The Insiter, Vol. 14, Issue 1

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LAIROTREVDA

NOINIPO

ERUTAN ERUTAN

WEIVRETNI

WEIVRETNI LEVART

OCT 2013 VOL 1 ISSUE 14

YGOLONHCET

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editorial

MARIE CLAIRE FINGER

victims of malta’s war on drugs

TIMMY SPITERI

successful event planning through better deals does partisan politics help student apathy?

JAKE DALLI

oppression at large in russia

VICTORIA MELITA ZAMMIT

welcome to night vale

GERALDINE SAMMUT

do we still listen to radio?

JOHANN AGIUS

birds on campus

TIMOTHY MICALLEF

turning passion into a carrier

RACHEL POWELL

life from behind the lens

MARIA MIZZI

smoochie

CLAIRE CARUANA

clubs 101: the junior college guide

JULIA POLLACCO

the apple does not fall far from the tree

VIKESH GODHWANI

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fresh weeks, stale months

NITPICKER

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perfection why need it?

FRANCESCA ZARB

travel the experience of lifetime

MACKY VELLA BRAY

the five best laptops for university students

JONATHAN GALEA

creating vs consuming

MARTIN CALLEJA URRY

editorial There is little disagreement that although we are now past the exciting back-to-school age, Fresher’s Week is still something most of us eagerly look forward to. This is despite the fact that we all know how it feels (or will soon learn) to come to University, very pathetically enthusiastic about your freebie-filled honeymoon, while deliberately forgetting about the dreadful morning lectures that will soon follow.

We’re presenting this year’s Fresher’s edition of The Insiter on a happier note – having faced the usual seemingly impassable hurdles, we are now closer to being back on our feet.

The content of this year’s edition is based on a variety of topics, with one of the most intriguing ones being a feature on the situation of Daniel Holmes, a Briton living in Malta who was recently imprisoned for cultivating cannabis for his personal use.

Another international hot topic that is being featured is the situation in Russia, the country which will host the 2014 Winter Olympics, where oppression still continues on the LGBT society residing there.

The Insiter has interviewed 18-year-old artist Giulia Saydon, following her return from the Angel Academy of Florence. We also met with siblings Ramon and Alex Mizzi, involved in the film industry abroad, as well as with mother and daughter, Josette Ciappara and Marta Vella, who have stood out in theatre locally.

While you were busy trying to make it to your lecture on time, Timothy Micallef took the time to observe the birds present on campus; and Jonathan Galea conveniently wrote a small laptop guide before our extended-through-procrastination assignment-writing days begin.

So whether you’re still at the start of the long road towards graduation, or already half way there, we’d like to welcome you (back) aboard. There is no better way than starting your year with a copy of The Insiter, while not forgetting to bookmark www.insiteronline.com for more articles and updates throughout the year.

PRINT EDITOR Marie Claire Finger EDITORS Jake Dalli, Vikesh Godhwani, Rachel Powell HEAD OF DESIGN Samwel Mallia

The Insiter is published by Insite – The Student Media Organisation on Campus

DESIGNERS Sarah Aquilina, Liza Mallia, Maria Sammut, Elyse Tonna

CORRESPONDENCE: Insite - The Student Media Organisation, University of Malta, Msida, MSD 2080

MEDIA OFFICER Julian Caruana

SALES AND MARKETING: sales@insite.org.mt

SALES AND MARKETING Sarah Jane Mallia

E-mail: media@insite.org.mt

CONTRIBUTORS Johann Agius, Jake Dalli, Martin Calleja Urry, Claire Caruana, Jonathan Galea, Vikesh Godhwani, Timothy Micallef, Maria Mizzi, The Nitpicker, Julia Pollacco, Rachel Powell, Geraldine Sammut, Timmy Spiteri, Macky Vella Bray, Victoria-Melita Zammit, Francesca Zarb,

Website: Insiteronline.com

(c) 2013 Insite – The Student Media Organisation. All Rights Reserved.

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victims of malta’s TIMMY SPITERI

war on drugs

“THE GLOBAL WAR ON DRUGS HAS FAILED, WITH DEVASTATING CONSEQUENCES THE INITIATION OF THE UN SINGLE CONVENTION ON NARCOTIC DRUGS, AND WAR ON DRUGS, FUNDAMENTAL REFORMS IN NATIONAL AND GLOBAL DRUG In 2011, the UN Commission on Drug Policy, composed of former UN secretary general Kofi Annan and other high ranking public officials, urged a serious rethink of the current legislation on drugs. The report urged legislators to “End the criminalization, marginalization and stigmatization of people who use drugs but who do no harm to others” among a host of other much-needed reforms.

As the personal use of marijuana becomes legal in more and more countries around the world, Malta is yet to catch on to the inevitable green wave. Due to its insularity, Malta tends to be sluggish when it comes to adopting liberal reforms, and just like divorce before it, the lives of individuals and families are being adversely affected by the legislator’s insensitivity and inability to act. Only here, the repercussions are somewhat graver than simply being unable to re-marry.

Insite went to Corradino Correctional Facility to talk to Daniel Holmes, a Briton who got handed ten years imprisonment and an accompanying fine of 23,000 euro, for cultivating five plants of cannabis for his personal use, which is treated as trafficking under Maltese law.

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“I knew that I was doing something illegal, somewhat stupidly perhaps, but I am no drug trafficker. In court it was said that I was living in an expensive flat with a lot of money however the truth is that I was paying €120 a month for the apartment I was staying at in Gozo, and all I had was €120 euros in cash which was meant for the next rent.”

Holmes claims that the amount of cannabis he possessed was far less than that which he has been charged with.

“They said I had over 1 kilogram of Marijuana, however the authorities weighed the whole plant including the roots and leaves, which have no psychoactive use.”

This is not the only instance in which Holmes was treated unfairly. He claims that in court he was wrongly accused of not cooperating with the police: “I was perfectly cooperative with the Maltese authorities, however they wanted my contacts in the drug trade, of which I had none. I was only living in Malta for a couple of months so obviously I did not know of any drug dealers.”

In negotiations with the Attorney General, Holmes was convinced to plead guilty in court, on a promise that this

cooperation on his part would be taken into account when deciding his penalty and that this would be mitigated accordingly. However the court still went on to hand him a hefty ten-year sentence together with the fine.

Despite his situation, Holmes tries to stay positive, occupying his time learning Polish, doing odd jobs around prison and writing a book about his experiences.

“My greatest regret from all this is definitely being away from my family, I have only seen my daughter behind prison doors and on video. It’s so hard for me to have missed out on her first steps, her first words and it’s also hard on my wife to be raising her all alone. She had to leave Malta because she couldn’t cope living here alone without social security, so it’s even harder for me to meet up with my family.”

Another Briton, Mr. Barry Lee, was also arraigned together with Holmes in connection with this case. Lee committed suicide by hanging himself with a belt while serving his sentence at Corradino. I always knew he was not a strong person, however I could never have imagined him taking his life like that. He looked like a zombie going around here in prison with all the prescription drugs they had him on.”

(Including the controversial Valium) “They would never prescribe that to you in Britain. You’d have to be in a proper psychiatric institution to be prescribed the drugs he was on.

Lee was put in Section 6 at Corradino, which is known to be the worst part of the facility and which was declared to be inhumane by the European Courts. Holmes expressed his doubts that this section could have ever provided the proper health care and monitoring required for psychiatric patients.

Corradino has also been heavily criticized for its failure to fulfill its purpose as a correctional facility and for its endemic drug use. In fact, at the very same moment that we were conducting this interview, a large amount of heroin and half a bottle of methadone were found under the dashboard of a van that was in prison to provide electronic services.

“The heroin problem here in Malta is just incredible. In prison it’s so out in the open. It’s almost as if they’re proud to be junkies. Back home no one would even dare admitting to be a heroin addict, let alone flaunt it around.”

As it stands today, it is more worthwhile for drug traffickers to import hard and potentially deadly drugs rather than soft drugs. This is because the lack of a proper classification of drugs in Malta’s laws has resulted in a situation where cases of cocaine and heroin trafficking are treated equally as those of marijuana trafficking. If a drug trafficker is going to receive the same punishment, then it obviously makes more sense to import and sell hard drugs that have a much larger profit margin.

The Maltese justice system is also heavily criticized for taking long to decide cases. “Recently the UK media has been giving a lot of coverage to cases of Britons in Peruvian jails, because of the harsh conditions they’re living in and because of the long time they take to decide cases. They are complaining that 3 years is too long to decide a case, but I’ve been waiting 7 years and still no final decision has been made.”

He tells us that his family is hopeful that things will turn for the better come the 31st of October, the day of his final appeal.

However, he is not expecting much of a change, despite being fully determined to keep going until justice has truly been served.

“If I am unsuccessful in October, I will take my case to the constitutional court and after that to the European court.

After all I’ve been through I will never give up, not until I’ve exhausted every possible option at my disposal. If it doesn’t help me maybe it could help others in the future not to go through what I’ve been put through.”

FOR INDIVIDUALS AND SOCIETIES AROUND THE WORLD. FIFTY YEARS AFTER 40 YEARS AFTER PRESIDENT NIXON LAUNCHED THE US GOVERNMENT’S CONTROL POLICIES ARE URGENTLY NEEDED.” Report of the UN Global Commission on Drug Policy 2011

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successful event planning through better deals EVENT PLANNER CO. LTD IS A CONSULTANCY COMPANY FOR ANY TYPE OF EVENT PLANNING THAT RANGES FROM EVENTS SUCH AS BIRTHDAY PARTIES TO GALA DINNERS AND WEDDINGS. THE COMPANY, WHICH IS MADE UP OF A NUMBER OF EVENT PLANNERS EXPERT IN VARIOUS FIELDS, IS ALSO WILLING TO HELP STUDENT ORGANISATIONS AT NO COST SINCE THEY BELIEVE THAT THIS PROVES TO BE BENEFICIAL TO THEIR NETWORK OF CONTACTS AND TO THEIR POSITION WHILE SEEKING BETTER DEALS THAN THEIR COMPETITORS. JAMES CASSAR, ONE OF THE EVENT PLANNERS, HAS AROUND SEVEN YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND MAINLY FOCUSES ON SOCIAL EVENTS AND VENUES. What was your main aim as a business when the company was first launched?

The company was officially launched only very recently.

We previously provided help for organisations as well as individuals by pinpointing them towards the right deals and venues for their events. Becoming a business was not our initial aim. However, due to my involvement in the organisation of events since the age of 17, I was often approached by people who needed guidance, and it is through this that I acquired both experience and useful contacts. It is quite remarkable that when dealing with a regular client, prices are easily lowered and better deals more willingly given.

What main services does your company offer?

The company is made up of a number of event organisers who have acquired a lot of experience in their respective fields throughout the years. As a result, we can help organize any type of events – these being either social events such as birthday parties and corporate events such as product launches and weddings.

The company also offers three main packages to its clients:

Taking care of an event from A to Z, thus turning an idea into a successful event.

Venue consultancy; this is about helping clients find the right venue for their events.

Consultancy regarding suppliers; this is about suggesting a number of suppliers such as photographers, graphic designers, printing services, security and renting of sound and lighting at competitive prives. The clients may then compare the prcies to any others they would have acquired.

Why is your company beneficial to student organisations?

This all started back when I was involved in student organisations myself. I used to be informally contacted by many student organisations that required help in finding venues for their events, at the best possible deals. It is through this that I have managed to build up a list of contacts that allows me to find even better deals.

This is something that I still do nowadays, and I still help various student organisations when it comes to choosing a venue for their events. Student organisations have very tight budgets (if any) and thus experienced advice is often needed when it comes to searching for a venues that can fit such budgets. The service is mutually beneficial to the company as it is to student organisations. The organisations benefit from a service that is completely free of charge while getting deals that they would have never acquired on their own. Subsequently, the company enlarges its network of venues and suppliers, thus always being able to offer better deals due to a stronger relation with its venues and suppliers.

I encourage any student organisations to contact us if they need any event-related help.

Has your involvement in student organisations changed the way you look at business nowadays?

It has. As previously stated, it is through student organisations that all of this started. There is great satisfaction in knowing that people appreciate the time and effort you have put into helping them. In fact, I believe that this is more motivating than any other type of remuneration, and I thus also believe that a business should be, first and foremost, all about inner satisfaction.

What are you aspiring for in the future for your business, and what possible ventures are you looking at?

I prefer taking one step at a time. My aim is to ensure that all of my clients are satisfied, and I believe that once this is achieved, opportunities will ensue.

This is a paid advert.

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does partisan politics help student apathy? a quick primer to student representation JAKE DALLI

EVERY YEAR, THE STUDENTS POPULATING THE RANKS OF OUR UNIVERSITY’S DECISIONMAKING ORGANS GO UNNOTICED. JAKE DALLI SEARCHES FOR A DEEPER INSIGHT AS TO WHY OUR MORE DIRECT STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES ARE GIVEN LESS ATTENTION. Held twice a year, typically around November and May, student-rep elections are an obscure shadow of the heated KSU elections; yet, student representatives on the University’s governing bodies offer the most direct form of representation a student could ask for.

Each faculty has a board which is typically composed of a number of Heads of Departments and elected representatives from the faculty – at least two of which are students. This board presents plans to the University Senate and the University Council, both of which are composed of Deans of Faculties, ministry appointees, the University’s principal officers and other elected members of staff. Other students (five for the senate, three for the council) sit-in on each of these two bodies on behalf of the student population.

“Whatever happens throughout your course of studies most probably has been approved during a Senate meeting. We voice student concerns and do our best to safeguard the interests of students, and give a perspective from the viewpoint of the student.” says Christian Mallia, one of the five student representatives on the Senate.

He is joined by James Cassar, John Gabaretta, Jonathan Falzon and Jacob Vella; with the exception of Vella, all these students have at some point formed part of the students’ council (KSU) which plays a separate, broader role in representing students.

Less than half the 33% of students who vote for KSU candidates have voted for these senate representatives – even if the same people are leading the campaigns, there is a stark difference in interest from the students’ end. Numbers have improved over the past years, however they still remain bleak.

If the 33% turn-out in KSU elections is testament to anything other than the embarrassing state of student-apathy, a silver lining can be found in the fact that turn-outs for studentrep elections can potentially rise to such numbers. However, given that KSU further includes leisure, social policy and

international activities apart from the academic issues which the senate also deals with – the gap may prove harder to bridge.

“In reality, student reps are only there when you need them because of an academic issue, while KSU’s presence is much more consistent”, says John Gabaretta, one of the senate representatives who is currently serving as KSU’s Secretary General. He also believes that an element of misinformation also contributes to this gap.

“They [students] are still confused about what they [senate representatives] really do, maybe even failing to see their relevance. KSU on the other hand is much more out there, and students understand its relevance much more easily.”

Asked about the role of political organizations in student-rep elections and whether his roles as KSU Sec Gen and a studentrep may conflict, Gabretta speaks optimistically, saying that a student’s affiliations don’t play an issue in the matter.

Referring to his progress from your average student to his presence on practically all representative organs, he says that it is a ‘natural progression’ referring to a genuine interest in the academic site of University as his motivation. Yet, he also advises aspiring student representatives to avoid affiliating themselves with political organizations to avoid enforcing the perception that the student body is divided.

Christian Mallia, who ran against Gabretta’s team during the previous KSU elections and also holds the role of senate representative is of a similar opinion; possibly implying that despite a difference in affiliation, their work as student representatives may not be as conflicting as the KSU elections make it seem.

Furthermore, he speaks of KSU politics as a gateway to active representation; saying that students involved with SDM and Pulse have a greater exposure to the University’s governing organs.

SENATE REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE STUDENT BODY John Gabaretta, Jonathan Falzon, James Cassar, Jacob Vella, Christian Mallia COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE STUDENT BODY Vivienne Bajada, Ryan Mercieca, Mauro Miceli

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oppression VICTORIA MELITA ZAMMIT

at large in russia RUSSIA, THE HOST OF THE 2014 WINTER OLYMPICS, HAS RECENTLY ADDED FURTHER RESTRICTIONS TO MEMBERS OF THE LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER (LGBT) SOCIETY CURRENTLY RESIDING IN RUSSIA, MOST OF THIS COMING FROM THE NEW LAWS ENFORCED BY PRESIDENT VLADIMTIR PUTIN, WHO HAS BEEN LEADING THE COUNTRY SINCE 2012 AFTER A RE-ELECTION.

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56 44 44% believe that homosexual acts should be a criminal offence

In the past few months, Russian bills have cropped up completely dehumanizing anybody who even opens their mouth about anything related to being lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgendered, going as far as even saying that Russian children can no longer be adopted by same-sex partners.

As of Tuesday, 26th August, 2013, as reported by The New Civil Rights Movement journal, the government has started “ex-gay, reparative” therapy, that will supposedly normalize anybody who identifies as queer and make them “respectable members of society again”. So far, the treatment is voluntary and anonymous, but given the current state of Russia’s stance against any and all things LGBT, it probably won’t take long for things to turn mandatory.

Previous laws Russia have enforced that would make any queer individual feel unsafe and ostracized have been their “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” mentality in the military (2003), and promises of arrest if their sexual orientation is so much as spoken of in public (2013). The latter caused various protests around the country, most of which sadly ended in a bloody aftermath as the peaceful protestors were beaten and arrested by the intervening authorities.

The Russian public in general, in various polls through the past 10 years, has shown that the mentality of the country is largely homophobic. Ongoing research has shown that in 2005, 44%

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of Russians believed that homosexual acts between consenting adults should be a criminal offences; in 2007, 68% of Russians said that homosexuality is wrong; and in 2013 74% of Russians believed that homosexuality should not by accepted by society in any way.

Most Russians however, do not just stop at polls. Various NeoNazi groups have taken to personally beating up members of the LGBT society, leaving some dead, and most maimed and scarred. In one case, a group of men lured teenage boys out on the prospect of a date, only to capture them, tie them up, and livestream beating them up, ending it with forcing the teenage boys to come out on video to their friends and families, guaranteeing society suicide.

With the 2014 Winter Olympics soon upon us, President Putin has said that the law of arrest in relation to speaking publically about sexual orientation shall also apply to any foreign athletes, which has caused an uproar in the worldwide queer community, many members showing their loud and boisterous support: Wentworth Miller (Prison Break) has recently come out and declined to attend a film festival in St Petersburg because of Russia’s stance on homosexuality; Kseniya Ryzhova and Yulia Guschina, two Russian athletes, kissed on the podium after receiving their medals at the World Athletics Championships in Moscow; Swedish athletes Moa

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74% believe that homosexuality should not be accepted in society

68% believe that homosexuality is wrong

Hjelmer and Emma Green-Terago wore rainbow nail polish during their events, and were told that they would be stripped of their medals if they commit such an offense again.

This is, however, not the first time the Olympics have brought about a conflict. The 1936 Summer Olympics had Jesse Owens, a black athlete, win four gold medals, even though Nazi supremacy at the time was at a dangerous high. In 1972, the Summer Olympics saw the Munich Massacre come to life, where members of the Black September organization captured and held hostage nine Israeli athletes. The Atlanta Summer Games Bombing in 1996 took the lives of two individuals, and in 1980 80 nations boycotted the Moscow Olympics in protest of the Soviet Union’s military tactics. It seems that political unrest will have the Olympics being used a political backdrop for indirect protest by the international community for quite some time now, even when there may not be a lot of political turmoil as there was in the past.

It is important to remember however, that while this is a terrible breach of Human Rights and a problem that must be addressed, it is not the only time this has happened. Anti-gay laws are all over the world, especially in third world countries.

Most acts of homosexuality are punishable by a few months to a few years in prison, others by death, depending on the country you reside in. For example, you can pay a fine and be

sentenced to up to three years in Algeria, but in Iran the only punishment is the death penalty. While we boast of a world in a modern age, sometimes we must remember that the world is actually not as well off as we ought to believe. There is still oppression and there is still a lot of work that can be done to improve the situation for any individual who identifies as queer in this world. Thankfully, Malta is not a hot spot for this kind of hate and cruelty, but we cannot be blind to the rest of the world.

The quote by Jon Stewart comes well into play here: ‘I’m not going to censor myself to comfort your ignorance.’ Nobody should have to hide who they really are for fear of being hurt or arrested for it.

If you or anybody you know are queer and require assistance, the Malta Gay Rights Movement have their own website and hotline which can be found at http://www.maltagayrights. org. There are also various other websites that offer free chat sessions, including The Trevor Project at http://www. thetrevorproject.org. Remember, there will always be someone to listen to you.

The University of Malta also have an LGBT society, We Are, which can be found at https://www.facbook.com/WeAreUoM

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welcome to night vale GERALDINE SAMMUT

HELLO LISTENERS. IN BREAKING NEWS, THE SKY. THE EARTH. LIFE. EXISTENCE AS AN UNCHANGING PLAIN WITH HORIZONS OF BIRTH AND DEATH IN THE FAINT DISTANCE. WE HAVE NOTHING TO SPEAK ABOUT. THERE NEVER WAS. WORDS ARE AN UNNECESSARY TROUBLE. EXPRESSION IS TIME WASTING AWAY. ANY COMMUNICATION IS JUST A YELP IN THE DARKNESS. LADIES, GENTLEMEN, LISTENERS, YOU. I AM SPEAKING NOW BUT I AM SAYING NOTHING. I AM JUST MAKING NOISES, AND, AS IT HAPPENS, THEY ARE ORGANIZED IN WORDS, AND YOU SHOULD NOT DRAW MEANING FROM THIS. The above bizarre extract is a transcription of the closing lines of episode 5 (‘The Shape in Grove Park’) of Welcome to Night Vale - a podcast series produced by Commonplace Books that has taken the iTunes top ten charts by storm. Launched on the 15th of June in 2012, the number of listeners tuning in to Welcome to Night Vale has steadily increased throughout the past year, making it the most downloaded podcast last month and earning a large devout following.

Describing the exact mood and tone of Night Vale is nigh impossible; even creators of the show, Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor, have a hard time doing so. Fans have attempted to capture its essence by describing it as a mix between David Lynch and The Twilight Zone, or between NPR and H.P. Lovecraft. However, this method seems somewhat reductive.

All I can tell you is this: Welcome to Night Vale is a twiceweekly updated podcast based on the community-radio show of Night Vale, a fictional town nestled somewhere in Southwestern U.S.A. The podcast is hosted by Cecil Baldwin, an incredible narrator whose deep and luxurious voice suits the dark comedic undertone of the podcast perfectly. The community radio-show also features ‘weather-reports’, which are in fact tracks submitted by aspiring musicians or bands.

Episode 20, ‘Poetry Week’, also features poems written by listeners of the show. In this way, the podcast is a marvellous medium for creative sharing.

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Another aspect that makes Welcome to Night Vale so intriguing is that it is completely shrouded in supernatural inexplicable events. Fink and Cranor are great lovers of conspiracy theories, and Night Vale is nothing if not an agglomeration of every single conspiracy theory you can think of. Wheat and all wheatby products turn into venomous snakes, small drawbridges are built even though there are no bodies of water in Night Vale, writing utensils are forbidden, the government denies all rumours of the existence of any band called ‘Pink Floyd’, and men in tan jackets carry around ominous brief-cases full of flies. The only one who seems to be truly disturbed by all the strange occurrences is Carlos, an unassuming visiting scientist.

For those of you who are thinking of joining the world of Night Vale here are some pointers: 1.

Do not approach the Dog Park: no dog or person has any business going into the Dog Park unless they never want to come back out.

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Interns at the Night Vale community radio studio are going to die: I thought it was sad when Chad and Jerry were offed in episode 3, ‘Station Management’, but then followed Leland, Stacy, Richard, Paolo and Dylan, and it became downright gruesome.

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Carlos’ hair is sacred: hairdresser Telly is still trying to regain some social integrity after he dared cut Carlos’ “beautiful beautiful hair”.

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Librarians are to be avoided at all costs: if you ever see a librarian when in the library, just remember to stand very still and hope it goes away.

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Steve Carlsberg is a huge jerk: all he does is criticise the government’s projects and bring “unacceptably dry scones” to PTA meetings!

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The Apache Tracker was a social disgrace: he might have been a Caucasian male who insisted on wearing a cartoonishly inaccurate Native American headdress, but then he went and saved Carlos’ life and completely redeemed himself.

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Do not enter the Whispering Forest: unless you want to become a part of it. Forever.

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Avoid any hooded figures that come across your path: they only seem to like Big Rico since he makes the best (and only) pizza in town.

Welcome to Night Vale is so unique because, along with being a podcast, it is also a narrative; albeit a narrative without any main unfolding action or plot. It is a revelation about the potency that lies in this digital media form. Fink himself has now even set up classes for those interested in learning how to make enticing shows of their own. As he himself put it in an interview with the website ‘brainwashed’: “I think right now is the best time in history to be an artist of any kind. It’s not the easiest time. It’s not the most lucrative time. But it’s the best time. You can do any kind of art you want without filters and distribute it to anywhere in the world in seconds.”

So, for now. Close your eyes. Let my words wash over you.

You are safe now. Welcome to Night Vale. You can check out Welcome to Night Vale on iTunes. It’s completely free!

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do we still listen to radio?

JOHANN AGUIS

APART FROM BEING A FIREFIGHTER, AS WELL AS BOTH THE MANAGER AND A DJ ON THE MALTESE RADIO STATION ENERGYFM, DAVID SPITERI STILL FINDS THE TIME TO TRAIN NEWCOMERS TO THE WORLD OF RADIO. JOHANN AGIUS SPEAKS TO HIM ABOUT THE RELEVANCE OF RADIO IN TODAY’S DAY AND AGE, AND THE IMPORTANCE OF YOUNG PEOPLE’S PRESENCE ON THE AIRWAVES. Once an event within itself, families would often gather around radio technology to gain access to the outside world, just as so many of our grandparents say they did in those times of the infamous re-diffusion. Having been around as a means of communication for over 100 years, radio is still known for its broad reach; and according to UNESCO, approximately 92% of worldwide consumers aged 12 years or older listen to radio every week, while only about 30% of them have internet access.

David Spiteri, station manager for Fgura-based community station EnergyFM, says that these statistics are justified in proving that today’s radio is still relevant to today’s youth.

‘I don’t think that teenagers are listening to radio less than before, because they are usually the most consistent listeners, especially when it comes to stations that play recent commercial music’, he says.

Admitting that the advent of online media has significantly decreased the amount of people who consciously tune in to stations, David mentions that the century-old transmission medium has kept with the times. He also adds that radio has been advancing alongside the internet, and that many DJs now use Facebook and news website to interact with listeners while on air.

Most music-based radio stations make use of streaming to reach wider audiences, allowing listeners to tune in at their own leisure if they are physically far away from a radio. The use of online media allows radio hosts to even stream music that was played through streaming services such as Spotify or 8tracks. However, despite efforts to unify online and radio communication, statistics show that traditional radio is still more popular in the United States – eight times more than satellite radio and 17 times more than online radio. Across the world in Russia, radio maintains a 4% growth in stark contrast to a 3% decline in print media.

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The medium’s relevance, however, is not solely attributed to its ability to fit in with new media; the medium has shown prevalence amongst developing countries, as a 2010 study shows that 75% of households in developing countries having radio access, as opposed to a lesser 20.5% having internet access.

David speaks of a mixture of newcomers and veterans within Malta’s radio industry positively – emphasizing that young Djs present a bright future for Maltese Radio. He believes that they have a way of thinking and communicating with the listeners, and are more familiar with technology which is essential for any radio station nowadays. He also refers to the need to keep up with the times music-wise since it would be difficult for older DJs to adapt to a radio station which does not play music from their era.

During 2012, the Malta Broadcasting Authority awarded 48 licenses to local community stations with a wide variety of target markets, from those preaching faith, to band clubs and more. Spiteri asserts that these stations present ideal opportunities to start a career.

Among the ideal traits for prospective radio hosts, David lists general knowledge, being entertainment savvy and willingness to learn. A little passion and determination, as well as positivity and confidence in what you are saying, can take you far, he says.

Over recent years, Radio has evolved from an essential tool for communication, to a popular viable option; considering its prevalence amongst the rise of the internet, Radio may be allowed to stay. However, if David’s enthusiasm amidst the current situation is anything to go by, one may say that the future of radio is certain.

birds on campus TIMOTHY MICALLEF

ENCROACHED UPON BY KAPPARA AND THE UNIVERSITY IS WIED GĦOLLIEQA, A RELATIVELY SMALL VALLEY IN WHICH A SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF THESE WINTERING BIRDS SEEKING TEMPORARY RESIDENCE REST. The Maltese Islands are renowned to be visited by numerous migrating birds which pass through the central Mediterranean.

Although this mainly takes place during Spring and Autumn, a few species migrate to our islands for the Winter months.

Referred to as wintering species, they enrich local wildlife from October to March.

Due to the many trees present at the University Grounds, namely the Aleppo Pines and Cypress, a good number of birds reside in these areas instead. Apart from the resident breeding Spanish Sparrow and Sardinian Warbler, a variety of other species join them after their voyage to Malta. Perhaps the best known is the Robin, easily distinguished by its song and red breast. Up to twenty Robins can be found in the areas around the ring road during winter. Around two individuals reside there throughout the year, an uncommon occurrence locally.

Regular wintering birds include Chiffchaffs, White Wagtails, Black Redstarts and Starlings. The latter also roost communally, especially in the trees in front of the student house. A much larger, and definitely noisier, Starling roost takes place at the Junior College. These thrush-like black birds, with white speckles, are not only present for the night. Small groups can sometimes be encountered feeding in any of the fields adjacent to the ring road. The White Wagtails, however, may be seen anywhere walking along the roadside or wagging their long tails up and down when stationary. Their white and black plumage is unmistakable, contrasting with nearly any backdrop. The Black Redstarts are rather discreet birds, the male being black, while the female is grey, both with a characteristic reddish tail. The

small Chiffchaffs have an overall greenish-brown appearance, and can become quite common from December onwards.

The Common Stonechat, Goldcrest, Firecrest and Grey Wagtail are less frequent species. A handful of the similar Goldcrests and Firecrests can normally be observed in certain sites surrounded by Cypress and Oak trees. These restless, tiny warblers are the smallest birds that are recorded in Malta, with a height of just nine centimeters. Occasionally a Blue Rock Thrush or two turn up. Being our national bird, it is a delight to come across such a bird moving from block to block uttering its majestic call. Other overwintering birds which occur in the valley venture into the University Grounds, such as the Blackcap and Meadow Pipit. The Zitting Cisticola and Cetti’s Warbler are breeding residents of the valley and also visit some areas adjoining the ring road.

As an avid birdwatcher living nearby Wied Għollieqa, I have been observing birds there and at the University for the past three years. Even though I have focused on the wintering and breeding birds, the University Grounds host a healthy number of migrants during spring. Wood Warbler, Willow Warbler, Common Whitethroat, Subalpine Warbler, Spotted Flycatcher and Pied Flycatcher are the more regular species. European Bee-eater, Golden Oriole, Turtle Dove and Common Kestrel are somewhat scarce, and I have observed these as single birds or in very small groups.

A variety of birds evidently visit and reside at the University. So, each time you’re there, enjoy the ever present birds on campus.

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turning passion into a career RACHEL POWELL

TALENTED 18-YEAR-OLD AMATEUR ARTIST GIULIA SAYDON, BACK ON THE ROCK AFTER A FEW WEEKS STUDYING IN FLORENCE, THE HUB OF THE ITALIAN RENAISSANCE, TALKS TO RACHEL POWELL ABOUT HER ARTISTIC IMPULSE REVEALING HER CONCERN FOR THE APPRECIATION OF ART IN THE MALTESE SOCIETY. Can you describe your influences?

My influences are many and rather varied. Of course, having grown up in Malta, Baroque art has left an indelible mark upon my artistic formation. I have even made a couple of copies after Caravaggio for my Art O-level project. However, a local exhibition of Alphonse Mucha’s works made me fall in love with the sinuous femininity and organic elegance of Art Nouveau, resulting in a great impact upon my more recent projects. Recently, I entered the world of academic realism, particularly after spending some weeks at the Angel Academy of Art in Florence, where students are taught to follow in the footsteps of Annigoni.

What are you currently working on? How is this different from past projects?

I have recently started a series of floral-themed line drawings in a style that somewhat resembles ‘Art Nouveau’, using only watercolour and pen lines. Although I was a bit sceptical when I picked up my watercolours for the first time in years, the result has pleased me. Still, I must admit that I am quite eager to get my hands dirty with oil paint again sometime soon.

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How do you tend to build up your paintings? What’s the creative process involved?

In all honesty the process is always slightly different - there is a great difference especially between oil paintings, which are generally built-up in glazes over a relatively long period of time, and my more recent pieces in which each pen line is final. All my pieces have something in common, though: they start on a whim that comes at the most unexpected moment.

What do you hope the viewer will take away from your paintings?

I don’t make claims at pathos or intellectual fulfillment - I just hope that when people look at my work, they see an object of great beauty, and that this beauty - as Oscar Wilde once said – would make them forget ‘the sordid perils of actual existence’.

Has your style developed over the years?

At this point it is probably premature to speak of stylistic development. What I have really experienced so far is technical improvement, with some stylistic input along the way, first from Caravaggio, then from Mucha and Art Nouveau, and later from academic realism. I am still working my way towards a style that is more personal.

What do you believe is a key element in creating a good composition?

I guess struggling with it till it works, even when you’re tempted to chuck it into the shredder.

You told me you would like to turn this passion into a career. Do you find that in Malta we are giving enough exposure to young artists? Is the Art market on the island limited?

The problem in Malta is a cultural one. I doubt I’m sufficiently qualified to speak of the education system or of state measures, but I can speak of people. In Malta, Art is seen as something foolish, or rather insignificant. Appreciation is growing, but it is still lacking. Having said that, the greatest limitation is the financial situation - for art to bloom, there must be prosperity.

What can we expect to see from you in the future?

I’m starting University in October, studying International Relations and French, but I honestly have no idea what I’ll eventually end up doing. I’d like to get more official training, maybe at Angel’s again, but i don’t have any plans for now, except to keep on learning.

To see more of Giulia Saydon’s work kindly visit her page on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GiuliaSaydonArt

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life from behind the lens MARIA MIZZI

THEY’VE LED A LIFE WHICH WAS FAR FROM PERFECT BUT THEY’VE FOUGHT CONVENTION TO FOLLOW A LIFE-LONG DREAM. THE STORY OF SIBLINGS RAMON AND ALEX MIZZI PROVES TO BE AN EXCITING ONE FOR ALL THOSE INTERESTED IN THE FILM INDUSTRY. MARIA MIZZI PICKS THEIR BRAINS ABOUT AN EXPERIENCE WHICH SHEDS SOME LIGHT ON THE LIVES OF MOVIE-MAKERS. With a retired cinema projectionist for a Grand-father, cinema runs through the Mizzi’s veins; coupled with an artistic background and a movie-loving family, the duo’s talent has achieved what would what would be described envious for fellow Maltese filmmakers.

This dream came into fruition a few years ago when a phone call was made straight from Hollywood bearing the news that they were to be awarded with a young filmmakers prize for a short film they submitted a few months prior. I spoke to these young filmmakers to learn about their success...

First of all; How’s life treating you so far away from the Maltese Shores?

Ramon: Life is good at the moment. I love Australia and even more I love Sydney. Every time I walk down George Street I am amazed at the beauty of this city. Sydney is my personal fountain of inspiration. The architecture, the weather and the people are simply amazing. I feel in my natural habitat here, as I do consider Sydney my second home.

Alexis: Well till now this has been a mishmash of experiences.

One always expects this when changing environments and especially when travelling to another continent. We’re doing well, as just three weeks into my stay, and I already got my first couple of job interviews with high browed companies but I’m still keeping my feet on the ground as in life anything can happen.

What got you started on this path in the first place?

Who/ What was your inspiration towards such a hard business to break into?

Ramon: It was an involuntary redundancy scheme from a fairly stable job that got me traveling to Sydney to start film 16

school. I promised myself that I will embrace this chance for a new life, so I strived for a career that would challenge me creatively and kept me active. I sometimes still consider it a crazy move but till now it’s worked out. I don’t imagine myself doing anything else Alexis: When I was young I was very imaginative and wrote my share of short stories that originated from pictures I had in my mind. Growing up, I side tracked and worked in many industries to keep myself afloat and it seemed hard for me to fit in, as I wasn’t fulfilling my inner happiness. I believe that job satisfaction and passion are the basis for making a career, especially in the arts. Since I’ve joined this industry, it’s been hard to leave, whatever the difficulties and the pitfalls.

Filmmaking is the ultimate team sport and collaboration in such a trade gives you the luxury of working with other creative minds towards a common goal.

Could you tell me a little bit about the award winning film?

Ramon: ‘In The End’ was produced when I was passing through a rough time in my career. We had a brilliant script and so we went to work. I have to admit that it was hard work. I had to fill most of the roles while directing and that was very tolling.

We did all the filming and editing and we liked the outcome.

The most important thing was that although I watched the film over and over, it still glued me to the screen. For me that was the sign that we had a show.

Among good reviews, we got a call from Los Angeles urging us to submit the movie in The New York International Film Festival. I was a bit skeptical at first, but then thought we had nothing to lose so we went for it. Three months down the line we won ‘Best International Contemporary Short’ and as they say, the rest is history. It was the proudest day of my life so far.

Alexis: Ramon takes full writing credits for this work. It recounts the feeling of isolation an Alzheimer’s victim suffers.

We thought that this theme had to be tackled because it is a reality a good percentage of the elderly population is experiencing in contemporary times.

What was the inspiration behind it?

Ramon: ‘In the End’ was an idea that popped in my head when the only living grandfather was on his death bed. We weren’t close, but one day visited him in hospital and he vividly explained how he had visited New York City in the morning and how he was wearing this shirt he bought from a shop in Time Square. I found all this bizarre but I wanted to believe him as I wanted to have a conversation with him just before he passed away. On my way home, I kept thinking on how strong the mind can perceive images and the next day I started writing everything down. The idea gained momentum from there on.

Alexis: Well, like Ramon said, my grandfather’s passing away mostly sparked all of it.

Your father, Philip Mizzi, is the protagonist in the short film. How does he feel about this venture?

Ramon: It’s interesting that you ask me that, as I consider ‘In the End’ as his film. He is also the Executive Producer of the film. He loves it so much and still promotes it till today. I wrote the protagonist role for him, so he instantly slipped into it.

This idea worked as he won the Best Performance Award in the Malta Cine Circle National competition.

My dad understood exactly what we wanted from him. We had the luxury to discuss the film in depth and while I told him what we were after, he also came up with valid ideas to

how he saw his character. I’ve seen my dad act since I was a child. I consider his performance in the film as one of the finest moments in his career and I think it was the main award winning factor and the reality that breathed life to the script.

Alexis: Well, he was excited about the project from the word ‘go’. He related to the part and immediately got into the psyche of the character. He is very proud with what the film managed to achieve on an international level and to this day he avidly promotes it.

Could you now try to put into your own words the feelings about your experience in LA and the awards ceremony?

Ramon: To be honest, initially I didn’t want to fly out to LA as my plate full to the brim and it just wasn’t part of my plans.

I was reading for a MA in Birmingham and also working at the BBC at the time and when I informed them, they were all cheers and encouragement, so I caved in.

Come the awards ceremony, I was really nervous and I don’t consider myself as cut out for public speaking. When I went on stage to accept the award, I got so excited and panic stricken that I muttered 5 words. These included ‘Thank you’, and ‘How much I love your city’. I froze and said nothing more. I felt the auditorium go silent but after I finished there was a huge cheer.

That was encouraging.

At the ceremony, we met a couple of people who were amazed at how we managed to win an award from ‘over the pond’. Roy, a Director of Photography, really loved the narrative of the film and the actor’s performances. He also related to Airport Impressions ‘Borderline’ track that was the theme song for the film.

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Alexis: Well I had the feeling that this was just the beginning. Winning an award on the international stage is an encouragement as it is a great achievement in this highly competitive market. It gives you more edge knowing that the stories you tell have a value. This experience made me more confident to look further for ideas and stories to communicate on the screen.

Why Australia and not Malta for movie-making? Do you think that we have enough opportunity for people with such aspirations on this little island of ours?

Ramon: Film making is a complex and expensive exercise, so Malta has to understand why and how it should place itself in the world stage. Sydney boasts of the best Film School in the World where the craft of film making is learnt and taught by people who achieved in the industry. So although Sydney is the third most expensive city in the world, it still manages to attract film investment from overseas.

Another thing I find working against Malta’s case is the mentality. People do not see Film making as a career. This is a destructive view of the medium. Funding opportunities are limited in Malta so that’s another factor why it’s a hobbyist’s industry. Team work issues also lack in Malta. In Sydney, I find that people help each other but in Malta people are very protective of their ideas.

Alexis: Sydney caters for a lot of investment and postproduction work even through Fox Studios; as with the recent Wolverine production. It also houses one of the best training facilities in the world. Training is important as it helps foster new talent and encourages the industry to grow.

As for Malta, I think there is a lot of talent and enthusiasm for this field and Malta can offer a unique backdrop for your production. The authorities do not burden filmmakers with lots permits and overheads when planning a shoot either. As much as it may seem easier to get locations for your film, I believe that the general public has not yet weighed the value of this medium. As a result, the local artist may lack the morale to try new things and experiment with styles.

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And lastly, a word to all the other young hopefuls who wish to follow in the same footsteps? Some words of encouragement or words of wisdom?

Ramon: I wish to urge Media students to think outside the box, use real creativity as I believe that Malta boasts of heaps of it. It’s the execution of that creativity that lacks. When I was a student, my tutors and mentors always pushed me to be original and not be scared to delve into the unknown. Unfortunately in Malta some student work lacks originality and when I stumble on one, I instantly stop it, no matter how well shot and slick the editing is. We are in the story telling business so I want to experience emotions through valid story telling. Students need to build on their craft by thinking that there are no mistakes, but experiences. Our industry prides itself in experience so strive to get the best one possible. I urge young hopefuls to be comfortable in their creative skin and not to be afraid to push the boundaries. Most of all, be true to yourself and don’t be scared to criticize your work and analyze how you could improve on it. That is such an important key to your success.

I will end up with a word RESPECT. Respect all your peers and be eager to learn from them. You will learn from actors, technicians, producers, script writers, directors, the list is endless. When you respect, you will be respected and that respect will help you build the bridges that you need to succeed and move forward.

Alexis: I believe that filmmaking is an analogy of life. One has to live life and follow the path to achieve the dream. However, respect for another’s talent is important. This is a collaborative craft and you may learn a lot from different people as this could shape your perspective on the topic at hand. Do not get discouraged with the obstacles you may face during this journey. Where there is life, there is hope and if things don’t work out the way you want them to, start afresh, as life must go on.

THE TASTY FRUIT DRINKS WHICH COME IN THE FORM OF SMOOCHIE SMOOTHIES PACK MORE THAN JUST A FRUIT DRINK, THEY BRING THE LOVE OF A MOTHER WHICH AS SOME SAY, IS GREATER THAN ALL ELSE. CLAIRE CARUANA VISITS THE SMOOCHIE FACTORY TO DISCOVER THE STORY BEHIND MALTA’S TOP LOCAL SMOOTHIE BEVERAGES. We have all witnessed the increase in awareness about healthy living over the last couple of years, as well as the alternatives to junk food that started cropping up. The Smoochie drink is one such product.

The company was started around six years ago by Sandra Zammit, a mother of four who wanted her children to be given only the best. Like all mothers, she was constantly trying to find creative ways to make her children eat and drink healthy food and drinks. However, unlike all mothers, Sandra realized that she could not get pure fruit smoothies sans additives unless she blended them herself. This is exactly how the Smoochie business came about.

Through her own market research, Sandra went round to her children’s friends’ parents, nearby grocery stores and other such places and gave them samples of these homemade smoothies.

After receiving a very positive response, she decided to try to open her own business and to start making smoothies for all.

Today, Sandra’s factory uses around twelve different types of fruit, and with hundreds of tons them produces around 5000 Smoochie drinks a week.

Going into the factory which Sandra and her team like to call “the fruit spa” I realized that this was no ordinary factory. She explained how keeping her employees as happy as possible is reflected in her product.

Curious as to whether Sandra would divulge her smoothie making techniques, I asked her to explain the process; this was met by a giggle and a simple answer – smoochie smoothies are made in just the same way you would make them at home. She explained how the drinks contain nothing but mashed fruit; in fact, not even water is added. The trick, she says, is in the fruit selection process, and keeping the drinks cold.

Smoochie’s history is reflected in the product packaging – the jokes Sandra would tell fellow mothers are wittily signed on the bottles. The jokes bring out the product’s honesty and

simplicity, values that Sandra considers important, because she “would never do anything that’s not good for [her] children.”

Sandra explains how marketing healthy food and drinks in Malta is rather difficult, so it is the goodness of the drink itself that makes the Smoochie so popular.

Although Smoochie drinks have become extremely popular with children and adults alike, unhealthy living still remains a great problem in Malta, even despite an increase in health campaigns. She says that a change in mentality is very much needed, especially for the sake of younger generations who are bombarded by fast food advertising. A lack of health consciousness remains among Sandra’s worries, as she strives to introduce her product to as many outlets as possible.

Sandra adds that running a business is never easy, irrelevant of the sector one is in. She adds that one should never be scared of starting something, even if this seems a bit too much at times.

When Sandra started producing Smoochie drinks, people in Malta had little idea of what smoothies were, but determined to succeed; Sandra would patiently explain to her customers what the drink was all about and how smoothies have been available abroad for years.

With Smoochie drinks being so popular, one cannot resist asking what is next and Sandra excitedly explained how soups will soon be available. Simple and free from any additives and preservatives, the soups, like the Smoochie drinks, will be made from only the best selection of vegetables.

Sandra adds that her company is always willing to take up suggestions by customers and with a slight smile she tells me that her success is all because of how much care is put into the Smoochies. With no elaborate marketing or advertising campaigns, her Smoochies sell because people realize that the care has been put into each and every bottle and in the world of mass production, this is a very rare quality.

This is a paid advert.

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clubs 101:

v

the junior college guide JULIA POLLACCO

ONE THING THAT IS HARD TO MISS ON THE FIRST DAY OF FRESHER’S WEEK AT JUNIOR COLLEGE ARE THE STANDS IN THE FOYER. THEY ARE SET UP TO PROMOTE EVERYTHING THAT JUNIOR COLLEGE HAS TO OFFER IN ORDER TO MAKE YOU FEEL AT HOME. MOST STANDS PROMOTE CLUBS, GROUPS OR STUDENT ORGANISATIONS, AND ENOUGH OF WHICH EXIST, WHICH MEANS THAT YOU ARE CERTAINLY BOUND TO FIND ONE THAT MATCHES YOUR INTERESTS. The main student organisations are thought to be the wellknown SDM, Pulse and KSJC. In fact these are the groups that tend to stir up events regularly both on and off Junior College grounds. Becoming part of these organisations gives you insight into everything going on around the school, and getting to know the student body is a definite perk.

Student organisation Chrisco organises mass daily, although it’s not their only aim. The group tends to become very close-knit, and various events and activities are organised for the members.

The college Orchestra and Theatre Group tend to bring life to the campus, especially through their annual Soiree and around Christmas time. Members of the group get the opportunity to perform, which helps anyone who enjoys this artistic field come out of their shell and explore the world of performing arts.

Students are also taught to be active in their society, and to know what’s going on around them in clubs such as the President’s Award, the Commenius Project, EkoSkola and Youth for Social Action. Another student organisation, CARS, is aimed at creating awareness of road safety. Young Enterprise is an organisation which allows teams of students from different schools to create a product to sell. A winner is then chosen based on the sales and on how well the team worked together overall.

Apart from these groups, you can find clubs like the Stargazing Astronomy Group, the Manga Club, and Klabb tal-Qari u l-Kitba bil-Malti. Groups of this sort allow students to discuss anything they enjoy in relation to their hobbies and interests, while learning more about the fields. Joining a sport team is

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also as possibility in the Junior College, allowing students to remain active. There are sports of any kind, so students are sure to find a sport they enjoy.

Groups at Junior College are usually active on Wednesday afternoons from 3:00PM to 4:00PM, although certain groups, such as the Orchestra and the Theatre club sometimes have to work overtime, especially if a big production is coming up.

Involving yourself in a group means giving up some of your time, which could have otherwise been used for studying.

When times get rough, simply backing out of a group is not possible since a commitment would have been made. Some groups are stricter than others in this aspect too, and the commitment is expected to be kept throughout both years at the Junior College.

Despite the negative aspects, groups are constantly praised for a number of reasons. Participants in various groups constantly say that the rest of the members easily become like family to them, and sticking together and planning various events keeps their social life active. Being part of these groups also serves as some time away from the usual studies and gives you a period of time dedicated to relaxing for a while. Most students tend to abandon any extracurricular activities when starting their post-secondary education, so this opportunity to join any clubs or organisations allows them to do something they enjoy.

As already mentioned, there are enough groups to appeal to anyone’s interests, and group members tend to be especially active throughout Fresher’s week in order to attract new members. This means that if you’re interested in finding the right group for you, checking the stands out is something you should definitely jot down on your to-do list for Fresher’s week.

Mauro Karl Sultana Second Year SDM

Bernine Caruana Second Year Pulse

Our aim is to make life at the Junior College as exciting as possible and therefore various events are organised which enable students such as myself to meet up with new people. For me life at the Junior College wouldn’t be the same without SDM as this organisation was truly life changing.

Honestly it’s an amazing experience. It’s not just an organization that organizes parties and events at Junior College and University, but it’s the organization that really wants to be the pulse of every student. Apart from this recently students were given the right to make their voice count in MCAST, thanks to Pulse.

Rowena Chappell Second Year Junior College Theatre Club

Mireille Cutajar Second Year Junior College Commenius Project

”

It’s a life changing experience. It was definitely a challenge keeping up with my studies and rehearsals however in the end it was all worth it.

Words can’t describe the feeling you get after seeing it all come together.

”

”

”

Although it is officially a two year experience, I feel it has already taught me a lot and opened my mind to new cultures.

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the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree VIKESH GODHWANI

TO FIND A GENUINE TALENT IS QUITE A CHALLENGE BUT TO FIND TWO UNDER ONE ROOF IS CLOSE TO IMPOSSIBLE. VIKESH GODHWANI ACHIEVES JUST THAT AS HE TALKS TO MOTHER AND DAUGHTER, JOSETTE CIAPPARA AND MARTA VELLA ABOUT THEATRE AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP BEYOND THAT.

Established Maltese actress and director, Josette Ciappara is seen by many as a woman who is hard-working and committed to anything she puts her mind to, having an impressive résumé both on and off stage. (some experience) She has definitely passed on the values of dedication and perseverance to her daughter, Marta Vella, who is swiftly following in her mother’s footsteps with back to back starring roles in various productions ranging from the uplifting comedy “Calendar Girls” to the Maltese tragicomedy , “In-Nisa Maltin Jafu Kif ”. Marta has never thought about whether she would have been as passionate about theatre hadn’t it been for her mother but she does say, “She has definitely been influential in my acting career.”

Marta‘s star is definitely shining bright on our shores and Josette certainly has no objections to her daughter taking a theatrical path as she says “If it makes her happy, it’s fine with me. After all it did bring me lots of happiness.” However, she repeatedly warns Marta not to treat acting as a pastime but to go into every project that comes her way with great commitment; “The hobby attitude will get you the hobby result. The professional attitude will lead you to a professional result.”

Josette is especially impressed by Marta’s great presence on stage. “Sometimes I watch actors who are physically there but not really present. You notice how alive she is on stage through her consistency which I really take note of since I watch her as many times as I can in the same show.” Her personal favourite performance of Marta’s was in The Bacchae directed by Toni Attard, as not only did she love the production as a whole but she was surprised by Marta’s haunting singing voice. “I watched it again and again just to look at her mouth because I wanted to make sure that it was her singing!”

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She never really knows what to expect on stage when it comes to her daughter as Marta tends to be quite reserved about the productions she’s in during the rehearsal period. A notable exception however is last spring’s “Blood Wedding” at the Manoel Theatre which gave the opportunity for mother and daughter to share a stage for the first time. “It was great to see her coming back to the Maltese stage,” says Marta, “I got to witness first hand the ‘legend’ of Josette Ciappara. I admit I was a little apprehensive at first but it was great to share such a wonderful experience with her.”

Even though Josette does give her feedback after opening night, she doesn’t like to overstep as she believes that the director should always have the final say. This mentality definitely comes from her own experience as a director later in her career. After becoming an established actress with many leading roles under her belt, directing seemed to be the best outlet for Josette to continue to express her creativity even though she initially needed some convincing. However, directing ultimately took on a major role as she is a very visual person; “When I read a script I immediately imagine the action on stage. I also love building the character with the actor.” Marta also seems to have a knack for directing, having directed “Kelma Jew Tnejn” at the MITP, and also eventually winning Best Director at the MADC One Act Play Festival two years ago.

However, at the moment Marta’s main focus is definitely on acting as last summer she attended an intensive course at Atlantic Acting School in New York and both mother and daughter agree that it was a growing experience for Marta. “She grew holistically. Not just as an actress but as a person.” At first Josette was slightly concerned about Marta’s venture as she was well aware of how harsh training abroad could be, especially

in terms of leaving an imprint on one’s self-esteem. However, she had no doubt that Marta would rise to the challenge and as always she did. As an actress she learned that every time you are entrusted with a role, there is a certain responsibility that comes with it. She also learned more about what it was like to work in a team and also to respect the creativity of the director.

Josette also adds that she is proud that Marta took on such an experience: “If you want something in life you just go for it.

Focus. Don’t float. Just go for it.”

Apart from the course Marta also enjoyed a holiday in the Big Apple as her mother joined her for the last two weeks of her stay to end the adventure in style. They love travelling together as their interests couldn’t be more similar, as they are both the true definition of culture junkies. “With our busy schedules, it is the only time we truly get to spend quality time together.

You should have seen us in Barcelona this summer getting excited like little children over Gaudi’s architecture!”

Even though Josette is definitely active in the current theatrical scene she can’t help but shed some light on Maltese theatre’s past: “It was alive! The great variety of plays that used to be staged is incredible, and slowly, after a great slump, we are starting to bring theatre back to the forefront in Malta. We are definitely going in the right direction. ” Perhaps, it is due to the great talent that is currently on our shores that this is possible as with actresses like Marta Vella gracing our theatres, things can only go in one direction; up and beyond.

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fresh weeks, stale months

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MARIA MIZZI

Ok, so let’s just get this out of the way, shall we?

Summer’s over, the schizophrenic weather is back, tans are disappearing, most of us are reverting back to our pale winter selves, and morning traffic jams have yet again escalated to unfathomable levels as all the Josmars and Shanaias flock back to school in those clownish and unnecessarily huge red vans. But hey – look past all of that, and you’ll find yourself back on the University Campus…provided you survive the Arriva drive or you haven’t starved to death while looking for parking, am I right? (yes, I’m well aware that I’m not the first person to go there and will definitely not be the last, but I went there, end of, get over it).

It only takes any self-respecting student a year or two to realize that Freshers’ Week is just one massive non-representative sugar-coating of what’s to come the following year.

For starters, if you’re new to this whole University thing and are reading this during this ‘oh so magical’ week in our scholastic year, have a very good look around you and let the colourful sea of people and stands sink in – this really is as good as it gets. You’ll be lucky to see more than a couple of dozen people standing around here (in a pretty much unconscious daze) on any other given day. For bonus points, try to pick a couple of people who have particularly impressed you in their demeanor and attire during Freshers’ Week, and see if you’re able to spot them around campus later throughout the year. It’s hilarious to sit back and see them slowly yet surely get gloomier…and relatively uglier. By then, first impressions would’ve been set anyway, so why bother make an effort at eight in the morning on a grey Tuesday? Don’t get me wrong - you’re glad you don’t know who I am, because I always end up looking like an expired tiramisu’ by the end of semester.

An albeit tiny and generally ignored part of me honestly wishes I could just look past most of the stuff I think is odd, funny or generally wrong with this country, and, in extension, this University. Some oblivious people tell me I know that, were I able to do this, I’d be able to lead a “happier life”. If you’re currently thinking the same thing, I am ever so sorry to burst your pretty little bubble – I love this. I love every second of it. I revel in seeing people flail frantically to get to somewhere when they’re clearly trying too hard and making it even harder for themselves. Maybe it’s because I see myself in them, and instead of empathy, I revert to this. I’m well aware of the whole cliché “do to others as you would have them do to you” malarkey – I don’t expect anyone else to be gentle with my failures if they’re downright hilarious or just messed up. They deserve to have a proper laugh…and so do I. This is the country where a slightly oversized burger can go viral in a matter of days; where a party organized by a student organization gets as much hype as a Led Zeppelin comeback album; and where any particular local haunt has the potential of becoming “the next big thing” (basically, an overcrowded bore) within a couple of weeks. Also, a word of advice – if you’re a fan of Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead or How I Met Your Mother, there’s one golden rule to follow on a Monday morning – stay away from Facebook!

We Maltese have a relentless and ruthlessly efficient tradition of overselling the living hell out of pretty much everything. I am your not-so friendly neighbourhood Nitpicker, and I’m going to be here, doing my best to lower the expectancy bar of pretty much everything around you. You can thank me later.

Yours cynically, Wait, we’ve literally just been through this, haven’t we?

Oh, and if Fresher’s Week is over by the time you get to read this and that seemingly one and only enjoyable ship has already sailed, well…tough luck my love. Welcome to University x

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perfection

why need it?

FRANCESCA ZARB

When was the last time you brooded on how hard life has become? Have you recently felt dour because your life is following an unplanned diverted route? Have you tried squeezing into your jeans and dreamt of the day you’d wake up in Penelope Cruz’s body? To most of us, this merely sounds familiar. We have become used to blindly reaching out to surreal illustrations of what we imagine to be a perfect world or self. Perfection is a weakness, not strength. Perfection is an illusion which enslaves its victims rather than liberates them.

Imperfection is key to happiness, joy, courage, compassion, and most of all, love.

Before your adrenaline gets the better of you to oppose my claim let me take you through what I mean…As human beings we are all vulnerable in some way or another. This is an undisputed truth. Vulnerabilities can range from physical ones such as death after a long period of starvation, to emotional ones. In fact, in Mother Theresa’s words, ‘One of the greatest diseases is to be nobody to anybody.’ Imperfections scream out to the masses, and try to become perfections. They mean research to the scientists, challenges to the computer programmer, money to the business man, and to us, they should mean gifts.

It is in these times of weakness that we feel the need to reach out to a good friend and ask for a shoulder. These moments provide opportunities for us to connect to each other, to live humanly and to give a helping hand, and to love and care about each other. In no way does this mean that we shouldn’t be emotionally active in fair weather, although that is much easier to do. What about the storm? It’s become the cliché to advocate how we should dance in the rain, but wouldn’t be a shame if one turns solo after the sunny scene?

Courage is one of the most important tools which points us towards the right path. The origins of the word meant ‘’speaking one’s mind by telling one’s heart’’ but by time the definition has tweaked slightly. Yet, have we lost the notion of speaking shamelessly about who we are? Are we scared of what others’ estimation of what our personality might be? Are we willing to stand up on our two feet and clap to our own beat? What about feeling comfortable in our skin?

Compassion is another main tool. The foundations of this word mean ‘’to suffer with’’ – which means simply being there.

Blaming each other is deep-rooted in our culture, we try to blame and punish, point fingers, and it is everyone’s fault but ours. We do not want to be held chargeable. We shove away responsibility.

The beauties of imperfection are countless as I have learned through experience, after being accompanied by a lovely read called ’’The Gifts of Imperfection’’ by Brené Brown. It has taught me that no matter what goes on throughout my day I am enough. I am imperfect, vulnerable, weak and sometimes afraid but that doesn’t taint the truth that I am also worthy of love, prosperity and cheerfulness. I do not want to portray an image of myself as an impeccable God-sent master of maturity or feelings. I am not and probably will never be, but it doesn’t daunt me, I am willing to continue my journey and try to embark as many as people as I can with me.

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travel the experience of a life time MACKY VELLA BRAY

TRAVELLING HAS ALWAYS BEEN A FASCINATING THING FOR ME. EVER SINCE I WAS A CHILD, BOARDING A PLANE FOR THE FIRST TIME, I WAS INTRIGUED BY THE DIFFERENCES I ENCOUNTERED UPON ARRIVAL BETWEEN THE NORMAL AND THE EXOTIC. THIS CURIOSITY ABOUT WHAT LAY BEYOND THE WATERS OF OUR TINY ISLAND ULTIMATELY LED ME TO TAKE A JOURNEY THAT WOULD CHANGE ME IN SO MANY WAYS. My plan was to follow the old Hippie trail from Europe all the way overland to India, and from there to continue further east across Southeast Asia. After graduation last December, I quit my job and informed the Faculty of Laws that I’d be taking a gap year.

Before leaving I did some research about the countries I intended to visit as well as gathering information regarding visas and entry policies, however my intention was to be open to any opportunity that I came across and as such this flexibility was a key ingredient guiding me in my journey.

In fact, while on the road, I became more intrigued by the persons and characters I met rather than the sights and wonders I came to visit. I was amazed by the warmth and friendliness I encountered in people while travelling in Iran for instance. Before leaving on my trip, whenever I told someone that I wanted to visit Iran they would look at me in a funny way and say things like “There’s war in Iran” or “You’ll be taken hostage by Al Qaeda”.

Despite all their worries I must say that the Iranian people I encountered were the friendliest people I’ve encountered throughout my whole six months and a half of travelling. A bus ride in Iran would not be normal if the guy sitting next to you didn’t offer you some pistachios and bombarded you with questions about your country, job and family. Moreover Iranians are always willing to invite you over to their homes, kindly offering a warm meal and more often than not a bed or the comfort of a Persian carpet. Throughout my 20 days

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traveling in Iran I enjoyed the comfort and warmth of many people’s homes, one of these persons was Hamid, a young engineer in his thirties with whom I stayed while in Tehran.

Our friendship became so strong that a month later he promptly came to visit me in India to celebrate my 22nd birthday with me, which, lucky me, happened to be on the Hindu festival of Holi, where people of all ages run through the streets throwing coloured powder on each other.

As a solo travel it becomes almost second nature to engage in conversation with random strangers, and more often than not a simple conversation with a person in a bar on a beach in Thailand or with the person sitting next to you during an 18 hour bus ride in India leads to that person becoming your travel companion for the next two weeks. One of such friendly encounters was with a Parisian law student called Alice, whom I met while crossing the border from Cambodia into Laos and with whom I ended up travelling with for more than a month. Friendship between travelers is, in my opinion, far greater than any other friendship insofar as solo travelers do, at times, experience loneliness and encounters with other weary travelers are looked upon as quite a blessing.

When traveling one must not worry about what lay ahead.

Travel in India is, to say the least, quite a feat. Many travelers I’ve encountered all agree that once you’ve travelled and experienced the real India , and once you’ve had your fair share of Delhi belly you can travel anywhere with no worries. India is an amazing country which at times can really get under your

skin. However, one important lesson about life and travel in general which I learnt while sharing a ‘chillum’ with four naked ‘babas’ and a self proclaimed Guru is that in life everything is possible and that one must not worry about the unknown.

Nowhere was this more evident than in India.

One must keep an open mind when it comes to the customs and culture of the local people. A travel experience would not be complete unless you attempt to “go local”. Blending in with the locals is the best way to understand the way people live.

Thus a traveler must not be squeamish about eating at local food joints as well as trying out local dishes no matter how disgusting it may sound to us westerners. Being a foodie myself I tried a variety of local delicacies ranging from lamb intestines in an Iranian bazaar, dog meat in a tiny stall in Hanoi, the beating heart of a freshly killed snake washed down with a shot of snake blood and followed by a three course meal of everything snake, boiled duck fetus in Cambodia and a large array of insects and creepy crawlers in the streets of Bangkok.

Granted, you will experience the occasional upset stomach and you will have to get used to using squat toilets and to using your left hand in lieu of toilet paper, but these are all part of the experience and in retrospect all appear to be daring if not somewhat glamorous.

While on the road every day is different from the one before.

Breaking the boundaries of normal life routine is what long term traveling is all about.

At certain points of my travels I would just sit down, look around and be absolutely speechless. Such moments are the moments you really treasure, such as visiting the house of his

Holiness the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala, watching the sun set from a hammock in my tiny bungalow on the Cambodian island of Koh Ta Kiev, waking up early to watch the sun rise over the temples of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap or even just getting lost in the streets and alleys of any Asian city.

It also takes a great deal of optimism to be a traveler. Like everything in life travel does have its lows, especially when you’re travelling in remote regions where there’s no friendly soul in site for days on end or when no one speaks a language you understand. In spite of this the highs one experiences while travelling by far outweigh the lows.

Travel is in itself a kind of drug, what I mean is that once you experience a high in travel, such as the high that comes from river rafting in the Holy Ganges, kayaking in the Mekong delta, paragliding in Nepal or trekking through rice fields in Northern Vietnam, you will be on a constant search to replicate that feeling.

In more ways than one the act of travelling regulates ones imagination by reality insofar as the traveler learns to see things as they are rather as he imagined them to be. Most travelers I’ve encountered all agree that being a traveler is a kind of sub-culture which breaks the boundaries of conventional and comfortable life and that, as such; it is not people who take trips but trips that take people.

For these reasons a good traveler, armed with an open mind, a good degree of optimism and a smile on his face will never cease to enjoy arriving early in a city after a 30 hour train ride with nowhere to go and no one he knows.

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the 5 best laptops JONATHAN GALEA

for university students

CLOUDS START TO PILE UP ON EACH OTHER, SWEATERS ARE BROUGHT OUT, THE TEMPERATURE STARTS DROPPING – YES, AND IT’S FINALLY TIME FOR UNIVERSITY. THIS ALSO MEANS IT’S TIME FOR LECTURES, ASSIGNMENTS, STUDYING AND ALL THE OTHER TEDIOUS ACTIVITIES THE WORLD HAS BLESSED STUDENTS WITH. LUCKILY ENOUGH FOR US, MOTHER TECHNOLOGY IS THERE TO GIVE US A HELPING HAND AT BEATING DOWN THE UNIVERSITY STRESS AND AT MAKING LIFE A BIT EASIER. Here’s a guide to the best five laptops you can get your hands on this fall. Please keep in mind that this is based on certain factors, such as size (I despise 11-inch laptops/netbooks as their keyboard is too small for the touch-typing doted among us), value for money, portability, battery life and my own personal opinion. Other factors were also considered but were not given as much importance.

5. Acer Aspire Timeline U M5 – 15” It’s the largest laptop on this list, but I believe it’s also the best bang for your… euro. It sports a svelte design with a metallic lid and an acceptable weight of 2.4kg. The keyboard’s accurate enough and also includes backlighting for those long dark all-nighters which we all love.

The Intel Core i5-3317U has enough power to get you through all the normal tasks faced by University students, and has even got an Nvidia GT 640M graphics card crammed inside, offering enough strength for some decent gaming at medium settings.

Unfortunately, the speakers on this laptop are quite mediocre, although this shouldn’t affect most students. The biggest drawback is the 15-inch form factor is that some students might not find this laptop to be portable enough and might want to opt for something else, even though it is thin enough to be classified as an ultrabook. Ultimately, this laptop is for those students who are a bit on a tight budget but would like “one laptop to replace them all”.

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4. Asus Zenbook UX31A Asus are not as prolific as some of the other brands listed here, however, they’ve certainly made themselves known with the lovely Zenbook. It’s one of the thinnest and most beautiful laptops on the market, and has a stunning FullHD display. It also produces quite a respectable amount of sound considering its size, thanks to its Bang & Olufsen speakers.

As can be expected from a laptop this thin, the keyboard feels a bit shallow.

Moreover, its charger is surprisingly hefty and quite a pain to carry, considering that the laptop it is meant to be charging is one of the lightest and thinnest notebooks out there. I suggest waiting for this year’s update to the Zenbook, which should be coming out soon and which should manage to drop more jaws than its predecessor thanks to its sublime Gorilla Glass coating.

3. Apple Macbook Air (2013) I tried really hard to leave Apple out of this list as I’m not really a fan of their products, but this year’s Macbook Air undoubtedly deserves a place here. It’s kept all of its good qualities and added on to its already impressive battery life – it now stands at an amazing 11-hours+, enough to get you through even the most intensive of days. The rest of its attributes are already well-known – a superthin form, lovely workmanship and a minimalistic design with the famous Apple splashed on top.

The superb battery life comes at a price – this year’s iteration is not as powerful as last year’s, as the Ivy Bridge processor (2012) was clocked at a higher frequency than this year’s Haswell. Nonetheless, Apple’s lightweight OSX isn’t as demanding as Windows, and the Air is specifically meant for undemanding tasks such as note-taking, moviewatching etc. However, it’s a shame that Apple still haven’t brought in the Retina display on this small jewel.

2. Lenovo Ideapad Yoga 13 Who said laptops can’t perform acrobatics? This crazy laptop by Lenovo can bend over backwards, fold onto its back and has even got an aptly-named “tent-mode”. It’s a great option for those who want a laptop-tablet hybrid, with a renowned Lenovo keyboard to boot and quite an impressive build quality as well.

Its Core-i7 CPU accompanied with SSD storage ensures top-notch performance as well.

Convertible laptops might not be everyone’s cup of tea, as certain caveats such as the keyboard in tablet mode might cramp this laptop’s style. Also, strangely enough, Lenovo do not include a digitizer stylus with this laptop, which would greatly help those students intent on sketching something or taking down notes by hand.

1. Sony Vaio Pro 13 Is it an HP? Is it a Dell? No, it’s a Sony!

Yes, you’ve heard it right – the king of the hill is this amazing carbon-fibre based laptop. It sports a gorgeous 13.3” fullHD touch display, a speedy performance and a great battery life as well. It also weighs an unbelievable 1.04kg, making it the lightest laptop out there on the market. Really, it’s the must-have laptop if you want something which is at the height of style and portability.

Every rose has its thorn, and the adage stands in this case. Even though the frame’s made from carbon fibre, the keyboard does display some flex, especially if you’re a heavy-handed typist.

Moreover, the fan tends to get slightly loud if you stress the CPU. However, these are minor detractions, and nothing should stop you from buying this slice of heaven.

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creating versus consuming MARTIN CALLEJA URRY

WE’VE ALL CREATED SOMETHING IN THE PAST. A MESSY MOTHER’S DAY CARD IN KINDERGARTEN, AN UNINSPIRING ESSAY OUR ENGLISH TEACHER HATED, MAYBE A TONE-DEAF AND OFF-BEAT SONG FOR A LOVED ONE. NO MATTER THE CREATION’S INSIGNIFICANCE OR EMBARRASSING LACK OF QUALITY, THERE IS A PART OF US THAT IS PROUD OF THEM, WITH AN UNDERLYING FEELING THAT OUR MENTAL RESOURCES HAVE BEEN INVESTED SOMEWHAT DILIGENTLY. Consuming, on the other hand, requires little effort and is only rewarding in the short-term. Nobody ever burned through an entire season of their favourite television series in one sitting and felt a sense of accomplishment.

Musicians, artists, inventors, philosophers – they are all creators. Through their self-expression, our ever-changing modern culture has been moulded into what it is today.

Their active role has given prominence and respect to society.

Many of history’s most respected figures were creators.

Creating leaves us vulnerable to criticism and with our precious ego exposed, which means that our comfort zones are challenged. We either retreat into our shell, or continue to strive for success. We listen to different perspectives on our work, and hear the positive or negative experiences. Mentally, we take note, and become determined to improve in our next creation and to surpass its predecessor. A creative outlet helps us grow, not only as creators, but as human beings. Being active, especially creatively, is a sure-fire way to help us in our ubiquitous pursuit for happiness.

‘Over consuming’ leaves the once proud producer inside us cowering away in a secluded corner of our minds. We may feel occupied, entertained, but not much else. Continually consuming in search for satisfaction is akin to a chain smoker puffing away, reducing feelings of anxiety. The effect is temporary, and as time passes the problem may worsen.

Growing up in the digital age, we’ve been presented with

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abundant opportunities and infinite distractions. The Internet allows the average person to publish his/her own work through various platforms, but you can also watch YouTube videos for five hours a day for the rest of your life. You can make new contacts, organize meetings and video conferences via social networking, or spend your evening with twelve chat logs open.

With less consuming and more creating, we can undoubtedly lead more fulfilled lives. Maybe we can discover a new hobby that brings a bright spark back into our lives. Peel off your inner coach potato, get out there and express yourself – whether you want to make a statue out of recycled beer cans, join a synchronized swimming team or use your naked body as a paint brush.

On the other hand, we all have the right to relinquish control of our minds and kick back in front of the television or laptop.

I grew up playing video games at any chance I could get, and often spent hours doing so. In retrospect, I regret not spending my time in a more productive manner.

Nowadays, writing is my creative outlet – be it my sporadically updated journal or an article for the public. Throughout creating this article, I never received quick gratification, but was left with a deeper sense of contentment that lasts longer and is more rewarding. We all have a message within us – but do we have the strength to tell it?