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Your Student-Friendly Guide to My Career Journey

Explore programs, careers, and future pathways with My Career Journey — a new, student-friendly tool now available through the Library’s A–Z Digital Resource Collection.

What Is My Career Journey?

It’s an online tool from the Government of Ontario that helps you figure out:

  • What careers match your interests
  • What programs can get you there
  • Where those programs are offered
  • Which jobs are currently in demand
  • What skills and training you’ll need

Think of it as your career GPS — helping you see where you could go and how to get there.

 

🚀 How to Get Started (in 5 minutes)

  1. Go to the website

👉 https://www.ontario.ca/page/my-career-journey

  1. Take the short questionnaire

It’s quick, simple, and gives you:

  • A personalized resource guide
  • Suggested programs
  • Relevant job profiles
  • Labour-market insight

Great if you’re unsure of your direction or want to compare options.

  1. Explore programs

Use the Program Search tool to explore:

  • College programs (including Algonquin)
  • University pathways
  • Apprenticeships
  • Trades and training opportunities

Tip: If you’re considering transfer options or post-diploma programs, this is a super helpful way to compare.

  1. Check out in-demand careers

This shows which jobs are growing in Ontario — and what education you’ll need.
Examples include:

  • Skilled trades
  • Tech and IT jobs
  • Healthcare careers
  • Early childhood education
  • Engineering and applied sciences

This helps you see whether the program you want aligns with real hiring trends.

  1. Look at the maps

The map feature shows all Ontario colleges, universities, and Indigenous institutes — including:

  • Program availability
  • Campus locations
  • Nearby opportunities

Useful if you’re considering a future transfer, dual credential, or another location after Algonquin.

 

🎯 How Algonquin Students Can Use It Effectively

✔ Picking a program

Not sure if your program is the best fit?
Use My Career Journey to compare programs across Ontario and see your alternatives.

✔ Finding career pathways

Wondering where your diploma can take you?
The tool connects programs → careers → required skills → labour demand.

✔ Planning next steps

My Career Journey shows which institutions offer these options:

  • Apprenticeships
  • Post-graduate certificates
  • Degree completion
  • Changing fields

✔ Seeing the bigger picture

Ontario-wide labour market info helps you understand:

  • What fields are hiring
  • What employers look for
  • Salaries and job outlook
  • Education and certification requirements

💡 Tips for Getting the Most Out of It

  • Be curious — click through job profiles even if they seem unfamiliar.
  • Compare programs — sometimes a similar diploma at another college has a different emphasis that suits your goals better.
  • Use it early — the sooner you explore career trends, the easier it is to plan your course loads, electives, and coop/internship decisions.
  • Pair it with Algonquin resources like:
  • Co-op office
  • Career Centre
  • Program Coordinators
  • Academic Advising

📘 What This Tool Doesn’t Do

Just so you know:

  • It’s not searchable through Page 1+ — you must go directly to the website.
  • It won’t tell you which program you should choose — but it gives you the info to make the decision yourself.

🌟 Final Word

My Career Journey is an incredibly helpful resource — especially if you’re in college and trying to figure out what comes next.
Give yourself a few minutes to explore it. You might uncover options you didn’t even know existed.

From Collaboration to Concentration: Study Spaces at Ottawa Campus Library

The Ottawa Campus Library offers a variety of study spaces tailored to meet different academic needs. From collaborative zones to silent study space, students can find the perfect environment to enhance their productivity.
  • Collaborative Space (C350):
     Our Collaborative Space is designed for group work and low-volume discussions. While individual study areas are available, please note this space is not intended to be silent. To maintain a respectful environment, audible audio is not allowed; we ask everyone to please use headphones and be considerate of their peers.
  • Silent Study Room (Room C365):
    For those seeking a quiet environment, the Silent Study Room is perfect for focused, individual study. This room is dedicated to silence—no talking is permitted. It is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, allowing students to study whenever it suits them.
  • Collection Room II (Room C361):
    Collection Room II provides a quiet study space, housing the Library’s collections of Reference, law, ESL and children’s books. This area features both individual and group seating but is designated for quiet study only. Please note that food is not allowed in this room and it is open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.
  • Meeting Rooms:
    The Ottawa Campus Library provides bookable student meeting rooms for group study, located on the 2nd and 3rd floors of the Dare District (C Building). Click here to check availability and find instructions for booking a room.
With these varied spaces, the Ottawa Campus Library ensures that every student can find a conducive environment to study, collaborate and succeed academically.

Experience the Making of a Traditional Indigenous Birch Bark Canoe

This November (Nov. 3–14), the Library is thrilled to host the construction of a 12-foot Traditional Indigenous Birch Bark Canoe, led by master canoe builder Chuck Commanda, in the Kejeyàdizidjigwogamig – The Knowledge Keeper’s Place.

Using only traditional tools and techniques, this project provides a rare and meaningful opportunity to witness Indigenous knowledge and craftsmanship in action. Classes, staff, and students are invited to observe the process, with visits arranged in advance through Indigenous Studies and the Mamidosewin Centre.

Once completed, the canoe will be displayed in Nawapon, with careful attention to preservation and environmental monitoring. This initiative celebrates cultural learning, fosters cross-college engagement, and honors traditional practices.

We look forward to your participation in this meaningful experience.

Unlock More with SmartLibrary: One Card, Twelve Libraries

Have you ever been frustrated when your local library doesn’t have the book or resource you need? Imagine being able to borrow from twelve different libraries — public and academic — across the Ottawa–Gatineau region, all with a single card.

That’s the magic of SmartLibrary.

What Is SmartLibrary?

SmartLibrary is a partnership between twelve libraries in the National Capital Region that lets you use one card to access all their collections. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or lifelong learner, SmartLibrary opens the doors to millions of books, DVDs, and digital resources.

📚 Visit the official site → smartlib-bibliogen.ca

Why You’ll Love It

Here’s why SmartLibrary is a game-changer for knowledge seekers:

  • More Access: Browse and borrow from twelve different libraries instead of just one.

  • More Languages: Access both English and French materials, from popular novels to scholarly research.

  • More Convenience: Borrow from the location that’s easiest for you — whether you’re in Ottawa or Gatineau.

  • More Variety: Academic journals, local history, movies, kids’ books — you name it, one of the partner libraries probably has it.

How to Get Your SmartLibrary Card

It’s easy!

  1. Be a member of one of the partner libraries.

  2. Ask for a SmartLibrary card at your home library.

  3. Start borrowing from any participating location.

Just remember: you’re responsible for returning items on time and following each library’s borrowing rules.

Meet the Partners

SmartLibrary brings together some of the region’s top public and academic libraries, including:

  • Ottawa Public Library – with over 2 million items and a wide range of programs and services.

  • Bibliothèque municipale de Gatineau – offering 664,000 French-language documents across 10 branches.

  • Algonquin College Library

  • Carleton University Library

  • Canadian War Museum & Canadian Science & Technology Museum Library and Archives
  • National Gallery of Canada

  • Université du Québec en Outaouais Library
    …and several others.

Together, they form a powerful network that makes learning and discovery easier than ever.

Why It Matters

In a world full of subscription services and paywalls, SmartLibrary is a reminder that knowledge should be free and accessible. It connects people to information, supports bilingual learning, and encourages community growth — all through collaboration between libraries.

Ready to Explore?

As an Algonquin College student you’re just one step away from unlocking a much larger collection. Visit smartlib-bibliogen.ca to find out how to get your SmartLibrary card and start borrowing today.

Your Fall Semester Support Starts Here!

Whether you’re back on campus, learning remotely, or doing a bit of both—welcome to the new semester! The Library and Student Learning Centre (SLC) are here to help you hit the ground running with tools, spaces, and support designed to help you thrive this fall.

🔐 Quick Tip:

To access most online resources, log in with your College Network Account.

📚 Your Study Sanctuary: Library Spaces

Need a quiet corner to concentrate or a space to collaborate? The Ottawa campus Library is open 24/7—perfect for night owls and early risers alike.

✔ Silent study rooms available
✔ Bookable meeting rooms (also on the 2nd floor of C Building)

👉 Find details on the Library Study Spaces page.

📖 Borrow & Return Books with Ease

Looking for books related to your courses or other reading materials?

  • Request online via Page 1+

  • Bring your AC Card to borrow in-person or use the Book Locker

  • Return anytime using your campus Library’s drop box

🌐 24/7 Digital Access

Explore our A-Z Digital Resource Collections:
📘 eBooks | 📊 Databases | 📰 Journals | 🎥 Videos
Just log in with your College Network Account to access everything, anytime.

❓ Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers

Browse our FAQs for fast, clear answers to common questions—no need to stress or search endlessly.

✨ Free Academic Coaching at the Coaching Lab

Struggling with a subject or just want to stay ahead? Book a free one-on-one session (online or in-person) for:

  • Math

  • Writing

  • Study Skills

  • ESL

📍 On the Pembroke campus? Visit the Student Support Lab for coaching appointments.

👥 Peer Tutoring: Learn with a Peer

For just $9/hour, connect with trained student tutors who’ve successfully taken the same course.

📅 Book sessions online or on campus.

🛠 Skill-Building Workshops

Boost your academic game with free workshops on:

  • Research

  • Writing

  • Digital literacy

  • Study techniques

Attend in-person or online! Click here to view the full workshop schedule.

🔍 Discover More with Page 1+

Think of Page 1+ as your research super tool. Quickly find books, articles, and academic resources relevant to your field—all in one place.

🧭 Subject Guides: Start Smart

Each guide is packed with resources tailored to your program or subject area—perfect for starting research or understanding your field.

🌐 The Learning Portal: Province-Wide Resources

Access shared resources from colleges across Ontario through the Learning Portal. Explore helpful modules on:

  • Writing

  • Studying

  • Research

  • Career planning

👋 We’re Here to Help—Anytime

Need guidance, research support, or someone to talk through your academic path? We’re just a message or visit away.

📍 Visit your campus Library Help Desk
💬 Use our Live Online Chat
📅 Book a Research Appointment

We’re excited to be part of your journey. From resources to real support, we’ve got your back all semester long. Welcome to a vibrant new term!

AC Day 1: Join us on September 2, 2025!

Hey there, new students! AC Day 1 is the perfect chance to dive right into the AC community. Don’t miss out on connecting with your classmates, securing the tech support you need, and discovering all the awesome academic resources waiting for you!

Heads up: AC Day 1 events are open to new students at the Ottawa Campus only.

Library Tours

This short walk through our beautiful library will introduce attendees to our onsite services and resources. Learn how easy it is to use our self-checkout kiosks to borrow books and how to borrow laptops from our new 24 hour laptop lockers. Find out more about the Coaching and Peer Tutoring services and meet Page 1+. It’s a lot like Google, but instead of searching the web, it searches the library’s online and in-house collection!

Where to meet: Library main desk, Room C350 (3rd Floor, C Building)
Tour times:

  • 10:00 am – 10:30 am

  • 12:00 pm – 12:30 pm

  • 2:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Student Learning Centre Info Booth

Got questions about academic support? Swing by the Student Learning Centre booth! Learn about coaching, peer tutoring, workshops, and all the tools designed to help you not just survive, but thrive in your studies. We’re here to help you succeed — inside the classroom and beyond.

Where to find us: 1st Floor, C Building (across from Nawapon)
Hours: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

On-Campus Workshops (Ottawa)

  • Getting Started with Brightspace & Zoom

    In this workshop, you’ll get to know Brightspace, the online platform for your courses. You will learn how to access your course materials, submit assignments, take quizzes, see your grades, and more. You will also learn about Zoom, including how to set up your Zoom account, adjust your account settings for security, schedule your own zoom meetings, and work with your classmates.

Note: Space is limited — first come, first served.

Where: Library Learning Lab, Room C263 (2nd Floor, C Building)
When: 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Can’t make this one? Check out other available dates!

  • Getting Started with Brightspace, Email, and Microsoft 365

    In this workshop, you will find out how to sign in and navigate Brightspace, the online platform for your courses, so you are comfortable using it. The workshop covers how to access your course material, submit assignments, take quizzes, see your grades, and more. You will also learn about your student email and some of the Microsoft 365 apps, like Word and Teams, that you can access through your email account and that can help you in your studies.

Note: Space is limited — first come, first served.

Where: Library Learning Lab, Room C263 (2nd Floor, C Building)
When: 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Can’t make this one? Check out other available dates!

Want the full schedule of AC Day 1 fun or ready to register? Click here!

Research Tools You Didn’t Know You Had (But Totally Need!)

Does the word “research” make your heart race and your brain freeze? Don’t worry — you’re not the only one! Many students feel overwhelmed when faced with a research paper, especially if it’s their first time doing academic research at the college level.

But here’s the good news: research doesn’t have to be scary. With the right tools, support, and a step-by-step plan, you can conquer that assignment — and we’re here to help make it happen.

Break It Down: Your Research Roadmap

One of the best ways to tackle a big research assignment is to break it into smaller, manageable steps. That’s exactly what the Library’s Research Guide is designed to help you do. Here’s a sneak peek at what it covers:

🔍 1. Define Your Topic

Start strong by choosing a topic that genuinely interests you. If it’s too specific, you might struggle to find resources. Too broad? You could drown in information. The key is balance — and curiosity!

🧭 2. Plan Your Search

Once you’ve picked a topic, brainstorm keywords and synonyms. Use the Library’s Subject Guides to get a head start on where to search. Pro tip: a thesaurus can help you discover alternative search terms to boost your results.

📚 3. Search for Resources

Time to dig into the research! Use Page 1+ and our Digital Resource Collections to find credible, relevant sources. Know what your assignment needs — whether it’s peer-reviewed articles, books, or a specific number of sources — and search with purpose.

✍️ 4. Create an Outline

Now that you’ve got solid sources, it’s time to build your paper’s foundation. Take notes, develop your thesis, and plan the structure of your argument before you dive into writing.

📝 5. Write Your Paper

You’ve done the prep — now it’s time to bring everything together. With your thesis, outline, and notes ready, writing becomes a whole lot easier.

📖 6. Cite Your Sources

Avoid plagiarism and strengthen your credibility by properly citing all your sources. It’s not just about giving credit — citations show your professor that your work is backed by real, trustworthy research.

Need Help Along the Way?

We’ve got tons of support available — whether you’re stuck on step one or just need a little boost before hitting submit.

✅ Book a Research Appointment

Struggling to get started or can’t find the right resources? Book a one-on-one Research Appointment with a friendly Library staff member — online or in person. You’ll get personalized advice on search strategies, resources, and citation help.

🔗 Book a Research Appointment
Appointments are 1 hour long, and you can book one per week. Be sure to fill out the booking form with info about your assignment and what you need help with — it helps us prep and make the most of our time together!

📍 Prefer to drop in? Visit the Research Desk in room C350 for quick questions and support.

🧠 Free Research & Writing Workshops

Sharpen your research and writing skills with free workshops offered online or in-person (room C263). Check out the monthly Workshop Schedule to see what’s coming up.

✍️ The Coaching Lab

Need extra help with writing or English language skills? The Coaching Lab is a great resource for students at the Ottawa campus — no charge, no pressure. Visit us in room C260, second floor of the DARE District.

You’ve Got This 💪

Research might seem intimidating at first, but you’re not in this alone. Whether you need help choosing a topic, searching smarter, or citing correctly — Algonquin’s Library and support services are here to back you up every step of the way.

Take a deep breath. Make a plan. And when in doubt? Reach out.

Chill and Skill: Boost Your AI Smarts This Summer

AI tools are popping up everywhere—from schoolwork to job prep to your daily to-do list. But do you really know how they work, or how to use them well (and ethically)?

This summer, the library is offering two online workshops that break it all down in simple, practical ways.
🎓 Bonus: Attend a full session and you can request a certificate of attendance.

🚀 Why Join?

These workshops are all about giving you the basics—and the confidence—to use AI tools responsibly and effectively. You will:

✅ Learn how to use AI tools to support your studies (without crossing academic integrity lines)
✅ Discover real-world ways AI can save you time
✅ Boost your media literacy skills—so you’re not falling for fake news or sketchy sources
✅ Walk away with tips you can actually use

🧠 Workshop #1: AI at AC – A Beginner’s Guide to Generative AI

Want to know what ChatGPT can actually do? This workshop will help you figure out how to use AI tools in your research, writing, and studying—without breaking any academic integrity rules.

📅 May 21 | 2:00–3:00 PM – Register
📅 May 27 | 1:00–2:00 PM – Register
📅 June 4 | 2:00–3:00 PM – Register
📅 June 10 | 10:00–11:00 AM – Register

🔍 Workshop #2: Media Literacy in the AI Age

Not everything you find online is legit—especially in the age of AI-generated content. Learn how to spot misinformation and evaluate your sources using the C.R.A.A.P. test.

📅 May 20 | 12:00–1:00 PM – Register
📅 May 29 | 10:00–11:00 AM – Register
📅 June 5 | 10:00–11:00 AM – Register
📅 June 12 | 2:00–3:00 PM – Register

📚 See What Else Is on This Summer

These AI sessions are just part of our summer lineup! The Library is also offering workshops on research skills, citations, and more. Check out the full schedule here:

👉 algonquincollege.libguides.com/about/workshops

Got questions? Reach out to the Library—we’re here to help you make the most of your academic journey.

Introducing askON: Your New Virtual Research and Library Support Service 

The AC Library is excited to announce the May 5th launch of askON, a new online service that provides real-time, expert assistance for students, faculty, and staff. This new tool is designed to make it easier than ever to access research help, library services, and general information through convenient online chat and text message interactions.

What is askON?

askON is a virtual reference service that allows users to interact with knowledgeable library staff who can provide immediate support across a wide range of topics. Whether it’s guiding students through complex research questions, helping faculty access specific library resources, or navigating various online tools, askON ensures that expert help is only a click or text away.

How Does it Work?

askON connects users to library staff via a web chat or text message platform. Operating through the software provided by LibraryH3lp, askON offers interactive, real-time responses that cater to specific queries. The college community can use the service to seek assistance with:

  • Research and academic resources
  • Accessing library materials and services
  • Navigating databases and online resources
  • General library inquiries

The service is designed to be user-friendly and can be accessed directly through the library’s website, making it convenient for faculty, staff, and students at all levels.

Why is askON Important?

In an era where remote learning and digital tools are integral to the college experience, askON offers a flexible, efficient way to support the Algonquin College community. Faculty members can rely on this service to assist students with research or direct them to appropriate academic resources. Staff can also benefit from the service’s ability to quickly answer questions regarding library operations, policies, and resource availability.

askON is an especially valuable resource for:

  • Distance learning: Faculty who teach online or hybrid courses can use askON to help their students find the resources they need, even when they’re not physically on campus.
  • Time-sensitive needs: Immediate responses mean that users don’t have to wait for email replies or in-person assistance. The chat is available until 9 PM on weekdays, providing assistance late into the evening.
  • Ease of access: The service is available both as a web chat and text message, which allows for flexible communication based on what’s most convenient for the user.

Who Operates askON?

askON is a collaborative initiative developed by Ontario’s academic libraries, including Algonquin College’s library, and is operated by the Ontario Colleges Library Service (OCLS). This not-for-profit service is run on a cost-recovery model, with participating libraries contributing staff and funds to ensure its continued operation. The service is guided by a Steering Committee comprised of library leaders and staff from across Ontario’s participating colleges.

How Students, Staff, and Faculty Can Benefit from askON

As part of Algonquin College’s ongoing commitment to provide top-tier resources for both students, faculty, and staff, askON offers a unique opportunity to streamline access to library services. Here are a few ways users can utilize the service:

  • Research Support: Need help finding or recommending sources for your courses or research projects? askON staff are available to assist you in locating relevant academic materials, both digital and physical.
  • Library Service Inquiries: Have questions about library hours, services, or borrowing policies? askON can provide instant answers.
  • Student Support: Direct students to askON for assistance with assignments, research methods, or finding materials for their coursework.

Ready to Use askON?

Faculty and staff are encouraged to share the askON service with students, especially those who may be working remotely or need immediate help with library-related inquiries. The more the Algonquin College community uses askON, the better we can refine and enhance this service to meet everyone’s needs.

Get started May 5 and onwards by visiting the Algonquin College Library website and clicking on the askON chat feature or reach out via text message for real-time assistance.

For any additional questions or inquiries about askON, please don’t hesitate to contact the library team at library@algonquincollege.com.

Unlock Your Potential: Peer Tutoring & Coaching Services at the Student Learning Centre! 

At Algonquin College, we understand that academic challenges are a part of the journey, but they don’t have to be obstacles. Whether you’re struggling to keep up in a course or finding a specific concept difficult to grasp, the Student Learning Centre (SLC) is here to help you succeed. With a variety of support services, including Peer Tutoring and the Coaching Lab, you can get the assistance you need to excel.

Peer Tutoring Services

If you’re facing difficulties in a course, the Peer Tutoring service can connect you with a trained student tutor who has previously excelled in the same course. These one-on-one sessions offer personalized support, helping you to better understand difficult material and improve your academic performance.

Key Details:

Peer tutors are not only knowledgeable but also relatable, as they’ve walked the same path you are currently on. Their insights and advice can make a big difference in your learning experience.

The Coaching Lab

The Coaching Lab offers free, personalized coaching to all Algonquin College students. Whether you need help in math, writing, study skills, or presentation techniques, the Coaching Lab has you covered. You can opt for individual sessions or join small group coaching, depending on your preference.

Subjects Covered:

  • Math

  • Computers (including Brightspace, Zoom, ACSIS, LIVE@AC)

  • Anatomy/Biology

  • Writing

  • ESL (English as a Second Language)

  • Presentation & Study Skills

Additional Support for Pembroke Students: Pembroke students can also access coaching services through the Pembroke Campus Student Support Lab. They can book online appointments with a Pembroke Campus Coach to receive support.

Booking an Appointment: Coaching sessions can be scheduled via the Online Coaching website. For those needing flexible options, online drop-in sessions are available for certain subjects. Be sure to check the coaching calendars for available hours.

Why Take Advantage of These Services?

  • Free Coaching: The Coaching Lab provides free sessions, making it a valuable resource for all students.

  • Tailored Support: Whether you need help with assignments, exam preparation, or understanding course materials, both peer tutoring and coaching are tailored to your needs.

  • Flexible Scheduling: With online options, drop-in sessions, and one-on-one appointments, you can easily fit support into your busy schedule.

Don’t let academic challenges hold you back! Take advantage of these fantastic resources at Algonquin College and start achieving your academic goals today. For more information or to book your appointment, visit the Peer Tutoring and Coaching websites.

Reach out to the Student Learning Centre and unlock your potential!