When I first heard about the Compass, I wasn’t sure exactly what it was, or what to expect. Turns out, it’s a place to explore figuring out your career, finding new passions, or discovering what’s next for you—and, honestly, it’s more fun than I expected!
If you’ve ever seen a poster or Instagram story for a Compass event and wondered what it’s all about, you’re not alone. I have definitely asked myself the same thing!
The Compass: Arts Student Engagement Hub has a physical location in the new Brock Commons South building, and hosts several programs throughout the school year tailored specifically to Arts students. The Compass helps guide you as you go through the various stages of your Arts degree.
You can gain real-world advice from Arts alumni through Arts Career Conversations, discover your unique career path in an Arts Career Design Studio, bring your ideas to life with Entrepreneurship for Arts Majors, get practical advice in Insider Tips for Arts Students, prioritize balance and resilience with Wellbeing Workshops, and connect with your professors on a personal level through Arts Prof Talks.
Here’s a sneak peek into my experience at a recent Arts Prof Talk, so you can see for yourself why Compass events are not just worth attending, but could become a new way for you to explore, learn and grow!
Prof Talks are an opportunity for Arts professors to come out of the classroom and into the Compass Hub for a more casual lecture in a laid-back environment. This unique style of programming breaks down the barriers between professors and students and provides an opportunity for students to connect with professors in a way that feels more personal, engaging and relaxed without the pressure of a large classroom setting and upcoming assignments or exams.
As someone who had never attended a Compass event before, let alone a Prof Talk, I was nervous and didn’t know what to expect. I hadn’t even been to the Brock Commons South building before and was worried I’d have trouble finding it. But as soon as I arrived, large signs with arrows pointed the way. Crisis averted! I made my way up the stairs to the third floor and successfully found the room.
As I walked in, I was greeted with big, welcoming smiles which instantly eased my nerves! The space was cozy and inviting, with plants on the walls and snacks like popcorn and juice boxes waiting for us, which we could grab at any time. Before the event started, we were encouraged to turn to our neighbours and break the ice. I was excited to connect with a fellow peer who also was interested in the talk’s topic of monsters and what they can tell us about society. As a sociology major and horror movie fiend the topic was right up my alley!
The event began with a land acknowledgment, followed by Professor Snowden introducing herself as a GRSJ faculty member and beginning her talk. The format was casual and interactive—some took notes, while others just listened. There was no pressure to memorize anything; we weren’t going to be tested!
Without the stress of having to remember anything for an upcoming exam or assignment, I grabbed some snacks and listened intently to Professor Snowden, periodically taking notes on standout concepts on my phone. Before I knew it, in just an hour, I gained new insight and appreciation for a topic I’d never explored before in a relaxed and comfy atmosphere. After the lecture ended, I walked up to Professor Snowden, introduced myself and asked her some questions. I was grateful for the unique opportunity to connect with her in a way that felt approachable and meaningful!
I felt sad realizing I wouldn’t have the chance to take a class with Dr. Snowden as a fourth-year student with no room for electives left. However, the Prof Talk allowed me the chance to connect with and learn from Dr. Snowden in a low-commitment setting meant for a broader audience than just GRSJ students. I was also able to converse with students I wouldn’t have in a classroom format, including graduate students, and hear perspectives from students not in my major. I left the event feeling more connected to my Arts community and professors!
If you’re even mildly curious about a Compass event, I say go for it! With such a wide collection of programming, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, learn something new, or just enjoy a cozy space with snacks, Compass has something to offer everyone. I’m definitely looking forward to exploring other Compass events. So if you’re interested, or just looking for a chill place to connect with other students, come check it out! I’m so glad I took the leap—maybe I’ll see you at the next one?
Mariam (she/her) is a fourth-year Arts student, majoring in Sociology, with a minor in Data Science.
