Volume 81 Issue 7 - Monday January 19, 2026

Features:

The value of using resources around you

By Lauren Root Features Editor

The start of the new winter semester brought a new group of students to campus, all eagerly looking forward to starting their Bishop’s journey! The Bishop’s administration and the BUSRC run many programs to help new students adjust to the unfamiliar environment, and also to help returning students who are needing extra support or looking to develop new habits.

I spoke with Serena Couturier, the Transition and Retention Advisor, working under Student Services and Student Affairs. She works on helping all students transition to university life better, with emphasis on first year and non-traditional (mature or first-generation) students. Serena is available to meet with students 1:1 to help their transition, and also works on revamping orientation and increasing student’s access to information about resources. If students have questions on how to integrate, make new friends, or who are looking to see a counsellor, Serena is the first line resource. Serena’s most recent orientation project was the 2026

Resource Fair on Jan. 12.

At this event, there was representation from academic advisors (with information on how to book meetings), BUnited, CATS, SAAS, Counselling, the library, the writing center, student success (SRC), BU international, Indigenous student services and Residence life.

The issue that arose at this event was that there were only 5 students in attendance, marking the lowest turn out in Resource Fair participation ever. The lack of turnout has created the desire for change, looking for new ways to raise awareness to the resources available to students.

Low participation is a regular concern when organizing winter orientation. As Serena mentioned, the majority of students starting in the winter semester are international students or exchange students, who receive their own orientation from Bishop’s International. That leaves a small percentage of Canadian students who start in January, who would benefit from additional help but are not always aware of the resources available to them upon arrival.

Continue on page 8

Kai Luginbuhl, News Editor » thecampus.news@gmail.com

Foreman Art Gallery children’s camps: Democratizing art and strengthening community ties

By Camila Vasquez Contributor

For over a decade, Bishop’s University’s Foreman Art Gallery has been running week-long art camps during Spring Break and throughout the summer. Overseen by the Community Art Lab (ArtLab), the camps were established with the intention of democratizing art and building closer ties with the local community. Inspired by trends in micromuseology and community museology, this project fully aligns with the ArtLab’s mandate to explore pressing social issues from a creative point of view and how these affect our direct community.

Over time, the camps have evolved. In collaboration with Bishop’s University’s Sustainable Development Office, the ArtLab redesigned its educational approach in 2023 to better align with the Foreman Art Gallery’s vision and the broader values of the organization. Drawing inspiration

from alternative, eco-friendly teaching models, the revised approach aims to update the way we view children and better support them in discovering their artistic creativity. The focus is therefore on the process rather than the outcome, and on art as an experience rather than a final object. Free outdoor playtime is an integral part of each day’s program, enabling children to engage with the land and learn through exploration.

Accompanied by two educators with study profiles in fine arts or arts education, children ages six to 12 can explore a variety of exciting art projects that stimulate their creativity and sense of initiative, in a caring, inclusive, multiage and bilingual atmosphere. Each day at camp follows a similar rhythm, consisting of periods of self-directed art creation, free play in nature and guided art workshops. Different angles of the themes ‘Art’ and ‘Nature’ are explored through activities in the studio or outdoors. Activities related to sustainable development are also scheduled, as

well as outings to Bishop’s University Sports Centre, Old Lennoxville Golf Club during the March break and the swimming pool in the summer.

March Break Art Camp 2026: Creating the Now. The Foreman Art Gallery’s Community Art Lab positions itself at the cutting edge between art, education and community development, with the goal of exploring how these worlds collide and interact with one another. With this in mind, we have set ourselves the challenge of venturing into the world of contemporary art to find ways of engaging children at this year’s March Break Art Camp, which will take place from March 2-6, 2026. This initiative is an integral part of the ArtLab’s academic mission, enabling a fine arts student to deepen their knowledge of art and cultural mediation through an internship. Under the guidance of ArtLab Coordinator Camila Vásquez, Esther Wiseman developed a curriculum addressing contemporary art through five different approaches.

Bishop’s University Charity Fashion Show, where fashion meets purpose

By Emma-Rose Lehoux Contributor

Mark your calendars because the Bishop’s Charity Fashion Show is back and is coming very soon! Get ready to have fun, celebrate and participate in one of the biggest events on campus. On Feb. 21, over 200 volunteers will gather and offer you a unique and unforgettable experience.

The Bishop’s Charity Fashion Show is much more than a simple runway. It has one clear mission: to provide all students the opportunity to give back to the surrounding communities of Bishop’s communities while promoting an inspiring culture of growth and inclusion. All proceeds raised over the year are donated to The Mental Health Estrie Organization.

TMental health disorders are more present than ever before; many people struggle with them, perhaps even people close to us. Our committee members want to support an organization that takes action on this important cause, and we want to give students the chance to help too. Every donation, big or small, can make a difference.

Plus, by attending the event, students will not only be contributing to a great cause, but will also have the chance to celebrate individuality and confidence. Models and dancers are going to come on stage full of energy, showcasing the beauty of being yourself while promoting different local fashion brands.

Fashion is a powerful way to express creativity and identity. That is why we are partnering with many fashion brands to showcase their own unique styles. Since the beginning of the fall semester,

the committee members have been working really hard to make this event as memorable as possible.

Our Marketing Directors have kept us entertained with engaging content on social media and have much more to come. The Fundraising and Finance Directors ensure that our event will bring a meaningful impact on the community. The Volunteer, Diversity, and Communication Directors have built and maintained a strong and passionate team behind the event.

The Editorial Directors keep the Bishop’s community informed with all the latest updates regarding the show. The Sponsorship Directors maintain strong relationships with local brands that help make this event even more special. The Music, the Artistic and the Dance Directors are the ones who make the event shine and truly stand out.

The Foreman Art Gallery’s March Break Art Camp proposes to demystify half a century of art history through a creative and experiential approach, drawing inspiration from artistic movements from the 1970s to today. Through influential figures and by building bridges with today’s society, we will revisit the history of contemporary art. Over the course of a week, children will immerse themselves in the spirit of different eras while creating with their own hands.

Resonate with you or with your child? Registration is open on the Foreman Art Gallery website.

Finally, our Assistant Coordinators and Head Coordinators are the driving force behind bringing this event to life. The ones that will make this night unforgettable.

We are a passionate team preparing an event you will not regret attending. If you are a fashion enthusiast, value inclusion and diversity, and want to make a real impact, this event is meant for you. The Fashion Show team can’t wait to see you on Feb. 21 at 8 p.m. at the Centennial Theater. Make sure to bring your friends and your positive energy!

he Campus acknowledges that the land on which we operate is stolen land, the traditional territory of the Abenaki people. We live, learn, work, and play on this land, home to Indigenous peoples still living. Canada was founded through colonization, a system rooted in oppression and the abuse of power over others, continuing to affect First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities today. As a student newspaper, The Campus has a responsibility to highlight truth. We are committed to prioritizing underrepresented voices in our community and proactively highlighting Indigenous peoples’ histories and ongoing realities, including their resilience and achievements. We recognize our work plays a role in shaping public perceptions, being able to call-out injustice but also call-in action. We emphasize that we must go beyond a land acknowledgement, which is only one step towards reconciliation. It is the stories in our paper – told with respect, accuracy, and integrity – and the respect and humility we show to the land and others that is more important than what is written in a land acknowledgement. Actionable steps to go beyond a land acknowledgement include educating ourselves and others, and supporting Indigenous traditions, movements, and businesses. —The Campus Team

Marché 5ième Saison to close in Lennoxville

By Emilie Vadeboncoeur Director of Marketing & Communications

Bishop’s students and residents of Lennoxville will soon be saying goodbye to a well-loved grocery store as Marché 5ième Saison prepares to close its doors at the end of the month. As announced on Jan. 8 via Facebook, the store will be closing after eight years in Lennoxville. The post marked the end of an era and expressed sincere gratitude to the customers who have supported them over the years.

Marché 5ième Saison opened in 2017. What may have looked like a simple food market offered much more than just everyday grocery essentials. In addition to fresh produce, the store built a reputation for carrying a variety of international and niche food items, giving Lennoxville residents access to products unavailable at larger chains like Maxi or Provigo.

Beyond groceries, the store also

became popular for its food counter located at the back of the store. Customers could stop in for quick, healthy, ready-to-eat meals and snacks.

The news has sparked an emotional response from many Lennoxville residents, especially those who loved the market for affordable, high-quality ingredients and specialty products. For Bishop’s students, Marché 5ième Saison has often been a staple for quick grocery runs, fresh produce and unique items. Over the years, the store has become more than just a place to shop, but a part of many Lennoxville resident’s weekly routines and lastminute lunches and dinners. For many Bishop’s students, particularly international students, the market served as a place to find comfort foods from home, as well as a wide selection of healthy meal options. Although the closure is approaching quickly, the Marché 5ième Saison has ensured that during these last few weeks, there will be special

promotions and the continued sale of customer favourites such as bubble tea, samosas and poke bowls while supplies last.

Despite the store’s closure in Lennoxville, there are still two other Marché 5ième Saison locations in

the Sherbrooke area. One

King Ouest and another

720

du Conseil. Community members are encouraged to stop by the Lennoxville location before the end of the month to show their support while the doors are still open.

Rail Jam returns this year, future remains uncertain

Kai Luginbuhl News and Associate Editor

In its final issue of the fall semester, The Campus detailed the controversy in November 2025 over the possible cancellation of one of the university’s largest events. Since then, Winterfest’s 2026 Rail Jam has been confirmed, though its future beyond this year remains unclear.

This fall, the university administration raised concerns about the feasibility of the 2026 Rail Jam, citing strain on Bishop’s staff. Students and alumni pushed back after the report emerged, worried that the event could be cancelled permanently. Following negotiations between the Students’ Representative Council and the administration, an agreement was reached. Under the revised plan, the Rail Jam and concert will be held as a single continuous event, running from 6:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. In an email to the student body, Bishop’s principal Sébastien Lebel-Grenier said the change was intended to “reduce pressure on university resources.” The SRC and Bishop’s Admin reaching an agreement was a huge success for both the student body and the university.

However, while there is much excitement about Winterfest being confirmed and around the corner, there is no deal between the SRC and the administration for the future of Rail Jam, or even Winterfest as a whole. It is of utmost importance for students to get tickets, show up, and have a great time to con-

tinue the success of the biggest event in the Bishop’s calendar. Most importantly, members of the SRC have also stressed the importance of good behaviour throughout the weekend. Following the events of homecoming 2025, the student body has faced scrutiny from many sources, with critics call-

ing for the disbandment of Bishop’s University’s “party culture” entirely. It is critical to Winterfest’s future that all participants maintain a respectful, kind, and, most importantly, safe atmosphere.

Anya Mullen, Opinions Editor » thecampus.opinions@gmail.com

My new years resolution: no more resolutions

By Anya Mullen Opinions Editor

Maybe your experience has been different, but in my opinion, drastic changes in our lives, what we like to call new years resolutions, don’t work. To alter specific things in your life, gradual change is the best option. Building habits. The transition from Dec. 31 to Jan. 1 is just one sleep, not a magical night where

everything we want to change about ourselves just changes when we open our eyes on Jan. 1.

I think that growth is great, but saying resolutions out loud to everyone is almost like saying your wish out loud when you’re blowing out the candles on your birthday cake. You’re setting yourself up for external pressure and greater disappointment if you fail. That being said, maybe external pressure helps some people achieve their goals. If your roommates are asking you if you went to the gym yet, or your parents are asking you if you did your homework, maybe you feel more urgency to do those things. But shouldn’t the motivation to commit to a resolution come from within? It’s in the word: you should have your own resolve to eat healthier, or travel more, or whatever it is you’re hoping to do differently in your life in the upcoming year.

I’m sick of making resolutions, of waiting for a new year to start

to change things about myself. If you realize one day that you want to change your life, that change should start that day. One day a few weeks ago, I realized I hadn’t read a book in ages. Instead of waiting until Jan. 1 to crack one open, I read a book for five minutes that day. The next day, I read it for maybe seven minutes. The next day, ten. Before I knew it, I finished four books during the winter break and since then, I have been reading for at least 30 minutes a day. Just like that, I built a small habit that has ended up affecting me positively in other aspects of life as well. Since I’m reading a book before bed, I’m not on Instagram until the moment I turn my light off anymore. I’m sleeping a little better. I’m waking up feeling more refreshed. All because I started reading for five minutes a day a few weeks ago. I think that was a lot more powerful than trying to make a big, dramatic resolution and trying to implement it the moment the dates started ending in 2026 instead of 2025.

Anything can become a habit if you do it every day. Nothing happens instantly. How many times have you tried to start going to the gym because it was your New Year’s resolution, and you didn’t build the habit in the end? A resolution is too much pressure.

Psychology even corroborates this one for me. After reading a couple of articles about the phenomenon of people’s difficulty in keeping resolutions, it makes more sense. Setting vague, big goals rarely works. If you don’t enjoy the process, you won’t want to go through it. You’ll be too fixated on your end goal, instead of the daily effort required to reach that end goal. For example, if your goal is to run a marathon and try to start from zero by running ten kilometres a day, you probably won’t do that. However, if you set your initial goal to be a short run three times a week for three weeks, that’s a concrete, tangible, reasonable goal to meet. If you can articulate and enjoy the process of reaching the goal, you might find that resolution easier to keep.

Get outside anyway, bad weather is a mindset

By Olivia Collins Contributor

It’s no secret that getting outdoors is great for your physical and mental health; we’ve all heard this before. But in the winter months, spending time outside has a seriously bad reputation, to the point of being avoided at all costs by many people. These days, the only time most of us are outside all day is the journey from home to school or work. In the summer, when it’s sunny, 25 degrees and the sun sets at 9:30 p.m. every day, people have a completely different perspective on getting outdoors. Who doesn’t want to walk along a river or lie in a grassy field when it’s so beautiful out? I think we can all recall some memories of the first really nice day of past years, usually in early May, when football fields and tree-lined trails are lively and everyone seems to have come out of hibernation. The fact is that most people hardly go outdoors throughout the winter. These months are written off as having ‘bad weather,’ and most hunker down and wait for the snow to melt.

Personally, I feel as though my day is not complete without a walk. Maybe I am a little biased, as a club lead for the BU Outdoors Club, but I truly go a little stir-crazy if I don’t get out and stretch my legs. My favourite trails in Lennoxville include L’Axe de la Massawippi off Queen St as well as the trail parallel to the train tracks, the entrance to which can be found on Samuel-Gratham St. At the risk of sounding like an advertisement, these are well-maintained trails that are covered by a beautiful tree canopy and run parallel to the river. These trails are two of my favourite places in Lennoxville, and I have spent a lot of time in them over the past four years. On sunny summery days, L’Axe can be packed with people – in September it’s filled with cyclists, runners and hikers alike. On sunny days in the winter, I’ll run into some cross-country skiers or people snowshoeing.

However, on rainy or snowy days, I never see anyone on the trail. Yesterday I trudged through puddles and slush all down Queen Street, but once I arrived at L’Axe trailhead, I was pleasantly surprised: the trail was in great condition,

with hard-packed snow that wasn’t slippery or icy at all. On my walk, it rained a good amount, but I just zipped up my raincoat and pulled on my hood. Pro-tip: if you wear a baseball cap and a raincoat with a hood, your face will stay totally dry. I listened to the sound of the rain hitting the trees, pattering on the river and colouring my boots with little spots. It was the perfect end to my day full of classes on campus. I got some steps in, listened to my music and cleared my head.

We tend to describe any weather that’s not sunshine and rainbows as ‘bad.’ In the winter, you’ll constantly hear the weather described with negative words like awful, terrible and horrible. Even in the summer, people believe rainy days are bad days and spend their free time inside. I think it’s very important to dismantle this perspective that days without sun are bad days, meant to be spent indoors. Of course, it would be much nicer to have a picnic in a park on a sunny day rather than a rainy one, but rain and snow don’t have to be synonymous with staying in your house. Unfavourable weather is simply a

natural, inevitable state of our experience on the Earth – one we can learn to enjoy. Taking a walk around in the rain can be incredibly peaceful; all you need is a pair of boots and a good raincoat. Sometimes it’s nice to go out without these, too. The wisdom of Natasha Bedingfield teaches us to feel the rain on your skin, because no one else can feel it for you. What’s the worst that can happen? You get a little wet?

Anya Mullen, Opinions Editor » thecampus.opinions@gmail.com

The death of hobbies

By Grace Mackay Contributor

Lately, as I’ve reflected on conversations with friends and family, I’ve noticed a shift in everyday discourse. I can’t help but feel like something’s missing. Conversations are filled with talk of school, work and responsibilities, and less about the things that bring us joy. Nobody seems to talk about hobbies anymore - at least not the way they used to. The types of conversations that entangle interest and individuality in our everyday lives. Sure, people have a hobby here and there - you might like to pick up a book every once in a while, or maybe you sketch when you find the time, but it feels far different from what hobbies used to be. From this, I began to wonder why this could be happening. This brought me to one question: Have rising screen times slowly robbed us of the time we once had for creative pursuits? While maybe our phones aren’t all to blame, they are certainly a large piece of the problem.

Creativity requires boredoman emotion people seldom get the opportunity to feel anymore. When I find myself in a state of boredom, it can almost feel like a luxury. In a society as fast-paced as ours, we are rarely given the opportunity to sit with ourselves in silence. Think about it, when was the last time you felt truly bored? This ability to sit with our thoughts is what drives creativity and personal development. However, without practice, boredom is uncomfortable. Our brain scrambles to find a way to fill it with anything available. This can be why phones become so addictive - It’s the simplest way to cure boredom, and perhaps one of the worst.

I’m sure many of us know from experience, including myself, what a trap this can be. Sometimes, after a long day, I’ll get in bed, go on Instagram and realize two hours have passed in a blink. Not only have I done nothing, but I can’t recall a single thing I’ve read or looked at in those past two hours. I was simply scrolling to fill the time.

This constant distraction eliminates our creativity, smothering our need for hobbies and personal creative outlets. This is why rising screen times have slowly robbed us of the time we once had for creative pursuits - the types of pursuits that brought colour into our lives. Instead of spending the spare time we once had on ourselves, developing our individuality and discovering little joys, we spend our time scrolling endlessly.

This habit of filling every quiet moment with screens ties back to motivation. Boredom is a powerful

Traditions... What’s the big idea?

By Brian Park Contributor

As the Earth has completed another spin around the sun, we have passed another holiday season. The season of giving, family and tradition. Or for many other students and myself, the time to complete all the chores our parents have saved up for us during our time away. Nevertheless, I had a great time catching up with old friends and getting much-needed sleep over the holidays. However, there was one aspect of the holidays that I missed out on: the participation in traditions. This year, there was no horribly decorated Christmas tree, no post-Christmas Eve dinner games with the family and fortunately, no elf on the shelf watching my every move in the bathroom. Now this sounds like a horribly sad Christmas, and it was, but it also wasn’t.

To provide some context, my parents have to run their convenience

store even during the holidays, so we do our best to visit family in Toronto for dinner, but we are unable to find the time to do much else. So while it is great to see family members I seem to only see once a year, it feels a shame that the only tradition our family has been able to keep up over the years has been one dinner. I missed going to Church with my family on Christmas Eve and singing Silent Night with the choir. I missed the feeling of being crowned the chopstick champion of the former annual Park family Chinese chopsticks tournament. However, I realized there are still many other traditions in my life.

Anytime I am back in my hometown, I attend at least one Wing Night with the same friend group where we get to catch up, play pool, chow down on dollar wings and drink one too many pitchers. This may not be your traditional tradition, per se, but it has become an unspoken

custom among hometown friends that we look forward to every time we are reunited. This excitement of repeating an event is also where the magic of tradition lies. Tradition does not have to be playing pin the tail on the donkey on Christmas every year; it can simply be catching a movie with your friends once a month, or even just walking your dog every morning.

Traditions can be as complex or as simple as one desires, but I believe that traditions are something we should aim to continue as long as possible in our lives. As traditions can also create a sense of belonging and identity. Here at Bishop’s University, one of our beloved winter traditions was almost taken away from us. The experience of attending the Rail Jam and Winterfest is a tradition only Bishop’s students can understand, and an event that forms a group identity for our school community. Allowing for students

driver of motivation; it sparks creativity. While interest also has the power to motivate us, even that is often drowned out by the instant gratification of phones.

If we all spend our time constantly scrolling, consuming meaningless information, and gaining little from it, where will our individuality come from? Our interests? Our passions? Hobbies may feel like a small piece of ourselves, but they are deeply impactful. They give us identity, allow us to slow down, and find joy in the mundane. Without this, who are we?

I am not writing this to tell people that they’re doing something wrong, or even to instill motivation in anyone. I’m not trying to inspire people to start a hobby, although I wouldn’t mind if I did. I’m looking to point out a dynamic shift in our culture. This shift is shown in the everyday fast-paced society being shaped around us, moving away from a once slow, relaxing, and balanced way of life. Whether this shift is good or bad will only be determined with time.

from all kinds of differing graduate classes to connect and feel a sense of belonging to the Bishop’s identity.

Moreover, there is a lot of value in tradition, and I think we do not value it enough within our generation. So go out there, take the initiative and begin a tradition of some sort, and maybe one day you’ll be able to pass it on to the next generation.

Owen Kitzan, Sports Editor » thecampus.sports@gmail.com

Conference play intensifies for Bishop’s Women’s Basketball in 2026

By Jon Roach Staff Writer

The Bishop’s Women’s Basketball team entered a challenging stretch of

RSEQ

competition before the holidays that was followed by back-to-back matchups with McGill in the New Year. Since their late-November victory over UQAM to extend the winning streak to three games, the Gaiters have battled a demanding slate of conference opponents, revealing both the strength of their schedule and signs of collective improvement. While the win-loss column describes a tough stretch at this point in the season, the performance of this women’s squad suggests a team rising toward playoff contention as we approach the final leg of the season.

The Gaiters began this portion of the season with a convincing 66-42 win on the road over UQAM, showcasing defensive discipline and manipulating the tempo by forcing 41 turnovers. Bishop’s would then be tested

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Rianna Ostrosser thecampus.editor@gmail.com

SENIOR COPY EDITOR

Olivia Norby thecampus.copyeditor@gmail.com

JUNIOR COPY EDITOR

Eryn Costello

thecampus.juniorcopyeditor@gmail.com

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE

Frederic Grenon thecampus.business@gmail.com

at home on Nov. 27 against the first-place Laval Rouge et Or, where they would fall victim to an 81-39 defeat to end the hot streak. Despite the demoralizing loss, the Gaiters would head into the break in action with a revival of their spirits in a nailbiting 59-57 win at home on Nov. 29, showcasing their elite hands-on defence to generate 17 steals in a resilient bounce-back victory to reignite their confidence into the new year. That response proved important as Bishop’s turned its attention toward the New Year and a demanding pair of matchups against McGill.

Opening the calendar year on the road, the Gaiters were held to a 66-50 loss on Jan. 8, which tested their offensive output against an aggressive and high-powered Redbird attack. Although an unfortunate result, Bishop’s remained poised on all fronts throughout, continuing to pressure the ball and limit easy scoring opportunities despite the Gaiters attempting just four free throws to McGill’s 16. Bishop’s guard Zou Boithias led all scorers

with 18 points and battled for nine rebounds, including four offensive rebounds, to move the needle for the Gaiters offensively. Tenacious team perimeterdefence totalled 15 steals for the Gaiters on the other side of the ball, with seven Gaiters marking a steal during the contest. There were many positive and negative takeaways from this game for these BU ballers that would definitely be on their minds in the coming days.

The Gaiters returned home for a rematch on Jan. 10, applying clear adjustments and their unrelenting determination for a chance at redemption. Bishop’s fought to rally back from being down 15 at the halfway mark of the game, ultimately falling short of a comeback, ending the game 60-59, in a tightly contested finish. The narrow loss highlighted the team’s ability to adapt quickly, respond to a total on the scoreboard and compete with one of the conference’s strongest opponents, reinforcing the belief that the Gaiters are closing the gap as the season

THE CAMPUS STAFF 2025-2026

LAYOUT EDITOR

Abigail Epstein thecampus.layout@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

PHOTOGRAPHER

NEWS EDITOR

Kai Luginbuhl thecampus.news@gmail.com

OPINIONS EDITOR

progresses. Mariama Toupey Diallo led the charge offensively with 22 points on an efficient 7-of-15 shooting, including four makes from three-point range. Toupey Diallo also fought mightily for second-chance opportunities as she collected six of her eight total rebounds on the offensive end. Laurie Lafleur poured in 14 points and grabbed six rebounds, while Zou Boithias added 11 points and seven rebounds, respectively. The Gaiters made a conscious effort to be aggressive and earn 14 attempts at the free-throw line, but would fall short in an intense game that undoubtedly has the Redbirds sweating about their next contest.

The Gaiters, now 4-4 on the season, enter the remainder of the season with a vengeance to continuously give the RSEQ’s top dogs a fight before the playoffs. This Gaiter squad is unanimously a hard-nosed ball club, and will look to send that message in each of their remaining affairs this semester. Go Gaiters!

ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS EDITOR

Jayme Marteniuk

thecampus.businesseditor@gmail.com

STAFF WRITERS

Pranav Buchineni thecampus.photographers@gmail.com

GRAPHICS EDITORS

Gabrielle Lalonde & Latoya Simms

Kai Luginbuhl thecampus.associateeditor@gmail.com graphicseditor.thecampus@gmail.com

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Emilie Vadeboncoeur

@thebishopscampus Instagram

Anya Mullen

thecampus.opinions@gmail.com

FEATURES EDITOR

Lauren Root

thecampus.features@gmail.com

SPORTS EDITOR

Owen Kitzan

thecampus.sports@gmail.com

ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR

Jillian French

thecampus.artsculture@gmail.com

Megane Masson & Jon Roach

THIS ISSUE’S CONTRIBUTORS:

Anabelle Brochu

Brian Park

Camila Vaquez

Emily Labbe

Emma-Rose Lehoux

Grace Mackay

Joseph Aubert

Leighton Geraghty

Olivia Collins

Scara Scafuro

Zachary Bombardier

Owen Kitzan, Sports Editor » thecampus.sports@gmail.com

Gaiters Men’s Basketball catches fire

By Owen Kitzan Sports Editor

While most students were at home spending time with their families during the winter break, the Gaiters basketball team united as a family to participate in the ULaval tournament. With their first game taking place on Dec. 28 in Quebec City, the team had little time to prepare following the holidays.

Their first opponent was a team that the Gaiters don’t often get to face off with as the University of Calgary Dinos made the trip across the country. The game looked like it was in BU’s favor most until a late push from the Dinos in the fourth quarter brought the game close. Ultimately, Bishop’s would come out victorious, beating Calgary 89-83. Étienne Gagnon had a monster game, finishing with 20 points as well as 20 rebounds, joined by fellow big man Charles Robert, who also had 20 points.

The following day, on Dec. 29, the Gaiters took on the McMaster Marauders for what would prove to

be a much easier matchup. BU would win with a final score of 85-56. Étienne Gagnon led the way again, scoring 16 points on 87 per cent shooting while also grabbing eight rebounds.

Following the teams two statement wins against out of conference teams, regular season action returned as the Gaiters traveled down to McGill to take on the

Redbirds on Jan. 8. McGill held the lead after the first quarter with a score of 22-17. This would prove to be the only quarter they came out of holding the lead, as the Gaiters would prove to be too much for them to handle. BU kept the winning streak alive, beating the Redbirds 82-68. Charles Robert led the way in the scoring department with 21 points, followed by Obinna Dike, who scored 16 points while

also picking up eight rebounds and facilitating to his teammates with seven assists. Étienne Gagnon also scored 14 points while continuing to clean the glass with 14 rebounds to match.

Two days later, the Gaiters welcomed the Redbirds to Mitchell Gymnasium on Jan. 10 for a rematch. Bishop’s took the lead after the first quarter in this game, something they would maintain the rest of the way. A dominant third quarter allowed them to secure the path to an 83-72 win over McGill. Charles Robert once again led the way with 21 points as well as nine rebounds, with Obinna Dike following once again with 17 points of his own. Yanis Malanda also played a big role in the win, recording 16 points and seven rebounds.

The Gaiters now improve to 10-1 as an overall record this season across all competitions. The team is now riding a six-game winning streak, with their last loss dating back to Nov. 22. Make sure to come cheer the team on at their next home game, Jan. 24 against the UQAM Citadins.

Women’s Hockey gone international

By Leighton Geraghty Contributor

Sunday, Jan. 11, saw the women’s hockey team back on the ice. This time, not against an RSEQ opponent but rather the Italian Women’s National Team. Team Italy has been preparing for international competition as they gear up to host the 2026 Winter Olympics. Italy is hosting their training camp in Montreal and has been playing a series of games against Canadian University teams. Prior to the game on Sunday, Italy had played against the other three RSEQ teams, having outscored the conference 24-0 over a three-game span, beating Concordia 100, McGill 7-0 and Montreal 7-0.

The puck dropped at 3:30 p.m. in front of 400 fans packing the seats of the Jane and Eric Molson Arena. Neither team took much time to get things going. Italy utilized their size to their advantage, netting the first goal of the game on a tipped shot from the point, beating Ericka Gagnon high. Bishop’s did not shy away and got back to work. Captain Gabrielle Santerre scored a highlight reel goal to tie the game at one midway through the first period. Santerre, alongside teammates Noemie Fontaine and Daphne Boutin, had previously played the team as part of the PWHL Victoire reserves who tied the

Italian team 2-2 in late December. The first period went along as both teams relied heavily on special teams. The score after one was 2-1 for Italy.

The second period was much of the same as both teams traded chances.

The goaltending tandem that the Gaiters have relied on heavily this season proved yet again why they are considered one of the best in the country. Gagnon and Laurence Boivin split the game. Boivin

entered down 2-1 and kept it that way until halfway through the third period when the Italian experience took over. Netting their third goal of the game, Italy controlled the remainder of the game. They would eventually put a nail in the coffin and score an empty net goal to make the final score 4-1.

The game was a phenomenal showing for the Gaiters. They competed until the very end and went toe to toe

with professional players. Notable names on the Italian roster include: #19 Kristin Della Rovere (PWHL Sceptres), #5 Laura Fortino (former silver and gold medalist with Canada. She decided to play for Italy in 2023 and has never looked back) and finally #17 Matilde Fantin (NCAA Penn State, 18pts in 21 games). Bishop’s will be able to learn from their experience as they continue to build confidence ahead of the second half of the RSEQ season.

Lauren Root, Features Editor » thecampus.features@gmail.com

The value of using resources around you

Continued from page 1

The Resource Fair is open to all students on campus, regardless of what year they are in, or if they are a domestic or international student. Even later year students are able to take advantage of the Resource Fair, as it’s never too late to start new habits and start taking advantage of the resources around you.

While there was advertisement for the Resource Fair, Student Services finds that it is difficult

to increase engagement with the advertisements. Reaching students in December about upcoming events in January has been notoriously difficult, since exams take priority and focus, and afterwards, students look forward to the break instead of the start of the new semester. And, the first week of classes in January is very quiet, which is usually when the winter orientation and Resource Fair happen.

So, Student Services is putting out a call for feedback. Serena is

hoping to discover how to increase the engagement and interaction between students and the resources available to them. The resources available to students at the Resource Fair are critical, and now comes the time to discover how to publicize this information. This is your sign to keep an eye out for the resources available to you as a student, and if you have any ideas on how to improve engagement with Student Services and their resources, contact Serena at scouturi@UBishops.ca.

Big Buddies can make a big difference

By Jonny Roach Staff Writer

Once a month, students from local elementary schools and Bishop’s University reunite for Saturday afternoons filled with activities, play and oneon-one mentorship through the Big Buddies program. You can usually find big and little buddies laughing around campus, playing games at the Sportsplex, or having fun in the community together.

The Big Buddies program is driven by a hands-on, one-on-one approach that matches a “Little” to a “Big.” The pairings enjoy a typical meeting with lots of crafts and games, as well as community outings like trampoline parks and Sherbrooke Phoenix hockey games through monthly events. These encounters allow Bigs to loosen up from their usual busy school schedules and let their inner child shine, giving elementary students the full attention of a mentor who will wholeheartedly engage with their personal interests.

“We really focus on fostering a positive relationship between Littles and Bigs so that we can instill confidence and social skills in the youth in our surrounding community,” described Katherine Pereira, a third-year education student and communications colead of the program. Pereira began her involvement with the program in her first year at Bishop’s as a Big and has since been delighted to be

one of twelve students who make the magic of this program a possibility.

Big Buddies has paired 70 Bigs with 70 Littles, ranging from Grades one to six, from schools across the region, such as Lennoxville, Sherbrooke, North Hatley, Vision and Cookshire Elementary Schools. This marks a major growth from last year, when the program only had students from Lennoxville Elementary School.

The typical event is held once a month for two hours and is structured to be accessible to families and university students alike. “It’s not a high commitment,” Pereira explained. “Bigs show up, everything is prepared, and they can just focus on having fun and supporting their Little.”

What sets this program apart from traditional youth programs is the inclusivity and one-onone experience. The team at Big Buddies works diligently to create a welcoming environment for volunteer students and families from diverse backgrounds, including those with strong communication needs for families of children with special needs or kids who may require extra support, such as newcomers to Canada.

“We’re very open,” she said. “Anyone and everyone is welcome, and we’ll figure out what we need to do to make everyone feel comfortable and included.”

The push for greatness in this program lies in being entirely

student-operated. A 12-member executive team manages event planning, communications, finances and community outreach. Interested students from programs such as education, psychology and sociology have the opportunity to provide support to a child from the perspective of a peer, rather than a typical adult or instructor.

For education students like Pereira, the experience offers practical insight beyond the classroom. “You really see the importance of getting to know the individual,” she said. “That relationship makes a difference in establishing engagement and trust.”

Parents also benefit from the program’s structure. Big Buddies provides their children with a

safe, supervised space to socialize, explore new activities, and develop self-confidence alongside a positive role model. In fact, many Littles, Pereira noted, eagerly anticipate each monthly event and even recognize their Bigs when they see them around the local community. At its core, Big Buddies exemplifies the communitybased values that are commonly attributed to Bishop’s University. One match at a time, the program builds connections between campus and community by connecting the individuals who reside in both. As the Big Buddies Program continues to grow, its mission remains unchanged: creating meaningful connections through mentorship, play and shared experience.

Lauren Root, Features Editor » thecampus.features@gmail.com

Snow enjoyment guide, from BUO to you

By Anya Mullen Opinions Editor

When the ground is covered in ice and snow and the temperatures dip well below freezing, it’s easy to stay inside all the time. Indisputably, a great thing to do in the winter is cosy up with hot chocolate, a blanket and a movie.

However, not every student is lucky enough to live in a town where so much snow glitters, and so much nature is right at their fingertips. Instead of always choosing to stay in, choose to take one of the many opportunities available to enjoy our winter wonderland.

There are multiple trails within walking distance from Bishop’s and Lennoxville. For a quick stroll, there is the trail right behind the library, which also takes you to L’Axe de la Massawippi, a trail that goes along the river and could take you all the way to North Hatley if you felt like walking 15 kilometres (make sure someone can pick you up!). There

is also a great trail along the train tracks, which starts just off SamuelGratham Street. Not to be forgotten is the path along the other side of the river, which you can get to if you cross the St. Francis Street bridge and then turn left.

If you’re already familiar with these trails, and maybe a little sick of them, there is a whole student club at Bishop’s that also wants to explore trails in the Eastern Townships that may be a little further away: BU Outdoors Club.

Like all SRC clubs, BUO is completely student-run and has been active since 2019. The club’s aim, as stated in their Instagram bio, is to “increase Bishop’s student participation in outdoor activities.”

The best part is there isn’t a complicated membership process. If you are available to sign up for an event, you can participate in as many or as few events as you would like in a semester. There’s no minimum event attendance required. The process of signing up for an event is

very simple: the club will post about an upcoming event and share a link to a Google form, in which you fill out the required information and if you get a spot on the trip, you receive an email detailing all the information you need to know (Pro tip: drivers are always needed on trips, so if you have a car, there’s a good chance you’ll get a spot). The club’s regular events will likely begin in the next couple of weeks.

Events often involve hikes around the Eastern townships, but can also include activities such as skating, rock climbing, snowshoeing, the occasional camping trip and more. The club has equipment such as skates, warm winter layers, snowshoes and crampons that can be borrowed and/or used for events, making it accessible for all, even if you don’t have a closet full of outdoor equipment.

So next time you’re tempted to stay in all day, think about how much nature is out there just waiting for you to take advantage of it. It’s no

secret that spending time outside is great for your mental and physical health, and this article just revealed the secrets of nearby trails and how to get out to not-so-nearby trails with the Bishop’s Outdoors Club. So what are you waiting for? Whether this is your first or last year at BU, take advantage of our beautiful snow while you can!

Benefits of New Year’s resolutions aside: Make room for a 30-day challenge

By Megane Masson Staff Writer

As the new year begins and the winter semester sets in motion beneath our feet, many students have likely told themselves, “2026 is my year; new year, new me!” This ambition typically leads to disproportionate New Year’s resolutions, many of which last less than two weeks. But what if I told you there are many benefits to New Year’s resolutions, and ways you may actually stick with them?

Firstly, the term “New Year’s resolution” comes with its share of societal expectations and pressure, which tend to hinder and stall progress. Instead, adhering to a 30-day challenge alters the inherent communal mindset and shifts it toward a more personal pursuit, and makes you more likely to prosper. The key here, as self-centered as it sounds, is to make it all about yourself and exclude outsider opinions, all while taking baby steps.

Habits are hard to break or introduce into a new routine. More often than not, being overly ambitious creates failure, which deters people from continuing with their resolutions. Habits need to be built into one’s life progressively and on smaller scales in order to stick. Setting a goal to complete a marathon while

omitting training is bound to fail because the task at hand is insurmountable. Starting with a 3k, however, and slowly increasing to 5k, then 7k and 10k, etc., is much more manageable and feels like a reward to the brain rather than a failure if you were to attempt a 10km run out of the blue.

The secret to the perfect formula, as stated above, is to take tiny and consistent

baby steps to reach a new sustainable habit. This 30-day challenge does not need to be complicated; it simply needs to be something important to you that will bring a new sense of purpose to your life. It could be anything from walking 10k steps a day to waking up at 6:30 a.m. consistently instead of sleeping in.

The important thing is setting the bar lower than your actual threshold. This

will trick your brain into thinking you can do anything. When the bar is lower, goals are achieved faster and more easily. The reward is found to be a boost in confidence, which eventually leads to an increase in challenges and, therefore, more wins.

Imagine someone who goes from eating takeout every day to cooking homemade meals at least five times a week. By the end of the month, both their wallet and their health will thank them. Additionally, this person might realize they actually enjoy cooking great meals and knowing what goes into their food. Moreover, cooking at home might make the person reflect on time as both valuable and a commodity, as time slows down and becomes more purposeful.

One small habit can initiate a concatenation of life-changing tweaks in the long run. As the saying goes, old habits die hard, and it is indeed difficult to change a long-established routine. But the truth of the matter is that the source of motivation needs to come from within… with a little psychological trick! By reframing your New Year’s resolutions as 30-day challenges, the brain gets rewarded with dopamine more quickly than with an aimless goal. Dosing, consistency, and structure are the perfect combination to finally achieve those New Year’s wishes.

ARTS & CULTURE

BUFF is back and better than ever

By Emily Labbe Contributor

Have you heard about BUFF? The annual Bishop’s University Film Festival is back, offering what some students might consider a good rival to Cannes. This winter is your time to release your imagination and make a movie. Dr. Steven Woodward started this festival back in 2015, when students asked for more film opportunities on campus. This year marks the 12th anniversary of BUFF.

You might be thinking, “I’m not a film major, can I still make a film?” Of course! Registration is open until Feb. 6. You don’t need to have an idea just yet because the deadline for submitting your movie is much later—Apr. 6, to be exact. You can sign up using the link on the Instagram page, which leads directly to the registration page (@bufilmfestival). If you want to peruse our collection of past student

films, movies are posted on the BUFF YouTube channel.

If you’re still not convinced, and you’re thinking: “I don’t know how to film” or “I don’t have any ideas for my film.” We’ve got you covered! Throughout the semester, the BUFF team will host workshops that will help you with creating your film. The library also lets students borrow equipment, like microphones, to help the process (but never be afraid to use your iPhone camera to shoot your film). We’ll also be running workshops and special events with filmmakers and BUFF alumni, who will share insights on what it takes to

make a movie.

If you need inspiration, look no further than the brand-new Good Movie Club, founded by Jonathan DeGooyer and myself-we would love to see you there on Friday nights, where we know you’ll find tons of inspiration in movies like Labyrinth, Blue Velvet and maybe even Twilight. Or, for filmmakers with moderate aspirations, join us on Monday nights to find inspiration from Bad Movie Club.

Submissions can be any genre as long as they fit the six-minute

time limit. Try your hand at horror, or even a documentary. Personally, I’m rooting to see music videos or romance films. Or, for you brainiacs, submit your video essays or poetry films.

So, what’s the point of making a film as a novice? For one, it’s a fun experience you can do with your friends. More importantly, though, you can show off and win. We’ll be handing out awards like best narrative film, best sound, best acting and more at the BUFF gala. We will also select one lucky winner to be represented at the Festival du Nouveau Cinema in Montreal in October, as well as at the Knowlton Film Festival in August. The theme this year is Oscars 2035: think bright lights and futuristic style. The gala will be happening in Bandeen hall this year in early April, so keep an eye out for the biggest event of the year. Make sure to dust off your best suit, and we can’t wait to see you there!

Listening to Loveless by My Bloody Valentine

By Zachary Bombardier Contributor

The late 1980s to early 1990s witnessed the rise of shoegaze, a species of rock characterized by its expansive atmospherics, a love for noise and effect pedals and the haze of psychedelic rock. My Bloody Valentine’s Loveless, released in 1991, not only inherited these features but perfected them. To listen to this album is to enter the lotuseater’s most ecstatic and supreme high, an experience buzzing with sound and colour.

The come-up is immediate as the first four tracks plunge into clamor. “Only Shallow” rushes with an elephantine blast of noise that dissolves into an incessant, soothing sea wash. It fades to the grumbles of “Loomer,” a song harbouring whale

calls from deep inside its waves of sound. Natural life is soon juxtaposed with death as wails of ghosts beam from “Touched.” By the time “To Here Knows When” is reached, it is a total sea-churn: pure hubbub reigns as guitars grind out a cascade of sound, its whirlpool dynamics almost drowning the delicate voice that surfs the storm. Above all the noise, however, there sparkles misty, flutelike notes, captivating in their seeming fragility. One can only leave these songs feeling anchored to something vast, envelopping and resplendent.

When stability returns as familiar pop structures in songs like “When You Sleep,” “I Only Said” and “Come in Alone,” it returns warped and distorted. Melodies are blurry like trying to see underwater. Voices drift through these immense songs like the voices of sirens to seafarers,

but they speak no discernible language. If a temporary sense flickers from this glossolalia, it is soon destroyed by the large, crushing guitars, a reminder that Loveless communicates more through the textures of sound than meaning.

Its pop sensibility is slowed down on “Sometimes.” Where the album so often overwhelms, the gentle strums and subdued vocals of the former are a welcome moment of repose. That same repose also carries over into the spume-like density of “Blown A Wish.” How different both songs compare to the flooding energy of “What You Want,” gushing as though renewed with rain, and the almost danceable “Soon,” marked by the euphoria of a high’s comedown or an unexpected sunrise that calms the waters and pushes every gray cloud from the sky.

Loveless is a record of immersion, not clarity. Its songs are awash in a boisterous mass of sound and colour the lotus-eater would experience, leaving the listener no choice but to surrender to each song and let themselves be carried off wherever the streams take them. Looking back more than three decades later, it remains the pinnacle of shoegaze, unrivaled in its depth and its sonic achievements.

ARTS & CULTURE

Horoscope:

Sun enters Aquarius

By Abigail Epstein Layout Editor

Jan. 19 welcomes the Sun into Aquarius, shifting from Capricorn’s season of convention to an Aquarian shape of change.

Aries: You are centred by a radical sense of self – a fire in stormy upheaval. Welcome refugees to your hearth. Start by taking a deep breath in.

Taurus: You have a particular sensitivity to a world changing beneath you. Try not to grip the floor with your feet. Your roots are more meta than physical, if you think about it.

Gemini: Be careful with resolutions; rather, embrace a moment of tabula rasa. Take a second, take it inward. Draw it out as far as you will, with no picture of perfection.

Cancer: Has polar-plunge propaganda washed over you yet? If it feels right to take on suggestions, take advantage of the social infrastructure to reset your nervous system.

Leo: The stage is set with snowbanks, so forgo the song and dance. Grand gestures aren’t cutting it when it comes to intimate connections. Share mittens.

Virgo: It may be time to shed old skins, to show off the payoff of past devotions. It doesn’t mean uprooting to try a new pot for perennials.

Libra: Take the season’s invitation to indulge in creative liberties. Assume everyone’s audienceship. Make a wildly pretentious short film.

Scorpio: Defrost your eternal soul, beginning by opening your hand. Break bread and brittle branches. Release your hold on knives and hammers.

Sagittarius: When was the last time you tried to augment to the infinite? If there was ever a minute for it… Connect all you collect with a string on your finger.

Capricorn: Consider the temptation to hibernate with grains of sugar in the salt. A treasure chest is still a box when you’re inside of it. Keep an eye open to the keys of other points of view.

Aquarius: Face everything forward while the sun is shining on you. That means popping bubbles and bursting aquariums. Embrace the opposite of shrink to fit.

Pisces: Would’ves and could’ves and should’ves are like skipping stones on the ocean. Let them sink, even if slowly. Let go of the pressure to float above it all.

For you to take with as many grains of salt as there are stars in the sky.

Art:

Soft ecosystem at midnight

By Anabelle Brochu Contributor

Materials: Ceramic, felted wool, metal wire and a sponge

Artist Statement: I believe that navigating our modern adult world can get overwhelming and anxiogenic. At the heart of my artistic approach lives a passionate desire to re-enchant my environment through the creation of places of renewal and resistance to the prevailing cynicism.

My miniature ecosystems are places of play for our inner children, who are often overlooked. Inspired by the flora and fauna of forests, I create coexisting whimsical characters, plants, animals and vessels that form textured and playful landscapes. The miniature aspect of these ecosystems requires proximity, curiosity and asks the viewer to linger for a moment to enjoy the details. My creatures are small, charming and cute, but I also see them as intelligent, courageous and free. They come from a dreamlike universe where gentleness and vulnerability are not perceived as weaknesses. These characters interact with their environment, build cozy nests with care and form bonds with one another. They invite us to do the same, to pause for a moment and then return to our larger world with a renewed strength to preserve it and to cultivate beauty around us. Tactile materials are central to my work, especially clay and fibres. My ceramic pieces are the result of a meticulous process guided by the medium; I hand-build or throw the clay, which is fired for the first time after drying. The pieces are then glazed or left unglazed for the second firing. These steps require care, presence, precision and, at times, letting go, which is why I love the process so much. I recently learned needle felting and found a lot of joy in working with locally sourced Dorset sheep wool. My practice celebrates the dialogue between arts and crafts, as well as the notions of community, accessibility, sharing and horizontality.

ECONOMICS & BUSINESS

Jayme Marteniuk, Economics & Business Editor » thecampus.businesseditor@gmail.com

The internship gap: Why entry-level jobs are harder to land than ever

By Sara Scafuro Contributor

For today’s university students, the phrase “entry-level job” has become incredibly misleading. Positions labeled as entry-level often ask for two to three years of experience, multiple internships and a skill set that matches that of a mid-career professional. As a result, many students are caught in what has become known as the internship gap: the growing disconnect between what employers expect and what students realistically have access to before graduation.

This gap has grown in recent years. A competitive job market, layoffs in major industries and the normalization of unpaid or low-paid internships have made it harder than ever for students to get their foot in the door. Internships, once perceived as learning opportunities, are now treated as unofficial prerequisites for employment. For students who cannot afford to work for free, this creates an uneven playing field before careers even begin.

Unpaid internships are one of

the most pressing contributors to this issue. While some organizations argue that unpaid roles offer “experience,” the reality is that many students simply cannot take them without sacrificing financial stability. Those who rely on summer jobs to pay tuition or living expenses are forced to choose between income and career development. Over time, this disproportionately benefits students with financial support, reinforcing inequality in access to professional opportunities.

Competition has also intensified. Employers now receive hundreds, sometimes thousands, of applications for a single internship or entry-level role. With applicant-tracking systems filtering resumes before a human ever reads them, students are competing not only with their peers but also with algorithms. In this environment, strong grades alone are no longer enough to stand out.

For Bishop’s University students, this reality can feel intimidating. As a small liberal arts university, Bishop’s offers close-knit classes and strong faculty relationships but may not have the same built-in corporate pipelines as larger institutions. However, this does not mean Bishop’s students are

at a disadvantage; it simply means the strategy needs to be different.

Networking is one of the most powerful tools students can use to bridge the internship gap. Building genuine relationships with professors, alumni, and guest speakers can often lead to opportunities that never appear on job boards. Informational interviews, coffee chats and alumni LinkedIn outreach may feel intimidating, but they are often what separate successful applicants from the rest.

Experience also does not have to come solely from formal internships. Part-time jobs, volunteer work, student clubs, freelance projects, athletics and campus leadership roles all develop transferable skills. Employers value communication, teamwork, problemsolving and initiative - qualities that Bishop’s students develop through involvement across campus. The key is learning how to frame these experiences effectively on a resume and in interviews.

Another way to stand out is by demonstrating initiative outside the classroom. Personal projects, certifications, online courses and independent research show employers that a student is proactive

and motivated. In a market where many applicants have similar academic backgrounds, effort beyond coursework often makes the difference.

The internship gap is real, and it is frustrating. But it is not unbeatable. For Bishop’s students, success increasingly depends on adaptability, creativity and relationship-building rather than a perfect resume. While the job market may be tougher than ever, students who understand the system, and learn how to navigate it strategically can still carve out meaningful opportunities.

In a world where “entry-level” no longer means entry-level, standing out is no longer optional. It is essential.

The taste of homegrown: What the “Créateurs de saveurs” label really means

By Joseph Aubert Contributor

If you’ve ever grabbed a jar of jam or a bag of coffee beans and noticed a small green or red logo that reads Créateurs de saveurs Cantons-de-l’Est, you’ve already come across one of the easiest ways to eat local without overthinking it.

That mark isn’t just there for decoration. It certifies that the food was grown, raised, gathered or transformed right here in the Eastern Townships, and that the business behind it met local criteria. It’s not marketing fluff; it’s a guarantee that what you’re buying actually comes from the Townships.

The certification is run by the Conseil de l’industrie bioalimentaire de l’Estrie (CIBLE), a Sherbrookebased non-profit that regroups local producers, processors, retailers and restaurants around one promise: local sourcing. In other words, you know exactly where your goat cheese or cider came from.

This year, there’s even more reason to pay attention. The Créateurs de saveurs label turns 15, and its network includes more than 225 certified producers, farmers, shops and restaurants across the region. What started as a handful

of farms has become a real ecosystem, one that fuels the local economy.

From farm stands to grocery aisles

You’ll spot the logo at farmers’ markets, on jars, bottles and bread bags, but the label is also making its way into everyday grocery runs. CIBLE works with participating Boutiques & Épiciers Saveurs, which highlight local products on their shelves with clear signage. If you’re juggling classes, practices and midterms, that means you can do a “shop-local” grocery run without zigzagging across the region.

If you’re more of an explorer, the program’s interactive map at createursdesaveurs.com/carte-descreateurs-de-saveurs makes it easy to plan a mini road trip, maybe a café stop, a market stroll and a visit to a local farm. There’s also a search engine if you’re after something more specific.

Why it matters

For students living on a budget, buying local can sound like an expensive habit. But supporting certified regional products keeps dollars circulating nearby, helps small farms survive and usually means better tasting and better quality food. It’s an easy way to support the community that hosts Bishop’s and eat well in the process. Every time you pick up something with that label, you’re supporting local producers, backing sustainable farming practices and cutting down on the miles your food travels to get to your plate. It’s a small act that adds up, especially in a university town where community ties matter.

15 years in, the message behind the red label hasn’t changed: when you choose local, you’re not just eating better, you’re keeping the Eastern Townships thriving.