FRESHERS’ GUIDE 2010
INTRODUCTION TO UBU
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
/welcome to bristol! Congratulations on achieving a place at one of the UK’s most popular and prestigious universities. You’re about to embark on some of the most enjoyable and life-changing times you will ever have! I’m certain that your time in Bristol will give you life-long friends and memories, and might even reshape your perspective on life.
HELLO! /index 01 INTRODUCTION TO UBU... / 4 THE UNION MEET THE SABBS THE BUILDING BACK TO YOU
02 DO IT!......................................... / 16 RAISING AND GIVING STUDENT COMMUNITY ACTION STUDENT MEDIA SOCIETIES SPORTS CLUBS
03 LOOKING AFTER YOU ...... / 42 WELFARE EDUCATION STUDENT REPS YOU AND YOUR DEGREE YOUR HOME FROM HOME COMMUNITY AND LIVING EPIGRAM GUIDE TO FRESHERS’
04 GUIDE TO BRISTOL .......... / 60 WELCOME TO BRISTOL SECRET BRISTOL BY EPIGRAM MUST SEE BRISTOL GETTING AROUND
This guide has been produced for UBU by Magpie Comms.
My job as President is to represent you to the University and the outside world, as well as to make sure everything the Students’ Union does is centered around what you want. For now, I can only offer a bit of advice: get involved! These days, employers look for more than just a degree, they want to see that you’ve used your time at university wisely. Fortunately, you can have a lot of fun doing that – so join a society, play sport, volunteer, go fundraising, and even try representing your fellow students as a student rep or student union officer. The Students’ Union is here to make sure you get the best out of your time at university, so remember that you can always come to us with your comments, concerns and queries. You can visit me on the 4th floor of the Students’ Union building, or feel free to email me. I look forward to hearing from you and wish you all the best for the year ahead!
/James Ashton-Bell /Students’ Union President // ubu-president@bristol.ac.uk
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 3
INTRODUCTION TO UBU
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
ABOUT YOUR STUDENTS’ UNION Your Union The University of Bristol Students’ Union (UBU) is at the heart of the student experience. At its centre are six elected student Sabbatical Officers, and a number of Part-time Officers, whose role is to represent your views and needs. Every University of Bristol student is a member of the Union and we’re really excited to be welcoming you in October!
1.
We’re here to... ++ Provide you with social, sporting, recreational and volunteering opportunities ++ Help you meet new people and explore new interests ++ Represent your voice on issues that affect you to the university and beyond ++ Give you the advice and support you need during your time here ++ Enable you to develop your skills and leadership through our activities programme
What to do beforeyou arrive...
Put the date of the Freshers Fair in your diary. This is the biggest and busiest event in the Freshers calendar, where you can experience everything that the Union and city has to offer : 7th & 8th October - Students’ Union. featuring Radio 1 DJ Nick Grimshaw, it will sell out so don’t miss your chance - get your tickets before you get here at ubu.org. uk/tickets
3. Sign up to the official Facebook group - follow the link at bristolfreshers.com
before you arrive. www.nusextra.co.uk.
++ www.ubu.org.uk
/national union of students (nus)
Our Union is an affiliated and founding member of the NUS, who work to promote, defend and extend the rights of all students at a national level, as well as supporting our Union’s actions locally. The NUS is our national voice as a student body and we are directly involved in shaping their message.
4 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
This Guide highlights a whole range of ways that you can take part, meet new people, try new things, seek support and make the most out of your time at university.
/join a society
Our Do It! Hub hosts 176 different societies covering every sort of activity and interest - but if a society doesn’t exist for your favourite things in life, you can create your own! Find out more on p.23. “My involvement with societies has allowed me to meet new people outside my usual social circle and being a Society President has given me plenty to talk about on job application forms” A Society President
/take part in sports
2. Get your Freshers’ Ball tickets! With an amazing line-up
4. Follow us on Twitter – @UBUnews 5. Get your NUS Extra card to take advantage of discounts
INTRODUCTION TO UBU
Whether it’s playing for fun, competing against some of get the best in the involved! country, turn to pg 24 for our or even huge list of societies! trying something completely new (skydiving or Ultimate Frisbee for example!) join 3500 fellow students and take part via the Do It! Hub Turn to p.36.
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
/be a /vote for representative change ++ Student Reps This is a great opportunity to make a difference to your course, sit on University committees and develop forums for student/tutor discussions. For more info see page 48. ++ Elections Anyone can be a Sabbatical Officer or Part-time Officer, but each year it‘s up to you to decide who you want to represent you, who you think will do the best job for you, and who will help make your time here the best it can be. Make sure you grill the candidates, and make sure you have your vote. Elections take place online, and are held in March, but trust us - you’ll know about it!
/make a difference
++ Volunteering We love Bristol so we’ve developed opportunities to volunteer, meet new people and develop your skills in a range of community projects. Go to p.18 to find out more. ++ Raise & Give (RAG) With one of our biggest events programmes and over 2500 members, you can raise money for local, national and international charities whilst having a lot of fun in the process! p.16.
We’re here to represent you and work on your behalf to ensure you get the best possible student experience. Last year’s changes included lobbying for extended library opening hours and stocking fair trade products in our cafe and shop. Make sure you have your say via: ++ Student Council Where your elected officers regularly meet to discuss how they can continually work to better the student experience. Any student can attend and put forward things they’d like discussed. Go to www.ubu. org.uk/your-union to find out more. ++ Change One Thing www.changeonething.org.uk is an innovative website that lets students submit, vote and discuss their ideas of how they would “Change One Thing” at Bristol University. It’s really easy to use, and anyone can submit an idea. Any Ideas that get enough votes get put into action. ++ Annual General Meeting Watch out for this in February.! This is one of the most important events in the student calendar when you and your friends can get together and vote on the things you’d like to see change during your time at Uni. You can also submit issues for fellow students to vote on.
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 5
INTRODUCTION TO UBU
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
INTRODUCTION TO UBU
Student Sabbatical Officers are here to represent YOU!
/Tom Steward /Welfare & Equality /Bono Vincent /Sport & Health
MEET YOUR Sabbs
/Andy Hollings worth /Education
6 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
/Amelia Parsons /Community /Adam King /Activities
Responsible for: Keeping the SU grounded in what students want Contact me on: 0117 954 5864 ubu-president@bristol.ac.uk Where to find me: My Office, on the 4th Floor of the Students’ Union Studied: Politics Lived in: Wills Hall My Favourite Society/Club: Spotlights I bet you didn’t know... I was born in South Africa My big plan for this year: Building better links between the SU and Sport/Society Leaders. /Andy Hollingsworth /Education
Responsible for: All things Educational - Student Reps, assessment and feedback through to blackboard and academic appeals Contact me on: 0117 331 3508 ubu-education@ bristol.ac.uk Where to find me: Just Ask, on the 4th Floor of the Students’ Union Studied: Maths & Philosophy Lived in: Durdham Hall My Favourite Society/ Club: SCA & Northern Soc I bet you didn’t know... Five of the last six sabbatical teams have included former Maths/ Philosophy students. We get around! My big plan for this year: Connecting Student Reps, the University and the Students Union to ensure students speak with a clear, consistent voice.
/Tom Steward /Welfare & Equality
/Bono Vincent /Sport & Health
/James Ashton-Bell /President
/James Ashton-Bell /President
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
Responsible for: Sport & Health Contact me on: 0117 954 5874 ubu-sport@bristol.ac.uk Where to find me: Do It! Hub, on the 4th Floor of the Students’ Union Studied: Engineering Mathematics Lived in: Badock Hall My Favourite Society/Club: Hockey I bet you didn’t know... Josh Lewsey, Matt Lucas, James Blunt and Lembit Opik all attended Bristol University My big plan for this year: Run an enjoyable year of Intramural sport.
/Amelia Parsons /Community Responsible for: Representing students within the community (that covers housing, transport, crime, ethical and environmental issues and working with the council and local residents groups) Contact me on: 0117 331 3503 ubu-community@bristol.ac.uk Where to find me: Just Ask, on the 4th Floor of the Students’ Union Studied: Mechanical Engineering Lived in: Manor Hall My Favourite Society/Club: Fairtrade Society I bet you didn’t know... I lived in the USA for 4 years My big plan for this year: To improve the relationship between students and the wider community and help them to work constructively together.
Responsible for: Promoting welfare issues to all students and ensuring under-represented groups are treated equally Contact me on: 0117 954 5881 ubu-welfare@bristol.ac.uk Where to find me: Just Ask, on the 4th Floor of the Students’ Union Studied: Neuroscience Lived in: Wills Hall My Favourite Society/Club: Change Ringers I bet you didn’t know... I’m growing my own tea My big plan for this year: Create a system of welfare campaign volunteers & develop autonomous equality groups.
/Adam King /Activities Responsible for: Societies and student activities Contact me on: 0117 954 5865 ubuactivities@bristol.ac.uk Where to find me: Do It! Hub, on the 4th Floor of the Students’ Union Studied: Electrical and Electronic Engineering Lived in: Wills Hall My Favourite Society/Club: Now that would be unfair! I bet you didn’t know... My favourite whisky is Lagavulin My big plan for this year: Making Societies more accessible and less confusing.
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 7
INTRODUCTION TO UBU
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
YOUR UNION IS
CHANGING
++ www.ubu.org.uk/build
YOUR SU BAR
2010/11 marks the beginning of a really exciting phase in the Union’s history, with the University embarking on a major refurbishment plan for the iconic 1960s building that we like to call home. The first phase will include the outside and entrance to the building. You can keep up-to-date with plans by going to www.ubu.org.uk /build, but here’s a sneak peek of how it might look in the future.....
8 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
NUS EXTRA DISCOUNTS
OUR PROFITS GO BACK INTO FUNDING YOUR CLUBS, SOCIETIES, AND SUPPORT SERVICES
. GROUND FLOOR BAR WITH TERRACE . OPEN EVERY DAY . JUST 5 MINS FROM THE TRIANGLE . ... AND SOME OF THE BEST PRICES IN TOWN!
INTRODUCTION TO UBU
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
The Building
INTRODUCTION TO UBU
Inside... UBUSHOP.CO.UK Anson Rooms
The Anson Rooms (along with neighbouring venue Ar2) is a massive 900 capacity gig venue, one of the biggest venues in Bristol! Situated on the first floor, it’s been host to some fantastic live acts over the years. In the past year we’ve seen Plan B, Little Boots and Passion Pit, and we’ve got a packed schedule for the Autumn Term see our advert further on for full listings! You can buy tickets from the Wicked Coffee Bar in the foyer, or head to www.ansonrooms. co.uk where you can also sign up for email alerts for all the latest gigs.
Wicked Coffee and Juice Bar Here’s a sample of just some of the rooms we’ve got available for student and society use:
+ Band practice room + Music practice rooms + Dance studio + Pottery workshop + Radio station + Film-editing suite 10 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
+ Darkrooms + Art room + Student newsroom + Computer room + Studio theatre
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
The first thing you’ll see when you enter the Union is the Wicked Coffee and Juice Bar, serving up delicious fairtrade coffee and tea, smoothies, juices and frappes. There’s also a wide range of snacks and sandwiches and even an international food range! This is also the place to get your Bristol University hoodies.
Get your Bristol hoodies from the union or at our online shop - make sure you grab the vouchers at the back of this Guide. Can’t wait until you start to grab your Bristol Hoodies? Order yours online at www.ubushop.co.uk
+Ar2 is an intimate bar ideal for live performances such as comedy nights, live music and drama. + The Epi Bar is a large highcapacity bar with a late licence ideal for large events and club nights. + The Avon Gorge is a smaller bar in a large hall ideal for balls or conferences.
Winston Theatre Bar 100
Bar 100 is the main Students’ Union Bar, on the ground floor of the building. Along with some very student-friendly prices and great drinks promotions, we have a terrace, big screen sky sports, pool tables and probably the comfiest sofas in the world. Make sure you come and see us at the Freshers’ Fair, as we’ve got some big things planned. Check the back pages of this Guide for our special offer vouchers!
More Bars than you can shake a stick at...
Not only do we have the fabulous Bar 100 on the ground floor but we have 3 other bars in the building! Students and Societies can hire them out for any purpose, so if you’re having a party or have a great idea for a club night just contact us.
Yes we even have a theatre, complete with dressing rooms, box office, and even an orchestra pit! The fabulous Winston Theatre plays host to some amazing productions held by our performing arts societies throughout the year. Watch out for the annual Christmas Panto!
Other Facilities
+ Print Shop - We also offer
a print service for students for dissertation, posters and basic to high-spec printing. + Room Bookings - If you fancy booking a room in the Union, you can! Make sure you leave plenty of time however as popular rooms get booked a long way in advance. www.ubu. org.uk/societies-and-activities + Launderette - With some of the best views in town - up on the 6th floor, but don’t worry, there’s a lift...
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 11
INTRODUCTION TO UBU
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
BACK TO
YOU
/venue & trading 27.5%
/other 22.4%
e.g. Bar, Coffee Shop, Anson Rooms, etc.
including Advertising
/university grant 50.3% During Freshers’ Week you’ll probably be bombarded with adverts for a huge range of different bars, clubs and promoters, but remember to ask yourself: where does my money go? This is where your Students’ Union is different: by spending
12 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
money at Bar 100, going to a gig at the Anson Rooms, buying an NUS Extra Card or buying a coffee in our foyer you are not only getting great value for money, but putting money straight back into making your time at University better.
profit, because we do, but profits from our Commercial Services go back into funding hundreds of Societies and Sports Clubs, Welfare Support, Community Projects and Campaigning for issues that affect you. * Estimates for 2009/2010
It’s not that we don’t make a
GET YOUR BRISTOL UNI CLOTHING NOW! RESERVE YOURS ONLINE AND PICK UP FOR FREE FROM THE STUDENTS’ UNION
WWW.UBUSHOP.CO.UK OR FIND US IN THE FOYER OF THE STUDENTS’ UNION!
3OH!3 tles s a C l a t s nds Cry o m a i D and the
pt 25th Se ct 17th O
Marina
ct 25th O
!!! ay w a n r o t S v dy e 3rd No m o C e Divin e h T v o N 6th Jets y r e t s y v M bit 9th No b a R d e n te v Frigh o N h t 0 2 ms u r D e h T v ! Black 26th No u o Y d e spe d o G c e D 12th Emperor
v 2nd No
BRISTOL JUST GOT
CHEAPER. GET EVEN BETTER DISCOUNTS ALL OVER TOWN AND ONLINE DISCOUNTS TOO, ONLY WITH NUS EXTRA ORDER ONLINE NOW AT NUSEXTRA.CO.UK
UT DO SOL
Anson Rooms University of Bristol Students’ Union Tickets: www.ansonrooms.co.uk / 0870 44 44 400 / from Students’ Union
NUSEXTRA.CO.UK
DO IT!
*
WWW.BRISTOLRAG.ORG.UK
DO IT!
* WWW.BRISTOLRAG.ORG.UK
RAISING AND GIVING (RAG) Joining RAG is an amazing opportunity to have fun, get involved in a great social scene, and raise shedloads of cash for good causes! With over 2500 members it’s a fantastic way to make friends and make the most of your university experience.
Last year we raised over
£250,000 for local, national and international charities.
See what’s on offer this year… Raising… On weekends throughout term time we offer volunteers the opportunity to explore the UK and carry out street collections
without spending a penny. Our street collections raise thousands of pounds for charity and they’re a great way to see the country and meet new people. BARMY…. BARMY is a must for every student, Bristol’s largest bar crawl and a massive night in fresher’s fortnight. Join 1499 other students as you weave your way through Bristol bars all while raising money for Bristol charities. It’s always massively popular with T-shirts selling out inside two days of the Freshers’ Fair. The first BARMY is on October 14th, buy your T-shirt at our Freshers’ Fair stall or risk missing out. Nepal & Kilimanjaro…. A Highlight of the past year was the once in a lifetime opportunity offered to RAG volunteers to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The climb helped raise money for the Hodgkin
Scholarship which provides funds for an underprivileged Student to study at Bristol. This year also saw our first treks to Nepal, one taking volunteers to Nepalese villages and a second to Everest Base Camp, all helping to raise money for children in developing countries. This year we’re offering the opportunities again, keep checking the website www.bristolrag.org.uk for more details. “I’d like to say a big thank you to those students and alumni who’ve made this possible and I hope in the future I can help others, as others have helped me” Severio Sebit, Hodgkin Scholar 2009/2010 Jailbreak Fancy the idea of travelling for free? Well join us for Jailbreak and you can do just that: you have 36 hours to blag your way as far away from Bristol
as possible, think boats, trains and planes. People have got to Washington and Portugal in the past, and the record is Arizona over 5000 miles away! Our first Jailbreak will be in November so if blagging’s your thing, get involved. Casino We even have our very own Casino, complete with blackjack tables, roulette wheels and croupiers. You can train as a croupier and get to work at Balls for a few hours then go to the ball for free!!! We’re also available to hire for halls, societies and company events. RAG week 19th-26th February RAG week is a whole week of fundraising activities, kicking off with a procession through the streets of Bristol with Lorries, military vehicles and floats bringing Bristol to a standstill. We’ll also be hosting a second BARMY, an overnight soccer tournament, a real ale festival, RAG fest, sponsored events and much more all raising thousands for Bristol charities. And the rest… This year we’ll be giving volunteers the chance to sky dive with the great Bristol Jump,! We’ll also be hosting RAG fest with a weekend of
16 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
live music, the annual BRA beer and cider festival trips to Amsterdam and Beachbreak, and a whole host of charity club nights, sales and activities in Halls and loads and loads of socials. RAG is also a great way of adding that little bit extra to your CV, we offer volunteering certificates as well as courses in events management and fundraising. RAG is awesome and there really is something for everyone!
- How to Join See us at our stall at the Freshers’ Fair or come along to one of our intro nights: Monday 11th October, 6.30pm in the Students’ Union Tuesday 12th October, 6.30pm in Badock Hall bar, Stoke Bishop …or just pop in to the Do It! Hub on the 4th Floor of the Students’ Union. Contact Details Susie Bailey, RAG Coordinator Do It! Hub, 4th Floor, Students’ Union + 0117 954 5879 + rag-ubu@bristol.ac.uk + www.bristolrag.org.uk
5 reasons to… Join RAG 1.
It makes you popular - become one of our RAG reps and you’ll get to know everyone in your Hall through the parties and events you put on.
2. It’s good to give, giving
makes you feel good, RAG gives you the opportunity to give in a range of ways, meaning guaranteed good feelings.
3.
We offer the chance to travel the word. Fancy climbing Kilimanjaro, blagging your way to America or trekking in Nepal?
4.
We take you to different cities in the UK for FREE through our street collections
5.
It looks pretty awesome on your CV, we offer qualifications as well as showing that you’re a charitable person with a good heart.
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 17
DO IT!
*
WWW.BRISTOLSCA.ORG.UK
DO IT!
GIVE SOMETHING BACK
SCA x 2
SCA: Student Community Action
+ + Student Community Action is the community volunteering programme that gives you the opportunity to try something new, do something worthwhile, gain new skills and give you the experience to be a cut above the average student!
There are a range of projects on offer working with older people, kids and teenagers, people with physical and learning disabilities, patients with mental health difficulties, animals, the environment, community centres through decorating and gardening projects, adults with Aspergers Syndrome, Riding for the Disabled, community sports activities, running and community dinner dance or a Kids’ Christmas party, speed dating and pub quiz fundraising events, and SCA week that crams in the best bits of all these things!
Training SCA also offers training to all volunteers to fully equip you for your volunteering role. All volunteers should attend a volunteer induction, giving an intro to volunteering with SCA
18 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
and Protection of children and vulnerable adults training. Additionally, you can sign up to a range of training courses such as:
+ Mental Health Awareness + Schools assistant training +D ealing with difficult
4 Ways
to Get involved!
awareness
+C reating and delivering games
And finally… If you don’t see something here that you have a burning desire to get involved in, visit the website and come along to the SCA Intro night – there will be representatives from all the projects and some outside charities recruiting volunteers too. If you have an idea for a new volunteering initiative, you can speak to a member of the committee there too – anything is possible! (almost…)
3
More and more people are graduating from university – volunteering shows employers you can manage your time, are willing to go the extra mile, and have a more rounded life experience
1.
Visit our stall at the Freshers’ Fair (1st Floor of the Students’ Union)
4
Use your creative juices to set up a new project or make the most of projects that already exist – we’re always looking for new ideas!
Come along to SCA Intro Night on Wednesday 13 October 6pm – 10pm, 1st Floor of UBU to find out more about the range of projects. Check out our website at www.bristolsca. org.uk and sign up online!
4.
Pop into the office (Do It Hub – 4th floor) and chat to Eoin or Rachel
1
Escape the student bubble - meet other students and people from around Bristol you wouldn’t have met otherwise
2
2.
behaviour
+ Disability awareness +H omelessness support
5 reasons to get involved!
Experience life beyond university which sets you up nicely for the ‘real world’ after you graduate!
You can volunteer in as many or few projects as you like - some people help out with one community event, while others offer regular hours every week on a range of projects. SCA can support you to set up your own community project and offers training in relevant areas such as First Aid, Mental Health Awareness, Disability awareness, youth work and classroom skills.
What can I do?
* WWW.BRISTOLRAG.ORG.UK
5
3.
That feeling of satisfaction that only comes from helping others, doing something worthwhile in the community or standing up for a cause you believe in
Oh and one more just for fun… 6 20% of volunteers aged 18 – 24 years old said that volunteering has improved their sex life! (They’re only the ones that’ll admit it!)
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 19
DO IT!
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/MEDIA
STUDENT
DO IT!
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/MEDIA
music and gig reviews. And if there’s nothing you like you can start your own show! BURST presenters and DJs regularly play at events in clubs, bars and halls around Bristol so this can also be a great way into DJing. ww.burstradio.org.uk
UBU Student Media products are an amazing way to get involved with all sorts of media production whether you’re planning to be the next big thing in journalism or broadcasting, or are just in it for the experience. All the media products will have stalls at the Freshers’ Fair if you want to join in or want more info.
Features, Comment, Music, Arts, Film, TV, Entertainment Listings, Sports and e2 epigram’s very own lifestyle section. In each copy you’ll also get a copy of UBU News (produced by the Students’ Union) which will give you an update on campaigns and events from the Students’ Union.
UBU supports our media products with funding and facilities, but they’re all editorially independent.
Epigram doesn’t write itself - so if you’re interested in contributing get in touch with editor@epigram.org.uk www.epigram.org.uk
Epigram
fortnightly newspaper
Epigram is Bristol University’s Independent Student Newspaper. It has a print run of 6,000 copies, published every fortnight during term time. It’s completely free - and you can pick it up in the Students’ Union and most University Departments. You can also read the paper online at www.epigram.org.uk In epigram you’ll find News,
20 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
Blink TV
TV STATION
Blink is the Student Unions’ very own on-line TV station. All programmes are made entirely by Bristol students, so whether you want to produce your own show, edit, act, film, present, write or do just about anything else you can think of (including helping us run the station!) we want you involved!
It is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to go into the television industry or simply wants to try something new. Blink offers something for every type of person, so visit the Freshers’ Fair stall if you have any questions or want to sign up. www.blinkbristol.co.uk
BURST
radio station
Broadcasting daily during term-time from the 3rd floor of the Students’ Union is BURST radio - Bristol University’s Student Radio Station. You can listen online at: www.burstradio.org.uk If you miss a show you can even download podcasts of the most popular shows to listen to later. BURST has a huge variety of shows playing everything from Dubstep to R’n’B, and has a specialist music and news team giving you the latest
Helicon
creative arts magazine Discover your hidden talent by getting involved with Helicon, Bristol University’s very own creative arts magazine. It features art, prose, poetry, features and photography all in a fashionable (and free) termly magazine. Every term the editorial team set a theme, and open submissions. Anyone can submit a piece, you don’t have to be experienced, and the editorial team are there to help along the way. Once the submissions are in, the creative team get to work creating the finished magazine, which is distributed in the Students’ Union, the University and in Arts venues across the city. You can always check the latest theme or find out more about Helicon at: www.heliconmagazine.co.uk
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 21
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
160 CLUBS & SOCIETIES
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
over
Societies are a fantastic way of /nothing take enhancing your University expeyour fancy? rience, and it may sound corny, but there really is something for everyone! If you’ve got a great idea for a society, and can’t find it in our list, From Anime to Expeditions, from then it’s really easy to start one. Circus to Yoga, we offer some Come and talk it over with us in incredible opportunities to learn the Union’s Do It! Hub, and we’ll new things, meet new people give you plenty of guidance and and have a great time. Continue support to make it a reality. with something you started at school, or try something new. /become superWe have over 160 societies employable spanning a huge range of activities, be it cultural, musical, Don’t let the opportunity pass campaigning, performance, you by to really boost your subject-based, religious, political, CV whilst you’re at Uni. Being business, indoor, outdoor… involved with societies can teach you the skills you don’t learn in lectures - whether you simply /get involved enjoy taking part, want to run All societies are run entirely by your own project, manage the students, for students, and with society’s publicity or want to join the student budget in mind. the committee, these all help you Most only cost a few pounds to stand out once you graduate. join, and many are free! Even the more expensive societies provide a much cheaper and /bristol hub more accessible alternative to doing the activity elsewhere and The Bristol Hub is a network there’s no limit to how many you of social, environmental and can join. developmental societies at UBU, linking with the wider communiGet a head start by browsing ty and connecting students with this Guide, and come along to causes. To find out more about the Freshers’ Fair where you can the Bristol Hub and its upcoming meet everyone, get more info events, simply visit their website our societies, and join them all in www.bristolhub.org. one place!
/try before you buy
January will see the second ever Activities Taster Week – following on from the success of last year’s event, this is your chance to try out an awesome range of activities that our societies, SCA and RAG have to offer. All without paying a penny, so no risk involved! Freshers’ Fair and Taster Week aren’t the only chances to join however; you can join a society at any time simply by getting in touch with them via the UBU website, www.ubu.org.uk
/music auditons There are many opportunities at the University to perform in all kinds of musical ensembles - newcomers are always welcome. Admission to many groups is entirely open - ask for details at the Music Society stall at the Freshers’ Fair. Entry to other ensembles, however, is by audition during introductory week, it’s your only chance to audition for the year, and places will be allocated in this first week. Audition lists are in the Victoria Rooms Foyer - do sign up early for a time. For more info see www.bristol.ac.uk/music
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 23
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
BUSINESS AND ENTERPRISE AIESEC Free / jd9993@bristol.ac.uk AIESEC boosts your CV through leadership programmes and skillbuilding. Work abroad in 110 countries with charities, NGO’s and larger companies. Network with local businesses, students around the UK and corporate sponsors and have an amazing time at conferences and events. Speak to us at the Freshers’ Fair for more info. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ aiesec
Banking and Finance £5 / bfsbristolubu@ googlemail.com A society for those who are interested in pursuing a career in financial services, including but not limited to commercial and investment banking, consulting, accountancy and wealth management. The society organises events and talks to help with internship and graduate applications and to find out more about possible career paths. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ banking-and-finance
Bar £2 / bristolbarsociety@ gmail.com Being a barrister means speaking in court, giving advice, and wearing a wig. There’s a bit more to it than that, but if you like it so far then BarSoc is for you. We aim to give you the edge you need to make it in this highly competitive profession.
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
SOCIETIES GUIDE 2010 Bright Futures £2 / fr7709@bristol.ac.uk Bright Futures is a national student organisation geared towards helping Students make informed career choices, network with top graduate employers and develop their employability skills and commercial awareness. We organise a variety of career-related events throughout the year to help students stand out and get that top graduate job. www.bright-futures.org.uk
Economics (BEST) £5/yr or £12.50 full course / js6292@bristol.ac.uk The Bristol Economics Society (BEST) is the society for economics at the University of Bristol. BEST organise careers, academic and social events to meet the needs of its members. Last year, we organised talks, socials and even a trip abroad and this year we want to take BEST even further! www.bristoleconomics. org.uk
Entrepreneurs Free / info@ bristolentrepreneurs.co.uk Are you a budding entrepreneur? We organise talks, networking events, workshops and socials to support and inspire enterprise at Bristol www.bristolentrepreneurs. co.uk
Investment Free / jc7193@bristol.ac.uk We believe that one of the key skills in life everyone should master is the proficiency of successful investing. People from all
24 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
walks of life at one point or another learn about money; this society aims to help students make more money out of…money. www.uobis.co.uk
Social Enterprise Project Free / contact@ thesocialenterpriseproject. org.uk ‘The Social Enterprise Society’ is a free society and offers members the opportunity to gain work experience with social enterprises, inspire local schoolchildren to become social entrepreneurs, participate in business related competitions, attend speaker events with inspirational social entrepreneurs and support students hoping to set up a new social enterprise. www. thesocialenterpriseproject. org.uk
CAMPAIGNS AND CAUSES Amnesty International £2 / rr8459@bristol.ac.uk Amnesty International Society is your student representative for the worldwide human rights movement. We campaign via demonstrations, weekly letter-writing groups and high profile speaker events, to protect individuals when the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights - justice, fairness, freedom and truth are denied. amnestybristol.wordpress. com
Bristol Feminists Best New Society
£3 / bristolfeminists@ googlemail.com The society campaigns for women’s rights and against the objectification of women both within the University and outside. Our weekly meetings are divided into discussion meetings and campaign meetings and we aim to raise awareness about feminism and promote gender equality not female supremacy.
Bristol University Sustainability Team (BUST) £1 / bust@bristolhub.org BUST is an exciting student group that aims to tackle the issues regarding sustainability within Bristol University and the wider community. To anyone with an interest in playing an active role in improving the world’s social or environmental problems, BUST is the place to come and be heard. www.bustbristol.ning.com
Conservation Group £5 / rp8185@bristol.ac.uk Fancy getting out of the city on weekends and doing something worthwhile? As the university’s conservation volunteer group, BUCG performs practical tasks at nature reserves in and around Bristol. Trips are every other Sunday, with 2 weekends a year and a summer trip to Scotland, with socials throughout the year. www.bristol.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/Conservation
Engineers Without Borders £3 / peter.cooper@ewb-uk.org
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
++ People & Planet
Why do your degree? For money? For kicks? Or to design a better Earth? EWB is a maverick charity focusing on development at home and abroad: cutting-edge talks, handson workshops, dynamite club-nights, school teaching, overseas placements and much more! Students with any degree united only by a passion for a better world. www.ewb-uk.org/bristol
Fair Trade £1 / ab8375@bris.ac.uk Fairtrade is a means of sustainably improving the lives of millions of people in developing countries around the world. We campaign and raise awareness of Fairtrade through information stalls, lobbying cafes and shops, meals, speaker events and film showings, while training our members to do this successfully. groupspaces.com/ ubfairtrade
Howard League for Penal Reform £1 / lz8789@bristol.ac.uk The Howard League is a charitable organisation that aims to: work for a society with fewer victims of crime and advocate that offenders must make amends and change their lives; promote a belief in the effectiveness of community sentences; and educate about prison reform, focusing on rehabilitative approaches www.howardleague.org
LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans) £5 / rh8267@bristol.ac.uk The society aims: to provide a safe meeting group for gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans students; to promote student body awareness of gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans issues; to provide peer group support for gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans students.
www.ubu.org.uk/societies/lgbt
Marrow Free / bristol-marrow@ bristol.ac.uk Bristol Marrow is a branch of the Anthony Nolan Trust. Our society fundraises for the Anthony Nolan Trust, raises awareness about marrow donation and holds clinics for Bristol students to sign onto the bone marrow register.
MedSin £2 / Medsinbristol@gmail. com Medsin gives you the opportunity to fight the huge injustices in healthcare in the world today. Because we are part of a national charity we get involved in national campaigning, speaker events and are passionate about activism locally and globally on this issue. Sign up at the Freshers’ Fair or email us. www.medsin.org.uk
People & Planet £1 / mr7396@bristol.ac.uk A campaigning society
dedicated to ending world poverty, defending human rights and protecting the environment. We aim to raise awareness on global issues that are important to us by having speakers, debates, film nights, demonstrations, workshops, club nights and more. So get involved to learn, have fun and campaign for real change. www.peopleandplanet.org
Stop AIDS £1 / am8539@bristol.ac.uk A branch of a wider campaign working to reform national and international policy by informing, educating and lobbying governments and pharmaceutics; aiming to end the injustice of HIV/ AIDS, deliver universal access to HIV prevention, treatment and care. Members act as agents of change talking with local MPs, attending national events, campaigning and fundraising. www.stopaidssocieties. org.uk
Student Action for Refugees (STAR) £3 / sg9697@bristol.ac.uk STAR is the national network of student groups working to improve the lives of refugees in the UK by promoting positive images of refugees, volunteering for local refugee projects, and campaigning for refugees www.star-network.org.uk
Students for Life £2 / ah9492@bristol.ac.uk Our society seeks to promote a culture of life within the University. We embrace life from conception until natural death. We will organise volunteering to help those in need i.e. children with disabilities and the elderly. We will also invite speakers to talk on issues from a ProLife perspective.
U8 £1 / js9186@bristol.ac.uk The U8 Global Student Partnership for Development is a studentled global university network. Founded in 2005 by students, it provides an impartial platform for students to learn, share ideas and engage with global issues in development. It currently has 50 member universities in countries such as Bulgaria, Ethiopia, India, Tanzania and the UK. bristolu8.wordpress.com
CULTURE AND LANGUAGE African Caribbean Experience (ACE) £5 / ace.bristol@yahoo.co.uk The African Caribbean Experience Society, founded in 1996, is a society that allows you to experience the African-Caribbean culture through ART, MUSIC, FOOD, FASHION, and our ACHIEVEMENTS! Follow us on our blog to get the latest scoop, snaps and news flashes! www.acebristol.blogspot. com
Asian Cultural £4 new, £3 returning / am9127@bristol.ac.uk We aim to promote and preserve Asian culture amongst students and local community in Bristol. We celebrate our food, music, clothing and culture through a range of events including; fashion shows, bar-crawls, dinners and music classes. We also promote up-andcoming Asian singers and DJs in our club events. www.bristolacs.org.uk/blog
Association of British and Chinese Undergraduates (ABACUS)
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 25
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
£4 / wk5916@bristol.ac.uk This society represents the ever growing number of Chinese people living in the UK today; whether you are studying, working, or grew up here as a British Born Chinese (BBC). This is your opportunity to mix, mingle and *partaay* with the largest oriental crowd in Bristol. Facebook: Bristol Abacus
Club Italia
Atheist, Agnostic and Secular
Erasmix
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
£3 / lr9461@bristol.ac.uk Club Italia strives to elevate and celebrate the Italian language and culture. With our wide range of different activities, from conversation evenings to a trip to Florence, we are committed to bringing you a little bit of Italy right here in Bristol. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ club-italia
£2 / jb8649@bristol.ac.uk We generally meet in a pub, where we have lively discussions on widely varying issues, including morals, science and philosophy. We hold talks by academics and notables, where there is free wine and biscuits for members! Also, we have socials such as film nights, quizzes, games evenings and meals. www.aass.org.uk
Free / et6980@bristol.ac.uk The aim of the Society is to help integrate foreign students on Erasmus placements at Bristol University into their new surroundings. The Society will organise varied social and cultural events to help the students meet people, discover the activities the region has to offer and, above all, enjoy their year. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ erasmix
Caledonian
French
£5 / hw9291@bristol.ac.uk Cal Soc is for anyone who wants to eat, drink and be merry all in the name of celebrating the best small country in the world, Scotland! All are welcome, no kilts or Scottish genes required. We have Reeling practices in the run up to events so no previous dancing experience is required. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ caledonian-society
Chinese £4 / thechinesesociety@ gmail.com Founded in 1969, the Chinese Society is one of the most well-established societies at Bristol University. For over forty years, the society has had the privilege of welcoming both home and international students across the spectrum to learn about and to share in the experience of celebrating Chinese culture. www.chinesesociety.org.uk
26 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
£4/yr or £10 full course / frenchsoc@hotmail.co.uk Love all things French? Join us and enjoy bar crawls, discounted club entry, conversation evenings, Erasmus parties, a trip to Paris and much more. We say bienvenue to all students, not only those taking French, so sign up to the biggest and best language society at Bristol! A bientôt! Facebook: Bristol French Society
involved. www.bris.ac.uk/german/ current/undergraduate/ society.html
Hellenic Free / ck7273@bristol.ac.uk A group for all the students in Bristol who want to enjoy student life the Greek and Cypriot way. www.bris.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/Hellenic
Hispanic £3 / si9103@bristol.ac.uk Whether you love Spanish, Portuguese or Catalan, this society is for anyone who is interested in the Latin world! www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ hispanic
Hong Kong £5 / id9117@bristol.ac.uk The Hong Kong Society is one of the biggest cultural societies in the University of Bristol. We aim to provide a gateway between the oriental and occidental cultures, and a fusion of the East and the West. Throughout the year we organize various events for our members. www.bristolhksoc.info
Japanese £3.50 / japsocbristol@
Kazakh £5 / ak8149@bristol.ac.uk Bristol Kazakh Society was established in 2009 by students from Kazakhstan studying in Bristol. As young representatives of our country, we consider the introduction of Kazakhstan to different people abroad as our responsibility. Our main aim is to unite all students from Kazakhstan and international students who are eager to explore our culture. vkontakte.ru/club12259881
Korean £3 / hk8325@bristol.ac.uk We welcome anyone who is interested in the Korean culture. You do not have to be a Korean to join. It is a great opportunity to make some Korean friends and learn the Korean language etc. We promise to make it
as much fun as it is culturally exuberating! club.cyworld.com/BUKS
Malay Cultural £5 / mm9258@bristol.ac.uk The Malay Cultural Society was founded to care for the welfare of the Malay student population in Bristol, and at the same time it exists to share the richness of its culture that includes delicious food, different language, unique customs & traditions with people from all over the world. www.malayculturalsociety. blogspot.com
Malaysian and Singaporean Students’ Association (MSSA) £4 / mssa.bris@gmail.com The Malaysian Singaporean Students’ Association (MSSA) is a cultural society bringing students from all nationalities together to enjoy the wonderful and diverse cultures of both South East Asian nations. Be it enjoying Asian food or chilling at a pub, the MSSA builds awesome friendships and provides great company. www.mssabristol.surge8. com
Mauritius Free / ih8778@bristol.ac.uk The society will be a point of contact for current students and prospective Mauritian students at Bristol University. It will also promote Mauritian culture and Mauritian festivals. Another aim of the society will be to make sure that Mauritian students can integrate much more easily to student life at Bristol University. www.ubumaurisoc.com
German £3/yr or £6 full course / ag9197@bristol.ac.uk The University of Bristol German Society welcomes along anyone with a passion for German culture, history, society, food or other! There’s always something going on, whether it’s our weekly Stammtisch, German film, sports matches, conversation evenings or beer-fuelled nights out so be sure to get
googlemail.com The Japanese Society caters for all people with an interest in anything Japanese. With regular events organised throughout the year, we aim to provide a platform through which members can learn more about Japan, its culture, food and language.
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
Northern
++ Chinese
£4 / rj8417@bristol.ac.uk Northern Society, a home away from home for incoming northerners, come along and feel the love whilst we show you what Bristol has to offer on the social
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
scene. We have themed events throughout the year and an ever present northern shoulder to lean on, sign up and join in. www.northernsoc.webs.com
Polish £2 / jm9929@bristol.ac.uk A society for all interested in Poland. Our aims are: to present a contemporary Poland to people living in Bristol and the British Isles; to organise events, trips and parties, usually related to Polish culture; and to help Polish students in the UK. All welcome, irrespective of nationality or degree of identification with Poland! www.bristol.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/polishsociety/index. html
Scandinavian Free / graeme.horne@ bristol.ac.uk A cultural society at the University of Bristol for all Scandinavians and anybody with an interest in the Scandinavia and Nordic countries and their culture.
SlavSoc £6 full course / jm9906@ bristol.ac.uk Slavsoc is aimed at Russian students or people with Slavic backgrounds but is also open to everyone. We organise events throughout the year such as film/ conversation evenings and nights out/bar crawls. It’s a great opportunity to meet people on your course, practice your spoken Russian and develop your interest in Russian culture.
Taiwanese £5 / bristoltwsociety@ googlemail.com Discover TAIWANESE culture and tradition as well as meeting students from the BEAUTIFUL island of Formosa, Taiwan. Take part in the Festivities, Taiwanese language lessons, delicious cooking and much more! We welcome EVERYONE
from the world over! Join us, we’re TAIWONDERFUL! www. bristoltaiwanesesociety. org.uk
Thai £3 / thaisoc.bristol@gmail. com A society for Thai students in Bristol and anyone who is interested in Thai culture. Facebook: Bristol Thai Society
Dance society is a union society that runs dance classes in Ballet, Bellydancing, Contemporary, Street, Jazz and more throughout the year at student-friendly rates. Classes are taught by professional teachers and all classes perform in a show at the end of the spring term! www.bristol.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/DanceSoc
Vietnamese £2 / tn9080@bristol.ac.uk The Vietnamese Society is a cultural group where you can come, have fun and learn all about Vietnamese culture. So, no matter where you are from, what you study, what year you are in, you are all welcome to join the Bristol VietSoc. Facebook: Bristol Vietnamese Society
Welsh £3 / gt8169@bristol.ac.uk A society for anyone who is Welsh (or wants to be!) or just loves the way that the Welsh have fun! We have socials throughout the year including local nights out in Bristol and supporting Wales on the playing field. Tidy. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ welsh
DANCE Breakdance £5 / unibreakers@gmail. com Whether you want to keep fit, learn to throw-down in a club, or train to battle other breakers from Bristol and beyond, you should come along to the Breakdance Society. You’ll learn breakdancing, and have the chance to learn about the dance and its culture. www.bristolunibreakdance. com
Latin American and Ballroom Dancing (BULABDS) £25 / el8113@bristol.ac.uk Bristol University Latin American & Ballroom Dance Society offers a range of classes for all levels; whether you want to learn the basics, or dance competitively with the team, our worldstandard professional teachers will help you achieve your goals. So Step Up, Take The Lead and get involved with some Mad Hot Ballroom! www.bulabds.co.uk
LeRoc £4/yr or £10 full course / bt7624@bristol.ac.uk LeRoc is a fun, easy to learn, sociable, partner (lead-follow) dance that’s perfect for freestyling to loads of music; from Pop to Rock. We teach new moves every week and continually rotate partners (a great way to meet people), and there’s always room to dance at our many socials. www.bristol-leroc.org.uk
Dance £7 / lm7767@bristol.ac.uk
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 27
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
Pole Dance £15 / president@ uobpoledancesoc.co.uk Pole fitness is a great fun way to get fit, build strength and flexibility and meet other like minded pole obsessed students! Membership fee includes your membership card, hotpants and access to £5 pole fitness classes not to mention a chance to partake in all our socials and showcases. www.uobpoledancesoc. co.uk
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
possibly even participate in student-led excavations.
BioSoc £10 / he7789@bristol.ac.uk BioSoc is the society for all those who enjoy or want to know more about the living world. BioSoc organizes various competitions, talks, films, socials and much more! We are always welcoming new members to join us no matter what subject you do! www.bris.ac.uk/biology/ biosoc
Rag Morris and Folk Club Cellular and Molecular Free / de7734@bristol.ac.uk Medicine Morris dancing?? You bet! It’s free to join. Dance in rag shirts and bells at pubs and folk festivals with sticks and hankies, to the music of accordions, melodeons, whistles, fiddles, drums. Practice on Thursday evenings in the Union. Plus a FOLK CLUB with Monday sessions and Ceilidhs (barn dances)! www.ragmorris.com
DEPARTMENTAL AeroSoc £2 / rm8775@bristol.ac.uk AeroSoc is the society that teaches you everything the course doesn’t. We aim to have great nights out, hazy mornings after, and might just be able to help you out with problems on the course, too. www.aerospaced.co.uk
Archaeology & Anthropology £8/yr or £20 full course / C.J.Kerns@bristol.ac.uk We hold a number of social events each year which are often attended by both staff and students. We also run a lecture series every Thursday in the department which includes refreshments. Throughout the year there will be opportunities to visit archaeological sites and
28 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
Free / jw7559@bristol.ac.uk The Cell is the official Cellular and Molecular Medicine society. Throughout the year we will be organising numerous socials and fun trips and fundraising for various charities. Whether you are a CMM student or just want to have an awesome time, The Cell is the society to join. www.facebook.com/group. php?gid=407088654198
Chaos (Physics) £10 full course / ht8613@ bristol.ac.uk Chaos is the (aptly named) society for physicists, or anyone interested in physics. We are very active, organising: entertainment (including the Physball and summer BBQ), talks and trips. We also have physics sports teams, a mentoring scheme and the PHYSBAR (a tuck shop). www.bristolchaos.co.uk
Classics and Ancient History £3 / ah9613@bristol.ac.uk A cohort of students who share a passion for the ancient world. It is the best place to get to know others with the same interest, with an active social scene as well as enrichment for the keen academics among us. We look forward to welcoming you in September!
Computer Science
Film-making (UBFS)
£2 / bs8959@bristol.ac.uk Computer Science Society (CSS) is a dedicated student body that works on your behalf as a Computer Science student. The aim of the society is simple - we work to benefit you, the student, by organising social events, talks from industry and representing you within the department. www.cs.bris.ac.uk/css
£5 / hs8749@bristol.ac.uk At the UBFS we welcome creative-thinkers, technical whizzes, organized problemsolvers and, of course, the everyday film-lover to our clan so that we can collaborate on a variety of film and video projects. Join us! www.ubfs.co.uk
Deflections (Civil Engineering) £5 / president@deflections. org.uk Deflections is a lively civil engineering society, offering students site visits, fun socials, academic support and much more! www.deflections.org.uk
Engineering (TUBES) £10 full course / president@ tubes.org.uk One of the biggest and most professional university societies, primarily for all students in the faculty of Engineering, but suitable for anyone with an interest in engineering or technology. The society prides itself on providing students with excellent links with top graduate recruiters, extremely strong intramural sport teams and heavily subsidised socials. www.tubes.org.uk
Fusion (Chemistry) £15 / lb7823@bristol.ac.uk Fusion is the society for anybody studying chemistry and as well as throwing bar crawls and BBQ’s, hosting hugely popular guest lectures, running sports teams and much more we aim to make your first year of chemistry as stress free and fun as possible. To find out more, check out our website. www.chm.bris.ac.uk/fusion
Galenicals (Medics) £45 full course / secretary@ galenicals.org.uk Galenicals is the official medical students’ society at the University of Bristol, offering a wide array of support, extra-curricular and social opportunities. www.galenicals.org.uk
£12 / am8948@bristol.ac.uk BUGGS’ aim is to organise great socials every few weeks for members of the Earth Science Department. We organise several socials a term and put on an amazing ball before Easter. This year we are planning to organise another brilliant trip to match Amsterdam last year and run a studentled fieldtrip. www.gly.bris.ac.uk
Helix (Biochemistry) £10 full course / tr9548@ bristol.ac.uk The society for every new biochemist! The best way to meet everyone else on your course whilst having a great time. Bar crawls, barbeques, bowling and more. Everything you’ll need from your subject society. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ helix
History £8 / rp8579@bristol.ac.uk Both an academic and social society for all those who study or have any interest in history. Last year, our events included a “Lecturers’ Bar Crawl”, a trip to Paris, a themed ball with tables ranging from ‘Renaissance’ to ‘Futuristic’ and a fantastic guest lecture on ‘Calvinism’ with Diarmuid Maculloch. www.uobhistorysoc.co.uk
Law Club
Falstaff (English) £10 full course / cc9853@ bristol.ac.uk Fresher, here’s your first starter for 10. In which society will you find a mixture of activities such as theatre trips, mad hatters tea parties, poetry readings and creative writing sessions offering some good, olde fashioned fun? Answer: the Falstaff Society and no, you don’t have to take English to be a member. Facebook: Bristol English Falstaff Society 2010-11
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
GeogSoc (Geography) £15 full course / fw9919@ bristol.ac.uk Geogsoc is a student-run departmental society that takes care of the social life of Bristol Geographers. www.freewebs.com/ bristolgeogsoc
Geology and Geoscience (BUGGS)
£15/yr or £40 full course / hs8467@bristol.ac.uk UBLC helps law students get more out of university. We have something for everyone - sports teams, glamorous balls, bar crawls, mooting and debating competitions and a chance to network with the best law firms in the country. Membership is open to both law and non-law students. Get involved! www.ublc.co.uk
Matrix (Maths) £10 full course / pd8912@ bristol.ac.uk
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
A must for anyone studying Maths at Bristol. Not only do we provide masses of socials including Bar Crawls, Maths Ball, Pub Quizzes and the EPIC end of year BBQ but thanks to our sponsors we also have numerous events and talks to help you decide what to do with your Maths degree. www.bristolmatrix.com
++ Chocolate
Philosophy £3 / kl7438@bristol.ac.uk This society is for anyone who thinks about the really big questions; How should I live? Is there a problem of evil? How do minds emerge from brains? The society hosts talks from eminent contemporary philosophers as well as holding informal pub discussions, philosophical film-nights, and an infamous summer boat-party. Facebook: Bristol University Philosophy Society!
Politics £5/yr or £12 full course / dc8825@bristol.ac.uk Politics Society aims to get you involved in promising a calendar of fun debauchery... and some intellect. Besides the usual shenanigans of bar crawls and socials, come along to our new monthly Celebrity Speaker Series, and sign up to our new mums and dads scheme! (P.S. Get Involved) www.ubpolsoc.com
Psychsoc £5 / rd8381@bristol.ac.uk PsychSoc is an academic society linked to the University Psychology Department. PsychSoc provides academic, menotoring, sporting and career opportunities for all mebers. We aim to provide regular socials, parenting and mentoring opportunities, book sales, careers events and an intersociety ball. groupspaces.com/ bristolpsychsoc
Social Policy £4 / af9135@bristol.ac.uk Helping new and existing SP & ECS students not only to explore the social and cultural possibilities of Bristol life, but also to take advantage of the incredible academic and socio-political opportunities within the faculty. From regular nights out to relaxed barbeques and from academic talks to meeting with students from other Unis.
Sociology £3 / socsoc.bristol@gmail. com We are the society that gives Sociology students an excuse to put our degree into practice and socialise. With socials, speaker events, volunteering opportunities, theory groups, trips, film nights and debates we are here to encourage you to make the most of studying at Bristol and to have fun. www.socsocbristol.com
Theology and Religious Studies £3 / bd9687@bristol.ac.uk A departmental society, not for any individual religion. A great chance to socialise with others with similar interests whether in the department or not everyone welcome! Many socials planned, from bar crawls to discussion groups
and a new departmental sports team for the intramural league! Includes plenty of discounts/free entry to all events. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ theology-and-religiousstudies
Veterinary and Zoological (BUVZS) £5 / lt8490@bristol.ac.uk BUVZS is a society for anyone that walks on the wild side! Whether you’re a vet or not, if you’re interested in wildlife, conservation at home or abroad or exotics medicine we’ve something for you! Talks, trips, courses and socials are all on offer so come and find us at Freshers’ Fair! www.bristol.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/BUVZS
FOOD AND DRINK Bristol Real Ale (BRA) £5 / bp8546@bristol.ac.uk BRA is a group of friendly people who appreciate the finer things in life - ale and cider! We have a surprisingly low percentage of bearded old men, and love to run socials weekly visiting the finest pubs in the city. We also run beer and cider festivals and brewery tours www.bristolrealale.co.uk
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 29
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
Cheese £3 / js9931@bristol.ac.uk Mild, strong, stinky, runny, squidgy, hard, creamy, crumbly, white, blue. However you like your cheese, we can provide it. Socials with as much cheese as you can handle, visit Cheddar Gorge; fondue nights; a trip to Bath; the Christmas meal and our feast of an AGM. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ cheese
Chocolate £3.50 / cc7772@bristol.ac.uk All about having fun - and eating lots of chocolate! We have monthly chocolatethemed events, from cafe meets and chocolate quizzes, to our Easter Egg Hunt and infamous Meet and Eat at the beginning of term. A great way to meet new people, and get lots of free chocolate at our subsidised events!
Food £3.50 / bristolfoodsoc@ gmail.com We love food! Simple as! Join us if you do too. If you’re sick of hall meals and fancy some real food we offer discounted meals at top Bristol restaurants, cook-offs, charity Come Dine with Me and many more foodie events. No cooking ability necessary, just a healthy appetite!
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
for any wine enthusiast whatever your wine preference and whether a novice or a seasoned connoisseur! We meet every Thursday evening. www.bristolwinecircle.co.uk
INTEREST AND SKILL Alexander Technique £7 / mp8206@bristol.ac.uk Do you struggle with stress, aches and pains, exam or performance anxiety, discomfort sitting in lectures, or not achieving your academic/ sporting/ social potential? We can help. We explore the principles of how our thoughts affect our movements, helping you get more of what you do want and less of what you don’t. £5 per session www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ alexander-technique
Anime and Sci-Fi £3 / jl9804@bristol.ac.uk Essentially we are a group of friendly and zany people united by our common interest in Anime and Science Fiction. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ anime-and-scifi
Art Official
£3 / av7470@bristol.ac.uk Whether you are vegan, vegetarian or vegcurious, come and join us for good food, good company and a good time! www.bristol.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/VegSoc
£8 / hp8745@bristol.ac.uk Tall, dark, handsome, Bristol’s one and only fine art society seeks creative m/f looking to make art, see art and get involved with art in the city. Proposes fortnightly life drawing sessions, free use of art materials and much much more. Not fussy, any experience will do – let’s get creative! www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ artofficial
Wine Circle
Bridge
Vegetarian and Vegan
£10 / uobwinecircle@gmail. com Welcome to the University of Bristol Wine Circle; as one of the largest and most sociable societies of its kind in the country, it is a must
30 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
£3 / mr9388@bristol.ac.uk A society for the popular card game bridge. We welcome everyone from complete beginners through to experienced players. Teaching is
included throughout the year with opportunities for more advanced players to enter local leagues and competitions. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ bridge
Bristol Debating Union (BDU) £10 / sd8810@bristol.ac.uk The BDU promotes debate and discussion of topical issues, developing skills that will be useful in both academia and the workplace including communication, flexibility, logical thinking, style, the ability to work under pressure and teamwork. We also hold regular social events and the opportunity to compete nationally and internationally. www.bris.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/Debatingsoc/ Website/index.html
Bristol Volunteers for Development Abroad (BVDA) Best Society Free / bristolvols@hotmail. com Bristol Volunteers for Development Abroad is an exciting, student-run, non-profit registered charity that runs cheap, grassroots community development projects in Africa and Asia. BVDA offers 6-week construction, teaching and orphanage-based summer projects. Make new friends, explore an amazing culture and work on worthwhile projects! bristolvols.wordpress.com
Change Ringers £5 / ja7216@bristol.ac.uk The Society of Change Ringers (aka UBSCR) is the University’s only society to satisfy your bell ringing needs. For more information visit our website! www.bris.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/UBSCR/
Chess Club £3 / unichessclub@hotmail. com
We are a strong amateur club with teams in division two and four. We meet regularly on Sundays in the union for friendly games, and on Wednesdays to play in the local league. We can offer coaching from some of our stronger players to help new players develop their skills. www.bristol.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/Chess
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
Poker
++ Photosoc
£4 / rm8092@bristol.ac.uk We hold weekly hold’em poker tournaments in Bar 100 as well as training in less well-known versions of the game. Members can earn points each week and compete to be crowned champion at the end of each month and win prizes. All are welcome, novice or ‘wannabe’ pros. We also hold socials.
Chinese Chess and Calligraphy £3.50 / kc9398@bristol.ac.uk We aim to provide a channel for people to explore and understand Chinese culture via two cultural activities - Chinese Chess and Calligraphy. The main interests of the society are to provide its members the opportunity to learn and practise these two activities, as well as to gain knowledge around them. www.bristol.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/CCC/
Pottery
those people that have a space in their hearts for gaming. With monthly LANs, our own servers, regular console nights in Bar100, not to mention other socials/ events, we welcome those from all walks of life, united in our common cause fragging total strangers online. www.cogsbristol.co.uk
Fine Film
Circus £3 / ps7830@bristol.ac.uk Circusoc is a fun, relaxed society where you can come along and learn something a bit whacky. We do juggling, unicycling, diabolo, poi and staff spinning, hula-hooping, and anything else you feel like playing around with. Regular socials and trips to conventions ensure we all have a good time! www.circusoc.co.cc
Computer Gaming Society (COGS) £2 / dw6588@bristol.ac.uk COGS is dedicated to all
£4 / ft8623@bristol.ac.uk Bristol’s best and only cinematic society. Offering well over 30 films for the year and all watched on a projector in glorious comfort, the Fine Film Society is not only fantastic value for money but also an education in the finest movies this world has kindly given us over the last century. groupspaces.com/finefilm
Games £2 / jh7370@bristol.ac.uk At Gamesoc, we’re devoted to playing any sort of (non-sport) game, including war-games, RPGs and board games. The society meets twice a week, on Saturday and Sunday in the Students’ Union. If you would like to know more, drop by our Facebook Group! Facebook: UBU Gamesoc
Knitting £2 / rt7829@bristol.ac.uk
Nutty about knitting and potty about purling? Knitting Society meets weekly, and welcome woolly experts and yarn novices alike. We give you free wool and needles when you join, hold regular workshops, and generally provide a fun, social, informal place for you to knit and chat - what more could you want?! www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ knitting
£15 / bristol.pottery@ hotmail.co.uk Pottery is great fun, and all abilities are welcome. Classes are very popular and fill up quickly, so join early to be sure of a place! £15 for 6 weeks’ professional tuition, and a further £15 covers unlimited materials and access to the kiln for the year. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ pottery
Public Speaking
£10 full course / president@ massagesoc.co.uk Sore back from moving? Suffering from too many late nights?! You could do with a massage! Learn a fantastic skill from our comprehensive course covering the whole body, taught by students and professionals including shiatsu, Indian head and reflexology. www.massagesoc.co.uk
£3 / jw7440@bristol.ac.uk Our aim is to provide students with presentaton skills that are useful to any career path or further academic study. In addition to training sessions, members make speeches with effective peer evaluation from a small audience. The atmosphere at meetings is relaxed and we have members of all abilities. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ gaveliers
PhotoSoc
St John Ambulance
Massage
£8 / mw7895@bristol.ac.uk Photosoc strives to provide a service to photographers of all abilities. Our members have full access to all our equipment and facilities for no charge, and the opportunity to come listen to our speakers, go on trips to foreign lands, as well as participating in our photographic tuition and workshops. www.ubuphotosoc.com
£2 / Chair-Bristollinks@avon. sja.org.uk We are a friendly society that enables students to become involved in St. John Ambulance activities. We offer first aid training and the opportunity to volunteer in the community. You could help look after an injured person or save a life. A rewarding society to join! www.sja.org.uk/sja/ counties/avon/units/
university-of-bristol.aspx
Transcendental Meditation £7 / jc7947@bristol.ac.uk The Transcendental Meditation technique is a simple, natural, effortless process practiced 15–20 minutes twice daily while sitting comfortably with eyes closed. It is unique among techniques of meditation, distinguished by its effortlessness, naturalness and profound effectiveness. www.tmbristol.org.uk
Turf Club £5 / bd8388@bristol.ac.uk The Bristol Turf Club provides a lively and welcoming environment for racing enthusiasts to engage with and share their passion for all things horse racing. Activities include discounted race days, stable tours, meetings with jockeys and trainers, festival forums and socials. www.facebook.com/ bristolturfclub
MUSIC Barbershop Singers (TUBBS) £5 + £10 music deposit / sb8824@bristol.ac.uk The University of Bristol Barbershop Singers is an un-auditioned and friendly society singing a range of Barbershop and modern A Cappella music. Learning tracks are available so sight reading is not essential. We also give opportunities for singing in smaller groups, conducting and arranging. Great singing. Great socials. Join TUBBS! www.tubbs.org.uk
Big Band Most Active Society; Best Event (Epi Takeover) Free / president@ bristolhornstars.co.uk We have two bands: the
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 31
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
auditioned Hornstars and the non-auditioned BUJO (Bristol University Jazz Orchestra). Join us (for free) for loads of gigs and socials! bristolhornstars.co.uk; bujo. co.uk
Bristol Revelation Rock Gospel Choir £5 / bristolrev@hotmail.com We are a fun, friendly, down-to-earth choir (nonauditioned) who sing a mixture of contemporary, gospel, a cappella and recent chart music. No previous experience in a choir is needed and knowledge of music theory isn’t necessary as we learn by ear. All welcome! www.bristolrev.org.uk
Jazz Funk and Soul £3 / jazzfunksoul@ googlemail.com Jazz Funk Soul is a lively and active music society. We run regular, open-to-all jams both in and around the University. Throughout the year we also put on live events featuring upand-coming musicians. See our website for more information. www.bristoljfs.com
Live Music £3 / mm9310@bristol.ac.uk A Live Music society that runs gigs and open mic nights.
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
We try to help musicians meet each other and form bands. www.bristollivesoc.co.uk
Madrigal Ensemble £50 (incl. tour deposit) / ev5798@bristol.ac.uk BUME is a 16 strong choir of handpicked singers from across the University who rehearse and perform unaccompanied music from across the centuries. The current repertoire ranges from traditional madrigals and partsongs to folksongs, contemporary art song and modern jazz arrangements. www.bume.org.uk
Music (BUMS) £8 / gc8595@bristol.ac.uk As one of the largest and most active of all Union societies BUMS ensures that music making is key to its members. Anyone can take part in ensembles and choirs (audition permitting) that rehearse weekly or the other performance opportunities over the year; all that is required is a passion for music! www.bumsonline.org.uk
Reggae £3 / reggaebristol@gmail. com This society is for lovers of Reggae in all its forms. We run regular nights of our own and keep our members up
to date with Bristol’s thriving Reggae scene, offering our members plenty of discounts through the year. www.reggaebristol.co.uk
RockSoc £4 / eb9678@bristol.ac.uk For all those who rock from punk rockers to metal heads - we offer clubnights, bar crawls, gigs, local band nights, BBQ and more! So come find us at the Freshers’ Fair and be ready to ROCK!! www.bris.ac.uk/depts/ union/rocksoc/main.html
St Paul’s Church Choir TBC / j.dunton@bristol.ac.uk The choir is a friendly, non-auditioned group based at St. Paul’s Church, Clifton which has a large and constantly expanding repertoire of music. We sing for weekly Sunday services during term-time and have an active social program which includes an annual summer tour. New members welcome throughout the year.
Symphonia £25 / rb6806@bristol.ac.uk Symphonia is a relaxed, unauditioned orchestra. We play to a high standard and we perform a wide range of music from Tchaikovsky to the Beatles. We’re very sociable with weekly post rehearsal pub visits and regular events! Join at our stand at the Freshers’ Fair. www.bu-symphonia.org.uk
PERFORMING ARTS Bristol Operatic Society (BOpS)
++ Musical Theatre Bristol 32 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
£3 / chair@bopsoc.co.uk Providing the opportunity to perform in a fully fledged opera, as well as staging an operetta, opera scenes concert and hosting numerous social events, BOpS welcomes all abilities. www.bopsoc.co.uk
Dramsoc £3 / dramsoc-president@ sta.bristol.ac.uk Bristol’s largest and oldest performing arts society. Something for everyone interested in theatre: acting, directing, producing, writing, reviewing or watching. From ‘TRASH’, eight 10-minute extracts back to back, to full length plays, in the Union, Bristol and beyond. Opportunities to go up to Edinburgh, participate in workshops and write plays. www.dramsoc.co.uk
ImprovSoc £3 / sc8614@bristol.ac.uk Improvsoc is the society for all those with an inventive bone in you! We’re all about improvisation, improvised comedy in particular running workshops to help give you the skills, and putting on shows to give you thrills. If you love comedy, drama or spontaneity, we’re the society for you. www.improvsoc.org.uk
Music Theatre Bristol (MTB) Best Production (Thoroughly Modern Millie) £4 / mtb-president@sta. bristol.ac.uk As a 2010 fresher you’re joining us at a very exciting time! This year brings numerous Cabarets, our winter musical ‘Little Women’ and our big Easter show ‘RENT’. And don’t forget MTB’s Glee Club anyone can join so come along to see what we’re all about! See website for more information. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ mtb
PantoSoc £2 / sh8816@bristol.ac.uk Everyone is guaranteed a part! We perform several pantomimes a year, including our epic Christmas show and our Panto-in-aday, all written by society members. If you want to get involved in Bristol’s
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
friendliest society, whether it’s on stage, backstage, or enjoying crazy socials, then this is the place for you! www.pantosoc.org.uk
Spotlights £4 / spotlights-president@ sta.bristol.ac.uk Founded in 2003, Spotlights differs in that we aim to push the boundaries, incorporating a wide range of venues as well as boasting a reputation as the University’s premier platform for new writing. This summer we took up ‘Following Wendy’ to Edinburgh Fringe, created by and starring exclusively Spotlights members. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ spotlights
Stage Technicians’ Association (STA) Free / president@sta.bristol. ac.uk A friendly, fun and FREE society for everyone who likes the “dark side” of theatre! We design, rig and crew Union shows, so whether you’re interested in staging, lighting, sound or even carpentry; whether you have years’ experience or none; we are the society for you! Find us always in the theatre... www.sta.bristol.ac.uk
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
Dodgeball £3 / ky7020@bristol.ac.uk At Dodgeball society we adhere to the wise words of Mr Goodman, “it’s only your fault if you don’t hate yourself enough to do some thing about it.” Become a member for access to exclusive training sessions, specially crafted Dodgeball outings and the chance to represent the University in official matches.
Duke of Edinburgh Award £5 / sw8540@bristol.ac.uk We aim to help you to complete the Expeditions section of your award. We will run fortnightly sessions throughout the first two terms to prepare for the Gold practice weekend and final expedition, which will include first aid training and route planning. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ duke-of-edinburgh-award
Expeditions (UBES) £10 / rw8529@bristol.ac.uk Hillwalking, Scarmbling, Climbing. Try something new: Learn to Climb. Weekend trips and Long Expeditions at home and Abroad. Massive Socials from Bar Crawls to BBQs. www.ubes.org
Explorers
PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES Cheerleading Squad £20 / ac8291@bristol.ac.uk Want to get fit and have fun? Cheerleading is an exciting sport which is accessible to everyone, and gives you a chance to compete at a national level and cheer at American football games. Each routine is creative and original with so much variety including jumps, dance, tumbling and stunting. groupspaces.com/ bristolcheerleaders
£12 / pt8909@bristol.ac.uk We are Bristol University’s hill walking and hiking club, catering for both hard-core mountain trekkers and those who prefer a gentle stroll between pubs. There’s a day walk or weekend trip every term-time weekend and a longer trip in the summer, plus a packed social calendar. www.explorersclub.co.uk
Hot Air Ballooning (BUHABS) Best Website £35 / bh7322@bristol.ac.uk BUHABS fly every weekend, weather permitting, from launch sites around the
Bristol area. Members have the opportunity to fly in the club’s own balloon and chase the balloon as retrieve crew. After each flight, we enjoy breakfast or a drink in a country pub. Only £20 per flight. www.buhabs.org
Ice Skating £5 / re8457@bristol.ac.uk For anyone who wants to ice-skate, in any form. From those who go infrequently, to those who go three times a week. Join us and have fun! PS We also have the occasional social…
£5 / bw8847@bristol.ac.uk Interested in motorsport or cars? Look no further! We can’t promise a career in Formula One but we do offer real motorsport, very cheap. Karting, MiniMotos, Navigational Rallies, Autotests, Treasure-Hunts and much more. You don’t need a car or lots of cash to fulfil your need for speed with UBMS! www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ motorsport
Shaolin Temple Kung Fu £10 / ac7678@bristol.ac.uk Our society encourages the teachings of the Shaolin Temple. The society has the honour of being taught by a Shaolin Monk, Shifu Shi Yan Xin, who became a student at the Shaolin Temple at the age of 8. As well as training we do other things besides! www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ shaolin-temple-kungfu
Shorinji Kempo Kitesurfing £20 / tm8110@bristol.ac.uk We offer a unique and thrilling opportunity to get involved with the fastest growing extreme sport in the UK. Newbies and experienced kitesurfers alike should sign up for our trips to the beach. We offer you epic value on equipment, tuition, awesome socials and a manic trip abroad at Easter. www.bristolkitesurfing.co.uk
Lifesaving £10 / ac9718@bristol.ac.uk One of the most varied societies; lifesaving offers unique competitive opportunities away at other universities, NPLQ courses, socials and lifeguard training hours. We are very friendly – get fit, travel and have fun whilst learning invaluable skills, gaining qualifications and taking part in an up and coming competitive activity!
Motorsport (UBMS)
£5 / mp8074@bristol.ac.uk Shorinji Kempo is a Japanese method of self defence and training for both the mind and the body. Its teachings include a complete range of defence techniques that range from punches and kicks to throws and locks, a form of shiatsu massage [seiho], seated meditation and philosophy. www.bristol.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/ShorinjiKempo
Spelaeological (Caving) £12 / ch8072@bristol.ac.uk Scramble up waterfalls, crawl through tunnels, stomp along underground streams and abseil down huge free-hanging pitches. Caving has it all. www.ubss.org.uk
T’ai Chi £6 / mp8206@bristol.ac.uk Are you as relaxed and peaceful as you would like to be? Do you sometimes feel out of balance physically, emotionally or mentally? T’ai Chi Chuan is an ancient
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 33
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
Chinese system for health, wellbeing, fitness and coordination. A beautiful form of moving meditation, it can also be a martial art. £4 per lesson www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ tai-chi
Yoga £6 / gf7813@bristol.ac.uk Yoga is a holistic discipline which helps develop strength and flexibility. It’s a great way to relax from everyday stress and become more aware of your body. Bristol Yoga Soc runs classes of Iyengar Yoga twice a week. Everybody is welcome at any time of the year. www.yogasoc.com
POLICITCAL Conservative Association £2 / tv8725@bristol.ac.uk The Association runs a range of events, from policy discussions to social gatherings. We offer the chance to meet party officials and cabinet ministers and the opportunity to visit CCHQ, Parliament and even Brussels! We aim to get students involved in conservative politics and are affiliated to Conservative Future.
International Affairs (IAS) £5/yr or £12 full course / sn8115@bristol.ac.uk IAS is a forum for debate and discussion of key political and economic issues. We involve over 400 members through events, trips abroad and our vast network of contacts in international organisations. Previous speakers include former UN Under-Secretary General Dame Margaret Anstee, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg MP and comedian Rory Bremner.
34 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SOCIETIES
www.international-affairs. org.uk
Labour Club £3 / jf9489@bristol.ac.uk Being involved with the Labour Party on a student level means being part of a vital movement for change. As a Club we seek to rebuild the Party’s political authority and integrity, pressure and question the actions of the ConDem government and provide a place to meet likeminded individuals! www.bristol.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/UBLC/
Liberal Democrat £1 / bristol-libdem-youthand-students@hotmail.co.uk A society for people with an interest in liberalism and the Liberal Democrats.
Model United Nations £5 / rh9513@bristol.ac.uk Model United Nations is a society that offers training and heated debates in preparation to attending National and International Model United Nations Conferences: simulations of the actual United Nations! We offer great weekly training sessions and amazing socials. Conferences to be attended include Oxford MUN, London MUN, Nottingham MUN and Barcelona MUN!
++ J-Soc
Christian Union
Islamic
Free / jy7258@bristol.ac.uk BUCU is made up of Christians from across the University seeking to be united and rooted in the Gospel, to encourage and equip one another to live and speak for Jesus Christ. For details on how, when and where we do this, please see the CU website. www.bristolcu.org.uk
£5 / sk8302@bristol.ac.uk BRISOC is a society for everyone! We cater for the educational, social and spiritual needs of our members and strive to create an exemplary community at Bristol University. We have dedicated prayers facilities within the heart of the campus. BRISOC can also provide Islamic literature including English translations of the Holy Quran. www.brisoc.com
Cross Connections
RELIGIOUS
Free / hm8240@bristol.ac.uk Cross Connections is a Christian society with an emphasis upon social justice. Our meetings host a variety of speakers both from within and out of the church. There will also be opportunities for voluntary work with various charities. Meetings are very informal with fairtrade coffee and cake and take place every Monday evening. www.crossconnections. co.uk
Catholic (CASSOC)
Hindu
£1 / rh8735@bristol.ac.uk CASSOC is the University’s society for Catholics. We meet every Sunday at 6 for mass, followed by a cheap meal in our even cheaper bar. Other events include carol singing, meals out, and trips to other Cathsocs. It’s a fantastic place to meet like-minded friends so come along! www.cassoc.org.uk
£4 / sj7711@bristol.ac.uk Namaste, Every student is welcome to learn and discuss matters based around the Hindu (Sanatan Dharma) culture and religion. We also support Sikhism and Jainism. As well as learning we make it fun and exciting by holding major events, sports competitions, discussions, weekly prayers and create a supportive, community atmosphere. Facebook: Bristol Hindu Soc
WE SHOW ALL MAJOR SPORTS FIXTURES! SKY SPORTS BIG SCREEN + PLASMAS ALWAYS A GOOD VIEW LOADS OF COMFY SOFAS DEALS ON PITCHERS
J-Soc (Jewish) £5 / chair@bristoljsoc.org.uk JSoc is a place to meet Jewish friends and connect with your Jewish roots at a range of social, cultural and religious events www.bristoljsoc.co.uk
MethSoc (Methodist) Free / an7561@bristol.ac.uk MethSoc draws together Bristol students who wish to experience the Christian faith journey together. While MethSoc grows out of the Methodist tradition and has ties with Victoria Methodist Church in Clifton, we are a welcoming faith community embracing members from various Christian traditions. We meet in the Chaplaincy Sunday nights. www.ubu.org.uk/societies/ methodist
YOUR SU BAR NUS EXTRA DISCOUNTS
OUR PROFITS GO BACK INTO FUNDING YOUR CLUBS, SOCIETIES, AND SUPPORT SERVICES
. GROUND FLOOR BAR WITH TERRACE . OPEN EVERY DAY . JUST 5 MINS FROM THE TRIANGLE . ... AND SOME OF THE BEST PRICES IN TOWN!
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SPORT
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SPORT
SPORTS SOCIETIES GUIDE 2010 Getting involved in sport at university is a great way to meet new people and to get fit and healthy. The Union offers sporting opportunities at a competitive level or just to have fun and try something new. We also run healthy initiatives around campus and over the past few years we have held events such as mass aerobics classes and 5km fun runs, a chance for everyone and anyone to come along and give it a go.
/sports clubs As you might expect, the sport on offer at Bristol University is extremely diverse. We have over 50 different sports clubs, most of which are detailed here. If you don’t see your sport, however large or small, we can support you in setting up a new club because you are bound to find like-minded individuals. The majority of sports clubs compete in BUCS, the interuniversity sports competition, either on Wednesday afternoons or at the weekend, and also in local leagues. Many cater for all abilities, from beginners up to international athletes, and the beauty is that you’ll probably get to know
36 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
everyone in the club. All sports clubs are run by students, so in future years you could be organising the ski trip for 500 people, captaining the Korfball 1st team or be the treasurer of the windsurf club. In many clubs you will have the opportunity to gain coaching, or officiating qualifications, alongside having a lot of fun.
/intramural If joining a sports club is above your commitment level, then join an intramural team. Intramural leagues and tournaments occur in the more traditional sports such as football (11-a-side and 5-aside), hockey, rugby, netball, and basketball but sometimes others like dodgeball will sneak in there too. Teams can be entered from Halls, course societies, Orbital, or just a group of friends that want to play together and have a laugh. Look out for information in halls during Fresher’s week, at Fresher’s Fair and throughout the year.
/other ‘sporting’ opportunities We organise a Varsity series against UWE (the other University in Bristol) with
Don’t forget to stay around Bristol after exams for the Summer Sports Send-Off, a collection of fun sports tournaments held before all freshers get kicked out of halls. various sports played throughout the year. The big three are football, rugby and the boat race, held either side of the Easter break, so come along and show some passion for being a Bristol University student. Socially, there is a Sports Night every Wednesday where you can often find many of the sports clubs bonding over a beverage or two. It’s open to all and it’s a great night for everyone, and fancy dress is always welcome. There is also SCORE, a massive themed sport social that happens 3 or 4 times per year, involving sports clubs, intramural teams and all their friends. The sporting year culminates with a black tie event, where everyone lets their hair down and enjoys an evening of food, drink and an awards ceremony.
What will you w
in?
Aikido University of Bristol Aikido Club sa8186@bristol.ac.uk Aikido is a comprehensive martial art based on whole body movement. Practice is non-competitive and leads to both physical and mental development. Techniques involve joint manipulation and the breaking of the attacker’s balance and so can be executed regardless of size, age or gender. You are already ready for Aikido.
offered the opportunity to compete in events premised on their interests and ability.
Badminton ja8833@bristol.ac.uk We are a friendly sociable club that welcomes any players from complete beginners to the highest standard. If you want to compete, keep fit or just have fun then we are the club for you.
Basketball Bristol Basketball Club ab9175@bristol.ac.uk; dr8858@bristol.ac.uk With 2 men’s teams, 1 premiership women’s team , an intramural league for all levels and regular Wednesday night socials, being part of the basketball club at Bristol is fun and exciting.
requirements. We boast one of the most successful squads on the circuit as well as an international coach, ready to guide you forwards to be the next Steve Redgrave. www.ubbconline.co.uk
Boxing If your goal is to get fit, gain key self-defence techniques, improve self confidence or compete at the highest level in BUCS, boxing is for you.
Canoe Bristol University Canoe Club (BUCC) ss7307@bristol.ac.uk White water kayaking and canoe polo for paddlers of all abilities. 2 pool sessions a week, regular socials, day trips to Cardiff international white water course, regular canoe polo tournaments,
weekend trips away to South Wales and Devon and longer trips to Scotland, the Alps and more. All kit supplied! www.uobcc.co.uk
Clay Pigeon Clay Pigeon Club (Bristol Shooting Club) hw9484@bristol.ac.uk The shooting club welcomes all levels, from the experienced shot to the complete beginner. We train every Wednesday at the Mendip shooting ground and have a great year of socials and competitions lined up, so come along and give it a shot. www.bristolshooting.org
Bike American Football UoB Barracuda American Football Team sb8838@bristol.ac.uk With all kit supplied and great coaching, no experience is required to become a Barracuda. See us at Fresh or email now for details! www.cudafootball.com
Athletics The University of Bristol Athletics Club ys9807@bris.ac.uk; jb7166@ bristol.ac.uk Catering for athletes of all standards, Athletics provides a viable workout through an assortment of several different training sessions a week, served in a pick and mix fashion. Athletes are
University of Bristol Bike Club (UoB Bike Club) president-bikeclub@bris. ac.uk A friendly, inclusive club we cater for all disciplines; downhill, cross-country, road and bmx. Whether you’re interested in casual riding, competition between friends or full-on racing, we’ve got it covered. www. bristoluniversitybikeclub. com
Boat University of Bristol Boat CLub (UBBC) pv7406@bristol.ac.uk Whether you are new to rowing, or already represented your country, then the University of Bristol Boat Club can meet your
++ basketball WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 37
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SPORT
++ cricket
Combat Karate COMBAT KARATE – Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate je8644@bristol.ac.uk; dkk_ lewis@yahoo.co.uk Get fit, get confident, get flexible Take the chance to train with a British Champion and a World Silver Medallist in friendly, dynamic, realitybased club. All welcome from complete beginner to experienced martial artist. An explosive system incorporating; striking, kicks, locks, throws, weapons, grappling and so much more. www.combat-karate.co.uk
Cricket University of Bristol Cricket Club (UBCC) cricket-club@bristol.ac.uk We run three mens outdoor teams against other universities and local clubs including Gloucestershire CCC. We also enter BUCS and local indoor cricket competitions. We train weekly during the winter and twice during the summer, with extra 1XI squad training. Our ladies section caters for all standards, including beginners. www.uobcricket.com/
Cross Country University of Bristol Cross Country Club (UBCCC) bristolxc@googlemail.com Suitable for everyone from
38 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
the occasional joggers to international athletes. Fun, varied, active and sociable with loads of different training sessions to suit all abilities & the opportunity to enter races nationwide! We also currently hold the Club of the Year award!!! www.ubccc.co.uk
Fencing University of Bristol Fencing Club captain@uobfc.co.uk Come and learn the art of fencing! Our club caters for complete beginners through to international standard fencers and is one of the most successful clubs in the University. Why not experience this fantastic sport, find a new way to keep fit and have fun with us? www.uobfc.co.uk
Football Men University of Bristol Association Football Club (UBAFC) club.captain@ubafc.com UBAFC enters 4 teams into the BUCS competition and a 5th team into the university intramural competition. The season culminates in the Varsity game against UWE and the Memorial Stadium. Weekly socials take place on Wednesday nights. Freshers interested in joining the squad for preseason
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
should contact the Club Captain. www.ubafc.com
work towards! Facebook: Bristol Uni Kickboxing
Football Women
Korfball
University of Bristol Women’s Football Club (UBWFC) ubwfc@hotmail.com We are an ambitious club with lots of keen players looking to win matches and have fun doing it. We train at Coombe Dingle every Tuesday and play on Wednesdays, of course with a social Wednesday nights. We have 2 coaches through the Uni. We also play futsal similar to 5-a-side. http://www.bris.ac.uk/ Depts/Union/UBWFC/
University of Bristol Korfball Club jf7437@bris.ac.uk Want to try something new, crazy and exciting? Korfball is a mixed sport similar to basketball or netball with fantastic socials! We now have a 3rd team purely for beginners, so you can play competitively or just for fun. www.swka.org/bristoluni
Gliding Bristol University Gliding Club (BUGC) jn8508@bristol.ac.uk If you’re interested in flying, we are the best place you can start! Gliding is a fun, cheap, and exhilarating sport that anyone can do. We run out of nearby airfield with regular trips, so if you’re interested, drop us a line!
Golf Bristol University Golf Club mr9975@bristol.ac.uk; ts8963@bristol.ac.uk The club provides facilities for players of all abilities with regular coaching sessions and games at The Bristol GC. We also have a team which competes in BUCS competitions.
Hockey Men University of Bristol Mens Hockey Club (UBMHC) ng9376@bristol.ac.uk Hockey is a welcoming and friendly club catering for all standards. We have 4 teams that play regularly on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Off the pitch, the legendary UBMHC Wednesday night socials are not to be missed! Come and see us at The Freshers’ Fair to find out more! www.bristolhockey.com
Hockey Ladies University of Bristol Ladies Hockey Club (UBLHC) ce9832@bristol.ac.uk UBLHC welcomes all standards. We run five teams and training is held twice weekly. It is a social and competitive club and is a great opportunity to have fun and meet like-minded people. If you’re prepared to work hard and play hard, get involved here. See you at the Freshers’ Fair! www.bristolhockey.com
Judo The best martial art, unparalleled competitive success and nationally renowned socials! Get fit & have a great time!
Ju Jitsu kb7685@bris.ac.uk Jiu Jitsu is a self-defence martial art based on a moving system of striking, locking and throwing techniques. A fantastic way to improve your strength, fitness, coordination and self-confidence while also having fun and meeting new people. National competitions and a legendary post-session social life. Everybody welcome! www.jitsufoundation.org
Mountaineers University of Bristol Mountaineering Club (UBMC) Ht9146@bris.ac.uk We are a friendly student club for mountaineers and climbers of all persuasions from rock to ice and back again. We have regular weekend trips and climb all across the country.
Ladies Lacrosse (UBLC) sw9133@bris.ac.uk Great sport for all abilities, supporting players from the university team to a national level. Friendly club on and off the pitch that meets for regular training and Wednesday evening socials. Facebook: University of Bristol Lacrosse Club
Mixed Lacrosse
Netball
Lacrosse
University of Bristol Mixed Lacrosse Club rv6554@bris.ac.uk The club offers both Mixed and Men’s lacrosse and welcomes complete beginners. Mixed lacrosse is a fun way to keep fit and has huge weekly socials on Wednesday nights. The Men’s team offers more intense training and competes at the highest BUCS standard. www.bristollacrosse.com
outdoor adventure sport that exercises both mind and body. Competitors compete against each other to navigate between controls in the fastest time. It’s a great sport for runners, joggers and walkers who want to improve their navigation skills or for anyone who loves the outdoors. www.uboc.co.uk
Muay Thai Kickboxing University of Bristol Muay Thai Club (UBMTC) davies@cs.bris.ac.uk Muay Thai is an ancient and efficient fighting style and a national sport of Thailand. It utilises fists, elbows, knees, shins and feet making it a popular fighting style in boxing rings worldwide. Whether you are male or female, an experienced fighter or complete beginner, fret not, we welcome all. www.uobmuaythai.co.uk
Kickboxing The University of Bristol Kickboxing Club dh7817@bristol.ac.uk Kickboxing functions not only as a sport but aims to improve self-defence, stamina, flexibility, strength and endurance. The club has regular gradings, competitions and social events to take part in, so there is always something to
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SPORT
University of Bristol Netball Club (UBNC) em9029@bristol.ac.uk This is one of the most popular and social clubs for girls at Bristol. Keep fit, have fun, meet new people and play competitive netball. Get involved.
Orienteering University of Bristol Orienteering Club (UBOC) rc7892@bristol.ac.uk Orienteering is a challenging
Rugby Women University of Bristol Women’s Rugby Football Club (UBWFRC) se8343@bris.ac.uk Whether you’ve been playing since you could walk or you’ve never picked up a rugby ball before UBWRFC needs you! We’re a friendly, but competitive club that has fun on and off the pitch. Only enthusiasm and a like for getting muddy required. www.bristol.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/UBWRFC/index.html
Rugby League
Polo Bristol University Polo Club (BUPC) ch8955@bristol.ac.uk Want a chance to learn and play one of the fastest most exciting games on earth? Whether you’re a complete beginner or a pro, we have something for you. Annual trip to Argentina/ South Africa. Bristol Polo Club don’t miss out!! www.bristolpoloclub.co.uk
Riding University of Bristol Riding Club kb8326@bris.ac.uk Whether you have been riding all you life or never ridden before the riding club has something to offer you. With flexible lessons for all levels, the club offers the chance to compete against other universities or to simply just have fun. Facebook search: University of Bristol Riding Club
Rugby Men
++ skydiving
Freshers’ Fair for more info. http://www.ubrfc. squarespace.com
University of Bristol Rugby Football Club (UBRFC) wb9056@bristol.ac.uk All levels catered for, great socials, sweet stash. What more could you ask? Email now or see us at The
The Rugby league club welcomes all standards of players including complete novices, as all that is required to progress is enthusiasm!
Sailing University of Bristol Sailing Club (UBSC) lk8648@bristol.ac.uk From recreational sailing to competitive racing and training, the sailing club offers a range of opportunities. Whether you’re a social sailor or a keen racer, we offer a great environment to enjoy this thrilling sport. www.bristolsailing.com
Ski University of Bristol Ski Club (UBSC) rc8740@bristol.ac.uk Ski and Party in Mayrhofen in the Christmas Holidays with us! Then do it again in Tignes at Easter! Coaching for absolute beginners, recreational skiers, first time and seasoned racers during term-time. Freestyle sessions at the snowdomes. An epic ball and regular messy socials! Join the biggest club in Bristol! www.bris.ac.uk/depts/ union/BUSC/
Sky Diving If you have ever dreamed of
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 39
SOCIETIES & SPORTS
taking a part in the ultimate extreme sport then this club is for you. We offer a training course for absolute beginners, the cheapest and safest around, then a jump of 3500ft.
Snowboard University Of Bristol Snowboarding (UBSB) fh7545@bris.ac.uk UBSB offers the chance to progress in freestyle through trips to snowdomes, racing though national events and the chance for beginners to break into the sport with great student deals. The lack of snow in Britain means that UBSB has a great social life to keep the members involved. www.ubsnowboarding. co.uk
Squash University of Bristol Squash and Racquets Club (UBSRC) ec9677@bris.ac.uk The Bristol Squash club is a great social group for both beginners and more experienced players looking to improve their game. We have three boys teams and two girls teams, all are achieving excellent standards of play in BUCS and local leagues. We also offer weekly training sessions with fun games. www.ubu.org.uk/sport/ clubs/squash
Surf University of Bristol Surf Club mp7198@bristol.ac.uk Welcome to the Surf Club! We are a very friendly club, aimed at people who love surfing or those who just want to give it a go. We welcome surfers of all abilities, especially complete
*
Club nb7214@bristol.ac.uk One of the University’s most successful clubs, we have two Men’s and one Women’s Water Polo Teams and two Swim Teams. www.bris.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/Swim/
University of Bristol Table Tennis Society hv9285@bris.ac.uk Our club offers a relaxed environment, from various social events to training and BUCS tournaments for both novices and experienced players. Come and join us at The Freshers’ Fair!
Tae Kwon Do sq7018@bristol.ac.uk Tae Kwon Do is a modern expression of the martial arts practised in Korea. Whilst getting to grips with technique and optional light sparring, our training includes Tae Bo “cardio boxing” to keep you fit. With its friendly atmosphere the club welcomes any standard from beginner to black belt!!!! www.bris.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/TaeKwonDo/
Tennis mh7493@bristol.ac.uk Tennis club is for all abilities from our very successful team down to complete beginners. Come see us at The Freshers’ Fair! www.ubutennis.com
Trampoline
Swim & Waterpolo University of Bristol Swimming & Waterpolo
Ultimate Frisbee
40 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
++ windsurf
Table Tennis
University of Bristol Trampoline Club secretary@uobtc.org.uk We are an enthusiastic, popular, sociable and successful club welcoming all abilities to try trampolining. Not too sure? Well come and find us at FRESH or give it a go at BOUNCE our FREE all day event on Saturday 9th October!!!! www.uobtc.org.uk
beginners. There are several weekend trips to Newquay that are not to be missed!
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SPORT
University of Bristol Ultimate Frisbee Club (UBUFC) rd7075@bristol.ac.uk UBUFC competes at the top level of university Ultimate and welcomes everyone, from GB players to absolute beginners! Come along, pick up a disc and see what this friendly club has to offer! www.bris.ac.uk/Depts/ Union/UBUFC/home.html
Underwater University of Bristol Underwater Club (UBUC) tom.ubuc@googlemail.com Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced diver you will fit right in with us! Divers of all ages and experience are welcome to take advantage of numerous weekend trips, expeditions and weekly pool and pub sessions. Come and find us at The Freshers’ Fair and arrange a try dive! www.ubuc.org/
Volleyball University of Bristol Volleyball Club ps8810@bristol.ac.uk Our club offers volleyball training and competition for all levels, from beginner to national (BUCS) competition. Team members train twice a week and casual non-competitive sessions are held on
Saturdays. Anybody can participate, whether you have played before or not.
Waterski Bristol Wakeboard and Waterski Club nb7842@bristol.ac.uk Do you love the water? Do you love extreme sports? Are you a wakeboarder, waterskier, slalom pro, wakeskater, barefoot champ or just love your kneeboarding? Or are you just interested in trying something new? If so, then this club is for you! Facebook: Bristol Waterski and Wakeboard club
Windsurf University of Bristol Windsurfing Club (UBWC) president@ubwc.co.uk UBWC is a friendly club providing opportunities for everyone from complete beginners to advanced wave sailors to progress and enjoy the sport. In addition we have hugely popular weekly socials, and regular trips and events. www.ubwc.co.uk
BRISTOL JUST GOT
CHEAPER. CHECK OUT OUR PICK OF THE ESSENTIAL LOCAL DISCOUNTS AROUND BRISTOL.
BIKE (UK)
REMEMBER THIS IS AS WELL AS ALL THE FANTASTIC BIG NAME BRANDS.
BAR 100
SEE HOW MUCH YOU COULD SAVE AND GET YOUR NUS EXTRA CARD READY FOR WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT NUSEXTRA.CO.UK
QUEENS AVE, BRISTOL / WWW.BIKE-UK.CO.UK
10% OFF EVERYTHING - INCLUDING BIKES! NOT SALE OR CYCLESCHEME PURCHASES
STUDENTS’ UNION
10% OFF ALL DRAFT LAGER + CIDER, SPIRIT + MIXER AND SOFT DRINKS WICKED COFFEE AND JUICE BAR
STUDENTS’ UNION
10% OFF ALL HOT DRINKS THE BURGER JOINT
COTHAM HILL
20% OFF YOUR TOTAL BILL VALID SUNDAY-THURSDAY
PAPERCHASE
QUEENS RD, BRISTOL / PAPERCHASE.CO.UK
10% OFF FULL PRICE ART PRODUCTS RISE
QUEENS RD, BRISTOL / RISE-MUSIC.CO.UK
10% OFF ANY “ALBUMS OF THE MONTH” TITLE HANDBAGS FROM HEAVEN HANDBAGSFROMHEAVEN.CO.UK
10% OFF HIRE PRICES
RED SPOT SELF STORAGE
KINGLAND RD BRISTOL / REDSPOTSTORAGE.CO.UK
10% DISCOUNT ON YOUR STORAGE COST CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER OR PROMOTION
NUSEXTRA.CO.UK
LOOKING AFTER YOU
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT
LOOKING AFTER YOU
WE ARE HERE FOR YOU One of the most exciting things about coming to University is the range of people you will meet. Whatever your background, you are likely to find others who have similar previous experiences to yours as well as people whose lives thus far seem a world apart. UBU constantly strives to be inclusive and welcoming to all of our members. We represent every single one of you, however you would define yourself. And we want to enable you to represent yourselves too.
Welfare Campaigns UBU is commited to supporting your students’ welfare throughout your time at university. A proportion of this is through raising awareness. In the past we have run mental health, safety and alcohol awareness campaigns. Campaigns are organised and run by students and the VP Welfare & Equality; in addition we have part-time student officers. If you are interested in promoting student welfare
42 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
and getting involved in our awareness campaigns then sign up to the mailing lists at the Freshers’ Fair!
Forums & Liberation Campaigns In addition to welfare campaigns there are also autonomous liberation campaigns. These are organised by the student group in question by way of a Forum. A Student Forum is a gathering of students who selfdefine into specific areas. They are convened by the relevant student part-time officer. They are your chance to raise any issue and influence change. The VP Welfare & Equality will feedback any points that come up to the University, so have your say! Working with the student officer, the forum can also help campaigning done on behalf of that student group, there are plenty of ways to get involved. The dates for the Forums will be set early in the term,
YOUR OFFICERS: + Black & Minority Ethnic Toshi Sherpa + Disabled VACANT – see below! + International Xue Ying (Stella) Zheng + LGBT Simon Aquino & Samuel McLaughlin + Mature & Part Time Ypapanti (Papi) Chochorelou + Women Sophie Bennett + Mental Health Officer Colette Brown + Disabled Students’ Officer vacant - see below! + Welfare Campaigns Officer vacant – see below! The positions of Welfare Campaigns Officer & Disabled Students’ Officer are currently vacant, to find out more about these positions and how to run, contact the President of VP Welfare & Equality.
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT
HOW CAN WE HELP? If you’re unsure where to go for help, the following are the best places to start. They deal with a wide range of problems and enquiries and have contact information for other services. No problem is too big or small, - if it worries you, it’s important!
just ask advice and representation centre
Just Ask is located in the Union Building and is run by a team of professional student advisers alongside the sabbatical officers. It offers independent, impartial information and advice on a range of student welfare issues. Whatever your concern you can speak to the team in complete confidence.
nightline Nightline offers a student-run, confidential listening and
information service which operates every term-time evening between 8pm and 8am. They can provide all sorts of info from where to get a pizza after the pubs have closed to information on drugs awareness groups or a compassionate, nonjudgemental ear to help you talk through a problem. Their number is 46864 on internal phones or you can find their number on the back of your student card. Alternatively you can email nightline@bristol.ac.uk. See also www.bristol.ac.uk/nightline
student counselling service
The University’s Student Counselling Service offers free professional and confidential help to students with any problem or anxieties. Attending counselling is not a sign of weakness. University life can
be very stressful, especially at a time when you are moving away from your own support network at home. A great range of difficulties can be discussed, not only concerning study and exams, but also about friends, families, loneliness and all sorts of other things. www.bristol.ac.uk/ student-counselling/
legal
If you ever find yourself in need of legal advice, there are a variety of people you can talk to: + The Accommodation Office has helped students take landlords to court, and deal with many more before they reach this stage. + The law clinic is run by law students, with the support from lecturers in the department to give advice and support to fellow students.
Tell us anything, we won’t ever judge.
To keep up to speed sign up to the mailing lists at the Freshers’ Fair.
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 43
LOOKING AFTER YOU
If you could Change One Thing at Bristol University, what would it be?
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT
JUST ASK!
/just ask centre /academic Just Ask is our independent advice and representation service on the 4th floor. They’re here to provide a service where you can drop in or call anytime you want, and talk to them about any issues, large or small, affecting you during your time at Uni. These include the following areas, to name a few:
• Academic appeals • Complaints • Changing course • Plagiarism • Extenuating circumstances • Disciplinary procedures.
/personal welfare • Finance • Harassment • Health • Housing • Safety and security.
One focus for us is academic representation including complaints, appeals, extenuating circumstances and other assessment issues. We also deal with referrals to and from other agencies on a range of other issues such as financial matters, consumer rights and personal problems, and organise occasional workshops and information fairs for students. The Just Ask website provides links to information on all the above topics, and the centre itself has a range of literature on these and more general topics, including local bus timetables and cycling routes.
/just ask
ge n a Ch e Oning Th
Suggest, Share and Vote ...on your ideas, and we’ll do our best to make them happen.
Drop in: Students’ Union, 4th Floor Email: ubu-justask@ bristol.ac.uk Phone: 0117 33 13511 Online: www.ubu. org.uk/justask If in doubt: Just Ask!
visit changeonething.org.uk to find out more WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 45
LOOKING AFTER AFTER YOU YOU ** SECTION WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT LOOKING WEBSITE REFERENCE
YOU & YOUR DEGREE
LOOKING AFTER YOU
There are many resources to help you over the coming years, so make sure you use them: Personal Academic Tutors – Your department will assign you with a personal tutor, who should meet with you by the end of your second week. Their role is to act as a first point of contact in the University for pastoral (personal) and academic support. If you are not happy with your tutor, you are entitled to ask for a change and should speak to your head of department. Alternatively feel free to come and see your Vice-President: Education for advice. ++ Student ‘Parents’ Many departments and student societies run ‘parenting schemes’. This is where second year (and sometimes third year) students are assigned freshers to support through their first year. ‘Parents’ can provide a great insight into your course and university life - as they will have already gone through much of what you will experience over the coming year.
We may sometimes lose sight of it, but coming to university is primarily about studying! University can be quite a different educational experience to that of school or college and you will need to adapt to this. You can expect less teaching time than you’ve previously had and more time for ‘independent learning’ and research. This may mean a lot of ‘free time’ initially, but once you get to exam, essay or project time you’re likely to feel much calmer and more confident if you’ve worked throughout the year. Of course, this isn’t to say that you shouldn’t enjoy your time in Bristol!
46 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
++ The Union Vice-President: Education & Part-time Education Officers The union aims to support you throughout your time at Bristol. The Vice-President: Education, Andy Hollingsworth, is the student body’s link to the University on all educational matters. He liaises regularly with academics and members of staff throughout the university, and is able to give support, advice and raise feedback on
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT
crucial issues. He also works with a team of part-time officers and student reps; representing faculties, helping to organise campaigns and more. Please visit Andy on the 4th floor of the students’ union building if you have any educational issues you wish to discuss. ++ Student Reps Student reps are elected at the beginning of the academic year to represent you! The reps attend staff-student liaison committees within your department. These are meetings where the reps are able to put your view across to the department and push to make changes where you want them. They also feed back to other university committees and the Students’ Union, so that we can campaign on issues you feel strongly about in order to achieve change! ++ The MyBristol portal You’ll get more information about the portal from your department. It will list your Student Reps and their contact details once they have been elected. ++ Transfers Hopefully your course will be what you wanted and more. However, if you find it’s not for you don’t be afraid to speak to your personal tutor, or to someone else in your department who you feel comfortable talking to. It may be possible to change a particular study unit or even your course. However most options are time dependent, so don’t delay in acting. A Student Adviser, the Vice-President
Education and the Careers Advisory Service can also talk things through with you. There may be financial implications to changing course or university and the Student Funding Office is always available to give you help on this matter. ++ Problems and Appeals If you are unhappy about a decision that has been made - for example if your department did not take into account the fact that you were ill when revising, that you have a disability or simply did not followed its own procedures then you may appeal. It might be that the issue can be dealt with informally by your personal tutor. In a more serious situation you may wish to talk to a Student Adviser, or look more closely at the Students Complaints Procedure. It is important to remember that many complaints have strict timelines attached – our Student Advisors can talk you through this and offer support and advice.
/contacts Vice-President: Education (Andy): ubu-education@bris.ac.uk ‘Just Ask’ Student Advisors (Graham & Louise): ubu-justask@bristol.ac.uk ++ The Student Complaints Procedure can be found at: http://www.bris.ac.uk/ secretary/studentrulesregs/ complaints.html
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 47
LOOKING AFTER YOU
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT
become a
STUDENT REP! ++ Purpose
+ Student Reps exist to ensure your department – and the university as a whole – can discuss and act on student feedback and concerns. They attend department liaison committees and also have the opportunity to sit on other university and student union committees. Reps are invaluable to both the university and the students union; providing a direct link with the opinions and feedback of students on the ground!
++ Experience
+ Training & support to help you represent students in your department effectively and achieve change. + Experience of attending university consultative groups and working closely with academics to improve the student
48 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
experience. + The opportunity to attend high level university committees, get involved in campaigns and much more.
++ Skills
+ You will develop skills in effective negotiation and representation. + You will also have the opportunity to get involved in campaigns, gaining skills in campaign planning, effective marketing and evaluation.
++ Commitment
+ One training session in the first term, with the opportunity of further training and support (2 hours). + One or two Staff-Student Liaison Committees (SSLC) per term (about 2 hours each).
+ One faculty-wide meeting of reps a term to discuss shared issues and concerns (about 2 hours each). + Possibility of one or two university committees per term (about 2 hours each) and attendance at the Students Union Executive Committee fortnightly (about 1.5 hours each).
++ Want to get involved?
+ Ask your department for more information about how and when elections run in your subject!
LOOKING AFTER YOU
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT
LOOKING AFTER YOU
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT
your home
Freshers’ Week can be daunting. Being at university can be daunting. Maybe you’ve been out of education for a while; have never lived in a big city; have moved to England to study; are concerned about being away from friends and family … Everyone has different worries, but virtually everyone is in the same situation: getting used to new people and a new lifestyle. Settling in properly will take time, so don’t feel you need to have new best friends and understand your course by the end of the first week! It may seem like everyone around you has done exactly that, but it is more than likely that they are feeling the same as you.
Essentials before you arrive…
Essentials AFTER you arrive…
With the overload of information that you will have already had, and the huge number of forms you will have filled in, you can be forgiven for thinking that this is some kind of test to see if you are ready to come to University. But don’t panic!
Read your Registration Pack again in the first few weeks the Registration Pack should be your guidebook.
Read the Registration 1 Pack sent by the University and make sure you meet all of the deadlines for submitting paperwork.
Go to introductory 4 lectures in your department
50 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
2
3
5
Go to hall or other introductory talks
Construct your
lecture/seminar/tutorial timetable Register with the Student Health Service (and make sure you’re up to date with all your jabs) www.bristol.ac.uk/ students-health
6
Register with your 7 faculty (and pick up your student card) Go to the Freshers’ Fair in the Students’ Union and sign up to new and exciting clubs and societies
8
insurance If you are in a University residence, you will automatically have some insurance, but you should ensure that you don’t need any extra insurance for your valuables. It may be that your personal valuables are covered on your parent’s household insurance: do check to see if and how you are covered. You can also register your valuables on www.immobilise.com just in case the worst happens.
new people University is a great opportunity to meet loads of interesting new people and make new friends. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you will have made life-long friends with everyone you have met by the end of your first week.
The people you live with will often be the first people you meet, and you may want to suggest ways to get to know each other better, such as eating together or just being welcoming by leaving your doors open when you are in. You may find you want to meet people who you have more in common with, either through your course or other activities. Most departments have a student society whose main aim will be to organise social events to help people get to know each other better. As you will see from the rest of the Guide, there is no shortage of other societies, sports clubs and activities for you to get involved in and meet new people. It is very easy to find yourself spending time with a group of people and wishing that you were somewhere else and had met other people, but remember it’s never too late to make other friends!
living expenses Your living expenses will include accommodation (unless you are a local student living rent-free at home), food, entertainment and books. To a certain extent how much you spend will be determined by your way of life. Most students spend something in the region of £6,000 to £8,200 a year on their living expenses, including accommodation. If you have expensive hobbies or tastes, you will need to factor these into your budget. You should also factor in travel expenses (particularly if you are planning to study a long distance from home), phone calls, birthday presents and any additional course costs (these should be outlined in your course handbook).
article continues overleaf
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 51
LOOKING AFTER YOU
banks Banks generally love students, as they think you will stay with them for the rest of your life and make lots of money. This means you can afford to be picky; while freebies are great, do have a look at the whole package and make sure there is a decent free overdraft facility. Opening a bank account can be a lot more complicated for international students, but the International Student Advisory Service should be able to help you.
jobs It is not unusual for students to work part-time to help cover costs during their course. It is recommended that undergraduates work no more than 15 hours a week, and postgraduates no more than 6. The Careers’ Service runs a “Job Shop” which advertises parttime and holiday employment opportunities. If you do work, remember to check you are not paying tax if you don’t need to. Students often work in the most vulnerable kinds of jobs. Trade Unions protect and advance the interests of their members and can offer help if you encounter work-based problems. Many offer discounts to students, see www.tuc.org.uk You might decide to get a job while at uni.
52 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT
the student funding office The Student Funding Office are a fantastic source of information on all money matters: from bursaries to scholarships, to hardship grants and emergency loans, they are the people to talk to www.bristol.ac.uk/ studentfunding
alcohol It would be unrealistic to pretend that anything written here might stop you ever getting drunk, but it’s important that you know the facts. The recommended limits are 14 units per week for women, 21 for men - that represents one and a half pints of beer/lager or small glasses of wine a day for guys and one for girls. After a night of rather more than that, especially if you have been mixing drinks, you can help yourself by drinking lots of water and fruit juice to relieve the dehydration and put some vitamins and nutrients back into your system. It is also important to think about the effects that excess alcohol may have on your personal safety. Another important thing to look out for is drink spiking. There has been a growing trend for people to fall victim of attack or assault as a result of having drugs added to their drink without their knowledge. You can stay safe by keeping an eye on your drink when you are out. Some people find that it is easier to do this with bottled drinks than pint glasses. If you suspect your drink may have been tampered with, it is much safer to throw it away than
risk drinking it. If you think you may have drunk something that has been spiked, tell a friend or bar staff immediately.
sexual health The number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) diagnosed increases year on year. The message is simple: if you’re having sex, make sure you are having safe sex! Abstinence aside, using a condom is the best way to stay safe and is the only method of contraception that offers protection from STIs. You should never feel coerced into having sex without one; if you feel uncomfortable then just say no. It is a good idea to carry condoms with you, just in case… Also remember that you can pick up some bugs through oral sex as well. If you think you may have an STI, get yourself checked out; don’t forget you can have an infection without displaying any symptoms. Most tests are quick and painless and can be done at one of the Student Health Service drop-in sessions. It is good for your peace of mind and to ensure you stay healthy and fertile in the future! If you are unsure, talk to a doctor: they will have heard it all before and will do their best to put you at ease. If you’re sexually active it’s worth having a regular checkup. Finally, don’t forget that if you have any questions get in touch with our Just Ask team on 0117 33 13511 or www.ubu.org.uk/justask
LOOKING AFTER YOU
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT
freshers’ bugs During the first term, most people, students and lecturers alike, are likely to come down with a common cough or a cold. For the most part, this can be treated with a day or two in bed and maybe some appropriate painkillers. If you experience flu-like symptoms, please phone (do not visit) the Students’ Health Service, your GP or NHS Direct. However, it is important to be vigilant in case of meningitis. Meningitis is potentially life-threatening, and so if you see one or more of the following warning signs in yourself or in someone else, you should seek medical advice immediately. Either go straight to your GP, the Accident and Emergency department of a hospital, or call 999. Never attempt to diagnose yourself:
+ Fever +Vomiting +Stiff neck +Dislike of bright lights +Rapid breathing +Drowsiness +Rash (that still show as red
and/or purple blotches when pressed against glass) Find out more from the University’s FAQs on meningitis: http://www.bris.ac.uk/ university/meningitis-faq. html
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 53
LOOKING AFTER YOU
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT
LOOKING AFTER YOU
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK/SUPPORT
STUDENTS IN THE /volunteering /living out of However, the role of students halls in the community goes far With over 18,000 students, the University of Bristol accounts for a sizeable proportion of the city’s population. Students tend to be concentrated around areas close to the University precinct including Clifton, Cotham, Redland and the Halls of Residence in Stoke Bishop, and their impact on the local community is huge: Bars, Cafes, shops and pubs flourish with the throng of students during term time. Unfortunately, not all local residents look kindly on students and are sometimes prone to blame students for numerous problems such as parking, noise and waste related issues which are sometimes, but not always, founded. The Just Ask Centre on the 4th floor of the Students Union can help you with these issues if they are affecting you or you feel they are affecting others, as well as dealing with other issues you may be facing in the community such as difficult landlords, crime or transport. Your Vice-President: Community will also attend community group and Bristol City Council meetings relevant to student issues in order to represent students and raise issues that may affect them.
54 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
further than a consumer and a resident and reaches into the voluntary sector. Groups such as Student Community Action (SCA – see page 18 for more info) and Raising and Giving (RAG – see page 16 for more info) do fantastic work raising huge sums of money and working with disadvantaged groups in the community, which is a great way for students to help and positively impact their communities. The student ethical and environmental movement is also very strong at the University, with numerous societies who raise awareness and campaign on important issues not only to students but also to the wider community with the Hub (see page 23 for more info) linking them together and making their work very effective.
After your first year it is very likely that you will choose to rent a flat or house somewhere with friends. Some people get stressed about this far too early on and sign contracts in January. But there’s no need to rush; Bristol has an excess of rented properties, so even if you wait until August or September you are likely to get a good deal (perhaps only having to pay for the 9 months of the year when you will be there). It is also important to remember that you will have only known your new friends for a few months, and living with people is very different from going out for a drink with them, so make sure you think about that too. More information and support in looking for houses will be available at the Housing Fair or directly from the Accommodation Office
or this year’s VP Community and Housing Officers of the Students’ Union. Once you’ve settled into your new house or flat remember to go round and say hello to your neighbours so they know who you are, and if you are planning to have a party it is quite nice to give them a bit of warning! Also, it is quite a good idea to check out what day the bins and recycling should go out – it isn’t very nice having a landfill site outside your front door! For info on recycling, when your bin collections are, housing and much more, head to bristolneighbours.com
/contact
Vice-President: Community: Amelia Parsons Email: ubu-community@bristol. ac.uk
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 55
EPIGRAM
*
WWW.EPIGRAM.ORG.UK
EPIGRAMS GUIDE TO FRESHERS’ WEEK Bristol students tend to be work hard, play hard sorts- but Freshers’ year is definitely about having fun, meeting new people and, for many, learning to live independently. So relax, read on and allow the team here at EPIGRAM- your University of Bristol Student Newspaper- to offer you some advice on how to get the most out of being a Fresher...
Freshers Survival Pack
(if they thought you were going to grow up, they were wrong).
clearout.
Even if you are in catered halls it is useful to bring some kitchen bits with you for those At some point during Freshers’ hangover food cravings. As your week, apart from incubating halls provide the majority of fresher’s flu, you will also develop the food your kitchen will most RDA (room decoration anxiety). likely consist of a fridge, a kettle Step one in beating this disorder and a toaster so get inventiveis to acknowledge the universal microwave cookbooks are truth that someone’s room will invaluable for recipes such as always look better than yours. delicious microwave scrambled Check with your halls what eggs and irresistible microwave is provided, then prioritise: a pasta. nice set of sheets, a cosy duvet, some posters from home and Don’t forget your electronics: some photos to cover up that printers, scanners, cameras, suspect patch on the wall. Also laptops, and ipods. Get don’t forget your white tack – it insurance as halls are often doesn’t mark the walls – and a a target for thieves. Also remember the little gadgets: It’s also advisable to bring down door wedge. alarm clocks (in case you are a nice stash of sweets and attempting to get to a lecture), biscuits to offer your neighbours USB drives, the invaluable in return for their caring help. In self-catered halls you should extension socket and your These will also come in useful bring some cooking equipment, mobile phone! when returning home late from but remember to check what clubs or staying up early to your hall already supplies. Useful Finally, items such as your complete an essay. Other fun things that you can never have passport and/or driving license things to bring include: a Frisbee, too many of are corkscrews, for identification, bank details loose change for washing/ tin openers, toastie machines, for setting up accounts, doctor vending machines and a miniand tea towels. When stealing and dentist details are all handy. whiteboard or blackboard mugs and cutlery bear in mind Possibly you might want to bring for one of your walls so that that every student in the UK will along a few textbooks too. people can leave inappropriate have gone to IKEA so try and get comments for your parents to yourself something distinctive see when they come to visit you to be spotted at the end of year It is imperative that all Freshers get out of their Nike high top trainers or Barbour jackets and into fancy dress for at least a couple of nights during the first week. Bring along something that will do for the basic themes: school uniform, cowboy, rave. Once lectures start you’ll want to be rid of that bout of fresher’s flu. Make sure you pack the following: Paracetamol, Lemsip, Vitamin C, Echinacea and Multivitamins. If that sounds a tad excessive, just trust us on this one, it’s all no match for the fearsome flu du FRESHER.
Room equipment
Housekeeping
56 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
EPIGRAM
* WWW.EPIGRAM.ORG.UK
Do’s & Dont’s
+ DO keep your door propped open while you are unpacking and say hi to people when you catch them going by. Everyone is in the same boat and looking out for a friendly face! + DON’T acquire a nickname in Fresher’s week. Do you really want to be called ‘Disco Ben’ for the next three years? + DO make sure to meet as many people as possible. If you’re picky it minimises the chance of finding people you actually like.
Fancy dress not optional... between February and March, but you’ll want to have a rough idea of who you’d like to live with by the beginning of second term. Make sure the people you’re considering are people you’d had vaguely serious conversations with in the past. The most delightful people in the world can suddenly turn once politics enters the equation, and some people have incredibly smelly feet.
can. Signing up for societies is your main aim –joining sports clubs and any of the huge range of societies is the best way to get to know people, especially if your course doesn’t have many contact hours. Try something new while you’re still a student and you have the chance!
+ DON’T get into the habit of missing lectures. It can be a fiendishly difficult habit to break once it becomes a pattern. + DON’T make stupid decisions The walk from a lot of the halls about future housemates. Yes can be a real trek but for many we have given the housing issue courses relative success in two points, but it is, in fact, the first year is a good base for a + DO start to economise only slightly stressful thing you substantially easier second year. early. Freshers’ week is a time will have to deal with this year, On the other hand, if this doesn’t of excess, but do you really and it’s important. It can’t be said worry you, most courses’ lowest need a mini-fridge and a enough that you will have to pick passing rate is 40%. Bristol permanently stocked crate of people to live in close comfort students tend to take pride in Premium snacks? Consider the with pretty early on. If two their studies, but if something Sainsbury’s basics range as a people on the shortlist in your does go wrong, we swear by the refreshing plunge into the cold head have, say, been intimate, famous first year saying, ‘any bath of real ‘student’ food. it’s probably best to cross one percent over 40% is the percent of them off. Furthermore once of your time wasted’. + DO get yourself down to the Open Units Fair If you think you the ink’s dry on your shiny new + DON’T take liberties with might like to try a subject outside house contract try to keep intimate contact with co-signees personal safety, at night OR of your degree- first year is the to a minimum. Also remember during the day. The ‘student best time to do it. The queues that larger houses of 7+ go bubble’ at Bristol is a lovely part are long and popular units get of town, but quite serious crime snapped up quickly so go down relatively early. isn’t completely rare in the area. early and preferably with some + DON’T miss the Fresher’s Fair. Yes we sound like your parents, company! The Union is filled with stands but they aren’t here to say it from societies and companies anymore. Stick to well lit streets, + DO bear in mind that you’ll giving you free things, usually travel in groups, keep valuables be forced to pick housemates safe, and use a bit of common for second year relatively early. just in exchange for your email address. Grab a bag and fill it sense. Peak house signing times are up with as many freebies as you + DO go to meals if you are in catered halls. They are essentially twice daily social events, vital for meeting new people and gossiping about the night before.
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 57
SEE MORE AT BRISTOLFRESHERS.COM
29TH 5TH 7TH 8TH 10TH 11TH 12TH 13TH 14TH 15TH
International Tea Party Freshers’ Party Freshers‘ Fair Freshers’ Fair Fresh Sport RAG Intro Night RAG Intro Night Volunteering Fair BARMY Freshers’ Ball
S CKET OK I T Y GET M E FACEBO TH JOIN P RA GROU S EXT U N AN GRAB CARD BRISTOL Y GET M IE HOOD M RS.CO E H S E OLFR BRIST
WELCOME TO
Bristol
y + your guide to living in the cit
/your city Welcome to Bristol! Being part of this amazing city is why many people choose Bristol University, and why so many people stay once they’ve graduated. You might already know the city, or you may have already had a look around, but this section is aimed at giving you a students’ view of the best places to be. Bristol is a great city, compact enough that you can walk between areas, but large
enough for that big-city feel. There’s pretty much everything you could ever want in the city or nearby, and it all comes with a laid-back Bristolian atmosphere. Bristol’s cultural life is thriving with arts centres, theatres, cinemas and an awesome music scene: it has founded genres such as trip hop, is a hotbed of drum n bass and hosts thousands of big and small bands every year. From upmarket Clifton to the cultural underground of Stokes Croft,
every taste, want and whim is catered for. If you’re living in a city for a full 3 years, then it’s really worth exploring outside the student-y areas. Places like Southville, Totterdown, Easton and St Pauls might come with warnings from fellow students, but they’re actually great places to visit, and will help you get a feel for what the rest of the city has to offer. So grab a map and get out there and explore!
YOUR GUIDE TO YOUR CITY
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
/triangle & park street The Triangle and Park Street are the two areas you’re probably most likely to spend your time whilst at Bristol. A stone’s throw from the University and the Students’ Union, it’s busy day and night and is as student friendly as you can get. Here you’ll find Pubs, Bars, Clubs, Coffee Shops, as well as trendy shops and boutiques. For larger stores though you’ll need to make the trip into the city centre. For those of you who fancy the idea of late-night alfresco dining, there’s a wide selection of kebab shops too!
62 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
Most students live around either here or Gloucester Road once they leave halls, and Stoke Bishop is just up the road making this one of the main student thoroughfares in Bristol. Still feeling the Clifton effect but much more student-friendly. There’s nice cafes and excellent charity shops! Lively bars mean this is a great place to go out but mostly populated by locals on Saturday nights.
++ Highlights + Eating : Dominos Pizza Delicious pizza and student favourite - turn to the back for ++ Highlights special offers! + Eating : Roccotillos + Drinking : Highbury Vaults American-style diner serving Not really in this area but lovely milkshakes and tasty food deserves a mention as it’s one of + Drinking : All-in-One the best pubs in town! Tacky it may be, but it’s cheap + Shopping : Sainsbury’s and open till 4am! This’ll probably be the closest, + Shopping : BS8 and biggest, supermarket to Fashion emporium packed with where you live. different independent brands.
Bristol
5 MUST KNOW AREAS IN. .
/whiteladies road & cotham hill
YOUR GUIDE TO YOUR CITY
/gloucester road Lined with trendy independent shops and funky bars and pubs, Gloucester road is a fantastic place for students. Come here for a wide variety of food shops, vintage clothing stores and trendy coffee shops. It’s not as upmarket as Clifton or Whiteladies Road, but is much better value for money and far less pretentious! Head down towards the centre and Stoke’s Croft and you’ll find legendary night clubs like Blue Mountain and Lakota. ++ Highlights + Drinking : Blue Lagoon Live music, continental atmosphere and cheap drinks, what more could you ask for? + Shopping : The Amnesty Bookshop A vast library of secondhand books on every topic imaginable. + Don’t Forget : There’s the other Branch of Domino’s Pizza, just up the road!
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
/city centre
/clifton village
Bristol city centre is an eclectic mix. You’ll find tacky chain bars next door to Arthouse cinemas and fancy restaurants, whilst the main shopping precinct has everything from Wilkinsons to Harvey Nick’s. The best thing about the City Centre though is the Waterfront and Welsh back, where you’ll find a variety of Bars, Restaurants and Clubs. Head through the older part of town and you’ll find gems such as the eclectic St Nick’s Market and its Farmers Market.
Clifton is home to us, the Students’ Union, and with its vast Georgian terraces, pretty squares and impressive architecture, Clifton is without doubt the most upmarket partof Bristol. Despite this it’s full of students - being so close to the University, Students’ Union and with three halls of residences nearby. The area is full of posh restaurants, swanky boutiques and smart pubs. All very nice but sometimes the prices can be astronomical so watch out. Definitely the place to take visiting parents or to impress mates from home!
++ Highlights +Drinking : Thekla One of the best and most legendary bars/clubs in the city + Shopping : Cabot Circus The shiny award-winning new shopping centre + Culture : Arnolfini - this gallery has loads of fantastic exhibits, and a great bar too!
++ Highlights + Eating : The Primrose Cafe Boho cafe by day, smart bistro by night! + Drinking : The Coronation Tap Home of the student favourite: Exhibition Cider (abv unknown) + Shopping : The Clifton Arcade Crammed with independent clothes and record shops Don’t Forget Bar 100 The Students’ Union bar, by far the cheapest bar in Clifton and only 5 minutes from the triangle!
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 63
The biggesT bar Crawl of freshers forTnighT 1500 sTUDenTs, 10 bars, 1 ClUb Drinks Deals all nighT ThUrsDay 14Th oCTober geT yoUr T-shirTs for JUsT £5! from The Do iT! hUb - 4Th floor sTUDenT Union The rag sTall @ The freshers’ fair
www.bristolrag.org.uk rag-ubu@bristol.ac.uk 0117 9545879
EPIGRAM
*
WWW.EPIGRAM.ORG.UK
EPIGRAM’S GUIDE TO
SECRET BRISTOL bridge and the Avon Gorge from the Clifton Observatory at the top. College Green, favourite of Bristol teenagers, is a useful spot for a break in town before heading up Park Street. One of the best spots in Bristol is Brandon Hill: with views right over the city it is a real sanctuary.
go to) and the FiftyFifty store are definitely recommended. Check out the rarer brands at FiftyFifty, which has established itself as one of the UK’s most respected streetwear and skateboard stores. For other quirky items that guarantee individuality, try Donuts on Perry Road. If it’s a calmer shopping experience you’re after, visit the Christmas Steps, an ancient part of the city lined with independent shops, galleries, bars and cafes, that holds its monthly Artisan Market (first Saturday of the month, 10am3pm).
Fashion
Film
With so much on offer we’ve no doubt you’ll soon discover your own favourite haunts in Bristol. Until you do though, here are some of our old favourites...
Arts
Arts Editors Rozzy Unwin and Amy Ryder share their favourite venues: Housing the oldest auditorium in the world, you can positively feel the history (particularly around the ankles, best to watch those cobbles…) that surrounds Bristol’s most beautiful theatre, The Bristol Old Vic. Sign up for the regular Backstage Tours for an intimate look at the theatre and its history, or join the Writers Room Database if you’re a budding playwright and interested in special offers and seminars held by some of the theatre’s affiliated writers and producers. Most importantly don’t forget the student discount and a post-performance drink in The Apple, which is just at the end of the street. The Arnolfini is one of Europe’s leading centres for the contemporary arts. You’ll find it down at the Harbourside, a buzzing and beautiful area at the bottom of Park Street that tears you away from the student bubble. The Arnolfini boasts heaps of innovative, experimental work- gallery exhibitions, live art, music and independent films. A five minute walk from lectures in a certain direction will lead you to the kooky, vibrant,
66 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
colourful quarter of Stokes Croft. It is the breathing centre of Bristol’s alternative arts scene with wonderfully shabby music haunts, unique restaurants (try ‘The Canteen’ for a meal championing local, fresh, organic food) and colourful charity shops. Nestled in a suburban corner just off Whiteladies Road, Bristol’s only pub theatre, The Alma Tavern, is well worth a visit. A theatre upstairs and a pub downstairs, there is nowhere more apt for the theatrically minded Bristol student to while away an evening. The little theatre stages some of the more obscure and absurd pieces of theatre.
Scenery
‘Fresh air is the best way to beat a hangover’- Features Editor Lucy Fulford With more green spaces proportionately than any other UK city, there are plenty of spots around halls and student houses to catch the last bits of summer sun and perk yourself up ready for your next night exploring Bristol! For those of you in Stoke Bishop, the beautiful Downs are on your doorstep, while Clifton is of course home to Brunel’s Suspension Bridge. Next door there is a lovely park, and you can enjoy a great view of the
EPIGRAM
‘Organised fun is only bad if it’s organised dressing too!’Fashion Editor Sooanne Berner Bristol has a lot to offer our wardrobes. Most of us are on a budget so a great place to start adding to yours is in the charity shops of Cotham Hill. Note: don’t be put off by the window displays! Clifton Village has a few charity shops too, and whilst you’re there, pop into the Arcade on Boyce’s Avenue. It’s got some quaint little boutiques selling vintage clothing and records but also a great place for quirky art and gifts. Check out the Soma gallery and shopit’s perfect for decorating your new room. If you’re looking for something more high street then the obvious option is Cabot Circus. Park Street if great for similar high street shopping. For streetwear, Cooshti (which also sells tickets for many of the student nights you’ll want to
* WWW.EPIGRAM.ORG.UK
cinemas in the country. Check their website and monthly leaflets to get an idea of what’s on offer. The centre is also a hub for all of Bristol’s creative media and technology – check out their sister-site, www.dshed. net, to find out about talks, workshops and opportunities to show off creative talents. www.watershed.co.uk
Film Editor James Gill on the most stylish ways to catch the latest offerings from the film world…
Encounters International Short Film Festival: Everywhere has a festival if you know where to look… Bristol ‘Encounters’ has become one of the major international short film festivals in recent years. Taking place on the 16th – 21st November, the event has found a character all of its own – fun, free-spirited, and unexpected. www.encounters-festival.org. uk
The Watershed: Quite simply one of the foremost arthouse
20th Century Flicks: 15,000 film titles in one innocuous little shop
The Bristol Suspension Bridge
just up the road from the Union. Infinitely more interesting than your generic ‘Blockbusters’ culture vacuum, 20th Century Flicks is cheap, convenient and courageously independent. www.20thcenturyflicks.co.uk
Sport
As a member of Bristol Football Club it would surely be blasphemy for me not to advise all fresh faced first years to attend the football trials’- says Sports Editor Sam Joiner… However, there are over 50 sports clubs run by the Union, most with more than one team, so a wide range of abilities is accommodated for. There really is a club for everyone. All but the most sports averse those whose knees go weak at the thought of exercise – should make sure they sign up for at least one club at the fresher’s fair. Alongside mainstream sports such as hockey and rugby more unusual clubs like Korfball and Ultimate Frisbee are a great option for beginners, offering something different and also requiring no previous experience. Cross Country is a great example of a club that offers something for everyone, providing for both social joggers, who can pick and choose the training sessions they attend, and elite athletes. Most importantly, sports clubs are renowned for their thriving social calendars and represent a great way of meeting new people and enhancing your university experience.
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 67
YOUR GUIDE TO YOUR CITY
*
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
YOUR GUIDE TO YOUR CITY
* WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
MUST SEE...
1.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge Photos don’t do it justice. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the nearby Observatory, which has an underground tunnel leading to a cave in the middle of the Avon Gorge!
2. Bristol Zoo
Situated just off the downs. Has lions but sadly no elephants…
3.
5.
Explore @ Bristol Science museum on the waterfront. All kinds of attractions including a walk-intornado and film studio. Go after 4:30pm for bargain tickets.
Bath Only 20 minutes on the train, so perfect for a day-trip. If you’re feeling fit, cycle along the Bristol to Bath railway path the whole way there.
Exhibitions, film, live art, dance, music and literature. At the heart of Bristol’s harbourside, Arnolfini is “one of Europe’s leading centres for the contemporary arts.”
It may be just a boat, but it’s an old and famous one! Take the ferry from the Centre or Hotwells to get there.
4. Arnolfini
/walking
5.
6.
The bus network in Bristol doesn’t serve all areas that well, however, the 8 and 9 does do a loop around Clifton, Whiteladies and then heads down to Temple Meads train station which is pretty handy!
1. 3.
68 WWW.UBU.ORG.UK
Most things in Bristol are a comfortable walking distance from each other, the only notable exception being Stoke Bishop to the University precinct. As with any city, make sure you take care walking late at night on your own - check out our safety tips on page 57.
/buses
2.
4.
GETTING AROUND
6. SS Great Britain
/rail
Bristol’s Temple Meads station has excellent high-speed rail links with London 1 hour and 40 minutes, and Birmingham 1 hour and 25 minutes away. The downside is the fact that Temple Meads is miles away from anywhere you’re likely to be!
There’s also a less well used branch line that comes up from Temple Meads to Redland and Clifton Down, whilst not particularly frequent it’s cheap and very quick.
/driving
The University usually advises you not to bring a car with you, and though we hate to say it, they’re probably right! Traffic in Bristol can be pretty bad, and parking is even worse. It’s unlikely you’d ever need to drive anywhere in Bristol itself and for trips home, public transport is usually cheaper. For occasional use, take a look at the car clubs such as City Car Club and Streetcar, where you can hire cars parked on the street for as little as £5 an hour, including petrol and insurance.
/bicycles
Bristol has recently been named the UKs first cycling city and
despite some pretty big hills it’s a great way to get around. The university has plenty of parking for bikes, and most halls will have secure bike sheds. Remember though that with so many around, bikes do get stolen so don’t bring your £4000 racing bike with you.
/scooters & motorbikes
Brilliant for getting through traffic and up those hills, if you can afford it, getting a motorbike or a scooter is a great idea. There’s plenty of motorcycle parking bays and you can even take the bus lane.
/boat
The Harbourside even has its own ferry service, with small boats offering a commuter service from Temple Meads along to Hotwells near Clifton. It’s cheap and fun, but slightly slower than walking...
WWW.UBU.ORG.UK 69
BUY ONE GET ONE
FREE
*
Collection or Delivery. Available on large or medium pizzas only. *Second Pizza must be of equal or lesser value than the first. Not valid with any other offer. Please mention offer when ordering. Please present coupon with payment on delivery or collection. Offer expires: 30/06/11.
BUY ONE GET ONE
FREE
*
Collection or Delivery. Available on large or medium pizzas only. *Second Pizza must be of equal or lesser value than the first. Not valid with any other offer. Please mention offer when ordering. Please present coupon with payment on delivery or collection. Offer expires: 30/06/11.
50
%
OFF
When your order is £30 or over.
Collection or Delivery. Not valid with any other offer. Excludes ice cream. Please mention offer when ordering. Please present coupon with payment on delivery or collection. Subs charged at regular price £3.49 on this coupon. Offer expires 30/06/11.
50
%
OFF
BROTHERS CIDER FOR JUST £2
BROTHERS CIDER FOR JUST £2
With this voucher. Valid Until 18th Oct 2010 See reverse for terms
With this voucher. Valid from 19th Oct - 1st Nov 2010 See reverse for terms
2 FOR 1 COCKTAIL
2 FOR 1 COCKTAIL
With this voucher. Valid Until 18th Oct 2010 See reverse for terms
With this voucher. Valid from 19th Oct - 1st Nov 2010 See reverse for terms
BOTTLE OF WINE FOR JUST £6
BOTTLE OF WINE FOR JUST £6
With this voucher. Valid Until 18th Oct 2010 See reverse for terms
With this voucher. Valid from 19th Oct - 1st Nov 2010 See reverse for terms
When your order is £30 or over.
Collection or Delivery. Not valid with any other offer. Excludes ice cream. Please mention offer when ordering. Please present coupon with payment on delivery or collection. Subs charged at regular price £3.49 on this coupon. Offer expires 30/06/11.
119 Whiteladies Road, Clifton
Tel: (0117) 97 33 400 10am – 5am, Collection Sun – Thurs 1am, Fri & Sat 2am 7 days a week
WhiTEladiEs dEliVERiNG
UNTil 5am 7 daYs a WEEK
Emersons Way, Emerson’s Green
Tel: (0117) 95 66 889 10am – Late, 7 days a week.
439 Gloucester Road, Horfield
Tel: (0117) 95 12 777
10am – Late, 7 days a week.
We’re OPEN for lunch!
£2 OFF FAIRlY-TRAdEd HOOdIE TERMS AND CONDITIONS
- Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. - Offer valid with original voucher only - Over 18s only. ID required. Drinkaware.co.uk
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
- Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. - Offer valid with original voucher only - Over 18s only. ID required. Drinkaware.co.uk
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
- Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. - Offer valid with original voucher only - Over 18s only. ID required. Drinkaware.co.uk
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
- Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. - Offer valid with original voucher only - Over 18s only. ID required. Drinkaware.co.uk
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
- Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. - Offer valid with original voucher only - Over 18s only. ID required. Drinkaware.co.uk
Valid October 2010 See reverse for terms and conditions
THE UBU SHOP
Available from Wicked Coffee and Juice Bar
ANY SMOOTHIE OR FRAPPE £1 Valid 4th Oct - 16th Oct 2010 See reverse for terms and conditions.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
WHEN YOU BUY ANY HOOdIE £19.99 ANd OvER Valid October 2010 See reverse for terms and conditions
THE UBU SHOP
Available from Wicked Coffee and Juice Bar
£1 OFF
2010 - 2011 AcAdEmIc dIARY Valid 4th Oct - 16th Oct 10 See reverse for terms and conditions
THE UBU SHOP
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
- Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. - Offer valid with original voucher only - Over 18s only. ID required. Drinkaware.co.uk
FREE T-SHIRT
Available from Wicked Coffee and Juice Bar
50P OFF 50P OFF A ANY PANINI HOT DRINK Valid 4th Oct - 16th Oct 2010 See reverse for terms and conditions.
Valid 4th Oct - 16th Oct 2010 See reverse for terms and conditions.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS - Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. - Offer valid with original voucher only
TERMS AND CONDITIONS - Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. - Offer valid with original voucher only
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
- Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time.
- Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time.
- Offer valid with original voucher only
- Offer valid with original voucher only
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
abortion help
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
To book an NHS appointment for abortion advice or treatment through the Marie Stopes telephone service call
0117 927 6362 – 24 hours TERMS AND CONDITIONS - Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. - Offer valid with original voucher only
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
TERMS AND CONDITIONS - Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - One voucher per visit - Subject to availability, no cash alternative - The Manager reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. - Offer valid with original voucher only
University of Bristol Students’ Union Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1LN
www.mariestopes.org.uk
Epic films. Not epic prices.
• Open from 7am for breakfast • Food served until 10pm • Freshly ground Lavazza coffee • Quality wine • Real ale • Families welcome
THE BERKELEY
(Opposite the Wills Memorial Building)
15–19 Queens Road, Clifton, Bristol Tel: 0117 927 9550 OPENING TIMES
Sunday–Thursday 7am–12am Friday and Saturday 7am–1am
LLOYDS NO.1 BAR V–Shed
The Waterfront, Canons Road, Bristol Tel: 0117 952 9950 OPENING TIMES
Sunday–Thursday 7am–2am Friday and Saturday 7am–3am DJ 7 nights a week. Cycle_City_Freshers_A6_Layout 2 05/08/2010 13:10 Page 1 See main menu for details.
NUS Discounts for every film, every day. The big value premium movie experience. For more information visit cinemadelux.co.uk or call 0871 220 1000
CABOT CIRCUS, BRISTOL
Bring your bike to Bristol Life's better on two wheels l Bristol has many traffic-free cycle paths, making it a breeze to get to your lectures by bike. l Find quicker routes on www.betterbybike.info/cycle-maps and you'll have one less excuse to miss that 9am lecture. l Come and see the Cycling City team at the Freshers' Fair and find out how we can get you started.
We’re OPEN for lunch! A Large 1 topping pizza ONLY
WhitELAdiEs dELiVERiNG
uNtiL 5Am 7 dAYs A WEEK
£4.99
FAIRTRADE STUDENT FRIENDLY FRIENDLY
COFFEE PRICES MEA
£3
Collection Only. Available 10am – 4pm Every day. Order 2 or more and we will deliver.
119 Whiteladies Road, Clifton 10am – 5am, Collection Sun – Thurs 1am, Fri & Sat 2am, 7 days a week
439 Gloucester Road, Horfield OPENING HOURS: 10am – late 7 days a week
Emersons Way, Emerson’s Green OPENING HOURS: 10am – late 7 days a week
Tel: (0117) 97 33 400 Tel: (0117) 95 12 777 Tel: (0117) 95 66 889
NUS EXTRA DISCOUNTS
FIND US IN THE STUDENTS’ UNION FOYER
L DE AL SAN + C DWIC
H + DRRISPS INK
Rotten teeth? Smelly breath? Galloping gum rot? General gob ache? Do you know a good dentist? We do . . . Properly trained dentists at the
Redland Road Dental Practice.
We have been providing dental care for the student population of Bristol since anyone can remember.
3OH!3 astles Crystal C
pt 25th Se
iamonds nd the D Marina a
ct 17th O ct 25th O
!!! ay Stornaw edy 3rd ivine Com D e h T ov 6th N Jets Mystery 9th Nov Rabbit n ghte ed ri F ov N th 20 s The Drum ou! Black 26th Nov eed Y Godspro 12th Dec e Emp r
2nd Nov
Nov
UT DO SOL
Special rates for students.
Anson Rooms University of Bristol Students’ Union Tickets: www.ansonrooms.co.uk / 0870 44 44 400 / from Students’ Union
The Redland Road Dental Practice | 89a Redland Road, Redland, Bristol, BS6 6RD
YOUR SU BAR NUS EXTRA DISCOUNTS
OUR PROFITS GO BACK INTO FUNDING YOUR CLUBS, SOCIETIES, AND SUPPORT SERVICES
. GROUND FLOOR BAR WITH TERRACE . OPEN EVERY DAY . JUST 5 MINS FROM THE TRIANGLE . ... AND SOME OF THE BEST PRICES IN TOWN!
119 Whiteladies Road, Clifton 10am – 5am, collection Sun – Thurs 1am, Fri & Sat 2am, 7 days a week
439 Gloucester Road, Horfield 10am – late, 7 days a week
Emersons Way, Emerson’s Green 10am – late, 7 days a week
Tel: (0117) 97 33 400 Tel: (0117) 95 12 777 Tel: (0117) 95 66 889
www.dominos.co.uk
HUNGRY? Call DomiNo’s
WHitelaDies DeliVeRiNG
UNtil 5am 7 DaYs a WeeK
Student Life Never Tasted So Good