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Welcome Freshers ! Contents Page 4: From The Board - Owen Martin Page 5: The Hotlist & Lost in Translation Pages 6 & 7: Features- Getting Involved With GUU! Page 8: Lifestyle- The Cheesecake to end all Cheesecakes & Healthy Easy Brownies Page 9: Lifestyle- Places to Eat In and Around Glasgow Uni page 10: Politics- Note from the Editor & The Colour Guide to University of Glasgow Page 11: Politics-The Great Debate Page 12: Culture- Glasgow: The Music Capital of Scotland Page 13: Culture- Rough Guide to Glasgow’s Culture Page 14: Column- What on earth is ‘Frosh’? & Fourth Year Advice Page 15: Column- Humans of Glasgow University & Debating at GUU Page 16: Clubs & Societies- STaG (Student Theatre at Glasgow) Page 17: Clubs & Societies- Glasgow Exploration Society (ExSoc) Page 18: Sports - GUSWPC does Albufeira
A Word From The Editor HELLO! This is all very exciting and a bit too much for me, frankly. Freshers’ Week 2014, after a lot of planning, organising and a few disasters, is finally upon us and it is going to be SO AMAZING. This magazine is GUU’s official publication, and as such we’ll be tweeting, live video blogging and writing lots of amazingly fun stuff over the course of the week - keep up to date with us on Facebook: /GYoumagazine, and Twitter: @g_youmagazine. There may even be some sneaky interviews with some of the big acts of the week... So stay tuned! Freshers’ Week is doubly exciting this year because besides all the amazing events that are on, you have the chance to kick start your university career by getting involved in just about anything. If you’d like to contribute to this very magazine (and you really should), then come see us on Monday 15th at 3pm in the Elliot Library - there’ll even be Dominos pizza, because we’re that awesome. Have the best week imaginable! Lucy Keown Editor-In-Chief GUU Convener Of Libraries
Our Contributors Owen Martin Alice Cockburn Kate Whitaker Paul Baird John Graham Anderson Adi Childs
Annabeth Wilson Harriet Johnston Kate Whitaker Hannah Burgess Kathryn Stevenson Chloe Turner
The Editorial Team Editor-In-Chief: Lucy Keown
Culture Editor: Chloe Turner
Features Editor: Harriet Johnston
Column Editor: Hannah Burgess
libraries@guu.co.uk
Politics Editor: Kathryn Stevenson
Design and Cover Editor Rachel Bean
The opinions expressed in this publication do not represent those of Glasgow University Union.
Lifestyle Editor: Annabeth Wilson
Layout and Photography Editor: Romain Ricchi
Find us online:
If you’d like to contribute to the magazine in any way (editorially, writing or photography) e-mail:
gyoumagazine.wordpress.com issuu.com/guuimagazine
G-Your
Board
From the Board Owen Martin
Hello and Welcome to Freshers’ Week 2014!
entertainment including the sold out Fringe
Student Event of the Year in the whole of the
phenomenon that is Hot Dub Time Machine,
UK). Life at GUU is a constant buzz and you’ll
It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to
games events with trolley races, hugely
find a whole lot of events on every single
what will, I’m sure, be one of the best weeks
popular comedian Russell Kane, stimulating
week, from Open Mic to the Beer Bar Quiz to
of your life and also to your first edition of
debates and talks as well all as a number of
Debates Speaker Training or even to attending
Glasgow University Union’s student magazine,
dressing up opportunities, wild parties and
a Libraries Open Meeting and contributing an
the G-You.
competitions with top notch prizes. Every
article to this very magazine.
Freshers’ Week really is all about you, the
single night of your Freshers’ Week we will
Remember that our Freshers’ Helpers are
Freshers, and our number one priority is to
be running our extremely unique club night
there to help you with absolutely anything
make sure every one of you has the best
which sees the old building completely
you need at all and they really are the nicest
experience you possibly can. This year’s line-up
transformed into an extraordinary venue with
bunch of people on campus. Please feel free
is packed with all sorts of events and activities
up to 7 bars to hop around, top notch tunes to
to approach anyone in a yellow t shirt if you
run by the four student bodies around campus
dance to and, of course, a bit of karaoke to sing
have a question, want a tour of the Union or
and I would urge you to all get involved with
your heart out to.
just want a new friend – they are here for you!
these as much as you can. More than this, I
Freshers’ Week is just the beginning though,
And if you see me around please come and say
truly hope you will come down to GUU and
with huge events on throughout the year
hello and, most importantly, make sure you
experience some of what we have on offer
such as Oktoberfest, our Halloween party and
get your welcome drink, completely on me, at
because, after all, we really do have more fun.
our secret themed Christmas ball, Daft Friday
the President’s pint on Monday afternoon.
Our events this year consist of top class
(winner of the 2013 Ents Forum Award for Best
Finally, if you like what you see remember you can become a member from Friday the 12th when membership sign up commences and become part of the family – it’s completely free, takes 2 minutes and gets you some really great perks throughout the year. This week is the first step in the journey of your University life and I only hope we can help you enjoy every single second of it. Have a great week! Owen Martin President
“After all, we really do have more fun.”
2
Hotlist
Going up -
Annabeth Wilson
ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has raised over £48
-
Going down
Facebook Endemic of the Overshare , Learn the
million so far, and it’s still rising even as you read this!
difference between a status update and TMI. I honestly
AMAZING!
don’t care if you’re eating another packet of crisps, or how sunburnt you got in between your toes.
-
The Hunger Games eagerly anticipated third
instalment -Mockingjay Part 1 , released a first look at the
-
trailers and the associated ‘Rebels’. Released in November- It
meaning it is almost time to say goodbye to that delightful
is going to be BIG!
summer wardrobe. Please hold me while I cry.
-
-
Martin Scorsese will direct a biopic of influential
End of Summer- It’s officially getting colder,
Crocs. They have always been going down, now
New York punk foursome The Ramones, priming for release
they have reached the core of the earth. KILL THEM WITH
in 2016. Very.Exciting.Stuff.
FIRE.
-
-
FRIENDS Jennifer Anistion, Courtney Cox and
Finding out that Hello Kitty IS NOT A CAT. She’s
Lisa Kudrow reunited on Jimmy Kimmel this August for
a little girl. Called Kitty White. Not. A. Cat. IS ANYTHING
a hilarious skit within that iconic apartment. FRIENDS
SACRED ANYMORE?!
comeback on the horizon? WE CAN BUT DREAM.
Lost in Translation Moments when global advertising has gone so very, very wrong...
-
-
Annabeth Wilson
When General Motors introduced the Chevy Nova in South
The name Coca-Cola in China was first rendered as Ke-kou-
America, it was apparently unaware that “no va” means “it won’t go.”
ke-la. Unfortunately, the Coke company did not discover until after
After the company figured out why it wasn’t selling any cars, it renamed
thousands of signs had been printed that the phrase means “bite the
the car in its Spanish markets to the Caribe.
wax tadpole” or “female horse stuffed with wax” depending on the dialect. Coke then researched 40,000 Chinese characters and found
-
a close phonetic equivalent, “ko-kou-ko-le,” which can be loosely
ads were supposed to say “It won’t leak in your pocket and embarrass
translated as “happiness in the mouth.”
you.” However, the company mistakenly thought the spanish word
When Parker Pen marketed a ballpoint pen in Mexico, its
“embarazar” meant embarrass. Instead the ads actually said. “It won’t -
In Taiwan, the translation of the Pepsi slogan “Come alive with
leak in your pocket and make you pregnant”.
the Pepsi Generation” came out as “Pepsi will bring your ancestors back from the dead.”
-
An American t-shirt maker in Miami printed shirts for the
Spanish market which promoted the Pope’s visit. Instead of the desired -
Also in Chinese, the Kentucky Fried Chicken slogan “finger-
“I Saw the Pope” in Spanish, the shirts proclaimed, “I Saw the Potato”.
lickin’ good” came out as “eat your fingers off.” - -
The American slogan for Salem cigarettes, “Salem - Feeling
Colgate introduced a toothpaste in France called Cue, the
name of a notorious porno magazine.
Free,” got translated in the Japanese market into “When smoking Salem, you feel so refreshed that your mind seems to be free and empty.”
-
In Italy, a campaign for Schweppes Tonic Water translated the
name into Schweppes Toilet Water.
3
G-Your
Features
Getting Involved Welcome to Glasgow University Union!
also
We know you’re spoilt for choice on
with G-You, including the website, look
unions at this university but let’s be
it
honest, this one is the greatest of all. Of
facebook.com/GYoumagazine.
course, SRC
there’s
(pretty
QMU
GUSA
(the
organised
(group
of
sporty
bunch)
up
on
To
keep
up
at
to
date
https://www.
lot),
aaaand
individuals).
welcome!
Each
If
you’d
like
to
see
your
name
LIGHTS, then the Entertainments
in
(ENTS)
Union is run by students, for students,
committee is the one for you. Probably
and in order to do that, there has to
the
be
groups
campus,
to oversee certain things. This should
together
give you a good outline of the various
well as bringing brilliant bands to our
committees
debates
different
committees
at
GUU
and
and
there
are
most
talented
they’re
in
fantastic
committee
charge
of
comedy
chamber
to
on
putting
nights
entertain
as you.
always TONS of ways to get involved.
They also run Open Mic which happens
Have a chat to any of the committees
EVERY week on a Friday night in the
(they’ll be in yellow tshirts) throughout
Reading
the week and see how you join in with
can join them for a tipple and a sing
all the fab activities we have on offer.
along. If you’re musically talented at all
Room
at
GUU,
where
you
then get your instrument at the ready Let’s start with the best committee of
and entertain us please. Famous Ents
all, the committee who have brought
committee
you
edition
Armada’s Tony, and this year, Cammy
this week, and who work tirelessly each
Gibson who’s coming back to uni after
month to bring you the best magazine
a sold out show at the Edinburgh fringe.
on campus, the G-You! It’sssssss Libraries
Try not to be star struck around Hannah
Committee.
or
Jackman, who’s EP came out earlier this
friendliest
year to MASSIVE acclaim. Chief Simon’s
bunch of writers you will ever meet. They
in charge of them, you’ll catch him on
look after the two libraries in the Union
the piano singing sweet melodies. If you
(Elliot and Bridie), which are the BEST
see people running about the Union in
places to study when it comes to exam
purple t-shirts this week, that is the Ents
time
–
committee
They
also
The
G-You
daily
anything,
edition
Not but
free
upon
being
they
tea
run
are
and
the
comes
daily
humble the
coffee
Union’s out
anyone? magazine.
each
Harriet Johnston
members
–
stop
include
and
Emerald
have
a
chat
with them about how to get involved!
month
Alternatively stop and help them carry
filled with juicy articles to make you
a big speaker or something. They’ll love
think and sometimes make you laugh.
you for it. See you at Open Mic, at 9pm
They’re available all over campus, but
can
check
out
photos
co.uk)
and
is
glad rags on, it’s the best chance you’ll get all year. It’s a twelve hour party with a swing band, celidh, casino, karaoke etc etc. It also has the biggest guest act that will come to uni – last year we had the incredible CHVRCHES. The year
before,
it
was
Newton
Faulkner.
You should not miss DF either way; the event is incredible (I missed it in first year and I have honestly regretted it ever since).
DF committee work incredibly
an
unrecognisably
transforming
the Beer Bar whilst you enjoy a pint.
If you’d rather see your name in paint,
building
The
different
then the committee who organize the
positions (culture editor, features editor,
BIGGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR is for you.
the design-y folk who make it look nice)
It is the great infamous Daft Friday. Daft
and also many contributors who write
Friday is an end of term ball like no other,
articles for the mag. Come along to
which
one of the open meetings that happen
year.
every week in the GUU as we welcome
a
everyone and all ideas. - they’re every
Union in a mysterious theme that is
Monday at 5pm in the Bridie Library at
kept secret until the night. It is held in
GUU. Queen Lucy heads them up. IF
honour
you want to see your name in print, this is
previous themes included Harry Potter,
the committee for you - photographers
Lord of the Rings and Star Wars. You
the
Union
stunning
into
venue.
If you’ve got talent in the painting/
we recommend picking one up from
4
(https:// It
fancy in your finest black tie. Get your
on Friday!
several
page
NOT fancy dress though, more like dress
at
has
previous
www.facebook.com/GUUnion).
hard
committee
from
years on our Union website (www.guu.
will
be
From
September
committee
of
celebrating work
the
to
Union
to
it’s
106th
December,
decorate
President,
the
and
things
department,
then
chat
to DF committee. They’ll be recruiting for this year in September. If you think your name looks best carved into
wood
maybe
and
Games
up
on
a
committee
wall is
then where
you belong. Games committee are the MADDEST committee, and set up all the best and most fun days on campus. Every Monday they host the beer bar quiz, which ends in brilliant prizes and lots of cheeky revelry. In February, the
With GUU! Hellloooooooo, I could do with a few of those. Look out for some incredible promo videos which come out before the biggest events; they’re an absolute hoot. They are ALWAYS up for a chat and a night out, so make sure you go say hi. They’ll be decked out in yellow shirts this week and Daniel is their leader, he’s an absolute hun, so just go and say hello. Keep an eye out too as they’ll be recruiting sometime soon! You’ll see it advertised on the GUU facebook or in the building! Now you’re all decked up with your week yeah? Mondays is Pub Quiz with Games and G-You Open Meeting with legendary Month Of Games will return
debaters/their
with all of the classics. These include Iron
both sides before deciding which way
Stomach (not to be missed, I promise
to vote. Grab a glass of their famous
you), BADGE (big all day games event
Yakka drink while you converse about
in which teams of three compete in
those serious, and not so serious issues.
events like trolley racing and scavenger
The GUU debaters are famed around
hunt) and dodgeball as well as many
the world for their brilliant skills and
others. They also look after the MASSIVE
students
billiard hall upstairs; it’s the biggest one
compete at the highest level. Speaker
in
training is every Tuesday and it begins
the
West
it out.
of
Scotland.
Go
check
If you can down a drink in less
the
guests
travel
educate
around
first Tuesday
after
the
you
world
on
to
Freshers Week
than three seconds and chat a load of
– don’t worry if you’ve never done it
bollocks,
you
before, head along and give it a go!
You’ll
You might be fab at it. Either way,
may see them running about causing
they’re probably the most well spoken
mischief in their black t-shirts this week
of the lot of us, and brilliant to have a
– look out for their nicknames on the
chat to – you’ll see them in their yellow
back of their shirts. Pudding, also known
t-shirts throughout the week but in their
as Ryan, leads the troop so stop and
robes on Sunday.
there’s
a
good
chance
could fit in with the Games lot.
Finally, if you would prefer to SAY your Another way to see your name carved
name to hundreds of students across
up there with the greats is by DEBATING.
campus, all year, then why not join PR
GUU is pretty famous for it’s debating
committee.
The
talent
peeps
around
university
it
is
the
successful
institution
committee,
advertising
all
PR the
best nights and events of the union.
whole world. NOWHERE ELSE is there a
They’re a sociable bunch who pick up
university
This
shifts each week to spread the GUU
DEFINITELY
love. They’re also paid in the holiest
head along to the debate on Sunday
of grails, BEER BAR VOUCHERS. So if
14th night – ‘Should Scotland become
you
an
vote
campus then it’s highly likely they’ll be
is DURING freshers week, so let our
found in Beer Bar with a cider in hand.
debating week
team
you
Independent
greater.
should
Country’.
in
run
largest
the
Freshers
debating
most
The
don’t
see
Tuesday
is
Speaker
with Debates, Wednesday is
Training your Beer
Bar evening, you’ve got your PR shift on Thursday and then round off the week with Open Mic on Friday. And then you could spend your weekend working on DF stuff!! Sound like the dream week yeah? THE THING IS GUYS, that the committees will
be
incredibly
welcoming
WHENEVER
friendly you
speak
and to
them – it’s not just the yellow t-shirt which
makes
them
approachable
and
nice. University is about getting involved with as much as is humanly possible and the Union is a fantastic way to do that. Even if you don’t fancy joining a committee
officially,
open
meetings,
speaker training as well as so many
have a drink with him.
–
Libraries,
them
rushing
about
other union events are open to all. If you fancy knowing a little more or just having a chat with the committees a bit more OR to get some more information on any stuff to do with the union, there’ll be a committees fair on at the end of September in the Union - keep an eye out for the date on Facebook. Get involved with as much committe/ Union related stuff as you can, because I promise it’ll be the best decision you make at university.
5
G-Your
Lifestyle
The Cheesecake to end all Cheesecakes
Hannah Burgess
Doing a flat dinner? Maybe you’re cooking for your girlfriend
trays that un-fastens baking parchment to avoid that horrid
and you want to produce something worthy of the Bake
moment when you realize your cake and the tin do not want
Off… or maybe you just fancy a big fat dessert all to yourself
to part company. Use a metal spoon to press the biscuit
on a lonely evening, whilst watching reruns of Desperate
crumbs down firmly and evenly. Chill in the refrigerator until
Housewives.
set.
Whatever
the
reason,
this
cheesecake
will
seriously tingle your tastebuds, and elevate you to a realm of culinary pleasure you could only (previously) dream of. Get
3. In a large mixing bowl, using a whisk or a wooden spoon,
cooking!
beat
together
the
cream
cheese
and
caster
sugar
until
combined.
INGREDIENTS ●
100g
digestive
biscuits,
4. Fold in the double cream. Keep mixing!
crushed into fine crumbs ●
50g butter, melted
5. Add lime zest followed by the juice and stir until
●
500g full-fat cream cheese
everything is combined and evenly distributed.
●
75g caster sugar
●
2 limes, juice and zest
6. Spoon the cream mixture over the chilled biscuit
●
2 1/2 table spoons of extra
base, making sure that there are no air bubbles.
thick cream
Smooth the top of the cheesecake with a palette knife or metal spoon. Decorate as you fancy.
METHOD 1.
Once
you
have
melted
your
7. Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for 3
butter, add the crushed biscuits to
hours until. Or as long as you can hold out.
the pot and stir until the butter has been soaked up. 8. To serve, remove from the cake tin and cut into slices. Or 2. Spoon the biscuit mixture into one of those cracking
keep in the tin and fetch a spoon. We don’t judge!
Healthy Easy Brownies Harriet Johnston What would you say if I told you, you could eat an insanely
the darker the brownie will become)
good fudgey chocolate brownie and it’s not ACTUALLY* bad
One/two tablespoons of real maple syrup
for you. Normally when I try to make vegan sweets they just
(For those last two ingredients, try to get things with as little
somehow seem to go wrong – the ingredients are expensive
preservatives in as possible – nobody wants all that chemical
or unfindable. Or they just dissolve into a terrible mixture that
rubbish.)
looks revolting (not an exaggeration, I made black bean
You should – 1) Pecans in the blender, blend them until
brownies and they looked like poop).
they’re bitty but not too much like flour.
These brownies though…are so good. Without a doubt, some
2) Put everything else in the blender.
of the best brownies I’ve ever had. And they’re so easy to
3) Process it all together, it should become sticky and mush
make. So...
together.
You need – a blender (not a hand blender, that was my
4) Bring it out the processor and squash it into a baking tray
mistake, it will maybe start smoking and break).
5) Shove it in the fridge for as long as you like
A bowl
AND TADA. Amazing. It’s the dream. Cut them up and eat
Two cups of pecans (does not matter what size cup as long
them with lunch/for lunch/in bed/wherever you like. Snack
as you use the same cup the whole time)
away.
Two cups of dates (pit them first, because the stone doesn’t taste good)
*I mean I don’t think they’re amazing for you but they’re still
Two/Three tablespoons of coco powder (the more you use,
better than the normal ones. They’ve got some good stuff in.
6
Places to Eat In and Around Glasgow Uni
Alice Cockburn
As a new (or existing) student you’ll find that when there
The Left Bank
are so many demands on your time, cooking sometimes
££ - 33-35 Gibson Street (with sister restaurant Two Figs at the
falls pretty far down the list. Luckily Glasgow has some top
end of Byres Road)
restaurants, cafes and delis many of which are conveniently
Mon-Fri 9am-12pm, Saturday-Sunday 10am-12pm
located in the West End, so you can even pop there in
If brunch is your thing this is the place to go; they have a
between lectures. For me, eating out has practically become
variety
a hobby, and I thought I’d try to justify how often I eat out by
Lebanese
sharing my knowledge. In my opinion there are some great
you’ve got a couple of hours to kill between lectures. They
features of eating out; it’s a great way to socialise, get to
source of a significant amount of their produce from local
know your new flat or classmates, to try a new kind of cuisine,
suppliers which contributes to fresher and more yummy food
to make sure you get those necessary veggies, to support
as well as supporting local business instead of big old Tesco!
of
option breakfast.
from
traditional
There’s
also
a
eggs
benedict
good
lunch
to
a
menu
if
local businesses and to get to know the area (that’s a little peek into how I rationalise spending a significant portion of
Kember & Jones
my student loan on food anyway). I’ve complied this list with
£-££ - 134 Byres Road (turn left at the bottom of Unversity
the student budget in mind but also remembering visiting
Avenue)
parents who probably won’t fancy cheese on toast in your
Mon-Fri 8am-10pm, Sat 9am - 10 pm, Sun 9.00 am - 6.00pm
tiny (possibly mouldy) kitchen, and who will hopefully be so
This place is my special favourite for tea and cakes. They have
happy to see you that they’ll treat you!
delicious coffee and a lovely selection of teas and the baking is to die for. There’s always plenty of variety (sometimes too
Crypt Café
much) so I would suggest taking a friend or family member
£ - Mon-Fri 10.30am-1.45pm This
café
is
located
who likes sharing and halving a couple of things. They have on
University
Avenue,
underneath
everything
from
chocolate
and
beetroot
cake
(surprisingly
Wellington Church and is a lovely place to spend spare time
delicious) to lemon polenta cake, and scones and brownies
in between lectures. The staff are friendly and welcoming
if you’re feeling less adventurous. If you’re going for anything
and serve comforting and homey food at seriously affordable
more substantial you might want to bring someone else to
prices.
pay the bill because fresh deli food like this sadly isn’t covered
There’s
also
a
piano
for
anyone
who
fancies
entertaining the other guests!
by most people’s weekly budget.
Hillhead Bookclub
Hanoi Bike Shop
£ - 17 Vinicombe Street
££ - Ruthven Lane (opposite Hillhead Subway station)
Mon-Fri 11am-12pm and Saturday-Sunday 10am-12pm
Mon-Wed
Here they cover all the bases, brunch (£6), lunch (£5) and
11am-12.30am, Sun 11am-11pm
dinner (£10). The décor is vintage-old-fashioned with a really
Delicious, fresh Vietnamese food made on site. Price-wise this
welcoming atmosphere and open all day. They also have fab
is more a place to take the parents or go for a celebratory
strawberry mojito’s for only £3 all week which are delicious -
dinner but it’s worth every penny. The food is authentic and
although perhaps not advisable before a tutorial!
offers a wonderfully interesting Vietnamese flavours.
12pm-11pm,
Thursday-Friday
12pm-12.30am,
Sat
Bar Soba £ - 116-122 Byers Road (turn left at the bottom of Uni Avenue) Mon –Sun 12pm-12am If you like Asian food this is an ideal place to hit up.The ymarket
themselves
as
‘pan-asian
street
food’
(whatever
that means), and they have all of the well known dishes with a few more outlandish ones thrown in for those of you who want to try something new. During the week they operate a 2-for-1 offer for students on all mains meals and delicious (and free) water with cucumber and strawberry, so a lunch or dinner there shouldn’t set you back more than £7. The Hanoi Bilke Shop Cuisine
7
G-Your
Politics
Note from the Politics Editor Kathryn Stevenson Politics is a funny thing. So many of us simply ‘don’t really
about student democracy. Don’t understand why there are
get politics’. Or chose to tune out because it’s seems too
four different coloured t-shirts? We explain the politics behind
complicated. I’ll let you in on a little secret, it’s really not. If
of the yellow, red, pink and blue tops. We also have Paul
you’re one of those who have tuned out for too long then
Baird, our beloved debates convener, arguing his case for
you have come to right place. Our hope is that you’ll find
the debating society. We are also discussing the topic of the
G-You
moment-
an
accessible
and
comfortable
place
to
become
Scottish
Independence.
We’ve
asked
students
to
better acquainted with the subject that I (geekily admit) find
give us their reaction to both sides of the debate. So whatever
absolutely fascinating.
the 18th September brings, you heard it here first.
This fresher’s week issue we’re giving you all there is to know
The Colour Guide to University of Glasgow Kathryn Stevenson What you see now is a group of rowdy (and rarely sober)
Yes, it’s true some people never pick one union as their
students in different coloured t-shirts. What you are actually
union. But getting involved in the unions can seriously enrich
seeing
are
at
your university. I like to think of it like the moment you realise
own
what kind of ‘wing’ you belong to. We’re talking ideological
board, the composition of which is different across each body
wings here, the left/right kind- not the Nando’s kind. Once
but the way in which people come to hold those positions is
you connect which party embodies those views, you want to
the same. That’s where you come in. It is your responsibility to
involve yourself with that particular party and help promote
elect your favourite candidates. But how will you know who
it. Unions can be just a place for cheap drink but they are so
to vote for? And where will you vote? Don’t panic, it will all
much more if you find out what happens within them. So talk
become
to one of us in a yellow t-shirt and find out how you can get
University
the of
four
Glasgow.
abundantly
different Each
clear
student
student
in
elected
body
March.
has
Campaign
bodies their
teams
will
be all over campus (and your newsfeed) promoting their
stuck in!
candidate and urging you to vote. We advise that you save
Right, so we’ve covered the yellow and red tops but who are
yourself the trouble of trying to dip and dive around campus
these pink and blue guys? We’ll start with the pink- Glasgow
and embrace the excitement of the election. And you never
University Sports Association (GUSA). So if you fancy yourself a
know- it could be your name on the ballot in the years to
sporting superstar or simply wanting to try something new then
come.
GUSA will have a sport for you- a quick rhyming lesson there in case you’ve considered trying out for the cheerleading
So hopefully by now you’ve figured out that the yellow tops
squad.
are Glasgow University Union (GUU) and the red ones are
which offer a place for all abilities. If you have participated
Queen
at representative level, you can be sure to feel at home with
Margret
Union
(QMU).
Yes,
University
of
Glasgow
GUSA
facilitate
a
huge
spectrum
of
sports
clubs
confusingly has two unions. And yes- you can choose to be
our athletes.
a member of either, and use the facilities of both. Although
opportunity to get involved.
we would obviously hope you find the GUU ridiculously more
Last but certainly not least- the blue tops. This body is the
accommodating. The rivalry between the two sides is rather
Students
ridiculous but it is just that- utterly ridiculous.
ensure that all students are represented at every level within
Or if simply want to give sport a go, this is your
Representative
Council
(SRC).
The
SRC’s
role
to
We enjoy a bit of healthy competition but there is method
the bureaucratic nightmare which is the University. SRC offer
in the madness. You have more choice! We want you to
many services to help aid your transition into University life
find a union that provides services that you want to use. We
such as financial advice, second hand bookshop and a free
want you to find a Union that is filled with people that you
minibus service. Basically these are the people that will help
want to hang out with. We want you to find a union that best
you when you need it most.
represents you. So don’t be afraid to drop into both before
Now you’ve got a coherent colour guide to Glasgow, stop
deciding on an alliance.
using confusion as an excuse and get involved!
8
The Great Debate Kathryn Stevenson Even with all their fancy statistics, no one
I’m not a permanent UK resident (yet), I
animosity towards us Scots as many may
can predict what the 18th September
wouldn’t’ be able to make up my mind
view us as wanting to leave whether we
will hold. If you’re reading this from the
what way I would vote because neither
are Yes voters or not. My preference
other side, please don’t say I told you
side have definitively presented a clear
would
so. If there’s one way to define this
argument in their favour. Both sides are
Scotland. In the event of a Yes vote, I
debate, it’s the uncertainty of it. The
quick to point out the others flaws, but
feel
debate itself is filled with unanswered
neither of them provides any tangible
an
questions and unquestioned issues. The
solutions because no one knows what
concerns, however, are over the later
‘No’ Campaign finally put up some sort
will
years and what will happen if we don’t
of a fight when they plunked Alistair
happens. ‘
Darling
on
a
Alex
Salmond.
sharp
tongue,
televised Even he
debate
with
was
actually
the
vote
with
Salmond’s
uncomfortably
‘The
Independent
not
keep
Scotland
independent
debate has
on
been
Scottish going
Jessica
Politics student
like he up the creek without a paddle,
interest in it as it finally comes to a
the predictions were pulled in another
close.
Scottish
direction
yet
at least once a week by the shallow
upcoming
clinching
point
propaganda
would
one
the
pound
At
first.
as My
for me to want to go it alone.’
have
Darling’s
nation.
succeed
on
for so long now that to be honest, I
regarding
could
for
safety net of the UK is much too inviting
the pound. Just when Salmon looked
again.
devolution
would mean for a new currency. The Philip Simpson, 4th year English Lit Independence
could
once
like
greater
get a currency union and what this
choked by Alistair’s accusation that an Scotland
happen
be
begun
to
Despite
struggle
being
to
mildly
vomited
by
maintain infuriated
both
sides
Smart, ‘If
4th
the
year
History
and
majority
vote
against
independence
in
the
referendum,
be
hugely
personally
disappointed
I that
was soon lost in the second televised
and quickly sobered up by any pub
Scotland did not seize this once in a
debate
debate on the topic, I will be voting yes
lifetime opportunity to build a brand
out on top. As the paper’s declared
to independence.
new country of its own. However, this
Salmond the winner, I couldn’t help but
If it passes, I will be pleased to see the
would not be the fatal blow for the Yes
entertain the idea that SNP are lining
disconnection
themselves up for a sprint finish.
and
It cannot be denied that the debate
will
able
the independence issue, those in favour
has been riddled with scaremongering,
to manage its own affairs in a more
of independence would still push for
inconsistent
which
opinions. have
saw
statistics
Amongst
we
Salmond
actually
and all
come
contradictory
that
managed
between
Scotland’s be
reality
happy
to
see
English
politics
camp.
Although
finally
end.
would
have
Scotland
I
the
to
Yes
supporters
concede
defeat
with
egalitarian fashion.
some
confusion,
If it does not pass, I think the real shame
given that so many are disenchanted
to
will
make
in
Scotland,
independence
with the current Westminster rule. So although the yes side may lose their
at University of Glasgow to reflect the
quo will not be threatened significantly
main objective, they will not lose their
debate and give you a chance to find
for
are
spirit and momentum for change. So I
out what students have made of the
expensive so it is unlikely people will
would urge those in favour of Yes to not
great debate.
have such a chance to alter their future
be
entirely
so drastically again in their lifetime.’
in
September.
mind?
We’ve
asked
years
to
Scottish
reform
will leave conversation and the status
our
that
of
students
up
be
degree
come.
Referendums
Ilana Brener, 4th year Politics Student to
‘When Scotland
referendum
I
initially
and three
wholeheartedly
learned years
against
If
by
however,
a
defeat
the
18th
produces a Yes victory, this would be an
came
over
about ago,
disheartened
I
Ailsa Pender, Politics Graduate, Masters
immense and historic event. This would
the
Student.
be a time of exciting negotiations and
was
independence,
often
‘As asked
a
politics about
my
student,
I
am
change, and I would be most proud to
thoughts
on
live in a left leaning country that took
am
the opportunity to make their country
mainly because I was asked before I
the
came to university if they spoke Scottish
decided on my vote, though still have
more
in Scotland; I thought that the world
some concerns over what will happen
free.
didn’t know enough about Scotland to
in either eventuality. If Scotland votes
apprehensive about the future, I would
accept After I
it
as
an
assuring
decided
that
independent
those as
who a
country.
Referendum.
I
socially Although
democratic, naturally
I
fair
and
would
be
to stay as part of the United Kingdom,
feel more secure knowing that we had
that,
I feel Scotland and the UK as a whole
the power and ability to make our own
student,
asked
foreign
Independence
would benefit. Although, I am worried
decisions for our own country. Together,
Even
about the reaction from the rest of the
Scotland could build something better.’
though I won’t be able to vote because
UK – there may be a general feeling of
voting Yes
could
be
dangerous.
9
G-Your
Culture
Glasgow: The Music Capital of Scotland With
the
summer
commonwealth and
the
Chloe Turner
games
over
cooperate chain it just lacks personality
the other is a 400 capacity. SWG3 also
independence
vote
that other places have in abundance.
boasts
in the middle of fresher’s week you
It’s one to go to if you get a chance but
production facility for bands so it’s ideal
couldn’t have chosen a more interesting
it will never be a venue to rave about.
for any budding musicians. SWG3 often
time to come and study in Glasgow.
recording
facilities
and
a
pre
supports many post grads so if you want
But one thing that the city has always
Barrowland
to see the next generation of musicians
had in abundance is it’s amazing and
This venue is a proper local favourites
and artists this is the first place to go.
diverse music scene. Both unions have
it’s an old 1960s ballroom with a garish
proudly
music
neon lights illuminating the building so
The Art School
events. Just take a look at some of the
it’s impossible to miss. With a capacity
The Art School doubles as both the
artists who have played at Daft Friday
of 2,100 it’s one of Glasgow’s largest
Glasgow
in the GUU: Arcade Fire (2008); Bombay Bicycle
hosted
Club
some
incredible
School
of
Art
Students’
venues. As a family run venue it has a
Association and one of Glasgow’s most
(2010);
Basshunter
(2012)
certain charm to it that other venues
famous music and arts venue. It was
recently,
Chvrches
(2013).
just lack. The acoustics also beat pretty
recently
But if you fancy venturing out into the
much all other places which makes it a
once
big city here is our guide to some of
must for any music geeks.
its place as an incredibly popular gig
and
most
venue
Glasgow’s best and most well known
The Arches
music venues.
This
completely
reopened for
it
refurbished instantly
students
and
and
reclaimed
locals
alike.
It varies its music from world famous
venue
has
been
important
to
bands
and
DJ’s
to
new
budding
King Tuts Wah Wah Hut
Glasgow’s
Probably my favourite on the list (and
since the 90s.
not just because of its amazing name).
most versatile venues, going to Arches is
Sub Club
It is the smallest venue on this list with
certainly a unique experience. Located
For any electronic music fans this is not
as a 300 capacity venue. It’s small but
right in the centre of Glasgow (across
a place to miss. With a variety of DJ’s on
mighty as King Tuts was named the
the road from central station) it often
every
winner of Britain’s best small venue in
hosts
(Franz Ferdinand played there in 2003)
2011.
as
festival and Celtic connection. However
whatever
‘UK’s Best Live Venue’ for three years on
it’s more famous for the bands and DJs
will have something to entertain you.
the trot. King Tuts is most well known for
that regularly play there. Whatever your
Possibly not a venue everyone would
supporting some of the biggest names
taste of music the arches will have it.
enjoy it’s genre of music focuses more
Radio
One
also
declared
it
demography
festivals
of
clubbing
Weegie artists.
As one of Glasgow’s
like
the
Glasgow
jazz
in music at the start of their careers
night
and
night
occasionally
you
are
a
free
band
subclub
on house, techno and electro. But don’t
including (but not limited to) Florence
Stereo
knock it till you’ve tried it. It has one
and
Nutini
Located in Renfield Lane this is a much
of
and Biffy Clyro. If you want to be able to
smaller venue than the previous ones
its
boast that you liked that band before
mentioned.
Glasgow is- fun , messy and a just a bit
anyone else did just check out King Tut’s
cafe and bar it also hosts many arts
line up. Chances are they’ll be famous
and music events in its basement area.
sooner or later.
The building was designed by Charles
These venues are just a select few that
Rennie
Glasgow has. The best thing you can
the
Machine,
Oasis,
Paolo
02 ABC
Operating
Mackintosh.
as
Great
a
for
vegan
a
more
intimate gig experience.
the
best
atmospheres
‘subculture’
represents
in
Glasgow everything
mental.
do is go out and find places for yourself.
This one is more like marmite. All major
The amazing music scene is one of the
artists will probably play here so if you
SWG3
best things Glasgow has to offer so go
have someone you’re desperate to see
Arguably the cultural hub for Glasgow
out and have an explore. You never
keep an eye out on their website. It’s a
SWG3 is open to musicians but also
know what you might find.
very spacious venue located near the
performance
bottom of Sauchiehall street.
The O2 is
artists and photographers. It has two
perfectly adequate but as it’s part of a
venues one with a 1200 capacity and
10
artists,
dancers,
visual
Rough Guide to Glasgow’s Culture
Alice Cockburn
Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, has a
much
Glasgow.
to firearms and weaponry. They have a
lot going for it. But it seems that when
It was founded by Dr William Hunter
fantastic collection of work by the group
you
and
live
somewhere
you
sometimes
of
the
aides
of painters known as the Glasgow Boys
(remember this was way before power
as well as work by Mackintosh. If you
things the city has to offer and you
points
fancy seeing some work from further
settle into daily life. It’s easy for Glasgow
so
a
afield they have a collection of work
University to become your whole life
preserved organ or something similarly
by the Dutch Old Masters and French
and for you not to realise what else
eww-inspiring!).
other
impressionists and a permanent exhibit
you
even
you’re
teaching
overhead
likely
to
be
There
projectors,
looking
are
also
at
of.
scientific
prominent
on Ancient Egypt (don’t trust everything
came
my
Scottish figures such as Lord Kelvin and
the Mummy films tell you!) Again it’s
second year when I was given a gift
relics from the Antoine Wall.
free and has a rather nice café in the
card for the Citizen’s Theatre. I decided
The Art Gallery is right next to the library
main hall. They have temporary exhibits
that I needed to find out more about
and again is a fantastic place to learn
throughout the year so it’s not just a
what’s going on in Glasgow culturally.
about Scottish artwork. It has significant
one-time attraction and even if you’re
As so much of what Glasgow has to
collections
Whistler
not sold on the collections, the building
offer is free, it seems to me that there’s
and Charles Rennie Mackintosh, as well
itself is worth taking a walk through the
something for everyone and most of it is
as
park to see.
right on your doorstep!
house
me,
the
taking
own
advantage
For
be
or
his
to
become less aware of all the amazing
could
includes
collection
discovery
in
instruments
the
who
of
from
James
interiors (which
McNeill
from
the
might
watches
60
Mackintosh
attract
anyone Makeover
If art or exhibits aren’t your cup of tea,
The Hunterian Museum and Hunterian
or DIY SOS!). Entry is free and there’s
Minute
the Citizens Theatre might do the trick.
Art Gallery are both actually on campus
the added bonus of free entry to the
It’s not quite as close as the other places
so there really aren’t any excuses not
temporary
I’ve mentioned; it’s in the Gorbals on
to pop in. The Hunterian Museum is
University students.
exhibitions
for
Glasgow
the Southside, but it’s easily accessible
located in the Gilbert Scott Building (or
by subway or bus (or foot if you’re
the Hogwarts Building) which in itself
Not much further away is the Kelvingrove
feeling fit!) and it’s nice to get out of
is nice to have a look around. It’s the
Art
is
the West End every now and then. It
oldest public museum in Scotland and
similarly famous and again contains a
focuses on reworked versions of classic
has all the variety you would expect
significant
focused
plays and new writing. As the second
and more than enough to keep you
on Glasgow and Scotland. Its collection
oldest operational theatre in the UK it
occupied
is
varied,
boasts many of the original Victorian
the things that sets it apart from other
ranging from exhibits about Scotland’s
machinery and fittings, making it a pretty
museums for me is the relevance of
history, to a sculpture and art, all the way
impressive place to spend the evening.
for
an
afternoon.
One
of
Gallery
larger
and
number and
Museum, of
which
exhibits
therefore
more
A big part of what they do involves Kelvingrove Museum, just across the university campus
exposing as many people as possible to theatre and consequently they sell a limited number of tickets at 50p each. There are a number of conditions to get these tickets but as a student you can’t beat a bargain like that! Failing that, they offer student prices for most shows so they won’t break the bank. Shows to look out for in the autumn season include 1984 and Hamlet! I
hope
everything
you
take
Glasgow
has
advantage to
offer
of it’s
truly one of the most culturally diverse countries out there. So go explore!
11
G-Your
Columns
What on earth is ‘Frosh’? One of the best bits about doing a year abroad, aside from immersing
new, big city.
Kate Whitaker
yourself in a new culture, exploring a new country and the opportunity to study at some of the best universities in the world, is that for at least
Everything is also very big and very American at McGill. Montreal is
one week you can pretend to be an innocent little first year again and
one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world and when I first
take part in Freshers week.
arrived I was surprised at how French it was. Where I live is entirely francophone and filled with art galleries, cute little cafes and quirky
I am spending this year at McGill University in Montreal, Canada and
shops, but downtown where McGill is situated seems SO typically
last week was our ‘Frosh’ week. No one seems to know why it’s Frosh
American to me. School spirit, a huge American Football stadium,
and not Freshers, even a quick google search provided me with no
cheerleaders and people playing Beer Pong with red cups. I’ve
answers. I mean, they even call first years Freshmen here, it makes no
discovered I’m great at a game called Flip Cup which is huge here, I’ll
sense.
teach you all when I’m back next year!
Either way the principle is essentially the same. I am writing this
One event was BEACH DAY! We were all taken in proper American
from my bed, armed with tissues, paracetamol and my fifth cup of
yellow school buses (I was way WAY too excited about this) to a club
lemon and honey tea, suffering from a very familiar case of Freshers
on an artificial beach by a lake. People were swimming, water skiing,
(Froshers?) flu.
drinking and dancing in the sun (it was almost 30 degrees all day and I got hideously burnt). Not exactly what I expected to be doing in
Having done Freshers Week twice at Glasgow, once as a fresher and
Canada, where is this snow everyone keeps talking about?
once as a GUU helper, I have been really annoying everyone all week by making constant comparisons between here and home. The
It has been a crazy week, so much fun but very different from my
biggest difference I have found is that here it is more controlled and
experiences in Glasgow.
guided. ‘Froshies’ are put in little groups assigned to Frosh leaders who take them to events, walk them home and hold back their hair when
For more study abroad stories or advice on how to apply, check out the
they’re sick. It’s nice in the sense that it’s slightly more personal and
student ambassador blogs at http://glasgowuniversityabroad1415.
I suppose breaks people into living and going out on their own in a
wordpress.com/.
Fourth year advice
Hannah Burgess
Dear Freshers, you will discover on this journey will enrich your life for years to come.” Congratulations on making the best decision of your life so far. You will in no way regret it. So far you’ve all left high school and everything
Harriet is beginning her final year as an English Literature Student at
that is safe and predictable about it, the majority of you will also have
Glasgow. As our Features Editor she has her finger on the pulse and
left home and are now living in student halls. But one thing that every
has advice truly worth taking note of. “Be totally as open as you can be,
single one of you will have had in common over the past few weeks will
and say yes to everything! Glasgow is an insanely cool city, which you
be the adults in your life dishing out a host of unrequested advice such
are lucky enough to live in; don’t just stay in the West End. The city is a
as these gems; ‘Remember not to drink too much’, ‘Don’t go out every
labyrinth of opportunity and going to university here means you can
night’, ‘Make sure you eat well’... And so they go on and on. And on!
explore as many of those options as possible. There are so many people
We’ve all been there. On the other hand starting university, no matter
to meet and places to explore, so take advantage. The old favourites will
where you are enrolling, is a nerve-wracking time. So in order for you to
stick with you.”
get some realistic and honest advice, some of the G-You team in fourth year who have been there, done that, and got a fair few t-shirts have
So by a general consensus, go out this week and have an absolutely
chosen to share their pearls of wisdom with you.
amazing time. Do not hold back and try a bit of everything. In my Freshers’ Week I missed the Freshers address which I would not advise
In her fourth and final year of a politics degree, Kathryn is, unsurprisingly,
doing as it’s a great laugh and introduction to life at Glasgow. Similarly,
the Politics Editor for G-You and keen to share the realities of student
Fairs will be running throughout the week which will allow you to stack
life. “University will mess you up!” She is very honest! “You won’t sleep,
up on enough free pens, pencils, key-rings and condoms to last you
you will eat fast food like it’s going out of fashion, and surprise yourself
well into second semester and beyond. Take lots of photos, make lots
with friendships, alcohol intake and romance. Embrace it. You soon
of new friends and think about the academic side of things when you
figure out how to sleep before 2am and stop eating pizza for breakfast.
have to.
The person you are now is not the person you will be in fourth year –
12
and that’s a good thing! At times it will feel like you’re lost but what
Welcome to Glasgow!
Debating at GUU Paul Baird Debate? Or not to debate? Do you enjoy a good argument? Do you like taking a stand and getting your point across? Well, welcome to debating at GUU! Whether you’re an experienced debater in your own right already or completely new to it all we’d be glad to welcome you along as you join us on campus here at Glasgow. There’s something for everyone at GUU. With our fun, raucous, twelve hour Parliamentary Debates that take place on five Fridays of the year; our black tie dinners; and our weekly Speaker Training sessions ran by our top international debatersthere’s something for everyone here at GUU. Come along and find out more at our Freshers’ Week Debates on Sunday 14 September and Saturday 20 September, both at 8pm in our Debating Chamber. We’re also holding our relaxed Welcome to Debates event on Tuesday 16th September where you can have a chat with our current debaters and meet the team. Our first Speaker Training session is on Tuesday 23 September at 6pm in the GUU’s Bridie Library. We hope to see you all there! Welcome to GUU!
13
G-Your
Societies
STaG - Student Theatre at Glasgow
Chloe Turner
“All the world’s a stage, and all the
and rare opportunity (it’s also a heck
wanted to jump onstage and join in on
freshers’ merely players.”
of a lot of fun). However, if New Talents
the fun.”
largest
still doesn’t appeal to you we also run a
As well as putting on over twenty plays
student theatre society and you have
various number of including a devising,
STaG is also a very social society with a
the chance to be a part of it. ‘But I have
play reading and writing workshops.
huge social being put on each month
no interest in acting’ I hear you say.
In our calendar year we run two festivals.
as well as the after parties for all the
Well then, why not try one of the other
First term is called ‘STaG nights’ which
plays. The motto is if you’re not walking
aspects
runs
STaG
be
is
Glasgow’s
to
stage
devising,
our
oldest
society
managing,
and
whether
tech-ing,
that
writing,
comprises
home drunk at 6am you’re not doing it
of nine plays based around the same
over
three
days.
This
right. Each year we put on a sub-crawl, a Halloween party, a Christmas dinner
directing or designing. Now
theme
and
think about that list, look into my eyes
magic.
The second term festival is ‘New
(why I do have beautiful eyes thank
Works’ which focuses on new writing in
With over twenty new shows to still
you very much) and tell me there’s not
the society. These plays are performed
be
something you’re interested in.
in front of a panel of judges who chose
and written next year we are always
“to join or not to join that is the question”
the winning play which we then take to
open
Okay so now you’re worried that you
the Fringe Festival.
the merrier! So if you like what you
don’t have enough experience to join.
On
This
‘mainstage’
isn’t
something
to
worry
about.
top
this
of
year
this
we
production
our
theme
also
have
which
is
a
takes
and a black-tie ball. directed, to
performed,
new
members.
tech-ed The
more
see sign up for our newsletter which you can do from our website www.
STaG takes in anyone no matter what
place each term. These are the largest
studenttheatreatglasgow.com.
their level of experience. At the end
productions
will give you all the information and
of fresher’s week we will be holding
really
auditions for our production of Peter
‘Jerusalem’
which
could want. Or if you like you’d like to
Pan. This is what we call a ‘New Talents
The Times described as “The best new
talk to someone in person pop down to
Night
play
the STaG Room located on 62 Oakfield
production’.
This
means
that
are
of
STaG
produces
amazing!
Our
by
Butterworth
the
Jez
decade”.
and
first
they
term
Auditions
is
for
updates
about
society
avenue
After the show is over (12th October)
Alongside our mainstage we also run
you’ll almost always find someone in
there is also a chance to be a part of
a
there to have a chat with. We hope to
the STaG board as a first year ordinary
slightly smaller and often directed by
board. To be able to be a part of the
someone with slightly less experience.
running of a society so early on in your
The
university life is an extremely valuable
the twenty two plays that we put on
which
is
posters you see are a selection from
last year. That Sinking Feeling
went on
to the fringe this summer after winning last year’s New Works festival. A hilarious python-esque set on a cruise ship with two
condom
companies
struggling
to
come to a merger after the head of one of the companies gambles away all his money- it was just about as mental as it sounds. It was a huge crowd pleaser with people commenting things like: “A fun and refreshing show. The passion of the ensemble cast was infectious. I
14
see you around!
the
gym)
you
this will be at the end of September. production
opposite
that
everyone who auditions will get a part.
non-mainstage
(just
the
This
and
ExSoc - Glasgow Exploration Society
John Graham Anderson
For what is approaching a staggering
to save the animals!
nine decades, the University of Glasgow
Of course, I was slightly nervous when
and figures – though I suspect that in
has been offering rare opportunities to
the
presentation
my case, with the Tobago expedition
its students; the opportunity to be at
evening came around, still I held the
being primarily turtle-based, the fact I
the heart of zoological fieldwork and
idea that this was exclusively for the
knew what a turtle was did help.
conservation efforts in places most of
scientists,
us view purely as postcard points. The
the
accessible
It goes without saying that my three
Expedition Society of the university has
presentations all quickly put my mind at
months in Tobago will stay with me for
been sending students out to countries
ease;
everyone
the rest of my life. The opportunity to do
such
as
Peru,
not
Society
the
informative being
artists.
However,
and
geared
towards
and
from fourth year zoologists and marine
practical fieldwork, whether it is familiar
biologists, to those of us who hadn’t
or not, whilst also seeing beautiful parts
not all too dream-like: the chance to
previously
of the world, forging strong friendships
see
and
Kerr building even was! Suddenly the
with
preserve our beautiful planet’s wildlife is
dilemma was not, ‘Man, I don’t know
immersing yourself in another culture, is
not as exclusive as it sounds!
if I’m the right guy for this’, but instead
one
‘Man, which expedition to I decide to
Naturally there is a financial aspect to
apply for?!’
this – expeditions aren’t free. But for a
natural
Egypt
Expedition
Trinidad and Tobago since 1920. But it’s tremendous
Ecuador,
merely on trying to impress with facts
wonders
In the summer of 2012 my flat-mate took
known
where
the
Graham
part in his first expedition, which saw him
your
team
members
and
that does not come around often.
comparatively low price you get to see
go to Trinidad – however, with him being
Any
a zoology student, I still considered that
process,
being
own flight, which are booked well in
for me, as a humble English literature
considered for a team in which less than
advance so you will not be entirely out
student, this was not really a option.
a
chosen.
of pocket, and many of the living costs,
But to my surprise, two other friends
And of course, practical knowledge of
i.e. food, are paid for by the expedition
were
accepted
onto
expeditions
interview
dozen
is
especially
a
nerve-wracking
when
interviewees
will
you’re be
the world. You have to pay for your
to
the wildlife in a given ecosystem is not
itself. Furthermore, fundraising is vital, so
Trinidad and Iceland the following year,
the only criteria, you want to be able
make sure to be quick with ideas of how
one a Civil Engineer and the other an
to have a laugh with people if you’re
to do as much of it as possible!
English and French language student. It
going to be spending, depending on
suddenly occurred to me that maybe
the time-span of each expedition, six-
All I can conclude by saying is that
us writers could also have our chance
plus weeks with them. So do not focus
the
Expedition
changing
Society
experiences
provides
life-
anyone
and
to
everyone who is studying at Glasgow University. And its only three pounds to
join
the
society
and
attend
the
presentation evening. So, if you want adventure,
experience,
CV
bragging-
material and the memories of a lifetime, then do hold it in mind.
15
G-Your
Sport Club
GUSWPC does Albufeira Adi Childs It was June, and summer had just started when thirty-two of Glasgow
challenges to complete. I ended up being a team leader which was
University Swimming and Waterpolo Club (GUSWPC)’s finest headed to
probably a bad call. I took all our challenges very seriously which led to
Albufeira in the south of Portugal for 8 nights of sun, sea and silliness.
some cross dressing, many a drinking game, a bit of guy on guy action,
Now when I heard tour this year was to Albufeira, I wasn’t all that
free shots, pictures and kisses with bartenders and much more... finally
pleased. It’s one of these hotspots for British tourists who want some
ending with a cheeky wee skinny dip in the sea, unaware of the creepy
sun but don’t want to experience any foreign culture. Almost everyone
old men watching from the beach. It was all worth it to be the only
there speaks English and half the bars and restaurants are proud to
team to complete all the challenges (even though our prize never
serve British food. I must admit I’m a bit of a snob when it comes to
materialised).
holidays; I like classy places, I don’t like being hounded every time I walk
However, the most dramatic of our day time activities happened in
up to a shop, and if I’m paying money to get out of Britain I want to feel
the hotel. We decided to create a little challenge for everyone on tour.
like I’ve actually left. In my opinion Albufeira is like a B-list Magaluf and
This was to swim round the outside of the pool in the hotel completely
that just doesn’t appeal to me.
underwater. Now we guessed the distance was about 50m which most
However after enjoying last year’s tour so much I thought I might as
of the team could just about manage however no one was in peak
well go -and I definitely made the right decision. I now realise that you
physical health during the trip which is what caused the most drama.
could take this group of swimmers to the most boring place on earth
Our Water Polo captain doesn’t have an averages person’s general
and as long as there was some booze we’d find a way to have the best
infliction of desiring to breathe when he holds his breath. He’d been
week of our lives.
out the night before and had cocktails for breakfast so all things added
So we spent our first night in Faro, then six nights in Albufeira, and
up to him getting about halfway around the pool and passing out from
rounded up the trip with a night in Lisbon. Rather than giving you a
lack of oxygen. I must mention that the hotel pool had no lifeguards,
blow by blow account of what we did, I’ll just run over some of the
but luckily half the swim team are trained lifeguards so no horrible
highlights. Most days were spent by the pool, sunbathing and nursing
ending! When he finally came round, rather than following everyone’s
our hangovers. The nights were where things got interesting. Albufeira’s
advice to go the hospital to avoid secondary drowning he decided he’d
strip is home to many incredibly cheap nightclubs and bars, where it
just try the challenge again later in the week. Genius, I know.
turns out blagging free drinks is easier than anticipated. The first night
Overall the week was fantastic. It was absolute carnage and destroyed
there we had free run of these bars and in standard swim team style
my bank account but I’m so happy I went. The message I’d like to pass
we got pretty wrecked. I spent a good while behind the bar at one club
on is that if you join club this year (obviously it should be swimming)
while the bartender attempted to chat up my roommate and showered
and if they have a tour, go. Save up some money and watch out for your
us with free drinks. After a few cocktails and some lovely shots, the rest
liver but it will be one of the best holidays of your life.
of the night got a bit blurry. Most nights were like that. My favourite night was our team night. Swim teams are a tad competitive (and they definitely bring it out in me), so one night we were split into groups,
16
in
which
we
had
a
list
of