Whether it involves heading south for some well deserved relaxation or taking the time to catch up on work (and sleep), one thing remains the same—everyone loves a break. So it would be safe to assume that adding another Reading Week to the year would be every students dream. Right?
Last week, AMS Assembly approved a question to asking students if they would like to have a fall Reading Week, added to the University calendar. The question is set to appear on the referendum ballots next Tuesday and Wednesday. Although referendum questions of policy are non-binding—so even if a majority of students were in favour, the istration would not be obligated to implement it—if enough interest is generated, the results of the vote will be brought to the istration likely with the AMS’s .
The question was put forward by Sivan Nitzan, ArtSci ’09, who was told by various of the AMS, as well as Vice-Principal (Academic) Patrick Deane and Associate-Dean of Arts and Science Cynthia Fekken, that another Reading Week is possible, but student opinion must be considered before any changes are to take place.
What students need to understand before casting their votes, however, are the various implications attached to a second Reading Week.
One such implication is that the missed week of classes must be made up, which would likely cause school to start a week earlier in September, and thus, cutting into those last few precious days of summer holidays. Many students use the extra week in September to say goodbye to friends and family and get their things together for the new school year. As well, those who work during the summer may have a difficult time leaving their employment as many summer jobs typically run until Labour Day. Or, students may simply not want to miss a week’s worth of pay.
As a primarily residential school, Queen’s just isn’t fit to begin their fall term any earlier.
November is a rough month for students as they become stressed, sick, and even depressed. But adding another Reading Week wouldn’t address those problems, and may even create more. Issues of stress are a big deal on campus and it’s shortsighted to assume that taking a week off will alleviate the problems.
Time would be better spend addressing issues of the University system at a deeper level—a level that doesn’t treat escaping problems as the solution for better student health and wellness.
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