Fresh! Magazine 2015 by Oxford University Student Union

YOUR GUIDE TO BEING A FRESHER AT OXFORD

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All details correct at time of printing July 2013

Contents

OXFORD EXPLORED All you need to know about this great city of ours.

8 11

Movies to Watch Before Arriving in Oxford Some of the upcoming blockbuster movies to get you in the mood for term. notes from the author Two Oxford alumni novelists share their experiences and advice.

fresh voices 32

EDEN TANNER Fresh! talks to Eden about her involvement in OUSU's Sexual Consent Workshops.

How you can make a 34 difference Make change happen for a cause that matters to you.

37 STUDENT Election Special Essential information about the upcoming student elections.

New Faces Fresh! talks to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s student union sabbatical team about what they are planning to do to make sure they represent you.

GET INVOLVED There's more to university life than lectures, essays and clubbing.

LIVE OXFORD

Taking a ride with cindy gallop Fresh! talks to entrepreneur Cindy Gallop about her time at Oxford.

whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fresh

Oxford is lucky enough to have one of the strongest live scenes around. Make the most of it while you can.

fresh advice 39 ESSENTIALS

Are you packing? A checklist of all the things that you should bring to Oxford. EIGHT THINGS TO DO BEFORE OXFORD

40 See above :) Student Advice Service 41 The Fresh! talks to the OUSU Student Advice

Service about some of the most common questions you ask.

42 Getting Involved

Oxford has a lot to offer students in terms of extracurricular activities. A short guide on how to make the most of your time here.

TALK ABOUT Sex 44 LET'S Not quite Cosmo's top 10 tips, but still pretty useful. UNIVERSITY RESOURCES

52 How can work fit into your student life? We have the answers.

CATERING IN STYLE 54 SELF Don't go hungry; try this easy recipe for just 28p a head.

Fresh! Contributors Here, three of our student contributors share their tips for freshers.

nÂş2/OCT 15

www.ousu.org www.facebook.com/Ousunews www.twitter.com/ousunews

Collaborators Editors Alys Key & Katy Law ART DIRECTOR SIMON COLLINS Theo Sundh

advertise in fresh KERSHIA PARRIS business@ousu.ox.ac.uk 01865 288452

Laura Whetherly College: St. Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Subject: History Top tip for freshers: JazzSoc events are a great way to spend an evening if you don't want to go clubbing - for a couple of pounds, you're able to hear some of Oxford's best jazz musicians and groups perform.

Writers

Laura Hartley

Nasim Asl, David Barker, Imogen Bassett, Sachin Croker, Laura Hartley, Alys Key, Katy Law, Ali Lennon, William Shaw, Jessica Sinyor, Joe Smith, Theo Sundh, Eden Tanner & Laura Whetherly.

College: Christ Church Subject: French Top tip for freshers: Try to read the books on the reading list before term starts!

photographers Simon Collins, Yara Rodriges-Fowler, Jessica Sinyor, Aman Ubhi & Laura Whitehouse.

Proof Readers Ami Gell & Katy Law.

Cover Illustration Theo Peters tpetersart.wordpress.com

William Shaw College: Corpus Christi Subject: English Top tip for freshers: Do as many extra-curricular things as you can, you never know what you'll end up enjoying. Try everything once. Also, caffeine is your friend.

Printer Paddock print

Published and copyrighted by OSSL Ltd., the commercial arm of Oxford University Student Union. No responsibility is taken for any errors or omissions, or any loss arising therefrom.

Want to become a contributor for next year's Fresh!? Then send a short email to:

enquiries@ousu.ox.ac.uk

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editor's note

If I could say one thing to my fresher self, it’s that you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help. Oxford is an incredible place, but it can also be a little overwhelming. If you’re unsure how to use a library, or where to buy a kettle, or you need support with your work, career plans, or health, there is always someone who can help. Oxford University Student Union (OUSU) is your student union and a great starting point for anything you need. That’s why we’ve produced this guide, so that you can get the most out of your time here. No doubt by now you are excited and a little scared by what’s in store. Everything can move pretty fast in the runup to your first year, so that’s why it’s worth taking a few minutes to sit back, have a cup of tea and read this guide. We hope you have a wonderful start to your time at this amazing university, and that what you’ll find in the following pages inspires, entertains, and encourages you.

Alys Key & the Fresh team

2 Worcester Street, Oxford, OX1 2BS Tel: +44 (0)1865 288452 www.ousu.org

t f OUSUnews

PHOTO: Disney

PHOTO: 20th Century Fox

what’s fresh

Films to watch in Michaelmas Never underestimate the power of seeing a film as a good mechanism for making friends. You can spend hours of time together and after the film has finished you will definitely have something to talk about, so you don’t need to panic about running out of conversation topics. There’s something for all film-fanatics in Oxford with the Phoenix Picturehouse and the Ultimate Picture Palace showing indie and foreign films, while ma jor blockbusters are on at the two Odeon cinemas. Spectre Friday 6th November By fifth week, everyone’s starting to feel a little down, and what better way is there to combat fifth week blues than watching this long-awaited Bond film? In the latest instalment, our favourite secret agent confronts an enemy from the past who holds a dangerous secret: a secret that will force Bond to question the value of everything that he has fought to protect as the truth behind the organisation SPECTRE is revealed. Star Wars: The Force Awakens Friday 18th December The new Star Wars franchise has a lot to live up to, being the third Star Wars film trilogy to date. We can look forward to the return of old favourites, but there are also some fresh new faces to get excited about. Adam Driver (Girls), and British actors Daisy Ridley (Inbetweeners) and John Boyega will be gracing our screens, but whether their performances will live up to fans’ high expectations is still unknown. The Martian Wednesday 25th November For some of you, moving to Oxford may well feel like you’re moving to Mars. Matt Damon stars as an astronaut stranded on the Red Planet, after the rest of his crew evacuate

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Mars due to a severe storm. He is left with few supplies and attempts to find a way to signal home, even with the sad knowledge that a rescue mission will probably be impossible. Bridge of Spies Friday 16th October Spielberg hasn’t directed a film since Lincoln in 2012, so no doubt there’ll be lots of hype surrounding Bridge of Spies. Tom Hanks stars as lawyer James B Donovan who is recruited by the CIA to help negotiate the release of a pilot who is being held captive in Russia after his plane was shot down. Not one to miss. Also not to be confused with Oxford’s famous Bridge of Sighs. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay part 2, Friday 20th November As far as adaptations of teen fiction go, The Hunger Games has probably been the most successful franchise to date, though that’s not saying much. Although directed at teenagers, The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins manages to discuss some hard-hitting politics and this last instalment will not disappoint. Not just one to watch, but one to read as well.

 TV Series to binge-watch Here is the best or the worst of the mindless TV that you might be procrastinating with this term.

House of Cards There is no better TV show to prepare you for the antics of student politics than House of Cards. This is the first original online-only to receive ma jor nominations at the Emmy Awards back in 2013 and the show has lost none of its bingeworthy-ness since then.

Orange is the New Black For many, living in a confined space with a large number of people of a similar age to you will be unfamiliar territory. Hopefully you will find inspiration in the protagonist Piper, a woman thrown into a hostile environment, who learns to adapt to her new life.

The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt The premise of this show is pretty damn strange – a group of girls, who have been held hostage in an underground bunker for 15 years, are finally found and re-join the real world. A lot of things can change in 15 years but clueless Kimmy is determined to make a life for herself in New York. This show asks important questions like “is it pronounced fort-ay or fort?” So far, there’s only one season, amounting to just 5 hours and 12 minutes of your time. You have no excuses.

what’s fresh

Your First Year Playlist Your Oxford journey in four great tunes.

Live Oxford

Fresh summer camp, 2013 Wide-eyed and eager, this is a track that perfectly epitomises that freshers' week feeling of the rush of excitement that comes with the start of university.

Oxford’s live music scene may seem hard to find at first. Between all the colleges and the clubs it can feel like there isn’t much place for guitars and drums any more. But once uncovered, you’ll soon find that the Oxford music scene is one of the strongest around. Whether you’re a metal-head, a hipster or a mod, these are the places that you’ll be packing out in your time in the city. First on the list is the undisputed number one spot to check out artists from across the musical spectrum, the O2 Academy Oxford. Located a short walk down the Cowley Road, it’s a fairly large venue that is the main draw for bigshot touring bands passing through the city. Last year it featured acts like La Roux, Warpaint, and Deaf Havana among many more. Keep an eye on the schedule and you’ll certainly find yourself down there at least once a term. Outside of the big draw of the O2, there are a number of smaller venues that can provide just as (if not more) memorable experiences. The Cellar, just off Cornmarket Street, mostly operates as an edgy club, however it often features bands and artists that fit that remit, and its subterranean atmosphere lends itself perfectly to a niche hipster gig. Next door is Purple Turtle, which hosts a surprising number of gigs from rock and indie bands – make sure to head there for the yearly OxJam Festival. Getting back to the Cowley side of the things, The Bullingdon (named after the road, not the supper-club), also known as the Art Bar, has undergone a fancy new redesign, and is hosting regular gig nights for a wide range of alternative genres. On the other hand there is The Jericho Tavern, one of Oxford’s most famous venues, where Radiohead had their first gig. It has played host to acts from Foals to Palma Violets, and is worth hitting up, if only for its important role in the history of Oxford music. But if art-rock isn’t your thing, and your taste tends to the heavier side of things, there’s one key venue for you – The Wheatsheaf. Located down a narrow alley off the High Street, this is the place to find real hard rock music and one of the true pillars of Oxford’s scene, with constant local nights, top line-ups, and most importantly, a great ale selection. As for Jazz, this is the most likely genre to sneak into your colleges and concert halls, but don’t miss the JazzSoc jams at The Mad Hatter. Found on Iffley Road, it’s a quirky theme bar whose odd appearance belies a great reputation for gigs. Honestly though, the best thing about Oxford’s live scene is to be found in the streets. Whether that’s a curfew hit gig from Augustines that burst out in order to keep the party going, the Jericho Street Fair where loads of acts play for free in the summer, or even just the buskers you’ll see every day, Oxford is lucky enough to have one of the strongest live scenes around. Make the most of it while you can.

To Hell With Poverty Gang of Four, 1982 Maybe ironic distance isn’t your thing, and instead you want to plunge into one of many social justice campaigns here – what’s better to get the blood pumping than this post-punk ode to equality?

Sea Legs Run The Jewels, 2013 For many, the call to arms comes not from the city but from the river. Yes, it’s a song for the rowers, and this swaggering beat will be the perfect workout anthem.

do it again Ben Folds Five, 2012 Taking up acting, stand-up comedy and joining the Quidditch team, all alongside your work can seem daunting, but this Oxford motto will serve you well to ensure you make the most of the amazing opportunities here.

NOTES FROM THE AUTHOR

Two Oxford novelists share their experiences and advice Naomi Alderman

Naomi Alderman matriculated in 1993 to read PPE at Lincoln College. Her second novel The Lessons is a dark tale which centres on undergrad James and the group of friends he meets at Oxford. On her memories of Oxford Trinity term of my second year I bought a pair of lime-green platform-heeled trainers and wore them everywhere, even though they gave me blisters and my friends said they were terribly ugly. That's a very happy memory, the silliness and the sunshine. On writing while at Oxford I wrote a full novel between my first and second years at Oxford. I was full of self-doubt and anxiety and thought I wasn't a 'real writer' for years and years, and I wish I'd known that really very few 19-year-olds have the discipline and the desire to sit their bum on a chair and crank out 1,000 words every day for three months over the long vac until a first draft of a book is done. Advice to young writers If you write a book, the thing to do is try to edit it. Rewrite it and make it better. Stumble, get annoyed, don't give up. Get it to a point where you don't know what else to do with it and then send it to an agent. Write a nice letter, saying that you're at university and you'd love to talk to them about this book you've written, even if they only have 15 minutes for you. You'll meet interesting people and potentially get some encouragement. Advice to freshers Make sure you look after yourself. Emotionally and physically. I wish someone had told me that I should make time for long walks along the river with an audiobook or some music, that I should eat fruit and veg, try to get proper sleep (learn to sleep with earplugs in, it will give you a lifetime free from sleep anxiety) and stay away from drama queens.

Alison Mercer

Alison Mercer matriculated in 1991 to read English at University College. Her second novel After I Left You is a story of missed opportunities and second chances, in which the narrator Anna flicks between her days at Oxford and her life seventeen years later. On writing while at Oxford I wrote loads as a kid and then I came here and totally stopped, I didn’t do anything. I didn’t write when I was here, I didn’t contribute. I think I wanted to be a writer but I was slightly too scared. I kick myself now because I think I should have just had the faith and just done it. I think you do just have to crack on with it actually, and it took me a long time to do that. Experiencing Freshers' Week I was not a model example of how to behave as a fresher at all. I drank too much and felt quite at sea. I’d left my mum behind and she was living on her own so I felt very guilty. But at the same time did that make me phone back home? No. So call your mother, tell her you’re alright! On the learning side of things The tutorial system is such a privilege. It sounds cheesy but it is an amazing thing to have an hour of time with these people who know so much and for them to be quizzing you and pressing you and putting you on the spot. It’s such a good experience to draw on in later life. The Oxford experience You meet a huge range of people, some of whom will be your friends for life and who will change your life whether you end up married to them or sharing flats with them. It can be difficult as well because you’re trying to fit so much into this short space of time, and you’re in this beautiful place which you quickly come to take for granted. It’s a pretty heady mix.

fresh inspiration

Taking a ride with

Cindy Gallop

Interviewed by Alys Key

Entrepreneur, advertising guru, #sextech revolutioniser, and tweeter (with over 36,000 followers), Cindy Gallop is many things, including an Oxford alumna. After studying English at Somerville, she worked at global advertising companies, winning Advertising Woman of the Year in 2003, before founding several of her own companies including the social change websites MakeLoveNotPorn and IfWeRanTheWorld. She has a go-getter approach, deeply rooted in her time at Oxford.

What was your first impression on arriving in Oxford? How incredibly lucky am I to be able to spend three years in this amazing, historical, beautiful, extremely-hardto-get-into place.

What is your happiest memory from your University days? There are so many of them, but I guess overall it would be just meeting and making so many interesting, fascinating and diverse friends.

How did being at Oxford shape your future career? Well, it started the series of accidents that is my career, because nothing in my life or career was ever planned. I fell in love with theatre at Oxford, which led me to working as a publicity and marketing officer in professional theatre, which led me to advertising, which led me to what I do now as an entrepreneur and consultant.

BothMakeLoveNotPorn and IfWeRanTheWorld make steps towards positive changes in the world, do you think that it is possible for anyone to make a difference to the world? Yes, absolutely. The key thing is to understand that change happens from the bottom up, not the top down. Every one of us taking microactions every day to make the change we want to see, adds up cumulatively to huge impact.

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Do you think students should start their own businesses as soon as they have an idea, or should they get experience in an established company first? I think it's important to do two things: 1. Road test your idea to make sure it's relevant, valuable and needed, and 2. Access business advice to make sure you execute it in a way that gives it the chance to be successful. Your path to that might be taking a job in the industry you want to disrupt, or another approach, but you need to make sure you do those two things. What would your advice be to freshers? Honestly? The single most important piece of advice I can give to freshers is - DO NOT fall madly in love with the first person you date at Oxford, stay in a relationship with them all through Oxford and marry them immediately on graduating. Oxford provides a fantastic springboard to infinite possibilities. Keep yourself open to exploring as many of the possibilities your future holds as you can, so you never regret the road not taken.

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New Faces You're not the only one who's new. We at Fresh! had a nice sit-down with Oxford University Student Union’s (OUSU) new sabbatical officer team: Becky, Ali, Lucy, Cat, Emily, and Nick. They were all elected into their positions in last year's student elections and it's their job to make sure that students' voices are being listened to and represented at the University.

OUSU – The Student Union Not to be confused with The Oxford Union (Oxford’s debating society), OUSU's mission is to represent, support and enhance the lives of all its members, who are all students at the University of Oxford.

While most Oxford students and recent graduates have been using this summer to kick back and relax, this dynamic group of six have been in the office at 2 Worcester Street, getting to grips with their new roles. It’s been hard work, but now they are ready and excited for the year ahead. Though each of them has their own projects to work on, they are united as a team by the goal of representing and empowering students in the University. “My job is sort of like a megaphone,” says Becky the President, stressing the importance of “amplifying student voices.” Read on to find out more about how this team will be making your voice heard throughout the year.

President Becky Howe

Name: Becky Howe Age: 21 Studied: History College: Pembroke Listening to: When I’m working I listen to motivational music playlists on Youtube. I came across them when I was writing my dissertation. They’re amazing. Favourite way to chill out in Oxford: Jogging or swimming in Port Meadow in the summer, going to the college bar or the pub. And Netflix, of course.

What is your role here? My job is making sure students are heard and taken notice of by the University, but at the same time, letting you know what your student union is doing. I work to support students to do the things they want to do - my aim is to help you have the best time you can at Oxford. What do you think representing students means? Delivering on the promises I was elected for, whilst also standing up for students on the things that matter to them. What is it that you want to achieve during your year? I want to give students the resources to make change happen, whilst also motivating as many students as possible to do so. What are the key things that you are going to be working on? I’m going to be doing a massive assessment of welfare support systems available to students across the University; creating training programmes to help common rooms campaign for fairer rents; building a strategy to challenge Lad Culture; and

Welfare & Equal Opportunities Ali Lennon What is your role here? I support campaigns and campaigners as well as JCRs and MCRs in welfare and equal opportunities initiatives. What do you think representing students means? Ensuring that the right voices are heard at the highest levels of colleges, the University and outside agencies. What is it that you want to achieve during your year? Making information about health and welfare services more available and accessible, ensuring that students feel equipped to vindicate their rights in instances of health hazards in university/private accommodation, and better treatment for students who decide to suspend their studies for whatever reason. What are the key things that you are going to be working on? Currently, I’m creating a new training programme for common room Welfare and Liberation Officers, some night safety projects, getting students feeding back into the local health authority, supporting the liberation campaigns and the mental health campaign and much more!

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Why did you decide to run for your position? I found representing students at St John’s College as JCR President really enjoyable, worthwhile, and rewarding. I wanted to continue this work but on a bigger scale. What does OUSU mean to you? OUSU means a great deal to me, my work in the student union is incredibly varied, rewarding, and interesting. I would recommend to all the incoming freshers to get involved in some student representation/advocacy whether that is in your common room committees, the various campaigns and of course in OUSU. It’s a great experience which you won’t regret. What is your top tip for freshers? Never be afraid to ask for help. It doesn’t matter what the problem is there will always be someone there to listen and to assist. Also, be sure to introduce yourself and be kind to your scouts and porters! They’re an incredibly important part of any college/ PPH and they'll make your time at university so much more pleasant.

last but not least, I’ll be launching the first ever Oxford University Festival – a two day event to showcase students’ extra-curricular talents! Why did you decide to run for your position? In my second year as an undergrad, I was the President of my JCR, and I loved it. When it came to the end of the year, I realised that there were still issues I wanted to help tackle at Oxford, and that getting involved with OUSU was the best way to do that. What does OUSU mean to you? OUSU is different to lots of other student unions in that we don’t have a big building, or bar, or club. We function as a collective student voice, a support system for the common rooms in your colleges, and a channel for students to make the changes they want to see. What is your top tip for freshers? Look after yourself, get enough sleep, and please, reach out for help if you ever need it. Also get ice cream at G&D’s. You won’t regret it.

Vice-President

Name: Ali Lennon Age: 21 Studied: Law College: St John’s College Listening to: Spotify Best place to go to in Oxford to have a nice time?: Walking round the Uni Parks pond to relax and Baby Love with friends. Favourite way to chill out in Oxford: When it’s sunny, I like to get a few friends together for a BBQ and some beers in Port Meadow or the University Parks.

Women Lucy Delaney is not just about leadership – it is about providing platforms for other people to speak and be heard. What is it that you want to achieve during your year? I want to bring unity to the work students do across the University. All Vice-President women’s officers and welfare officers should have adequate training, and Name: Lucy Delaney basic requirements, such as access Age: 21 to sanitary products, contraception, Studied: English morning after pills and safe spaces, College: Wadham should be met in all colleges. Listening to: Caught Out There What are the key things that you are – Kelis going to be working on? Favourite way to chill out in I will continue to raise awareness Oxford: www.lovehoney.co.uk of sexual violence through Sexual Consent Workshops in common rooms and pressuring colleges to update harassment policies, and I will What is your role here? provide First Responder training for I represent those who identify as women’s officers and welfare officers. women or transfeminine students, I am also looking to adapt, develop working on issues which face these and add to existing leadership people in particular. programmes for women. Why did you decide to run for your What do you think representing position? students means? At any point in time a college Empowering and amplifying a diverse women’s officer is doing great range of student voices. Representation work – whether it’s providing

reimbursements for the morning after pill, lobbying their college to update policies, raising money for rape crisis centres or holding awesome speaker events and it frustrates me that this work often goes unrecognised due to the collegiate system. I ran for this position to try and unify this work and make sure it’s being done across colleges. I have been part of OUSU's Women’s Campaign since I was a fresher and it inspired me more and more with every campaign that I was part of. What does OUSU mean to you? To me OUSU is small but potentially very powerful. OUSU does an incredible amount of work – but it is work which often goes unseen in colleges (consent workshops, contraception, rent negotiation etc). What is your top tip for freshers? Bring safety pins for makeshift bop costumes. Oh – and don’t feel like you have to join the Oxford Union – the fee is extortionate and there are so many other amazing speaker events happening all year across Oxford so you won’t miss out.

Access & Academic Affairs Cat Jones

What is your role here? The access side of my role encompasses things like open days, financial support, and outreach. Academic affairs covers anything related to teaching, learning resources, and exams. What do you think representing students means? For me, it means lobbying the University to make the changes students want to see. However I think it is equally important to empower students to make changes in their own departments, colleges and campaigns. What is it that you want to achieve during your year? This year I want the University to commit to recording lectures. I also want to increase the outreach work undertaken by students by creating an access database to match student volunteers with opportunities. What are the key things that you are going to be working on? The key thing that I am working on at the moment is our response to the government’s announcements about converting maintenance grants into loans. I will be working with the University to mitigate the impact of

any changes to student finance on current and future students. Why did you decide to run for your position? In my first year I got involved in OUSU’s Target Schools campaign and I then decided to run to be Access Rep at my college. These roles highlighted loads of things that I wanted to change. What does OUSU mean to you? As JCR Access Rep it meant support from the old sabbatical team to help me to improve things in my college. I now know that it is also responsible for a wide range of wins for students. These include the right to resit first year exams and access for students who have suspended their studies to libraries and online resources. What is your top tip for freshers? My top tip is to get involved and try new things (underwater hockey anyone?!) but not to panic if something goes wrong or everything feels a bit overwhelming. OUSU’s Student Advice Service (advice@ousu. ox.ac.uk) is an amazing source of information, advice and support.

Vice-President Name: Cat Jones Age: 21 Studied: Experimental Psychology College: Pembroke Listening to: Need something high energy in the office on a Monday morning so it's Calvin Harris right now Favourite way to chill out in Oxford: Definitely bops, I have been known to spend several days on a costume! But if I want to escape college and relax then the Botanic Gardens are free and great for picnics (with your Bod card).

Charities & Community Emily Silcock

Vice-President Name: Emily Silcock Age: 22 Studied: PPE College: New College Listening to: Whatever’s playing in the office! Favourite way to chill out in Oxford: Anything that takes you out of the bubble: Cowley Road charity shops, PYO strawberries at Rectory farm, swimming in Port Meadow.

What is your role here? I work with students on charities, communities, ethics and the environment. I’m basically the good person in the office! What do you think representing students means? A lot of my work is about equipping students to make the changes that they want. If you want to campaign about something in your college, the University or the wider community, then get in touch with me. What is it that you want to achieve during your year? I’m working on fostering a community where students and residents see themselves as part of a local and global community, in which students are represented and can affect change.

What are the key things that you are going to be working on? Homelessness, the environment, community integration, student training, housing prices, giving blood, bike safety, voter registration, third sector careers … Why did you decide to run for your position? As the last person to hold the role said in her handover document to me, it’s the world’s best graduate job. What does OUSU mean to you? OUSU is a place where students can find other people interested in working in the same areas as them, whether that’s the Living Wage or Fossil Fuel divestment. It’s a vehicle for change. What is your top tip for freshers? Get a doorstop and prop your door open.

Graduates Nick Cooper What is your role here? I represent Oxford’s 10,000 graduate students to the University. I also have responsibility for mature and international students, whether undergraduate or graduate. What do you think representing students means? Representation is about listening to students’ problems and being a loud voice within the University to raise these concerns. Students should have the best experience they can at Oxford, and we’re here to keep pressure on the University to make sure that happens. What is it that you want to achieve during your year? I want to use this year to improve the graduate experience at Oxford. Time pressures and lack of interest often mean that graduates don’t get involved in their Departments or Common Rooms. I’m here this year to make sure the 10,000 graduate voices are heard as loudly as the 12,000 undergraduate ones! What are the key things that you are going to be working on? I have three main projects: improving

#oxfordawaits

the quality of taught Masters courses; providing more graduate teaching opportunities, and more training for graduates who teach undergraduates; and ensuring the University provides more graduate accommodation. Why did you decide to run for your position? I have been involved in my MCR, but many graduate issues occur at the University level. I wanted to use my experience to promote the issues I’ve seen in my time at Oxford, and work towards changing the graduate student experience for the better. What does OUSU mean to you? OUSU listens to what students need, and works with the University to resolve this. We also help students to make changes they want, so please do get in touch and get involved! What is your top tip for freshers? This sounds like the least fun advice ever, but put time aside in your diary for fun. It’s really easy to have work on your mind all the time, so book in an evening in the pub, chill out with friends in your room, or go watch a film – and stick to it!

Vice-President Name: Nick Cooper Age: 26 Studied: Psychology and Philosophy (then a Masters… then a DPhil Experimental Psychology. Still here) College: Somerville then St John's Listening to: Terrible 80s music, hoping it comes back in fashion Favourite way to chill out in Oxford: Finding yet another awesome Cowley Road restaurant with friends.

welcome

to oxford! oxford uni

Come and meet your sabbatical team at the OUSU Freshers' Fair (7th-9th October). We are looking forward to seeing you at the Fair!

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Oxford

Explored words: William Shaw & Jessica Sinyor

Oxford, like most of its inhabitants, is obscenely busy. There are more interesting shops, offbeat restaurants, fascinating museums and charming cafĂŠs than you can shake a stick at, as well as all sorts of interesting talks, discussions, clubs and society meetings going on at all hours of the day and night. It can get more than a little overwhelming. Which is why, in this section, we've rounded up all the best places to eat, drink, study and shop in this strange and bustling city, as well to where to buy essentials.

Your Hood

We've summarised the areas most popular with students: East Oxford, including Cowley, traditionally over-run with students and their neighbour-enraging parties; Jericho, an alternative, and somewhat more chilled and chic option for student living; and Summertown, slightly leafier and further from the city centre, but featuring good transport links. Go and explore Oxford's many other areas like Headington and Wolvercote.

PSST! If you...

are in need of a bike lock then OUSU and the Oxford University Security Services sell them at a reduced price. You can pick one up at Freshers' Fair (see page 43), OUSU or OUSS... google them!

City Centre

Oxford is old. Like, really old. It's almost in-your-face about how mindbogglingly old it is. And nowhere is this more evident than in the city centre. There are colleges around every corner, and everywhere you look there are big, beautiful buildings. Oxford is old, but it's also new - the city centre is home to a huge number of fashionable shops, quiet cafĂŠs and raucous nightclubs, making this a part of Oxford which truly has something for everyone.

What will I find? 01. The Covered Market Harry Potter comparisons are clichĂŠd, but this is basically Diagon Alley. Full of charming and eccentric little shops, selling everything from baked goods to scented soap. Includes the wonderful 'Ben's Cookies'- excellent fuel for those all-nighters! Find it on Market St. 02. Cornmarket St Home to your standard high-street shops, fast food restaurants and banks, walking down 'Cornmarket', as it's known, you can see a mini-history of architecture as the buildings go from old to new. 03. Gloucester Green Market Come visit the otherwise empty square when it becomes a bustling food market (Wednesdays) and Vintage treasures (Thursday and Saturday).

city Centre High St, Broad St et al Most buses go here.

#oxfordawaits

Let's see if you can spot The Iron Man by Anthony Gormley. A clue: he is somewhere on Broad Street.

Best Coffee Spots You'll have so much you want to fit in during your time at Oxford that hot caffeinated beverages will become an essential. Fortunately, Oxford is more than up to the task of providing them, with a wide range of top-quality watering holes for those early morning sessions on the laptop.

the missing bean City Centre, 14 Turl Street The bare, spartan decor marks a no-nonsense approach to coffee, and this small shop on Turl Street is bursting with friendly atmosphere, and offers cheaper prices than its high street alternatives. Combibos 93 Gloucester Green Amidst the plethora of Oxford's coffee shops, Combibos stands out for the warmth of its welcome, and its array of breakfasts. Will's Deli 15 Woodstock Rd In a prime location just opposite one of Oxford's biggest graveyards, Will's Deli has enormously friendly staff and a nice atmosphere, as well as serving the best hot chocolate in Oxford.

The Vaults University Church Another slightly morbid location, this one is based in University Church, with a lovely set of outdoor seats among the tombstones. At the prettier end of Radcliffe Square, this is a place you can sit back with a steaming cup of coffee and enjoy the view.

Best college formals New College City Centre, Holywell St Better known for the ‘in-flight announcements’ of its catering manager than the quality of the food, New College Hall has just reopened. While the food is hit-and-miss, the hall is magnificent, and the recently refurbished bar is worth a visit.

Dinner is Served

College Halls

The most obvious is of course Christ Church Hall: the Great Hall of Hogwarts, unfortunately it does tend to be slightly underwhelming for that reason — no floating candles or starry ceiling. The halls of the colleges are all different, offering varying degrees of culinary quality; a good way to experience them all is by making friends in different colleges.

Oriel College High Street With steak cooked to order, a wine list to purchase on tab and formal hall every weekday, a trip to Oriel’s hall is well worth the fiver. Oriel Hall also holds termly wine and whisky tasting events, so it is worth befriending some students in red and yellow come Freshers’ Week. Worcester College Walton Street Rocking a Regency-style interior, eating in Worcester Hall is more reminiscent of Pride and Prejudice than Harry Potter. The elegant surroundings are matched by even more sophisticated food, with pomegranate and halloumi salad featuring frequently on the menu.

Keble College Parks Road Boasting the longest dining hall in Oxford, guests at Keble Formal Hall can expect to be eating alongside 300 diners. With waiter service every night except Saturday, Keble has fine dining down to a fine art, and students can expect good vegetarian options and a choice of dessert or fresh fruit.

East Oxford

With its (comparatively) cheap rents, pretty terraced houses and characterful bars and restaurants, the self-proclaimed “Sunny Side of Oxford” is one of the most popular places to live for students. Just over Magdalen Bridge, both Brookes and University houses line the three main East Oxford roads: St Clements, Cowley and Iffley. The Cowley Road is liveliest, with cheap cocktail bars, Japanese and Lebanese restaurants and independent clothes shops.

Best of East Oxford 01. Oxfork 136 Cowley Rd Better known for its ‘Egg-ulars’ (organic eggs prepared in every way imaginable), Oxfork also has a light and vegetarian friendly evening menu. Order six plates for the table and get two delicious free desserts. 02. Truck Store 101 Cowley Rd Browse the records in this achingly cool specialist music store and have a coffee at their in-house café, the Keen Bean Coffee Club. 03. Magic Café 110 Magdalen Rd This little vegetarian favourite is tucked away on the far side of the Cowley Rd. For a casual eating experience, the comfortably hippyish Magic Café is hard to beat.

04. Le Kesh 180 Cowley Rd Hassan’s kebab van is pretty good on a night out, but for a more parentfriendly Middle Eastern dining experience, head to Le Kesh. Dip Lebanese flatbreads in hummus and moutbal served in terracotta bowls, or try their extensive shisha flavours. 05. Reign 136 Cowley Rd Boasting 1950s' prom dresses, beaded jackets and more flannel shirts than the whole of the American Midwest, Reign has impressive vintage stock for all. With a permanent sale room, it’s considerably cheaper than the city centre’s retro offerings.

East Oxford Cowley, Iffley and St. Clements Rd Bus 1, 5, U5, 10, 12 & 16

#oxfordawaits

Your Hood

Cora Coomasaru, 21 French, St. Peters

The art student's favourite study hole is a café, Rough Trade is mine. Good coffee and filled with records from new to nostalgic. Vibrant and a haven for foodies, Cowley is also full of warm cafés to spend your lecture(less) days your head stuck in a philosophy book or that piece of French Symbolist poetry on your reading list.

Best Study Spots As a student, you occasionally have to actually do some work, and for that you're going to need somewhere quiet and well-stocked with books, or failing that at least somewhere with access to coffee and/or cake. Look no further than these bastions of Oxford student life. Rick’s Coffee Shop 88-90 Cowley Rd Rick’s menu makes it a unique place with great breakfast options, a selection of sandwiches prepared and served fresh to order, soups and freshly made salads. Waterstone's Café Broad St A chic and compact little café, with a fantastic view of Cornmarket and Broad Street, this is the perfect place to grab a quick coffee while you work.

The Bodleian Broad St The biggest library in Oxford, with a copy of every single book ever published in English, this really is the go-to-place for obscure books and studious atmosphere. Looks absolutely gorgeous from the outside, and the inside's not too bad either. G and D’s 94 St Aldate’s A no-frills, no-fuss café with plenty of space for textbooks and laptops, G and D's also serves the best ice cream in Oxford, which is an enormous help when you're struggling with that difficult essay or tricky set of equations.

Jericho

Bikes

Calm and relaxing, yet full of life, Jericho is a little pricier than East Oxford, but makes up for it with a quiet charm and sophisticated atmosphere. Plus there's the fact that it's a stone's throw away from the city centre, meaning you're never far from the action. Packed with fantastic (and reasonably-priced) restaurants and warm and welcoming pubs, Jericho is the perfect place to take a breather from the hectic vibe of the city centre.

Knowing your local bike repair shop in Oxford is key, because if something goes wrong you don’t want to push your bike across town. Top tip: avoid buying your bike in Oxford around September and October as prices rocket and finding a bargain is very hard. Make sure you check out Gumtree and ebay as well as local shops. Here are a few other miscellaneous institutions.

Zappi’s Bike Zone Bikes, City Centre 28-32 St Michael’s St Dan from Zappi’s says: "Zappi’s is a small, independent café inside a traditional local bicycle shop in the heart of Oxford. It’s a velocentric space but you definitely don’t have to don the lycra to get involved! Our no. 1 love is coffee (we think it’s the best around) and you’ll get your flat white with a grin. We have a cult following of the most dedicated regulars around, mostly because of our famous homemade banana bread (try it toasted with a slab of butter!)."

Best of Jericho 01. Al Andalus 10 Little Clarendon Street A thematically decorated little tapas bar and restaurant serving reasonably priced and sizeable portions. Try the cheese baked in honey with a jug of sangria.

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02. Phoenix Picturehouse 57 Walton St With an endorsement from film critic Mark Kermode, this one is well worth checking out. With a mix of smaller arthouse films and mainstream blockbusters, this is a must for any Oxford cinephile.

jericho

Walton St and Little Clarendon St Bus 17 03. Port Meadow Access from Walton Well Rd, Aristotle Ln and Wolvercote Port Meadow is beautiful: 440 acres full of cows chomping at the vast grassy space between the wooded city edge and the river, where multicoloured houseboats are moored. 04. The Harcourt Arms Cranham Terrace A pub with a welcoming atmosphere and quality beers. There are also a selection of board games provided, should you feel that way inclined.

Cycloanalysts 150 Cowley Rd Friendly, no-nonsense staff in the centre of Cowley. cycloanalysts.com

Beeline Bicycles 205 Cowley Rd Bright and pleasant shop. beelinebicycles.co.uk

Reg Taylor Cycles 285 Iffley Rd The local bike shop for those based in the Iffley area. regtaylorcycles.co.uk

 Homeware Despite meticulous planning, most of us inevitably forget something or other – never fear! Centrally located department stores and independents stock all the random and mundane things that you never realised you needed.

Boswell’s Department Store, City Centre, 1-4 Broad St www.boswells.co.uk Debenhams Department Store, City Centre, 1 Magdalen St www.debenhams.com Central Homeware, City Centre, 33-35 Little Clarendon St central-furniture.co.uk/

Tom's Insider Tip

Check out Freud's - a great place to get a drink and talk!

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Your Hood

Tom Church, 19

Law, St Anne's College

going out Out. There is a significant student-driven clubbing scene at Oxford, with rival nights (listed in parentheses) usually playing either ‘cheese’ or ‘alternative’ music – ie top 40 or anything else. Listed here are the main institutions, and a couple of popular nights – although you will in your time see many come and go. For this reason, flyers and Facebook groups are the best way to keep up to date. And be prepared to queue. The Plush Lounge 27 Park End St One of Oxford's most popular LGBTQ venue with a luxury interior. Bridge 6-9 Hythe Bridge St Typical ‘cheese’ spread over 3 chaotic floors. Popular on Thursdays (rival to Babylove’s Supermarket and Junction). warehouse 42-43 Park End St Brand new to the Oxford scene and formerly known as Junction. With its 100k Funktion 1 Sound System and riverside terrace & smoking area we will see how this club will stack up to the competition.

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Wahoo 3-5 Hythe Bridge St Very similar to Bridge but only has two floors, one of which, bizarrely, doubles as a sports bar and restaurant. Popular on Fridays (rival to Camera). Lava and Ignite (‘Park End’) Cantay House, Park End St Cheese but with three rooms, and sticky patterned carpets that you’ll learn to love. Remember: whatever other regrettable things you get up to there, don’t call it ‘Lava Ignite’! (Rival to The Cellar’s Subverse).

"Jericho's just got all these different opportunities and cultures – so many different things to try! Plus it's not all owned by the Oxford bigwigs." Camera St Ebbes St The stuff of Daily Mail dreams: Oxford students wearing bow ties dance in a doughnut-shaped room to Kanye West and pop champagne. Popular on Tuesdays (rival Poptarts) and Fridays (rival Wahoo). The Cellar Frewin Ct (off Broad St) Tucked away in the subterranean centre of Oxford, The Cellar is a gem for live music, DJs and noncheesy music in Oxford. Look out for new and one-off nights, and the established Subverse Presents on alternate Wednesdays.

Summertown

Most students will only see Summertown on their terrifying journey to Ewert House Exam Schools, so they are unlikely to notice the wellstocked charity shops and elegant restaurants. Although it is more popular with families than students, Summertown is worth the cycle up the Banbury Road.

SummerTown

Best of Summertown 01. The Rose and Crown 14 North Parade Pretty in pink, this tiny pub is the perfect place to enjoy warm weather with a cosy outdoor seating area. One of the cheaper places to eat in Summertown, enjoy omelette, chips and salad for under £8. 02. Modern Baker 214A Banbury Rd A small but delightful organic café and shop, The Modern Baker serves delicious snacks like beetroot brownies and chocolate maca cake. You can also take home freshly-baked breads and a range of health foods. It’s a bit of a Yummy Mummy hangout, but a pleasure to visit nonetheless. 03. Mamma Mia Pizzeria 8 South Parade Serving standard but wellcooked Italian fare in an intimate and casual setting, this second Oxford branch of Mamma Mia is a great place for a family meal. Thin-crust pizzas are tasty, or go offpiste with delicious cheesy garlic bread and minestrone soup. 04. The Oxford Kitchen 215 Banbury Road With its Michelin Star inspired dishes, £49 per head tasting menu and champagne cocktails, perhaps save this one for your post-graduation lunch. With its stylish setting and modern British food, this Summertown institution is perfect for a (very) special occasion.

Woodstock and Banbury Rd Bus 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D & 500

Best Pubs The White Horse 52 Broad Street If academic book shopping ever gets too much for you, simply nip into this tiny tavern, located inside Blackwell's book shop. A favourite among tourists, The White Horse still has plenty to offer the student punter. The Turf Tavern 4-5 Bath Place Hidden down a couple of back alleys near the Bodleian Library, you will not find a more welcoming pub in Oxford. Small and quaint, with a wonderful outdoor seating area, this is the perfect place for a relaxing pint after a hard day's procrastination. Or work, as the case may be. The Lamb and Flag 12 St Giles Always packed with interesting people, The Lamb and Flag is a hub of Oxford's social and intellectual life. An evening here is often full of surprises, but you can be sure that you'll leave with a story to tell. The Chequers 131 High Street David Cameron's favourite pub. Make of that what you will. Mind you, with its unique character and classy, high-ceilinged layout, it's not hard to understand why. The Bear INN 6 Alfred Street One of Oxford's smallest pubs, but also among the best. With an intimate and slightly kooky atmosphere (see the massive collection of ties which adorns the walls), as well as an excellent selection of local ales, this is a little gem of the Oxford pub scene.

Best clothes shops Shopping in Oxford is fun: in the spirit of the city’s spired myth, vintage and charity shops are appropriately stocked with everything from ball gowns and capes to trainers and subfusc, at a range of prices. Oxford has the normal set of global fashion retailers like H&M, GAP, Primark, Zara and TopShop.

Gloucester Green Market Gloucester Green On Thursdays, Gloucester Green is transformed into a giant market, with stalls selling antiques, clothes, sublime dumplings and a fair amount of tat. Successful shopping requires some dedication, but if you have some time there are often vintage gems for under £10.

INDIGO 62 Cowley Road Expect to pay a little more at this clothing and homeware shop, as all the products are fair trade and ethically sourced. The clothes and accessories are characterised by muted tones and soft fabrics, and are largely made from natural, recycled and organic materials.

Unicorn 5 Ship St Visit Unicorn for its range and the eccentricity of its stock, everything from French lace to ball gowns to knitwear to stilettos – and the sheer chaos of its layout. Its range unfortunately caters mostly for women, but most of the stock can be hired.

Cinemas

It’s pretty easy to watch a mainstream movie in Oxford: head for the Odeon or, for something slightly less Hollywood, to either the Ultimate Picture Palace or Phoenix Picture House. Check out Magdalen Film Society (look out for their flyer) for screenings of handpicked films from all eras in the Magdalen Auditorium for very cheap prices (with snacks and wine!), as well as various one-off screenings, including of student films by OBA (Oxford Broadcasting Association). Ultimate Picture Palace Odeon Phoenix Picturehouse Jeune St Magdalen St and George St 57 Walton St 01865 245288 0871 224 4007 0871 902 5736

Bookish If the City of Oxford were an animal, it might just be a bookworm. Aside from its unrivalled libraries, Oxford boasts fantastic niche bookshops, and many charity shops stock rare and antique books. Browse them near the end of term to pick up holiday reading. Blackwell’s 27 Broad St The legendary Blackwell’s bookshop, for all your academic, leisure and gift-giving needs. It boasts a fantastic science section and runs events with authors. Philip’s books 82 St Aldate's This labyrinthine shop specialising in theology and history has a very beautiful selection of antiquarian and rare books.

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Oxfam Books 15 Turl St This charming little second-hand bookshop lends insight to what the residents of Oxford have on their bookshelves: browse with an open mind and you’re sure to walk out with a dusty edition of some poetry book you’d always meant to read.

Blackwell’s Art & Poster Shop 27 Broad St Ben from Blackwell’s Art and Poster Shop tells us more about the shop: "We are a specialist Art bookshop unique to Oxford. Our friendly, expert staff are here to help you choose from an amazing range of books, posters, gifts & cards. We’re sure you’ll find something that floats your boat! The book I’m holding Illustrations Unlimited – a compilation of a variety of illustrations – is my favourite of our selection."

Making Change Happen words: Theo Sundh Making change happen is often not easy or glamorous. Fresh! caught up with a student who has worked to make a difference to the lives of people in the University. Eden Tanner was awarded a Social Justice award by the Vice-Chancellor, for her involvement in OUSU's Sexual Consent Workshops. Congratulations are in order for you, Eden, for receiving the Social Impact Award from the ViceChancellor. What were the first things that went through your head when you found out you were going to receive it? How thrilled I was that sexual violence is something that is being talked about in as wide a context as this. I don’t see this award as recognising an individual effort – there are so many people involved, including the Vice President (Women) and the It Happens Here committee – but

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I was pleased to see the work getting recognition. I was also grateful that the First Response App was being publicised – the more people that know about it, the more people that can benefit from it! You received the award for organising the OUSU Sexual Consent Workshops. Can you tell us a bit more about how you first got involved with the programme? As Graduate Women’s Officer, I was one of three people trained to equip facilitators running workshops in their colleges. I’ve continued my involvement in this area in my capacity as CoChair of It Happens Here, OUSU’s campaign to create awareness of sexual violence. What are the Consent Workshops all about? The Consent Workshops are here to start a

PHOTO: Ella Gough

fresh voices

community-wide conversation about what consent means and what good consent culture looks like. Importantly, it also helps to create a community that believes and uplifts survivors of sexual violence, and doesn’t sustain a narrative that enables perpetrators. Why are they important? It’s so important to have this community level conversation to frame consent as a normal thing to talk about. Every one of us is responsible for our own actions, including creating a supportive atmosphere in college where survivors feel safe to speak out. What is the next for Consent Workshops? Unfortunately, many graduate students still do not have access to the workshops – one of our focuses is going to be increasing provision for graduate freshers. We’re also broadening the workshops, to enable conversations with particular focuses – for the BDSM community, the LGBTQ+ community, and workshops for people in couples or groupings. So how do you go about making things happen? I find other passionate, driven people, and bring them along for the ride! Having a great team is the first step to getting things done. Oh, and having a large number of to-do lists and SMART (Specific Measurable Achievable Resourced Timed) goals helps, too! Why should freshers get involved? This is the last time in your life (unless you come back as a graduate and get to do it all again – highly recommended!) where you get such free reign to pursue your interests outside of academia in an environment with such charged and creative people. Make a promise to yourself that you’ll try one thing you normally wouldn’t for a month, and see how it goes. Any advice for a fresher who is not sure if they should get involved or not? Do it! Like a lot of freshers, I was hesitant about getting heavily involved in extra-curricular activities in case we were crushed by the workload. You don't need to worry. At the end of the day it is you who decides how much the campaign does. If you’d like to get involved with It Happens Here send an email to ithappenshere@ousu.ox.ac.uk and we can work with you to find something to suit your desired level of commitment.

The First Response App is a critical piece of technology that will provide accessible, confidential, and timely access to information for survivors and supporters. Available through Itunes

FRESH

START Settling into university life is a really exciting time, but it can also bring challenges. We spoke to Kevin Halon from the University Counselling Service, to get his top tips for navigating your first term at Oxford. Is it common to feel homesick? It is normal to miss family, friends, and things from home. It is important for most people to keep in touch, but try not to rely on contacts from home too much and to the exclusion of finding new relationships here. What’s the best way to manage workload? It sounds obvious, but try to establish some structure for your work so, just as importantly, you have time to enjoy yourself outside of work. Also look after yourself physically. Try to get enough good quality sleep, eat right, do some exercise and aim for balance with regard to lifestyle. These are the foundations for success. What if people have high expectations of me? Allow yourself to be ‘good enough’ in your academic work and in other aspects of your life. You are, after all, here to learn and develop, and attempting to get everything absolutely right will just be counter-productive. Don’t forget that striving for excellence is different from thinking that you have to be perfect and that you can never do enough or be good enough. What if I don’t get good grades? Try to remember that your work is not you. You will get criticism (and hopefully some positive feedback) but this is intended to help you to learn, so try not to take it too personally. Learning is about being able to tolerate the frustration of not knowing something. You need to allow yourself to struggle with something in order to master it. What’s your advice for freshers? Don’t be afraid to find some time for yourself, if you feel that you need to, amidst all the social activities in the first few weeks. You don’t have to go to everything but try, on the other hand, not to hide away or avoid activities and events. Any good life advice? You will make some mistakes but respect yourself and others in terms of what you or they feel comfortable with saying or doing.

How you fresh voices

can make a difference

If you want to make a change happen for a cause that matters to you, these student-led campaigns could be a great starting point. Oxford University Student Union (OUSU) campaigns promote issues and organisations that students feel strongly about. These campaigns exist to ensure that there is always a space in OUSU’s democratic structure where students concerned about particular issues have a safe and supportive environment to discuss and act on them.

student-led campaigns

CRAE

Campaign for Racial Awareness and Equality (CRAE) aims to improve and support student experience at university, while raising awareness of, and engagement with, diversity and difference.

OXFORD STUDENTS' DISABILITY COMMUNITY

The Oxford Students' Disability Community is a group of interested graduates and undergraduates who represent the needs and aspirations of students with disabilities within the University.

Environment & Ethics campaign

The E&E Campaign is the largest environmentally focused group in the University. Their goals are to make the University a greener, more ethical place, to support individuals in their efforts to reduce their own carbon footprint and to contribute towards solving national and international problems facing the environment, international development and rights abuses.

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INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS’ CAMPAIGN

The International Students’ Campaign (ISC) is a student-run organisation committed to representing and improving the welfare of the over 7,500 international students from 139 different countries at our university.

IT HAPPENS HERE

It Happens Here is a campaign made up of undergraduates, graduates, home, and international students all with a passion for ending sexual abuse in our university. The campaign aims to raise awareness of sexual consent and sexual abuse by running Sexual Consent Workshops for freshers, sports teams, student groups, and local schools.

LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, TRANS & QUEER CAMPAIGN

The LGBTQ Campaign is the political campaigning arm of Oxford’s queer community. It is supported by OUSU both financially and through the LGBTQ Officer but is free to form its own policy and choose which issues to focus on.

the living wage campaign

In partnership with workers, academics and community groups, the Living Wage Campaign empowers students and staff to fight for improved pay and conditions for low-paid employees in the University and wider community.

Student campaigns are a great way of meeting people who feel as strongly as you do about key issues and want to make a difference.

studentsplus campaign

on your doorstep

Are you a mature student? There’s no strict definition: save that you were 21 or over when you matriculated. Anyone who feels ‘mature’, or just wants to get to know other like-minded people with similar life experiences in different colleges, be sure to get on the Studentsplus mailing list!

On Your Doorstep aims to raise awareness about homelessness and the issues surrounding it. Oxford has currently the second highest level of homelessness per capita in the country and On Your Doorstep aims to be a focal point for homelessness campaigning and provide students with key information about what they can do to help end homelessness.

mind your head campaign

WOMEN’s CAMPAIGN (WOMCAM)

The Mind Your Head Campaign is designed to increase awareness of mental illness among students, as well as encouraging students to consider their mental wellbeing and take steps to improve it. It is difficult enough to live with a mental-health problem, and the campaign aims to get rid of the stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental illness.

target schools campaign

Founded by OUSU in 1982, Target Schools aims to inspire and support able prospective students who might be put off by damaging myths and stereotypes. Target Schools is student-led and responsible both for coordinating undergraduate volunteers who wish to do school visits and for running Oxford’s only shadowing scheme.

Women’s Campaign is a thriving liberation campaign that advocates for students who identify as women. It is also the main hub for feminism and gender equality in the University. The underrepresentation of women affects many areas of Oxford life – the aim of this campaign is getting the voices of women students heard.

lindsey lee

Lindsay is OUSU’s Disabled Students Officer, here to represent the interests of Disabled Students. Why did you stand to be Disabled Students' Officer? To work to make the Oxford experience for disabled students as positive and enriching as possible! What do you think are the best ways for students with a disability to get involved in university life? The most active group for disabled students at Oxford is the Oxford Students’ Disability Community, which is an OUSU liberation campaign. You can find out more at oxdisability.com. What are the key things to think about if you’re disabled at Oxford? Ask for help if you need it, and know that you deserve to be here!

fresh election special

WORDS: Joe Smith OUSU Council is the decision-making body of Oxford University Student Union. It meets fortnightly, and is where any student can bring their concerns and proposals for change.

Obviously, elections aren’t everyone’s cup of tea but if there’s an issue you care passionately about, be that the environment, charities, LGBTQ or women’s rights, there’s something at OUSU for you.

Presidents and Representatives from Common Rooms, along with OUSU Officers (also elected by students) get to vote on whether the ideas in a motion pass. You don’t have to propose a motion to get involved, as there is an abundance of elected positions. They range from the big jobs such as President (elected for a year and usually serving after their final year) to small but nevertheless vital positions on interesting committees.

OUSU Council is the place where those views are represented and voiced and you have the opportunity to hold elected officers to account. The OUSU bunch are also super friendly so it’s an excellent way to broaden your social circle. If you’re still not swayed by OUSU Council, let me say that it’s a great platform to air your views and get involved with things you care about in a welcoming atmosphere.

As Returning Officer I’ve overseen, among other things, elections in OUSU Council as well as ensuring impartiality and fairness in the referenda on whether to keep academic dress for exams. It’s an extremely rewarding position and really gives you the opportunity to do something you love.

You can propose anything in OUSU. One presidential candidate wrote his manifesto in crayon, proposing we build a monorail; OUSU’s certainly no boring organisation! The candidate won in a landslide by the way, so if you’ve got an idea that you think could well be a vote-winner or is even just something you’d like to see changed in the University at large, bring it to OUSU Council and get involved.

WORDS: Alys Key JCR stands for Junior Common Room, and most colleges will have an actual common room which students can use to socialise and relax in. JCR can also be used to refer to all the undergraduates in a college. Similarly, for graduates there are MCRs (Middle Common Rooms). JCR and MCR meetings are generally held every two weeks, providing a place for students to propose ideas for improving their college or the University. There’s normally a president of the JCR, along with various officers who form a committee - all of whom have contact with the OUSU team who can help them make a real difference. You can get involved with your JCR to campaign on a particular issue, organise events in college, or support student projects. Louis Mercier, incoming JCR President of Somerville, also says that a JCR “fosters a sense of community”.

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“It is so easy to skim your way through your degree without getting involved in anything going on in college - without even understanding how the college functions. Getting involved with my JCR has already enriched my university experience so far, and I hope to get even more people involved next year.” Elections for JCR positions are held at different times through the year, so make sure you keep an eye out if you feel like you’re the kind of person who can take on a position in your college. But if that’s not your cup of tea, the great thing is that it’s very flexible. You can be as intensely or as casually involved as you like.

fresh election special

words: Eden Tanner

Each year OUSU holds elections in Michaelmas (the autumn term) where you are given the opportunity to have a say in who represents you, or lend your voice if you decide to run yourself. Voting is so easy, but it is vital to ensure that a dynamic, representative team of students are elected. There will be hustings (candidate debates) held before the voting period opens, during which you can go and ask the candidates questions about what they’re planning to do for students during their tenure, to make sure that your vote is going to a candidate who has prioritised actions that you also value. Part of the role of elected representatives of OUSU includes attending fortnightly Council meetings during term time. Voting members of Council are college representatives (who usually include your common room President, and an OUSU representative), OUSU campaign representatives and your elected OUSU officers. Having representatives in Council that consult with your college community is very important as it ensures that the views of your college common room are adequately expressed when it comes to voting on motions. Council has the power to steer OUSU in a direction desired by students – whether that is through governance changes or mandates for student union officers to take action. I fully encourage you to come along and engage with Council to hold OUSU accountable and hear what we’re doing with our time – every student member is entitled to attend.

OUSU is the means of connecting and campaigning with both the University and the colleges, and each of the elected officers – whether sabbatical or part-time – are there to work on your behalf. Voting in the statuatory elections is the best (and only!) way to have your say as to who is doing this work and what issues they are pledging to resolve.

Who do you think should move into here?

The OUSU offices, 2 Worcester St.

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#oxfordawaits

fresh Advice Contents

ESSENTIALS.................................................. 39 Eight things to do ............................ 40 Get Involved............................................... 42-43 sex............................................................................ 44-45 ACTIVE OXFORD/MINDFULNESS.. 48-49 show me the money............................ 51 university resources.................... 52-53 SELF Catering in STyle ................. 54

ESSENTIALs TO BRING TO UNI Essential

Passport and other IDs Passport photos Bank cards (and a chequebook if you have one) Medical details Student Finance info Diary/calendar Toiletries Toothbrush Overnight bag Washing-up liquid & a dishcloth Washing powder & stain remover Medicines/prescriptions

Clothes

Day-to-day wear Warm coat (there have been some very cold winters recently) Cap, gown and sub fusc (although you’re more likely to buy them once you get here) Dinner jacket/cocktail dress Smart evening wear Sports kit

Student Room

Bed linen (yes, even if it’s provided, sometimes it’s just nicer to have your own) Towels Hangers Kettle & mugs Posters & photos Alarm clock Door stop

Academic

Laptop and hard drive Reading lists sent from college Calculator Any books related to your course Pens and paper

PSST! If you... haven't bought a student discount card before you arrive, don't worry. You can still pick one up at Freshers' Fair (see page 43) or order one online at: www.nus.org.uk/ extra

Stuff

Bike (and helmet, locks & lights) Camera Phone & charger Bottle opener (probably one of the most coveted possessions in any student environment) Umbrella Something that reminds you of home (everyone gets a bit homesick at some point)

fresh advice

Eight things to do before coming to Oxford Words: Laura Whetherly

1. Make use of your new (college) parents.

Use this time to quiz them on what’s best to bring, the good and bad bits about your college and tell them if you’re particularly worried about anything. They’re there to help, after all.

2. Spend time with friends from home. While

uni is a great chance to meet different people, there’s nothing quite like the group of mates you suffered through school with. The likelihood is that you’re going to struggle to see most of them until Christmas, so make the most of the time you have.

3. Look at the reading list and any pre-term

work you might have been set. Boring as it might seem, it’ll make your life easier in the long run.

4. But also read for pleasure and watch that

film you’ve always meant to see. The break between leaving school and starting uni is one of the longest of your life - take advantage of that free time while you have it.

5. If you can get to Oxford before term starts,

make a trip to get sub fusc and visit the city. It’ll save time during the manic run-up to matriculation, and, let’s be honest, everyone enjoys dressing up in the gown and mortar board for the first time.

#oxfordawaits

6. Fill up on home cooking. As a first year,

you’ll probably eat a lot in Hall at your college, and, while food here is generally pretty good, the novelty of eating beneath oil-paintings and sitting at long tables wears off pretty quickly as you realise that stew is on the menu for the third time in a week. Make the best of home-cooked dinners (and vegetables!) while you still can.

7. Realise that it’s not always going to be

easy. There will be times when you’re shattered, feel behind with work and aren’t sure what you’re doing – which is totally normal. Nobody comes through Oxford without having struggled at some point, and there’s always support available from friends, college, OUSU or the University if you need it.

8. Get excited! You’re about to begin one of

the biggest adventures of your life, at one of the best universities in the world. Enjoy it.

THE

STUDENT ADVICE

SERVICE

OUSU's free, confidential, & Impartial student advice service The Student Advice Service is a confidential and impartial service available free of charge to all students in the University. From academic matters, to accommodation and college discipline, they are here to offer advice, information and advocacy. The Service is staffed by two part-time advisors and a full-time manager. You can find the answers to the most common student-related questions on: ousu.org/advice.

regarding changing tutors you should talk to your pastoral/personal tutor and your Senior Tutor. You can request that someone from the Student Advice Service attends these meetings with you.

Cate Hemingway Student Advice Service Manager Can I change my tutor? The procedure for changing tutors varies considerably between colleges. The best place to start is to check your college handbook for any regulations. Some colleges specify in their regulations that students have the right to request a different tutor, and if this right exists in your college, you should simply follow the college procedure. If there is no regulation in the handbook

Can I change my course? In theory this is possible, but there are potential difficulties in practice. Chiefly, colleges need to match the number of undergraduates to the teaching resources available. Often the numbers will be large enough to allow a degree of flexibility, but this is not always the case. Something to consider is that a change of subject can sometimes mean an extra year as an undergraduate, which will have financial implications. Can I move college? Yes, but this is very rare. The process is known as migration. A student wishing to change college will need to supply written permission to the Proctors from their college and the college they want to transfer to. If you are concerned about your college, you may wish to consider speaking to the OUSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Student Advice Service.

If you want to get in contact with an advisor then email: advice@ousu.ox.ac.uk

fresh advice

Getting Involved

OUSU's Freshers' Fair Kick-start your time at Oxford and experience all the fun of the faiR. 7th-9th october

words: Nasim Asl

University life is not just about lectures, essays and clubbing. It’s also about all the other activities that happen around Oxford. With more than 400 clubs and societies to choose from, your time at Oxford will never be dull. Whatever your interest there will be a group for you, whether in music, sports, literature, politics, performing arts, media, faiths, national and cultural groups or volunteering. Don’t worry – you can become involved in any club or society that interests you whatever your experience or background. The annual OUSU Freshers’ Fair (7th-9th October) at the start of the first term is an ideal opportunity to find out what is available.

College and Uni Clubs

Societies are either college-based or university wide. College-based societies are exclusive only to members of that college’s JCR, and can include baking, choirs and faith societies as well as sports teams. College-based sports teams are typically less competitive than the University-level ones, and there are inter-college sports tournaments and leagues, with matches throughout the year. Although collegebased societies allow college friendships to blossom, university-wide clubs offer a wider range of activities and allow you to meet students from a range of subjects and colleges. There’s an enormous range of things to get involved with at Oxford. A lot of these are casual, where you can pick and choose which events or talks to go to, or which classes to take. Here is just a small selection of groups that you can get involved in.

Academic Subject

A lot of subjects have their own corresponding societies – the History Soc and Law Soc are both used by students studying other subjects but who have an interest in Law or History (or the wine at socials). Academic societies are a good way of making subject friends across the Uni, as well as furthering your CV.

Charities, Community & Ethics

RAG (Raise and Give) is the student-led fundraising arm of OUSU, which provides students with an incredible opportunity to get involved in charitable work in Oxford. RAG has been rapidly expanding in the last few years, running ‘Jailbreak’ hitchhiking challenges and dozens of social events, the wildly successful RAG Casino and the annual sell-out RAG Ball in addition to many more projects and events. As well as being an incredible way to get professional

#oxfordawaits

If you can’t find a club or society that appeals to you why not set up your own? For official information on setting up a University club or society, visit the University Clubs Committee website www.admin.ox.ac.uk/clubs or E-MAIL the OUSU Clubs & Societies Officer: societies@ousu.ox.ac.uk experience and raise money for the annually votedin charities, the RAG family has a fantastic social scene, which is great to be a part of! If you’d rather work on the Human Rights side of things, Oxford Lawyers Without Borders host a range of talks and workshops. There’s also an Amnesty International Society, Oxford Aid to the Balkans, and groups such as Jacari, which allows you to volunteer time to befriend and tutor children who need help reading and writing in English.

College Balls

One of Oxford’s most recognisable traditions is that of the Ball. Colleges take it in turns to host these, and each term sees multiple chances to glam up. As well as attending balls, committees are in charge of organising the events and are a great way to learn about the business of partyplanning.

Cultural/National

Cultural and national societies are a great way of creating a community of students who have an interest in a particular nation and its culture. Some groups get together to celebrate national holidays, to attend talks and most have regular socials so members can really get to know each other. Religious societies also celebrate special calendar events together, conduct charity work and generate a nice community atmosphere.

Music & the Arts

The ma jority of colleges boast their own impressive choirs who regularly tour abroad during summer. There are also some wider choral groups, but whatever choir you end up joining you’ll perform at multiple events, get free dinners and get your voice recorded. Alternatively, you could follow the Glee route and join some of the more contemporary singing groups scattered around the Uni. Oxford has spawned some big-name actors, and if you fancy joining the list, Oxford University Drama Society (OUDS) is the place to start. Scores of plays are put on throughout the year, in a large range of locations – from lawn plays in the summer, to the professional Playhouse, there are countless chances to put your name in lights.

Political

It’s no surprise given the number of world leaders and politicians that hold an Oxford degree, that there’s a thriving student political scene here. Many students discover their political sway whilst studying and wherever your interests lie — from the Oxford University Conservative Association (OUCA), Oxford University Liberal Democrats (OULD) or Oxford University Labour Club (OULC) to the Green Party and the Oxford Left Review — there’s a plethora of groups to talk politics with.

Annie Whitton, Rowing

Why did you get involved in rowing? I wanted a sport that was really social and rewarding, and something that's great for fitness. It was also a great way to get out of college and have a change of scenery by going down to the river – we historians don't get out much!

Sport

It’s important to stay healthy and active when PE lessons are no longer compulsory. Luckily, there’s a whole host of sports teams available. A lot of these, such as cricket, football, rugby and rowing are found at both college and university level, with the latter competing against other universities. Even if you’re not a sporty person, most teams offer intro classes or more casual teams, which allow you to pick up a martial art, learn to dance, or pretend you’re at Hogwarts on the Quidditch team.

Religion

Throughout the University there are many religious organisations which can support you in practising your religion whilst at university and help you meet other people of the same faith. There are many places of worship throughout the city. Give it a quick google or look up the society on Facebook to give you a headstart, and pop into the religious section of the Freshers' Fair when you arrive to meet some representatives." - Nabila, Oxford University Islamic Society

Writing, Journalism & Media

If you’re after a creative career, there’s endless chances to get published here. You could join the team at The Oxford Student or The Cherwell, the two student-run newspapers, write for a zine which publishes work about certain issues (NoHeterox is the LGBTQ Society’s offering, Skin Deep looks at race and Cuntry Living is about feminism and sexism), or write more creatively with groups such as Oxford University Poetry Society. You could always start your own creative writing group! Media outlets such as The Preview Show, the Uni’s student TV group, or OUSU's Oxide Radio, the radio station, are available for students to get involved in. The Media Society and Oxford Broadcasting Association also host talks which help inspire and inform about careers in the media from those at the top of their field.

OUSU's Freshers' Fair

Freshers’ Fair is the largest event organised by Oxford University Student Union. Every year thousands of students descend on the University Examination Schools to visit the stalls of more than 400 clubs, teams, societies, charities and commercial stallholders. There is no other event that involves so much of the student body, or that provides as much fun, freebies and opportunities. 7th - 9th October.

fresh advice

Sex

let's talk about

words: Katy Law & Ali Lennon

Moving to a new place, meeting lots of new people and studying an academic subject that you love brings with it loads of exciting opportunities for fun, freedom and experimentation. Whether or not this includes sex and/or relationships is entirely up to you. Remember there is no such thing as normal and you should choose what’s right for you, but if you are having sex it’s important to be clued up about staying healthy and safe. Here we give a round up of facts and resources available in Oxford to help you make informed choices about sex.

SAFE SEX

According to Public Health England, people under the age of 25 continue to experience the highest rates of Sexually Transmitted Infections or STIs (chlamydia being the most common infection, followed by gonorrhoea and genital warts). So whilst it might seem embarrassing and clinical to talk about using condoms or birth control, it’s likely to be a lot less embarrassing or potentially life changing than ending up with an STI or an unplanned pregnancy. Not sure where to get advice and contraception? We can help!

#oxfordawaits

C-Card

The C-Card is a scheme that allows you to collect free condoms, dental dams and lubricant from participating pharmacies in Oxfordshire, including Boots and Boswells www.boswells.co.uk. Ask your college welfare officer, OUSU’s Student Advice Service, or your local Sexual Health clinic about signing up to the scheme. A ma jor benefit of signing up for a C-Card is that your first pack will include a range of supplies (e.g. different sizes, latex free etc.) and instructions so that you can find out what works best for you.

OXFORD SEXUAL HEALTH SERVICE

There are two main Sexual Health Clinics in Oxford, contact details below. Both of these provide: • A full range of contraception and sexual health advice and treatment • Testing & treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) • Other genital problems • Chlamydia screening (under-25s) • Free condom distribution (the C-Card scheme for under-25s) • Emergency contraception • HIV advice & testing • Screening & support after sexual assault

Oxford Sexual Health Centres Sexual Health Service Churchill Hospital Old Road Headington Oxford OX3 7LE Tel: 01865 231231

OUSU

OUSU supply welfare officers with cost-price condoms, lubricant, dental dams and pregnancy tests for common rooms to distribute for free. Speak to your welfare officer when you arrive at college for more information.

Getting tested

If you are having sex, it’s worth getting tested regularly to check that you haven't picked up an STI, and to treat any infection you do get – before it causes long-term damage. This is particularly the case before you have sex with a new partner. OUSU will be holding STI/HIV testing sessions on 25th November 2015 and 4th May 2016, please check www.ousu.org for further details. However at any other time you can contact Oxford Sexual Health Service: sexualhealthoxfordshire.nhs.uk.

Emergency Contraception

The emergency contraceptive pill (or the morning after pill) can be used to prevent pregnancy, but must be taken within 72 hours of having unprotected sex (or sex where your contraceptive method has failed e.g. the condom split or you have missed a pill). You can get the emergency contraceptive pill from your GP, college GP, pharmacies, and either of the Oxford Sexual Health Clinics, detailed above.

Pregnancy

If it has been longer than 72 hours since you have had unprotected sex and you think you may be pregnant, you can visit your GP or the Churchill Hospital Sexual Health Clinic, tel: 01865 231231 for further advice and support.

Sexual Health Service Rectory Centre Rectory Road East Oxford OX4 1BU Tel: 018645 231231

HIV and PEPSE

If you have had unprotected sex with someone who is known to be, or thought likely to be HIV Positive, then you can seek advice from Churchill Hospital Sexual Health Clinic, tel: 01865 231231. They can provide you with Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEPSE), a short course of HIV treatment, in order to reduce the risk of becoming HIV positive. This treatment must be taken within 72 hours of having unprotected sex.

Consent

Communication and mutual respect are essential in any sexual relationship. Ensuring that both partners want to have sex is crucial and you should always get consent before and during engaging in any sexual activity with another person (this includes kissing, touching and penetration). Even if you have engaged in sexual activity with a person before, consent shouldn’t be assumed. OUSU runs compulsory Sexual Consent Workshops in almost every Common Room during Freshers’ Week to start conversations about consent. For more information about the workshops please contact: vpwomen@ousu.ox.ac.uk.

INDEPENDENT ADVICE

If you would like to talk to someone about sex or relationships, or anything that might be troubling you, get in touch with OUSU’s Student Advice Service. They offer free, confidential and impartial advice and can accompany you to meetings and appointments. Email them on: advice@ousu.ox.ac. uk or visit the OUSU website ousu.org/advice/ for help and resources on some of the most common student-related issues.

Weare here when you need

Independent,

FREE, &

Confidential

fresh advice

Security Services

Security needn’t cramp your style ‘Delivering safety and security through effective prevention, reassurance and response’ Oxford University Security Services provides a wide range of services aimed at maintaining a safe and secure physical environment for the University community, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our team’s remit covers: • • • • •

personal security property safety cycle security crime prevention uniformed officers operate foot, bike and vehicle patrols across the University • fire and intruder alarm monitoring • administration of the University’s Car Parking Scheme and enforcement through the application of civil penalty notices • Security services to Colleges, including patrols and lock-ups and lone worker monitoring service.

How to contact us:

01865 272944 (24hrs) Enquiries 01865 289999 (24hrs) Emergency

If you would like to find out more about Security Services visit our website: www.admin.ox.ac.uk/ouss Stay up to date with the free Mobile Oxford app.

Mobile Oxford is the University’s official mobile app. This provides a central guide to help you with day-to-day tasks. Security Services uses this app to provided information regarding security incidents via instant messages. The app is compatible with both Apple and android devices.

fresh advice

Staying active in Oxford Whilst Oxford sport conjures up images of the Boat Race and countless Varsity match victories over Cambridge, Oxford actually has a great deal to offer all students. There is a huge range of opportunities to stay fit and get involved in competitive sports, ranging from the prestigious Blues teams at university level, to more casual college sports teams. Oxford caters for the needs of even the most obscure sports from Quidditch to Octopush alongside its more traditional sports such as rowing, rugby, football, cricket and netball. This gives those who have never even heard of a particular sport a chance to get involved and have a go at representing Oxford against other universities in BUCS (British Universities and College Sport) and, most importantly, in Varsity matches against Cambridge.

University Sport Look out for the stalls from all of the University sports clubs at the Fresher’s Fair. This is a great opportunity to sign up for your favourite sports and those that you’ve never heard of, which presents a great opportunity to meet new people and expand your network of friends. Playing for a university team against Cambridge gives you the chance of gaining a Blue or half-Blue, which is one of the most prestigious sporting accolades in the country.

College Sport For some, college sport is the most important aspect of life at Oxford. As you will soon realise, your college is a huge part of your identity here, and succeeding in leagues and most importantly, Cuppers (the college cup competition) is sure to cement your name in college folk law. Cuppers sports range from Football, (beginning in Michaelmas) all the way to Croquet in summer, in which over 2000 people take part.

Recreational sport

Gyms in Oxford Is your college gym not up to scratch? Iffley Road Gym is probably the best gym in Oxford and it is used by everyone in the university. Prices start at £128 for the full three years or £62 a year, although for a bit extra you can have access to the swimming pool and even the running track, where Roger Bannister famously ran a mile in under four minutes. The downsides of Iffley Road are its distance from some colleges, and the fact that the complex itself is quite dated. Some colleges offer very good gyms and these may be a lot more convenient and cheaper, although often they don’t offer particularly extensive facilities. There is always the option of going to other colleges. Linacre, for example, has a very good selection of weights for those who find their college facilities inadequate. As a last resort, there are some commercial gyms available in Oxford such as LA Fitness, but for the price, college gyms are a much better shout, or you could always just do press ups in your room...

University Parks offer a great space to have a kickabout or organise fixtures between subject or society teams. Uni Parks is also a beautiful space provided by the university to go for a jog or just take in the scenery on a hot summer’s day.

Oxford’s best places to go for a run

Oxford sport bucket list

1. University Parks 2. Christ Church Meadows 3. Bridge dance floor 4. Port Meadow 5. Along the river Isis (Thames)

1. Play for your college in Cuppers 2. Watch a Varsity match 3. Get involved in a University team 4. Win blades in College rowing 5. Enter Croquet Cuppers

#oxfordawaits

fresh advice

A mindful balance Life as an Oxford student can be jam-packed with work, socialising and extracurricular activities so it’s important that you find a balance between work and play. Dr Ruth Collins from the University Counselling Service is an expert in Mindfulness, which can be a really useful tool for staying calm and collected. What is mindfulness and why is it important? Mindfulness involves a conscious direction of awareness to what is here right now. It is seeing, hearing, feeling and being with what is present in the moment rather than thinking about the past or worrying about the future. Mindfulness training has been demonstrated to enhance psychological well-being and is associated with better learning, healthier relationships and improved academic performance. The enhancement of well-being has the potential to improve a range of outcomes in the University context. How can you bring mindfulness into your daily life? Throughout the day bring awareness to the present moment; whenever you can, do one thing at a time. Give full attention to what you are doing and notice thoughts and feelings. Focus on your posture, become aware of sensations: feel your feet on the floor, your sit bones on a chair, the air brushing your skin. Focus on the breath, sense the effects of breathing throughout the body. Bring an attitude of non-judgemental acceptance and allowing to your experience. What are some ways of dealing with the pressure that people put on themselves? Putting yourself under unnecessary pressure by having unrealistic academic or social expectations of university life can potentially lead to burn-out and stress. Adopting a regular mindfulness practice is the best way to feel resilient, calm and balanced when faced with the pressures of multiple academic and social demands. A heightened awareness of the present moment can facilitate a more reasoned perspective allowing you to manage your time thoughtfully and to make more conscious choices about how to invest it.

Any good advice for freshers? It’s important to invest in relationships - be sociable and establish new friendships. Get involved, join a club or society, pursue a new interest or develop an old hobby - but don’t forget to set aside some time for yourself on a regular basis. Keep physically active, make sure you eat well and nutritiously and get enough sleep. Being mindful, sociable and healthy will help you to be resilient and to make the most of your time at university. What if I don’t get good grades? Not getting the grades you want can be very disappointing. It’s important however not to invest everything in the outcome of assignments or exams; the process of achievement is just as important as the end result. If you didn’t get the grade you wanted, reflect on your study habits, make sure the space you work in is quiet, try not to be distracted by social media, condense your notes, practise past papers and make essay plans. Take five mindful breaths whenever you remember. Any good life advice? Sign up for a mindfulness course! Courses designed specifically for Oxford University students are held regularly at University colleges. Please email OMC.students@ psych.ox.ac.uk to go on a waiting list for a future course. Or contact The Oxford Student Mindfulness Society www.facebook.com/ OxfordStudentMindfulnessSociety. They hold regular mindfulness ‘taster sessions’ as well as running weekly drop-in non-therapeutic mindfulness practice sessions for students which are led by experienced mindfulness teachers.

If you would like to talk to someone about how you are feeling, you might want to contact a peer supporter in college, a member of the Welfare Team, or the Counselling Service ox.ac.uk/students/welfare/counselling or: www.counsellingoxford.com

fresh advice Lucy Hawkins, AdvisOr at THE CAREERS SERVICE.

Show Me The Money words: Imogen Bassett

Managing your finances as a new student can be a difficult task. You’ll probably have more cash in the bank at the start of term than you’ve ever seen before. However, if during your time here you find yourself breaking into a cold sweat at the mere thought of checking your balance, fret ye not – help is at hand. The first port of call is your college as you may be eligible for a hardship fund. Make sure you check out the University’s website for more detailed advice and information on funding available and managing your finances (see page 52 for more info). Oxford has generous bursaries available but you have to be in it to win it! If you are thinking of earning some extra cash, be aware that the official stance from the University is that term-time employment is not usually permitted. It is therefore wise to talk to your tutor before taking on any paid work, as they may need reassurance that your studies won’t be compromised. Most students choose to work outside of term time but it is also important to remember that during the holidays you will still be expected to prioritise your degree over any work commitments. If you do decide to look for work, the University Careers Service has plenty of information about opportunities available. Alternatively, you could find out if your college or OUSU is looking for part-time employees. Budding editorial assistants, student designers, photographers and video makers should keep an eye out for opportunities to work on OUSU publications. Some colleges also hire library assistants, and college bars often employ students on a part-time basis. International students must also check the University's website for vital information on employment and visas. Restrictions apply as to how many hours you can work in and out of term time as well as the type of work you are able to take on. It is also important that International students talk to their tutor or supervisor before taking on any form of employment.

How do I go about finding work between terms? There are lots of opportunities available, which can be found by checking vacancy websites (including our own CareerConnect), speculatively contacting organisations and talking to tutors, alumni, friends and family. Remember to consider the need to relax and catch up on studies too: you’re not expected to take work experience/paid work in every vacation! Can I do work-experience during term? With short, intense terms, it’s usually not possible to take internships or work experience in term time, although there are other things you could do to build your skills and experiences. You could take small volunteering opportunities (see Oxford Hub or do-it.org.uk), get involved with relevant student societies, attend employer presentations, or explore learning programmes offered by the Careers Service such as The Shed (for entrepreneurial types) or The Student Consultancy (teambased, term-time volunteering to analyse the issues of a local ‘client’ organisation). Where should I turn if I don't know what I want to do in the future? First of all, if you don’t know what you want to do in the future, you’re not alone! Lots of people use their time and experiences at university to figure out more about what they’re looking for, and what their skills are. Try out some ideas by joining a student society, using work experience, or just read about different options in the ‘Options and Occupations’ section at www.careers.ox.ac.uk For full advice on how to find work experience, internships or vacation jobs, see the Careers Service website. If you’d like to talk to a Careers Advisor you can book a free appointment through CareerConnect – the log-in bit of The Careers Service website – you don’t need to register, just use your university log-in.

Student Union & university resources There is a wealth of support and resources available to students during their time at Oxford. Here are some key contacts should you need any help, advice or information. Don't forget OUSU is a great place to start if you can't find what you are looking for. Whatever your query, we are here to help. Our offices are at 2 Worcester Street, OX1 2BX. Call 01865 288452 or email enquiries@ousu.ox.ac.uk for more information.

funding The University has various scholarships available to students from low-income households. Many colleges also have money available for those in hardship, as well as grants for travel or study support. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well worth talking to your college office or your JCR about whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available. If you find yourself in sudden financial difficulty then your college will typically be the best place to get assistance. The University's website has some great information on managing your finances and support available to students. Visit ox.ac.uk/ students/fees-funding for more information.

THE

The Careers Service can help CAREERS you develop your SERVICE employability skills, find work experience, make brilliant applications, meet employers, decide what to do after Oxford, and much, much more. Whether you want to get one-to-one careers advice, learn about further study opportunities, or apply to the Careers Service exclusive global Internship Programme, they are here to help. Visit them at 56 Banbury Road, or go online to careers.ox.ac.uk.

careers OUSU's Student Advice Service is a confidential and impartial service available free of charge to all students in the University. From academic matters to harassment, from accommodation to college discipline, they offer advice, information and advocacy. See page 41 for more information.

Your course tutor or graduate supervisor should be able advise in most instances where you need academic-related advice. OUSU's Student Advice Service is also on hand to answer many of your questions, or point you in the right direction. Email advice@ousu.ox.ac.uk. The OUSU website has a dedicated academic advice section: ousu.org/advice/academic. There is also a 'Study Skills' section on the University's website with advice on academic good practice including managing your time, reading, note taking, referencing and revision. Go to ox.ac.uk/students/academic/ guidance/skills.

Academic There are a number of services available to provide support to you during your studies at the University. Advice is available from your college, department, counselling services, central university services and OUSU's Student Advice Service. Details will be provided to you by your college when you arrive.

The Oxford University Counselling Service is also a great place to get free and confidential advice. They offer individual and group counselling helping students address personal or emotional problems. Go to ox.ac.uk/students/ welfare/counselling for more information.

welfare

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES At Oxford around 1,200 students have declared a disability. Across the University disability support personnel are available to provide assistance for most disabilities and longterm health conditions. The Disability Advisory Service provides information and advice on the way in which a particular disability may impact on your experience at the University, and can assist you with organising disability-related study support. For more information visit ox.ac.uk/students/welfare/ disability or call 01865 280459. Oxford Students' Disability Community is an OUSU campaign, which represents the needs and aspirations of students with disabilities. Their mission is to provide a student-run space for individuals with disabilities and their support network, to work towards greater accessibility and access to all aspects of university life. Email disabledstudents@ousu.ox.ac.uk or go to ousu.org/get-involved/campaigns/ disabilities. The Leadership Development Programme is a course organised by OUSU in which women students commit to a focused, leadership training course over the entirety of Hilary Term. The Careeers Service also runs Springboard, a programme which aims to ensure women students are equipped for their career after graduation but also provide them with tools to enhance their personal development in all aspects of life. WomCam (or Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Campaign) is an OUSU feminist campaign. They organise events, raise awareness of issues and create a platform for feminist discussion. They also act as a resource and publicity tool for other similar events in Oxford. Go to ousu.org/get-involved/campaigns/ womenscampaign for more information.

WOMEN

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS If you are an International Student coming to Oxford, it is vital you refer to the advice and guidelines concerning visas on the University's website ox.ac.uk/students/visa. Once you have arrived there are lots of places where you can find information and resources to help you settle into Oxford life. There are dedicated pages for undergraduate and graduate students on the University's website. The International Students' Campaign (or ISC) is one of OUSU's campaigns. This student-run organisation is committed to representing and improving the welfare of international students. They organise the annual 'International Festival' as well as lots of social events throughout the year. Adjusting to life in a new country can be hectic and bewildering. One of their key objectives is to make this transition easier. See ousu. org/get-involved/campaigns/international for more information.

Parents Whether you already have a child or are about to become a parent, a wealth of services are available to support you in Oxford. OUSU provides a number of resources for student parents, such as a comprehensive Student Parent Handbook with information about childcare throughout the University, colleges and city, and holiday play schemes as well as information about childcare for children with disabilities and funding for student parents. Colleges and the central university can help students with childcare needs through a comprehensive range of childcare services, including nurseries, playschemes and help with the cost of childcare. The Childcare Services team provide information to students about all aspects of childcare. They aim to enable parents to make informed decisions and find the best childcare options. Visit admin.ox.ac.uk/ childcare. Oxfordshire County Council also provides information for parents on childcare provision in Oxford, including day nurseries, childminders, schools and after-school childcare. Telephone 08452 262636.

Self-catering in style

Baked chilli feta & pitta

Cheap and simple, this recipe was originally concocted for a ‘Come Dine Below the Line’ challenge, so it’s a deliberately low-cost option, well-suited to a student budget. Serving 4 people, it costs around 28p a head.

Ingredients

1 block of Feta / Greek Style Salad Cheese 1 chilli 4 pitta breads Sprinkle of coriander from garden herbs 1 tsp oil

Method 1. 2. 3. 4.

Turn your oven up to 180ºC

Put 1tsp of olive oil on the feta package, put your sliced chillies on top- then scrunch up the sides and toss in the oven

6. 7.

Bake at 180ºC for 10 minutes

8. 9. 10.

Toast up some pitta breads

Deseed and slice the chilli Drain the feta of water Cut some parchment paper or foil large enough that it covers the feta when folded

Turn oven up to 200ºC and uncover the feta package, bake for a further 10 mins until browned Garnish the feta with some chopped up coriander Tear and share with friends!

#oxfordawaits

The student chef:

James Wragg James Wragg writes studentfriendly recipes and shares other food-related thoughts on his blog thehealthyhangover.com, and is a contributor to The Guardian. What made you start a blog based on student cooking? I've always enjoyed cooking, particularly the feeling of cooking up a feast with housemates. I wanted to share this feeling with others so started publishing posts online. I also felt male students were particularly underrepresented in this area so it was great to show the world that we can cook too! What kitchen equipment do you think is the bare minimum to have with you at university? A good sharp knife, chopping board, frying pan, sauce pan and lid, plates and cutlery. How can you fit making proper meals around socialising and working? Regardless of how busy you are there is always time to fit quality homemade food into your daily life. Try recipes that you can leave unattended and bulk prep for future lunch and meals. What's your favourite study snack? Blueberries (by the punnet). Any advice for freshers on starting their first year (culinary or otherwise)? Learn basic knife skills and join as many societies as possible!