Events
As the summer months are in full swing, June brings the launch of the newest Shinerama campaign! But what is this campaign all about? Shinerama is Canada’s largest post-secondary fundraiser that spreads awareness and donations in support of those battling against cystic fibrosis (CF). CF is the most common fatal genetic disease that affects Canadian adolescents, which currently has no cure. Estimates state around 1 in every 3600 children born in Canada will be diagnosed with this disease and more than 4300 Canadian children utilize specialized clinics specifically intended for CF patients. The effects of cystic fibrosis vary with each case, but the primary characteristic is the ongoing infection, destruction, and loss of function in the lungs which leads to death in the current majority of CF patients. For more information about CF be sure to check out: https://www.cysticfibrosis.ca/about-cf?_ga=2.262519948.1894478788.1623205811-1089696432.1623205811
The Shinerama campaign is determined to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals who are diagnosed with cystic fibrosis and raise community awareness. The efforts of the Shinerama team works to greatly increase the quality of care of CF patients by working to provide access to things like medications and treatments. The Shine team also funds research into CF with the hopes of making progress to one day finding a cure for this genetic disease.
The University of Manitoba Shinerama campaign is run by hard-working students who are passionate about helping to raise awareness and funds for fighting against cystic fibrosis. “ShineToba” raised $13,653.87 last year towards CF and is looking to raise the bar this year! Through various fundraising events and activities, the Shine team can’t wait to have some fun with fellow Asper students this summer while raising money for a great cause. The campaign will kick off with a #TBTrivia night this June 23rd sure to be filled with fierce competition and some great prizes! The event will be hosted via Zoom and the ticket price is $5 per person. Be sure to follow the @Shinetoba Instagram page for the latest updates on the 2021 campaign.
Student Stories
On behalf of the Commerce Students’ Association: Happy Pride Month! As June is a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, it’s important to show support for people of all gender identities and sexualities. In “Student Stories” this month, the CSA wanted to give a spotlight to a local group that works to create an economy supported by, and supportive of diverse communities. The Manitoba LGBT Chamber of Commerce is a group that aims: “to cultivate, contribute to and promote a thriving community of LGBT* owned and allied businesses, professionals and students in Manitoba”. Founded in 1988, the chamber is passionate about giving a platform to LGBTQ+ business owners and fostering connections between members. Through monthly business growth events and volunteer opportunities, this group truly shows the importance of combining the future of business with the recognition and incorporation of diversity. Be sure to check out the Manitoba LGBT Chamber of Commerce on their website https://mb-lgbt.biz/
Canada may have legalized same-sex marriage in 2005, but we still have a long way to go in terms of achieving true equality for those in the LGBTQ+ community. One small way to promote the normalization of inclusive language and actions in everyday life is the disclosure of preferred pronouns.
A pronoun can refer to a person who is talking (I or you) or someone who is being talked about (she, he, they, zhe, etc). When referring to gender pronouns, most people tend to have a preference over which are used on their behalf, so it is polite to confirm with someone about the pronouns they use rather than assuming. Although pronouns are commonly associated with the LGBTQ+ community, everyone uses them and it promotes inclusivity when the disclosure of preferred pronouns is normalized outside of the community to everyone! So how do you disclose your pronouns? It has become commonplace to include them in email signatures, social media bios, business cards, and any other way you introduce yourself to others. Respecting the pronouns of others is a very basic way to show respect for their gender identity. Although it may occasionally take time to adjust to the pronouns of others, it is always best to admit your mistakes and correct them. For a more in-depth guide about what gender pronouns are and how to respectfully use them, check out this resource center https://uwm.edu/lgbtrc/support/gender-pronouns/
Although June may be Pride month, support of the LGBTQ+ community extends year-round in the Asper School of Business. No matter if you’re questioning, closeted, or out and proud, the CSA encourages you to be your authentic self unapologetically.
University Life
As a student in the Asper School of Business, there are many different things to consider, an important one is your field of study. Declaring a major is something everyone knows has to happen eventually, but some students are unaware of the options available to them. The Asper School of Business currently offers 12 different majors to those enrolled in a Bachelor of Commerce degree, and students typically declare a major near the beginning of their 3rd year, but there is no set timeline requirement. You can always change your mind or even choose to double major! Now let’s take a look at the different majors offered by the Asper School of Business…
- Accounting
Those who pursue an accounting major may value their excellent quantitative and analytical skills. An accounting major is the first step for many in pursuing a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.
- Actuarial Mathematics (Business)
Actuarial Mathematics majors are interested in applying certain mathematical disciplines to real-life financial scenarios. If you value how calculations can help to plan and reduce the risk for a variety of business-related areas, actuarial studies may interest you!
- Entrepreneurship/Small Business
Creative and driven, entrepreneurship students are full of passion. Many who pursue an entrepreneurship major are interested in learning how to cultivate their own business or professional venture post-graduation.
- Finance
Interested in how financial institutions and markets work? With a variety of career options and applications, finance majors often have a keen interest in investing and financing.
- Generalist
Generalists are a jack of all trades! If you aren’t quite sure which career is right for you, a generalist degree is a great foundation for a career in management in the discipline of your choice.
- Human Resource Management/Industrial Relations
HRM focuses on the people that make up organizations. If you are empathetic and strategic you may find an Industrial Relations major will be the perfect way to enhance your skills.
- Indigenous Business Studies
Introduced in 2017, the Indigenous Business Studies major is the only major of its kind in Canada. Open to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, this major is a one-of-a-kind way to gain a unique perspective through your commerce degree.
- International Business
Business is a global affair, and this degree provides context for commerce from an international perspective. Gain a worldly education from various perspectives and fields of study all right here in Asper!
- Leadership and Organization
Have you always considered yourself a leader? Leadership and Organization majors are interested in inspiring the next generation of the workforce. Being passionate and outgoing are key characteristics of this major!
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain has to do with the flow of products from the supplier, through operations, and onto the final consumer. Analytical and strategic, supply chain majors have a variety of different avenues to pursue post-graduation.
- Management Information Systems
Technology is a core function of all facets of life, and business is no exception. With a major in MIS, you will gain valuable knowledge about the technological tools essential to all organizations and gain a degree that is in high demand in the employment market.
- Marketing
If you are interested in consumers and why they make the choices they do, marketing may be the perfect major for you. Marketing majors use a combination of creativity and analytics to determine the most effective ways to communicate with consumers.
After you’ve set your sights on the major of your dreams, go to your Aurora student account to officially declare your major(s). June 14th is when major declarations open, but they aren’t permanent so don’t panic! Every student has to declare a major, so take your time in considering all of your options. Seek out advice from your professors, peers, and Asper career counselors. Just remember, your major is one of the first steps on your career path so it is an important and exciting decision!
Want to keep up with the CSA? Follow us on Instagram @aspercsa and on Facebook @AsperCSA!
This article was written by Avery Groeneveld