26 January 2012 Issue 1 Year 75

Akkomodasie / Accommodation in HATFIELD 2012 Alle verbly is binne loop afstand vanaf Kampus All accommodation is walking distance from Campus Vir meer inligting skakel ons kantoor by: For more information, contact our office at: 012 342 2001 3rd Floor, 347 Hilda st C/o Arcadia & Hilda street HATFIELD

Perdeby Tuks se amptelike studentekoerant / Official Tuks student newspaper / Kuranta ya baithuti ya semmušo ya Tuks

26January2013

A quick guide to UP traditions

P8

The darker side of student life

P12

year75issue01

How to start a band

How to pick your trademark beverage

P18

P19

First years edition

Eleanor Harding and Hendro van der Merwe

KEEPING STUDENTS HEALTHY FOR OVER 50 YEARS The Fields, 1066 Burnett Street, Hatifeld - Tel: 012 342 4546 - www.woolfsonspharmacy.co.za

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Editorial

26 Januarie ‘13

Perdeby

Hello my name is, nice to meet you.

www.perdeby.co.za perdeby@up.ac.za m.perdeby.co.za @perdebynews Tel: (012) 420 6600

Editorial Editor-In-Chief Carel Willemse

carel.willemse@up.ac.za @Ed_in_Chief

Editor Margeaux

perdeby@up.ac.za @MargeauxErasmus

News Danielle Petterson

news@perdeby.co.za @DLPetterson

Features Bernd Fischer

features@perdeby.co.za @Bernd_Fischer

Entertainment Lusanda Futshane entertainment@perdeby.co.za

@LooRadley

Sport Maxine Twaddle

There is one fear almost everyone has: living a meaningless life that is forgotten quicker than saying supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. Now before you put this paper down for fear of some existential rant, rest assured that this editorial isn’t running backwards down that dark path.

University life, however, can be one of the first places to truly hone your personality and

webeditor@perdeby.co.za @perdebynews @NollyNM

Copy Jaco Kotze

copy@perdeby.co.za @Jaco_K

Layout Nolwazi Bengu

layout@perdeby.co.za @cherrychopstick

Visuals Brad Donald

visuals@perdeby.co.za @Brad3rs

Teams Layout

In the meantime, keep making one of the best decisions of your university career by reading Perdeby. This edition was specially compiled for you, as a new Tuks first year. The 2013 editorial started working on this edition last year and cut their holiday short to finish up and make sure that you are equipped with all you need to know. I would highlight a few things, but you should just do yourself a favour and read it all.

So enjoy the next few years, and remember the five ways to avoid death glares from seniors: 1. Move out of the queue after you have placed your order at Fego.

2. Don’t park your car like the Queen. One space is all you need.

3. Swipe your student card slowly but firmly at the turnstiles. Otherwise you might be the holdup when seniors need to get onto campus. You don’t want that.

Trust me.

4. If you have to gather in large numbers to talk to each other, don’t do it where people are walking.

5. Don’t yell at your friend from the other side of the Piazza.

Oh, and one more thing. Welcome to Tuks.

Until next time.

Margeaux

Message from the Editor-in-Chief

sport@perdeby.co.za @MissMax6

Web Nolwazi Mngadi

leave traces of yourself behind, but not in a weird, masochistic kind of way. This is the place where lifelong friendships are formed and where you will (hopefully) discover your niche in life.

Your first year is very similar to being tipsy.

You sort of flay around trying out things you’ve never done before. You meet new people (mostly because of a new alcohol-induced sense of bravado) and all the while you’re having the best time of your life, dancing on tables and experiencing the full extent of your new liberation. Sweetheart, if you don’t feel this way by the end of the year, then you didn’t do it right.

Take a hold of every opportunity that attracts your eye. Leave a legacy. Don’t be one of those students who remain a number on an exam paper. It doesn’t have to be huge. You don’t have to be SRC president or a Tuks FM DJ, but small things you do, whether it be with organisations on campus or with friends you make while you’re here, can also help you live on in stories that someone tells their grandchildren one day.

If you decide to grab university life and party the hell out of it, I can guarantee that you won’t be one of those sad souls who ask, “Don’t you miss high school?”

Welcome to the start of real life. Isn’t that what most people would say to a first-year student?

Truth be told, your high school years will fade into obscurity in comparison to the life lessons you will acquire over the next three to four years. But even this will only serve as a foundation to life after the fun and games of

university.

A lot of emphasis will be placed on the achievements that you need to pursue during your time as student. If I could give you one piece of advice then it would be to live to your own standards and no one else’s. Obviously, should your standards be to simply scrape by in life, you won’t amount to much anyway and you are probably wasting your time here. Be the best that you can be and take in as much as you can from this experience. The academic element of university and the degree that you receive at the end of your studies doesn’t qualify you as anything. It is merely a tool that is handed to you while all of the other experiences that you encounter at university are what truly gives you the skills for post-student life. That is why it is important to get involved. There are tons of societies, day houses, service providers and activities to join and partake in.

I further ask of you not to be naive during your time here. Don’t blindly follow, think for yourself. You were smart enough to be granted access to this institution so don’t be a follower,

lead. Listen, observe and encounter as many people as possible. Don’t live in a bubble. Don’t take political parties on campus for the absolute truth. Everyone pushes an agenda. You are the future of this country and we are in dire need of thinkers and leaders.

Keep this editorial and read it again once you graduate. Perhaps then you’ll understand what I am on about.

Enjoy this publication and let us know what you want to see on these pages. If you’d like to be part of this extraordinary team keep a lookout for an application form in February and again in August. This is the largest and greatest student publication in South Africa and it is yours. We will entertain and inform you throughout the year and should you encounter any of our journalists, photographers, designers, subs or editors, buy them a drink. They deserve it.

Enjoy.

Carel Willemse

Boitumelo Phetla Meghan van Rooyen Copy India Goncalves Saneze Tshayana Yuan-Chi Yen Lisa Buys Lyndi Swart Advertising Sales Tel: 012 420 6600 Cell: 083 318 9738 carel.willemse@up.ac.za Copyright Perdeby is printed by Paarlmedia. All rights reserved. Contributions are welcome. All due care will be taken with materials submitted, but Perdeby and printers cannot be held responsible for loss or damage. The editor reserves the right to edit, amend or alter in any way deemed nescessary. Perdeby cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The opinions expressed in Perdeby are not necessarily those of the editors and printers of Perdeby.

From the Editor

Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/perdeby

Editorial

The questions

Meet the editorial. The people who have (and will) shed blood, sweat and tears to put this paper together. Here is their advice to you.

Visuals editor: Brad Donald 1.

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Do read this newspaper. Don’t not go to Aandklas (see what I did there?)

Splashy Fen and Oppikoppi.

Go to Tuks sport games and support your team.

Oom Gert’s.

Chips from Oom Gert’s.

Monster energy drink, with a shot of Jägermeister.

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Do explore all the buildings on campus. Don’t wear heels to campus. They’re impractical and everyone will look at you like you’ve lost your mind.

From what I’ve heard, Oppikoppi is the place to be. I will only be undertaking my first trip to Oppi this year. Wish me luck!

Watch the RAG Procession and attend the after-party.

Hatfield Square. Food, alcohol and music. There’s something for everyone.

Varsity itself will change your life. Enjoy it while it lasts.

Vodka. Vodka is made from potatoes, potatoes are vegetables, and vegetables are good for you. You’re welcome. Also, strawberry tequila. Because it’s delicious and everything is more fun with tequila!

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Entertainment editor: Lusanda Futshane 1.

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Do go to all your lectures. Don’t ask seniors for directions to your lecture venues. They will hurt you.

I wouldn’t be much of an entertainment editor if I didn’t strongly suggest that you go to Oppikoppi, now would I? Seriously, though: go.

Get wasted during the day at Oom Gert’s.

Aandklas. That’s where all the sexy misfits hang out.

Coffee is my spirit animal and there are wells of it all over campus. I recommend Fego and TriBeCa. Anything with vodka in and around it will do the trick.

Layout editor: Nolwazi Bengu 1. Do enjoy long breaks in-between class lying on the grass catching some sun. Don’t get too caught up with fun because it will come to bite you in the arse.

2. Go to as many festivals as you can. This is the time to try it all out. There’s so much going on throughout the year you’ll definitely find at least one to fall in love with.

3. Do something you regret the next day.

4. Duncan Yard, it’s quiet and hidden and you can buy cool things if you’re the artsy type.

5. Fego. It’s worth waiting in endless lines for. Try it and see for yourself.

6. Red Bull, you’ll need it sooner or later. Trust me.

Features editor : Bernd Fischer

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1. A do and a don’t for first years.

2. An event you cannot afford to miss this year.

3. One thing you have to do to be considered a true Tuks student.

4. Best place to hang out around Hatfield.

5. Something on campus that will change a first year’s life.

6. The best drink to get you through the year.

News editor: Danielle Petterson

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26 January ‘13

Do have fun whenever and wherever you can – most of you will only be first years once in your life. Don’t skip all of your lectures. It’s all about balance.

People will tell you Oppikoppi. I will tell you the day Lady Gaga releases ARTPOP. Yes, it’s considered an event.

Get drunk at Hatfield Square at least once.

Not Hatfield Square.

All the weird and wonderful people you will be exposed to.

Coffee. Obviously.

Sport editor: Maxine Twaddle 1.

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Do read Perdeby. How else are you planning to stay cool? Don’t tell anyone how many distinctions you got in Matric. We don’t care.

The Varsity Cup final, hopefully.

Get horribly drunk at Aandklas and ace a test at 08:00 the next morning.

Aandklas!

Fego’s chai latte is happiness in a paper cup.

Tequila is your new best friend.

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Do join a day house if you’re not staying in res. Do as much as you possibly can. Steal a jottir. Don’t get stuck in a turnstile. You will be attacked by an angry mob of seniors.

Park Acoustics. Go to every single one.

Dodge campus security and swim in the bokkiedam in front of the Old Arts building or raid a residence. Perdeby won’t accept any responsibility for actions taken or losses suffered.

Well, it has to be Hatfield Square. This will be your home away from home until you grow tired of it in two years’ time.

The jacarandas between the EB and Law building when in bloom, the view from the top floor of the HSB and lunch hour concerts in the Musaion. Also: Chelsea buns and Fego coffee on a cold winter’s morning or having a shot at Oom Gert’s after writing a horrible test.

Wine, more wine, and then after you’ve ruined your budget, punch.

Web editor: Nolwazi Mngadi 1.

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Do acquaint yourself with a map of the university.

First years asking us for directions is not cool. No one likes that. Don’t wear jeans with takkies. It’s not fashionable. It’s not sexy.

Oppi. Freaking. Koppi. It’s like a little hippie/ hipster community and a fun escape when things start getting hectic.

Going to Oom Gert’s at the end of a long day.

Technically, you’re not even a real person until you’ve done that.

Aandklas. The vibe is chilled, the people are (sometimes overly) friendly and you can dine like royalty on a student budget.

Perdeby. Obviously.

Coffee. Nectar of the gods, saviour of humankind and magical elixir during exams. Also, it’s better than drugs. Drugs are bad, mmmkay?

Illustration: Modeste Goutondji

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26 Januarie ‘13

News

What happened to our SRC? DANIELLE PETTERSON A Temporary Student Committee (TSC) has taken the place of the Student Representative Council (SRC) until a SRC can be elected. This follows a failure to complete a review of the constitution in 2012 as well as a ruling by the Independent Monitoring Body (IMB).

“Previous governance decisions as well as shortcomings identified in the constitution required that [it be] reviewed in 2012. The review process could not be concluded in time and elections proceeded on an imperfect version of the constitution, and on the understanding that the review processes would continue and be concluded in 2013,” the university told Perdeby.

However, a number of procedural irregularities in the run-up to the elections resulted in the IMB ruling on 11 October 2012 that continuing with the SRC elections would be procedurally unfair.

According to university management, the fact that this ruling took place just before the start of examinations meant that it was not possible to restart the election process before the end of the year. The elections will start afresh in 2013 once the constitution review process has been finalised.

The statute of the university provides for student interests by a student-elected SRC. In the absence of an SRC, the Constitution for Student Governance prescribes that a TSC be appointed for the day-to-day administration of student governance. The TSC must be made up of between nine and fifteen student leaders that are diverse in terms of faculty, constituency, gender and race.

Half of these candidates must have previously served on the SRC or Student Parliament.

2013 TSC Back row: (from left) Jordan Griffiths, Wayne Renkin, Luyolo Dulaze, Enwee Human, Wanga Mbasa, Nanika Coetzee, Dr Willem Jorissen Middle row: (from left) Mmathapelo Lehutso, Gugulethu Mahlangu, Grace Soko Front row: (from left) Nomsa Nhlangulela, Christopher Pappas, Khutso Mogotsi All representatives must also meet the normal minimum academic and discipline requirements set for student governance.

“Due processes were followed to ensure broad representation in the composition of the TSC,”

Message from the Vice-Chancellor

To all our new students, Welcome to the University of Pretoria. The start of an academic year is an exciting time, especially at Tuks, a university renowned for its academic excellence and its active student life. For new students university life means greater independence compared to school. As you familiarise yourself with UP’s full range of services and facilities, it is important that you make choices that will lead to your academic success. The choices and actions you make today shape your future.

Never hesitate to ask for help – the university offers a full array of services to assist and support you. The Department of Student Affairs, in particular, provides services to students ranging from counselling to leadership

training. We take pride in the success of our graduates and this means that we are committed to ensuring that you do your best.

Apart from academic success, the university also strives to cultivate well-rounded citizens who have good leadership skills. UP attracts students from communities all across South Africa and from many international destinations. We are a dynamic, diverse campus community united in our commitment to quality, relevance, diversity, and sustainability.

The many community engagement projects we support as well as the many sporting and cultural activities we offer at the university will give you opportunities to expand your social networks, explore new ideas and develop your leadership potential.

Choosing to enrol at UP is one of the best decisions you have made – we are one of South Africa’s leading universities that enjoys widespread international recognition. UP is known for attracting talented staff and students and many of our graduates have distinguished themselves as leaders and innovators in business, in the public sector and in their communities.

I urge you to become an active, engaged learner who takes responsibility for your learning and development.

Welcome to the University of Pretoria. Your future begins today; aim higher, work hard, enable your tomorrow.

Prof Cheryl de la Rey Vice-Chancellor and Principal Photo provided

UP management told Perdeby. The TSC became operational on 17 January this year.

“The absence of an election deprives students of the right to vote, to be represented and to have a say in the highest decision-making bodies of UP,”

said AfriForum Youth UP Chairperson Barend Taute. According to Taute, this was the third unsuccessful SRC election held in the last four years. He believes that UP is acting in contradiction to its constitution as well as to the National Higher Education Act. According to DASO Tuks Branch Leader Thorne Godinho, the postponement of elections and implementation of a TSC is procedurally fair.

“As campaigning began, DASO lodged complaints with the university concerning the fact that both AfriForum Youth and COPE were breaking the election rules. We were concerned because the university seemed unable to enforce its own election rules, and although we were not supporters of the strict election rules, DASO still believes that many of those rules existed to ensure an equal playing field,” said Godinho. He added that DASO has championed solutions to the election crisis which included recruiting the national IEC to run the elections, electronic voting and access to online candidate videos, but these were ignored.

Thabo Mdlalose, COPE@Tuks Chairperson said, “Of course a TSC is not as desirable as an SRC, however, with all the irregularities which occurred in the run-up to the elections, a TSC is the only option moving forward. COPE@ Tuks congratulates all those who form part of the structure and hopes UP’s Constitution for Student Governance is completed in time for the 2013 elections.”

SASCO and PASMA failed to comment.

Visit www.perdeby.co.za for a complete list of TSC memebrs.

Photo: Brad Donald

The ins and outs of Student Parliament STEPHANIE VAN DER PLANK With orientation, RAG and Hatfield Square providing adequate distraction, student politics may not be a top priority when starting university.

However, it is important to have an understanding of how Student Parliament functions. With this knowledge you can ensure your rights and best interests are properly looked after.

The political system at Tuks aims to provide students with the opportunity to be part of decisionmaking processes while monitoring student policy.

The university’s two main political structures are Student Parliament and the Student Representative Council (SRC). Together, these structures represent the student body of UP and have certain governing responsibilities pertaining to student affairs. The Constitution for Student Governance defines Student Parliament as being “the representative body to which the SRC is accountable”. The SRC is responsible for carrying out the agenda set forward by Student Parliament dealing with dayto-day student governance. The SRC is also subject to the authority of the University Council and other relevant university authorities.

Members of Student Parliament are elected on a constituency basis. The three main constituencies are faculties, residences and societies. The clause regarding the day house constituency was changed last year and subsequently contested by some organisations.

Faculty candidates can only represent the faculty to which they are registered, and the same applies to society members. Residence candidates, including day house candidates, are chosen in an independent election where members of the house committees elect parliament members.

All students can participate in the elections and

myrestweets.co.za @myrestweets

run for candidacy. However, there are prerequisites for potential parliament members: an average of at least 55% must have been attained in the semester before elections and the candidate may not have committed any transgressions against the university’s code of conduct.

Student Parliament members are elected from the aforementioned constituencies. Between 15 and 21 members of Student Parliament are elected to the SRC. Of these, 40% must be male and 40% must be female.

These elected members vacate their seats in Student Parliament immediately after the election of the SRC. The remaining members then constitute Student Parliament. SRC members are assigned specific portfolios and work within these portfolios for the duration of their term. Students can communicate with Student Parliament through the SRC, whose offices can be found in Roosmaryn on Hatfield campus.

The SRC may advise the university authorities on all issues including institutional policy affecting students.

According to the constitution, every registered student has the right to vote in elections for Student Parliament or any other student governance structure.

Student Parliament acts as the voice of the student body in general. Members of parliament should represent the widest possible variety of views within the student body. Therefore, if any students have grievances regarding university practices or believe their rights are not being respected and represented, they should not hesitate to contact the SRC and voice their opinions. SRC members can be identified by their striped blazers in the university’s colours.

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26 Januarie ‘13 6 The who’s who of Tuks politics Choose AYANDA NDLOVU

The University of Pretoria holds annual student parliament elections. But in order to vote, you need to know who to vote for. Here at Perdeby we want you to be informed about Tuks’s political societies and what they stand for.

AfriForum Youth UP AfriForum Youth UP markets itself as a nonpolitical human rights organisation. They have won the majority number of seats in Student Parliament in the previous two elections and do heavy election campaigning. They believe in mother-tongue education and the development of healthy student traditions based on Christian principles. They say that they contest political elections because they want to keep political organisations out of student governance and represent the true mandate of the students.

Democratic Alliance Student Organisation (DASO) DASO is the oncampus branch of the Democratic Alliance (DA) youth division. They stand for student rights, and they want to build a university that offers equal opportunity to all and want Tuks to be united.

Delivery, diversity, reconciliation and redress are the four pillars the organisation runs on.

They aim to use these four pillars to build an inclusive university that works for all. DASO wants to teach students to be active participants in creating their own future outside of campus.

African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) The ANCYL is in a progressive youth alliance with the South African Students Congress (SASCO). Together these two organisations push for the reform of the university as a whole to include all those within the student body and not only the minority.

They believe in the championing of free education for all students and to redress the problems created by Apartheid and its legacy on the youth. They want the abolishment of quota systems in residences and they want an

honest conversation when it comes to racism on campus.

South African Students Congress (SASCO) SASCO, in addition to being in an alliance with the ANCYL, are also in a goal-driven partnership with the Muslim Student Association (MSA) to champion the rights of the oppressed in Palestine. They believe that the voice of the students has to be heard on campus and that student governance must be taken seriously. They also champion free education and wish to redress the university structure to be inclusive for everyone.

COPE@Tuks COPE@ Tuks is an organisation that wants students to have a balanced student life.

They push for organisations like RAG to be able to continue organising the type of events they do and for the creation of a student aid fund to help those in need. They pushed for the creation of a 24-hour library space and want students to lead balanced lives.

Pan Africanist Student Movement (PASMA) PASMA is the student wing of the PAC. They believe in effective and accessible education for all. PASMA sees education as a way to transform society to be non-racial, non-sexist and classless. They are therefore committed to helping educationally excluded students. PASMA is dedicated to the destruction of capitalism, neo-colonialism and imperialism.

Images provided

News

your day house

MAXINE TWADDLE Tuks’s day houses were created to allow students who do not live in residences to participate in organised student life.

By joining one of the four day houses students can participate in RAG as well as sport and cultural activities. Only students who live in private accommodation may join a day house.

The newest day house, Luminous, was officially recognised in March 2011. It describes itself as “a diverse and value-based day house, dedicated to [giving] every student a holistic experience in student life.” Kris Hamersa, Head of Marketing and Communications for Luminous, told Perdeby that the house “excelled” in activities such as Ienkmelodienk and RAG and would like to build on this foundation in 2013. “Luminous is more than just a day house, we are a family, a brotherhood, a collection of random and unique souls, where everyone is accepted,” their website says.

Vividus was created in 2003 and separated into men and women day houses in 2006 when the number of members reached 1 000.

Vividus Ladies describes itself as an opportunity for students to “passionately and proudly participate and set new standards in all areas at Tuks”. The Vividus Ladies’ mascot is a phoenix named Aspiros (which is Latin for “full of fire”). The mascot was adopted in 2008 to celebrate the house’s five-year

Feesjaar (anniversary). Vividus Ladies won Ienkmelodienk last year and Day House of the Year and Serenade in 2010. 2013 will be a big year for Vividus Ladies as they celebrate their Feesjaar. Mideé Buizer, Primaria for 2012, told Perdeby that Vividus Ladies aims to win Day House of the Year in 2013. She also said that the ladies will aim to finish in the top five at Ienkmelodienk, Serrie and Serenade.

Vividus Men is Tuks’s only men’s day house and won Day House of the Year last year.

According to its page on the university website, Vividus Men creates the opportunity for day students to participate in the same activities as residence students. The house provides students “with opportunities to socialise and to participate in cultural and sports activities, providing them with the ideal platform to meet new people and develop their own support network”.

Zeus, Tuks’s oldest day house, was established in 1999. Zeus won Serenade in 2010 in the men’s category and in 2011 in the women’s category. Thomas van Schalkwyk, a Zeus house committee member for 2012, said that Zeus “had a disappointing year in terms of culture, but in all other areas we improved from 2011”.

Follow the day houses on Twitter to keep up to date with their activities: @HouseLuminous, @Vividus_Ladies and @vividusmen.

Illustration: Modeste Goutondji

Meet your Tuks service providers KEVIN VAN DER LIST The various campus service providers are largely student-run organisations that serve the student community. They offer students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop leadership skills. UP’s service providers are: Tuks RAG Tuks RAG (Reach out and Give) is a studentrun non-profit organisation that raises funds for several charities. Funds are raised through various events, including the RAG Procession, Spring Day and UP Beats Festival, as well as sponsored by several large companies. Tuks RAG annually hosts the Tuks RAG Queen Competition which allows female students between the ages of 18 and 25 to actively participate in fundraising and community projects. The competition gives the girls the opportunity to become the face of Tuks RAG by becoming RAG Queen. See pages 14 and 15 for this year’s RAG debutantes.

Perdeby Perdeby is UP’s official student newspaper which has 75 years of history behind its headlines. It is one of the top student newspapers in the country with a readership of over 40 000. Between 20 and 30 issues of 10 000 copies each are printed annually making it the most regular student newspaper in South Africa. The paper covers news, entertainment,

features and sport. Editor-in-Chief Carel Willemse said he is looking to expand the paper this year with more copies to ensure a wider distribution.

Student Culture (Stuku) Stuku is responsible for student culture at UP and ensures the continuation of cultural events

and the promotion of healthy participation.

Stuku organises events such as UP Arts Week, Tuks Debate, Expression, Serrie, Ienkmelodienk and Serenade. JC de Jager, 2012 Stuku Chairperson, said Stuku hopes “to expand and better represent the cultural diversity of UP [and] to provide first class service to all Tuks

students”. De Jager added that “all students express their culture in their own unique way and Stuku provides a platform to facilitate these expressions. Stuku is always open for a new challenge to broaden the cultural representation on our campuses.”

Tuks FM Tuks FM “sells itself as a ‘rock lifestyle companion’ and supports not only local bands but also its local community,” said Station Manager Loutjie van der Merwe. Tuks FM is situated on Hatfield campus and has been the sound of Tuks for over 30 years. The station is one of the most respected campus stations in the country. It received the MTN Campus Station of the Year award in 2012 as well as various awards for its staff members.

Tuks FM is strictly staffed by students, giving them experience in broadcasting. They have produced the likes of Gareth Cliff, Barney Simon, Anele Mdoda, Marius van der Walt, Sias du Plessis and Rob Forbes, just to name a few.

Student Sport Committee (SSC) The SSC manages sporting activities at UP and strives to promote participation in sport at the university. According to the university website the SSC hopes to “create an efficient and positive organisational structure and to positively promote the image of the university through excellent sport management”.

Illustration: Talifhani Mathode

News

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26 January ‘13

Know your residences

Vividus Men at Serrie 2012

Boekenhout’s Eiffel Tower

ZUBENATHI JIZANA The University of Pretoria is the biggest residential university in South Africa with 28 residences.

The undergraduate residences are characterised by academic, social, cultural and sport activities that see the residences compete against each other for various titles. Each residence has its own identity and traditions that have been formed over the years. Perdeby has put together a crash course on the biggest residences for you. Enjoy, and steal a jottir.

Female residences: Asterhof Identity: “Trou vrou” (marriage material ladies).

First years: Sterretjies (little stars).

Mascot: A giraffe known as Giraster.

Erika Identity: Ladies that pride themselves for being a residence with class and style. They are known as the Purple Ladies.

Mascot: A unicorn which resembles purity, virtue, immortality and power.

Jasmyn Identity: A place for girls with personality, charisma and charm.

First years: Slurpies.

Mascot: An elephant named Nymsaj – Jasmyn spelled backwards.

Tradition: The ladies are not allowed to wear shoes when attending house meetings.

Katjiepiering Identity: Their motto is carpe diem meaning “seize the day”. They value individuality and everyone is respected for their ideologies.

First years: Skerf.

Mascot: Stuffed animals Oogies and Yster which resemble cats.

Tradition: The house committee members and first years wear scarves and all the ladies wear church clothes to Sunday lunch.

Klaradyn Identity: The ladies value passion, spirit and pride. They believe their power comes from within and that mental strength is key.

First years: Welpies, the Afrikaans word for lion cub.

Mascot: Lions named Cleo and Patra.

Madelief Identity: “The ladies of Tuks” known for their elegance and charisma.

First years: Knolle.

Tradition: Each first year has to wear a jottir (hats that are unique to the Madelief ladies) which are seen as their crowns. It is a common sport on campus to try and steal these jottirs and many male residences pride themselves on the number of jottirs they are able to steal. The Knolle are often spotted with one hand on their head protecting their jottirs and tend to migrate in packs.

Magrietjie First years: Spikkels.

Mascot: Young girl known as Maer Grietjie who stands for femininity, balance, beauty and strength.

Tradition: To hupple and sing: the Spikkels hop and skip while singing a special song every time they leave or arrive at Magrietjie through the runway.

Nerina Identity: Nerina emphasises the role of ladies in modern society and the power to make a positive difference in the lives of fellow sisters.

Mascot: A harlequin called Nika.

Tradition: They believe in the ghost of Emily, who committed suicide in the 20th century when Nerina was a convent. The ladies of Nerina are said to be the daughters she never had and the room where she hung herself is painted black.

Inca Identity: Inca is characterised by the colour blue. Inca is the name of a delicate lily and the Inca ladies believe that residents are a reflection of this.

First years: Bugster.

Mascot: A ladybird.

Lilium Identity: Lillium is known by the colour green.

These ladies pride themselves on being able to work and play hard.

Mascot: A green gecko called Apatili.

First years: Geitjies.

Zinnia First years: Pixies.

Mascot: Tink, a fairy.

Motto: Make magic happen.

Curlitzia Idenitity: Curlitzia is the girls’ res on Prinshof campus and houses students studying health sciences. The Curlitzia girls are infamous for being able to balance their academic and social lives.

First years: Kloekies.

Mascot: A rooster.

Male residences: Boekenhout Identity: The men of Boekenhout value pride, brotherhood, respect and tradition.

First years:Ysters.

Icon: The Eiffel Tower, which represents their steadfast strength with the four pillars symbolising each of their values.

The Republic of Kollegetehuis Identity: The Kollege boys are famous for their “party animal” status and their crazy socials.

First years: Vreemdelinge or Vremies.

This translates to “strangers” because the first years are said to be strangers to the Republic of Kollege until their second year when they

Asterhof’s mascot Giraster

become citizens.

Maroela Identity: Maroela believes that its residents should see their place in Maroela as a privilege and not as a right. This house has lots of heart and likes to see itself as a united residence.

Mascot: Marools.

Fun fact: Maroela prides itself on being the only male res to have its own swimming pool.

Mopanie Identity: Mopanie men believe in brotherhood and friendship.

First years: Peppies.

Mascot: A worm-like figure named El Torro meaning “bull” in Portuguese.

Motto: Through unity still higher.

The Republic of Olienhout Identity: Olienhout strives for excellence, growth, friendship, integration and unity.

Mascot: A rhino named Rodney.

Taaibos Identity: Taaibos prides itself on being a residence of gentlemen. The res is characterised by the colour red and can be easily identified on Proefplaas (on Sport campus) by their famous water tower.

Tradition: The Taaibos men can be spotted by the caps they wear. The caps are imprinted with the emblem of the dog Rokkit.

Sonop Identity: Sonop is an accredited private men’s residence.

Tradition: Sonop first-years stand out on campus as they are required to wear a formal suit and tie every day. It is said some members keep their car’s petrol tanks full and will chase you if you hoot outside their res.

Fun fact: Sonop has a unique structure to their residence which enables them to keep pets.

Each senior area at Sonop has a pet dog that is said to live like a king. The pets are active members of the house that attend meetings and some sporting events.

Kiaat Identity: Kiaat is said to be the ideal residence for young men who are committed to their personal growth and development.

First years: Cubs.

Mascot: A tiger.

Motto: “Tirisano” meaning “working together.”

Fun fact: Kiaat has published its own magazine called Kiaat Diaries.

Olympus Identity: Prinshof campus’s male residence, Olympus is home to health science students.

The men of Olympus are known as Olympians.

Mascot: A bird in flight called Mercury.

Tradition: Olympus is well-known for its annual Around the World Party.

Photos: Hendro van der Merwe and Eleanor Harding

8

News

26 Januarie ‘13

The old and the new: a quick guide to UP traditions

RAG Procession

UP Beats Festival

TARYN RICHMOND As a first-year student at UP you have a wide array of activities to look forward to, together with a number of traditions that you will be expected to pass on.

RAG The social event of the year, RAG (Reach out and Give), typically takes place in early February once all students have finished registration. RAG is a student-run charitable organisation that raises funds for small, short- and long-term community projects in partnership with the different residences, day houses and faculty houses. Tuks held the first RAG in South Africa in 1925 which was adapted from a tradition that began in London in the 1820s. The term RAG is thought to originate from the Victorian era where students would take time out of their studies to collect rags for the poor or would pester people in the streets until they made a donation.

During the RAG Procession students take to the streets where a parade of floats is exhibited and money is collected for charity by the residences’ first years. Over the past few years rain has become somewhat of a tradition for the RAG Procession. After the procession students flood into Hatfield Square and celebrate late into the night. Bands play and a foam party can be expected at DropZone.

Ienkmelodienk, Serrie and Serenade Throughout the year there are a number of other events that occur which include Ienkmelodienk, Serrie and Serenade. These involve the UP residences and day houses competing in singing and dancing competitions according to specific themes. The most creative performances from both the male and female residences win points which go towards the annual Residence of the Year award.

Spring Day In September, the university has its annual

Spring Day. This day is declared a university holiday and the festivities that occur the night before, commonly referred to as Pre-Spring events, are only second to RAG. Pot ‘n Pons Another fun tradition which is hosted by TuksRes and RAG, typically at the RAG Farm on UP Sport campus, is Pot ‘n Pons. Newly formed RAG partners (for the following year) build stands to match a chosen theme. Each stand presents the RAG judges with a specially made punch and a potjie that reflects the partnership’s theme. The stand that has the best atmosphere, is the most creative and has the best punch and potjie wins. The winners get to lead the following year’s RAG Procession.

Superstitions The university is centred in the Jacaranda City and there are many of these purpleblossomed trees on main campus. Students believe that the jacaranda blossom is a good-

luck charm. It is believed that if one of these flowers fall on your head you will do well in the end-of-year exams.

Alumni Tree Planting Ceremony A new tradition, the Alumni Tree Planting Ceremony, was introduced in 2001 and takes place on Welcoming Day. It was introduced to make first-year students aware of TuksAlumni.

Dr DC Jacobs from the TuksAlumni Office explained that every year, a first-year student is chosen for the ceremony during which the Tree of the Year, if deemed suitable for our climate by the Division of Garden Services, is planted outside the Drama Building on Hatfield campus.

Dr Jacobs said that this ceremony unites the group which will go on to become the alumni of UP. “Our slogan is ‘Tukkie for Life’ which means that you are a Tukkie from the first day and always after your graduation.”

Photos: Brad Donald and Marius Veldhyzen van Zaten

Making friends on campus SILIZIWE MABUYA

For many new students making friends can be a daunting experience. Fortunately Tuks has various societies to suit everyone’s interests.

“Bottle Bond” is a description coined for people who make friends while sharing a few drinks. A way of doing just that at Tuks is with the Wine Tasting Society. This society brings the vineyards to Pretoria. Throughout the year various South African winemakers showcase their wine on campus.

Alternatively, the newest society, TuksParkour, is perhaps the most intriguing for students that seek unconventional ways of having fun. Parkour is a physical movement discipline focused on overcoming obstacles while in motion. Member of TuksParkour Derrick Lanor said he felt welcomed from the first day as people get individual attention as long as they are willing to put in the effort. TuksParkour is fast becoming popular on campus partly due to its founder and chairperson Kenji Murapa, who has won several competitions such as the Mr Price Pro Balito Parkour.

If extreme sport is not for you there are other social societies such as the Onderstepoort Fly Fishing and Angling Society (OFAC).

Chairperson Ian Gibson describes OFAC’s motto with a quote, “Fishing is life, the rest are details.” The society’s aim is to enjoy nature and fishing while hosting parties and events, including a weekend trip of trout fishing in Dullstroom.

Students can also enjoy nature by joining the Onderstepoort Riding Club (OPRC) where all beginners and horse lovers are welcome to learn more about competitive racing. Members

TuksParkour

are allocated a pure-bred Nooitgedachters horse for the year.

A way to capture all your university moments could be by signing up for the Photographic Club. They strive to create an interest in photography for both experienced photographers and for students who want to join the club as a hobby. They have annual photo competitions and offer a course in Photoshop

for their members.

The university also has a wide variety of academic societies in each faculty which provide academic support and opportunities for networking with other students from different fields.

Social societies such as Chinese at Tuks (CATS) strive to bring together people of Chinese and non-Chinese descent through

social interaction. Chairperson Rico Xu said, “We strive toward a society where we have fun together, help one another and celebrate one another’s success.”

The Uganda Society is open to all students as it serves to integrate everyone on campus.

The society provides career guidance and gives students the opportunity to gain insight into their different career choices. All first-year students are welcomed with their annual first year braai where they are introduced to other members and people from other societies such as the Nigerian Student Society and Zimsoc.

Despite their busy schedule, Chairperson Simon Simba maintains that they also take part in social events like bowling, park visits and gocarting.

For the more spiritual, there are religious societies such as the Association of Catholic Tertiary Students (ACTS), Campus Crusade for Christ and Muslim Student Association (MSA). Chairperson of MSA Mukhtar Yoonas Cassim assures prospective members that they are not radicals and that they serve to uphold unity and peace while spreading awareness about Islam. They have a broad social network and take part in community outreach programmes. The Campus Crusaders say that they are not a church and do not try to replace the church, but represent Jesus Christ by teaching students about God’s truth.

All the societies are registered under the Student Representative Council (SRC). Any student should feel free to register a new society by contacting an SRC representative.

For a full list of Tuks societies go to www. perdeby.co.za.

Photo: Eleanor Harding

News

9

26 January ‘13

Campus security - what you need to know FRANCOIS VAN DER WESTHUIZEN “The safety and security of its students – the lifeblood of the University of Pretoria – [is] the first priority of the university’s Department of Security Services,” said Colin Fouché, Director of Security Services.

The Department of Security Services collaborates with the Brooklyn SAPS and the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality to ensure a safe environment for students, even outside the boundaries of the university campuses. Existing safety and security measures are also constantly monitored and improved.

The Department of Security Services is located in the Administration Building on Hatfield campus. The Operational Management Centre can be contacted on a 24-hour basis on 012 420 2310. Students should contact this number if they want to report an emergency or if they have general enquiries regarding campus security.

There is also a crisis line that can be accessed on 0800 006 428. This number can also be contacted on a 24-hour basis and assistance will be provided immediately should a student be a victim of a crime.

The university also offers a Green Route

where security officials will escort students back to their residences or surrounding areas at night.

This service is available from 18:00 to 06:00 on weekdays. The Operational Management Centre can be contacted at any other time to request a security official to escort students to their home or residence safely. Students should see the Green Route map next to Oom Gert’s for information regarding the departure points and the area that the route covers.

The Department of Security Services has issued the following safety tips to students when they are on campus: • Avoid isolated areas when you are alone.

• Be vigilant of suspicious persons loitering in the immediate vicinity.

• Report all crimes, no matter how insignificant, to the nearest police station (Brooklyn Police Station) or to a Security Services official.

• Pay attention to your surroundings at all times.

• Do not open the electronic gates to any person who does not have a student card.

• Take responsibility for your own safety.

Illustation: Simon-Kai Garvie

UP support services empower students AMY-MAE CAMPBELL “Empower yourself to be the best first-year student you can be.” This is how Dr Madeleine Nolte, head of Student Support Services at UP, described the aim of Student Support at Tuks.

Decisions that are made during a student’s first year at university determine the course of their future. Nolte advises that it is therefore of utmost importance that students who battle to cope with the day-to-day challenges of student life find support.

Student Support falls under the Department of Student Affairs and consists of a multi-disciplinary team of counselling, educational and clinical psychologists, as well as social workers that cater for all the different categories of student lifestyle management.

There are three divisions that make up Student Support at Tuks: the Unit for Students with Special Needs, Student Health and Student Support in general. These services are free of charge and are entirely confidential.

Student Health covers primary health care, health education and promotion, the screening and monitoring of chronic conditions. It consists of Contact details: Student Health Hatfield: 012 420 2500 (Student Health Service Building, 25 Roper Street next to the Thuto Building).

Onderstepoort: 012 529 8243 (Arnold Theiler Building)

Prinshof: 012 319 2453 (Pathology Building) Groenkloof: 012 420 4233 (Sports Building room S-14) Mamelodi: 012 842 3724 (Education Building) For medical emergencies students can contact Security Services on 012 420 2310

General Student Support: Hatfield: 012 420 2333 (Student Affairs Building room 2-13) Prinshof: 083 754 5427 (Ms Voula – Pathology Building, ground floor) Groenkloof: 012 420 5687 (Sports Building) Mamelodi: 012 842 3414 (Education Building, first floor)

two clinics: a reproductive clinic that assists with family planning and female health and a doctor’s clinic that deals with general health enquiries. HIV/ AIDS counselling and testing is also offered.

The Student Support unit offers academic, therapeutic and emotional support.

Academic services include career guidance and planning, aptitude and vocational tests, reading skills, study methods, handling of academic stress, time management and prioritising assistance.

Therapeutic and emotional support includes life skills and potential development coaching. Life skills and potential development specifically target self-esteem issues, temperament skills relating to conflict and communicating, problem-solving, relationships and decision-making. Students can also undergo psychotherapy for relationship problems or assistance with emotional problems that prevent academic success, such as life traumas, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety and eating disorders.

The Unit for Students with Special Needs offers academic, emotional and technological support for students with physical and learning disabilities.

Photos: Eleanor Harding

Onderstepoort: 012 345 4377 (Arnold Theiler Building) Unit for Students with Special Needs: Contact details for this unit are the same for all campuses: Secretary: R. Paul 012 420 233 Administrative officers: S. Mahlangu 012 420 2582 or J. Erwee 012 420 4281

10

26 Januarie ‘13

BERND FISCHER Not everyone at university is fortunate enough to have their parents pay for their tuition. For those who don’t have this privilege, there is the option of a student loan. However, student debt incurred by a loan is becoming a serious problem in South Africa and in other countries.

It almost goes without saying that obtaining a degree or diploma improves an individual’s chances of finding a wellpaying job. The Centre of Higher Education Transformation conducted a study that not only revealed this idea, but also showed that an individual is more likely to be promoted to better-paying jobs if they have a qualification.

Research done by the Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit in 2009 confirmed that salaries showed a gradual increase between payslips for employees who have a matric certificate and those who have a degree. In 2009, an individual with an average matric certificate earned about R1 100 a month, whereas an individual with an average diploma or certificate earned R3 100 a month. Finally, this amount increased to R5 400 a month for a person with an average degree.

It’s easy to see why students are willing to fork out and repay their loans once they have graduated from university. All loans, whether funded privately or by the government, come with their own terms and conditions.

Therefore, it’s important for students to find a loan that suits their unique needs.

According to Gerald Ouma, a senior lecturer at the University of the Western Cape, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme of South Africa (NSFAS) – an organisation funded by the Department of Education – offers loans and bursaries to approximately 80% of students at South African tertiary institutions. In fact, according to the organisation, it supports roughly 32% of all students registered in 2011 alone.

From 1992 to 2011, NSFAS had spent a total of R23 billion in loans and bursaries, yet only R3,8 billion had been recovered by the 2011-2012 financial year. Business Day suggests that because South African

Student loans: a burden or a blessing? universities have a high drop-out rate, students are unable to pay back their loans.

On the other hand, apart from loans offered by NSFAS, many students rely on private banking institutions to finance their education. According to the Mail & Guardian, three of South Africa’s major banks refused to reveal any data concerning the issue. For this reason, it remains unclear how many students depend on loans offered by private banking institutions.

Arrie Rautenbach, ABSA’s head of Retail Markets, has said that the average size of a loan at ABSA is R49 500 and takes approximately six to eight years to repay.

Standard Bank’s repayment term averages around five years, Sugendhree Reddy, head of Personal Markets at Standard Bank, has said.

“One of the fundamental underlying risks of granting a student loan is whether that

student eventually gets employed and is able to pay back the loan,” says Reddy. But the fact that the majority of students do pay back their loans from private institutions indicates that they are in fact more likely to be employed, as has been suggested by the Centre of Higher Education Transformation.

“Our low delinquency rates indicate to us that we see a large scale of employability of graduates using student loans to finance studies,” Reddy continues.

Apart from these options, many South African companies offer bursaries to academically able but financially needy students. The conditions of these bursaries vary from company to company, but most of them require individuals to reimburse the company by working there once they have obtained their degree. The advantage of this, of course, is immediate employment and work experience.

Features Perdeby spoke to Morgan Carter, a BA(Hons) English Studies student at UP, who has a NSFAS loan. Carter says that, “Student loans obviously do incur a lot of debt in the long run,” and adds that, “starting your working life knowing that you are already so deeply in debt is quite daunting.”

Carter insists that for those who are not fortunate enough to have parents pay for tuition and accommodation, “there is no other viable option”.

According to the NSFAS, a student loan is manageable since you only start repaying the loan once you are earning a salary of R30 000 or more per year, with payments starting at 3% of your annual salary and increasing to a maximum of 8% once your annual salary reaches R59 300 or more.

Additionally, up to 40% of the loan can be converted into a bursary (and therefore does not have to be repaid) if an individual’s yearend results are exceptional.

Courier-Journal.com reports that during Barack Obama’s first term as president, he signed a law (only effective as of 2014) which will make repayment of loans easier for students. This law guarantees security for students as no more than 10% of their disposable income will be spent on repaying loans. Additionally, after 20 years, the remaining debt owed will be pardoned.

As for those working in public service (such as teachers), they will not be required to pay their student debt ten years after graduating.

South African students could benefit from a similar system. Carter argues that a reduction in the loan amount that needs to be paid after one’s studies could lead to students being motivated to work hard. “The point of getting a degree is to get a job and a life, not to spend the next ten years paying for your education,” he says.

With education being regarded as a crucial element to making a success out of life, it’s not difficult to understand why most students turn to loans as a means of payment, despite the disadvantages. President Obama took more than ten years to repay his student loans. Perhaps one should persevere, knowing that financial success is possible.

Photo: Eleanor Harding

Late nights and early mornings: the ins and outs of student jobs

DITSHEGO MADOPI You know it’s time to grow up when society is pressing you to find a job. There’s the gradual realisation that the inevitable switch from academic life to the working world is fast approaching. For some, there’s also the awareness that the financial support which parents offer may no longer be enough to cover the costs that come with being a student.

To make this transition a little easier,

Perdeby has provided you with several factors to keep in mind when considering the possibility of part-time employment.

Hatfield, being a metropolitan area and a major student hub, leads students to think that there’s a job waiting at every corner.

Although this idea may not be entirely untrue, the question remains: which of these jobs are a viable option?

Of the 100 students Perdeby surveyed, 42 said that they currently have part-time jobs while 21 of the other 58 students said that they only have jobs during the holidays.

Certain students find studying to be overwhelming enough, but for others, the pressure of balancing studies and work is a familiar concept. Aimee Clarke, a thirdyear publishing student, has had numerous jobs which include private tutoring for primary school children, general office work, babysitting and house-sitting.

Clarke says, “I feel exploited because of the irregularity at which I’m paid by parents [for tutoring their kids] and when a child does not attend a session without any notification. It seems like some employers believe that students have a lot of free time which isn’t the case because sometimes you may even have to miss classes to work.”

According to the China-India Labour Market Research Design Conference of 2007, “informal employment [like babysitting or tutoring] is, on average, precarious, low-paid, and risky.” This is in contrast to employment offered by registered companies or organisations once you’ve graduated.

Hiring part-time employees is an economical decision for many companies, as part-time workers are entitled to fewer benefits than full-time workers. For this reason, students are ideal candidates for part-

time employment because of their need for a flexible work schedule.

Issues of payment are one of the main concerns for working students. Sophie Mbanda, a third-year BA Law student, used to waitress at TriBeCa Coffee in Lynnwood Ridge. She says, “There was the initial training which lasted for three weeks and not one as originally specified by them. This was a problem because you don’t get paid during training. Sometimes, what the employers promise and what happens are two different things.” Mbanda left TriBeCa after three weeks of training and one week of working there as a trained employee.

Promotions are another popular line of work among students. The upside to promotional work is that payment is much better than other jobs such as bartending. The average promotion worker will earn R80 per hour, which is a big improvement on other rates such as the R12.50 an hour paid by the local Springboks Bar in Hatfield.

Tumisang Sithole, a third-year BA Information Design student, is fortunate enough to find casual jobs related to his field of study. The experience gained is likely to benefit him and others in the same situation as it can lead to job opportunities later in life. Future employers may value any kind of small experience in a working environment in addition to your studies.

Another advantage of part-time employment is that it “reduces the likelihood of post-school unemployment, and in some instances, the students are more likely to earn slightly higher hourly wages,” according to the 2010 Australian Journal of Career Development.

Students could also tutor at Tuks to complement their field of study. The amount

of money you’re paid increases in proportion to your year of study. Human Resources of the Faculty of Humanities states the rates as R41 per hour for first- and second-year tutors, R53 per hour for third-year students and R61 per hour for fourth-year and postgraduate students. These are the average rates for all departments on campus. An obvious advantage of working on campus is the convenience it offers.

The Student Career Centre on campus agrees that students are often on the hunt for part-time employment. The centre offers the opportunity for students seeking jobs on campus to give in their names and contact details which are then entered into a database. These people then receive an email notification when a faculty has a position open.

Sandile Magagula, who works at the centre, explains that, “The rate at which the students are paid can depend on the type of work done and whether a student is an undergraduate or a postgraduate.”

However, university policy states that student employees can only work for a fixed number of hours. Magagula explains that the reasoning behind this is to control how much of the university’s money is spent on providing student labour.

There is no denying that there are advantages to being employed part-time but possible negative effects (such as a decline in academic performance) are also important factors to consider. The decision to work while studying remains a personal one, but keep in mind that time management and organisational skills are essential to make the experience worthwhile.

Ilustration: Talifhani Mathode

Features

26 January ‘13

11

High school never ends: meet the new cliques

LUSANDA FUTSHANE There are always two kinds of first-year students. You get the ones that were so excited to leave high school that they’ve been coming to Open Day since they were in Grade 8. Then there are the ones morosely dragging their feet around campus wishing for one more day in their high-school blazer with the head-boy badge and the provincial colours for rugby.

Both these camps need to disabuse themselves of the assumption that varsity is all that different. Because it’s not – at least not in the one way that counts: the cliques. At first you might not immediately recognise them because they aren’t the ones you left behind in school. Perdeby would like to introduce to you the strange new cliques you’ll come across on campus.

The Jacaranda Hipsters Making fun of hipsters is so mainstream. In fact, the new cool and underground thing to do is to like them. Or tolerate them at least. Hipsters are geographical creatures whose identities depend heavily on where exactly they are. Cape Town hipsters are different from Jo’burg hipsters and Durban hipsters are probably at war with Bloemfontein hipsters (or whatever they have there).

If there’s a live performance by some band whose name is a symbol and it’s pronounced as a combination of whistling and sneezing, Pretoria’s hipsters are there. Dieting mostly on red velvet cupcakes and craft beer, Jacaranda Hipsters are also fiercely protective of their trends and their hang-out spots. They’re the ones with post-ironic receding hairlines and traditional Zulu wife-beaters, hogging all the tables at Honey Badger. They’re harmless – mostly.

The Black Diamonds If you’re ever looking for a sign of how far South Africa has come since it became a democratic country, look no further than this bunch of Tuks students. Black Diamonds are the wealthy, flaunty generation of black kids who are probably keeping most of Hatfield’s nightclubs in business.

You’ll find them in the VIP section of Moloko or Cofi popping bottles of Moët and Belvedere every weekend without ever complaining about how they have to go back to their rooms and eat two-minute noodles (because they don’t). They have a strange way of making you feel both envious and genuinely concerned about them. If you’re lucky, you can make friends with one of them and ride his or her coat-tails for a bit, just to see how the other half lives.

The Bible Zealots Caution: one of these students may be right behind you. Don’t look now. Slowly reach into your pocket and pretend to make a phone call. Or crank up the volume on your iPod. Or run. There’s nothing wrong with religion. Perdeby thinks that it is every student’s right to use whatever method he or she can (prayer, alcohol or whatever) to cope with the pressures of being a student. But it’s always best to keep your method to yourself and not try to pass it off as the only one worth trying.

Bible Zealots will come up to you in Hatfield Square, while you’re drowning your sorrows, and try to “save you” from your doomed ways. They’re the ones who’ll relentlessly invite you to prayer meetings no matter how many times you turn them down.

They mean well, but you should still be running.

The Born-free Politicos In high school, politics was only found in textbooks (or in the faculty room if you went to one those schools). However, once you become a varsity student, you soon discover that you might have to actually develop a political opinion of some sort. Next year, you’ll be eligible to vote in the national elections for the first time in your lives. But even before that, you will get your very first taste of politics: the student parliament elections.

Enter the Born-free Politicos. They’re very easy to spot. They walk around campus wearing political organisation T-shirts everyday (everyday). They’ll try and convince you to join their camp by using all kinds of chicanery to turn you against their rivals. Born-free Politicos are usually at Tuks longer than the average student because they spend so much time trying to kickstart their political careers that they almost forget about their (as yet unattained) degrees. Join them at your own risk. On the plus side, they have fizzers.

The TuksRes Troupe This is one of Tuks’s oldest and most fiercely protected clans.

Being a res student at Tuks is a unique experience. All those traditions and rules and that hierarchical way of living tends to encourage a certain type of mindset among res kids.

There’s the uniform that all first years have to wear at least once a week. Deliberately designed to make them stick out like sore thumbs, first-year uniforms are the bane of every res student (yet they wear them with equal parts of shame and pride).

Res students abide by different rules than regular day scholars.

They have curfews (flashback to your hostel days in high school) and they’re not allowed in Hatfield Square for most of the year.

You’ll hear all about the inter-residence feuds and alliances as they’re chronicled semi-regularly in Pssst….

What’s important to remember about cliques is that we create them ourselves. In order to survive, we cower towards the people who seem to resemble us. Sometimes, however, breaking the mould can serve you better than blending in. What’s that saying about the birds and the feathers? Perdeby doesn’t think they thought that one completely through.

Illustration: Modeste Goutondji

Wanneer heimwee jou as eerstejaar kelder ANNEKE RUBEN Jy was jou hele matriekjaar opgewonde oor die vooruitsig van studentwees. Wanneer jy uiteindelik in jou nuwe kamer intrek, kan jy skaars wag om vir die eerste keer die smaak van totale onafhanklikheid en vryheid te proe. Somtyds gebeur dinge egter nie soos jy dit beplan het nie. Voor jy nog “Tuks of Niks” kan uiter, oorval `n intense verlange na jou ouerhuis jou.

Heimwee kelder baie eerstejaars gedurende die eerste paar weke op universiteit. Dit is vir enige student moeilik om by al die nuwe uitdagings aan te pas en dit kan soms na te veel voel om te hanteer.

Louw Venter, `n derdejaar sielkunde student, sê: “Toe ek [`n] eerstejaar was, was daardie eerste paar weke baie moeilik.” Hy verduidelik dat dit vir hom gelyk het asof almal om hom dit makliker as hy gevind het om aan te pas en of hulle die ervaring meer as hy geniet het. Eers nadat hy met van hierdie persone gesels het, het hy agtergekom dat hulle maar net so verlore soos hy gevoel het. Almal vind wel een of ander tyd hulle voete op universiteit – selfs al neem dit tyd.

Volgens Dr. Steven Smith, `n kliniese sielkundige by die Texas A&M Universiteit, is die geheim om vinnig in `n nuwe omgewing aan te kan pas `n “gee-en-neem” proses. “Wanneer eerstejaars moeite doen om aan te pas en nie bang is om betrokke te raak by verskillende organisasies nie sal hulle dit makliker vind om vriendskappe te smee en om meer tuis te voel in hulle nuwe ruimte.”

En as jy sukkel om met mede-eerstejaars te praat en om vriende te maak? Dit kan senutergend wees om deur soveel nuwe mense omring te word en miskien is jy soms te skaam om jouself aan iemand voor te stel. Sylvia Robbert, `n professor in menseverhoudings by die Universiteit van Cambridge, het raad vir eerstejaars wat gefrustreerd is met hul gebrek aan sosiale vaardighede. “Vra baie vrae as jy met iemand praat wie jy nie ken nie. Ons almal is mos lief daarvoor om oor onsself te praat en deur vrae te vra, toon jy positiewe belangstelling in `n persoon

se lewe. Dit skep ook `n geleentheid om dalk ooreenkomste in jul belangstellings te vind. Voor jy jouself kan kry, het jy `n nuwe vriend,” sê Robbert.

Tuks bied gelukkig `n hele klomp geleenthede aan wat dit makliker maak vir eerstejaars om betrokke te raak en sosiaal te verkeer. Indien jy nie in `n koshuis is nie kan jy aansluit by `n daghuis en sodoende deelneem aan Jool en ander koshuisaktiwiteite soos Ienkmelodienk, Serrie en Serenade. Deur by `n daghuis aan te sluit, kry jy ook die geleentheid om aan jou gunsteling sportsoorte deel te neem.

Indien `n daghuis-leefstyl nie in jou smaak val nie is daar verskeie geleenthede in Pretoria om jou stokperdjies op `n sosiale vlak te beoefen. So kry jy die geleentheid om interessante mense te ontmoet. Wynliefhebbers kan aansluit by The Pretoria Wine Lovers Club (studente kry 10% afslag). Jy kan selfs by fotografieklubs, soos die Pretoria Photowalkers, aansluit.

Gerhard Botha, `n derdejaar BSc Landbou student, het nooit aan `n daghuis of koshuis behoort nie. “Ek het my vriende gemaak in klasse en ek het begin muurklim by LC de Villiers (sportkampus). Ek stel ook belang in rekenaarspeletjies en het by `n klub in Hatfield aangesluit.” Botha gee verder advies aan eerstejaars wat huis toe verlang: “Hou jouself besig met aktiwiteite waarvan jy hou, mits jy nie moet leer nie. Dan is jy te besig om te verlang.”

Indien jy glad nie van hierdie diep verlange ontslae kan raak nie raai Dr. Madeleine Nolte, hoof van Tuks Studenteondersteuning, eerstejaars aan om van die studenteondersteuningsdienste gebruik te maak. “Dienste word gratis en vertroulik aangebied. Moenie skaam wees om vir hulp en bystand te vra nie.”

Jou heimwee en verlange gaan heel moontlik gereeld geprikkel word. Jy mis dalk jou ma se kookvernuf na `n lang dag van uitdagende klasse, jou vriende wat ver is of miskien selfs die oop vlaktes van jou piepklein tuisdorp. Dis egter hoe jy hierdie verlange hanteer wat saak maak. Jy sal vinnig jou liefde vir Tuks en jou mede-eerstejaars vind – gee jouself net tyd.

Photo: Charné Fourie

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Features

A few cautionary tales on the darker side of student life

LUSANDA FUTSHANE Welcome to the big bad world. They don’t call it that for nothing. As fun and exciting as varsity can be, it can also be mean and testy and threatening. It’s perfectly possible for you to make it through varsity unscathed, especially if you take Perdeby’s advice on how to make your student experience a fun but safe one. The following paragraphs might make the difference

between an unforgettable year and one you’d rather forget. You’re welcome.

Dude, where’s my car?

You see that shiny new car your parents gave you? Yeah, you’re not the only one who likes it. While you were driving to campus singing along to One Direction, there was no shortage of people admiring your vehicle. Some people (the really ballsy and criminally inclined admirers) take it a step further by trying to take your car. It’s a statistical inevitability that you will meet, befriend or even be someone whose car gets stolen. But there are ways to lower the risk.

Parking is a challenge at Tuks, if you aren’t clever enough. You’re allowed to park anywhere outside campus for free. Eager car guards will usher you safely onto the shoulders of all the roads surrounding campus and they’ll shoot you a quick wink to reassure you that your car will be looked after. No problem, right?

Wrong. More often than not, car guards will not remember the owner of a car. Some of them aren’t even in any official uniform and definitely can’t be held accountable for any stolen cars. In fact, there have been reports about certain car guards being in cahoots with car thieves. The majority of them are well meaning and sincere, but sometimes, paradoxically, your vehicle is safer without them.

Do not panic just yet. There are a few places that you can park your car without any worry of it being stolen. There’s a parkade for students that you can access via the University Road entrance (by the engineering side of life).

Parking there isn’t free, but can you really put a price on peace of mind? If you’re not keen to pay, you’re going to have to work a little harder to get parking. You can park safely on LC de

Villiers (Sport campus) and take a free shuttle to main campus. Also, there are secure parking lots on Herold, Lunnon and Festival Street that are also free, but are usually full by 9 am. See? Options.

The morning after the night before It’s every girl’s worst nightmare: waking up in a strange bed feeling weird and without any memory of the previous night. You’re not sure if you got a little drunk and went home with some guy you had just met, or if you’ve suddenly become one of those horror stories we all shudder to hear about. You would be surprised how many times it turns out to be the second one. Date rape is one of the scariest dangers of partying. Lurking around our favourite spots to let loose are predators who are just waiting for us to drop our guard and take advantage. The only way to make sure that you’re never their victim is to be the most vigilant drunk that you can be (yes, it’s possible).

Your drink should be sealed when you buy it.

Pay close attention to the bartender every time he opens a bottled beverage or fixes you one in a cup. Usually bartenders are not the enemy, but one can never be too safe. Strange smells and funny tastes should ring alarms, so do not carry on drinking if you sense something unusual about it. Finally, don’t party alone – you’ll need a buddy or two to take you home safely when you suspect that you’ve been roofied.

If it’s already the next morning and you’re not sure what happened last night but you have a bad feeling, act immediately. Student Health, located on main campus, has helpful staff who will be able to provide you with a rape kit and run all the important tests to make sure that you haven’t caught any diseases. Then go straight to the police and mime whatever you can from

your memory in order to open a case because if it’s happened to you, chances are that it’s about to happen to someone else.

You will meet a tall dark stranger For some reason, people are given to believe that Hatfield is a safe area. Compared to other areas in Pretoria, maybe. But this is still South Africa and people still think they are entitled to all your possessions. There are many reasons why you could be walking alone in Hatfield at night: a late night in the library, getting ditched at Hatfield Square by your friends or some false sense of bravado that precludes you from crime.

The actual truth is that there is no real reason to walk alone at night. Ever.

If you find yourself in a situation where you might have to walk alone after dark, try to avoid it as much as possible. Stay where you are and call someone to come and pick you up – Google a cab company if you’re short on friends.

Exhaust all your options before deciding to walk (because just standing around in the dark can also make you a target). There’s a Green Route that runs from main campus to Sport campus via South Street – incorporate that into your journey. The Green Route has a 24-hour security guard presence and very rarely does anyone get attacked on it. Conceal all valuables and try to look as inconspicuous as possible and stay calm and alert while you walk.

If someone does attempt to mug you, cooperate as much as you can. Do not fight back. Do not run if they have a gun. In fact, do not run at all until your attacker is a safe distance away from you. Always run towards a crowd or a well-lit area and try to draw as much attention to yourself as possible. And obviously, call the po-po.

Photo: Eleanor Harding

Different drunks to duck and dive

BERND FISCHER It is often said that university is supposed to be the time when you “find yourself”. While on the road to finding yourself, you will encounter alcohol. Lots of it. There’s no point in denying the drinking culture that makes up a large part of varsity life – we all like to have fun and when is a better time to blame your irresponsible ways on your youth? Still, there are limits, so it’s best to make an attempt not to ruin the experience for everyone.

Unfortunately, not everyone who drinks is so considerate, just like the drunks listed below.

The overly affectionate drunk It only takes a few drinks for this drunk to start their shameless worship of you. It often starts innocently with a friendly smile thrown your way, followed by a conversation about general interests. You may find this perfectly normal. However, in some cases, you’re in for a surprise. The conversation can quickly turn to their labelling you as their “best friend forever” (despite the fact that you only met five minutes ago), or you may find yourself with their tongue down your throat before you have even properly introduced yourself.

Perdeby isn’t entirely sure whether these drunks are looking for someone to date (read: turn into a sex slave) or whether they are just lonely creeps who have never had any friends.

Ever. All that is known about them is that they’re weird. Also, be careful that these happy campers don’t slip something into your drink.

Before you know it, you could be waking up in a cabin where you’re forced to spend eternity with them and their 34 cats (who also happen to be sex slaves).

Can be overheard saying: “Everyone is sexy.

I love you guys so much.”

The angry drunk In short, these kinds of drunks just want to “f*ck sh*t up”. Often, the “sh*t” they are referring to might just be your face. And no, it doesn’t really matter to them whether you actually did anything wrong or not. You probably just happened to make eye contact with their girlfriend for a split second while you were looking for your friends over at the bar. It’s best to walk away before they start a fight. Warning: be on the alert when turning around since these drunks are known to be irrational. You could have a chair or two thrown at your head as you leave.

Can be overheard saying: “Come at me, bro!”

The slutty drunk Yes, this does apply to men as well.

However, girls who become slutty drunks are probably easier to spot. If they are not as easily identifiable as How I Met Your Mother’s infamous “woo girls”, then the next best place to come across these lovely ladies would be on the stripper poles (making their daddies proud) in DropZone. Anyone, regardless of how innocent they may seem, can be a closet slutty drunk. The naughty librarian stereotype exists for a reason, doesn’t it?

Can be overheard saying: “Woooo!” or “I’m not wearing any underwear.”

The tearful drunk We all know one of these. And they’re very annoying. Not only because they have an ugly crying face like Kim Kardashian, or the fact that you know that deep down all they’re doing is trying to get attention from anything that breathes (yes, also like Kim Kardashian).

Mainly, these Debbie Downers simply ruin the mood for everyone. The worst part is that they cry over the most irrelevant things. And even if they have a legitimate reason to be crying, we

don’t care. Just go home.

Can be overheard saying: “Nobody loves me because I’m 1,3kg overweight.”

The hot mess drunk These drunks can turn any evening into a (puke-filled) nightmare. They are usually easily identified by their overconfident behaviour when it comes to alcohol. Also, if the night has only just begun and they are already missing a shoe, take this as an obvious warning sign. In Pretoria, these drunks are often found passed out in Hatfield Square.

The more inconspicuous (or as they’d like to believe, the more experienced) of this kind have found a hands-on approach to hide the fact that they are one drop away from alcohol poisoning. Instead of getting sick in front of everyone on the dance floor (what an unladylike thing to do), these pros throw up in their handbags. Classy. Please don’t encourage these people to drink more. Unless you want to be the one driving them home. In your car.

Can be overheard saying: “I always keep a spare handbag with me.”

Photos: Hendro van der Merwe

Features

The highs and lows of substance abuse

DEON BOTHA Some students may wish to join the so-called “holy trinity” of university life: sex, drugs and rock and roll. Since both sex and rock and roll are legal practices, Perdeby provides a brief insight into the world of illegal substances.

Johnny Stash*, reintroduced to marijuana by certain members of his residence, decides to try it again after having experimented with it in high school. Besides, all his new friends are doing it. As expected, he grows quite fond of the relaxed feeling it produces, despite the level of paranoia that comes with smoking the drug. It’s a small price to pay to reach this euphoric feeling that helps him escape his stressful schedule as a mechanical engineering student.

Psychedelic drugs such as magic mushrooms and LSD were popular among the original hipsters, hippies and tree-huggers of

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26 January ‘13

the 1960s. These drugs primarily produce hallucinations, believed by some cultures to be visions from paranormal sources. Magic mushrooms are very rare today, but LSD (better known as acid) is still common.

Stash believes that psychedelic drugs should be used in conjunction with visually stimulating environments such as botanical gardens or 3D movies in order to gain the best experience from the drugs. However, if the environment is too visually stimulating, or if the user uses too much of the substance at once, they may experience what is commonly known as a “bad trip”. Rock legend Jimi Hendrix is one of the most well-known users of marijuana and LSD. It is believed that he used both drugs before performing. Sadly, in 1970, Hendrix died of an overdose while on tour in Europe.

Similarly, other controversial figures such as Bob Marley and Peter Tosh were part of the religious movement known as Rastafarianism.

These individuals regard the smoking of marijuana as an important part of their religion. “Weed chills you out. You feel relaxed and look at things in a completely different way. I liked smoking up before I study because abstract concepts seem to make more sense when you’re high,” says Stash.

Surprisingly, despite its well-recorded history, not a single person has ever been reported to have died from a marijuana overdose.

Nevertheless, there are countless incidents across the globe in which marijuana (known as a “gateway drug”) is linked to subsequent use of stronger substances such as crystal meth and “cat”.

Dr Madeleine Nolte, head of Student Support at Tuks, said that, “They [drug users] start by using dagga and eventually go on to using more serious drugs. It’s a chain reaction to more serious offences.”

Studies by the South Coast Recovery Centre show that the health consequences related to marijuana use are similar to those of cigarette smoking. It also has a tendency to relax you to such an extent that it interferes with everyday human functioning. “Along with feeling relaxed, weed also makes you lazy,” says Stash.

Kurt Cobain, lead singer of grunge band Nirvana, was a selfproclaimed heroin addict. According to the South Coast Recovery Centre, heroin is one of the most dangerous drugs to use. It is so addictive that some users who have been admitted to medical centres are administered a small dosage of heroin to prevent their system from going into shock.

When asked why he used heroin, Cobain said that the drug relieved the severe pain from his stomach ulcers. In 1994, aged 27, Cobain committed suicide. Although there may be numerous conspiracy theories about his death, post-mortem examinations conclude that Cobain had a higher concentration of heroin in his system compared to the average lethal concentration.

According to Bes Liebenberg, coordinator of student support in residences, drugs are popular among students in Pretoria. “At the University of Pretoria, there are definitely students who are dependent on drugs, but these are isolated incidences.” While some may argue that drug use is innocent and merely for recreational purposes, Liebenberg maintains that the effect of drugs on students and the possibility of addiction causes it to extend far beyond that.

Nolte believes that the low drug-related incidence at UP may be due to the fact that substance abuse is illegal and that guilty students fear prosecution.

Two years ago, Stash and a friend tried to buy marijuana from a few passers-by. They were hijacked, loaded into the boot of his friend’s car and taken to an abandoned area. “I would never buy anything from the streets again,” says Stash after the experience.

However, when asked whether this event changed his opinion about the lifestyle in question, Stash simply smiles and asks: “Man made booze, God made weed. Who would you trust?” *Name has been changed.

Photo: Eleanor Harding

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26 Janua

Lize-Marie Volschenk

RA

Debutan

Field of study: BCom Accounting Sciences Year of study: 2 Favourite quote: “Keep smiling, because life is a beautiful thing and there’s so much to smile about.” - Marilyn Monroe Why you want to be RAG Queen: I love people and it’s really rewarding for me to help others. Being RAG Queen would help me share the RAG initiative of getting students involved in community upliftment programmes, as I believe in the power students can have in making a difference in our community.

Advice to first years: Take chances, give everything, have no regrets and always have a firm grip on your goal.

Hobbies: Tennis, swimming, drums, drama and art.

The best thing about being a Tukkie: Whether it be accounting class or a free period, exams or vacation, working hard or playing hard, there are always friends to share it with.

Jenni de Bruin Field of study: BSc Actuarial and Financial Mathematics Year of study: 2 Favourite quote: “There are no mistakes in life, only lessons.” – Yogi Raman.

Why you want to be RAG Queen: Not only is being RAG Queen a great honour, but it is an opportunity to get involved with the community and make a big difference in other people’s lives. It would be a great pleasure to be a role model for others and make a positive impact in the community.

Advice to first years: Get involved in as much university related activities and opportunities as possible. But always try to maintain a perfect balance between your studies and social life.

Hobbies: Gym, scuba diving, photography and reading.

The best thing about being a Tukkie: Being a Tukkie is a great privilege, not only are you part of one of the best universities in the country, but you are part of a community, building bonds with people of all ages and cultures.

Ahuti Kumar

Field of study: BIS Information Science Year of study: 2 Favourite quote: “Peace is the state of one’s mind, where wisdom speaks; peace is no longer a dream.”

Why you want to be RAG Queen: My values are to share uncond with those in need. By becoming Tuks RAG Queen, I want to help wi of RAG, take RAG higher than what it already is, and spread RAG’s w name in the society. With the title of Tuks RAG Queen both my value heard and put into practice. Help me “Reach out and Give”.

Advice to first years: The weak can never forgive; forgiveness is f knowledge is the knowledge shared with others. “Live as if you were Learn as if you were to live forever” – Mahatma Ghandi. The library i study hard and build your future. It’s your first year, enjoy, meet new p RAG. Hobbies: I enjoy dancing to contemporary music both Indian and w reading adventure and true life novels, watching soccer (being a proud giving out my love to those who need it the most.

The best thing about being a Tukkie: “A man who has never gone from a freight car, but if he has a university education he may steal the Theodore Rooseveld. The best thing about being a Tukkie is the quali knowledge we possess after graduating from the University of Pretori

Shanyce E

Field of study: BCo Year of study: 2 Favourite quote: “I Why you want to b part in uplifting the com less fortunate than me. possibility that maybe Advice to first year freedom. Keep safe, st Hobbies: Swimming The best thing abou to be the amazing peop cultures, religions and place to help make the diverse family.

Rebecca Nicole Wright Field of study: BCom Communication Management Year of study: 3 Favourite quote: “Your journey has moulded you for the greater good. It was exactly what it needed to be. Don’t think you’ve lost time. It took each and every situation you have encountered to bring you to the now. And now is right on time.” - Asha Tyson Why you want to be RAG Queen: When the title RAG Queen is mentioned, most people assume that it is just another beauty pageant. I have wanted to be RAG Queen since the start of my varsity career, for the sole purpose of being able to give to a cause that is so much greater than myself and the life that I have lived thus far. Being RAG Queen also offers so many opportunities to meet new people. I definitely think it is an opportunity that will broaden my horizon.

Advice to first years: My advice to first years would be to not allow university to intimidate you. Ask for help when it is needed, there are so many students and lecturers who are willing to help. If you allow university to intimidate you, you will miss out on so many opportunities that could better your journey through varsity.

Hobbies: Contemporary dancing, art, drawing and singing The best thing about being a Tukkie: The best part about being a Tukkie is that you are able to be a part of something enriching and diverse. Tuks is its own community with a rich student culture that enables you to grow in all areas of life. Being a Tukkie is the epitome of student life.

Jessica Farinha Field of study: BSc Human Physiology Year of study: 2 Favourite quote: “For God, nothing is impossible” – Matthew 19:26 Why you want to be RAG Queen: I am a highly motivated, self-driven and hard working young lady, and I have a passion for helping people. I believe the key to true happiness in life is being able to be 100% yourself at all times, constantly bettering yourself in all aspect of your personality, strengths and weaknesses, and being able to always stay grounded in your morals and values, no matter what the circumstance. Most people are not fortunate enough to be able to reach their full potential in life because of certain obstacles they are faced with every day. I like to see myself as a very fortunate young lady, blessed abundantly in many aspects, and so I want to be able to share these blessings with others so they may have a better outlook on life, and realise that they are not defined by their circumstances, but rather by what they choose to do with those circumstances.

Advice to first years: Get involved in varisty life! Be well informed in all aspects of the university, and remember to stay true to who you are, what you want out of life, and where you want your life to go. That way you will excel at whatever you choose to do, and be motivated enough to work hard, do your best, and ultimately achieve your goals.

Hobbies: I am a sports fanatic! I enjoy being outdoors, reading and relaxing by the pool with good company. I love spending quality time with my friends and family, mixed with good food and wine… you can never go wrong!

The best thing about being a Tukkie: You are part of the Tukkie family! In every aspect of the University of Pretoria, be it sports, res, cultural events, orientation week, the fun times in RAG float building and fundraising, or the “seriousness” of the lecture hall, anything you choose to do, you will be welcomed with open arms and feel at home. Nothing beats the team spirit, sportsmanship, lifetime friendships and amazing opportunities found at Tuks when you become part of the family!

Michelle Wright

Field of study: BSc Zoology and Entomology Year of study: 3 Favourite quote: “Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph Nelson Mandela Why you want to be RAG Queen: I would like to be RAG queen as a difference in the lives of the less fortunate. I would also like to educa importance of helping those who are not able to help themselves.

Advice to first years: University life is very different compared to sch up and always try your best because in the end all your hard work will of friends and have fun.

Hobbies: I don’t have any hobbies as such but my interests are volunt well as doing other kinds of charity work. I also enjoy taking Poi danc The best thing about being a Tukkie: The university has a very good dedicated staff who are able to give us all such a high standard of educ to call myself a Tukkie.

Lee Hoop

Field of study: BA L Year of study: 2 Favourite quote: “Im absolutely ridiculous tha Why you want to be would encourage me to Advice to first years: to remember.

Hobbies: Shopping.

The best thing about Tuks RAG!

15

arie ‘13

AG

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ditional love especially iden the giving hand word and brighten its es and motives will be

for the strong. True about to die tomorrow. is there for a reason: people, come be part of

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Dassie Persaud-van der Westhuizen

Field of study: BSc (Architecture) Year of study: 3 Favourite quote: “One who does not believe in miracles, is not a realist.” – Dr Anton Rupert, industrialist and former chancellor of Tuks.

Why you want to be RAG Queen: It would be an honour to represent Tuks.

Being RAG Queen provides a platform from which one can make a difference in the community.

Advice to first years: This extract from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll: “Would you tell me, please, which way I ought to go from here?”

“That depends a good deal on where you want to get to.”

“I don’t much care where” “Then it doesn’t matter which way you go.”

Hobbies: Architecture, sports (I played for the SA schools hockey team and have provincial colours in squash and athletics), aviation (I fly aeroplanes at Wonderboom Airport), reading and animations.

The best thing about being a Tukkie: It is believed on campus that one will fall in love and pass your exams if a purple Jacaranda flower falls on your head.

Tuks is the only university that offers this unique facility.

Jenna Fulcher

e to school may steal e whole railroad.” – ity of education and ia. I love Tuks!

Field of study: Industrial Engineering Year of study: 2 Favourite quote: “I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul.”

Why you want to be RAG Queen: I want to be RAG Queen because I want to make a difference in people’s lives. I think being able to leave a mark on anyone’s life is the most incredible thing one can do. I want to be a great ambassador for Tuks and embody the true meaning of being a Tukkie and I believe I can do this by being the Tuks RAG Queen. I believe giving is the most rewarding thing on earth – if I am able to give my time and help to anybody in need then I have achieved many of my life’s goals.

Advice to first years: Make the most of every opportunity you are presented with in first year! Don’t be scared to make new friends – everyone around you is in the same position. Have fun, enjoy the student life and just be yourself.

Hobbies: I enjoy acting, dancing and modelling in my spare time. Now and then I also enjoy hiking and rock climbing with my friends. But on a daily basis I love cooking – it can take away the stress of varsity!

The best thing about being a Tukkie: The best thing about being a Tukkie is that you are part of an enormous community of proud students that love going to the Square, chilling on the grass in summertime and embracing everything student life can offer. You can also walk around barefoot without people judging you which is a bonus!

Eeson

om Business Management

If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” – Milton Berle be RAG Queen: I want to be RAG Queen because I’ve enjoyed taking mmunity and trying my best to make a difference in the lives of those . This journey has changed me as a person and opened my eyes to a one person can make a difference and if so, I would like to be the one. rs: Don’t get drowned in the fun that comes with your newly found tay focused and be responsible. g and reading. ut being a Tukkie: The best thing about being a Tukkie for me has ple. I’ve been acquainted with so many people, people of different people with different goals in life. They all come together to this one eir dreams come true and I feel very fortunate to be part of this great

h of overcoming it.” -

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mperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it’s better to be an absolutely boring.”

RAG Queen: Being Tuks RAG Queen would be a great privilege, it keep giving and helping people less fortunate than ourselves. : Have fun. Work hard and make your first year of university a year

t being a Tukkie: You meet many great friends and of course joining

Busi Ntisa

Field of study: BA Law Year of study: 2 Favourite quote: “The most common cause of failure is the habit of quitting when one is overtaken by temporary defeat.” – Napoleon Hill “Life’s challenges are not supposed to paralyse you, they are supposed to help you discover who you are.” - Anonymous Why you want to be RAG Queen: Being RAG Queen would provide me with the platform of assisting disadvantaged areas such as Soweto, where I grew up, and constitute campaigns against challenges such as teenage pregnancy, substance abuse and domestic violence.

Advice to first years: Work very hard and push yourself. Partying is short-term enjoyment but passing your modules and eventually obtaining your degree will be much more rewarding in the long run.

Hobbies: I enjoy exercising (sports) and researching on upcoming cases. I also enjoy working and helping out in the community whenever I can.

The best thing about being a Tukkie: Honestly, besides the fact that it opens doors, it is a credible and internationally recognised institution in South Africa. Tuks has a diverse culture and discipline which moulds an individual by the end of their studies and hence why most companies still trust Tuks graduates.

Keitumetse Motaung Field of study: BSc Human Genetics Year of study: 2 Favourite quote: “A word of encouragement during a failure is worth more than an hour of praise after success.” - Anonymous Why you want to be RAG Queen: I want to be RAG Queen because I’d like to show younger ladies that it is not just a beauty competition but that it’s about helping the surrounding community and raising funds for those that cannot afford the lifestyle that is lived by many today. I would also love to be RAG Queen so that I may raise more awareness about this wonderful initiative and opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives.

The programme requires more publicity and as a RAG Queen I would make it one of my objectives.

Advice to first years: My advice to first years is that they should work very hard academically because it is a huge adjustment from what they know and are used to. I also advise them not to be single-minded, they should not be afraid to participate in the wonderful activities that the university has to offer. University shouldn’t just be about getting a degree but the journey you take is as important, so leave a legacy.

Hobbies: My hobbies are theatrical acting, dancing, some occasional singing, poetry writing and public speaking.

The best thing about being a Tukkie: The best thing about being a Tukkie is being part of such a diverse and intelligent mass of people. It is amazing to be in an environment where you are given the opportunity to meet and make lifetime friends. I Photos: Eleanor Harding love being a Tukkie. Tuks of Niks.

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26 Januarie ‘13

Entertainment

Constructing the ultimate student soirĂŠe

HEIN PAPENFUS It’s two o’clock in the morning, the throbbing beats from next door reverberating off the wall keep you awake despite every effort at sleep. Somewhere a piercing scream shatters the night air as a girl is thrown into a pool. More often than not, at our age, the feeling experienced during this noise is not anger, but rather that of missing

out. These are the sounds associated with living next to students, and now, as first years, you can be part of this wonderful cacophony of night-time madness. Here are some of the key ingredients needed to throw an epic house party on a student budget.

Location As with real estate, a party is about location, location, location.

Rifle through your contact list to find that friend whose commune has

some grass, a braai area perhaps and even a swimming pool. People enjoy parties more when they are only semi-clothed – everyone knows that. Another key factor in location is the proximity of one’s neighbours. Getting evicted from a flat because of excessive noise and drunken debauchery sounds hilarious but will hamper one’s ability to get a tertiary qualification People Two people drinking beer and mulling over the meaning of life is not a party, it’s a DMC (that’s “deep meaningful conversation�, if you’re wondering). You need people for a party. Having said that, it might seem like a good idea to print flyers and throw them down a stairwell like they do in the movies, but the subsequent crowd rocking up at your rented pad will be less than cool. Actually, that sounds like a great idea, someone reading this article should do that. It would be legendary.

Not only the number, but also the type of people at a party is important. Hatfield Square is a success because anyone can go there no matter what clique they belong to. Variety is the spice of life and nowhere will you encounter the diversity that you do at varsity, so mingle with the jocks, the emos, the hipsters and maybe even Perdeby. Especially if there will be free alcohol.

Music If people are the heart of the party then music is the pulse. If you will excuse the lameness of the previous statement, it does ring true.

Who can say that they have never experienced the feeling of hearing that song that just strikes a chord in you and you can’t help but scream along like a deranged maniac? Music fosters the vibe and no one tapping their feet in time with the beat is going to be unhappy.

Make sure you spend some time making a playlist or three.

Shuffle is a good idea until that song comes on that is “only on my iPod because of that one day that I really felt like listening to it� and then it’s too late. Even better than a playlist is the wonderful facility provided by our beloved institute of higher education: Tuks FM. This should be one of the presets programmed into your music system.

Friday nights kick off with a show called Total Radio Takeover Maximised at 18:00 directly followed by Solid State 19:00-22:00.

Saturdays start at 14:00 with the Weekend Windup and culminates in a show called Domestic Disturbance which runs until the early hours.

Booze Because there ain’t no party like an alcoholic party. Perdeby is not advocating mass alcohol binging and wildly hysteric behaviour. But if you’re going to have a couple of drinks at a party you might as well do it right and in a way that will be easy on the wallet. The easiest way of guaranteeing everyone a tipple or two at an affordable rate is that old proven favourite: punch. Now every human being on earth has their own recipe for the ultimate punch, so it’s almost impossible to get it wrong. Cheap booze remains the key ingredient and Perdeby strongly recommends adding chopped fruit such as apples or pineapples. Go ahead, when in Rome and all of that.

The gauntlet is laid down and the objective is clear. Party your hearts out and enjoy “the best years of your life�. Just remember that when it comes to crunch time, university will separate the diligent men from the lazy boys. So work hard and play hard, but keep the two distinctly separate or the memories made in this wide open paradise will be few and short lived.

Photo: CharnĂŠ Fourie

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26 January ‘13

For those who aren’t born to be wild MELINA MELETAKOS

Dearest first years, you may possibly not be able to fathom this now, but there comes a time during your university career when you realise that there’s more to life than the four corners of Hatfield Square. You’ll get tired of its barely clothed frequenters, its repetitive playlists and the lingering stench of sweat, ego and alcohol. Every now and then, you’ll want to try something new.

Fortunately, Perdeby has compiled a list of alternative things for you to do with your time.

Channel you inner fashionista How? Stitching Nations Art Market The brainchild of Maryann Mda and Genevieve Booysens, Stitching Nations Art Market is a relatively new venture that focuses on elevating fashion and the arts in the capital city.

If you aren’t really interested in trendy attire, the market also places an emphasis on design, food and culture. Each market has a theme and each exhibitor receives a brief relating to the chosen theme. There are also live performers from various genres, traders selling jewellery, clothes and arts and crafts, as well as food stalls, a bakery and an exhibition area.

Where? Paul Kruger Street, between Visagie and Minaar Streets.

When? Last Sunday of every month, between 09:00 and 16:00.

Channel your inner foodie How? Hazel Food Market Offering an array of scrumptious food products, Hazel Food Market is like Pretoria’s version of Neighbourgoods Market (minus the hipsters, of course). Feast on samoosas, mini hamburgers, Moroccan soup, lasagne and dainty cupcakes while sipping on a virgin mojito or a cappuccino under an umbrella

of trees. With the cold meats, wide variety of cheeses, freshly baked bread and organic vegetables, you can easily do your grocery shopping there too. Warning: don’t eat for at least 24 hours before going to Hazel Food Market because you will want to taste a bit of everything without someone having to roll you home.

Where? Greenlyn Village Centre, corner of Thomas Edison and Mackenzie Streets, Menlo Park.

When? Every Saturday between 08:00 and 14:00.

Channel your inner hippie How? Klitsgras Drumming Circle Once you have your drum (which you hire for R35), you sit in the amphitheatre around a snug fire where professional drummers take the lead and everybody else follows. Well, that’s the idea.

Everyone eventually does their own thing, but it’s a good way to release some of that pent up pre/post-exam frustration. Fire dancers, didgeridoo players and percussionists are sometimes added to the mix. There’s a bar where you can buy homemade pies, pizzas and mince buns, as well as a coffee shop where you can get your hands on some freshly baked goods.

Where? Out on a plot, just past Mooikloof. It’s best you check their website for directions (www.klitsgras.co.za).

When? Every second Friday, from 20:00.

Channel your inner historian How? Freedom Park Freedom Park is a heritage project undertaken by the government in an attempt to portray South Africa’s history, including colonialism, the industrial era and the freedom struggle. There are different elements that make up Freedom Park. Among them are isivivane, a symbolic resting place for those who lost their lives in the freedom struggle. There’s also isikhumbuto, which includes the Wall of Names, the

Amphitheatre, the Eternal Flame, the Gallery of Leaders and the Sanctuary. If history doesn’t do it for you, the panoramic view of Pretoria definitely will.

Where? Corner Kock and 7th Avenue, Salvokop (very close to the Voortrekker Monument).

When? Freedom Park is open to the public daily. Free tours take place at 09:00, 12:00 and 15:00.

Channel your inner Marie Antoinette How? High Tea at Rosemary Hill Channel your inner Marie Antoinette and go for high tea at Rosemary Hill, an idyllic organic farm setting about ten minutes from Silver Lakes. Nibble on egg and watercress sandwiches or rosewater-glazed scones while drinking speciality teas or a cappuccino. If the pomp and circumstance doesn’t appeal to you, there’s also a mountain bike and running trail open every Saturday, Sunday and on public holidays.

Where? Ten minutes from Silver Lakes. Visit the website (www.rosemaryhill.co.za) for directions.

When? The tea garden is open every Saturday, Sunday and on public holidays between 09:00 and 14h00. The mountain bike and running trail is open on these days too.

Channel your inner geek How? Philosophy Café at Café Riche Café Riche is a quaint little bistro situated in Church Square.

It was originally established in 1905, making it the oldest café and bistro in Pretoria. Once a month, the Philosophy Café meets to discuss different attitudes, beliefs and ways of thinking, and sometimes includes well-known local and international guest speakers.

Where? 2 Church Street, Church Square.

When? Last Friday of every month.

Photo: Melissa Kemp

Get your local and international, entertainment and sport news at perdeby.co.za.

Perdeby’s Daily roundup will be updated around 18:00 on weekdays.

Illustration: Modeste Goutondji

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26 Januarie ‘13

Entertainment

How to begin your fifteen minutes of student fame MELINA MELETAKOS Does Guitar Hero just not cut it for you anymore? Do you like the idea of bra-chucking groupies? Do you crave the adoration of a sea of fans? Or better yet, do you just want to create and share beautiful music? Well then, it may be time for you to start a band, and there’s no better time than while you are still surrounded by the comfort that studying offers.

Perdeby caught up with Johannesburg-born songstress Lucy Kruger, who studied music at Rhodes before moving to Cape Town to kick start her music career. “For me, the biggest benefit of playing while studying (particularly in a place so isolated, where there is not much pressure from the industry) is that music remains what it should always be. It is fun. It is not the stressful part of the day. It is about letting go and sharing. Every gig you play is practice. If I were to have come to Cape Town having never played in front of an audience, I would have been in a very difficult space now.

It gives you the time to experiment without too much pressure,” she says. With that in mind, we have put together a couple of pointers that will help you launch your music career successfully, with tips along the way from Lucy Kruger.

Decide on a style Actually, your music doesn’t have to be influenced by one specific genre. It is helpful, however, to reach a consensus on what kind of music you want to play before you get started.

It’s a good idea to decide on what type of music you want to play and then find people that best fit the roles you need filled. That way, you ensure that you have the best people for the job. What’s also important is deciding on what your band’s look and feel is. It creates consistency and allows audiences to become familiar with your band. It’s also important for creating your band as a brand. Die Antwoord’s zef look (which basically entails them wearing pyjamas on stage), enhances their zef music and, therefore, their zef brand.

Kruger’s tip: Don’t let your career concern you too much. Take time to experiment and find what it is you want to do.

Find band members Traditionally, a band is made up of a lead singer, a bassist, a lead guitarist and a drummer.

You don’t have to stick to this formula though.

Add a keyboard player like progressive synth pop band ISO, or a trumpet like ska pop rockers December Streets. Be innovative and scrap the lead guitarist and include two bassists like grunge rock and rollers Beast, up the dance ante by adding a synthesiser like Zebra & Giraffe, or add a loop pedal like Jeremy Loops. It wholly

depends on the sound you want to create. Either way, a good band needs good musicians. The more experienced each band member is, the more the band will thrive. Good musicians can play their instrument, know how to integrate that instrument with the band as a whole and know how to improvise and be versatile.

Kruger’s tip: There should also be, as contradictory as this will now sound, a focus on getting to know your instrument and taking time to just play as opposed to being in a rush to get yourself out there. You will go much further more quickly, and have more fun doing it, if you are confident with what you are doing.

Find a band name Ah, the band name. You can’t go too wrong here. We’ve heard it all. There are, however, band names that are just plain bad. Examples?

The Hobbits of The Shire, Poets and Pornstars, Cerebral Ballzy and Test Icicles. For obvious reasons, these names are catastrophic. Just remember, your band’s name is part of your identity and your brand. Your band name can come from a member’s name (like Bon Jovi), or from a song written by another artist (like Radiohead). It can also come from a pop culture reference, or from looking up random words in the dictionary. Whatever it is, make sure it’s memorable (in a good way) and easy to spell.

Find a practice space Be disciplined and set a regular time to practise, because you need to be able to play your entire repertoire backwards in your sleep.

If the noise won’t bug the neighbours, you can practise at someone’s house. Otherwise, consider a rehearsal space which you can rent hourly or on lockout.

Spread the word You can play the greatest music in the world, but if you don’t market your band properly it will mean absolutely nothing. Being in a band is much like running a business and so, you have to promote it as one. Take professional band photos and make posters and flyers. Most importantly, use social media to your benefit.

Create a Facebook page which includes some of your music. Don’t forget a Twitter account and posting music videos on YouTube. And please, use these platforms to interact with your fans. If someone tweets you, tweet them back. If someone asks you a question, answer it. It makes all the difference. Once you get your feet off the ground, start working on band merchandise to sell at gigs.

Let your music be heard This is a tricky one because there are so many musicians out there who are dying for some stage time. Play at an open-mic night, even if it

is only an acoustic set. Alternatively, try to find a venue that will book new bands. Most places require some level of experience, but don’t give up: someone will give you your break. You just have to be persistent. Also, be realistic. Don’t try to book a venue that is out of your league.

There is a ladder to the top and you can rarely skip steps. You can also enter competitions.

Some of South Africa’s successful Afrikaans bands like Die Melktert Kommissie and Ef-El won the competition Rockspaaider.

Kruger’s tip: I studied in Grahamstown at Rhodes University and one of my major concerns when leaving Jo’burg for Rhodes, was that there would be no space for me to perform musically. In my first few weeks at varsity I heard about an open mic that was happening at a venue called the Old Gaol. I took along my guitar and played a few songs. It turns out that it is much easier in a small town for word to spread and therefore to get more gigs. I obviously did not gig the amount [of times I do] now, but it was certainly something. I played at different events, society evenings, live music nights, benefit concerts, etc.

Record Once you have a collection of good tunes, record them. As already mentioned, put the recordings on your Facebook page or your SoundCloud page. Make a few CDs and really consider handing them out for free at your gigs.

People will pirate your music anyway. It’s a reality that you can’t compete with.

And one more thing: balance your fledgling music career with your studies It would be downright stupid to just neglect your studies in favour of making music. The music industry is tough and it’s probably a good idea to have something to fall back on. The art of balancing the two is even more important if you aren’t seriously considering making a career of music.

Kruger’s tip: One obviously has to keep in mind that one’s studies take time and because it is not a nine-to-five, you have to maintain a sense of discipline. You cannot simply neglect your studies for music. If you are studying, and that is your choice, there is very little point in doing the bare minimum. I simply took gigs when it was viable for me. In some ways it was easier for me to validate taking time for music because I was studying both music and drama and so gigging seemed complementary to the courses. I suppose it is just about balance. At times I got frustrated and wanted more time to fiddle with music, but the time apart did make me appreciate it very much.

Illustration: Simon-Kai Garvie

The first year’s bucket list: where to be seen in 2013

MELISSA PARSONS Every first year needs a list of events that cannot be missed. Time management is a key element when it comes to planning your social year, so choose wisely. Whether you can’t wait to bathe in the sweet dust of Oppikoppi or mosh it out at RAMfest, here’s where to be in 2013.

RAMfest (15-16 March) RAMfest is a two-day alternative rock festival that takes place annually on Riversands Farm in Fourways. The headlining act this year is American punk-rock band Rise Against.

Other international acts that will be performing include metal band Bring Me The Horizon, and Paul Harding and Ben Mount of Pendulum.

RAMfest has been dubbed the “ultimate alternative music festival” and is an experience that alternative music fans of any kind should avoid missing at all costs.

National Arts Festival (27 June-7 July) This year the 39th National Arts Festival will draw a host of students and adults alike to Grahamstown, the home of Rhodes University.

Cue all the artistry you could dream of. This is a festival that attracts art patrons of all ages, but of course there are after parties that the oldies won’t have the energy to attend. The festival is all about innovation and setting the bar for future trends in the world of art. For those of the attendees who are not artistically inclined, the festival serves up a platter of the best local and international music, comedy and opera. This is a festival that will keep you entertained for 11 days, though whether you spend your time watching the shows or in one of the local pubs is all up to you.

Oppikoppi (9-11 August) Ah Oppi. It’s the home away from home that you won’t want to leave once you’ve arrived.

This three-day musical feast has thousands of students flocking to Northam to get their annual fix of local and international talent as well as a party that will leave you bruised, abused and thoroughly euphoric. Don’t forget your wet wipes, tequila and a party hat. None of the acts for 2013 have been announced yet, but be ready to experience a mix of genres and talent that will blow your mind. Oppikoppi will steal your heart, so make sure to keep some tissue paper for the ride home when post-Oppi blues inevitably set in.

Aardklop (2-6 October) Aardklop is the Afrikaans National Arts Festival. The festival has been running for 17 years and offers a variety of drama, dance, music and art. Though Aardklop focuses mainly on Afrikaans language and culture, it is an opportunity for speakers of all languages to be introduced to some diverse genres and

entertainment. The festival prides itself on giving artists the chance to reach a much larger audience than they usually would. This festival promises a more chilled vibe than the others with a craft market and some jazz and blues to keep festival goers relaxed.

Rocking the Daisies (4-7 October) Every year thousands of hippies journey to the Kloof Wine Estate in Darling to experience the entertainment, lifestyle and gourmet food that this eco-friendly festival has to offer. Rocking the Daisies is a festival with a conscience that operates with the motto: “party hard, tread lightly”. Festival goers can expect a range of innovative and environmentally friendly products up for grabs. The festival offers four music stages, a comedy tent and a cinematic dome, just in case the constant partying has you worn out. Can anyone else hear a road trip calling?

Images provided

Entertainment

26 January ‘13

19

A quick guide to picking your trademark beverage

LUSANDA FUTSHANE Why do we drink? Because it’s the sociable thing to do? Because it catalyses our awesome personalities? To drown our sorrows and forget?

Whatever your reason may be, if you’re still reading on, chances are that you’re a fan of alcohol. What you may not have realised is how telling your drink of choice can be about you.

While you might have chosen your beverage of preference based on basic things like taste and cost, the rest of the party looks at you guzzling your fifth Red Bull and tequila and immediately jumps to certain conclusions. (Spoiler: the conclusions aren’t positive.) Perdeby decided to spare the first years the trouble of searching for their staple drinks by prescribing beverages that will match each (most) of their individual characters.

I’ve never had a sip of alcohol in my life Welcome. You’re about to embark on a journey that’ll change your life forever. Or at least the state of your liver. First of all, there’s nothing to be afraid of. You see your friend over there? The one dancing on the table and singing Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” off-key? Do you see how happy he is? Alcohol is responsible for that. If you’re careful, your alcoholic maiden voyage can be a smooth and pleasant one.

Your usual: any cider. Ciders are great in that they come in a vast variety of flavours and are never really strong. They’re like apple juice with a bit of a kick. It’s an excellent way to get a mild buzz that you can handle without recoiling after every sip. If you’re not fussy about taste, opt for a beer. It has more or less the same alcohol content and might promote your reputation to the “seasoned drinker who’s

seen it all, but settled on the familiarity of a cold sweaty beer”. Image is everything.

I only chose BCom because there was no degree in alcohol consumption You require very little coaching (after all, you are the guy butchering “Bohemian Rhapsody” on top of a table). You’ve had a long blurry career with alcohol that could put Lindsay Lohan to shame, and it’s never a party until you arrive armed with half a bottle of Stroh Rum and a signature line that’s in the neighbourhood of “vat so, dorskeel!”

Your usual: the legendary Jägerbomb.

You’ve probably heard of it: Jägermeister corralled by a mote of Red Bull. This is more of a shot than a drink but, let’s face it, you’re not the type to calmly sip on anything. The fiery punch of Jägermeister coupled with a caffeine jolt is exactly what you need to keep you going

through any party. A word of advice: if you find yourself sobbing about your ex into a barman’s shoulder, you should consider making water your new usual.

I hate the taste of alcohol but I’m crippled by peer pressure It’s a dilemma that many face: to fold your arms and make intelligent conversation or to join the blathering drunks balancing a drink in each hand? Some people like the party vibe but not necessarily the drinking bit. They fear the scornful looks they get when they announce that they’ll only be drinking water or coke. “Coke?

What will we mix our brandy with?” is the usual response.

Your usual: a single vodka mixed with anything else. Vodka is a miraculous spirit (in both the alcoholic and divine sense).

When mixed in the right proportions it can go completely unnoticed to the taste buds, all while doing its intended job. Another great positive about vodka is its unique property of being able to mix well with anything. Sprite, orange juice, ice tea – anything. Also, once you’re thoroughly drunk you have the perfect excuse to whip out that Russian accent you’ve been dying to try.

I have a very choosy palate Shame. All this cheap alcohol at your disposal and all you really want is a 2005 chardonnay. Firstly, stay away from parties.

You’ll probably offend almost everyone there with your discerning interests. Secondly, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t still get wasted.

Just maybe lie about your age so that people don’t think you’re the pretentious twentysomething who misread The Great Gatsby.

Your usual: aged wine or whisky. There’s really no use prescribing anything specific for you, because you probably already have a favourite distiller and a favourite year. The only realistic advice you could benefit from is to stay in your financial lane. Aged wines and whiskies aren’t usually in the ordinary student’s budget and you might find yourself licking the bottom of your last glass while your friends are only on their first six-pack. Again, shame.

Photo: Gloria Mbogoma

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26 Januarie ‘13

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26 January ‘13

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Where to have a capital time in the capital city HEIN PAPENFUS

You’ve just registered, got your awkward (they always are) picture taken for your first varsity student card and you’ve had a long hard look at your timetable. Feel like a university student yet? What you’ve been waiting and working for has finally arrived: freedom. But freedom can be a daunting prospect. Where? When? Who with?

The options associated with this newly found freedom are endless. So to prevent the worst of this sudden onset of confusion, Perdeby offers a guide to the weird and wonderful night life that can be experienced until the early hours in our beloved capital, Pretoria. Tread lightly, she bites.

Livingstones Where? 1215 Burnett Street, Hatfield When? Literally any day of the week, Livingstones does not discriminate. Castle draughts are R18 between 16:00 and 18:00.

Who with? Again, Livingstones welcomes all. The dirty and dingy facilities perfectly embody the beautiful student pub atmosphere that the older generation miss and the younger generation yearns for. Whether your thing is playing Deer Hunter or shooting some pool or just having a couple of drinks, Livingstones is the perfect way to unwind or wind up and warm up for a night at Hatfield Square.

Eastwoods Where? 391 Eastwood Street, Arcadia When? There is no better place in Pretoria to watch the rugby on a Saturday than at Eastwoods, provided you get a seat.

Who with? Eastwoods is more of an upmarket sports bar, so you’re going to bump into the obligatory group of lawyers drowning their sorrows or flashing some cash. Having said that, students do fit into the scene quite well, with girls running around in skimpy cocktail dresses and guys taking advantage of the Castle draughts at R35 a litre.

Arcade Empire Where? 265 The Highway Street, Equestria When? Whenever there’s a gig. Seriously, if you’re into the local music scene, you’re going to want to keep your eyes peeled and ears pricked for any upcoming events at Arcade.

Wrestlerish, Van Coke Kartel and Taxi Violence are just a few of the bands to have graced the

stage – in one night.

Who with? Any person that is a South African music fan will fit right in at Arcade.

This is an awesome place that is not to be ignored. Go on. Do it.

Trademarx Where? Corner of Lynnwood and Kirkness Streets, next to Loftus When? Tuesday nights are student nights at Trademarx, so anyone with a student card gets in for free. And more often than not a 5FM DJ will make an appearance.

Who with? Trademarx is more of a club

scene, with buff guys in tight T-shirts twostepping all over the place and scantily clad girls perched on high heels sipping on technicolour cocktails. It is a must see for first years though, as all those not allowed in Hatfield Square initially flock to student night.

Specials include half-price cocktails between 14:00 and 18:00 and a satiating litre of Castle goes for R30.

Bravo Pizzeria Where? Corner of Jan Shoba and South Streets, Hatfield When? Wednesday night is live music night,

or it was, or it is? No one knows anymore: legal battles about noise levels have clouded the water. Live music or not, Wednesday nights at Bravo’s should definitely be on the bucket list of any Pretoria newbie.

Who with? Anyone. Bravo’s is possibly the most relaxed place on the planet. The pizza will blow your mind and the booze is free. That’s right, free. But that’s because you have to bring your own booze as they don’t sell liquor.

Tiger Tiger Where? 376 January Masilela, Garsfontein When? Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Who with? Again, this is more of a club scene, so if you’re into square toes, popped collars and high heels then this is the place to be. Famous DJs, massive crowds and themed parties combine as a recipe for a crazy night out.

Hatfield Square Where? 1115 Burnett Street, Hatfield When? Every single day of the year.

Who with? Anybody and everybody. Fact: years ago town planners ensured that all streets in Pretoria channel night time traffic to Hatfield Square. Ok, that’s not true, but it feels like it.

Hatfield Square is the stuff of legends, any old Tukkie worth their salt will tell you. Names are made and shamed on this unholy patch of earth.

DropZone (Mordor) Where? In the Square, atop Mount Doom (the big staircase).

When? Every morning after 02:00, when all other bars are closed.

Who with? If all roads lead to the Square then the only staircase in Hatfield Square leads to DropZone. This is a fact. No one really likes Mordor, but somehow everybody ends up there when the bars close and it really is time to go home. You haven’t lived until you’ve been thrown out of DropZone only to see the agonising rays of the morning sun arching over the res rooftops. Goosebumps.

This guide is exactly what the name implies, merely a guide. The smaller unique watering holes that you encounter on your travels are what memories are made of. So set forth, and be free.

Illustration: René Lombard

Student life through rose-tinted glasses: Hollywood versus reality MELISSA PARSONS Hollywood may have you thinking that as a student you’re heading for a few Van Wilderesque years of solid partying and hook-ups.

Unfortunately, this is not (always) the case. In your first year you may find yourself cursing all the perfectly groomed students who seem to party their lives away on screen. After all, university is about fun and socialising, right? Wrong. Those things are part of student life, but need to be forgotten when it’s time to hit the books or the sports field. Don’t be afraid, Perdeby is here to save you from any misconceptions you have formed about university life.

Movies like American Pie and Van Wilder are full of stereotypical characters. Women, aside from the hot yet ambitious nerd, are portrayed as mere accessories to be displayed on the arms of the man who can consume the most alcohol without passing out. In American Pie: The Naked Mile, Eric Stifler and his buddies are surrounded by girls who can’t wait to strip down and make their every sexual fantasy come true. The Stiflers are living the dream. In reality though, most students who have the capacity to get into a tertiary education institution enjoy some stimulating conversation, with their clothes on. Freedom of expression is a right, but running naked through campus may not be the best way to exercise it.

In Hollywood movies, students spend a minimal amount of time in class and a great amount of time partying. Van Wilder certainly enjoyed his raucous seven-year college experience. If you follow this example, the chances of you passing are slim to none. Van

Wilder had an assistant, you don’t. The results of your hedonistic behaviour will fall squarely on your shoulders. Classes are not always compulsory, but you need to remember the

primary reason you came to university: to get a degree. So by all means, go drinking until you can’t stand or dance your night away at Hatfield Square but just make sure that you will be able

to get yourself to class the next day. Coffee helps.

Sororities and fraternities are portrayed as one big alcohol-fuelled family that have your back. In Legally Blonde, Elle Woods and her “sisters” reside in the perfect nest of pink and their only worries are boys and their hair.

In reality, res can be scary. You don’t know anyone, so the “sisterhood” is yet to be formed, or you have yet to be incorporated into it. Just hang in there – it won’t be long until you make friends who will give you all the support and guidance a first year needs. Friends who will walk into your room without knocking, wear your clothes and help you balance after you’ve had one too many cups of punch.

In films such as Van Wilder: Party Liason, varsity is portrayed as the destination rather than a stop along the way to success. Wilder is in his seventh year at Coolidge College and he shows no desire to leave. In fact, he makes sure that he doesn’t graduate. There are students who get hooked on the social atmosphere surrounding Tuks and Hatfield Square. The idea of an endless party certainly sounds appealing, but unlike Van Wilder who has daddy to pay the bills, real-life students may have to juggle jobs and university to pay for their education or other expenses.

At the end of the day, university is supposed to be the place where you find yourself. Don’t forget what you’re really here for but don’t take it too seriously either. If you work hard you’ll get to party hard too. So focus when it’s necessary and when it’s not go “Stifler” and drink your worries away in Hatfield Square.

Photo: Brad Donald

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26 Januarie ‘13

Online platforms

Illustration: Simon-Kai Garvie

Fun & Games

you should be devoting all your time to right now is yourself. Seriously.

7. Eat junk food all day.

How do you think first-year syndrome became a thing? Do yourself a favour and remember to eat home-cooked meals once in a while. Your body will thank you.

MARGEAUX ERASMUS This is Perdeby’s Top 10, a place where you can find invaluable advice throughout the year.

2013’s first Top 10 lists certain mishaps almost every first year goes through when they start university. Here are the top 10 don’ts for first years: 10. Dye your hair luminous pink.

Radical hair colour may seem like the perfect way to be that new you, but some colours just weren’t meant to match the human complexion.

Not to mention the effects it can have on your locks. If your hair is turning to grass, maybe it’s time to return to more natural shades.

9. Get a drunken tattoo.

Tattoos can be epic, but they can also be downright ridiculous. And getting “mom” tattooed on your arm, or a barbwire, or Justin Bieber, or a tramp stamp is definitely not one of those. Put some thought behind what you ink. And for the love of all things in this world, check tattoos written in a foreign language. Just because the tattoo guy says that the Chinese word says “freedom” doesn’t mean it really does.

8. Get married.

Don’t get married to someone you just met.

The freedom of varsity life may let you think you’re ready for a spouse, but the only thing

23

26 January ‘13

6. Guys, don’t grow bangs.

Just because you no longer have to keep your hair short doesn’t mean “mop head” is in fashion. If you’re going to go through a long hair phase at least have it styled. The grown-out school boy cut really doesn’t make you look like Johnny Depp.

5. Complain about how hard your degree is.

It’s your first year. Get over it.

4. Girls, tights are not pants.

Don’t exchange your trousers for tights. If we can see the curve of your behind and other unmentionables then maybe a skirt/shorts/very very long shirt is needed.

3. Join a cult.

Individuality is a beautiful thing. Don’t throw it away just because so-and-so seems awesome right now. Think for yourself. P.S: Sometimes res can border on cultism. Just saying.

Pssst...

A fact that you’ll quickly learn at Tuks is that students who live in res and are part of day houses belong to their own species. They’re all animals distinguished by their bright and scary colours and exhibit territorial and ravenous behaviour. Thankfully, Pssst… has been tracking them all for years and can help make sense of their behaviour.

Jasmyn girls are the foragers. They’re always hunting for men.

Pssst… hears that Kiaat’s mascot is a tiger.

But we’re not sure since they’re so tame.

Pssst… would like to know whether Klaradyn was purposely androgynous when they decided to be lions instead of lionesses.

Maybe they can teach Kiaat a thing or two about being wild. Inca, if you don’t know what androgynous means, let Pssst... be the first to teach you the value of a dictionary.

And Pssst… thinks Olympus should RAG with Katjiepiering to become tougher. But then again, maybe Taaibos is their perfect match.

Olienhout think they are rhinos, so Pssst… wouldn’t mind if they also slowly started going extinct. The Sonop vultures will be there to eat

their carcasses, and steal their horns to add to their stolen street sign collection.

Pssst… thinks Nerina should stop believing in ghosts and start spending time on the field (we’re counting those love handles), and that Curlitzia should close the books and open a bottle or two.

Pssst… reckons Boekenhout are more akin to buffalo than to ysters, considering that they attack anything that comes near them, including their house father and first years.

The Lilium girls are exactly like geckos, no one ever sees them coming, and when they do they scream in terror.

Pssst… doesn’t understand the rivalry between Mopanie and Maroela, there are easier ways to disguise a bromance.

Pssst… feels sorry for Madelief, but more sorry for their jottirs, the only desirable thing about them.

Pssst… wonders why no one has stolen Boekenhout’s tower from Erika. Unicorns must be scary.

Pssst… really hopes Kollege will amount to something this year. Shame.

That’s all Pssst… has to say. If Pssst... didn’t mention you, you should work on that.

Send Pssst... tips to perdeby@up.ac.za or m.perdeby.co.za.

2. Fall pregnant.

Just because 16-year-olds are doing it, doesn’t mean you should. How are you supposed to travel the world with a pram and crateload of diapers. Be wise, condomise.

1. Get a nipple piercing.

It doesn’t matter how cool you think it is while you’re wasted. Getting a nipple piercing is never a good idea. Ever.

Hendro van der Merwe

myrestweets.co.za @myrestweets Here is the 2013 editorial.

Can you match each caricature to the corresponding face?

Perdeby 30 000 students read Perdeby To advertise contact carel.willemse@up.ac.za

www.facebook.com/perdeby @perdebynews www.perdeby.co.za

Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/perdeby Taila Casquinha

24

Sport

26 Januarie ‘13

Staying in shape with Tuks gyms CHARLES SIWELE Whether you are a fitness fanatic or just looking to stay healthy, the University of Pretoria offers two quality fitness facilities suited for just about everyone.

Tuks’s High Performance Centre (HPC) hosts the Sports Science Gym, which is home to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.

Located on Tuks’s Sports campus, the centre offers members a number of services. These include assessments and personalised training programmes by experienced fitness and health experts.

The HPC is open seven days a week. Between Mondays and Fridays, it is open between 05:30 and 20:30. It is open between 07:00 and 13:00 on Saturdays and between 07:00 and 12:00 on Sundays.

The Tuks Student Gym (TSG), also located on Tuks Sport campus, is the more affordable option when compared to the HPC, but still offers members access to quality workout facilities, including access to a personal trainer. The gym offers reasonable membership fees with student and non-student prices.

Members can pay monthly or make a once-off payment.

Monthly debit order billing is also available. If you join after January and pay the once-off amount, you can expect to have R100 will be deducted off the full amount for every month in the year that has passed.

TSG also reserves special discount prices for national and provincial athletes, who pay R60 and R100 per month, respectively.

The two establishments operate separately from one another, but complement each other by catering for a diverse variety of people from the surrounding area.

Residence sports: a starting point to the top YVETTE MASHEGO Residences provide students with exciting new experiences, and residence sport is an opportunity to build lifelong friendships and learn the importance of teamwork, respect and commitment.

Traditionally, all residences compete in various RAG games, such as touch rugby (for the girls as well), drastoel, (where participants carry a team member on a chair running across the sports grounds and the Silly Olympics. In this fun version of the Olympic Games, “athletes” build puzzles, carry water in the boots they are wearing and fill buckets of water using their hands. A lot of bruises and falls can be expected, although this only adds to the fun.

The first official event on the residences’ sports calendar is the Ienk Athletics where first years in res can show off their talent on the track.

The male residences have the opportunity to show off their skills in the Steinhoff Koshuisrugby competition. This forms part of the FNB Varsity Cup and residences from all participating universities can enter. Mopanie won Tuks Koshuisrugby league last year.

The Valentine’s Day netball and basketball tournament is one way to get your heart racing in February and sets the tone for the res netball and basketball leagues. Taaibos and Erika won the 2012 basketball tournament with Klaradyn winning the netball league.

Other sports that form part of the res leagues include cricket (only for the male residences), hockey, football, swimming, volleyball, squash, tennis, badminton and even chess.

In 2012, Mopanie stood head and shoulders above the rest and won the cricket and rugby res leagues. Kiaat and Zinnia won the soccer res league last year and ensured that fans were glued to their seats until the final whistle.

One of the most exciting fixtures on the residence sports calendar is the intervarsity tournament against the University of Johannesburg. Residences who do well in the res league compete against UJ residences and attend socials afterwards.

Come watch the Varsity Cup live at Barristers

Buy one get one free

on all local beers, ciders and spirits between 4pm and 6pm

Mondays

Buy one get one free on all Main Meals

Varsity Promo Girls Free Shooters Great Atmosphere Big Screen West End lifestyle and Decor centre Cnr Zambesi Drive and Veronica road, Montanapark

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Photo: Brad Donald

Sport

26 January ‘13

25

TuksCricket dominate club scene NATALIE THOMPSON

TuksCricket have proven to be one of the most successful Tuks clubs in 2012. The club was crowned TuksSport Club of the Year (shared with TuksNetball) at the TuksSport award evening held in October last year.

Based on their past success, cricket lovers should be excited about the 2012/2013 season.

The 2011/2012 season was a busy one for the players. The season began in December 2011 at the University Sports South Africa week. Having dominated the competition, Tuks ended up sharing the trophy with Maties, even though they topped the log due to their overall higher net run rate.

Tuks also successfully defended their Northerns Cricket Union (NCU) Knockout title against CBC Old Boys in March. Tuks won the closely-contested final by two wickets.

March also saw Tuks win the NCU Premier League for the second consecutive season. The team managed to remain unbeaten for 42 games.

The Tuks 1 team continued their success in the National Club Championship, where they represented the Northerns. In an impressive final held at SuperSport Park in April, Tuks ended their remarkable season by beating Maties by six wickets.

Tuks’s 2012/2013 season began last September with the preliminary matches of the NCU Premier League. The league will continue into March this year, with the winners representing the Northerns in the 2013 National Club Championships. As defending champions, Tuks are the favourites to win the league.

Perdeby spoke to Pierre de Bruyn, TuksCricket’s head coach, about the upcoming season and what he expects. He said that

they “have had a good start to the season [so far]. This season will be a defining season for the club in many aspects. Tuks [has] lost a few senior players that have moved on to the next level and this season will give opportunities to young talented players in the club to also make a breakthrough in their careers.”

De Bruyn said that TuksCricket is not over-confident, “The competition will be a lot harder,” he said, “We have set high standards the last two seasons and other teams have realized that

they will have to meet the benchmark to compete. We are ranked the number one club team in South Africa and will work [hard] to keep it that way. The players are well aware of the challenges ahead of them this season and I have no doubt that we can have another very successful season. The key for us will be to identify the pressure situations and counter them.”

Photo provided

2012: A vintage year for TuksSport CARLO RP COCK TuksSport enjoyed a highly successful year in 2012, winning silverware in several sporting codes and producing some memorable moments. Few could have predicted the level of success TuksSport reached last year, winning everything from national club championships to Olympic gold medals.

One of the first highlights of the year came in April, when Tuks 1 won the Varsity Cup final at Tuks Rugby Stadium to secure the club’s first Varsity Cup title. Tuks built on an impressive year in 2011, when the club won the National Club Championships and Carlton Cup trophies.

In football, AmaTuks gained promotion to South Africa’s top football division, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) after winning the National First Division (NFD) in May. Having failed to even qualify for the promotion play-offs in the 2010/11 season, AmaTuks recruited several new players and began the 2011/12 season with the clear aim of gaining promotion to the PSL. After starting the season with an impressive 17-match unbeaten run, Steve Barker’s side overcame a mid-season wobble to finish

first on the NFD log, gaining promotion to the PSL. After securing promotion, Barker was adamant that AmaTuks would be competitive in the PSL. “We’re not just going there to make up the numbers. We’re a good team and I think we can be competitive,” Barker told Perdeby.

Those words were proven to be true at the start of the 2012/13 PSL season, when AmaTuks went unbeaten in their first six games, holding three-time PSL champions Supersport United to a draw at home before beating Moroka Swallows 2-3 in Dobsonville and thrashing Ajax Cape Town 1-5 in Cape Town.

AmaTuks’ flying start to the season was ended by Orlando Pirates when the defending champions beat AmaTuks 1-3 at Loftus to hand Barker’s side its first defeat of the season.

Few TuksSport clubs enjoyed more success in 2012 than TuksCricket. Inspired by coach Pierre De Bruyn, Tuks 1 claimed an incredible four trophies in 2012, winning the National Club Championship, the USSA Championship, the Northerns Cricket Union (NCU) Premier League and the NCU 20/Twenty Knockout League. Having won all trophies available to them in 2012, TuksCricket will have to work hard if they are to repeat

this success this year.

The highlight of the 2012 sporting year was the Olympic Games in London, which saw South Africa win a total of six medals, the country’s best medals tally at a post-isolation Games.

Tuks athletes won three of those medals, with sprint canoeing sensation Bridgitte Hartley winning bronze in the 500m K1 event and the rowing team of Sizwe Ndlovu, James Thompson, Matthew Brittain and John Smith winning gold in the Men’s Lightweight Four event. Swimmer Cameron van der Burgh, who trains at Tuks, won gold in the 100m breaststroke, setting a new world record along the way. Tuks’s Oscar “Blade Runner” Pistorius became the first double leg amputee to compete at the Olympic Games when he ran in the 400m heats in London.

Pistorius managed to qualify for the semi-finals, but did not progress any further. He went on to dominate the Paralympics, as expected, winning two gold medals and one silver medal.

With Olympic glory, PSL status, a rugby double and a cricket quadruple all coming in the space of 12 months, 2012 was a vintage year for TuksSport, with levels of success that may not be seen again for some time.

Find your way around Sport campus MAXINE TWADDLE

As a Tuks student you’ll spend time on UP’s sport campus, whether you’re watching or playing sport.

The sports grounds are down the road from Hatfield campus.

The main entrance is on South Street, just off Jan Shoba (previously Duncan) Street.

Once you are through the gates, two of the most important places on the campus are on either side of you. To the right is the Indoor Sports Centre, which accommodates halls for gymnastics, judo, karate, table tennis, basketball, badminton, volleyball and fencing. There is also a climbing wall and indoor swimming pool. In the centre is a sport laboratory with a rehabilition gym.

The Rembrandt hall has 3 000 permanent seats and has courts for netball, basketball and badminton. This is a multi-purpose hall, so it can be used for functions and exhibitions.

To the left is Tuks Stadium, which hosts important football and rugby matches. The stadium can hold nearly 10 000 people, with 4 500 permanent seats and embankments which can accommodate 4 000 people. There is also a cricket oval and netball and basketball courts, as well as an athletics track.

The High Performance Centre (HPC) is on the other side of these facilities. It is accessed through the Burnett Street entrance.

If you go through this entrance, to your left are rugby fields.

There is an athletics grass at the top of this road.

If you turn left at the athletics grass, you will be able to access the tennis courts, football, cricket and hockey pitches, the swimming pool complex and the hockey AstroTurf.

The RAG and Experimental Farms are also on Sport campus.

Illustration: Simon-Kai Garvie

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26 Januarie ‘13

Varsity Cup for dummies DAN LOMBARD The Varsity Cup is an exciting way to experience university rugby.

UP-Tuks 1 are the defending champions of the FNB Varsity Cup after they beat Maties (the University of Stellenbosch) 29-21 in last season’s final. The tournament is definitely something to be watched this year, but for those of you who don’t know the ins-and-outs of the game, Perdeby has put together an easy to understand guide to the tournament.

The competition consists of a round robin stage where eight teams play each other once.

After this stage, the top four teams on the log advance to the knockout stage with the top two teams being awarded home semi-finals.

The team which is bottom of the log is automatically relegated to the Varsity Shield, a second-tier competition. The winner of the Varsity Shield takes the place of the relegated Varsity Cup team, while the Varsity Shield runner-up plays the seventh ranked team in the Varsity Cup. The winner of this match earns the right to play in the following year’s Varsity Cup. The University of Witwatersrand won the 2012 Varsity Shield when they beat the Central University of Technology (CUT) 19-17.

Tshwane University of Technology finished bottom of the log and were relegated to the Varsity Shield. The University of Cape Town managed to stay in the Varsity Cup by beating

CUT in the promotion relegation match.

The organisers of the Varsity Cup are no strangers to experimentation. In 2012, with a special dispensation from the International Rugby Board (IRB), the scoring system was changed in an attempt to promote scoring tries, rather than kicking for posts.

Under the new rules, a conversion went from being worth two points to three points, while penalty goals and drop goals went from being three points to two points. In terms of log points, Varsity Cup follows the same points system as Super Rugby. Four points are awarded for a win; two points are awarded for a draw and bonus points are awarded if four or more tries are scored, or if the losing team loses by less than seven points.

Bart Schoeman, forwards coach for the Varsity Cup, said the different scoring system has not been as successful as it was hoped to be. “There were definitely more tries scored in the 2012 season but this was due to the increased occurrence of kicking for the corners and scoring off a lineout [rather] than open, running rugby. Personally, I think the eight point [scoring system] has not achieved what it was meant to achieve, as the teams still played the same.”

“Tuks 1 has a very good chance of defending their title in 2013, as the university has a vision to be the best rugby-playing university in the world, and has made the necessary preparations to do so,” Schoeman said.

Perdeby Sport Awards

MAXINE TWADDLE As you’ll soon realise, Perdeby is essential to your survival at Tuks. Without it, you know nothing (especially if you don’t read the Sport section). Because you couldn’t read it last year, you missed out on a lot of important sport content, as 2012 was one of the best years

for sport at Tuks. To help you catch up and to celebrate the university’s achievements we’ve summarised last year’s highs and lows in the Perdeby Sport Awards.

Best Team Award TuksCricket’s Assupol Tuks 1, because they won four trophies last year.

Best-looking Award The lovely Cayla Esterhuysen, the 2012 Miss Varsity Cup, because she’s unbelievably beautiful and Tuks swimmer Cameron van der Burgh because he wears (and looks good in) a speedo.

Best Res Award Mopanie, because they won both the rugby and cricket res leagues. Athleticism comes in handy at their annual jock run.

Awesome Fans Award The AmaTuks fans, because they have the most creative headgear.

Best Match Award 2011 FNB Varsity Cup final, because FNB UPTuks beat FNB Maties and we love being better than Stellenbosch.

Best Moment Award The crowd chanting “Tuks of Niks” at the FNB Varsity Cup final, because being proud of your university is a must.

Pointless Competition Award Drastoel, because building a chair and making someone sit on it while they’re carried across a field sounds like a school camp. Although you probably weren’t drunk then.

Photo: Hendro van der Merwe

AmaTuks join football’s top flight AB BASSON

The University of Pretoria’s football team, AmaTuks, is competing in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) for the first time in the club’s history after winning South Africa’s second-tier football competition, the National First Division (NFD).

AmaTuks gained promotion to the PSL automatically by winning the 2011/2012 NFD league. The PSL is contested by 16 teams from across the country and is South Africa’s top football league. Notable teams that compete in the PSL are defending champions Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns.

AmaTuks finished the 2011/2012 season on top of the NFD log, 4 points ahead of Chippa United. AmaTuks finished the 30-game season with 15 wins, 10 draws and 5 losses, scoring 45 goals in the process.

AmaTuks began their maiden PSL season

with a six-game unbeaten streak. Their first game of the season was against Maritzburg United, which was drawn 1-1, with David Radebe scoring the team’s first goal in South Africa’s top football league. AmaTuks’ first win came with a 1-0 victory over Golden Arrows in their second game of the season. They went on to beat Soweto team Moroka Swallows 3-2 and draw against Tshwane rivals SuperSport United and Platinum Stars. AmaTuks’ most notable victory came in the 5-1 drubbing of Ajax Cape Town in the sixth game of the season. Star midfielder Aubrey Ngoma scored 4 of the goals.

AmaTuks’ brilliant start to the season was ended by a 3-1 defeat at home to Orlando Pirates. They were also eliminated from the Telkom Knockout Cup after losing 1-0 to Mamelodi Sundowns in the first round of the competition.

Photo: Kobus Barnard

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League code: 2345600-488540

The best sports you’ve never heard of MAXINE TWADDLE TuksSport offers a wide variety of sport, ranging from mainstream sports like rugby to lesser-known sports like underwater hockey.

Although rugby, athletics, cricket and football are priority sports at Tuks, alternative sports are becoming more popular.

Alternative sports do not require as much athleticism as more traditional sports. Not every student is built for contact sport, and alternative sports provide options for those who still want to participate in organised sport.

Archery’s popularity in South Africa is growing fast. The sport involves shooting arrows from a bow at a target. It requires discipline, skill, precision and stamina.

TuksArchery offers recurve-target archery and compound-target archery, depending on which type of bow you have. It caters for competitive and social participants.

Aikido is a form of martial arts. The word can be translated to “the way of harmonious spirit”. Aikido allows practitioners to defend themselves without injuring their attacker.

TuksAikido practices three times a week and aims to “contribute to the quality of our society by encouraging a chivalric and moral code of behaviour,” according to its page on the TuksSport website.

Badminton is the fastest racket sport in the world. It is played on a court with a net and participants hit a shuttlecock. TuksBadminton hosts the annual TuksBadminton Open, in

which South Africa’s top badminton players compete.

TuksCheerleading was the first cheerleading programme offered by a South African university. TuksCheerleading has produced Blue Bulls Babes and offers classes in conditioning, dance and spirit techniques.

Chess has been revived as a popular activity at Tuks. Chess is one of the world’s most popular games. It requires tactical thinking and great concentration.

Exploration is an alternative sport for people looking for adventure. It includes rock climbing, hiking and adventure racing.

Lifesaving is a competitive sport where participants compete in skills, speed and teamwork challenges. Participants must be good

swimmers and must be able to keep calm in pressured situations.

Taekwondo is another martial art offered by the university. It originates from military combat techniques. The sport focuses on speed, accuracy and strength, so participants have to match mental strength with physical fitness.

Underwater hockey is a non-contact sport played underwater. Players wear diving masks, fins and snorkels while they try to manoeuvre a puck across the bottom of a swimming pool into a goal.

For more information about all the sports Tuks has to offer, and for details regarding fees and membership, visit the TuksSports website (www.up.ac.za/sport) or visit Sport campus, on South Street, Hatfield.

Sport 27 26 January ‘13 Perdeby’s guide to balancing your studies with an active lifestyle NATALIE THOMPSON Balancing university work and another facet of university life can often be an overwhelming and challenging task. Add sport to the mix with training times, matches and other events, and it could easily become a road to academic disaster.

To help you balance the demands of academics and sport, Perdeby spoke to Tuks students who have found a way to participate in sport while keeping up with their studies.

Athlete and fourth-year civil engineering student Ashleigh Hlungwani said, “It comes naturally to me, because I have been doing sport since Grade 1. But I would say prioritise what is most important.” Hlungwani said that sport is important at university, because it relaxes your mind.

Athlete Sonnika Knoetze, an Honours student in the Faculty of Education, advised students not to procrastinate. “If you need to do something, do it now,” she said.

Dave Mogotlane, Tuks cricketer and secondyear psychology student, told Perdeby, “Managing to balance sport and studies in first year is very challenging but it is possible through good time management. It’s important to plan ahead and distinguish clearly between time for training, studies and free time. Sometimes you may need to sacrifice some of your social life to put extra work into your studies or training but it is well worth it in the long run.”

Residence sport provides the opportunity to get to know members of your res and other residences, and is also a good way to avoid cabin fever.

Karin Jonker is a second-year geology student and plays netball for her res. “The two or three hours you take a week to do sport will help you relieve stress and feel part of your res.” She said that she finds it easy to balance studies and sport and added that doing sport is better than “taking a nap”.

Second-year environmental sciences student Antoinette van Niekerk agrees that sport is an

important part of student life. “I recommend sports as it helps with first-year syndrome and meeting new people. And it’s a nice vibe.”

Most students interviewed agreed that successfully balancing the two activities can only be achieved through equal commitment to both,

Robinson: “I didn’t handle first year well” ISHMAEL MOHLABE Just like other first-year university students, professional hockey player Jonathan Robinson had to learn to deal with the freedom university life offered. Caught up in his new-found independence, Robinson said his dream of turning professional was nearly crushed.

As a Tuks undergraduate, Robinson had to learn how to handle the freedom during his first year. “I don’t think I handled my first year too well. I got caught up in the freedom of not being at home,” he said. Robinson credited the TuksHockey coaching staff and older players for helping him to focus.

“I became friends with some of the older guys in the Tuks Hockey Club, who have been around the block, and they showed me the ropes and I started getting everything in order.”

Born in Bartonville, Cape Town, Robinson started playing hockey at the age of six. “I have always been around hockey,” he said. Robinson is currently based in Belgium, where he plays for Braxgata Hockey Club. The midfielder told Perdeby that the opportunity to play overseas is

the best thing that has happened to him. He said, “I keep thinking it’s not often that you get an opportunity to be a professional sportsman and to play abroad.” Robinson has already achieved two of his career goals, playing for the South African national side and representing the country at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Robinson was instrumental in South Africa’s 2-2 draw against Britain during the Olympics. Keeping fans on the edge of their seats, he beat three defenders to score the goal which briefly put South Africa in the lead.

Because of his busy schedule, the 26-year-old still has to finish eight modules before he can graduate from Tuks.

Robinson hopes to see first-year students balance their studies and activities. “First years should make sure that they find balance between their social life, their studies, and their sport. If there is something that means everything to you, it should be worth any sacrifice,” he said.

Image: www.morethanthegames.co.uk

but that it is rewarding if you can do it.

Exercise can help you enjoy university life to the full. According to health24.com, exercise has added benefits that students don’t always consider but should take into account, such as reduced cholesterol and blood pressure, which relieves

stress on your heart. Exercise improves blood flow and therefore prevents blood clots, which cause strokes and heart attacks. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and depression, which are a part of student life.

Another benefit of exercise is that it improves your sex life, as the brain is the most important sexual organ. Stressed and depressed people battle to enjoy a healthy sex life.

With so much work to do as a student, you often neglect exercise and with all the fast food you’re (probably) eating, your knowledge might not be the only thing that expands while at university. To help you avoid first-year syndrome, Perdeby has included some exercises you can incorporate into your busy schedule. You don’t even have to leave your room: • 20 push-ups. Use your arms to lower and raise your body.

• 30 crunches. Lie on your back with your knees bent and lift your shoulders towards your knees.

• 30 burpees. Stand and then drop into a squatting position. Quickly jump backwards into a plank position before returning to the squatting and finally standing positions.

• 20 split jumps. Stand with one foot forward and the other back with your knees slightly bent. Bend your legs more to dip your body down.

• 30 tricep dips. Hold the edge of a chair or table and bend your elbows to lower yourself to the ground.

• 30 jack knives. Lie on your back and bring your knees to your chest while lifting your shoulders at the same time.

• 20 tuck jumps. Hold the edge of a chair or table and bend your elbows to lower yourself to the ground.

Illustration: Modeste Goutondji

A moment with Victor Matfield DAN LOMBARD Tuks has been home to many sporting legends.

One such legend is Victor Matfield.

One of South Africa’s greatest rugby players, he began an accounting course at Tuks during his early rugby years.

After playing for Tuks, Matfield went on to achieve rugby success both locally and internationally. He won three Currie Cup and three Super 14 trophies with the Blue Bulls, and two TriNations championships, a series victory over the British and Irish Lions and the 2007 IRB Rugby World Cup with the Springboks.

Perdeby spoke to Matfield about university rugby and being a first year.

How would you describe your years as a student at the University of Pretoria?

University was great fun, sometimes a little too much fun. I studied accounting and during my first two years I managed to juggle my studying and rugby commitments. Third year proved to be a yard too far and I did not complete my studies.

Were you in a residence? If so, how did you experience res life?

I was in Boekenhout and really enjoyed hostel life. Boekenhout is a proud rugby hostel but I only got to play for the Boekenhout first team once.

What is your fondest memory of your university days?

My fondest memory of university was being selected for the Tuks first team. I went on to play for two years.

What do you think of the 2012 Tuks Varsity Cup-winning team?

I think they had an unbelievable season. It is pleasing to see that the Blue Bulls and Tuks worked very hard to ensure Varsity Cup success. It is also great that the younger generation of rugby players are showing an interest in studying towards a degree as it is something that is not focused on within rugby.

What are your predictions for the 2013 Varsity Cup? I believe that Tuks can defend their title. The structures that Nollas [Nollis Marais, Tuks 1 Varsity Cup coach] and the rest of the coaching staff have put in place will only do good for the

team. Tuks 1 trains with the Bulls in the off-season, which gives the players the opportunity to develop their game.

What advice can you offer the first-year students of 2013?

University is one of the most exciting times of a person’s life and I encourage the new students to enjoy their varsity life, but they must also remember that they are here to study and they will need to prioritise their activities.

Photo: Hendro van der Merwe

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Tuks’s most successful rugby season

KATLEGO PHEEHA With two major titles won, last year was TuksRugby’s most successful season ever.

Tuks started the season on a high note by winning the 2012 FNB Varsity Cup for the first time. The final was played at the TuksRugby Stadium in front of a crowd of 12 000 people.

Tuks solidified its status as one of the leading rugby universities in the country by losing only one match in the Varsity Cup competition and then beating Maties (the University of Stellenbosch) 29-21 to claim the Varsity Cup title. At the final, Tuks fly-half Wesley Dunlop was named Player of the Tournament, and Clayton Blommetjies was named Backline

Player of the Tournament.

After winning Varsity Cup, TuksRugby aimed to win all three major competitions. They went on to be undefeated in the University Sports South Africa Rugby Championship, and beat NWU-Pukke from the North West University 29-17 in the final. This was the first time Tuks won the tournament. Fly-half Willie du Plessis was named Player of the Tournament.

After the tournament, Tuks 1 team manager Morris Gilbert said that “the University of Pretoria can now [lay] claim to having the best club team in South Africa.”

Tuks failed to defend their title in the next major tournament, the Carlton Cup, even though they were leading the game with

only four minutes left to play. Tuks won the tournament in 2010 and 2011, but lost to the South African Police Service team in 2012.

Although the treble was not won, TuksRugby can be proud of its achievements last season, as the club lifted two trophies that it had never won before, and will hope to continue this form in the coming season. “What a [great] year for Tuks, probably one of the best for a very long time,” said Dunlop. “All the credit goes to Nollis [Marais] and his team. They are the ones that recruited players with the character and attitude to win a cup.” Dunlop continued that the team were “a great bunch of players [who] were like a family”.

Head coach Bart Schoeman said that “[T]he

2012 season [was] a remarkable journey” for TuksRugby.

Tuks will begin their Varsity Cup defence on 4 February when they face NWU-Pukke in a difficult fixture at the Fanie du Toit stadium in Potchefstroom. Tuks’s first home game at Sport campus will be the following week against UCT. Tuks will be without key players Wesley Dunlop and Jono Ross. Dunlop will play professionally for the EP Kings, while Ross will play abroad for the Saracens. Despite the departure of some key players, the champions will be determined to retain the prestigious Varsity Cup and USSA titles.

Photo: Brad Donald

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