Evolve 24 is right around the corner and CMNSU’s revamped annual event is set to take place on October 18th. With a fresh new format aimed at providing valuable insights into the diverse paths students can explore during their time at university, this promises to be one of the best events CMNSU puts on. Through engaging panels and interactive experiences, Evolve 24 is all about connecting students with the field of communication and celebrating the rich academic history at SFU. If that’s not enough, check out these five reasons why you should buy your tickets now:

Reason #1: Meet your peers

In the early parts of your degree at SFU can be very difficult for anyone trying to connect with their peers. Everyone knows everyone is scared to talk to new people, yet often we prefer to stay to ourselves in classes not talking to anybody. Evolve is a great opportunity to meet with the people you share your classes with. There’s a good chance that these students are who you will be seeing for the next four years so take your chance to connect with them and make new friends. It’s never been easier to connect with someone you’ve been eyeing in class but not had the chance to talk to.

Evolve has been planned out so that icebreakers will make it easy to start conversations. This icebreaker will give students an easy opportunity to talk to one another and share a laugh. Professors, faculty members and grad students will also take part in this icebreaker and give students easy access to understand and connect with the higher-ups that will determine the next part of your journey. Attending Evolve will leave you more connected with the people you will be seeing for the next four years of your life.

Reason #2: Understand your degree

What is Communication? There’s a decent chance that you’ve been asked this question by a snarky family member, business student or someone hoping to be the next Andrew Tate. SFU’s communication classes as well as the degree has a strong reputation throughout the country. Evolve explores why this reputation is well deserved and how your classes are designed to equip you with the skills that shape the future of media, technology, and culture. At Evolve, you'll discover how these courses can open doors to exciting careers and help you make an impact in today's fast-evolving communication landscape. Join us to explore your potential and connect with professionals and peers who share your passion!

A shared experience amongst anyone starting a degree is the false perception of what the academic side of your degree actually looks like. You have an idea of what the end product looks like but you can often be left wondering at how the steps of your early degree will result in the skills that you will need to shift into your degree. SFU’s communication degree often strays away from the marketing side that most communication schools take towards their curriculum. But this curriculum can be hard to understand in the early parts of your degree. Evolve will help you gain a better picture of what you are studying, and provide you with an even better response to, “What do communication students even study”?

Reason #3: Better understand your academic path

Evolve 2024 is an invaluable opportunity for undergraduate students to gain insight into their potential academic journey, from the early stages of their degree to the possibility of becoming a professor or program director. One of the key features of this year’s event is a lineup of panels that will connect students with professors, advisors, and graduate students. The panel of senior faculty and advisors will focus on shared experiences that often arise during an undergraduate journey, providing guidance on navigating academic challenges. Meanwhile, graduate students pursuing their Master’s and Ph.D. degrees will share their experiences as teaching assistants, discuss their areas of research, and provide insights into what it’s like to continue through the next phases of the academic system.

The final panel features professors sharing their personal academic journeys, offering an inside look into what it’s like to transition from student to academic leader. By attending, you’ll not only gain a better understanding of the various stages of academic progression, but also receive advice on how to navigate your own path, whether it leads to advanced degrees or roles within academia. Evolve helps you understand how your academic journey can lead to you being a respected expert within your areas of passion, and how those passions can lead you to the other side of the classroom.

Reason #4: Photo Opportunities 

Capture the memories of Evolve 2024 with our exciting photo opportunities! We’ll have a fun photobooth set up where you and your new friends can snap some great shots to take home as customized souvenirs. Plus, we’re introducing a unique interactive mirror where you can leave your signature or a message to future attendees while grabbing that perfect selfie. It’s the ideal way to make your experience unforgettable and connect with others—so don’t forget to strike a pose!

Reason #5: Free food
Let’s be real—who doesn’t love free food? If you’re an undergrad student, it's practically a love language! At Evolve 2024, we’ve got you covered with a delicious meal to keep you going as you explore your academic future. Come for the food, stay for the insightful panels and great conversations—because everything’s better on a full stomach!

Evolve 24’ promises to be a great opportunity for you to connect with your peers and gain passion for your degree. We can’t wait to see you at Evolve on October 18th. Get your tickets by following this link!