Editorial
Contents
October is, arguably, the spookiest month of the year and so we felt it was only right we pay tribute to that fact and have chosen to focus this issue on fears and phobias. From Harriet’s advice on facing your own fears to Huw’s analysis of the technophobia engulfing the nation there should be something to intrigue you.
3 The Board - Fergus Gill, Present Student Member 4 The Hotlist 5 Features- Six Sinister Haunts Of The West End 6 Features- Facing Your Fears 7 Politics -Let The Countdown Begin & Should Scotland Be An Independent Country? 8 Politics- The People’s Perspective On Politics 9 Lifestyle- Hide And Chic & 5 Minute Saviour
Aside from that we also have the start of our Scottish independence referendum countdown, advice from everyone’s favourite Agony Aunt, Sandy, and GUSA tell us all about their partnership with Nike! Enjoy!
10 Lifestyle - Start Running... & Relax, Take It Easy
Also, if you ever decide you’d like to get involved with the GUUi then why not pop along to one of our open meetings every Monday at 5pm in the Bridie Library!
15 Sport- GUSA Athletes Never Looked Better
Claire Flynn GUU Convenor Of Libraries Editor-In-Chief
11 Culture- Technophobia & What’s On 12 Culture- Festivals 13 Column- Erasmust! & FOMO 14 Column- Sandy Says 16 Sport- My Marathon 17 Clubs & Societies- Glasgow University American Society Editor-In-Chief Claire Flynn Features Editor Harriet Johnston Politics Editor Kathryn Stevenson Lifestyle Editor Kirsty McKenzie Culture Editor Kate Whitaker Column Editor Lucy Keown
Find us online... guuimagazine.wordpress.com issuu.com/guui facebook.com/guuaye twitter.com/guuimagazine
Contributors Fergus Gill Kirsty McKenzie Ali Cooper Romain Ricchi Harriet Johnston Kathryn Stevenson Joseph Meaden Rebecca Richardson Huw Clarke Kate Whitaker Leah Neilly Alice Johnson Stuart Morrison Luke Timmons
Sports Editor (GUSA Publicity Convenor) Stuart Morrison Cover Design and Artwork James Yates Sponsorship and Advertising Joseph Meaden
If you’d like to contribute to the GUUi 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.
The Board
H ello, I’m Fergus Gill, one of Glasgow University Union’s PSMs, ten of the loveliest, hardest working people you’ll ever meet. If you ever have any ques-
tions about anything GUU come and find us in the old extension corridor; our door’s always open. Hopefully by now you’ve recovered from an incredible Freshers’ Week and settled into university life but trust me the fun isn’t over! Throughout the year GUU runs a range of weekly events, the most exciting of which is our brand new weekly clubnight, Thursday Night TAKEOVER. There’s no better way to spend a night out than enjoying a few pints in the Beer Bar before dancing the night away in the incredible new look Debates Chamber, with our resident DJ Merzey. Here at GUU we pride ourselves on throwing the best parties and on Thursday 31st October the Union will be transformed for one night only; dress up in your finest fancy dress and head down to the 10 Hour* Haunted House Party. With games events, themed drinks and huge free prizes up for grabs, join us for what is always one of the best nights of the year. For anyone interested in joining the Board of Management, a by-election for a Present Student Member position (term 18 months) will be held at the start of November. With nominations opening at the end of October, be ready for a host of coloured t-shirts, facebook campaigns and flyers. This is an incredible opportunity to have a say in how your student union is run: as members, make sure you come down and vote for your preferred candidate. I hope you have a great year and I’ll see you all on Thursday. Fergus Gill Present Student Member psm@guu.co.uk
THE HOTLIST
The Hotlist
From what’s blazing hot at the moment to what’s blatantly not.
Jukebox Safety Song – panicking and having a default tune to Red hot
play when you are in charge of the Beer Bar’s jukebox. When in doubt choose an old school baby making jam- preferably R Kelly anything. It’s what the people want to hear!
Bulking Season – no one has to see our semi naked bodies in daylight for a least another 6 months so stock up and bulk up. You’re going to need the extra warmth this winter. Pass me the Celebrations. And the mince pies.
Luke warm
Direction Infection – discovering the joys of One Direction in your twenties. How can it be so wrong when it feels so right? Saw the film and I was mesmerised. And a little bored. But mainly just turned on.* Tramp Or Trendy- now more and more difficult to tell the dif-
Pass a jacket
ference between the homeless and the hipsters. Great game to play while passing the Art School.
Danger Jam – the one song that comes on and you just lose your
Bloody cold
shit. For the GUU ENTZ committee it’s Call Me Al, for me it’s Love Don’t Cost a Thing by J.Lo. I’ve been known to re-enact the music video and throw away clothes, jewellery as well as my dignity on the dance floor. In my defence her music is just so powerful! Evidently so is vodka.
Tat- gret – your tan is fading but that unfortunate tattoo you got in Thailand never will. A dolphin? At your age? Come on now.
The Christmas Twitch – cards, carols and Christmas decoraArctic Tundra
tions have appeared out of nowhere. Festive anxiety is hitting earlier than ever.
Hipster Hating – being angry at the edgy folk for claiming they
discovered that band before you. They probably did. All that effort for zero financial gain and a fleeting smugness. So let it go. It’s like a public service! *this is 100% a joke. Unless you are Harry Styles reading this. In that case, call me. -Kirsty McKenzie
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Features
Six Sinister Haunts Of The West End
1) Abandoned Botanics Station
Lurking in the cheery surrounds of the Botanic Gardens lies our first creepy destination. In 1973 the railway station, linking Kelvinbridge to Kirklee, finally closed to all passengers. Despite a number of reincarnations as a popular café, plumber’s shop and nightclub (bring it back!) the station’s over ground building was ravaged by fire on a chilly March night in 1970. No one was injured in the blaze, however local papers reported that the café owner’s dog perished from smoke inhalation. Today if you peep over the high fence the derelict underground platform is still visible. It’s located along the path on the left as you walk through the main gate. Pin back your ears and listen out for the howls of that poor German Shepherd!
2) The Pearce Lodge
This gothic gatehouse is attached to the main building and sits at the intersection of Kelvin Way and University Avenue. Reconstructed brick by brick when the university was moved from the East End to Gilmorehill, this place is riddled with spooky stories - no wonder given it’s probably the oldest building on campus. Perhaps the juiciest of these involves a plucky undergraduate who, after hearing of the hauntings, accepted a dare to spend the night up on the top floor. Fuelled with some Beer Bar courage, the clock struck twelve and the door was locked. An hour or so later screams were heard and the poor student was rescued alleging that books had been flying off the shelves at him. A hint maybe, that students should be studying not ghost busting.
3) The Òran Mór
Ok this place isn’t haunted per se but the arty entertainment venue is definitely one to check out. Obviously an old church, it’s quite a surprise nobody has gotten round to making up a ghost story since the building’s foundation stone was laid in
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1862. In typical Scottish fashion building costs spiralled (yes we do Parliaments and trams too) almost doubling to £9500: sounds like quite a steal when you consider the cost of university these days! For four years the building lay derelict until refurbishment began in 2002. Soon the doors of the Òran Mór were opened and the blue halo switched on. Or was it? Rumour has it UFOs were spotted one night during the refurbishment. The next day workers found a mysterious blue ring on the spire. Us west-enders thought it looked hip and funky so the ring simply had to stay put.
4) The Western Infirmary Hospitals
With all that death and disease it’s no wonder hospitals have a good collection of eerie tales. Just southwest of the main building sits the Western Infirmary, built following the university’s Gilmorehill move. Legend has it that surgeon Sir William MacEwan refused to operate on a local artist complaining of a headache. Soon after the artist collapsed and died leaving the doctor racked with guilt and a suicidal disposition. Sir William’s body was discovered hanging in the old section of the hospital which has now been demolished. To this day nurses still claim to see a figure wondering around the hospital and the lingering smell of cigars that Sir William was partial to. 5) The University Chapel Attached to the main building, the University Chapel stands looking out towards the west of the city. With four (maybe more) years at Glasgow it really is essential you find the time to pop in; she’s an absolute stunner. The story goes that during maintenance in 1982 a workman fell from the scaffolding in the rafters, down to the pews below. Dying shortly after, a dent is apparently
Features still imprinted on one of them. More recently a secretary nibbling on her lunchtime sandwich in the cloisters, heard a scream from inside the chapel. Running in to find the source of the shriek she discovered the chapel deserted. It is a not so well known a fact that only University of Glasgow graduates can get married here. Thankfully this creepy tale hasn’t put many couples off!
6) Murano Street Student Village
With that dodgy bridge and sinister interiors new students should be pleased to know Murano isn’t haunted. That said, if you can prove there isn’t a body in the Canal I’ll buy you a pint at the Beer Bar! -Ali Cooper -Photography By Romain Ricchi
The Abandoned Railway
The Murano Bridge
Facing Your Fears I reckon when you’re younger you are a bit scared of everything. I used to be scared of clowns, balloons, fireworks, rubber ducks, drowning, the dark…the list goes on. But my main fear was dogs. It’s not as though I’ve ever been bitten by a dog, it’s not like I ever even had a bad experience with one, but somehow I got it in my head that this was something to be terrified of. Now, to some people this doesn’t seem that debilitating. So you just don’t go up to dogs; pretty simple, right? But no. All my friends had dogs, parks are full of dogs, in the summer time dogs are just unleashed on the world and they are EVERYWHERE. It didn’t matter what kind; be it Chihuahua or Labrador, I’d hear that stupid little tinkle of their collar and literally run in the other direction.
So I had this irrational phobia until the age of 19. I just avoided dogs as much as possible, stopped walking in areas where I couldn’t easily escape a sudden wild dog rampage and just plodded on with my life. Just over two years ago, I took a trip to Thailand and stayed in a small market town which borders Myanmar called Sangkhlaburi. I was being given a safety briefing at my hostel...and the speech took a slight turn: “now, there is a pack of stray dogs in town, and this is why we suggest you walk home with at least two others, because if one person is attacked, one person can stay with the injured, and the other can run to get help. We suggest if they do choose to attack you, to stand completely still, make yourself as large as possible and pretend to throw stones at them. Don’t actually throw stones at them, obviously hurting animals is not okay but-”... This, for someone who cannot even walk through a park in fear that the neighbour’s poodle is going to take a turn and bite my leg off, was almost too much to bear. But I can honestly say this was the only thing that made me get over my fear. You just cannot be scared of dogs when you’re walking home in this dark tiny Thai town, and there’s a pack of ten dogs following you. It sounds so ridiculous, but being thrown so far into the deep end is the only way I could have gotten over my fear. So if you’re scared of the water, join the surf club. If you have a fear of heights, go to the thirteenth level of the library and force yourself to look out the window. Fears are only fears in your head; in reality, the thing you’re frightened of, probably isn’t even that terrifying. I mean, I know someone who is scared of jelly...and what sort of life is it if you can’t even eat jelly, eh? -Harriet Johnston
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Politics
Let The Countdown Begin
As a politics student, I find it rather tiring every time I answer the question ‘So, what do you study?’ My answer
is usually followed by a grunt or a disapproving smile. Which leaves me feeling the need to give a ten minute rhapsody on how understanding politics is a vital part of life. My attempt is usually somewhat in vain. So I figured I should really channel my energy into to a more attentive audience, bringing me to you, the lovely readers of the GUUi. Our desire is to give you a politics section that is vibrant, relevant, and academically interesting. Politics has such a diverse content that it’s easy to get lost in all it’s twists and turns. However we at the GUUi hope to bring a new dimension to your perspective on politics as well as providing simulating articles to tickle your argumentative taste buds. There is something for everyone. If you feel that you could be the next political commentator of the 21st century then come and join us in our open meeting and share your own political dream-days. You know you’ve had them. As Scotland approach their history making referendum in September 2014, what better time to give that political itch a scratch. We plan to keep you updated every month with all the different news and views regarding the referendum with our series on ‘Countdown To The Referendum’. By the time the 18th September 2014 arrives we hope that you can confidently answer that all important question- ‘should Scotland be an independent country?’ I find it amazing that by ticking a single box you have the power to change history. Let those disapprovers smile, let them grunt. But our political passion lies in the awareness of the power that the political world has. So get involved and be informed. -Kathryn Stevenson
Should Scotland Be An Independent Country? In under a year, the people of Scotland will be asked this
question. It is something that is on the minds of Scots and, indeed, the whole of the United Kingdom. Feelings have been running high on both sides of the debate and it’s about to get a whole lot more intense... The Union between England and Scotland has been in existence since 1707. And over three centuries there has always been a movement, in some form or another, to return to an independent Scotland. In 1934, the Scottish National Party (SNP) was established. But nothing significant happened for the road to Scottish autonomy until 1999, when the Scottish Parliament was formed. In 2007, the SNP ran a minority government which meant passing a referendum bill through Parliament was not possible. However, in 2011, a SNP overall majority was achieved, thereby allowing for the bill to be passed through. Since then, a lot has happened. Yes Scotland, which is pro-independence, and Better Together, which is pro-union, have been organising their campaigns. The nature of
independence has been debated and discussed in newspapers, television, radio and online. Issues such as Scotland’s currency, defence, position in NATO and relationship with EU, to name a few, are constantly being questioned. Better Together claims that Scotland is stronger remaining in a United Kingdom. It emphasises the contribution people from all parts of the British Isles have made. The BBC and Bank Of England being established by Scotsmen. The NHS being founded by a Welshman. The State Pension system being founded by an Englishman. It’s an economic, political and social union having achieved a great deal and will continue to play a significant role in the world. Why break what works? Yes Scotland argue that Scotland will be stronger and better independent. They believes all decisions regarding Scotland and its future should be made by the people who live here. Westminster is restricting Scotland’s full potential. A social union can still be maintained but not a political and economic one. Some people claim that both sides of the debate often ap-
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Politics appeal to emotions and feelings. Better Together claims that Scots can feel Scottish whilst simultaneously expressing a proud British identity. Yes Scotland claims this is still possible with independence. The worry that lies here is both campaigns are missing the larger picture. The economy, international relations, defence and the welfare system are issues that need to be dealt with first and foremost.
Earlier this year, our University ran its own mock referendum, the first of its kind in Scotland. The results were as follows: 62% voted no, while 38% said yes. On 18th September 2014, the whole of Scotland will make its decision. Independence: yes or no? -Joseph Meaden The GUUi will run a feature about the referendum in every issue as part of our ‘Countdown To The Referendum’ series.
Both the Yes Scotland and Better Together campaign teams will be fighting hard for their desired result in the Scottish independence referendum next September.
The People’s Perspective On Politics For the more politically apathetic among you, all this talk of referendums, policies and papers can feel like a bit of a
headache. So here at the GUUi we’re going to provide you with a form of literary paracetamol; a quick fix to look like you’re in the know. This month we have seen the typical adversarial banter from the main parties all circling round eachother’s respective party conferences. For those who didn’t sit through the three day fun fairs that are the annual party meetings, and let’s face it who did; here are some of the more interesting points put into perspective. According to David Cameron the UK is a ‘Land of Opportunity’ yet his proposal to cut benefits for under 25s not in work, education or training doesn’t appear entirely opportunistic; rather a forced form of opportunism. More of a ‘you gotta learn the hard way kid’ type of encouragement. Ed Milliband revealed he would have the voting age reduced to 16 if Labour were voted in. This is an arguably controversial step and will leave many nagging, no doubt, that 16 is just too young to make an informed decision. The choice to include 16 year olds in the 2014 referendum on Scottish independence has been a contentious one with many feeling school children are being unfairly targeted with biased information. I myself would not have said I was politically informed at 16. So perhaps those nagging voices are justified. The Liberal Democrats’ typically uncontroversial message was ‘stronger economy, fairer society’, which is all fine and well yet ultimately it is a statement that reeks of homogeny. There’s not much to disagree with in the message; but not much to inspire either. Hopefully these points will help ease the politically induced headache and that awkward lack of knowledge fuzziness is now feeling that little bit clearer. -Rebecca Richardson
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Lifestyle
Hide Or Chic?
Forget ghouls and goblins. Never minds spiders and snakes. Crocs are truly the thing that frightens me the most. And
Uggs. And sandals with socks. But this fear goes far beyond unfortunate footwear and lasts long after Halloween. I get it. It is easy to be confused in a world where middle aged men wear the same Airmax Nikes as the boy you got with at Takeover last week. Mums dress like teens and teens dress like grannies. Double denim and trucker hats are no longer merely the stuff of nightmares; now they haunt every corner of the library. So let me break it down for you. Are you sitting comfortably? Then I’ll begin… It’s very easy to look more eek than chic these days so let’s focus on ghastly and gruesome trends we have all fallen victim to.
Leavers’ Hoodies
Emphasis on the word leave. As in at home. In the bin.
Beauty
Boys, for you this is very easy. Be classily restrained with your choices. It’s okay if your shampoo is also your body wash. You’re basically a cowboy. However, girls, for us it’s a whole other story. After dark and a few Pints of Fun we start applying layers of makeup that directly corresponds to the amount of shots we have had. This is fine during the day when the direct alcohol: eyeliner ratio is more manageable – 1 for a hangover, 2 for a big job interview, three for a wedding. But on nights out and four shots in, girls queue the toilets to liberally apply their fourth coating of bronzer. By shot number six your eyeliner is starting to look like the wrong side of Jenny Humphrey. Birthdays are particular tricky – people are practically pouring drink on you, just don’t go pouring foundation on your face. And for the love of God leave your eyebrows alone.
Jeans
Most people have a love/hate relationship with jeans– when they are horrible they are really horrible, but occasionally they make you feel great. The main thing is that they are uncontroversial on the crotch. This is key. No camel toes, no dropped MC Hammer pants. And lastly no one should ever own embellished jeans. I repeat there should be no embellishments anywhere. At all. Nothing. Oh my God.
Hats
Specifically a trilby. This is the very definition of a twathat. Not acceptable in any circumstances on anyone. You are not an unemployed magician. Take it off.
Fancy Dress
This is particularly tricky. It all sounds so much fun! This is a ruse. All the ideas about how cool and wild you are going to look will never become reality. Unless you are one of the few gifted people that can do pure wizardry with pipe cleaners you are setting yourself up for a fail. I’m speaking from personal experience. I have been a tin man and a fajita. Most recently I was Taylor Swift – no one knew, I just looked like a poorly disguised Swedish prostitute and I spent the night blind behind an acrylic fringe. Despite all this, you still have to join in; otherwise you are making the rest of us look bad. Well worse. -Kirsty McKenzie
5 Minute Saviour Looking for a quick and filling side? Grab a sweet potato, a jar of mango chutney and some coriander or thyme (just a wee bit). Pop the potato in a bowl and microwave for 8 minutes and then mash it together adding a couple spoonful’s of the chutney and the herbs. Add a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of soy sauce for extra flavour. -Kirsty McKenzie
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Start Running... Stop running from your fears this October and just start running. It’s a great way to keep fit, have fun and most importantly it’s completely free. Here are some ideas to get you started… •
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It doesn’t matter if you have never run before; you can start at any time. If you are nervous walk round your planned route the first time without running at all. Then go back and run in intervals, meaning you’ll switch between running and walking. Gradually you’ll be able to build your strength and endurance and run the entire distance. Join a running club. Whether you are just starting out or training for your 20th marathon having the encouragement and support of other people is not only social but will really help you progress as a runner. Looking for an extra challenge? Head up to the staircase at the very top of Kelvingrove Park near Park Circus. Alternate sprinting and running up the stairs with movements such as burpees, hopping and skipping. You’ll feel the burn. If you are looking for a challenge that pushes you even further why not sign up for Streaking? Log in to runeveryday.com where you can become an Associate Member and are dared to run one mile a day for 365 days no excuses. Seems
Lifestyle
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easy? It is yet to be completed by anyone in Europe. Be the first. • Put together a playlist. The right music has been proven to enhance mood by up to 15% and lower perception of effort by up to 12% as well as providing a beat to help maintain a steady stride rate. Here aresome ideas for essential running tracks: o She Wants to Move- N.E.R.D o Outcast – B.O.B o All of the Lights – Kanye West o Can’t Hold Us – Macklemore o One day / Reckoning Song (Wankelmut Remix) -Asaf Avidan o Hometown Glory (Urban Noize Remix) - Adele & Kanye West & Jay-Z o Black Skinhead – Kanye West o Dog Days – Florence and the Machine o Dakota – Sterophonics o Pick Up the Phone – Dragonette (Arithmatix remix) -Kirsty McKenzie If this sparks your interest why not flip to page 16 where Kathryn Stevenson describes her experience of completing her first marathon.
Relax, Take It Easy Fear and anxiety have become an acceptable part of contemporary life. We are constantly being bombarded with messages that we should be concerned about economic, social and personal problems. Modern medicine is the answer for some but is the comfort it provides another cause for concern? Perhaps the greatest happiness can come from within; or at least that is the view taken by an increasing number of people. Meditative practices are experiencing somewhat of a boom, helped in part by online courses and popular retreats. These can include the rituals of traditional religions like Hinduism and Buddhism as well as more fashionable practices such as yoga. This article was inspired in part by an exhibition by Michelle Walsh, a Midlands based photographer, at the New Art Exchange in Nottingham. Her work reflects a special interest in contemplative practices. Her photos were taken at local religious and community groups; and feature the faces of people who have immediately come out of a meditative state. She urges the viewer to look, in particular, at the people’s eyes, which she suggests show a strong sense of clarity and aliveness. She also emphasizes how their contentment means that they are not projecting a ‘standard’ pose towards the camera; as we are automatically trained to do to appear at our best on Facebook and the like. Cynics might claim the growing popularity of meditation is due to savvy marketing and a glut of middle-class women with little to worry about apart from existential doubt. However, I believe that some consideration should be given to the fact that Buddhist monks, at the end of their training, can exist in a place where the concepts of ‘identity’ and ‘self’ become completely irrelevant. -Huw Clarke
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Culture
Technophobia
Fuelled by intense media coverage and a renewed focus by government, Technophobia is back in a big way. How scared should we be?
Terrifying monsters and demons are traditionally thought to be hiding under the bed; however, over the past year it has begun to seem that just as many sinister things can be found lurking in the devices that were supposed to improve our lives. At the turn of the millennium the Internet was heralded as creating a new era of openness and democracy. Now over a decade afterwards; rapid media coverage of the NSA’s PRISM programme and child abuse cases, as well as government clampdown on pornography, it would appear that the internet has been perverted into something far more malicious and unpleasant. Government surveillance increased heavily on both sides of the Atlantic after 9/11. However, it was still a surprise to many to learn earlier this year that the NSA and GCHQ had been monitoring the emails, social media accounts and other data of an as yet unknown number of people in North America and Europe. Previously this level of intrusion had been relegated only to the fantasy world of television dramas like Spooks. The Internet is undeniably a positive tool that allows citizens to openly comment upon their government but it is now apparent that it is also a way for governments to eavesdrop upon their citizens. The justification that this monitoring has helped to prevent more than 50 potential terrorist attacks does little to reassure those who value their privacy. The sacred position of children and young people in society means that a loud brouhaha always erupts whenever they are confronted with a new technology. ‘They are growing up too fast nowadays’ has been the favoured
line of middle England since the ‘Golden Years of Childhood’ in the 1950s. Previous moral panics accompanied the spread of VHS players and computer games. But is the Internet more of a threat? It is a completely open platform that has given young people unprecedented access to the world; they often own two or three online devices. Unfortunately this puts them at risk from sensitive content and dangerous individuals. News stories about sexual and emotional abuse online have caused outrage amongst parents. In response to these fears, David Cameron announced in July that all online pornography was to be blocked by default for UK Internet users; as well as more promises to catch pedophiles. Although popular with parent groups, this measure was viewed by some as mostly toothless and symbolic. It is the greatest step towards censorship the UK government has made in decades. Tim Berners-Lee intended the Internet to be ‘for everyone’. Unfortunately this means that, just as in the real world, there are going to be people with malicious intentions (even if the vast majority of people want to make a positive contribution to society). Terrorism and sexual abuse were certainly not things invented by the Internet. Claims that technology has increased either of those things are unfounded. Government censorship and monitoring only serves to drive things deeper underground. Awareness is key and the answer lies in educating people, particularly the young and vulnerable of the dangers. Lets not forget what benefits the web has given us: a way to nurture friendships regardless of distance, a new form of direct democracy and a greater sense of social equality. -Huw Clarke
What’s On
After the chaos of freshers week and the initial surge of socials it might seem like things are starting to quieten down - think again!
October presents a frightening number of Halloween themed events both in and outside of the university. Head down to the GUU’s annual 10 Hour* Halloween Takeover where witches and werewolves gather under the cover of darkness... and then stumble out again at 6am having lost their hats/masks but acquired cat ears and some unrecognisable face paint. Watch through your fingers as the Tron Theatre brings one of Shakespeare’s bloodiest plays, Macbeth, to life from the 8th until the 19th of October. Experience Burlesque at Club Noir’s Halloween Horrorama at the O2 Academy on the 26th October or sample some more of Glasgow’s extensive nightlife with either Nice’n’Sleazy’s Halloween Party or Flat 0/1’s Old School Milk Halloween Party both on the 30th October. And don’t miss out on the many offering of the Scottish Mental Health Arts And Film Festival (not scary but entertaining nonetheless), which is on until the end of the month. Plus so much more, if somehow you’re not bewitched by Glasgow just yet, you will be soon. -Kate Whitaker
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Festivals
Culture
With Glastonbury tickets on sale at the start of October and SeeTickets’ onslaught of emails offering 2014 Leeds festival tickets at 2013 prices, my annual agonising festival dilemma is already well under way.
To add to the already extensive options many other European countries are making their mark on the festival scene. Croatia, by far one of the most interesting and upcoming tourist destinations in the world, has a booming festival scene that is only going to get louder. It is a country with a turbulent history. Only 15 years ago Croatia was in a violent fight for independence, now it is an unmissable stop on the popular Eastern European interrailing route and home to an impressive catalogue of festivals. INmusic, which has taken place in the Capital city of Zagreb for the last 8 years, set the trend for Croatian festivals. This year it had a line up that rivaled many major competitors boasting names such as Arctic Monkeys, Basement Jaxx and Bloc Party. More recently however, the craze has centered around electronic music. Outlook Festival is in its 6th year, Hideout is in its 3rd, Dimensions in its 2nd while Unknown and Sonus premiered this year. With these and several others, Croatia is attracting fans of House, Drum n Base, Dubstep, Techno and more in their thousands. What makes these festivals especially enticing, aside from their eye catching line ups, are the unrivaled locations. Hideout and Sonus take place in four open air super-clubs on the incredibly picturesque Zrce beach, while Outlook and Dimensions are situated inside an abandoned fort providing some of the most unusual stages in the world. Meanwhile many other festivals are struggling. Recent years have seen ticket sales decline for several British events with some even being forced to cancel. Ticket prices must have an impact on this. This year I went to Hideout in Croatia and Benicassim in Spain which both cost £120, around £100 cheaper than most big UK festivals and included 4 days/nights of music. Obviously there is the price of flights on top of this but it is becoming increasingly popular to combine a foreign festival and a summer holiday and why not? Hideout had the atmosphere of any party holiday with its beautiful beach, scorching temperatures and insane nightlife, plus the bonus of seeing world famous DJs every night. Many festival goers will still have their trusted favourites (Leeds Fest will always be mine!) but with the massive increase of new, exciting festivals in places like Croatia, it’s definitely worth looking at the options for 2014. -Kate Whitaker
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Outlook Fort, Croatia
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Column
Erasmust! Erasmus is quite possibly the best invention since Malteasers, and as such we are dedicating a column to those abroad for this year of study. Want your adventures, disasters and tales of joy or woe in print for all your jealous friends at home to see? Get in touch with us at libraries@guu.co.uk and become the writer you always dreamed of being. Or let us edit you into one.
In the months before embarking on my Erasmus trip to
Strasbourg, all I could think about was one thing: how excited I was to spend a year in such an amazing city which was so different to anywhere that I had ever lived previously. However, as my days left in the UK turned into a matter of hours, it suddenly hit me. What was I actually agreeing to do? Sure, I could speak French in small conversations, but trying to do a law degree and live there - well that’s just a whole different ball game. And I was pretty settled here in Glasgow. I had my friends, a great flat, and I knew the city and the university like the back of my hand. The fear had set in... My first few days in France were interesting to say the least. Having arrived at the university residences, you very quickly realise that French administration certainly does live up to its terrible name. Four hours and too much disorganisation later, I was still in a queue with no room. The theme continued with the receipt of our student cards. Two weeks in, we were informed that administration was “très desolée” but our cards were lost in the system. Brilliant news when you can’t do washing without them. So, to the bathroom sink I went with my laundry bag, telling myself that it was all a life experience! Whilst this all sounds like a horror story from the continent, I have to say, I am now settling in to life in France. It turns out that Strasbourg really is the hub of Europe. I have only been here 6 weeks, but in that time, I have already climbed a mountain, partied on way too many boats, visited Basel and taken in the delights of Oktoberfest. If this is what half a semester has to offer me, I can’t wait to see what is in store for me next.
FOMO Forget clowns, forget those eight-legged servants of Sa-
tan we call spiders, and forget that time you thought it would be fun to watch Insidious with the lights turned off. All these things I can deal with. But the idea of your pals out on the town having a bloody great old time while you and your empty bank account sit in to watch The Great British Bake Off? Nope. Fear of missing out (or FOMO to the street kids) is a legit phobia, concerning young adults who can’t stand the idea of being excluded from ‘a satisfying social event’. Youths, eh? Being something of a social butterfly myself, I can honestly say that there is nothing more terrifying than the idea of my friends having fun without me. Previously, I’ve found myself walking into the living room and genuinely wishing I had a hangover so I could join my makeup-smeared friends on the sofa and talk about that time I pulled a hobo outside the club, before we all fall asleep to Friends repeats together. Don’t tell me that doesn’t sound like fun. Along with the obvious anxiety features, there is a long list of drawbacks attached to this condition. For starters, I haven’t seen my family in months. Any plans to go home are immediately thrown out the window as soon as anyone hints they might fancy a pint. Sorry Mum. Money is also a potential obstacle. I’ve often found myself texting my dad in a desperate plea for those new books I need right now, or that gym membership I was going to get that one time… Apparently FOMO has not only made me a nervous wreck but has also turned me into a full blown monster. But maybe the biggest problem of all is how I’m going to fit all this into a badass Halloween costume. I’m working on it, alright? -Alice Johnson
So…what is the point to this story I hear you say? No matter if it’s tough at the start, persevere, because Erasmus really is the biggest and best party of your life! -Leah Neilly
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Sandy Says
Column
For all those with soul-wrenching secrets, burning questions about love, life and why
Viper is marketing Pints of Fun, Sandy is here to give some clarity on those out of the ordinary aspects of life which sometimes can get us all in a muddle. A veteran at life, Sandy’s motto is ‘Help me to help you’, and with that we welcome our new favourite Aunty to tell us what’s what. It’s totally anonymous, totally un-serious and totally legit (ahem)... Dear Sandy I’m going to Peru next month with my best friend for a holiday, and I can’t wait. I was wondering how much cocaine you reckon I could get away with taking without being caught? I’ve got loads of porridge sachets to help conceal it. Do you think this will work? Signed Coke Hoarder Anonymous Dear Coke Hoarder I’m glad to hear you’re away for a wee holiday, that’s just lovely. In the case of the cocaine dear, I can’t pretend to be an expert, but maybe you could hide it in your tub of talcum powder? As we all know no one is without their talc, so there’s absolutely no way you will be discovered. But please do be careful dear, drug smuggling can be very profitable, but is only a good idea* if you don’t get caught. Obviously. (*not that we’re condoning drug smuggling of any kind) Dear Sandy I’ve been hearing weird noises from the ‘empty’ room next door to me at halls. I know Murano is known for being a bit dangerous... but has anyone had any paranormal experiences there? Am I being paranoid... or is there the ghost of a malnourished first year next door?! I don’t know what to do Sandy! Signed, Scared of the Ghost of Murano Past Dear Scared of the Ghost Before this gets out of hand, are you sure you don’t just have a nocturnal flatmate, not a paranormal one? There are a surprising number of reports of this strange breed of student who only emerge, pale and blinking, in the most unsociable hours. Either check to see if they are in fact still alive, or if you still have ghostly concerns, maybe consult the Ghostbusters or another reputable anti-supernatural establishment that you can find on Google. They might even do student discount. Well thanks for your time Sandy! Remember, if YOU have a problem, Sandy can help you! E-mail her at libraries@guu.co.uk, a totally confidential service for all your agony aunt needs, or tweet her at @guuimagazine . Until next time. Follow us: twitter.com/guuimagazine
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Sport
GUSA Athletes Never Looked Better Sport and recreation at Glasgow University continues
push new boundaries in student sport provision. The progress being made by the University is currently most evident in the first of its kind partnership between University of Glasgow Sport and Recreation, sportswear giant Nike and retailer Kitlocker.com. With the new sports kit appearing on pitches and around campus this partnership and the possibilities it will provide is an exciting new chapter for GUSA. The partnership was officially launched at the Nike store on Buchannan Street on the 16th September in an event attended by various representatives of sport at Glasgow, Nike UK and Kitlocker.com. The event was a fantastic success with speeches from all members of the partnership and a special guest appearance from Scotland international rugby player and Glasgow Warrior Chris Cusiter who participated in an informal Q&A with attendees. Tom Ward, Director of Kitlocker.Com expressed his excitement about the new arrangement: “We are excited about providing high quality Nike products to all the different user groups at the University. The branding, colours and design will create a strong look and identity for the university going forward” The Nike UK Team manager, Chris Donachie, also added his thoughts, saying; “At Nike we are delighted to be entering into this new partnership with the University of Glasgow. It’s exciting times for everyone who loves sport at Glasgow given the investment into facilities here. Hopefully, the introduction of the Nike brand
and our innovative products will help give all those who represent the University a competitive edge and the wider sports community at greater sense of identity.” The first of its kind at a Scottish University, the deal will see Kitlocker.com provide a dedicated online store where consumers can choose from a bespoke range of Nike sports clothing and equipment, incorporating the University’s brand and colours (#BlackAndGold). Offering an efficient and user-friendly interface, the new website will be an invaluable resource, both practically and financially, for the University’s Sport & Recreation community. Another result of the agreement will be a brand new retail outlet, within the University’s Stevenson Building, which will sell a range of the new Nike products. The outlet, to be known as the ‘GUSPORTSHOP’, is now open in the social area of the Stevenson building. The retail outlet and website are up and running already reporting a high demand for the unique kit available to University of Glasgow students and staff. The partnership is just one small part of the huge investment into sport by the University and greatly fuels the team spirit and sense of community that is growing within sport and recreation at the University of Glasgow. -Stuart Morrison
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My Marathon
Sport
So I ran a marathon. I still can’t really believe it. Four months later and it still feels like a dream. It was fun. It was sore. What else?
The first 10 miles I couldn’t get my pace right. So I would try out different runners to see if I liked theirs. I felt like that creep in a nightclub. I would come up behind, breathing heavily and hope they wouldn’t notice that I was unacceptably close to them and following their every move. Then I would get impatient or they would get uncomfortable, either way there was no love lost. I made the mistake of thinking everyone around me was running far too slow and jetted off as a lone ranger. By mile 23, it was a decision I quickly came to regret. My run had slowed to an attempted trot so I decided to ring my sister for some inspiration. This sounds bonkers but I promise it made perfect sense at the time. She was with my Nana Marks which gave the runners around me a good laugh when they heard my side of the conversation- “Not doing much Nana, just running a marathon that’s all… No, I’m not winning… well I could try but I think someone has already won it…” That was a lovely moment. People often ask what I thought about for almost five hours of running. I spent most of my time just looking at all the tops. So many people running in memory of loved ones. Grandparents, parents, wives, husbands and children- all lost to a multitude of different diseases. It felt like a community of grievers. These people understood it. In a world where they are under complete submission to their pain, this pain makes sense. They choose this pain. It’s a way to vocalise the pain within them that they have no ability to control. Which brings me to 26 miles- relief! Not quite. Oh no, don’t forget about that little point two! Yes a marathon is in fact 26.2 miles. And boy did I know it. I was scanning past the crowds looking for the big finish when this crazy woman started frantically flapping her arms and screaming my name- it was my mother. I had already been crying for 3 miles so seeing my family and friends jumping up and done yelling ‘You’ve done it! You’ve done it!” just sent me over the edge. Credit to my good friend Vanessa Fasolt who spotted me and risked her life trying to cross the sea of runners (colliding with a few along the way) trying to get to me. I stopped for a second and just saw everyone’s eyes full of tears, even my very composed Father. Sorry to spoil your street credit Daddy. Then I caught Gayle’s big blue eyes staring at me yelling ‘You’re mental mate!’ I couldn’t really feel anything at this point but I gripped for her hand and pulled her along for the final point two. As this happened, my Dad revealed his inner sprinter and ran the perimeter of the point two keeping up with Gayle’s (much fitter) German friend Michael, leaving my Mother and Vanessa panting behind. The last ten metres finally arrived. Through a soundtrack of tears, looking up the huge ‘FINISH’ and considering whether or not I was hallucinating, I turned to Gayle and said ‘This is for your Daddy, for our family.’ I’ll forget the aches and pains but I’ll never forget that moment. So I ran a marathon. So what? It just turns into a fun dinner party fact to share. But if you let it, it has the power to change you. It doesn’t change my family situation. We still miss our loved ones dearly. But when I could still put one foot in front of another after 26 miles, I realised something. We all have a power within us to keep going. So just keep going. And never give up. -Kathryn Stevenson
Kathryn finished the Edinburgh Marathon last June in under 5 hours. Why not give it a try?
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Clubs & Societies
Glasgow University American Society
F
resh off the back of a very busy week of promoting, socialising and unsuccessfully attempting to get rid of many, many, many flyers, Glasgow University American Society finally has time to plan their calendar of events for the year. The society’s Vice President Luke Timmons summarises what the society is all about using the questions they heard most commonly throughout Freshers’ Week. Why does Glasgow need an American Society? For the past three years both Leah (our president) and I have attended or hosted a variety of American themed nights from American Football to Election Nights to Thanksgiving. We were always blown away by the popularity of these events and often thought it unfortunate that we couldn’t open them up to more people. These reasons along with Glasgow’s growing international community led us to feel it was important that the University had a society for its students from across the pond. Do you need to be American to join? While I did get heckled numerous times during Freshers’ Week for my Glaswegian accent when I would speak with people at our stalls, I was always encouraged by the huge diversity of nationalities that showed an interest in the society. The society’s aim was never to be an exclusive ‘club for American students’- we want to bring together everyone who is interested in American culture from its politics to its red solo cups! This diversity is displayed on our executive as well from Brits like Joe Meaden, our British Ambassador, and myself, to Sophia Caratzas, our Danish/Greek/American Secretary of the Treasury. What are you going to be doing this year? So far we have accomplished a successful Freshers’ Week social, a Beer Pong tournament, and a pub night to watch the NFL game at Wembley. This really is only the beginning of what we hope to put on this year. With Thanksgiving fast approaching we have set our sights on how we can make it an event for everyone while still maintaining the fundamental “home feel” to the holiday. Next semester will see Super Bowl XLVIII which we hope will be a big night for the society with lots of activities to accompany the actual game! We’re always looking for an excuse to venture out, and with America’s vast calendar of holidays we’re determined to find an excuse for a Subcrawl! Will you be having a Thanksgiving Dinner? Yes of course! We’re now getting down to the final planning for Thanksgiving. It is so important to us that we can make this event for everybody and make it a comfortable home-like setting. Also, with three different dietary requirements on the executive alone (vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free) you can expect the dinner itself to be very sympathetic to any requests! I can’t stress enough how much I want everyone to be able to experience an authentic American Thanksgiving. I’ve had the privilege to for the past three years, and it’s now one of my highlights of the year! Does it cost to be a member and what are the benefits of membership? Membership costs £3 for students and £4 for non-students. While it is free to join our mailing-list, members will receive discounted entry into our events along with exclusive access to other events which come up over the year. Updates from Glasgow University American Society can be found on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/guamericansoc or for more information you can email the Executive at guamericansociety@gmail.com. -Luke Timmons
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