The Spark Newspaper - Spring 2015 Issue 2 by The Spark

friday 20th february 2015

spark volume 70, Issue 2

NEWS

LIFESTYLE

RUSU ELECTIONS

BEAUTY USES FOR COCONUT OIL

The candidates answer their questions for The Spark!

Five things you can do with this popular, natural beauty product.

ENTERTAINMENT SHAKESPEARE MEETS BERKSHIRE

SPORT BOXING

Modernised Much Ado About With Deontay Wilder winning Nothing takes stages by storm, in Las Vegas Christian Mueller looks at the future.

Keeping yourself safe at university TILLY CORLESS RUSU Welfare Officer

As the nights begin to get darker, getting home safely becomes more of a worry for students. Unsurprisingly, student safety is a recurring focus in the remit of the Welfare Officer and in light of recent student feedback and incidents, RUSU’s responsibility to ensure that students can travel home safely has never been more vital. Whether you’ve been studying in the library until dark or had a night out at the Union, worrying about your journey home should never have to be a concern. The University of Reading prides itself on being a safe campus; and it is. For instance, there are over 500 CCTV cameras in 24-hour operation. However, while the Union itself is bordered with bouncers and security guards, the rest of campus is not, leaving intoxicated students vulnerable to strangers and traffic as they make their way home. Although some students opt to call a taxi, other students would rather save money by embarking homeward on foot. In fact, many Reading students have confessed to putting more thought into what they are going to wear on a night-out rather than how they are going to get back. But getting home after a night-out isn’t always easy, especially after a few drinks, and criminals know this. Sarah Udin, a second year French and German student, said: “It’s great to be involved in so

many sports clubs and societies because I get to go out on lots of socials, but it can sometimes be difficult getting home, especially if you want to leave earlier than all of your friends - which I often do!” It is, therefore, worthwhile to take a few minutes to plan ahead with your friends and discuss how you’ll be getting home. If you’re heading out alone, make sure to tell somebody where you’re going, what route you’ll be taking back and what time to expect you home. Walking is not the best option, but if you have to, never walk “Getting home after a night-out isn’t always easy and criminals know this.” home alone. Contrary to popular belief, men are statistically just as likely to be assaulted on the way home as women. So if you do have to walk home alone, make sure you’re aware of the security and transport provisions in place. What’s more, the University has a chaperone service where students can ask that security walk with them through an area in which they feel particularly vulnerable. To use the service you will be asked for your name, number and your current and intended location. Once security has the details, they will suggest the best method of chaperone, which will either be a personal chaperone(s) or the “Hawk Eye” CCTV service. Mathew Barling, a third year Politics student who lives offcampus said: “Coming home from

RUSU has numerous safety features in place around campus, including the Safety Bus Image courtesy of: The University of Reading

campus at night has never been an issue for me or my friends. If you stick to main roads and avoid poorly-lit areas, walking home is fine because there are so many other students in the area.” However, Reading Buses have recognised the growing demand for late-night transport and are excited to announce that the Claret 21 and the Purple 17 bus services now run for 24 hours a day through campus. In fact, the Scarlet 9a runs a reliable late night service until around 11pm. To see timetables and prices, visit reading-buses.co.uk/night-busesto-university-of-reading. To help put students’ minds at rest even more, RUSU also runs a Safety Bus driven by student staff volunteers from the library Monday to Friday (6.00pm to 12.00am in Autumn and Spring terms and 7.00pm to 12.00am in Summer term) and will drive you to anywhere near campus.

The Relationship Virgin

De-stigmatising the relationship virgin: why having never had a boyfriend should no longer be a dirty little secret!

JESSICA PHILLIPS Deputy Editor

It’s February, which means finals are fast approaching, and Valentine’s Day graces us with its presence once more. It’s that time of year filled with cheesy Instagram posts of champagne and engagement rings; when purchases of chocolate and roses keep Tesco in business for another year, couples jet off for romantic

weekends in Paris, and reenactments of every cliché from every movie ever created occur worldwide. However, this is also a time of year when many hearts are forever the supporting act, and never the leading lady. Some girls have never experienced Valentines from the inside. Never been bought an oversized teddy bear. Never gazed into the eyes of a significant other in the candle Continued on next page

NEWS|EDITORIAL

EDITOR.SPARK@READING.AC.UK

The Spark – a love affair

The Editor gives a heart to heart about why we love The Spark NATHALIE SIAH, The Editor

CONTENTS

20|02|15 NEWS Feminist Society Hosts Successful Debate on 50 Shades of Grey

This ode is to you, Grandpa Spark.

We take in the articles, their essence is raw,

You know that we love you,

They’re good but they must comply with the law.

80 years since the start. Journalism, photography, curiosity and more! This affair’s not a secret, it’s you we adore. Behind 3sixty, the office is silent.

LIFESTYLE The Red Pearl of Morocco: exploring the souks of Marrakech for under £100

P17

ENTERTAINMENT What is Childish Gambino doing?

P30

The Editor stands, short but a tyrant. The finished product is ready to go, It’s dazzling, electric, a fantastic show.

DESIGN EDITORS Paula Whetstone Elliot Spain WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO... Designer- Jessie Webb Designer-Eman Yousif Designer-Anna Scully Designer- Ben Cross Designer- Sophie Rahier Designer- Susie Waldren Designer- Kit Lane

Our section editors are certainly put to the test, But they know how to take care of our writers the best. There’s pictures, colours, italics to do, Designers are frantic and on the move. They show off our t-shirts, cards and fun,

In bold colours, green, blue and pink.

But most of all—they get the job done.

There’s so many stacks to deliver today,

SPORT

P43

Spell check is no match for what our deputies bring.

Freshly printed, we smell the ink,

In rain or shine, wait—it’s always grey.

Can Wilder reignite the stagnant Heavyweight division?

We edit because we love grammar and things,

We have a great website, it’s modern—online! If you don’t like print, or just don’t have time.

But what goes on at The Spark is a passionate romance,

There’s facebook and twitter and so much more,

It’s a date, a play on words, a dance—

Give us a click and see what’s in store.

The push and pull of events and design, While keeping the writers all in line. Wait! We’ll have to start at the very beginning, You’ll have to forgive me, the clock is now ticking. We met, alas love at first sight, It was a struggle, a hardship—a glorious fight. We were disorganized and all over the place. Now we’re efficient with presence and grace.

We meet every week without a fail, We’re always on time, and we’ve always got mail. Don’t be afraid to talk to us more, We’ll help you,isn’t that what friends are for? Late late! We’re hot off the press, So finish up reading, we did it— yes! If this is your first time, give your pen a prance, Try it quickly! Now is your chance.

Image credit: Andrew Kowalczyszyn

EDITORIAL

NEWS@SPARKNEWSPAPER.CO.UK

|NEWS

10 fun Facts 1. On average, people fear spiders more than death. 2. King Henry I is buried at Reading Abbey. The monarch died in France, and his body had to be returned wrapped in hide to delay decay. 3. The bible is the most stolen book in the world.

Image credit to Flickr

...continued from the front page light. Never been in love. You are not alone. There are hundreds of students out there just like you. Hiding the truth. Hiding a secret. Hiding the fact that they are relationship virgins. I want to prove that this should not be a dirty little secret, but evidence of strength of character, confidence and individuality. For young women especially, having never been in a relationship is often viewed negatively, whereas boys in the same position are frequently prided on their status. There should be no need for this double standard. Being single is proof that you have not given in to peer pressure. You have not been held back by a man, or tainted by a past love affair. You have not settled for second best. I am not demonising relationships. I myself have borne witness to fantastic, overpowering and unconditional romances. My grandparents have been married for 53 years, and they are just as much in love now as they were over half a century ago. They give me hope that real love is out there, and I am sure that many of you have similar experiences which encourage you to wait for ‘the one’ instead of Mr. not quite Right. What better inspiration is there than knowing that 50 years from now you and your other half could still be jiving, listening to Nat King Cole

records and he still calls you by the pet name he gave you when you first met? However, coupled with the ideals, many of us have also faced the realities of wiping away mascara tears and treating the scars of heartbreak with a strong dose of Nutella and a prescription for Carrie Underwood’s Before he Cheats. Therefore, it is sometimes best to be cautious and not rush into a relationship for which you are not ready. You might have had many an offer from doctors and sailors, to golfers and pilots, but none of these suitors perfectly suited you. You should find it exciting that you still have so many ‘firsts’ to look forward to. You still await the day when you are the last person someone texts at night, and when it is your turn to cancel plans because you have already made arrangements with your significant other. One day you will no longer have to worry about big spiders and broken lightbulbs. At some point it will be your boyfriend carrying your shopping bags, and he will be forced to endure West End Musicals and Saved by the Bell re-runs. You’ve got endless picnics in the parks, day trips to London, movie days, rugby days, nothing days ahead of you. In the future you will be someone’s first choice: someone’s girlfriend. But, right now, I bet many of you can honestly say that you are happy enough in your own skin and don’t feel like you need anyone

to complete you. I for one think it takes a brave person to admit that and I commend you for it. Sometimes you need time to relish in your own selfishness and vanity. You need to take pride in how far you’ve come personally. For me, I’ve come a long way from being a chubby, timid, braced-faced, spotty, frizzy- haired recluse to a relatively confident young woman who no longer wears awful headbands and slogan T-shirts, and doesn’t cry every time she has to speak in public. I definitely wasn’t ready for a relationship at 14. Sure, I bet you’re thinking about how lovely it would be to meet an Irish- American in a coffee shop who loves country music, Mexican food and Patrick Swayze movies- but don’t hold out for him. You will meet him when you’re ready. Regardless, for all of my fellow third year students, right now the only thing that should be whisking you off your feet is your dissertation! I guess the reasoning behind writing this piece was not to criticise those in relationships, but to provide a glimmer of hope to those who are not, and have never been. It’s a scary prospect to give yourself fully to another human being. I know there might not be many of you, but I believe that a voice should be given to the few students swimming against the tide, who haven’t yet been swept away by the currents of attraction

and infatuation. I want to de-stigmatise being single, and make it acceptable for students to leave university not only with a degree, but also with a relationship status they are proud of. Being single doesn’t always mean that you are ugly, undesirable, high- maintenance, hard to get, fussy, or that your standards are too high. It often means that you are independent enough to be different, patient enough to wait for the right person, and smart enough not to care about what other people think. However, if you happen to catch a glimpse of a man in Caffé Nero listening to Brad Paisley, by all means, lasso that rhinestone cowboy. This Valentine’s Day, you might have been a relationship virgin, and will have spent February the 14th enjoying guacamole dip for one, watching Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, surrounded by spiders and broken lightbulbs and singing a two part harmony alone. But one day, maybe even next Valentines, you will no longer be a relationship virgin. I look forward to viewing all of your cheesy Instagram posts, seeing you be the lucky recipient of chocolates and roses, waving you off as you jet away on a romantic trip to Paris, and watching someone be the Johnny to your Baby and observing the greatest Dirty Dancing lift the world has ever seen.

4. Reading Councillors agreed to name a street after Oscar Wilde. The famous writer spent two years in Reading Prison during the 1890s. 5. Ian Hills, the famous club-goer, was born in India to missionary parents. 6. A recent image of the Andromeda galaxy has 1.5 billion pixels. That would require 600 HD screens to display in full. 7. 2010 film ‘Cemetery Junction’, directed by Ricky Gervais, is based off the location in Reading of the same name. 8. Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell is a Rushden and Diamonds FC supporter. 9. The Oracle shopping centre is used as a case study in GCSE Geography classes. 10. The University library officially has 1,080,505 books.

THE EDITOR'S PICKS

NATHALIE SIAH The Editor

Q&A Having trouble knowing who to elect? Read all as RUSU Nominees dish all in what makes Uni life so great and what they had for lunch

PENNY TRAVEL Fancy a trip to Morocco? This travel guru knows how to find your perfect getaway while being a student

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

Find out what it takes to put on a show! RUDS’ leading actors sing, act and dance their way to stardom by doing what they love

CAMPUS CRUSHES Reach out and find that special someone through The Spark. We’ve got the love bug and we want to share it.

UOR MEDICAL GROUP See why the UoR’s medical centre is voted the best surgery in Reading

CHEAP HALLS FOR ALL? Should University cheap halls be available for all students?

FEE CAP? Sir David Bell believes Labour’s £6,000 fee cap won’t benefit University

HOUSING FOR STAFF University hopes to attract new staff with nearby housing development

NEWS Feminist Society Hosts Successful Debate on 50 Shades of Grey ISABELLE HULF 3rd Year History

Most will be familiar with the controversial 50 Shades of Grey series by E.L. James which finally burst into cinemas after hot anticipation this Valentines day. The series sees the naïve protagonist Anastasia Steele begin a torrid and steamy affair with mysterious billionaire Christian Grey, who leads her into a BDSM relationship which many have equated with abuse. On this same strand, the Feminist Society hosted a debate on Monday the 16th entitled "50 Shades; Romanticisation of Abuse or Liberation of Female Sexuality?" The panel included Margaret Corvid, (professional dominatrix and Guardian journalist), Dr. Heather Brunskell-Evans of UK’s Resist Porn Culture, professional male dominant Mike Snarey as well as Dr. Maddi Davies. The lecture theatre was absolutely packed with a buzzing and lively atmosphere; the incredibly high attendance and well-executed schedule were an absolute credit to Reading University’s budding Feminist Society. The debate opened with Reading University’s own Maddi Davis placing the novel within a richer context of "English women"s literature", likening Christian Grey to Charlotte Brontë"s Heathcliffe and Rochester; both darker, brooding

archetypes of masculinity who “bypass the drawing room and head straight for the bedroom”. However, Maddi accused E.L. James of “insidiously persuading women of men’s power”; romanticising women’s traditional role as “submissive playthings”— both dominated and funded. Similarly, Brunskell took to the podium and argued that the erotica was not "edgy" but "ultra orthodox", finishing with the damning words that the "fantasy of harmless sexual submission collides with the brutal reality of male sexual violence and women’s social inequality". Margarette Corvid then began her speech in which she admitted to being a "submissive" in her private life despite being a professional dominatrix, cheekily flashing her husbands initials tattooed across her hip and admitting that her stylish necklace was, in fact, a collar. Margarette argued that the sheer popularity of the 50 Shades enterprise symbolised a "hidden, unanswered desire" within mainstream society but that the book nevertheless "breaks rules not just of BDSM but of normal human behaviour" and displayed all the "classic hallmarks of abuse". For her, however, the cure lays not in "throwing the book in jail and tossing away the key" but in better informed literature on BDSM promoting the anecdote "safe, sane and consensual". Mike Snarey seemed to agree on this point, admitting that the

erotica seems to reflect women’s fantasies but asserting that "power exchange is very different to manipulation" and that Christian was manipulative. Overall, however, the panellists all seemed to unanimously agree upon the book depicting an unhealthy and even abusive relationship with Mike Snarey announcing (to much laughter) "the guy’s a creep", yet seemed to disagree upon the finer details of

feminism and whether a feminist can truly support fantasies of dominance and submission (which Dr. Heather BrunskellEvans deemed "problematic" due to ideas of dominance and submission being "a product of patriarchy"). The audience was then invited to ask questions and challenge the panellists with the vast response reflecting the keen interest that many felt for the subject.

GENERAL NEWS

NEWS@SPARKNEWSPAPER.CO.UK

|NEWS

Calling all students: Teach First is on the hunt for new Brand Managers SOPHIE MARDER & MARY PYE

3rd Year Psychology and Zoology

These days, there are a lot of parttime jobs available for Reading students, from retail to bar work - so how about doing something different? Brand Managers for Teach First and University finalists, Sophie Marder and Mary Pye reflect on what their roles have entailed this past year and why others should get involved. Applications are now open! SOPHIE: What made you apply to be a Teach First Brand Manager at Reading? MARY: When I found out that only 20% of pupils eligible for free school meals make it to university, compared to 86% from independent schools, I was shocked. I completely identified with Teach First’s mission to end educational inequality so wanted to help them recruit

excellent graduates to change this inequality. SOPHIE: What do your hours involve in a typical week? MARY: Well, the great thing about being a Brand Manager is that our work is so varied! One week we may be organising a pizza lunch with a society and the next we could be running a stall on campus. As Brand Managers, we spend a lot of time connecting with people on campus, whether it is with societies or academics. SOPHIE: What is the best thing about being a Teach First Brand Manager? MARY: One of the best things has got to be the community you become part of. Teach First Brand Managers are a national movement, connecting and sharing ideas with each other from all over the country. So that has to be a highlight for me. SOPHIE: Have you faced any challenges while being a Brand Manager?

MARY: Working in promotion can be challenging and one particular challenge of this year has been getting the word out about Teach First at Reading. But perseverance and trying out new ideas for events and promoting, such as running skills sessions, sponsoring society events and doing mobile brand raising, has helped spread the word on campus. Overcoming this challenge has been highly rewarding and having people recognise your work on campus has made it so worthwhile!

Applications to become a Teach First Brand Manager, starting September 2015, are open NOW! Apply at: https://bmapply. teachfirst.org.uk/BM/ or search the My Jobs Online site.

Teach First is a charity dedicated to ending the problem of educational inequality in the UK. As the UK’s largest graduate recruiter, they recruit inspirational graduates to undertake the Leadership Development Programme, teaching in challenging schools across the UK. Find out more at http://graduates.teachfirst.org.uk.

SOPHIE: Why do you think others should apply for this role on campus, starting September 2015? MARY: Being a Brand Manager not only allows you to develop skills that enhance your CV, such as event planning, promotions, creative problem solving and time management, but it’s also great fun! Being able to earn money in a rewarding, enjoyable, challenging and highly flexible role is brilliant, and I would advise anyone to apply!

Staff homes to be built by University JOHN GILBERT

2nd Year Real Estate and Planning

With demands for its undergraduate places up by 21% last year, the University of Reading is looking to consolidate this positive momentum by building ten homes specifically for its staff. The proposed site is tucked away to the north west of the Whiteknights campus, and residential gardens of properties on Upper Redlands Road back onto the site’s northern boundary. Formally known as Barnat Works, the site currently comprises of a number of small industrial buildings. The plan, which was drawn up by Barton

Willmore and Scott Brownrigg on behalf of the University, proposes the full redevelopment of the site with four two-bedroom terraced houses and six three-bedroom semi-detached houses. “The proposed site is tucked away to the north west of the Whiteknights campus close to Upper Redlands Road.” The application acknowledges that one of the main reasons behind the project was the shortage of housing in the University area. This shortage has caused sales values to increase by around 10% in just the last 18 months. With a lack of family homes in the area, and in the University’s portfolio of staff accommodation,

"It is anticipated that the accommodation will serve the needs of a wide range of staff, including visiting academics and support staff." the application focuses strongly on the development of six threebedroom family-suitable homes. The University is keen to make quick progress with the proposal as it hopes to add to its portfolio of staff lettings close to the Whiteknights campus. It is anticipated that the accommodation will serve the needs of a wide range of staff, including visiting academics and support staff.

Artist's impression of the proposed accommodation Image courtesy of Scott Brownrigg

GENERAL NEWS

EDITOR.SPARK@READING.AC.UK

|NEWS

Skint students struggle to eat sensibly For some students, their lack of funds stops them from buying healthy food DANIELLE NICOLE PAGLIONICO 2nd Year English Language

New research by The National Student has revealed that a significant 30% of 693 UK students “occasionally” or “often” go hungry instead of buying food, due to lack of money. The student stereotype is not wrong when it comes to splurging on takeaways, but when it comes to eating food that a balanced diet requires, a worrying 23% of students claimed that they could only afford this “occasionally”. "Although students want to eat healthily...they aren't always able to..."

Indeed, the high cost of healthy food left 16% of students admitting that they would rather save their money than purchase essential foodstuffs. Despite this, 68% of those questioned considered themselves to be healthy.

Of the 32% who claimed not to have a healthy diet, 33% of these students attributed this to the cost of healthy food, whereas a quarter blamed this on the time-consuming task of buying and preparing it. "16% of students admitted that they would rather save their money than purchase essential foodstuffs" Lauren Hill, the Head of Marketing for the BigChoice Group, said: “It’s clear that, although students want to eat healthily…they aren’t always able to do so – which is a shame.” Indeed, the high cost of healthy food left 16% of students admitting that they would rather save their money than purchase essential foodstuffs She added: “Students who want to boost their skills in the kitchen and have a commitment to eating healthily shouldn’t be discouraged from doing so because of the cost – they need more help to be able to do this.”

Image Credit: EatWell101

Students are more likely to snack on vegetables than chocolate Although pasta still reigns as students’ go-to food, chocolate has dropped off the radar BASIL AL-ALI

3rd Year Business and Management

University students are eating more healthily than they used to, according to a report by The National Student and Bacofoil. The research reveals that over half (55%) of students cook for themselves daily and

only 11% eat out at restaurants or buy takeaways once a week or more. In fact, only 1% of students said that they never cook for themselves, while 83% regularly cook either for themselves or for a plus one too. As for choice of food, 68% of students choose pasta as their staple food, eating it every week. Students also eat a lot of

meat with 40% of them eating meat every day. Perhaps surprisingly, 58% of students eat fruit every day, with another 69% eating at least one type of vegetable per day, making fruit and vegetables a more popular choice among students than chocolate, according to the report. Image Credit: BBC News

NEWS|GENERAL NEWS

EDITOR.SPARK@READING.AC.UK

More efficient medical professionals to train at Reading SARAH PENNY E1st Year English Literature

future of the chocolate industry is maintained and protected. For over 30 years, the ICQC has been enabling countries internationally recognised for growing cocoa to receive varieties of the bean that minimise the risks to crops of damaging diseases and pests, where over 30% of the cocoa production is lost. The new home will not only make the process more environmentally friendly, but more efficient and cost effective too. Since the 1980’s, Reading’s reputation for its research into cocoa and the chocolate industry has been world renowned, so facilitating this

University’s medical centre ranked best GP in Reading HARRIET LYNDS 2nd Year Student

The University Medical Centre has been voted the best GP practice in Reading, according to its annual patient survey. Statistics for the Northcourt Avenue surgery show that of the people asked asked 95% had a good experience making an appointment, 85% had sufficient time with the GP, and 84% were satisfied with opening hours. What’s more, 75% “definitely” had trust and confidence in the doctors, and 70% were not kept waiting too long. Even better, 91% of people said they would recommend the medical practice to a newcomer in the area. Mathematics and Statistic student at the University of Reading, Penny Lomax, said: “If I had an urgent problem, they have always made sure I got an appointment that day. Whenever I’ve arrived early for an appointment, I’ve been seen quite quickly. “However, there was one occasion I was kept waiting for half an hour. But the opening hours are convenient for students because the surgery is so close to campus. I would recommend it

to a newcomer, and especially to new students.” Despite the promising survey results, some students still see room for improvement. Emma Hall, another University student, added: “Perhaps if it opened later it would be better – particularly for students who have a full day of lectures. From experience, myself and my friends have always been kept waiting a long time because the doctors are always behind schedule.” Overall, however, the University Medical Centre has been ranked the best in Reading, and 1,099th out of 7,929 practices in England. This contradicts the previous verdict from the Care Quality Commission who, last November, listed the surgery as a band one case, which means that it is in most need of a new inspection. The GP Patient Survey, which gathered its data between January and March 2014 and between July and September 2014 asked a total of 881,183 patients from nearly 8,000 practices for their opinions. The survey is run by Ipsos MORI on behalf of the NHS, and their results are based on the views of nearly one million patients across England.

continuous innovative research is of paramount significance. Without the ICQC, the luxury of popping down to Campus Central for a quick chocolate fix between lectures would perhaps be a challenge. It is not just our chocolate needs at stake, either - cocoa crops provide the sole income for many farmers across the tropics and it is therefore fundamental that the ICQC maintains its increasingly essential research. This £1 million investment is of central importance for the continuation of thriving international cocoa supplies and suppliers.

Two major diseases currently affect the cocoa regions of South and Central America. If they spread to West African countries, many farms and crops could be destroyed. These countries alone produce 70% of the world’s cocoa beans used for chocolate, which is why the ICQC is so essential. The cocoa shipped after two years in quarantine is clean, safe and ready for further breeding to extend its resistance to disease and pests. This project helps secure the jobs of 1.5 million people in West Africa; a huge work force relying on the crops and resources to keep their local economy strong.

With chocolate demands rising, this economically crucial work done by just a small team is indispensable. Both improving the crop and the way it is produced will prevent a complete chocolate crisis, because without the ICQC the cocoa suppliers just wouldn’t be able to keep up pace of production. The new stateof-the art-facility is such a vital investment which will continue to contribute to averting diseases that could devastate the industry that is so loved by the majority.

A new home for UoR’s International Cocoa Quarantine Centre ERIN PEACOCK 1st Year English Literature

I asked my flat mates what they would do if chocolate ceased to exist, and was met with puzzled faces as if no such travesty was even comprehendible. Luckily, the chance of this disaster occurring is minimal, thanks to the great work done at The University of Reading’s International Cocoa Quarantine Centre (ICQC). The facility, which is currently the only one of its kind, now has a brand new home in an advanced, up-to-date greenhouse where the future of the chocolate industry is maintained and protected. For over 30 years, the ICQC has been enabling countries internationally recognised for growing cocoa to receive varieties of the bean that minimise the risks to crops of damaging diseases and pests, where over 30% of the cocoa production is lost. The new home will not only make the process more environmentally friendly, but more efficient and cost effective too. Since the 1980’s, Reading’s reputation for its research into cocoa and the

chocolate industry has been world renowned, so facilitating this continuous innovative research is of paramount significance. Without the ICQC, the luxury of popping down to Campus Central for a quick chocolate fix between lectures would perhaps be a challenge. It is not just our chocolate needs at stake, either - cocoa crops provide the sole income for many farmers across the tropics and it is therefore fundamental that the ICQC maintains its increasingly essential research. This £1 million investment is of central importance for the continuation of thriving international cocoa supplies and suppliers. Two major diseases currently affect the cocoa regions of South and Central America. If they

"With chocolate demands rising, this economically crucial work done by just a small team is indispensable."

spread to West African countries, many farms and crops could be destroyed. These countries alone produce 70% of the world’s cocoa beans used for chocolate, which is why the ICQC is so essential. The cocoa shipped after two years in quarantine is clean, safe and ready for further breeding to extend its resistance to disease and pests. This project helps secure the jobs of 1.5 million people in West Africa; a huge work force relying on the crops and resources to keep their local economy strong. With chocolate demands rising, this economically crucial work done by just a small team is indispensable. Both improving the crop and the way it is produced will prevent a complete chocolate crisis, because without the ICQC the cocoa suppliers just wouldn’t be able to keep up pace of production. The new stateof-the art-facility is such a vital investment which will continue to contribute to averting diseases that could devastate the industry that is so loved by the majority.

SOCIETY SPOTLIGHT

NEWS@SPARKNEWSPAPER.CO.UK

|NEWS

Society Spotlight: NHSF Reading add that spice to your university life TAMISH KHULLAR, DAKSH JAIN AND ARCHANA CHAUHAN 2nd Year Maths, Business Management and Pharmacy

Reading University Hindu Society (NHSF Reading) is proud to be in its fifth successful year as a society. This year's committee has been superb and worked collectively in following their motto, that "alone we can do so little, together we can do so much." Providing a “home away from home” through cultural, sports, charitable and social events, NHSF Reading will certainly add some spice to your university life. NHSF Reading has tried some interesting socials with its members such as Paintballing, Movie & Henna Night, as well as the infamous “Samosa & Lassi Crawl”. Our flagship Diwali Ball was rebranded “Dhinchaak Diwali” this year, as students celebrated the “Festival of Light” in style at a sold-out Shehnai Olympia Ballroom in town. This year, the society has introduced "Jhankar Beats"- the upbeat panache of Indian dance. Bollywood dancing has definitely increased the adrenaline level of its members and continues to see them improve dance after dance! From initially performing at the Dhinchaak Diwali Ball,

Jhankar Beats has moved on to bigger and better things. The dance group performed two routines at Reading University Tap and Modern Dance Society's annual “Love to Dance” show in December. They returned in 2015 to participate in the Cultural Show in 3Sixty, before competing at the University of Portsmouth’s “Jalwa” talent show at the iconic King’s Theatre. Reading’s performers are currently training hard to represent the uni in the inaugural “Battle of Bollywood” competition at the O2 Arena in London this March. It’s not all musical - NHSF holds weekly football, netball and badminton sessions, with the view to begin playing the Indian sport of Kho-Kho. After competing against Southern universities in Southall last term, Reading’s teams will once again be going for silverware at the NHSF National Sports Competition in Birmingham this month. The Hindu Society’s sports sessions are open to everyone regardless of ability and anyone is more than welcome to join in just for a bit of fun. So why not give it a go? "Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much." Being affiliated to the National Hindu Students’ Forum (NHSF), there have been many events showcasing “Hindu Dharma”. These have ranged

from games & quizzes e.g. “So you think you know India”, to controversial debates on topics such as vegetarianism. The society’s “Love vs Lust” talk held by a former Reading student, Keshav Bhatt, attracted a great turnout to discuss the ethics of issues such as sex before marriage. This event was a huge success and was later followed by an equally insightful presentation exploring India’s most famous and sacred temples. There has been great emphasis on helping the local community this year which is reflected in our voluntary work.

The society took a fantastic opportunity to collect street donations from the crowd on behalf of Barnardo’s children’s charity at the annual Reading Bikers’ Toy Run 2014. More than 2000 motorcyclists dressed as Santa Claus passed through the streets of Reading to deliver toys to children in care across the UK. The event was declared as a Guiness World Record for the largest ever toy run in the world. The society would like to thank all its members and friends, without whom none of this success would be possible. They have some exciting

big events to look forward to including Holi (the festival of colours) ON CAMPUS! So don’t forget to add us on Facebook at “NHSF Reading” for updates on all our upcoming events and feel free to email us at reading@nhsf.org.uk with any questions. "Providing a “home away from home” through cultural, sports, charitable and social events, NHSF Reading will certainly add some spice to your university life."

Image courtesy of: Andrea Bergstroem of University of Plymouth Photo Society

NEWS|GENERAL NEWS

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A New Way to Fix Your Uni Life with Student Mediation Services JEFFREY NGAN 3rd Year LLB Law

Annoyed about dirty dishes in the sink? Had enough doing the cleaning all by yourself? Feeling uneasy talking about bills with people you live with? Struggling with people in your University’s life? Here is the good news for you. We are delighted to announce the Student Mediation Service (SMS) has officially started! Um…So who are we and what do we actually do?? We are a group of trained student community mediators who want to do something more than just get lost under piles of books. We want to put what we have learnt into practice in a place we love. After nearly four months of preparation, with magnificent help from Resolve Mediation, The Law School and Annual Fund, the first ever student lead Mediation service is born. We are here to provide an alternative solution. Mediation is an alternative solution for students like us who may sometimes find ourselves in trouble with regard to places we stay and people we live with. Since we are students ourselves, we understand well what people are going through. We understand that sometimes,

for many reasons, it is hard to speak about our concerns and worries particularly to the people we live with. BUT we also know that ignoring the problems will not do us any good and the situation will only get worse. Our student volunteers have completed a year of comprehensive training from Resolve Mediation in their first year and are well qualified mediators. They are neutral and capable of helping you resolve any situations. Right…how does it work though? Instead of going to the Hall Wardens and having them to tell you what is right and what is wrong (and, of course, those living in a private sharing accommodation do not even have this option), we prefer allowing student to make their own choices and put control in their own hands. We believe we are all grown up and mature enough to speak sensibly. All that is needed is a proper opportunity to sit down, and talk things through with the support of a trained mediator. If you agree and want to use our Student Mediation Service to help resolve a situation, all you need to do is to contact us through Email, Facebook or the JCR coordinator. We guarantee to get back to you within 5 working days. We will see you individually and then, if everybody is willing, we

will arrange a meeting with you and the other person in a safe private room in Student Activities. During the meeting, we will not take sides and will manage the process to facilitate communication, enabling you to come up with solutions which you are both comfortable with. Conversation can get emotional and therefore the Student Mediator will be there to manage the process and intervene when necessary. Hopefully, by the time we leave the room, the mist will have cleared and we can all put down the gloves and enjoy our uni life better. You do not have to worry about other students knowing anything about the meeting as we follow a policy of strict confidentiality which means that everything we say in the meeting stays in the meeting (unless you give your permission for something to be passed on outside the meeting). What makes it better is, the service is completely free! There is something I would like to share before summing up. I have taken part into a few cases relating to noise disputes in neighbourhood context. Regardless of what the issues are, I find the most of the time the underlying cause is in fact the lack of proper communication. There was a case regarding noise between a family recently immigrated to England and a family with a new born baby. There was a significant difference with the noise

SMS team, Ali, Eleanor, Isabelle and Jeffrey at our Launch Event on 2nd February, 2015 Image courtesy of: Lewis Harvey, 2nd Year LLB Student

tolerance, and they both felt the other side was being inconsiderate. My co-mediator and I, working in the same way as SMS, arranged a joint meeting and enabled them to each tell their story during uninterrupted time sessions followed by questions and discussion. At the end of the meeting, the neighbours managed to come up with some agreed actions but more importantly, they now understand where their neighbours are coming from and are more willing to express themselves in the future. The fascinating part of mediation is, it gives people a perfect setting to reopen communication without taking away their autonomy in dealing with their concerns and it stops the relationship from further

deteriorating. Allow us to take this opportunity once again, to present our sincere gratitude, to the Law School, Annual Fund, Resolve Mediation, Professor Patricia. M. Leopold and our great Student Mediators. Drop us an email to Student.mediation@rusu.co.uk if you have any questions. Follow us on Facebook (RU Student Mediation Service) and learn more about us on RUSU page (under ‘Student Support’) https://www. rusu.co.uk/organisation/12725/

Sir David Bell voices concern over Labour’s proposed £6,000 fee cap SARAH ROBERTSON 2nd Year English Language

With speculation growing over the Labour Party’s plans to cut university tuition fees, top academics have written an open letter warning that it could cause “colossal damage”. Labour is suggesting a reduction in tuition fees from the current £9,000 a year to £6,000. A supplementary “graduate tax”

would be introduced in order to close the deficit, however, this could not be collected until graduates earned a higher amount meaning a shortfall for years in between. This proposal has been met with concern from the Universities UK board who say the plan is “implausible”. University of Reading Vice-Chancellor, Sir David Bell, worries that Labour has not taken notice of the “legitimate concerns” expressed by the board. Sir Christopher Snowdon, University of Surrey Vice-

Chancellor and president of the Universities UK board, claims this decline in fees would leave universities £10bn worse off unless this money could be found through public funding. However, Gavan Conlon, partner at London Economics, has claimed that the cost of lowering the fees would be “nowhere near” this estimated amount. It is thought that the current £9,000 fee is no longer the key topic when deciding whether to attend university according to Sir Christopher Snowdon. He also

added that Labour has “missed the point” and the real issue is the cost of living which Labour have not addressed. Teeside University vicechancellor, Graham Henderson, believes that putting “more money in students‘ pockets” would be more beneficial than cutting tuition fees. Simon Gaskell, president of Queen Mary University London, agrees and claims that a “real game-changer” would be to help with the debts that arise from living costs at university. Professor Gaskell also says subsidising fees

is not the way to help “the most needy students” go to university. The Association of University Directors of Estates have expressed their fears over university projects being stopped due to this cut in tuition fees. Marcus Fagent, EC Harris’ head of education and children’s services, believes the lack of university funding could potentially reduce jobs and lessen the competitiveness of UK universities.

GENERAL NEWS

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|NEWS

University injects £25 million into Thames Valley Science Park project KATRINA HORDERN 3rd Year Archaeology

The University is investing £25 million into a new science park on the outskirts of Reading, and south of the M4 in Shinfield. The park is proposed to cover 800,000 square feet and will be the first of its kind here. The £25 million that the University is investing into this project is going towards the first phase of the Science Park with plans to create a substantial number of new jobs in the area. This first phase is the beginning of the gateway to the Science Park which will incorporate both office and laboratory spaces, a cafeteria,

meeting spaces and a conference room. The University of Reading’s Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell said: “We are very excited with the progress on proposals for the new Thames Valley Science Park. The Science Park has been designed to attract a variety of business ranging from those creating new medical devices, to IT and software companies, and even those working in the space industry. “There is a substantial market in the area for such a facility, with no dedicated science park currently operating in the Thames Valley or London. We expect strong demand from both UK and

international companies seeking a prominent location west of the capital. He added: “The Science Park will also be the natural choice for London-based companies that are looking for space to expand, as well as emerging small businesses in the Thames Valley.” The science park is set to employ 5,000 people and the first area of building should attract small to medium size businesses. The Science Park has flexible laboratories and office space which will be built together in a campus-style space. What’s more, the plan includes a pedestrianised central area with shared facilities, thus allowing these small to medium business to interact, unlike traditional office layouts. The Science Park has

Should cheap halls rooms really be reserved for Freshers only? LAUREN READ

4th Year German and History

As a fourth year student who has recently returned from my year abroad, I was disheartened to see that the cheapest rooms in halls are now exclusively reserved for first year undergraduates. If I had been born three months later then I would be in the predicament now of trying to find accommodation for my final year while living in Germany - something many students are currently doing. The halls application service states that the cheapest room that returners can apply for is in the region of £130 a week, which is £5,200 for a 40 week contract. Given the amount of maintenance

loan that the majority of students get, this nowhere near covers the amount needed. Even this year, being in the cheapest available halls room, I have been £500 short for each instalment so far. If I had been born 3 months later I would be nearing £1,000 short. The University’s reasons for prohibiting returners from accessing the cheapest rooms is that they know Reading well enough to find a house, which is a reasonable as some do have the chance to look for available flats and houses. Yet they seem to have excluded the experiences of many students: those who do not have a group to move into a house with, those that prefer the ease of halls, and those that are on their years abroad. I was living in Germany last year

and my friends were on my course, therefore also living in Germany or Austria. When we tried to look for places to live together, landlords and estate agents would not even consider us, because we would not be there in person to view the houses we were interested in, meaning that the only available option for us would be to make a group booking for halls. There is a massive need for affordable accommodation, something which does not swallow the entirety of the student loan. The University needs to take this into account because they are now pricing their current students out of halls and, for some, out of a place to live. Accessible and more affordable halls should not just

Elevation drawings of the first phase of the Science Park Image Credit: www.thamesvalleysciencepark.com

been designed to attract a variety of business ranging from those creating new medical devices, to IT and software companies, and even those working in the space

industry. The access to the park will be from the Eastern Relief Road which has already begun construction. Public viewing of

Winter begins to thaw with February’s mild temperatures REBECCA REILLY 3rd Year Meteorology

Over the last month Reading has seen a variety of exciting weather from frost to snow, hail, thunder and lots of blue skies too. For the vast majority of January our weather was influenced by a series of depressions hitting the UK from the west. This meant that the Met Office issued several severe weather warnings across the England and Wales, with Scotland experiencing some extreme weather as a deepening low brought some rather stormy conditions. The beginning of January looked to continue with the mild temperatures we saw throughout December. We then saw a shift midway through January to

much colder temperatures. On the 22nd the University campus experienced its lowest minimum air temperature since 12th Feb 2012 at -6.3C. The minimum grass temperature in Reading on the 22nd was -12.1C which lead to a widespread frost overnight. This January the UK experienced 126% of average sunshine hours, making it the fourth sunniest January since 1929. The light snow showers Reading experienced on the 29th were partially due to low pressure over Europe and a high-pressure system over the Atlantic - this then brought cold air to the UK from the north. Looking at February’s forecast, we can expect to see average temperatures for the month sitting between approximately 7-8C. Forecasts predict that it will remain largely sunny, with clear

ELECTIONS

RUSU Full TIME OFFICERs Community & Development

1) What is your favourite memory at university and why? 2) What is your biggest mistake and how did you learn from it while studying? 3) What did you have for lunch?

Beth Lucas

Katherine Parry

Ben Cooper

• I would say without a doubt that my favourite memory or memories would be meeting fantastic friends, with whom I hope to remain in contact my whole life. • Probably my biggest mistake is kidding myself that I will only have one drink in park bar, like that can ever happen…9am lectures the next day become all that less appealing! • For lunch I had (in the classic university student style) a steak with peppercorn sauce, asparagus, new potatoes and a vanilla cheesecake for pudding… haha I wish! In reality, some left over Domino’s from last night.

Holly Lowther • My favourite memory would have to be my entire first year. Freshers’ week was an amazing experience and it was great to meet so many new people, and learn a different way of life! • My biggest mistake was definitely rushing into renting a house for my 2nd year. I just didn’t know where to find helpful information at the time, which is the main reason why I’m running for this position. I don't want anyone else ending up doing the same! I spent most of the year living with huge rats which was not nice! There was apparently a pipe that led directly into the sewer line so they used to come up and feed themselves from our kitchen! Very cheeky…and gross! • I had half a pack of donuts from Campus Central. I like to make sure I’m eating healthy whilst writing my dissertation!

• Joining the RAG committee has been the most amazing experience! It’s been so insane to take part in and organise fantastic events such as #RULOST! If elected, I want to improve communication links with halls, sports, societies and RAG; ensuring students have opportunities to take part in more exciting events such as Jailbreaks, Sky Dives and Tough Mudders! • I always felt intimidated asking a lecturer to clarify something I didn’t understand. It’s always best to ask, however, I would have found it so useful to be able to turn to another student for academic support. If elected, I want to introduce a mentor scheme, where finalists support first years, helping them with any academic or personal issues. • A veggie burger with avocado and spinach, and a green tea! Green and healthy, giving me the energy I need to campaign and to save the world! (Okay – maybe one day!)

Tash Turner

• Being elected president of Tap and Modern society, they are such a great group of people and it has been a privilege to be their president. • When I started at Reading, I was absolutely useless at writing the style of essay that lecturers were looking for (not great studying English Language!). However, I managed to take on all the feedback they gave me and turned my grades around the following term and ended up getting a great overall grade for first year. •Peanut butter, Nutella and banana sandwich - I'm addicted at the moment!

• Saturday Union, who doesn't love a Saturday union, particularly during third year, it’s the night all my friends go to and it’s the one night of the week we can all relax have a few drinks and not be thinking about our dissertation. • When I arrived at university I had an inability to time manage, after missing a few lectures during first year, I finally managed to learn to balance lectures, essays, and nights out. • Leftover Chinese...see my first point.

Kassie Headon • Although I love Reading University and the campus, my favourite experience so far was having the opportunity to study abroad for a semester. I went to Zurich, Switzerland in the Autumn term and had the best time experiencing the different culture and beautiful views! • Never getting a question right in the sports round of pub quiz, ever. • Fish and Chips Friday at Spoons, with mushy peas.

Education Emma Wise

• The Art Society's Annual trip abroad to Prague (2014). As president of the society, after months and months of planning, I was so excited to finally get there! This trip was a great bonding experience for everyone involved. Europe’s biggest night

club, goulash (traditional local food) and contemporary art— what was not to love? • Not joining more clubs and societies. Always try new things— you might discover something you love! • Stir fry, chocolate cake and tea!

Tash Travers • There are so many to choose from but it has to be Ski Tour 2014! I can’t think of anything better than partying in the Alps, with some of the best people I’ve ever met (although I did fall over and get airlifted off the slopes on the first day). Honestly, I couldn’t recommend it more! • Discovering £11.99 18” pizza’s from Milanos… I learnt that library all-nighters can only end with one thing – Pizza. • A bowl of rice crispies – my budgeting hasn’t been going too well (I blame MNQ). Oh, and some cucumber; Student living, everyone!

Rebecca Ratnayake • Going out (or staying in!) with my friends because I got to make the most out of what Reading has to offer. I have also loved being the Vice President of the English Society in my third year as I have met a lot of new people and organising fun socials is a good break from final year stress! • Taking modules which I found really hard because I had misunderstood the module description! However in the end I just tried my best and learnt how to deal with a difficult situation and approach my work differently without panicking. • Cheese toastie and a cup of tea—classic!

Hanne Kouwenberg • I think my favourite memory at this university is the first time I saw my MA course mates. I was really nervous about starting at a new university, and was very keen on making some new friends. I remember that day so vividly because everyone was just bursting with excitement! I remember the relief and thinking: this is going to be GREAT. • My biggest mistake is probably when I signed up for so many social activities one semester, that I only passed one module that semester, haha. I dropped a lot of sociale acitivities after that semester and learned to balance my social and academic life a bit better. Luckily I passed the other modules at resits! • Toast with Nutella. You know those glasses that Nutella comes in? I've eaten so much Nutella since the beginning of term that they don't fit in my cupboard anymore!

Niall Hamilton • My favourite memory has to be last year’s biology ball - which I organised. Loads of staff and students came and had a great time. And then at the end I was elected president of the society. • For a whole term I’d been using fabric softener instead of detergent – I didn’t realise until my housemate pointed it out! I now know to always read the label… • Nothing - I’m starving!

ELECTIONS

RUSU President

Laura Richardson • Mastering the Beyoncé walk in the Union. Just kidding. Summer ball last year was great though, definitely a highlight. • Forgetting to back up an essay once. Gah. • A bacon sandwich with ketchup, lots of butter, white bread and no crusts.

Chris Wysling • Wednesday 3rd July 2013 - my graduation in LLB Law. That huge feeling of accomplishment, followed by excitement for what was to come! In my hands was the result of my hard work. My family, my friends and my coursemates were all in one place to celebrate. But really, graduation is only the beginning. The friends you make at University will stay with you throughout your lives, if you want them to. • My biggest mistake was discovering (and promptly binge watching) Breaking Bad a couple of weeks before my dissertation was due. I paid for it by handing in something I could've written much better. It taught me to prioritise and to organise my work-life balance. 'You' time is important, but so is that deadline. • The Boss bagel with lettuce from CerealWorks, with a side order of Representation.

Alex Hyams

• My favourite memory at university is probably not appropriate for publication, but one that is appropriate was the time I found out I had been given a vacation scheme in China. Pub crawled to celebrate, can't remember much more. • My biggest mistake was taking almost all coursework modules

in final year. So many deadlines and vast amounts work. I learned from it by managing my time effectively; it’s a skill everyone should have. • A Chicken Tikka Panini from Eat at the Square, classic! Big shout out to the Panini ladies!

Shuzhan Li

• My favourite memory about university is study. I finished my undergraduate degree in China, which is very different from the UK. In the past few months, I learned new knowledge about accounting, improved my English and broadened my horizons. I really enjoyed studying there. • My biggest mistake made at university was not being able to participate in various clubs and societies. Now that I’ve realize it I try to make the most of university life and stretch myself further and that is also the reason I am running for election for RUSU president. • I usually eat at eat @ square for my lunch. What I had for lunch is not important whereas who I had lunch with is. During lunch time, I met a number of friends: Henry, Nazmin, Sara, Priscilla, Yana, Lily, Lucy, Robert, Alex, Jay, Cara, Morgane, Bradley, Rachel, Mari, Sam etc. I feel lucky to meet them and cherish our friendship very much.

Jake Hawkes

• Going to summer ball and seeing some incredible live acts and DJs, which is one of the main reasons I think we should have more guests at union to give people the same great memories as I've had over my 3 years at Reading. • I think my biggest mistake was probably leaving a few essays until the last minute, especially over holidays, which is why I feel a 24 hour library out of term time should be a priority. • I didn't have lunch today but if I did I assume it would have been something presidential and impressive, or maybe an

omelette.• Forgetting to back up an essay once. Gah. • A bacon sandwich with ketchup, lots of butter, white bread and no crusts.

Saranya Kogulathas • My flat Christmas dinner in first year will always be special to me. Our group had twelve crazy girls and it was the first time we were all cooking together, exchanging presents and even playing hide and seek. We ended up with a meal that even Jamie Oliver would be proud of! It was one of the first times I sat and thought to myself "damn I'm lucky to be here!". • Procrastinating/socialising in the library has led to me leaving my work very last minute and has caused many all-nighters. However I now have become a recluse and avoid people when the deadlines are looming. • Well recently it was my 21st birthday and therefore there has been an influx of birthday cake, so for lunch I had a few cheeky slices of birthday cake. It was amazing... dessert is my biggest weakness!

Oliver Ratcliffe • The memories of performing on stage in Mojo’s. My band’s first gig there back in first year takes some beating, and more recently singing Mika’s ‘Grace Kelly’ in the Mojo’s karaoke and getting a score of 70,000,000. I can still hear those high notes now. •Leaving an essay last minute and having to do an all-nighter in the library, complete with pillow for periodic napping. I learnt that in the future I will bring a better pillow, and perhaps a quilt. • A packet of hula hoops and a banana, representing my ability to find effective but simple solutions.• Procrastinating/ socialising in the library has led to me leaving my work very last minute and has caused many allnighters. However I now have become a recluse and avoid people when the deadlines are looming.

Jaff Altaie

• My favourite memory at university is difficult to choose as I have had so many. However, one which particularly stands out is achieving promotion with the RU Men's Football 4th team last year. We all worked so hard for it and I was part of a great team. Plus, as Captain I felt really proud of everyone. This year we're hoping to do the same, as we're in a great position at the top of the league. • The biggest mistake I've made was believing Wikipedia was the font of all knowledge and frequently quoted from and cited it in my essays. I learnt from this due to a lot of angry feedback, but now I make the most of the library and its resources. • For lunch I... I'm not going to lie, I didn't wake up in time for lunch, although I'm making some mean burgers for tea later!

Student Engagement and Communication Jordan Woodhead • My favourite memory at university is working behind the bar at the Student’s Union, where I have managed to get paid to meet lots of new people and enjoy the entertainment of hundreds of drunken students. You probably being one of them! • My biggest mistake was not trying as many different clubs and societies as I could before my last year. I learned from this with a spur of the moment decision to run as treasurer for the Squash club to try and get as involved as I could. This then led me to run for the Student Engagement and Communication role as I don’t want to let it all go and so I can help other students to make the most of their life at university. • For breakfast and lunch I had leftover Domino’s from the night before. We’ve all been there…

James Hart

• Good question, a lot to choose from! Various socials and events at university have been brilliant, thousands of people packed in the union at summer ball last year watching the England v Italy world cup match stands out in particular. But it has to be my first night of Freshers in 2012, quality night and such a buzz seeing everyone out together for the first time. • Coasting through first year, probably like most people. I got through exams okay in the end but it wasn't exactly pretty. It did make me learn that you get out of university what you put into it and made me work harder since. • Sunday roast, best meal in the world.

Natalie Smith • I competed with the Reading Knights Cheerleaders in the Future Cheer Internationals 2014 in Bournemouth. My group had been changed a week before the competition and we were all stressing but we practiced all morning on the beach. We ended up winning in the Co-ed level 4 division and were awarded a massive trophy and a coveted national champions banner! • My biggest mistake is choosing an optional biology module in my first year which had nothing to do with my degree (Economics). It was so hard but I decided to study really hard and prove that I could pass it, with the help of the friends I had made in the module. • I had a New Yorker bagel from the Bagel shop, where I also work as a bagel-girl under the management of the infamous Bagelman!

ELECTIONS

RUSU Welfare

Tianna Shanks

Fenella Ginn

• It has to be the Fresher's Fayre this year with the Feminism Society committee...there was so much energy and enthusiasm for our new society, and such a massive number of people turned up to our first event... It really inspired in me how important it is to give people the chance to get involved! • My biggest mistake has probably been thinking I could do an 8 question coursework in one week whilst I also had 2 other exams; I couldn't! I've learned not to overestimate myself, and that what matters is maximising potential, not minimising how much time you spend! • Tuna baguette, from Park Eat, one of the catering services that Engagement Officer is responsible for communicating student opinion on. I've been catered 2 years now, and to improve communications as Engagement Officer I will call for more transparency about catering decisions, to offer the best possible service for students!

Tommy Snipe • Writing a blog piece for RUSU about my struggles with anxiety. It showed me how just talking about your own experiences can make a positive impact upon others. I had many people message me saying that I had given them the strength to seek treatment and it was extremely rewarding. • Probably volunteering to get on stage for Tony Lee: Extreme Hypnotist in my Freshers Week. I was made to do a variety inappropriate activities all in front of people I had only just met; including stripping and lap dancing random audience members. However, I quickly learnt to not care about what others thought of me and to take it all on the chin. • As a food scientist, I learn all about the nutritional value of food, so as such I ate a whole tub of Ben and Jerry’s.

• My favourite memory since starting at Reading is being elected as the President of RUDS for the 2014/15 academic year, to have an entire group of people believe in your ability to develop their society is incredibly humbling and it’s a memory I will carry with me forever. • My biggest mistake was believing that good things will come to those who wait. Studying at Reading has taught me that they actually come to those who work hard for what they want, and this is something I try to do every day, in my work, my lifestyle choices and the pathway I am planning for my future. • I had a grilled chicken breast with Mediterranean couscous.

Bethan Hastelow • My favourite memory is from when I was on a Ballroom, Latin & Salsa social, we had a competition to find out how many people you could fit in a telephone box at once. My team managed to win with 8 people in it, but I did get stuck at the top for a good 10 minutes waiting to get down. • My biggest mistake wasn't at university - at college I read the question in one of my exams wrong and wrote a lovely essay about Cicero, sadly the essay was meant to be on Caesar! I now triple check every question I write an answer for. • Ham and cheese sandwich with cucumber and hula hoops.

Katie Brown • My favourite memory at university was the day I collected my undergraduate degree results. I was so nervous, I made my best friend pick them up and cried when she told me I’d got the grade I needed. It is my favourite memory because the results meant that I could continue to study in Reading as a Masters student. I could also continue to live with and around the wonderful people I have met here, despite everything I went through during my undergraduate degree. • My biggest mistake was almost dropping out in my second year. I didn't – luckily – and it taught me how much I want to be here and how important studying at this university is to me. It also taught me what I am capable of overcoming. • I had spiralled corgette noodles, with red pepper, mushrooms and chickpeas with pesto, a banana and a glass of orange juice.

Siobhan Lovett • Visiting Dublin for our 2nd year Geography field trip... I was petrified because I only knew 2 of the 40-something students that were going, but getting to know an amazing group of people, who quickly became friends, while exploring the city for a week turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life. • Not taking the Spring Term of my Second Year as seriously as I should have. Giving up on one particular piece of coursework (which turned out to be actually quite important) is a decision I massively regret! • Chicken Kiev’s that went out of date yesterday, because I live life on the edge...• My biggest mistake was believing that good things will come to those who wait. Studying at Reading has taught me that they actually come to those who work hard for what they want, and this is something I try to do every day, in my work, my lifestyle choices and the pathway I am planning for my future.

ELECTIONS

RUSU PART TIME OFFICERs International Students Officer Simeng Liu • I like attending many activities in the university, such as Chinese New Year party, student enterprise society and some sports. Joining in these activities can help me make more new friends and feel happiness. Meanwhile, improving my English. • When I begin to write my essay, I always think it is still have time and don not need to hurry up. So, I will write roughly few days before deadline which let me got lower score. After that, I know I need to begin to write essay early and prepare enough to do research. • I usual have noodles in the canteen because I prefer spicy food. When chief cook noodles for me, I will let he add more chill for me.

Tze Jia Hiew • 28th January 2014, where I had my solo recital debut during the weekly lunchtime concert series. Because it was the Tuesday before Chinese New Year, I played Chinese pieces on the piano to a majority of western audience (“International” enough?). It was also 365 days since I got my conditional offer to study law in this university! My concert started at 1pm, which was 9pm back home, 30 minutes before I received the email regarding the good news one year ago. • During a social in Bath after a competition, I accidentally said “Scotland’s not a country, is it?”

1) What is your favourite memory at university and why? 2) What is your biggest mistake and how did you learn from it while studying? 3) What did you have for lunch?

and everyone looked at me as if I said a bad word. Ever since that, I constantly reminded myself not to see the four nations like states, for if they are, the United Kingdom should be renamed as the USB — United States of Britain. • FOOD!!!!! I mean, fried rice.

Karim Helbawi • My favorite memory would have to be arriving at my accommodation hall a day late due to a flight delay, and finding everyone from my hall waiting to meet me. It was unforgettable because I never knew how close I would be able to get with all these 26 people. • My biggest mistake would have to be not bringing in my coursework from my previous school back home to use for my course now. I've realized it is necessary to always have past notes for future help. I learned from this by bringing back a suitcase of my previous 2 years in my old high school to the university. • A chicken tikka panini with sweet and sour sauce, and cheddar. Doesn't get better than

Women's Officer

discovered that the things that give you greater difficulty give you a greater reward. • Minstrels and a cup of tea.

BAME Officer Rhia Patel • Becoming part of St George's JCR because I love my halls so much and being on the committee meant that I could give something back to the University by showing my enthusiasm and appreciation for my old JCR! It allowed me to be a role model towards my new students, and it's the most humbling and rewarding role, having students of all ages respecting me! • I just finished an essay the night before the deadline, ready to get into bed, and my laptop suddenly decided to give up on me and power off for no reason at all! Without recently backing it up... I lost it all. Unfortunately I couldn't recover it and I was absolutely gutted. It's fair to say that evening was not a fun one. Simple task: back up and save your work! • A perfectly cooked steak with fries, mixed leaf salad and aubergine, tomatoes, basil and Parmesan cheese side!

Chloe Wilson • So hard to choose one but a favourite has to be my birthday in first year-I went to Brick Lane, with my boyfriend (who I met at Uni) then had a crazy night with my flat at MNQ. • Essay wise – In studying topics that I find extremely interesting and easier, I feel as though I will do well, yet in reality I have

Mature Student's Officer Cindy Bei

• Ooh, that's a hard one...I don't really have a favourite memory at the moment. I've been having a lot of fun, but there's another two years ahead of me. So, I don't want to label one as my favourite just yet. • My biggest mistake was probably double booking a lot of things that clashed with lectures, and end up having to miss the events. It definitely helped in time management and reminding me that I've still got time left to try stuff out. • I had Omurice! It's a Japanese dish where you have fried rice rolled up in an omelette. It sounds easy to make, but rolling the rice without ripping the omelette is hard!

NEWS|CAREERS

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Careers

Jobs of the Week All of the jobs listed below can be found on My Jobs Online, the Careers Centre’s online jobs portal (see www.reading.ac.uk/ careers/jobs)

Paid opportunities this summer JOHN THOMPSON & JON BAINBRIDGE The Careers Centre runs two schemes that offer fantastic paid opportunities over the summer vacation. If you’re interested in research or in gaining experience in a local company one of these could be for you... UROP applications are open! The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme (UROP) provides fantastic insight into the world ofuniversity research. There are around 50 UROP projects available across the University. Applications are welcome from second year undergrads on a three year course, or second and third year students on four year degree programmes. UROP projects take place over six weeks in the summer vacation, with payment made through a bursary. The projects are ideal for those wanting to explore what postgraduate research may be like. Past UROP students have gone on to have their work published and several take part in the annual British Conference of Undergraduate Research, with two chosen to present at “Posters in Parliament” each year. Projects are listed on the UROP web site (www. reading.ac.uk/urop); see ‘Current Placements’. Applications close on Friday 20 March. Details on how to apply are included in each of the project descriptions. To find

Graduate Job of the week: Employer: Graduate Promotions Job Title: Trainee Account Executive In brief: Get involved in the running of graduate marketing campaigns Closing Date: 13 March 2015

out more contact John Thompson through urop@reading.ac.uk Find your perfect internship this summer Are you looking for a paid internship this summer? The Careers Team has developed the Reading Internship Scheme (RIS), which sources internships with local Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), exclusively for University of Reading students. These are open to all students, including postgraduates, and offer a wide range of opportunities. The University has secured funding to help encourage SMEs to offer internships, especially charities, social enterprises and recent start-ups. As part of the scheme, students attend a pre-placement training session and take part in the Internship Celebration Event in November.

Placement of the week: Employer: The Challenge Job Title: Youth and Community Mentors and Leaders In brief: This summer, work with young people to help strengthen their local community Closing Date: 12 March 2015 Part-time job of the week: Employer: Sublime Science Job Title: Fun Science Presenter In brief: Entertain and educate children by making sweets and slime! (Training provided.) Closing Date: 12 March 2015

Career Events

Perfect your speculative application New for this year, there is now a fund which is available for students who source an internship with an SME via speculative application. The funding is used to incentivise employers to offer internships and contribute to the intern’s salary. To find out more visit www.reading.ac.uk/ careers/ris or contact Jonathan Bainbridge, Internship Manager, at: j.m.bainbridge@reading.ac.uk

Our events are designed to help you make the most of your skills and experience, to gain knowledge of the job market, or to explore career areas. Events are run throughout term-time. Here’s a taster of some upcoming employer presentations:

4 March, 1 to 2 pm – Employer Presentation: Government Operational Research Service (Palmer 103) 10 March, 1 to 2 pm – Employer Presentation: Civil Service HR Fast Stream (Carrington 101)

My Jobs Online My Jobs Online (MJO) is a onestop shop for all things careers – it’s more than just jobs! MJO offers: A jobs board that covers part-time work, placements and graduate roles An event management system where you can explore the events we offer and book a place A system for managing appointments with Careers Advisers and Placement officers (for some Henley Business School and ICMA students, these appointments can be booked online) An e-guidance system that allows you to send queries to a Careers Adviser or Placement Officer My Jobs Online is designed specifically for Reading students and graduates – all the employers advertising jobs and placements are targeting you! MJO also allows you to set email preferences to receive targeted information about jobs and events that interest you. To find out more, log in using your University username and password at: https://reading. targetconnect.net/student/login. html

MENTAL HEALTH Find out what you can do to raise support and awareness on Self Injury Awareness Day.

Penny Travel

MAKE-UP JENNERATION A step-by-step guide on how to achieve Kylie Jenner’s signature look.

PENNY TRAVEL How you can experience Morocco for less than £100.

BREAKFASTS TO KEEP YOU GOING What you should be eating in the morning to keep you energised.

LIFESTYLE

The Red Pearl of Morocco: exploring the souks of Marrakech for under £100 ESSENE TIGHE

3rd Year Politics and International Relations

It’s that time of year again when we can’t afford to heat our student houses, so we spend the day in our onesie watching our favourite series on Netflix. Exams are looming and summer seems out of reach. The best way to pull yourself out of the January blues is to take a weekend away somewhere warm and exotic to rejuvenate yourself before the final push. Student finance certainly doesn’t factor-in spontaneous weekends away, but it is possible to spend three days basking in the sun, exploring exotic markets and tasting the intriguing food Morocco has to offer, all for just £100. There is a wealth of budget hostels, inexpensive food vendors and plenty of haggling opportunities. You can experience the real Morocco without having to live on beans for the next month. To book cheap flights go straight to a trusty budget airline: Easyjet or Ryanair (where I found a return ticket for just £60). The taxi ride takes about ten minutes to the city, but it is worth the £1 fee and grabbing other wandering new arrivals means you can share the cost. The crazy taxi journey, weaving through the bustling back streets gives you a flyby mirage of Moroccan culture, smells and sounds before you are dropped, with your carry-on suitcase, into the middle of the Medina. The main hostels are based around Djemaa El Fna, ‘the square of the beheaded’, Marrakesh’s most famous attraction. Ask

the taxi to drop you here, but remember that the budget hostels are set back from the square with a less inviting view than the ‘tourist’ hotels, but they cost only £4 a night. For £4 you get a shared bathroom (the cold shower is a nice wake up in the morning heat) a basic double bed and a beautiful roof terrace – the perfect place to enjoy numerous cups of traditional mint tea as the sun sets over the city. The evenings in Marrakesh are when the city comes to life: the street vendors come out in their hoards and set up make-shift restaurants with long trestle tables in the main square. These vendors will serve you your budget meal each evening but it is truly the best way to be engulfed in the rich tradition of this Arabic culture. Offering fresh sea food, spiced couscous and copious amounts of free olives and bread (which you need to shake on beforehand or they will sneak them onto your bill) at ridiculously cheap prices, you will be able to eat out every evening. Venturing out each evening is a worthwhile experience as the streets fill with snake charmers, musicians and storytellers. (Don’t be put off by the henna wielding ladies and small children offering an array of hand-made charms and bracelets – it is useful to learn the Arabic word ‘La’ meaning no.) Drinking alcohol is not common in Morocco, it being a Muslim country, so there continued on next page

Spice Rack Taken by Essene Tighe

LIFESTYLE |FOOD

2015 Food Forecast Try something new this year. See what’s coming up in the world of food

ELIZABETH ANDREWS

3rd Year Food Technology with BioProcessing

Monitoring new products and concepts in food allows experts to predict food trends ahead of their time. These predictions are made based on consumer choice – which food products the general public are choosing to spend their disposable income on. With the economy slowly recovering, an increasing amount of people are choosing to eat out again. As demand rises, restaurants are vying to serve the most original dishes - from the popularity of Ox-cheek in 2012 to the Korean phenomenon last year, anything is possible! Here are my top tips for 2015’s food trends: Bold is better! As consumers become less accepting of added chemicals to food to enhance their appearance, chefs are finding clever alternatives to improve the aesthetics of their food. Using

Jordi Roca’s Candy Apple Dessert foodwatchingonline.com

10,000 ways to Tee! NIKI IGBAROOLA 3rd Year Classical Studies and English literature

The reality of student life is in the repetition of the meals. Yesterday pasta, today pasta and for tomorrow let’s mix it up with… some spaghetti? Then you read some obscure article about how salad is saving lives and reducing the risk of *insert scary disease here* and so you think “maybe a salad for lunch today” but soon enough, the monotony of salad tires you and you are back to your pasta-spaghetti shuffle. Susanna Tee’s books 10,000 Pastas and 10,000 Salads seem at first like the perfect answer to the student diet. These books tackle recipes for the thing without which we would all crumble (hello, pasta) and that which we turn to when we think

of how disappointed our parents would be if they knew about our culinary habits (okay, salad). The truth is, that no matter how much you love something, be it for its inability to ever be prepared badly or even its relative simplicity and quick cooking style, boredom soon sets in and eating becomes a chore. The 10,000 recipe idea is innovative as it provides an avenue for maintaining your usual diet, providing various ways to keep it interesting. Tee does not simply inundate you with 10,000 different recipes as the title of the book might suggest, but instead provides ideas that through a “Yesterday pasta, today pasta and for tomorrow let’s mix it up with... some spaghetti?"

three-way combination method can ultimately provide a multitude of different recipes. At least that is the author’s claim. The books are divided into three sections (a flip book of recipe ideas) which at first seems pretty basic and relatively fuss free. The problem with this division is the lack of consistency. For instance, within the pasta book, I originally thought that the top section was for sauces, the middle for protein and the bottom for the carbohydrates, but further perusal showed that this was not true. The first two sections interchanged their themes so often that the book might as well have had a twodivision style instead. This structure means that the individual can create their own combinations which, on one hand, is great, as culinary creativity seems easier than usual, but on continued on next page...

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food ingredients with naturally vibrant colours, restaurant dishes are becoming bolder, brighter, and chemical free. Chefs around the world are using a range of ingredients to enhance their dishes, including Jordi Roca, the best pastry chef in the world. Chocolate – It CAN be healthy! With health claims on the rise, Ohso has come up with a perfect product – probiotic chocolate! After a few years of research, they found that chocolate is actually an ideal probiotic bacteria carrier, and have found a way to encapsulate healthy bacteria in a chocolate bar. Using lactobacillus and bifidobacterium bacteria, this chocolate not only contains just 72 calories per bar, but will also work to improve your gut health. Vietnamese Cuisine As the UK’s eating culture diversifies, we see the introduction of new cuisines into the mainstream, and renewed creativity when it comes to ethnic fusions. Off the back of the Korean phenomenon last year, Vietnamese food is now making a name for itself, with many new specialist restaurants and street food vendors opening. From

the traditional “Pho” to “Gỏi cuốn” (spring rolls), Vietnamese is a growing trend, and has already been combined with South American cuisine to make another cuisine: Viet-Cajun. Plant waters With the increase in different super-foods and awareness of their potential health benefits, food developers and nutritionists have made them much more available for consumption onthe-go. These products have been immensely successful; coconut water, maple water and cactus water were overnight bestsellers, and are now available in most high street retailers. The competition for natural waters is set to grow even larger in 2015 as consumers demand a wider variety of natural soft-drinks to be available. Coconut water is rich in potassium, and has been found to act as an effective sports workout drink, especially when combined with the electrolyte sodium. Due to its overall low sodium content, it has been proven to reduce blood pressure and risk of heart disease when consumed as part of a healthy and active lifestyle.

TRAVEL

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A Weekend in Copenhagen EMMA REEVES 3rd Year English Literature

Moroccan archway Taken by Essene Tighe

will be no chance of a hangover an means you will make the most of your weekend there. Covering your shoulders and legs whilst out is a good idea and, as well as showing respect for their culture, you won’t stick out so obviously as a tourist. Marrakesh offers the largest Souks in Morocco, stocks include everything from bright-red, exotic spices to silver charms and trinkets. Bargaining and haggling are the norm and part of the rich cultural experience and I would strongly recommend you try your hand at it. The best tip is to never take their first offer, or their second, or their third! Although shopping is a lot of fun you will be drawn into each shop by nagging shopkeepers and it’s easy to lose your sense of direction in the winding backstreets. Jardin Majorella is a ‘must see’ particularly if you are a fashion enthusiast. Commissioned by Yves Saint Lauren as a gift to Morocco, a beautiful exotic garden full of intricate Arabic carvings, striking water fountains and bizarre birds, a perfect place to shade from the burning Moroccan sun and it costs only £3 for a full day entry. To finish your weekend off with a bang, every hostel offers budget trips to the desert, where you will travel in style with a jeep to the middle of the sand dunes, be fed a beautiful Moroccan feast and ride a camel through the dunes. This will be one of your biggest spends of the trip costing around £25 for the day, but group discounts are available. However, this spend will be worth it. No trip to Morocco, the capital of camel racing, is truly fulfilled without a camel-ride. Top tip before you leave is to have a quick free flick through a ‘Rough guide’ in your local bookshop, finding an array of budget backpacking hostels, restaurants and sights.

You can get a taste of one of the happiest countries in the world, and their New Nordic cuisine, by spending a weekend in Copenhagen. This English speaking city has a lot to offer: ports, palaces, gardens, Danish design, museums, an independent neighborhood, Carlsberg’s brewery, one of the oldest theme parks in the world and bikes… lots of bikes. Despite it being in the reputably expensive Scandinavia, there are cheap flights on offer if you book in advance, and many hostels to choose from, such as Wake Up and Generator. I went in winter, where hygge (a Danish comfort) is at priority and the Christmas markets are in full swing. However, it is a city you can visit all year-round. I’ve listed my top things to do over a weekend, many of which are free, and in walking or cycling distance. TIP: Join the locals and hire a bike, as the city is ridiculously easy (and bike friendly) to navigate around. Just avoid the morning workers’ bike commute! Tivoli Gardens If it inspired Walt Disney, it must be pretty good. Tivoli Gardens opened in 1843 to distract people from political unrest and its charm still attracts people today. Go at night when it is illuminated to make the most of the magical atmosphere, and to see the fireworks. It is cheap to enter but you have to pay per ride – so if you are interested, buy a multi-ride ticket to save money. Alternatively, just have a walk around! There is also an aquarium, a concert hall and a variety of food options available, from restaurants to takeaway. The Botanical Gardens Even on a rainy day, the botanical gardens are a must. There are twenty-seven greenhouses! The most notable is the magical palm house. Wander around the various different rooms, which house some of the many thirteenthousand species of plants from the whole collection. Nyhavn The multi-coloured (and staple guidebook photo location) Nyhavn old port is beautiful (bar

Waterfront Taken by Emma Reeves

the last remaining strip club at one end). It is by the main shopping area Strøget and other sights such as Amalienborg. Christiania The colourful and controversial Freetown Christiania is an interesting visit. In 1971 a group of hippies took over an old military base, and since then it has developed into an independent neighborhood. There are places to eat and drink, murals and street art. Make sure to look at the houses around the lake, there’s actually one made out of window frames. Take note of the ‘dos and don’ts’ listed when you enter, such as putting your cameras away when you go down ‘Pusher street’- a market with a (slight!) difference. TIP- You can take the ‘alternative’ free walking tour which includes a visit here, and through the beautiful Christianshavn. This is a great way to find out more about the city. Visit: www. copenhagenfreewalkingtours.dk

Rosenberg Castle/King’s Garden Wander through the gardens and admire the castle, which is just like something from a fairytale. It is not necessary to go in, but it is home to the crown jewels. Just beyond this is the National Gallery, which is free to enter. Kødbyens Fiskebar Although slightly pricey for a student, the small plates are good value, and it is said to offer some of the best fish dishes in town (it is run by a chef from Noma, a restaurant in Copenhagen which is often voted best in the world). The location adds to the experience, situated in an industrial estate between old warehouses. The minimalistic interior is reminiscent of its old meatpacking days but the huge bar where you can dine without reservation, the 1,000 litre fish tank, music, and of course food, soon bring you back to its modern use. Torvehallerne, Israels Plads On this square is an undercover,

permanent food market which has tons of options from traditional Danish open sandwiches (Smørrebrøds) to pizzas, and many food related gifts. It is in a great location near Nørreport station and a vintage flea market. So, stop off for lunch or for a morning snack – grab a pastry and an amazing coffee from Coffee Collective – and you won’t be disappointed! Kalaset A basement cafe with vintage interior, good food and prices! The menu includes vegan and vegetarian options and has everything from pancakes to burgers and cocktails. The Little Mermaid If you wonder where all the people are (Copenhagen can be a quiet city) go to the Little Mermaid, which is, sure enough, a little statue of a mermaid, yet it seems to be where all the tourists hang out. Combine with other sights or just with a walk along the harbor.

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FOOD

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15 Minute Meal AMY GASHMAN

3rd Year English LIterature with Film and Theatre

Being a student and eating well requires a certain amount of dedication. It has become far too easy to bung a meal in the microwave or settle for the same tomato pasta every night – quick, easy, and semi-satisfying. But these make-shift meals often have tons of salt, sugar (yes, you should read the back of your jar of pasta sauce), and saturated fat. Not to mention all the great nutrition you’re missing out on by limiting yourself to carb heavy food, day in, day out. So, I have something different to add to your recipe repertoire – something high-protein, low-carb, and super quick. Roasted Bell Peppers stuffed with Cauliflower Rice and Minced Beef Ingredients (serves 1)

1 bell pepper, colour of your choice ¼ cauliflower 100g minced beef 1 cup passata 2 garlic cloves, minced ½ white onion, chopped 2 tsp Italian seasoning (a combination of basil & oregano will work, too) 1 tsp mustard A splash of Tabasco A handful of spinach A handful of pumpkin seeds (optional – but a great source of zinc and omega 3 fatty acids) S+P

... the other hand: isn’t a recipe book meant to eradicate all the thinking that comes with a meal combination? Plus, if the meal fails, it becomes less justifiable to blame the author and quite frankly, there is no place for that kind of stress in student cooking. In truth, if one of your New Year goals was to try new things, then making your own blue cheese dressing from scratch counts, and a DIY meatball night is a great way to bond with your flatmates (outside of the usual tenants of social drinking). But, there is something about these books that leaves you feeling overwhelmed. By the time you’re finished choosing a recipe, you

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Method 1) Cut the bell pepper in half lengthways, drizzle the halves in olive oil, and place them in a preheated oven. 2) Meanwhile, on a medium heat, brown the mince in a pan with some oil for 3-4 minutes. 3) Add the onion, garlic and the Italian seasoning to the pan with the mince and sauté for another 5 minutes. 4) Stir in the passata, mustard, and Tabasco and lightly cover the pan with foil, leaving to simmer for another 6-8 minutes. 5) After 6-8 minutes, grate the raw cauliflower directly into the pan, taste and season with salt and pepper. Leave whilst you get the pepper out the oven. 5) Drain out any excess oil from the pepper and place the spinach in there as the first layer. 6) Spoon in the mince and cauliflower from the pan. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and serve with a big green salad. Optimum nutrition is vital for a healthy body and a healthy body equates to a healthy mind. Who doesn’t want that? So ditch the microwave meals, jacket potatoes, and easy pastas, and give your evening meal an extra ten minutes for a yummy, nutritious change!

Roasted Bell Peppers stuffed with Cauliflower Rice and Minced Beef Image by Amy Gastman

RED AWARD

“No matter how much you love something ... boredom soon sets in and eating becomes a chore.”

Need hours for your RED Award? Helping The Spark may help you ultimately gain the experience you’re looking for filling up the core activities on your RED Award sheet! If you’re writing an article for the Lifestyle, Entertainment or Sports section, you will be awarded with 1 ½ hours per article. News articles on the

will probably have drank most of the wine required for the settled upon recipe and subsequently be required to give up, due to lack of said wine, and end up ordering that pizza from your local take-out which you were trying to avoid in the first place. Tee’s books are a great idea as they encourage creativity, but deeming them student friendly is not something I can do, as they left me feeling more stunned than inspired.

other hand are awarded 30 minutes per article. If you’re artist or photographer, you can gain up to 3 hours depending how long you work! If you’ve already written, drawn or photographed for The Spark, the Editor Nathalie Siah can sign off your sheet for you. Contact her at editor. spark@reading.ac.uk for more information.

LIFESTYLE |FOOD & HEALTH ELIZABETH ANDREWS

4th Year Food Technology with Bioprocessing

Meatballs / Burgers Serves 3–5 people Ingredients

1 onion Standard pack of beef mince(200300g) 1-2 eggs 2tbsp oil Seasonings of your choice

Method 1) In a large mixing bowl, break up the meat and mix with the chopped onion and one egg. Add another egg if the mix is too dry. 2) Roll the mixture into a ball or burger shape. 3) Heat the oil in a frying pan, and fry for about 10 minutes, constantly moving the meatballs, or frying the burgers for 5-6 minutes on each side. For Meatballs, boil pan of pasta, drain and mix with a can of chopped tomatoes whilst still on the heat. Add the meatballs from the frying pan and mix together well. For Burgers, serve in a burger bun with salad and relish of your choice.

SARAH KENCHINGTON

Enchiladas Serves 3–5 people Ingredients

2 tbsp oil 1 clove of garlic (or garlic puree) 1 onion 1 standard pack of mince 1 red pepper 1 red chilli A handful of cherry tomatoes Spices of your choice 4-5 tbsp tomato puree 6-8 flour tortillas

Method 1) Fry the garlic and onion for 2-3 minutes. 2) Add in the mince and brown over a higher heat for about 5 minutes. 3) Coat the mince in spices of your choice, add the tomato puree, chilli and tomatoes and cook on a medium heat for 5 minutes. 4) Remove the pan from the heat, and divide your mince between 6-8 tortillas. 5) Roll up and place in an ovenproof dish. 6) Grate a generous amount of cheese over the top and bake for 10 minutes at 180ᴼc. Serve with salsa and guacamole

Simple student supper

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Three ways with mince

Mince in Tomato Sauce: Chilli con Carne or Spaghetti Bolognese. Serves 3–5 people Ingredients

simmer on a low heat for 15-20 minutes, until thickened. For Spaghetti Bolognese, boil pasta to serve.

For Chilli con Carne, boil a portion of rice to serve, as well as natural yoghurt or crème fraiche.

Standard pack of minced beef (200300g) 1 onion 1 clove of garlic (or tbsp garlic puree) Spices (optional, can include chilli, cumin, nutmeg) Herbs (optional, can include thyme, sage, rosemary) 1tbsp tomato puree (tomato ketchup will do) 2tbsp oil (ideally olive oil) 1 can chopped tomatoes

Method 1) Warm the oil in a large frying pan on a medium heat. 2) Finely chop the garlic and onion and add to the pan, leave to sweat on a medium heat until softened. 3) Break up the mince into smaller strands and add to the pan – leave to brown for 6-7 minutes. Add tomato puree and evenly distribute throughout the meat. 4) Season well with your chosen herbs and spices. 5) Add the tin of chopped tomatoes, mix well and leave to

Chilli con Carne can be improved with fresh tomatoes Taken by Elizabeth Andrews

Self Injury Awareness Day

system”. Often it occurs during periods of depression or distress, though some use it as a way of 1st Year English Literature punishing themselves. Whilst self-injury is often associated with a person physically injuring Self-injury affects at least 13% themselves, it can relate to both of young people between the alcohol and drug abuse. ages of 11 and 17. Many argue Self-Injury Awareness Day that this figure is actually higher, (SIAD) takes place on March as many cases of self-injury are 1st every year, and is dedicated not reported due to the social to raising both support and taboo which often surrounds it. In awareness for self-injury. The 2014, figures were released that primary aim of SIAD is to suggested a 70% increase in the remove the stigma of talking previous two years of self-injury about self-injury in public, cases reported to A&E. Selfthereby preventing sufferers from injury is a much more common feeling isolated. The official issue than many people realise. website has a list of ways to raise The term self-injury can be awareness on the day. There are used to describe a wide range a variety of things to do, from of behaviours. It is, broadly sticking up posters and handing speaking, understood to be a out leaflets (the download is physical response to an emotional available online) to buying and kind of pain, and can end up wearing a wristband. being a very addictive “support Self-injury should be dealt

with sensitively, but at the same time those suffering from it should feel able to reach out for help and talk about it openly - and with your help, that is precisely what SIAD aims to achieve. For more information, visit: www.lifesigns.org.uk/siad/ “LifeSIGNS is a forward thinking, user-led voluntary organisation founded in 2002. LifeSIGNS provides a variety of helpful resources, support and training to anyone affected by self-injury; including people who self-injure, friends and family, and health care workers.” Alternatively, if you are struggling with stress or any other pressure you feel is preventing you in any way, contact the student support services in the Carrington building, located on Whiteknights campus.

Drawn by Beatrice Ridge

“Self-Injury Awareness Day (SIAD) occurs on the 1st of March every year”

HEALTH & FOOD

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Don’t Crumble Under Stress, Drive for Success ELIZABETH ANDREWS 4th Year Food Technology with BioProcessing

Many people talk about their university experience as ‘the best years’ of their life, but anxiety can make you wonder where you’re going wrong. However, research has found that an average of 65% of all students feel stressed – you are definitely not alone. With exams getting closer, Easter deadlines approaching and what seems like nowhere near enough time to finish all of your work, many students get stressed and anxious around this time of the year. The main symptoms of stress in its early stages are problems with sleeping and irritability. If you find that you are suffering from either of these, it is time to take action.

There are a few simple ways of relieving stress symptoms, and relaxing more. If you’re struggling with your workload, make a plan and stick to it! Make realistic deadlines for yourself, and allow time to relax in the evening. Allow enough time to get the job done properly, without letting it drag on, and remember to take regular breaks, both short and long. If you’re struggling to understand your work, get some help with it. Email your lecturer or tutor and book an appointment to speak with them about the issues you are having. Alternatively, get a study group of friends together – order in a pizza and make an evening of it! In a more relaxed environment you may be more productive, especially with a support group.

Burn off the anxiety and stress by exercising regularly. Whether you run it off in the gym, or go for a walk, exercise will help to clear your mind. Exercise releases endorphins, which transmit chemical signals within the brain, reducing the perception of stress. Regular exercise (3-4 times per week) has been proven to relieve stress, reduce anxiety and improve your quality of sleep. Get plenty of sleep. Doctors recommend about 8 hours a night so try and get as close to this as possible. Staying up for ‘allnighters’ not only reduces your concentration and quality of work, it also has a knock-on effect for up to a week afterwards. Establish some form of sleeping routine, and try to switch off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before sleeping, to give your mind time to wind-down.

are those with a poor ability to spike your blood glucose levels (which is a good thing, as they release their energy slowly over a period of hours) and protein helps regulate your blood sugar. This is why porridge is often seen as the best breakfast: low GI oats are high in fibre and protein as well as being good for your heart. However, if you’re a little bored of that gloopy mass of grain, give one of these breakfast ideas a go, designed to keep you going until lunch time without having to raid the library café in the process.

The to-go option - Breakfast bars A lower-sugar flapjack packed with fruit, nuts and seeds will give you all you need in a handy little bar, and you can eat it while walking onto campus. Preheat an oven to 180°C and line a deep baking tray with greaseproof paper. Gently heat 5 tbsp water, 2 tbsp honey, 150g margarine and 100g dried fruit like sultanas or apricots for 5 minutes in a small saucepan. Use a blender to puree them together. Add this mixture to a big bowl along with 200g oats, 150g mixed nuts, seeds or whatever you fancy and another 150g your favourite chopped dried fruit. Mix well. Press everything down into the baking tray and cook for 25 minutes. Leave to cool before slicing into 8 large bars ready to be grabbed on the go each morning.

Eat healthily. You can allow yourself a treat once in a while, but a healthy, balanced diet has been proven to significantly improve your cognitive function. This will help you concentrate in lectures, focus on work when studying for long periods of time and will increase the amount of material you remember from lectures and reading. A wide range of vitamins and minerals from fresh fruit and vegetables will help boost your immune system to minimise illness, and good quality carbohydrates (i.e. wholemeal bread and pasta) will give you a longer lasting energy source. Cooking can be relaxing, and by getting your flatmates involved as well it can be a very sociable way to boost your positivity and selfesteem.

Super-charged Breakfasts LYDIA ENGLAND

4th Year Food Science and Business

While we may have missed National Breakfast Week (January 25th-31st) promoting the benefits of a hearty breakfast each morning, there is no reason why we can’t carry on the sentiment for the rest of the year, or at least until dissertations are in and exams are over. It’s always said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and it really is true. In the morning, your body has likely been fasting for around twelve hours and your blood glucose levels are usually extremely low. When you are without food for that long, your body starts to use glycogen (your emergency energy stores), and skipping breakfast could make you of grumpy and lethargic for the rest of the day. Starting the day with a good breakfast will give you the energy you need to stay focused and perform better at whatever you are doing. It has also been proven to aid weight loss by making you less likely to snack leading up to lunch. So what actually makes a good breakfast? Essentially, protein and low glycaemic index carbohydrates. Low GI foods

The posh option - Poached eggs and smoked salmon on toast Smoked salmon ‘off-cuts’ can be bought for as little as 99p in some supermarkets so you don’t have to fork out a fortune for this one. Use wholemeal or seeded bread for a high fibre option. For the poached egg take a small saucepan of salted boiling water and bring to a simmer, you don’t want to boil it too hard or the egg will fall apart. Crack the egg and carefully but quickly drop it into the water. Gently simmer for 3 minutes, remove with a slotted spoon, pop on top of buttered toast and smoked salmon. Top with plenty of black pepper.

The lighter option - Fruit and yogurt Yogurt is really high in protein and Greek or Greek-style yogurt is even better. If you’re one of those people who can’t stomach much in the morning, a handful of fresh fruit with yogurt, honey and maybe some nuts or seeds could be a great alternative to muesli or cereal. Try using blueberries,

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Take some time out for yourself. Find something you enjoy doing and do it! Go and see something new, or try out a new activity! Challenging yourself to do something unfamiliar will boost your confidence and your overall feeling of well-being. There are plenty of activities happening in RUSU every week, so try something different, and meet some new people. All students get stressed at some stage during their university life, and everyone has different ways of dealing with it, just make sure you find something that works for you. If it all gets too much, there will be always be someone you can talk to – your lecturers, friends and course mates will support you if they can. Or, contact the student support services in the Carrington building if you need to. Just don’t suffer on your own!

There are a lot of great brekfast options out there!

bananas, pears and apples. Apples have even been proven to do just as well at waking you up in the morning as a cup of coffee! The low-carb option – Fritatta This can be made ahead in batches so you have a readymade breakfast microwaveable in seconds. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Take your favourite veg like peppers, onions, courgettes, mushrooms or spinach and fry gently in a large frying pan until softened. Pop into a roasting dish lightly greased with butter or oil. Mix 10 eggs in a jug with a big splash of milk and plenty of salt and pepper. Pour them over the vegetables and bake for around 25 minutes until the egg is cooked.

Cool and slice into 5 portions. In the morning you can simply pop each portion into the microwave for 1 minute or eat it cold. A high protein, super tasty, super quick breakfast. The hangover option – The full English There is a reason why this the UK’s favourite breakfast, and when made properly it is unbeatable. With plenty of meat and eggs it is all about protein, protein, protein. It doesn’t even have to be that unhealthy! Use back bacon and skip the sausages for a lower fat version, add baked beans for fibre and you can even grill some tomatoes for a healthy .antioxidant hit

LIFESTYLE |FASHION

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Couture Week Layering’s a Piece of It’s the Most Wonderful Time of Cake the Year HANNAH MCDOWELL

2nd Year Philosophy and Italian

Couture week comes and goes before you know it, leaving many of us behind with the hope that maybe one day we’ll own such exquisite pieces. It happens just twice a year, beginning in late January with the spring/summer collections and ending in late June with the autumn/winter collections. “The couture houses create some of the most beautiful and breathtaking eveningwear imaginable.” Couture screams fantasy; anything goes when it comes to designing and creating. However, this can also have a negative effect. Designers have visions which can sometimes be very extreme, and exaggerated looks don’t often transfer very well into day-to-day looks. A prime example of this would be Viktor & Rolf’s summer 2015 collection. Their show featured a lot of straw hats that covered the models’ faces, beautiful on the catwalk but impractical for day wear. Yet, without them the Van Gough theme wouldn’t have been portrayed as well as it was. It is often forgotten that a seamstress hand-creates every ensemble that is presented on the runway. The couture houses

create some of the most beautiful and breathtaking eveningwear imaginable. It’s hard to believe the time and effort that goes into making these dresses. This is seen especially with Elie Saab and, my personal favourite, Zuhair Murad. These couture houses are known for creating enchanting and fairytale inspired pieces. Both Murad and Saab produce eveningwear that makes the model look like she is actually a part of the dress. This is an effect achieved visually, through the use of sheer material and strategically placed sequins. So, as imagined, couture week did not disappoint. From the locations chosen to the visual sets and runways created, the designers and their teams worked hard and produced some timeless and innovative pieces. Watch this space, as the celebrity award shows will soon be flooded with this season’s beautiful couture.

Meija S /Lookbook and Nina/Lookbook

ERIN PEACOCK 1st Year English Literature

Half Marathon Training Credit to Emily Hodges

This past month temperatures have really plummeted. I think back to my childhood and my mum nagging at me to “layer up” before I eagerly go running off into the garden to build a snowman. This would usually consist of all the jumpers and coats I owned, several pairs of socks and my pink glitter wellies. However, this outfit choice doesn’t quite seem fitting now. Around campus this month I’ve spotted many layering looks that aren’t just flawlessly fashion conscious, but appear warmth conscious too. This is undoubtedly the perfect combination for winter attire. Layering is notoriously difficult to pull off. You have to consider textures, colours, lengths, fabrics and so on. You can’t just chuck on shirts and cardigans and scarves and coats of any description and hope for the best. The challenge is avoiding looking bulky and herein lies the risk of the dreaded chunky knit cardigan, which I would be well inclined to ditch altogether. The best advice possible to getting it right is to keep it simple. Different base colours will provoke an immediate starting point for the following layers. White or grey seems like an obvious yet pleasing choice.

Navy is elegant and black is always a favourite. Starting with block colours gives you scope to incorporate patterns and prints further on. My favourite base layer has got to be the turtleneck. Similarly, a plain collared shirt is an easy starting point and means you can just pull a thin jumper over the top. A cropped jumper looks great as the shirt underneath is exposed, making the layers more visible. “You have to consider textures, colours, lengths, fabrics and so on” You can team your look with jeans (ripped knees are especially popular at the moment) or even a printed skater or A-line skirt. A classic, though arguably unsubtle, choice is leopard print, in moderation I think it can add depth and flair to a layered look. Alternatively, a faux fur leopard print statement coat could faultlessly top it all off. On the more unusual list of top layers, however, are capes. A tartan pattern in neutral colours would work well with any layered look – particularly teamed with a fur scarf or snood. Faux fur definitely adds a glamorous twist to layering, even if just on the trim of a coat or cape.

There’s always a wide selection of coat styles, but when it comes to layering I think the duster coat has got to be a winner. The longline fit is elegant, streamlined and doesn’t create the frumpy look we all want to avoid during Winter. Zara and Topshop both do some beautiful duster coats, but there are also some stylish yet more affordable designs in Forever 21, New Look and H&M. You only really need one coat to pull off several different layered looks so investing in a few items of different, but nonetheless complimenting, colours and textures for your middle layers will mean you can construct varying outfits every day whilst still keeping cosy. The same goes for accessories. So, getting layering right seems to come down to three key tips. Avoid chunky cardigans. Keep your first layer simple. Invest in a knockout coat or cape for your outer layer. Just think of your outfit like a cake - one layer is boring but attempting too many layers is over complicated and tricky to get right. Visit a shop and take a hoard of clothing styles into the changing rooms to try on and trial. Experiment with layers until you find what works best for (and looks amazing on) you.

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Campus Crushes

Is your love life limited to the library? Are you raring for a Reading romance? If so get in touch with Campus Crushes! To submit your campus crush, email deputyeditor@sparknewspaper.co.uk .

To the girl with the dodgy ankle, from the over-enthusiastic guy in the blue parka. Sorry I accidentally pushed you over in the revolving door at the library. I’d like to make it up to you, maybe over a drink?

To the guy stroking a tiger in Thailand, from the girl stroking a tiger in Thailan. We both swiped right on Tinder and I thought it was meant to be. Two weeks later and no-one has said anything. I’m too shy to make the first move and I’m not sure if you’re really interested in me anymore. Please break the stalemate, I really think we could hit it off.

To my Rose, from your Jack Dawson.. You sung My Heart Will Go On at Thursday night karaoke. Frankly, I’m not sure my heart can go on without seeing you again

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To the blonde guy with the orange backpack from the girl with the bright pink boots. . You were in front of me in the bagel queue and we ordered the same bagel: the BSc on seeded. Hopefully I will be BSc-ing you soon! .

London Art Fair 2015 CHRISTIAN WALTERS 3rd Year English Language

London consistently proves itself to be one of the world’s leading pioneers in the creative field, from the vast array of museums and galleries to its ever-growing amount of twentysomething-year-olds which make up the thriving, bright and ever influential industry. This, of course, isn't striking news to most of us. What may have gone unnoticed, however, is the fact that London also holds itself firmly as the capital in the global arts market, with a staggering £71.4billion contributed solely from the creative industries to the UK economy. George Osbourne commented that “over the past decade, the creative industries have grown twice as fast as the rest of the economy”. It's evident that this industry has more substance to it than simply the ‘arty-farty’ pretentious label it's so often given. It was at the end of January, when I attended London Art Fair, that I was reminded of the functional purpose art events embody, providing platforms for artistic production, education and collection. London Art Fair is held at the London Design Centre and is a great event for artistic inspiration and interacting with like-minded individuals. Considering the fact that you're surrounded by over three floors of stalls, representing over 160 British galleries and museums, a broad

insight is shared with the public into the contemporary art that exists within the UK. The fair was continuously humming with the hustle and bustle of people admiring and purchasing pieces (prices ranged from £200£20,000), yet a somewhat relaxed atmosphere was maintained. This made for an occasion that was free from the ostentatious and pompous individuals which are assumed to make up the majority of similar events. Ephemera, oil paintings, sculptures, signs, and computer projections were just some of the mediums presented. The sheer amount of diversity in work shown all around me instilled a sense of pure excitement. Having the immediate opportunity and accessibility to discover countless new artists and their work is something that rarely occurs, except at few special events like this one. Whilst the London Art Fair was running (21-25th January), there were talks and discussions happening on the hour, every hour, each day. These discussions provided other unlikely opportunities, both to learn and engage in lively dialogue with important institutions involved with the Fair. One such institution was the Pallant House Gallery, the museum partner of the Fair, who discussed the business and the running of their institution, as well “Ephemera, oil paintings, sculptures, signs, and computer projections were just some of the mediums presented. "

as their relationships with private collectors and contemporary artists. Austin Desmond Fine Art, a gallery shown at the London Art Fair since 1988, spoke to The Spark about their experience with the London Art Fair and how it's benefitted them: “It's the perfect way for us to meet our clients and essentially sell some art work... I think if you're a young artist you really need to know how to market yourself and how to make art that is marketable... It's a shame because now more individuals are focusing on how they are to sell their art work rather than focusing on the artwork itself.” London art fair attracts thousands of visitors every year, from avid art collectors to simple money-stricken students like myself, yet the common thread between each individual is the appreciation for the often unacknowledged, home-grown talent British artists have to offer.

Carne Griffiths Works in ink and tea on bockingford watercolour paper, showing with Inkd Gallery at London Art Fair

Clive Barke Origami Boat, 2010 at London Art Fair

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The Many Wonders of Coconut Oil

HANNAH CROFTS 2nd Year English Literature

I've been using coconut oil in my skin and hair care regimes for a few months now and the results have left me seriously impressed. Any coconut oil is fine to use and as long as you see the words 'virgin', 'cold-pressed' and 'raw' on the label, you're good to go. Coconut oil is naturally solid at room temperature, so if you're in the shop, stood by the oils in a perplexed state, it's the waxy stuff in a jar that looks nothing like you'd imagine. Here are some of my favourite uses for this magical oil... MOISTURISING Using this after the shower as a facial or body moisturiser leaves you feeling baby-soft and smelling deliciously fragrant. The best part about this oil is that it will absorb into your skin without leaving an oily or greasy residue. It's also great for moisturising massages.

REMOVING MAKEUP Coconut oil is perfect for removing makeup, since it’s bursting with natural goodness. It works just as well as some highend oil based make-up removers, but for a fraction of the price. This is such a gentle way to remove your makeup, I'd thoroughly recommend it if you suffer from sensitive skin and struggle to find a suitable product. HAIR TREATMENT Lately, I've been using Vatika Naturals Coconut Hair Oil, leaving it on overnight to work its magic. I bought mine from an Indian grocery shop for £2.99 but they also sell it on Amazon. It soothes sensitive scalps and replenishes hair, leaving it healthy and beautifully glossy. Whatever your hair dilemma, coconut oil will fix it! To apply, place the closed bottle in a bowl of hot water to melt and then rub a few teaspoons of oil thoroughly through your pre-washed hair and into your scalp. Then put on a shower cap,

leave on overnight and wash out in the morning. BANISHING STRETCH MARKS Rubbing coconut oil onto scars and stretch marks works wonders. It's also incredibly effective with the reduction of psoriasis and eczema, too. HOMEMADE PRODUCTS Due to its intense moisturising qualities this oil is the perfect ingredient in any exfoliating scrub. Moisturising and exfoliating your skin at the same time leaves your legs silky smooth and enviably soft. As most of the scrubs sell at around £8 however, they don't really fit into most student budgets. This is why I love to make my own exfoliating scrubs. They're so easy to make and make great gifts, as well. This is the recipe for my gingerbread scrub: • 140ml Coconut oil • 100ml Almond oil

Coconut Oil Credit to Hannah Croft

• • • • •

350g Brown sugar 150g White sugar 1 tsp Ground ginger 1 tsp Ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp Ground nutmeg

Melt the coconut oil in a

microwave. Combine all the dry ingredients together in a bowl and then mix in the coconut and almond oils. Transfer into Tupperware boxes, or if you’re giving it as a gift, use a Kilner jar and decorate with ribbon.

Make-up Jenneration! Get Kylie Jenner’s Look AMBER IVATT

3rd Year English Literature with Creative Writing

Now, we can’t all drive a Mercedez Benz at the age of seventeen like Kylie, but we can steal her beauty looks to make us feel like a celebrity. Kylie tends to sport looks that are very matte, bold and sexy (it’s all about the overdrawn lips) – perfect for a night out! FACE Kylie keeps a flawless matte complexion. By using Rimmel Stay Matte Foundation (RRP £5.99) and Bare Minerals Ready finishing powder (RRP £22.00), you can achieve that finish. Use Rimmel Sun Shimmer bronzing powder, which is also matte, to define your cheekbones and give yourself a chiselled look. Next, apply highlighter to the highest peaks of your face: the bridge of your nose, chin and cheekbones. Benefit’s Watt up (RRP £24.50)

will bring more light to the highest points of your face, making them stand out. EYES A key recipe in the Kylie’s look is wispy lashes paired with a dark smoky eye. The Too Faced Chocolate Bar palette (RRP £39.00) is perfect to experiment with different tones of brown, in order to achieve the same cat eye effect that Kylie has. Just remember to use a lighter taupe brown on the lid and build a darker brown on the outside corner of the eye to define it deeper and make the eye look larger. Then, with a gel eyeliner like MAC’s in Blacktrack (RRP £15.50), line above the lashes with a small cat eye and then use a dark eyeshadow below the bottom lash line and blend. To pump up the volume on those eyelashes, use Benefit’s They’re Real (RRP £19.50), voted the best mascara

for 2014, for top and bottom lashes. Then apply false eyelashes such as Eyelure’s Exaggerate 143 lashes (RRP £6.99) to add wispy length and complete your Kylieinspired eyes. LIPS The matte, overdrawn, ombré lip is Kylie’s statement look. To achieve this, it’s all in the lip liner. Use MAC’s Burgundy lip liner (RRP £12.50) to outline the edges and then overdraw on the cupids bow. Then, fill in the majority of the lip with the same lip liner, keeping away from the centre. Finally, apply Kinky by MAC lipstick (RRP £15.50) to the centre and blend it into the edges with the tip of your finger. hope you have very happy, long relationships. However, for those of you who are like me: twentysomething and hoping to make a connection with something other than wifi, may I suggest

something? Put down the phone, close up the laptop and go outside. Enjoy the day, see some friends and let it come to you naturally.

I for one give up on searching for romance, especially over the internet.

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Campus Style: Spotted in the Sun CAITLIN MCCLINCHY 2nd Year German and Economics

Bright colours for the Spring season have been slowly making their way back into people’s wardrobes. Don’t be afraid to get out those cheerful colours in the freezing weather. There is nothing stopping you from pairing a sunny yellow jumper with your bobble hat! We were drawn by the vibrant green of Lina’s coat. Her aviator sunglasses make it even more relaxed. Cowl neck jumpers mean you don’t need a scarf and they always look oh-so-cosy. Worn with a warm and comfortable padded jacket, this is very carefree fashion.

If the bold colours aren’t for you, Sophie’s classic outfit with subtler colours transfers well into the Spring season. The fabric of her scarf gives a sense of indulgence. Tartan is timeless and she wears it so well! Sophie’s ankle boots are very adaptable, and would go well with almost any outfit. If you are going to have just one pair of shoes, then a basic pair like this is great. Rafaela and Georgia go for a twin-thing by matching their t-shirts. Their trainers are the perfect partner to leggings and provide a hint of colour without being overwhelming. These students have perfected the art of comfortable layering: a t-shirt under a denim shirt is especially

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trendy and, dare I say, practical. However, don’t shy away from trying out new ways of layering. Ideas straight from the catwalk include wearing a cropped jumper over a summery dress, or a wearing a sleeveless dress over a buttoned-up shirt. Thank you to the lovely models this week. Hopefully our readers can take some inspiration from these stylish students. You may be spotted next time!

“Don’t be afraid to get out those cheerful colours in the freezing weather”

Credit to Rika Soeharjono

An Insightful Look into the History of the Wedding Dress CAITLIN MCCLINCHY 2nd Year German and Economics

Before visiting this exhibition, I was certain that when it came to wedding dresses, it was best to stick to the conventions and wear white. Having now viewed the seventy dresses curated by Edwina Ehrman, I have realised that this is far from the case. The exhibition goes through twohundred years of wedding fashion . The exhibition allows the viewer to see a development in fashion and perhaps even a development in the portrayal of women and marriage in general. “The exhibition goes through two-hundred years of wedding fashions.” In the 1700s, working class brides wore their cotton day dresses, often with floral embroidery. The wedding dress

was then commercialised in the Queen Victoria era, where it became the norm to wear a white dress, symbolising purity. In the early 1900s, it became popular to wear a dress more suitable for evening wear, often extravagantly embellished. With the introduction of wedding magazines, the dress slowly moved into the world of fashion and became influenced by contemporary trends and subjective style. The end of the exhibition displays a number of celebrity wedding dresses. The exhibition of Kate Moss’s stunning gown, designed by John Galliano, showed a traditional, simple cut and beautifully embellished dress. On the other hand, Dita von Teese surprised with a dramatic purple dress, designed by Vivienne Westwood, when she married Marilyn Manson.

“The exhibition provides a real historical understanding of the development of the wedding dress.” As a whole, the exhibition provides a real historical understanding of the development of the wedding dress, whilst also providing really beautiful pieces to admire. It is a very personal and intimate display allowing the public access to something usually private. The Wedding Dresses 17752014 exhibition is without doubt a must see if you have any interest in fashion or history, or if are just looking for inspiration! The exhibit will run at the Victoria and Albert museum until 15th March 2015.

LIFESTYLE|MR & MRS ADVISED

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Miss Advised Miss Advised, I am currently in my first year of university, and I am loving it! I love my course but as I only have to pass I’m not too bothered about doing amazingly at the moment. All I really want to do is go out and party for loads of nights of the week and have an amazing time! The thing is, not everyone on my course is really social, so there’s not a big group of us there.,Aand also,my flatmates are quite anti-social, and people don’t seem to want to go out unless it’s for a special occasion. I always feel like they’re looking down their noses at me. What do I do? Help! From Miss Ready Party Dear Courtesy to Flickr

Mr Magnetic

Miss Ready to Party,

Dear Mr Magnetic, I have a problem. This woman keeps parking her car in my driveway, which is annoying, because she doesn't live here – I do. I live in a house converted into flats, so there's ample parking around the back, but there’s only one space per flat, and I know she's taking up my space as it's the only one empty. See, I don't have a car, being a student and all, but I like sitting in my parking space and watching the day pass me by when I really should be studying. So I confronted her, and she said she was told she was allowed to park there by someone else in the building, as there's no car in the space. The spaces aren't labelled either (it's a patch of grass) so it is only my space by default. She's still parking here and I've tried everything to get rid of her! I put out my new collection of garden gnomes, and she reversed straight over Mr. Gnorman! Please help me Mr Magnetic, it's the only garden space I have in this concrete city, please help. Yours, Theresa Greene

Dear Garden Girl, Firstly, R.I.P to Mr Gnorman – he was too beautiful for this world. I would suggest putting spikes up to protect your gnomes, I would suggest to do to her tires what she did to poor Mr Gnorman, but that may get me involved in legal disputes. But, I have court cases of my own to fight and I’m afraid I cant get too involved in yours. If speaking to her has not helped then I would suggest talking to your landlord, and explaining the situation to them. It may be that she is parking there against the rules, in which case, leave it to your landlord to deal with – don’t get yourself involved. Too many innocent lives have already suffered because of this turf war. Failing that why don’t you speak to the University about setting up a gardening club, Reading boasts one of the most beautiful green campuses in the country and there is ample room for your Gnomes to roam. I’m sure they can find space to accommodate them – hopefully away from those naughty rugby boys, I’d hate to see Gnomes being used for practice kicking. Mr Magnetic.

Well, grab your heels because it’s time for you to get some partying out of your system! It’s difficult in first year as you are just put with your flatmatespeople randomly, to live with and it is natural not to get on with everyone in life. Just remember, they’re probably not judging you, they just don’t have the same interests! And if they are judging you.... Well do you want to be friends with them in that case?! (Thought not!) I would suggest joining societies–- pretty much every society has a very social aspect to it, and the re are societies at the universityUnithat cater for every type of interest so I’m sure you’ll find something you like! On your course side of things, maybe get chatting to a couple of people you see in lectures who seem nice–- chances are they are in the same predicament as you! Finally, a quick biut of Mum advice–- although you only have to pass this year, you’ll notice the work load go up next year, so don’t lose sight of why you applied, and why you chose yourthis course! Go have a good time girl! From, (ormer party girl, now third- year) Miss Advised

WORLD IN ONE PLACE

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SAUL IS JUST GETTING STARTED Lest we forget Breaking Bad, Saul has his own show now. Introducing, Better Call Saul

REAL-LIFE EASTER EGGS Forget eating carrots to see in the dark, gaming can improve skills beyond the console too.

AN AUDIO GETAWAY What seems like an album gimmick actually works for Flight Facilities’ Down to Earth

RONSON GOES RETRO Uptown Funk is a roaring success but does the album offer more?

ENTERTAINMENT Tor Miller shines with Midnight

What is Childish Gambino doing?

SARAH ROBERTSON 2nd Year English Language

Tor Miller is a singer-songwriter from New York City whose debut EP Headlights was released on 3rd February. Signed to the same record label as Mumford and Sons and Two Door Cinema Club, we should expect great things from the university student and his single Midnight certainly does not disappoint. Midnight has already been played by Zane Lowe on BBC Radio 1 as his hottest record and rightfully so. Tor Miller clearly possesses true talent with his raw, husky vocals and piano playing. No tricks needed to produce such a beautifully moving song. Midnight begins acoustically before the chorus hits with gentle backing vocals and a subtle beat. There is a gospel-like quality as the song honestly describes the less idealistic side of New York: “loud angry drunks and a few crust punks fill every crevice of St Marks, some things have changed since back then but the streets are still so hard” as well as the authentic heartbreak “upon the bridge there’s a broken heart, screaming to his valentine”. The melody of Midnight is not dissimilar to that of British singer-

songwriter Tom Odell. A sense of purity pervades Midnight as the music arrangement and the lyrics are combined perfectly. There is something rather magical about just a voice and a piano after all. Tor Miller is a name to “No tricks needed to produce such a beautifully moving song” remember as, if this single is anything to go by, we will be hearing a lot more of him in the near future.

CHRISTOPHER J. LIN 2nd Year Law

Inconsistency makes Childish Gambino, in my mind, one of the more frustrating rappers to review. Instrumentals can range from orchestral arrangements to club bangers. Lyrics sometimes expand to the conscious hip hop realm and then suddenly revert back to the failsafe themes of romance. While I am a fan of diversity, Gambino sometimes leaves the hip hop sphere entirely and I’m left feeling more confused than intrigued.

Gambino’s new track Sober gives me this very feeling. Initially intending to finish this review quickly, I spent four minutes listening to the song and forty hours trying to guess which musical elements I was dealing with – ‘a ballad with heavy synth’ summarises my conclusion. To call Sober a hip hop track, which is Gambino’s speciality, is a stretch of the imagination as there isn’t any rapping at all - I thought hip hop songs had to have SOME rapping. Yet, after this criticism of Gambino there is one complement

I do have to give. Sober is what makes Childish Gambino who he is. He makes things work by whatever means. I have to give a special mention to the instrumentation. Sure, it’s not even remotely hip hop , but it’s ‘trancey’, dreamy and perhaps frighteningly plays with your mind. I experienced this to the fullest during the 40 second long bridge and thought I was taking a tour around his mind thanks to the Technicolor pop with hints of Daft Punk and Michael Jackson popping into my conscience.

MUSIC

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Uptown Special – it’s all in the name Ronson's first number one album is huge HANNAH CROFTS 2nd Year English Literature

Uptown Special is a gorgeous fusion of disco, funk and R&B; it's unlike any of Ronson’s other albums but it's good. With its infectious funk-pop tracks, this is one album you'll find yourself listening to again and again. Uptown Special features a variety of different guest artists, opening and finishing with the one and only, Stevie Wonder. “Uptown's First Finale”, a short song lasting less than two minutes, opens the

album with an eerie harmonica, making Wonder the perfect partner. The fact that he both opens and closes the album gives added emphasis, and power, to the magical collaboration of Ronson and Wonder and makes this album truly exceptional. The only criticism I have of this album is its length; at only 38 minutes long all 11 songs are a bit too short for my liking. Debut track “Uptown Funk” was an instant hit; bursting onto the music scene with its captivating retro tones, it was fast hailed as the best song of 2014 (and even 2015). Regardless of how many

times you hear and play “Uptown Funk”, which I’m sure is plenty, it never gets old. “Uptown Funk deserves every accolade it gets and the comparisons with Daft Punk arhan apt too. Like many, I first heard Fleur East's version of e more tUptown Funk and was instantly captivated but this is much more than “that song Fleur East did on X Factor”. It might have introduced people to Ronson's hit, but it only accelerated the frenzy, it didn't create it. “Uptown Funk” is a great song in its own right. My favourite track on the album, however, is “Feel Right”

featuring Mystikal . Listening to “Feel Right” is like listening to the ghost of James Brown; the resemblance is uncanny. Having said that, the track has a really fresh quality too. Critics and fans alike disagree on whether the album has a 70's or an 80's vibe, with the consensus

Image Credit to Flickr

“the vibe is doubtlessly retro” swaying toward the latter. I personally feel it is a mixture of both. Whichever side of the fence you sit on, the vibe is doubtlessly retro, throwing you back to a

different time in music history. Overall Uptown Special stands out as a unique album due to its funky vibe.

Hozier: An Overwhelming Talent.

VICKI CAMFIELD 3rd Year English Literature & Literature

It’s hard to believe that undeniably talented Hozier can still be so humble when faced with over one thousand adoring fans packed into an arena. During his second consecutive, sold-out show at Shepherd’s Bush O2 Empire, kindness and gratitude emanated from every word he said in the short interludes between countless flawless numbers. No-one can deny the gratitude that Hozier has for his fans and that he truly deserves opportunities he has earned. We all felt the love. A few hummed bars of Angel of Small Death & The Codeine Scene opened the show and the crowd exploded. Hozier’s soulful entrance was well received as he faultlessly continued with the rest of the song. A light show accompanied many of the upbeat blues-vibe tracks, including the more well-known Take Me to Church and – my personal favourite – Jackie and Wilson, adding to the already incredible atmosphere. During one his most sombre songs, In a Week, the lights simply shone on Hozier and Karen Cowley (from supporting act Wyvern Lingo and a member of Hozier’s band), as they mesmerised the audience with this heart-wrenching track about two deceased lovers. Later, on stage with just his guitar, Hozier covered Illinois Blues by Skip

Credit to Vicki Camfield

James and it was evident just by the look on his face that this is where Hozier’s passion began. It was remarkable to watch and even more so to listen to. Once his set had finished and Hozier had thanked the arena, every member of his band and the crew, he left the stage only to return a minute later after

relentless hopeful screaming to perform an encore. Alone on stage again, Hozier played Cherry Wine from his first album beautifully. He then welcomed back his band and played the less well known Run. Finally, introducing the next track as something they “don’t play very often but like to have fun with”, the band began to play

a charming and unexpected blues rendition of Amerie’s 1 Thing much to the audience’s delight. Each of Hozier’s songs inspired, thrilled and told a beautiful story. The crowd was truly on their toes. The singer’s remarkable ability to capture an audience existed on stage just as well and infinitely more prominently than it does

through our speakers. I cannot get enough of this truly overwhelming artist and since he announced that he’ll be back on tour in June, I don’t suppose I’ll have to.

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Little Shop of Horrors Cast Interview If you love the lights and the action, find out what RUDS actors have to say about it LILY BROWN English MA

As Reading University Drama Society (RUDS) embarks on their latest musical production, Little Shop of Horrors, I caught up with Tianna Shanks, the president of RUDS who is playing Audrey, Edward Turpin, a first year Business and Management student playing Seymour and Robbie Deffense, a second year Film and Theatre student playing Audrey II. The musical sounds like it will be one not to miss! Is this your first production with RUDS? If not, how many other productions have you been involved with? R.D - Little Shop of Horrors is actually my sixth production with RUDS. I was involved in four productions last year and one last term but I will be performing my first leading role with RUDS in this production. T.S - No, I played Joanna in the RUDS production of Sweeney Todd, Cornelius in Dr. Faustus, Babbette in our 24 hour production of Beauty and the Beast and Dockdaisy in The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui. I also vocal coached How to Succeed in Business. What made you audition for your particular role? E.T - I didn’t go for a particular part, I just turned up to audition as this is such a great show. I was excited it was being put on, let alone getting this role! R.D - The audition process with RUDS is rather simple. You go to audition with an open mind, as you have to be willing to act or sing anything they hand to you, then you’ll get called back for a specific role and have to act or sing a certain extract! So in a way I didn’t audition for the plant but when I got called back for it, I thought I could give it my only little twist. T.S - Audrey’s ditzy and a little bit naïve but she’s got a good heart and she’s a great character to explore. Had you read/watched the play before you auditioned or is it new to you? T.S - I’d known the songs and characters but admittedly I had

never watched it until the night before call-backs! Are you a fan of Little Shop of Horrors? E.T - Yes it’s a brilliant show R.D - I am definitely a fan. The American accents, 60’s outfits, goofiness and campiness of the music and script make it such an incredible production, to not only be in but to watch too. T.S - It’s a great musical with so many fun songs and dance numbers. It’s quickly becoming a favourite of mine! Have you faced any challenges in portraying your character? E.T - Talking to a giant paper maché object that’s supposed to be a talking, man eating plant and not go insane has been somewhat challenging! R.D - You’re less worried about your blocking and where you have to be on stage when only your voice is heard, but in a way that’s a challenge. As you’re never actually seen, you have to really be on point vocally. You have to create a character just through your voice. T.S - She’s very ditzy but not weak and it’s been difficult getting that balance right. We’ve been working on it!

Back Row from left to right: Chris Flach, Teddy Turpin, Robbie Deffense, Josh Clarke, Gary Gordon Middle Row from left to right: Joanna Williams, Krystal Bird, Tianna Shanks Front Row: Rachel Hughes

Would you like to pursue acting as a career or is acting your hobby? E.T - Who knows what the future holds, but at the moment it’s just something I love to do as a hobby. R.D - I’ve always seen myself as an aspiring filmmaker, and I still do, but since moving here I’ve really enjoyed the idea of performing and giving it a shot. T.S - I’d love to make a career out of it, but for now it’s just a great little hobby that keeps me happy. What has been the highlight of your time preparing for Little Shop of Horrors? E.T - Meeting a whole new host of people who are all insanely talented and so friendly. Also just being given the chance to work on this amazing show is a highlight in itself. R.D - My highlight so far has been a rehearsal where I got to part take in the choreography. It was just one of those rehearsals

Producer: Chris Flach Producer: Megan Turner Director: Gary Gordon

where you leave thinking that was a lot of fun and I got to meet loads of people too which is a highlight in general!

What

would

you

say

someone thinking about joining RUDS? E.T - JOIN NOW! It really is such a great society; the members are all bonkers but completely brilliant and so passionate about performing. As a new member I can honestly say everyone has

been so welcoming, making it so much easier to have fun and enjoy myself. The opportunities RUDS offers people and the variety of shows they do and the way anyone can be involved even if performing isn’t their thing, makes it so great and open to all different types of

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Take a trip with Flight Facilities’ Down to Earth The duo certainly makes an impression with their holiday album NICK HAIGH History MA

Depicting a distant plane in a desert on the cover of their debut album, I was perhaps a little intrigued, if not sceptical, as to just how far Australian producer duo Flight Facilities would push the aviation gimmick. Certainly the imagery continues beyond the cover, as the album opens with the listener finding themselves sat in a busy departure lounge. Flights take off in the background, an airport intercom barks in the distance and just as you start to wonder where on earth they’re going with this, we’re interrupted by the pilot. Welcoming us aboard, he thanks us for flying with Flight Facilities and runs through some safety precautions, reminding us to “move about the cabin as much as possible, and be sure to loosen those belts”. It may not exactly be comedy gold, but the unorthodox opening works in transforming you from a listener to a passenger. For an electronic album, it is genuinely impressive just how much ground gets covered in terms of tone and style. Each track transports us somewhere completely separate and unique. With light bongo drums and soft vocals beneath a solid beat, we ascend to somewhere exotic with “Two Bodies”. It almost reminds me of a beach party with a slightly breezy sunset. Following this, “Sunshine” continues to play on the hot and exotic by taking a funkier approach not too dissimilar in its feel to Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky”. But then, opening with samples of heavy wind, storms and rain, “Apollo” and “Claire de Lune” take us somewhere entirely different. A sombre feel ensnares the lingering bliss of “Sunshine”. The beaches disappear, the sun withdraws and we arrive somewhere much colder, isolating and darker, with “Claire de Lune” especially feeling more like a walk through a thick forest or old castle ruin. The calm is then replaced by a short city break as “Merimbula” opens with sirens and traffic before a

distorted Japanese voice above a more regular, piercing beat flies us to a clinical Sushi bar in downtown Tokyo. An urban sentiment predominates the closing stages of the album with the inclusion of rapper Bishop Nehru in “Why Do You Feel” and the excellent “Down to Earth”, which has a house vibe to it that wouldn’t sound out of place in a Duke Dumont set. If I were to criticise a nearly flawless album it would be that the high tempo conclusion of the album seems slightly abrupt. Were we to submerge ourselves fully in the flight imagery as the introduction attempts, it could have done with a more mellow conclusion to bring us, as the album’s title suggests, down to earth. As it stands, we’re left mid-flight. Besides this, it really is a fantastic debut from Flight Facilities both in its creativity and diversity, but also from a technical perspective with a perfectly crisp production.

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Introducing Better Call Saul

Breaking Bad’s favourite lawyer is back, can he produce the goods? OLLIE WEEDEN 2nd Year Law

“It's all over” were the final words Saul Goodman uttered to Walter White in the dramatic finale to the endless entertainment which was Breaking Bad. It is far from over and everybody's favourite lawyer, played by comedian Bob Odenkirk, has returned to our screens with the “spin-quel” Better Call Saul, his own cheesy catchphrase. For Breaking Bad fans this signalled the end of a long wait. Expectations were high as we sat down to find out exactly how it all began for Mr. Goodman. What we were led to expect was a prequel, set six years before the start of Breaking Bad, and a story of how the man James McGill became the infamous Saul Goodman. ”We are telling a different story...one with its own rhythm...its own tone” promised show-runner Vince Gilligan. With Goodman often providing comic

relief to Breaking Bad, many feared a sitcom-style show. This was emphatically not the case in Better Call Saul. The series opened with a somber scene involving a much older Saul, long after the events of Breaking Bad, working at a mall café serving hot drinks and returning home to nostalgically watch a tape his old television adverts. We then jump to the “present day” in which Saul (then Jimmy McGill) is making small money in public prosecutions defending 'knuckleheads' who have stepped out of line. The message throughout is clear, he'll do anything to make ends meet. We are introduced to a new character in Chuck, played by Michael McKean, his older and much more successful brother suffering from a mysterious illness, which prevents him from going to work at a major inner-city law firm. The episode revolves around Jimmy trying to make sure that he is paid off correctly. The episode’s

pace takes time to pick up as we are introduced to a man driven to beating up rubbish bins, defending low-lifes and running scams, all whilst working out of an office so seedy that he doesn't dare to meet clients in it. There are familiar faces to be seen, with Jonathan Banks reprising his role as Mike Ehrmantraut and a sinister return of one fearsome character Breaking Bad fans will certainly remember. Overall, much like Walter White during the first season of Breaking Bad, we see poor Jimmy McGill as a man cornered, frustrated by his unfulfilled talent and desperate for a break. As Gilligan knows, this show will be defined by Odenkirk's central performance. On the evidence we've seen so far, there's plenty more action to come. “We are telling a different story...one with its own rhythm...its own tone” Vince Gilligan

Credit to IGN

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Smarter with Super Mario? The real-life benefits of good gaming CHRISTIAN MUELLER 4th Year German

Videogames rot your brain! Or so we’ve all (gamers or not) heard at some point or another, whether it is the dreaded parental rant or just another article blaming adolescent rebellion on the latest violent game. When was the last time you heard: ‘they’re not all bad’? I’m not telling you to grab the nearest pack of generic cheese puffs, a comfy chair and enjoy the perils of obesity and loneliness while glued to a screen; there’s always the argument that too much of anything is bad for you. But there are several important positive attributes that the general media has traditionally ignored. This is not a debate of the on-going issue of whether violent media causes violent crimes, but rather an exploration into aspects of games we don’t normally see. Games often bring with them a story of some sort, in some

cases they are based on historical or current events. Historically accurate games champion a beneficial prospect of gaming, and educational institutions are finally catching onto this. But there are also less obvious, and often rather surprising, benefits from staring at colourful dancing pixels. Did you know first-personshooters have been proven to improve eyesight? I know, ‘take that mum’ and the recurring ‘don’t sit too close to the TV, your eyes will go square’. The University of Rochester completed an in depth study which found that playing Call of Duty and other similar games improved participants ability to perceive fine differences in contrast by 58%. Professor Bavelier, who led the study, has also found that our ability to track objects in crowded areas is also greatly increased by playing firstperson-shooters. Super Mario 64 was proved to actually increase grey matter in the brain. I was terrible at this game so this explains why I’m

tearing my hair out for finals! The study conducted at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development observed the changes after two months of 30 minutes a day gaming. A control group was also tested and the results (measured using an MRI machine) found that in comparison the gamers showed increased grey matter in the regions of the brain associated with spatial navigation, memory formation, strategic planning and fine motor skills. So enough doodling on slideshows you should be reading – blow the dust off your Nintendo! Videogames are obviously not all singing and dancing miracles; it’s no good having great eyesight if you spend your life indoors. But it is nice to hear that they’re not all bad and that there’s no reason to feel guilty every time you pick up a controller. Stop being productive and go run a racially-stereotyped plumber (with a great moustache) around an oddly coloured world, it’s good for you!

"Go run a racially-stereotyped plumber (with a great moustache) around an oddly coloured world, it’s good for you!"

Benefits of gaming? Flickr

This War of Mine, the lives of others WING LAM KAR 2nd Year Law

Not one of the AAA games that will instantly catch your eyes, This War of Mine is a small and meaningful little game about surviving war. Inspired by the 1992-96 Siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War, the game focuses on the civilian experience rather than that of a hero on the frontline as mainstream heroism games like the Call of Duty series do. Players lead a group of civilian survivors in a besieged city with the limited resources they have until ceasefire is declared. During the day hostile snipers lurk around city and anyone wondering the streets will be killed mercilessly. This is when players craft supplies and tools, cook and heal the wounded. When the sun goes down players can send one of their members on a scavenging run; but be careful, they may never come back. Survival is almost mission

impossible. A general rookie can only survive a week without guidance or experience. Your group may starve to death, become overwhelmed by illness, commit suicide if morality is low, be attacked by others in the city during scavenging runs or killed when people come and rob you. Good people don’t go far in this game, your chance of survival is minimal.

sometimes simplicity is beauty.

"Good people don’t go far in this game" There are some minor issues that can break the immersion when playing This War of Mine; tha lack of time control, for example, may result in you spending time waiting for your member to finish digging. But this still doesn’t infringe on the good time you will have. This War of Mine proves that a good game does not require £170 million budget, DLC, zombies or aliens. Not saying I don’t love Plants vs. Zombies,

This War of Mine 11 Bit Studios

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Reading Between The Lines Much Ado About Nothing

KATE BOWEN

2nd Year English Literature

The location. Messina-UponThames, a garrison town in Berkshire. A Shakespearean setting? Not as far as I can tell. Any student who has experienced the trials of GCSE would have understood my hesitation. For most, the single word ‘Shakespeare’ calls to mind the bygone language of ‘forsooths’ and enough dated melodrama to fill a Renaissance soap opera, certainly nothing applicable to the lives of present-day soldiers in Berkshire. However Reading Between the Line’s recent production of Much Ado About Nothing overturned all my expectations. Having performed between the 4th and 14th February, in the stunning arches of St. James’s Church in Forbury Gardens, this professional show needn’t have made any English student tremble at the knees. The playwright’s Shakespearean language may have remained but this exciting theatre company succeeded in making the play fully accessible to the modern audience. Fancy dress parties? Check. Hen do? Check. A dream scene in which a group of soldiers live out their boyband fantasies? Believe it or not…check. “Theatre needs to be relevant, thrilling and inventive,” says Toby Davies, producer of this new show, “and by setting the play in today’s world within the ranks of the British Army as they return home from Afghanistan, we are in a world that everybody knows about. It’s a great change to represent the realities of contemporary army life to see what the soldiers get up to ’behind the scenes’ within this incredible play.” What propelled Much Ado About Nothing’s plot is the fiery relationship between Benedick and Beatrice, and the question of whether they could surmount their pride to admit their love for one another kept the audience in suspense. There were marriages, deaths and misunderstandings alike and as the plot developed

in this production directed by Hal Chambers, scenes of acute comic timing were confidently performed against those of the tensest atmospheres. Credit must be given to the exceptional acting talents of the cast, whose impressive credits collectively included The Royal Shakespeare Company, the Donmar and the West End; they were able to prompt laughter and tears from the audience, and made their characters utterly believable despite only two weeks of rehearsals. Also accompanying the play was a soundtrack produced by DJ Benjamin Hudson, a rising talent who has so far appeared on Radio 1 and Radio 6 Music; this was highly effective in adding to the contemporary feel of the play. “The production standards couldn’t be higher,” adds Mr. Davies, “and I just wish that when I was a student, theatre of this relevance and quality was available.” Reading Between The Lines Theatre Company has already received five-star reviews from both Reading Post and VN Media, and if you are looking for a show that is funny, fresh and surprisingly current, then I would urge you to go and see it. Alternatively you could even get involved with the company next year, though what they will produce is yet to be confirmed. Having seen the success of this brave adaption of Much Ado About Nothing, I am excited to wait and see.

Credit to Ian Legge Photography

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WATTSUP? Do you put the ‘ha’ in laug-ha-ble? Prove it and try doing WattsUp on for size.

What is your worst Valentine’s Day story? Farah S., 2nd year Law: Valentine? What is that? Peter M., 2nd year Archaeology: One Valentine's Day, I never had a Valentine's. That's been every Valentine's Day. Ah, shit. Wing Lam K., 2nd year Law: Don't have one of my own, but I heard someone (working in an office) bought flowers for herself and when the delivery came shouted "Miss, the flowers you bought are here." Ollie W., 2nd year Law: I booked a really nice restaurant and then my beloved girlfriend tells me she only wants a chicken bucket from the Colonel. Fail. Christopher J L., 2nd year Law: Waking up realizing you don't have a girlfriend, which is what happens every year. G.

As a child, what pictures were used on your Valentine’s cards (mine had Aladdin on them)? Farah S., 2nd year Law: Red glittering hearts, they didn't have photos from 9gag back then. Basil A., 3rd year Business & Management: Stick man. Peter M., 2nd year Archaeology: See above answer. TJ Hiew., 2nd year Law: Never received them. :( Ollie W., 2nd year Law: The words 'Tesco' and 'Economy'. Christopher J L., 2nd year Law: Never had one. Really sorry readers, but this man is hopeless in the romance department.

In Japan, girls give boys they’re interested in homemade chocolates on Valentine’s Day. To all the men out there, if you had an unexpected girl give you chocolates – what would you do? Farah S., 2nd year Law: If I was a guy, I'd find that girl. Basil A., 3rd year Business & Management: Kiss her. Peter M., 2nd year Archaeology: Thank her and then tell her I'm gay. Because I am. Then wonder if I just hurt her feelings or not. Wing Lam K., 2nd year Law: I am not a man so don't know. If a girl gave me chocolates I would say "Thank you, you are my good friend." TJ Hiew., 2nd year Law: If I was a guy, I'd eat it! But first, let me check out for love potions. Ollie W., 2nd year Law: Wake up from the dream. Christopher J L., 2nd year Law: Really shocked because I don't know how to respond. Although I would certainly sample the chocolates because I need to gain weight.

In The Imitation Game, Joan Clarke (Keira Knightley) almost married Alan Turing (Benedict Cumberbatch) despite his homosexuality. Would you marry the code breaker? Farah S., 2nd year Law: I'm lucky if a homosexual wants to marry me. Peter M., 2nd year Archaeology: Well if he were alive and not dead due to societal stigmatization of his sexuality then sure, why not. Wing Lam K., 2nd year Law: Why not? If he wants to marry me and vice versa. Ollie W., 2nd year Law: Maybe if he was Sherlock. #nohomo Christopher J L., 2nd year Law: If the code breaker wants to.

During the half time show at the Super Bowl, Katy Perry stole the show by riding a giant robotic golden tiger and dancing with human-sized inflatable beach balls. Does Katy’s prowess beat out Janet Jackson’s slippage 2004 performance? Farah S., 2nd year Law: Definitely! You should ask about the sharks, I would love to talk about ‘em. Peter M., 2nd year Archaeology: I don't care I just want Beyonce to do it again. Wing Lam K., 2nd year Law: Yes, the tiger was epic. Ollie W., 2nd year Law: I hear the only reason it didn't was because Justin Timberlake

turned up late. Christopher J L., 2nd year Law: I was drinking and arguing over the first half of the Super Bowl, so I didn't have the distinct pleasure—though Janet Jackson's slippage was always a highlight.

A Game of Thrones themed restaurant has now popped up in London to promote the fourth season of the show. After being seated, what would you order? Peter M., 2nd year Archaeology: Nothing, I'd head straight to the bathroom and wait for the screaming and bloodshed to stop. Wing Lam K., 2nd year Law: Can I please have the remains of Joffrey Baratheon and a blender please? Ollie W., 2nd year Law: A main course of Sean Bean with a side of overrated. Christopher J L., 2nd year Law: Never watched Games of Thrones. Sue me. Otherwise, I'll have a beef burger and spiral fries.

February is the shortest month of the year and oddly enough sometimes has 29 days during a leap year. If you were born on 29 February, how would you celebrate this rare occasion? Basil A., 3rd year Business & Management: Go to Vegas. Peter M., 2nd year Archaeology: I'm turning 20 next year, so I'd tell everyone that my 5th birthday was coming up. There'd be a bouncy castle and those takeaway bags with a slice of cake in them. Wing Lam K., 2nd year Law: I would like everyone to come to my party bringing presents for four years. TJ Hiew., 2nd year Law: YES!!!!!!!! It only comes as often as the Olympics, why not? Ollie W., 2nd year Law: Love the fact that I'm only a few years old but also secretly know that I'm not. Christopher J L., 2nd year Law: Celebrate knowing that I'll be, in numbers at least, younger than all of you.

Cupid is the god of desire and erotic love in Greek mythology but was never married. Why do you think he never used his charms on himself? Farah S., 2nd year Law: He couldn't handle the girls if he did. Basil A., 3rd year Business & Management: Player. Peter M., 2nd year Archaeology: If you Google search Cupid then you find out that he's a chubby little boy. With wings. And has weaponry. Imagine being the love interest of an armed, flying toddler. Wing Lam K., 2nd year Law: I don't think it work on the power source itself and he probably can't find someone who is more beautiful than him, but he actually had a lover called Psyche. TJ Hiew., 2nd year Law: In case it will give him too many choices. "Hey, I need to focus here!" Ollie W., 2nd year Law: Possibly because he resembled a 10 year old boy. Christopher J L., 2nd year Law: Because he loved himself too much. Cue Kendrick Lamar's "I Love Myself".

Keira Knightley in the upcoming film Vanity Fair channels Meg Ryan’s famous faked orgasm in When Harry met Sally. Would you fake an orgasm if your partner was a snore in the bedroom? Peter M., 2nd year Archaeology: Nah I'd just finish myself off as quick as possible. If you're a bore then you're out the door. Wing Lam K., 2nd year Law: I heard about 60% of women fake orgasm, I guess it is for two reason, one the man would not stop until then, two if you tell them they are not performing well, they may try something weird next time. TJ Hiew., 2nd year Law: Meh. No. Christopher J L., 2nd year Law: Don't really think a guy can fake an orgasm. But if anyone can teach me I'm always a willing student.

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horoscope Find out what the stars are saying about you this month...

KIRSTY SAGGERS Horoscopes Writer

ARIES MARCH 21st-APRIL 20th Aries

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 24th- OCTOBER 23rd

Money may have been the cause of your problems lately, but this month you will feel more confident in balancing your budget and having a little left to spend on something special. Someone will trust you this month enough to tell you something personal, just be sure to keep this secret otherwise you will break jeopardise your friendship in the process. Pay attention to what others tell you , a good listener is always rewarded.

libra

SCORPIO OCTOBER 24th-NOVEMBER 22nd

TAURUS APRIL 21st-MAY21st Taurus

A celebration may be in order after getting news to be pleased about, something you've been worried about will have gone well. You may also be lucky when it comes to finances this month - this could be as big as a new job opportunity or as simple as finding money on the street. Being charitable is always a good thing, so look for a cause that means something to you and help them out - you'll feel like a better person for doing so.

Sagittarius

GEMINI MAY 22nd-JUNE 21st Gemini

With deadlines approaching it may be easy to forget to have fun, but remember that you don't need to be switched on 100% of the time. In Scorpio fact, you will find that you have the best time when just relaxing and putting yourself before work. Whilst taking a break think about fond memories that you'd like to repeat, as a friend may offer this opportunity to you soon.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22nd- JANUARY 20th

CANCER JUNE 22nd-JULY 23rd Cancer

A new interest in something unexpected could begin to develop as a result of something that you hear about - so keep a listen out for news. Capricorn Don't abandon old projects though, new isn't always better and it may help to have something to fall back on. Looking for love? You may find it this month in the most unlikely places - be prepared to make the first move.

LEO JULY 24th-AUGUST 23rd leo

virgo

With this supposedly being the month of love, you may become more aware of admirers and love could certainly be on the cards, if you're lucky. If not then don't worry, as this month you will be surrounded by your friends. Friends are important, so speak to those who you aren't getting on with at the moment; you may find that it is a simple case of getting your wires crossed and the whole dispute has been misjudged.

Expect an opportunity to let your hair down to present itself to you in the coming month, if not numerous opportunities. This doesn't mean you can forget your responsibilities though, which will become more apparent as the month goes on. A balance between work and play will allow you to make the most of your time, so be sure to plan everything sooner rather than later as distractions may spring up before you get the chance.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23rd-DECEMBER 21st

Although you may want to relax this month, there will be new opportunities opening up which will be more beneficial in the long run than staying at home. A new hobby could result in unexpected financial achievements and you may finally be able to afford that thing you've been saving up for. The numbers 5 and 20 could be helpful in bringing this good fortune, so keep them in your head.

Although the cold weather may make you want to stay curled up in bed, resist the temptation and get out there. Do something productive. This could be the time for you to get fitter or learn a new skill - anything is possible if you give it a try and this month you may feel more motivated to do so. Speaking of new things, you will get the chance to make a new lifelong friend, although it may not be obvious so keep an eye out for friendly faces.

There will be a chance to experience something new this month and this could be something you remember for years to come - so don't miss out on it! It may become difficult for you to divide your time between what you want to do and what you have to do, so try to stay organised now before it gets out of hand. Look out for anything surrounding the number 21, as it may help you with your problems this month.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 21st -FEBUARY 19th Make time for someone who shows interest in you, whether this be a new relationship or someone who you've become disconnected from recently. Aquarius It's always important to spend time with those who matter to you and you would do well to remember this. Be adventurous this month and do something you have been wanting to do for a while but haven't had the courage to - just go for it!

VIRGO AUGUST 24th- SEPTEMBER 23rd

PISCES FEBUARY 20th-MARCH 20th

A change in routine might be hard to get used to, but it isn't necessarily a negative thing - change could bring about the chance to make new friends or improve your lifestyle. Not being in control of everything can seem scary but you will feel even better for venturing into the unknown and coming out stronger on the other side. Listen out for people making plans on a Sunday, as this seems to be the most exciting day for you.

It may be tempting to think ahead to the future but this can run the risk of getting lost in what could be. Enjoy living in the present and taking each day as it comes - you'll soon find your worries slipping away. Spending time with a significant other is always important, but don't make plans when you're in a bad mood with them, you may say something you end up regretting.

Pisces

ENTERTAINMENT|CREATIVE CORNER

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LOUISE INGHAM 2nd Year Law

The Wolf You Feed What do you fuel your fire with? It can burn with red anger and greed, When all goodness seems a myth And it’s hatred that you feed. Did you know there’s a battle within? Between a wolf of good and one of sin, And which you feed is your own choice Either one can gain a voice. One wolf always hungers for good, Lies and sorrow it’s never understood, One bares its teeth with hunger and thirst, Beguile and hate ‘til you’re at your worst. Ask yourself which one will win, Whether peace or war will be your kin. Which wolf bursts forth to be freed? It’s simple, the one that you feed.

Creative Corner

PUZZLE POINT

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Coconut Oil Copenhagen Hindu Society London Irish Penny Travel Riding Society

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Saul Shades of Grey Shakespeare Teach First Theory Valentines

PUZZLE POINT

Club Night Drawn by Harry Richardson, 1st Year Archaeology

Flippin' Pancake Drawn by Laura Burridge, 3rd Year Art and English Literature

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The Theory of Everything A glimpse of the man behind the disease EMILY SKEW

4th Year French and Italian

Playing the role of a living celebrity is a daunting task for any actor, but for Eddie Redmayne playing the role of Stephen Hawking in The Theory of Everything was a completely different challenge. The film follows the story of physicist Stephen Hawking, which was adapted from a memoire by his wife Jane Wilde Hawking, Travelling to infinity: My life with Stephen. We see his time at Cambridge University, where he was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, and the later impact it had on the rest of his life. The Theory of Everything could have gone down the route of impressive and esoteric physics and maths; instead we are treated to a heart-warming story of a troubled but loving relationship where the couple try to live life despite the difficulties they face . I was completely blown away by this film, by both the plot and the acting. The story is enlightening to his academic achievements,

which I’m sure many people like myself were unaware of, and, more importantly, to Hawking’s character and how he dealt with the news that he only had two years to live after being diagnosed with MND. It is through Redmayne’s incredible performance that we " I found this film so inspirational and left feeling motivated to get some work done." catch a glimpse of the witty and sometimes goofy young Hawking at Cambridge whilst he woos Jane (played by Felicity Jones). We watch the physicality of Hawking’s deterioration, the pain that ensues and their optimism in attempting to lead a normal existence. Redmayne accurately and tastefully mimics the twitching, muscle decay and the way Hawking tilts his neck in his wheelchair. While there could

have been more focus on the inner turmoil of a brilliant mind being let down by its body, this could have been because the film was primarily from Jane’s point of view as in her memoire. One aspect of The Theory of Everything which touched me personally was how Hawking never gave up on his work. Regardless of his physical situation Hawking continued to make amazing scientific discoveries. I found this film so inspirational and left feeling motivated to get some work done. So if you find yourself lacking motivation as exams are fast approaching, just watch this incredible film and you will find yourself back in the library in no time! " Regardless of his physical situation Hawking continued to make amazing scientific discoveries."

The Theatrical Opening of the Misplaced Museum LOUISE INGHAM 2nd Year Law

On a Wednesday evening we stepped off the cold streets of Kingston and fell down the rabbit hole into Wonderland. Or at least that’s how it felt when we entered The House of Fairy Tales’ latest exhibit, The Misplaced Museum. The atmosphere was wonderfully surreal and excitable the moment in the Stanley Picker Gallery as visitors were greeted by women dressed in vibrant crocheted outfits made from recycled materials, their heads garlanded with multi-colored flowers and some with snakes draped around their shoulders. That night was the official opening of the children’s arts charity The House of Fairy Tales’ latest exhibit in their series to celebrate 140 years of the Kingston School of Art. The Misplaced Museum is an interactive museum which contains art work, miniature

artefacts and “immersive worlds” created by both artists and children. Attending the theatrical opening night, we truly saw the museum come to life through its eclectic and absorbing art works. There was so much to do and see; we felt as if we had stepped from Wonderland straight into Narnia as we crept through a secret wardrobe into a room made up as if covered in ice. The room was designed and created by Anna Kompaniets and crochet plastic-eers from the Foundation Diploma and BA Fine Art courses at Kingston University. From the bubble wrap tree in the centre hung beautiful dresses made entirely of recycled rubbish, which glittered with bottle caps and fine mesh. Some of the exhibits were even living and breathing. The Mouse House, a living sculpture by Artist Dmitri Galitzine, was a beautifully crafted dolls house I would have loved for myself as a child. But instead of dolls, a mouse had taken up residence.

He clambered happily over his sofas and up the stairs to tuck into his food stowed away in his bath. There was also a chance to get up close and personal with some creatures; tarantulas, frogs, geckos and bearded dragons were a big attraction. We happily held the lizards, but I stayed clear of the tarantula and was promptly showed up as a ten year old girl held it without even blinking. If you had a moment to spare you could visit a man named Petit Prance, who was sat on the stage with a type writer on his lap and a sign saying “stories while you wait – no subject too small”. If you offered him any subject within ten minutes he would have typed up a story about it, put it in an envelope and handed it to you. I thought this was a wonderful idea, he is on twitter under @petitprance if anyone is interested in seeking out a story. The museum is open from the 5th February to the 28th March at the Stanley Picker Gallery in

Kingston. If you’re looking for something to do and you feel like trying something completely new and wonderfully wacky then this is the exhibition for you.

"from Wonderland straight into Narnia as we crept through a secret wardrobe"

The Misplaced Museum Photo by Louise Ingham

BUBBLE BLAST Basil Al Ali tells us about the University swimming team.

WILDER WINS Will Wilder reignite the stagnant Heavyweight division

GOLF CHAMPIONS Team captain Thomas Price tells us how the University reached the semi-finals.

FOOTBALL Financial fair play promised to improve fairness in football, three years later it does not seem so great.

SPORT

Wilder Wins

Can Wilder reignite the stagnant Heavyweight division? CHRISTIAN MUELLER

4th Year German Studies

Deontay Wilder became the first American Heavyweight champion since 2006 with his dominant unanimous decision victory over Bermane Stiverne at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Numerous questions about the champion’s skill, chin and heart were answered but is this outspoken Alabaman the real deal? The boxing world has been yearning for a courageous and charismatic Heavyweight. Wladimir Klitschko’s accolades as a champion are undeniable – he is respectful and polite and probably one the handful of professional athletes who can be considered a genuine role model. However he has failed to excite the international audience; a great boxer no doubt, but hardly the great entertainer. Deontay Wilder on the other hand: dances between rounds, has now KO’d 32 out of 33 of his opponents and beats up internet trolls in his free time. He only lacked the title, but with his January win over the freshly appointed WBC champion Berman Stiverne Wilder seems to have solidified his appeal. This fight took place at the MGM Grand, whose last Heavyweight bout was the infamous Tyson Holyfield ‘Bite Fight’, which made

"He only lacked the title, but with his January win over the freshly appointed WBC champion Berman Stiverne Wilder seems to have solidified his appeal."

Wilder dominates Stiverne Image Credit: ESPEN UK

this event feel very special. The long lean figure of Wilder versus the stout strong build of Stiverne; with both packing immense power it was destined to end in fireworks. Instead Wilder ‘The Bronze Bomber’ showed us a masterclass in range boxing, picking off the shorter Stiverne with accurate jabs and damaging straight rights. On paper Stiverne had to be favourite: he had the experience, the title

and the better list of opponents. But from the opening bell Wilder dominated with superb footwork and a variety of punches. Wilder’s violent blows actually knocked the former champion down at the end of the second but a well disguised dive from the Stiverne fooled the referee. Ten rounds later and Wilder’s relentless punching meant that the granite chinned Stiverne barely

earned himself two rounds, with Judge Craig Metcalfe scoring the bout a shutout 120-107. Wilder was as vocal as expected after the fight, his pre-fight catch-phrase: “and the new!” being bellowed by his entourage. Boasting aside Wilder took the opportunity to silence his critics, asking: “Who can’t box? Who can’t go rounds? Who can’t take a punch?” Wilder’s win has set the

heavyweight division alight. Exciting match ups like that of Wilder and Britain’s Tyson Fury are being plastered over back pages. All hopefully leading to a mouth-watering showdown with ‘Dr. Steel Hammer’ Mr. Klitschko himself. Wilder’s journey is only just beginning: Stiverne may just be the first hurdle but he cleared it with ease. Good things await the WBC champ..

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Financial Fair Play: Why it matters for the Premier League

The how, what, and why of UEFA's new FFP rules, why are clubs moaning about this? OLLIE WEEDEN 2nd Year Law

For many, this year's January transfer window was a rather quiet one. Gone, it seems, are the days when clubs fought on deadline day for the signature of a player, splashing out ridiculous sums of money to secure their man and forcing the selling club to do the same in order to find a replacement. One such example would be Chelsea's 50 million pound acquisition of Fernando Torres from Liverpool on January 31st 2011. This prompted Liverpool to re-invest most their newly found wealth into 35 million pounds worth of Andy Carroll. A tall, young Geordie with a few goals to his name. Reckless? Impulsive? Financially careless? All of these would have been fitting descriptions for the business which was concluded that day. And who were the real winners? Newcastle. Sadly, these portrayals were also true for just about every transfer deadline day in history.

The reason why this was allowed to continue? We all loved it. The tension, the drama, the excitement as that clocked ticked down to midnight. Nobody can ever forget the sight of Harry Redknapp being interviewed out of the window his Range Rover, Jim White slowly going mad on Sky Sports, and who else remembers the hilarity which bestowed Peter Odemwingie a couple of years ago? All of this was only made possible by clubs who were spending beyond their means, and carrying unsustainable levels of debt as a result. This led UEFA President Michel Platini to introduce Financial Fair Play (FFP), in order to curb free-spending clubs and stamp out what he calls 'financial doping' in football. So what must clubs do in order to comply with these rules? Uefa made it's first ruling under FFP back in April 2014 based on all club accounts from the 201112 and 2012-13 seasons. It is now allowed that clubs can €5m (£3.5m) more than they earn per assessment period, losses of 45m

Euros are also permitted as long as the club had owners who could cover such amounts. This money relates to all 'football-related' expenditure. This includes transfer, wages, television and ticket income and revenue raised by their commercial gain. Any money which is spent on things like stadiums, training facilities or youth development projects is exempt. So what sanctions exist for a breach of these conditions? All cases are heard by UEFA's Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) who's investigory chamber can impose punishments ranging from financial settlements to expulsion from a European Competition. Thus far, nine clubs have found to be in breach of these rules. With Manchester City and Paris-Saint-Germain (PSG) being the most notable cases. City were told to pay £49m (£32m of which was suspended) and had their Champions League squad cut down to 21 names for 2014-15. PSG received a similar punishment, with the CFCB deciding that their £167m

sponsorship deal with the Qatar Tourism Authority, who wiped their losses, had an unfair value. Currently, we are seeing all of Liverpool, Monaco, Inter Milan, Roma, Bestikas, FC Krasnodor and Sporting Lisbon all being investigated under FFP. The Reds posted losses of £49.8m in 2012-13 and £41m in 2011-12. However, after a series of lucrative commercial deals having being signed over the past 18 months, Liverpool are confident that the rules have been adhered to. An obvious example of a club most at risk of failing the test would be QPR. With losses to the tune of £64.4m and a wage bill of £68m in their 2012-13 accounts, it doesn't look good for the Rangers. Chairman Tony Fernandes has claimed that he would appeal any fine which could be imposed by the Football League (with the sum likely to be £54m). If the club don't pay up, the League could block entry into it's competitions which, theoretically, could force QPR all the way down to the Conference

if they were relegated from the Premier League this season. The debate continues as to exactly how fair these restrictions are. As we have seen, the rules specify that large losses are permitted as long as the owner can guarantee it. Problem? It seems to keep the rich clubs rich and the poor clubs poor, reinforces the idea that football is now more of a business than a sport, and sucks all the fun out of deadline day drama. It seems only logical that owners, often after investing a phenomenal amount of money into a club, want to balance the books and keep things relatively stable financially, just like they would in any other line of business. However, this looks like it comes at a cost. With less of Harry Redknapp rolling down his window, Jim White appearing a bit more sane, and a little less confusion as it approaches midnight, we may be seeing a less frantic 12 hours before the window “slams shut”. Maybe from now on it will have to close a little more gently.

Image credit: AP Images

GENERAL SPORTS

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University of Reading Swim Club (RUSC) BASIL AL ALI

3rd Year Business and Management

The University of Reading swim club is improving from increased participation; we are achieving higher results in competitions and membership fees are now being spent to buy a starting block. This is a crucial purchase for the club as it hopes this will increase the amount of talented swimmers that come to swim for the university team. This will also give existing members the chance to hone their starting skills, which is a very important part of any sprint race. The swim club annually "This is a crucial purchase for the club as it hopes this will increase the amount of talented swimmers that come to swim for the university team."

competes in four events. It travels to Sheffield to compete in the long course and short course national university swimming championships, the major competition of BUCS for swimming. A team is also sent to compete in team championships. The event this year was hosted in Norwich where some new clubs records were set. The club is also planning to travel to Oxford to have a meet against Oxford Brookes University. This is part of the Varsity weekend that happens in April. In March the Swim Club will attend the Sports ball which celebrates all the accomplishments of each of the universities sports teams. Reasons for swimming

There are many advantages to swimming such as you burn the same about of calories in half an hour of swimming compared to an hour of jogging. It is also a full body workout and helps with

"Swimming is really fun but it also allows you to improve skills that will serve you well after university. You will acquire skills like discipline, by waking up at 6:00am."

muscle relaxation. Swimming at university allows you to make friends with a group of people, helps to relieve stress of exams or assignments and pushes you to change your mindset as you are always trying to personally improve yourself. Swimming is really fun but it also allows you to improve skills that will serve you well after university. You will acquire skills like discipline, by waking up at 6:00am. It builds your confidence that will be crucial in a professional environment and helps with your time management as you need to balance a number of training sessions with your academic work.

Session times Monday: 7-8.30am Academy Sport Monday: 9-10pm Leighton Park School Tuesday: 7.45-8.45am Land Training at the Sports Park

Tuesday: 8-9pm Leighton Park School Wednesday: 7-8.30am Academy Sport Friday: 7-8.30am Academy Sport Friday: 8.30-9.30pm Leighton Park School

NFL: Recapping the Superbowl and previewing the offseason BASIL AL-ALI

3rd Year Business and Management

The New England Patriots are Super Bowl champions once again after defeating the Seattle Seahawks, 28-24 in Glendale, Arizona. The Patriots have one all four of their titles during the reign of Bill Belichick and Tom Brady. Their previous triumph came 10 years ago however after falling to the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII and XLVI. Tom Brady earned the Super Bowl MVP award after a stat-line of 37 completions out of 50 attempts, 328 yards, 4 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. The most talked about play of the game was the interception of Russell Wilson’s pass by Malcolm Butler. Pete Carroll decided to pass the ball on second down at the Patriots 1-yard line rather than run the ball with their talisman, Marshawn Lynch. This will probably go down as one of the

most foolish play calls in NFL Super Bowl history. Ex-NFL players reacted on twitter to the play call with posts such “2nd and goal from the 1 yd line, 1 timeout and BEASTMODE IN THE BACKFIELD...I would not have throw that ball to Jerry Rice!” from Sidney Rice and “That was the worst play call I've seen in the history of football from Emmitt Smith”. Malcolm Butler who made the key play of the game to eliminate the Seahawks chance at a repeat told NBC's Michelle Tafoya. "I just had a vision that I was going to make a big play and "Although it came down to one questionable decision this year’s Super Bowl was enthralling from start to finish and was a drastically more even game compared to last years."

it came true and I'm just blessed”. Although it came down to one questionable decision this year’s Super Bowl was enthralling from start to finish and was a drastically more even game compared to last years. The Superbowl ads we again interesting with reportedly over $8m spent on 30 seconds of ad space. Russell Wilson has led the Seahawks to consecutive Super Bowls while playing on his rookie contract. He is scheduled to make an amazingly low base salary of $798,651 in 2015 thanks to the rookie wage scale. According to various NFL insiders he is in line to sign a new deal, which will make him the highest-paid player in the NFL eclipsing Aaron Rodgers of over $120m. Other major events coming up in the NFL calendar are the Combine, which hosts the best college players doing a variety of drills in front of NFL scouts in order to earn a place on teams

rosters next year. Another big event is the NFL Draft, this is where college players are picked by the 32 teams in an order that

is set by teams records from this year. This year it will be hosted in Chicago from the 30th of April to the 2nd of May.

SPORTS |GENERAL SPORTS

Riding in Reading ROSIE WHARTON 3rd Year Geography

The University of Reading Riding Club is a friendly club that aims to accommodate all types of people - from those who have been riding all their life, to those who have never set foot in a stable. New members are always encouraged to join by the friendly and welcoming society, who enjoy seeing riders improve throughout the year. We meet on Wednesday afternoons at the sports park and ride at Wellington Riding which is a 15 minute drive from Whiteknights campus. We not only offer discounted hour group lessons with BHS instructors in flatwork and jumping, but have fun events scheduled throughout the year such as the Christmas gymkhana & games and Mini Badminton, our one day event in the summer term. There are also many socials running throughout the year from nights out to movie and pizza nights in, days at the races and an annual riding holiday during the Easter break for good measure, where we spend a few days galloping over the Welsh hills. Last year a few members were lucky enough to meet Team GB’s Olympic gold medallist, Carl Hester at Royal Windsor Horse Show (accompanied by

copious amounts of Pimms.) Aside from socials and lessons the club has three equestrian teams, two BUCS teams and a friendly team, that compete against other universities in dressage and show jumping on borrowed horses. Last year our BUCS A team finished top of the BUCS leader board after winning nationals and were declared overall national champions for the 2nd time in 3 years. One rider was crowned overall individual champion after highly consistent dressage and show jumping rounds. Our friendly team also competes against other universities in similar competitions to BUCS but in a more relaxed setting. Reading won the most recent home competition and all team members were placed individually so we’re hoping for more good results to come! The club are always open to new members, who can join whenever they like throughout the year. To get in touch with the club email us at reading.riders@ hotmail.com, find us on Facebook by searching ‘University of Reading Riding Club’, follow us on Twitter @UOR_RC or visit our website at www.readingriders. webs.com.

Image credit: Reading University Riding Society

SPORT.SPARK@READING.AC.UK

Golf team book their place in the cup semis after sizzling display

THOMAS PRICE 2nd Year Mathematics

A wonderful win against Chichester University from the golf boys sets up an exciting tussle against Royal Holloway for a place in the cup final. The disappointment of losing to Brighton a week earlier is forgotten, after the exceptional 5.5-0.5 victory against Chichester secured the Knights a semi-final spot in this year’s cup. Whilst Reading had already posted a n7arrow win against Chichester in the autumn league match, nothing was being taken for granted here. Chichester had recruited some fresh faces since then, and were certainly high in confidence after posting an impressive 6-0 whitewash only a week earlier. It seemed as though a tough match was in the

offing - however, the frightening partnership of captain and president in the opening group seemed to do the trick, as Thomas Price and George Mitchell eased pre match tensions. A 4 and 3 win for Tom and George earned themselves half a point. Up next, Aran O’Doherty and Danny Watson delivered maximum points from matches 3 and 4. Aran played steady golf to win by 7 and 6 and Danny producing an excellent comeback to get over the line with a 3 and 1 victory. Specifically, a couple of crucial up and downs under pressure turned the match in Danny’s favour as he earned himself a man of the match award to put on his Mackinder mantelpiece. Reading’s final pairing saw Matt O’Doherty and Will Evans take on arguably Chichester’s strongest pairing. Some excellent stats from Matt on the front nine saw him pull clear in his match

and he converted early dominance into a comfortable 4 and 3 victory. Quality stuff Matt! Will’s match seemed to be following a similar course as he too got off to a fast start. A gutsy fight back from the man they call ‘The Unit’ meant that the match went down the last. Will did enough to hold on for a 2 up win, fizzing a driver down the last par 5 to rubber stamp the victory. Whilst Will Evans and Matt O’Doherty could barely contain their excitement on the homeward minibus journey, Captain George oozed composure from the passenger seat as he reminded the chirpy lads that they “haven’t won anything yet.” Certainly, Georges’ shocking absence from Union later that night demonstrated his commitment to this cup run. The question now on everybody’s lips: will there be enough FA cup magic left to fulfil Reading’s cup ambitions?

bureaucracy behind the scenes. The club is now fully affiliated to England Boxing with four bouted fighters. Speaking about the club, Lee said, “The club is moving forward more quickly than I expected. I’m really proud of what the fighters have achieved in such a small space of time.” Jack Devonport, the club’s president, made University history by being the first boxer since the club’s glory years in the 1950s to fight competitively at the beginning of the year. Jack has high hopes for the club’s future: “In the next few years we hope to be competing at an even higher level and get Reading boxing club the good reputation it deserves,” he says. The club already boasts a large membership, but in its current form is largely dominated by male boxers. Lee hopes to expand the club with the addition of a female boxing team over the coming months. He explained how the club is currently running a campaign, attracting new members by offering two taster

sessions before committing to the team long term. Lee is planning to host a large event in the Union at the beginning of June with up to ten Reading boxers fighting boxers from rival universities. He hopes the event will bring in large crowds of home students looking to support the new team in their first competitive year; perhaps leading the club on to echo 1956, when The University of Reading hosted the National Student Championships. As well as attracting attention around campus, the club has also attracted the attention of England Boxing. Naomi Bickerdike (an England Boxing Club Support Officer) has visited the club on a number of occasions and is currently writing an article on the club’s recent success. She shares the club’s animation and believes with the right support the club could grow to become a major competitor of the nation. With the committee and Lee dedicating themselves to the club, the future looks bright for the newly formed Reading University Boxing Team.

UoR throws the first punch

CHRISTIAN MUELLER

4th Year German Studies

Like many university boxing clubs, Reading Knights Boxing has existed primarily as a weekly sparring and fitness session, but this year’s committee decided to push the club with hopes of achieving competitive affiliation. As of the start of this academic year the club now has its own qualified DBS England boxing coach and over 50 active members. The last fortnight has seen the club compete in six separate bouts, three competitions and entry into the British University & Colleges Sport series has been confirmed for two students. Much of this success is down to the addition of Lee Hancock, the club’s new coach. An ex-Army boxer practising in the sport for over 15 years, Lee is making sure the club moves forward safely and competitively. As well as taking time from his job as a fireman to train the club, Lee handles the matchmaking and club

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Clarke conjures up Cup success and league stability

GARETH THOMAS 3rd Year English Language

With the first three games of Steve Clarke’s managerial reign at Reading bringing a loss, draw, and a win in that order, the Royals sat 16th and just nine points above the drop zone moving into 2015. Uncomfortable reading for Reading, but a new manager and a new year provided some optimism for the boys in the blue and white. The FA Cup third round provided the perfect platform to get the New Year in full flow, as Reading faced a trip to fellow championship side Huddersfield. Despite seeing much of the ball during a scrappy affair, the Yorkshire side lost to a Nick Blackman strike in the 69th minute; the only shot on target in the entire game. A late sending off for Huddersfield’s Jonathon Hogg, for a second booking after a little on field scrap, concluded a miserable day for the hosts. With Reading in unconvincing form, a home tie with title challengers Middlesbrough would not have been Clarke’s ideal next fixture. Nonetheless, despite being outplayed for the vast majority of the game, the Royals held out for vital point against Aitor Karanka’s side. Adam Reach, Jordan Obita, and Hal Robson-Kanu all had chances to grab a goal, but ultimately the point came down to a masterclass in ‘keeping from Adam Federici. Patrick Bamford et al, bore down on Federici’s goal,

"Nonetheless, despite being outplayed for the vast majority of the game, the Royals held out for vital point against Aitor Karanka’s side."

but to no avail. The Australian made a series of fine stops to keep ‘Boro at bay, and won his side a crucial point. Reading travelled the fairly short distance into London for a contest at Craven Cottage with Fulham, but despite creating 21 attempts at goal, the visitors fell to a 2-1 loss, courtesy of a Bryan Ruiz stoppage time header. Fulham took the lead on 55 minutes after Scott Parker’s exquisite through ball found Alex Kacaniklic clean through, who proceeded to nutmeg Federici. Simon Cox forced a good save from Bettinelli before Pavel Pogrebnyak scored with a strong header from a corner, levelling the game just eight minutes after Fulham had scored. Chances went begging, and Ruiz popped up on the edge of the six yard box to nod in Cauley Woodrow’s header back across goal. The result saw the West Londoners leapfrog Reading, leaving them 18th in the table. "Reading found a return to winning ways in the fourth round of the FA Cup away to Russell Slade’s faultering Cardiff." Reading found a return to winning ways in the fourth round of the FA Cup away to Russell Slade’s faultering Cardiff. A strong performance with plenty of possession saw the team progress to the fifth round for the first time since 1997/98 when they reached the quarter finals. Kenwyne Jones leapt to put the Blues ahead in the 25th minute but the resilience of the Welsh side fell in the second half, when Oliver Norwood’s free kick dipped and bounced, leaving Simon Moore wrong-footed in the Cardiff goal. Further pressure amounted to a few chances including a fine save from a Robson-Kanu header. However, the Royal’s forward – on as an 82nd minute substitution –

"With wind in their sails, Reading went searching for three points in South East London at The Den, hoping to drop Millwall into further relegation trouble. "

dispatched a very tidy half volley, looping into the far corner in the 88th minute, to secure Reading a spot in the next round, facing Derby away. With wind in their sails, Reading went searching for three points in South East London at The Den, hoping to drop Millwall into further relegation trouble. The Lions found themselves down to ten in first half injury time, after Sid Nelson’s late challenge on Michael Hector, after the whistle, warranted a straight red. The Lions had chances to nick the three points, but ultimately it was their resolute defending that left Reading devoid of creativity with a huge 65% possession, and failing to capitalise on the man advantage. The final game of January saw the visit of Sheffield Wednesday to The Madejski, and

a comfortable three points. Loan signing Nathaniel Chalobah from Chelsea made his home debut and was playing in fine form, passing neatly and threading quality through-balls, notably to Cox, whose shot was well saved. Pogrebnyak dispatched a header unmarked into the top corner on 29 minutes to give the home side the lead, and just 11 minutes later Chalobah excellently struck a difficult half volley into the top corner. Reading continued to push, as Glenn Loovens was forced to clear an attempt from the open Wednesday goal. A well taken Garath McCleary strike from a classy counter attacking move was disallowed in the second half for offside, before Robson-Kanu then had an excruciatingly timid penalty easily saved, following Jeremy Helan’s foul. Following the victory over Wednesday, the transfer window brought up the opportunity of a “no risk” signing in the eyes of Clarke, who clinched Nigerian veteran striker, Yakubu on a deal until the end of the season. The forward man didn’t need to make an appearance in the first game of February, as Clarke’s boys won

their second game on the bounce, taking the three points from Molinuex against Wolves. Pogrebnyak’s neat volley at the near post after just 20 seconds gave Reading a critical foothold in the game from early on, until Benik Afobe’s towering header brought the sides level on 26 minutes. Wolves continued to press well following their goal, but Reading eventually clawed control back, and Danny William’s superb shot from outside the box flew into the side of the goal, sending Reading home with all three points – and a first away win since November. Back to back wins left Reading 13th on 37 points, and feeling somewhat better about the prospects of securing Championship survival, and life under Clarke – at the cost of midtable mediocrity. "Danny William’s superb shot from outside the box flew into the side of the goal, sending Reading home with all three points – and a first away win since November."

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