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Sh*t I Wish I Knew

Sh*t I Wish I Knew (SIWIK) is a presentation where upper-year students share the advice, insight, and wisdom they wish they had when they were first starting out at Carleton.

It is probably one of the most important events to run in September when new students are still figuring things out.

🧩 What It Is​

  • A presentation-style event where experienced students cover:
    • Common mistakes and how to avoid them
    • Tips for managing courses and staying on track
    • How to navigate Carleton’s systems, services, and social scene
    • Academic and personal survival advice
  • Ends with a panel discussion, where attendees can ask questions and get multiple perspectives on student life

This event works best when speakers share real stories, not just generic advice — authenticity is what makes it memorable and valuable.

⚠️ Things to Consider​

Speaker Selection​

  • Pick a few engaging upper-year students with a variety of experiences (co-op, research, failed a class, switched streams, etc.).
  • Encourage speakers to be honest and relatable, not overly polished or formal.

SCS Content Approval​

  • The school of computer science often requests to few the slide content for this presentation