At the Mount we like to consider ourselves as a University that works with you to help you accomplish your post secondary dreams. I can attest to that personally, as I have been able to take some of my courses by Distance Education. Distance Education is a great department here at the Mount! This resource enables you to take courses on-line, by phone or via television and previously recorded classes. This provides students with flexibility to take courses when and where it is most convenient for them to do so. Although I am taking Public Relations, I was able to take several electives online, which I found extremely helpful. I could record my class and watch it when I had the time. Our Distance Education Department offers 10 undergraduate degree programs completely by distance and over 200 credit courses in a variety of different media; courses begin in January, April, July and September. They even have their own online bookstore! You can order your books from their website and they will be delivered right to your door.

For more information about Distance Education and the courses offered visit the following link:

http://www.msvu.ca/en/home/programsdepartments/distancelearning/default.aspx

************************

Guest Blog today by Victoria, Public Relations student at the Mount

Halifax News Net: News | A murder of crows

2009-12-10T15:33:00.000-04:00

Halifax News Net: News A murder of crows

Multi-Cultural Night at the Mount!

2009-11-24T13:20:00.004-04:00

On Friday, November 20th the 8th annual Multicultural Night took place at the Mount. The theme this year was “One tribe, One people, One world”. This was my first year going to it, and I had a BLAST. The event was in the MPR (Multi-Purpose Room) and it was all decorated in all the different flags. It was really cool because there was 4 different food stations set up: Thailand, Africa, Mexico, and Mediterranean. Each one was set up like a buffet and had a couple different meal options at each one. The plates they gave you were smaller, so that you could actually taste something from all. It was cool seeing what people ate from different parts of the world and how it differed from how I normally eat (aka: chicken fingers and fries)! The picture above is actually my meal from the Thailand Booth, note how I tried to make it look super pretty for you guys!

After dinner, there were 13 performances from cultures all over the world – including our lovely own east coast culture. There was some signing, dancing (hip-hop & traditional), a motivational speaker & drumming. And then the fun kept going! The after party took place in Vinnie’s, our own campus pub.

With all the violence and war in the world these days, it was really awesome to see everyone together in one big room like a big family and celebrate unity at the Mount. At the Mount we have students from over 60 different countries. And it doesn’t matter what country you’re from, what language you speak or who you are; because when you’re at the Mount: your family & it feels like home.

Next year, don’t miss your opportunity to attend this event. Buy your tickets early because it’s worth every penny. I guarantee you.

Until next time, see you! :)

The Mount Does A Meteor Shower

2009-11-17T11:42:00.021-04:00

Pictures: Leonid Meteor Shower

1. What your suppose to see 2. What we saw last night

Hey everyone, today, I’m going to tell you a story. A story about my Monday night, last night – when the Leonid meteor shower came to the Mount. My roommates had a bright idea to stay up until 4 and watch the meteor shower. (A Mount Facebook event also had the bright idea!) To keep awake until 4AM, I figured it was no better time to start my project due for next week. At 4AM, 60 or 70 of us all headed up to the Mother House Hill (you will learn more about that later in the winter). We had hot chocolate, guitar players & singers to keep our minds off the cold, we also had our comforters which got bad grass stains in them (sorry Mom!) So, here we are, at 4AM – 60 something people sitting on a huge hill, waiting for some magically star show.

Then guess what happened. Clouds, clouds happened; and everyone knows – nothing kills a star show like clouds. So, I guess the meteor shower didn’t really go as planned. But at least I got my project done & some marshmallow hot chocolate. The moral of the story is that even thought the clouds ruined our entertainment – all of us still sat on the hill drinking hot chocolate & having fun. It’s so easy to make friends at the Mount and this is just one example of that. So, for next year’s meteor shower I hope to see some of you there. Hopefully the clouds don’t ruin your fun next year.

PS: I tried to take ya’ll pictures of last night. Sorry they suck, blame it on the clouds. For all the pictures – check out the facebook group.

Until next time,

Julie

Open Campus Day!: Part 3!

2009-11-02T12:49:00.004-04:00

The following are two interviews done by students, Quinn O'Brien & Meaghan MacLeod; who attended The Mount's Open Campus Day!

About yourself:

Quinn: Auburn Drive High, Dartmouth, Bachelor of Arts (Child & Youth Study)

Meaghan: Auburn Drive High, Dartmouth, Bachelor of Arts (Child & Youth Study)

What did you like most about Open Campus Day?

Quinn: Learning about all kinds of different courses that are offered. Also, all of the engery of the students who were here was amazing!
Meaghan: The energy from all the students and having the different information about all the different classes and things at the Mount. Also, the activities that we did made me feel like I would like the enviroment and everyone was really friendly!

What did you learn about The Mount that you didn’t know?

Quinn: I learned the Mount offers a program which is based on what I want to do. Also, they have small class sizes.
Meaghan: I learned that were was a better program for me to take to help me with pursuing my education to become an elementary teacher.

What did you like the most about The Mount?

Quinn: How helpful all of the people were. You didn't have to go very far to find help!
Meaghan: I like the atmosphere and the small class sizes. Also, how easy it was to find people to answer my questions.

What did the people who didn’t come to open house miss?

Quinn: They missed out on the opportunity to experience a bit of the daily life at the Mount.

Meaghan: They missed out on the experience of what you would get out if you came to the school. Also, meeting teachers and students who go here.

Open Campus Day! : Part 2!

2009-11-02T12:43:00.004-04:00

The following are two interviews done by students, Brandon Drake & Kyle Pickrem; who attended The Mount's Open Campus Day!

About yourself:

Brandon: J.L Ilsley High, Halifax, interested in Sciences

Kyle: J.L Ilsley High, Dartmouth, interested in Sociology

What did you like most about Open Campus day?

Brandon: Taking the day off and finding things out about the university at the same time.

Kyle: Missing school, as well as helping plan for my future!

What did you learn about The Mount that you didn’t know?

Brandon: Monty the Mountain Lion is the Mascot.

Kyle: 17 year olds can get into the bar on campus.

What did you like the most about the Mount?

Brandon: the guy to girl ratio!

Kyle: girls, oh and education!

What did the people who didn’t come to open house miss out on?

Brandon: pizza and coffee

Kyle: information on the campus, charity & sports!

Open Campus Day!: Part 1

2009-11-02T12:33:00.005-04:00

The following are two interviews done by students, Derek Leighton & Chris Gallant, who attended The Mount's Open Campus Day!

About yourself:

Derek: J.L Ilsley, Spryfield, NS, Interested in Business

Chris: J.L Ilsley, Victoria, BC, Interested in Business or Science

What did you like most about Open Campus day?

Derek: The people here are very friendly and the girls

Chris: The amount of questions that are answered & pizza!

What did you learn about the Mount that you didn’t know?

Derek: Have their own pub!

Chris: They have small class sizes, and the girls ratio!

What did you like the most about The Mount?
Derek & Chris: The girl to guy ratio, 3:1!

What did the people who didn’t come to open house miss out on?

Derek: Pizza and the Mount Info

Chris: Pizza and the questions and info that was brought up!

Mount Basketball!

2009-11-02T12:30:00.003-04:00

The following is a testimonial from a first year basketball player here at Mount Saint Vincent University:

My name is Mac Ellis and I’m in my first year at the Mount studying public relations. I went to Sir John A Macdonald high school in upper Tantallon and was the starting center on the high school team grade 10-12. When I was recruited by Rick Plato to come to the Mount and play basketball I was skeptical at first, I had always had plans of going to Dal. However the more I looked into the Mount as an option the more appealing it seemed. They have gone undefeated in their seasons the past few years. Once I researched it, going to the Mount was an easy choice to make.

The Mount basketball season starts November 1st however we have already had a jam-packed pre season including a tournament in Montreal. The main difference I feel between university basketball and high school is the amount of offensive and defensive schemes you have to know inside out. The size is a big difference, I’m going from playing down low at all times in high school to learning to play the 3/4 position which on our team play on the perimeter.

My favorite part about being on the team is the improvements I’ve made already on my game. Being on the team, basketball just becomes part of your everyday life. A day that you aren’t at practice, in the gym getting some shots up, or in the gym working out is a rarity. Some days you do all three. Also, basketball has introduced me to a whole new network of people. My least favorite part is the wear and tear on your body. For the first 3 weeks of practicing I was sore pretty much everyday. It’s getting better now though.

I’m not the type to stress much, or at least I wasn’t at high school. Now with a full plate everyday, I find it a bit hard to be completely stress free, however it is definetly manageable. You just have to treat basketball as another one of your classes. The main adjustment I made from high school to university is I waste less time. I’ve gotten away from my one a day naps and try and be as productive as possible during the day while still being social and enjoying myself.

One piece of advice I would recommend is residence for making life much easier. Assisi is located in the same building as the gym and meal hall and some of your classes. Very convenient for people with a busy schedule.

If you are interested in playing, I’d recommend filling out a recruiting form and keep working hard.

Mount Student's Union

2009-10-23T11:51:00.003-03:00

Hey Guys & Gals!!

Don’t forget that the Haunted House is tonight. So be sure to check that out. I’ll be in it, so it’s worth attending!

The Haunted House isn’t the only fun thing happening at The Mount, the Students’ Union always takes care of students' needs whether they are academic or social!

Here are some Student Union services here at The Mount!

Information Desk- At the Information Desk they answer all of your questions ( like if your lost), they send faxes, make photocopies and more. The Info Desk also carries all Students’ Union merchandise. Some of the other services the info desk does are laminating, binding & make ISIC cards (these are a must have for traveling). The Info Desk also sells tickets to events such as super-pubs, large events & some concerts.

Corner Store – is a convenience store on campus. They accept cash and debit. This is the spot to go for all of snacking habits when the café is closed! Also, if you run out of necessities and don’t want to run off campus! The Corner Store is there for the students, so if you see an item which is not there, just tell them and they are more than willing to look into it.

Vinnie’s Pub – Vinnie’s Pub is the one of the only wet/dry bars in Nova Scotia. Wet/dry means that if you go to the Mount, you can get in when your 18! However, there are rules & restrictions such as no drinking in the pub until you’re of age. At Vinnie’s every Friday night is a themed club night. Examples of some themes include Toga, Stoplight and ABC (anything but clothes). There are also super pubs like Mardi Gras, and Halloween. Every Thursday at Vinnie’s is a wing night; Thursdays also have open mics, karaoke or a live band. On Monday nights, Vinnies houses a Monday night football party on the big screen. On Tuesday there Vinnies has a Poker night, with the top prize being a 500$ Bursary. One last thing I want to point out is that Vinnie’s has a full menu of great food.
Vinnies Website: http://mountstudents.ca/content/vinnies

Diversity Centre- The Diversity Centre provides students with information on men's and women's health issues, sexuality, equality, ethnicity and accessibility. The Diversity Centre has a food & clothing bank if you are in need. Also, if are in need of necessities such as tampons or condoms the Diversity Centre is there for you. This center is here for the students, and everything is completely confidential. The diversity center is always looking for volunteers, and is a great place to volunteer at.

Foundation Play Center – The Fountain Play Centre is a child care program just for Mount students. The good thing about the Fountain Play Center is that it’s completely run by Mount students. This provides a GREAT volunteer opportunity for students. I have volunteered here, and I loved it! What other volunteer job do you get to play with children? Exactly.

Other services Students’ Union services include a used book sale each semester, tutoring, a newspaper, and cool events throughout the year!!

So guys, that’s my take on the Students’ Union services. I advise you all to take advantage of it, because it’s a blast!

Your Home to Be!

2009-10-13T14:01:00.003-03:00

Hello guys and gals,
Over thanksgiving weekend, I started thinking about home. So I thought today, I would tell you about your new-to-be homes next year here on campus! There are 3 residences on campus here at The Mount.

Assisi Hall is a 12 story co-ed building that house 142 students. The rooms are mostly single, with a double room on every floor. There are kitchenettes/lounges on every second floors for students to share. The campus security is stationed at the bottom of the building for extra security & peace of mind. A little bonus is that almost all of the rooms in Assisi have just been renovated!

The Birches are 5 townhouses located around the campus duck pond. Each birch has: 20 single rooms, a lounge/TV room, and a kitchen. One birch is designed for female students, and one for international/mature students. The rest of the birches are co-ed.

Both Assisi and The Birches have cable in the lounges; as well as wireless internet in all rooms.

Westwood is the apartment style residence. Westwood is open to all student in their 2 year & up. This residence houses 158 students. Although it is mostly 4 bedrooms, there are also 2 bedroom & single apartments. All apartments are wireless & fully furnished and include cable & telephone in the living rooms.

If you have any questions about residences or how they work don’t hesitate to visit: http://www.msvu.ca/student_affairs/housing/index.asp.

Residence is a great experience, tons of fun & a great way to make a whole lot of new friends! Don’t forget to apply!

The 4th Annual Haunted House!

2009-10-08T15:52:00.002-03:00

The 4th annual MSVU Haunted House is on Friday, October 23rd. Mount Saint Vincent students will transform the Rosaria Student Center into a terrifying haunted house horror-fest for this one night only.

Take a terrifying tour through the haunted house which extends from within the Students’ Union offices and into the entire student services areas including the Diversity Center, Vinnie’s pub, the crows nest & the Fountain Play Center. This tour is sure to scare up some screams from you!

The haunted house is open to all students, faculty, staff & community members. Just remember: some scenes may be too frightening for younger viewers.

Entrance fees are $5 for all students with valid student ID, & $7 for all non-students. It starts at 7Pm, and the last group will go through at 11:30PM. It takes 25-30 minutes to go through, and it’s worth every penny.

For any questions or information email msvuscreamers@mountstudents.ca

Halloween only comes once a year, so this year live it up to the full extent; and come to the MSVU Haunted House.

The Haunted House is rated RS - for ridiculously scary!

Open Campus Day!

2009-10-06T14:29:00.002-03:00

October 30th means Open Campus day! On the 30th we will open our campus doors to invite students from across the Maritimes, to come explore our campus and learn about our departments.

In the morning, there will be an opportunity to get your questions answers by professors and students that can tell you first hand about our exciting programs, offer advice, and answer any questions you may have about our departments or our school.

In the afternoon there will be a free lunch, and an expo where all the departments will have booth & will be ready to answer any questions.

We also have exciting Student Union activities planned, where you get to become a Frosh and experience student life on campus!

Don’t worry mom and dad, we have activities planned for you as well and will have lots of information available to help make your child’s post-secondary choice and easy one.

There will be tours of the campus & residences going on all day so make sure you register!

Also, don’t forget - we will be accepting applications for admissions all day on October 30th.

It’s a great experience that you don’t want to miss. I look forward to seeing you all there!

If you want to register for Open Campus or would like more information, please do not hesitate to call 457-5540, and keep posted on our website for more information!

Hello!

2009-10-06T13:58:00.001-03:00

Hey Everyone! My name is Julie Smith & I am the new Prospective Student Liaison, here at Mount Saint Vincent University. Feel free to contact me at tours@MSVU.ca to book a campus tour, or with any questions you might have about our programs or student life. I look forward to hearing from you!