nu:life Issue 28

Issue No.28 2012

FREE to a good home

The Official voice of Northumbria Students’ Union www.mynsu.co.uk

Your Favourite Student Magazine Filled with News, Gossip and Advice from around Northumbria SU

PLEASE HELP Don’t cross the road from our Raggies Rogue Landlords and Letting Agencies EXPOSED Plus: Northumbria Overheard, Advice, Spotted and everything you need to get involved!

Your Union, Your University, Your Magazine!

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Open 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday Find us on Facebook ‘Blackwell bookshop Newcastle’ or follow us on twitter @BlackwellNcl BLACKWELL’S

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contents editors words

Alright guys, Hope everybody has recovered from Welcome Week and is all geared up for RAG week. It’s been an exciting month here at NSU with students old and new flooding the building (not to mention the real floods we narrowly avoided) but it’s great to see people around and if you need me or any of the other Sabbs we’re around to help out with anything you want. Whether you want to know more about the National Demo or just want to chat about anything that’s troubling you.

Make sure that you’re all aware of dodgy landlords to make sure you’re not being ripped off just because you’re a student! Find out the latest about the National Demonstration which is happening down in London on the 21st of November - a day that will hopefully go down in history as a day that students stood up to the government to make their voices heard...and also learn about RAG Week - why you should be involved or if you don’t have the time to give make sure you give a few coins to our amazing volunteers.

Happy Reading Mike xxx Contributors SU:News/Page of Praise Kathryn Boyd Hot or Not (For) Amy Waugh Hot or Not (Against), Diary of a Third Year Suzie Harker Discuss - The Moral Dilemma Erinn Kerr Getting a head start with your career Beth Long Letting Agencies EXPOSED, Agony Aunts, Gig-Goers Julia Bond RAG is BACK Emma Paxton Get Involved with your Union Adam Young How to make the most of your summer Heather Whiteley Writers’ Society Special Jacob Turner Discover more on a budget James Kreczak #Birksky’sTopTips on Student Employment Chris Birks Horror Films Adam Crawley Local Restaurants Izzi Surridge Pumpkin Soup Recipe, Agony Aunts Emily Sait Dress for Less With Vintage Hannah Freeney Making Your House a Home Caroline Innes

NSU NEWS Sabb Spotlight 4-5 SU:News & Page Of Praise 6 Upcoming Events 7

FEATURES Hot Topic! - Halloween 8-9 Discuss - The Moral Dilemma 10 Diary Of A Third Year 11 Getting A Head Start With Your Career 12 Rogue Letting Agencies EXPOSED 13 GET INVOLVED RAG Is BACK 14 National Demo 15 Who Are Your Lay Student Councillors 16 Get Involved With Your Students’ Union 17 LIGHT RELIEF Northumbria Overheard 19 Spotted 20 - 21 How To Make The Most Of Your Summer 22 Agony Aunts 23 Writers’ Society Special 24 Discover More On A Budget 25 #Birksky’s Top Tips on Student Employment 26 STUDENT CULTURE Gig-Goers 27 Horror Films 28 Dress For Less With Vintage 29 Restaurants Vs Recipies 30-31 Making Your House A Home 32 CAMPUS SERVICES One To Remember 34 - 35 Eat Fresh 36 Rugby’s Next Generation: Fit For Success 38 Bouncing Back 39

Special Thank you to; Victoria Myerscough for a second proof read Editor Mike Potter - mike.potter@northumbria.ac.uk Twitter: NSUCommsOfficer Design www.ellenlonghorndesign.co.uk nu:life 03

NSU News SABB Spotlight

SABBSPOTLIGHT If you don’t know who your Sabbatical Officers are yet, where have you been? Their faces are everywhere and who can forget the life-sized photos of their torsos outside their office? If you still don’t know what a ‘Sabb’ is then let me enlighten you. A ‘Sabb’ is a Sabbatical Officer who was elected when they were students to represent Northumbria Students for a year - we all have specific remits whether it be looking out for you inside the classroom or making sure you’re safe in the community but we are all here to fight your case on campaigns and issues that really affect you whilst at University. If you’re ever having trouble, just drop one of us an email and we’ll try to help you out.

Make sure you’re in know what the Sabbs are doing by following them on Twitter and watching their fortnightly vlogs at: www.mynsu.co.uk/sabbaticals

JO RHODES President What is your role?

Leading the best Students’ Union, changing the University to work for you and having a national impact!

What was your highlight of Welcome Week?

The last night of course! Seeing all the hard work put in by everyone paying off, thanking the volunteers and even meeting Reggie Yates! I hope you had as brilliant a time as I did.

What are you most looking forward to over the next month?

Demo 2012! It’s going to be amazing! Read the article on page 15 for more information! If you want to get involved, sign up on the Volunteer Database or send me a cheeky email at the address below.

What are you dressing up as for Halloween this year?

You’ll have to come find me at the Students’ Union to find out! It’ll be reeeeallyyy good though! jo.rhodes@northumbria.ac.uk me

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NSUPres

NICOLE PEGG Vice-President Academic Affairs What is your role?

I am responsible for representing all students on academic issues, for instance assessment & feedback. I take the lead on any education related campaign and I am the Sabbatical mentor for all academic representation at Northumbria.

What was your highlight of Welcome Week?

It has got to be the Silent Disco, especially as we mimed at strangers on the way to the S.U, got to say we got some quite positive responses too.

What are you most looking forward to over the next month?

Well it would be silly for me not to say Course Rep Conference, where we will aim to train over 300 course reps throughout the day. I play a big part in the running of this day and it’s my first one so wish me luck! Also don’t forget to come to the AGM which is at 13.45 during the conference to have your say on how the Union is run. The day takes place on 31st October.

What are you dressing up as for Halloween this year?

Well as Course Rep Conference is on Halloween I am probably going to have to be dressed quite smart for most of it, however I haven’t planned a costume and I do like a bit of originality so tweet me your ideas @nsuacademics and I may even push the boat out and wear the best suggestion. nicole.pegg@northumbria.ac.uk me

NSUAcademics

MIKE POTTER Vice-President Communications & Democracy

HANNAH HORNE Vice-President Welfare & Equality

ANDREW CHEUNG Vice-President Activities & Development

What is your role?

My role is a bit of a mixed bag really. On one side of the coin, we have student media which is massively exciting and allows me to work with some amazingly talented volunteers. The other side to my role is ensuring the Union is democratic whether that be the two elections that we hold each year or looking after Student Council.

What is your role?

It’s my job to ensure that nothing outside of the classroom negatively impacts upon your student experience and causes you not to achieve the best degree you can. These issues can be anything from housing, to health and crime. I also lead a strong representation team – your Halls, Community and Equality Reps, who exist to make sure your voice is heard and change is made on all of these issues!

What is your role?

I oversee the student volunteering activities such as RAG, EcoNSU, Volunteer Northumbria, Societies, and Welcome Team. I also look at student development through volunteering, such as skills, and employability.

What was your highlight of Welcome Week?

It’s so hard to choose! The team were amazing, the media team certainly did me proud and the quality of their footage is phenomenal. It was one of the smoothest Welcome Weeks in recent history with a great line up – but the lack of the yearly fire alarm was probably my highlight.

What are you most looking forward to over the next month?

So much really – RAG week is going to be amazing, I’m doing a session at Course Rep Conference which I’m really excited about and the National Demonstration is going to be amazing. Lots of students from different parts of the country meeting up to ensure that Higher Education is key when it comes to the next general election What are you dressing up as for Halloween this year?

It’s been a while since I wandered around dressed as Harry Potter so might have to whip the faithful Gryffindor cape out. mike.potter@northumbria.ac.uk me

NSUCommsOfficer

What was your highlight of Welcome Week?

It’s got to be the awards night (despite the fresher’s flu!) because there was such a sense of community in the room and it was really heart-warming. We had all worked hard throughout the week together and I felt really proud to be a part of it. It’s so sad that it was my last ever Welcome Week! Unless I do masters...

What are you most looking forward to over the next month?

It has got to be the National Demo!

On the 21st November we’ll be taking buses of students down to London, along with many other SUs across the country, to put pressure on the Government to put Higher Education Issues back onto the agenda. You can be a part of this too, sign up and come along with us!

What are you dressing up as for Halloween this year?

Nothing will beat last year’s costume (Jo Rhodes) so that’s quite a difficult question! Think I’ll probably go with one of the classics, either a cat, witch or a pumpkin.

What was your highlight of Welcome Week?

I think my highlight of Welcome Week would be seeing the Societies and Volunteering fair be so successful, and also seeing the positive impact the Welcome team has had on welcoming all the new students.

What are you most looking forward to over the next month?

RAG Week!!! We are collecting for some amazing charities, and is a great opportunity to enhance your CV so make sure you sign up!

What are you dressing up as for Halloween this year?

I may recycle my existing fancy dress collection and dress up as a white masked puppet! andrew.cheung@northumbria.ac.uk me

NSUActivities1

Remember to drop by our Coach Lane Office and see us at our second home Mike Monday Afternoon Andy Tuesday Morning Nicole Tuesday Afternoon Hannah Wednesday Morning Jo Wednesday Afternoon

hannah.horne@northumbria.ac.uk me

NSUWelfare1

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NSU News SU:News & Page Of Praise

NSU News WELCOME WEEK 2012 Welcome Week 2012, where to begin?! What a week, from moving people in, to bag packing, to the societies and volunteering fair, to raving with the freshers and Tinchy Stryder! Literally the best week of university life ever, I wish every week

was Welcome Week! People should be excited for Welcome Week 2013 already, the teams were amazing and the team leaders did a fab job and were an absolute credit to Northumbria Student’s Union! All the Sabbs and Lays, particularly Andy Cheung should be very proud of everything they achieved.

Page Of Praise Mike Squair Mike Squair, one of your Lay Student Councillors received the prestigious ‘Dave Wright Award of Excellence’ for going above and beyond throughout the entire week. From trips to A&E with drunken first years to inducting thousands of students through induction talks - Mike excelled himself and is a role model for any student volunteer. He also cannot be forgotten for his enthusiasm, dedication to fancy dress and getting a little bit too naked when hypnotised by Lo Reid!

Tim Patchett Tim Patchett was very deserving of team leader of the week, he always had a smile on his face no matter how exhausted he was and was always there for his team as well as anyone else on the welcome team. He went above and beyond what was expected of him as team leader. Tim is one of the nicest guys you could meet and has a heart of gold. He always has time for everyone and makes an effort to make everyone feel welcome and like part of the team.

He will be sorely missed in the Welcome Team and the Union next year.

Chris Chater Chris Chater was awarded the title of Welcome Team Member of the Week and there’s no reason to question why, we’ve never had somebody so happy about tasks such as clicking people in and out of the Societies and Volunteering Fair. A constant help and an inspiration to all Team Members!

Team 10 Team 10 were undoubtedly one of the closest teams in recent history. Led by Duncan Page, their ‘messiah’ who wrote the Ten Commandments of Welcome Week including ‘thou shall not get with a fresher’. Their teamwork and close bond was commendable and together were known as Duncan Doughnuts. An amazing group of people who will hopefully return to be involved in everything that the Union has to offer!

Kathryn Boyd

Upcoming

NSU News Upcoming Events

Events OCTOBER 31st October AGM At 1:45pm during Course Rep Conference, everybody is invited to have a chance into feeding into what the Students’ Union is doing. For only half an hour of your time, it’ll be so useful to get your student opinion and although it’s Halloween, we promise it won’t be scary.

NOVEMBER

20th November Student Council Our second Council meeting of the year will be held and with issues that massively affect you being debated - can you afford not to be there to have your voice heard?

1st November GOAL Day We’re massive on gathering student opinion here at NSU so when people ask for a few minutes of your time on the 1st of November, please stop and answer a few simple questions.

It might not be too much for you, but it’ll be masses for the Union as we can make sure we’re representing you as much as possible.

10th - 16th November RAG Week Last year we raised an amazing £28,000 in a few short days – can we top that this year? We can only do it, if people get involved and people are willing to part with a bit of their change (and dignity, in the case of some of the Raggies innovative fancy dress).

21st November NUS National Demonstration For too long have Students been ignored since the Coalition came into Government. This peaceful march gives students the opportunity to get Higher Education back on the agenda and give two fingers to Mr Clegg. Why would you want to miss that...make sure you’re on the bus!

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HOTORNOT HALLOWEEN

So it’s late October a time where: any hint of summer sunshine has disappeared, student life has taken a tumble -suddenly going from hardcore partying to more frequent nights in and our bank balances are just hanging in there.

It’s safe to say the novelty of beginning Uni is certainly starting to wear off. It’s just as well that bringing the month to a close is a fun, frivolous event in the name of Halloween!

FOR Every year without fail on the 31st October my mind is always cast back to when I was a child. Halloween is the best excuse of the year to create and wear ridiculous costumes; this all began at the annual primary school Halloween tea party where prizes were given for the scariest attire. Despite having a stressed out mother for a week over the decision of what I was to wear, there was nothing more fun than being creative with fake blood and the satisfaction of seeing our handy work come together.

As I got older Halloween got even better, due to the customary practice of ‘Trick or Treating’! What’s more fun than singing songs in exchange for treats? Now I understand that children are taught; not to take sweets or money from strangers on 364 days of the year, then one day are allowed to virtually turn into beggars but breaking the norm is the attraction of the day . It has been culturally accepted that whole neighbourhoods unite, to give to many children and adults alike. It is a time of year when people put aside their social suppression and go to a stranger’s house and become acquainted, even if it is only for a few minutes.

Halloween also cheers up the dark nights and brings everyone together, whether it is with family or friends.

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Sadly the time came when I was too old to go ‘trick or treating’ but replacing this tradition is the legendary Halloween party. Here anything goes including creepy cocktails, apple bobbing or even provocative dressing! The night gives you the permission to be imaginative and transform into something else, without anyone casting a judgement.

For some venturing out on a chilly autumn night is just unthinkable. However Halloween also cheers up the dark nights and brings everyone together, whether it is with family or friends. It makes a dull night in- festive and full of high spirits. A trip to Tesco with your housemates to purchase the biggest pumpkin your eyes can find followed by a gathering round the kitchen table as you all attempt to carve the pumpkin is a great bonding experience, even if the mouth is squint and the eyes are too close together!

So the common theme is: Halloween brings an abundance of fun. We all lead hectic and stressful lives; it forms a night of escapism from a mundane week of lectures. Embrace the fact that it is here every year. Go on, do something fun... Explore your inner ghoul or goblin!

Amy Waugh

FEATURES Hot Topic! - Halloween

...I think of the little dears wandering the streets on a cold, dark evening, knocking on the doors of randomers, which realistically can’t be completely safe.

AGAINST Everyone raves about Welcome Week; however I If you’re thinking “who could possibly not like Halloween?! You get to dress up in a tiny outfit, drink copious amounts of alcohol and eat loads of sweets with a great excuse”, you have just listed the very reasons I am against this pointless, capitalist, joke of a celebration we call Halloween. Okay, maybe that’s a little strong, but let me explain myself...

Now I’m a huge fan of Christmas and Easter, and I’m very much partial to a bank holiday every now and again, but getting as excited about Halloween I simply cannot do. It only lasts for one night of the year, so why are we bombarded with spooky costumes and pumpkins every shop we walk in for a month before, the same way we are with tinsel and stockings at Christmas time, only that is a celebration which lasts much longer than just one night. Nobody gets the day off work or Uni (although I’m sure the 1st November is very poorly attended), and many people forget about it until the doorbell rings and they get that overwhelming feeling of guilt that all they have in is apples.

So why do students feel such a need to celebrate it? I can only think of one reason – the excuse for a night out, but we are students; do we really need an excuse?! I am almost tempted to go out on the 31st October, not for a wild night out myself, but to ask all the people freezing in their half naked get-ups if they actually even know why Halloween exists. I may be wrong though, I’m sure many of them are there to remember the Pagan harvest festivals and the Celtic Samhain (yes, I looked on Wikipedia – guilty.)

Call me boring, but I also can’t help but think about the health and safety risks involved in Halloween.

Yes it’s just for one night, but I’m sure it’s one of A&E’s busiest for stomach pumping students.

Secondly, Britain is fast becoming one of the worst countries for obesity issues (and quickly catching up to the USA), so is a night of promoting chocolate and sweets in abundance really still okay to convey to children? Then I think of the little dears wandering the streets on a cold, dark evening, knocking on the doors of randomers, which realistically can’t be completely safe. I was always the child whose parents liked to follow closely behind, and at the time I was mortified, but now I can completely understand it (I forgive you, Mum).

So please don’t let me put a downer on your Halloween parties and big nights out, but just stay safe, wrap up warm (maybe a mummy outfit would be more suitable than a provocative kitten?) and take a second to consider whether you really needed the excuse to eat, drink and be merry... after all, Christmas is only two months away!

Suzie Harker

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FEATURES Discuss - The Moral Dilemma

DISCUSS: The Moral Dilemma Should We Buy From Supermarkets?

Do you remember before you came to university, you had a picture in your head of how things would look? Well my picture was of me sitting in a little indie café reading a book or writing an article and drinking a chai latte or something suitably pretentious, Earl Grey maybe, and I had similar day dreams about what life would be like when I moved into my city centre maisonette. I saw myself shopping at local delicatessens, Grainger market, the local Asian food shops, I saw myself riding a bike, having a compost heap, always using a bag for life, doing yoga.. you get the picture.

Well life hasn’t exactly turned out that way, and as I sat in Pret A Manger this morning eating a crossaint, looking out at the continental market, where less than ten feet from me an actual real life French man was selling actually fresh bread goods, I became inspired to write this article. I felt awful, and so I should, how many times have I meant to go to Grainger market to buy meat or fish or veg, where I know things are cheaper and of better quality, and found myself aimlessly wandering around Tesco Metro wandering how my basket got so full, I only went in there for a pint of milk, I swear!

Local coffee shops and markets are an important part of our local economy; I know that, yet I find myself (and my friends) rarely considering the prospect of meeting anywhere but Starbucks.

rkets a m d ps an t of our o h s coffee tant par l a c r Lo impo ;... n a are conomy e local 10 nu:life

Why is that? I want to say that it’s because I don’t know of many independent coffee shops around the City Centre, I can think of no less than 5 Costa stores but maybe only 3 independent coffee shops, all of which are out of the way, and I’m not even sure will have trained the guy in how to make a caramel macchiato. *sigh* But what if I told you that there aren’t more chain stores because they have been the most successful in the area? What if I told you that companies like Strabucks and McDonalds have been known to let a store run at a loss just so that they can dominate the high street? What if I told you that some ‘local neighborhood coffee shops’ in the USA were actually Starbucks stores with the branding removed, how would you feel then?

I’m not saying that you should never visit a Costa or a Nero, a McDonalds or a Krispy Kreme, but remember that the success of local business means success for your local economy, the success of McDonalds doesn’t.

Erinn Kerr

FEATURES Diary Of A Third Year

Diary of a 3rd year So the infamous third year has arrived, hello huge workloads, constant pep talks about ‘the future’ and that dreaded ‘D’ word: the dissertation! The time has come to be sensible and set an example as a third and final year student here at Northumbria.

So what’s the first thing I did as a responsible 3rd year? Acted like a fresher and hit the welcome week fairs. Come on, everyone deserves free pizza and donuts! I must admit it was slightly embarrassing trying to explain to almost every stall that I did sign up last year, and the year before, and I was really just there for the freebies, but they certainly seemed used to it. I then hit the societies fair with a ‘this is my last year I’m going to do everything’ attitude, and signed up for almost anything, from student radio to skydiving! Whether I will make it to all or any of these is a different matter, but the positivity was there!

Next came the weird starting lectures again excitement, which nobody really wants to admit, but one person dares to say it and then everyone gives in and admits there is something about new modules, new timetables and seeing everyone again which gets you slightly giddy on a Monday morning. Strange, I know, but don’t act like I’m not talking about you! This bubble was, of course, instantly burst by the mention of multiple 2000 word essays, hundreds of hours of ‘independent study’ (erm, does sleeping count?) and the horrific dissertation, a.k.a ‘the-thing-which-mustnot-be-named’ (in true ‘dark lord’ style!)

You’ll be relieved to hear that I have managed to squeeze a night out in among all this new-found stress, after all in a few weeks time the sticky floor of bars will be nothing but a faint memory, as I spend my evenings under a pile of books weeping. You don’t realise how much you miss cheap drinks until you go home for summer and pay twice as much for a single! God bless Newcastle nightlife.

So, to sum up my first two weeks of a third year: pizza, free pens and excitement followed by essay stress, exam stress and dissertation stress. I am determined not to let the latter half get on top of me too soon, let’s stay positive fellow third years! So to everybody feeling the same, good luck! I’m sure we will all get out alive, just be willing to push all the way to the end! And to all 1st and 2nd years reading, you’ve got all of this to look forward to...

Suzie Harker

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FEATURES Getting A Head Start With Your Career

GETTING A HEAD START WITH YOUR CAREER The light at the end of the tunnel is now in sight. You can almost feel the crispness of the white piece of paper that gets handed to you on Graduation Day. So, it’s time to dust off the two year hangover and start to think about life after Northumbria. If there is such a thing.

Here are a few ideas that might help you think more into what your next step is after Graduation.

Post-graduate courses are becoming more popular for students as a way to further their academic career. With many Universities offering a wide variety of post- grad courses, there is something for everyone. If you are currently in the final stages of a degree that is quite a broad course, for example, Journalism, English, History or Design, try looking into more specific courses.

If there has been particular module or aspect of your course that you enjoyed or succeeded at, try finding a course that specialises in what you enjoyed.

The advantages of doing a post-grad course is that you get a more advanced level of learning and also progresses your knowledge and skills. The only disadvantage is that post-graduate courses are expensive but in some circumstances, funding is available. This is something that you need to research more into, if you are wanting to proceed with a post-grad course.

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If another year of education doesn’t appeal to you then an internship or apprenticeship may be the next best thing. Internships allow you to have a taster into a job that may interest you, as internships are just temporary. Some last a few weeks, and others a few months depending on the company. Some internships are paid, but a majority of them are unpaid, so you many need a part time job to pay for the drinks.

But if you can’t see yourself doing none of the above, then another option is to get into the real world and out of the student bubble. That means getting a full-time job. I know, the real world is rubbish, but the student loan won’t pay itself off!

By getting a full- time job, it gives you the chance to save up some pennies to treat yourself after three years of hard work- and partying! Or if you really want to treat yourself, save up money to travel the world whilst you are still young!

The world is your oyster after you graduate, do something new and exciting. Whatever you choose to do after your time here at Northumbria, make sure you choose the right thing for you.

Beth Long

The world is your oyster after you graduate, do something new and exciting.

ROGUE LETTING AGENCIES EXPOSED

FEATURES Rogue Letting Agencies EXPOSED

All doom and gloom and money down the drain? Or some light at the end of the corridor?

Renting a property for the first time is one of the most daunting challenges for a student - basically because you have utterly no idea how to get most for your money.

There are so many horror stories from older students - tales of damp, insects breeding in the carpets and landlords demanding vast sums of money through letting fees and deposits before you even move into a property.

If that’s not enough to make you want to bury your head in the sand then you are made of stronger stuff than many of your fellow students.

However, putting aside these terror tales as long as you understand what is expected from your partnership with your landlord, letting can be an altogether easier experience. The landlord is in charge of keeping the structure and exterior of the property in good condition, in addition to the maintenance of running of water, drains, gas and electricity.

Landlords are allowed to carry out inspections of the property but they must give 24 hours’ notice to the tenants.

In contrast tenants (that’s you) must not damage the house, if you do you are responsible for the repairs sadly. Responsibilities include securing the property before you leave and noise levels from day to day living and parties, the police rocking up to close you down is never a good day. In terms of reporting repairs needed, it is advisable to do it in writing or by e-mail then they cannot have an excuse not to rectify the issue, however, only when the landlord is aware of the problem does their responsibility for it begin.

Luckily for students there is some light at the end of the tunnel, Northumbria Students’ Union has launched NU:LETS, a lettings agency to ensure students get the best living experience possible out of their housing in Newcastle.

We asked Hannah Horne, Vice President Welfare and Equality about how NU:LETS is different to other agencies and what can students expect?

NU:Lets will always have student interests at the heart of everything we do. Too many of our students face difficulties with poor conditions in their property which are left because they cannot get in contact with their Landlord. It’s not OK to allow poor standards because the tenants are students.

It’s also not acceptable to charge students through the roof for admin fees. That’s why our agency will charge zero fees and will promise high standards in all that we do. NU:LETS aims to lead the way for house letting in Newcastle, raising standards across the city!

Letting is a nightmare, sadly that’s a fact. However, there are a few gems out there to make the whole process easier and with the union’s fabulous new venture ready to set sail and help save us a few pennies, the future looks a bit less stressful.

Here’s to easier letting.

Julia Bond

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GET INVOLVED RAG Is BACK

9-16 NOV HOW MUCH CAN YOU TAKE?

From the 9th-16th of November 2012 hundreds of students donning the famed orange t-shirts will descend onto the streets of Newcastle for a marathon week of fundraising, banter and great nights out. All this to raise as much money for three incredible charities: Toma Fund, Teenage Cancer Trust and Water Aid. RAG Week is a perfect antidote to a typical cold Newcastle day. Friendships form fast among volunteers and if making loads of friends in a matter of days isn’t enough then there are great socials every night to celebrate the days raising successes.

There will also be one off events throughout the year.

Movember is usually a popular choice, so lads, if you have ever wanted an excuse to see how you’d look with a tash, now’s your chance. For the ladies, there is also One Month One Dress, where the challenge is to wear the same dress everyday for the whole of November but accessorised differently. There are also Rag Raids where we take a bus load of students to cities like London and Edinburgh with the challenge of raising in a new city.

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But of course Rag isn’t all about the legendary fancy dress and chanting with hundreds of your friends down Northumberland Street. It’s also about Raising and Giving (RAG) Last year the 300 strong RAG team raised £28,000 in just 8 days. Great figure to add onto your CV right? So tell your friends and family to get their spare change ready, because RAG Week is coming!

And also sign up to our facebook group for all the latest Raggie news and events; www.facebook.com/nsu.rag Emma Paxton

GET INVOLVED National Demo

Do you care about your education? Or that of your family in the future? Are you worried about getting a job? Want to make a difference?

This autumn, students and supporters will take to the streets of central London calling for a new generation of activists to set an agenda for the next General Election.

Northumbria Students’ Union is joining others across the country and going to London to help shape the future of Higher Education. We want to make a difference and we want you to join us.

National Union of Students The National Union of Students (NUS) don’t just provide you with your discounts through the NUS Extra Card, but also campaign to protect your rights and represent you on a national level. The Demonstration was called during the NUS National Conference 2012 (want to see how you can shape policy at next year’s? Check out running for NUS National Conference Delegate 2013 in the November elections!) and many students across the country said they wanted to have a demonstration around these issues.

Liam Burns, NUS President said,

“You’ve got a lot to be angry about. You’ve had your education systematically attacked across the board by the coalition. And even if you get to the other end, what have you got to look forward to?

You might remember, Northumbria Students’ Union supported NUS in their Demo in 2010, against the rise in tuition fees. We had a huge impact. We ensured that there remained a cap on tuition fees and that there was lots of support and protection for students which wouldn’t have been in place without the Demo2010.

What are you going to do about it?

Northumbria Students’ Union is going to London and we are going to make a difference. Do you want to be a part of it? Do you want to help us have a national impact? Join us on the 21st November by signing up on the Volunteer Database www.mynsu.co.uk/ volunteering or by emailing jo.rhodes@northumbria. ac.uk Are you worried about getting a job after you’ve finished Uni? Join the club! Unemployment is a huge problem, particularly in the North East. So many graduates want to stay in Newcastle when they’ve graduated but the jobs just aren’t available.

Jo Rhodes, President of Northumbria Students’ Union said

“Make sure that you have your voice heard, our education is too important not to act and we can’t do this without you. Make sure you sign up and have your say on the future of education.”

“Youth unemployment is at an all-time high, getting on the property ladder is next to impossible and we don’t even have the safety net of pensions to look forward to any more”.

“In a year in which there are no votes in parliament and no legislation coming before politicians, it’s about time we started setting the agenda.” nu:life 15

GET INVOLVED Who Are Your Lay Student Councillors

Who are your Lay Student Councillors Back in March, you might remember people asking you to vote for them to be a Lay Student Counsellor but you might not have had any idea what exactly a ‘Lay’ was. These people were elected to ensure that all students are represented on Student Council. They were elected like the Sabbaticals Officers on manifestos but they have no specific remit so are free to campaign and whatever they believe affect all Northumbria students. Although the Lays are part-time officers they are still full-time students too!

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Lauren Teague, Mike Squair, Sophie Chilton, Tom Bromwich and Tilly Smith are your Lay Student Councillors for the next year and are devoted to making sure you get the most out of your uni experience. With exciting plans in the pipeline, look out for what they are up to and if you want to suggest anything make sure you tweet them at me @NSULayTeam

GET INVOLVED Get Involved With Your Students’ Union

GET INVOLVED with YOUR STUDENTS’ UNION So, you’re a fresher?! I’m guessing you’ve settled into your halls and course by now! You’re looking to see what else Uni has to offer! You’ve already noticed that you have an incredible amount of free time, so much that you literally don’t know what to do with yourself! The minute you realise this, the minute you find yourself bored, with nothing to do, I give you two words...”GET INVOLVED!”

The Students’ Union is absolutely packed with things to do!

Literally it would take you the duration of your course and then some, to try everything available to you! Absolutely anything that you have an interest in will be catered for!

Even if it isn’t, the union is always interested in hearing your ideas and what you are passionate about.

Now I understand that it is terrifying, the thought of going to something completely new, separate to what your flat mates do, going to something within which you know nobody and were potentially there is already a group of people who have gelled! Well let me encourage you to go, just go! Go and find those like minded friends, go and share your passion! Trust me when I say that you will meet some incredible people, you will gain some incredible memories and you will certainly not regret pushing through that fear and getting involved!

Not only do you have the opportunity to use your time wisely, pursue your passion, meet new people or try new things. You also make yourself more employable! You have the opportunity to develop new skills or grow those already there! You have the opportunity to make a difference, make somebody smile and give something back! You have the opportunity to have your voice heard, inspire others and leave your mark! The opportunities are endless, you just have to go and do it! I promise you, it will enhance your university experience by 100x!

So go on, step out of your comfort zone, challenge yourself and allow yourself the chance to grow!

Don’t believe me? Here’s my story! As a fresher I knew coming to Uni that I just wanted to make the most of my time here, I wanted to try new things but I was terrified to go to anything. I almost didn’t go to a particular meeting when I pushed through and I can tell you it was the best thing I ever did! I joined the student television station and that year I presented loads of shows including Northumbria’s Got Talent and went to Nottingham with “NU:TV” to the National and Student Television Awards where I was put forward for “Best on-screen male!”

There you have it, I could have avoided that meeting and stayed in bed, had none of that or I could have did what I did and just went and done it! I know what I’d prefer!

Adam Young

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Postgraduate Study and Research Event 12 – 4pm, Wednesday 21 November 2012

‘Students’ Union, City Campus East’ • 9 out of 10 Northumbria PG taught and research graduates are in employment/further study within six months of leaving* • Scholarships worth up to 25% off tuition fees for students holding a UK degree** * DLHE Survey ** Terms and conditions apply, please see our website

www.northumbria.ac.uk/pgevent

LIGHT RELIEF Northumbria Overheard

Overheard in Knoll Court

Overheard at CCE

Flatmate 1: “Why are you washing our George Foreman in the sink?”

Flatmate 2: “Well how else am I supposed to wash it?”

Overheard in the library

“I don’t get why you’d get a law degree just to be a barista in a coffee shop”

“My stalker is not texting me back”

Overheard in Northumberland Café “I’m on a carb free diet so I think I’ll just get a Jacket Potato”

Overheard at Quay Point

Overheard at the Big Fat Quiz of the Week during the Music Bingo Round “What happens if you get two lines before a full house?”

Flatmate 1: “Will you please clean up that water you’ve spilt on the floor?”

Flatmate 2: “That’s your shadow”

Heard something stupid and want to humiliate your friends? (anonymously, of course) drop an email to mike.potter@northumbria.ac.uk or tweet me at @NSUCommsOfficer with hashtag #northumbriaoverheard

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Welcome Team End of Week Party Once again we’d like to thank our amazing Welcome Team for their efforts ŠHarry Marshall Photogaphy www.marshallphotos.com

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LIGHT RELIEF How To Make The Most Of Your Summer

How To Make The Most Of Your Summer One of the great things about university is the incredibly long holidays. Depending on when your exams finish, you can be looking at up to four months of free time. What did you do this summer? Maybe you worked a lot and saved up for the uni year ahead or did volunteer work within your community. Maybe you went travelling with friends and saw a far-distant land.

But did you know it’s possible to do both if you start planning now?

This year, following my experience in Fiji, I decided to go on another adventure.

Camp America seemed perfect for me, because it gave me the opportunity to earn some money as well as travelling abroad. This time I was gone for a full ten weeks, and worked six days a week at Calumet, a faith-based camp for kids aged 8-15.

The typical working day started at 7am and didn’t finish until 10pm, as you’re constantly responsible for the campers. However, despite being tired, I never stopped having an absolute blast - the kids were amazing and I got real hands-on teaching experience.

The past two years, I have spent my summers with two different organisations aimed at students, Volunteer Eco Students Abroad (VESA) and Camp America. The main thing that both these schemes have in common is that you need to apply now!

You’re starting the new semester and summer is probably the furthest thing from your mind, but with schemes like these, the earlier you apply the more chance you have of getting accepted.

With Volunteer Eco Students Abroad, I travelled to Fiji and spent a week volunteering renovating a school in a village. I went completely alone, but met the rest of the group of eager volunteers there and made some amazing friends. It’s simple to apply, just an online form, and if you’re accepted you’re sent a lot of information to prepare you for your trip. You can even fundraise for the balance to go (which is pricey but pays for all the expenses of the volunteer work, such as building materials) and the experience is much more than something to put on your CV - it is life-changing. You can find information about applying at www.vesabroad.com.

The application process for Camp America is a bit more difficult and you definitely need to start now. There’s an online application process, followed by an interview, a CRB check, an application for a working VISA followed by the placement process, which can take quite a while.

Get your adventure started now by checking out www.campamerica.co.uk.

Heather Whiteley

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LIGHT RELIEF Agony Aunts

Julia & Emily say ‘Ask Us Anything’!

This is my first year at Uni and I have a girlfriend, but she’s taking a year out and staying at home which is about 2 hours away from here. At first it seemed fine but now she’s getting really clingy and keeps bugging me about going out all the time. I really don’t want to break up with her because it’s great when we’re together but I want to be able to enjoy it without having to worry about her getting upset all the time, how can I make her understand?

I’m living in halls and my flatmates are a nightmare! They’re so messy and loud all the time and I’m always the one left to clean up. I don’t really mind at the weekends but it’s during the week as well when I have Uni work to do and even though I’ve spoke to them about it, it just seems to be getting worse. They’re all really nice but how do I get them to calm down a little!?

Harry

Hi Nicole,

Hi Harry, Your girlfriend is probably just a little bit jealous right now as she can see you’re having an amazing time and wishes she could be doing the same. It’s hard for people who have never been to uni to understand the lifestyle, but obviously she cares a lot about you and will probably just need a little bit of extra attention while you both get used to the situation. Make sure you set aside time to talk to her on a regular basis, have patience and reassure her everything’s fine - I bet she just misses you!

Nicole

This is one of the most common problems with halls and there are things you can do! If talking to your flatmates isn’t enough perhaps suggest something else - like a cleaning rota? A lot of the time people get so excited about coming to university and living on their own they forget there are others in the flat that don’t always want to party every night, so explaining to them you have work to do might help as well. If they really won’t listen though, you can contact the halls manager or University Accommodation Office and they will be able to help you out.

Emily & Julia

Emily & Julia

and in halls g n i v i l a I’m ates are my flatmre! nightma

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LIGHT RELIEF Writers’ Society Special

WriSoc Serial DRAWN FROM MEMORY

Samantha couldn’t have walked away from the Psychology office quick enough. Marching along the corridor and out towards the building’s main exit she couldn’t understand how something so simple as returning an educational DVD could have gone so wrong. She had taken it back. She distinctly remembered handing it to the woman behind the desk. Now she had to go home and make absolutely sure it wasn’t still there as the department were insisting they hadn’t received it. Samantha felt the colours she was seeing fade to a murkier, shady grey tone.

Turning over every stone in her room she slumped down on her chair and let out a huge sigh. Where the hell could it be? She looked up and started to replay the event as it had happened, a few times in her mind, each repeat slowed down a little more as she tried to recall what the woman she handed it to looked like. The images felt rushed and blurry as this event was not supposed to be an important one. At the time Samantha’s thoughts were on other things mainly what she was going to buy her friend Rachael for her birthday with a budget of ten pounds.

Focusing on reliving the moment she spoke the words she presumed she’d said and carried out the gestures. “I’m returning a DVD I borrowed.” Eyes closed, she put her hand down where her bag would have been and pulled it up as if holding out the item.

All her reconstruction efforts rewarded her with were a vague picture of a woman with blond hair.

This type of memory exercise had usually served her well when it came to remembering something; a person she bumped into on the streets name, the way she’d travelled somewhere when she’d been lost, Samantha was usually very good at retrieving small fragments of hidden or forgotten things in her memory bank, but not on this occasion.

Opening the freezer door and feeling the breeze on her skin she felt a migraine coming on. Moving towards the sink for a glass of water she felt a pressing force on her head. As she sat down with her hands on her forehead she closed her eyes and saw a grey figure zoom across her line of vision and out of sight. What the hell? Taken aback she quickly checked the room and hallway for intruders.

Eventually satisfied it was all in her mind she continued to make dinner.

3:34AM. Samantha woke with an uncontrollable need to blink. As she did the grey figure she’d seen before appeared in her mind holding up a small white parcel and gave her what she interpreted as an apologetic gesture. Samantha rubbed her forehead in pain for a second then noticed the figure throw the parcel down and run away apologetically.

Thump! Something hit the ground. Samantha peered over her bedpost and stared at her floor. Her eyes widened and she couldn’t believe what she saw, the DVD she thought she’d returned entitled; Borrowing Memories.

saw, entitled; e h s d e what ’d returne v e i l t be she ouldn’ thought c e h e s VD sh the D

Jacob Turner

ries o m e M g n i w o Borr

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LIGHT RELIEF Discover More On A Budget

Discover more

ON A BUDGET Thinking about taking a trip next year but think you can’t afford it? Think again.

Living on a student budget can, at times, be tough, especially if you’re thinking of budgeting to go away with your housemates in the coming year as well. Here are some alternatives that are a little closer to home than those expensive far-away breaks we all long for, but are just as fun and adventurous.

Camping Why not submerge yourself in nature right in the world of camping? Fell Foot Wood campsite in Ulverston, Cumbria, is definitely a must if you enjoy music and parties. The site hosts music weekends between March and October every year, and there is even the opportunity to rent out a tipi tent. With prices from as little as £6 per person per night, you can’t go wrong!

Edinburgh weekend Whether you’re into the 6 Nations rugby, comedy, culture, or anything in between, Edinburgh really has it all to offer.

A direct train from Newcastle railway station will get you there in around 90 minutes, and the city has such a diverse nightlife – one to suit every person.

Amsterdam mini-cruise DFDS Seaways offer overnight cabin return trips to Amsterdam from Newcastle starting from around £185 for 2 people.

With awesome nightlife and an endless stream of things to do, you will never have a dull moment. Amsterdam is a fantastic place to spend New Year and an abundance of pubs will allow you to drink as the Dutch do in amazing surroundings. nu:life 25 James Kreczak

LIGHT RELIEF #Birksky’s Top Tips on Student Employment

#Birksys TopTips on...

Student Employment.

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VERYONE thinks about getting a job whilst at University so make sure you start looking about now before all the vacancies go. There are 35,000 students at Northumbria, and not that many jobs.

AKE sure to check out student services and sign uP to the job shop. It’s a great way of finding somewhere perfect for you. Submit your email address and vacancies will be sent to you!

AYDAY! It’s everyone’s favourite day of the month. It makes all those long hours worth it, but don’t spend it all at once!

ECTURES shouldn’t suffer because of your part-time work.

Don’t work more than 16 hours per week. Remember you have university work to do outside of lectures. If you fall behind on this, you may struggle to catch up.

PPORTUNITIES are advertised everywhere, so keep your eyes peeled!

OU need to look respectable for your interview (Fingers crossed you get one!) Dress for the occasion. Employers love people who take pride in their appearance and look smart.

If you represent yourself well, you’re more likely to get hired.

CDONALDS Burger King, WHSmith, Pizza Hut and all the shops in Eldon Square and the metro center all advertise vacancies in different ways. Check in shop windows and online, some advertise using posters and some keep it quiet.

Make sure to ask in store whether they’re recruiting.

FFORT Put maximum effort into your work. You never know, it may become your chosen career whether it’s working behind a bar or coaching sport to youths. Jobs are hard to come by after university, so work hard and you may set yourself up without even knowing it.

EVER skip university for work. Your degree will suffer because of it. Trust me, it’s not worth it and you’ll regret it in the long run.

AKE time to relax. University and a part-time job can take a lot out of you. Don’t stress yourself and make sure you give yourself time to wind down.

STUDENT CULTURE Gig-Goers

So that was Welcome Week.

Where do I start?

As a start off for the year Northumbria Student’s Union did us proud to say the least, with live acts and DJs almost every night we were spoiled in every sense of the word with something to suit everyone’s taste.

DJ Fresh kicked off the week and wowed the crowds with his number one hits ‘Hot Right Now’ and ‘Louder’, before launching into new material which provoked the masses to go mental, jumping, dancing and busting every move in the book, pushing the bar high for the rest of the acts to follow. Tinchy Stryder was the next to grace our stage, who dazzled us with spectacular light shows, covers of our favourite artists, remix’s and collaborations in addition to his best known songs such as ‘Number One’ and ‘In My System’. The crowd reacted in the only way possible singing, jumping and crowd surfing (I heard rumours) their way through the set.

As part of Smirnoff Secret Sessions Radio 1’s Dj Reggie Yates ended the week in a spectacular style, mixing old, new and more experimental music in a live set that left not one person sitting in Domain and possibly a few bruises the next day from some over enthusiastic dancing.

Aside from the famous acts, the other nights of Welcome Week also proved popular, especially the headphone disco which provided two parallel sets which students to tune between. the most well received night had to be the Foam School Disco, which brought many back to the 90’s and featured your old favourites of Busted, Destiny’s Child and S Club 7 with students singing out ‘Reach For The Stars’ at the top of their lungs and a few busting out some long forgotten dance routines well before the foam arrived.

Yes, Welcome Week was jam packed full of night life, music and many other live events but don’t get all blue at the fact Freshers is over for another year as Northumbria Students’ Union has an impressive live line up of seven main acts in the next semester alone. Hopefully that should be enough to tide you over. The live action kicks off with Hugh Cornwell on the 6th of October and is swiftly followed just a few days later by the sensational Benjamin Francis Leftwich on the 9th. Cornwell promises a night of classic rock with half the set dedicated to his eagerly awaited new album ‘Totem and Taboo’ and the latter half comprises of The Strangler’s 1977 album ‘No More Heroes’ presenting both sides of his career in unity, which is not to be missed. Not forgetting, Benjamin Francis Leftwich who will be performing his debut album ‘Last Smoke Before the Snowstorm’, that has echoes of the soothing sounds of Newton Faulkner, Ed Sheeran and Ben Howard. His set also promises to be a sensational night and you will certainly find me there singing my little heart out and swaying along with the masses.

Hope you’re ready for this year - it’s going to be live, loud and utterly alive with music.

Julia Bond nu:life 27

STUDENT CULTURE Horror Films

Horror Films

Once again, students have been given the opportunity to go out in fancy dress; it’s Halloween! However, just because you can dress up doesn’t mean you need to be tricked into going out for a treat. Watching horror classics and hiding behind the sofa with a few friends and lots of sweets can be just as fun. Halloween is the season where everyone, not just horror fans, can enjoy a good scare, so here are a few personal favourites.

Although dated, old-fashioned horrors such as The Exorcist and The Shining are packed with enough chills to make a penguin shiver. Hitchcock’s legendary Psycho still has punch, even after 52 years. This film provided the template for equally brilliant thrillers The Silence of the Lambs and Misery, which will certainly make your skin crawl. Some new releases do contend with these masterpieces, like The Woman in Black and Insidious, both of which left me hiding under the covers until daybreak.

However, if a night of gruesome thrills is what you’re looking for, there’s The Night Of The Living Dead, The Thing and Peter Jackson’s Braindead, all three are stomach-churning but fun viewing. Some of the best horrors balance enough laughs to relax you with enough thrills to keep you on edge. For example, The Cabin In The Woods is guaranteed to entertain; it‘s worth sitting through the film for the absolutely crazy, blood-spattered ending.

If you’re in the mood for festive frights, Trick ‘r’ Treat is a little horror anthology gem, with each segment providing laughs and terror. And what fright night would be complete without John Carpenter’s Halloween? It would be like having Christmas without mince pies.

Comedy-horrors are like fancy dress; they’re either hilarious or ridiculous. Shaun Of The Dead raised the bar but there have been some competitors for the crown of comedy-horror.

An American competitor is the hillbilly thriller Tucker and Dale vs. Evil; a fun, heart-felt, and overall brilliant film that’s entertaining for horror veterans and newcomers alike. Also, An American Werewolf in London has gore, tension and giggles right the way through, so is an essential for a fright-fest.

Although others may disagree, I think these films are essential for a night in with monsters and maniacs (well, that’s what I call my friends anyway). Going out is great fun but a few films and some popcorn can provide just as many good memories. But be careful, sometimes things do go bump in the night… but that’s usually students stumbling back home. HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Adam Crawley 28 nu:life

Dress For Less With

STUDENT CULTURE Dress For Less With Vintage

Vintage Vintage style is everywhere right now – and you don’t need to spend a fortune on the high street to channel the vintage vibe. With top retailers such as Urban Outfitters and Topshop charging high prices for vintage ‘style’ pieces, if you love vintage you’re missing a trick if you’re not making the most of the genuine vintage gear available in Newcastle!

Buying genuine vintage can often work out cheaper than buying from high street shops, and what’s better than knowing you’re wearing something unique, that you won’t see on twenty other people around campus? Vintage clothing is generally sold at an affordable price, and what’s great is that these vintage stores are mostly independently owned - so if you fancy asking for a student discount, it’s worth a try!

Newcastle has a great collection of vintage and retro shops hidden away from the crowds of Northumberland Street, which take a little more effort to find than the regular high-street megastars, but the effort is well worth it for the trinkets you’ll find!

Just off Grey Street is where the majority of Newcastle’s retro and vintage stores are located.

Particular favourites are: Deep, Pop Boutique, Best Vintage, Attica Vintage and Retro Clothing. Also, try Flip near the O2 Academy for some cool American imports!

Another great way to get your hands on vintage clothes is using the internet. There are a load of independent vintage retailers who sell online. Websites such as Hollysrack.com have a great collection of vintage/customised clothes which are cheaper than those you’ll find on the high street, and are really fun and unique.

Ebay is great for vintage finds, and is a really easy option as it even has a specific vintage search category. However the downside to buying online is that when buying genuine vintage, the marked sizes differ in measurements to those of today’s clothes.

Therefore, you can’t beat hitting a real vintage store to try the pieces before you buy!

The cheapest way to dress vintage is one you might cringe at the thought of but that could prove to be the most surprisingly stylish! Ask parents and grandparents if they have any clothes from when they were younger that you could have a look at - after all, the eras that vintage clothing span are those from when your folks were growing up! Even the nineties is considered vintage these days! People tend to hold on to their favourite fashion pieces over decades, hidden in the back of cupboards or in the attic - these items will probably be free for you, so it’s worth checking them out! Even mega-loaded Kim Kardashian used this trick, and was seen out recently in a dress that belonged to her mum in the 80’s. This is a trick not to be missed, as fashion goes in cycles so what was hot decades ago probably will be again - as the popularity of the vintage trend proves!

Hannah Freeney

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STUDENT CULTURE Restaurants Verses Recipies

Restaurants Vs Recipes Between writing your dissertation and juggling your social life, sometimes you just don’t have time to cook. Luckily for us skint students, eating out in Newcastle doesn’t have to be expensive. I scouted out the best cheap eats for students, all within walking distance of City Campus and all probably better than a McDonalds...

La Vita, Heaton Road A favourite for students living in Heaton, La Vita serves up basic Italian food at supercheap prices. The weekday lunch special is must, get three courses for £3.95 between 12-2pm, and there are some great evening and weekend deals too.

Butterfly Cabinet, Heaton Road Another café which comes highly recommended

by Heaton-based students, Butterfly Cabinet is great for all-day breakfasts and tasty lunches. Burgers start from £6.50, and a full English is £5.00.

Cafe Neon, Bigg Market Don’t be put off by the location! Cafe Neon is a must for its Greek-inspired food and great atmosphere.

Their happy hour deal is available 5-8pm MondaySaturday, get two delicious courses for £8.90.

Ninos, The Gate If you’re looking for somewhere to eat in town and want to avoid the chain restaurants, then Ninos is perfect for you. The staff are really friendly and I’ve been told Nino’s serve the best meatballs in Newcastle. As an added bonus, if you get bored of looking at your date then you can check out the cartoons projected onto the wall!

Stateside Diner, Pink Lane When I asked for recommendations for this article, Stateside came out on top. Great for American-style breakfasts, burgers and amazing milkshakes, most of the items on their menu cost around a fiver and student discount is available.

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Izzi Surridge

STUDENT CULTURE Restaurants Verses Recipies

Don’t want to head out for dinner?

Why not try these really quick and simple recipes at home?

One of the best ways to save money on food is to make a lot of one thing, soup is especially good for this because it can be frozen and saved for ages. Pumpkin may sound strange but trust me you’ll use it loads it’s that yummy... and what better time to make it than Halloween?!

Pumpkin Soup 40g butter or margarine 2½ teaspoons ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 finely chopped onion 2 cloves garlic (crushed) 1 kg pumpkin (cut into cubes) 1.5 litre vegetable stock crème freche to serve salt & pepper

Melt the butter/margarine in a large pan, add the onion, garlic and ½ teaspoon of the cumin, cook for 3-4 minutes (or until the onion is soft) Add the pumpkin, coriander and stock, cover and bring to the boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.

Blend the ingredients together (either a regular or hand blender will do the trick - you might have to do this in a couple of batches) Return the soup to the pan and stir over a medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Mix in the remaining cumin, sour cream and salt/pepper to taste.

Serve with a dollop of crème freche and a sprinkle of pepper.

Pumpkin may sound strange but trust me you’ll use it loads it’s that yummy...

Emily Sait

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STUDENT CULTURE Making Your House A Home

Making your house a home

Each year thousands of students move into a new room. These rooms have white walls, plain furniture; they could belong to anybody. However, leaving family and friends will mean you need your room to feel welcoming.

Photos are the easiest way to personalise your room.

When you’re missing home, looking at your pictures will make you smile and remember all the memories that go with them. Many photo printing sites offer 50 prints for free when you register, so there’s no excuse!

Next, how to display your pictures. Some people like to stick them in a grid on their wall - so you can expand it as the year progresses. Alternatively, you could invest in some decent photo frames, although this can become expensive.

Framing your favourites and putting the rest on your wall or in an album could be the best option. If you’re worried about using blu tac, you could buy some cheap washing line and clothes pegs and peg your pictures to the line, which you can hang along your wall. Or, if you’re feeling creative, you could buy a large frame and make a collage of your favourite photos. This works well if you’re not allowed to drill into your walls as you can prop it up on a shelf instead.

If you want to colour co-ordinate your room, remember that you might have to live with it for a while. There are a variety of cheap ways to implement colour into your room, such as patterned cushions, small rugs, desk tidys and fairy lights.

Fairy lights provide warm light which you’ll be thankful for on cold winter nights. Bedding is another essential part of making your room cosy. Your bed is likely to take up the majority of your room - so your sheets have an impact!

Warm colours and fun patterns will instantly brighten the room. You could also buy a plant to keep your room smelling fresh and add some colour to your windowsill, but don’t forget to water it.

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Maximising storage in your new room is key, especially in that tiny wardrobe! Wardrobe hangers from IKEA are a genius invention: attach them to the rail inside and magically gain 6-7 new shelves for the things you can’t fit in your drawers. If you’re lucky enough to have an ensuite, it’s also likely you won’t have enough space for all your products. Argos and IKEA sell plastic drawers on wheels which fit well into most bathrooms (be sure to measure!) and are a neat way of storing make up and other products.

Investing in certain things such as cushions and storage will be useful as they can move house with you, however, things like the size of your bed could change, so it’s probably best to buy decent but not overly expensive bedding. Everyone is different, and your room should be too!

Caroline Innes

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CAMPUS SERVICES One To Remember

One to Remember

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So if you want to watch our team in action, keep your eyes peeled for our special feature on BBC1’s The One Show which is broadcast weekdays at 7pm.

Better yet, why not come on down to CCE and choose from a range of delicious options from the Go Eat menu. Opening hours are 8am – 3pm Monday through Thursday and 8am – 2pm Fridays.

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CAMPUS SERVICES Eat Fresh

EAT

FRESH!

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Burger Meal Deal @

HANDMADE BURGER, FRIES AND COKE - ONLY ÂŁ4.50!

Available from City Campus East, Castles and Coach Lane Campus

CAMPUS SERVICES Rugby’s Next Generation: Fit For Success

RUGBY’S NEXT GENERATION: FIT FOR SUCCESS “Then week five begins a new block of training, with a higher intensity than week one of the previous block,” he added.

Percy Park back and veteran of last year’s programme, Harry Thorpe, gave a glowing review of how positively the programme has affected not just his sporting performance, but life outside of rugby as well.

Roger Uttley coaches TN’s emerging rugby stars

Northumberland County Rugby and Northumbria University have come together to launch a joint project with the long-term aim of improving the quality of rugby in the region.

Thirty Under 20 county rugby players from clubs across Northumberland have been invited to Northumbria’s £30 million Sport Central facility in order to receive individually tailored and scientifically underpinned coaching programmes from Joel Brannigan – Team Northumbria’s Head of Strength and Conditioning.

Brannigan, a former Newcastle Falcons, London Welsh and Edinburgh Rugby Union player, will be imparting his knowledge and experience to the young players across 33 sessions during the 2012/13 season.

“The hope is to educate the players, parents and club coaches about physical conditioning principles and practices, which will transfer to the on pitch performance,” he said.

“More than anything, I just feel more confident going into games, because I know that I’ve done all of this work building up to it,” he said.

“I look back and I think that I’ve done so much work with my body – and even on little things like posture – so it’s helped me massively with my confidence.”

“The season before, I was getting injuries everywhere, but now I can ride the contact more. I feel in more control over my body.”

The initiative has also received the backing of a rugby legend – former England International and British And Irish Lions player, Roger Uttley, who visited the players during a training session.

He addressed the players, stating how fortunate they were to be able to benefit from training in such facilities.

“It all starts here. Bigger, faster, stronger are important factors in playing the game well – but you’ve got to be doing it for the right reasons,” Uttley told Northumberland’s rising stars.

He told the athletes to ‘Make use of Joel, who is at a point in his career where he is expert at producing results in players’ and he added: “When you take into account all the facilities at Sport Central, this “We’ll be working with the players in four-week blocks, upping the programme will have benefit for club rugby in the intensity for three weeks, with lighter training in the fourth week.” area, and for rugby in the county.”

The S&C expert went on to explain the scientific principles behind the structured conditioning that the County’s young athletes will be undertaking over the next seven months.

“Without the lighter regeneration week, training will first plateau, then subsequently drop off due to how bodies react to stress.”

Sport Central will also play host to training sessions for the U15 and U17 County squad athletes, in an attempt to further increase the standard of rugby players in Northumberland

For further information on Team Northumbria Rugby and their upcoming fixtures please visit

www.nusportcentral.com 38 nu:life

CAMPUS SERVICES Bouncing Back

BOUNCING BACK National League basketball is back at Sport Central with a mouthwatering run of top flight fixtures to whet the appetite of Team Northumbria fans.

A hangover from those losses meant the hosts started poorly against the second group of US college ballers in the fifth/sixth playoff game.

Marc Steutel’s men faced Middlesbrough Lions in the opening round of the National Cup last month - in their first homecourt clash since scooping last season’s league and playoff double.

But TN rallied well with Jamie Glenn and Frenchman Ivan Emmanuely in sparkling form at both ends of the court.

And a roster mixing new faces and old favourites is in no mood to make up the numbers in the England Basketball League’s first division.

TN warmed up for the new campaign with a confident 6559 win against a USA Select side in last month’s Newcastle Eagles invitational tournament.

But playcaller Steutel admitted there is still much work to do if a talented group of players is going to progress at National League and BUCS level.

“As a result of the Eagles tournament we gained vital information on where we need to progress,” said TN’s coach.

“There is still a lot of teaching to be done but hopefully we’ll be ready for this season’s tests.”

TN faced double defeat on day one of the Eagles tournament at Sport Central – going down fighting against the second USA select side and finding BBL side Durham Wildcats too hot to handle”.

Steutel – angered by TN’s start - said: “I was frustrated with the way we were playing as individuals.

“We seemed to have no pressure on them when they got the ball into offensive positions and needed to work harder and needed to improve our defence.”

A stern team talk from the EBL Division Two Coach of the Year kickstarted TN’s revival as they won the second quarter 18-15 – narrowing the gap to just eight points at the half.

And with the hosts finally on song they began to put points on the board with ease – vice captain Glenn and Emmanuely contributing on a regular basis.

TN’s defence began to tighten up with the visitors posting just six third quarter points – leaving the scores level going into the final 10.

“We started to work on our defence by playing a containment defence strategy to try and limit their scoring options in order to get us back into the game,” added Steutel.

“We limited them to six points in the third quarter which allowed us to take the attack in the final quarter and get the win.”

If you’d like to support our boys in another season of top flight basketball, come along to Sport Central on Saturday 27th October and watch as Team Northumbria take on Leeds Carnegie in what promises to be an exciting game!

Doors open at 17:30 for a 18:00 tip off. Admission: £2

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from 20.10.2012 Habita 9pm onwards FREE ENTRY The coolest student night in town with live entertainment and amazing drinks offers

DOUBLE SMIRNOFF & MIXER £2 (INC REDBULL) HOUSE SINGLE & MIXER £1 HOUSE DOUBLES & MIXER £2 NORTHUMBRIA BOMB £2 SMIRNOFF ICE £1.75 SAMBUCA & JAGERMEISTER £1.50 PINTS OF CARLING £1.50 AND STRONGBOW FISHBOWLS £6

www.mynsu.co.uk

Yours for the making!!!