Platform Magazine - Fresher's Edition 4

www.platform-online.net

Issue 04

September 2013

welcome a l l n e w r e c r u i t s

TRENT

ARMY

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11/09/2013

EDITOR’S NOTE Hello NTU! To those of you who are joining us this year, welcome, and to those of you who are returning again for another year, then welcome back!

I am certain all you Freshers who have just started will be sure to have some of the best times of your lives here at NTU. C

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Are your boobs looking for love?

Text PERKY to 70300 for a free reminder to check them each month

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It has been a long and stressful few months in the run up to the new academic year and at Platform we’ve been getting ready for Fresher’s Week and the brand new Fresher’s Edition that your reading right now.

We have now formed our own Trent Media House under the Societies banner which means Trent Media can now work even better as a collective. We are continuing in to print this year, after being granted the funding and welcoming even more NTU students in to one of Nottingham Trent’s biggest societies. We are so proud of the success Platform after last year and hope we can continue turning it in to something you can all be proud of.

EDITOR

SOPHIE DAVIS

SOPHIE.DAVIS@SU.NTU.AC.UK

DEPUTY EDITORS

HANNAH BYRNE ALANNA LINTIN

DEPUTY-EDITOR@PLATFORM-ONLINE.NET

MARKETING & PROMOTIONS

RHEA WARREN

PROMO@PLATFORM-ONLINE.NET

NEWS

WILLIAM WILSON

NEWS@PLATFORM-ONLINE.NET

MINT

JADE CRAGG

MINT@PLATFORM-ONLINE.NET

MUSIC

ROBIN MURRAY

In this Fresher’s edition we have a busy line up including a gig guide to Nottingham, what to wear during Fresher’s Week and profiles of some of the societies and sports clubs at NTU.

MUSIC@PLATFORM-ONLINE.NET

This first edition speaks for itself and shows the work that has been put in from everyone, from the section editors to the writers, and the photographers to the SU. All of us look forward to meeting all the new fresher’s this year and hope that you all would love to get involved with Platform.

FASHION@PLATFORM-ONLINE.NET

If you want to get involved in our next edition and for the rest of the year, find us in Fresher’s week, email one of the editors, or find us on our Facebook and Twitter pages. It is never too late to get involved in your union activities so keep following us throughout the year, to hear what’s going on!

Sophie Davis Editor-in-Chief

FASHION & BEAUTY

PRIYA SUND CULTURE

JOSHUA GILTRAP

CULTURE@PLATFORM-ONLINE.NET

LIFESTYLE

SOPHIE COLQUHOUN LIFESTYLE@PLATFORM-ONLINE.NET

SPORTS

GEORGE SOLOMON SPORTS@PLATFORM-ONLINE.NET

GAMING & TECH

TOM BERESFORD

GAMING@PLATFORM-ONLINE.NET

PHOTOGRAPHY

CRAIG PROUD

CONTACT PLATFORM

PHOTOS@PLATFORM-ONLINE.NET

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DESIGNERS

LIV WILLIAMS KATIE ABEY SOPHIE DAVIS

/platformmagazine @PlatformOnline

Tel: (0115) 848 6200 www.platform-online.net

Platform Magazine, NTU Clifton Campus, Clifton Lane, Nottinghamshire, NG11 8NS

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Contributors: The 2013-2014 Committee, and it’s dedicated writers

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March 2013 September 2013

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A note from

THE PRESIDENT...

Welcome back returners and hello to the newbies! This is an exciting year to be at Trent, there are so many great things that are going on!

We have a new library over in Brack, major redevelopments over in Clifton and a glistening new Union building in City. Not only that, you have a new team of elected officers that have been working tirelessly over the summer to make sure changes are made to ensure you get the best time while here at NTU Don’t forget that the Students’ Union is run by you, our members. You have a say as to what services we provide, who runs your Union and where the money that you spend in your shops and bars is allocated.

Whether it’s taking the time to vote, standing as a candidate in the Elections, or just giving up a few hours per month to improve your learning experience as a course rep, there are a range of opportunities that you can get involved with and make a real difference to your experience and those around you.

Whatever path you choose to take at NTU and however you want to get involved with NTSU, I wish you the best of luck for your time spent here at Trent!

See you around!

Jo Southwell-Sander, NTSU President.

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With results day having been and gone in a flash, and Fresher’s Week now truly over after months of agonized waiting, you can now really begin to focus on your future; namely your university education and what potentially could be the best few years of your life.

So firstly, let me say on behalf of everyone here at Platform magazine, welcome to NTU and more importantly to the Trent Army. This may have meant nothing to you before Fresher’s Week but hopefully you will now truly understand what it is to be part of the Nottingham Trent Army. I hope by now your loyalty towards Nottingham Trent is one which will last a lifetime and one you will constantly remind your friends from home of over the Christmas break.

Over the past month or so and throughout Welcome Week, here at Platform, we have been providing you with everything you need to know to make your transition to university life as smooth as possible and we hope for the majority of you it is one which has been comfortable and enjoyable.

We hope you have made it out to at least one SU night out by now and enjoyed the full-frontal nights that are Ocean Wednesday and Point Fridays. The SU nights are really something that pushes your inhibitions to

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the limits and bodies even more so.

Platform will be here throughout the year, updating you with SU events, reviews, features, style tips, beauty reviews, music gig updates and gaming debates.

Articles will be posted regularly so make sure you check back and follow us on Twitter (@PlatformOnline) and ‘like’ the Facebook page for even more updates and news at www.facebook.com/ platformmagazine. If there’s anything in particular you would like information on that isn’t already there or isn’t being picked up on then please get in touch and send us an email at sophie. davis@su.ntu.ac.uk.

If you’d like to get involved with Platform as a contributor, photographer or with promotion & marketing – just contact the relevant person for more information. Contact details can be found here on the website at www.platform-online.net.

That’s all for now, hopefully with our help the next few weeks till the end of your first term at University will go without a glitch and you’ll continue reading Platform throughout the year both online and in print format. We’ll be out and about during the year so make sure you come and say hello.

SeptemberMarch 2013 2013

FIVE TRENT EVENTS YOU CANT MISS / THINGS TO DO IN NOTTINGHAM

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TRENT EVENTS you can’t miss

From Freshers Week to Graduation Ball, the NTU calendar is packed with a host of massive events all year long that make your time at Trent the best three years of your life. Here, Platform Magazine has picked out five of the best to mark in your diaries for the year ahead...

The First Climax In The New SU Luckily for you Freshers, the brand-new, multi-million pound City Student’s Union building will be opening its doors this summer, and with it comes the return of a cult hero. Saturday night Climax will finally return to its spiritual home this year and the first Climax of the year is going to be one not to miss, to truly open your new SU in style.

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Varsity Ice Hockey The crown jewel of the Varsity calendar, the Ice Hockey encounter between Trent and UoN has become one of the biggest nights in the NTU calendar, with a sold-out, raucous 11,000 crowd creating an incredible atmosphere within the Capital FM Arena. The Ice Hockey matches are certainly unforgettable events, with the chance to throw all kinds of ‘banter’ at the Uni Of contingent making it one of the hottest tickets in town.

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Christmas/Halloween/Last Ocean Ocean Wednesday’s. A staple part of a Trent student’s weekly diary. A chance to don utterly ridiculous fancy dress, pack into the unique Ocean and enjoy some of your best nights out at Nottingham Trent. While the regular Ocean’s are memorable, the stakes are raised on the big three nights of the year.

Halloween and Christmas give us the chance to go all out with our costumes, while the last Ocean of the year is the one everyone fights for a ticket to.

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Grad Ball 2014 While the Graduation Ball name hints that the event is only open to students bringing their time at NTU to the end, the event is open to all students looking to celebrate the end of the academic year in style. With big acts including Example, Rudimental, Labrinth and The Maccabees gracing the stage at the Capital FM Arena over the past couple of years, the event has become one of the best in the country, thanks in part to the notorious after-party until 6am.

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NTSU Elections Results Night While the elections may not sound like the most exciting part of life at Trent, it is arguably one of the most important times of the year, seeing the new Student’s Union exec committee get elected. The culmination of a long few weeks of campaigning and voting comes with results night, where the candidates, their supporters and the rest of the student population come together to see who’s elected, giving you the chance to share a shot or two with your new exec.

Simon Paice

Photograph by Media Arcade

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MINT

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www.platform-online.net Photograph by Liv Williams

LIFESTYLE

LIFESTYLE

Photograph by Liv Williams

STAY SAFE IN FRESHERS / IN THE CITY / BEAT THE FRESHERS BLUES / SURVIVE A DIP IN THE OCEAN / INTERNATIONAL AND HOME STUDENTS

things to do in

NOTTINGHAM Fresher’s 2013 is fast approaching NTU, for those undergraduates who are preparing to move away from home for the first time it can be quite a daunting experience. So what can you do during fresher’s week on and off campus?

casino, Just the tonic comedy club and various eateries. Located in the Lace Market is Capital FM arena which hosts gigs, comedy and more.

Next door is the national ice skating arena where you can watch the Nottingham Panthers ice hockey team or just go for a skate about.

There a load of stuff happening on campus during the day, firstly you’ll have your course induction were you get to pick your modules for the year. Later in the week you’ll get the chance to join sports and social clubs at the fresher’s fair and on Saturday you’ll be competing against other blocks in Saturday antics.

For those of you who feel slightly more sophisticated take a visit to Nottingham Playhouse, visit Nottingham castle, top at the foot of the castle for a pint at the Ye Old Trip to Jerusalem, Britain’s oldest pub, go underground in the caves or perhaps visit the Galleries of Justice for some good old corporal punishment tours.

So what is there to do in the day in Nottingham? Firstly I’ll have to be a lad and mention the football, Nottingham breathes football, with the oldest professional club, Notts County and Nottingham Forest.

This is just a small portion of stuff you can do in the day, there’s plenty more. So get yourselves out and explore! I highly recommend getting a tram and having a wonder to the outskirts of Nottingham, worst you can do is get lost and miss a lecture.

Nottingham is a huge shopping based city.

With Bridlesmith gate featuring brands like Paul Smith, Jack Wills and Ted Baker. And the two shopping centres, Victoria centre and Broadmarsh, which have various shops. You can shop till you drop, hopefully not into that overdraft.

Nottingham also includes The Corner House which is home to Cineworld cinema, Genting

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Connor Wooley

STAY SAFE IN

FRESHERS

Freshers’ is undoubtedly an exciting time, however it’s important to stay safe particularly if you’re in a new city. Here is a short guide of things to do to and numbers to store in your phone to help keep you safe during your time at university…

Nottingham Cars Taxi Trent work with Nottingham cars so you can rest assured you’ll get from doorstep to club safely, put their number in your phone so you can ring them whenever you need them 0115 9700700.

NOW and NTU are your go to sites as they have all the information you should need regarding what’s going on at NTU, your course and everything you need to know.

Register with doctors Save the fuss and register when you enroll.

City doctors - Radford Medical Practice 0115 848 6481 opens at 8am Clifton doctors - Sunrise Medical Practice 0115 848 3100 at 8.30 am Brack - Southwell Medical Centre, The Ropewalk, Southwell, NG25 0AL 01636 813 561

One final reminder… store your new flatmates/ housemates numbers - just in case you end up on your own it’s good to be able to contact them!

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LIFESTYLE

LIFESTYLE

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beat the fresher’s blues Freshers’ week promises to be one of the most exciting times of your life: new surroundings, new friends and new opportunities. But whilst this is true, it is very common and totally normal to struggle with adapting to life at university.Here are some tried and tested tips for combating the freshers’ blues.

Keep yourself busy. Perhaps start by hanging out in your flat’s communal areas to get to know your flatmates, and meet people with similar interests by joining societies. University presents so many opportunities so be sure to get involved with new hobbies and always have something to keep yourself busy with.

Call home, but not too often. It’s a good idea to contact home regularly, but try not to spend hours on the phone every day: it’s important that you make an effort to build a home from home at university. Similarly, resist the temptation to visit home during the first month: sticking around for the first few weeks is crucial for really getting to grips with your new surroundings.

Establish a routine. Giving your new life some structure during your first term at university can really help get you settled in. Eg. You may have sports team training nights on Mondays, dance class on Tuesdays, Ocean social on a Wednesday.

Look after yourself. Although takeaways at 3 am are a student specialty, take time to cook yourself decent meals. Take breaks from alcohol-driven escapades and do something non-alcohol related to give your body a rest.

Don’t bottle your feelings. Talk to your new friends about homesickness & you’ll strengthen new friendships or if you’re having a really tough time, make an appointment with student support; they’ll help you with any worries you have.

Finally, just remember it takes time to adapt.

There truly is a reason why university is renowned for being one of the best times of your life. There are so many amazing new experiences to be had during your time at NTU, so stay strong and positive, relax, and have fun!

CAMILLA STRIDER

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MoRunning is calling on Nottingham runners to get their moustaches at the ready for the all new Nottingham MoRun, arriving in Wollaton Park on Saturday 23 November 2013.

MoRunning fever is spreading to Nottingham, bringing the popular fun and friendly running event to the city. There are 2000 places up for grabs and MoRunners can choose from a 5km or 10km route around the grounds of Wollaton Park.

The Nottingham MoRun is a non-competitive run for all ages and abilities, from complete beginners to experienced runners. Teams of families, friends and workmates are all welcome to join in and raise funds for funds for men’s health charities by fundraising for the event’s official charity, Movember.

is one of three new MoRunning locations in 2013, and there are now 11 MoRuns taking place in cities across the UK and Republic of Ireland during Movember.

As the official running partner of Movember charity, MoRunners are encouraged to raise sponsorship to support Movember and fundraise for men’s health. In 2012, MoRunners raised an estimated £200,000 and in 2013 MoRunning is aiming to raise over £400,000.

Entries cost £16 for 5km and £22 for 10km plus booking fee.

Runners can enter online at nottingham.morunning.com 23rd September 2013 Wollaton Park

Every MoRunner is encouraged to wear a moustache, whether stuck on, drawn on or carefully grown for Movember and there are prizes for the best fancy dress. Everyone who enters receives a unique moustache medal, MoRunning headband, full race chip timing plus Movember goodies.

Along with Edinburgh and Leeds, Nottingham

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TRENT FRESHER SHOULD DO

Now you should know as a NTU fresher, there are certain things you MUST do throughout your first year at Trent.

Pull out this guide and use it throughout the year to see how well you’re doing…

LIFESTYLE

15 THINGS EVERY

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Trent TV

Make the most out of every opportunity whilst you are at Trent and you’ll be leaving in a few years, a fully-fledged member of the T.R.E.N.T Army.

www.trentstudents.org

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SOPHIE DAVIS

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SURVIVE A DIP IN THE

LIFESTYLE

OCEAN Ocean is a popular student nightclub among students of both of Nottingham’s universities, offering special nights for each – with Trent taking over on Wednesdays.

INTERNATIONAL H O M E S T U D E N T S

A N D

Starting university is very exciting, but for some students it is entering unknown territory. But don’t fear, both international and home students can now rejoice in the knowledge that Nottingham Trent has put in place many activities to ensure you can join in with university lifestyle with ease.

For international students, ‘Welcome Points’ have been set up for you to visit upon your arrival. To find out more about the international student welcome events and to have any questions answered about life at Nottingham Trent pop down to:

“So what’s so special about this Ocean?” I hear the newbies ask? Well…nothing. It’s dirty, it smells, the music is terrible yet I’ve found myself returning week after week just as you all will too. Remember these survival tactics before your first Ocean adventure and you’ll get by just fine. You may even enjoy it.

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PREDRINK

Platform cannot actively encourage alcohol consumption, however if you do decide to ignore all health warnings regarding the safely consumable number of weekly vodka units I can confirm that you will benefit from higher Ocean tolerance from the outset.

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CITY CAMPUS Student Services Centre, Newton Building 16th -20th – 11:00 until 15:00 21st- 22nd- 10:00 until 15:00 23rd – 27th- 11:00 until 15:00

AVOID THE “R E D B U L L”

Just trust me on this one.

L A D I E S: T A K E Y O U R OWN TOILET PAPER HAND SANITIZER

If after 30 minutes of waiting you manage to bag yourself a cubicle, well done, but don’t expect it to have a lock, a seat, tissue or a working flush mechanism.

WEAR A DISGUISE

Ocean Wednesdays are all about the dress up. Where’s Wally, superheroes, animals, 118, geeks, hippies – these are just some of the themes you may find yourself adhering to on a Wednesday night.

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CLIFTON CAMPUS Lee Westwood Sports centre 20th, 23rd and 24th – 11:00 until 15:00 21st and 22nd- 10:00 until 15:00

SAMBUCA IS NOT YOUR FRIEND

And never forget it.

The international student welcome events include a trip to Wollaton Park, Sunday brunch, a treasure hunt, a student BBQ, a bowling trip and much more. There are also a set of student reps which will be assigned to you when you get to fresher’s week, to make sure you can enjoy all of the night life that the city of Nottingham has to offer.

For students that are not living in halls you also have the opportunity to go to a barbeque with

live music, orientation talks, and you will be provided with an early evening meeting space so you can socialise before a night out during fresher’s week. You will also be assigned student reps that will give you a night time meeting point to ensure you remain involved.

The most important thing to remember when starting university is to have fun, and be yourself. You will have an unforgettable time. Good luck!

JADE HILLIER

HEATHER COLLIER

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LIFESTYLE

www.platform-online.net

MUSIC

M A T H G N S S I T E T E O B U IN N

UP-COMING GIGS IN NOTTINGHAM / BEST VENUES FOR LIVE MUSIC IN NOTTINGHAM

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CLEAN BANDIT October 20th

If you thought fusing classical music with house with pop was impossible, think again.

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HA G N TI

£9.50, Bodega

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H.I.M.

October 26th

They are one of the biggest selling rock bands in Finnish history (they’re only just behind Metallica in terms of record sales!)

Well worth seeing!

MILES KANE October 3rd

£20, Rock City

ALUNA GEORGE October 30th

After touring with the Arctic Monkeys, the Wirral-born singer has played a series of critically acclaimed sell-out shows.

Combining Francis’ dulcet tones with twisted, spiralling synths seems to have done the trick for the duo, who will no doubt dazzle.

£17.50, Rock City

NINA NESBITT October 19th

Rock City. £13, Rock City

Nina is the latest to break onto the scene with her brilliant ‘Stay Out’ and has since followed up with the equally impressive ‘Way In The World’. Check her out.

THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN November 9th

£9.50, Rescue Rooms

There is no band on earth quite like this, as they perform songs that are so painfully complex.

£13.50, Rock City

N E V E V I RL

FO

If live music is your thing, then you’ve come to the right city. In arecent survey carried out by the Performing Rights Society, Nottingham was voted as the third best place in the UK for live gigs, beating London which is in 5th. Here are just some of the best venues for gigs in Nottingham.

C I S MU

ROCK CITY Boasting a capacity of over 2,000, the legendary Rock City is Nottingham’s biggest gigging venue. Bands from all over the world travel to this historic club, so it’s the place to be if you’re looking to see bands at the top of their game. 8 TALBOT STREET, NOTTINGHAM, NG1 5GG

nights for base lovers Nottingham has a thriving bass scene.

Whether you’re into drum & bass, house, garage or reggae, you’ll find a night that’ll get your bassy taste buds tingling. Here are some of the best: DETONATE Nottingham’s prime night for drum & bass fans. It usually takes place on the last Friday of every month at Stealth, hosting labels from Hospital Records to Metalheadz.

DOLLOP There is no doubt you will soon find yourself at a Dollop night if you’re a house fan.

Dollop is arguably the most anticipated night in Nottingham, so be sure to get your ticket early or face missing out on what is sure to be a top night.

Robin Murray & Harry Hammett

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RESCUE ROOMS Rescue Rooms is the perfect destination to catch some of the UK’s most upcoming and promising bands. Rescue Rooms is a place that will no doubt become very familiar over the coming months. 25 GOLDSMITH STREET, NOTTINGHAM, NG1 5LB THE MAZE At the top of Mansfield Road lies The Maze; a small venue which plays host to a number of local Nottingham bands. The likes of Jake Bugg and Dog Is Dead were regulars at this intimate venue in the embryonic stages of their respective careers. 257 MANSFIELD ROAD, NOTTINGHAM, NG1 3FT BODEGA Bodega is one of Nottingham’s best venues for intimate gigs.

The intimacy can often make it feel like you’re on stage performing with the band. 23 PELHAM STREET, NOTTINGHAM, NG1 2ED

Robin Murray & Harry Hammett

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Music

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WRITINGFORTHEGAMINGSECTION/AGAMING GUIDE TO NOTTINGHAM

2 3 a g a m i n g g u i d e to NOTTINGHAM

w r i ti n g f o r

THE GAMING SECTION So What Do We Do? At Gaming and Tech we aim to provide our readers with a host of gaming and technology related articles designed to advise, entertain and all around expand the experience people have with their beloved gadgets and pass times. We have everything from reviews and opinion pieces to news and previews, all covering video games, game culture and technology, all of which are written by our team of dedicated writers.

Why Should I Read Gaming and Tech Articles?

As much as possible our articles try and provide a fresh and original outlook on the gaming and tech based industries. Furthermore, we are always looking for new ways to make what we do even more exciting and appealing to our readers.

Why Should I Get Involved?

Gaming and Tech offers people a chance to share theirs about something they are passionate for. Got something that truly annoys you in games? Or something you love and feels deserves praise? Then become a writer and tell people. Not only that but it is also great to put down on your CV, especially if you have plans about going into a creative writing based industry.

How Do I Become a Writer?

Becoming a writer is simple. Just get in touch with us, either by speaking with us personally or via our Facebook group ‘Platform Gaming and Tech 2013/ 2014’, give us an example of your writing and if we like it, you’re in.

For fans of video games Nottingham is a city that has got you covered. Whether you’re wanting to buy, sell, play or learn about video games there’s a place that for you. But where are these places? And what events are there for the avid gamer? Well that’s what this little guide is for, a break-down of the where’s and when’s to keep you on the right track.

Buying, selling and trading: There are two Game stores within easy access of the city campus; one located on the Old Market Square and the other in the equally close Victoria shopping centre. For those after more of a bargain the Victoria Centre also houses Granger Games, where competitive prices are offered and there is a CEX store just off of the Old Market Square.

Playing: For those looking to play and talk about their games with somebody the Nottingham Trent Gamer society offers just this, a friendly environment for both hard-core and casual players.

More information can be found at: http://www.trentstudents.org/groups/gamer/ nav/nottingham-trent-gamer-society Events: Nottingham plays host to a number of gaming events. Some events such as GameCity

are annual events while others are held more frequently. This is a break-down of when and where these events will be taking place for anyone who should wish to attend.

GameCity Nights- Antenna, Nottingham: GameCity Nights take place on the last Thursday of the month, from 6pm-11pm. The events offer people the chance to explore games and gaming culture in a relaxed and adult environment, with guests, demonstrations and much more. http://nights.gamecity.org/ Bring Your Own Bangers- Bodega Social Club, Nottingham: Held every Monday, this event allows fans of retro gaming to bring along their old devices and play them in the company of like-minded people while listening to music.

More information at: http://www.bodeganottingham.com/ GameCity8- All over Nottingham: By far the city’s biggest gaming event, GameCity has for the last 8 years invaded Nottingham during the month of October (19-26).

With literally tonnes of gaming related activities on the table, from previews, demos and educational courses. It is sure to be the best GameCity yet and a definite must for any fans of gaming. More information at: http:// gamecity.org/

Tom Beresford

www.trentstudents.org

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GAMING

GAMING & TECHNOLOGY

Tom Beresford

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FASHION & BEAUTY

budget

beauty tips

FANCY DRESS IN FRSHERS WEEK / BEAUTY TIPS IN FRESHERS WEEK

fancy indress fresher’s week Everyone knows what the first week of university life is like; it’s all studying, library visits and quiet nights in nights out, hangovers and, of course, fancy dress. In the past year I have seen all sorts of fancy dress outfits, and I’m sure this year will be no different!

The one place in Nottingham that will fill all of your fancy dress needs is Luvyababes in the Victoria Centre; whether you need banana sunglasses or a mask of Prince Charles this place will have it.

The most important fancy dress night is Trent Army. This night can be done on a very low budget, especially if you buy in advance. All you need is Poundland face-paint and a me-

tre of camo fabric for £1.99 off Ebay to be wrapped around heads, legs, arms, and any other limb. Voila, you are a Trent Army soldier.

The beach party is where you can really let your imagination run wild! If you are on a budget then a bikini, shorts and Hawaiian Leis is all you need. But you don’t have to play it safe this night, by far the best costume I saw was an octopus (lots of padded out tights if you are interested!) so don’t be worried to stand out.

So that’s it, every night can be done on a budget, you just have to get a bit creative! Hit up Ebay and of course ‘Primarni’ to get you through each night on a mere £10; leaving more pennies for jagerbombs and shots!

Freshers has arrived. A new city, new people and a chance to let your hair down after the stress of moving into halls. However, we all know that alcohol can cause horrific hangovers and serious skin issues. So, here are some cheap and easy ways to stay looking fresh in Freshers.

ly because it’s free) and that’s water. Drinking plenty of water will not only rehydrate you after a night out, but will also help to keep your skin in decent condition. Some people even swear by drinking water before you go to bed to stop a hangover the next day. Anything is worth a try, ey?

Your parents are bound to have bought you plenty of fruit and veg to go in your uni fridge – probably in the fear that you are going to live off junk for the next three years. Rather than using it in a salad for the sake of taking a picture to send to your Mum, why not use it as a way to feel fresh after a night out? It has anti-inflammatory properties and can leave your skin looking and feeling fresh. Chuck a few slices on your eyes to defeat those tell-tale signs of a heavy night and use on your skin to keep you looking fresh.

So before you rush off to spend your student loan on something to keep you looking fresh – remember to raid the fridge first!

FASHION

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Bec Burnage

You can only make a first impression once and Freshers is certainly the time for first impressions – everyone wants to look their best, and for many girls this means false eyelashes. After many nights of wrestling with falsies to get them to actually stay in place, your real lashes could end up feeling damaged. The solution? Gently remove all traces of mascara and eyelash glue and apply a layer of Vaseline to your lashes. It is perfect for protecting and strengthening lashes and the glossy shine can even make them appear longer.

Late nights and one too many Sambucca’s can easily lead to a spot big enough to warrant its own postcode. The best way to combat this is something that every fresher can afford (main-

India Stowe Photograph by Sayuri Standing

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CULTURE & ENTS

Photograph by Liv Williams

CULTURE

TOP TV OF THE SUMMER / GUIDE TO NOTTINGHAM

TOP

TV

In the city

of the er m m u s

The summer has been full of disappointing Disney flops, and predictably awful comedies on the big screen. The small screen however, has been a goldmine of brilliant acting, writing and direction from around the world. Here’s a list of some of the best examples of this that have emerged over the summer.

Top of the Lake Mad Men’s Elizabeth Moss stars in this New Zealand set, Twin Peaks-esque crime mystery show.

Watch out for a second season as things continue to become darker and stranger.

Luther Luther’s terrifying third season reminds us just why Idris Elba should be remembered for more than just his role as Stringer Bell in The Wire.

Also, Ruth Wilson’s Alice Morgan gives us the most weirdly engaging psychopath on TV since Dexter.

The Returned Like Top of the Lake, this French horror series has a creepy David Lynch vibe to it. It also has a fantastic soundtrack by Mogwai.

Breaking Bad The final eight episodes of Vince Gilligan’s masterful drama have, so far, not disappointed. It goes without saying that if you’ve yet to start watching Breaking Bad stop what you’re doing, disregard everything and go and watch it.

Arrested Development Now that the hype-dust has settled around the Netflix-exclusive release, it may not have had as many laughs as it used to, but it is still way above the standard of the average TV comedy.

The Newsroom The second season of Aaron Sorkin’s latest show takes a darker turn, but has still retained its wit and charm. For fans of The West Wing and shows like it, The Newsroom is a must watch.

Josh Giltrap

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SHOPPING Nottingham’s Vintage Stores Nottingham is in the UK’s top 10 destinations for shopping and there’re a handful of good value vintage stores around Lace Market, including COW and Backlash. Watch out for Lou Lou’s Vintage Fair throughout the year.

Oxfam Books and Music, Market Street This is a go to when you’re inevitably running low on cash and need a book for your course. You can find material on pretty much any subject here for as little as £1. Oh yeah, and they have an awesome record collection too.

CULTURE Nottingham Playhouse Boasts a diverse range of shows. September productions include stage adaptations of 1984 and A Clockwork Orange.

They also host Music Mondays which showcase the best of up and coming local bands. Nottingham Contemporary Whether you’re an arts student or not, this is a great place to go if you’re in need of inspiration and entry is completely FREE! Be a Tourist and take a trip to Nottingham Castle or Nottingham Contemporary.

NIGHTS OUT You’ve come to the right city! From Forum on a Monday to Rock City Thursdays there are a lots of great clubs in Nottingham. Or head to the home of delicious cocktail creations, Coco Tang particularly on a Wednesday for great student offers. There are also venues such as Market Bar or try Baa Bar, a shot bar in Hockley. For a more extensive guide visit Platform’s website.

EATING OUT Fade The Hard To Find Cafe on Mansfield Road is the place to go to for proper food at a good price (mains start at £5.95). They also have live bands and comedians in the evenings. After a few weeks on a diet of noodles and baked beans, a hunger will begin which can only be quenched by gorging upon unlimited food at a set price eg. Peachy Keen’s on Upper Parliament Street which offers pretty much anything you can name.

AND IF YOU’RE BORED...

Nottingham has just started a bike scheme, for just £4 for the day or £5 for the week you can cycle around. We recommend a bike ride up to Wollaton Park - the home of Batman.

Lilly Brannan, Sophie Colquhoun & Shara Samra

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Photograh by Media Arcade

SPORT

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WANT TO PLAY SPORT AT

SPORT IN NOTTINGHAM / WAN T TO PLAY SPORT AT NTU?

Sport in

NOTtingham

SAM WILDMAN

So you’ve just left home and all of your familiar surroundings. In Fresher’s Week you’ll become accustomed to the nights out, the shops, the uni – but what about those of you pining for live sport? Luckily, you’ve picked the right city.

Nottingham boasts the closest footballing derby in England, with Nottingham Forest and Notts County separated by just 0.7 miles. Forest are the bigger of the two having won consecutive European Cups in the 1970’s, and their iconic City Ground home is a real sight to behold.

On the other side of the river are indeed Notts County, the oldest professional football team in the world. The Magpies may play one tier below their city rivals, but Meadow Lane provides one of the best atmospheres in the league when packed.

But if you don’t love football, then don’t worry – you can still visit Meadow Lane. The ground is shared with Nottingham Rugby Club with matches often played on Sundays, providing decent entertainment if you want to see bone-crunching tackles. Nottingham also hosts the British Elite

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League ice hockey champions in the Nottingham Panthers, if you’re looking for something different to watch. The Panthers play at the Capital FM Arena and won the title for the first time in nearly 50 years last season, and with one of the largest fan bases in the sport offer a brilliant atmosphere.

Of course there’s also Trent Bridge, just yards from Nottingham Forest’s City Ground. The venue, which hosted an Ashes Test this summer, is usually home to Nottinghamshire Outlaws who are one of England’s leading county sides.

With some of countries largest sports clubs based in the city, it’s easy to forget the sporting event that matters most to Trent students – varsity. Unfortunately, Uni Of have got incredibly lucky for the last two years and beaten us, but this is our year. We face off against ‘that lot from Beeston’ at a number of sports, ranging from football to lacrosse, cricket to American football. Some of the events take place at venues like Meadow Lane and the Capital FM Arena, and are a brilliant night out.

Whatever you do, don’t miss the ice hockey clash – for some, the biggest night in the academic year.

Opportunities define university. There’s so many, and they’re so varied, but sport arguably offers the most - especially at Nottingham Trent. Whether you’re heading to uni as a seasoned sportsman or woman on your home patch, or coming with the idea of taking up something completely new, you’ll find all you want across the Clifton, City and Brackenhurst campuses.

Paddy Atkinson, the Student Union’s union executive for all things sport, knows what he’s talking about. He says “getting involved with a sports club at Trent is one of the best things you can do at uni! And with over 50 different clubs to choose from everyone will find a club that suits them.”

And there really is over 50 clubs. From your expected sports like football and rugby, right the way down to your unexpected belly dancing and ultimate frisbee, if you’re coming to uni with the intention of joining a club, you really have no excuse at Trent. They even class darts as a sport here. Honestly.

For many students though, the best bit about being in a sports club comes after the final

SPORT

NTU

whistle is blown, the showers are switched off and the kit’s on the way to the laundry... Because that’s when the night out can begin. Paddy agrees: “I’m not going to lie, the social benefits of being involved with sport is one of the main reasons I joined a club. Teams get into the most ridiculous fancy dress costumes and head on a bar crawl ending up at Ocean.” If you do indeed join a club - or, to be honest, even if you don’t - you will come to know and love Ocean.

It’s not all about freshers either. If you have never quite got round to joining a sports club as yet, whether you’re going into year two, three or even starting a masters course, it’s not too late. And also, if you fancy a change of sport, then why not have a go! “The majority of clubs welcome students who have never tried that particular sport before,” explains Paddy. “All students should try and go to as many taster sessions as possible; there will be a sport that stands out above the rest.”

You’ve got the perfect chance and opportunity to do something completely different, make new friends and travel to new places. University really is all about opportunities and there won’t be many better than these. Grasp them.

George Solomon

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