764

Freshers’ Edition Durham’s independent student newspaper

Palatinate Wednesday 1st October 2014 | FREE

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No. 764

News: Strange things brought to uni

Comment: In defence of Durham

Sport: Durham’s Gold Medallist

Students preparing for Freshers’ Week (page 4)

Photograph: Venus Loi

Students to be consulted in VC appointment James Poole For the first time in the history of Durham University, both staff and students will be consulted over the appointment of a new ViceChancellor.

The University’s decision to consult students was revealed in an e-mail from Robert Gillespie, Chair of the University Council, which said: “I would like to take this opportunity to invite staff and students to share their thoughts on the type of skills and expertise you feel are required for the role of Vice-Chancellor and any names you would like to be considered as part of the search. The follow-

ing e-mail address has been set up for this purpose: durham@ perrettlaver.com” Student consultation sessions are due to take place in the first two weeks of term, with students set to be joined by Durham University Human Resources staff, Dan Slavin, the Students’ Union President, and staff from Perrett Laver, the global executive search firm that is assisting the University in its appointment of a new Vice-Chancellor.

Clare Curran, Director of Human Resources, told Palatinate why the University has decided to consult students: “This is the first time the University has consulted all staff as well as students, this is all about being inclusive. The search com-

pany shared that those universities that have undertaken a similar exercise have learnt a lot from the outcomes of these decisions.

“Therefore we wanted to ensure we engaged in all such activities that have proved successful elsewhere, as we want to ensure we recruit the right person for Durham University.”

The Students’ Union is due to announce the exact dates of the student consultation sessions later this week.

Dan Slavin explained to Palatinate what the Union and the University are hoping to gain from the sessions, saying: “We want to understand where students see the University currently and gain a student’s view on the role of the Vice-Chancellor.

“University Human Resources will be present at the sessions to answer any questions regarding the process.”

When asked whether he believes student opinion will have a real influence on the University’s appointment, he said: “I’m very optimistic. From the first communication about this students have been mentioned.

Personally I was on the appointment panel for the headhunter, I have met Dan Perrett already and he was very open to student opinion and is interested in what we have to say.”

Whilst the selection process is ongoing, Professor Ray Hudson will fill the position of Acting Vice-Chancellor, taking on full responsibilities from today.

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Editorial You’re in the right place at the right time It’s an exciting time to be a fresher at Durham.

The University has enjoyed a successful summer, making headlines for all the right reasons.

Durham has performed well in the league tables, once again confirming its place among the country’s top institutions and retaining its world top 100 status.

What’s more, this year’s National Student Survey found that students at this university are among the most satisfied in the country, with 91% of us reviewing teaching and learning favourably.

The Sunday Times recently named Durham its Sports University of the Year, recognising unrivalled levels of participation in sport and a recent £12 million investment in facilities.

And DUCK (Durham University Charities Kommittee) was also awarded Student Fundraising Group of the Year — a testament to the commitment and enthusiasm for raising and giving among students of the University.

It seems there are plenty of reasons to feel a sense of pride to be starting your time as a Durham student and the year’s first edition

of Palatinate is, in many ways, a celebration of this.

On the back page you’ll find an article about recent graduate Will Warr who, having learnt to row at Durham, last month won a gold medal in the World University Rowing Championships.

In Comment Ellen Orange writes in praise of the somewhat unique way of life that Durham is able to offer due to its collegiate system.

And in Indigo — our arts and lifestyle pullout — Kate Wilkinson hails the emergence of a meaningful LGBT scene in Durham, following the city’s first Pride event last year.

This dedicated freshers’ edition of the newspaper also acts as a guide. Inside you’ll find tips on what to wear, where to party and even what political societies to join.

This year, just as for the past 66, Palatinate will be publishing a printed edition once a fortnight on Thursdays, bringing you news, sport and arts coverage from Durham and beyond.

And our website (palatinate.org.uk) will be updated with the latest news as it breaks every day during

The best of Palatinate Online

Comment: exploitation through capitalism affects millions in the UK

News: Durham recognised for improving gender equality

Scitech: Genetically modified plant oils and the future of GM crops

Stage: Durham’s ‘silent’ comedy boom makes noise at the Fringe

term time.

Palatinate prides itself on being one of the oldest and most prestigious student publications in the country, counting famous names like George Alagiah and Jeremy Vine among our list of former editors.

But we need new contributors to allow us to carry on producing high quality original journalism this year.

If you’re a budding writer, editor, photographer or illustrator we’d love to hear from you. Come along to our Get Involved meeting at 7.30pm on Tuesday 7th October in ER140 to find out more about us and see just how easy it is to contribute.

Whatever you decide to pursue during your time at this university, we wish you the very best of luck.

It’s an exciting time to be a fresher at Durham. The day is yours to seize.

Chris Somers

Vacancies Careers Editor Are you interested in interviewing employers and Durham graduates with fascinating professions?

The careers editor is responsible for commissioning and editing content for one of the most important sections of the main paper.

Email editor@palatinate. org.uk for more information. No experience necessary!

Sub-Editor The Sub-Editors are responsible for proof reading the copy for every edition of Palatinate. Polishing the edition is an important task and brings together the style and shape of the paper. Strong attention to detail and a passion for accuracy is key.

Wednesday 1st October 2014 | PALATINATE

Inside 764 News page 4

Politics page 5

Comment page 11 Sport page 12

indigo

Features pages 7

Music pages 8

Fashion pages 9

Stage page 10

Get involved!

Interested in joining the Palatinate team? No experience is necessary! We’re always on the lookout for the following types of contributors: Writers To write for us, email the editor of the section you’re interested in and ask to be placed on their mailing list. You will then receive regular content calls from them. Alternatively, you can contact editors with your own story ideas.

Editors Editorial board vacancies open periodically throughout term, so keep your eyes peeled! No experience is necessary, but having written for Palatinate will strengthen your application.

Photographers & illustrators If you’re the creative type, our photography and illustrations teams have work for you!

Email photography@palatinate.org.uk or illustratons@ palatinate.org.uk for more details.

For more information about Palatinate come to our Get Involved meeting at 7:30pm on 7th October in Elvet Riverside 140.

Letters to the editor

Want to see your name in print on the editorial page?

We’d love to hear your opinion on our stories. If you have praise for Palatinate or a bone to pick with us, email editor@ palatinate.org.uk. Your letter could appear on this page in our next print edition.

Palatinate is published by Durham Students’ Union on a fortnightly basis during term and is editorially independent. All contributors and editors are full-time students at Durham University. Send letters to: Editor, Palatinate, Durham Students’ Union, Dunelm House, New Elvet, Durham, DH1 3AN. Alternatively, send an e-mail to editor@palatinate.org.uk

Editorial Board Editors-in-Chief Christopher Somers & Justin Villamil editor@palatinate.org.uk Deputy Editor Lawrence Holmes deputy.editor@palatinate.org.uk News Editors James Poole & Tom Fenton news@palatinate.org.uk News Features Editor Henry Clare news.features@palatinate.org.uk Deputy News Editors Josh Smith, Rebekah Wilson, Pippa Cole Politics Editor Marcus Natale politics@palatinate.org.uk Business and Economics Editor Richard Morgan business@palatinate.org.uk Careers Editor careers@palatinate.org.uk Science and Technology Editor Sadie Bartholomew scitech@palatinate.org.uk Comment Editor Patrick Brennan comment@palatinate.org.uk Deputy Comment Editors Ellen Orange & Sandy Thin deputy.comment@palatinate.org.uk Sport Editor Nick Friend sport@palatinate.org.uk Deputy Sport Editors John Evans & Mark Ganly Indigo Editor Kate Wilkinson indigo@palatinate.org.uk Deputy Indigo Editor Sraddha Venkataraman indigo.deputy@palatinate.org.uk Features Editor Francesca Jaworska feature@palatinate.org.uk Deputy Features Editor Zosia Eyres Food and Drink Editor Anisha Mohan food@palatinate.org.uk Deputy Food and Drink Editor Tanya Birkett Travel Editor Oliver Collard travel@palatinate.org.uk Deputy Travel Editor Naoise Murphy deputy.travel@palatinate.org.uk Fashion Editors Jessica Ng & Megan Magee fashion@palatinate.org.uk Film and Television Editor Jonathan Peters film@palatinate.org.uk Stage Editor Amy Price stage@palatinate.org.uk Music Editors Ana Symecko music@palatinate.org.uk Deputy Music Editor Will Throp deputy.music@palatinate.org.uk Books Editors Atifa Jiwa & Florianne Humphrey books@palatinate.org.uk Visual Arts Editor Frances Marsh visual.arts@palatinate.org.uk Chief Sub-Editor Lucy Hart sub-editing@palatinate.org.uk Sub-Editors Morgan Hayden-Kent & Marianna Mukhametzyanova Online Editor Kat Hind online.editor@palatinate.org.uk Web Editor Ian Ager web.editor@palatinate.org.uk Photography Editor Venus Loi & Megan Liardet photography@palatinate.org.uk Deputy Photography Editors Emma Wind Illustrations Editor Harriet-Jade Harrow illustration@palatinate.org.uk Blogs Editor Katie Winter blogs@palatinate.org.uk Publicity Officer Alexandra Fitzgerald publicity@palatinate.org.uk Advertising Officer Jess Sham advertising@palatinate.org.uk

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News

Wednesday 1st October 2014 | PALATINATE

www.palatinate.org.uk

Behind the scenes in Freshers’ Week Henry Clare On Sunday, a new batch of students arrived to re-awaken a dormant Durham and kick off Freshers’ Week 2014.

Freshers’ Week always poses its challenges, and this year is certainly no different. For months JCR Presidents and Reps from across the University have been working hard to ensure that this year’s Freshers’ Week is the best yet.

Despite the playful rivalry between colleges, Freshers’ Week is a cause that unites them together.

Azzy Armagan, former Social Secretary at Hatfield, believes that colleges adopt an “all for one and one for all policy” when organising the week, and this unity has meant that colleges have been able to coordinate bookings, in order to avoid the usual ‘rush’ to book the best venues.

Although Freshers’ Week is stereotypically associated with drinking, Azzy points out that in recent years students Freshers’ Reps have worked hard to ensure that events do not discriminate between drinkers and nondrinkers.

“The Senior Freshers’ Reps last year put a lot of time into branding Freshers’ Week differently, providing a myriad of ‘staying in options’ to balance the going out options, and these were well attended.”

The majority of colleges, including Hatfield themselves, have included alternative evening events in this years’ Freshers’ Week schedule. This has also been the case at St Chad’s as their Senior Man, Philip Whitehead, points out.

“Our favourite events are actually ones where everyone’s all together having fun and noone’s making distinctions between drinkers and non-drinkers. There will be alcohol available, but they’re not alcohol-centred events.

“Our traditional Tuesday night ceilidh for example, is always really popular. Greyhound racing might be sold as a ‘pie, pint and peas’, but no-one notices whether

Student Matriculation

it’s a pint of coke or a pint of bitter you’re drinking”.

As well as ensuring that every student feels included, Freshers’ Reps have also worked hard to ensure that the week passes as seamlessly as possible for local residents.

As Palatinate reported in June, a number of Durham’s local residents expressed their frustrations at disruptive student behaviour during a public meeting chaired by Roberta BlackmanWoods, Durham City MP. Although there is no expectation of disruption during Freshers’ Week, Laura Carter, Community Officer at the Durham Students Union, has said that the University will work hard to improve communication between students and residents this year, starting this week.

“Working to improve relations between residents and students is a key priority for Durham Students’ Union.

“We also work closely with individual colleges via their welfare officers, who actively promote sensible drinking. To develop this further this year, we’re currently in discussions with Durham County Council’s Public Health about some awareness raising campaigns around this topic.

“We highlight the good work carried out by students in the local community. This varies from our fantastic fundraising efforts via DUCK (Durham University Charities Committee), through to student volunteering via Student Community Action.”

Furthermore, Philip notes the hard work that the Student’s Union has done to minimalize disruption to residents during Freshers’ Week.

“People from the Student’s Union, police and residents’ groups have been working hard to tackle the problems experienced in the past.

“Head Freps were asked to provide information on walking routes into town, Frep stash and student numbers. I’m hopeful this will improve communication

Photograph: Venus Loi

between the University and local residents”.

In spite of the positive changes to the Freshers’ Week schedule, there are still concerns over the University’s policy of forcing college bars to close before 11 in the evening, which, according to a number of Freshers’ Reps, could encourage freshers to go out unsupervised.

However, Azzy believes that it is inevitable that students will go out unattended, regardless of bar closure times.

“In an ideal world, the bar hours can be extended to midnight, maybe even 2am, and the freshers will stay put and enjoy themselves in the safety of the knowledge that they’re in a place where Freshers Reps are close at hand for help.

“But, realistically speaking, students don’t go out because the bars close at 11pm – they go out because they’re new to town, want to explore, want a change of scene, want a club setting as opposed to a bar setting, and so on.

“I don’t think that closing bars later will yield nearly as successful a result as people think it will.”

As well as having night-time activities to consider, organizers have also had to grabble with organising day-time events.

In 2012, the University increased the focus on academic commitments during Freshers Week by allocating time during the day for students to be properly inducted into their respective departments.

Rupert Maspero, Head Freshers’ Rep at Josephine Butler, believes that although departmental talks can make the organisation process all the more difficult, they do provide a much needed opportunity for Freshers’ Reps to take a break.

“It [the departmental talks] makes it difficult to do anything during the day, since you don’t know how many freshers are ever going to be about at one time.

“However, it also means we aren’t trying to entertain freshers all day, everyday, which is a good break for Freps!”

Despite the hard work that is required to organise Freshers’ Week, Rupert is hopeful that this year’s instalment will be even better than the last, and was quick to praise staff across the university for their involvement.

“I have found that college staff are crucial.

Without individual college staff and their understanding of how unique each college is, Freshers’ Week just wouldn’t be the same.”

Photograph: Mariam Hayat

What are the weirdest things you bring to university?

Tom Fenton Reptiles, ceiling posters of Princess Diana and paddling pools: just three of the “weirdest” things students are taking to university this year.

Modern Rugs, an online rug retailer, asked 1000 students to name the weirdest items they have taken to university.

The most popular “weird” item, taken by 10% of students, was inflatables.

Air horns and reptiles were taken by 7% and 6% of students, while 4% of students will be tying up hammocks.

In the North East of England, “obscure fancy dress” and inflatables were the top choices.

Whilst in Scotland, the North West and the East Midlands, reptiles were the second most popular “weird” item taken. Others took unicycles and ornamental horns.

The survey also found that vacuum cleaners and irons are the most likely items to be taken to university and not used – although

in Scotland, every student said they used a vacuum.

The most missed home comfort was “mum’s cooking” and 16% of students admitted getting homesick — with students in the East Midlands most likely to be.

In Northern Ireland students miss sports channels more than any other students, whilst students in the North East are most likely to miss their teddy bears.

Ben Dale, CEO and founder of Modern Rugs, said: “It can be hard to adjust to university life as a fresher. Most accommodation is small and sparsely furnished, and homesickness can easily kick in.

“To combat these pangs for parents or friends left behind, it is important to make your student accommodation feel homely – whether that be via a poster of Princess Di or a hammock!”

With thousands of students moving into their halls this week, we decided to find out what they think the real university essentials are.”

PALATINATE | Wednesday 1st October 2014

@PalatinatePol

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Politics

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Where the buck stops: who represents you?

Elizabeth Buckheit

While the recent Scottish referendum didn’t achieve its goal of an eventual independent Scotland, the vast turnout and passionate populace reminded us that democracy is a two way street.

Though bickering BBC Parliament may suggest otherwise, Britain’s policies and politics are driven by everyday citizens.

In preserving this dynamic, it’s vitally important that you carry out your civic duty by getting involved, both inside and outside of election time.

To help you be as active a participant as possible, Palatinate has put together a handy guide to who represents you here at Durham and what they can do for you.

Your local council representatives are your most accessible government contacts, and most local government officials really

enjoy being contacted. Councillors are there to listen to your perspective on local issues and council votes.

More importantly for aspiring campaigners, they can also assist you with achieving recognition of an issue, organisation, or individual; finding contacts in government

or using council services. Council services include a wide variety of spheres - from public transportation to cultural enrichment.

Members of Parliament represent you on a national level. You can tell them your perspective on issues, legislation passing through Parliament, and initiatives which they use to influence their actions in the House of Commons, their interactions with ministers and other officials, and the media and nongovernmental campaigns they support.

MPs can also help you with issues you may have with national programs such as the NHS, immigration, defence and security.

At the International European level, Members of the European Parliament represent the public’s views in the European Parliament.

MEPs can answer questions and listen to your perspectives on issues facing Europe or on European policies that affect your region such as working conditions, the environment, international health, and studying abroad.

2. DURHAM GLOBALIST

4. PARTY SOCIETIES

If writing about politics is your kind of thing, then getting involved in Palatinate’s politics section is the best place to start.

Nonetheless, the Durham Globalist, Durham’s ‘premier’ student run foreign affairs magazine, is another great option.

Members can contribute articles on a variety of foreign affairs topics. It is part of the Global21 network, composed of numerous universities committed to publishing thought-provoking and original perspectives.

It enables members to get real experience in both research and journal writing.

As the country enters ‘election fever’ ahead of next year’s General Election nothing is more rewarding for true politicos than joining a political party. There is little variation between political party societies, many host debates, visits from Westminster and local politicians and some even encourage members to take part in campaigning locally.

Though bickering BBC Parliament may suggest otherwise, Britain’s policies and politics are driven by everyday citizens.

Five politics societies you need to join Marcus Natale Part of life at university involves acquainting oneself with new opinions and developing old perceptions. Durham’s societies help to hone skills, from debating to journalism, from sport to languages.

And there is no shortage of societies that would satisfy the critical mind of any politics enthusiast.

However you spend your time at Durham, make sure you enrich it by participating in one if not all of the University’s top five politics and economics societies.

1. UNION SOCIETY

As Durham’s oldest and biggest society, the Durham Union Society (DUS) hosts numerous high-level speakers and events throughout the year. From debating practice to incredible socials, this society is a must for passionate debaters and those weary of life inside the Durham bubble. This term’s speakers include Lord Robert Winston, UKIP founder Alan Sked, representatives from the Institute of Economic Affairs and Policy Exchange as well as journalists from numerous newspapers. Membership is £35 for a year or £55 for life.

3. UNITED NATIONS SOCIETY

The United Nations Society (DUUNS) seeks to educate and inform members about the activities of the United Nations.

DUUNS is distinguished by fortnightly Model United Nations (MUN) debates. The society invites speakers and academics alike to produce truly engaging discussion.

Furthermore, as the society is responsible for organising DurMUN (the Durham based MUN conference) members are able to take on real responsibilities.

5. ECONOMICS SOCIETY

The Durham University Economics Society (DUES) and Journal (DUEJ) are both student-led societies producing analysis of current political and economic affairs. The society welcomes members and contributions from all disciplines to produce truly diverse perspectives of world affairs.

For more information about these societies and the best of the rest make sure you head to the Durham Students’ Union Freshers’ Fair on October 1 and 2. Be sure to take a look at the Palatinate stand too.

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For more, visit palatinate.org. uk

LOCAL - Local Councillors David Stoker (LD) Serving Durham South (Collingwood, Grey, Josephine Butler, Ustinov)

David Freeman (LD) Serving Elvet and Gilesgate (Chad’s, John’s, Cuth’s, Hild Bede, Castle, Hatfield, Claypath, Gilesgate, Viaduct) Richard Ormerod (LD) Serving Elvet and Gilesgate

Nigel Martin (LD) Serving Nevilles Cross

Tina Large (Thornaby Independent Associaton) Serving Madale and Victoria (Stockton)

Steve Walmsley (Thornaby Independent Association) Serving Mandale and Victoria Tracey Stott (Lab) Serving Mandale and Victoria

Grenville Holland (LD) Serving Neville’s Cross (Aidan’s, Mary’s, Trevs, Van Mildert) NATIONAL - Members of Parliament

James Wharton (Cons) ServRoberta Blackman-Woods ing Stockton South (Lab) Serving Durham City @jameswhartonmp @robertabwmp INTERNATIONAL - Members of the European Parliament Jude Kirton-Darling (Lab) Serving North East England @Jude_KD

Paul Brannen (Lab) Serving North East England @PaulBrannenNE

Jonathan Arnott (UKIP) Serving North East England @JonathanArnott

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freshers indigo

F EAT U R E S i is Durham finally coming out?

Francesca Jaworska (dept. Zosia Eyres) - features@palatinate.org.uk

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Upcoming LGBT events - LGBTa Freshers’ Coffee on Friday 3rd October, - 1st regular gay night at Osbournes‘Out in Durham’, launch on October 6th, then first Monday of each month - Last Thursday of every month, regular scene night in The Slug and Lettuce - LGBTa Freshers’ Social on Monday 6th October at The Library (formerly Varsity) - Fem Soc’s regular music night Crescendo at Fishtank is happening again on the 18th of October, 9pm2am - Summer 2015: the next Durham Pride to include parade through streets People can also suggest events to us at any time, email the LGBTa at lgbta@durham.ac.uk.

Illustration by Lara Salam

Following the success of its first ever Pride event last June, Durham’s LGBT scene is growing. Kate Wilkinson speaks to a number of organisers and students to find out more

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t’s safe to say that Durham isn’t known for its LGBT scene. While the LGBTa has long provided weekly socials, Durham isn’t exactly Brighton. There aren’t any gay clubs, gay bars or, until very recently, any official gay ‘nights’. The first ever Durham Pride event last June looked to change this.

Pride’s organisers have responded to the evident demand for more LGBT events in Durham and following its success there have been monthly scene nights at the Slug and Lettuce. As well as this, on October 6th Osbournes will launch the first of its regular gay nights, ‘Out in Durham’. I spoke to Hannah Fitzpatrick, a 3rd year History student and Osbournes’ Events co-ordinator, who told me that: “Our local and student clientele have been saying for a while that they would like a new addition to the Durham LGBT scene, which is pretty small and quiet at the minute. We are hoping for a balance between a social and dancing/party type event, something for everyone… We’re decorating the bar, doing drinks deals and there will be a variety of live music acts.”

There seems to be a widespread excitement surrounding these new developments which have received both local and student support. LGBTa President and English Literature PHD student, Thom Addinall-Biddulph is starting his ninth year at the university. He acknowledges Durham’s lack of LGBT events but hopes that organisations such as Durham Pride and the LGBTa can change that: “In eight years here, the appearance of Pride is obviously one of the biggest and most positive developments.

“This means the foundation, at last, of a proper Durham scene, which is a very important and fantastic change. We’ll be working as part of Pride on

future events such as LGBT History Month in February to ensure that change is permanent.”

Durham’s first university-wide Feminism Society was set up in the past year and has collaborated with the LGBTa for a few events.

Given these new developments, could this be the best year yet to be a gay fresher in Durham? Phil Mullen, a Geography PHD student and Durham Pride Media Officer, told me that “Freshers now have more options than ever in terms of LGBT events in Durham.”

The first year at university: a time for new experiences, meeting hordes of new people, and inevitably carving some kind of identity whether consciously or not. All freshers face these trials though for LGBT students and those questioning their sexuality, other implications may arise. Mullen insists that “everyone is friendly, accepting and welcoming and people should have no issues in coming out or being openly LGBT in Durham” and comments that “Sexuality will matter less to other people than the college you belong to.”

Durham boasts incredibly low crime rates and the LGBTa informed me that they have had no substantial issues with homophobia in the university.

Nevertheless, experiences differ widely as to the openness of Durham student culture. My interviewees were unanimous about the hitherto non-existence of Durham’s LGBT scene. As for its reason, opinion is divided. On the one hand, Durham is small; regardless of sexual orientation, many consider Durham’s nightlife as lacking in variety. There has always been a demand for more LGBT events but for some reason, according to Mullen, “nobody got the ball rolling.”

On the other hand, could there be something implicitly hostile about Durham culture? Mullen be-

lieves that “the difference for Durham as compared to other places is that students mis-judge just how accepting other students and locals are, potentially because it is not a conversation often spoke about.”

Perception is important. A lack of conversation can, in itself, be damaging and a perceived or implicit hostility may have similar effects to a more latent hostility if some students feel uncomfortable about expressing their sexuality or deviating from a perceived norm. Rachel Piper a 3rd Year combined honours student and the Durham University Feminist Society President told me that: “Personally, I found it a difficult environment to ask questions about sexuality amongst my peers as the whole clubbing culture/ lad culture is incredibly heteronormative. I wasn’t sure about my sexuality and felt there was nowhere to talk about this within normal conversation... I have another gay friend who was distressed by the strict gender binaries in socials, things like being forced to cross dress and kiss girls made him extremely uncomfortable.”

Abigail Weinstock, a 2nd year combined honours student, told me that “there are definitely certain challenges, and I would say the main one would be facing a lot of heteronormative behaviour and assumptions.” Despite this, Weinstock insists that her experience has largely been positive and said that “if you’ve not been out before, being a fresher is a perfect time to embrace this aspect of your identity in a really supportive and friendly environment!”

The visibility of LGBT events in Durham is set to rise so perhaps the assumptions inherent in much of Durham’s social life will begin to be questioned.

In any case, if these new gay nights are as successful as their organisers are hoping, Durham’s LGBT population will be having too much fun to notice.

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i back to school basics Jessica Ng and Megan Magee - features@palatinate.org.uk

FASHION

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Jessica Ng and Megan Magee take you through the Durham style essentials

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o you’ve registered your modules, tried on your gown and even posted a sparkling introduction of yourself on your college Freshers Facebook group. So far so good, but from our point of view you’re still only half way there. You may have matriculated into further education but a new school year still demands a new school uniform. Luckily, as seasoned experts on Durham style, Palatinate Fashion has you covered on the sartorial front.

Occasion: Studying Hard.

Location: Bill Bryson Library.

The Look: Layers, layers, layers.

Freshers year may begin as one long party, but your first outing to Bill Bryson will come soon enough. The dreaded walk from college to the Science site is traumatic enough without the infamous Durham chill you’ve no doubt heard all about – give yourself a fighting chance by investing in one of this season’s must have pastel cocoon coats.

In a library where the temperature fluctuates between the Arctic and the Sahara, dressing appropriately is almost as confusing as sourcing your seminar reading for the very first

time. The stylish solution to this decidedly unstylish dilemma is layering. Think loose jersey tops and oversized chunky knits. For the style conscious fresher, reference Olivia Palermo’s coveted Burberry blanket scarf to inject a little runway chic to your library attire. Look to Primark or Topshop for a High Street alternative fitting of the student budget.

Occasion: Formal.

Location: College.

The Look: Your only chance to dress up.

Formals are a rite of passage for any Durham student. Although not as dressy as a ball, the occasion still calls for a range of evening wear options. Take this as a chance to explore different colour and style options in order to avoid wearing the same dress several times. With Durham’s casual approach to nightlife attire, formals also offer the rare opportunity for girls to showoff their fanciest heels without the risk of tumbling on those cobbled streets.

As for boys, a well fitted black suit and white shirt combination will forever be a wardrobe staple. However, with the frequency of formals there becomes a fine line between classic and

boring. We suggest mixing it up by experimenting with alternative colours and patterns.

Event: Durham Night Out. Location: Klute.

The Look: Keep it simple A far cry from the Geordie Shore stereotype often associated with the North East, Durham’s student nightlife is remarkably casual.

For those of you yet to venture into Klute, be prepared to be showered with a mix of quaddies thanks to your overexcited drunken peers.

It is probably best to leave your favourite Kurt Geiger’s at home and make Klute shoes your new best friends. Head to New Look for some inexpensive pumps that you won’t mind getting ruined.

For the rest of your outfit we recommend stylish separates. If ever there was a Durham clubbing uniform it would be denim shorts, black skirts and cropped tops, which are all easy to mix and match. A more fashion-forward take on this look is the co-ord trend which was hard to miss this summer and shows no sign of fading. Missguided have some great, affordable options for those wanting to stand out from the Durham crowd.

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Ana Symecko (dept. Will Throp) - music@palatinate.org.uk

MUSIC

durham nightlife

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Will Throp, Roy Manuell and Robbie Murch give you the lowdown klute

wiffwaff

the best of the rest

elcome to Klute, the only institution less musically credible than a Steve Brookstein album. Heralded the worst nightclub in Europe, in reality Klute is arguably the best and certainly the messiest. Two or three hours of your week will inevitably take place within its sticky, cramped, sweat-stained interior. Sound nasty? It is, but that’s just part of its intricate beauty. Drenched in S Club, 90s boybands (Gareth Gates on a good night) and much more, the fondest memories of your time at the University will ipso facto be forged here. Watch out for the

Formerly known by the (slightly better) name of The Market Vaults, WiffWaff is a 600-capacity bar and club venue hidden directly below (you guessed it) the indoor market in Durham’s central square. Spread over

Exhausted these? Didn’t take you very long did it? Fear not! When you’ve hit the Durham Nightlife Wall, you’ve got a few options available. Let’s face it; music was better in the old days… With that in mind, Itchy Feet, the nation’s favourite 50s and 60s night, rolls into Loft every term, bringing the Fab Four, Elvis and the Davies brothers in tow. Get your tickets early and you’re in for a treat.

W

The only institution less musically credible than a Steve Brookstein Album dangerously inviting orange and cranberry “Quaddie” and its habitual, iconic closer “That’s Amore”, courtesy of Dean Martin. If you’re looking for love, Klute’s a decent shout but don’t expect to remember much.

Lloyd’s, the bastardised second cousin of Loveshack two floors, it boasts a genuinely stylish décor; with attractive, wrought-iron furnishings and a good few couches, WiffWaff boasts a minimalistic aesthetic. For most days of the week the bar sticks to its primary purpose: the general enjoyment of people who like, err, table tennis, with a drink in hand. This is particularly true on Sundays, when it’s free to play and pints are 2 for 1. This term, the venue will be playing host to a few new concept-club nights run by Signal, who have built up a reputation doing terrace parties in the city, as well as a new event, Paradise Disco, run by Fever.

Lloyd’s, the bastardised second cousin of nearby Loveshack, is a more than ample substitute when your Student Loan is running low. Osbourne’s has been known to put on * whisper it * “live music” events (I know, we’ve never heard of them either), where local and student bands get the chance to do their thing.

And of course, you always have the ever-respectable college bars! Open-mic nights abound, which gives you the perfect opportunity to showcase the fruits of that summer you spent locked in your room learning the opening chords to ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ on the ukulele.

Robbie Murch

Will Throp

loft Loft. The name is suggestive. Airless, deceptively spacious and generally appreciated, but nothing to get overexcited about. Having said this, its signature night ‘346 Mondays’ (shamelessly mainstream, it doesn’t matter) is an incredibly efficient way to start the week irresponsibly. With 346, i.e. 3 trebles for £6, it’s pretty hard to go wrong. You’re likely to stumble around to Shakira, have a boogie to Beyoncé… you get the alliterative point; it’s easy to have fun and marginally classier than Klute. If you fancy yourself as a bit of a hipster, edgier than a Further Maths Student’s set square so to speak, then get down to NOVA. Hosted in Loft every two or three weeks, NOVA is Durham’s House night, attracting decent DJs and beanies in abundance. For the cool kids and often a big three room event. Sickk.

Roy Manuell

loveshack “Loveshack, baby, loveshack!” we hear you cry? In reality, Lloyds’ noisy neighbour bears little resemblance to The B52’s 1989 classic. The hollowed-out VW campervan might have you frolicking around in the back seat with its playful promise of the open highway, but Loveshack is about as middle-of-the-road as they come. Durham’s clubby club, if you will, you can expect Radio 1’s latest chart love affairs to be wheeled out on a regular basis. It’s safe, it’s comforting, you know what you’re going to get. If Klute is Falafel Alhana, then Loveshack is definitely Urban Oven. Particularly recommended on a Wednesday night, when the Sport socials are out. Especially if you have a fetish for chinos.

Will Throp

newcastle

We know what you’re thinking. “I’ve come to leafy, laidback Durham to get away from the hubbub, the incessant clamour and commotion of the big city? Why would I dream of heading out on the Toon?” The reality is that, while Durham has its perks, Newcastle trounces all over it when it comes to good music.

The Metro Arena is your best bet for the heavyweights, Glastonbury-slaying Kasabian being the pick of those who will be present and correct this December. The 02 Academy, a two-minute walk from the station, offers you a more intimate evening’s entertainment: Johnny Marr will be bringing new album ‘Playland’ to the party in autumn, while Jamie T also makes a welcome return.

The newly refurbished Riverside venue is well worth checking out too. Royal Blood will be out to further assert their meteoric rise as the best new band in Britain, while Riverside also sees sets from the likes of Temples, Band of Skulls and DZ Deathrays. All in all, not a bad bunch!

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Amy Price - stage@palatinate.org.uk

0 1 O C T

STAGE

musical theatre

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N D I G O

Amy Price talks to DULOG’s Ellie Gauge about one of DST’s longest standing theatre companies on their year ahead

Photograph by Ellie Gauge, illustration by Mariam Hayat How would you describe Durham University Light Opera Group (DULOG) in one sentence?

If you had the chance, would you redo a past production?

DULOG is dedicated to producing high quality theatre and nurturing talent, both on and off the stage; it’s the number one place for musical theatre lovers in Durham.

be interviewing for production team positions the weekend after Freshers’ Week (please contact our secretary elissa.churchill@durham.ac.uk if you would like to apply), and auditions will take place on 9th and 10th October. The performances will be in the Assembly Rooms Theatre in Week 6.

What are some of your top audition tips for aspiring Durham dramatists?

What has been your most challenging production to date? Why?

1.

Just go for it! You’ll regret not giving it a shot and you could be exactly what the production team is looking for.

2.

Don’t be scared. You are auditioning for a group of fellow students who will be so glad to see you!

3.

Don’t be knocked down by a rejection.

Different shows require different things; sometimes people audition 3 or 4 times before getting into a show. All auditions are brilliant experiences and the only way of practising - the more you audition, the more likely you are to get into a show!

My most recent show was probably my most challenging production so far. We took Frank Loesser’s ‘How to Succeed in Business (without really trying)’ to the Edinburgh Fringe. The show at full length runs at 3 hours, but unfortunately our performance slot was only one hour long, so I was tasked with the near impossible job of cutting the script down. The job wasn’t finished until the morning of our opening night, and I spent the entire first performance watching the seconds tick by with the fear of tremendous fees if we didn’t finish in time.

If you had to choose between someone who was tone deaf, someone with two left feet or someone with the acting ability of a plank, who would you choose?

To give a very brief overview, the standard DULOG year consists of productions: a show in each of the three terms, plus our annual Gala show in January; and a show that gets taken up to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August.

Our first term show this year is Cabaret. We will

Visit DULOG’s Facebook page, Youtube, Twitter and Instagram - @dulogtheatre.

Things to Look Forward to:

The Gala Theatre is really impressive – it’s a professional venue and it’s always very exciting to work on a production of the scale and quality that comes with performing in such a space.

What kind of thing can Durham students expect from DULOG in the coming year?

As someone who has been cast in DULOG shows despite my limited ability on the dance floor, I guess the consensus is that two left feet isn’t too much of a problem! But it depends on the show, and it’s never the case that a show will demand only triple threats.

the DST calendar

Where has been your favourite space to perform in Durham?

Last year DULOG also offered me the incredible opportunity of putting on a show in the Great Hall in the Castle; how many other universities can boast a castle for a stage?

I would absolutely love to do Hair again, even though it’s almost too weird for a Durham audience! It’s quite an odd musical and I think it takes a while to really get to grips with it.

Week 1 – A three-part comedy extravaganza including the Durham Revue and ShellShock! Stand-up, improvisation and sketch comedy

Week 2 – Durham University Classical Theatre (DUCT)’s production of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead Week 3 - Durham Improvised Musical. Watch a brand new musical created in front of your eyes Week 4 - Motherland from the Castle Theatre Company Week 5 - Come On, Jeeves, presented by Ooook!

Week 6 –DULOG’s offering of Cabaret

Week 7 – The Freshers’ Play 2014. Any fresher can also interview for the freshers’ play this term; contact DST for more information Don’t forget to go along to the DST’s ‘Spotlight’ at the Assembly Rooms, 7:30pm on Sunday 5th October. This will give you an opportunity to see what DST has to offer you, and see what you can offer in return.

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PALATINATE | Wednesday 1st October 2014

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Growing up as a man in modern Britain

Patrick Brennan

Did you know that suicide is the biggest killer of men aged between 20 and 49 in the UK? It’s worth stepping back and letting that sink in for a minute.

Young men throughout the country are taking their own lives in numbers that surpass those of death by road accidents, heart disease and cancer. To understand why, we need to know what social pressures the nation’s young men face.

Data collected by the Samaritans shows that whilst female suicide rates have roughly halved since the 1980s, male suicide rates have risen and are now 3 ½ times that of female rates. The charity also states that the group most at risk is that of males aged 40-44.

Clare Wyllie, head of policy and research, offers an explanation for this, suggesting that men expect to have ‘a wife who will look after them and a job in a male industry’ by this point in their lives. She goes on to say that it can be ‘devastating’ for men to not fulfil this role as a ‘breadwinner’.

In this enlightened day and age, can it still be the young men of the UK are pushed to suicide based on failure to attain such old fashioned

ideals? Perhaps the issue is not so much the specific role of ‘breadwinner’ as the attitude that allegedly accompanies it.

Men are supposedly meant to be impenetrable; too strong to let emotions get the better of them.

Big boys don’t cry and all that.

Could it be that men feel unable to communicate properly about a problem for fear of simply being told to ‘man up’?

This social pressure for men to be impervious to fear, sadness, rejection, envy, or any other genuine human weakness seems to be thrown at us from all angles nowadays. Whether through advertising, music, cinema or sport, pop culture constantly reminds young men of the need to adhere to this ideal in order to be taken seriously.

Even obvious jokes and fantasiessuch as the Old Spice’s ‘The Man Your Man Could Smell Like’, or the ‘Expendables’ film franchise- are products of a national mental-

ity that encourages men to chase this ideal of a modern ‘cool’ man: a womanising, emotionally-hardened stallion with an iron liver.

As young men are pressured even more to attain this status, one by-product is the formation of socalled ‘lad culture’, where bingedrinking, girl-chasing and general recklessness are allegedly high on the agenda.

The NUS defines lad culture as ‘a subset of student life that promotes one particular masculinity – one expressed through hard drinking and hard bantering; one that normalises sexual harassment’.

Nowadays we are bombarded with shock reports of this culture’s devastating effects.

A recent nationwide university survey, entitled ‘That’s what she said: women’s experience of ‘lad culture’ in higher education’ yielded some unpleasant statistics, including that one in seven women has been subject to ‘serious physical or sexual assault’ whilst at university. ‘Lad culture’ is also inextricably entangled with notions of misogyny, homophobia and general intolerance.

And yet, to many young men, this mentality is seen as a normal, healthy expression of true male character. Young males find themselves pushed into this mind-set even when it may not be in their nature to do so, because if you don’t do it, you get left out. Then if you

do, you find yourself a part of this heavily demonised culture.

The tragedy is that it only takes a few people to be loud and obnoxious at any one time for it to look like every member of a group of young males is like that. Only a few men have to be boisterous, beerswilling and womanising, and the rest, whilst being silent and unsure, are hypnotised into thinking that literally everyone else is like that. So they join in too. And so it goes on and on.

In a perfect example of the slippery slope effect, our nation’s young, rational, tolerant young men find themselves pressured into entering a world of sexism and alcohol abuse simply because it’s what everyone else is doing, and there’s no way of conscientiously objecting without being seen as

involved in more than just academics. It’s not just rowing either, there are plenty of sports, drama, music and art societies, from Photography to Comedy Clubs. And if your interest isn’t there, it is so easy to set up a new society!

This is certainly better than Oxbridge’s colleges which are focused on study, or places where all socie-

ties are through the university; so there may be a more limited range or some societies may be oversubscribed. For example in Durham every college has its own rowing or football society meaning people can participate for fun rather than on a more competitive level at the university.

The other upside is that colleges

all hold regular bar nights and events, and being part of different societies also means more socials!

Another myth is that Durham doesn’t have a decent nightlife. Admittedly it is a different night out to typical university cities. Within colleges we also have ‘formals’ which is a completely new experience for many in fresher’s week. Some other universities do have formal dinners, but Durham has a lot of them, with most colleges holding one every other week.

Formals are certainly fun nights out, very different from the usual student club night, with ‘bops’ in most college bars afterwards. With every college having its own bar this means that for most of the night drinks are incredibly cheap, while even out in town prices are fairly low with plenty of places to go for

“

Are men pushed to suicide based on such old fashioned ideals?

”

‘weak’ or ‘boring’.

Truly, modern young men in the UK find themselves stuck between a rock and a hard place. Unable to express themselves properly in a world where emotion is weakness, and feeling forced to participate in a loud, alcohol-fuelled culture that is both damaging and widely condemned, it is perhaps unsurprising that some young men will turn to suicide.

We can make the situation better by striving evermore towards gender equality, understanding the environment our nation’s young males grow up in and giving them the platform needed for them to express themselves properly. Not as men, but simply as human beings.

Illustration: Patrick Brennan

In defence of Durham: a university like no other Ellen Orange

As you may well already know Durham University is the subject of many jokes and stereotypes. Often seen as not being a ‘real’ university, Durham offers a very different experience, with its formals, colleges and somewhat interesting nightlife. But living here for three or four years will show you that even though Durham is different, it still has plenty to offer.

First is Durham’s college system.

Colleges in Durham are centred around a sense of community and involvement in extra-curricular activity. Societies of all kinds are offered at both University and College level, encouraging you to get

Image: Durham University

free or cheap entry.

Durham may be renowned for having a club that was once one of the worst in Europe, but honestly, I would take that over London’s prices any day! And let’s be honest, if Durham is feeling a little claustrophobic for you, or you want a change of scenery, Newcastle is just up the road.

Durham is certainly a different type of university city; with the castle and cathedral it may feel more like you are coming to Hogwarts than staring uni. However, in such a beautiful place with all of the quirky little cafes, cosy pubs, posh cocktail bars, the old world atmosphere of the market place and the modern uni, student life here is a diverse, different but brilliant experience; don’t knock it til you’ve tried it.

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Times award shows student ambition Mark Ganly

World champion Will Warr, left, shows off with his gold medal

Photograph: Will Warr

Gold medal winner learnt to row at Durham John Evans Will Warr didn’t know what he was letting himself in for when he wrote his name down to take up rowing a the Freshers’ Fair.

A year after graduating from Durham, he is a world champion. Last month Warr won a gold medal in the World University Rowing Championships, representing Great Britain in the men’s eight - a monumental journey from learning to row as a novice in his first year at University.

And he is keen to encourage new

students to follow in his footsteps and get involved with sport at the University.

Warr told Palatinate: “If you have even the slightest inkling that you might like a sport, just get down to the [Team Durham Sport] Fair and sign up. It was the best decision I ever made.”

And the rower is certain that the opportunities Team Durham gave him were fundamental to his success.

He said: “There’s no way I could have climbed to such a high level in the sport without the coaching and

support from Team Durham.

My ultimate dream is to win Olympic gold.”

The excellence of our University’s sport was represented by the other former students competing in the Championships.

Fellow alumni Stewart Innes (men’s single sculls) won bronze whilst Barney Stentiford and Francis Highton (men’s coxless four) finished a respectable fourth. Trude Meyer (women’s single sculls) came 10th rowing for Norway.

Former Durham students also played a key coaching role at the

Championships, which were held in September in France.

Grey College alumnus Pete Sheppard was lead coach for Great Britain, and former Durham University Boat Club President Franz Imfeld coached the men’s lightweight four, who won bronze.

To have such a large Durham contingent at a major international sporting event is incredibly impressive, and if this year’s new students show the same enthusiasm and willingness to get involved as Will Warr did, the University will continue to develop world-class athletes.

With complete editorial independence, Palatinate offers you – the students – the opportunity to write in a publication read by 4,000 fellow students. We are not selective with our writers.

This is your chance to write about sport and contribute to a nationally recognised student newspaper, committed to consistently hitting professional standards.

While we would love our writers to contribute frequently to both

the newspaper and the website, we know that this is not always feasible – especially as essays, dissertations and examinations creep upon us. We ask for whatever you can and want to give.

If you are passionate about sport and have a thirst for writing, get in touch. If, simply, you have played in a college match and want to write a match report, get in touch.

Whether your sport is football or netball, ultimate frisbee or darts;

we want to hear from you. Over the course of the year, there will be a plethora of stories to cover – not only focused here in Durham, but nationwide and internationally too.

As well as here in the fortnightly print edition, your work may be featured on the Palatinate website.

This is the students’ newspaper. It is open to all of you – regardless of your age or degree. If sport is what you love, then this is most definitely for you.

Palatinate offers a different way to get into sport Nick Friend Durham’s Independent Student Newspaper has been running since 1948 – written by the students, for the students.

With the University now recognised as the United Kingdom’s Sport University of the Year by The Times, there can be no better time to get involved with Palatinate Sport.

The new season doesn’t start for another week but Durham University has already claimed its first triumph, taking the Sunday Times’ Sports University of the Year award.

It is the University who takes the prize, but ultimately it is the zealous palatinate students who are benefiting from a thriving sports program.

According to Durham University rower Jack Rubini, central to this vitality is investment, with the construction of strong core facilities providing a platform for students to train and exceed. “Rowing in particular benefits from paid coaches, boathouses in Durham and at Newburn on the River Tyne, an ergo gallery and a £1m indoor rowing tank“.

The accolade recognises the expansion of the University’s quality outside of its traditional strengths, with students involved in lesserknown sports - such as canoeing and fencing - now benefiting from Team Durhams’ professional environment.

Most recently, the University has pumped £12m into myriad projects including virtual X-biking and a £5.5m Sports Centre at the Queens Campus. “The university sporting environment established by Team Durham grants top athletes academic success and as secondary the pathways to excel in their sport,” Rubini added.

Notable mention is also given to the University’s women’s teams, who have excelled in the past year, outperforming all others to top the national performance league in 2013-2014, whilst also extolling the collegiate system in the development of sport.

For University cricket captain Matt Henry, it is the level of coaching and support which will enable students performance to continue to match their ambitions.“With top class coaching both improving the skills set and fitness of its members…I really felt like I was part of a great program, which I’m sure will only get better.”

The University has established itself as a genuine all-rounder, and while Durham are second only to Loughborough on the sports fields, there is always room at the top.