t e ull zine
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Body Hang Up embrace your body and learn to love it Housing Horror do you think your housing is bad DArk and dangerous Jessie J the sound of 2011
UNIVERSITY OF LINCOLN STUDENTS’ UNION OFFICIAL MAGAZINE
YEAR 10 ISSUE 04
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Oh Hey! THE TEAM Editor Deputy PRINT Editor - Emma Pearson DEPUTY Online Editor - Charlie Marples SUB Editor - Hannah Richards News Editor - Besma Ayari Deputy News Editor - Jamie Hogue Feature Editor - Emma Norman Deputy Feature Editor - Ash Billinghay Music Editor - Megan Paley Entertainment Editor - Crystal Holmes Style Editor - Lenora Caton Deputy Style Editor - Craig Finch SPORT Editor - Sabra Abukalid Art team: Liam Duffy Christabel Jay Faith Wibberley Hannah Webster- Sudborough Contributors: Emma Greatorex Emma King Fiona Henry Hazel Merrick-Miller Holly Peasgood Jessica Wilson Jonathan Holmes Kirsty Juniper Lauren Floodgate STUDENT UNION STAFF Online Media Coordinator Jp Thackeray
www.bulletonline.org University of Lincoln Students Union, The Media Centre Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS Phone: 01522 88 6397 editor@bulletonline.org www.bulletonline.org
Welcome back. I hope you have all had a fantastic rest from pre Christmas mania. So, I spent my Christmas day next to the beach in thirty plus weather. I hope you all enjoyed the snow. The Christmas period can often be a great time for reflection; families and friends coming together, the end of a long year and the beginning of a brand new one. Reflecting is important in order to face the future. As our university year progresses into the final semester, looking back can create personal goals from knowledge gained, a vision of what you would like to achieve and how to get there. So scrap all those fantasy New Year resolutions and concentrate on your future.
Where are you going this year? Good luck. This edition is filled with practical advice and challenging topics; from body hang-ups to university housing- we’ve looked into issues that may be affecting you in 2011. Alongside that, see if you’ve been caught in any of our snaps this month. And what happens when you get two teams to swap their sports for the day? Find out the comical outcome when two of our sports societies took to the challenge. Until next time, happy New Year!
Becca
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SU: WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FOR 2011
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A
THE PERFECT
s the academic year of 2010 has passed and we are now in the year 2011, Bullet News decided to ask the student body their opinion and comments on the Students’
Union.
Bullet wanted to know what the students’ thoughts are on how the officers have done their jobs for the past year, but more importantly what do the students want to see in the future?
HOUSEMATE
Some students criticised the SU on their communication last year and said they do not feel engaged at all with the Students’ Union. The students also stated they did not even know what the officers goals were for the year. One student criticised the Union and said: “I’d advise them to actually have policies, rather than vaguely saying they’ve ‘brought the SU closer to the student body’ or something to that effect. Identify something that they want to improve, devise a plan and act on it. It’s so very, very simple, and yet it seems to escape the SU”. However, not all students felt the SU were not properly engaging their students. One student said: “Chris (Students’ Union President) was quite good at organising the fees demos. That is a good example of them working on behalf of students.”
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05 SU: What can we expect for 2011 06 One a day project 07 The search for student housing 10 Hell in the house 12 Hang up the negativity 14 Anorexia the deadly diet 15 Screaming in my skin 16 The perfect housemate 18 One night stand .com 22 I’m no superman
Students across the University have spoken positively about the role of the Students’ Union in the anti-cuts campaign. The NUS Demolition was mentioned as a successful event as well as the Students’ Union’s organisation with the trip to London.
THE TRUE PRICE OF BEAUTY 23 Album review 24 Gig guide 25 Dark and Dangerous 26 2010 Film review 27 Films in 2011 29 Book Review: World War Z 30 Waterside Fashion Star 31 Fashion Paparazzi 32 The True Price of Beauty 34 What is sport 36 Switching Sides: Lakers vs Roos
In terms of what students want to see in the near future from the SU there is a varied response. One student commented on the importance of the Library being open 24/7 and said: “24/Seven (not five) library. It’s extremely popular, so it’s worth the money, even if it means cutting something else. Wide access to the library is extremely important.” Another student said: “I’d like to the see the Students’ Union concentrating on providing help and advice to students who have problems during their time at University. Anything else they might do is just froth.” The SU officers have varied plans for the New Year as well, and there is a lot to look forward to. Dan Derricott, the VP Academic Affairs will be focusing on local 5
issues and development within the Union. Dan said he will be “spearheading a campaign that aims to improve assessment feedback, both the speed of return and the quality of the feedback itself.” He continued to explain that he will continue to develop the student rep system and will be leading a “significant piece of union work to develop the Students’ Union at our Riseholme campus. Kayleigh Taylor the VP Welfare and Diversity will be concentrating on a lot of different agendas in Semester B. Kayleigh is planning to help push accommodation forward, reviewing the accommodation and developing the weaknesses: “We’ve secured a seat on the board so I will be moving forward with this.” Other events Kayleigh will be focusing on in Semester B are: A re-fresher sexual health night, a General well being campaign focusing on mental, sexual and physical health and looking at the provisions available for students. Andreas Zacharia the VP Activities, is planning to organise a ReFreshers Fayre for the new semester as well. He said: “Many clubs and societies have signed up for the fayre. It will give S&S a chance to recruit more members, build up finances, promote their club or society further and it will give the new societies a chance to get across to the students. Andreas is also focusing on a Sports and Societies Awards night and wants to make sure that drop in sessions are still beneficial for the students. Chris Charnley the Union’s President has stated that his main focus for Semester B will be: “To focus on a local level - how the Government cuts on education will effect Lincoln students across the University, working with the University to ensure we can maintain standards on teaching, facilities and student experience. I’ll be working with students across the Union to ensure the very best experience here at the University.” Chris said that Students’ Union-wise he will be working on a number of projects such as developing a number of small commercial areas to diversify the SU’s income and dependency on the University. He also said he will work on “developing a communications strategy for the SU with input from students, along with supporting the new media arm of the SU.” Let’s hope Semester B can be just as successful as Semester A. Words by Besma Ayari and Emma Greatorex
One A Day ProJect
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he One a day project encourages bloggers from across the world to write accounts about their everyday life. The money raised by these ‘once a day’ blogs is contributed towards chosen charities such as Cancer Research UK. It’s a tough challenge to see through to the end as the blogging is meant to continue for one year. The idea is something a bit different and has gained interest from around the world. Pete Davison, one of the organisers of the project spoke to Bullet magazine about the new trend and its new start for 2011. “This year’s One A Day Project is the result of a discussion I had with one of last year’s participants who dropped out before the end.
the search for STUDENT HOUSING It’s that time of year again; as students flood back into the city and reanimate the sleepy winter streets, the key issue on many people’s minds will be finding accommodation for the next academic year.
For more information on Lighthouse Properties, visit http:// www.lighthouse-property.co.uk or call 01522 780 020. For Club Easy, visit http://www.clubeasy.com or call 08081 80 80 80.
For first-year residents of university courts in particular, there is some pressure to branch out and find alternative student housing. Luckily, as Lincoln is a very student-oriented city, affordable accommodation is easily available, if you know where to look.
For City Lets Lincoln, visit http://www.cityletslincoln.co.uk/ or call 01427 78773. For Jones Student Property Lincoln, visit http://studentaccommodationlincoln.weebly.com or call 01522 778 241.
For students who value the varied social aspect of living in the university Student Village, there is always the option of living in one of the city’s prominent luxury student flats, most of which are located close to the University’s Brayford Campus. Popular choices include the Pavilions, Brayford Wharf and Junxions, which are all good examples of student accommodation that maintain the friendly communal feel students expect, whilst helping students to branch further a field.
We agreed that giving the endeavour some sort of “meaning” besides smug self-satisfaction would be a good idea, hence the charity angle.” People can join in and blog daily for a worthy cause. Writing is creative and is seen by many as an escape as they leave their everyday lives and spend some time writing or blogging their thoughts and accounts. “From a personal perspective, I had a very difficult year last year thanks to a lot of “endings”—my job, my marriage, my financial stability. Writing that blog every day gave me focus and helped me work through a lot of issues, even if I wasn’t posting directly about them all the time.”
And for JSV Homes, visit http://www.jvshomes.co.uk/ or call 01522 827597.
However, while such places do provide unparalleled luxury for your time at university, they do come at the very top end of the student budget. Pavilions, for example, is rumoured to be increasing its prices this year from the current £91 weekly rent for a standard en-suite apartment, which may see some residents choosing to opt for private rental instead. While this isn’t confirmed, Pavilions, along with other student accommodation across the city, will release its prices for the 2011/12 academic year on January 26th.
“I am gobsmacked by the number of signups. Whether we’ll still have everyone at the end of the year remains to be seen, but I wish everyone the best of luck!”
The Housing Fayre on Wednesday 26th January is a great starting point for many students who do choose to look at private rental. From 10am - 3pm in the Engine Shed, in the University’s Brayford Campus, it will showcase available student housing around the city, all of which are well within the student budget and, thanks to the University’s accommodation code of practices, all to a set standard, which means there’s no danger of anything dodgy. For students who can’t make the Housing Fayre, there’s also a drop-in session in the Tower Bar from 4pm-7pm on Tuesday January 26th for additional advice on how to find the right property for you.
The idea has proved to be a popular hit and even though it is still in its early days Pete hopes that the site will continue to grow. “I am gobsmacked by the number of signups. Whether we’ll still have everyone at the end of the year remains to be seen, but I wish everyone the best of luck!” Anyone who loves writing and wants a new challenge can get involved. “If you’re a creative type, it’s easy to get rusty if you don’t practice regularly.Writing is something you don’t need any special tools to do, and it’s a good outlet for a lot of people too.” Pete explains. It’s never too late to sign up and writers don’t have to blog daily; they can write weekly or chose a particular day which works around their lifestyle.
While there are many things to consider when renting a property, there are a few things to bear in mind before you sign that all-important contract: 1) It’s legally binding, so even if you decide to leave university or relocate you’re still liable to pay for the property for the full duration of the contract; 2) While most letting agencies include the prices of the bills in the monthly rent, some may not – always double check; and 3) Good friends don’t always make good housemates. Remember, finding the right house is not just a matter of finance; it will also be an important social space for the next academic year. When it comes to finding the right property, as with your work at the university, it pays to be thorough.
The important thing is not to panic; while one or two friends or course-mates may have found accommodation before the Christmas holidays, the vast majority of students will wait until after the Housing Fayre to start their search. And with many student letting agencies situated so close to the university, they won’t have to look very far. Lighthouse Properties, Club Easy, City Lets Lincoln, Jones Students Property Lincoln and JSV Homes are all examples of affordable private housing for students, and are all approved by the University of Lincoln. Many of them offer housing for as little as £70 per week and, much like The Student Village, include a generous utility allowance, which means no bills.
To get involved or to read contributors blog posts visit: http://oneadaybloggers.wordpress.com/ Words by Emma Greatorex
Words by Jamie Hogue Photos Liam Duffy
Photo Jp Thackeray 6
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Setting the Standard for Student Accommodation in Lincoln
hell in the house W
One for the house since it’s a joint contract, and the second for where she is living at the moment. Another student had similar problems. “We lived with a guy, and he had an argument with us. He didn’t speak to us from Christmas until May when we left. He kept trying to make ‘evidence’ to give to the landlord about us and how we were supposedly breaking the contract. We even found a recording device in the living room!”
hether its housemates coming in and shouting at 3am, eating your food or playing thrash metal so loud that your bed is jumping around the room; so called “housemates from hell” can make for difficult times whilst at university. For many people their houses are a refuge from university stresses and strains – a place where you can relax and try to forget about life in general. Yet what is it like when going home brings a whole new set of stress levels in to the equation? This January sees the annual mad scramble for people to live with. For most, it’s a simple case of finding a group of friends and picking a house. Since you already know them, there is no need for them to be vetted as you know their quirks.
Sometimes, living habits can also cause issues. In the above students’ case it was also true. “He would be asleep all day, would wake up at 11pm and then play his music really loudly, set off the fire alarm by cooking and generally making noise”. Her advice is: “It’s never too late to get out of a contract, even if it costs you money and stresses you in the short term. University is stressful enough without having to come home to the same stress”.
One student quickly found the danger of not vetting people. “We had someone leave our original contract, and we found a friend of a friend only a week before the deposit was due. Since we were desperate, we accepted her”. The student quickly realised that they should have vetted them first. “Living with her was especially different because she was frequently emotionally distressed.
It should be worth mentioning at this point that it isn’t all doom and gloom. Many students happily live with their housemates for many years and enjoy the experience – and what’s not to like? Living in a house for the first time is a new experience for many people.
I’ve lived with people that had depression before so it wasn’t nice having to deal with the instability again”. It all came to a head when the student found a surprise in the bathroom. “I came downstairs one day and noticed an open toilet roll bag that had been on the floor for 3 days, so I peered inside. There was a pile of used sanitary towels in there. I baulked – it was disgusting. When I confronted her about it, she simply moved out”. Situations like the above illustrate the importance of vetting people. The student who moved out is now paying for two rents.
Houses give you more freedom than student halls, and many university graduates have fond memories of the houses and the people they lived with whilst at university. The identities of the students involved have been anonymised to avoid further conflict for them!
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Words by Jonathan Holmes and Emma Greatorex
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Photo Liam Duffy
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Full property details: www.aps-properties.co.uk
res u t a fe
S
o the New Year has arrived, the Orange Creams are the only chocolates left in the house, and skinny celebrities advertising their new fitness DVDs have invaded your TV. The New Year has always seen huge amounts of the UK desperately trying to shed the Christmas pounds and start the year with a fresh state of mind regarding their bodies. Body image is, quite simply, how you feel about your body. Do you love it, or do you loathe it? Magazines and TV shows thrust the idea of a negative body image in our faces daily. Whether they mean to or not, they leave many of us analysing our bodies and comparing them to the pictures on glossy pages. The unhealthy ambition to be a size zero (a UK size 4) is still a trending topic amongst women and young girls. Studies have shown that in 1970 the average age of a girl who started dieting was 14; by 1990 it fell to just 8. Men and young boys are affected just as much; pressured by the toned, muscular bodies on perfume adverts, in magazines and in films. More men are going to the gym and taking muscle supplements to stay looking good. It’s clear the issue affects us all; many of you in Lincoln had something to say: Tasha Louise, a 20-year-old student said: “My idea of a healthy body image is not all about being stick thin and a size zero. For me a healthy body is one that is any size and shape where you feel comfortable in your own skin. A lot of people aren’t comfortable in their own bodies and the media has been a big influence on this. People should be made to feel great about their bodies and love how they look.You should love your body as it is because everyone is different and that’s what makes us who we are.” *Ben aged 20 also stated: “Vanity is abundant these days; it drives the media and people’s attraction. Whether this is good or not is debatable though. Loving your body is all in the mind. If you look after it you’re more likely to love it and a healthy mind is often a healthy body too. I try my best not to compare it to rugby players and the models on the cover of ‘men’s health’ and that helps too.” Finally, 18 year old Dani Pearson told Bullet: “Although I am slim, which people think is a positive, I would love to have a few curves.
Hang up the negativity and make a change: Body image.
I hate the fact people assume that because I am thin I don’t eat.” Dani also said: “Although no one is ever going to be 100% happy and confident in their own body, we need to realise that not everyone is going to be the same. What one person thinks is a perfect body, might be someone else’s nightmare. We all need to learn to love what we have got!” It is about time that people take a look at themselves and love the skin they are in. It is only a small step before the unhealthy obsession of losing weight to become a size zero for women, and for men becoming an Arnold Schwarzenegger wannabe takes over. We should love our body regardless of what shape or size we have been given. *Name protected for privacy Words by Emma Norman Photos Liam Duffy
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A lot of us look in the mirror and don’t think we look that great. It’s natural to have a bit of doubt about your own appearance; it makes us put effort in to it and take care of ourselves in order to make sure we look as good as we can. This is normal. What isn’t is to look in the mirror and see yourself as overweight when it’s clear for everyone else to see that it’s the complete opposite of the truth. Becky became anorexic when she was just 16. “It started off as just a bit of a diet,” she said. However, it quickly got out of hand. “Pretty soon I wasn’t just eating smaller meals; I was skipping them out completely. Before I knew it I was going days at a time without food and I barely even noticed I was doing it. I was exercising intensely but because I wasn’t eating I couldn’t go for long before I got tired. I got really unwell but was convinced it was worth it because from my point of view I hadn’t lost nearly enough weight. The less I ate the less hungry I felt and it turned in to an awful cycle that I wasn’t aware enough of to break free from.” Becky, now 22, says she still finds it difficult to face food, such was the psychological impact of her condition, but that the support she received from friends and family once they found out was a key reason behind her seeking help. “At first I just thought they were jealous. I thought that because I’d lost weight they were just telling me I was looking unwell because they couldn’t do it themselves. It didn’t occur to me at the time that they were perfectly healthy in appearance and had no reason to be lying to me. It was only after I admitted to myself that I had a problem that it became easier to do something about it.” At 17 Becky weighed just 5 stone. Her health suffered to such an extent that she found it difficult to get up in the morning and often felt on the verge of passing out whenever she did. She remembers how she felt the day she confessed to her parents what was going on. “It wasn’t a weight off my shoulders as such. I imagine they already knew exactly what was happening, but being able to say it to someone
Anorexia: The Deadly Diet out loud made things a lot easier to cope with. I stopped feeling like I needed to lose more weight and started feeling embarrassed that I’d allowed myself to get like this. From seeing myself in the mirror a few years earlier and thinking, ‘You’re huge Becky. No wonder you’re single,’ I was looking at my skeleton form and thinking, ‘You barely exist. No wonder your friends have been so worried.’ It all started to make a lot more sense to me and I’d urge anyone else going through the same sort of thing to talk to someone about it as soon as they can. They don’t have to be family; you don’t even really need to know them. Just saying it out loud can help you see yourself in a much more obvious light.” Now at a much healthier weight and with a shy smile across her face, Becky has made huge strides in her road to recovery. Her physical and, just as importantly, mental state have both begun to show signs of progress and she says this was only possible by opening up about the problems she was facing. “I felt like locking myself in my own little shell. I could have stayed there forever, never realising just what I was doing to my body. It was only by letting someone else in that I could start the journey to becoming the person I am today. I’m so pleased I did it. I don’t think I would be anywhere at all if I hadn’t.” b-eat.co.uk is a website set up to help young people find help and recover from eating disorders, It states on the website: “It is usually very difficult for people with eating disorders to get better on their own. It is important that you find help and support.There are a variety of ways either you, or someone you care about, can gain support and treatment.” If you or someone you know is struggling with such problems, visit their website at www.b-eat.co.uk for a huge source of contact numbers and emails as well as a massive range of advise that could help you on your way.
Screaming in my skin: Body Dysmorphic Disorder “The worst part for me was that none of my friends recognised it as a genuine condition. They thought I was just vain, they thought it was all in my head.” Sadly, this is a common theme. People often dismiss Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) as a case of excessive vanity and fail to acknowledge it for what it is: a demoralising psychological condition that can lead feelings of social isolation, clinical depression and, in severe cases, even suicide. We all have our little body hang-ups, but for some people it’s more than a niggling worry; it’s a constant fear at the very forefront of their minds that can override every other logical impulse. Lauren*, a first year English student at the University of Lincoln, is one of these people. Like approximately three million other UK residents, she suffered from Body Dysmorphic Disorder. Although it is only believed to affect up to 5% of the population, the influence of BDD is anything but small to those unfortunate enough to suffer from the condition. Unlike other physical conditions which can be used as control mechanisms (Anorexia, for example), Body Dysmorphic Disorder is not something that sufferers have any conscious control over. Mind, the leading mental health charity for England and Wales, defines BDD as:“a mental health problem related to body image, in which an individual has a preoccupation with one or more perceived or slight defects in his or her appearance.” What’s more, sufferers of the condition are known to become so obsessed by their perceived physical problems that they often struggle to cope in social situations. Like many sufferers, Lauren’s disorder used to radically disrupt her everyday life. “It wasn’t a small concern, like losing a few pounds, it was way of life. I had to check myself in every car window, every shiny surface; it was a constant compulsion.”
Words by Ash Billinghay 14
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As Lauren suffered from the most common concern of people with BDD, it was literally never more than an inch from her mind. “I hated my nose, I just hated it. People called me pretty, but I used to think I look liked a deformed mannequin. Sometimes I’d even strain my eyes trying to see past it.”
“I had to do something to reclaim my mind, to stop what felt like a ceaseless cycle.” Unlike many people with the hidden disorder, who remain undiagnosed, Lauren made the decision to ask for medical help: “I had to do something to reclaim my mind, to stop what felt like a ceaseless cycle. I’ve been on anti-depressants now for almost 12 weeks, and I do feel better. The feelings haven’t gone away completely, but I’m starting to see things a little clearer.” For more information on Body Dysmorphic Disorder visit www.mind.org.uk or, for expert advice, call 01522 569030 to speak to your local branch. *names changed to protect privacy Words by Jamie Hogue Illustration Faith Wibberley
F
ed up of having your cheese stolen? Sick of the stench of dirty pots and socks? Annoyed at being the only one cleaning the kitchen and bathroom? Well here at Bullet we want to give you the best start to finding that perfect housemate. Ok so we can’t create the ‘perfect’ housemate tailored to your specific needs, so sorry, no girls who like to clean in heels for the boys, and no boys who like to hoover topless for the girls, but we can give you a bit of good old fashioned advice. There are a few simple questions to have in mind before committing to living with a housemate, because remember: you will be stuck with them for at least a year! Firstly, think about whether you want someone who is on the same course as you. You may find that if you are spending all of your seminars and lectures with this person that you won’t want to come home to them at night. But similarly, if you are a student nurse you don’t really want to be living with someone on a different time schedule as you!
Student Accommodation All-inclusive from only
Make sure the person you want to live with is your standard of clean and tidy. You might enjoy living in a heap of unwashed pots and dirty laundry, but will you want to live with someone who will always be nagging you to clean it, and on the reverse if you are clean and tidy do you really want to live with Stig of the dump? C
You also need to look at how socially compatible you are with your housemate: do you thrive on having guests and throwing parties? Then don’t live with someone who is reserved or it will lead to an uncomfortable living situation. Equally it may be important to establish some ground rules for those all important ‘sleepovers’; you wouldn’t want to wake up to lots of strangers in your kitchen now would you? Or would you?
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Another essential point is to make sure you and your chosen housemate are happy with each others food preferences, for example as a vegetarian it can be difficult to live with meat eaters, thus living with another vegetarian would eradicate the need for separate pans. Similarly, create basic rules about fridge and cupboard space, most kitchens will accommodate a cupboard, section or drawer each so as to prevent arguments. Other things that you may need to consider are issues like whether you want to live with a smoker or non-smoker; a heavy drinker; a hard worker; a hard partier; someone with radical political views; a debater; a girly girl; a manly man; someone with no sense of humour; a joker; a musician; a loner or a socialite.
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finding the perfect housemate
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Excellent central locations Superb modern facilities Range of house types & sizes
experience. By deciding on crucial factors you want in a housemate, you can make this year of your life amazing.
Oli, a student at the University of Lincoln has this advice “Make sure you get to know the people a bit before you move in with them. Never move in with people you’re unsure of because the pressures of cohabiting will most likely crack the relationship. Despite all of this, the most important one is to be tolerant; you can’t blow your lid every time something goes wrong or annoys you. It is their house as much as it is yours and you have to respect that. You can‘t try and mother them.” His perfect housemate is “someone who appreciates cleanliness and works a similar kind of schedule to me. Also, they have to act like an adult: I’m trying to start a career, not get a hangover.” All this may seem like a lot to consider for just living with someone at university, but remember this is how you will be living for the next year at least and you need to make that environment as homely and comfortable as possible to get the best possible
Samantha Robinson, second year law student at the University of Lincoln has these infamous words of advice, “make sure you’re not last to view the house or you’ll get stuck with the smallest room.” Her perfect housemate is “someone bubbly, fun, different and not too moany”. Ah yes, make sure you all look at houses together, make it a fun day out, followed by lunch or a coffee to ensure that you all agree on the house. By living in a democracy, you will avoid the majority of arguments, so leave important issues, like who will take out the bins, up to the house vote Words by Holly Peasgood Photo Liam Duffy
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For further details please contact us: Tel. 01522 780 020 www.lighthouse-properties.co.uk Lighthouse Property Services 39a Carholme Road Lincoln LN1 1RN
Opening Hours Monday–Friday 8.00am–5.00pm Saturday 9.30am–1.30pm
Lighthouse Property Services Lincoln’s leading Student Accommodation Specialists
Tel. 01522 780 020 Fax. 01522 780 030
enquiries@lighthouse–properties.co.uk www.lighthouse–properties.co.uk 17
*On selected properties
case all along, I did my very best to mess things up without realising what I was doing until it was too late. I sipped it as politely as I could, laughed at all her jokes and made all the right eye contact. I did everything to convince her that I was as decent as she’d first assumed and apparently always hoped.
fancy her!’ Hmm, how happy we are for that brief second before our world comes crashing in on us. Ten minutes later and I’m crying in the toilet, mascara running down my face, looking like an extra in a Slipknot video, my best friend comforts me. ‘I can’t believe he slept with her!’ I blubber after having that ‘stalker girl’ come and tell me the whole sordid story, in detail!
Coffee finished, lies cemented firmly in her mind, we got up from our table and headed to the door. She kissed me on the check and said she’d ring me later. I smiled for a moment. I thought that had gone really quite well, until, that is, I remembered everything I said to her had come from my imagination. I liked her such a lot, so why was I doing this? She’d surely find out eventually. All I could do now was grin and hope. Hope that she was as stupid as I’d been all along.
one night stand .com S
ome conversations are good.You can get stuff off your chest, you can laugh at stories from the night before and you can catch up with someone you’ve not seen in a while. This conversation was not good in any of those ways, in fact it wasn’t good in any way at all. Trying to explain to a now fairly bewildered looking girl why you’d been ignoring her, where you were the other day and why that girl has been posting all those messages on your Facebook is a difficult task. “She leaves a lot of kisses...” she says. “You’re just being paranoid,” I reply. The weave of lies gets added to by the second and I feel bad for not just opening up and telling her the truth. After all, the relationship didn’t start off on an entirely honest basis so now might be a good time to put all that behind us and start from scratch. Here’s how it should go: “Hey, my name’s Ash. I slept with you that first time because we were drunk and I thought that was my only shot with you. I left
because I was embarrassed and, unfortunately, had sobered up. I ignored you for similar reasons. I didn’t turn up the other day because I’m a bit pathetic and have problems trusting people. Oh, and last night I woke up in another girl’s bed. Nice to meet you, again.” Unfortunately, unless you’re reading this hoping for juice and not just a boring story of how everything went fine and we now own half a heart necklace each, that’s not how it went. Nope, instead of being a man and telling the truth I opted for the far less scary option and lied through my teeth. I think I made some rubbish up about feelings and emotions and how I was just “scared to commit to something like this in case it ended up hurting me like all those other times.” What other times, Ash? Do they exist or have you just cobbled some stories together to get out of a potentially damaging situation? Oh yeah, that’ll be it. She even went and brought me a coffee. It’s meant to be the other way round, but as has been the 18
Perhaps it was the upset, perhaps it was the alcohol, but here I was, morning breath and hangover intact, eyes boring into the unfamiliar back staring at me in my own bed.
Right, we’re at the door, he’s looking at me, kiss on the cheek and the classic male ‘I’ll call you, with no actual intention of doing so’ line and I’m outta there!
‘What happened to you the other day?’ I sat staring at the screen. That familiar sense of panic coming over me, that same panic universally understood as the start of heartbreak and disappointment. The sinking feeling you get in situations like this. Simultaneously giving you butterflies, skin prickles and stomach ache.
*Beep Beep* oh God, a text! ‘Coffee?’ it reads. No guesses for who it’s from. Feelings in turmoil, I decide to agree. Give him the chance to admit the truth, while at the same time feeling so guilty for last night’s bedroom antics.
Then it happened; the little speech symbol of hope that Facebook gives as proof of the beginning of a conversation. Here we go. Then it disappears, and comes back then goes again - why won’t he just reply? It must be worse than I thought. Maybe I’m wasting my time. If I close facebook now, how plausible would it be to pretend I’d never started the conversation? I’ll just pretend it never happened and chalk it up to bad experience. Too late, he replied.
Guilt kicking in as I see him, I decide to buy him a coffee. Half way through my nervous joke making I think he’s not going to own up, but neither am I.This is awful, the whole thing a mix of embarrassment, guilt and hurt. Though, to be honest, the hurt is the winning emotion at this stage.
Ok, so I can almost believe that he’s scared to commit, most men are right? He just doesn’t want to get hurt, that’s so sweet! Panic totally over and crush back in full force, there is nothing that can stop this huge grin spreading across my face.
Right, we’re at the door, he’s looking at me, kiss on the cheek and the classic male ‘I’ll call you, with no actual intention of doing so’ line and I’m outta there!
All well and truly forgiven, glad rags on and ready for an amazing night out with my girls. ‘Hey mate, who’s that girl staring at us?’ That’s my best friend, but who was she talking about? Then I spotted her, ‘ that’s the girl who keeps putting messages on ‘his’ facebook wall - she’s such a stalker, he doesn’t even
Action plan? Deny all feelings for him, lick wounds, ignore everyone and emerge looking fabulous in like three weeks. Words by Ash Billinghay and Holly Peasgood.
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I’M NO SUPERMAN
alling all you fans of the hit TV show Scrubs! And of course those who are unaware of these comedy genius’, put this date in your diary: Thursday 17th February 2011, 19:00PM. The Engine Shed proudly pronounces the talented musical voices that create The Blanks.
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ALBUM REVIEW
f you like music that gets your toes tapping and your hips swaying, then you will love Adele’s new single ‘Rolling in the Deep’. It’s one of those songs that you’d listen to in your bedroom and have it stuck in your head for the rest of the day. The song was written by Adele and Paul Epworth and has been described by her as a “dark bluesy gospel disco tune.” Adele sings with authority and a sense of life experience more suited to a 40 year old. When she belts out “we could have had it all...rolling in the deep,” you feel every ounce of emotion with her. The constant drum beat matched with the 22 year old’s soulful voice is awash with passion.
If you’ve never watched the TV show Scrubs (first of all, what is wrong with you?), then you wouldn’t recognise Theodore Buckland, aka Ted, and his merry bunch of acappella buddies. In the show they’re known as Ted’s Band however in real life the four guys (Sam Lloyd, Philip McNiven, George Miserlis, and Paul Perry) actually are in an acappella group together, namely The Blanks.
She first appeared in 2007 and released a bestselling album the following year. The album, called ‘19’, included one of her most famous songs ‘Chasing Pavements,’ which made it to number 2 in the UK single chart.
If you’re unfamiliar with The Blanks, just imagine your father and three of his nerdy friends getting together to sing along to TV themed songs, classic rock tunes and comedic songs! With a few humorous sketches between songs, you’ve got The Blanks.
‘Rolling in the Deep’ is featured on Adele’s brand new album, ‘21’, which is released this month. If you’ve heard this fantastic single and have been counting down the days to get your hands on the full set, well now you can.
The quartet are touring their acappella music and comedy sketches around the world. Performances include those of their original songs from the TV favourites, such as ‘Underdog,’ ‘Charles in Charge’ and ‘Don’t Fear the Reaper.’ Also lined up alongside their tuneful pop medleys is the fantastic rendition of ‘Hey Ya!’ by Outkast and a rather beautiful version of ‘Over the Rainbow.’
ADELE ‘21’ RELEASED 24th JANAURY 2011
Words by Kirsty Juniper
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t’s been over two years since the release of their debut album, but now Cage the Elephant are back releasing their new album ‘Thank You, Happy Birthday’.
The Blanks pride themselves on the fact that all their own tracks feature only their four voices, and do not encounter the use of any other traditional musical instruments, except for their pledge that states, ‘Talking toys, Hand claps, Finger snaps and Thigh slaps.’ Apart from being really talented singers, The Blanks are known well as showmen and comedians at heart. They are a perfect group to bring your parents to because they keep everything clean, but you’ll still laugh a lot and have a good time.
It seems a fair bet that not many people will have heard of them, but Cage the Elephant are well worth a listen.They do not provide the typical dance music that is so prominent in the charts; they are a punk rock band, with a garage / blues feel, yes it seems an unlikely combination, but it that works so well. Formed in 2006, the quintet from Kentucky has had a varying amount of success. They have released only six singles, one of which was a re-release of an earlier track. Their most well known track ‘Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked’ peaked in the UK singles chart at just number 32 back in 2009, but they topped the US Alternative Chart just last year with the rereleased ‘In One Ear’.
The Blanks album, ‘Riding the Wave’, features guest performances from Bill Lawrence and other members of the Scrubs cast and is available to download from iTunes and Amazon. If you are interested in checking these guys out, visit www.theblankswebsite.com for upcoming UK Tours dates, this is definitely an opportunity not to be missed, spread the word! Words by Megan Paley For fans of Scrubs, comedy and music this will be a once in a life time experience.
So it remains to be seen whether or not Cage the Elephant will be able to make a name for themselves this year or not, but after trying so hard for almost five years, personally I hope they do.
CAGE THE ELEPHANT ‘THANK YOU HAPPY BIRTHDAY’ OUT NOW
‘Thank You, Happy Birthday’ is out now.
Picture: www.theblankswebsite.com
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DARK AND DANGEROUS
The Engine Shed; Friday 11th February 2011Moda featuring Sub Focus, Jack Beats, Zinc, Jaymo & Andy George,Tom Staar, Bxentric Moda returns in 2011 with a hugely eclectic line up, to its one and only home, Lincoln, with the power of Dubstep, Disco, Electro and Drum & Bass attempting to crush the Engine Shed into nothing but rubble! One of the UK’s leading names Sub Focus, responsible for anthems like, ‘Splash’ and ‘Could This Be Real’ will smash the crowd with remixes for Dizzee Rascal and The Prodigy, not forgetting the huge self titled album. Alongside Sub Focus are DJ Zinc and Jack Beats, providing seminal D&B anthems and Hip Hop creations, and in case there’s anything left standing, Moda’s Jaymo & Andy George and Tom Staar will be dishing out some final tune wreckage! Don’t miss it! Tickets from £10 and can be purchased as of 10th January 2010.
ith so many new tracks from fresh faces floating around it’s hard to pick out the talent.
Wouldn’t you say a smoking hot twenty-three year old who has already won the BRIT Awards Critic’s Choice and the BBC Sound of 2011 award, co-written with the likes of Miley Cyrus, Justin Timberlake, Alicia Keys and Christine Aguilera and has been praised by Timberlake as the ‘best singer in the world right now” is an impressive start? It started for Jessie J in a girl group with her sisters called ‘The Three Cornish Pasties’ when she was seventeen, which crumbled as the company went bankrupt before release. Fortunately, her talent was recognised and she pursued a solo career with the reputation of a ‘loud’ voiced solo artist rather than the preferable ‘passionate’ she desired.
MODA 11TH FEBUARY 2011
Jessie holds Miley Cyrus responsible for her sudden explosion onto the music scene when she co-wrote the hit ‘Party in the USA’, saying if it wasn’t for Cyrus’s popularity and stardom her name wouldn’t even have been whispered through the music industry.
Sunday 20th February 2011The Streets
THE STREETS 20TH FEBUARY 2011
For the celebration of his last and final album as The Streets, Mike Skinner has finally announced a February / March tour. Mike Skinner (born November 27, 1978), more commonly known by his stage name ‘The Streets’, is a rapper from Birmingham, England. When playing live, Skinner is joined by Kevin Mark Trail on backing vocals, Johnny Drum Machine on drums,Wayne Fibes on guitar and bass, Chris Brown on keyboards and Magic Mike on samplers. The Streets’ fifth and final album is called ‘Computers and Blues’ and Mike suggests a dark and futuristic theme and has decided to abandon sampling and use live musicians instead. Highly accredited,The Streets previous albums include, Original Pirate Material (2002), A Grand Don’t Come for Free (2004),The Hardest Way to Make an Easy Living (2006) and Everything Is Borrowed (2008).
This dark, London chick hit our screens late 2010 with her single ‘Do It Like a Dude’. With the majority of her live shows already sold out, she has already become a wide hit, luring people in and catching their attention with competitions such as the ‘Big White Room’ and various Youtube videos from her home. She has worked with over 300 people in the last three years and this is only expected to rise as she splits herself in two to spread her music throughout the UK and USA simultaneously, travelling back and forth to create a solid name for herself claiming she only wants to write music that “doesn’t just come and go”, pop music that’s “therapeutic and emotional.”
lincoln battle of the bands
local music and more Tap and Spile pub; Lincoln’s Tap and Spile is on Hungate, just off the top of the High Street before Steep Hill. Live music is scheduled every Friday night, and local musicians gather together late Sunday afternoons for a ‘jam session’ before the General Knowledge Quiz! On the second Wednesday of each month the Tap and Spile also hosts a Music Quiz. Open to all customers across age and occupation ranges, the Tap and Spile is very welcoming. A few upcoming gig/band nights; 28th January – 8.30pm Ty Garner 4th February – 8.30pm Tarantinos 11th February – 8.30pm 101 Proof 18th February – 8.30pm Hotclub
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She also argued that she only writes songs she believes in which is represented beautifully in her newest single ‘Price Tag’ which is to be released soon.
The Duke of Wellington; Saturday 26th February 7pm till 11:45pmLincoln Battle of the Bands
Jessie J has been compared with the legendary Lady Gaga, critics stating she’s a UK Lady Gaga attribute. Her reaction was charming in saying she admires the world Gaga’s created but differentiates herself in style and personality as she considers herself someone who “likes to just get up, dress up and have fun” but classed the comment as an incredible compliment.
The Duke of Wellington, known in Lincoln for hosting regular nights of musical talent from local and touring bands. The Duke of Wellington is situated on Broadgate in town and has the upcoming well acclaimed Battle of the Bands event night just around the corner. A few of the competing artists and bands include; Traps Berlin Ice Bar We’ll Sleep Till Sunset Tonberry Amber Horizon. Minimum age: 16 Last entry: 10:00pm Doors open: 19:00 til 23:45 Words by Megan Paley
Jessie J’s debut album ‘Who You Are’ is due for release early this year, and for the future she implied she’ll collaborate and “keep the music coming” so keep listening. Words by Fiona Henry
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Scott pilgrim vs the world
Ignoring the typecast role that is now well-known to Michael Cera, Scott Pilgrim is every comic book readers fantasies come to life. With the geek having to defeat seven evil exes, it was no doubt going to be interesting, but throwing the use of comic style graphics into the mix made for exceptional viewing.
2010 film Review
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010 was a fantastic year in film, especially for those who like something a bit different from their trip to the cinema. We were treated to everything from the revival of Buzz and Woody to a world gone topsy-turvy, and then a bit more of Zach Galifianakis. But what really stood out? Here are my top picks of the year...
films in 2011
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Another collaboration between Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, involving outer space Paul. The pair are trekking across America in search of the unexplained when they stumble across an alien in need of assistance. Sure to be another hilarious comedy, we can only begin to see what is coming by the laugh out loud trailer and Frosts hippy haircut!
nd with last year being such a success in film, we look forward to expecting great things again this year. Here are just a few of the releases that we can be looking forward to for 2011...
the hangover part ii
kick-ass
Who said that super heroes need powers? Dave, a social misfit, dons his costume (wet suit) to fight bullies, but eventually ends up involved in a drugs bust as Kick-Ass. With the assistance of vigilantes Big Daddy and Hit Girl, this film is full of action and laughs as Dave goes from alleged gay prostitute to full grown super hero.
jackass 3d The guys were back, and did not fail to impress. More wild, more grotesque and even more hilarious. With the added bonus of some of the best 3D effects that have been developed so far. Definitely the film that got the most laughs!
Doug’s wedding is done, so how can there be a sequel? Well, now it’s time for Stu’s wedding, which means jetting off to Thailand. Ever reserved, Stu opts for a stag brunch, but things don’t go according to plan. What happens in Vegas may well stay in Vegas, but I’m sure you’re intrigued to find out what happens in Bangkok!
the green hornet
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ALICE IN WONDERLAND
The thought of sleeping with Leonardo DiCaprio may be a pleasing one to some, but what about when he is stealing your dreams? Christopher Nolan directed one of the most talked about films of 2010, leaving many audiences in awe of this dreamscape subconscious world.
Tim Burton pulled it out of the bag again with his remake and reenvisioning of this classic children’s tale. With an all-star cast and introducing Mia Wasikowska, this film is a typical Burton production, with weird and wonderful happenings around every corner.
toy story 3
DUE DATE
With our childhood favourite characters being brought to life for the last time, Toy Story 3 provided audiences, old and new, with both laughter and tears. There were very few dry eyes in the house when the fate of the toys was out of their hands. But just as Barbie met Ken, we got to meet Lotso, Chuckles, Buttercup and Mr Pricklepants. Possibly my favourite release of 2010.
From the makers of The Hangover came another laugh a minute comedy starring Zach Galifianakis and Robert Downey. Jr. A camp wannabe actor takes an arrogant and stubborn fatherto-be on a road trip across America with disastrous and hilarious consequences.
After inheriting his father’s vast media business, Britt Reid needs to do something with his life; so after teaming up with inventive Kato, they decide to fight crime. Taking a vigilante stance, they stand to protect the law, by breaking it.
sucker punch
Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
Hindered by pain from wicked step father and lobotomy, a young girl escapes the dark world that she lives in by living in a reality world. After recruiting four other girls, they fight to survive the confines of the institution where they are held, by treading an eventful journey that could ultimately set them free.
Jack is back, and with Barbossa at his side the pair are after the elusive Fountain of Youth. But it seems that the notorious pirate Blackbeard is also looking for it, which leads to more deception and rivalry; though Jack cannot decide what he is more afraid of, Blackbeard or his daughter.
Words by Crystal Holmes
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BOOK REVIEW
TOp five:
World War Z Rating 8/10 Author Max Brooks
Franklin and Hall properties are now becoming
Lincoln Digs If you are looking for Student Accommodation in Lincoln, Look no further! We here at Lincoln Digs have over 10 years experience in choosing the right properties for students in Lincoln. We know that budget is a priority, but you also want a clean, fresh place to live and study. Take a look at our listed properties, and if you have any specific requirements, please contact us to discuss. Sky tv, internet and all bills included on all properties Clive & Jason
REtro Video games
“The first corpse to move was a woman, just a second or more before the others, a twitching hand groping across the back of a man who looked like he’d been trying to shield her. He slipped off her as she rose on uncertain knees. Her face was mottled with blackened veins. I think she saw me, or our tank. Her jaw dropped, her arms rose. I could see the others coming to life…”
Goldeneye Console: N64 Release: 1997 Mario Kart Console: SNES Release: 1993
Imbued with the same macabre humour as it predecessor, World War Z offers another disturbingly realistic insight into mankind’s struggle to overcome the walking dead that made The Zombie Survival Guide such a critical success. But far from the apocalyptic reign of unearthly terror that plagues the genre, here we see a practical, unfalteringly logical account of the government’s attempts to emerge … well, alive from the “the greatest conflict in human history.”
Sonic Console: Mega Drive Release: 1991
Made up of a series of eye-witness accounts and interviews, the book reveals a moving mixture of human loss and mass hysteria, punctuated by the abrupt action of a merciless government who are willing to stop at nothing to survive the global pandemic, including using entire cities as live bait for the hoards of hungry ghouls.
Alex the Kidd Console: Master System Release: 1990
Can we outlive an indefatigable enemy? And in a world where inconceivable horror has stripped us of our basic humanity, would we really want to?
Tetris Console: Game Boy Release: 1989
While it does drag in places, Brooks delivers an intricate account of a crucial turning point in human history, the results of which will see many-a-hand clawing through the darkness… but don’t worry, that’s you as you fumble for the light-switch. Words by Jamie Hogue
NEW console to damage your eyes?
07775 866073 or
07970 467788
Nintendo have produced yet another upgrade to their handheld DS console. From the DS, to the Lite, then the DSi, and now they have made the Nintendo 3DS; which is said to create “real 3D effects, no glasses required!” The 3DS is to produce 3D effects via process called auto stereoscopy, a method of displaying stereoscopic images and gives the perception of added depth making them appear 3D.There will also be a depth slider, so the player can adjust the level of 3D, and scale it back or turn it off completely, depending on preference: though why buy a 3D console and decide not to use the features that you will undoubtedly pay through the nose for?!
The reason that you may opt to choose the normal 2D gaming experience could be to do with the possible health risks. Nintendo themselves have announced that this upgraded console is not for use by children under 6 due to the potential harm to their eyes. They have also warned that all other players should use the 3D effects in moderation. So here we have it, a 3D handheld games console that boasts the newest technology to provide us with top notch visual entertainment. Although we must bear in mind the potential damage to our eyesight if even the makers warn of moderation. What an upgrade! The Nintendo 3DS will be released in February. Words by Crystal Holmes
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Spotlight: Waterside Winter Fashion Star competition
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n December 6th 2010, Bullet Online provided you all with an overview of the Waterside Winter Fashion Star competition and all of its finalists. The competition was tough, as all six pieces were highly impressive and extremely well designed. However, there can only be one winner: This year it was University of Lincoln third year fashion student 21-year-old, Amy Hood, with her elegant autumn-red, heritage gardens inspired dress. Bullet was lucky enough to have a chat with the young designer about all her inspirations, future goals and her style. Amy has “always been really creative”, which is why she first decided to study fashion. Her passion for the subject sparked from studying art and design at college and her interest in fabrics. She commented: “The course at Lincoln is so broad it gives you loads of options when you graduate”. Her winning piece was based on English Heritage gardens: “I chose to focus on fallen leaves, that’s where the colour came from; also the seams in the skirt. I don’t know if you noticed but there was quite a lot of them that were meant to be like the lines on leaves.” It appears that Amy has put so much thought in to the design of this piece, from the striking colour, to the seams on the skirt, a detailing that could possibly be overlooked upon first glance! As with any degree, fashion is hard work: “It’s very difficult to stay organised and keep up,” states Amy. However she claims that the process of designing and making a garment: “doesn’t take as long as people think”. Amy said: “We do the designs first, then have to work out how it’s going to work as a garment, then it gets technical. We have to do a lot of practice, making it up before we make it up in the right fabric.” It sounds like a lot of hard work, but it is this work of practicing and perfecting that won Amy an extra £500 to help with her graduate collection. Her six piece graduate collection is going to draw inspiration from, ‘entrapment’. “I’m looking at cocoons and nests, natural things. I’m trying to convey trapped, but in a nice way.” Amy also states: “obviously the money is going to help.” Being a young designer must provide you with a sense of experiment when it comes to your own style: “I try to follow trends, but sometimes the outfits I wear reflect what I am designing at that moment.” Amy explains: “I haven’t made myself a full outfit, but I’ve customised things that I wear, it’s fun to customise things that are on a hanger to make them unique and individual”. I think you would agree that Amy is a deserving winner. Once she has completed her final year and finished travelling, Amy is hoping to pursue her career in fashion with an 18-month graduate scheme where she will work alongside designers and hopes to launch her own fashion career once she has finished. So here’s a final well done to Amy! She’s one to look out for!
Fashion Paparazzi
You’ve been spotted!
HAT Lydia: Hat River Island £20
SCARF Lydia: New Look £15
The winter aviator style snow hat is a great look with practicality thrown in. The side flaps keep your ears warm without having to wear unnecessary earmuffs. Dark colours are in this year so Lydia’s hat blends in well with the trends this winter.
COAT Lydia: Asda Living £28 Lydia’s coat looks uber comfy and warm, and who can blame her?! The arctic temperatures we are unfortunately experiencing look set to stay, so instead of worrying or moaning, it’s time to get practical...and when I say practical I mean get a new wardrobe, but on a student budget!
TIGHTS Lydia: Next £6
BOOTS Lydia : Oasis £70
SOCKS Lydia: Accessorize £12
Lydia’s boots are perfect for this year’s number one shoe trend: military. The perfect height of the shoe up the ankle allows for any experimentation with peeping socks and the dark colour of the shoes are again perfect for this winter’s colour trends of navy blue, grey and black.
Lydia’s socks have that dainty look about them that meshes well with the cold, militant leather of her boots, creating two separate looks that actually complement each other. Light colour and made of wool, these socks to pull over your cold feet will certainly keep your toes warm over the winter.
Words by Emma King Photo Laura Floodsgate 30
Photo Jessica Wilson
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Name: Lydia Potter Age: 16 Occupation: Student at Lincoln College.
The True Price of “Beauty”: ProAnorexia websites
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n the front page of an easily accessible website the heading “40 reasons not to eat” is displayed. With reasons such as: “You will be FAT if you eat today” and “nothing tastes as good as thin feels.” Beneath this is a ‘pep‘ talk stating: “Show me your control and I will show you a flat stomach.” Even lower in their attempts to coerce are “10 things to do other than eating.” A current trend concerns people turning to these so called ‘advice’ pro-anorexia sites. Despite the fact that many of these sites claim to offer help and support to those suffering from anorexia, it is websites like these that offer hints and tips on how to fool the doctor and lose weight quicker; posting pictures of anorexics to encourage others with quotes such as: “Thin is beautiful”. The websites offer exercise regimes giving ‘advice’ on how to change your metabolism to burn extra amounts of fat and even how to perfect your vomiting technique. A school nurse from Louth who cannot be named for legal reasons, claimed that pro-anorexia sites are the downside to the internet calling them “an absolute disgrace”. She described how children as young as 5 have developed weight issues. “The worst case I’ve seen was that of a 14 year old girl who got down to below 5 stone”. In 2006 more girls under 18 were treated in NHS hospitals for eating disorders than at any other time over the past decade. Around 5% of reported Anorexia cases are fatal, while 30% will live with the illness for the rest of their life. For those that may recover from the illness itself their battle is not over. Anorexia causes severe health issues, particularly psychological and physically to do with brittle bones and stomach issues, even infertility. 15% of people who have suffered severely with anorexia die within 12 years because of suicide, infections, stomach problems or malnutrition. Statistics in this case aren’t 100% reliable; as many cases are left unreported. 18-year-old Natalie Wilson, a local student, has suffered from anorexia for 3 years and is now on the way to recovery. She recounts how her suffering with anorexia occurred after other issues, like depression and self-harming behaviours. “(Anorexia did) temporarily appear
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to make me happier, it made me feel better about myself, like I could achieve something and I thought I was re-gaining control over my life, when really I wasn’t,” said Natalie. She recalled how she would go as long as possible with no food at all, running purely off water and low fat food, hiding it from both friends and family. “Anorexia creeps up on you very slowly and then suddenly you realise you are in too deep to get back out.” Natalie also turned to pro-anorexia websites; however stated she personally only used them for the support of other anorexics, rather than to try out ‘tips’.
“I would advise anyone using or running one of these sites to seek help and to ask themselves why they are really doing it.” Now seeing these sites with the tips and tricks available to those already ill, Natalie acknowledges that these are not ‘tips’.“I would advise anyone using or running one of these sites to seek help and to ask themselves why they are really doing it.” Natalie is fortunate to be on her way to a full recovery; “Recovery is possible, it’s a long journey and it’s hard work but it’s worth it and you develop so much as a person”. If you are concerned someone you know is suffering then never be afraid to speak up and confront them, as help is the only way out. Student Services run drop ins specifically for Eating Disorders, the next ones are - 10th February, 10th March, 14th April and the 12th of May in Student Services (next to the Health Centre) For more information contact 01522 886181 By Jessica Wilson Illustration Faith Wibberley
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What is sport?
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t is almost impossible to try and define what a sport is. The oxford dictionary tells us that sport is: ‘an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment’. However, to each individual, sport actually means something completely different. A crucial factor in all mainstream sport is the element of competition; however, many activities such as cooking, singing and styling can include a competition factor. Whereas ‘traditional sports’ such as football, rugby, and basketball have been around for hundreds of years, today’s generation have taken things to a whole new level. Whether it’s watching ‘Match of the day’ or walking your dog, swimming at the seaside or working those muscles at the gym - individual opinions about what sport is are limitless. Nowadays, most sports can be played on your mobile phone, on the computer and on video games. So this would technically mean most youngsters are taking part in a sport for several hours a day without necessary improving any fitness levels. Let’s not forget how age can influence opinion: Many of the older community consider bingo to be a sport and why not? After all they are competing against others in a very intense game. It’s amazing how people only remember the physical sports and over-look the mentally challenging side of things. For instance the highly competitive game of chess can take days to complete and years to conquer but what do we call it, a sport or just a game? There was much controversy surrounding the University Sports category this year, following the move of dance, cheerleading and trampolining from societies to clubs. Some argue that these are not real sports yet they all train just as hard and compete against other teams at very high standards. So where is the line drawn between a sport, a game and a society? Words by Sabra Abukalid
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n the cold winter night of December 14, Lincoln Lakers and Lincoln Roos prepared for a training session that was going to be quite out of the ordinary. It was an eventful night as both squads stepped into each other’s shoes for the University of Lincoln’s first ever team swap. Surprisingly, the shoes fit quite well and both sides enjoyed the experience, learning not to take one another’s sport for granted. The atmosphere was lively with all members unsure of what to expect from the evening. Screams dominated the basketball end of the sports hall, as the trampoliners adjusted to having a ball thrown to them. Meanwhile, echoes of laughter sprung off the walls as the Lakers lads watched each other attempt several trampoline stunts.
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Morgan: Well with basketball the end result is thanks to the whole team, trampolining is more of an individual thing. Carla: Yeah, it was nice to play as a team because with trampolining you are up there alone. Q.5.What did the experience make you appreciate about your own sport? Morgan: I guess just playing alongside my team, with basketball you build a really tight chemistry. Carla: I think just being able to compete solely on my own, playing basketball if you mess up you’re letting other people down too.
At the end of the fun-filled session, I caught up with Morgan Thomas from the Lakers and Carla Nudd from the Roos to get their views about the night.
Q.6.What did the experience make you admire most about the other sport? Morgan: I appreciate the mental strength that the trampoliners have and how hard it is to get everything technically on point. Carla: I think I now appreciate how hard the basketball team have to work and just how high their level of fitness has to be.
Q.1.How hard was it playing a completely different sport? Morgan: I found it actually quite technically difficult just staying on the trampoline; I think it would take a lot of time to get good at it. Carla: I think keeping hold of the ball is what I found hardest and I can’t dribble at all.
Q.7. If you could have swapped with any other sport who would you have picked and why? Morgan: I’d probably say the rowing team just to compare fitness levels would be good. Carla: Martial Arts would be good I think, because they are quite similar to us control of posture and focus wise.
Q.2.What was the best thing about taking part in the swap today? Morgan: I think the whole experience was really good because I knew nothing about trampolining before this. Carla: Just taking part in something new, I definitely have a new found respect for basketball now.
Lastly, would you guys like to swap with each other again? Both: Yeah definitely! We’re going to organise a social together too.
Q.3.What was the worst thing about the swap? Morgan: Sort of being in the spotlight I guess because everyone is watching you and also trampolining is just knackering. Carla: Having to run around! Q.4.What is the biggest difference between the two sports?
Words by Sabra Abukalid Photos Liam Duffy
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