Deep Breathing and Cold Showers
I’m waist deep in the waters of Departure Bay with The Nav’s Megan Zolorycki. It’s November and the year’s first snowflakes fall around us while we struggle to breathe in the icy water. My entire body is screaming at me to run to shore, but I force myself to stay. I try to inhale deeply … Continued
Burnout Education 101
It’s tough being a teacher. Unruly students, detailed planning, a less-than-perfect workplace—any one of these factors can cause a burnout. All of them together can create a breaking point for teachers. Teachers in BC are dealing with many challenges, such as low wages, and high housing and food costs, according to Chair of the Association … Continued
From Club to Community
Who are the people running VIU’s clubs? Audio Editor Jack Corfield speaks to Gen, the Supreme Hierarch of Unconquerable Dungeons and Ancient God Dragons (President) of the D&D Club, and Elizabeth, the Minister of Internal Affairs for the History Club. Later, he sits down with power couple Sam and Katrin, Co-Chair of the History Students’ … Continued
Mariners Roundup
Meet Austin Heidt, The Nav’s brand new Sports Editor. Follow along with Austin as he gives an update on the recent action from the Mariners women’s volleyball team, a review of last year’s women’s basketball team, and a look ahead for both squads.
Navigating VIU Mental Health Resources
Follow along with The Nav’s Mike Duddy as he speaks with VIU’s Thrive and fellow student Lindon Lennox to find ways to reduce stress as a student during a difficult semester. If you’re in need of help, call VIU’s Counselling Services at (250) 740-6416 to book an appointment. Visit www.here2talk.ca for 24-hour confidential messaging. Kuu-us … Continued
The Navigator Sessions
Nanaimo’s very own Andrew Butler of Antler stopped by the Nav office to play us a few tunes and chat about the Nanaimo music scene. Stay tuned for future episodes of The Navigator Sessions where we will be highlighting the very best musical acts that the mid-island scene has to offer! 0:00 – Intro 0:10 … Continued
Where to Go When You Have Nowhere to Go
[A previous version of this article implied the VIU Students’ Union does not offer resources to students who have experienced instances of sexual misconduct. The updated version (published October 27, 2022) provides clarity on the subject.] When I was younger, I was afraid of the dark. I was a timid kid, night light on … Continued
Two Teams, One Family
Last April, my classmate invited me to the 2021/2022 Mariners’ Spirit Showcase by VIU’s Dance Team. Usually, I don’t attend dance events, but I wanted to show her my support. What followed was an amazing evening of routines—solo and group, cheer and dance, jazz and contemporary—with emceeing by coaches Elissa Miranda and Payton Berrigan. At … Continued
Leave a Light on for Malaspina Theatre’s Friendly Ghost
The lights turn on. The stage is set. Actors take their place, and the story unfolds. The crowd stands and applause echoes off the theatre’s old walls. The curtains close and I watch as lines of people form, one by one stepping out the doors. I stay behind and wait. No one comes to tell … Continued
Dear Professors,
I’m sitting in the $800 bedroom I’m renting. I hear my four other roommates in the rooms around me. My back aches from the $5 stool I bought on Facebook Marketplace. My Zoom camera is turned off to hide the tears streaming down my face. My education is supposed to be my priority, but my … Continued
Find Your Support
I’m sitting in my third-year Indigenous Literature course as my non-Indigenous professor begins his lecture. I look around and wonder if I am the only Indigenous person in the room. In high school I was well aware of the low Indigenous graduation rates at both the secondary and post-secondary levels. My family, educators, and members … Continued