A Gu i d e to you r union.
GO ONLINE! VISIT us online TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH EVERYTHING THAT’S HAPPENNING IN YOUR UNION. Visit: www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist ‘Like’ Leeds University Union on Facebook Follow @leedsuniunion on Twitter
Hi! The Gist The FREE monthly magazine for all students at Leeds University Union.
Contents In this special edition find out everything you need to know about being a student in Leeds.
Hello from your Exec Page 4 to 5 Welcome to Freshers’ Week Page 6 to 11 Inside your Union Page 14 to 17 The List Pull- Out Centrefold Clubs & Societies Page 20 to 27 Creating Change Page 28 to 31 Ellen & The Escapades Page 32 to 33 Discover Leeds Page 34 to 35
WE’RE YOUR STUDENTS’ UNION This guide is for anyone who wants to find out about student life in Leeds, in Freshers’ Week 2010 and beyond. Whether you want to find out what events are happening in the first week, hear some wise words from current students, or discover our 300 clubs and societies (so you can become a journalist by day and a break dancer by night) – read on! As a student at Leeds, you’re part of Leeds University Union, a charity with over 33,000 members (and an award or two on its mantelpiece). We’re independent of the University and run by six elected students, who you
can meet on the next page. Together, we want to make sure you love your time at Leeds. So we’re here for you when you want us to be, helping you to get involved, make friends and have fun. We’re partly funded by a grant from the University, but 80% of our income comes from our shops, clubs and bars. Think of the Union as a vibrant community or an exclusive service – but above all, think of it as yours. L ee d s U n i v er s i t y Union. Leeds University Union is a registered charity No. 1136742 and a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales No. 7284768. Registered office: University Square, Leeds, LS2 9JT.
www
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
The Gist 3
from
M E M ORIES & A D V I C E F RO M OUR F IRST W EE K A T UNI V ERSITY Tim
Paul
Jack
Marcus
Rachel
Elliot
Tim Mortimer Activities Officer
Paul Gold Community Officer
Jack Cheyette Welfare Officer
Marcus Crawley Equality & Diversity Officer
Rachel Wenstone Communications & Internal Affairs Officer
Elliot Jebreel Education Officer
My Freshers’ Week was... a mixture of nerves and excitement that meant I wanted to make sure I didn’t miss out on anything! Along with the freebies and nights out, I ended up joining the Cross Country Club and the English Society. I also found out about the introductory meeting to RAG, the fundraising society, which led to me signing up to volunteer in Uganda the next summer.
My memories of Freshers’ Week are... pretty confused! Nothing can prepare you for the sensory overload of those first few weeks. Amid all the madness, a few moments really stick out: my first night out in Leeds, meeting a future housemate in the queue for electives, and optimistically signing up for a million societies. Mostly, I just remember having a lot of fun.
I wish someone had told me that... this is your chance to do something new. Ever thought about sky diving? Do it. Sailing? Try it. Want to learn a new hobby, sport, skill, art? Now is your chance. Meet new people, be who you want to be and learn something new. Above all, make the most of it. The time goes by too quickly, so don’t miss out.
In Freshers’ Week 2010... I’m looking forward to the Freshers’ Fairs throughout the week that are going to give thousands of new people the perfect chance to get involved and make friends with people with similar interests. I’m also really looking forward to the wonderful Freshers’ Ball and the return of our infamous and incredible Fruity! I’ll see you there!
This year, look forward to... the brand-spanking new decked-out union building. It’s a great place to relax with a coffee and salad in Terrace or on a comfy chair in the Lounge. Information on everything, from our 300 societies to job adverts to some really hard-hitting campaigns, will be available in the new foyer. Look forward to becoming part of the best students’ union in the country!
We’re going to... make sure you love your time at Leeds. We’ll do this through numerous and award-winning societies, the amazing union building, and by representing your views to the University and beyond. The Exec work for you, so come and find us for a chat whenever you want!
4 The Gist
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
Find out how we’ll represent you this year. Turn to page 30. The Gist 5
W e lc o m e t o
Sa t u r d a y 1 8 t h S e p t e m b e r t o Sa t u r d a y 2 5 t h S e p t e m b e r T h e b e s t w ee k o f t er m ? Def i n i t el y. Freshers’ Week means meeting a lot of new people. It’ll probably begin with your housemates but, by the end of the week, will include course mates, academic staff and probably a few others too. A packed Freshers’ Week line-up makes it really easy for everyone to make new friends. During the day there are Welcome talks, opportunities to meet over 300 clubs and societies and lots of free stuff to get your hands on!
University Square, right outside the Union building, is where most of the fun is happening during Freshers’ Week. There’ll be loads going on including live performances, plenty of stalls and giveaways, all with a carnival atmosphere. There are also stalls at Halls of Residence to tell you what’s going on (you can buy event tickets from them too – as long as they haven’t sold out!). If you get lost just look for the helpers in red t-shirts! Nee d
h el p ? a s k t h e h el p er s i n re d t- s h i r t s !
Events every night of the week mean plenty of ways to have a good time, and with pop, indie, drum and bass, dubstep, electro and soul all on offer, everyone’s tastes are covered. Buy your tickets in advance from
www.leedstickets.com. 6 The Gist
E a rl y Arr i v a l s If you‘re arriving before Freshers’ Week begins, don’t worry! There’s still plenty going on to keep you entertained and welcome you to Leeds. See the Freshers’ Week poster on the centre pages for more information. H o w c a n I m ee t n e w p e o p le ? There are loads of chances to meet people who will stay friends with you long after www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
Freshers’ Week is over. At the Big Meet (Sunday 19th September in the Lounge, Union building) you’ll be able to chat to student staff who will introduce you to like-minded people.
to allow you to try something different at any time during your degree. Look out for the ‘Give it a Go’ programme in Freshers’ Week for trips and activities throughout term 1.
The Freshers’ Fairs (Monday to Thursday Whether you want to try an extreme sport, learn a new skill, or test your footwork at during Freshers’ Week) allow you to meet a a dance class, there are hundreds different group of clubs and societies of ways to try something new each day. With over 300 groups through our clubs and societies. to choose from, they’re the Wa n t Come along to the Freshers’ easiest way to meet new t o s ee t h e Fairs to meet existing people. full l i n e members and find out what u p ? Tur n t o How can I try new to get involved with. t h e c e n t re things? pag e s Great events during Freshers’ For a full list, turn to page Week and throughout the year 20 or head to the Clubs allow you to try new things. and Societies section of www. leedsuniversityunion.org.uk. Online On the first weekend of Freshers’ Week you can find out more about each group there’s a trip to Scarborough that will and also sign up! You can join at any time let you sample a traditional British seaside of the year, so don’t worry if you miss the resort. Other excursions and dozens of fairs. taster sessions are held throughout the year www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
The Gist 7
Get insurance, get peace of mind.
How can I get the most out o f m y t i m e a t U n i v er s i t y ? There’s a lot to take in at the start of the year, and you’re probably wondering how to make sure you don’t miss out on the best stuff? Attend a Welcome Talk. Not only will you get a good idea of how to make the most of all the great things on offer to you as a student in Leeds, you’ll also hear what to do if things go wrong, find out how to get part-time work as a student, and learn how you’re represented by your union. Basically, you’ll discover what makes Leeds University Union the best students’ union in the country.
Endsleigh’s specialist insurance protects your treasured possessions against theft or damage.
Mature and part-time students might want to take a look at the events aimed at helping them meet new people. The mature and part-time students’ lunch will introduce you to your Exec as well as other students. It’s a great opportunity to make friends and find out a bit about what your students’ union can offer you.
More from Endsleigh…
Be y o n d F re s h er s ’ Wee k There is still so much to see and do beyond Freshers’ Week. Some of the most exciting events coming up include the Freshers’ Ball (Saturday 2nd October). The Freshers’ Ball takes over the whole union building with some great headliners (keep checking www.leedstickets.com to find out!), six arenas, over 4,000 people, a fairground, casino, DJs and more.
• Next day laptop replacement for theft or loss** • Build a no claims discount of up to 25%* • We’re the only insurance provider recommended by NUS
To get a personalised quote from Endsleigh simply go online to:
endsleigh.co.uk /university or call 0800 783 5499
Varsity is another key event in the Union’s calendar. The University of Leeds take on their biggest rivals: Leeds Metropolitan University in our biggest day of sport! Over 30 union sports clubs take part with the Rugby Union finale taking place at Headingley Carnegie Stadium in front of over 7,000 people. Show your pride! Buy your tickets at www.leedstickets.com.
8 The Gist
Start earning up to 25% no claims discount if you don’t make a claim*
Recommended by *For each consecutive year that you don’t make a claim, you earn a discount on your next policy saving you up to a maximum of 25% after 5 years. Once you graduate you can then transfer your no claims discount earned to a graduate home insurance policy with Endsleigh. **Excludes iPads. Next day represents 1 working day from us accepting your claim. Endsleigh Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. This can be checked on the FSA Register by visiting its website at www.fsa.gov.uk
We’re behind you. www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
w h e r e ca n i g o t o . . .
WIN! F re s h er s ’ Wee k Tickets!
You might have to put decorating your new room on hold; Freshers’ Week is jam-packed with events every night of the week. SAT U R DAY Moving in is pretty tiring. Let your hair down after all that hard work by getting straight into the groove. On Saturday night there’s the Pent:House launch night offering house and electro, Wendy House for you goth, alternative, ‘80s and hard dance fans, and Central Beatz if it’s drum n bass and dubstep you’re craving. Su n d a y The Welcome Party is a great chance to get to know the two bars and three club venues at your students’ union. On Sunday night they’ll all be open with our finest resident DJs on the decks. M o n d ay The Intro Party really gets things moving on Monday with amazing live acts and DJs such as Tim Westwood and Starman packing out the entire union building. Be 10 T h e G i s t
sure to make picking up a ticket for this event a priority when you arrive in Leeds.
on the edge of your seats (Wednesday and Thursday).
T h ur s d a y On Thursday, the Union’s own award-winning Leeds Student Radio will re-launch in the Terrace promising great music, competitions and a lot of fun. The biggest and best Wa n t silent disco in t o s ee t h e the country,
Tue s d a y There are a few options on Tuesday night with Dance Like Your Dad spinning motown, classic pop and soul, Novak
3D Disco
serving upfront electro with full l i n e an added Headphone u p ? t ur n t o Disco is taking dimension, t h e c e n t re and a over the Union pag e s storming building, and launch of House Party a new indie will be packing the night in Mine looks dance floor with your guaranteed. home rave favourites from across the board. We d n e s d a y The School Disco is here ( F ru i t y ) F r i d a y on Wednesday promising Friday in Leeds can only to retain its position mean one thing: Fruity. as a Freshers’ Week Once you’ve tried it, you’ll favourite. Is school uniform never question how to optional? That depends celebrate the arrival of the on whether you want to weekend again! Chart and avoid detention! Hynotist party anthems abound, with Hugh Lennon returns with a helping of indie and RnB a hilarious, audience to mix things up. participation stage show including a game of Russian S a t ur d a y Roulette which will have you Freshers’ Week has to end www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
eventually. There’s no better way to finish it than Wax:On & Metropolis, two of Leeds’ biggest and best club nights. Calvin Harris headlines this massive party with a DJ set. For dates, times, places and prices, see your Freshers’ Week pull-out poster in the centre pages. You can buy tickets to events from www. leedstickets. com.
Is indie more to your taste? Head to Brighton Beach for your monthly fix, where everything from the ‘60s onwards is covered. Need something more regular? Get it weekly at the new Indie Night held on Tuesdays in the Union building.
buy tickets fr o m w w w. lee d s tickets. com
G o o d c lu b n i g h t s a re o n o ffer a ll y e a r round Here’s a taste of what you can expect to see.
Wax:On and Metropolis are world leaders in house, electro, drum n bass and dubstep. Having already brought in acts like Erol Alkan, Andy C, and Marky, they’re now teaming up to form an unstoppable force to get you on the dance floor.
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
Central Beatz has a
solid crew of residents serving up drum n bass and dubstep over a 30k crystal clear sound system. Get yourself to Headphone Disco for a fun night out dancing to your favourite festival anthems at the UK’s biggest silent disco. Rock of Ages, back on the first Saturday of every month, is an all out rock and metalfest and The Wendy House is a legendary friendly goth/ ‘80s/ alternative party. Continued on page 12 >>>
Fancy some free tickets to the best Freshers’ Week events? We’ve got a pair of tickets for Intro Party, Novak 3D Disco, School Disco, Headphone Disco, Fruity, Wax:On, Fruity 9th Birthday and Freshers’ Ball all up for grabs. This is worth £140! All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is to sign up for the leedstickets newsletter. Email your name to info@ leedstickets.com with the subject header ‘FRESHERS’ COMP’ before midday on Friday 17th September. Please include your contact telephone number so we can call to let you know you’ve won. We will pick out a name at random and contact the winner before 5.00pm Friday 17th September to let them know their social life for the next two weeks is sorted! Participants must be over 18 years old. We will not use your information for any purpose other than the leedstickets.com mailing list.
The Union is also a great place to go for free nights out - you’ve got Poparazzi, Top Gun, Shoop, House Party and the Tunnel Club to choose from. Of course, if you’re not sure what’s right for you, you can never go wrong with Fruity. It has it all!
leedstickets. com how to buy tickets: Buy advance tickets from www. leedstickets.com or from CATS (in the Union building). There will be a welcome team to greet you at your halls of residence selling tickets on arrivals weekend. You can also buy tickets from the Lounge (Union building, Monday and Tuesday) and the Helpdesk (Union building, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday) of Freshers’ Week.
8pm to 2am FREE ENTRY
Across all five venues in your union: Old Bar | The Terrace | Stylus | Pulse | Mine with our resident DJs on the decks
Be Safe in Leeds Call Amber Cars 0113 2311 366 The No.1 Taxi Service for Students:
If you have no money or find yourself in any kind of difficulty you can pay for your taxi by providing our driver with your Leeds University Student Card. You will be asked to sign a docket and leave your student card with the driver. You can then retrieve your card from the Union building and pay your fare with us. This service is only available during the hours of darkness when no public transport is available and if travelling on your own.
12 The Gist
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
T h e G i s t 13
Inside your Union Great shops, bars and venues. The money spent here is used to support great services that benefit you.
Essentials & Extras These two convenience stores are open until 10.00pm and sell everything you’ll need to get you through the week. There’s stationery, sandwiches, pick “n” mix, art supplies and more.
The Union Bookshop
Cats: Cards & Tickets Shop
Everything on your reading list plus more. There’s also plenty of leisure reads as well as gifts and cards.
Our award-winning boutique stocking cards for every occasion and a great range of gifts. It’s also the place to go for all your union and Refectory gig and club tickets.
14 T h e G i st
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
Terrace
Old Bar
Taking its name from its spacious outdoor seating area, Terrace is open daily serving coffee, chilled soft drinks, wines, spirits and beers as well as offering a new extensive food menu.
It’s been a favourite since it opened in 1939, priding itself on a fun and friendly atmosphere and lively events. The Old Bar offers a wide range of hot and cold drinks, a great value food menu and real ale.
Hidden Cafe A great selection of good quality food and Fairtrade coffee tucked away in the quietest corner of the Union building we could find.
Gear & Changing Gear The official shop for all your University of Leeds clothing and giftware. Make this your first port of call to get your Leeds hoodie!
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
Award-Winning Venues: Stylus, Pulse & Mine Three great venues give you an amazing range of nights out. The lower ground levels of the Union building holds three award-winning venues, used throughout the year for a range of clubs and live shows. Our three clubs combine together to hold 1,800 ravers for some of the UK’s leading nights including the Friday student night institution Fruity, Wax:On and Metropolis. We also use the clubs separately for club nights and live music; recent visitors to the stages and DJ booths include: Annie Mac, Ladyhawke, Miike Snow, Roni Size, Noisettes, 2Many DJs, The XX, Flying Lotus and Hot Chip. No matter what your musical tastes are, we’ve got something for you. For tickets and info visit www.leedstickets.com.
T h e G i s t 15
Student Services
Other Outlets
Whether your housing contract needs checking or you can’t find room 8.206 for your tutorial starting in five minutes, we’ve got a range of services that can help.
These places aren’t owned by the Union, but they’ve still got a lot to offer. What’s more, we use their rent to provide you with better services.
Student Advice Centre
Helpdesk
Sometimes things go wrong. If they do, it’s good to know that there’s someone you can turn to for free confidential advice. The Student Advice Centre offers support on money, housing, academic issues, employment, health and crime. You’ll find them on the first floor of the Union building, but also online in the Help & Advice section of www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
After directions? Want to know what’s on? Need to book a meeting room? No matter what you need, the Helpdesk will always try to help or point you in the right direction. You can also buy tickets for Give it a Go sessions, collect NUS Extra cards and more. If you need anything at all, just ask Helpdesk!
Jaldi Jaldi Famous curries with a good range of dishes, both (halal) meat and vegetable.
A wide range of hot food including authentic Cornish pasties, baked potatoes and flatbreads.
B Beautiful
Ozone Hairdressers
Pampering specialists offering a wide range of treatments.
A hairdressers offering a professional and affordable service.
Green Action Food Co-op Vegan, organic and Fairtrade food run by Green Action Society.
Campaigns & Democracy Support Your Union works to represent you in the University and in the community. Campaigns and Democracy Support coordinate this representation, electing your representatives and assisting campaigns. Visit them on the first floor. 16 T h e G i s t
Joblink
The Exec Office
Joblink is the online and on-campus job centre for when you want part-time work or work experience during your studies. Visit www.leedsuniversityunion. org.uk/joblink to see current vacancies and sign up for regular updates.
Your Student Executive work full-time to represent you. Their office is situated on the first floor of the Union building, pop in for a chat with any of your Exec officers at any time.
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
Proper Pasty
Sesame Locally sourced and wholesome foods which come from sustainable roots.
Vision Opticians
Santander
A full range of spectacles and contact lenses.
Carry out all your day to day banking.
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
Other Stuff In the Union building there are also free cash machines, water fountains, a photo booth and a post box. T h e G i s t 17
Save cash on Bus Travel in Leeds and West Yorkshire! £129 Student Greenzone valid anywhere within the Leeds Greenzone £99 (Term tickets expiry date 18th December 2010) FirstStudentMonthly valid anywhere in West Yorkshire £55 FirstAllTerm valid anywhere in West Yorkshire £312
StudentTerm valid anywhere in West Yorkshire (Term tickets expiry date 18th December 2010)
Easy payments – we know that paying up front for the FirstAllTerm pass can be difficult – and so everyone can get the benefit it’s available on easy payment terms. Sign up and make one payment (of £90) and 6 monthly payments through your debit or credit card (of £37) – we’ll send out a new ticket at the start of each term.
Getting one is easy: On-line at www.studentbustravel.co.uk By phone on 0113 381 5550 By post Send a cheque payable to ‘First’ addressed to The Marketing Dept, Donisthorpe Street, Leeds LS10 IPL. If you are buying a student ticket for the First time or have lost your photocard, please enclose a passport size photograph.
In Person at... First Travel Shop New Market St, Leeds, LS1 6DG
(Monday to Friday 0845-1715 Saturday 0900-1530 Closed Sundays)
Leeds Visitors Centre at the Rail Station Arcade (Monday to Saturday 0900-1730 Sunday 1000-1600)
Far Headingley Post Office 86 Otley Rd, Leeds, LS6 4BA (7 days a Monday to Saturday 0600-1800, Sundays 1000-1600)
The University of Leeds Student Union Building Monday 20th to Friday 24th September 2010 Bodington and Oxley Halls Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th September 2010 We do offer pass protection against theft or loss of the Student tickets costing £5. The protection must be obtained when the ticket is purchased. Conditions apply.
For further details on all our tickets and bus times call us on 0845 604 5460 or visit www.firstgroup.com
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
T h e The G i sGist t 19
OVER
Full list of Clubs & Societies Sign up to the Union website. Join ANY TIME of the year...
CLUBS & SOCIETIES (SO THERE’S NEVER A DULL MOMENT) Clubs and societies at Leeds University Union are one of the things that make student life in Leeds so great...
If you can’t make it to the Freshers’ Fairs to meet the groups face to face, you can still join a club or society at any time of the year by visiting www. leedsuniversityunion.org. uk where you’ll find more information. DANC E Ballet Belly Dancing Breakdance Capoeira Cheerleading Circus Skills Contemporary Dance
Dancesport, (Ballroom and Latin) Irish Dancing Modern Dance Scottish Dance Street Dance Swing Meet the Dance Groups on Tuesday 21st and Wednesday 22nd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm at ‘The Edge’, Sports Centre 1. De p a r t m e n t a l Audiology Aviation Biological Sciences Biology Biomedical Sciences Broadcast Journalism
Business School Cardiology Chemical Engineering Chemistry Civil Engineering Classics Computer Criminal Justice Cultural Society Cutting Edge Dental Students DermSoc Earth Sciences East Asian Research Economics Electronics Energy & Enviromental Engineering English Environmental Fire
the country, and we’ve got dozens of groups dedicated to helping others, in Leeds as well as around the world! The departmental societies are used by some to indulge their inner geek, while others prefer using them to make new course friends away from the lecture theatre.
There were 302 clubs and societies at last count, but by the time you read this there’ll probably be even more. We’ve got most activities and m ee t interests covered, so you can t h e c lu b s find like-minded people, Find something you’re & society interested in... compete to add more g r o u p s at trophies to your cabinet, or We’ve listed the clubs and fre s h er s ’ reinvent yourself by trying societies at the Union. There fa i r s ! something completely new are so many that we’ve split (or all of the above). They’ve them up into categories. Find all got their own story to tell, but the category you’re interested in every group is of the highest standard. and see how much is on offer. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, then you The sports teams compete in a nation-wide can always set up your own group! university league, while the faith and culture societies provide a hub for thousands of Visit the Clubs & Societies section on www. students from around the world. Our media leedsuniversityunion.org.uk for more societies hold awards for being the best in information and to join any of the groups. 20 T h e G i s t
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
T h e G i s t 21
Here ’ s a fe w of the things we got up to last year
13,794 students signed up to a club or society in 2009-10.
4,789 games of pool were played by Pool and Snooker Society.
85,000 newspapers were printed by our Leeds Student team.
2,063 glasses of wine were tasted by our Wine Society.
450 croissants were served out to students by the French Society.
1,419 hours were spent dancing by the dance groups.
French Geography German History History of Art ICS Italian Society Joint Honours Law Mathematical Mechanical Engineering Medicine Middle Eastern Studies MSRC Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Performance and Cultural Industries (PCI) Philosophy Physics POLIS Product Design Psychiatry Psychology Pulse Radiography Russian and Slavonic School of Design Sociology & Social Policy Theology and Religion Zoology Meet the Departmental Groups within your own university departments. F a i t h a n d Cul t ure Afro-Caribbean Ahlul Bayt Atheist Bahai Brazilian British Born Chinese Brunei Buddhist Meditation Catholic Chinese Christian Union East African
Egyptian ERASMUS Ghana Hellenic Hindu Students Forum Hong Kong Indian Student Association Indonesian Iranian Irish ISKCON Islamic Japanese Jewish Kazakh Korean Libyan Malaysian Malaysian & Singaporean Mexican Nigerian Omani Pakistani Students Pentagram Polish Qatari Students Society Saudi Scandanavian Sikh Singaporean Taiwanese Tamil Thai Students Turkish Vietnamese Meet the Faith and Culture Groups on Thursday 23rd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith Hall, Union Building.
“Societies create a really welcoming environment – kinda like a family away from your biological family” Elliot Jebreel, Faith and Culture Societies Rep 2009-10
Bright Futures British Armed Forces Supporters Club (BAFSC) Calligraphy Change Ringers Chess Choc Soc Comics & Graphic Novels Debating East Asian Cinema Enterprise Exhibition Film Folk Food Soc Goth Henna Jazz & Blues LGBT LOST (Leeds Outdoor Socials
& Trips) Poker Pool and Snooker Postgraduate Punk Real Ale Record Library Rock Sci Fi and Fantasy Sign Language Stitch & Bitch Travel Union Music Library Vegetarian Wine Meet the General Interest Groups on Monday 20th September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith Hall, Union Building.
M a r t i a l Ar t s Aikido Boxercise Boxing Iaido Jiu Jitsu Judo Kickboxing Lishi Tae-Kwon-Do Thai Boxing Wing Chun Me d i a Film Making Leeds Student Lippy LS:TV LSR Medical Journal Photography Scribe Meet the Media Groups on Tuesday 21st September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith Hall, Union Building.
Ge n er a l I n t ere s t AIESEC Anime Arts Assassins Bridge www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
T h e G i s t 23
Ou t d o o r a c t i v i t y Archery Canoe Club Duke Of Edinburgh Award Gliding Hiking Horse Riding Kite Mountaineering Paintballing Rifle Sailing Club Scout & Guide Sky Diving Snowriders Speleology (Caving) Sub Aqua Surf Wakeboarding Wilderness Medicine Windsurfing Meet the Outdoor Activity
Groups on Tuesday 21st and Wednesday 22nd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm at ‘The Edge’, Sports Centre 1. Perf o r m a n c e A-capella Singers Backstage Band Soc BPM DJ & Clubbing Dance Band Dance Expose FOCAM Music Music Theatre One Collective Opera Pantomime Revelation Rock Stage Musicals Society
Tea Lights Theatre Group Meet the Performance Groups on Tuesday 21st September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith Hall, Union Building. Political and c a m pa i g n i n g Amnesty International Conservative Future Feminist Focus Africa Friends of Medicins sans Frontieres Green Action International Affairs Forum Labour Leeds Against Cuts Liberal Democrats Liberty @ Leeds
“I think that it’s all about finding something you are passionate about and getting involved with people who are passionate about similar things...” Margaret Murray, Political andCampaigning Rep 2009-10
Medsin Mind Matters Palestinian Solidarity Group People & Planet Revolution Salaam Shalom Socialist Students Socialist Worker Students SPEAK Stop AIDS Students Against the War Students for Sensible Drug Policy Tibet Unite Against Facism United Nations Association Meet the Political and Campaigning Groups on Wednesday 22nd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith
Hall, Union Building. Sports American Football Association Football (m) Association Football (w) Athletics Badminton Baseball Basketball (m) Basketball (w) Boat Club Cricket (m) Cricket (w) Cross Country Cycling Darts Fencing Fives Golf Gymnastics
Why Join? When graduates are saying goodbye to us, time and again they tell us that not joining a society was their biggest regret. Here ’ s w h y :
1 Gives you the opportunity to make friends and meet like-minded people.
2 It’s a chance to gain new skills and try new things.
3 It looks great to future employers, especially if you get involved on a committee.
4 It adds value to your university life and gives you something different to do.
5 It’s really good fun! Join online!
24 T The h eGist Gist
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
How to Join 1 Browse Log in to the Union website and head to the clubs and societies section to explore the clubs and societies in the A-Z list.
2 Choose Read about the society on their page and get in touch if you have any further questions. You’ll find their email address on the page.
3 Join Click ‘Add to basket’ next to the membership you want to purchase. You can then either go straight to your basket and pay, or continue to add other memberships and pay for them all together. Y o u a re n o w p a r t o f a Clu b or Society!
Hockey (m) Hockey (w) Korfball Lacrosse (m) Lacrosse (w) Motorsport Society Netball Rackets Club Rugby League Rugby Union (m) Rugby Union (w) Squash Swimming & Water Polo Table Tennis Ten Pin Bowling Tennis (m) Tennis (w) Trampoline Ultimate Frisbee Volleyball Meet the Sports Groups on Tuesday 21st and Wednesday 22nd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm at ‘The Edge’, Sports Centre 1. V o lu n t eer i n g Action Actionbound
Bridge The Gap Conservation Volunteers Green Fingers Green Streets Heartstart Homed Hyde Park 5-8s Little London Crazy Club LUUMS Education MEDAID Africa Nightline Outdoor Mix RAG Reach Saturday Stars Shopaholics St John Ambulance Links STAR Tea Party Wacky Wednesdays Woodhouse Kids Club Meet the Volunteering Groups on Wednesday 22nd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith Hall, Union Building.
Give it a Go! TRY SO M ETHIN G NE W N o t s ure w h a t yo u wa n t t o g e t i n v o lv e d w i t h b u t k now you d on’ t wa n t t o m i s s o u t ? A lot of people know they want to do something – they just don’t know what. That’s why the Give it a Go programme of taster activity sessions is so popular, allowing you to come along and get involved without any commitment.
Want to try knitting or take a journey below ground to discover caving? You can! Give it a Go gives you the chance to try out something new, whether it’s a skill, sport or just a general interest. It’s a great way to fill your free time and an opportunity to try something that’s both new and fun! Look out for: Past sessions have included things like boxing, yoga, waterpolo, indian head massage, korfball, self-defence, mug painting, tai chi and so much more! Past trips have taken coachloads of people all around the
country to places including Edinburgh, Blackpool, York, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwick Castle, and Stonehenge. The upcoming programme is guaranteed to impress. Sign up Look out for the Autumn Events Guide around the Union building and simply sign up at our Helpdesk in the Union foyer or online at www.leedsuniversityunion. org.uk/giag. Look out for the logo below:
Creating Change BETTER UNI , BETTER UNION , BETTER L EEDS
B etter U nion
B etter L eeds
C o m i n g t o L ee d s means joining a c o m m u n i t y t h at listens and acts. Through a strong and responsive students’ union you can help shape your own education and the world around you.
28 T h e G i s t
B etter U ni
Three separate forums, made up of both elected representatives and a non-elected student panel, meet regularly throughout the year to debate the ideas that you put forward.
part of union policy, and will be implemented.
If agreement among the non-elected panel is reached following debate, then an idea will become
The three forums are: Better Leeds, Better University, and Better Union.
If there’s no consensus, the idea will go forward to a referendum that all students are invited to vote on.
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
Be t t er U n i v er s i t y Is the University delivering? Straight away you’ll see some big differences between school and university.
Be t t er U n i o n Is your union helping you love your time in Leeds? As your students’ union, one of our most important responsibilities is to listen to you. So it’s important that we’re kept in check too.
At the University of Leeds, the pupil-teacher system The Better Union forum is gone, replaced makes sure we’re by the learning providing you and teaching with the a n yon e partnership – service and can submit meaning you’ll support ideas. work together that you a n yon e c a n with your tutors deserve, c re a t e and lecturers. covering change everything The Better from the things University forum in the Union works to make sure this building, to our clubs partnership is being fulfilled, and societies and even the ensuring you’re getting the democratic process itself. most from your degree. Make it happen Be t t er L ee d s Anyone can submit an idea What issues do you want to to the forums, so if you’ve see tackled in the got something you want community? acting on, you can make it When you start your degree, happen. it’s likely you’ll also be joining the community of See ‘what can be Leeds. changed?’ to get an idea of the sorts of things that are As a student you play a big possible. role in Leeds, making up a significant fraction of the As well as submitting ideas, population. It’s important you can also attend forums to make sure that you’re as a spectator or stand not only represented fairly to become an elected but also that your presence representative. Look out for brings a positive benefit to the next issue of the Gist at the community. the start of October to find out how. The Better Leeds forum works to debate and act on key community issues. www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
What can be changed? It can be difficult to grasp the difference your ideas could make. But, if an idea is accepted, you won’t be doing things on your own. You’ll have 33,000 students behind you, meaning there’s a lot of scope. Be t t er U n i o n In 2009, a solid campaign by two students removed bottled water from sale in the Union’s shop. Students were persuaded of the merits and voted in favour of the change. Be t t er U n i v er s i t y Improved academic feedback will benefit all students next year following successful lobbying of the University. Be t t er L ee d s Students who felt they weren’t getting value for money from their bus service teamed up across Leeds’ universities to start a coordinated campaign.
How do I make change? Our process for doing things is pretty straight forward. It’s also fair. You s u b m i t y o ur I d e a :
1 Come up with an idea
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Your Exec W H A T W E W I L L BE DOIN G THIS YE A R Y o ur S t u d e n t E x e c u t i v e w o r k t o re p re s e n t y o u , s o i t ’ s i m p o r t a n t y o u k n o w w h a t t h e y ’ re u p t o ! T h e y w o r k w i t h i n t h e U n i o n a n d t h e U n i v er s i t y, b u t a l s o re p re s e n t y o u l o c a ll y a n d n a t i o n a ll y. Here , t h e y s e t o u t s o m e o f their aims for the forthcoming year.
Rachel Wenstone Communications & Internal Affairs Officer I’ll be defending your education against cuts and working with the Student Advice Centre to get services like contract checking available around campus. I want to get engaging debates happening in the Union and also get a University Challenge team up and running!
Jack Cheyette Welfare Officer
Submit your idea by the idea deadline
I’ll be promoting mental and sexual health awareness through various campaigns throughout the
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year, working with local night clubs to ensure they provide a safe inclusive environment for students, and looking at developing safe spaces in the local community to make the streets safer.
Marcus Crawley Equality & Diversity Officer This year I’ll be working to make Black History Month and LGBT History Month even better than before through some really strong headline events – we’ve already got a few bookings that are really going to get people excited. I’ll also be working on ensuring minority
representation is continued and improved in our new democratic system.
Paul Gold Community Officer I really want to make sure students are getting value for money on local buses. I’ll also be looking to expand the Leave Leeds Tidy project to run throughout the year, with a focus on waste reduction and recycling, and I’ll be working with the Community Reps to support them and raise their profile. Pictured L to R: Paul, Marcus, Rachel, Tim, Elliot and Jack.
Argue in favour of your idea at the next forum meeting
Have more fun in your Halls
A decision is made
4 If 75% consensus is reached, the idea is rejected or accepted.
5 If no consensus exists, the idea passes to referendum where all students can vote on it. If your idea is successful, it will become part of union policy and its outcomes will be implemented.
Tim Mortimer Activities Officer
Elliot Jebreel Education Officer
I’ll be working to get more people involved in clubs and societies than ever before, as well as getting to know existing groups by trying out a new activity every week. I’ll also be making sure the achievements of clubs and societies are recognised and celebrated throughout the year, and supporting committees over the handover period.
I’ll be getting involved with a new and exciting campaign to encourage students and staff to work together more effectively. I’ll also be looking at whether the University’s promises to improve feedback are being fulfilled, and working to expand the I Love My Personal Tutor Awards to recognise the efforts of great lecturers too.
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
Get the most out of your new home by getting involved with your Residents’ Committee. We hold elections at the start of term and if you get on board you’ll be getting involved with running events for hundreds of people.You’ll work as part of a team to plan and run events, gaining great experience and having a lot of fun in the process. Last year there were balls, charity fundraisers, fêtes and an inter-hall sports competition organised throughout the year. Presidents of Residents’ Committees also have a wider impact representing residents on the Better Leeds forum, which meets twice a term. Have a say on community issues that affect students and local residents.You can nominate yourself to stand in the elections during Freshers’ Week at www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk or find out more about the role at your residence’s Welcome Event.
www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
T h e G i s t 31
INTERVIEW WITH... ELLEN & THE ESCAPADES
“ Y o u ’ d b e ama z e d a t h o w ma n y r i p e b a n a n a s y o u ca n g e t f o r 1 0 p. ”
P o p - f o l k q u i n t e t E lle n a n d t h e E s c a p a d e s f o r m e d i n L ee d s a n d , t h i s s u m m er , p l a y e d t h e J o h n Peel s t a g e a t Gl a s t o n b ur y a f t er w i n n i n g t h e 2 0 1 0 E m er g i n g T a le n t c o m p e t i t i o n . T h e y s p o k e t o t h e G i s t t o s h a re a fe w u n i v er s i t y m e m o r i e s a n d t ell y o u w h a t t h e y l o v e a b o u t L ee d s . W h a t ’ s y o ur lasting memory o f y o ur t i m e a t u n i v er s i t y ?
Chris: The euphoric feeling of handing in a big assignment. It used to be such a communion event. You’d have to queue 32 T h e G i s t
for ages to hand in your assignment to some little old lady who’d insist on stamping everything, it took forever. But the wait would be worth it as then you’d get your goal scoring celebration opportunity as you’d ran down the line of queuing friends tormenting
the others still stuck at the back. For a few seconds you’d feel on top of the world. By the second year they changed all hand-ins to online submissions. That’s when the magic died. Andy: The other day I saw this massively butch Hell’s Angels dude running www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
down the street, fending off the rain with a ladybird umbrella. Obviously there are other good memories, Leeds is a great city, but that tops it for me. If y o u h a d t o p i c k one gig memory fr o m L ee d s , w h a t w o ul d i t b e ?
Chris: Seeing a secret Corinne Bailey Rae gig of gospel and soul covers with her original band. People in the audience were crying, it was so spiritually moving. Andy: Me and Jeff went to see T-Model Ford which was pretty memorable, not for him though: there were signs everywhere saying ‘don’t buy drinks for the performer’ but he’d shout “JD TIME!” after each song and people would obediently top up his pint glass. He played for hours and must have had about four pints of the stuff, not bad for an 85 year old! I t ’ s a wa r m s u m m er ’ s d a y i n L ee d s . W h ere d o you spe n d i t?
Ellen: There are loads of nice parks around here... Hyde Park tends to be where all the students are and there are some cool vintage shops and cafes. If you fancy somewhere quieter with nice lakes you should visit Roundhay Park or Golden Acre. There are www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk
loads of things to do, the best thing is just to explore. There are some really nice other little towns around Leeds too. Andy: Erm, in a bar? Some of them have beer gardens…It’s sometimes nice to go out into the dales too and visit some of the quaint towns out there. If you make it as far as Masham, visit the Black Sheep and Theakstons breweries and make it worth the while. W h at ’ s i t l i k e p erf o r m i n g l i v e i n L ee d s ?
Chris: It’s a lot friendlier than some places we’ve been, there’s also so much live music in Leeds it’s ridiculous. There are your real community vibe venues, they’re my favourite places to play, and that’s where a lot of cool bands will play on their first tours. Ellen: Leeds is great for music, it’s really diverse so there are loads of different bands playing in different bars and venues. We like playing the folky acoustic kind of nights- there are quite a few good ones around. Andy: It’s always good to play to a home crowd as some of the people who come to see us have followed us since we first started, we’ve got to know a lot of promoters and sound guys too so most gigs
in Leeds are just like hanging out with your mates. A n y t h i n g el s e y o u wa n t t o s ay t o s t u d e n t s ju s t s ta rt i n g at t h e U n i v er s i t y o f L ee d s ?
Ellen: I’d say just make sure you venture out of the town centre and the obvious areas cos it’s a big place and there’s lots more to it. However, there is a ton of great live music and some really cool bars. Andy: I’d say it’s worth spending the time to get involved in the local music scene and not just go to the big selling gigs at the bigger venues. There’s loads of talent hidden just under the surface which goes unnoticed by a lot of people. Chris: Also most students miss the trick of using the city market and go for Tesco home delivery. Last thing of the day, if you’re brave enough, go haggle yourself a bargain from the locals, you’d be amazed how may ripe bananas for 10p you can get. Find out more about Ellen and the Escapades at ellenandtheescapades.com Photography by James Rhodes.
T h e G i s t 33
DIS C O V ER
LEEDS
G ET OUT A ND A BOUT IN L EEDS ! To get you started we’ve listed some of the top things to do and places to visit when you arrive in Leeds. F ree Ar t G a ller y Walking around you’ll see art progress through time as you pass from room to room in the Leeds Art Gallery, where the last two centuries of British modern and contemporary art are housed in one building.
L ee d s C i t y Mu s e U m A great mix of information and education with six exhibitions across four floors makes the City Museum perfect for a rainy Saturday. Tr o p i c a l W o rl d A butterfly house, tropical fish displays and a desert full of meerkats will leave you feeling a long way from city life. If the weather’s good, round things off with a wander through Roundhay Park.
Shop shop shop! Leeds has endless boutique shops as well as its glorious high street to spend hours and thousands on! He a d f o r t h e h i ll s Ilkley and Ilkley Moor. An ideal place for walking, hiking, or enjoying a yummy Sunday lunch, Ilkey is a picturesque Yorkshire town, easily reached by train. He n r y M o o re Institute It’s only a decade old but it’s already earned national and international respect for unique visual arts
exhibitions and is situated right next to the Leeds City Art Gallery and Henry Moore Institute. H y d e P a r k P i c t ure House An impressive 95 years old, and the only gas-lit cinema remaining in the UK. Fully independent, it shows a unique mix of the latest film, art house and classics. We s t Y o r k s h i re S c ul p t ure P a r k Regarded as one of the finest combinations of art and stunning scenery in the country, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park offers stunning works spread across 500 acres of open space. We s t Y o r k s h i re Pl a y h o u s e Whether you’re after stand-up comedy or world class acting you won’t be short of entertainment. Xscape Leeds might not be listed in any skiing
holiday brochures, but don’t let that stop you! Xscape, in nearby Castleford, offers indoor ski slopes and a whole lot more. Get adventurous and give it a try. L ee d s L i v e Mu s i c Scene Leeds has a rich live music heritage, still strong today. The Who’s ‘Live at Leeds’ album earned a blue plaque for the Refectory on campus, but the venue has hosted big names for decades. K i r k s t a ll A b b e y Always a great option on a sunny day, Kirkstall Abbey offers plenty of green, open space centered on the old ruins. But events like the Leeds Shakespeare Festival and Classical Fantasia are what really bring the Abbey ruins to life. Start discovering things further afield through Give It a Go or visit www. leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/ thegist.
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T h i ng s you didn’t know a b o u t L ee d s . . .
1 There are over 250,000 students studying across the city of Leeds.
2 The city is home to 5 renowned theatres, 83 restaurants, 133 bars and pubs and 38 nightclubs.
3 The University of Leeds library is home to 2,780,000 books.
4 With 9,000 attendees, the Leeds Summer Ball is the biggest in the UK.
5 Chris Moyles, Jeremy Paxman, Alex Zane, Corinne Bailey Rae and Julian Barratt can all call Leeds their home.
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www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk