Epigram issue 358 & The Croft issue 19 - Freshers' special 2021 by Epigram

Editorial

epigram 23.09.2021

Co-Editor in Chief Co-Editor in Chief Deputy Editor Deputy Digital Editor

Filiz Gurer Holly Beaumont Joseph Marshall Flora Pick

New beginnings and welcome back! Bristol beckons...

‘The city is returning to its bustling Bristol self, take this chance now to get to know your new turf away from home.'

ello and a very hearty welcome to Epigram’s first print issue of the 2021/22 academic year! We hope that this edition of the paper will be of just as much interest to you, whether you’re a fresher who has newly arrived, a second year student who didn’t get to experience the excitement of Freshers the first time around, or a seasoned Bristol student, who can name all the best coffee spots in city. As you will have no doubt noticed, the city is returning to its bustling Bristol self, which means that the opportunities to peruse and venture out are endless! Before term gets going and you find yourself caught up in the rush of reading lists and assessments, take this chance now to get to know your new turf away from home. You might feel anxious about being in a new city or feel homesick and wonder whether you have made the right choice, but it’s good to remind yourself that other people are likely feeling the same way. Try to be present and make the most of your first few weeks, you will find that you soon settle into your new surroundings. As a Bristol student you’ve got the best of both worlds in a city so rich and dynamic in culture and a thriving university that awaits you. As clichéd as it may sound, time at uni really does fly by, so seize the opportunities that come your way! As Bristol’s student newspaper, Epigram exists to serve the student community, so look out for our regular print paper around campus, read and follow Epigram online and social media and if you want to try your hand at writing or creating content, get in touch and get involved!

‘You’re in a city brimming with history and are about to make your own.'

t is with huge excitement that I am writing my first Epigram welcome to you all. If you are at the start of your Bristol journey, you are in the right place to find out more about this wonderful city. I remember being in your shoes so vividly. Unpacking box after box of ‘Uni essentials’ to try and make the empty dormroom you inherit feel like home. While the Ikea plants and fairy lights certainly helped, the best thing I did to make myself at home in Bristol, was pushing myself out of the University student bubble and basking in what the city has to offer – beyond just University Road. Returning students, you’ll know what I mean. While the Triangle has huge amounts to offer, do not exclusively reside in its 1-mile radius. Venture down to gloucester road and explore the sights of Clifton. Although if you are sat in bed thinking ‘I don’t feel like pushing myself anywhere’, this issue of Epigram is a good place to start. It is designed to give you the perfect Bristol welcome, from music venues in Bristol, to which sports society is right for you. You’re in a city brimming with history and are about to make your own.

‘Our focus? All things student life and Bristol.' ‘We want to connect with you, whatever background or perspective you might have.'

anish your thoughts of the stuffy clichés that you think might surround the characters and content of student newspapers. Epigram, which is among the best student papers in the country (which you know, because you’re up to date with the Student Publication Association’s Awards), doesn’t conform to those stereotypes. Instead, you’ll find stories ranging from an interview with VC Hugh Brady to finding love in freshers’ week, or from the accommodation crisis at the University to The Croft’s resident sex columnist’s advice. Our focus? All things student life and Bristol. Coming to Bristol means you’re likely curious to learn about new people, places and things – Epigram’s purpose is to engage you in this way. We want to connect with you, whatever background or perspective you might have. The student journalist is more than the nerdy politics student commenting about the latest scandalous (or, so they say) action that the Uni has taken. The student journalist might be a novice who wants to try their hand at reviewing DramSoc’s latest play. Or someone who wants to write about Bristol’s bustling music scene. Or someone who wants to merely express themselves in a full-length opinion piece. Whether you’re a reader or a potential writer for us, engage with the Epigram platform and help us be the best paper we can for our student community.

‘Not only are you a member of the student community, but a citizen of Bristol.'

y initial vision of this welcome was one that treated readers to humiliating anecdotes plucked from my own time as a fresher so that they may be sent off, safe in the knowledge that any mishaps encountered could always be worse. Unfortunately, I’m not quite so willing to lay myself on the line, and some things are better off without reliving. Instead, what I will say is that during these early months it is easy for everything to seem seismic and uber significant. It is easy to catastrophise in the throes of an emotionally taxing move. But beyond your uni housing, your halls of residence, your Holiday Inns, there is a bright and shining city waiting for you to explore and leave your mark. Take advantage of all that the university has to offer but know that not only are you a member of the student community, but a citizen of Bristol.

Business Team

Managing Director Tim Edwards Head of Marketing Sophie Brassey Deputy Director Joshua Ang Head of Ads and Sales Lucas Arthur Head of Finance Matthew Chang Head of Alumni Elena Venturelli In print and online, Epigram is the independent student newspaper of the University of Bristol. We are run for students, by students, and have a combined readership of over 20,000. Our content is not controlled by the University or the Students Union and we remain politically neutral. Views expressed in this publication are not those of the University or Bristol SU. The design, text, and photography are copyright of Epigram and its individual contributors that may not be reproduced without permission. Epigram is printed regularly and can be found around campus, in cafes and student accommodation. We have a large editorial and business team who work hard, alongside their degrees, to create Epigram for both print and online. Printed by: Newsquest Media Group, 4th Floor, Queens House, 55/56 Lincolns Inn Fields, London, WC2A 3LJ Issue 358 front page image credit: Unsplash/Jared Clapperton

Clarifications, Corrections and Retractions

As an independent publication, Epigram strives to be as accurate and impartial on student news as possible. However, should you wish to raise any editorial, commercial or legal concerns, please email editor@epigram.org.uk with the problem, addressed to the Editors-in-Chief. Please be sure to include the issue number and article headline if the article was in print, or the URL if the article was online. We endeavour to correct any inaccuracies as soon as they are raised with us.

News

Editor Co-Deputy Editor Co-Deputy Editor Digital Editor

Got a story for the newsteam? Email newsteam.epigram@gmail.com

Megan Evans Roya Shahidi Jess Millson Jack Crockford

‘We’ve got through it better than the majority of other universities’: Epigram speaks to VC Hugh Brady on the University’s response to COVID-19, accommodation, and more

Co-Editors-in-Chief

s the new academic year gets underway, the University of Bristol’s President and Vice Chancellor, Professor Hugh Brady, took time from his busy schedule to give Epigram an interview. In an online meeting, Epigram put questions to him on a range of topics, trying to cover the issues of particular concern to the Bristol Uni community, ranging from accommodation issues to fees, to the Uni’s support for its students to COVID-19 precautions and teaching arrangements. Two weeks ago, Prof. Brady announced that he will be leaving the University at the end of this academic year, to take up a role as the President of Imperial College London in August 2022. Starting the interview by reflecting on his time at Bristol, the VC began ‘This is my seventh year. It seems like yesterday that I started and it's been a real privilege and pleasure to lead the university during an extraordinary time.’ Looking ahead to the next year, Prof Brady said ‘this will be my last but I think it will be the busiest of the seven’, which was not hard to believe given the amount of topics Epigram had to discuss in a brief

through… curriculum reform, decolonization of the curriculum, changes to assessment and feedback’. The VC highlighted that the University’s new Strategy will also have a focus on research and innovation. Going forward into the next academic year, the VC shared in students’ hopes for a return to normality with teaching and university life, though he was careful not to make any promises. ‘I would hope that it will feel more normal as a year. Of course, that depends on the behaviour of the virus’, he said. ‘I fully appreciate that for the incoming first year, they've had something extraordinarily difficult into their secondary school career or education. And, of course, for all of our current students it hasn't been the university experience that they can tell when they first apply. But hopefully, it'll be getting closer to normal.’ Asked whether students would have to wear face masks or visors on campus, the VC said that whilst he could not mandate this for students, he would ‘encourage students to behave responsibly’. On the other hand, he was clear on the rules for staff, saying, ‘My staff, when they’re in buildings, will be wearing face coverings’. The VC assured us that the Uni is planning for a ‘more normal blended learning offering’, but that ‘it would be completely irresponsible, not to plan for the worst’, stating that the University ‘will have a backup plan’. With regards to blended learning, Epigram asked the VC whether he felt that students were getting good value for money with the tuition fees

‘Where we really screw things up because it’s our own fault, yes, I’m quite happy to take the plank’ half an hour interview with him. On asking the VC whether there are any specific areas within the University which he wishes to improve during his last year, Prof. Brady talked about the review of the University’s Vision and Strategy, advancing that this will build on ‘the momentum we've established around education on the student experience’, ‘significant momentum

they are paying. ‘I can certainly say with hand on heart that in my view they have been getting value for money’, he said. ‘Even pre-COVID, in most of the programmes, the tuition fee barely covers the cost of delivering it.’ ‘That’s not to say I don’t appreciate that for students it felt very different and it was not the education and experience they thought they were going to get’, he contin-

ued. While he acknowledged that students’ expectations were unlikely to have been met, he maintained the belief that the cost of fees were worth it and referred to the pandemic as the cause once more. ‘But I suppose that’s the consequence of a global pandemic’, he said. Asking Professor Brady about accommodation, another issue central to Bristol students, Epigram brought up the cases of students being housed outside of Bristol, in Bath, and those being put up in hotels and

He was, however, keen to reassure the students living in Bath. ‘They will receive a generous travel bursary, we will be putting in pastoral care. We will be monitoring their situation really carefully and working with them to make sure that they have the best experience possible’. Asked how it happened that the construction of St Thomas Street development was allowed to run on so late without the university seemingly being aware of it, the VC attributed the delayed completion to the effects of Covid-19. ‘The University

other temporary accommodation as a result of the delay in completion of St. Thomas Street halls. Epigram asked the VC whether the University was hearing the concerns of students, some of whom feel let down by the Uni before even starting, to which Professor Brady insisted, ‘We are definitely listening to their concerns’. He referred to the pandemic throughout as being the reason for the university’s shortcomings, advancing that ‘normally 45% of students that we make offers to will achieve the grades, 75% this year did.’ ‘I don’t want to sound like a broken record but [the pandemic] is unprecedented. It is a once in a century event’. ‘What has happened this year has been extraordinary, concerning and it’s been out of our control. The level of grade inflation was impossible to plan for. How could you plan for 30%?’, he continued.

always monitors these developments very closely. But again, it has been a really difficult time, not just for the university, but for the construction industry, also. Because of Covid on construction sites’, he said. Epigram further enquired about the issue of expansion at the university and whether there is a limit to the number of students that the University will take. ‘Obviously we have a limit but it’s based on all factors, like residences, academic facilities, recreational facilities’, he said. Asked how the University will ensure that the same issues with accommodation are not repeated again next year, ‘We always do lessons learned. So we always look at what happened. Could we have anticipated a situation and handled it more effectively? So we do that routinely.’ On the issue of accommodation, Prof Brady closed by saying, ‘I just ask for everyone to work with us

University of Bristol

• Epigram interviews Professor Hugh Brady as he starts his final year as President and VC of the University of Bristol Holly Beaumont and Filiz Gurer

and be as understanding as possible.’ ‘Where we really screw things up because it’s our own fault, yes, I’m quite happy to take the plank’, he concluded. With regards to the University’s response to COVID-19, the VC said, ‘I think we have gotten through it better than the majority of other universities because of our sense of partnership and community’. When asked to elaborate on this claim, Prof Brady continued by saying, ‘I think the way that we responded in terms of rental rebates, and packages for students who were locked down, was probably up there, among the best in the sector.’ Epigram notes that earlier this year rent striking students were faced with the prospect of private debt collectors getting involved, to retrieve unpaid rent. We asked the VC about the Uni’s responses to students’ complaints around staff behaviour. Epigram, along with national media and even Parliament, have previously reported on the case of UoB academic, Professor David Miller, who is currently under investigation by the Uni for accusations of anti-semitism. Prof Brady replied: ‘I don’t like to comment on individual cases, but I say to students that we take any accusations of racism or bullying or discrimination really seriously. There are complaints procedures available for students. We do investigate all complaints of this nature very thoroughly and take the appropriate actions.' Moving on to the issue of prospective strikes by academics resulting from the dispute between the lecturers’ union, the UCU, and the national body representing UK universities, as their employers, Epigram asked Prof Brady if students face inevitable disruption to their tuition. Prof. Brady answered: ‘It’s certainly not inevitable, despite some of the rhetoric. We will be working as closely as possible with UCU.' ‘Colleagues don’t take that decision lightly, they do everything they can to avoid disruption to students.’ Whilst it would be impossible to say that the university has handled everything perfectly, Professor Hugh Brady was keen to send a warm welcome to new and returning students.

4 News

epigram 23.09.2021

A look inside The Beckford: Bristol University’s newest SU bar • The Beckford at Senate House is now open for hot drinks, soft drinks, and alcohol. • The bar is named after ‘Saint of St. Paul’s’ Carmen Beckford • Epigram attended its launch event last week to speak to those involved in the creation of the new student space. Megan Evans

Community Development Officer at Bristol City Hall, and one of the founders of St Paul’s Carnival. The name was chosen in an online vote by Bristol students. The bar serves hot drinks, soft drinks, and alcohol, boasting stu-

dent-friendly prices with pints starting from £2.90. Speaking at Wednesday’s launch event, Bristol SU’s Union Affairs officer Ifrah Farooq described The Beckford as ‘an inclusive and expressive space for young people to make their own, just as Carmen Beckford would have wanted it to be.’ The Beckford features a vibrant mural of its namesake, painted by artist Natasha Sweeting. Prints depicting important moments in Bristol’s history, including the Bristol Bus Boycott of 1963 and the toppling of the Colston statue in 2020, as well as quotes from Carmen Beckford herself, adorn the

News Editor

ew student bar The Beckford has opened its doors ahead of the new academic

year. Located in Senate House on Tyndall Avenue, The Beckford provides a space for students to meet and relax in a central location on-campus. The bar takes its name from Carmen Beckford MBE, Bristol’s first

The Beckford launch event | Epigram / Megan Evans

Pictured (left to right): Wayne and Paul Lennon, LaToyah McAllister-Jones, Natasha Sweeting | Epigram / Megan Evans

bar’s walls. guest was LaToyah McAllister-Jones, SU officers also evealed their plans executive directo showcase ‘An inclusive and tor of St. Paul’s student artwork in the bar, the expressive space for young Carnival, pictured pieces for which people to make their own’ above. will be selected The Beckford is in a competition later this year. the latest of a number of SU-driven The launch was attended by changes to student spaces, alongside friends of Carmen Beckford, Paul the new SU Loft and Source Marand Wayne Lennon. Speaking about ketplace food court, also located in the late Beckford, Wayne described Senate House. her as ‘charming,’ with a natural The Beckford is open Monday to ability to encourage and lead people. Friday, 12pm to 11pm. Also in attendance as a special

• The first strike since the pandemic will take place at 11am outside City Hall on Friday 24th September. • It will be the fiirst rally since Greta Thunberg visited Bristol in February 2020 Roya Shahidi

Deputy News Editor

ristol Youth Strike 4 Climate (BYS4C) is calling on young people to leave their places of education and assemble outside City Hall on College Green. This will mark the first Bristol youth climate strike since the beginning of the pandemic. It will occur alongside other climate strikes

across the UK and arounf the world. It also follows the rally in February 2020 during Greta Thunberg’s visit to Bristol, which saw approximately 20,000 people watch the young activist speak at College Green and thousands of protestors march across the city. BYS4C has chosen to focus on the following themes: how time is running out, the lack of change, and how intersectional climate justice should be the centre of any climate change response. BYS4C activist Torin, 16, said: ‘It is vital that we keep up the pressure on politicians, locally, nationally, and globally, to act on the climate and ecological crisis. ‘Almost no progress has been made since we last went on strike in February 2020, so we are again fighting for our futures. We are still trying to stop airport expansion, still campaigning for clean air, and most importantly still fighting for social, racial, and climate justice across the world.’

raised £150,000 to fund a new zerowaste marketplace app which is to be launched at 25 universities across the U.K. • The team behind Hazaar originated from the University of Birmingham, led by Harriet Noy to help solve the issue of waste within universities across the U.K. Louis Chandor News Reporter

azaar, a new zero-waste marketplace app with the goal of tackling waste on-campus, has launched this week. First launching in 2020 and operating primarily on Facebook Marketplace, the idea behind Hazaar

was inspired following a realisation of how damaging buying a one-use costume for a night out really is for the environment. Founder Harriet Noy noted the amount of clothes she and fellow students would buy and use only once while studying Economics at the University of Birmingham, and wanted to instead create a platform in which students can buy and sell these single-use items. Hazaar aims to solve this issue by creating a marketplace for students where second-hand items such as textbooks or costumes can be bought and handed over on campus. The idea has now come to fruition with its official app launch this Monday. It will go live for 25 universities across the country, including the University of Bristol. Hazaar eliminates delivery costs and travel miles and allows for students to take a profit and to buy items at reduced rates, all while encouraging environmental awareness. Hazaar further encourages environmental consciousness with its ‘reworked’ section, which will allow

Hazaar App

Bristol climate strikes Zero-waste marketplace app return tomorrow on for students launches this week • A group of College Green students have

creatives to sell their self-made recycled clothes. The app development and marketing behind Hazaar has all been funded through a total investment of £150,000. This investment was sourced by Harriet Noy through the power of Linkedin over the course of just one month from several different investors. Harriet Noy has previous entrepreneurial experience, in her second year at the University of Birmingham she helped set up a society named ‘Plastic-Free UoB.’ The society’s focus is to eliminate the use of single-use plastic on campus.

Features

Editor Flossie Palmer Digital Editor Allegra Letts Deputy Editor Alexander Sampson

The return to student life on campus

The best Freshers' Week yet?

dent body for societies, events, and socialising on campus or in halls of residence. As Jessop stated, the fact that although most staff and students will be vaccinated in time for the return to studies is beneficial; ‘We need to remain vigilant and look Features Columnist & Subeditor after each other because the virus fter the last academic year is still circulating… but I am hopesaw a largely online uniful that 2021/22 will see a return to versity experience, with some much-needed normality’. students experiencing isolation and The SU team are similarly optimisrestrictions on campus facilities, Eptic about this year, especially with igram reached out to the University this year’s in-person Welcome Fair and Bristol SU to see what plans are after last year’s event programme in place for this upcoming year. For was entirely virtual. As mentioned both freshers starting their degrees by a Bristol Student Union Spokesin September and returning students, person, ‘This year’s Welcome Fair we are hopeful that university life will take place over two days and can regain some normality whilst rewill really highlight all the opportumaining safe on campus. nities to get involved with this year!’ According to the University of Moreover, in-person welcome events Bristol, as much organised by teaching as posthe SU will be On campus studying sible will be be‘should be similar to pre- running in-person and tween 10 Seppandemic times, with all tember - 2 Ocon campus, but our facilities open.' the majority of tober, including courses can also club nights at be taken online. Lectures, seminars, the newly re-opened Anson Rooms and laboratories are planned to be within the University’s Richmond in-person with the use of face masks building on campus. continuing when indoors on campus, Maintaining their liaison between and slight restrictions when accessthe student community and Univering certain learning spaces. As many sity staff, the Student Union intends students benefitted from the flexto continue ‘to support students and ibility of many elements of online voice any concerns to the university learning, numerous programmes will about the student experience’. This still be integrating the most effective will be especially useful for those virtual teaching tools, but this will needing assistance if anxious about vary depending on your course. the return to an in-person experiIt is clear that ence, considering University staff This year's Freshers' Fair the impact of last and SU officers will take place over two year’s disrupted have been dedistudies, or for days cated to ensuring help regarding this year will be accommodation. rewarding and supportive for stuGiven the recent news about univerdents. When asked to comment on sity housing shortages for new unwhat we can expect, Professor Tansy dergraduates, the SU has emphasised Jessop, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Eduthat they have ‘already been workcation, said that ‘Staff have worked ing hard to make sure that students incredibly hard in partnership with who have been housed in Bath can the Students’ Union to balance the still get the most out of their time need for a good on-campus learning at Bristol.’ experience with keeping you and our New starters and returning stucommunity safe’. In addition to the dents alike can be reassured that educational side of university, Jesteaching and life in Bristol will be sop indicated that the atmosphere looked after with all the measures in ‘should be similar to pre-pandemic place and flexible plans if governtimes, and reflect wider society, with ment rules change. Let’s hope that all our facilities open’. Welcome Week will be bigger and The social side of this year is arbetter than ever and that the year guably equally important to the stuahead turns out favourably for all.

What to expect from the University and the SU this upcoming academic year. Marine Saint

Epigram / Bristol SU

A look at Freshers' Week 2021, set to be the busiest Freshers' Week to date. Alexander Sampson Deputy Features Editor

andemic conditions have created a perfect storm: out of the three main years of university, only the incumbent third years have had any experience of normal student life. Second years have spent their first year locked in halls, living on Blackboard and travelling to Stoke Bishop to 'go out', while the arriving freshers have spent nearly two years at home or behind masks in socially distanced classrooms. ‘We’ve been robbed of a year already, and like the first years, we should be entitled to a proper freshers’ week,’ explained, Edward Evans, a second year Philosophy and French student, ‘I’m looking forward to it, but I hope everyone knows the appropriate way to behave.’ Despite offering deferral packages of up to £11,000 to encourage successful applicants to defer, the University has still had to house some freshers in Bath and other ‘neighbouring town[s] and suburb[s]’. Many other incoming students have also had to seek private accommodation. Add this swollen year group to two cohorts with a curtailed university social experience and expect the Triangle to be heaving come September 18th. Despite the incoming student swarm, some staples of the Bristol-

night-time scene remain unfazed: according to the SU website, the Eddie Gershon, a spokesperson for University’s ‘Welcome 2021’ lasts The W.G. Grace on Whiteladies Road, from September 18 until 2 October, declared to Epigram that he knows meaning potentially two weeks of ‘Wetherspoons are popular’ but that wild hedonism that extends into the he doesn’t foresee any issues confirst week of the academic year. sidering the huge influx of students The SU has also prepared a misexpected to engage in the infamous cellany of daytime activities perfect Freshers' Week. ‘Our pubs have been for the average Bristol fresher; from dealing with freshers/students for houseplant potting sessions to tie many years, so this won’t be any dye workshops, the SU has even ordifferent.’ ganised a vintage kilo sale for all to Buoyed by Wetherspoons’ confienjoy. dence, Epigram also spoke to Thekla, In other news, the Freshers' Fair Bristol’s floating club, and spoke to makes a welcome return and offers their representative Alex Black: ‘It’s the opportunity to sample Bristol’s shaping up to be a freshers' week like entire range of societies live for the no other for sure. There may well be first time in two years. Sprawling long queues at times unfortunately; across the Downs over 24-25 Sepit simply boils down to a supply and tember, the spectacle speaks for itself demand issue. and remains a The best advice popular event ‘We've been robbed of a we can give is and memory for year already. We should purchase tickets most students. be entitled to a proper […] in advance.’ For the first freshers' week.' While Thekyears involved la is not worried in Bristol’s acabout overcrowding, there are concommodation fiasco, the SU is also cerns that larger crowds will lead to offering a non-halls mingle at the a rampant spread of freshers’ flu. AcBalloon Bar for all those in private cording to David Mathews, Virology accommodation. Further mingling Professor at the University’s School events provide spaces for all nationof Cellular and Molecular Medicine, alities, denominations, sexual ori‘We’re all expecting a big surge [in entations and gender definitions to respiratory illnesses] because last meet each other in a relaxed setting. year a lot of common colds and viAnd so the build-up begins. New ruses weren’t spreading due to mulstudents begin to filter in for preseatiple lockdowns and all the increased son, moving-in days and the dawn observation of distancing and hand of freshers’ week. Returning students washing.’ prepare for the new term, each sharp But it’s not all bad. Crowded pubs, scratch and dead arm a fair trade off sweaty clubs and a crippling threefor the promise of maskless cafes, day illness form the backbone of a overflowing clubs and an uninhibstandard freshers' week. This year, ited social life.

Features

epigram 23.09.2021

Placeum: the app bringing Bristol closer to its inhabitants

Features Editor

aunched in June earlier this year, Placeum is an interactive map created by developer, Sam Green, with the main aim of allowing people - whether they are tourists, incoming students or born and bred residents - to get to know Bristol better. Placeum began its development journey by starting out as a website, developed by Sam two years prior to the app. However, as Sam admitted, 'It had app written all over it!' Now in its streamlined app form and accessible from the App Store and Google Play on Apple and Android devices, Placeum is a staple for both exploring Bristol and learning more

about its infamous sights. The map acts as a more entertaining, more accessible version of Google Maps. While using the app, users can see 25 red pins dotted around the map of Bristol. Alongside pin-pointing significant landmarks and popular places, Sam has recorded audio clips to match each location. Each audio clip lasts between two and three minutes, providing a brief overview of the location's significance to Bristol culture, and an insight into its historical background. However, some of the more prominent locations have an entire audio series dedicated to them, such as the Bristol Riots which took place in Queens Square in 1831, which has 12 audio clips under its pin! The beauty of the app, however, is that you can learn more about the city surrounding you without the obligation of listening to an hour-long podcast. The short, two to three minute clips give you a bitesize chunk of

Bristol, but just enough to fulfil your appetite. ‘If you are a visitor to Bristol and you are new to the city, you do not want to be overwhelmed!' explained app developer, Sam Green, ‘If the app covered every part of the county, it might not be as useful for you. Ideally, while using the app, you want the journey between pins to be walkable.' With this in mind, Placeum places its Bristol focus largely on the city centre. Considering that most University of Bristol student accomodation outside of the North Village is

located in Clifton and Bristol City Centre, the app serves as a convenient guide for freshers in getting to know their new home city. That being said, Placeum also provides coverage for popular areas outside of the city centre, such as Ashton Court Estate, located near the National Trust site of Leigh Woods. For incoming students, who usually have a small radius of Bristol awareness conforming for the most part to the student bubble of Clifton, Redland and Bristol City Centre this pin-pointing of Placeum / Sam Green

Getting to know your new university city has never been easier with Placeum. Flossie Palmer

locations beyond the bubble encourages new students to step outside of their comfort zone. Placeum is also inclusive for its users. Different learning types have been considered in the creation of the app. Aural learners can benefit from the audio clips recorded, while visual learners can explore the city both through examining the interactive map on mobile and Bristol's most historic landmarks in real life. As Sam noted, most interactive maps and mobile tours do not include the audio interactivity that Placeum does: ‘If you can look at something, touch it and listen about it too, it all adds to the experience!’ With a two week stretch of Welcome Week activites ahead, why not give getting to know your new university city a go with Placeum. Unbeknownst to most, there is a wealth of history, unique quirks and a rich cultural backdrop at your doorstep, waiting to be explored.

Our Favourite Bristol Hangouts

Flossie Palmer

Alexander Sampson

Deputy Features Editor Features Editor Situated along the lively student A classic Uni haunt brimming hotspot of Gloucester Road, the UK’s with beer and character, Steam takes longest street of independent busipride in offering a vibrant atmosnesses, The Cider Press specialises in phere and affordable four-pint pitcha menu of unique and locally crafted ers. Located beside the Clifton Down ciders. My personal recommendatrain tracks, this ‘beer hall' falls tions for all ciwithin an equider lovers with a distant walk from No matter the mood or sweet tooth has time, The Cider Press has the Stoke Bishop to be the Bee and Clifton Halls, you covered! Sting, made by while taking only local business, a short bus trip Lilley’s Cider, in Somerset! Yet, conup from the City Centre accommotrary to its name, the bar has a range dations. With three outdoor tents, an of spirits, beers and soft drinks on old-fashioned bus, and a sizeable, offer too for the less cider-inclined. homely inside for the winter months, Even the artwork along the bar's Steam happily accommodates hunwalls screams Bristol culture, while a dreds of students. While not always darts board and pool tables provide the cheapest, you pay for the experithe classic bar experience for largence alongside the drinks, and I can er friend groups willing to try their honestly say I’ve never had a dead hand at a new pub sport. Its menu, night in Steam. Perfect for pres and location and loud music makes it other celebrations, if you’re in luck the perfect pre-drinks hotspot on a you may also lock eyes with some weekend, while its Monday evening B-list celebrities; on my last vispub quiz offers a calmer alternative it, England and Bristol Bears rugto going out. No matter the mood or by players Max Malins and Nathan time, The Cider Press has you covHughes were sharing a few cocktails ered! beside the infamous Steam bus!

Allegra Letts

Billy Stockwell

Investigations Editor Digital Features Editor University is a busy time; it’s fun, I spent my first three years in Brisit’s fast-paced, and it’s packed with tol living in the city centre, and I was new people, places, and routines. certain that nothing would be able One of the most important things I to convince me to move elsewhere. have discovered is the value of solHowever, one morning a café just off itude and self-reflection at a period Whiteladies Road changed all that. where so much else is vying for your Rubicon Too is a small independattention. My favourite place to do ent café just five minutes walk from this is at Brandon Hill, where I can campus and it really is the perfect appreciate Bristol’s vibrant landplace to start the day. My favourite scape from afar, in a state of peace time to visit is during the summer, and quiet. I can take time to myself when its tables and chairs spill out while listening to the stream running onto the sun-kissed pavement on beside me, with Brandon Hill is a perfect Cotham Hill. Its a book in hand, well-worn menspot to organise your able to escape us have probably thoughts and take a beat passed through from the busyness of university thousands of life for a couple of hours every so hands, but this can only be a testaoften. Unlike certain green spaces ment to how good their food is. Grab like the Downs or College Green, yourself one of their homemade Brandon Hill has a certain seclumilkshakes and enjoy their lovely sion about it that feels safely out of shakshuka – a spicy middle eastern the way from the hustle of campus and north African dish which can be grounds, with it conveniently only eaten at any time of day! Whether be a short walk from the Wills Meyou want a catch up with friends, a morial Building - a perfect spot to lunchtime date between lectures or a organise your thoughts and just take spot to read your book, Rubicon Too a beat. is the place to go.

Marine Saint & Thea Powell Features Columnist & Subeditor and Features Subeditor

Located both conveniently opposite the Wills Memorial Building and in a new shop in Clifton village, Eat a Pitta is a must-visit for Bristol students. The vegan falafel shop is exclusive to the city and has three other locations across Bristol, but my personal favourite is the Queen’s road shop because of its proximity to campus or college green for a picnic. With student-friendly prices and a brilliant selection of salads, pittas and hummus bowls, Eat a Pitta has become a firm favourite. The Bishop’s Tavern pub is one of my go-to spots for breakfast, coffee and drinks, and somewhere that not many people seem to know about. Located on the vibrant, vivacious Gloucester Road, the pub is a brilliant spot for a day, evening or night out. The prices are great, and yet the interior is lighter, cleaner and more open than one might find in other pub chains often occupied by students looking for bargains.

Opinion

Editor Digital Editor Co-Deputy Editor Co-Deputy Editor

Twitter: @EpigramOpinion

Mark Ross Charlie Osborne Katie Sowerby Caitlin Palmer O'Shaughnessy

Why Freshers' Week is not Freshers' housing crisis: Bristol the be all and end all of must value it's University students above profit intake of students. This is not the first time Bristol has placed its students miles away from the city. In 2019 dozens of students were placed in Newport, Wales; a whole separate country to the one in which they were supposed to be living in. So, Bristol have known that they Opinion Co-Deputy Editor cannot provide accommodation for all the students they are offering magine this; you’ve made varplaces too, yet they continued to ious lengthy trips around the accept students and thereby placed UK, looked at so many Unithe pursuit of profit above the expeversities you’ve lost count but you rience of their students. finally decide Bristol is the place for Moving away from home is alyou. ready incredibly overwhelming, so to You pour hours into your applicabe told you will be living in a diftion. Work incredibly hard in what ferent city away from course-mates has already been a seriously difficult and potential friends will undeniably year in order to meet the grades of result in some degree of social isolayour offer. You browse all the vartion and may negatively affect stuious halls of accommodation and dents’ wellbeing. finally choose one you feel is right Not only this, but living so far for you. away from your social hub strips you Then results day comes and sucof that spontaneity that is so vital to cess! You’ve gotten in! But then you making friends during your first few open weeks your Surely it is the bare minimum to live in o f a c nithe city in which you are attending the Uversicomm o - University you so carefully chose to apply ty. dation For to offer a unito find versiout you’ve been offered a room in ty that already has a bad reputation Bath. for caring for its student’s mental This is the reality for around 100 wellbeing, and as dark winter nights students this year, who will find loom, I seriously hope that the Unithemselves living in Bath, a city 13.9 versity begins to place student expemiles away from Bristol; the city in rience over profit. which they will actually be attendWe must also look ahead. With ing University and in which they more students than ever coming to believed they would be setting down Bristol what does this mean for the roots. private housing market for second Bristol claim that this is because of and third years? Bristol is a notoan increased demand for accommoriously expensive city, and with dation places this year. Undeniably higher demand students from lowthis year is somewhat unprecedenter-economic backgrounds may find ed. This past academic year has seen themselves effectively priced out of a nearly 75% rise in those getting the Bristol housing market. A and A* grades compared to those Where you live is most certainly who received grades in 2019*. not the be all and end all of your Undoubtedly this means thouUniversity experience. It doesn’t desands more young people have met termine who your best friends are or their A Level grades and will be dictate the experience you will have taking up places at their firm Uniat University. versities, subsequently placing an But surely, it is the bare minimum increased demand on rooms in Unito live in the city in which you are versity halls. attending the University you so However, I fail to understand Briscarefully chose to apply to. tol’s reasoning that placing students Bristol must change its priorities; in a separate city is only an issue profit cannot be pursued over studue to this year’s abnormally large dent experience.

Profit cannot be pursued over student experience Caitlin Palmer O'Shaughnessy

Freshers benefit from remembering that University is more than a week long Mark Ross Opinion Editor

o work, clubbing and free dominoes vouchers. On the face of it, Freshers’ is a recipe for one of the best weeks of incoming students’ lives. Stories passed around sixth year common rooms confer mythical status upon the experience. Popular culture promises us quirky friends, a cappella groups and beer kegs. Even the janitors will be geniuses. Mix in the utopic feeling of post-lockdown freedom and it is easy to see why first years across the country are relishing the prospect of their first week at Uni. My cousin, an incoming fresher at Glasgow University, summarised the zeitgeist, going so far as to say it will be “sick”. But despite the hype, for some students freshers’ does not live up to expectations. And for them it can be stressful because, if this is meant to be the best week of their Uni career, what does that mean for their remaining three years? This rite of passage, however, is not the be all and end all of University; freshers’ (sometimes) isn’t all it is cracked up to be. A disclaimer - this is not a bitter warning against having fun because, in all likelihood, you will. This is more of an article you should put in a box entitled ‘read-in-case-of-

not-enjoying-freshers’, that reminds your thing, Freshers’ week can be you that if you don’t enjoy freshdifficult to navigate. ers, you are a) not alone and b) not All this makes it difficult to live consigned to a miserable Uni career. up to the high expectations we had Here is why. for the start of Uni. This can generFirstly, freshers’ week is premate a sense of unfulfillment, which ised on meeting new people, and is deepened by social media. Seeing some people don’t like that. Being friends from home post pictures of entombed in a mass of bodies on a them frolicking candidly on the dance floor, or even having dinner sailing social, or of their new mates with a large group can be stressful from the hockey team just adds to for some. In this case, freshers’ could this sense of FOMO and alienation. feel more like a month than a week. Our happiness is relative to our On top of this, University attracts expectations. The above details why a smorgasbord of individuals. This perhaps freshers should remember makes socialising and finding comthat University is more than a week mon points of interests a challenge. long - they’d be happier for it. This Conversations about what tube you being said, the attraction of Univerlive near to, or Solskjaer's latest sity, encapsulated by Freshers’ week, signings, may be foreign to you. This is the opportunity to push yourself can be worrying. out of your comfort zone. To create COVID-related fears exacerbate lasting friendships, or discover that these problems. For the single-vaccipassion for clubbing. In this sense, nated, or COVID-conscious, the panFreshers’ will never be a bad expedemic adds a whole new layer of fear rience, perhaps just not the one you to the freshers’ experience. The week expected it to be. is a gathering of thousands of the So should we just stay at home, or most exposed, least-vaccinated deeven take the £10,000 proposed to some mographs t u Our happiness is relative to our ic from dents expectations across the by the c o u n t r y. Uni to Trying defer to recreate the legendary stories of the hellish freshers’ week experience freshers’ week in this context will be until next year? Not at all. Freshers stressful for many. week is undeniably fun and unique, For those that don’t like it, it is but the preconception that it is the also difficult to avoid the nightlife. best week of your life creates inThe University has made commendevitable disappointment and angst able efforts to provide non-clubbing amongst those for whom it is not. events, however, persuading your So, have fun, and don’t drop out if new flat to stroll around Stoke Bishfreshers isn’t life-changing. Univerop gardens instead of heading to Losity life has much more to offer than la’s is a hard sell. If clubbing isn’t free dominoes vouchers.

epigram 23.09.2021

Opinion

Freshers' Fair: worth it or seriously overrated? Charlie Osborne Opinion Digital Editor

t’s late September, which means hordes of students new and old have migrated to Bristol to experience a week of uninterrupted social affairs, be it Thekla, flower potting or thrifting galore. For incoming first years, Freshers' Week promises the opportunity to meet new faces, make new friends and properly establish oneself as a Bristol student. No event encapsulates this premise more than the Freshers' Fair, an inexhaustible trove of spoons vouchers, Dominos discount codes and hot club merch (stickers and the

occasional tote bag, that is). A great endorsement, you might think. But no. Shameless title aside, the Freshers' Fair can fail to live up to its aims. Here’s why. It’s 10am, you’re hungover from a heavy night in Lounge. You managed to stumble through the streets of your new home, chips in hand, got a few hours of kip and have made it to a field in the middle of Bristol. The allure of discount codes, a Love Saves the Day t-shirt you’ll only ever wear in bed and the small

It simply isn’t possible to properly interact with the societies, clubs and sports groups you’d like to in this capacity. Pandemic at fault, twice as many students as usual are trying to cash in on the freshers' experience, meaning the once crammed alley between the Ultimate Frisbee stand and the Quidditch table will be approaching crisis point. Like sardines in the proverbial freshers' fair can, it’s really rather impossible to meet and experience

It simply isn't possible to properly interact with the societies, clubs and sports groups you'd like to prospect of cultivating your entire university social experience has pulled in the crowds of groggy students. The first two objectives will be surely fulfilled, but can the latter objective be truly achieved in such surroundings?

the groups you wish to in a way that gets you any closer to knowing which ones are right for you. Stuck within a slow torrent of tired students as a capella, hockey and lacrosse ambassadors duke it out to secure the cream of the freshers crop, you might have little opportu-

nity to get a word in edgeways at the fair’s hotspots. To make the most of the occasion,

computer applying to internships, post-graduate work or crafting a spicy new CV.

Don't expect the fair to shape your future - that's on you you need a plan of action (and by the time you might read this, the opportunity may have passed - do not fret). Put some time aside to properly research the clubs and societies that peak your interest (and even those that might not) on the Student Union website. If, like I, you think your new group of friends is enough to sustain your social life for the next three years, think again. This isn’t to say you’ll grow apart, or that your hallmates aren’t all that, but merely to suggest you don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Societies offer a lot more than exercise and boozy nights! A year, or two, or three from now, you will be sitting down at a

Unfortunately, Thekla and the pub don’t count as sufficient extracurricular - you’ll be thankful you put the time in to try out clubs now in order to save yourself a sudden and panicked realisation down the line. So, take the Freshers' Fair for what it is. Grab the free drinks, the full body shaving lotion and a slice of pizza. Have a chat with those you can and stock up on discounts galore. Experience the multitude of interesting and exciting groups that the university has to offer. But don’t expect the fair to shape your future - that’s on you, and it’s something you should put real time into thinking about (even if, just for now, you’re too hungover to bother).

Courtesy of Mario Klassen

Freshers’ Week promises the opportunity to meet new faces and make new friends...

Twitter: @EpigramSciTech

Freshers' flu: what actually is it? The last year has prepped us all for COVID-19 - but just how much do you know about freshers' flu? James Emery

SciTech Deputy Editor

early everyone who has been through freshers’ week will have tales of the infamous ‘freshers' flu’ which leaves you feeling down in the dumps. But what actually causes this illness, and what are the best ways to avoid it? plays a key role in you getting sick. If you want to know the answers to This is due to alcohol being an imthese questions, then this is the artimune suppressant, mainly through cle for you! damaging cells within the respiraDid you know that ‘freshers’ flu’ is not necessarily even caused by the flu virus? In fact, it’s actually just a really bad cold which is brought on by a range of factors that you are exposed to in your first few weeks at uni. These factors work together to weaken your immune system tory tract and stomach, and causand make you more susceptible to a ing impairments in immune cells range of viruses that target your resthroughout the body. piratory tract, the most common of The damage caused to the respirawhich being the rhinovirus. tory tract can cause the cilia (small The infection then causes you to hair-like appendages found on the be congested, have a runny nose, a epithelial cells there which move sore throat, and just feel generally mucus out of the lungs) to stop worktired (which isn’t what you want in ing. This contributes to increased your first few weeks at uni!) infection, due to the mucus and the The main factor that causes all of pathogens trapped within it not bethis is the coming together of thouing pushed up and out the lungs and sands of different people at into the stomach where they the start of term, all of are destroyed. The efthem from differfects on the iment places. This mune cells not then makes only make it fresher’s easier for week a you to melting become pot of ill, but d i f a l s o ferent exacerviruses bate the which sympyou will t o m s , not have which is immunity what makes to, leaving you you feel so Epigram/ James Emery susceptible to getawful! ting an infection. These Another major reaviruses are then spread around son is the diet that most of us when students mingle together at have during fresher’s week, which events like the fresher’s fair and is not great to say the least. All of club nights, and before you know it the junk food that is usually eaten nearly everyone is feeling under the can really have an impact on the weather. immune system. This happens due The amount of drinking that takes to the high amount of calories and place during fresher’s week also fat found in junk food which cause

Unsplash/ Kelly Sikkema

The best thing that you can do is to make sure that you drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated and flush the toxins from the alcohol out your system. Try to swap the pizza

the immune system to mount an inflammatory response. This was best shown in a study carried out by researchers at the University of Bonn,

This makes freshers' week a melting pot of different viruses which you will not have immunity to where they placed mice on a ‘Western Diet’ which is high in sugar and fat but low in fibre, similar to the composition of junk food. This inflammatory response could increase the severity of the symptoms of fresher’s flu. There has even been research showing that unhealthy foods can lead to immune suppression, making it more likely for you to get ill. In addition to all of this, the lack of sleep during fresher’s week can also have an effect on the immune system. Studies show that those that get less sleep are more likely

Lack of sleep during freshers' week has a big impact on the immune system to become infected when exposed to a virus. This is due to a decrease in the release of cytokines (chemicals which help the body to fight infections) which are released during sleep, and a reduction in the activity of immune cells and the production of antibodies. So, all those late nights you have during fresher’s week may come back to haunt you! So, what can you do to stop yourself from getting freshers' flu? I could tell you to not drink alcohol or eat junk food or stay up late, but we all know that’s not going to happen.

Sarah Dalton Bethany Winget James Emery Isabella Ferguson

Your submitted science questions answered

How does protein stimulate muscle growth and weight loss? Protein works to reduce the hunger hormone and boost lots of satiety hormones. Therefore, many people attempting to lose weight try to increased the amount of protein in for some vegetables a couple times their diet to reduce their hunger/need a week - taking a vitamin can help for calories. Protein also contains amino acids, which are the building as well! blocks used for muscle growth. You can also put some of the skills we all gained during the pandemic Does having plants in my bedroom to use and sanitise regularly when improve my mood? going to bars and clubs or meeting Yes! Houseplants are good for your large groups of people. health for many reasons, as they reIf you have any cold-like symp- move harmful toxins from the air. toms, always complete a lateral flow However, a 2015 study in the Journal of Anthropology found that interactCOVID-19 test as soon as possible. ing with indoor plants also reduced psychological stress and anxiety, Freshers' flu fixes therefore boosting your mood. Freshers' flu can be treated the same way that you would treat a Why doesn't glue stick to the inside normal cold. That means trying to of the bottle? get as much rest and sleep as possiThe question that plagued many of ble so your body has enough enerus during our childhoods. It turns gy to fight the infection effectively. out, the answer is incredibly simple! Make sure to drink a lot of water so PVA glue is made up of polymers that you do not become dehydrated (long molecules) and water combined (which can help to fight off hangtogether. When you squeeze out the overs as well!) It is also important glue, this water evaporates, leaving to keep yourself nice and warm, just the sticky polymers behind. which means plenty of hot drinks and blankets. Why aren't teeth self-cleaning like You can treat fresher's flu with the rest of the body? medicine such as paracetemol and In a short summary, this is because ibuprofen which will help to rewe put food in our mouths, and we lieve pain from headaches and sore don't generally put food anywhere throats. However, be careful not to else. For instance, although our eyes take over the recommended dose self clean through tears, if we were to when used in conjunction with put food in our eyes or a part of the other cold medicines which can body where there might be bacteria, also contain them. there would be a problem.

Before you know it, nearly everyone is feeling under the weather

Epigram/ Sarah Dalton

SciTech

Editor Digital Editor Deputy Editor Subeditor

SciTech 11

epigram 23.09.2021

Do Bristol Uni students have a technology addiction? You asked and we answered SciTech Editor, Sarah, explores how technology usage has changed amongst students as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic Sarah Dalton SciTech Editor

espite the colloquial misuse of the term ‘addicted’, 30 per cent of people in our digitalised world are estimated to suffer from a form of problematic use of the internet, according to the International Journal for Neuropsychiatric Medicine. School, work, news, entertainment – the last century has seen all of these platforms of daily living transferred from paper to devices. However, with the pandemic forcing students into a virtual world like never before, just how have University of Bristol students fared? Epigram went to investigate. In a survey of 227 current students, an astonishing 91 per cent reported that they spend more time on technology now than before the

pandemic, confirming assumptions that technology usage has increased

of students checking just once a day. This could be interpreted to mean

‘I think social media is having a real impact on people's ability to think critically' amongst students. However, a high technology usage does not necessary indicate a technology addiction, unless this is accompanied by a lack of control over a behaviour that causes psychological or physical harm. Compulsivity and potential for harm must also be taken into account. When asked how often they felt the need to check social media, 75 per cent of University of Bristol students Epigra m/ Ne responded d Pigg ott with every one to two hours, with a mere 2.6 per cent

a strong element of compulsivity. However, when surveyed on which app they used the most before and after the pandem-

them so addictive? One potential answer, posed by social psychologist Adam Alter, is their lack of stopping cues - defined as a ‘signal that it is time to move on’. The ending of a chapter prompts you to ask if you wanted to read on or put the book down and the end of a radio show prompts us to ask if we want to switch off or listen on. Interestingly, media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram have removed these stopping cues, in-

one Third Year Biochemistry student told Epigram: ‘It’s really easy to get distracted by social media, but the resources technology provides me with in terms of accessibility to research and note taking far outweigh the costs.’ Reflecting on the situation within the humanities, Third Year English Literature student Sanjana Idnani added that: ‘I think technology, especially social media platforms like Twitter, have taken the nuance out of situations. ‘People, brands, journalists, politicians, all think about fast engagement over slow thought now and I think that’s having a real impact on people’s ability to think critically.’

91 per cent of University of Bristol students spend more time on technology now than before the pandemic

The statistics in short ic, the use of Instagram, Facebook and Youtube all dropped, whilst Tiktok proved to be the champion of our pandemic, shooting up by a whopping 31 per cent. So, what is it about these apps that makes

stead becoming a scrolling stream of media which never reaches an end point. As a result, hours of our lives are scrolled and swiped away often with little sense of the passing of time, and the detrimental impact of this on mental health is sparkling clear. Yet, despite the figures, is technology always a hinderance for the modern student? Not necessarily. As

> 75 per cent of students check their phone every one to two hours > The use of TikTok during the pandemic increased by 31 per cent > 74 per cent of students say their phone is their most used technology

How to pour the scientifically perfect pint full. After this, aim to pour the beer into the centre of the glass, this will create a smooth pour without causing splashing or releasing too much

Crafting a pint is an art form that requires scientific knowledge and accuracy

SciTech Digital Editor

beer from a can or bottle, take the pint glass and hold it underneath the can or bottle at a 45 degree angle. Pour the beer down the side of the glass until the glass is about half

CO2. When the glass is nearly full, tilt it to a 90 degree position - this is key for creating the foam head of the beer.

Unsplash/ Bence Boros

n the UK alone 47.77 million hectolitres of beer were consumed in 2018. With freshers’ week approaching, pouring the perfect pint will be a key skill to have. Crafting a pint is an art form that requires scientific knowledge and accuracy in order to achieve optimal taste and appearance. To begin, check you are using the correct glass. For most beers, a standard pint glass is generally sufficient. The glass must be thoroughly cleaned as any soapy residue will cause small bubbles to cling to the top of the beer. Cleaning also prevents any impurities binding to the CO2, allowing the CO2 to properly escape to the top of the glass.

Continue pouring the beer at this angle whilst slowly creating distance between the glass and the bottle or can. The distance determines how much foam is created and this can be adjusted to produce the right amount. After following these steps, the art of pint pouring should be mastered and you can put your Troubleshooting The beer is flat - This means there are issues with the carbonation of the beer. Either adjust the CO2 pressure if pouring from a tap, increase the temperature slightly or the glass may be greasy. The beer is too foamy – This means the temperature may be too warm, the CO2 pressure is too high, the faucet is dirty or the distance between the glass and tap/bottle when pouring was incorrect. The beer is cloudy – This means the temperature is not constant or the beer may be old.

new skills to good use during freshers' week! However, refer to the troubleshooting section if any issues arise.

on Sarah Dalt

Before pouring, the temperature of the beer should be two degrees in order for it to be consumed at around five degrees. If you are pouring a

Epigram/

The perfect pint requires a scientific method and this Freshers’ week, Epigram’s SciTech team have got you covered Bethany Winget

Arts

Editor Digital Editor Co-Deputy Editor Co-Deputy Editor

Twitter: @EpigramCulture

Katie Chalk Greg Evans Oscar Hunter Kate Bowie

How to make the most of Bristol’s art scene this year Epigram / Oscar Hunter

A whistle-stop tour of Brisol's key arts venues proves fans of the arts couldn't have picked a better university city. Oscar Hunter

Co-Deputy Arts Editor

The Bristol Museum and Art Gallery

The Old Vic Theatre The Hippodrome The Hippodrome is one of the UK’s biggest theatres venues and has hosted some of the greats of British theatre and comedy, and their line up for the next few months lives up to its reputation. Based on the hilarious cult classic film, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, this musical version promises to be just as side splitting and heart-warming as the original, with a groovy disco track to go with it. With tickets on sale from £13, this is sure to be an experience worth at least double what you pay.

The Old Vic is even older than the Hippodrome (it first opened its doors in 1766) and is always willing to open doors of opportunity to new talent, as well as host some pretty big shows. Fans of literature will consider their next show quite the treat. From just £9 you can go and see a production of the Bronte classic Wuthering Heights, with a cast of both the new and fresh-faced, and more experienced actors. There are plenty of ways to interact with the arts scene in Bristol, and we are truly spoilt for choice.

Epigram / Oscar Hunter

The Bristol Museum and Art Gallery has always hosted a great deal of fantastic, forward-thinking exhibitions, and 2021 is no different. The art gallery’s main collection is the Bristol Photo Festival, which ends on the 31st of October. This exhibition hosts photographers from a variety of backgrounds, with a variety of different points to make with their art. From James Bahnoor’s Pan- African futurism, to Martin Parr’s depiction of Post-War Britain and Ireland, there is something to pique every curious creative in this city!

A street-art tour of Bristol through the eyes of Banksy Mild Mild West, Location: Stokes Croft

To tourists and students alike Bristol and Banksy are inseperable, around Bristol. Here is a physical and cultural run-down of his works in the city's most vibrant areas. Oscar Hunter

This piece is said to be one of Banksy’s earliest, many believe that the theme of the work is to highlight police crackdowns on illegal raves in the 1990s. Stokes Croft itself is a vibrant and multicultural community, filled with a great number of independent cafes and eateries, many of which have prices that a student might actually be able to afford!

rguably Bristol’s most famous export, Banksy is a cultural pillar of the city, and helped to put the Bristol Street Art scene on the map. Here are some of Banksy’s most famous pieces, and a bit about the locations that they are in, to help our fresher friends get more familiar with the city.

Tom Taylor / Epigram

Co-Deputy Arts Editor

Well Hung Lover, Location: Park Street The Well Hung Lover is much like the location it is in, fun, raunchy and modern in thought. Park Street is one of Bristol’s student hubs, awash with cafes, vintage stores, and overlooked by Will’s Memorial, the Universities

main building. The piece itself sits over Frogmore Street, the home of OMG, Bristol’s best gay bar, which has a student night on Wednesday, where shots are only £1!

Girl With The Pierced Eardrum, Location: Hanover Place This piece is based on Johannes Vermeer’s The Girl with the Pearl Earring and is an example of Banksy’s willingness to have fun with his work, and to make fun of art in general. The work is at Hanover Place, close to the harbourside, a beautiful body of water lined with great pubs and bars for a great night out (and the sea air can

help clear your hungover head in the morning!)

Arts 13

epigram 23.09.2021

A taste of Bristol's arts societies Home to around four hundred clubs and societies, Bristol Univeristy is a bustling hub of activity in the arts. Here are some you might not have come across. Katie Chalk Arts Editor

Drag Society

tells me. This vibrant ethos is set to materialise this year in many exciting events. This includes a freshers week pub quiz and workshops with special guests from the local drag scene,.For freshers in particular, the ‘DragSoc goes to...' events and fortnightly ‘make-up mingles' are the perfect way to meet new people and experiemnt with drag in a supportive environment. Perhaps most excitingly, Drag Soc's first in-person drag show is set to take place in late October or Early November!

Stage-Tech Society

For lovers of theatre who are not into performing themselves, it can be hard to see ways to be involved. Stage Tech society provides this with oppertunities to partake in lighting, sound, set, and stage management for some of the most exciting performances of the year. Most imminently, Stage-tech Society will be

Arts Co-Deputy Editor

What you can see from here - Mariana Leky

his international phenomenon warmly questions what it means to grow up without the usual teenage angst. Beginning with a dreamt-up death omen (an okapi) and ending with a few tears in your

Speaking of teenage angst, Salinger's protagonist Holden Caulfield earns his title as whiniest bildungsroman protagonists fair and square. An ob-

Society

Calling all keen readers and aspiring authors or poets: the Poetry and Creative Writing Society may be for you. There are plenty of oppertunities during Welcome week to get involved like poetry and flash fiction readings on the 21st and 23rd September, as well as a 20 minute Give it a Go session later that week. Their weekly writing workshops alternating between creative writing focused sessions and poetry focused sessions take place at 6 to 8pm in Senate House, room 5.07 during term time.

‘Vivacity, Colour, Community are three perfect words to describe Bollywood Dance Society' Sanjana tells me. With fortnightly lessons (which are free for members) and many performing oppertunities including at Hindu Soc's Garba in October and at Diwali ball, this group is certainly buzzing with activity. The group are also thrilled to have been selected to compete in the National competition Garba Just Bollywood' this year with autitions for the event taking place in October.

Fruit is a tale of growing up like none other.

picked it up yet their truly couldn’t be a better time. Following Connell and Marianne’s intertwined and encircling lives, Rooney illuminates the nuances of moving to university with deft accuracy. While she covers this period of moving out expertly, her work also goes to show that no matter where you are in life you never really stop growing up.

The Colour Purple Alice Walker

eyes, Leky follows the residents of a small village through love, death and life. While our protagonist ages from small child to young adult, those around her learn they are not as grown up as they imagined.

The Catcher in the Rye J.D. Salinger

Writing Society

involved with the DramSoc show in the Winston Theatre and the MTB show in the Pegg theatre both of which will be taking place in October. To find out if Stage Tech is for you then there is a welocme social on September 30th and all information on their social media (Stage Technicians' Association on Facebook, and @stabristol on Instagram).

Moving out and Growing up Here’s a lukewarm take: growing up and moving out is hard. Constant sling-shotting between giddy excitement and the plunging panic of the unknown can make starting university one of the toughest periods of your life. These books can help you out. Kate Bowie

Bollywood Dance

Bollywood Dance Society

e love drag in its rawest form: local, political, and diverse.' Drag Soc's Iana

Poetry and Creative

vious recommendation? Perhaps. An unmissable one? Definitely. Salinger follows sixteen year-old Holden who, having just been kicked out of prep school, attempts to find truth in the adult world of ‘phoniness’. If you feel like indulging in a small existential crisis, look no further.

Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit - Jeanette Winterson Winterson’s modern classic offers all you could ask for in a coming of age tale. Punchy prose, a headstrong main character and the coming-out story to end all coming-out stories. Adopted Jeanette is raised by her zealous Pentecostal mother until the unthinkable happens: age sixteen, she falls in love with a woman. Leaving her family, church and life behind, Oranges are not the Only

While I can’t call Pulitzer-prize winning, international best-selling The Colour Purple underrated, I can certainly call it exceptional. We meet young black girl Celie in the deep south of the early twentieth century and endure her harrowing comingof-age with a grimace. Bit by bit, however, she realises the joy and potential pushed inside her. And after all, isn’t that what growing up’s all about?

Normal People - Sally Rooney I’m well aware I’m neither the first nor the last person to tell you to read Sally Rooney’s chart smashing novel Normal People. But if you haven’t

BOOK

CORNER

Music

Editor Theo Kent Co -Deputy Editor Mia Smith Co -Deputy Editor Emma Pope Digital Editor Josh Templeman Subeditor Chezelle Bingham

Twitter: @EpigramCulture

Live music lives on: a guide to Bristol’s best music venues Epigram highlights the city's top music locations Josh Templeman Digital Editor

s a city, Bristol is blessed with many things – from our internationally renowned street art to our thriving food scene. One thing that nobody can deny is that Bristol is an absolute haven for live music, with events ranging from intimate lamp-lit gigs to massive warehouse raves. Whether you’re into your smooth jazz or hard-hitting drum & bass, what’s certain is that Bristol has something for everybody.

Motion

Hosted across a range of disused warehouses and sprawling courtyards, Motion is one of Bristol’s most famous music venues, attracting DJs and musicians from all across the world. Just two years ago in 2019, the publication DJ Mag ranked Motion as the 11th best club worldwide. With huge names like Beabadoobee, Mall Grab and Hybrid Minds all due to play the venue in the coming months, Motion is definitely the place to go if you’re looking for a big night.

Thekla

Bristol’s quirkiest yet most appreciated venue is Thekla, located in Bristol’s Mud Dock on a former German cargo ship. Often hailed as the 'place to be' for indie listeners across the city, Thekla hosts its legendary ‘Pressure.’ night each Thursday alongside regular indie gigs. However, the venue offers something for everyone, from weekly drum and bass nights to hosting hiphop artists like Sam Wise and A1 in the coming months.

the venue is the place to be if you’re looking to discover Bristol’s best up-and-coming artists. Since their opening back in 2012, the venue has hosted a wide array of artists from Bristol’s very own IDLES to The 1975 and Four Tet. A non-profit social enterprise, the venue also acts as a coffee shop and record store during the daytime.

The Lousiana

The Lousiana is a venue that champions itself on being ‘proudly independent’. Since its opening in 1987, the Whapping-Wharf based venue has hosted some huge names, such as The Chemical Brothers, Florence + The Machine and Muse. With a strong belief in promoting and nurturing u p c o m i n g homegrown talent, don’t be surprised if the relatively unknown Rough Trade Epigram / Josh Templeman band you see play here goes on to do huge things.

Exchange

An independent, community-led music venue located in Bristol’s Old Market area. Open 7 nights a week,

The Old Duke

The smallest and most intimate venue on this list is The Old Duke, an 18th-century pub located on

King Street. Named very heart of Bristol’s music in homage to the scene, having hosted legendary jazz huge names ever musician since the 1980s and, D u k e despite a brewing Ellington, uncertainty the New r e g a r d i n g Orleans its future, it inspired continues to do v e n u e so today. hosts live music every Loco Klub The Louisiana / Epigram day of the week Referring to itself and even holds its as Bristol’s ‘home for own annual jazz festival. alternative arts', Loco Klub is one of the city's most unique venues. O2 Academy Bristol Housed in the tunnels underneath One of Bristol’s most active live Temple Meads station, it is an music venues, the O2 Academy will experience unlike anything else in always have something to pique the city. A diverse venue, Loco Klub your interest. Accomodating huge hosts orchestras and operas, as well names across all genres, the venue as club nights from some of the best hosts a sprawling timetable that DJs. covers most days of the week. In upcoming months, they are due to Rough Trade host huge names, such as Kasabian, Perhaps the most versatile venue Arlo Parks and Sports Team. on this list is Rough Trade. Not only is Rough Trade one of Bristol’s more Lakota active venues, showcasing both local An absolute staple in Bristol’s live and global talent on a regular basis music scene, Lakota is one of the but it also acts as an independent city's most famous music venues, record shop, hosting regular signings frequently hosting impressive linewith huge acts such as Easy Life in ups on a world-class sound system. recent months, offering the chance From drum & bass and jungle to for a uniquely intimate encounter techno and house, Lakota is at the with your favourite acts.

If Freshers’ week was a movie, this would be the soundtrack

Tunes to kick off your Bristol experience Emma Pope

Co-Deputy Editor

Epigram / Julia Riopelle

e all know how it feels: you’ve just moved into uni and suddenly, there’s the dreaded ‘freshers pressure’ urging you to be out there having fun, socialising and living the uni lifestyle. You’re trying to make friends and find things in common with the random assortment of people you can now call your flatmates. Everyone’s done the classic small talk conversation starters, and you’re tired of hearing about A-level choices. You’re chilling in your kitchen (or squeezed into someone’s room),

and someone brings out a speaker. Perfect. One of the greatest means of bringing people together, music plays a huge role in every student’s first-year experience. Whether it’s discussions about the latest weird Kanye song, bonding over the tune that got everyone dancing in Lizard Lounge last night, or deciding on a playlist for your first flat party, music connects us all. Throughout the year, the Epigram Music team’s Spotify is guaranteed to have all the best recommendations, from intense concentration study playlists to the latest tunes you just need to check out. Whether you want to live out your wild child dreams, waltzing into pres wearing the latest charity shop finds (if you know, you know), or if you’d prefer to impress your new flatmates

with some super cool grooves, here are a few of our favourites for those first few Bristol weeks. If you’re a fan of the cheesy hits, the classics to boogie the night away with, get busy with ‘Tambourine' by Eve, ‘Kickstarts' by Example, ‘Fantasy' by Mariah Carey, ‘Dreams' by Fleetwood Mac or ‘Paper Planes' by MIA. To suit the groovers, we’d go for ‘Paris City Jazz' by Bellaire or ‘LITE SPOTS' by Kaytranada. Armed with the soundtrack to suit whatever vibe you choose, we hope that your fresher's week will truly be a movie.

Discover all of our recommedations on our Spotify @Epigram_Music

Music 15

epigram 23.09.2021

Idles and special guests on the Downs

Co-Deputy Editor

dles rarely live up to their name. The band are always busy: a few hours before stepping onto their back yard of The Downs, they’d been in London, headlining Wide Awake Festival. The band are keen to make up for lost time – between organising this festival, they’ve worked on Metallica’s new charity album, cycled from London to Bristol in aid of Empire Fighting Chance, and even released their own documentary. As negative lateral flows and covid passports were shown, the initial air was one of courtesy and caution. There seemed to be a kneejerk reaction to still socially distance – people danced with themselves and small groups of friends formed their own moshpits. But as the day went on, there was a collective effort to abandon the new normal and return to how live music once was – strangers shouting lyrics to each other and students moshing amongst middle-aged rockers. The title of IDLES’ 2018 album Joy as an Act of Resistance seemed fitting: joy prevailed as memories of repeated government let-downs and lockdowns were resisted.

aristocracy, but championing the blue of the NHS. IDLES are known for being musical pioneers of social justice, their oeuvre fit to burst with anti-Brexit anthems and tracks that cover everything between toxic masculinity and the suffocating patriarchy. There was a clear endeavour to represent the

boys. The band’s inclusive mission isn’t just a gimmick – catching up with Grandmas House after their set, they recall bumping into IDLES on the street: ‘we thanked them for inviting us to play – we asked if it was them or “the team” that chose us, and they said it was them’. The ‘special guests’ enlisted by

the Covid-19 pandemic.’ Frontman Joe Talbot paused throughout the band's set to emphasise their gratitude. The meaning of song ‘Reigns’ was repurposed to fit the occasion – as Talbot screamed ‘how does it feel to have blue blood coursing through your veins?’, he wasn’t scolding the blue of the

underrepresented; the band’s curated line-up prioritised ethnic minority, female and non-binary talent. Openers Big Joanie, a black feminist punk band from London, addressed the importance of intersectionality and thanked IDLES for helping to carve new spaces in a scene usually reserved for sweaty, shirtless white

Drug Store the band played across threeRomeos stages already set for Love Saves the Day, and proved to be a successful warmup. Crowd favourite Grove brought a refreshing blend of punk, dance and jungle to the centre stage, while riot grrrl newcomers Slagheap made uproar on the plug stage. The lyrics of Working Men’s Club’s John

attempt to rap is enough to make this album my favourite. ‘Wham Rap! (Enjoy What You Do)’ provides almost seven minutes of quotable genius to live by, most notably ‘give a wham give a bam but don’t give a damn!’. As the title suggests, this album is simply ‘Fantastic’.

The Fame Monster Lady Gaga

Editors' Picks

Mordechai Khruangbin

Madvillainy / Stones Throw Records

Emma Pope Co-Deputy Music Editor Cocoa Sugar by Young Fathers has got to be one of my all-time favourite albums. Open to interpretation

Mia Smith Co-Deputy Music Editor Completely unironically, Fantastic by Wham! is my favourite album of all time. This debut is just so much fun – clearly created by a pair of friends who’ve discovered synths and comical sound effects after being let loose in a studio for the first time. It is still impressively experimental – ‘Club Tropicana’ is quintessentially Wham!, while ‘Nothing Looks the Same In the Light’ foreshadows the likes of future 'Careless Whisper'. Hearing George Michael

Josh Templeman Digital Editor To this very day, Madvillainy is an album that still never fails to make my jaw drop on every single listen. The project represents two legends of the game, MF DOOM and Madlib, at the peak of their artistry, resulting in what has surely gone down as one of the most unique and creative albums hip-hop (and music as a whole for that matter) has ever heard. Not only are DOOM’s rhymes some of the most crisp and intricate I have ever come across, but Madlib’s production is what truly makes this project the masterpiece it is; through layer upon layer of ridiculously obscure samples, he manages to craft a sound that is both so forward-thinking and innovative yet simultaneously so celebratory of hip-hop’s roots.

Fantastic / Innervision

Cocoa Sugar Young Fathers

Fantastic Wham!

Madvillainy Madvillain, Madlib and MF DOOM

The Fame Monster / Interscope Records

Theo Kent Music Editior My pick is the 2020 album Mordechai from Houston three-piece Khruangbin. What I love about this album is its versatility - it explores everything from infectious disco, to Latin grooves in tracks like ‘Pelota', to psychedelic surf in the final track ‘Shida'. All of this is done while maintaining the band’s signature sound. Their overall tone is simple and stripped-back, but nothing short of impeccable.

and perfect listening for any mood, the trio have managed to merge everything from hip hop, indietronica, soul and lo-fi to create a perfect blend of genres. Moving away from their weird experimental sound, Young Fathers tried their hardest to make these 12 songs more ‘normal’, making this album by far their most accessible. In my opinion, this album is still far from ordinary, but that’s what makes me love it so much.

Cocoa Sugar / Ninja Tune

or our first issue, we have narrowed down our favourite albums to get to know us. Be sure to check out epigram_music on Spotify for updates throughout the

Chezelle Bingham Subeditor Whether it’s because of childhood nostalgia or because pre-2010s pop music is my not-so-guilty pleasure, Lady Gaga’s The Fame Monster is certainly one of my favourite albums. The 22-track long gothic electropop record, which added eight new songs to Gaga’s 2008 debut The Fame, blends classic disco-pop songs like ‘Just Dance' and ‘Bad Romance' with melancholic jazz-influenced tracks such as ‘Speechless' and ‘Brown Eyes' to generate an always catchy, always campy, work of art. Gaga manages to cite Madonna, Britney Spears and Amy Winehouse all at once and combines them to create the flawless and legendary modern day pop album that has yet to be defeated in its genre.

Cooper Clarke captured the day’s feeling: ‘we dance and we smile/ we laugh and cry’. Set after set, bands gushed that this was the largest crowd they’d ever played to, touched by a sense of disbelief to be playing live once more. Punk music is almost pointless without a live audience – the genre demands a reaction. There was an overwhelming shared catharsis between IDLES and the crowd as the day came to a head. The Downs were transformed into a 10,000-strong moshpit, but one that proved it’s always punk-rock to be kind. Everyone looked after one another: sorries were screamed after moshing too hard, fallen soldiers were picked back up as quickly as possible, and places were traded between the tall and the small for a clearer view. Some were even wearing masks in the depth of the pit. The band became one with the crowd, with guitarists Mark Bowen and Lee Keirnan lurching into epic stage dives. Old favourites and new debuts were met with equal and raucous applause – only a short cover of ‘Wonderwall’ was met with boos, a crowd donned in generations of IDLES merch wanted no distractions from the band itself. As the crowd snaked away from The Downs, ears ringing and bruises forming, hope for the future of live music became tangible. IDLES on The Downs restored faith in so many, setting the perfect precedent for Bristol's return to festival life. Mordechai / Dead Oceans

The day quickly became a celebration, especially for the NHS. The band offered 2000 free tickets to local NHS staff, writing on Instagram ‘We know it's not much, but it is a gesture of our thanks to you for your incredible work and selflessness over the last 18 months in treating and caring for people at the frontline of

IDLES' homecoming gig. Epigram / Mia Smith

A taste of Bristol's vivid music scene: Epigram reviews the post-punkers' latest outing Mia Smith

Film&TV

Editor Ben Carpenter Digital Editor Madeleine Ellis Deputy Editor Isha Vibhakar

Twitter: @Epigramculture

A city on camera - your guide to shows filmed in Bristol Courtesy of Channel 4

Acquaint yourself with your new home with these shows Evelyn Heis & Madeleine Ellis

Columnist & Digital Editor

t is without question that the city of Bristol is magical, having the power to shape-shift and transform into different settings for the films and tv-shows that are set within it. From hard-hitting dramas like Casualty (1986-) to action-packed films like Hellboy (2019), Bristol remains one of the most theatrical and utilised filming locations in the country. Why not explore and get to know the city by visiting the locations where these renowned projects were filmed?

Skins (2007-2013)

One of the most successful teenage drama series of the 2000s, Channel 4’s Skins has undoubtedly impacted British culture for its unfiltered portrayal of teenage life. From reckless partying and mundane school-life to mental illness, excessive drug-use and bereavement, Skins is commended for its realistic, yet melodramatic, representation of British teen life. For those living in Bristol, the iconic show would have been even more significant, given that it is set in the very heart of the city. College Green, Brandon Hill and Trenchard Street Car Park are all regular locations for the show, where many memorable scenes, including the opening credits, take place. College Green appears the most often, in episodes like

‘Michelle’ (Series 1, Ep.7) and ‘Everyone’ (Series 3, Ep.1), as one of the main ‘hang-out’ spots for the teenagers, and is notably still used by many students today. Not even a ten-minute walk from College Green, and a steep hill later, sits Brandon Hill: a serene setting full of benches that overlook the city, where Cassie and Sid share an intimate moment at the end of season one. Other hot spots for the filming of Skins include St. Nicholas Market, the Harbourside and Castle Park, which are central locations that are all worth visiting.

Poldark (2015-2019) Set in 1781 amidst the American War of Independence, this British historical-drama follows Captain Poldark’s venture to Cornwall, where, upon returning from the war, he discovers that his life has been flipped upside-down. Based on the books of the same name by Winston Graham, Poldark's production predominantly took place in Bristol, though some of its land-

scape settings are based in Cornwall, as the BBC worked at The Bottle Yard Studios - the West of England’s largest dedicated production space. By the end of season five, the Studio had built a total of 18 major interior sets, including the Poldarks’ Nampara home in Cornwall, his London lodgings, and the Warleggans’ homes in Cornwall and London. Poldark’s London lodgings were also filmed within the city, with St. Nicholas Market’s historic stone setting providing an exterior backdrop for most episodes. Notably, the ‘theatre scene’ at the beginning of season 5 takes place on King Street at the Bristol Old Vic, one of Bristol’s historical landmarks which was established in 1766 and continues to run to this day.

Sherlock (2010-2017) BBC favourite Sherlock, starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman, has also often picked the city as its preferred filming location. In fact, the practice has become so regular that the Bristol Film Office

have since created a ‘Sherlock Locations Trail' for keen-eyed fans. One such location is the St Mary Magdalene Church on Stoke Hill, where the exterior of Mary and John’s wedding was shot for the episode ‘The Sign of Three'. Filming did not stop there, however, as Goldney Hall Orangery was also featured in the episode as the setting of Sherlock’s famous best man speech. A slightly less light-hearted, but equally exciting, destination on the tour is the Arnos Vale Cemetery. Designed originally to emanate a walled Greek Necropolis, the haunting feel of the area made it the ideal spot for the episode ‘The Abominable Bride', starring Andrew Scott as the evil but charming Moriarty.

Doctor Who (1963-) Across its thirty-eight seasons, Doctor Who has filmed in various locations across the United Kingdom as well as the globe. A lesser known but frequently selected destination is Bristol itself, with its artistic features and hidden gems being a favourite for television’s longest running science fiction show. In 2012, The University of Bristol’s Royal Fort House was used for the opening scenes of the seventh season's premiere. Located just a five min-

ute walk from the University, the building was used as the setting for the Doctor’s companion, Amy Pond’s, photoshoot. As one of Bristol’s beautiful open spaces, the location is a perfect detour for students returning from lectures. Another frequented filming location for the iconic show is the Redcliffe Caves. The artificial tunnels, which are located on the south of Bristol Harbour, were once inhabited by eighteenth century pottery producers, but in 2017 became the brief home of the Tardis. The eerie setting is easy to spot in the season 10 episode, ‘Empress of Mars', starring Peter Capaldi. What do you think about our collection of projects filmed in and around Bristol? Why not visit some of these amazing spots over freshers week? It could be an interesting foray into the world of Film & TV and the perfect way to get yourself acquainted with your new home! If you do visit any of these places and upload any photos, make sure you tag us at @epigram_film on Instagram!

Courtesy of BBC

Life isn't quite a movie - but which movies best capture uni life? A collaborative piece between the members of your 2021/22 Editorial Team

arties, coffee shops, vintage stores and libraries. New friends, old friends and frenemies. There’s nothing quite like the uni experience, so what better way to immerse yourself in all things undergrad than to lose yourself in

some university based cinema? A collaborative piece between your new editorial team, we have amassed a collection of films based on a wide range of themes to help you find just what you need at the start of this exciting new chapter in your life.

Friendship Aside from being an underrated gem, The House Bunny (2008) is also the rare comedy that accurately and sensitively captures female friendship and sisterhood within the university sphere. In short, the movie chronicles Shelley (Anna Faris)

who, after being excluded from the Playboy Mansion due to her age (Because isn’t 27 like 59 in ‘bunny' years?) finds a family in the form of several ‘misfit’ sorority sisters. Shelley’s entrance brings the girls closer together as friends while also displeasing their rival sorority house, making for some great comedic moments that are not unlike Mean Girls (2004) or The Hot Chick (2002). The House Bunny proves to be a movie that positively showcases friendship at university, displaying how you can always fall back on your friends despite the struggles that university

may test you with. Eventually ending up as ‘half Shelley-half them-

Courtesy of IMDB

Can films truly represent such an environment accurately?

these people can form long-lasting connections with each other. With a cast consisting of Emma Stone, Kat Dennings and Colin Hanks among others, The House Bunny is certainly a movie that would be suited for any excited fresher looking to form some, hopefully, lifelong friendships at university.

Mental Health selves', Shelley’s connection with the sorority girls despite their differences demonstrates how university can bring together people who may be opposing on the surface and how

Set in and around MIT in Boston, Good Will Hunting (1997) explores the life of a young university janitor who is revealed to be a maths prodigy struggling with the trauma

Film&TV 17

Courtesy of Channel 4

Party Culture While you may have big plans to check out the nightlife of Bristol, you may want to check out Bad Neighbours (2014) before you make any major (drunk) decisions. An adult breakout hit for Zac Efron, this com-

edy film is about an escalating feud between a university fraternity and the married couple living next door. With thundering parties, chaos, damage and mess, fraternities may seem like an entirely different entity to British university culture. However, despite the more level headed halls design in the UK, much of the culture this film displays fails to wildly differ from what you may experience. From the tighter knit campus energy of Stoke Bishop to the more urban environment of Riverside, if there’s one thing UoB students know how to do it’s party, whether this be in your own flat or the backrooms of Lakota. Bad Neighbours highlights both the best and the worst aspects of univer-

Academia Aside from the social gatherings and party-culture that permeate university life, our university experience is largely moulded by academics: courses, lectures, study-sessions, and a lot of reading. Studying the subject of our choice and broadening our knowledge in the process is an exciting opportunity, so what better way to prepare yourself for this experience than by living vicariously through fictional characters in academic settings? Legally Blonde (2001) provides a witty yet realistic presentation of the admissions process and Elle Woods’ tenacious drive to get into Harvard is nothing short of inspirational. Aside from this, the presentation of lecture-halls and teacher-student interactions also provides a hopeful look at the impact your superiors can have on both you and your ed-

ucation. Similarly, Dead Poets Society (1989), though set in a boarding school, highlights the academic lives of a few students and their influential teacher, with whom they share many

Courtesy of IMDB

sity party culture while providing a range of lessons in how to make the most of your freedom, and although the film seeks only to entertain, it begs the question of whether it’s worth it to rave like there’s no tomorrow at the expense of your studies.

Courtesy of IMDB

stemmed from a manuscript composed by childhood friends Affleck and Damon as the result of a scriptwriting class the latter took while at Harvard University. The story behind the Oscar-winning screenplay adds a further level of realism to what has become one of the most acclaimed films of all time.

Courtesy of IMDB

of his distressful childhood. While the film has been compared to the later release, A Beautiful Mind (2001) due to their shared focus upon an isolated genius, the former tackles both the everyday trials of coming of age while also delving deeper into the theme of young people’s mental health, particularly focusing upon a young man with a stubborn and tough exterior. Writers Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, who also star in the critically renowned psychological drama, are pioneers in the presentation of conversational therapy in film, particularly in the stand-out scene in which Robin Williams’ Dr Sean Maguire repeats the phrase ‘it’s not your fault' until the young man acknowledges the sentiment. As well as dealing with the difficult theme of professional intervention in mental illness, the screenplay acknowledges the importance of friendship. The development of the initially antagonistic communication between the protagonist and his therapist progresses in a parallel with Will Hunting’s lifelong relationship with his four best friends, as well as his budding romance with medical student Skylar and, most importantly, his addressing of his own talent and anguish. Not only is the film focused within the environment of a well-known college, but the original concept

intellectual discussions. It wasn’t until Rory from Gilmore Girls (2000-2007) visited Harvard, sat in during a lecture and moved into her college dorm, that our columnist Evelyn first got excited to go to University. Rory and Paris’ studious, yet competitive, characters act as a huge source of motivation in regards to studies and potential literary pursuits, as they both got accepted into the universities of their dreams and became journalists for their college newspaper. When feeling lethargic, unmotivated and tired of studying, a boost of inspiration may be provided by Freedom Writers (2007), a powerful film reminding you of the privilege that is being able to get an education.

Loneliness Not to dampen the mood, but the reality of university is that often, despite the parties and the socials and the flat dinners, it can be a very lonely place. Not only are you moving to a new town, but you also must make new friends, which isn’t always as easy as it seems. Even for those who may already have a whole flurry of friends around the city, it is likely that loneliness is going to hit at some point during the uni-

versity experience. Ladybird (2017) addresses this loneliness with both warmth and sensitivity. Directed by Greta Gerwig, the film is a coming-of age dramedy that depicts the life of a student, concentrating specifically on her relationships with her mother and friends. The final sequence of the film finds the titular character, played by Saoirse Ronan in a Golden Globe winning performance, waking up hungover and alone in a hospital one morning, having moved to New York from Sacramento for college. Taking herself on a walk to a local church and leaving an emotional voicemail for her semi-estranged mother, Ladybird finds herself reflecting on where she came from and who she has become. Alone in the big city and realising that maybe she isn’t quite as grown up as she once thought, Ladybird captures the potency of fading youth and budding adulthood while simultaneously presenting the terrifying realisation of sudden loneliness with delicacy. Concluding shortly after this sequence, one thing that the film fails to show is that loneliness is not forever. Loneliness will come and go as you grow, but in the meantime, there’s nothing wrong with finding some pertinence in an oscar-nominated masterpiece such as Ladybird.

Courtesy of IMDB

epigram 23.09.2021

Epigram rounds up the finest film spots for freshers Chezelle Bingham Subeditor

f you are a fresher looking to get involved in the Bristol film scene then look no further - the city of Bristol is a hotspot for film and television events, and was permanently assigned as a UNESCO City of Film in 2017. From the Watershed to Everyman, Bristol's cinema scene can provide every film fanatic with a little something from their favourite genre.

Film Festivals There are multiple diverse and exciting film festivals held in Bristol over the course of the year. For those

who like the classics, the annual Bristol Film Festival provides screenings of classic films at unique locations over the city such as the Redcliffe Caves, Bristol Museum and the Vale Cemetery, providing entertaining new ways to view your favourite films. For those who like to laugh, the Slapstick festival, showcasing silent comedies, might appeal to you; and for those who enjoy animated visuals, perhaps the Encounters festival, which promotes local short and animated films, might be tempting.

Societies Joining a society is the perfect way to make friends outside of your course, and is a great way to add a little personal fun into your academic week. The University of Bristol Film Society hosts weekly film screenings at the SU and provides a good opportunity to meet other people involved

Courtesy of Bristol SU

in the cinema sphere. If you are a student studying film, the UOB Film Departmental Society offers social events and film screenings on a fortnightly basis, while also encouraging members to pitch ideas for their own films. Finally, for any aspiring writers or directors, the In Film Society offers the opportunity to create films of your own with other students. If you are interested in joining a society, make sure you head straight to the Bristol SU website and sign up during Freshers week.

Cinemas Of course, if you would like to

get involved in the film scene in an easier way, then there is an array of places to visit all over Bristol. The Watershed and the Arnolfini centre are both landmark venues in the Harbourside that showcase independent films, the Everyman on Whiteladies Road offers a luxury cinema experience for those who want to splurge a little, and the always obvious Odeon Cinema in Broadmead, as well as the Cineworld just outside the city centre, are cheaper and simpler ways to catch the latest films with a few friends. Whether you are movie mad or simply a casual viewer, getting involved in the Bristol film scene is always a fun way to vivify your freshers week! Courtesy of Bristol SU

Epigram / Ben Carpenter

Looking to get involved in Bristol's film scene? Look no further

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Sport

Editor Deputy Editor Digital Editor Investigations Editor Subeditor

Twitter: @EpigramSport

Nischal Schwager-Patel Lexi Bothamley-Dakin Artemis Denton Charlie Wilbraham Leo Harland

Robins to Bears: The freshers' guide to sport in Bristol Bristol Rovers Men

Charlie Wilbraham Sport Investigations

Bristol Bears

nder the leadership of Director of Rugby Pat Lam and the ownership of Stephen Lansdown (who also owns City FC and the Flyers), the Bears have undergone somewhat of a renaissance over the past few years. When Lam joined in 2017, he led them straight into the Premiership where they have since finished ninth, third and first, as well as tasting silverware with a historic European Challenge Cup triumph. Since moving to Ashton Gate in 2014, Bristol’s strong rugby tradition has been successfully translated from its network of high-quality community clubs onto the biggest stage, culminating in a table-topping regular season finish last year. In spite of a heart-breaking loss to Harlequins in an all-time semi-final classic, the club remains confident that they will continue their astonishing rise and push for the title again, whilst also continuing to challenge in Europe. Along with the men’s team, Lam has brought the women’s team under his control to ensure that they are receiving the same level of preparation, including in facility access and general standard of practice. This has allowed for a squad packed with internationals to make their own title push this year and continue to establish themselves as a force in the game. To catch the Bears playing this season, a short bus out to Cleve RFC (which has a great bar and atmosphere) will let you see the women’s title push from pitchside, while a trip to the more central Ashton Gate will bear witness to some of the highest quality men’s rugby you can find north of the equator.

espite their perpetual lower league status, languishing down in League Two, north Bristol’s football club is one steeped in tradition and with a rabid local following. Known locally as ‘The Gas’ - in reference to their old home next to the Gasworks - Bristol Rovers Men are almost 140 years old and attract a passionate crowd that will demand an improved fare this year after finishing bottom of League One last season. Led by manager Joey Barton, who will certainly keep things interesting off the field, a squad overhaul has seen some real quality enter the ranks, including exciting wingers Luke Thomas and Harry Anderson. Other notable signings include veteran midfielder Glenn Whelan, who made almost 300 Premier League appearances for Stoke City, and former Championship striker Leon Clarke. The blend of seasoned top flight players and energetic youngsters could well do the trick for Barton's men. The Gas are being touted as outside favourites for promotion and fans will be expecting at least a play-off spot. This year could be a fun and very eventful one to make the trip up to the Memorial Stadium. Rovers' ground is a simple commute from the university, just 20 minutes away on the bus up to north Bristol. With the Memorial Stadium being at the top of Gloucester Road in Horfield with a lot of good pubs nearby, easily reachable from the city centre and the average ticket price around £5, there is a lot of potential for a cheap day out watching football.

Nischal Schwager-Patel Sport Editor

Bristol City Men

ristol City Men are a club desperate for a return to the top, 41 years on from their last season in the top flight. With a stadium fit for the Premier League in Ashton Gate and new state-of-the-art training facilities, the Robins will be dreaming of a promotion push under the guidance of Nigel Pearson, a proven top flight manager with the trust of the board.

Instagram/@tea.not.war

Epigram provides an introduction to the city's sports clubs

Last season’s 19th place finish just eight points shy of the relegation zone - was a write-off among difficult circumstances, marred by a continuous injury crisis and managerial switch. But with Pearson, City have a right to be optimistic for a stronger Championship campaign. Despite having one of the oldest average squads in the league, the young talent on display makes Bristol City an intriguing watch. Key starlets to watch include electric forward Antoine Semenyo, midfield anchor Han-Noah Massengo and Guernsey youngster Alex Scott, who has just signed a new contract until 2025. If you want to watch the Robins in action, Ashton Gate is just a 15 minute bus journey from the City Centre and half an hour from the university. Ahead of a critical, yet exciting, season for the Bristol side, it is well worth making a visit down to BS3.

Leo Harland Subeditor

Bristol City Women

ristol City Women head into the 2021/22 season with a renewed sense of optimism. Having been relegated from the

Women’s Super League last season, manager Lauren Smith has been tasked with the tough challenge of returning to the top flight at the first time of asking. However, the Vixens remain extremely positive about their rebuild. Where other relegated clubs have faltered by hastily buying experienced players, City Women have invested in young talent and seem excited about the prospect of a rebuild. Eleven summer signings, including England youth internationals Simran Jhamat and Aya Kuken, were complemented by new contracts for five academy products. This proves

the fresh look for the team that now plays at the new state-of-the-art Robins High Performance Centre, located on the outskirts of Bristol with cheap match tickets. City took all three points in the first league game at their new ground as they edged out Lewes FC, winning 2-1 after coming from behind at half time. Positive results in the Championship must continue. If they approach second division life in their own way and if there is continuous growth towards a more stable WSL side, the Robins will have hopefully earned their position in the top flight for the long term.

Bristol Teams' Upcoming Fixtures

Sport 19

epigram 23.09.2021

Epigram/Patrick Sullivan

Ultimate frisbee? The freshers' guide to sport at the university

Epigram talks you through the sports hotspots and societies which the University has to offer. Complete beginner or advanced athlete, there is something for everyone to get involved with. Lexi Bothamley-Dakin Deputy Editor

& Artemis Denton Digital Editor

Coombe Dingle Located just beyond Stoke Bishop is one of the university’s central sport hubs, Coombe Dingle. If you don’t fancy the walk down, hop on the number 3 bus to find a vast range of facilities. As the main training ground for many UoB sports clubs, Coombe Dingle is equipped with grass and 3G pitches, cricket nets, tennis courts, a lacrosse pitch, netball courts, rounders facilities and an Olympic weightlifting room.

The Downs The Downs are a public open space located right on the doorstep of Stoke Bishop. Though they are more familiar to most of us with a dreaded run that we dragged ourselves out on, many of the university clubs train here throughout the year,

as well as intramural leagues taking place weekly.

Student Exercise Health (SEH)

and

The heart of all things active on campus, SEH is home to the university gym located on Tyndall’s Park Avenue, as well as multiple sports across the university.

Football The university has two strong football clubs in the University of Bristol Men’s Association Football Club (UBAFC) and the University of Bristol Women’s Football Club (UBWFC). They play in a top university league, the BUCS (British Universities & Colleges Sport) Premier South, with each club consisting of over 100 members.

Rugby While both Bristol’s Rugby Football Club and Women’s Rugby Football Club compete in BUCS, there are also many opportunities for you to get involved on a social level. The two clubs compete at a competitive level, as well as being great social hubs for athletes across the university.

Hockey Both the men’s and ladies’ teams play in the BUCS Premier South League and the England Hockey National Conference. Do not feel intimidated if you have never played before; both clubs have six teams meaning that no matter your level, there is the chance for you to get involved.

Basketball

Mixed Lacrosse

Bristol Spartans, the university basketball team, train in the SEH (Student Exercise and Health) sports hall, playing matches on Wednesdays. The women’s first team recently reached the cup final, as well as having multiple varsity wins.

The Downs is the venue of mixed lacrosse, allowing for both women and men to compete together. The team compete in competitions across the country, yet they also have a particularly strong social side to the squad. They play for fun and are highly popular among

Tennis

ming for social and fitness.

Lifesaving

The pool is also used for the lifesaving team who compete across the country. Not only does the sport keep its members fit, it offers them valuable skills in swimming and first aid. The team rank third nationally and has worked closely with the RLSS UK to promote water safety in UoB sports students.

Whether The main training ground for many you have a LTA ranking clubs, Coombe Dingle is equipped with grass and of 7.2 + or 3G pitches, cricket nets, tennis courts, a lacrosse A m e r i c a n Football have never pitch, netball courts, rounders facilities and an The Bristol held a racket Barracuda Amerbefore, The Olympic weightlifting room. ican Football Bristol Uniteam welcome versity Tenfreshers wanting to meet new peoany keen players down to Coombe nis Club has something for everyone. The club has both a great team ple. Dingle for training. Do not fear if you of coaches and a strong social hub, have little or no experience - head making it a perfect way to get inSaltford Boathouse on down to Coombe to give it a go! volved in the university community. The University of Bristol Boat For fans of watching the sport, don’t Club is just a 20-minute drive miss out on Friday Night Lights, the Netball away from Bristol. The Boat Club team’s annual varsity game. University of Bristol Netball has is a performance squad training seven competitive teams, as well as multiple times a week, competing Ultimate Frisbee hugely popular development and in national competitions. With a women’s, men’s, and mixed social aspects. The teams compete The women’s four won Gold at team, there are many ways to get in the BUCS league, training three MET Regatta, while the men’s four involved in ultimate frisbee. Whilst times a week along with a conditionhad an impressive Henley Royal the team train mostly on the Downs, ing programme. Campaign by reaching the semi-fi- experienced players train at Coombe nals. Dingle several times a week.

Badminton

The University of Badminton Club is one of the largest clubs on campus, boasting over 170 members. They have a three-tiered system as well as disability badminton to allow everyone to get involved. The club also has strong links with the local community with members playing for Avon squad.

University of Bristol Quidditch Swimming and Water Bristol Quidditch society train Polo Club every Wednesday and Saturday durThe Student Union hosts the university swimming pool. Though the public and students are welcome to use it, it also is home to the swim team, five water polo teams and over 100 people enjoying swim-

ing term time. Though it is slightly disappointing that none of the broomsticks fly, the team does compete against other universities, most recently coming third in the South Coast Cup.

Which flatmate are you? I’ve never shared a bathroom in my life and that won’t change

Head chef, no debate, I'm a leader of people

I want to meet people, not have them sweat on me at 2am on Park St

Society event or club night?

I've only packed my night out trainers... Bring on the VKs

Credit: Patrick Sullivan

I only just learned how to cook pasta, I'll wash up tomorrow Loud and proud Chad energy in the kitchen the next day

How do you react when you realise your flat heard you having sex? I'm hiding in my room for days and never looking them in the eye again

En-suite or shared bathroom?

I’ve hopelessly accepted three years of bladder training and mysterious pubes

What's your role during a flat roast?

Vegan all the way, good for the planet and for my bowels

I'm in and out before you can say "I'm late for my 9am"

How long do you spend in the shower?

Beauty takes time... And I'm desperate for 15 minutes alone

What best describes your diet? Huel for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with stashes under my bed Everyone trusts me with their keys and wallets

How high risk are you when out of the flat? I’m a liability… Hospital, kebab shop floor, somehow on the bus to Weston and not the U1

The MNOC

You’re even bigger than a BNOC. You’re a mahusive name on campus. You walk down Woodland Rd and see 20+ people you know from societies.

The moaner

Nobody can do anything right in your mind. Good at holding the flat accountable, less good at adjusting to life away from the ‘rents.

The machine

You’re out every night till 4am and somehow still in every 9am, how do you do it? First year is your time to shine.

The mediator

You want everybody to get along, but your flatmates keep sleeping with each other and arguing over milk… Eager to please and always up for a social.

The most edgy

You’re everything that a Bristol student stands for, repping the beret and the flares. God forbid your flatmates find out you went to boarding school…

The mystery

You’re the fifth flatmate who's been seen twice so far. You’re loved for cleanliness but do yourself a favour and check in with your cohabitants.

The mum

You’ve got everyone’s timetables saved in your phone and everyone’s needs in your heart. A true saint even if we all want you to chill out.

The mess

Everybody loves you but they’ve seen how you live and are severely worried for your health. Pray you have a mum of the flat to look after you.

THE CROFT MAGAZINE TEAM CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ROSIE ANGEL-CLARK | CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SAVANNAH COOMBE | DEPUTY EDITOR SANJANA IDNANI CHIEF PROOFREADER CIARA ALLEN | LIFESTYLE SUB-EDITOR ELIN ALEXANDER | INSTAGRAM MANAGER FLORA GUILDFORD STYLE EDITOR JENNY GALLAGHER | STYLE DEPUTY EDITOR ANNA JOHNSON | STYLE DIGITAL EDITOR ANIA TOWNSIN | STYLE SUB-EDITOR FARAH THORNDYCRAFT WELLBEING EDITOR EMILY FROMANT | WELLBEING CO-DEPUTY EDITOR ASHA SULLIVAN | WELLBEING CO-DEPUTY EDITOR MADDY WHEELER | WELLBEING DIGITAL EDITOR CHARLIE TONKS | WELLBEING SUB-EDITOR ELLIE SPENCELEY FOOD EDITOR MADDY CLEGG | FOOD DEPUTY EDITOR DANIEL BARGIONI | FOOD DIGITAL EDITOR LOU CRAVEN | FOOD SUB-EDITOR PHOEBE ALTMAN TRAVEL EDITOR XANDER BRETT | TRAVEL DEPUTY EDITOR LUCY RAWLINGS | TRAVEL INTERNATIONAL DEPUTY EDITOR JENNY BARRUOL | TRAVEL DIGITAL EDITOR MIA AUSTIN | TRAVEL SUB-EDITOR ORLA MCHALE PUZZLES EDITOR PATRICK SULLIVAN | PUZZLES SUB-EDITOR GRACE BARNES

We're Epigram's student lifestyle magazine and for this special Freshers edition we're in fullsize tabloid form. Look out for our monthly issues and online content!

Coming back to life in colour: cover art by Yasemin Akyol and Sasha Hay, UoB Art Society

[re]freshers' edition

Lifestyle

p. 30 Freshers love story

Style

p. 23 Decorating your uni room

Wellbeing

p. 25 Freshers' survival guide

Food

p. 26-7 Cocktail recipes & quiz

Travel

p. 28 Best Bristol day trips

issue 19 23.09.21

style

Editor JENNY GALLAGHER Digital Editor ANIA TOWNSIN Deputy Editor ANNA JOHNSON

Freshers' Week: The Fusion of Fashion hether you’re a first year about to make the big jump to university, or you’re an experienced fresher, this Freshers' Week is bound to see a fusion of different styles. It can be hard to know which outfits to bring to Freshers, especially if you don’t know the vibe of the week you will be attending. I had my Freshers last year, which inevitably was going to be different to most. I spent the majority of the week in kitchen parties in my accommodation (Manor Hall), which I had previously never visited, so I was very unsure of what to expect. I remember allowing myself to show my personal style: some leopard print flares, pastel camis, and simple eyeshadow. Many of the people I met in Freshers' Week had completely different styles. I saw many Doc Martens, long blazers and maxi skirts. I think I saw far too many Hawaiian shirts as well, but nevertheless it was amazing to see such a wide range of styles. Bristol itself is a very fashionable city, and I remember on my first walk in Clifton I saw many different looks that I wanted to steal. Whilst some people rocked flared jeans and bandanas giving an effortless 90s look, others wore berets and flowery dresses, giving a style that resembled the 40s. I was in awe of people’s ability to put together such outfits. There were very late nights (or even early mornings) spent in

Epigram / Rosie Angel-Clark

Lydia Wakelin reflects on what freshers bring to Bristol, and what the city gives back

our kitchen in which the boys in my flat would paint their nails, most often in black and white, but sometimes with slogans written across them. I saw many piercing ideas I liked, and some of my flatmates even went out and got new piercings later in the week. There was a sense of safety in Freshers' Week; the freedom to express your style without judgement. What it really boils down to is being yourself. Freshers' Week is a blur and should be spent enjoying yourself and making new friends. You never know, what you wear could be inspiring others to add new pieces to their wardrobes and try styles that they never have before. Bristol also has a fabulous number of charity shops to look round,

so if mid-freshers week you feel compelled to try new looks, Bristol is definitely the right city. My style has hugely changed since starting university, but I love looking back at photos from Freshers and seeing the progression of my fashion and the imprint the city has left on my wardrobe. My school friends and I, who all went to different universities, love comparing our styles with each other as each is unique and inspired by the cities we studied in.

Good luck and don't be afraid to show your true colours !

Leoprint Flares £15/ Princess Polly

Epigram / Lydia Wakelin

Dr Martens £179/ Urban Outfitters

MAC Eyeshadows £15/ Look Fantastic

epigram 23.09.2021

Grand Designs on a student scale 4 2 1 O

To add a little colour and display some of your interests, consider getting some posters. The Last Bookshop on Park Street sells posters for just a fiver, including a range of designs such as old Vogue covers, concert posters, movie covers, and more. You can also pick up books for only three pounds; an especially useful tip for any English students. You could also explore Redbubble to find bigger posters.

Pics:

Have a physical reminder of home with some photo prints to stick on your wall. It’s not only a clever way to fill wall space , but will hopefully serve to remind you of your friends from home and past memories. I interspersed mine with posters and paintings to make it look more interesting. You can pick up some photos from free prints, where you can get free photos each month and only need to pay postage fees.

Freshers, meet FUZE UK

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future based on their core values of diversity, inclusivity, creativity and sustainability. What makes FUZE so popular thing. with students is their dedication FUZE is an inclusive, diverse to making a difference in young group designed to help young peopeople’s lives. As a non-profit orple grow their professional and/or ganisation, their proceeds have creative skills. gone to charities such as Black They put on an annual show South West Network and Art Refwhich combines music, fashion, uge. As students of this generadance and modelling. In the tion, we are familiar with issues past, they have worked with concerning mental health, racial major brands such as MAC discrimination, homophocosmetics, Select bia and transphobia to model management, name a few. Coca-Cola, and FUZE encourmany more. In ages young peofact, this gave ple to reconnect their cast, crew with these causand audience the es. Whether you amazing chance attend a show ei g hg to be scouted by or become a cast/ res typ Select at their last crew member, you hoto graphy show. are directly supporting Earlier this year, they put these causes and making a on 'Utopia'; a sold-out show held difference. This year, they’re back in Bristol’s most popular outdoor and bigger than ever, having anevent space — and likely to nounced their brand expansion become your new favourite club from FUZE Bristol to FUZE UK. — Lakota. Showcasing its vision FUZE’s Managing Director, Pipof a perfect utopia, it delivered pa Adamthwaite-Cook, tells The a ‘theatrical fashion musical’, Croft that ‘we believe in the power depicting their idea of a perfect and message of FUZE and want to

share this across the country.’ A big step for a Bristol-based organisation that was originally founded in 2003 by Bristol stu-

The reaction of many students after hearing about FUZE is ‘how can I get involved?’

dents, take this as an example of the kind of opportunities that lie ahead of you as a Bristol fresher this year. FUZE has almost doubled in size, expanding the team from forty-five to seventy-five members and recently announced their excitement to be continuing partnership with Select. Auditions for the 2022 show will be held soon, so keep eyes and ears out if you fancy giving it a go. Pippa says: ‘If you are passionate about working in the creative industry and are struggling to get your foot in the door, looking to network or connect with likeminded people, or just looking for a place in your city to fit in, we have something for you at FUZE.' Bristol is a hub of creative expression, so whatever your creative interest is, whether that’s fashion, music, art or dance, you’re in the right place.

To make your room feel more homely I would recommend getting a little rug for the floor. It keeps in warmth whilst really tying the room together. They come up all the time on Facebook market place for reasonable prices, the only downside being most things are collection only. Wilko sells a range of soft blankets and pillows, as well as IKEA.

Epigram / Elsie King

Alice Sutton Photography

ear (re) Freshers, if you haven't heard about FUZE... let me put you onto some-

Make it cosy:

@scherryvisuals

Anna Johnson introduces the creative collective

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To remove the unforgiving nature of the overhead light, I would recommend buying some extra lighting. Grabbing a lamp besides the one you're given allows you to create a soft setup, creating a sense of ambiance. You can pick up a lamp for about a fiver upwards at the furniture haven that is IKEA. I would recommend the Lampan lamp. It's cheap and the coloured design casts a warm glow over a room. You should also look out for warm-toned lightbulbs, known as a ‘soft white'. This creates a less clinical feel as the light given off will be far less harsh.

If you can't have pets, have plants. Add a little life to your room with a few succulents, which you’ll be able to find for sale at the market stalls in Clifton village, or in shops like Fancy Plants. If you find that plant care isn’t one of your many assets, try something that takes quite a lot of effort to kill, for example a snake or spider plant.

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Ambiance on a budget:

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nce again, hundreds of Bristol Freshers will have, with high hopes, stuffed their belongings into their parents' undersized car with much exertion and made the journey to their new home. Student halls are known to create less than ideal living conditions. This is why a student's bedroom is a sacred place of escape and relaxation. It is a place to lock the door on all social interactions and be at one with yourself. However, upon arrival many freshers will have found, at best, a soulless box; hopefully mould-free and with nothing but a bed and a tiny desk. Luckily, as we have been shown by numerous daytime renovation shows, a house is not always a home until you buy loads of tat to clutter it up. So, here are some tips and tricks to create your own 'amazin' spaces'.

Show your artsy side:

A little life:

@k ayle

Elsie King shares her essential tips for achieving the perfect decor in your new room

wellbeing

Editor EMILY FROMANT Digital Editor CHARLIE TONKS Co-Deputy Editor ASHA SULLIVAN Co-Deputy Editor MADDY WHEELER

Relationships and consent: How to stay sexy during Freshers Maddy Wheeler talks about the importance of consent during freshers key when it comes to the issues of sexual experiences but there are other, more natural ways to go about gaining your partner’s consent. Ever heard of enthusiastic consent? This is based on the idea of looking for a clear representation of ‘yes’ rather than the lack of a ‘no.' Sometimes, it’s difficult to say no. Even when you don’t want it. Sometimes our politeness gets the better of us. But it is the responsibility of both people having sex, (and by this I mean all branches of sexual activity) to consistently gain consent from their partner rather than relying on the idea that they’ll feel comfortable to say no if and when they want to. Why not ask ‘is this okay for you?’ or ‘do you like this?’. Remember that at the end of the day, sex is about both of you having a good time and these consensual questions are just a vehicle to making sure that good time happens. And make them feel like they can say no, give them an out if they want it. Asking if it’s ok only to not *really* listen to the answer is not the way to go about it. Do they seem happy and comfortable? Consent is actually really sexy because having respect for other human beings is sexy. There is sexual confidence to be gained in considering your partner; trust me, they’ll love it. Sex, whether it be with your soulmate or Brad from Block 10, is an experience shared equally by both, so treat it like that.

veryone warns against dating your flat mate, but now you’re in too deep – what are the ways you can ensure this relationship is healthy and long lasting? 1. Do – talk to each other and communicate about one another’s feelings, you need to discuss where each of you stands otherwise it make cause misreading of the situation. 2. Don’t – stay in their room a lot, because you’re living together and are also in a relationship, it would be wise to set boundaries to ensure you both have healthy time apart. 3. Do — go out on fun and exciting dates, when living with your partner it is easy to fall into the trap of not putting a huge amount of effort into spending time together. To keep this new relationship blossoming make effort to explore Bristol together or try new places to eat. Epigram / Maddy Wheeler

ecoming a fresher you are given a whole array of new experiences, whether that’s through a new found sense of independence or from interacting with other likeminded young people. One of the most talked about ‘musthave’ university experiences is sexual freedom. There’s a date just from the swipe of an app or a kiss after one too many VKs or perhaps, if you ‘get lucky’ a night with your corridor crush. And why not have these experiences? It’s part of each of our roads to sexual self-discovery and that’s great. Of course, as with any new experiences – you learn from them. As I did and as we all will at some point or another. Now I know, even though we all love to chant the slogan ‘no means no,’ it’s not always that simple. Right before sex, people don’t want to sit down and clarify consent – there isn’t always a yes or no exchange. I of course wish that this was something people were able to do, but I think in particular as freshers when many of us are experiencing one-night stands or sex itself for the first time, it can feel awkward bringing up the consent conversation. But there are a few ways to get around this awkwardness whilst still maintaining consensual encounter. Gaining consent doesn’t have to be as uncomfortably forward and blunt as some might lead you to believe. Indeed, clarity is always

A relationship with your flatmate: the Dos and Don’ts

4. Don’t – involve your flatmates in your relationship. Of course, your flatmates are going to find out the two of you are together, but to ensure no one picks sides in an argument it is best to avoid talking to your flatmates in depth about your relationship;

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three's a crowd. 5. Do — have a breakup strategy. If you and your partner/ roommate decide to end things, you'll need to figure out what will happen. But if you didn't you still have options — and can depend on the terms for ending the relationship. If things ended terribly, it's probably best if one of you moves out. It's not fair to either of you or your other roommates to have to live with constant tension. If things ended on good terms, it's OK for you to continue living together, but you'll need to establish new rules. Both of you will probably start dating other people at some point, so you need to make sure you set some new boundaries. Relationships when living together are risky, and it's something you really need to think about before diving in headfirst. But many people have made it work, and if you and your partner are both honest and patient, this may be a match made in a four-wall paradise.

Emily Fromant Wellbeing Editor

My love letter to Hook-Up Culture: Dear Hook-Up Culture, One of the biggest aspects of your first year of university, something every university has in common, is hook-up culture. As little as hooking up at a party, to a full blown one-night stand. It is casual fun, with no emotional attachment. And for many, it has brought more heart ache than anything.

In hook-up culture, I found confidence in my body and my sexuality that I hadn’t had before. I enjoyed the no-strings attached intimacy and exploring a side of myself previously so hidden away. However, hook-up culture is NOT for everyone. More often than not it's messy, feelings get involved and someone gets hurt. If you're going to enter into a hook up both parties need to understand that it's casual. And even then, you need to be prepared to stop, if and when feelings get involved.

xoxo, Emily Fromant

Epi gram / Maddy Wheeler

For me, the culture around casual sex has been empowering rather than heart breaking. Growing up as a young woman, you are often made to feel ashamed around your sexuality. Female masturbation is something rarely spoken about, and women are chastised for wearing certain clothes.

epigram 23.09.2021

Freshers' Survival Guide: Tips for making it through your Freshers Dealing with peer pressure

The Wellbeing Team share their reccomendations for surviving Freshers

Epig ram

uring Freshers many feel as though their behaviour is being influenced by those around them, acting in a manner which submits to peer pressure. Wellbeing’s top tips to overcome peer pressure include:

/E m ily Fro m

Confront the person/people whom you are feeling pressured

by (the likelihood is they have gotten carried away and have forgotten to consider your feelings)

those who make you feel comfortable now will likely develop a closer friendship with you later on

Remember that sometimes people’s values will not align with yours and this will occur throughout life

If you start to feel overwhelmed, walk away, remove yourself from the situation.

E v e r y o n e has their own boundaries which deserve to be respected and

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Best hangover cures Carb up

Safe drinking

Stay safe and look out for each other!

Water before bed

One of the best ways to avoid the dreaded hangover headache is to down a glass of water before you go to sleep and stop that headache in its tracks.

Bouillon soup

(a thin, vegetable-based broth) is a good source of vitamins and minerals, which can topup depleted resources. It's also easy for a fragile stomach to digest.

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Healthy meal ideas So you’re on your own and making your food for yourself, how can you ensure you’re on your best form to party the night away?

Frozen vegetables: these keep for ages and are quick and easy to cook. You can cook frozen peas in the microwave for 10 minutes and they are done.

Seasoning: to spice up more of your blander meals add

spice mixes and sauces (like Blue Dragon’s teriyaki sauce) to prevent your meals from being boring.

Carbohydrates: you need a lot energy to survive freshers: this means eating a lot of great energy sources like quinoa, wholemeal rice and potatoes.

Missing home

Remember home hasn't disappeared just because you've left, try facetiming a friend from home to chat about your new life - you will probably find you're not the only one of your friends feeling this way. s

Za ram / Epig

Sometimes the nights are so busy that the daytime during this week can feel empty and give you too much time to miss home. So the key is to make plans to fill your time. Why not go with your new flatmates to the Freshers' Fair or take some time to explore Bristol with them. Whatever it is, keeping busy will help and soon enough this will feel like home too.

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Epigram / Zara Un

As much as you'll mainly remember this week as one of the best, it's completely normal if it also comes with a little bit of homesickness.

Ep yF igr am / Emil

You feel drunk even though you haven’t had alcohol • You wake up very hung over and have a memory lapse or can’t account for a block of time • You are nauseous, sleepy, and have a loss of reflexes

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•

A cocktail containing vodka, tomato juice and spices (Worcester, garlic, hot sauce, celery salt, black pepper). The last thing you will want to do is drink any more alcohol, but this obscure concoction may really work.

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SIGNS THAT YOU MAY HAVE BEEN DRUGGED

Bloody Mary

Remember while you’re gracing Lizard Lounge and Lakota with your drunk selves for the first time to watch out for drink spiking. Ideally, buy your own drinks and always keep an eye on them. If someone does offer to buy you one (lucky you!) watch them buy it and don’t drink it if you’re at all worried. If any of your freshers’ friends seem suddenly more “out of it” after a drink, tell someone behind the bar and stay with your new bestie. Even if other drugs are involved never be afraid to call an ambulance in an emergency. Chances are you’ll be fine and have the best week but just stay alert.

Pasta, bread, you name it anything carb-filled and delicious may help you feeling a little better.

food

Editor MADDY CLEGG Digital Editor LOU CRAVEN Deputy Editor DANIEL BARGIONI

Our favourite lunch spots

The Food Editors campaign for their favourite eats and lunch spots close to the university

hen it comes to lunch there are three main criteria: deliciousness per bite, student friendly cost and ease. Suit yourself as a packed-lunch-warrior or a lunchout-nomad, Bristol has a plethora of quick eateries and supermarket meal deals alike to be enjoyed. The Croft’s food editorial team have brought together their favourite picks for lunch spots near uni. Decide for yourself who you agree with!

for only £5.50 (with a drink) why should you settle for less? Having laid in the shadow of the Wills Memorial Building, sometimes it's these sleeping giants that rise above the rest in times of need. Deliciousness – 8/10 Value – 6/10 Ease – 9/10

Phoebe's pick: Eat a Pitta

Deliciousness – 8/10 Value – 6.5/10 Ease – 9/10

Daniel's pick: Cedars Express Cedars Express graces us at the foot of the Wills Memorial Library with *those* Chicken Shawarma wraps. The hot, fatty, spiced slices of shawarma, the sour and crunchy pickles, the creamy umami garlic sauce...need I go on? All serenaded by salad-y delights, wrapped in a warm Lebanese flatbread. These humble wraps have not only reached the zenith of textural and flavourful contrast, but in sum, the epitome lunchtime efficiency. Cedars Express is definitely the more indulgent lunchtime excursion, but in providing the perfect bite

There are a few Eat a Pittas dotted around the city, but the most popular by far sits across the road from Wills Memorial Building. A queue of hungry students waiting to get their fix of falafel stretches far up the road during term and when you give it a try, you’ll know why. Choose from a range of salads including Moroccan carrot, roasted cauliflower cous cous and tabbouleh, or get them all and feel like a vision of health after the Jason Donervan’s you picked up after Gravity last night. It would seem you can’t be a Bristol Uni student and not like hummus which is great because they give you a huge dollop of the creamiest hummus you’ll ever have. Their portions are very generous, service is fast, and the food is delicious, plus they are

99 per cent plastic free and 100 per cent of the energy they use comes from renewable resources so you really are doing the most for your body and the planet!

Lou's pick: Packed lunch

Maddy's pick: Parsons

Deliciousness – 8/10 Value – 9/10 Ease – 6/10

Popping to a café for lunch seems effortless and oh so ‘adult’, but the pennies do rack up on a student budget – why not try a packed lunch now and again? But, what to make and where to eat it? Personally, roasted veg is the ultimate cheap and easy staple. Mix it with herby couscous or whack it in a soft tortilla wrap, add yoghurt and sriracha if you’re feeling jazzy! A few veg contenders: onions, peppers, squash, cauliflower, aubergine – but really you can use anything you’ve got. Roast at 180˙C for 30-45 minutes tossed in olive oil, salt and pepper. Sometimes finding a quiet spot to tuck into your lunch box can be daunting, but not to worry, there’s plenty of places in and around uni to do just that! My top picks are Royal Fort Garden and the SU living room. Feeling hungover? Now is the perfect time to whack a few veggies in the oven and your future self will definitely thank you.

What 'tails? The Puzzles Team serves you up some mystery cocktails

Deliciousness – 8/10 Value – 7/10 Ease – 9/10

Forget the course group chats or library shelves, the best support system you could ever ask for at uni sits proudly on St Michaels Hill – a bakery called Parsons. It assists each and every Bristol student through their degree with their award winning pasties, sausage rolls and sandwiches. Or, if you need that special kick to eradicate any lingering hangover before your 9am, they also offer freshly ground coffee. In such a convenient location behind uni, Parsons provides the perfect lunch spot to break up the monotony of the library and lecture halls. Be prepared to see other friendly faces with the same idea in the queue, sadly the bakery is not quite Bristol’s best kept secret… our love affair with Parsons is loud and proud. And why shouldn’t it be? Where else offers two pasties for a fiver, two sausage rolls (vegan or pork) for two squids or any sandwich, cake and drink for £3.75? I’ll see you there and we can hide from our deadlines together.

hapciiiran

gongege

Bristolian restaurant bucket list

Lou Craven provides a bucket list of Bristol's finest restaurants from when your parents are paying to night out takeaways

ood is a huge part of Bristol’s culture. H e r e ’s a few places to tick off, covering all bases from when your parents are paying to post nightout scran.

Parents a r e paying: PASTA LOCO – Cotham Hill ‘The best pasta restaurant outside of Italy’, a popular opinion amongst Bristol students and parents. This little gem hosts a

relaxed atmosphere to enjoy unbeatable pasta dishes and more. If your parents are coming to visit or you’re just feeling a bit boujee, Pasta Loco is top of the list.

Perfect pizza + crisp en av r craft beer: uC / Lo Epigram BEERD – High Kingsdown Fancy a lunchtime pizza? Only two minutes from the ASS (you’ll soon become familiar), £5 goes a

long way for a nine inch pizza with two toppings of your choice! Wash it down with a local craft beer and you’re set for a wild afternoon at the library.

Banging burger + fries for £10: SQUEEZED – Wapping Wharf Located on the harbourside, £7.50 for a NY Seoul never tasted so good. Layers of flavour (gochujang sauce, homemade pickles and confit shallots) unfold bite by bite, melting into the perfect mouthful. Ancho chilli salt fries put all other chips to shame. A bite

of burger pairs beautifully with a sip of award winning freshly squeezed lemonade (hence the name).

Mexican + margaritas: BATIDA– Whitelad i e s Road Next up, hop off the U1 and you’ll be transported to Latin America. Enjoy a taco feast alongside the ultimate frozen cocktails, the perfect start to a great night! £4 per taco, mix and match to fit your taste and hunger. Favour-

ites include Cochinita pibil (pulled pork) and Gambas (tempura prawn) tacos.

Post-night out fix: T A K A T A K A – The Triangle Greek and glorious. The holy grail of late-night munch tucked behind The Triangle’s club scene, the perfect pitstop to satisfy drunken cravings. The gyros (pictured) filled with halloumi (or chicken) AND chips hits the spot every time , but Sorrento’s across the road does phenomenal pizza if that’s more your late-night vibe.

epigram 23.09.2021

Cool cocktails

All you need to know for a flat feast

Phoebe Altman forgets standard concoctions this Freshers' Week, mixing up some new cocktails to try with your housemates

In need of an easy, seasonal meal to break the ice with your flatmates? Try Maddy Clegg's aubergine parmigiana recipe

Serves 1

Ingredients

Ice 2 shots vodka (50ml) ½ lime Ginger beer

Method

A Green Garden It's worth buying a whole bottle of elderflower cordial for this cocktail as a little goes a long way so it should last you a while, plus you’ll automatically look m o r e sophisticated adding it to any drink.

ltman

Serves 1

am Epigr

Ingredients

Small chunk of cucumber 2 shots gin (50ml) 1 shot elderflower cordial Ice Cloudy lemonade

Method

At the bottom of your glass muddle the cucumber with something blunt such as the handle of a wooden spoon until it’s roughly crushed. Pour in the gin and elderflower and give it a s t i r. Plop in a few ice cubes then top up with cloudy

Fill your glass up halfway with ice, pour over the vodka, squeeze in the juice of half a lime (save the other half for the next one!) and top up with ginger beer. Give it a stir and get to know your new housemates!

C fan. Coat your aubergine slices lightly in oil and place onto a baking tray. Roast in the oven for 15 mins, flip the slices and continue cooking for a further 15 until they are softened and starting to crisp. Get a large pan and start to fry your onions in some oil. After five minutes, throw the garlic in and cook until everything in the pan has softened. Add the tomatoes and oregano and let it bubble away for 20 to 30 mins. Season to taste. Time to layer! In a baking dish

(20cm x 30cm) layer the aubergine and tomato sauce repeatedly. Halfway through, layer half the mozzarella, basil and parmesan, then carry on with the aubergine and sauce. Finish with your final layer of mozzarella, basil, parmesan and breadcrumbs if you’re feeling fancy. Put into the oven for 20 minutes until it's golden on top and starting to ooze. Serve with a leafy salad or a side of veg and get to know your new flatmates!

Ingredients

Serves 4

2 aubergines, sliced 1/2cm thick 2 tsp olive oil 1 onion, finely diced 3 cloves garlic 2 x 400g tins c h o p p e d tomatoes 1tbsp of dried oregano 2 x 125g mozzarella balls, sliced 30g basil 75g parmesan, finely grated Breadcrumbs to top (if you’re feeling extra)

Epigram / Maddy Clegg

Moscow Mule

here’s no better way to get to know your flat mates than cooking up a storm in the kitchen and sharing stories over a collective feast. This aubergine parmigiana recipe is easy to throw together, includes seasonal produce and is guaranteed to get everyone round the table talking. It works well with a leafy green salad on the side or some simple green beans. Ph oe be A

e’ve all been there, (freshers, you will be there soon if you’re not careful) it comes to pres before a night out and you’ve forgotten to buy mixers, you’re bored of the usual vodka coke, or you think you’re hardcore enough to down Sainsbury’s own straight from the bottle. It never ends well; let us save you from a bad night. Here are a couple of cocktails which will make you feel both drunk and classy, because you can be both. There’s no need to buy the expensive options for these, once it’s all mixed together and you’re a few drinks down, you won’t even notice the difference between Sainsbury’s own and Grey Goose. If you’re not into drinking, then just leave out the alcohol from the ingredients and enjoy feeling smug knowing that you won’t have a hangover in the morning!

Method

Turn your oven to 2000 degrees

Foodies to follow Find out who you should be following on social media for recipe inspiration and tips and tricks in the kitchen from Daniel Bargioni

l e m o n a d e, stir again and sip w h i l s t playing 'Ring of Fire'!

Epigram

/P ho e

e will be featuring our favourite Instagram accounts, or “Foodies to Follow”, which have inspired us to be more creative in the kitchen, try new things, explore the depths of the Chinese or Indian or Polish supermarket to find that obscure yet deemed essential ingredient for your new culinary adventure. We strongly believe that the more you cook, the closer you’ll be with flatmates, family and friends and the happier you’ll be.

an tm Al

The fun one: @whatwillycook Whatwillycook’s

Instagram

account is great. It’s entertaining with his cheap and cheerful puns, and you can’t go wrong following his aesthetically pleasing quick video recipes. He covers a wide range of recipes from Thai-style pork laab lettuce cups to a classic beef tartare. They’re by no means all authentic, but the variety of content really does inspire you to cook something other than oven food or cereal!

The Bristol one: @bestofbristol Explore your city! We love this account because it really does expose us often Clifton/Stoke Bishop-sheltered students to

the “other” parts of Bristol, the better parts. Take Easton for example, with their diverse set of supermarkets such as Sweet Mart that provides ample herbs and spices, fresh and well-priced fruit and veg and an excellent hot food section.

The Restaurant one: @gambastapasbar A great restaurant by Harbourside serving some seriously good tapas and a collection of prawn dishes which never fail to amaze, especially the pil pil! Warning: following this account will make you want to eat there a lot and you’ll quickly be broke, but definitely full and very happy.

travel

Editor Xander Brett Digital Editor Mia Austin Deputy Editor Lucy Rawlings

You've arrived in Bristol... now it's time to escape On the Ground: Costa Rica

Bath and the Avon

he home of Jane Austen off of Queen Square is one of Somerset’s most visited attractions… along, of course, with the city’s Roman Baths and vast abbey. Hold off until Christmas time: that’s when every one of Bath’s narrow streets are closed, transforming it into one of largest Christmas markets in Europe. Bath is a ten-minute train ride from Temple Meads. Another ten minutes upriver, trundling along banks of the Avon, lies the pretty town of Bradford-onAvon.

Epigram

Chepstow and South Wales

Wells and the Mendips

Travel International Deputy Editor

adly, everything is online for the time being and I’m stuck behind a laptop. But I’m in Costa Rica at least, and things aren’t too restrictive. You’re supposed to wear a mask everywhere, even outside… around 70 per cent of people do wear it, but if you don’t, you won’t be arrested. Apart from that, the only other rule is a PCR test for big gatherings. Cases are going down: there are a hundred new cases and thirteen deaths per week. It’s significant for Costa Rica (with just five million inhabitants), but they’re vaccinating rapidly. Vaccinations aren’t done by age group. Instead, it’s a case of if you want one, you go. Students want double doses. But for the general public, uptake is slower: just 17 per cent of the population are fully vaccinated so far (usually with Pfizer).

"‘Conchinilla’ is Spanish for ‘parasite’, representing infrastructure companies who gave money, cars and sexual favours to Conavi." I arrived in July, just as flooding ended. It’s raining now, and it often rains heavily. In July, however, it was Turrialba (just east of me, in the mountains) that suffered: a school and two bridges were destroyed. It’s the rainy season and the country is used to destruction but, that being said, they’ve had much more rain than expected recently… I think in one day, they had the same amount they’d expect in a month. For rebuilding to work, so must infrastructure companies. This hinges on the ongoing ‘Cochinilla Case’. ‘Conchinilla’ is Spanish for ‘parasite’, representing infrastructure companies who gave money, cars and sexual favours to Conavi (the National Highway Council) to influence future projects. It resulted in a $121m government deficit and a series of arrests. Costa Rica is a peaceful country, transparent about corruption, so this was a shock. It means 80 per cent of the population now believe corruption is a big issue. With the government working hard, I hope this can change.

Epigram / Jenny Barruol Epigram

Epigram

Wells is known only as England’s smallest city, and that's probably for good reason. It's tiny, but it’s a quaint little place, full of small cafés and pubs. Obviously, the cathedral is historically important: a rare example of the Early English style, and one of the world’s first truly Gothic structures. Take a bus, emerging the other side of the city walls, and marvel at the geographical oddity that is the 137-metre-deep Cheddar Gorge. Bear in mind that travel is slow here, without a train connection, but the Mendip Explorer helps you get around.

There’s something thrilling about crossing a border. Admittedly, when it’s to Wales, the novelty wears thin: it’s the same country, after all, with no controls or exciting gimmicks to keep you entertained. Nevertheless, Wales is bilingual, follows many of its own rules, and therefore feels just a little bit different. Chepstow is just over the Severn Bridge, but don’t bother going when it’s not a race day. The 70,000-person Cheltenham may be forty minutes north, but the 20,000 racecourse here, however provincial, is a good day out.

Jenny Barruol

iL sten to our On the Ground reports via the Burst a R dio website and wherever you get your podcasts.

epigram 23.09.2021

Dublin: Fly direct from Bristol Airport endless choice of beaches (if you’re brave enough for a dip), and a cliff walk along the picturesque coastline, where you can view the whole of Dublin Bay. On a clear day, you can not only see the Wicklow mountains to the south, but Snowdonia across the sea. Rain or shine, it offers a welcome change of pace from the lively capital.

ublin, just a short hop over the sea, is within the Common Travel Area: the perfect destination for a long weekend.

Dublin is split into a north and a south side, separated by a canal. The city hums with energy. You find culture and history around every corner, and many streets are filled with the music of buskers. Highlights of my wander include Temple Bar (a touchstone for the pub experience), an array of cathedrals and Trinity College. If you’re up for heading further afield, into the west of the city, you’ll find the famed Guinness storehouse. After perusing the museum, learning not only about the brewing process, but also about advertising campaigns and Guinness’ role in Irish history, you’re welcomed to enjoy a pint in the Gravity Bar, greeted with panoramic views of the city. Naturally, we finished the day at a pub.

Day 2 A rainy, hungover day called for culture and history. The National Gallery and National Museum are located in the centre of the southside, with just a short walk

Epigram / Mia Austin

Day 1

"A must see are the bog bodies, unnervingly well preserved. Heads up if you're squeamish!"

noon. A must see are the bog bodies, unnervingly well preserved. Heads up if you’re squeamish!

between them. At the National Gallery, the permanent collection is free. There’s no shortage of works from famed Irish artists: John B. Yeats and a portrait collection of renowned Irishmen and women. The National Museum is also free. Our trip was limited to the archaeology section, due to construction, but this served us well on a rainy after-

Stunning coastline with bustling beaches, an azure calm sea, sun in the sky not a cloud in sight. Sailing boats float lazily past in a gentle breeze, with outside dining and music in the air. Anyone would think you’re on the Med, but this is Howth, a town just a short trip north of Dublin. Connected to the mainland by a narrow spit, Howth boasts fantastic fish and chips, an

Day 3

Is wild camping your last resort summer escape? Though illegal in much of the UK, Gemma Blundell-Doyle highlights some spots where it's permitted... and there's always abroad

elight for some, dread for many. But if your usual plans have been scuppered, an escape to the wild might prove a necessary last resort. Wild camping can be conducted as a solo or small group expedition (max. three people). Since you pitch up on land (public or private) that’s not designated for overnight stays, it’s important to plan and research. Once you’ve gauged the tolerance of locals to your trespassing (or found the visit is permitted by local by-laws), pack adequately and understand your priority will be to minimise disturbance to the environment and natives. Set up camp late, leave early in the morning and take litter with you. If you’ve done the DofE award, your kit list will be much the same.

You’ll rely on a Trangia and gas canister to cook hot drinks and meals. Scotland offers acres of land where the activity is legalised, though they encourage visitors to follow the ‘Outdoor Access Code’. Areas of Dartmoor also give permission and, though largely illegal elsewhere in the UK, conducting research on local attitudes may reveal an expanse of other sites. Then, of course, if you’ve exhausted domestic terrains, why not explore Scandinavia? In Norway, Sweden and Denmark, wild camping is considered a human right. Allemannsretten (right of public access for all, enshrined by law) sets a precedent that makes finding camp relatively easy. If you head to Norway’s Lofoten islands, inside the Artic Circle,

you can spend the night under the midnight sun.

"Pack adequately and understand your priority will be to minimise disturbance to the environment and natives. Set up camp late, leave early in the morning and take litter with you."

My tips for a relaxed trip 1. Get a Leap Card. They’re basically Oyster cards which work on the Dart rail services, as well as trams and buses. 2. Go beyond the city centre, with gorgeous seaside towns sandwiching Dublin either side. 3. Avoid queues by booking ahead! Even if booking ahead means just an hour before.

Other routes from Bristol within the UK / Common Travel Area Aberdeen: 1 hr 30 Belfast: 1 hr 10 Guernsey: 1 hr 05 Gibraltar: 2 hr 40 Glasgow: 1 hr 15 Inverness: 1 hr 25 Isle of Man: 0 hr 55 Jersey: 1 hr Newcastle: 1 hr Teesside: 1 hr 10 Flying within the UK or crown dependencies, there's no requirement to show a passport, except for identification purposes. Note that the Republic of Ireland is also part of the Common Travel Area. It's in the European Union but not in the Schengen Zone.

Read about Xander Brett’s journey through Spain, following the footsteps of Laurie Lee, on our website... ...you can also read about Maria Mulder's discovery of Brazil, and how her expectations were destroyed.

Epigram / Mia Austin

Mia Austin travels to the Irish capital for a long weekend

m yH irte nste in

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Each section of The Croft has a Facebook group which is open to all students, whether you’re a seasoned writer or a complete novice! Snap up a commission or pitch us your ideas – no experience needed.

Draw for us!

If you’re feeling arty, we’d love to hear from you! Whether that’s painting, sketching, photography, we want to feature your artwork – you could even make The Croft’s cover! Drop us an email at thecroft.epigram@gmail.com or message one of the team on Facebook and we'll get back to you. Follow The Croft on Instagram : @thecroftmagazine_ Our new Twitter: @TheCroftEpigram

10 | Ann Summer s

and feel comfortable. I also found myself pretending to be way more comfortable with relationships than I actually am, and I committed to a far too intense relationship way earlier than I

Sum mer s

"Every pair of eyes meeting across a hallway becomes a romantic montage of everything that could be."

Cock Ring – This is a simple ring, just a bit thicker than a rubber band. It fits around the shaft of the penis and has a vibrating mechanism for added pleasure. I t w o r k s | Ann

I found myself being incredibly shy and quiet (which isn’t like me at all) to try and allow him to shine

eads, £

equivalent of four weeks normal time. People are on their own for the first time, you’re unsupervised for the first time, and you are put into student halls filled with eligible singles your age (with no cringey or worrying histories yet). Every pair of e y e s meeting across a hallway b e comes a romantic montage of everything /A am that could be. r g i

It was only when I met people that reminded me of my friends from home – people I could fully be myself around and have a laugh with – that I ‘snapped back’ into the reality of who I am. I decided I needed to be more genuine with everyone I’d met – including my firstyear romance – and to stop trying to compromise myself to fit in. Needless to say – after a few awkward hangouts where we ended up speaking over each other, and him deciding my vegetarianism was a deal-breaker – we realised it wasn’t going to work. Unfortunately, I don’t really speak to my freshers romance anymore but I don’t necessarily regret the time we spent together. In Freshers Week, there is a great pressure to have a great new fresh start and many people – without even knowing – feel the need to transform themselves temporarily. But experiencing this romance definitely fast-tracked the awkward process of ‘finding myself’ at university. I was encouraged, for the first time in my life, to think about what I like about myself and what I like doing. And once I did this, my dabbles in romance became all the more exciting!

Love B

“I decided I need to be more genuine with everyone I'd met including my first year romance”

nal h ai A T Small

usually would. I even found myself laying on my Canadian accent way thicker to seem more interesting! Finding love during freshers is hard because it feels so intense. The week feels like the

want to take you through some next level (but still easy to use) sex toys that’ll kick things up a notch in the bedroom. These are more exciting than your family-favourite (maybe not) dildos and vibrators. First let’s reiterate some sex toy basics: They can be made of several materials: silicone, plastic, glass and steel. I recommend starting with silicone as these tend to be of higher quality. Avoid rubber jelly like the plague (if the plague was a genital infection) as it is porous and therefore does not make for easy cleaning. It’s important to clean your toys after every use (alone or otherwise). What you use is dependent on the material of your toy. Most of the time you can wash them with a mild liquid soap or dedicated sex toy cleaner. Alternatively, you can leave your toys in boiling water for ten minutes. Be careful when washing glass products – if they chip just a little, they are unusable! Make sure you lube your toys way up to avoid unnecessary friction. Oil and silicone-based lubes aren’t compatible with condoms and some kinds of sex toys. Opt for waterbased lubes to cover all your bases (and bits). Now let’s break down the sex toys I reckon will have you in ecstasy:

am, £8

hether it’s brief eye contact with someone in an elevator of your student halls or a whirlwind romance with a flatmate – during Freshers' Week, love is in the air. My freshers romance was a classic boy-meets-girl. At first, it felt cute and compatible but, looking back, I think I missed a lot of the red flags.

Carrie Brizshaw is back!

aner Fo

Reflecting on her own experience, Amy Hirtenstein discusses what it's like to find love during Freshers Week

Pillow talk

Buzz Fres h To y C le

lifestyle Freshers' love story

Co-Editor-in-Chief ROSIE ANGEL-CLARK Co-Editor-in-Chief SAVANNAH COOMBE Deputy Editor SANJANA IDNANI

by slightly constricting the blood flow to the penis. There are variations that include extra vibrating components to stimulate the clitoris at the same time.

Rabbit – Many women will already be a fan of the rabbit. It’s shaped like a dildo but with two vibrating prongs at the base. These are the ‘rabbit ears’ that gave the toy its name and they vibrate against the clitoris while the shaft penetrates. A n a l Beads – Butt

plugs have a beginner-friendly cousin! Anal beads are little stacked balls that gradually get bigger down the stack. They’re great for trying out anal play and don’t risk being lost inside the user (anal toys should always have a flared base!).

Jiggle Balls/ Kegels/’Ben Wa' Balls

– These are (usually) two weighted balls. You insert them inside the vagina where they gently sway around. They were originally invented to train pelvic floor muscles but are great for sex too. Picture this: halfway through dinner you announce to your partner you’ve got them in and they’ll have to be the one to take them out. Will they be able to resist the challenge? They can also be kept in during (gentle) penetration.