DIVERCSITY - March, 2016 (Vol. 2 Issue #6)

#DIVERCSITY RCSI Student run Newspaper and Publications

|March| |Publication Year 2016, Vol. 2, Issue No. 6|

Cultural

Diversity

Printed at

A Publication by

Editors’ Notes DIRECTOR AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

DIRECTOR AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CAITRÍN O’LEARY »

« NIKITA RANE

// Meet the team.

FEATURES AND DEPUTY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

FEATURES AND DEPUTY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ARIMIE MIN »

« IARLA O’DOMHNAILL

STUDENT LIFE

STUDENT LIFE

SAIED ALI »

« ORLA DONOHOE

ENTERTAINMENT EDUCATION

ZAHRA JUMAN »

« DEXTER SEOW

CULTURE AND LEISURE

NEWS AND RCSI EVENTS

YUSUF JALY»

« AMELIA SOOKDEO

EVENTS

EVENTS

DEENA SHAH »

« JING TING CHEAH

ONLINE EDITOR

COMMUNICATIONS

« QASIM ALI BARI

JEEVANI KRISHNAMURTTY »

COVER ART DESIGNER

ILLUSTRATOR « CATHERINE TENNANT

MUHIMMA SULAIMAN »

REBECCA JAGOO, NAHEEDA RAJMOHAMED, MIA ANDREWS, AMINA MAHMOOD, CATHAL DELANEY, CYRILLE PAYNE, GRAÍNNE LONG, MOYOWA BOYO, SIMIRAAJ POWAR, DINA GHAZAL, CORMAC DUFF, YARA ZAYOUT, SU KYI NG, JIN JI LIM, RUTH EMMANUEL, SEBASTIAN GRACIAS, YASODA SUBRAMANIAN, GEORGE IKPOKOMITOP, SONIA RAMKISSOON, TENGKU NAZIM TENGKU YUSOF, COREY NIXON, MOHIT BUTANEY, STEPHANIE TUNG, RACHEL TAN

STAFF ASSOCIATES CORRIENA BRIEN & SANDRA BONNETTO - CONTENT REVIEW, STAFF CO-ORDINATORS PROF CLIVE LEE- WRITER: ANATOMY, TANYA CHAPPLE - WRITER: SUDOKU JANE BURNS - COPYRIGHTS & PLAGIARISM ADVISER

MARCH 2016

2

DIVERCSITY.COM

Editors’ Notes.

// At a glance...

Editors’ Notes

D

ear Reader,

This is our second last issue of the year!

As we are in the process of wrapping up, we would love to get some feedback about how we did. This can be completely anonymous, however as a thank you for your time, we giving away a voucher for 20euros to LUSH or Clarendon Medical to someone who chooses to leave their names at the end of the form.

We will be counting your votes for the People’s Choice pick for best columnist and best issue. So give your favourite columnist some well deserved recognition!

For our April issue, we will be featuring a Q&A article with the SU teams running during campaign week - if you have questions you’d like us to ask, please send them in!

We’ll be hosting an AGM soon in April to look back on our second year of publication. We will be talking about things relevant to next year’s committee if you are interested in joining.

There will be food and wine so we invite you all to attend! Be on a look out for the date and time!

SPECIAL MENTIONS: This month’s cover art was created by Catherine Tennant.

We’d like to thank this month’s collaborators.

Last but not the least, a big thank you to Tanya Chapple who helped us massively with our Smedia applications.

- NIKITA RANE AND CAITRÍN O’LEARY Directors and Editors-in-Chief

DIVE INTO

YOUR U UR AT

PASSIONS

UNIVERSITY

To join our mailing list, or for societies or general enquiries, email divercsity@rcsi.ie Read anything you love? Did we print something you hate? Have a great idea or suggestion for the paper?

Let us know how we are doing! editor.divercsity@rcsi.ie Share the excitement online, Like us on facebook.com/DIVERCSITY Join the Facebook Society Group Page for the latest updates facebook.com/groups/divercsitysignup Share and view this issue online from issuu.com/rcsidivercsity MARCH 2016

3

DIVERCSITY.COM

Features IARLA O’DOMHNAILL ( DEPUTY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF )

// Cultural Diversity

IRISH SOC

W

hat it means to be Irish is something I never thought about until I started in RCSI. Since then I have become more and more proud of being Irish. It being 2016 I suppose it’s only right to mention one of the main things that defines us as Irish people.

100 years ago a group of brave Irish men and woman fought for our freedom and our right to call ourselves Irish. Being Irish is like being part of one big tight community. You only have to talk to someone for ten minutes and the majority of the time you will find you have some common connection, be that the neighbour down the road or the old postman!! From travelling to different countries around the world I can stand behind the mantra that Irish people are some of the most talkative and friendliest people in the world. You always get a hello and a smile, even from someone you don’t know.

As a nation we have also spread ourselves far and wide across the world from Canada to New Zealand and anywhere else in between. As a result of this no matter where you go in the world that same community spirit is still burning. Yes there are places in the world that being Irish has a bad name but all of that being said I am proud to be Irish and of the Irish culture. I will have my accent heard no matter where I go in the world.

At International Night 2016, Irish soc will be celebrating 100 years of Irish culture with music, drama and dance! So please come and show your support for the Republic of Ireland!!

Piece written by Aoife Sheehan - Co-President Irish Soc 2016

MALAYSIA (PMCSA) A: Jom la gi makan! (Let’s go eat) B: Makan apa? (Eat what) A: Jom pegi mamak makan breakfast. (Let’s go eat breakfast at the mamak)

A

typical manglish (Malay and English) conversation you will encounter in Malaysia. Malaysians are hungry ALL THE TIME. Can you blame us? We are spoilt for choice due to our diverse culture, we get to eat all kinds of food. The best meals are a fusion of different cultures such as the classic Malay – Chinese hawker food or Malay – Indian ‘Nasi Campur’. We don’t eat to survive, we survive to eat. We start the day at a mamak for breakfast and we end it there as well for supper along with our tradition of watching an international football match on the big screens. That would be a typical day of someone living in Malaysia.

Another unique aspect of our culture is the number of holidays we have. Because we have so many different cultures and nationalities in our country, we get many holidays, and one can definitely reap the benefits of being a Malaysian if you know what I mean, who doesn’t love holidays?!

Besides this, Malaysians are truly the nicest people you will ever meet, this has now become known as the famous Malaysian Hospitality. Whereever you go, you’ll see a friendly face where you can call anyone, be it your neighbours or just a random stranger, ‘aunty’, ‘uncle’, ‘brother’, ‘sister’ no matter what race you are or what culture you come from because here we are all one big family. This is what you will see during our performance for International Night, not only will you see the unity amongst us, but how we celebrate each and every culture there is in Malaysia. We hope you enjoy!

MARCH 2016

4

DIVERCSITY.COM

Features ISOC

C

ultural Diversity has always been a fundamental part of Islam. As the largest growing religion today, more than 1.6 billion Muslims around the world, in more than 50 countries, share the same belief and love towards Islam.

It is important to highlight that Islam is not necessarily a ‘culture’ in its own right.

Contrary to popular belief that all Muslims must be ‘Arab’ or know the Arabic language, it is not bound to one specific culture. This concept allows and welcomes people from all backgrounds to embrace Islam. It welcomed diversity and opened doors for intracultural growth within Islamic limits. One of the fundamental teachings of Islam highlights that there can be no distinction or superiority of one culture over another.

This verse from the Quran is the most celebrated verse that is recited whenever the word diversity comes up “O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted”. (Quran 49:13) It’s quite interesting that from the advent of Islam in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, in Mecca during the 8th century, that integration was an important factor to its growth. Today, one of the most beautiful scenes of multicultural integration is seen in Mecca during the season of Hajj (the holy pilgrimage) when Muslims all over the world leave the comfort of their homes and embark on a journey to spend a few days in Mecca with people they would have never met before. Neither culture, nor skin, nor financial status or even language would be an obstacle stopping them from integrating and enjoying each other’s company.

Diversity is also celebrated across the Muslim world during the Eid celebrations.

There are two main Eid celebrations Muslims hold, the first is after the 30 day Ramadan Fast, called Eid Ul-Fitir, and the second takes place after the 5 days of the pilgrimage called Eid Ul-Adha. In the last few years the latter took place between the months of October – November. Many RCSI students would have to spend it away from home and their families. ISOC annually hosts an Eid Dinner providing RCSI international students the opportunity to celebrate Eid with friends and colleagues. ISOC endeavors to encourage and foster the concept of unity and integration amongst all RCSI students.

PIBS

P

IBS is a society encompassing four very similar, yet unique South Asian countries. There is much overlap in food items, clothing, traditions, dance, and language, which makes it somewhat easier for the people of the four nationalities to connect on a cultural level. For example, Bollywood films, in which actors speak predominantly Hindi, are watched by millions of people across South Asia including a large portion that don’t speak the language. Dance is deeply rooted in South Asian culture; it ranges from slower more detailed movements in bharatnatyam, to fast paced, high-energy bhangra moves. The beauty of Bollywood dance is its fusion of various dance forms from the two dances mentioned above, to hip hop, contemporary, classical, and many more.

Our international night performance will encompass the dances mentioned above in a continuous dance piece in which all the separate dance types will be incorporated into one continuous performance. We hope to put on a performance you will thoroughly enjoy!

MARCH 2016

5

DIVERCSITY.COM

Features

// Opinions « REBECCA JAGOO

C

ulture is defined as the ideas, customs and social behaviours of a particular group of people or society, characterised by everything from their language, religion, cuisine, social habits, dress, to their arts.

Cultural appreciation is taking the time to learn about another’s culture. Culture is so colourful and diverse; it’s hard to not be taken up with a culture outside your own. The best way to truly appreciate culture is through exposure, whether that be from interacting with people of that culture or making a trip half way around the world. Learning about different cultures makes us more appreciative and less ignorant.

However there’s something so alluring about foreign culture in the west, and we can get caught up in our world of social media, hipsters and fashionistas, and think that it’s okay to practice cultural customs out of context. A cultural tradition practised out of appropriate setting, shows how misinformed you are about said culture, and helps to simplify or even remove the significance of that cultural aspect. This misuse of culture is Cultural appropriation, and when it is done by dominant societal groups it is praised as being diverse& creative in their community, even though the minority group is still stereotyped for their practices and not credited.

I’m Canadian and grew up in the off-island suburbs of Montreal. Whenever my grandma cooked the food of our people, curry, my aunt would tell us to carry our coats downstairs so that they wouldn’t smell like curry.

Smelling like curry was a bad thing; we’d even have to wash our hair that night because if we smelled like curry in public we would be called ‘Paki’. I was once complimented by a douche colleague for not smelling like curry. These experiences affect people differently; while I still fully endorse curry, my brother would refuse to eat curry.

CULTURAL APPROPRIATION & APPRECIATION

With that said, Indian food has been quite the craze lately, because who doesn’t love a spicy chicken tikka masala and naan? It’s great that more people like cultural cuisine, but I tend to question if they really enjoy it or if they’re just trying to be hipster and trendy. So when non brown people think it’s flattering to tell me how much they love Indian food, I have to wonder what they’d think if I smelled like curry… wait did I remember to spray perfume? Do I actually smell like curry?? More often than not, the Asian cuisines served in trendy restaurants are interpretations of a cultural dish and not authentic Asian dishes, which is something we should all remember. For me to approach an Italian and say I love Italian food, when all I really love is New York styled pizza would be most unforgiving. In the spirit of truly appreciating cultural cuisines, we should seek authentic restaurants. We should also stop shaming and stereotyping people for appreciating their own culture.

Many will continue to argue the fine line between appreciation and appropriation, and to those unaffected, it may seem like just another opportunity for internet users to bicker. Some like to justify appropriation by mutuality, saying that minority groups appropriate dominant groups by partaking in their culture, such as wearing jeans; but that’s rather different and is called Cultural assimilation. Assimilation is the process whereby minority groups let go of their cultural characteristics that distinguish them from the dominant cultural group, to fit in and avoid prejudice and in that process they may take on cultural characteristics of the dominant group.

I remember being with some friends in the mall and they had made a rude stereotypical remark about an aunti in her salwar kameez. Seeing the look on my face soon after, all they said was not to worry because I’m not that kind of Indian. After that, I wouldn’t dare wear cultural clothing in Montreal for fear of being labelled a FOB (Fresh Off the Boat). A year after, I moved to Trinidad where I became completely

engrossed in Indo culture, heck I even became Hindu. So when I moved back to Canada after 3 years, assimilation was not easy. My mixed cousins flipped on me for being too Indian and went on to coach me on what I could and couldn’t do to avoid embarrassing myself and them. Can you guess how many times I’ve worn traditional Indian wear in Canada? The answer is 0. Do you know how many anarkalis, saris, salwars and gararas I own? Too many.

Every morning, my mom would make me apply tilak (a drawn on bindi) and every morning I would wipe it off before letting other people see me, once more assimilating myself. From this alone you would guess that I don’t approve of music festival bindis. This is what cultural appropriation is; I stopped practicing my culture because I was made to feel ashamed of it, but when non brown people wear bindis, especially out of context, it is praised as fashionable and trendy.

The bindi, which is merely a physical symbol of the concept of wisdom, spiritual development& the third eye, is losing its traditional meaning as it becomes a trending norm. There’s always the argument that wearing a bindi is a sign of cultural appreciation, and I completely understand that if you’re wearing it in the right context and not just as some summer fad that fades away in fall. For Hindus the bindi isn’t seasonal, it’s meant to be a part of our everyday culture … if we’re brave enough to wear it out.

With the magic of RCSI’s Cultural Diversity Month we’re afforded the opportunity to learn about various cultures from our peers and not be ignorant appropriators. With events like International Food Night and Cultural Acoustic Night, we are invited to partake in a culture, and there is a great opportunity for cultural exchange.

Culture is more than a two minute MTV award performance, so let’s give every culture the respect and recognition it deserves.

Students React: Did you feel a jump from high school to university? What was the biggest change?

Write your comments and opinions to the editor editor.divercsity@rcsi.ie

MARCH 2016

6

DIVERCSITY.COM

Features

« MOYOWA BOYO

P.S: Have a book recommendation? Send me a quick email at moyowaboyo@rcsi.ie with your book recommendation and see it in the next edition.

Write your comments and opinions to the editor editor.divercsity@rcsi.ie

C

ultural diversity month at RCSI is an entire month dedicated to learning about different cultures and showcasing the many different countries and cultures represented at RCSI. One of the best ways to experience a different culture is to travel. Traveling allows you to see and learn about new cultures first-hand. Taking in the different sites, sounds, language and of course the food is part of what makes traveling so exciting. Not to mention, admiring the cultural dress and asking questions to locals about things you might not understand leave you feeling more educated about a different part of the world when you return. Unfortunately, we can’t travel all the time, but another way to experience a different culture is through books!

There is nothing like getting lost in a good book. Books essentially allow you to ‘travel’ right from your own living room. Not only do you enjoy the story but you can learn about a different country and culture through reading. Keeping with the theme of Cultural Diversity Month, here is a list of books recommended by peers. The list is a mix of different genres and each book is set in a different country. They all have a unique way of telling their stories but most importantly, they provide a little insight into a different culture.

Between International Food Night and International Night, pick up one of these books and dive into a new culture!

1. THE GOLDEN SON - SHILPI SOMAYA GOWDA About: The eldest son of a large family in rural India leaves for a medical residency in Dallas, Texas where he deals with adjusting to a new culture.

2. EVERYTHING IS ILLUMINATED - JONATHAN SAFRAN FOER About: The story of Alex, a Jewish college student searching Europe to find his roots. He journeys to Ukraine and with the help of his translator, searches for memories and remnants of his past.

3. HALF OF A YELLOW SUN - CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE About: Set in Nigeria, this novel tells the story of five people’s lives and relationships during and before the Nigerian Civil War. 4. A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS - KHALED HOSSEINI About: This novel takes place in Afghanistan from the 1960’s to the early 2000s. It explores the relationship of two women whose lives become intertwined through a series of events.

5. CROSSING TO SAFETY - WALLACE STEGNER About: Set in depression-era Wisconsin, this is the story of two couples who meet and form a lifelong bond.

MARCH 2016

7

DIVERCSITY.COM

Entertainment

// Surgeons and Insurgents - RCSI and the Easter Rising.

T

he Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland’s 1916 Commemorative Programme reflects the College’s unique role in the historical events of the Easter Rising.

Every day, thousands of commuting Dubliners pass

by RCSI’s iconic building on the western side of St. Stephen’s Green in the heart of the city, with its impressive 19th century stone-column façade. Even regular passers-by may not have noticed the subtle reminders of our history which are scattered across the columns - now gently smoothed by 100 years of weathering, are bullet holes from the 1916 Easter Rising.

The RCSI 1916 Commemorative Programme Surgeons and Insurgents will give members of the public a rare opportunity to have a glimpse inside the College which, remarkably, is the only significant building to have been involved in the Rising which still stands in its original form today, with all others having been remodelled or demolished since.

During the historic events of Easter Week 1916, from Monday April 24th to Sunday April 30th, RCSI housed the garrison made up of members of the Irish Citizen Army led by its Chief of Staff Commandant Michael Mallin and his second in command Countess Constance Markievicz. RCSI doctors - its staff, Alumni and Fellows - were also closely associated with the Easter Rising as they treated the wounded from both sides.

LIVES INTERTWINED The centrepiece of RCSI’s 2016 Commemorative programme, which will coincide with the official state commemorations, is a special exhibition entitled Surgeons and Insurgents - RCSI and the Easter Rising and accompanying public lecture series.

The exhibition will tell the story of Easter 1916 through the human stories of key figures associated with RCSI and the Easter Rising, on both sides

MARCH 2016

« MEADHBH MURPHY

of the conflict, against the backdrop of World War I. While researching the exhibition, I found that a number of the surgeons associated with the College, who treated wounded civilians, soldiers and insurgents alike, were interconnected in many ways before, during and after the time of the Rising.

One of the surgeons featured in the exhibition is Sir Thomas Myles who was a Fellow of RCSI and was elected President of the College in 1900. Myles was a believer in Home Rule but he also believed that opposing political sides should be on an equal footing.

So he became involved in gun-running for the Irish Citizen Army bringing guns in on his yacht in response to Sir Edward Carson and the Ulster Unionists having carried out a similar expedition in 1914.

Another prominent surgeon involved in the Easter Rising was Lieu-Col Francis Richard Tobin, a Licentiate of the College and loyal veteran soldier for 20 years. Tobin attended the wounded James Connolly in Dublin Castle Hospital and a strong friendship developed between these individuals from opposite sides; military man and revolutionary.

A HUB FOR THE WOMEN OF THE RISING The Stephen’s Green Irish Citizen Army garrison contained the largest number of women members to take part in the Rising. Many of these women carried out first aid and medical treatment on those who were wounded in the fighting.

Madeleine ffrench-Mullen was the daughter of a Royal Navy surgeon attended injured comrades in the RCSI College Hall over Easter Week. In 1919 ffrench-Mullen and her friend, Dr. Kathleen Lynn, set up St Ultan’s Hospital in central Dublin, the first hospital for infants in Ireland.

Countess Constance Markievicz, along with several other rebels, was the first to force her way in the front hall door of the College, holding the porter at gunpoint, before making her way to the roof. On surren-

8

dering, despite an offer to bring her by motor car to Dublin Castle, Markievicz insisted that she preferred to march out with her men and share their fate.

Although Markievicz is the most well-known of the women in RCSI during the Rising, under her command was Margaret Skinnider who also played a prominent role in the garrison as a scout, message runner and sniper.

While preparing for the 2016 exhibition, I was informed of a potentially extraordinary, long-lost artefact associated with RCSI and the Rising.

Margaret Skinnider’s great-niece got in touch with RCSI in early 2015 about some fascinating historic materials currently located in Australia. Most notably, the tricolour flag which was flown over the College during the Rising.

Margaret was shot four times and at the time of surrendering was taken to hospital, the only member of the garrison not to be arrested and held in Richmond Barracks. Many eyewitness accounts state that Countess Markievicz hid her will in the lining of Margaret’s coat. It is also reputed that the tricolour was secreted on Margaret to insure it escaped falling into the British Army’s possession. After the Rising, Margaret fled to the USA for some time before returning to Ireland to take up the cause again.

These artefacts are just a few of a wealth of material, some of which are on display to the public for the first time, that will feature in RCSI’s exhibition.

RCSI will also host a visual spectacle on Culture Night 2016, taking place in September.

I encourage anyone who has an interest in the historic events of Easter 1916 to come along to the RCSI events in 2016. From an original bullet hole in one of the internal doors, to rooms that remain identical to when the rebels occupied the building, it is an opportunity to experience a piece of living history.

DIVERCSITY.COM

Entertainment

IMAGES Top Left: RCSI College Hall, 1916 Bottom Left: Sir Thomas Myles Top Right: Table of live bombs left in RCSI by the insurgents’ 1916.

Bottom Right: Margaret Skinnider

FREE PUBLIC EXHIBITION RUNNING 24TH MARCH – 17TH APRIL Lecture series WEDNESDAY 23RD MARCH Dr. Mary McAuliffe – ‘Surgeons & Insurgents: RCSI and the Easter Rising’ THURSDAY 24TH MARCH Padraig Yeates – ‘The Easter Rising – Fighting for the Crown or Half Crown?’

TUESDAY 29TH MARCH Paul O’Brien ‘Shootout -The Battle for St Stephens Green’ WED 30TH MARCH Tony Kinsella ‘Blood and Bandages –Medicine and the Easter Rising’ THURS 31ST MARCH Lisa Godson & Joanna Bruck ‘Stuff Matters –The Material Culture of 1916’ FRI 1ST APRIL Comdt Victor Laing – ‘The Rising: A statement of intent, successes and failures’ SAT 2ND APRIL Brian Hughes ‘Michael Mallin’ THURSDAY 7TH APRIL Padraig Allen – ‘St. John Ambulance and the Easter Rising’ FRIDAY 15TH APRIL Meadhbh Murphy – ‘To RCSI and Beyond! RCSI, Rebels and the Republic’ For further information and bookings visit www.rcsi.ie/2016

MARCH 2016

9

DIVERCSITY.COM

Features

// SU Matters: Interview with 2014/15 SU President.

IARLA O’DOMHNAILL ( DEPUTY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF )

I

arla gets in touch with former RCSI Student Union president, Vincent Healy and reflect on his experience in the SU office.

Q: WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO GET INVOLVED IN RCSI’S SU?

A: I was in 1st year and got chatting about SU to

Yolanda, who was in SU at the time, at college ball.

She said it was one of the best things that she had ever done, and that I seemed really interested. She explained how to go about running, what to do, what was involved, and to have something in mind that you want to achieve.

It’s the same with the teams that ran after us and how we helped them in a similar way, you help everyone equally because you want everyone to get the best shot and to be able to give it their all.

Q: WHAT DO YOU FEEL YOU ACCOMPLISHED AS A TEAM DURING YOUR TIME AS RCSI’S SU?

A: Getting laptops to Pharmacy students was

something that a lot of effort went into. We talked to everyone in college that could possibly help or be involved, and it finally came through about two months into the academic year. It was something we ran on during campaign week, and for that to happen was huge.

VINCENT HEALY SU PRESIDENT (2014/15)

Q: WHAT DID YOU LOOK FOR WHEN PUTTING TOGETHER YOUR TEAM FOR SU?

Q: AND WHAT WAS THE PROCESS LIKE OF ULTIMATELY FORMING YOUR SU TEAM?

A: Ultimately you need to make sure that the people

A: It’s actually a funny story. Initially the game was

are well known enough to get in, but at the same time that they’re really hard workers, because otherwise halfway through the year you’re going to find difficulties, something that teams in the past might have suffered from. You need everyone to really be able to pull their weight, especially during exam periods you need other people to be able to take over, and to be able to rely on them. So you go after people who you know are hard workers. Some of the team I had worked with before during ICHAMS, like Sarah, May-Anh, and Daniel, and I had been a class rep with Abdullah for a year, so I knew what their work ethic was like.

There were smaller things as well, like getting new water fountains sorted, and getting library hours, stuff that you might not take notice of.

And there was a lot going on in the background as well that you might not necessarily see, like rewriting the pledge for graduation with Orna Tighe, which was really nice because you’re changing something that’s going to be in place for a great number of years to come

MARCH 2016

10

set, there were however many teams running that year, and Bakir and Daniel, who ultimately ended up on our team, had already formed a team. And very late in the game I was talking to Moya, the previous years vice-president, who said that Bakr’s team was looking for one extra person to be welfare officer, which is interesting but not necessarily what I felt like would be my best fit. So later on, as someone who makes decisions very spontaneously, I found May-Anh in the upstairs library in Beaumont, and asked her if she wanted to run a team, and explained that we were the only two people on it at that stage.

So she said sure, we then got Abdullah on board, ended up poaching Bakr and Daniel because we knew how good they were, found Sarah, Caroline, and ultimately were able to poach Marty as well.

And we also had essentially another member in the form of Fahad, who was making our SU videos for campaign week. He put in significant work, which showed in the quality of his work, and we really became like a nine person team. We did try to form a nine person team, but weren’t able to in the end, because we came together quite late, and other teams wouldn’t have been able to agree across the board.

He wasn’t that interested in doing SU that year anyway, but obviously as you can see he changed his mind.

DIVERCSITY.COM

Features

Q: IF YOU COULD CHANGE ANYTHING ABOUT HOW THE SU FUNCTIONS, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

A: What we realized towards the end

of our year, with the new building being made, was that the majority of student activity would be over there, and that there will be a real danger of the SU being cut out of student life by being away, and that the people involved would become a little disillusioned when there’s no traffic to the office. Because that’s one of the benefits of the office location at the moment, people don’t actively decide to walk in, they’ll be there having a chat and then remember something that they can bring to our attention, like no water fountain upstairs in the library.

And that’s how a lot of issues are picked up on, so its location as a hub of student life is key, and ads a real social element to interacting with students in the SU. I do think it works really well at the moment, and ultimately in every sort of organization a lot of the time it’s just about the people. You can make do with the most basic facilities, getting things off the ground, and being supported by the college, in terms of money, and in the Student Services Office taking a lot of responsibility.

Q: HAVE YOU NOTICED ANY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN YOUR TEAM AND OTHER SUS THAT HAVE BEEN IN OFFICE?

A: I think it was easier to compare with this current team once we had already done it, and I’ve noticed that this year there is a lot more of a social media element in the SU, as in the snapchat stuff, and in getting people involved in that sort of way. So that’s something that they’ve put a lot of effort into where we hadn’t, and there’s a big group in college that really enjoys that, and it helps to reestablish the centrality of the SU.

MARCH 2016

Q: DO YOU THINK THAT THERE’S A CERTAIN TYPE OF PERSON NEEDED TO MAKE A GOOD SU PRESIDENT?

Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR THE TEAMS RUNNING IN THIS YEARS ELECTION DURING CAMPAIGN WEEK?

A: I suppose, in terms of the president

A: To put in the hard work before hand,

themselves, the one thing I would say is that it’s nice to have some sort of debating experience, just so that you can give the speeches that you’re expected to make, and make them clear, convincing, and easily understood.

What I would say is that the key person in a SU is actually probably the events officer, who really always need to be on the ball because what people ultimately see of the SU is the events that they organize. You can go through the year as an SU without people necessarily seeing most of what you do, because people don’t go to a lot of meetings, or notice small changes that are made, but what they do see is the events.

Q: FAVOURITE MEMORIES OF YOUR TIME IN COLLEGE?

A: One of the things that I consistently

did was to manage to be late for things unintentionally, and one of those was when they were calling out the results of who actually won the election. So everyone was meant to be in the lecture theatre, and I had went home earlier and was coming to back into town around 20 minutes late. I knew when it was meant to be announced, so as I walked into college I heard this big cheer just as I got to the lecture theatre door, and realized that they had went ahead and called it. So I open the door, and people hear it and everyone looks back, and then everyone cheered again because we had won. So that was embarrassing having to try and give a bit of a speech having won, and not expecting it.

There were so many good memories, it was such a phenomenal year and it made the whole year go so fast, I couldn’t imagine not having done it.

11

so that you get to enjoy it, and also to keep thinking along the level of it being a friendship, a competitive friendship between teams, because things will then workout so much better. It’s like a sports match, where in the heat of competition you go for it, but afterwards it’s about shaking hands and saying ‘this is what happened, ultimately anyone could have won’.

Q: AND DO YOU HAVE ANY FINAL WORDS ON THIS YEARS CAMPAIGN WEEK AND YOUR TIME IN THE SU?

A: One thing I would like to say is that

when we had issues following campaign week that year, one of the things that I really remember and that stood out to me, was the fact that everyone who was on the SU before rallied around us. So when there was a petition put about, and our team was worried we might lose the SU and have it taken back, I remember almost the second people got word of this Yolonda called me up, Shane Carr was the same, saying this is what you need to do, this is what matters. Having genuine friends that support you in that way, when people were a little upset, when it mattered, really made such a difference, which lead to us ultimately being delighted with our time as RCSI’s SU.

For our April issue, we will be hfeaturing a Q&A article with the SU teams running during campaign week - if you have questions you’d like us to ask, please send them in!

Write your comments and opinions to the editor divercsity@rcsi.ie

DIVERCSITY.COM

Lifestyle

// Humans of RCSI ( Ireland )

« SIMRAAJ POWAR

RCSI Talents!

Shivani and The Hype – The people behind the HYPE… HAMZA Year: 4th Med Dislikes: Cabbage Likes: White women Favorite quote: “They called me a ‘rapist’ and a ‘recluse’. I’m not a recluse. - Mike Tyson Instrument: drums, cowbell, triangle, rectangle, Kurt Angle SIMI POWAR Year: 3rd Med Instrument: backup vocals, lead tambourine, not allowed near the drum set unless no one else can play the drums during practice, contributing the the hype Likes: Disney Dislikes: food that looks delicious but I’m allergic to Favourite quote: “He who takes the moral high road never gets stuck in traffic” PADRAIC MCGRATH AKA PDIZZLE Year: 2nd Pharm Instrument: Guitar, Vocals Likes: The occasional fresh head of lettuce Dislikes: When people question my love for lettuce Favourite Quote: “Everything in life is luck” Donald Trump SÉAMUS Year: Final Physio Instrument: “Guitar” Likes: Long walks on the beach Dislikes: socks with holes Favorite quote: “GRRAWWHHHHH!”-Chewbacca

MARCH 2016

JOSHUA GREEN AKA GREENQUBE Year: Final Med Instrument: base, drums, keyboard Likes: funny people Dislikes: mean examiners Favourite quote: “now I ain’t saying she’s a gold digger, but she’s ain’t messing with no broke nigga “ What I wanna do when I grow up: No idea SARA LAKHANI Year: 1st Med Instrument: alto saxophone Likes: caffeine, the smell of the ocean Dislikes: washing dishes Favourite quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” - Oscar Wilde LUKE WALLIS Year: 3rd Med Instruments : Piano, Double Bass Likes: Slapping the bass Dislikes: Spanking the bass Favourite Quote: “Men are pigs” -Aoife Seery

SHIVANI AKA SHIVDAWG AKA SHIVU AKA SHIVERZ AKA SIOBHANI AKA SHIVANTÉ LAMAR Year: 3rd med Instrument: Vocal chords and booty, occasional tambourine, HYPEaphone Likes: Eating an unhealthy amount of almond butter Dislikes: Shitty audiences that bring down da HYPE Favourite quote: “WE ARE MUSICIANS. THIS IS WHAT WE DO.”- Shivani and the Hype

12

DIVERCSITY.COM

Lifestyle

Lead Vocals: SARA LAKHANI Back Up Vocals: NEELU FIROZ, SHIVANI KARLA Piano: MICHAEL DALY Bass: AVINASH BHUPALAN Drums: ALEX DALPHY Guitar: MATTHEW PATEL “Now, that we are RCSI famous, we look forward to receiving free meals at AK Henry’s and having admirers buy us drinks at the next RCSI event.”

REIGNING CHAMPS Members: SIMON FOLEY AND GRAHAM O’HARA “Graham and I are mates whose circles of friends cross-sected over time. The first time we played together was last year at Phil and Lit Soc’s Expressions. I asked him to perform at Ballad’s in 2nd year but he said no. I then asked if he would play acoustic night and again he said no. Finally, after much ego-stroking, he agreed. And the rest was history…

But you may not know the history so here it is.

By a careful process of rigging the system we managed to win Expressions and hence ran with the “Reigning Champs” for this Ballad Sessions.

Egotistical name? Perhaps. Deliberate? Absolutely.

In fairness Graham’s a phenomenal musician and has an insanely good vocal range. We had such a good time doing Expressions we decided to play this Ballad Sessions.

Thinking up songs was easy. Graham, being the Belieber he is, chose “Love Yourself ”. Me being the most renowned gangster rapper in RCSI, hailing Straight Outta Glenageary, chose “Gangsta’s Paradise”. A brief aside David Foster, aka ‘DJ Flexure’, signed me to his record label ‘Ectopic Beatz’ where I settled on the ironic rap name

‘MCP’; ironic in that I lack opposable thumbs.

“Poker Face” was chosen to show our diversity.

Best band moment? He says it was the time I had to look up the last few lyrics of Poker Face. You know “p-p-p-poker face, p-p-poker face”. For a few days afterwards he kept asking me “how many p’s is it this time?”

Best Ballad’s Moment? Just seeing the crowd singing along. The response from them made the experience simply incredible! RCSI are beliebers there is no doubt about that!Dealing with the aftermath has been… strange.

Let’s just put it this way, I now get Kanye!In all seriousness Graham, as himself Graham O’Hara, is recording some of his own music in the summer so I urge everyone to check it out when it is released.

And finally, shout out to all the other awesome acts who performed that night. Shivani and the Hype were immense. Scaldy Moths brought the house down. But just one moment for the newly departing. Times really are a changing now that Electric Kittens, Conor Peace and Max Shilling and all the others who signed off one last time.

Such an awesome way to end it! The Academy memories will live on.”

Want to be featured? Email divercsity@rcsi.ie Write your comments and opinions to the editor editor.divercsity@rcsi.ie

MARCH 2016

13

DIVERCSITY.COM

Lifestyle

// Humans of RCSI ( Bahrain )

« DINA GHAZAL

I

believe that many things in life are the way they are for a particular reason. One of the most spectacular of these is diversity – whether it is in personality or in culture – and this is a very evident quality that RCSI Bahrain entails. Here’s a little taste!

I

was in an all-girls school here in Bahrain. A girls’ society is maybe a bit more comforting in terms of expressing emotions and being open. You’re free to say anything, and I’ve been used to girls saying everything to each other. But here, in a ‘mixed society,’ there are only specific people you can trust. I was excited for the change but also a bit scared in terms of limits, like knowing what not to say and what to say. It’s a positive experience that I am happy about. It doesn’t matter whether it’s males or females because in the end it’s all about behaviour and personality.

I

t’s probably one of the coolest instruments to play and I think that’s really why I started. I grew up in an international school in China and it was very transient – a lot of people would come and go. By 16, most of my friends had left and high school certainly wasn’t the best place to make new friends. I had the dumb idea that if I learned guitar, it would make me cooler and I’d become more popular. I eventually learned that it wasn’t the case; people connect via other stuff and playing guitar is merely a gateway to meet new people. That’s when I focused more on learning about music as opposed to doing it for some kind of gain. I remember coming back from summer one time, and suddenly music made sense on a very mathematical level. Scales, harmonies, dissonance; I figured out the pattern of music. I broke music. The patterns of music then projected to the patterns of life as well as medicine. Everything from human interaction, reaching a diagnosis, even just enjoying activities has a very formulaic and mathematical nature behind it and I appreciate it more all because of music.

MARCH 2016

14

DIVERCSITY.COM

Lifestyle

“I

t’s the second annual Kurti day!”

“What’s Kurti day?”

“Oh we just made that up last year.”

M

y dad always told me to travel and see the world and everyone in my family loves traveling. On average, I travel 5 times a year. My favorite place is New York City; it’s a jungle I am happy to get lost in.

If you want to see more and stay updated, make sure to like and follow both Facebook and Instagram “Humans of RCSI” pages!

www.facebook.com/humansofrcsi humansofrcsi

MARCH 2016

15

Want to be featured? Email divercsity@rcsi.ie Write your comments and opinions to the editor editor.divercsity@rcsi.ie

DIVERCSITY.COM

Lifestyle

« NAHEEDA RAJMOHAMED

// White coat syndrome You Talk Too Much

H

ave you ever found yourself rambling on about nothing?

One minute you’re innocently reviewing your group project and the next you find yourself cursing at your computer screen; we have all been there. Whether singing in the shower, reviewing for an exam, taking your anger out against inadequate group members or attempting to calm yourself; saying something out loud oddly makes everything more ok. In a way verbalizing a thought can disarm it and somehow make the concept easier to swallow. You will not only be recalling the information but be listening to yourself in the process. Cool right? Like most things, colleges are well aware of the benefits of having to recall information aloud and as such have created a way to ensure all students are forced to do this to some degree.

Suspecting that you performed poorly on your exam is bad, having that suspicion confirmed is worse and dealing with the consequence can be terrifying.

Now imagine performing that exam verbally. The words Oral Examination say it all. Instead of being expected to write down the answers to questions you are asked them in person. A student’s fear usually stems from the idea that whilst standing in front of your examiner, unaware of what question they may ask and shaking with stress, you will be asked a question you might not know the answer to. Not only will you be lost for words but your answer will be directed live to your examiner. Your examiner is the representation of your college and having them witness your inadequacies is humiliating. Some students find that the stress can distract them from the exam. For others translating knowledge from your brain into words without an erase or scratch-out option can be daunting. Yet despite the anxiety associated with these types of exams, believe it or not there is a method to this madness. Whilst scary and against your better judgment, verbal examinations are very useful in learning material and practicing your skills.

Not only are you forced to know the material for your exam but you are also required to be able to answer non-standard questions regarding the topic. This requires you gain a true understanding of the material you will be examined on.

MARCH 2016

16

DIVERCSITY.COM

Lifestyle

There is a large difference between a written exam and an oral one.

Structurally, most oral examinations tend to be organized in a gradient format. Despite the topic of examination, most exams will begin with an easy question and build on that throughout the examination.

This gives the student an opportunity to focus on the more basic questions and gives an examiner a better understanding of the student’s scope of knowledge. The examination setting also allows an examiner to question the logic of a student ensuring that they understand what they are saying; rather then just repeating memorized words. There is no room for making up answers in these exams; the key is to use what you know to form the best solution you can come up with.

Preparation for an oral exam requires more legwork. Instead of just memorizing, you need to practice saying things out loud. Depending on what exam you are preparing for this can be done in many different ways. The main concept usually involves continuous repetition with a group of classmates. Personally I find practicing individually first and then formally toward a few of classmates works best. That way you can work out the kinks of what you need to know and then present it in a more formal setting to give yourself a false sense of stress, similar to that which you will be under the day of.

Lastly performing the exam. Depending on the exam, you will be expected to do different tasks within each verbal exam. There is no way to guarantee what will be asked during any examination and the best way to overcome your anxiety is to practice and have confidence in your knowledge. On the day of an exam, stress is the last thing you want to invest in. Not only is it a waste of time, it will take away some of your confidence.

At RCSI there are three main types of oral examinations: Anatomy Card Signings, Seminars and OSCES (Objective Structured Clinical Examinations).

ANATOMY CARD SIGNINGS: Card signings can be easily described as both the most overrated and underrated oral exams on this list. These examination are meant to help you learn and encourage students to study their anatomy (let’s be honest would you really study the information if there wasn’t a card signing?). As they are conducted in full view of your entire anatomy group pressure to do well and study is pretty high. On the flip side, this system means that you will study, which is a huge benefit for final exams. Although it may seem like a pain, the benefit outweighs the cost. The most difficult part of a card signings is knowing what to study and realizing that despite your studying in some cases you might be asked questions you don’t have an answer for. I have found the best way to study your anatomy is to do it continuously using a textbook as your guide. The lectures are very helpful but can be used as a general guide, with the extra details from your textbook of choice. It is also important to remember to watch the provided anatomy videos and practice saying the information out loud. You would be surprised how much easier it is to learn and repeat the material you know once you’ve practiced saying it out loud to yourself.

SEMINARS Seminars are presentation style exams. You are given a list of topics you could be asked and need to create a speech explaining that concept or answering the question. During the exam you will present to small group of students as well as two examiners. This type of assessment is particularly helpful in guiding students to focus on the most important aspects of a certain module and promote the understanding of certain topics. That being said, it is very stressful. In this style of exam it is worthwhile learning how to draw certain simple diagrams or graphs before the speech. During the exam you will also be given a minute to prepare the topic and flip chart to draw if needed. The difficulty in this type of exam is remembering a speech for each topic without the help of cue cards. Start by creating a speech for each topic. Make sure to answer the given question and use the material from your notes. Once you have created a speech highlight four to five important topics that you would cover during each talk, these will act as key words to remind you what to move on to next in the speech. In reality you shouldn’t try to memorize the speech word for word but instead focus on remembering the organization and topics you need to talk about. Plan on writing the keywords you have made for yourself on the flipchart during your minute of preparation, you can use it to guide your audience and keep track of your talk. Finally practice with you classmates. Find a group of friends and go through your speeches, make sure to time them and be open to constructive criticism.

OSCE – OBJECTIVE STRUCTURED CLINICAL EXAMINATION OSCE’s are probably the most clinically oriented assessments that we as students are first introduced to. In these exams we are expected to examine a patient in the perspective of different systems. These exams not only give you practice in what you will be required to do in your career but also bring a more clinical side to your studies. You will be given a formal class on how the exam is conducted and then be given a tutorial in which you can practice the necessary skills. A mistake many students make is believing that these exams are self explanatory. As with any other oral exam, practice is key. I also highly recommend practising in a group. These exams will be task based and being able to practice a task with a friend will give you more experience. Also keep in mind that the people whom you will be performing your tasks on during your examinations are for that moment your patient and you should treat them as such. Respect them and smile, they have probably been examined over a hundred times by the time your exam time rolls around. They may be exhausted or tender from constant palpation.

In the end a good public speaker knows that with practice, eye contact and confidence anyone can convey their knowledge successfully.

It is scary and in all honesty it is intended to be. A career in healthcare is a career dedicated to the growth and well being of the people you treat. We are being trained to be leaders and become capable of not only healing but also creating a positive environment for others.

If we are unable to stand in front of a small group of fellow students and deliver a speech or recall our basic clinical examination skills how can we be expected to make a difference in healthcare? Yes you will be nervous, yes you will stress out but remember that the work you put into these assessments will pay off in the future and despite the havoc they cause you now you will never regret taking them, I promise.

Write your comments and opinions to the editor editor.divercsity@rcsi.ie

MARCH 2016

17

DIVERCSITY.COM

Lifestyle

// Ask Himistu!

H

Hi, everyone! My name is Himitsu, and I’m here to answer your questions, as we delve into life’s secrets. After all, “secret” is what my name means in Japanese!

ello, guys and gals! How goes it?

I hope you enjoyed February to the very max!

Make way for March now! It’s almost spring, can you feel it? It’s so close! The season of spring embodies life itself, and that is the theme of this month! Flowers bloom, the sun is shining, and the warm weather begins to grace us with its presence. What is there not to love about spring?

Lots of love, - Himitsu.

Here’s a question I have from a student! Let’s see what they have to say!

--------------------------------------

Q

Dearest Himitsu,

When I think of spring, I imagine all the excitement life has to offer. I find that I’ve been living a monotonous lifestyle, as we all tend to do because it’s a routine. I’ve become extremely lazy, and I’ve really lost my zest for life. Is there any way I can spice things up? Any ideas? I get bored easily and quickly lose interest in things. I’d like to make a change. Hope you can help me out with this!

Sincerely, WinterBlues

A

: Dear Winterblues,

This really is a challenge. It’s very easy to get bored, and often times, we’re looking for something new to keep ourselves entertained. If the adventure doesn’t come to you, you must seek the adventure. It’s all about the little things in life which highlight our days! You could start with something really simple like taking a different road to and from college than your usual route!

You may find something interesting on your journey, who knows what it might be!

If you feel like doing a good deed, maybe plan on giving something to the homeless man or woman you pass by everyday on the street? I personally would recommend saving an extra chocolate bar, they would really appreciate it! You would be someone’s hero for the day.

MARCH 2016

ASK HIMITSU YOUR QUESTIONS, ANONYMOUSLY. Visit: divercsity.tumblr.com/advice Write your comments and opinions to the editor editor.divercsity@rcsi.ie

If it’s a beautiful day outside, maybe go to the park. Take a blanket with you, and go cloud watching. If it choses to shine, maybe even bask in that golden sun! Bring a good non-medical book and a tasty sandwich! A healthy dose of metime is enough to lift anyone’s spirits!

Whatever your heart desires - go for it! There’s so much you can possibly do. I’ve named only a few up here on this list. I hope I’ve given you some inspiration. Try it out!

Remember…happiness all starts with yourself.

Life is what you make of it. So go out and live.

Maybe try cooking something you’ve been wanting to try out for a while? Listen to your favourite soundtrack as you go along! I find music makes everything all the more enjoyable.

Yours truly, -Himitsu

Why not learn how to play an instrument? You can start off with something simple, like the tin-whistle - then you can join in to an Irish Ceili!

Learning a new language is very rewarding. It is the ability to communicate to a whole new group of people, breaking down language barriers between you and countless others - the potential is amazing.

How about starting a collection of some sort? It can be of anything. For example, sports cards, or the fortunes inside of a fortune cookie! This is something I’ve always wanted to do - so many pearls of wisdom!

Keep an eye out and an ear open for any events around in your area, perhaps any festivals? Or going to see your favourite band? I understand college gets busy, but you must make time to enjoy your life! It’s nice to treat yourself once in a blue moon.

Why not plan a movie night with a few of your friends? Provide some snacks and a few board games! That will be a sure fire way to spice up the evening!

18

DIVERCSITY.COM

Next month’s issue will be the last one for the year! Saw something you liked? Think we could do better?

DIVERCSITY is RCSI’s student body paper and we want to make sure we represent you right!

We’d also love to get some feedback and suggestions and hopefully some solutions to make DIVERCSITY 2016/17 even better.

We are bringing back People’s choice award for our best column and issue - so vote and give your favourite some well deserved recognition! ( Leave your name and email at the end of the form and stand a chance to win a €20 Clarendon Medical Voucher and a DIVERCSITY merch mug! ) go to:

tinyurl.com/Divercsity2016 or scan the QR code here:

Thank you for your enthusiasm, interest, support and contribution to our our second year of publication!

We hope you enjoyed reading!

lifestyle

D

// Double C: Advice you can keep close to your chest

D

earest Cyrille,

ear Cathal,

Hope you are well. The last time I saw, you were crawling under a table at college ball singing, “I’m a little teapot”. Might I mention that really confused me because based on your statements I couldn’t understand why you were under the table instead of on top of it. Just so you know I arrived home safely after you pushed me through the window in an attempt to “save me” from the “fire” you made in the back of the cab with the magnifying glass and the moon. When I returned home I found a 5-euro note stuffed into the back of my dress that read as follows: Dear Double C, I need some guidance on a sensitive issue. All I do is “work, work, work, work, work, work” and a little bit of study and I still have no money. This year I have decided to rectify that problem by catching a leprechaun. I figured since this was the 100th year of the Easter rising that all of the wee folk would be out in good form celebrating. Now I have never attempted such a feat. As you have advised many of my comrades on a multitude of matters I figured you would also be able to help me. Thank you in advance for your help.

Your sister in arms, Elle Beau.

Ok Elle, I have had a little experience in this area so I will try to guide you as best as I can. Now on St. Patrick’s Day you must be vigilant because there will be many imposters around. Things that help you exclude fake leprechauns are: dark hair, “no habla ingles”, North American accents, females, tall people and anyone you see using actual money; leprechauns are too quick and crafty to spend their own dough. So after you have identified a true purveyor of the gold pot you must lure him away by creating a fake rainbow, as they love finding new rainbows to stash their pots of gold.

To achieve this you need a willing friend, rainbow flags and t-shirts, and a bottle of Jameson. Wear the shirts and create a rainbow arch with the flags and use the whiskey to pass the time because it may take a while. If you are patient the leprechaun will walk right into you well laid trap and the gold will be all yours!

According to others, they come out even more quickly if you drink a bottle of whiskey a day for a week before and stop abruptly on St. Patrick’s. You might have some shakes with this method but the green Lilliputian lads will be more willing to make your acquaintance after.

A wise priest once told me you need a license for everything in Ireland, including catching Leprechauns. He was right, the town of Carlingford Co. Louth declared Leprechauns are a protected species. As this is the case I advise you not to do as I did but to go through the proper legal procedures to attain a permit before grabbing these tiny gentlemen. This involves you queuing in the wee hours of the morning around a building in the hope of being given a slip of paper that will give you access to man who will decide if you are worthy enough to hunt Leprechauns. With any luck if you go today you will be able to get your paper work in time for next year’s St. Patrick’s Day. Hope this helps Elle. Cathal, do you have any other advice for this desperate lady?

Our last college ball was such a wondrous occasion, however I cannot claim to have memories of the night in its entirety. My recollection of the fire in the taxi was that you demanded to be like Katniss Everdeen in the second Hunger Games and be the girl on fire, so I simply used the light of the moon to set alight the hem of your dress.

Elle does seem in a bit of a predicament, as catching a leprechaun is a real test of determination and intelligence. I have tried on many occasions to find a leprechaun but alas have been unsuccessful.

The first time I tried was after I awoke from a vision I received from a woman called Dorothy. She sat on a hay bale with a small dog in her hands and was singing about a rainbow. She told be to put on my red ruby slippers ( I always have a pair lying about) and click my heels three times while screaming at the top of my lungs “MY LONG CASES ARE COMING UP, WHY AM I SEARCHING FOR LEPRECHAUNS”. When I opened my eyes I was surrounded by little people with lollipops, which oddly has happened to me before.

However on further questioning they were not leprechauns, they were munchkins. Then I had to walk down this long golden road to get a hot air balloon back to Raheny. Ugh, apparently the Luas has not gone to Oz yet. I hope they extend it there after going up Nassau street.

The second attempt was when I found a golden ticket in my Terry’s chocolate orange. I was invited to go to a huge chocolate factory in a far away land with five other lucky winners. Now I know what our readers are thinking “this is unbelievable, who on earth would ever eat a terry’s chocolate orange willingly”. I guess I just like the mix of rich chocolate and a citrus splash in one bar. To each their own.

Again this was an unfruitful journey as the leprechauns I thought I had found were oompa loompas. Then I got turned into a huge chocolate orange after I scoffed one down I saw on the shelf and had to be rolled home. They made a whole song and dance about it, it was very embarrassing.

So my advice for Elle is to be vigilant for imposters and to choose carefully what leads you follow.

However, the latest word on the online leprechaun blogs is that they are due to show up at the upcoming RCSI International night. They love to appreciate culture and enjoy a night out on the town, so maybe Elle should get a ticket and be on the look out.

Hope that helps!

Yours at the end of the rainbow, Cyrille Payne.

« CYRILLE PAYNE

Happy Saint Patrick’s day!! Just a note to our readers that it is St. Paddy’s day, not St. Patty’s day. Although I am all for gender equality our patron saint was not known as Patricia nor was he a beef patty.

Yours with a pot of gold, Cathal.

Brought to you by Cyrille and Cathal - Besties who think they’ve seen it all.

« CATHAL DELANEY

Please write to us with any queries or questions that you may have and we’ll do our best to give you some nuggets of advice.

Whether you heed our counsel is entirely at your own risk.

ASK YOUR QUESTIONS, ANONYMOUSLY. Visit: divercsity.tumblr.com/advice

MARCH 2016

20

DIVERCSITY.COM

Lifestyle Feel like you’re a fashion pro? Addicted to the latest trends? Have a unique style? Would you like to be featured in next month’s; “Other Than Scrubs” fashion column? If the answer to any of these questions is yes then get in touch and send us an e-mail! Email divercsity@rcsi.ie Write your comments and opinions to the editor editor.divercsity@rcsi.ie

R C S I

« GRAÍNNE LONG

// Other than scrubs I have been interested in fashion for as long as I can remember, mostly seeing it as a way to project my inner personality to the world. Although it’s nice to be complimented on what I’m wearing, I dress for myself. My style icon would be David Beckham, but I mostly draw inspiration from social media menswear accounts. My favourites on instagram would be @pause_online and @styleiswhat. For me, it’s more important to search for something unique, rather than copy the crowd.

I don’t particularly like specific brands but if I do go for something more high-end, it will be more to accessorise the main outfit. Before I go out to shop I usually look at the clothing online, which makes the process more efficient. I have a couple of fashion don’ts such as wearing crocs, poloshirts and sweatpants. I’m from Kuwait, where we only get about two months of winter a year. In Ireland, it lasts much longer, which I personally love. In dressing for the cold, I can mix and match coats and scarves. I would describe my style as classic with a twist.

- ABDULAZIZ ALTAHOSS: JC1 MED

Abdulaziz wears a black and white wool overcoat, paired with with a crisp white shirt, a charcoal sweater and simple black bootcut trousers.

S T Y L E

I always dress for warmth, so I guess my typical outfit for college would include a jumper or a big coat. My personal style is usually very dressy, so I find myself dressing down for lectures. My favourite shop is River Island, although I love Topshop and Forever 21 too. As well as the high street, I like to go around to all the vintage shops in Temple Bar to find something different. I would say that it’s impossible to describe my style with just one word, as it’s constantly changing. For example, in the summer I would go for a bohemian look, or if I’m feeling something a bit more punk rock, I have my Doc Martens. Although I absolutely love everything Lana Del Rey and Alexa Chung wear, I don’t try to copy their style. In fact, I think it’s so important to dress in clothes that suit the individual wearer. I’m always thinking things like; does this shape suit me or does it sit right? I’m fairly easygoing with trends, although if I see something new that I really like, I’ll jump in ahead of the crowd and I’ll wear it - ARWEN SULLIVAN: FY PHYSIO

Arwen wears a black and cream sweater with a vibrant red leather skirt, she has chosen to accessorise this look with chunky buckled biker boots and a leather jacket.

MARCH 2016

21

DIVERCSITY.COM

Clubs & Societies

« MIA ANDREWS

H

ey guys, I hope you all enjoyed the last edition!

Please remember to send in any requests!

Food Diaries //

So… I thought I’d do things a little differently this month.

Instead of giving you one quick healthy meal, I thought I’d take this opportunity to write an article on quick and easy snacks as well as substitutes to normally high calorie or high fat foods that make up a part of your meals.

Want to request a recipe from Mia? Email us at divercsity@rcsi.ie

T

here are so many apps available on your phone as well as websites that help in providing healthy alternatives. To the right is an article I found on Pinterest months ago that my family and I try to use. I’m now going to take you through some of the alternatives that I have implemented. Unlike before, I will not be giving you recipes in this article, but rather, I am going to provide you with ideas of meals with these healthy substitutes.

1)

I generally cannot eat iceberg lettuce. I find that most times I have it in my fridge, it goes to waste. Fortunately, while on rotation, a buddy of mine made us a meal, and the lettuce, served as an alternative to a hamburger bun and a tortilla chip. Just make sure to take the leaf from the outside.

2)

I actually do not really like mushrooms, but I do like pizza which is why I decided I would give this portobello mushroom pizza a try. Instead of the typical crust, the mushroom was used and was later topped with your favourite pizza toppings. It was actually lovely. Type in “Portobello mushroom pizza” on Pinterest and you’ll find a recipe.

3) 4)

Instead of making lasagna with the typical noodles, you can use thinly sliced zucchini.

You might remember that I made shepherd’s pie at the beginning of the year and substituted the mashed potato topping for cauliflower. This tastes better if you have a food processor which you can use in order to make the cauliflower fine as opposed to just simply slicing the cauliflower up small.

5)

Instead of normal pasta, use either wholewheat pasta or to spruce things up, use spiraled zuccini and carrots (you can buy this already pre-spiraled in Tesco)

6)

I’ve always wanted to have spaghetti squash but am yet to get my hands on it so if you guys know where I can find it, please write in and let me know! You can make spaghetti bolognaise with the squash instead of pasta.

7)

Instead of crackers or a bag of chips, have a few slices of apple. I know if you are taking them for lunch they may turn – but they still taste the same.

Here are some others that are not on the list that I love.

MARCH 2016

22

8)

Instead of rice, you can use quinoa or couscous. I’ve grown to love the packs of quinoa in M&S. - You place the microwave proof package in the microwave and it’s ready within 1 minute.

- This is more convenient than having to boil quinoa.

9) 10)

Having brown bread instead of white.

Having sweet potato instead of white potato and when I do want fries, I bake them in the oven with some salt, pepper and olive oil instead of frying them.

11)

Having a side of greens on your plate no matter what. For me, this is a handful of fresh spinach (which I make into a salad).

12)

For salad dressing, using olive oil and balasmic vinegar (often the salad dressing can carry atleast 200 calories).

13)

Instead of using ground beef, try using ground turkey (it’s an additional Euro in Tesco for the turkey but I think it’s worth it)

14)

If you are a dairy lover like I am, you have to be careful which products you buy as dairy tends to have a lot of fat. The simple alternative is M&S’s 0% Fat, Greek style Yogurt. It’s bland but add a teaspoon of honey and you are good to go!

15)

Having a handful of almonds or nuts instead of a bar of chocolate

I just wanted to say that these are simple alternatives to meals that I have grown to love. They are quite random options I have given you but these are what make up the majority of my diet. The purpose of the articles I send out, though in particular the one today, is not for losing weight but rather to show alternative ways of eating healthier while still enjoying the food you are eating. I find that the healthier I eat, the better I feel and perhaps the same will be true for you guys.

DIVERCSITY.COM

Clubs & Societies

MARCH 2016

23

DIVERCSITY.COM

Entertainment

// Scene it! - the word on plays and reviews ...brought to you by an untrained eye

« SU KYI NG

The Phantom of the Opera

T

he Phantom of the Opera is a must-see musical, even for those who have already seen it.

By that, I mean, you can watch it two, three, or even four times and still love it, still cry and laugh along with the audience.

Ever since I first ‘obtained’ The Phantom of the Opera at The Royal Albert Hall (2011), I have been enamored. This historical 25th anniversary celebration is the epitome of perfection. It is beauty and excellence in every aspect. As a musical, The Phantom of the Opera hits all the right notes (*snickers*). Despite being almost 30 years old, boasting ‘80s techno stylings, there is something perennial about it. It skips between the borders of fantasy and reality. It’s almost a period piece, but maybe a bit too dark, vaguely supernatural and too fantastic to be one. Complex underlying themes give the story depth, yet, it is so human, and so relatable.

dashing Viscount. The Phantom gets increasingly jealous and obsessive of Christine as her relationship with Raoul blossoms, revealing to the audience that the Phantom is just a man with a questionable past and an even more questionable moral compass. As the story climaxes, things start to spiral out of control as more and more unexplained “accidents” occur, and people are getting brutally murdered.

Though dramatic, this musical is easy to watch. The narrative is kept moving at a steady, brisk speed by its clever humour and witty wordplay. The script will satisfy you intellectually without weighing you down, while also surprisingly exciting and absolutely fun, even for a story that deals with themes like death and rejection.

Let’s just get one thing straight. When I say there’s a movie version of The Phantom of the Opera, I am, by no means speaking about the one with Gerard Butler in it (2004). Let’s just forget that even was a thing. I am talking, of course, about the recorded 25th Anniversary theatre performance of The Phantom of the Opera. This, my friends, was a 4.5/5 stars on imbd. €9.99 on iTunes, or $2.99 to watch on Youtube.

This modern classic is the love child of creative genius Andrew Lloyd Webber and producer Cameron Mackintosh. It is, at least to me, Lloyd Webber’s best work to date. It has been showing at the West End and Broadway for nearly 30 years now, earning itself the title of longest running show in Broadway.

In 2011, the Phantom of the Opera celebrated its 25th Anniversary. It was a grand affair, pulling together the most highly acclaimed cast members from all over the world to create the dream cast and perform the play at the Royal Albert Hall. Tickets were sold out within five hours for all three performances. Luckily for the casual musical connoisseur, this musical is available to watch on DVD or download, bringing the magic from stage into our very own homes.

MARCH 2016

The Masque of the Red Death THE PLOT First thing’s first; a summary. It’s 1861, and Opera is the prevalent form of art and entertainment for the aristocrats and high society of Paris. Christine Daaé (Sierra Boggess) is a young and talented ballet girl at the Opera Populaire who gets a shot at singing one day when Prima Donna Carlotta Giudicelli (Wendy Ferguson) quits for the hundredth time. Carlotta is sick of “strange accidents” that always seem to happen around her at the Opera. Christine, although timid at first, turns out to be a crowd favourite, singing powerful vocals that challenge Carlotta’s longtime experience. As it turns out, Christine is being vocally trained by one mysterious, masked virtuoso, the “Phantom” (Ramin Karimloo) who lives in the Opera House crypts, and who ‘til now, has only been a myth.

Meanwhile, Christine’s singing captures the attention of a childhood friend, Raoul (Hadley Fraser), now a

24

The Phantom (Ramin Karimloo) with Christine (Sierra Boggess)

DIVERCSITY.COM

Entertainment

I am at utter loss at how brilliantly this performance was cast. Every small detail is in place, every sigh and snicker exactly as it should be. Every time I watch it, I notice something new. The supporting cast creates a sturdy infrastructure for the musical, though the bulk of the performance is carried by strong leading cast members Sierra Boggess, Ramin Karimloo and Hadley Fraser.

Sierra Boggess commands Christine’s voice and body like no other. Christine, a naïve young girl, who turned leading soprano overnight, could easily fall flat as a character. Sierra’s Christine however, is the image of ultimate love and compassion. Christine is portrayed as a strong young woman who triumphs on her own accord and creates an identity for herself, all while remaining humble. Christine’s youth is also captured through Sierra’s bright demeanour that is seamlessly layered to show complexity and depth.

For the majority of the performance, the Phantom is masked, and therefore, the actor relies heavily on his voice to express and convey his emotions and meaning. As we see the phantom’s façade of composed, commanding and powerful peel away to eventually reveal someone who is broken and gutted, we enjoy the change in sound that reflects this. We are given a full pallet of sound that immerses you, sometimes in a dreamy song, sometimes in heart-wrenching emotion, all that’s sweet to the ears.

Hadley Fraser’s Raoul was a version of Raoul I actually adored! Raoul as a character rarely rubs me the right way. In this version though, Raoul is an angel and is absolutely meant to be with Christine.

More than being Christine’s love interest, he is also very much his own character. Hadley Fraser demonstrates this by portraying Raoul as mature, responsible, humble, compassionate, and most endearing of all, genuine. Where can I find myself a Raoul?

The Phantom of the Opera (Ramin Karimloo) Ramin Karimloo’s does a brilliant job capturing the pain of the Phantom’s tortured existence, and much more, blending in glimpses of his creativity, mad genius, and playfulness. Even after all his heinous crimes, the audience is left weeping for the Phantom, and on some level, sort of understanding him. He is all of our emotions exaggerated. We’ve all thought of doing really horrible things, so we kind of get it. And at the end, we see him as both the monster, and the man, understanding thoroughly the pain of unrequited love, insecurity, and obsession.

MARCH 2016

The Phantom of the Opera at The Royal Albert Hall (2011)

Christine (Sierra Boggess) and Raoul (Hadley Fraser) performing ‘Maquerade It’s grand, period costumes capture the imagination, and mesmerizing dance bring an element of elegance and fantasy.

This 25th Anniversary performance was actually performed in a concert hall and not a proper theatre, so the set is limited, but clever electronic background screens are employed to compensate. They don’t quite make up for having the actual, usually beautifully staged set, but every other aspect of the musical totally makes up for it. The extra additional cast members fill the stage in the 25th Anniversary performance beautifully, giving the show additional energy. The orchestra, arguably just as important as the actors, start playing, saturating the air with music that guides you on your journey from scene to scene It’s unique, it’s immersive, it’s clever, it’s funny, and I recommend it highly. Sure, it’s an acquired taste. Opera, pyrotechnics, grandeur- this isn’t for everyone.

But it sure as hell is for a lot of people.

In the 25th Anniversary performance, Andrew Lloyd Webber and producer Cameron Mackintosh are celebrated so appropriately for this timeless classic.

I’ve always liked the idea of The Phantom of the Opera’s set. The entire theatre is the set, including the audience, seated in front of the stage set up to be the stage of the Opera Populaire. The scenes on stage switch from rehearsals to actual Operas within the musical seamlessly.

Actors sometimes walk amongst the audience. This way, we the audience play a role, and are part of the set, transported back in time to the Opera Populaire.

25

DIVERCSITY.COM

Entertainment

// Photojournalist: ÂŤ YASODA SUBRAMANIAN

Do you have a photgraphic eye and are looking to be published? Submit your photography with the subject Photo Submissions to divercsity@rcsi.ie

MARCH 2016

26

DIVERCSITY.COM

Entertainment

« YARA ZAYOUT

Brainy Bites //

FUN FACTS

DID YOU KNOW? 1)

Every day, more money is printed for Monopoly than the US Treasury

6) The phrase ‘rule of thumb’ is derived from an old English law which stated that you couldn’t beat your wife with anything wider than your thumb.

2)

Men can read smaller print than women; women can hear better.

7)

3)

Cost of raising a medium-size dog to the age of eleven: $6,400 [£3,500]

4)

First novel ever written on a typewriter: Tom Sawyer.

5)

Ravens are kept in the Tower of London because, according to myth, the British throne will come to a fall if the ravens leave the tower. The wings of the ravens are clipped to prevent them from flying away.

8) Until 1800, cookery was so dangerous that it was the second commonest cause of death among women after childbirth.

Each king in a deck of playing cards represents a great king from history:

9)

Spades - King David Clubs - Alexander the Great,

10) The American musician John Cage [1912-92] is best known for his 1952 composition 4’33”, which consists of nothing but total silence. Its three “movements” are “performed” without playing a single note.

Hearts-Charlemagne, Diamonds - Julius Caesar.

MARCH 2016

Proportional to their weight, men are stronger than horses.

27

DIVERCSITY.COM

Anatomy WITH Clive Lee //

Science

« PROF. CLIVE LEE HEAD OF ANATOMY RCSI, PRESIDENT OF THE ANATOMICAL SOCIETY.

The Anal Valves of Ball

S

Sir Charles Bent Ball (1851-1916) was the younger son of Robert Ball, LLD, Director of the Dublin Museum of Science and Art, and brother of Professor Sir Robert Stawell Ball FRS, the Astronomer Royal of Ireland, and of Professor Valentine Ball, Director of the Dublin Museum.

He obtained his FRCSI in 1879 and was Surgeon to Sir Patrick Dun’s Hospital, Consulting Surgeon to a large number of institutions, and a member of many important committees. In 1895 he was appointed University Anatomist and Regius Professor of Surgery in the University of Dublin, holding both posts till the end of his life. He was knighted in 1903 and created a Baronet in 1911.

BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN OUR MONTHLY GIVEAWAY! Winner will be announced and contacted in the next month’s issue.

Ball was for many years the most prominent figure in Irish surgery, recognized as ‘lavish in public work’, a good all-round surgeon, but best known as a specialist in rectal diseases. His most important book – The Rectum and Anus, their Diseases and Treatment – was for many years considered the standard work in the English language. ‘Ball’s operation’ for pruritus ani consisted of dividing the sensory nerves supplying the region and the anal valves at the dentate line are also named after him. He died on St Patrick’s Day 1916.

Enter by emailing A, B, C, D or E with the subject Anatomy Quiz! to divercsity@rcsi.ie

A 72 year old patient presents with a history of bleeding from the anal canal.

On examination you observe piles or haemorrhoids originating above the Anal Valves of Ball. This part of the anal canal is characterised by:

E: Superficial femoral artery, femoral vein, nerve to vastus lateralis, saphe-

A. B. C. D. E.

Arterial supply from the inferior mesenteric artery.

Epithelial lining by squamous cells Innervation by the pudendal nerve Lymphatic drainage to superficial inguinal nodes Venous drainage to the internal iliac vein

------------------LAST MONTH’S ANSWERS:

E.: Suprapatellar bursa (as it is the only one that communicates with the knee joint cavity)

nous vein

------------------LAST MONTH’S WINNERS ARE: Safari Aketch & Ruadhan O’Laoi Congratulations! You win a 15 euro voucher from Clarendon Medical.

We will get in touch with you soon!

Get the quiz question in your RCSI email when you join our monthly newsletter!

Illustrations courtesy of freepik

Email with subject Add to newsletter to divercsity@rcsi.ie

MARCH 2016

28

DIVERCSITY.COM

Science

BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN OUR MONTHLY GIVEAWAY! Winner will be announced and contacted in the next month’s issue.

Enter by emailing A, B, C, D or E with the subject Anatomy Quiz! to divercsity@rcsi.ie

------------------LAST MONTH’S ANSWER: B. Radius ------------------LAST MONTH’S WINNERS ARE: Safari Aketch & Ruadhan O’Laoi Congratulations! You win a 15 euro voucher from Clarendon Medical.

We will get in touch with you soon!

MARCH 2016

29

DIVERCSITY.COM

Science

// The Medical Pulse: About Carrots

“E

ating large quantities of carrots helps us to see in the dark,” was thought of as an urban legend developed from stories started in World War II. One version of the story is that British gunners, who shot down German planes in the night, tried to hide the use of radar technology by devising a plan to tell everyone that it was a result of their pilots’ high level of carrot consumption. Another myth suggests that the statement arose as a marketing strategy to get rid of an oversupply of carrots. Generations of parents/ grandparents can be seen up to today, telling their progeny (and other people’s as well!) to eat carrots because it seems to be a good piece of advice for the young. So whether it be myths or household sayings- something went right somewhere- since science has recently proven just how important carrots are.

Bursting with Vitamin A (which is transformed in the retina to rhodopsin, a purple pigment nec-

MARCH 2016

essary for night vision), carrots optimise health. It promotes healthier skin, helps to prevent infection, reduces the risk of heart disease, and of notable importance – the cellulose content helps to regulate bowel movements and maintain a ‘clean colon’.

Newcastle University researchers also found that carrots hold the key to combatting cancer. They contain polyacetylenes, like falcarinol that has anti-fungal, anti-oxidant and proven anti-cancer properties [ ]. Senior lecturer in the University’s School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Department, Dr. Kirsten Brandt, found that falcarinol reduced tumours in rats by one third. Additionally, a human study found that consumption of carrot juice in breast cancer patients increased their blood levels of carotenoids and survival rate. The researchers believe that increased carotenoid blood levels act as a cancer preventative [ ]. So next time you come across a carrot – Bon Appétit!

30

« SONIA RAMKISSOON

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food,” Hippocrates

DIVERCSITY.COM

Science

MARCH 2016

32

DIVERCSITY.COM

Next month’s issue will be the last one for the year!

Saw something you liked? Think we could do better?

DIVERCSITY is RCSI’s student body paper and we want to make sure we represent you right!

We’d also love to get some feedback and suggestions and hopefully some solutions to make DIVERCSITY 2016/17 even better. We are bringing back People’s choice award for our best column and issue - so vote and give your favourite some well deserved recognition! ( Leave your name and email at the end of the form and stand a chance to win a €20 Clarendon Medical Voucher and a DIVERCSITY merch mug! ) go to:

tinyurl.com/Divercsity2016 or scan the QR code here:

Thank you for your enthusiasm, interest, support and contribution to our our second year of publication!

We hope you enjoyed reading!

To join our mailing list, or for societies or general enquiries, email divercsity@rcsi.ie Read anything you love? Did we print something you hate? Have a great idea or suggestion for the paper?

Let us know how we are doing! divercsity@rcsi.ie Share the excitement online, Like us on facebook.com/DIVERCSITY Join the Facebook Society Group Page for the latest updates facebook.com/groups/divercsitysignup Share and view this issue online from issuu.com/rcsidivercsity