Verve Magazine - Autumn 2016

NT E D U T S TO E ID U G ’ S R E H S E LONDON CALLING - FR

LIFE

AUTUMN 2016

STUDENT

APPS

YOU DON’T WANT TO

MISS

PARTY ON! THE BEST NIGHTS OUT... AND STAYING SAFE

MAKING THE MOST OF UNI

Laura Ann Formby Journalist BA Journalism Second Year Nick Francis Journalist/ Photographer BA Film & Broadcast Production Third Year

Georgina Childs Design Assistant BA Digital Media Second Year

WELCOME BACK TO UNI!

A heart-felt welcome to London Metropolitan University! And if you are a returning student, welcome back!

I hope that each and every one of you has entirely enjoyed their summer - I know I have. Hopefully, you’ve had the break you needed and are now ready to begin a new academic year.

For this issue, we‘ve produced a London Met Survival Guide designed with every student in mind. We understand that you may be feeling a lil’ rusty after such a long break - or simply need some guidance as you make the giant transisition into uni life. So worry not - we’ve got you!

We have first-hand experiences from those who have started uni for the first time, both younger and more mature students. We also have loads of useful tips and tricks to help you make the most of uni, from budgeting and sexual health, to simply how not to get kicked out. And to really set you off on the right foot, we’ll show you the best student apps around.

We know uni can be an overwhelming experience at first, but be sure to listen to your lecturers, ask loads of questions and get involved in all LMU has to offer! Remember, these are supposed to be the best years of your life. So start off right and give it all you have. You’ll never regret it.

Have an amazing year and I’ll see you around! And if you want to get involved with all that Verve has to offer, drop us a line (see below).

VICTORIA PENNANT EDITOR BA JOURNALISM

ervemag az l: v i i a

JOIN THE VERVE TEAM

ndonme t . @lo ac . ne

Samantha Cain Graphic Designer BA Digital Media Graduate

I’M VICTORIA...

em

Patrice Winn Journalist BA Fashion Marketing & Journalism Third Year

HELLO!

uk

Leanne Carr Journalist BA Journalism Second Year

DISCLAIMER: All contributions included in this magazine are those of the writer ONLY and NOT those of London Met SU or its associated trademarks, websites and services. London Met SU does not necessarily endorse, support, sanction, encourage, verify or agree with any comments, opinions or statements or other content provided by users.

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DISCOVER THE CAREER MENTORING SCHEME

OLDER/YOUNGER STUDENT EXPERIENCES

9

5

GET FIT & ACTIVE AT THE LONDON MET GYM

22 IN THIS ISSUE...

5 6 11 12 13 21

STUDENT NIGHTS OUT VERVE’S TOP PICKS HANGOVER CURES GET YOUR HEAD BACK SEXUAL HEALING ADVICE TO STAY HEALTHY PLAGIARISM...

AND HOW TO AVOID IT ON THE COVER (INSERT) ALL ABOUT YOUR STUDENTS’ UNION SU LOVING INSTAGRAM TOP ACCOUNTS TO FOLLOW

www.londonmetsu.org.uk

22 23 24 26 28 30

AGE IS JUST A NUMBER YOUNGER AND MATURE STUDENTS TALK PARENTING STUDENT JUGGLING PARENTHOOD AND STUDIES STAR PROFILES FILM STUDENT/GRADUATE USEFUL APPS HELPING TO MAKE UNI EVEN BETTER STAY SAFE IN LONDON FROM YOUR BODY TO YOUR BIKE BUDGET YOUR LIFE AVOID BEING SKINT

facebook.com/londonmetstudentsunion

@LondonMetSU

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> WEDNESDAYS Every Wednesday at the Rocket.

Come along and join the Students’ Union Sports Teams for their weekly post-match social. Special deals for our #SeaofRed players.

It all kicks off with a huge sports themed ‘Frat Party’ on Wednesday, 5th October! See full Freshers’ Programme on page 7 for more info. events latest the For information follow: Facebook.com/londonmetevents Twitter:@londonmetevents

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Standup comedy from some of the best comedians on the circuit, including many big-name acts interested in trying out their new tour material.

5

W

e at Verve understand the trauma of a hangover. During your time here at London Met it’s a guarantee that a lot of you will experience this dreaded self-afflicted illness. Given that it is Freshers’ Week, and you’ll inevitably be going on a night out, we want to give you a few pointers on dealing with your dirty stinking hangover. Because let’s face it, there are no real cures but only ways to ease the symptoms.

Verve would like to remind you that guidelines recommend that men should not drink more than three-four units a day; while the average woman should not consume more than two-three. A small glass of wine is about 1.5 units and a pint of beer somewhere between two and three, while a shot is one unit of alcohol. It takes your body around one hour to break down one unit of alcohol.

Alcohol removes important fluids from the body. Drinking too much can lead to dehydration, which is what causes many of the symptoms of your nasty hangover. So go and get a pint of water before you do anything else.

Isotonic drinks such as Lucozade Sport and Powerade go further than water, as they’re designed to replace sugars and salts quickly.

That means not only will they hydrate you but they’ll give you energy as well. In addition, a sachet of Dioralyte works in a similar way by replacing lost salts and minerals.

Fruit juice also helps by providing lost energy, replacing minerals and kicking out toxins. Choose from multiple chains of juice bars around the capital, including CRUSSH, Boost, and Joe and Juice.

6

TOP TIPS TO GET YOUR LOST ENERGY BACK... * Coconut water is a lifesaver. It contains the five electrolytes found in the human body lost during drinking, while isotonic energy drinks contain just two of the much-needed electrolytes. Coconut water is particularly good if you feel sick - it’ll give you nutrition without having to eat anything. Likewise, if your hangover has you feeling a bit nauseous, a can of ginger beer or a ginger tea is great for settling your stomach. * If your tummy is not adverse to an onslaught of food, why not a greasy fry-up? It’s not an urban myth: those fatty acids in the sausages and bacon break down the alcohol in your liver, and eggs contain the chemical cysteine and taurine, which reverses liver damage and flushes out those nasty poisons. * Time Out recommends E Pellicci on Bethnal Green Road for a traditional greasy spoon café experience, but if you’re pinching pennies, you can’t go wrong with the £2.99 Wetherspoons full English brekkie. * If your stomach is too fragile to handle the Full English digestion process, try to down a thin broth. A miso or ramen soup is a good source of water, vitamins and minerals, which are full of healthy bacteria. Japanese and ramen restaurants abound in London, so you’re spoilt for choice. If you’re really skint, a packet of three Miso soups will cost you about £2.50 from your local large supermarket. Just add hot water. * Many people swear by the “hair of the dog”, or a little bit of what you had a lot of. We don’t. * It’s important to attend class. If none of these cures work, Verve recommends getting out of bed, taking an ibuprofen or a paracetamol-based remedy, and keeping yourself distracted from the fact the previous night you drank far too much, sang naked karaoke in front of a room of strangers, and vomited all over your landlady’s new carpet. Good luck!

By Patrice Winn

ADVERTISEMENT

EVEN BETTER LIBRARY OPENING HOURS

COMING SOON...

From Monday 3rd October, both Holloway (Learning Centre) and Aldgate Libraries will be open until midnight during term time Monday to Fridays - and on weekends from 11:00 to 19:00.

As well as e-books, e-journal collections via databases, print books and journals, we also have PCs, Macs and printer/copiers for you to use in a range of different study zones for group and silent work. We have introduced longer opening hours so please come and use the wonderful facilities.

Student Laptop Loan lockers have been provided by ISS for the Learning Centre outside the Cafe area on the ground floor (end of October), the Tower Building, Blue Met Lounge (end of September) and in Aldgate Library, Calcutta House (November 2016) These laptops will use the Google Chrome operating system for accessing Google Apps.

And now, both libraries have newly refurbished study rooms!

The second floor study rooms in Holloway Road Library were refurbished earlier this year with new Synergy desks installed, some comfy sofas, new chairs and artwork on the walls. Group study rooms are bookable for a two-hour period and are for students’ use only. The person who makes the booking must collect a key fob from the Holloway Library information desk to activate the booking.

Aldgate Library is boasting a new library social area and over ten study rooms for students to use for small group work. It also will soon have a 2D / 3D photography room and a dedicated drawing room with drawing desk for Cass students, which makes it an inviting place to work.

Come and have a look. Library staff are happy to help you and show you around. If you have any questions, feel free to ask a member of staff.

• The Learning Centre/Holloway Library lockers have a 36 bay Lapsafe Diplomat, which includes 24 lockers with 13” Toshiba Chromebooks and 12 lockers for charging your own device.

• The Blue Met Lounge Locker has 12 lockers with 11” Viglen Chromebooks.

• The Aldgate Library Student Lounge area on the Library 1st Floor CM1-N13 will have 12 lockers.

You will be able to borrow laptops or securely charge your own devices (Learning Centre Only) using your standard ID cards, as all loans are linked to the Library borrowing system. Loan periods will be for a four-hour period, and you can take them offsite or use them in any areas where you have access to WiFi. ISS has invested nearly £77,000 to offer these new services to students, which will hopefully enhance and improve your IT and learning experience.

For more information about using any of the libraries, please look at our webpages on the Student Zone: londonmet.ac.uk/library

LONDON MET GYM

Want your tired old body to match the sharpness of your finely tuned academic mind? Why not visit London Met’s onsite gym? It has to be the cheapest gym in the area, if not in all of London, and has a variety of classes available, as well as top-notch equipment. What are you waiting for?

London Met Fitness and Recreation aims to help build exercise and fitness into your daily life. As part of the Active Lifestyles programme, the gym offers a wide range of classes, from the recreational (such as badminton, spinning, table tennis, volleyball, Parkour and basketball) to the holistic (think yoga, aerobics, Capoeira and pilates). With two locations (at the Holloway Road Science Centre and Aldgate Central House), later opening times and a great range of equipment and fixed weight machines, it can help you on your journey to health and wellbeing.

V

The gym membership also includes unlimited access to timetabled classes, but if you are not a member then you can pay £4 per class or £10 for three classes. Fitness classes involve a large number of fun activities and exercises run throughout the week.

MEMBERSHIP COST: Student £72 General public £120 Alumni £120 Staff £10 a month (by salary deduction)

By LAURA FORNBY

All prices are pro-rata.

Membership valid until 30.09.2017.

Interested in joining? Follow these three easy steps: 1) Pay online via the shop or at the cashier’s desk in the Tower Building or Calcutta House.

2) Once you have paid, bring proof and ID to the gym, where they will make your membership card.

3) If you are a new member you are obliged to attend an induction to help you make the most of your facilities.

London Met wants to make sure their students and staff have easy access to their facilities. Fitness benefits students in many different ways: it makes you happy, helps you think, helps you gain confidence and - the most important benefit of all – keeps you healthy.

Visit http://www.londonmet.ac.uk/about/sport-and-fitness/ for more information.

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L

earning at university is a lot different to being taught at school. You’re an adult now and are expected to conduct yourself in a certain way. You have to be disciplined and selfmotivated and set yourself on the best path to succeed.

By Leanne Carr

R

emember: just because you’re paying to attend university, it doesn’t mean you can’t be kicked out for not following the rules and regulations.

They exist to help you achieve the best possible grade, and when you enrol you are entering into an agreement with the university, and also with Student Finance England.

Below are just a number of reasons that the agreement can be terminated: - Academic reasons - Academic misconduct - Not attending tuition regularly - You are not fit to practice in the relevant profession - Giving false or misleading information (even after enrolment) - Unapproved breaks in studies - Breaches of health and safety - If you don’t (or no longer have) the right to study in the UK. - By the Vice-Chancellor for any other good reason You can also be suspended or excluded from studying due to: - Non-academic misconduct (including as a precaution while investigations are under way) - Non-payment of tuition fees - Becuase you are not fit to study (including, as a precaution, while investigations are under way) Grades you receive in the first year don’t count towards your final

degree, but they are still extremely important. You still need to pass with at least a 40 percent pass mark, in most courses. They help you gauge how you are coping with the course and assignments and show you where you need to improve.

Passing is easily achieved by handing in assignments on time, engaging in lectures and seminars, and keeping up high attendance.

There will be some days where you feel tired, hungover or maybe a bit overwhelmed with the workload - but missing just one lesson can make you fall behind.

If you are genuinely unwell, then you will have the opportunity to catch up on any missed work by looking on Weblearn - the online resource for learning materials. But you’ll soon find that trying to take notes from an online document just isn’t the same as taking notes in class and being able to discuss things in person, with peers and lecturers.

If you feel like deadlines or assignments are becoming overwhelming, speak to a lecturer. Running away from the problem or making excuses as to why you can’t hand work in on time will not help. The university understands that life happens and extensions can be given in exceptional circumstances. Students can also apply for mitigating circumstances using an online form.

Remember – your lecturers and PATs (Personal Academic Tutors) are there to help. If you need advice, a sympathetic ear, or a kick up the behind, contact one of them today. The University also provides a free-to-use Counselling Service, with a friendly team, who can help if you have difficulties and if you want to fulfil your potential. Contact Student Services on 020 7133 2094.

SEXUAL HEALTH AT UNIVERSITY

O

ne of the great things about university is meeting new people. Making new relationships can also mean having new sexual experiences, which is made all that easier living in university halls or a shared flat.

Not having to sneak a partner in or out of their room in the early hours of the morning can be exciting - as long as those times are safe.

Safe sex is something that both men and women should exercise equal responsibility over. But everyone knows, sometimes that doesn’t always go according to plan...

By Leanne Carr

If you find yourself in a spot of bother when it comes to sexual health, contraception or unplanned pregnancies, the Archway Centre has lots of free, confidential services available.

The Centre is conveniently located just down the road from the Holloway Campus.

So if you need advice on contraceptive services and/or STI and HIV testing, just pop on by!

QUICK CHECK TESTING SERVICE Available for men and women who have no symptoms and wish to have a check-up for sexually transmitted infections only.

A Quick Check appointment includes testing for: Chlamydia and gonorrhoea HIV Syphilis Hepatitis (if indicated) You will be offered all tests suitable to someone without symptoms.

After you complete a self-assessment, a healthcare support worker will check and process the following tests: a urine test for men, a self-taken vaginal swab for women, a blood test and an instant HIV test result.

SEXUAL HEALTH OR CONTRACEPTION SERVICE Available for people who have symptoms, need treatment or require contraception.

To make an appointment telephone 020 3317 5252. For urgent appointments, talk to the receptionist.

No appointment is necessary if: You need emergency contraception You need post-exposure prophylaxis for sexual exposure to HIV (PEPSE) You have been sexually assaulted You are aged under 16 years (You will be seen by a doctor or a nurse in this appointment.)

CLINIC TIMES Telephone the clinic on 020 3317 5252 to make an appointment for sexual health or contraceptive services.

Monday 09:00-18:15 Tuesday 09:00-18:15 Wednesday 13:30-18:15 Thursday 09:00-19:15 Friday 09:00-15:15 Saturday 09:00-11:00 (contraception only) Thursday 15:00-16:30 YOUNG PERSON’S SEXUAL HEALTH CLINIC (UNDER 20S)

You will not be seen by a doctor or a nurse.

The sexual health clinic for young people (aged under 20) provides a full range of sexual health and contraception services.

If your test results are negative they will text message you in 7-10 days.

You don’t need to make an appointment, but spaces are limited.

If you have an infection, or they need to repeat one of your tests or obtain further information, they will contact you asking you to return to the service.

Monday 15:00-16:30 Tuesday 15:00-16:30 Wednesday 15:00-16:30 Thursday 15:00-16:30

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P

lagiarism comes in many forms.

Please be aware, also, that currently many “businesses” operate outside the uni selling students made-to-measure essays. If you are caught buying an essay from anyone, you’ll face expulsion from the uni.

Buying essays is a serious offence, and you should report any knowledge of this to your lecturer, who can contact the Student Casework Office for further advice.

London Met takes plagiarism very seriously, so the best advice Verve can give you whilst you spend your time here is: don’t do it. It’s not worth the repercussions (see http://student.londonmet.ac.uk/your-studies/student-administration/rulesand-regulations/academic-misconduct/).

Plagiarism is not as straightforward as you think. It’s not only passing off someone else’s work as your own. It can also include not properly citing quotations, forgetting to use appropriate quotation marks, not putting material used in your bibliography, and submitting previous work – or work written by another student – as your own.

Students plagiarise for a variety of reasons, including a lack of time, pressures coming from both inside and outside uni, and high stress levels. Some plagiarise inadvertently: what is considered okay in some countries is considered plagiarism here. If you are in doubt about whether your work is plagiarism-free, consult your lecturer (before you hand it in) and/or check Turnitin, the online uni plagiarism checker. Don’t forget: lecturers also have access to the system, so if you plagiarise, they will find out.

For help and advice with Mitigating Circumstances, Termination of Student Status, complaints, academic misconduct and other academic issues you can contact the Students’ Union: advocacy.su@londonmet.ac.uk For more helpful tips and advice on how to avoid academic misconduct, check out the Students’ Union ‘Heroes and Villains’ pages of our website.

London Met has an extensive range of penalties for dealing with all forms of Academic Misconduct, from plagiarism to collusion/collaboration to exam cheating. Depending on the category of academic misconduct, the penalties range from a formal reprimand to a failure in that particular assessment to failure in the module. At worst, it can result in expulsion from uni.

Very few students actually set out to plagiarise, but it often happens when students are unaware of what the offense actually is. You can avoid getting caught in the plagiarism trap by being aware of how to reference, use footnotes and make internal citations correctly. Again, when in doubt, ask your lecturer or visit the London Met StudyHub or CELT – before it’s too late.

By Patrice Winn

STUDENTS’ UNION Supporting students for a life-changing experience

SU

GUIDE 16/17

Make the most of your time at University. Get involved, have your say and join the #MetSUFamily! There really is something for everyone.

WHO ARE THE STUDENTS UNION?

The SU is a democratic organisation and registered charity, independent of the university. The SU is overseen by a Board of Trustees and supported by a team of elected officers and professional staff.

WHAT DO WE DO?

We are here to represent students’ views to the university through a number of channels, including elected Sabbatical Officers, Hub Committees, Student Council and Student Academic Representatives (StARs). We are also here to make your time at university more enjoyable, giving you opportunities to take part in social activities and enhance your skills.

FLORENCE ONWUMERE Faculty of Life Sciences and Computing Officer (President) @FlorenceMetSU TUNDE TOKI Guildhall Business and Law Officer (Campaigns and Activity) @TundeMetSU GEORGIA ROBINSON CASS Faculty of Art, Architecture and Design Officer (Media and Events) @GeorgiaMetSU BARBARA NTUMY Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities Officer (Deputy President, Welfare and Education) @BarbaraMetSU

I

n the last issue of Verve, we introduced our readers to Florence Onwumere and Barbara Ntumy, our Hollowaybased sabbatical officers who were ready to take on the world. This time we caught up with Tunde Toki and Georgia Robinson, your City campus-based officers.

The SU team have rolled up to SimpleGifts: Unitarian Centre for Social Action in Bethnal Green. The Centre helps the local community and runs programmes aimed at alleviating the effects of deprivation and improving social cohesion in areas around East London.

Everyone is in their old clothes ready for a day of volunteering, organised through the university volunteering service. Tunde (usually impeccably and stylishly dressed from head to toe) has even donned his shorts and t-shirt with roller in hand. “I love painting,” Tunde smiles. It‘s a boiling hot day but this doesn’t stop the officers from getting stuck right in...

Hi, Tunde! Introduce yourself.

I’m the officer for the Business and Law School. I’m fun, I like

laughing, I like rugby, I’m into sports and music.

We’ve heard rumours of a hat collection...

I do have a collection of hats. I have a collection of most things actually, glasses, shoes... I actually don’t know the number but I think I have a whole wardrobe full of shoes. It just happened.

You’re in your first year. What made you want to stand for elections in the middle of your studies?

Basically it’s the drive, the flair for first of all making a positive impact wherever I am. So when I started in September last year I actually joined up with the Student Council. I was a StAR as well for my faculty, so I was always into helping out students.

Even in my previous university.

So you studied at another university?

Yeah, in Ireland. I was the SU events person there. I did my first degree at Dublin City in Business Information system with French. Here, I got encouraged by Eddie [SU staff member] to stand. I went for it and I won!

Georgia, introduce yourself.

Hello. I am Georgia and I am the SU officer for the Cass, or Cass School of Art, Architecture and Design. I am currently leading on media and events.

Something interesting about yourself?

I am a mother with two children, I think that is the most interesting thing in my life right now.

Interesting fact?

I love to cook. I’m from Nigeria. I’m a real lover of African and Nigerian food. I can make rice dishes, I can because I was the first-born, and my mum always put me in the kitchen!

One thing to achieve this year?

To focus on student engagement at the university. Whether we’re talking about sports, various societies or the SU, my main goal is to increase the engagement of students. Right now students are coming for the lectures and going home, so we are trying to change this. It will help students academically and socially and also push up the spirit of the university. At the moment, everyone is doing their own thing. We are trying to make university life feel more like a family.

What are you looking forward to?

As my role as an officer I’m interested in different things such as setting up events, working with international students, and supporting the Green Impact campaign. But most of all I’m looking at bringing all students together.

Why should students get involved with the SU? It’s so funny….there is more to the Students’ Union than you realise. If you ask most students, they probably don’t know what we do, that we can help, for example, with academic appeals. We are your voice, we are here to work for you. We are in office for you. We are the first point of contact. If you see me walking down the corridor don’t be afraid to stop me, jump on me, and say hi.

Feel free to find me in the SU and make sure you get involved. * Look out for Afrobeats Session with Tunde on Verve Radio.

What are you looking forward to this year?

I intend to be a bridge of communication between the university and the students. I know it’s a challenge but I’m up for that. I am working with a wonderful team that has loads of fantastic ideas. I’m ready to go!

What is the main thing you want to achieve?

Oh, there are so many...I want to achieve smooth sailing for the students coming together and creating the One Campus One Community harmoniously. And I think it is attainable.

What have you been up to so far since you took office?

It’s been like a roller-coaster. We have been going going going going! There has been a lot of information and training, but it has been very powerful. We have been talking about going forward, and really it’s all preparation right now. We are just getting ready to greet the students.

Why should students get involved with the SU? I think that’s very important. Before I became an officer I didn’t fully understand the need for full participation, but now the importance of being involved has really hit home. There is so much on offer, and there is so much support for every single student out there. I think it’s vital for every student to know that being involved with the SU just creates a better experience at university - for themselves personally as well as for the community at large.

Any last comments?

We want to make London Met even greater. Let’s make it happen!

Adds Tunde: Shout out to my mum!

Now it’s time for the officers to get back to their painting.

At the end of the day the team are proud of their work. The corridor of the Unitarian Centre has been transformed from white to bright. The music is blasting, and even though they have been grafting all day, the officers’ spirits are high and there is still some energy for left over for dancing. This team is on a roll - and ready to go.

To volunteer in the local community, contact the University’s volunteering team at volunteering@londonmet.ac.uk.

See londonmet/ac/uk/careers.

DEMOCRACY & CAMPAIGNS Democracy is at the heart of the Students’ Union. We ensure student views are represented to the university and wider community.

Let your voice be heard! Get involved‌.

StARs Student Academic Representatives (StARs) are students elected by their peers to represent the voice of students on their course. StARs give students a voice in the decisionmaking process. They take up and act on concerns on behalf of students and provide feedback to the university.

Elections The SU holds annual elections for sabbatical officer positions and Hub Committee members for each faculty.

Officers stand for a period of one year to be the full-time representative voice of students to the university.

VOTE VOTE VOTE: Look out for our elections in March and make sure you have your say.

ALSO: Join our campaigns, come along to Student Council and our General and Annual Meetings.

Student Council The Student Council is a democratic body for students to discuss matters of interest and concern. Its role is to represent student opinion and issues to the Union and university, decide on policy direction and hold the elected officers to account. It is made up of students who represent a number of constituencies from across the university.

ACADEMIC ADVICE The Students’ Union is here to assist you with academic and course-based issues and difficulties that may arise at university.

This may include dealing with an allegation of academic misconduct, suspensions and/or termination, complaints, mitigating circumstances, applications and other appeals.

In the nicest way possible, we hope you never need us. But if you do, our specialist advisors are on hand: advocacy.su@londonmet.ac.uk Stay ahead and find out how to be a good scholar: Visit our Heroes and Villains section of our website: http://www.londonmetsu.org.uk/advice/

Make your time at university more memorable and enjoyable with London Met Students’ Union (and gain some skills in the process to make yourself stand out from the rest…)

VERVE MEDIA We have an amazing, dedicated student media team who are running our student radio and magazine. Our media is growing and we want you to join us!

VERVE RADIO 2.0

Verve Radio is the sound of London M et and can now be heard in your social spaces! You can al so listen online at www.ververadio.co .uk and from the lo ndonmet app and on mixcloud.

We are always on th e lookout for new pr esenters and music researchers. If you have an interest in radio, whether on ai r or behind the scenes, come join us.

Contact verve radio@london met.ac.uk

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY: FRIDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER. VERVE TAKEOVER NIGHT AT THE ROCKET

VERVE MAGAZINE Student editors, photographers, writers and designers put together our magazine from start to finish. If you would like to write for the magazine, have ideas for content or are interested in the creative side, come and find out what it’s like to get involved in a print publication and get some real editorial experience. vervemagazine@londonmet.ac.uk

Verve magazine is now online!

This year we are launching our brand new website. For all the latest London Met gossip, news and reviews from our very own students you need: www.vervemagazine. co.uk

CLUBS & SOCIETIES SOCIETIES

The SU supports a range of social cultural, faith and academic student-led societies. If you can’t find what you like you can set up your own….put on events, and meet like-minded students who share your interests, or try something new!

SPORTS TEAMS

Do you play football, rugby, basketball or see yourself as a wannabe cheerleader? The Students’ Union run team sports at the university.

Join the #SeaofRed, compete in the BUCS league and take part in intramural sport competitions.

EVENTS We put on a number of events throughout the year including trips, parties, award ceremonies, talks, meetings and forums.

Look out for: Black History Month events, SU Meet and Greet - coming soon!

COME AND FIND US! Our SU office is staffed by students who know all there is to know about being a student. So pop in, say hi and ask away....

Main Reception: TMG-75, Red Zone, Holloway, open 10:00 studentsunion@londonmet.ac.uk 0207 133 4171 www.londonmetsu.org.uk

DISCOUNT CARDS One great perk of being a student is the discount cards! Don’t miss out, get your NUS Extra Card, 18+ Student Oyster Card and 16-25 National Rail Card.

KEEP UP TO DATE For all the latest officer news and antics, as well as the latest information on what’s going on around campus, add us on snapchat: londonmetsu

londonmetsu

And of course... londonmetstudentsunion londonmetsu londonmetsu

Are you bored of the usual Kim K, Beyonce, Justin Bieber, RiRi stuff? For a social media breath of fresh air, Verve has picked out our favourite quirky, insightful, hit the nail on the head instagram accounts to follow. No selfies allowed...check them out for yourself. Your timeline will thank you.

1. @Waverider #CelebrityReactions

8. @Miserable_men “...that went shopping. It’s a global epidemic”. Hilarious.

2. @Fashiondads “Fathers on Fleek”

9. @F*ckjerry Summing up life perfectly. Nodding at all the posts like ‘yeah’.

3. @Baddiewinkle Stealing your man since 1928. Wow.

10. @Passengershaming Think badly behaved passengers, unflushed toilets and other travel fails.

4. @Satiregram Another picture of my cat sleeping on my bed.

11. @Betches Meme heaven for all you betches out there. betches out there

5. @Mydaywithleo Celebrities + Stop Motion = Strange fascination.

12. @Craptaxidermy If you’re vegan, look away now...

6. @Marniethedog Tongue not in cheek.

13. @NatGeo Does what it says on the tin.

7. @Balvenieboy Patton Oswolt, comedian actor captures amusing, random stuff

14. @Tindernightmares Worst chat up lines EVAH.

By Nick Francis Verve’s favorites were selected from Rolling Stone: the-100-best-instagram-accounts

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IS STARTING UNIVERSITY EASIER AS A MATURE STUDENT? VERVE INTERVIEWED TWO FIRST-YEARS OF DIFFERENT AGES TO FIND OUT...

By Leanne Carr

CHARLOTTE JENNIFER GREY WALKER

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HARLOTTE 19, IS STUDYING ARCHITECTURE AND WILL BE GOING INTO HER SECOND YEAR THIS SEPTEMBER.

Charlotte is originally from Oxford but moved to Newcastle-upon-Tyne when she was nine. When she moved to London she worried most about the cost of living, especially rent and travel.

But she also had lots of things to look forward to. “The thing I was most excited about was living in such a big city with so many people and amazing places to visit so easily,” she said.

“My best moments from my first year were basically all the social events, like freshers’ week and the amazing people I met there. I loved the Rocket parties, getting involved in the sports teams, watching the rugby games and the great nights out in central London.”

First year at university isn’t all fun and games, though. Organising her time and getting a part-time job were just a few things Charlotte wished she had done sooner. Meeting deadlines and sorting out accommodation for the second year have been some of the most stressful things she had to deal with.

As she prepares to start her second year, she has kept an optimistic attitude. “I’m not really looking forward to people moving on during or after the summer as they finish their courses or go on to other universities but I’m sure we’ll all still meet up and go out together,” she said.

“Plus there will be a load more people to meet at the freshers’ events this September!”

CARL JONES

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ARL, 55, IS STUDYING JOURNALISM AND DIGITAL MEDIA. HE IS GOING INTO SECOND YEAR IN SEPTEMBER BUT WILL BE CHANGING HIS COURSE TO BA JOURNALISM.

Carl was born in Penmaenmawr, North Wales and moved to London in 1984.

As a mature student Carl was “fairly worried” about starting university but what he thinks he may have lacked in his educational background he made up for in life experiences.

His wife and two grown children are very supportive of his new venture although at times home life has been difficult. Carl can sometimes find commuting, university and general life tiring. But if he could give one piece of advice to new students he would reassure them “not to stress, it’s not that bad”.

There have been highs and lows in Carl’s first year and being let down by other students during a group assignment has been the reason for him changing courses. In other modules, he said, he was able to use his general knowledge in discussions to “surprise” both his peers and lecturers alike.

Mature students may find they are having to support themselves through university - but the help is out there. “I think the university offers a lot of support. The question is: do mature students make use of these resources?” Carl said.

FIND ALL THE INFORMATION YOU NEED REGARDING SUPPORT, LOANS AND BURSARIES FROM HTTP://WWW.LONDONMET.AC.UK/ABOUT/STUDENTSERVICES/ADVICE-AND-WELL-BEING/ FUNDING-AND-MONEY-ADVICE/

“ COURAGE IS WHAT MAKES A PARENT GO BACK TO STUDYING “

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heree Codling is 39-year-old Health and Soc ial Policy student at London Metropolitan University. She is also a sing le parent to two teenagers: a 13-year-old daughter and a son, aged 19.

“Going to university after working and being a mum takes courag e.

It is all about courage, so don’t be scared, even though it can be tough,” says Sheree.

“I found building relationships hard,” she admits. “I came here just to study, but you need to make friends, that what I have learned.”

Students her age have advantages, she says, as they have different life experiences. They know how to act in certain situations, they know when to Although her first love is fashion, being a practical mum she didn’t keep quiet and listen, and they know believe fashion was “sustainable” as a career. “People think you will the meaning of respect. get into fashion and make clothes for some big star and make She went to university twice before, but her timetables clashed with her son’s nursery schedule. Being a single parent Codling couldn ’t cope, so she gained work as a healthcare assistant.

and become famous, but it doesn’t work like that,” she says.

it big,

Codling says her degree should open lots of doors, as she enjoys relating to a variety of people. But when she told her daughter that she was going back to uni, the teen was not convinced.

Younger students don’t always understand how lucky they are, she says. They need to learn to study hard and not waste money , especially if their parents are paying for their degree. They need take their courses seriously and work hard.

“Where will I go and what will I do when you are at university?” she asked.

Her own uni experience has been difficult financially, especially in the summer, when her loan doesn’t stretch that far. That is when the panic has set in.

Codling, who used to be a life coach, says that being a single parent is tough. Everyone needs support from someone you love, both mentally and physically, and when you’re on your own, it’s hard to get it.

At times, she thought that maybe she was too old to be a studen t, and questioned whether she was academically ready for the course .

“But you just have to buckle down and work harder,” she says.

That said, she still makes time to enjoy life. “I love raves, we are human and we need to interact with others and have a laugh,” she says, adding that she finds it hard to mingle at uni as she likes to keep her private life separate.

“I am okay, because I had the courage. So to other parents out there, don’t be scared, have the courage and go for it. Pick a course that will get you places.”

By Laura Formby

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Anika Chiaventone graduated from London Met in 2010 and since then has become a big name in the YouTube world. She has been mentoring current student, Nick Francis, for the last two years.

This mentoring opportunity was set up through the University’s Career’s mentoring programme.

It’s a service that gives students the chance to be paired with an experienced professional in their chosen sector. Verve talked to both Anika and Nick to find out about their experiences.

Anika Chiaventone Business Operations lead for YouTube Spaces in EMEA Company/Organisation: YouTube/Google

What path did you take since graduating from London Met, and how has this led to your current role?

I graduated at London Met with a degree in Film and Broadcast Production, with the goal of working in the film industry. I was lucky and was offered a job at a creative agency right after I graduated and continued to expand my production skills. In my spare time I was looking for small projects I could produce and film, such as documentaries for NGOs and small corporate videos, which ultimately led me to my next job as a production coordinator for Media Trust, a production company focusing on documentaries for NGOs. I wanted to pursue my dream of working in feature film and therefore moved to the US, where I was given the opportunity to work on not only two feature films, but also on TV shows, such as ‘Revolution’, ‘Sleepy Hollow’ and ‘Eastbound and Down’.

After two years abroad I wanted to come back to the UK and through connections in the industry I heard about an available position as a production coordinator at the YouTube Space London. I got offered the job and since then I managed to get hired directly by Google and have now been promoted to Business Operations lead for all of the YouTube Spaces in Europe.

What is a typical day in your role like?

No day is ever the same.

Taking care of YouTube Space operations in London, Berlin and Paris means I am constantly tasked with a variety of projects. On average my day starts by checking in with the studio managers and ensuring we are within budget on all of our programmes. I will usually have a coffee chat with our vendor management company to discuss feedback on freelancers and any issues within the team. I spend a great deal of my time working on how to improve our data tracking and visualisation and as such I work closely with our engineers and developers in the US. In addition I manage all Space contracts, including creative partnerships with movie studios and TV networks, set construction, creative partnerships, vendor SOWs, and loan agreements with Production Equipment Manufacturers (i.e. Red, Canon, Sony, Lawo).

Tell us about YouTube space?

The YouTube Spaces are focused on supercharging the next generation of storytellers. We run eleven global Spaces that help foster loyal creator communities and inspire quality and experimentation in production-- all free of charge to our partners. YouTube creators can produce their content in our top-of-the-range production facilities and network during our events. Additionally we offer production and channel improvement workshops.

Any tips to help our readers get into the creative industries?

My number one tip is to never give up on that dream to be working in the creative industry! And secondly, use every opportunity you have to network; this industry is all about who you know and not so much about what you know.

Nick Francis Film and Broadcast Production 2014 - 2017 I’m a 3rd year Film and Broadcast Production Student who’s been living in London for three years. In the second year of my degree I took it upon myself to start a small production business named Bespoke Insight Media.

Tell us about your business?

Initially, it was just an alias I worked by, as it sounded more professional than going by my own name. But with its successful growth in clients I decided to bring in some extra people and invested heavily in essential equipment. Bespoke Insight Media specialises in a variety of services, including filming, photography, digital media design, sound for media, and editing film/photography.

How did you start it up?

The idea for the business came as a result of advice through the university’s Career Mentoring Programme, and my link-up with Anika. Every few weeks we would meet and she would give me insights into areas and topics of the film industry of my choosing. During one of my sessions I expressed interest in working for myself as a freelance filmmaker too, which Anika then advised and steered in developing. Since then, I have had the opportunity to film at the YouTube Space London facilities, as well as work with a fairly impressive client list including the likes of the English National Opera.

How do you manage your time?

When doing a lot, often, managing time can be a nightmare sometimes. What helps me manage my time best is just keeping organised with bookings and deadlines. My calendar on my phone is essential for this. Everything I do that consumes some time goes in my calendar, and that way it’s all logged and I don’t have to worry about forgetting stuff. Setting up reminder alerts gives me enough forewarning of what’s coming up too, if, for example if I need to head to location for filming it gives me time to prepare the equipment I need and make sure everything is charged and packed and ready to go.

What would you like to do in future?

I would like to build a career in writing and directing, so this year especially I really need to start to balance this in more, between my degree and work. I want to make sure I have more film work to showcase when approaching financiers and/ or production companies for work when I graduate.

Any tips for students who want to start their own business?

My biggest piece of advice is what Anika said: to network. Networking isn’t something that is paid enough attention to within a lot of industries yet it’s an integral ingredient to success. All my work this last year has come as a result of my networking, so I can personally vouch for its use and purpose. And visit the Careers Service for great advice.

CONTACT THE UNIVERSITY’S CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY SERVICE FOR FURTHER ADVICE ON THE CAREERS MENTORING PROGRAMME. The careers and employability team can also help you with: - Job search and careers planning - Creating a CV or completing an application form - Practicing interview techniques and online selection tests - Identifying your skills and developing self-awareness http://student.londonmet.ac.uk/jobs-and-employment/career-and-employability-advice/ IN ADDITION YOU CAN ALSO ACCESS - Workshops and events - Employability Award - Volunteering Opportunities - Employment opportunities (jobshop) http://student.londonmet.ac.uk/jobs-and-employment/finding-work--job-shop/

DEPOP Being skint may be one of the downsides of living the student lifestyle, but Depop can help you make some quick cash by helping you to “buy, sell and share millions of unique items,” according to its website. Take a picture of your item on your phone, list it on your Depop account, share it on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, and wait for someone to snap it up. As they say, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.

USEFUL STUDENT APPS

UNiDAYS Being a student has its perks as well as responsibilities. Most good retailers and high street chains offer in-store discounts, while the UNiDAYS app gives you student discount access online. The app, partnered with some of the biggest brands in clothing, technology, stationery and food, can also be flashed at the till, no student card required.

Everyone knows that students have a lot to juggle, and it’s hard to take your commitments seriously when you are constantly late for important appointments, such as lectures and seminars. So if getting from A to B is an issue, why not let modern technology help...

By Patrice Winn

CITYMAPPER

ALARMY

UBER

London is massive. There are 8.5 million of us living in this crowded metropolis, so imagine what that does for our already congested public transportation system. Citymapper to the rescue! This app calculates the quickest bus, tube, overground, car and walking routes you need to get from one place to another. The live app - continuously updated for disruptions to your routes - is available in 12 languages.

If you find getting out of bed in the morning practically unfeasible, we have the app for you. Alarmy: Sleep if You Can promises to wake you up in plenty of time for that early lecture. It demands that you fulfill a self-set job before you can turn the damn thing off – like taking a photo of the outside of your front door, or feeding the rats.

Designed to keep you on your toes – and in class on time.

Uber is a remarkably simple app.

Set your pickup location, enter your destination and request your ride.

It’s cheaper than a black cab, and usually you can find a ride within minutes, if not seconds. There’s a bonus advantage of knowing your driver’s basic information for security reasons, as well as splitting the journey fare with friends - or others - who have an Uber account.

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(C) LONDON METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY

By Leanne Carr Cycling to university can be a great way to save money on travel and helps to keep you fit and healthy. On the other hand, bike theft is rife in London and even though there are lots of places around uni to lock your bike up while you’re in lectures, following these tips on keeping your bike secure will help prevent any unwanted theft. Better safe than sorry!

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BIKE PARKING There is cycle parking across the university for your bike.

Details are available here: http://student.londonmet.ac.uk/ life-at-london-met/health-and-wellbeing/environmental-sustainability/

USE MORE THAN ONE LOCK If your wheels aren’t locked to something, they can easily be removed. The same applies with the frame. A good technique is to lock the wheel to the frame and then to the bike rack. Do the same for the front and back wheel and use D-locks as they are harder to cut through.

CUSTOMISE YOUR BIKE Use stickers, paint, or accessories to customise your bike - and then take a picture of it. A lot of bikes that are stolen will end up on websites like Gumtree and eBay. If your bike has distinguishing features you can prove it’s yours.

INSURE IT If your bike is precious to you or worth a few quid, getting insurance for it really is the best form of security. London Cycling Campaign, which the uni is a corporate member of, can give you discounted insurance and free public liability insurance. Contact sustainability@londonmet.ac.uk

The university offers free bike maintenance and marking.

See facebook.com/LondonMetCycling.

LONDON CAN BE SCARY SOMETIMES. HERE ARE SOME TIPS FROM THE METROPOLITAN POLICE AND VERVE TO KEEP YOURSELF SAFE WHEN YOU’RE OUT AND ABOUT, ESPECIALLY IF YOU’RE NEW TO THE BIG SMOKE!

• Try to avoid walking alone at night, but if you must, don’t take any dodgy shortcuts. Stick to public areas where you could alert a passerby if you find yourself in danger.

• Never walk around at night with your headphones in. It reduces your attention to your surroundings.

• Be careful of having your drink spiked in bars and clubs. Don’t leave your drink unattended.

• When using an ATM, check to see if the machine has been tampered with by looking at the card insertion point. Shield the keypad from others and don’t use ATMs in dodgy areas.

• London is the phone-theft capital of the UK. Moped phone theft is rampant around the city. Keep your phone out of sight when travelling.

• Always wait for your bus in a well-lit area.

• If you are travelling alone at night on the bus, sit downstairs. If you are travelling on the tube or train, pick a carriage where there are other passengers.

• If somebody sits next to you who is making you feel uneasy, move to another seat or get off at the next station and wait for the next train. If you are victim to any incident, crime or antisocial behaviour whilst travelling with TFL, it is so important that you report it. Around 15% of female Londoners have experienced unwanted sexual behaviour on the transport network, and 90% do not report it because they do not think the situation was serious enough. Call the British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016 if you want to report any sexual offences discreetly.

• Never use an unlicensed mini-cab! It is illegal for a taxi driver to approach you for a fare. If you’re struggling to find a cab office text CAB to 60835 to receive the numbers of licensed mini and black cab firms in the area you are texting from. A text costs 35p plus your standard network message.

Overseas and 3 networks should text the street name and partial postcode to +44 (0)7797800229.

By Patrice Winn

SKINT STUDENT

TIME TO BUDGET! Starting university can be daunting and moving to London can be challenging for those new to the capital. Most students will be leaving home for the first time, which means paying for rent and bills and still having enough money left over for food and the odd party. Here’s a list of how to help your money go further.

1. USE YOUR STUDENT LOAN WISELY! When your loan drops in at the beginning of the term it can be very, very tempting to buy that handbag you’ve been dreaming about all summer, or start popping bottles down the club. But don’t succumb. A lot of student accommodation will ask for a term’s rent in advance, which will take most of your loan anyway.

What you do with the rest is crucial. Work out how many weeks you have at uni and divide the money equally - then stick to that budget. Having £40 a week to spend for 10 weeks is a lot nicer than blowing it all in the first couple of weeks then scrimping and saving towards the end of term!

2. SMART SHOPPING AND COOKING Learning to cook and trying out different recipes is a crucial step for many uni students. Cooking for one W can seem like a chore sometimes, but cooking in bulk and freezing some of your meals for another day will save you time and money. Stews, casseroles, curries and soups can all be made in large batches, following plenty of easy recipes online. Shopping in stores like Aldi and Lidl will help make your money go further.

3. WALK The underground and bus services in London are excellent (most of the time) but costs can add up over time, even with a Student Oyster Card. When you first move to London, have a walk around your local area. You will be surprised how close some of

the underground stations are to each other. You may even be able to walk to university. Having to get up half an hour earlier doesn’t seem too bad, especially when you could potentially save up to £30 per week on travel.

4. NIGHTS OUT A huge part of university is the social aspect. Yes, there will be lots of parties and no, you might not be able to afford to go to all of them. At the beginning of the year, have a look at what events are coming up and buy your tickets early to get discounts. If you have a MET card you can get discounted drinks at The Rocket, and hundreds of other London bars offer student discounts. Buses in London run 24 hours and aren’t as scary as everyone makes out - and there are always safe, licensed mini-cabs (see previous page).

5. UNI ESSENTIALS If essential textbooks aren’t available in the library or as ebooks, you might be tempted to skip purchasing them due to cost. Don’t. Most textbooks can be found secondhand online (Amazon and ebay are best) at a fraction of the price. Alternatively, club together with fellow students to share the burden..

By Leanne Carr

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