After leaving high school sports behind and starting my post-secondary studies, school became a central part of my life. I quickly internalized that grades defined my worth and success. Good grades would lead to a good life—or so I thought—driving me to put relentless pressure on myself to excel. Anytime[Read More…]
Author: Malika Logossou
Are you feeling burned out with your STEM degree?
University students studying science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) tend to lose motivation over time, largely due to daunting coursework and competitive environments. This loss of motivation can be detrimental to students’ pursuit of careers and further studies in STEM fields, not to mention their mental health. A detailed understanding[Read More…]
The power of persuasion for driving vaccination against COVID-19
“Let’s get back to normal” was a phrase that circulated the globe at the height of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. To some, getting vaccinated to accelerate a return to normalcy was a no-brainer, but others felt various degrees of hesitation. Still, experts estimate that the COVID-19 vaccine prevented nearly 19.8[Read More…]
“Lupa ay Buhay” teach-in connects Filipino peasant struggles and Canadian imperialism
The Quebec Public Interest Research Group’s (QPIRG) 2024 Culture Shock series concluded on Oct. 29 with the “Lupa Ay Buhay” (Land is Life) Teach-In, led by the Filipino youth group Anakbayan Montreal. Anakbayan’s work—as a chapter of an international Filipino National Democratic Front organization—includes several youth engagement and education programs,[Read More…]
The best fictional political dramas to get us through this election season
For the few who haven’t yet had enough of American politics during this tumultuous election year, I have just the thing for you. Below are my top recommendations for political dramas as both an avid lover of the genre and someone fascinated with American politics. HBO’s Veep (2012-2019): For newcomers[Read More…]
Innovative approaches to modelling small-scale, Indigenous agriculture in Guatemala
Creating robust statistical models to predict crop yields, food security, and malnutrition is crucial for determining the next steps for governments, community leaders, and farmers—all of whom are stakeholders in the fight for sustainable and reliable access to food. Developing these models typically relies on detailed, long-term data, which allow[Read More…]
Reevaluating earplug comfort and effectiveness against hearing loss
Industrial noise levels frequently surpass 85 decibels, which is roughly equivalent to the noise a blender produces. Extended exposure to such noise levels can lead to long-term hearing damage, and earplugs are a common tool to mitigate this risk. However, conventional auditory assessments fail to comprehensively measure the effectiveness and[Read More…]
More than a Theme: McGill’s Neglect of Latin American and Hispanic Heritage Month
In 2018, Quebec’s parliament designated October as Hispanic Heritage Month, and Canada’s parliament recognized it as Latin American Heritage Month. Since then, many organizations and institutions have celebrated the rich cultures and contributions of Latin American and Hispanic communities in Canada. Yet at McGill University—where a diverse student body includes[Read More…]
Happiness isn’t a formula—just ask The Little Prince
When an existential crisis knocks at your door, avoidance feels impossible. In such moments, finding meaning and addressing inner conflicts becomes urgent, even though it may be painful. In The Little Prince, Saint-Exupéry explores this search for meaning, teaching readers to view life through fresh, unclouded eyes, and to appreciate[Read More…]
MJ Lenderman ushers the spirit of Asheville into Montreal’s Théâtre Fairmount
Whirring guitars pierce through the night, sloshing through the cramped crowd of Théâtre Fairmount. The amps engulf the room in a communication of riffs, a call-and-response of rhythmic strums with the scalding guitar whistles and twang of the pedal steel. As the audience returns lyrical chants to the stage, shock[Read More…]
