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Pinterest 101: For the Absolute Beginner

Jeanne Y
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Pinterest 101: For the Absolute Beginner

 

Today I’ll be discussing the ins and outs of this popular app. It’s nothing new, but I recently discovered how novel and how useful Pinterest can be.

I’m still quite new, but I know that Pinterest can appear quite intimidating to the newest users, so I’ll just share what I know about it after using it for about 4 months now.

A Structureless Structure – How to Consume on Pinterest

I love how Pinterest is a way to create as you consume. To use Pinterest, you scroll through the different images that other people have uploaded to Pinterest and you “Pin” them to your own profile. Within your profile, you can sort these Pins into Boards with different topics, and within these Boards you can create Sections. The beauty is that you pick the topic, whether or not you’d like to share it with the world, and if you want anyone else to be able to Pin ideas to your Boards. As someone who positively adores folders inside folders inside folders and hyper organizing information, I loved this customization.

The organization also creates barriers. Sometimes you come across something trendy and funny, but as you reach to pin it into your boards you’ll realize that you haven’t created a category for something fleeting that serves you no purpose. Gone are the days of saving things “just in case” because it forces you to realize there is no “case” in which you use this information.

There’s also options to create your own collages, your public (or private profile), and promote products this way. I don’t own a business, but I’ve heard the Pinterest audience is a great market because its consumers come ready to buy. Anyone who stumbles upon your content will have intentionally done so.

Pros

A New Second Brain System

A lot of productivity hacks include creating what’s called a “second brain”. A second brain is essentially a system you rely upon to keep track of your life and your tasks. This is especially useful in the current age of constant information bullets shot through your screen. All those Tiktoks and Instagram reels filled with recipes that you’ll never make, movies and shows you forget to watch – that gets sorted into your second brain.

What differs Pinterest from a regular second brain system like Notion however, is that it’s relatively easier to Pin things. Pinning things saves them to your profile, your boards, your personal digital space. Pinterest is a blank canvas, which makes it both intimidating and exciting. You can Pin webpages, Pin short videos; there’s so many options and all of them are fast. Also, it builds much faster since you’ll be building it as you scroll, whereas something external like Notion has to have intentional navigation every time you find something cool you’d like to save.

There’s Something for Everyone

Pinterest has so many users, and like most popular social platforms, can become incredibly niche. The central concept behind Pinterest is to give people ideas, and therefore it has to appeal to all sorts of people with all sorts of ideas. You will find something that suits you.

Create as you Consume; Intentional Consumption and Consciousness

Since you’ll be looking at things that interest you, and you intentionally pick the things that you’ll look at later, you are consuming intentionally. Unlike scrolling, when you usually can’t remember the video you watched two Tiktoks before the one you’re watching at the moment, Pinterest narrows categories down so well you’ll know to pick the best ideas in each category because you’ve looked at them so long.

Creating boards and sections as I scroll is probably the most productive I’ve ever been while scrolling, because I’m not just mindlessly recognizing novelty; I’m actively making connections between what I see and its relevance to my own life. This makes it a wonderful alternative to doomscrolling; it’s still scrolling, but it can be more productive and genuinely useful.

Cons

No Novelty

Pinterest likes to show a lot of what you tell it you’re interested in. For example, if you only search “morning routine” it’s likely to only show photos of people drinking ice water while it’s dark outside, motivational quotes about working hard, and lists discussing the “most” efficient morning routine. It won’t show you anything else much, even related topics like closet options or morning commute podcasts.

This often dulls the novelty aspect of scrolling through the app. But is that really a con? I think we all need a little less scrolling anyway.

Potentially Toxic

Because at the end of the day, extremist points of view get the strongest reactions. Like any other social media platform, it’s important to stay out of the rabbit hole. A lot of Pinterest is focused on self-improvement, wellness, and fitness; these are great, but since Pinterest tends only to show more of the same category you’ve already shown interest in it’s easy to get lost in a narrow point of view.

  • Try to research multiple different topics of interest; it helps the algorithm push a variety instead of extremist content
  • Take content with a grain of salt; most of the content is created by people who are willing to do a lot to make money off of your consumption

Too Many Notifications

When I had my notifications on default mode for Pinterest, they spammed my inbox regularly with a ton of ideas for each of my boards. My phone was positively seizing, and it annoyed me greatly. Luckily, they do have an easy fix; just change up your Notifications Settings manually and alter notifications to your preferences. If you just leave it though, you will also be lost in a sea of endless pinging.

Rebelling Against Burnout Culture

Kheta
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Rebelling Against Burnout Culture

Do you feel overworked? Does school, work, and every moment of your life feel rushed? Well, you are not alone! In today’s era, working hard is honoured while taking it slow and resting is seen as inefficient. Specifically for Gen Z, the struggle in hustling 24/7 has brought several concerns which have not been addressed in the past. In this article, we will address the concerns of Burnout and look through a new perspective, which may inspire you to try something new.

Issue:

Burnout is an umbrella term for all the pressure faced by youth and working individuals in society. In reality, burnout is a combination of constant external pressure, stress, anxiety and no time to relax. Frequently, the media tells us to learn time management; however, the real issue lies in the struggle we face to keep up despite organizing our time. When you don’t do your work or take time to relax, they say, “you are lazy or a procrastinator”. The idea of being busy and productive has been treasured, and while it is important to be efficient and effective, life should not feel like you are running on a treadmill until you retire.

Unsplash. Tony Tran. Published on March 5, 2019.

 

Impact:

CNN, supported by research from the Harvard Graduate School of ECD, surveyed to find “81% of teens ages 13 through 17 feel pressure that leaves them feeling badly about their game plans, achievements, appearances, social lives, friendships and/or how informed they are about issues”. Considering that this issue is only rising in severity, there needs to be action taken by society to modify the toxicity of expectations placed on young generations. As we move into adulthood, there is increased stress in meeting deadlines, sustaining well-paying jobs, and working to our full potential. The change we need to make is to redefine a slow life as an intentional way to balance life and limit stress.

A Maclean’s article by Stephanie Bai, a Gen Z Canadian, expresses the reality of how Gen Z is being judged for wanting work-life balance. The article highlights how high school is increasingly competitive, while getting accepted into university feels like a rat race. On top of that, getting a job as a new grad is nearly impossible, considering the amount of experience required for entry-level jobs. Altogether, the issue of not succeeding among the hustle forces youth to constantly grind to secure a spot in the busy economy.

The key takeaway from the research and opinions of youth experiencing burnout is that work has become the center of one’s life, in which there is no time and space to balance. This crisis traps the young and makes people like us question how we will be able to experience the beauty of life beyond working endless hours to keep up.

Unsplash. By Nubelson Fernandes. Published on
December 11th, 2021

Advocacy for High School Students:

While the issue of burnout is spread across all young generations, the hustle starts in high school, where students today experience excessive stress of juggling extracurriculars and academics to increase the possibility of getting into post-secondary education. Despite high school being the hustle phase, we can still promote rest and balance with well-being strategies.

  • Get Sleep!
    • While it is easier said than done, building a habit of going to sleep at the same time every day can help train your brain to finish all work before that time. Getting sleep helps refresh students, especially when their minds are stressed about deadlines and upcoming events all day long.
      • The Harvard Graduate School of Education surveyed students on self-care care and among them 45% did not meet the minimum 7-hour sleep threshold
  • Communicate with Teachers:
    • If you cannot meet deadlines, ask for extensions and explain your situation instead of pulling all-nighters. Clear communication can reduce the burden. We must normalize expressing our opinions and situations instead of suffering in silence.
  • Reduce Social Media Usage when Stressed:
    • Viewing the highlight reels of other people only makes you feel less confident of your situation. Never compare yourself with others because only you can understand the effort you have put forth.
Pixabay. By Mohamed_hassan. Published on May 25, 2022. Picture on Burnout

Slow Living:

We must promote slow living as a way of refreshing our minds consistently between our busy lives. Promoting slow as a way to boost efficiency and maintain balance will help set a new trend in the overwhelming expectations of work culture today. Even though the change will take time, we can always start by implementing it ourselves. For instance, instead of working nonstop for an entire week, organize your calendar to have one evening where you do something that makes you happy. Whether it be watching a movie, catching up with friends, or taking the time to read your favourite book. Prioritize your breaks in the same way you prioritize work. Building in time for yourselves is extremely hard, especially when there is a lot on your plate; however, pushing back a few tasks for a few hours of enjoyment will help you appreciate yourself and the hard work you are putting in to achieve your short-term and long-term goals.

Unsplash. By Hanin Abouzeid. Published on August 21, 2025

TLDR;

  • Burnout culture has been glorified, while slowing down has been associated with laziness
  • Gen Z faces overwhelming amounts of stress from the current work culture and expectations
  • Burnout starts in high school; therefore, students should adjust their schedules to fit in wellness time
  • Small acts of “taking it slow” will ultimately set new trends; the change starts with you

1,2,3

Why Do We Follow The Crowd Most Of The Time?

Khanh Linh
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Why Do We Follow The Crowd Most Of The Time?

Have you ever wondered why you are always subconsciously doing something that surrounding people are doing without a question? The answer is simple, it’s Conformity.

1. Definition:

Conformity or conformism is the act of matching attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours to group norms, politics or being like-minded. Norms are implicit, specific rules, guidance shared by a group of individuals, that guide their interactions with others.

For example, in a group of friends going to watch a movie, if the majority chooses to watch “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” instead of “Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc”, the other friends will agree to watch “Demon Slayer”.

2. How does it work?

In 1953, Professor Solomon Asch did a research on conformity. He performed a lab experiment with 50 male students from Swarthmore College. He put a participant to form a group of seven people inside an enclosed room and presented them a line test, which basically provided a target line and many comparison lines. The task was to identify which comparison line is most likely as long as the target line. Each of them had to state the answer out loud consecutively.

In fact, the answer is very obvious to almost everybody. However, in the experiment, six out of seven people in the group were Asch’s confederates a.k.a “the actors”. This made the participant believed that the other six were just mere participants like him.

In the first few trials, the confederates gave the correct answers. This boosted the participants’ confidence in doing the test. Later, “the actors” gave the wrong answers. The participants was hesitant, then, eventually gave in and answered the same as the group despite knowing the right answers. However, when one of confederates gave the right answer first, the participants told the right answer, which they already knew, right away without hesitation.

The experiment shows that people tend to “follow” the crowd in order to feel belonged to a group. They can only feel this sense of belonging when they have the “same” beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours to others. Therefore, they are often afraid to show their differences whether they are right or wrong just to try to be the “same” as everybody else. Some even think that the crowd is always right, which is not always the case, and completely disregard their own opinions. The major causes are the “expectation” to fit in and the fear of being rejected from the society due to their differences.

3. Conclusion:

“Conformity” addresses the actions of trying to have the “same” mindsets and behaviours as the surrounding people due to the fear of rejection and the pressure of trying to fit in. Anyone can have this psychological response in our society as a part of human nature.

If you have different thoughts, it doesn’t always mean that you’re right or wrong as well as other people’s opinions. Sometimes being aware of what others think is very helpful, but innovations are only possible with your own independent voice. The balance between individual thinking and conformity is important in our life.

Here’s the question for you, “Have you ever agreed to your friends or family just not to feel being left out?”

Sources: 1, 2

More Than Letters: The Value of Knowing Your MBTI Type

Nelo Anne
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More Than Letters: The Value of Knowing Your MBTI Type

“Who am I?” a question we’ve all asked ourselves. Personality presents this age-old question, a complex subject with layers society has spent centuries puzzling over, only for a seemingly magical framework, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, to be created in 1944. The MBTI allows us today to take a half-hour test and suddenly unlock a world where we feel validated in our quirks, empowered to work on our weaknesses, and guided by resources to do so. Through introspection and personality insight, we are fostering self-awareness, building empathy for others, and learning strategies for reaching our goals.

When I found out my personality type in sixth grade Health, I felt a mixture of validation, connection, and understanding. I soon went down a rabbit hole of researching the other types, their traits, strengths and weaknesses, among other things. Being a nerd in one of the weirdest ways (I enjoy and spend way too much time analyzing my own and others’ emotions, opinions, behaviors and characters), I adored the idea that there could be a structure as simple as this to help people understand one another, because most people lacking empathy don’t understand any ways of being other than their own.

Of course, there are as many personalities as people, and none can be defined in such a linear way. Personalities change with life experiences, so you won’t be the same person you are now in ten years. However, there are certain characteristics that are more likely to remain constant. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator assesses you on four subjects, each of which corresponds to two common possibilities:

How you gain energy

Mental energy is essential for anything, from taking out the trash to socializing with friends. In general, there are two ways most people recharge: through their internal world (introversion) or through their external surroundings (extroversion). The letter of your personality type will be an I or an E, reflecting where your energy is directed. Remember that how your energy bar is replenished does not necessarily reflect your leaning toward either solitude or company.

How you process information

This section explains how people automatically gather information: through physical sensations (sensing) or through “gut feelings”, patterns and possibilities (intuitive). These attributes correspond to an S or an N (given that I is used to mean introversion).

How you make decisions

Decision-making is a major aspect of your personality, reflecting your values and shaping your actions. People with a T (thinking) typically favor logic and analysis with a penchant for objectively weighing pros and cons, whereas those with an F (feeling) are deeply considerate people and base their decisions on the emotional impact on others and their own moral compass.

How you approach structure

Somebody who is judging (J) when it comes to structure enjoys organization and closure, preferring to have plans, checklists, and calendars laid out, and get their work done on time (though they can still struggle with organization…ahem). In contrast, people with a P (standing for perceiving) in its place are happy with an open schedule and feel free and flexible without a strict structure to their lives.

Confidence and reactions

The final two, A (assertive) and T (turbulent), are additions to the MBTI spectrum introduced by 16Personalities, not Katharine Briggs and Isabel Myers themselves. To make this distinction, the last letter is separated by a dash (-). Assertive individuals are laid back, easygoing, and not prone to crumbling under stress or anxiety (completely different from apathy). They are not too bothered by mistakes and are largely self-confident. On the flip side, turbulent people (like myself) are inclined to be more anxious and self-doubting perfectionists. This makes them hard workers who push themselves a lot, but are often left with feelings of dissatisfaction and insecurity.

Now that you know what the MBTI is all about…

How can you use this knowledge as a tool?

I can almost guarantee that your personality type description will resonate with you. Almost everything I read, from the strengths and weaknesses of an INFJ-T to career paths we thrive best going down, made me feel like I had a community– not one I could visibly see but one that existed. I promise, if you have ever felt alone, or like you’re “just a little different”, realizing that “wait– I’m actually not the only one who’s like that!” is super powerful, and will help you appreciate the beauty and diversity of all the wonderful people on our planet. These types of sources can help you pin down your shortcomings and work on them with realistic expectations, appreciate your strong points, and know how you learn, love, and think. With a better sense of who you are, you can help your peers do the same by treating them with empathy and emotional intelligence.

Understanding yourself isn’t about finding all the answers—it’s about learning how to use your own map. The hope is only that you will recognize your radiance, move through the day spreading a bit more positivity, and do what you need to take care of yourself and others. So clip your personality to your tool belt, light your lantern, and go see how bright the world looks when you let your light shine.

Sources:

Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before High School

Natania V
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Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before High School

High school. Just saying it evokes a range of emotions in many people, and it can seem like stepping into a whole new world where everyone seems to have a secret that you don’t. Looking back, there are a few things I wish someone had actually told me before.

  • Everyone is figuring it out.
    • No one has all the answers, not the seniors, not your classmates, not even your teachers. It’s totally normal to feel lost sometimes (maybe even all the time). It’s okay not to have everything all sorted. You will figure it out, one step at a time. Even those who seem like on top of everything are just as confused as the rest of us.
  • Friendships change, and that’s normal.
    • Some friends will stick around, some will drift away, and some will surprise you by returning later. I had friends that I wouldn’t go a day without talking to at the start of Grade 10, who are now on a different path than me. It can feel confusing at the time, but it’s just part of growing. Focus on the people who make you feel understood, not on trying to make every connection permanent.
  • Grades matter, but not as much as you think.
    • Tests and assignments are important, but they don’t define your worth. High school is also about discovering what you enjoy, developing skills, and learning to navigate challenges. Being a perfectionist, going into high school, the stress of maintaining perfect grades overtook everything else that I wanted from my high school experience. Sometimes the lessons you learn outside the classroom matter more than the grades on your paper.
  • Awkward moments are unavoidable and forgettable.
    • You’ll probably say something weird, trip in the hallway, or send a text to the wrong person. It will feel huge in the moment, but most people move on quickly. Laugh at yourself and let it go, because it’s part of learning and growing.
  • Try new things
    • Clubs, sports, electives, please please please don’t be afraid to step into the unfamiliar. You might discover something you enjoy, meet people you connect with, or realize you’re better at something than you expected. High school is the perfect time to experiment.
  • Pause and notice the small moments.
    • Between assignments, exams, and social pressures, it’s easy to get caught up in stress. But take a moment to notice the small victories, the jokes in the hallways, or the time spent with friends. These are the memories that stick.

High school isn’t perfect. It’s messy, awkward, and sometimes frustrating. But it’s also a place to learn, grow, and discover who you are. The challenges, mistakes, and surprises are part of the experience, and they’ll make the victories that much sweeter.

The Rise of the Performative Male: Tote Bags, Matcha, and Mild Feminism

Elizabeth A
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The Rise of the Performative Male: Tote Bags, Matcha, and Mild Feminism

We need to talk about the performative male. You’ve seen him. You’ve probably liked his post. He’s that guy who casually drops a quote from The Bell Jar in between his Spotify screenshots and mirror selfies. He’s a feminist—at least between the hours of 9 a.m. and whenever he logs into his private account.

The performative male is not your average dude. No, no. He’s different. He’s self-aware. He owns a tote bag with an ironic print, probably “The New Yorker” logo or some blurry picture of a jazz musician. There’s a Labubu keychain pinned to it. He drinks matcha instead of coffee because “coffee’s too harsh,” and he listens to Clairo unironically. He might post feminist quotes on his story, but don’t ask him to name three female philosophers—he’ll start buffering like a Windows 98 computer.

What sets the performative male apart is his commitment to the aesthetic of caring. He reads We Should All Be Feminists in a café, knowing full well someone will walk by and think, wow, he gets it. He’s not fighting the patriarchy—he’s accessorizing with it.

Now, don’t get me wrong. We appreciate that he’s trying. It’s cute. Society’s bar for men is literally underground, so seeing one hold a book by a woman is practically revolutionary. But there’s something hilarious about how rehearsed it all feels. He’ll post a wholesome “men should cry more” tweet at 3 p.m., then at 3:05 p.m. retweet something that gives off “emotionally unavailable with a vinyl collection” energy. Duality of man, I guess.

The performative male is like if Pinterest became a person and started overanalyzing Normal People. He’s all for “soft boy energy” but only in daylight—at night, his Notes app looks like a war zone of unsent texts and playlist names like “she was the sun.”

And the thing is… he’s kind of winning. He’s charming, he’s curated, and he knows exactly how to look emotionally intelligent without actually processing a single emotion. He’s the kind of guy who says, “I’m not like other men,” and unfortunately, he’s right—he’s a little worse and a little better at the same time.

So yes, let him have his tote bag. Let him post about self-love and then ghost you for three weeks. Let him sip his matcha like it’s a political statement. Because deep down, he’s not hurting anyone. He’s just performing—performing sensitivity, self-awareness, and the illusion of moral superiority.

And honestly? We’ll still double-tap the story.

Want to Age Faster? Try Space!

Nova Astrov
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Want to Age Faster? Try Space!

We often talk about muscles and bones weakening and aching as we grow older — but it seems there’s a way to speed-run that process if you take a trip to outer space.

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

A new study conducted at the University of California, San Diego, led by Dr. Catriona Jamieson — a professor of medicine and director at the Sanford Stem Cell Institute — provides evidence that stem cells, which are crucial for regeneration, repair, and aging, struggle under space conditions.

At the genomic level (which, simply put, means your DNA), scientists found that under extreme stress, cells activate something called the “dark genome.” This causes parts of the DNA to become repetitive and awaken ancient viral fragments known as retroelements. The study observed that cells exposed to spaceflight for around 45 days showed clear activation of this previously dormant region of the genome.

The research used human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) — derived from bone-marrow donors here on Earth. These cells are essential for maintaining blood cell balance and play a key role in the immune system. The samples were sent aboard SpaceX Commercial Resupply Service (CRS) missions to the International Space Station (ISS) between December 2021 and March 2023.

The project, partly funded by NASA, involved collaboration between UC San Diego and several research partners.

This discovery has become a hot topic in the STEM world, since scientists still don’t fully understand the dark genome or its role in aging and disease. The findings raise big questions about human spaceflight — what does this mean for our dreams of building homes beyond Earth? Could long-term missions to Mars or the Moon accelerate aging or compromise health?

But as always, there’s a silver lining. “Space stem cells” are prompting scientists to study the dark genome more closely, which could deepen our understanding of diseases such as leukemia and pre-cancers, where stem cell regeneration fails. In the long run, what we learn in space could help us develop new therapies back on Earth.

Source: 1

Reading – An Amazing Form Of Entertainment

Sabarish M
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Reading – An Amazing Form Of Entertainment

Reading is one of the most popular forms of entertainment worldwide. Many people love reading as it reduces stress and enables us to escape reality and immerse ourselves in the fictional world the author creates. There are several genres of books, from science fiction to historical. In this blog post, I will be explaining the benefits of reading, how to pick a book and some of my favourite novels to read.

Reasons to Read Books:

  • Reading strengthens your brain: Studies show that reading helps improve memory and critical thinking skills. Reading also helps improve your vocabulary as you are constantly encountering challenging words and learning more about their meanings. Reading is also a great way to effectively improve your creativity and imagination.
  • It is a free form of entertainment: Having a library card allows you to access many books, ranging in numerous genres. Many people read to help pass the time when they are bored.
  • Reading expands your knowledge: The more you read, the more you will be exposed to new ideas and perspectives, which can improve your cognitive thinking skills. Whether fiction or non-fiction, reading exposes you to new ways of thinking and diverse experiences.
  • Reading Reduces Stress: Studies have proven that reading helps reduce stress by a huge factor. Experts suggest reading at least 30 minutes a day to relieve stress.

How to Pick a Book:

One of the major barriers to reading is actually picking the book. Here I have listed some tips that help me choose novels to read.

  • Ask for recommendations from your friends and family. This is a great way to choose a novel, as these people know you really well and can suggest books according to your unique tastes. Asking for book recommendations is also a really amazing way to start conversations with new people and helps you increase bonding.
  • Choose a book in a genre that you love reading or something you are genuinely curious about.
  • Read about something in a genre that is new to you. It is always a good idea to step out of your comfort zone to read something new. Who knows, you might end up discovering a novel you really enjoy. Reading books from other authors is also a good idea, as you will be exposed to new perspectives.

My Favourite Novels:

Here I have listed some of my favourite novels that I recommend in no particular order.

  1. The Maze Runner Series by James Dashner – I really loved this book series because its plot is very unique and filled with mysteries. This is a dystopian series which involves fast-paced action and will always keep you on the edge of your seat.
  2. The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins – I really loved this book series for its plot and amazing characters. This is a dystopian series which is filled with suspense, and it is written in first-person, meaning we get a full understanding of the internal feelings of the main character.
  3. The Loop Trilogy by Ben Oliver – This trilogy is an excellent novel series filled with suspense and is a wonderful page-turner. I loved reading it as the author had done an amazing job of portraying the characters’ emotions throughout the journey. It is science fiction set in the future, where the world is controlled by robots and artificial intelligence.

Sources: 1, 2

2025 Alberta Teachers’ Association Strike summary

Tsz
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2025 Alberta Teachers’ Association Strike summary

Across Alberta classrooms, something important is happening to all Youth: starting at October 6, 2025, teachers represented by the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) began a province-wide strike. In this strike, more than 51,000 teachers stopped working, affecting roughly 700,000- 750,000 students in public, separate and Francophone schools. But why all these happen?

What’s driving the strike?

There are three major issues that cause to this strike:

  1. Classroom conditions: Teachers argue that class sizes have grown and student needs (especially students needing extra support) are more complex and difficult than ever, which making effective teaching harder.
    • The total number (from grade 1 to grade 12) of students enrolled in 2020/2021 academic year is 734,794 to the total number of students enrolled in 2024/2025 academic year is 825,817, which the number increased by 12.39%
    • While the growth rate of the number of teachers only increased by 4% in these 4 years.
  2. Compensation: The ATA reports that teachers felt their proposed increases and workload didn’t reflect the realities of the job
    • The salary growth of the teacher in Alberta is 3.8% while our Consumer price index increase (2019-25) is 20.8%, our salary growth rate is far lower than other province like B.C. (Vancouver) 25.1%, Saskatchewan 15.9%, Manitoba 17.6% which they consumer price index increase similar than Alberta (~20%)
  3. Government funding and policy choices: While the government offered a 12% salary increase over four years and the hiring of 3,000 more teachers, the ATA rejected that offer as inadequate relative to the scale of change needed.

How student and schools are affected?

As a high school student, I am directly experiencing the ripple effects of the ongoing situation. Schools are paused, classes cancelled, and extracurricular activities put on hold. For senior students, diploma exams have become especially stressful, with schedules now filled with uncertainty. This instability can disrupt our learning rhythm, motivation, and overall well-being.

At the same time, it’s important to recognize that these suspensions and teacher absences are not without reason. Teachers have the right and freedom to stand up for fair working conditions, and their actions reflect the challenges within the education system. While this creates difficulties for students, it also helps us understand that education is shaped by more than classroom lessons — it’s influenced by policies, budgets, and the values our society places on teaching.

However, the challenges are real. Reduced instructional time, uncertainty about schedules, and potential impacts on university applications all create genuine concern. This situation calls for empathy and understanding, as it affects not only teachers but also students, families, and everyone connected to education.

A wider impact on education and society?

This strike raises an important question about how we invest in public service. If teachers are stretched thin and classrooms are crowded, what does that mean for the quality of education future generations receive? The government’s move to introduce back-to-work legislation (Back to School Act, Bill 2), to force teachers back as a political dimension. The use of emergency law to end labor action.

 

 

 

 

Sources:

https://teachers.ab.ca/news/ata-challenge-bill-2

https://www.alberta.ca/supporting-our-teachers-and-students

https://www.cbc.ca/lite/story/1.7632720

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/alberta-teacher-strike-funding-formula-class-size-data-9.6932618#:~:text=That%20gap%20has%20persisted%20through,by%20just%20eight%20per%20cent.

https://www.alberta.ca/student-population-statistics

https://teachers.ab.ca/news/watch-news-conference-historic-strike-hits-province

https://globalnews.ca/news/11487084/alberta-government-back-to-work-legislation-teachers-strike/

All on the Quantum Technology Breakthrough – 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics

Sina M
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All on the Quantum Technology Breakthrough – 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics

Introduction

The recent winners of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics category presented efforts to apply the quantum mechanical effects on a larger scale that could lift barriers to revolutionizing technologies. Quantum tunnelling is the process by which a subatomic particle moves through a barrier based on its wave-like behaviour, with probability distributions, and ends up on the opposite side. The regular stuff you hear about motion is taught in classical physics. However, quantum mechanics raises the question of the nature of subatomic particles, to have what’d be needed to move across a barrier.

Recipients John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret, and John M. Martinis used the experiment of taking an electronic circuit made of superconductors that don’t experience resistance in producing a current that was separated by a layer of non-conductive material, called the Josephson junction. The system was designed to reveal its quantum nature, which, in tunnelling, made it possible to use voltage by changing from a state where no voltage was required for current flow. A system in a quantized state, as it’s able to absorb/emit certain amounts of energy. This discovery, although recognized relatively recently (experimented with in 1984-85), is a new stepping stone for the kinds of technologies that apply quantum mechanics and those that rely on them completely, known as quantum technologies.

But what is the subsection of physics, and why is it of any significance to technological developments?

Quantum mechanics has to do with anything subatomic, electrons, protons, neutrons, whose reactions have been later applied to areas of mass productivity in technology. The minuscule processes make for much bigger chain reactions, as used in GPS, MRI scanners, lasers, solar cells (converting light energy into electricity in solar panels), and quantum computing. Scientists have worked to find their own area of research, given the name for a technology that solves problems with higher capabilities than anything classical. Computers may reach unexpected heights in problem-solving and processing through concepts of superposition and entanglement. Typically, these quantum computers are suitable for complex work, as opposed to the usual MacBook or Windows. AI enhancement is an important part of modelling benefits and appropriate uses to speed up processes.

Connections to AI and what’s in store for it right now

Most top companies are all into quantum research that could take their inventions a step further. AI in the past three years has risen in your Google search tool, homework help, and social media. Digital technologies have been presented with the use of artificial intelligence in navigating systems faster and more easily, but issues with perhaps a built-up domination and keeping up with the job market can provide news of tools and a generation of devices second looks. The world of quantum technology offers an economy booming with quantum computing and other applications, as well as solutions to mitigate climate change and cryptography. Of course, we know that the best way to utilize technology is to put its power and development in the hands of ethical power. As of now, there’s more to be analyzed and experimented with before a reveal to the public, and occasionally searching up progress might make use of that innate curiosity instead of soaking up your screentime.

An interpretation of cultural impacts

The social culture of a humanistic way of living is threatened by the ecosystem created through innovative technologies. Homogenization of social culture that does not support the complexity of the human brain to form connections with others impacts mental health. A government may choose to override a system with AI, deeply influencing the beliefs and lifestyles of citizens around the world, but ignoring those in third-world countries that still have unresolved conflicts due to inequality and wealth, which you’ve seen in your news channels often. But I believe that no society, or world in general, will change for the better unless problems are effectively worked out. For youth, AI has affected our communication and humour, from emojis to AI-generated pictures, making it difficult to blend the components that made talking and making friends for well-being, with our economies, people, and quality of life in jeopardy. So, opening the discussion to these kinds of topics can be very useful in the critical analysis of technological innovation.

Final Notes

TL: DR; Discovery applying quantum tunnelling on a macroscopic scale that won a Nobel Prize will help revolutionize fields of human innovation and achievement, such as medicine, navigation, and digital technology. 

This was a completely new topic for me, so researching a bit was my best bet at writing a decent blog. Expanding the mind means many good things for your memory and cognitive development! Let me know if you’re curious about quantum technology and what exactly you hope it may give to humanity, or predictions on how it may be led in the opposite direction, as in implications for culture and the future of human innovation, etc.. I personally think that there’s so much newer tech can do, but it doesn’t need to be settled with the massive companies or necessarily free to the public for any action.

Thank you for clicking and reading. Stay tuned for the next one!

Sources:

https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/physics/2025/press-release/

https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/quantum-computing

https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/07/explainer-what-is-quantum-technology/

https://www.csis.org/analysis/quantum-technology-applications-and-implications

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-83995-z

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rewiring Minds: The Neuroscience of a Better World : The First Edition

Natania V
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Rewiring Minds: The Neuroscience of a Better World : The First Edition
Building a More Conscious Generation
“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” — Carl Jung
We live in a time of awakening, where the need to build a more conscious generation is both a challenge and an opportunity. A generation that feels more, questions more, and refuses to accept the world as it is. From climate strikes to mental health advocacy, from decolonization movements to digital activism, young people today are not just reacting to injustice; they are reprogramming the way society thinks. But beneath every protest, speech, and act of defiance, something is happening inside the brain, a quiet revolution of consciousness. Our generation isn’t just changing the world. We’re rewiring it, one conscious choice and connection at a time.
The Science of Awareness
Consciousness isn’t only philosophical, it’s biological. In the brain, self-awareness emerges from a delicate interplay between the prefrontal cortex, which governs reflection and judgment, and the default mode network (DMN), the set of regions that become active when we think about ourselves and others.
When we reflect on our actions, question our beliefs, or challenge our biases, we are literally strengthening the connections between these networks. Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new pathways, allows every act of reflection to carve out a more conscious mind.
That’s why exposure to diverse perspectives, like reading about another culture, listening to stories of struggle, or having a difficult conversation, expands empathy. The anterior cingulate cortex and insula, both linked to empathy and emotional awareness, light up as we begin to see through someone else’s lens. Consciousness grows not in isolation, but in connection.
Rewiring the Next Generation
Young minds are especially adaptable. The teenage and early adult brain undergoes rapid synaptic pruning, a process that refines neural connections based on what we focus on most. If we grow up consuming polarization, cynicism, and outrage, our neural pathways adapt to that reality. But if we cultivate curiosity, compassion, and critical thinking, those become our defaults instead.
This means that the stories we consume, the empathy we practice, and the conversations we choose to have are shaping the neural foundation of our generation.
Education, too, is part of this rewiring. When classrooms encourage open discussion about mental health, identity, or ethics, they aren’t just teaching; they’re building emotional circuitry for understanding. When youth councils and advocacy programs give space for real dialogue, they are, in effect, activating the brain’s learning and empathy networks simultaneously.
The future will belong to the generation whose neural patterns reflect awareness over apathy, reflection over reaction, empathy over ego.
Consciousness as Collective Evolution
On a global scale, we are witnessing humanity’s consciousness evolve. Social media, though often criticized, has also become a digital mirror, forcing societies to see themselves more clearly. Our collective attention, when used wisely, can shape moral progress.
Neuroscientists call this phenomenon collective intelligence, where shared ideas and values begin to synchronize across populations. It’s as if our brains are forming a global neural network, interconnected, responsive, capable of moral learning. Every post, every conversation, every act of advocacy sends a signal through this shared consciousness, asking: Can we become better?
The Future We’re Wiring
Building a more conscious generation doesn’t start with technology or policy; it starts with awareness. Every time we pause to understand instead of judge, to listen instead of speak, we strengthen not only our character but our cognition.
The conscious generation is not defined by perfection but by perception, the willingness to see clearly, think deeply, and act compassionately.
We are the synapses of tomorrow’s society, firing toward understanding.
If consciousness is contagious, then awareness is activism.
Coming Next in the Series
If you found this post meaningful, stay tuned for the next article in my series Rewiring Minds: The Neuroscience of a Better World.
To build a better world, we must first understand the mind that shapes it.

My Journey Through Basketball

Vasundhara Joshi
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My Journey Through Basketball

Learning something new is never just about the final outcome, it’s about the process, the struggles, and the small victories along the way. Every time we try something unfamiliar, whether it’s a sport, a hobby, or a school project, we have the chance to grow not just in skill, but in patience, confidence, and resilience. For youth, these moments of learning are especially important because they teach us how to navigate challenges, take risks, and push ourselves beyond what we think is possible.

For me, one of the most memorable experiences of learning something new happened when I started playing basketball. I joined a local team at the age of six, and I quickly realized how much I had to learn. The older kids were faster, taller, and more experienced. I often missed shots, lost the ball during drills, and felt frustrated when I couldn’t keep up. At first, it was easy to feel discouraged, but my love for the game kept me coming back. I started practicing on my own after school, focusing on small details like my dribbling, footwork, and passing. Each improvement, no matter how minor, felt like a victory. Over time, the frustration gave way to confidence, and I began to enjoy learning the game as much as playing it.

What made the experience even more fun was the opportunity to share what I had learned with others. As I became more comfortable with my skills, I helped younger teammates improve their dribbling and shooting, sharing tips that had worked for me. Writing about or reflecting on these experiences also helped me understand my own growth. I learned that the journey is only complete with mistakes, challenges, and small achievements which are just as important as the result.

Learning a new skill or hobby isn’t always easy, and progress can feel slow. But by embracing curiosity, staying persistent, and being willing to make mistakes, we can transform those challenges into meaningful growth. Sharing what we learn with others not only reinforces our own understanding but also inspires those around us to keep pushing themselves. Whether it’s on the basketball court or in any other area of life, each step forward is a step toward becoming stronger, more capable, and more confident in our abilities.

The Science Behind Fear: Why We Love Being Scared

Elizabeth A
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The Science Behind Fear: Why We Love Being Scared

Every October, we line up for haunted houses, stream horror movies, and tell ghost stories in the dark. Even though fear is supposed to warn us of danger, we seem to enjoy it — especially during Halloween. So why do we love being scared? The answer lies in how our brains and bodies react to fear.

The Body’s Fear Response

When something startles us, our brain jumps into action. The amygdala, a small part deep in the brain, acts like an alarm. It senses possible danger and sends a signal to the hypothalamus. This starts a chain reaction that releases adrenaline and cortisol, hormones that prepare us to fight or flee.

As this happens, our heart beats faster, our pupils widen, and our breathing quickens. Our body is ready for action — even if the “threat” is just a movie monster or a spooky sound. This reaction, called the fight-or-flight response, once helped humans survive real danger. Today, it gives us that rush of excitement we feel when we’re scared.

Why Fear Feels Good

Once our brain realizes that the threat isn’t real, it shifts gears. The body begins to calm down, and the brain releases dopamine, the chemical linked to pleasure and reward. This combination of relief and excitement feels good, even addictive. That’s why people often describe a haunted house or horror movie as “fun scary” — we get the thrill without any real danger.

Scientists call this the sweet spot of fear. Too much fear feels overwhelming, but too little fear feels boring. The perfect scare gives us a balance between the two. It makes our hearts race but still keeps us safe. That’s why thrill rides, scary games, and horror movies are designed to push us right to that edge — and then pull us back.

How Fear Helps Us

Fear doesn’t just entertain us. It can also make us stronger. Psychologists say that facing fear in safe environments helps us build resilience. When we calm ourselves after being scared, we train our brains to handle stress in everyday life. In other words, a haunted house can actually help us manage anxiety better.

Fear Is Part of Being Human

Fear is one of the oldest and most powerful emotions we have. It kept our ancestors alive, but it also connects us to each other today. When we scream, laugh, and jump together during Halloween, we’re sharing a very human experience — one that links biology, chemistry, and emotion.

So the next time your heart races during a scary movie or haunted maze, remember: your brain and body are running a complex experiment. You’re not just getting scared — you’re experiencing science in action.

Fear isn’t only a Halloween thrill. It’s proof of how amazing the human body really is. ¹ ² ³

7 Ways YOUth can Advocate for a Cause

Nelo Anne
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7 Ways YOUth can Advocate for a Cause

 

A lot of youth believe it takes someone older, with more life experience, or inherently bold to advocate for a cause or become a leader. They are scared of rejection, failure, judgment, or standing out in a crowd. The truth is, advocacy doesn’t have to be coordinating a huge public demonstration or going on a hunger strike – it can be small and most often is. You can advocate for a cause you want to support, no matter who or how old you are, but there are a few steps you should take when launching your advocacy journey.

Know your cause

Being knowledgeable about your cause is an excellent way to gain confidence, better develop your end goal, enable yourself to answer questions effectively, counter arguments, and get more people involved and on board. You don’t need to know every single detail spanning hundreds of years, but it is wise to do a bit of research on current updates and the historical significance of the issue, so you are in the know and will have a better chance of success in your endeavours. You can do this by seeking out documentaries, articles, or having conversations with well-informed people.

Be aware of your rights

It’s always a good idea to get to know what your boundaries are when considering contributing to or starting a movement.

Section 2- b) of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms states that the freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the press and other media of communication, freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of association are fundamental rights for all in Canada. Therefore, you are entitled to protest and express your opinion verbally and in writing at any age. However, it is also important to know about Section 7- 7: everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of the person and the right not to be deprived thereof except in accordance with the principles of fundamental justice. This means that you are not allowed to harm anyone in the process of advocating for a cause, and beyond that, you should obviously obey the laws and bylaws in your area.

With that out of the way, here are some safe, meaningful and youth-friendly approaches to advocating for your chosen cause:

School walkout

Based on my experience, conducting or participating in a school walkout is generally allowed as long as it does not interfere with the learning of non-participants. Gathering a group of people who care about the issue as much as you do to create posters and walk around the grounds is a great way to peacefully protest something and raise awareness around the school, as well as in a more widespread fashion, considering events like these often attract public and media attention. It is very impactful to see a group of students who have taken time out of their day to show the world something they want to change and why it is meaningful.

“There are a lot of reasons [we did the walkout],” said Elliot H., a local junior high student who participated in a walkout on October 3rd, 2025, protesting Alberta’s new laws affecting trans kids. “There are many issues with change rooms and sports teams not allowing trans kids in, and there is also a lot of bullying. It’s a big problem. I wanted to participate to show support for my friends who are trans. What the government is doing isn’t fair for those kids.”

Elliot says an older student let everyone know there would be a walkout for trans kids’ rights and to pass it on to others. “Everyone participating went to the far end of the field, near the road. A lot of people had signs and slogans they were shouting.” Elliot’s parents got a notification for unexcused absence, but nobody got in trouble with the school. “The principal said he wasn’t allowed to encourage or discourage it, and the grade nines made sure it was okay before they did it.” They got many cars to honk, and a news truck came over to record the walkout.

Art / Media

Representation and messages in forms such as podcasts, visual art, writing, and even dance can convey your idea by touching people’s emotions, inspiring them or making them reflect.

For example, social commentary graffiti artist Banksy is known for their profound and satirical public art style, anonymity and antiauthoritarian messages. They often protest against the suppression of free speech, mainly in the United Kingdom. While I don’t condone illegal behaviour such as graffiti, these art pieces have influenced some of my opinions and encouraged me to discover how we can exercise our right to free speech through the arts.

Participating in peaceful rallies and protests

Participating in the teachers’ rally shows support and solidarity, letting our educators know they are not alone and motivating them to keep going. Protests get attention and drive social and political change. They stir community engagement and unify people.

Events and celebrations

Your participation is support. Just by showing up to Truth and Reconciliation, Pride and Black History month events, you are fostering empathy, understanding and connection.

Write a letter or create a petition

Something that is important to me is the protection of transgender youth in schools, so I have been composing a letter with signatures to the provincial government regarding the new imposed regulations. One letter won’t get the intended result, but many can – just like how one brick can’t build a wall on its own.

Most kinds of petitions in Alberta require you to be at least 18 years of age and a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, but gathering signatures from youth who have something to say is also valuable and can spark change.

Start conversations and walk the talk

One of the most powerful things you can do is live your life according to your values and support your cause through actions, not just words. Advocacy doesn’t have to be a highly organized and planned event; we can advocate in our everyday interactions by helping those around us learn about how microaggressions and misapprehensions can be harmful to marginalized communities, even just by politely correcting someone when they say something inaccurate and harmful. Using your voice when you aren’t okay with what is being said or done is leadership, not sensitivity. 

Behind the scenes, a lot of people are working towards change. Nowadays, it is extremely offensive and out of line if someone uses the R-slur because it devalues and dehumanizes individuals in our society. What many don’t realize is that it used to be used casually, demonstrating our society’s normalization of derogatory language. Continued action is still required, but changes have been made thanks to the hard work and activism of the disability community and the choices individuals make to no longer use this harmful word.

Be a leader within your community

Advocate for (or better yet, with) those who do not have the platform or resources to speak out for themselves. A couple of ways you can do this are by becoming a student representative or seeking out leadership programs in your city. That being said, your role is to amplify and support marginalized voices, not eclipse them. It is important to actively listen to these voices, as they give valuable insight and are the ones being affected. Keep in mind that leadership can be quiet, too. Leading by example and thoughtful actions reflects an individual’s capacity for empathy, resilience and awareness.

 

Although advocating is generally pretty serious work, it doesn’t always have to be about large societal issues – you can even advocate for things you want to see more (or less) of around your communities, like music, art, or a chicken sandwich in the cafeteria.

Think about what is happening around you that you want to change and how you can be the first to take a step towards your goal. You don’t need to wait, because the youth are the ones who decide the culture for the future, and you have the influence to co-shape the adult identities of the young people around you: the bosses, lawyers and voters of tomorrow.

 

Sources:

Calgary students stage widespread school walkout to protest Alberta’s transgender laws | CBC News

Guide to the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms – Canada.ca

How to Advocate for Marginalised Voices Without Speaking Over Them – Unity for Integration Project

Quiet Leadership: The Superpower the World Needs Right Now | Psychology Today

 

 

October is Learning Disability Awareness Month!

Maya McIntyre
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October is Learning Disability Awareness Month!

Yes, it’s time to celebrate Halloween, but did you know that October is also learning disability awareness month? It is never too late to celebrate advocacy. 3.2% of children in Canada have learning disabilities, and everyone one of them must receive an adequate amount of accommodation so they can thrive in all areas of life.  No child deserves to be left behind without these accommodations. Students can fall behind, and retaining jobs and doing well in school can become difficult.  This is why October is a special opportunity for all educational and professional environments to welcome all types of learning.

 So let’s dive into the basics: what exactly is a learning disability?

Learning disability is referred to as disorders in different psychological processes that affect how language is understood and used, affecting how information is received, processed, recalled and communicated.

Some of the different types of learning disabilities

 An LD reading is also commonly referred to as:

( Dyslexia)

 Dyslexia is an LD that affects how your brain processes written information due to problems identifying speech sounds and how they relate to letters and words, also defined as decoding. It is not just a difficulty in reading words, but how you process, understand, and retain what you have read. 

An LD in math is also commonly referred to as:

( Dyscalculia)

 Dyscalculia is an LD that affects a person’s ability to understand work with numbers and Concepts. It is not just a difficulty with counting, but a condition that makes it harder to conceptualize math-related material, theories, problems and calculations. This could develop into challenges in the areas of measuring, estimating, counting money and understanding patterns.

An LD in writing is also commonly referred to as

( Dysgraphia)

 Dysgraphia is an LD that primarily affects someone’s handwriting, manifesting difficulties and spacing of letter, and overall legibility. It is not just the way someone writes or the quality of their writing, but it is also a difficulty in editing and organizing written work. These are usually due to a weakness and motor skills, hand movements and the writing process.

 So it is important to note…

 None of these differences in any four measures is an individual’s intellectual capacity or linked to one’s IQ. The idea of an LD implying lower intelligence is a myth that can be extremely destructive to one’s self-esteem and cause a lack of support for someone’s learning needs.

 Intervention is crucial so that youth can demonstrate their true intelligence and not just in the classroom but in all areas of life. 

 

Source:

https://childmind.org/topics/learning-disorders/

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