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Wexit: The Scoop on Alberta Separatism

Jeanne Y
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Wexit: The Scoop on Alberta Separatism

The first time I heard about Alberta separatism was in 2019, during a “Current Events” presentation in school. I never explored it further, but the movement has picked up recently. Here’s a condensed version of what’s going on.

What’s Happening Right Now

An Alberta separatist group collected over 300,000 signatures on a petition to include the topic of Alberta separatism in the referendum on October 19th. They still need to be certified, but there’s a key stakeholder concerned. Many groups of Indigenous peoples are worried that a separatist movement would damage their constitutional treaty rights, which has become a court case that could derail the petition. The ruling is undetermined at this time.

What Separatism Would Mean for Youth

While different separatist groups have different ideas of where Alberta would go if it did indeed separate, options are primarily:

  • becoming a sovereign country – which is what’s being considered now
  • joining the United States

Primary Reasons for Separatism

  • uneven wealth distribution – some Albertans think that being a part of Canada’s economy has significantly stunted Alberta’s economic prosperity, referencing the effects of the oil crises and the NEP (National Energy Program)
    • In 2015, Alberta paid 27 billion more to the federal government than it received back in services
  • feeling underrepresented and neglected by political powers in Ottawa
  • feeling as though their culture is tied to their province over their country
  • potential trade opportunities with the United States

Primary Opposition for Separatism

  • fear of economic instability
  • loss of treaty rights for Indigenous groups
  • fear of international relation instability, particularly with the United States

My Two Pennies as an Albertan Youth

The last time a vote was held to see Albertan interest in separatism, 48% were in favour and 52% opposed. That’s a really close margin!

This potential for separation could have an upheaving effect on Alberta’s economy, and has the potential to create a whole different culture and national identity. This is an important issue, and I encourage you to research it further. Stay informed, and if you’re old enough to vote should the referendum occur, do so! Participate and have your voice heard because the outcome of this potential referendum question could have a drastic impact.

Sources: 1, 2

Could You Upload Your Brain to a Computer?

Vasundhara Joshi
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Could You Upload Your Brain to a Computer?

It sounds like science fiction. Take everything that makes you you, your memories, your personality, your thoughts, and move it into a machine. No aging, no disease, maybe not even death. But the real question is not whether this idea is fascinating. It is whether it is even possible. To understand this, you first have to look at how the brain actually works. The human brain is made up of about 86 billion neurons, all connected through trillions of synapses. These connections are not random. They form patterns that store memories, control movement, and shape how you think. In simple terms, your identity is not stored in one place. It exists in the structure and activity of this entire network.

The idea behind “uploading” a brain is based on a concept called mind uploading. Scientists would need to scan the brain at an extremely detailed level, map every neuron and every connection, and then recreate that system in a computer simulation. If the simulation behaves exactly like your brain, some argue that it would effectively be you. There is already some progress in this area, though it is still very limited. Researchers have mapped the full nervous system of tiny organisms like the roundworm. More recently, parts of animal brains have been digitally reconstructed to study how neural circuits function. But scaling this up to a human brain is an entirely different challenge. The level of detail required is enormous, and even small errors could completely change how the brain functions.

Another problem is that the brain is not just a static structure. It is constantly changing. Synapses strengthen or weaken over time, new connections form, and chemical signals influence how neurons communicate. This means that even if you could scan a brain perfectly at one moment, you would only be capturing a snapshot, not the ongoing process that makes it alive. There is also a deeper issue that science alone cannot fully answer. If you create a perfect digital copy of your brain, is that actually you, or just something that thinks it is you? The original biological brain would still exist, at least at the start. From your own perspective, you might not feel like you have moved anywhere at all. Instead, there would simply be a second version of you, living in a different form.

Some scientists believe that if consciousness is purely the result of physical processes, then it should be possible to recreate it. Others argue that consciousness might depend on factors we do not fully understand yet, including the physical properties of the brain itself, not just its structure. Right now, uploading a human brain is far beyond current technology. We do not have the tools to scan a living brain at the necessary resolution, and we do not fully understand how consciousness emerges from neural activity. Still, the idea is not completely impossible. Advances in neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and computing continue to push the boundaries of what we can model and simulate.

In the end, the question might not just be “Can we do it?” but “Should we?” Uploading a brain would challenge everything we think we know about identity, life, and what it means to be human. Even if the technology becomes possible, deciding whether to use it could be the hardest problem of all.

https://news.gatech.edu/news/2025/05/23/can-you-upload-human-mind-computer-neuroscientist-ponders-whats-possible?utm_source

The Science Behind Artificial Intelligence: How Machines Learn to “Think”

Diya Kunisetty
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The Science Behind Artificial Intelligence: How Machines Learn to “Think”

Artificial Intelligence (AI) sounds like something you see in movies. Like robots taking over cities, computers writing essays, or chatbots answering every question instantly. It’s actually funny because we actually see some of those today, yet the majority of us don’t really understand the concept behind it . 

At its core, AI doesn’t really “think” the way humans do. Instead, it uses mathematics and statistics to make predictions. The most common type of AI today is machine learning, where systems improve by analyzing huge amounts of examples rather than following strict step-by-step instructions. For example, if you show a machine learning model thousands of photos labeled “cat” and “dog,” it doesn’t memorize every image. Instead, it learns patterns (like shapes, textures, and features) that help it distinguish between the two. Over time, it becomes better at guessing what a new image shows even if it has never seen it before!

A more advanced form of this is deep learning, which uses structures called neural networks. These are loosely inspired by the human brain, with layers of “nodes” that pass information between each other. Each layer picks up different levels of detail. Early layers might detect edges and colors, while deeper layers recognize faces, objects, or even language patterns. This is how tools like voice assistants, recommendation systems, and chatbots work. When a streaming platform suggests your next show, or a map app predicts traffic, that’s AI analyzing patterns in your behavior and comparing them to millions of others.

But AI is not perfect just like the majority of machines. It can only learn from the data it’s given. This means that bias in data can lead to biased results. If a system is trained on incomplete or unfair data, it can repeat or even amplify those issues. That’s why researchers talk a lot about “responsible AI” because they  want to make sure that these systems are transparent, fair, and safe.

Another big misconception is that AI “understands” information the way humans do. Plot twist: It doesn’t. It doesn’t have consciousness, emotions, or intentions. It’s extremely good at pattern recognition, but it doesn’t necessarily know what it’s saying. All it does is that it calculates what is most likely to come next based on training data. Even so, AI is already changing the world. It’s being used in medicine to detect diseases earlier, in science to model climate change, in business to optimize logistics, and in education to personalize learning!

Overall, AI is an insane tool that is changing our world each and every day!

Sources: 1, 2

 

 

Rewiring Minds: The Neuroscience of a Better World : Issue 5

Natania V
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Rewiring Minds: The Neuroscience of a Better World : Issue 5

The Illusion We Keep Calling a Skill

 

“To do two things at once is to do neither” – Publilus Syrus

We tend to treat multitasking as a modern cognitive advantage, almost as if it represents an evolved form of intelligence suited for an increasingly fast world. It is often described as efficiency in action: responding to messages while thinking through problems, switching between conversations while completing work, or holding multiple streams of input at once. But this framing depends on a misunderstanding of how the brain actually processes information. What we call multitasking is not parallel thinking. It is rapid switching between discrete cognitive states, so fast that the transitions are not consciously registered.

Each perceived “simultaneous” activity is actually the brain repeatedly disengaging from one task set and reconstructing another. The illusion of continuity is created by speed, not true parallel processing. And while this can feel efficient on the surface, it introduces a structural limitation: every switch carries a cognitive cost.

What Actually Happens When Attention Switches

When the brain shifts from one task to another, it does not simply redirect focus. It must actively suppress the previous neural configuration and activate a new one. This includes recalibrating working memory, updating contextual rules, and reloading relevant goals and constraints. Even when the transition feels automatic, the underlying system is performing a full reset sequence.

This process is not neutral. It consumes time, energy, and cognitive resources. More importantly, it introduces a subtle inefficiency that compounds over repeated switches. The more frequently attention is redirected, the less time the brain spends in a stable configuration where deeper processing can occur.

Over time, cognition becomes less about sustained engagement and more about constant reorientation.

The Role of Novelty and Why It Feels Productive

One reason multitasking feels effective is because of how the brain responds to novelty. Every new input or task shift triggers a brief increase in dopaminergic activity, which the brain interprets as salience or potential reward. This creates a subjective sense of momentum, as though something meaningful is happening with each transition.

But novelty is not equivalent to progress. It signals change, not depth. The brain can therefore misinterpret frequent switching as productivity, even when each switch interrupts ongoing cognitive construction. This is why long periods of multitasking often feel busy but not necessarily fulfilling or clarifying.

The mind becomes responsive, but not necessarily integrative.

Task Residue: What You Don’t Leave Behind

A less visible effect of multitasking is what cognitive science refers to as task residue. When attention leaves a task, it does not fully disengage from it. Elements of the previous task, like unfinished thoughts, active constraints, or partially processed information, remain temporarily active in working memory.

This means that when a new task begins, it is not entering a clean cognitive space. It is entering a space already occupied by remnants of the previous one. Over time, this creates overlap between tasks that should be distinct, increasing mental noise and reducing clarity.

The result is not just distraction, but interference. Thought processes begin to compete rather than sequence.

Why Deep Thinking Breaks Under Fragmentation

Sustained thinking depends on continuity. When attention remains stable over time, neural systems gradually optimize around a single representational space. Irrelevant signals are filtered out more efficiently, associations become stronger, and internal models become more refined. This is the foundation of deep understanding: not speed, but stability.

Multitasking disrupts this stability by repeatedly resetting the conditions required for consolidation. Instead of building a layered understanding, the brain repeatedly returns to early-stage processing. Ideas are initiated but not fully developed. Patterns are noticed but not fully integrated. The system remains in a state of perpetual beginning.

This is why fragmented attention often produces the sensation of thinking a lot without arriving at anything conclusive.

Working Memory as the Bottleneck of Conscious Thought

At the center of this issue is working memory, the limited system responsible for holding and manipulating information in real time. It is not designed for continuous interruption. It requires temporal stability to integrate inputs into coherent structures.

When attention is constantly redirected, working memory is repeatedly cleared or overwritten before it can complete integration. This disrupts the natural flow from perception to understanding to synthesis. Instead of building upon itself, cognition restarts repeatedly from partial states.

The subjective experience of this is subtle but recognizable: mental effort without progression, activity without accumulation.

How Modern Environments Reinforce Fragmentation

The structure of modern digital environments intensifies these patterns. Notifications, rapid messaging systems, open-ended content streams, and constant availability create an environment where interruption is not occasional but expected. Attention is rarely allowed to remain in one place long enough to fully stabilize.

Over time, this does not just change behaviour. It changes baseline cognition. The mind adapts to fragmentation by becoming better at switching and worse at sustaining. This is not a failure of discipline, but an environmental conditioning process.

In such contexts, continuous attention begins to feel unnatural, even though it is closer to how the brain originally operates.

The Trade-Off We Rarely Name

Multitasking is not without function. It increases responsiveness, allows for rapid environmental engagement, and can be useful in situations that require surface-level coordination across multiple inputs. But it comes with a structural trade-off that is rarely acknowledged: it reduces depth in exchange for breadth.

The brain becomes capable of handling more simultaneous demands, but less capable of fully resolving any single one of them within a continuous cognitive arc. Over time, this shifts the nature of thinking itself, from integration to management, from synthesis to switching.

The cost is not immediate. It accumulates in the background as reduced clarity, weaker retention, and diminished capacity for extended reasoning.

Closing Reflection

The brain was never designed to think in parallel streams of complex thought. It was designed to select, sustain, and deepen. Multitasking works against this architecture by fragmenting the very conditions that allow understanding to form.

In environments that reward constant switching, depth becomes harder to access, not because it is gone, but because it is continually interrupted before it can fully emerge.

And so the real limitation is not attention itself, but the conditions under which it is allowed to remain intact long enough to become meaningful.

When “I’m fine” needs an asterisk: highly specific emotional vocabulary

Nelo Anne
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When “I’m fine” needs an asterisk: highly specific emotional vocabulary

We’ve all experienced an emotion so complex, mixed or specific to a particular situation that we’re incapable of putting it into words. Maybe it’s the calmness of being inside and having your life on pause during periods of bleak weather, or longing for a place you can return to, but that will never be the same. Remarkably, many of these nuanced sensations have words to describe them. Many of these words were developed by psychologists around the world to describe ideas found during their research, and portray deeply complicated but relatable emotions. Below are some of the most interesting:

Monachopsis

If you’ve ever been at a social gathering where you knew a few people but couldn’t help but feel a bit out of place, you’ll understand monachopsis: the quiet, internal dissonance of feeling just slightly in the wrong environment, often compared to a seal just out of the water.

Kenopsia

Kenopsia is described as the eerie feeling one might get in a space normally teeming with people that has been vacated for unknown reasons. Seeing an airport or a movie theatre or some other place where crowds are expected to be completely empty feels unsettling, wrong or unauthorized, simply because you know the context in which you usually experience the place.

Limerence

Crushes can feel impossible to explain, especially when there’s so much your brain and nervous system go through during one- luckily psychologist Dorothy Tennov coined the term “limerence” for the compulsive thoughts and infatuation with a person before knowing much about them, often relying on an idea or ideal one creates.

Chrysalism

As mentioned before, the tranquility and serenity of being safe indoors during heavy rain or a thunderstorm feels comfortable and safe- like all the world’s responsibilities are on pause and that’s ok.

Sonder

Sonder is the profound, often sudden realization that every passerby and stranger that you walk by at a subway station or at a busy concert is living a life just as vivid and complex as your own. Everyone has a childhood, goals, a destination- you are their background noise. This emotion comes on without warning and shows up as a striking realization.

Types of nostalgia (yes- there isn’t just one!)

Vellichor

The wistful nostalgia felt when wandering a used shop (often a bookstore) is called vellichor, and consists of the melancholic knowledge that each paperback contains a story, both within its pages and the places it has been, and that you will never get to know everything each could tell you.

Anemoia

Old photographs and clips of the past with their low resolution graphics and comforting expressions often evoke a sentiment called anemia, where one feels nostalgia for a time or place they never personally experienced. These bits of the past are snapshots of what we consider a simpler time (which we wouldn’t if we had the full story), and only show the pleasant parts of life, like a snapchat story.

Hiraeth

A Welsh word representing a deep, bittersweet longing or yearning for a home, place or time that one can no longer access, hiraeth is one of the most relevant to many living today with the era’s increase of nostalgia due to turbulent times and unique stress factors. Hiraeth often denotes nostalgia for a place you can physically return to but would never “be the same”- perhaps the childhood home your mind has sanctified.

Types of existentialism

Onism

The realization that you are limited to a single set of choices and a single path in life and that this confines your existence and experiences.

Occhiolism

The belief / sensation that you will never experience the full grandness of the universe as the scale is too massive and this prevents you from making meaningful conclusions about the world. Occhiolism can feel unsettling and stressful or comforting- your mistakes on the test don’t actually influence the fate of Earth.

Hopefully something in the list felt familiar, and it encourages you to start noticing and naming your emotions with new depth. These words are only the beginning- there are so many feelings out there you may not have the words for yet.

Sources: 1, 2

The Branches in the Sky, Our Hearts in the Moons

Alina
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The Branches in the Sky, Our Hearts in the Moons

The Thirteen Celtic Tree Signs
(Astrology originated from the Ogham calendar)

Birch (Dec 24-Jan 20)

The Achiever,

Birch individuals are the unstoppable signs. You are motivated, resilient and ambitious. You are natural-born leaders and can adapt to tough environments. As the first tree to grow after a fire, the Birch tree’s signs are always highly driven yet also contain a soft side that offers beauty and purity. Remember to chill for a moment, too, Birch!

Rowan (Jan 21-Feb 17)

The Thinker

Rowans are the philosophical minds of the group; your ideas are creative, and your presence shifts the room. If you happen to find yourself born under a rowan, you probably have a lot going on. You’re curious, insightful, and can seem detached or cold at times, but you are burning within from your passionate ideals. You are always thinking about life’s bigger questions and probably overthink a lot, too. Maybe don’t isolate yourself that much.

Ash (Feb 18-March 17)

The Enchanter

Ash signs are the free thinkers, the dreamers, the creatives and the intuitive ones that are naturally talented in the intersection of the arts. Your imaginative and enchanting personality draws people in towards you, and you are deeply intertwined with nature, spiritual connections and your inner circle. Ash sign can sometimes be so far off that they need to be reminded to stay grounded.

Alder (March 18-April 14)

The Trailblazer

Alder signs are natural pathfinders; they’re the first ones to try something new or charge into the unknown. You are confident, action-oriented, charming, and get along with almost everyone. Correction, you get along with everyone. You have strong self-faith and focus, don’t like wasting time and have boundless energy, but beware, Alder signs can burn out fast without some kind of relaxation.

Willow (April 15-May 12)

The Observer

Willow signs are the empaths. You are creative, intuitive and intelligent; you have a more realistic perspective of the situation, resulting in you being more patient, often standing as a natural healer offering support to those around you. Willows are full of potential, but they tend to hold themselves back due to fear. Like the tree, you bend, not break and adapt to life’s changes. Just remember not to overwhelm yourselves with other people’s emotional baggage.

Hawthorn (May 13-June 9)

The Illusionist

Hawthorn signs basically represent the quote, “never judge a book by its cover”; their external personalities and internal personalities can be quite different from each other. You are creative, dynamic, curious and can easily adapt to most life situations. They have fiery passions, but just don’t forget to embrace yourself instead of hiding behind a mask.

Oak (June 10-July 7)

The Stabilizer

Oak folks are born with a unique strength; they are the rock of tree astrology. You are nurturing, protective and generous. They are deeply connected to history, family and tradition, often stepping up as a mentor, crusader and a spokesperson for the underdog. You are optimistic and exude an easy confidence, but remember that your sturdy shoulder could shudder too.

Holly (July 8-August 4)

The Ruler

If you find yourself born under a Holly, you possess a regal status. You are noble, confident, ambitious, competitive, high-minded, and natural leaders who aren’t afraid to tackle bigger challenges. People look up to you and admire you as you skate through obstacles. A Holly could also be kind, affectionate and quite generous. However, make sure you don’t steamroll everyone else in your quest for success.

Hazel (August 5-September 1)

The Knower

Hazel signs are highly intelligent, organized and efficient. They have memories like steel traps and have a gift for subjects that call for analytical skills. You are natural scholars and teachers, always seeking out new knowledge or understanding. Although you are always aware of your facts, remember that it’s okay to make mistakes sometimes; perfectionism shouldn’t weigh you down.

Vine (September 2-September 29)

The Equalizer

Vine signs are unpredictable. You are full of contradictions and are often indecisive. You can see both stories’ opinions and empathize with them equally. Your ability lies within your gift to navigate life’s struggles with grace. Vine signs appreciate the finer things in life, such as food, wine, music and art. You have a great aesthetic sense, only don’t get too caught up in luxury.

Ivy (September 30-October 27)

The Survivor

Ivy individuals are tenacious; they can thrive in situations that most people are knocked down by. You are determined, compassionate, deeply intuitive, and loyal. You fight through the difficult challenges life handed you and have a giving nature, always ready to lend a helping hand. However, learning to trust their intuition to guide them through is something they are unsure of.

Reed (October 28-November 24)

The Inquisitor

Reed signs are the detectives; you dig deep inside to the real meaning and uncover the truth behind layers of distraction. They can easily be attracted to gossip and are easily curious, and interpretive. Reed signs often become journalists, historians, and archaeologists. Just keep in mind that not all secrets need to be uncovered.

Elder (November 24-December 23)

The Seeker

Elder tends to be freedom-loving and can be interpreted as a little wild. You love adventures and are outspoken, independent and a little bit rebellious. You are extroverted and think considerately about other people and genuinely try to help, which can sometimes be thwarted by your brutal honesty. You thrive on change, excitement and the thrill of new experiences, but remember you need balance to ground yourself.

Sources: 1, 2, 3

Red Moon – A Thrilling Science Fiction Novel

Sabarish M
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Red Moon – A Thrilling Science Fiction Novel

A novel is supposed to immerse the reader in the world of the story and have rich characters and plot. In this blog post, I will be sharing my experience reading one of my favourite novels, Red Moon, by Kim Stanley Robinson. It is a science fiction novel set in 2047, a future where China dominates the global landscape, and has rich characters and revolves around an interesting plot. I will also be sharing why I liked it and why you should read it too.

Basic Summary

Many nations have established colonies and laboratories on the Moon, with an overwhelming majority of Chinese presence. The main character, Fred Fredericks, is an American who works for a Swiss tech company and has been tasked to install a quantum communication system for the Chinese Lunar Authority.

However, after arriving, he is involved in an incident where Chang Yazu, a Chinese official, is poisoned and dies, leading to Fred being blamed and forced into hiding with Chan Qi, the daughter of the Chinese Finance Minister, who is a major figure in the growing rebellion movement in China. The story takes place during a period of political turmoil in China, where a power transition is underway amid a conflict between conservative authority and a rising rebellion movement, with many factions opposing each other, leading to intense internal fighting and conspiracy.

Millions of Chinese migrant workers and labourers, being exploited and feeling unrepresented by their government, want reform and change. While this is going on, the novel explores how Fred and Qi are sent back to Earth and back to the moon, facing various assassination attempts by many of these factions who oppose what Qi stands for along the way, forcing them to rely on allies and complex quantum technology to survive the conspiracy involving members of the highest level in the Chinese government. 

Why I Liked It

I liked this novel as it was amazing to read, and I really enjoyed learning about lots of new ideas and the significance of historical events, which this book was filled with. The author did an amazing job of immersing the reader into the experience, and by showing the story from different points of view, it was nice to see a broader picture rather than just seeing the main characters struggle to survive.

Robinson utilizes vivid imagery and incorporates poetry through the character Ta Shu, a former poet, to convey powerful messages. The story being set in 2047, the year Hong Kong is set to join mainland China, gave the novel many conflicts to explore, especially the struggles of Chinese migrant workers who are being significantly exploited with the Hukou system (where each citizen is tied to their birthplace and migrating to other places is illegal and if they do they will lose access to key services such as healthcare and labour safety laws), which is relevant today. 

Also, there were many rich and complex themes explored throughout this novel. Firstly, the idea of political reforms and social change is a core concept of this novel. Through Chan Qi and the rebellion caused by a billion people, the idea of how reform is slow, complicated and requires collective effort and motivation is shown.

This novel also expands on the idea of inequality and exploitation faced by millions of people and how it impacts their livelihood. Something I learned from this book about the world is that even when advanced technology and a new way of living emerge, core emotions such as defiance and rebellion will remain unchanged, as depicted in the text where Robinson compares the similarities of this rebellion with the revolution of the past. Also, this book taught me to appreciate different viewpoints, as seeing the story from multiple characters helped me understand the complex nature of conflicting motivations and enhanced my empathy.

NASA’s Comeback: Artemis 2 Brings Humans Back To Deep Space

Krupa P
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NASA’s Comeback: Artemis 2 Brings Humans Back To Deep Space

After more than 50 years, humans have once again ventured toward the Moon—and made it back safely. The crew of Artemis II, including astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, completed a historic 10-day mission that pushed human space exploration farther than ever before.

Throughout the mission, astronauts tested critical systems needed for future deep-space travel, including life support, manual spacecraft control, and emergency procedures. They also conducted scientific research on how the human body responds to space conditions like microgravity and radiation—key knowledge for longer missions in the future.

The crew captured over 7,000 images, including stunning views of the Moon, Earth, and even a solar eclipse from space. These observations will help scientists better understand the lunar surface, especially areas near the Moon’s south pole, where astronauts are expected to land in upcoming missions.

After splashing down safely in the Pacific Ocean and returning home, Artemis II marks a major milestone in NASA’s long-term goals. The mission proves that the technology, teamwork, and international partnerships are ready for the next step: landing humans on the Moon again.

With Artemis II complete, all eyes now turn to Artemis III—the mission that aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface and begin building a long-term human presence on the Moon, paving the way for future exploration of Mars.

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Why Youth Political Engagement Matters

Natania V
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Why Youth Political Engagement Matters

If you’re a young person in Calgary, politics might feel extremely distant, something simply happening in Ottawa or on the news, not in our daily lives. That perception misses a key reality. Many of the decisions shaping your future are being made right now, often at the local level, and often without enough youth voices in the room. 

Political engagement isn’t just about voting when you turn 18. It’s about understanding how systems work, advocating for issues that affect you, and recognizing that your perspective has real value, even before we can cast a ballot. 

Local Decisions, Real Impact. 

In a city like Calgary, municipal and provincial policies directly influence issues that matter deeply to youth: education funding, public transit, climate initiatives, mental health resources, and job opportunities. Whether it’s decisions about school infrastructure, youth programming, or environmental planning, these aren’t abstract policies; they shape your day-to-day experience.

When young people disengage, those decisions are made without considering their needs. When they engage, priorities shift.

Youth Perspectives Are Different and Necessary

Young people bring a unique lens to political conversations. You’re growing up in a world defined by rapid technological change, climate uncertainty, and evolving cultural identities. That perspective is not just “nice to have”, it’s essential for effective policymaking.

In Calgary specifically, youth often navigate complex intersections of identity, such as immigrant experiences, Indigenous reconciliation, and balancing tradition with modern Canadian culture. These lived experiences can inform more inclusive and forward-thinking policies, but only if they’re voiced.

Engagement Builds Agency, Not Just Awareness

There’s a common misconception that political engagement is about being “informed.” While knowledge matters, engagement is really about agency, which is the belief that your actions can influence outcomes.

That might look like:

  • Participating in student councils or youth advisory boards
  • Attending town halls or community consultations
  • Organizing or supporting local initiatives
  • Engaging in informed discussions, both online and offline

These actions build skills. Skills we build, like critical thinking, communication, and leadership, extend far beyond politics.

Calgary Needs Youth in the Conversation

Calgary is a rapidly evolving city. Economic transitions, climate policy debates, and urban development are all actively shaping its future. The question is: who gets to influence that future?

Historically, youth participation in formal politics has been lower than that of older demographics. That creates a structural imbalance where policies may skew toward the priorities of those who consistently show up.

Increasing youth engagement isn’t just beneficial, but it’s necessary for a representative system.

Overcoming Barriers to Engagement

It’s also important to acknowledge why many young people don’t engage:

  • Politics can feel inaccessible or overly complex
  • There’s a perception that individual voices don’t matter
  • Time constraints from school and extracurriculars
  • Lack of clear entry points into civic participation

Addressing these barriers requires both institutional change and individual initiative. Schools, organizations, and local governments need to create more accessible pathways, but youth also need to take the step to participate when those opportunities arise.

It Starts Small

You don’t need to run for office to be politically engaged. It starts with curiosity. It start with asking questions, staying informed, and speaking up when something matters to you.

In a city like Calgary, where community networks are strong and opportunities for involvement exist, even small actions can have a tangible impact.

The bottom line: political engagement isn’t something you grow into later. It’s something you build now, and Calgary’s future will reflect whether youth choose to be part of that process.

Protect the Planet

Soham C
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Protect the Planet

Did you know that the average Canadian creates about 2.33 kg of waste per year? That adds up to 851 kilograms of waste per year. However, there are multiple ways to reduce trash in our lives. Many people are aware of the three Rs. The three Rs are: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.

Reduce means to make less of something. We can reduce the amount of waste we create. One simple way is to buy items in bulk. If you need 10 packets of bread, don’t buy every packet separately; buy them in bundles. That will save you money and be good for the environment.

Reuse means to use something more than once. We can reuse many things, including bags, bottles, and clothes. Instead of buying plastic bottles, we can buy a metal bottle. Metal bottles can be used many times, and they are very helpful because they don’t break when they drop. Plastic bags are not good for the environment, and they take thousands of years to decompose and are a one-time use. Instead of using plastic bags, we can use cloth bags. Cloth bags are strong, reusable, and good for the environment. Lastly, many people throw away their old clothes because they don’t fit or they are out of style. Instead of throwing clothes away, you can donate them or you can hand them down. Handing down clothes is much better than throwing them away. That saves the cloth and helps another person.

Recycle means to make something new out of something old. There are many things we can recycle to make the Earth a better place. We can recycle cans, plastic bottles, paper, cardboard, and many other things. Humans should only recycle things if they can not be reused. Recycling helps us conserve our natural resources, such as timber, water, and minerals. Recycling also helps us reduce carbon dioxide in the world and keep our water and planet cleaner. Waste that would go to landfills is being recycled.

In conclusion, the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle are all very important in our lives. We should always try to apply these things in our lives. If we do not use these things, then the world will fill up with garbage very fast. We should do these things because they save resources and they help make old things into new things. Together, we all should contribute to saving the world and conserving its resources.

 

Sources: 1, 2, 3

 

 

The Pressure to Perform: Breaking Free From Burnout

Krupa P
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The Pressure to Perform: Breaking Free From Burnout

Academic burnout is a real issue, but it isn’t impossible to manage if you take the right steps. I had to step back for a bit and figure out what I was doing wrong and what caused my stress, then make tweaks where I could. Throughout the year, I defeated my burnout step by step by getting help and advice from friends and family, because burnout isn’t always something you can get rid of alone.

1. Make Time for Enjoyable Activities

Setting aside time in my schedule for activities I genuinely enjoy was one of the main things that reduced my burnout. Whether it was hanging out with friends, reading a book, listening to music, or just relaxing, having something to look forward to can boost your mood and make school feel less overwhelming. It also helped recharge my energy, so when you return to your schoolwork, you feel more focused and motivated instead of drained. Even small breaks for things you love can make a big difference in preventing burnout.

2. Plenty of Exercise

I tried to make an effort to stay active daily, whether it was going on a short walk or run or playing sports. Physical activity boosted my energy levels after a long day of school and cleared my mind. Along with exercise, staying hydrated and eating a balanced meal always support your body and mind. Taking care of my physical health has always made it much easier for me to stay focused and motivated when dealing with school stress.

3.Enjoy Your Day Offs

My weekends never felt like days off because I always ended up doing schoolwork. Now I always try to organize my schedule so that I have at least one full day to rest and recover. Stepping away from assignments and studying on that one full rest day helped me focus better during the rest of the week. Coming back to work after a proper break will feel refreshing and give you much more ability to focus.

4. Avoid Procrastination

When I felt overwhelmed, it was always tempting to delay assignments and projects. But in the end, I was always piled up with homework and assignments due the day before. These always led to late-night study sessions,

 

How Teenage Culture is being Erased

Ava
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How Teenage Culture is being Erased

Teenage-hood is a unique part of life. Positioned between childhood and adulthood, it is an important phase for self expression. Additionally, between different decades, teenage culture has evolved and changed. However, in today’s world, the line between childhood and adulthood has become blurred, leaving no space for unique teenage identity’s to grow.

The “Adultification” of teenagers

With social media platforms now being a mix of adults, teens, and pre-teens, adolescents are increasingly exposed to adult influencer and content tailored to them. This type of exposure to adults lifestyle, products, and mannerisms, can lead to teenagers being rushed to maturation and encouraged to copy certain aspects as-well.

Decline of Third Places

A major shift among teenagers is their lack of in-person interactions. With the decline of third places, such as arcades and social gatherings, especially those catered towards teens, most interactions have moved online. While online communication provides ease, it takes away from environments where teens can socially experiment and engage with others.

Increased Pressure

With higher academic expectations, global awareness, and constant access to others, teenagers nowadays face more levels of stress and pressure. Easier access to social media also exposes teens to unrealistic beauty, lifestyle, and success standards. Such contributions often makes adolescents feel like they aren’t doing enough, or  that they’re failing at a life they haven’t even begun. All of these factors leave almost no room for the spontaneity and rebellion that once went hand to hand with teenage-hood.

 

Ozempic, Wegovy, and GLP1s: Going Generic?

Jeanne Y
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Ozempic, Wegovy, and GLP1s: Going Generic?

Disclaimer: This post is for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice and/or substitute advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a medical professional. I cannot guarantee that the content of the post is correct or updated. Consult a medical professional for all medical advice and before making the decision to begin taking new drugs.

Semaglutides, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy has been a hot topic the last couple of years. As an increasing number of celebrities and influencers began to use the drug that’s meant to help manage obesity and type 2 diabetes, it’s no wonder that the drug has become controversial.

GLP1s, Wegovy, and Ozempic: What’s the Difference?

GLP1 – Glucagon-like Peptide-1

…is a hormone that is naturally released after your body feels full. It signals satiety to your brain, slows down your digestion so that your digestive system has enough time to absorb nutrients, and helps manage blood sugar.

In Bio 30, we learn that when there’s food in the stomach, it stretches (like an elastic bag). This stretching activates mechanoreceptors, which are receptors that respond to movement. This signals fullness to your intestinal cells, which will then release GLP1s.

But Ozempic and Wegovy are not pill versions of the hormone. So what are they?

Semaglutides: Ozempic and Wegovy

Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutides, which are molecules that imitate the GLP1 hormone. The difference is simply that Wegovy contains a higher dosage that Ozempic does.

Wegovy is typically prescribed for weight loss, while Ozempic is used for type 2 diabetes.

Going Generic

From a medical standpoint, the drug has been fairly effective in helping patients manage weight loss and blood sugar. Canada is the only country where the patent for Wegovy has an expiration date, which means that soon, generic versions of the weight loss drug can soon come out. So what does this mean for Canadians?

Cost

Generic means that other companies create pharmaceutically identical versions of the drug to sell. Because these secondary companies don’t have to do as much research, testing, and proving as the private company did, costs can be lowered. This is incredibly important, as most insurance companies do not cover insurance costs of obesity drugs.

Going generic means that the cost of the drug will be significantly lowered, which makes the drug far more accessible to lower income individuals. It’s estimated that generic brands could be 35% lower than brand-name semaglutides.

Timeline

Generic versions are predicted to hit shelves in mid to late 2026, which means that millions more Canadians who are unable to afford the drug will soon be able to get the medication that they need.

Sources: 1 ,2 ,3 ,4 ,5, 6

Healthy Habits That Aren’t Actually Healthy (But Everyone Acts Like They Are)

Elizabeth A
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Healthy Habits That Aren’t Actually Healthy (But Everyone Acts Like They Are)

I think we’ve reached a point where “being healthy” is less about how you feel and more about how your life looks from the outside.

Like if you wake up early, go to the gym, eat “clean,” and stay consistent, you’re automatically doing something right. And if you don’t… it kind of feels like you’re falling behind.

But the weird part is that some of these “healthy habits” aren’t actually making people feel better. They just look like they should.

 

1. When being disciplined starts feeling like pressure

There’s nothing wrong with having discipline. It’s good to have routines and goals.

But there’s a difference between choosing to do something and feeling like you have to.

If missing one workout stresses you out, or eating something different makes you feel guilty for the rest of the day, that’s not really balance. That’s pressure.

And pressure doesn’t suddenly become healthy just because it’s coming from a “good” habit.

 

2. “Clean eating” that’s basically just not eating enough

A lot of the “healthy eating” content online looks fine until you actually think about it for a second.

It’s always super controlled. Small portions, low-calorie everything, nothing that really fills you up. But it’s labeled as clean, so it feels like the goal.

No one says it directly, but there’s this idea that the less you eat, the better you’re doing.

And that just… isn’t true.

Your body needs food. Not the aesthetic version of it, actual food.

 

3. Working out because you feel like you owe it

There’s a big difference between working out because it makes you feel good and working out because you feel like you need to earn something.

Like earning your food, or making up for a “bad” day, or just proving to yourself that you’re still disciplined.

At that point, it stops being about health. It’s more like you’re trying to avoid feeling guilty.

And that’s not a great reason to build a habit around.

 

4. Routines that look perfect but don’t feel right

You can copy someone’s entire routine and still feel off.

Wake up early, follow all the steps, stay productive… and somehow still feel tired or unmotivated or just not into it.

That’s because routines aren’t one-size-fits-all, even if social media makes it seem like they are.

Just because something looks like the “right” way to live doesn’t mean it actually works for you.

 

5. The idea that healthy has to be hard

I feel like a lot of this comes down to one belief: if it’s not hard, it doesn’t count.

So people push themselves to do more, be stricter, stay more consistent, even when they’re already tired.

But being healthy isn’t supposed to feel like you’re constantly trying to keep up with your own life.

If everything feels exhausting all the time, something’s off.

 

So what actually is healthy then

It’s probably less impressive than what you see online.

It’s eating enough without overthinking it.
Moving your body in ways you don’t hate.
Taking breaks without feeling guilty.
Having habits that fit into your life instead of taking it over.

It’s not perfect. It’s not aesthetic. But it’s real.

 

TL;DR

Not everything labeled as “healthy” is actually helping you.

Sometimes it’s just a nicer version of pressure. And it’s easy to fall into because it looks like self-improvement.

But if something is making you more stressed, more tired, or more focused on doing everything “right,” it’s worth questioning.

Because a habit can look healthy and still not be good for you.

And you’re allowed to choose what actually feels better, even if it doesn’t look as put together.

Why Engineering Is More Creative Than You Think

Vasundhara Joshi
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0
Why Engineering Is More Creative Than You Think

Why Engineering Is More Creative Than You Think

When people hear the word engineering, they usually think of math, formulas, and strict rules. It often gets labeled as a logical or technical field, while creativity is associated more with art, music, or writing. But that idea is pretty misleading. Engineering is actually one of the most creative things you can do.

Creativity is not just about painting or designing something that looks nice. It is really about solving problems in new ways. That is basically what engineering is. Engineers are constantly asking questions like how can we make this better, safer, faster, cheaper, or more useful. There is rarely just one answer, which means there is a lot of room for imagination and new ideas.

One thing that makes engineering even more interesting is that it comes with limits. You cannot just build anything you want. You have to work with budgets, materials, time, and the laws of physics. Instead of holding creativity back, those limits actually push it further. When you cannot rely on unlimited resources, you have to think more carefully and come up with smarter solutions. A lot of innovation happens because of these restrictions.

Engineering also mixes imagination with logic in a really unique way. You have to understand how things work, use data, and follow scientific principles, but you also have to picture something that does not exist yet. Whether it is designing a medical device, a bridge, or a wearable technology product, you are always thinking about how real people will use it and what problems it will solve. That combination of technical thinking and human understanding is what makes engineering creative.

A big part of modern engineering today is environmental stewardship, which shows creativity in a different way. Engineers are now expected to think about how their designs affect the planet. That means creating things like renewable energy systems, more efficient transportation, biodegradable materials, and ways to reduce waste. It is not just about building something that works anymore. It is about building something that does not harm the future. This takes creativity because you are constantly trying to balance innovation with responsibility for the environment.

Another important part of engineering is failure. Things do not work the first time, and that is normal. Prototypes break, ideas fail, and tests do not always go as planned. But each failure helps move things forward. You learn what does not work and use that to improve your design. In a way, engineering is creative because it is always evolving.

At the end of the day, engineering is not just about equations or machines. It is about ideas. It is about taking something that does not exist and figuring out how to bring it into the real world in a useful and responsible way. That takes a lot more creativity than people usually realize.

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