Introducing Myself

Welcome all to my first blog :)

So as you may have noticed, this blog is primarily about life as a student at StFX University. To start out, I’ll introduce myself. My name is Allan Berkvens, and I am in my third year of the Information Systems program and am majoring in ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning). For those of you who know nothing about Information Systems, other than it involves computers, and were still baffled by the acronym, I’ll take a moment to fill you in. Information Systems are essentially large software programs designed for small to large businesses to help manage information. Think of it as Microsoft Office except on a much larger scale! Now what this software does, is allows information to be shared throughout the entire company simultaneously and in real time. Why is this important? For one, there is no need for one department to call the other to gather information, this leads to greater efficiency, and less chance for human error. The information in this system is also stored in one location, and any changes that are made will be made available to everyone the moment they happen, which can reduce costs associated with outdated information. The benefits go on and on, but I’m sure that’s not why you chose to read my blog. So aside from being a third year student at X, I also work for the Advancement department as their website administrator (www.alumni.stfx.ca). Administering the website has clearly been my best job yet, changes are easy, and it gives you a chance to be creative. Also, being a part of the Advancement team, I became largely involved in preparation for Homecoming. My role was to create all of the nametags for guests, update the guest lists online and look after online registration, working at the Alumni gear store that was set up in the Keating Millennium Centre, and chauffeuring Dr. Riley around campus. I gained a real respect for the amount of time and effort that goes into pulling off a successful homecoming weekend, and this year’s event was a success indeed! Between going to class, and going to work, downtime is rare. When I do have some time to myself I like to hang out with friends, go to the movies, work on my computer (usually ogling new technology), play pool, or just strum on my guitar. Hope this gives you a little insight into who I am, and you enjoy my future posts.