Demi-Decade and That Contents P.4. From The Board - Lucy Keown P.5. Year in Review P.6. Features- Legacy: 2012 and 2014 & This Month at GU P.7. Features - Glasgow Nailed 2014 P.8. Lifestyle - Cuppaloveyou P.9. Lifestyle - Volunteer Tourism-ing P.10. Politics - Electionwatch 2015 P.11. Politics - Leader Top Trumps P.12. Culture - Highs and Lows: Film 2014 & Future City P.13. Culture - Setting the Music Scene P.14. Column - Erasmust P.15. Column - Is there a point in New Years Resolutions? P.16. Societies - TedX Talks P.17. Opinion - Beer Bar Chat P.18. GUSA Update
Our Contributors Kate Whitaker Taggy Elliott Lucy Keown Rachel Bean Adi Childs Harriet Johnston Annabeth Wilson Alice Cockburn
Romain Ricchi Hannah Burgess Kathryn Stevenson Chloe Turner Dan Kelsey Huw Clarke Olivia Collison-Owen
A Word From The Editor Unless you’ve been living on a remote planet in a distant galaxy, you’ll know it’s now 2015. Duh. Christmas is over, you’re probably in the depths of a full-body-blaster detox, including snorting seaweed and rubbing frogspawn over your thighs (...just me?), and have formualted tons of resolutions that will ensure that yes, in fact, 2015 is YOUR YEAR to SMASH IT. For me, that means after two weeks of struggling, I have watched 72 episodes of a mediocre TV show on Netflix. It’s all going well then. 2015 is also shaping up to be an amazing year for GUU, with the new extension building due for completion! Our cover is inspired by the plans so far, ‘cause we’re just TOO excited. With restaurant reviews, Electionwatch 2015, the low-down on TedX Talks at GU and much more, G-You is here to help you stave off the January blues and pretend you’re still eating mince pies by the fire.
Lucy Keown Editor-In-Chief GUU Convener Of Libraries
The Editorial Team
Editor-In-Chief: Lucy Keown
Culture Editor: Chloe Turner
Features Editor: Harriet Johnston
Column Editor: Hannah Burgess
Politics Editor: Kathryn Stevenson
Design and Cover Editor Rachel Bean
Lifestyle Editor: Annabeth Wilson
Layout and Photography Editor: Romain Ricchi
We welcome new talent in the form of writers, photographers, designers and more to contribute to G-You. Every week we hold an Open Meeting on Mondays at 5pm in the Bridie Library of GUU - make sure to come along and introduce yourself, getting involved has never been easier!
If you’d like to contribute to the magazine in any way (editorially, writing or photography) e-mail: libraries@guu.co.uk The opinions expressed in this publication do not represent those of Glasgow University Union. Find us online:
gyoumagazine.wordpress.com issuu.com/guuimagazine
G-Your Board
From the Board
Lucy Keown
BUT THE FUN DOESN’T STOP THERE. February brings arguably GUU’s biggest and most fun series of events MONTH OF GAMES. All throughout the month, GUU’s very own loons in the form of the Games Committee will run all it’s best tournaments, including Iron Stomach, the Big All Day Games Event or B.A.D.G.E, Dodgeball, Pool and Darts tournaments, the Beer Bar quiz, Beer Pong - I see a theme there - and much more, which will culminate in an extra special and mysterious event, which has to be attended before light is shone on its purpose. That’s about as much as I can tell you. Again, facebook is our best friend so keep an eye on GUU’s page for more information on these events closer to the time! Finally, our weekly events continue from Monday 12th January to run until the Easter break, including G-You contributors meetings every Monday at 5pm in GUU Hi everyone, and welcome to 2015’s first edition of G-You! I’m the Libraries Convener at Glasgow University Union, which besides the extremely fun and interesting job of looking after the Union’s two libraries (the Bridie and the Elliot), includes the Editorship of G-You magazine and the running of events with the Libraries Committee, quite possibly the greatest bunch of people you will ever meet. They also are the sub-editors, writers and designers of this magazine. What a talented lot. Besides the amazing Libraries-related info, I’m here to
(come and join the magazine-related fun!). GUU will alson be throwing some other bits and pieces into the term like special one-off club nights, special screenings of rugby matches, GUU’s special take on St Paddy’s Day, IT’S ALL JUST SO SPECIAL. There’s so much fun I actually don’t think I can handle it. So after this overload of information, all that remains to be said is I hope you have the best 2015, and I’ll see you down at GUU soon, where I’ll probably be mopping up spew/spilt drinks/unknown fluids. See you soon!
talk about the colossal amount of great stuff going on at GUU this year. The first term of this year may be over, and although it’s my favourite term (SO MUCH GOING ON), this one may actually be even better, believe it or not. “But HOW???” I hear you clamour - well, it all kicks off with a bang in the form of REFRESHERS’ WEEK. This year, for the first time, Refreshers’ Week is a cross-campus initiative, running from 14th - 21st January, with events run by both our good friends the QMU, and us, the beloved and amazing GUU (not that I’m at all biased), as well as GUSA and the SRC. Refreshers Week sees more events crammed into a week unseen any other time of year (apart from Freshers’ Week of course), with GUU this year hosting a special club night with the dj Beatamaxx, who is guaranteed to bring the house down (possibly even in Hot Dub style). There’s also the Big Quiz of the Year, a special Open Mic and a debate just for Refreshers’ Week at the GUU. Check out the facebook event page for more info on all the acts and events Refreshers will bring to Glasgow Uni!
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The incredible GUU Board of Management 2014-15!
The Year in Review Let’s have a look at the stories and events that shaped our 2014!
Annabeth Wilson
August: Robin Williams is found dead in his apartment, aged 63. RIP.
January: Colorado legalized cannabis, making it 420 all day every day. February: Gay Marriage Bill has been passed in Scotland! ABOUT BLOODY TIME! March: 86th Academy Awards, with winners including 12 Years a Slave , Matthew McConaghey and Cate Blanchett. Oh, and THAT selfie April: The Catholic Church simultaneously canonized Pope John Paul II and Pope John XXII. September: “Celebgate.” Hundreds of private, often nude photos of celebrities including Jennifer Lawrence, Kirsten Dunst, and Kate Upton were stolen and leaked onto the internet October: Ebola virus hits the U.S… November: Hacktivist attack on Sony Pictures , demanding the demanded the cancellation of the planned release of the film ‘The Interview’..
May: Eurovision and that Bearded Lady. Rise like a phoenix and grow that beard. June: ISIS begins their offensive through Northern Iraq, aiming to capture Baghdad and overthrow the Shiite government. July: Germany wins the World Cup! Gazuntite!
December: AirAsia flight goes missing, the third plane to vanish this year.
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G-Your Features
Legacy: 2012 & 2014
Alice Cockburn
The
last 5 years have seen
the UK host two of the world’s most prestigious sporting events; the Olympic Games
2012
in
London
and
the
Commonwealth Games 2014 right here in Glasgow. Both were surrounded from start to finish with optimistic claims about the aftermath; our subways still host many of the ‘People make Glasgow’ posters. But how successful have these legacies been for the majority of the local people? In the run-up to London 2012 the Legacy Plan was published containing a 10 point plan, which covered everything from school PE to disability sports and referred to many organisations and programmes.
The
Department
for
Culture, Media and Sport set out their plans; identifying 5 promises which addressed sport, society, sustainability and the image the UK projects to the world. In the run up to London 2012 the
mammoth
Westfield
shopping
centre was built, the main cycle route was demolished and residents were temporarily left without a local swimming pool. The regeneration of East London was a significant part of the legacy and was identified in plans from the bidding stage onwards. However, the legacy has not been as successful as it was perhaps imagined.
The Olympic park is the most accessible
focusing on economy, exercise, cultural
area and is popular for picnics, taking a
and educational development and
formerly barren and contaminated area
sustainability. They wanted to turn the
and developing it for the community.
East End from a traditionally poor and
Of the Athletes Village apartment
deprived into a ‘prosperous, active,
blocks, half were supposed to be
inclusive, accessible, greener place,
developed into affordable housing
with a greater international profile
but the ‘affordability’ of them is being
and outlook.’ Even before the Games
questioned and do not even start to
started the council declared they
provide a solution to the chronic housing
were a social and economic success;
shortage. The Olympic Stadium is still
having created 6,000 jobs and a £5.2
being redeveloped and will be used
billion boost to the local economy. In
for the Rugby World Cup 2015 before
the run-up to the Games the area of
becoming the home of West Ham FC.
Dalmarnock, where much of the re-
The Aquatic Centre opened in March
development occurred, gained a new
2014 and is has relatively affordable
railway station, a major road linking to
prices. The redeveloped Media Centre
the two motorways, a new pedestrian
will bring new businesses to the area,
footbridge
for instance the BT Sports network.
contaminated area cleared for new
There are both successes and failings
investment but sadly lost a row of local
of the legacy plans; there are new
shops and cafes, with no alternatives
resources for the local communities, but
provided.
some of the key problems, like housing
promised 10,000 new houses and 20,000
shortages and employment, have not
jobs as part of the regeneration project.
been realised.
In Glasgow we cannot yet see whether
Being so recent, it is harder to evaluate
the legacy has been achieved, but in
the success of the Commonwealth
the run up to the Games improvements
Games.
were made and they could make
The
predicted
Scottish
Clyde
and
The Clyde Gateway also
games
would
a serious impact on the area. There
while
are inevitably huge effects on the
specifically naming Glasgow and its
communities in which games are held
East End. Four themes were identified
– whether or not a legacy is created will
by the Government for the legacy,
be seen over time.
the
the
the
country,
benefit
that
Government
across
whole
This Month at GU G-You Welcome Back Contributors Meeting, Monday 12th January Join us in GUU for pizza, drinks, and discussing the February issue. If you’ve ever wanted to get involved, now’s your chance!
Refreshers Week, 14th - 21st January All four student bodies launch the official start to 2015. Look for the facebook event for more info!
GUU’s Third Parliamentary, Friday 30th January With the pre-debate set for Monday 26th, participants will be arguing their party line in the Debates Chamber. All welcome!
Sport and Well-being Week, 26th January - 1st February Our pals at GUSA have lots of events lined up for #SWW15. Visit glasgow.ac.uk/sport/sww for more information.
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Glasgow Nailed 2014
Harriet Johnston
Glasgow truly had an exceptional and
exciting year in 2014. With Radio One’s Big Weekend, the Commonwealth Games, and the referendum all occurring last year, it seems Glasgow was truly the place to be. It was a huge year for our University too, in both good and bad ways, and it’s well worth reflecting on. Uni was named within the top 100 universities and colleges in the whole world (a solid 94th, good effort Glasgow), as well as the best place to study for gay students.
The QMU played host to Radio One for the week, as they held workshops with various DJs and stars, such as Edith Bowman, Dan and Phil and Greg James. Edith Bowman returned to Glasgow for Freshers Week in September, when she made a triumphant return to the GUU. ALongside Edi-Bow, GUU watched as The Mariachis, Basshunter and the ridiculously INSANELY GOOD Hot Dub Time Machine ensured we had the best freshers week ever. (QMU also had events...I’m sure they were fine...).
Early in the year (February) we voted Edward Snowden to be the new University Rector, a student representative position previously held by politician and Glasgow alum
In October, the university became the first to divest from fossil fuels, a huge step forward which once again proves Glasgow is at the forefront of
Charles Kennedy. In
important
April, Snowden spoke
Glasgow
of his feelings on the
Climate
role, “It’s my great
Society
honour to be given the
opportunity
the true power of student
public good not only in
A
defence of our public
More recently, it was
the
revealed
university suffered a Glasgow
as
School
of
Who’s
through the West End to the Mackintosh building, close to Sauchiehall street. The fire began in the final year student’s exhibition, and spread throughout the historic building. It is a true credit to the emergency services that so much of the building was preserved, although it still marks a catastrophic moment in the University’s year. GU attempted to preserve as much as it could, but in 2014 there was also a look forward to the future of university. In July, work commenced on the extension project for the GUU club and the university gym. It’s due to be completed by September 2015 Freshers’ Week, and will bring a whole new dimension to both facilities. You can check out the plans for the buildings on GUU’s facebook page. This summer also brought about the incredible Big Weekend, and was a huge highlight of many students university year.
Doctor infamous
doctorate
Art went up in flames. The sky was filled with smoke and emergency services sped
of
others follow suit!
On a beautiful sunny
loss
show
university, let’s hope
this university.”
horrendous
true
activism.
inspiration from the
rights, but as Rector of
May,
the
12 months, showing
students, to serve the
in
Action led
campaign for over
by
this university, by the
day
issues. University
was
awarded by
uni,
although
not
it’s
clear how he nabbed it...can you imagine him gracing Level 11 of the library? Or would he be more of a level 4 visitor? The year at Glasgow ended with the phenomenal Daft Friday, which celebrated its 106th year. The entire GUU was decked from head to toe in huge paintings, decorated by the exceptional DF committee, who work tirelessly for months to ensure the event is magical. This years theme, The Union King, meant paintings of Simba, Mufasa and Scar adorned the union. It was a magnificent way to end the University’s year and is a true highlight of the student calendar, with performances from The View, Fake Blood and Union favourites The Mariachis! 2014 has been a year of highs and lows for both Glasgow and the uni, but it has certainly been one that has put the uni on the map! We can all be sure 2015 will be just as incredible.
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G-Your Lifestyle
Cuppaloveyou
Annabeth Wilson
“Hawaii state of grace.” -Paul Theroux
I’m like at a Thai restaurant knows that I can never refuse a
is not a state of mind, but a
good Pad thai. And as of late, Bar Soba has been leading the noodle league tables for me . However, times have changed, tastes have expanded and Bar Soba is officially out. The Pacific Pad Thai might just be the best I’ve ever had. Those
This is my humble quest; travel across the expanse of the West End , sampling coffee and grub as I go , forever keeping my eyes peeled for the most delicious deal, the sweetest save and the tastiest treasure. It is the unexpected journey for brunch, the quest for the coffee hallows and surviving the hunger games all rolled into one. Care to join me?
prawns! That sauce! ALL THOSE PEANUTS. Ahh. It was simply breath-taking; a refreshingly satisfying portion accompanied with quick service and amazing flavours. I absolutely adored it. The Pacific Tiki Bar is exactly what Partick has been crying out for, a lively bar hula dancing hand in hand with a delicious eatery. If Partick is just out of your reach then do not fear my friend , for this mouthwatering beach hut delivers to your door, perfect for that cold Glasgow evening gagging for a
This month I found myself in
The Pacific. Not the ocean
of course, but the delicious Hawaii-esque ‘KitschInn’ and bar located on Dumbarton Road. It is the sister venue of the extremely successful Tiki Bar in Glasgow’s City Centre, and if this one is anything to go by, I can see why. The décor is charismatic and infectiously memorable, with pufferfish lanterns hanging from the ceiling, tables and chairs to mirror that of a Tahiti beach hut and enough bamboo to bamboozle a panda. The Pacific boasts an impressive food and drinks menu, with cocktails so extensive I was stuck for choice- which believe me, is a rarity for me as I may or may not be the fussiest drinker to ever leave Ireland. The cocktails are undeniably impressive, prepared in all forms, designed without a fault and just simply flawless! Delicious flavours and possibly presented with the highest level of cocktail finesse in Glasgow. I recommend the good ole’ fashioned Mai Tai, or if you’re feeling particularly adventurous with your pals, go all out with the Pacific Rim Job Volcano Bowl. It’s better than it sounds, trust me! The food. Oh my god the food. Now, anyone who knows what
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little taste of summer. .. go on, how could you resist? Say Aloha to the Pacific Tiki Bar, they really do have a lovely bunch of coconuts (filled with booze).
All photos are property of The Pacific Tiki Bar.
Volunteer Tourism-ing
Lucy Keown
The Facts Uncomfortable Truths
go abroad for on break from uni, and in 3 months I didn’t
, the Myths, and the
Last January, I decided 2014 would be the year I’d be a really great human. I donated money to charities and got sad about poor and needy people, I studied Development theory at university but didn’t understand how it worked in practice, or fully appreciate the lives of people in developing
see any change in the communities I worked in in India. Of course, we made an immediate impact as foreigners - but did I make much of a difference in their lives? Not that I saw. I had to hope that in the future, more volunteers and policy advances would finally combine to change the attitudes of these communities. Which is really very frustrating.
3. You probably won’t see the world…
nations. Bit of a middle class cliche really.
… because volunteering isn’t glamorous, far from my original
So, I spent a few days searching for a suitable charity, which
you’ll see an intriguing and compellingly different culture and
filled my requirements of reliable, cheap, and ‘making a difference’. Location wasn’t important to me, but I did want to go somewhere a bit out of the ordinary, as that seemed much more glamorous. Oh what a fool I was. I chose a charity which is funded by the Department For International Development (DFID), and the programme I was selected for was with International Citizen Service (ICS). After I raised £800.00 for the charity, they paid for my flights, visa and vaccinations for a 12 week placement in rural Tamil Nadu, South India. So far so good. But the placement itself, while amazing, didn’t live up to my perception of volunteering,
thoughts. You don’t really travel around much. I mean sure, people, but I really didn’t go anywhere other than the small rural bubble I was placed in. There was no time to go to tourist spots or have a ‘holiday’ - but that’s because you’re there to work and try to make that difference that you wanted to see, the reason you went there in the first place, remember?
4. Things won’t be that different when you come home At least, for me they weren’t. I was always sceptical of people who went to volunteer in less developed countries, and come back to just go back to their old life. Yet once I got over the
which in hindsight, was unrealistic.
reverse culture-shock of having a shower, running water,
Maybe you’ve been looking at volunteer opportunities, and
I settled back into my normal life. Because it’s impossible to
2015 will be the year you decide to shake up your life a bit. If you’re considering volunteering abroad this summer, here are a few things I wish I knew before I made the trip, which might make it easier for you when you’re away. Knowledge
food that wasn’t curry, TV, my friends (the list is 3 miles long...), live day to day in homage to the situation halfway around the world, dictating your every move. I try to remember by telling people about the opportunity with programmes such as ICS, raising awareness, and sharing
is power.
my experiences… Although if I’m honest, I really don’t do
1. It will be the hardest thing you ever have to do.
feel guilty about it, it’s natural - just make sure you don’t forget
But you know, really rewarding and all that stuff. In all seriousness, it will be so so tough. For me it was; 40 degree heat; sharing a few small rooms with other volunteers; sleeping on the floor; inadequate toilet facilities; and days without a water supply which really challenged me. Personal relationships with other volunteers were consequently strained at times because of these challenges, which didn’t help our work, or with homesickness. Yet now, 4 months since the end of my placement, I realise how good it was for me to be so far
enough. So if this is the same for you when you return, don’t entirely. Volunteering in such a deprived area will remain with me forever, and nothing will ever change that. Hopefully you can see these points for what they are, and understand they’re just a reflection of my experience. Volunteer tourism is actually, in my opinion, a demeaning phrase, implying volunteering is purely selfish - which I hope I have convinced you otherwise. Can 3 months of no showers even possibly be selfish?
out of my comfort zone. And from my beloved Netflix.
Volunteering abroad has opened my eyes and broadened
2. You maybe won’t feel like you’ve made a huge difference
me for the incredibly good life I have here in the UK. So if
The charity I volunteered with worked towards really admirable and practical goals. But be warned - as a
my horizons, not to mention how extremely grateful it makes you’re even remotely interested, research it and go for it. Just make sure you’re ready for the inevitable Delhi-belly. Not my finest moment(s).
student, 3 months is probably the maximum time you can
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G-Your Politics
Electionwatch 2015
Huw Clarke
It’s less than five months until the general election and the result is close to impossible
to call. Opinion polls are in constant flux and there is a strong likelihood that no party will be able to achieve a majority. This is all symptomatic of the severe problems pushing the British political system close to breaking point. The lucrative centreground of politics created by Tony Blair has been lost as the electorate drifts further to extremes. > The prediction by many commentators in 2010 that coalition governments in Britain are here to stay will probably be proven to be correct. The Tories are unlikely to gain any more seats than last time, especially when considering the threat of UKIP, and Labour will be punished in Scotland for its part in the ‘Better Together’ campaign. Touted as most likely to form a government are either a coalition of the Conservatives and UKIP or Labour and the SNP (plus potentially a few Greens or Welsh/Northern Irish parties). A Tory/UKIP government would kill any hopes of Britain remaining in Europe, and therefore is popular with backbenchers but less so with pragmatic senior cabinet members. The Conservatives have moved further to the right in recent months as shown by their benefits ban for EU immigrants as well as the relegation of pro-EU MPs like Ken Clarke. However they are stuck in an impossible position where they cannot be as extreme as the populist UKIP insurgents. On the other side, a Labour coalition with the SNP could not materialize due to the Scottish party’s efforts to distance themselves from the Westminster establishment. A Labour minority government supported on a vote-by-vote basis by the SNP is the result currently favored by pollsters. Either way Nicola Sturgeon is now one of the most powerful people in British politics, which is a great victory for Scotland and also for all too sparse female politicians. Any agreement by the SNP is probably going to be on a set of strict terms: for example ensuring devolution max is fully implemented and potentially even the removal of Trident submarines from Scottish waters. > It took less than 24 hours post-referendum for the debate about Britain’s future to become entirely about England. The talk of Scottish nationalism has caused stirrings in English politics in recent years and whilst UKIP only represents a slim section of English society, it has further opened the debate. Depressingly whilst England is the wealthiest, most liberal and diverse nation in the United Kingdom, it’s politics have generally revolved around petty xenophobia and racism. Famously no one really knows what it means to
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be English, and a new system of government could help develop a new identity for the UKs largest constituent part. Unfortunately no major party suggests anything inspiring. The Tories talk of rewarding themselves with even more power in Westminster under ‘English votes for English laws’. Labour suggests devolving more power to regional cities and this is an increasingly popular policy (see: the creation of an elected mayor for Greater Manchester). However this system would ignore the poor and isolated areas of rural England. An English commission, as suggested by the Lib Dems, would ironically give England the sort of weak government Scotland had before the creation of its parliament in 1999. There is as yet no perfect solution but the slow break-up of the United Kingdom will be an issue for decades to come. > Ed Miliband is in a strange position where the majority of the buzz concerning the future of the Labour party is not about him but rising star Chuka Umunna. The current MP for Streatham is likable, relatable and unlike many senior politicians he understands the problems affecting modern Britain. In opposition to much of the Labour leadership he has been unafraid to call out the blatant racism of UKIP. Definitely one to watch and heralds a brighter future for a party currently stuck in the doldrums.
Chuka Umunna, Labour’s rising star > It’s a while off, but the race for the 2016 American Presidential election has already began to heat up. Up till now much of the discussion has been about Hillary Clinton; many interpreted her book Hard Choices as signifying her intention to stand and she has garnered much support. However another female Democrat been recently gaining attention; Elizabeth Warren’s blazing speech criticising the American government’s chummy links with Citibank has become somewhat of an Internet phenomenon. More left wing than Clinton, she is an answer to many Americans disenchanted with rampant free market capitalism. On the Republican side Jeb Bush is ‘actively exploring’ the run for presidency. The Bushes are a political dynasty to rival the Kennedys, but his success probably depends on the American electorate’s endurance of recessions and Gulf Wars. Ultimately it is difficult to imagine any politician being able to resolve the current impasse in Congress.
Political Top Trumps Taggy Elliott
You'll be voting
for one of these politicians to lead the country in the upcoming general election. I'm not sure if the motley bunch below really fills me with much hope or enthusiasm for the future of Britain... Make up your own minds, however, with our handy guide to get to know the leaders of the top parties. Green is included because... well, they need all the help they can get, poor souls.
Natalie Bennett Party: Green Party Born: 1966
Nicola Sturgeon Party:Scottish National Party Born: 1970
Embarrassing moment: I didn’t know who she was until I Googled her Interesting fact: She was born and raised in Australia
Embarrassing moment: Defending Alex Salmond’s unnecessary expenses when he went on a tax payer-funded trip to the US Interesting fact: She graduated from University of Glasgow with a Law degree
Nick Clegg Party: Liberal Democrats Born: 1967
David Cameron Party: Conservative Born: 1966
Embarrassing moment: Having to publicly apologise after breaking his promise on student fees Interesting fact: He is fluent in 5 European languages
Embarrassing moment: Leaving his daughter, Nancy, behind in a pub by mistake Interesting fact: He is Britain's youngest prime minister for almost two centuries (he was 43 at the 2010 election)
Nigel Farage Party: UK Independence Party Born: 1964 Embarrassing moment: He is married to a German woman, which is awkward considering his party’s views on immigration Interesting fact: He defeated testicular cancer at the age of 24
Ed Miliband Party: Labour Born: 1969
Embarrassing moment: Being photographed clumsily eating a bacon sandwich in an attempt to look like ‘one of the people’ Interesting fact: He can complete a Rubix cube in 90 seconds
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G-Your Culture
Highs and Lows: Film ‘14 Dan Kelsey
Another
year has passed, and another year’s worth of films have come and gone from cinemas around the country. As we move into the season of the Oscars and their sarcastic cousin the Razzies, its time to reflect upon the best and worst of what we saw in 2014. Here are my picks: Best ‘Boyhood’ Richard Linklater Linklater’s ambitious 12-year project finally reached audiences this year. ‘Boyhood’ is the story of Mason Jr. (Ellar Coltrane)’s life from the age of six to eighteen, and the intertwining tapestry of people, places and events that comprise his journey from childhood to adolescence. It is a stunning mix of nostalgia and humanity. ‘Leviathan’ Andrey Zvyagintsev The biblical story of Job retold through the lens of contemporary Russia. This beautifully shot, flawlessly acted drama deals with political corruption, human nature and God in a way that is grandiose without being over-the-top, and profound without being pretentious. ‘Interstellar’ Christopher Nolan Nolan, never a man short of ambition or ideas, followed up his genre-defining ‘Inception’ with a two-and-three-quarter hour epic about the destiny of the human race, and wormholes. The complex, intricate storyline is fleshed out by an array
of fantastic performances, a magnificent soundtrack and cinematography that literally bends time and space. Worst ‘Blended’ Frank Coraci Adam Sandler’s one-man quest to infiltrate and corrupt our souls continues with ‘Blended’. It follows the standard formula of a terrible Sandler rom-com, but with one twist: this time, it’s set in South Africa! Putting aside the grotesquely racist depiction of South African culture, the film doesn’t have anything funny in it. Which is usually the one thing a comedy should have. ‘A Million Ways to Die in the West’ Seth Macfarlane ’I’m the mastermind of a popular American TV cartoon, so I’ll write, direct and star in a western where I’m the handsomeyet-complicated cowboy main character. Oh, and I’ll cast Charlize Theron as my romantic partner. That won’t be egotistical! Wait, I have to put jokes in it?’ ‘Transformers: Age of Extinction’ Michael Bay Never slipping from his standard of being the worst director in Western cinema, Michael Bay churns out another fivehundred-thousand-billion dollar orgy of overdone special effects, women wearing hardly any clothing, and a seemingly two-and-a-half-hour action sequence. Of course, he forgot to add a plot, but that’s okay; it will make a profit anyway so they can make another one.
Future City Romain Ricchi
2014 year
has been an important
for the development of Glasgow City. It has hosted the Commonwealth Games, BBC Big Weekend and a few other large events. Another major development point has been displayed everywhere but is not the n°1 in our minds. “People make Glasgow” has been shown on various banners, advertisement boards and is linked to the Commonwealth Legacy. Glasgow is becoming a Future City, but are we going into a Blade Runner-like version of Glasgow? The Council is developing a fully connected network between facilities and people to improve our daily lives. It’s a deal of changing habits, hardware and interactions with technology. For example, one of the simplest ideas is to install dimmer street lamps than the current ones which would light up when someone walks by. Another example is that the electrical consumption of every building is available online with new reading every 30 minutes. I’m afraid of a future where everyone will share his 30minutes electric reading on Facebook! Looking at more down to earth life upgrade, a real time
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Glasgow commuting map is being developed helping us save time if willing to follow our smartphone either on bike or in car. As the council wanted to make the Future City a peoplebased action, they ran events last year open to everyone. I have been involved in a weekend event when the Glasgow Future City project unknown to me. The event was called a Hackathon, a rather geeky term which was not really appropriate. There were four from February until May with one theme each. The one I attended was about Energy, and we had to come up with an idea on how to improve our energy use in the city. My team proposed a mobile app with tips on how to get better at energy saving depending on your lifestyle. £20 000 was up for grabs for the winning team, enough to ring the beer bar bell a couple of times, but unfortunately I went home without a penny in my pocket… I can imagine the whole project working fine in just a couple of years with a good push but I wonder whether most of us will change their habits to make it happen. I reckon it has to be as simple as the streetlamp example where we don’t have a huge part to play. A website describing Glasgow’s actions as a Future City can be found at this address: http://open.glasgow.gov.uk/
Setting the Music Scene Chloe Turner
2014 saw some pretty incredible things happening in the world of music. From Taylor Swift’s dramatic music change to Conchita Wurst, ‘normal’ was redefined for many artists,
and music had a bit of a shake up. Although my crystal ball unfortunately shattered on New Year’s Eve (vodka and fortune telling are never a good mix), 2015 for the music industry seems to be shaping up to be a even better year. Below are my tips for the musicians who will take the music scene by storm this year, eliminating the need for that crystal ball. Mikky Ekko His first venture into the charts was by co-writing and featuring on Rihanna’s 2013 single ‘Stay’. Mikky describes how he has been hugely influenced by soul and gospel music as for most of his childhood he travelled around America’s deep south with his preacher father. His album ‘Time’ will be released on 20th January. Tracks to watch out for: ‘Kids’ and ‘Pull Me Down’. Raury At only 18 years old he’s one of the youngest on the list, but he’s already grabbed the attention of the industry. Kanye West has even taken notice and flew the Atlanta rapper to his studio to chat about his new single ‘God’s Whisper.’ He describes his first project ‘Indigo Child’ as an “ode to my generation”. For how young Raury is, he definitely has a long career ahead of him, and I’m certain this won’t be the last you’ll hear of him. Tracks to look out for: ‘God’s Whisper’ and ‘Cigarette Song’. Madonna She is a little known artist from Michigan trying her best to break into the music scene. Or not. It’s impossible to not mention Madonna when talking about 2015’s music scene as her hugely anticipated new album ‘Rebel Heart’ comes out on 10th March. Unfortunately many of the songs on her new album have already been leaked on the internet which led the singer to say it was like a form of “artistic rape”. Whilst the leaked tracks don’t leave any mystery to the album they have led some critics to say that this record looks like it might some of her strongest work in years. Catfish and the Bottlemen This Welsh indie rock band has certainly begun their ride to fame. This summer they performed at over 30 festivals in the UK and in Europe. Their debut album ‘The Balcony’ was released in September 2014 and charted at number 10 on the UK official album’s chart. The band argue they have a difference from the rest of UK bands because of their backgrounds: “We’re working-class kids and all the bands out there are made up of rich kids... We go to these festivals with these proper posh kids who look at us like we’re not supposed to be there.” The band has ambition determination and talent and with a bit of luck this certainly won’t be the last you hear of them. Tracks to watch out for: ‘Cocoon’ and ‘Kathleen’. Låpsley It’s hard to find an artist who genuinely brings a new sound into today’s music industry but Låpsley is doing just that. Holly Fletcher, otherwise known as Lapsley, is a 17 year old musician from Liverpool. Her sound uses an acoustic set which is mixed up with electronic production. She even describes her stage name ‘Låpsley’ as her “electronic alter ego.” It’s perfect music to chill out to. She describes her sound as “quite minimal. I like working with silence rather than adding things”. Her EP ‘Understudy’ is due to be released on January 5th. Tracks to watch out for: ‘Falling Short’ and ‘Painter (Valentine)’. James Bay This artist already has the 2015 Brits Critic’s Choice award under his belt. The prestigious award is given to acts likely to release their album in the upcoming year and has previously been won by artists such as Adele and Sam Smith. He’s an acoustic singer song-writer and his cheekbones and shoulder length brown hair gives him a distinctive look which the music industry craves. His first single from his EP ‘Let It Go’ reached 62 on the UK charts but prepare for this artist to easily reach the top ten in 2015. Tracks to look out for: ‘Hold Back The River’ and ‘If You Ever Want To Be In Love’.
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G-Your Columns
Erasmust Kate Whitaker
It’s
the start of a new year and my second semester at McGill University in Montreal, Canada.
looked incredible in their thick white coats. They even transformed one of the main streets into a freestyle snowpark and held a snowboard competition there! Only in Montreal.
Things are very different from when I was starting my year abroad back in September. I have a flat, friends, a bank, a working phone contract. I know how to register for courses, where the best library is, where to get the cheapest coffee on campus and what the best student night out is. It’s also about 40°C colder than it was when I arrived in Canada last summer.
I cockily boasted to one of my Canadian friends that winter wasn’t so bad and I didn’t know what all the fuss was about, only to be informed he wouldn’t even call this winter yet, and followed by an ominous “just you wait”.
Winter in Montreal is a pretty dramatic lifestyle change. With snow covering the ground for the best part of five months and temperatures likely to drop to around -35°C it does have to be taken seriously. There’s no popping out to the shop without spending ten minutes piling on the layers and strapping yourself into snow boots. There’s no wandering down the street at night searching for a cool looking bar. HOWEVER, saying that, Montrealers love to scaremonger and they especially like to pick on the new comers. I have been told countless horror stories about previous winter woes. Apparently, I will be snowed in at least ten times over the course of the season, the buildings will crack from the cold, once the power went out for over a month and oh did you hear about the yeti that comes down from the top of Mount Royal and snatches unsuspecting exchange students? Despite this, I have become possibly a bit complacent about the incoming Canadian winter. In the last week of term we had about a metre of snow within a week and it transformed the city into a beautiful winter wonderland. The ice skating rinks had started opening up across the city, people were cross-country skiing up the mountain and the buildings and parks
14 14
Nevertheless, I am really excited about the next few months. There are winter festivals such as Igloofest, an outdoor music festival in Montreal; Snowjam, a weekend ski trip to Mont Tremblant, a local mountain; and Fête des neiges, an event with dog sledding, music and other snowy activities. That doesn’t sound too bad to me, but maybe ask me again in April and see how I feel about snow.
Is There a Point in New Year’s Resolutions? YES - Taggy
The
NO - Adi
Let’s face it, you’ve broken
coming of a new
year brings with it people
your New Year’s resolutions
creating lists of things that
already, haven’t you? Don’t
they hope to do or change
worry, pretty much everyone
in the next 12 months. These
else has too. Annually 78% of
resolutions
include
people fail to keep the overly
losing
can
quitting
ambitious goals they’ve set. I
smoking or getting better
weight,
too am one of those people,
grades, but many amongst
who every year vow to eat
us are cynical about them
healthier, exercise more, work
and say that they’re a
harder, drink less, save money
waste
the
and generally be a better
majority of us will not stick to the goals we’ve set ourselves.
person. But by the end of January I have miserably given
Moreover, people are tired of the whole ‘new year, new me’
up on all these intentions and am yet again reminded that
cliché. However, I believe that making New Year’s resolutions
I have no self control. So this year I have decided not to
can be worthwhile and beneficial if we approach them in
bother.
the right way.
Why do we put ourselves through it every year? I now realise
I personally feel that the beginning of a year is the perfect
that waiting for the 1st of January to change your life is
time to make changes in our lives, as at the end of the year
entirely useless. This ‘new year, new me’ idea everyone raves
you can measure the progress you’ve made; that in itself is
about is complete bollocks. In the grand scheme of things
motivation to keep at it, surely? Surely the major mistake that
New Year’s Day is like every other, except you’re going to be
people make when choosing their resolutions is that they con
writing the date wrong for the next month or so and you’re
themselves into believing that things will change overnight.
probably horrendously hungover. If you are actually serious
While this is possible for those who decide they want to travel
about these aims, then why wait?
more, many resolutions are long-term and the benefits can
I am a prime example. Every year I always tell myself
take a while to show. If you approach your resolution with
*cough* lie to myself *cough* that this is going to be the year
patience and plan how you are going to adapt your lifestyle,
I keep my resolutions, mainly to stop eating junk food and
you are less likely to break it. That may sound obvious, but
get healthy. But I’ve never stuck to it. This is because you
many of us (myself included) forget that old habits die hard
don’t wake up on New Years Day a completely different
and give up at the first hurdle.
person and the new year isn’t enough motivation to change
The phrase ‘if you fail to plan, you plan to fail’ is so applicable
anything. Also attempting to cut all my unhealthy habits at
here. If you want to get higher marks in your exams, start by
once is too demanding a goal. My problem was always that
organising all your work and making sure you’re aware of all
I would take one little slip as a sign I couldn’t do it and give
your deadlines for the coming semester. The same can be
up completely, only to wait for the next year to roll around
said for getting fit: plan what meals you’re going to have
before trying again (as it’s obviously the only suitable time…
for the week and make sure you actually going to the gym
not). Recently I have actually managed to do this whole
on the days you say you will. These may be baby steps but
healthy thing fairly well. I am finally in the right mindset, I’m
they’re still steps, but being unrealistic can make you feel
not looking for a quick fix but taking it easy and giving myself
worse about yourself if you break your resolutions.
a break. I eat better, exercise more and am much happier
If you do break them- your grades might not magically
because of it.
improve for instance- that’s not such a bad thing either;
I have concluded that New Year is the worst time to make
failure can be useful. Studies show that if you anticipate
resolutions but if you want to make them then be my guest.
failure, you’re more likely to move on and succeed in the
Just ensure you do them for the right reasons, don’t go wild
long-term. Fundamentally, if you’re realistic about your New
and know you can always try again at any point in the year.
of
time
Year’s resolution, why shouldn’t you make one?
- Taggy Elliott
as
-
Adi Childs
15
G-Your Societies
TEDx, UofG
TEDx returns to the University of Glasgow
on 7th March 2015 with the theme ‘Crossing the Rubicon’, What is TED? TED is a unique experience combining Technology, Entertainment and Design to produce engaging and enriching, as the mission statement articulates, ‘ideas worth spreading’. TED believes that through these exchanges of ideas, we can spark conversations that produce innovative and world-changing concepts. For those of you who are not well equinted with TED, the best way to understand the purpose is to get online and watch the talks for yourself. The talks are not just intended to inspire but to educate. From talks such as ‘The history of the world in 18 minutes’ to ‘How school kills creativity, TED will equipped with a talk that will challenge you in new and exciting ways. What is TEDx? Where does the ‘x’ come into this? The ‘x’ stands for independent. TED is a global community gathering a collage of diverse individuals under one audience. Therefore TEDx enables this global community to connect on a local level by producing a TED-like event within their own community. TEDxUniversityofGlasgow is a solely student run event. Our desire is to produce an event that touches on life as a student of the University of Glasgow, not only reflecting the city of Glasgow but the academic environment we are a part of. A student-run event means we desire our fellow students to be part of it too. We were overwhelmed by the number of ‘Brand Ambassador’ applications submitted and we look forward to announcing those will join the TEDxUniversityofGlasgow team later in the month. Our desire is to involve our local audience in the event, not only behind the scenes but on the stage too. Applications are now available to be our Community Speaker! This is an amazing opportunity for professional and personal development reflecting our theme ‘Crossing the Rubicon’ as we challenge our audience to go beyond the point of no return. Crossing the Rubicon In 49 B.C. Julius Caesar was confronted with a decision: to surrender, or to risk everything, and follow his big ambition. Follow his ambition he did, even if it meant taking a major leap of faith past the point of no return. The point of no return was the river Rubicon marking the boundary between Caesar’s province and Rome, where Senate held power. To cross it with an army was a breach of existing Roman law – an act of open rebellion, explicit political provocation, an irrevocable decision that ultimately changed the course of history.
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Kathryn Stevenson
Over two millennia later, Crossing the Rubicon is an idiom used to portray difficult, irreversible choices we make personally, or as a collective, capable of shaking us and our environment to the very core, leaving us with no way back. These are choices we are face daily. More often, than we stop to realise, or like to acknowledge. These choices come to us in all shapes, calibres, and under different circumstances. Not every lifechanging decision manifests itself in a dramatic, Caesarean fashion – little choices can be just as meaningful and impactful. Get involved At TEDxUniversityofGlasgow: Crossing the Rubicon, we want to provide a platform for these questions to be raised and addressed, these stories to be told and ideas about it to be heard. Our hope is that you will contribute to this global conversation that TED has started. We hope to inspire and encourage you to challenge yourself by crossing your own personal Rubicon, no matter what that may look like. The community speaker position is not the only
way to get involved in TEDxUniversityofGlasgow: Crossing the Rubicon, we will be hosting a Launch Party in February. The Launch Party gives you a taste of what to expect at the conference on 7th March 2015. It also provides an opportunity to network and interact with like-minded people who share the same drive and determination. We hope to see you there! To keep up-to-date with the event, follow us online. Our website will be launching midJanuary but for now, our social media is thriving and a great way to become acquainted with TEDxUniversityofGlasgow. We also have been working hard and producing our videos which you can check out on YouTube. Facebook-www.facebook.com/ TEDxUniversityofGlasgow Twitter- @TEDxGlasgowUni Website- www.tedxgu.com
Beer Bar Chat
Hannah Burgess & Romain Ricchi
When you want to get honest answers
to pressing questions from the students of Glasgow Uni there is only one place to go: our beloved Beer Bar. This month we wanted to know what stories and moments from the world of celebrity in 2014 stand out for you. We got some great answers!
“What about Ariana Grande talking about loving ‘big black balls’ at that Victoria Secret thing?” – Rob, 4th Year, Medic “Emma Watson launching HeForShe. She is doing an amazing job raising awareness of an issue that is too often forgotten. She’s showing how to use the power of a celebrity to good and being generally kick-ass and awesome at the same time” – Michael, 4th Year, Law “Jennifer Lawrence’s bottom - it’s not really a story but it’s a highlight!” – Emma, 4th Year, Immunology “Solange being sass personified with that lift incident with Beyonce and Jay-Z” – Stuart, 2nd Year, English Lit “Definitely the Oscars selfie” - Scott, 3rd Year, Engineer “Liza Manelli being too short for the Oscar selfie. The photo taken from the back is hilarious!” - Lisa, 2nd Year, Maths “Chris Stark being destroyed by Jennifer Aniston in that interview for Radio 1 was really funny.” – Emily, 4th Year, Medic “Ford Keenan and Greg Hemphill doing Still Game Live and getting back together to do another series. You can’t not be happy with that news!” – Jennifer, 3rd Year, Business Keep an eye out for us in the Beer Bar next month so you can tell us all of your chat, whether it's shite or not - we want to hear it!
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GLASGOW UNIVERSITY SPORTS ASSOCIATION #SWW15: 26th January – 1st February Sport & Wellbeing Week is open to all students and staff at the University and offers a wide ranging programme of events supporting physical and mental wellbeing. There is something for everyone and it’s a sure way to get 2015 off to a positive start and keep up with New Year’s resolutions! In addition to a range of workshops, classes and consultations, we have a personal safety session led by the Renicks sisters, Judo gold medal winners at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. See below for a summary of events, or visit www.glasgow.ac.uk/sport/sww for the full schedule.
Get Active consultations • CPR workshops • Nutrition advice Aerobics • Sports massage consultation • First Aid for Sport Clubbercise • Yoga & Pilates sessions • Fitness Testing
SUPERTEAMS 2015 Rounding off Sport & Wellbeing Week will be Superteams on Sunday 1st February. This is an opportunity to test yourself through a range of indoor activities to measure your speed, strength, endurance and skill. Teams of four take part in challenges including rowing, sprinting, cycling, swimming and agility to be crowned overall champions! So round up your team and enter by 16th Jan for the earlybird rate of £20 per team! Entries close 28th Jan.
th January – 1st February #SWW15: STARFISH SUPPORT26 GROUP
We provide: Support from people who have recognised and beaten disordered eating/excessive exercise Support from people who have experienced friends or family affected by an eating disorder/excessive exercise Information sources for help Advice from professionals No need to book, just come along! We look forward to seeing you on the day – the next meeting is 3-4pm, Friday 30th January at 64 Oakfield Avenue. For more information please contact gusa-welfare@gla.ac.uk