Adventures of a 2k15 Grad; Interviewing

Update: Although previously titled “Interview Tips for the 2k15 Grad,” this is more so of a running commentary of one interview experience, and does not actually provide the reader with concrete tips for improving their interview skills.

If you had to pick one, would you rather go through your G Test or sit through an interview? Although interviews can be on the scary side, they are helpful for both the company and the individual.

Well, today I had an interview for a job I thought was perfect. Turns out the job was misadvertised, and the place was sketch. I will not disclose names for sake of their “reputation” but the first clue to how fake this was, was that the company name they provided me was not on the outside of the building. They went by a different name. Continue reading →

http://www.5kfoamfest.ca/photos/

Foam Wasn’t Built in a Day

I must be daring this summer, because I have recently signed up for the 5K Foam Fest. Not sure what I have gotten myself into, but I’m pretty stoked for the amount of fun I’ll have!

In 140 characters (137 to be exact) I’ll describe the event: There will be foam, mud, obstacles, and it lasts 5km; I can either walk or run, and will receive my tshirt at the finish line. Continue reading →

Shanna Mahin “Oh! You Pretty Things”

This is not your typical “beach read” and should be regarded as more than that. Sure, the plot-line is perhaps more so on the basic side, and the reader is left with a feeling of “oh but do give me more,” but the book is nonetheless entertaining, funny, and will teach you a lesson on people. What I draw away from this reading experience is this: that people are complex; they lead complicated lives, they hide secrets from others and sometimes from themselves, and nearly everyone is critical about themselves.

Jess Dunne is a sarcastic thirtysomething who’s third generation Hollywood, but that doesn’t mean she’s in the business (though her Mother tried). When the opportunity strikes, she begins work as a personal assistant for C-list composer, drawing the attention of a B-list approaching A-list actress.

Jess Dunne’s estranged mother enters the picture wanting to wiggle herself back into Jess’ life, especially with fame looming around.

I found that I connected to Jess. The sarcastic writing, thoughts running through her mind constantly, how she approached situations, it was refreshing to read a character I could and can relate to so much.

These lovely words caught my attention:

“We all in this together, yo. Our people make the village.”
“Hot is fleeting, but funny lasts forever.”
“And you might want to get over it,” he says. “Bitter only poisons the bearer.”

Paula Hawkins “The Girl on the Train”


ooooo! This book was well written, such a good mystery, and featured not your typical characters. Guessed the mystery about half-way through, but man. Loved the novel!

The book begins with Rachel who rides a commuter train each day in the morning and night. She becomes engrossed with a couple she sees outside the train window. Rachel constructs their lives thinking they are perfect and are the ideal couple. Nevertheless, one day Rachel catches a glimpse of something, leading Rachel to become entwined with the police.

I definitely recommend reading this book! Follow my reading adventures at GoodReads.

Manal M. Omar “Barefoot in Baghdad”

The full title of this book is “Barefoot in Baghdad: A Story of Identity — My Own and What It Means to be a Woman in Chaos.”

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Personal Image of my Copy of Barefoot in Baghdad

Thought-provoking, eyeopening, and well written. The book centres Manal Omar’s experiences working in Iraq to provide relief to women in dire situations. Additionally, it discusses Omar’s personal story of identity of being an American-Palestinian Muslim woman choosing to wear the hijab in a war torn country.

Based on other reviews I came across for this book, some were convinced Manal Omar is/was anti-American. It is clear that for those who have this conception did not actually read the book. Manal Omar is not anti-American, she is more so against the occupation of military in Iraq, and is critical of the “War on Terror.” There is a difference between being American and the military.

There was an important quote Omar writes, which I will include here: “Years of humanitarian work had taught me that the smallest intervention could set loose an avalanche of unexpected consequences. I knew better than to dive in on a whim.” pg. 142.

This quote can be applied to humanitarian work such as the donation of clothes, textbooks, shoes, etc. On the surface these are great causes, but only offer short-term solutions. The real solution is long-term, in which communities are taught ways to sustain themselves. Just something I thought about whilst reading.

“Going Green” and Other Clichés

I came across this video today which is both inspiring and important to watch. Laura Ling interviews Lauren Singer who has produced trash over the last two years that can fit into one small mason jar. Singer brings up the important topics of reusing, recycling, and composting as much as possible.

First it starts with little steps. Continue reading →

20 FOR 20

Two years ago, I decided to create a challenge for myself entitled “20 FOR 20.” Twenty novels in which I would complete in my twenties. These books were initially chosen based on the authors and what the content entailed, hoping that the novel would educate me in some way and/or teach a meaningful lesson.

As I found it difficult to put this list together, thought I would share what I came up with for those who want to challenge themselves in their twenties as well or are just needing a book to read for the summer. Continue reading →

“Snake Eyes” Analysis

Alright. I thought I would comment on this song, because the more I listen to it, the more my brain is telling me to analyze it.

With “Snake Eyes” it can be argued that it displays the transition Mumford & Sons sounds have gone through over the course of their three albums. Continue reading →

Why Netflix’s Daredevil Succeeds

It has been nearly a month since Netflix released Daredevil.

After watching Daredevil, I instantly knew it was a great show. However it wasn’t until I came across this Tumblr post that I actually thought about how well it was made.

daredevilOkay let’s pull some of the larger concepts from what sidizenkane outlined: multi-lingual, multi-ethnic, blind and gentrification.

The multi-lingual and multi-ethnic aspects in this show are important as it draws away from the narrow landscape of white and English actors we have come to see only. Granted, Charlie Cox is both white and English, but at least the show includes other languages and ethnicity.

Next, the fact that Daredevil’s character is blind shows disabilities onscreen in positive terms, and how this disability does not hinder the character in any way. A positive representation is important for those living with disabilities.

Finally, the idea of gentrification (the displacement of the occupying demographic) is important to address because we live in a society where this displacement can be seen. Audiences need to be aware of this issue so that as a society we can remember that there are numerous economic brackets. Homelessness is an issue often overlooked due to the misconception and general negative connotations associated with the idea.

What can be gathered from this then, is that the show features a variety of identities in one show to try to be all inclusive. This is extremely significant as some other shows continue to find it difficult to even feature females in their shows.

By featuring a variety of identities it allows a wider audience to feel included in the storyline. They can identify with what is being shown to them, and in turn, will feel empowered. It is important that Daredevil has taken the step in this positive direction. Next step: Give Black Widow a full-feature film.