Ace Academy

How to do well in a mandatory class that you aren't interested in at all?⁠

• We've all experienced those soul-crushing courses that are mandatory for graduation. In order to succeed, you have to think of the bigger picture and get creative! Realize that the course is mandatory for a reason, and it won't hurt you to try and make the best of it. ⁠
• If you're interested in the topic but not in how it is taught to you, find alternative learning methods such as watching Youtube videos or adding visual cues (aka doodles) to your notes.⁠
• If you're not interested in the topic at all, find connections on how it can resonate with you. Apply the topic to practical day-to-day applications in your life or relate it to things that you are interested in! 

How to maximize your student status?⁠

This question goes out to seniors especially! Being a student has A LOT of perks. Maximize it through:

• DISCOUNTS. From movie tickets, groceries, apps, you'd be surprised how many companies and restaurants offer discounts for students. Our favourite discounts: Spotify/Apple Music, Headspace meditation app, GO/TTC, 10% off Metro (for those in-between class snacks).⁠
• SERVICES. Probably the most under-rated perk! As a student, you have free access to workshops and facilities like the gym! Free fitness classes? Yes please.⁠
• RESOURCES. As students, you have access to different funding opportunities that you should take advantage of! You also have access to incubators around campus to help you develop your ideas or projects (*cough* Fashion Zone *cough*). Lastly, you are in an institution of absolute brain power. Talk to your profs! Pick their brains out and develop your network through them. ⁠
• SPACE TO GROW. You are in the prime time of your life to explore, try new things, and make mistakes. No company is going to go bankrupt or shut down because of you. The exploration and mistakes you make will shape you to become better.

How to network for introverts? ⁠

Our society underestimates how amazing introverts are, so we wanted to dedicate a question just for them. We all know networking is key. They say it's not what you know, it's who you know. Yet if you're more on the reserved and quiet side, it can be difficult to navigate and develop that skill. Here are a few tips:⁠

• Go to events that interest you! If you're invested in the topic, you're more likely to speak up and engage in conversations with like-minded people.⁠
• Take advantage of meet and greets. Similar to the first tip, go to meet and greet events and panels where you can get the chance to talk to experts in a more intimate setting. Feel nervous about speaking in front of a crowd? Try to catch the speaker at the end to try and squeeze in your questions.⁠
• Don't underestimate cold-emailing! You don't always have to go to events to meet people. Build your network by sending emails and setting up one-on-one chats. ⁠
• It's all about the mindset. Networking seems like such a big task but rather than thinking of it that way, look at it as an opportunity to have amazing conversations and learning something new from people.⁠

How to say no to tasks I have no time for or am unqualified to do?⁠

• First, understand the importance of saying no. Realize that stretching yourself too thin is detrimental to you and your productivity (which ultimately hurts your work/group). You want to do what's best for you to get the best results possible.⁠
• Second, understand your reasons. Do you not have time to do it to the best of your ability? Do you not have the skills? These reasons are valid.⁠
• Third, say no in a positive way. No doesn't have to carry a negative connotation. For example, "I would love to but ______".⁠
• Lastly, suggest a solution if you can! "I'd love to help but I think xyz can do a better job because they're skilled at it".⁠

How to not burn out?⁠

Everyone is susceptible to burn out, no matter how passionate or driven. Maybe you're physically exhausted or activities you enjoy start to feel tedious, here are some tips to avoid feeling sluggish:⁠

• Prioritize yourself. Like we mentioned in a previous post, taking on too much can negatively affect you and your work. You are a person first before anything else. Block out times or days for yourself. ⁠
• Health is wealth. In relation to the first tip, prioritize eating healthy, working out, and sleep! Small healthy habits have big effects. This will give you the energy to keep going! ⁠
• Remember the reason why you started. It can be rough when your hobbies or activities you enjoy start to feel tedious. Remember what made you want to do it in the first place and cherish that passion.⁠
• Practice activities outside school/work. Whether it's writing, drawing or sewing, do little projects for yourself that will spark up your passion! It doesn't have to be big. The important thing is it's fun and for you!⁠