DUNDEE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ MAGAZINE
ISSUE 40
FREE
confessions zero hour workers:
truth or lies?
Cowboys VS Bawbags FAshion:
Keeping it kim Date night dilemma
of a first tim e speed dater
Opsoc: Jekyll & Hyde
Someone discovered my PASSWORD
Now I have to change my dog’s name Securing our data
Securing our reputation
Information Security Week 10 - 14 February 2014
www.dundee.ac.uk/it/security
EDITOR’S LETTER 10 AM last Saturday morning was indisputably the worst walk of shame I’ve ever endured. The majority of our cover shoot came from Card Factory, and who was the lucky bugger to haul the lot of pink and red up the high street? Yours truly. Toting along three red heart-shaped helium balloons, a pink bouquet of flowers, and a plush teddy bear, I masticated on the last of my dignity. Who am I kidding…what dignity? I lost that long ago when I ripped apart Card Factory’s window display to grab hold of the balloons, instead of asking if they had more in the back like any sane patron. With hell-bent rain turning Dundee into a lakeside campus, the smell of shattered ambition gives it away: It’s dissertation season. That time when aged professors prey on the weak and vulnerable, the caffeine infused and the sleep deprived. It’s been fun mostly, except for that buzz kill of a degree I’m studying for. Without that inconvenient sucker, I imagine I could have mustered up a decent time at uni. But I digress, cap on head, looking forward to not JLawing it up the stairs – it’s almost graduation. In the meantime, we made a magazine. Check out our interview with director of OpSoc’s up and coming Jekyll & Hyde (p27), update your iTunes with Kirstie Allan’s Bands of the Month (p23), and die a little bit inside at the prospect of going speed dating (p16). Make sure to hit up dusamedia.com, and drop us a message at themagdalen@dusa.co.uk.
Contributors Kirstie Allan, Sarasvathi Arulampalam, Lauren Brand, Ryan Brown, Jenna Crombie, Laura Darbyshire, Jilly Davis, Pádraig Durnin, Lauren Jean Findlay, Euan Forbes, Struan Fraser, Mayda La Fuentes, Julie Kanya, Leona Reid, Hazel Rhiannon Hayden, Lynsay Smith, Greg Taylor, Iain MacKinnon, Kathryn McKnight, Robin Van Mulders
Production Rich Cahill, Ryan Cashin, Oliva Cliff, Ross Grubb, Hazel Hayden, Susie McGowan, Kenny Meek, Jill Montgomery, Glenn Mullan, Marina Munro, Alberto Negro, Megan Redden, Jodie Robb, Neli Todorova, Jonathan West, Juliet Wright, Hazel Wyllie
Danielle Ames Editor in Chief Danielle Ames Deputy Editor Harrison Kelly Online Editor Felix Reimer Head of Design Alex Nicholson Craig Morrison Features Editor Alice Harrold Arts Editor Juliet Wright Entertainment Editor Magdalena Pentcheva Current Affairs Editor Jalal Abukhater Fashion Editor Claire McPhillimy Lifestyle Editor Kate Lakie Campus News Editor Rebecca Shearer Sports Editor Katharine Sharpe Travel Editor Rose Matheson
PUBLISHED BY Zuchaela Smylie, VPCC DUSA, Airlie Place Dundee, DD1 4PH vpcc@dusa.co.uk PRINTED BY Winters & Simpson Print 16 Dunsinane Avenue Dundee, DD2 3QT sales@wintersimpson.co.uk
CONTENTS
27
On the cover...First time speed dating
Issue 40 ART 03
‘The Book Thief’ Review
04 The Rise of Scorsese TRAVEL
FASHION 19
Date Night
20
The Hit List
22
Nailed It ENTERTAINMENT
06 Euro-tripping Musts 07
Cowboys vs Bawbags LIFESTYLE
08 The Hunger Games
33
23
Bands of the Month
24
‘Girls’ Review
25
Return of the Spin Off
26
‘Day Z’ Review
25
09 The Right Way to Diet 10
CAMPUS NEWS
Hitting Snooze CURRENT AFFAIRS
11
The Referendum 2013
12
Spain’s Repression...
14
Why Does Voting Matter? FEATURES
15
Contract Hours Zero
16
Speed Dating
18
10 Things We Hate About Valentine’s Day
27
Jekyll and Hyde
28
Staff Survey
30
Shelved: What is...?
09
SPORT 31
When Two Worlds Collide
32
Bigger Across the Pond
33
Netball Club
04 18
ART
A review by Jenna-Kate Crombie
– for more reviews check out book-odyssey.com
T
his is undoubtedly my favourite book. This is the one I tell everyone all about, the one I pass on to people and urge them to read. This is the book I respond with when asked the most awkward question a voracious reader can be asked: "So what is your favourite book?" I'll tell you why: Zusak's prose is poetic. The words glide through your mind like honey; his imagery is absolutely lyrical, and his haunting descriptions of wartime Germany are unforgettable. He makes you understand things you could never understand, using only his words. The words themselves feel as though as they've been painted on the pages as a picture of something important. Zusak stresses the power of words for Hitler, and also how they helped Liesel. It's very fitting that the power of words makes this novel as flawless as it is.
My favourite feature of the novel is Zusak's characters. They are perfectly crafted, but full of flaws. Mistakes are made in abundance; relationships are broken, whilst others are rebuilt. Everyone has a reason for their attitudes and behaviours. All are glorious, all feel more human than people you know, and all are loved. Zusak's character development is eventually what breaks you in the end.
Using Death as a narrator is a wonderful technique. This omniscient inhuman voice tells us the story of the book thief, and as he has no time for mysteries, foreshadowing events in her life. Rather than having a spoiler effect, this declaration of the future heightens our anticipation of things to come and our dread of the worst-case scenario. And isn't that just like a war? Zusak builds the worst kind of apprehension in us as he alludes to the fact that some of these wonderful people may not still be standing in a few pages. Despite the novel's theme, and our formidable narrator, Zusak never lets things become too morbid. A beautiful vein of humour runs through the pages, and we see how the small things in life can brighten a day. The sheer heart of the characters is inspiring, and at times the poverty-stricken Himmler Street seems a wonderful place to live. My own graceless power of words could never completely describe both the joy and sorrow this book brings me. I can only urge you read it, and come away with your heart broken into tiny pieces. ISSUE 40 03
ART
THE RISE AND RISE OF
MARTIN SCORSESE DICAPRIO is the new DE NIRO
R
aunchy. Depraved. Exuberant. Over-the-top. Sexist. These words and many others have been used and abused by critics in order to sum up The Wolf of Wall Street. Never have more curse words been heard on-screen and neither has a production so singlehandedly boosted vitamin B sales.
DiCaprio delivers a stellar performance, giving the Academy a run-through all of his notable roles: from the drug-addict of The Basketball Diaries to Titanic’s Jack Dawson, switching swiftly from sleek Frank Abignale to Jay Gatsby’s charismatic party persona. He easily slips into the role of master of ceremonies; the greedy and sleazy alpha-male in the centre of a testosterone-powered universe where money is the primordial element. And whilst he boldly tackles a myriad of separate movie tropes; from slapstick to melodrama to inspirational speeches, one can’t help but feel that his over-zealous interpretation has much more to do with him finally taking home an Oscar than with realistically portraying Belfort. This almost places him diametrically opposite to the alluring charm of De Niro: a smug grin here and a culpable wink there, before finding yourself playing accomplice in a world where coldblooded mobsters reign free. DiCaprio’s fifth collaboration with the legendary New York director forms a loose trilogy alongside Goodfellas and Casino: a rags-to-riches-and-back-to-rags
bildungsroman, where the main character succumbs to his limitless greed and exorbitant aspirations. Enter Jordan Belfort, a perfect icon of the selfie generation. Belfort’s odyssey is a pictureperfect snapshot of narcissism run utterly amok, floating in a void of erupting slow-motion champagne. No gangster mythos to be found here, no romantic idealism of the iconoclast or the rebel
‘The fundamental problem, is one of letting the tail wag the dog’ and no swooning camera making sweet Mediterranean love to the sun-kissed pasta and tomato sauce. There is only a man and an exponentially multiplying stack of cash. The true genius is in the timing; while ostensibly placing itself in the era where the mindset of meme-me-me-and-me-again was born (the garish and dissolute 80’s) The Wolf of Wall Street couldn’t be more transparently modern. Belfort’s coke-happy chop-shop investment banker persona is one that we
G 04 ISSUE 40
ART
should recognise instantly from the Banking Crisis of 2008. Be it the grinning caricature of the Banker, the Financier or the One Percent who partied us all down to hell, damnation, and insolvency whilst selling us penny stocks and promising ‘Growth, Growth, Growth!’ It is a shame then, that Scorsese’s longsimmering infatuation with DiCaprio seems to have taken on a dimension that poorly emulates the director’s fruitful start with De Niro. While Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and (my personal favourite) Goodfellas all do a thoroughly sterling job of inhabiting their era perfectly, Leo’s comparative offerings (the unfortunate Aviator, the intriguing but all-toopredictable Shutter Island, and now The Wolf of Wall Street) lack both depth and gravitas. The fundamental problem, is one of letting the tail wag the dog. While De Niro’s performances were subdued when necessary and explosive when required; they were always full of deep charm and an uncanny awareness of character which harmonised with set, setting and story.
ENTER JORDAN BELFORT, A PERFECT ICON OF THE SELFIE GENERATION
DiCaprio’s cinematic alter egos have the unfortunate tendency of dominating the screen without displaying the restraint or charisma to earn the space they demand. Travis Bickle and Jake LaMotta positively swell in every single scene with a tantalising barely contained inner life, whereas Jordan Belfort and Howard Hughes leap hither to and fro with the energy, enthusiasm, and (unfortunately) subtlety of a small child. A child which is desperately running through every conceivable emotion, radiating nothing except the one-band single-wavelength message of GIVE ME MY OSCAR ALREADY. Yes, in bold, and all caps.
By JULIE KANYA
GIVE ME MY OSCAR ALREADY GIVE ME MY OSCAR ALREADY GIVE ME MY OSCA ISSUE 40 05
TRAVEL
Must Sees & Must Nots
of Euro-Tripping
You’ve decided to hell with the internship, Im riding the rails this Summer! You’ve made the right decision. Anticipate a little more starvation and listen to Scotty Doesn’t Know as you go.
meet. While you’re there go see if Anne Frank was a Belieber, giggle in the sex museum and the red light district is easy to stumble upon, but if you’re scared of women in their pants knocking, best just stare at the swans.
Must do for History - Berlin
Must not for most overrated attraction - Prague
If you’re feeling down about your career prospects History Students, then Berlin is the place for you. Fancy a tear jerking tour of the WW2 monuments and Hitler’s Suicide Car Park? Or are Amplemannchen, TV towers and Fallen Walls more your thing? Save a little energy as you won’t want to miss East Berlin’s Jazz Clubs or Dr Pong for drunken ping pong.
This is secretly my must do for a fairytale city. However, the culprit attraction is the Astronomical Clock. You know those clocks in cartoons where people come and hit things with hammers? Well, its like that but shit. Once upon a time a really clever man made a clock but the nice people of Prague repaid him by blinding him, so the man committed suicide by jumping into the clock and breaking it, the end.
Must Do, East meets West - Budapest
Must not for fear of death! Bratislava
The river Danube runs through it’s heart dividing the two districts of Buda and Pest. The Turkish baths are good for chillaxing but bear in mind they’re only a warm swimming pool. Lángos are the bomb, deep fried bread, garlic, sour cream and cheese. For those with a sweet tooth try a Turo Rudi Bar: cottage cheese covered in chocolate.
It was described in my travel guide as a “mini Prague” and yes, it was beautiful in a sunset and gave me the best photos of the holiday. What scared me though was the hostel. It started out fine, a free shot for every guest, but it wasn’t until I ventured into the bar, in the basement, where someone had the great idea to have a theme revolving around the film ‘Hostel.’
Must not get hit by bikes - Amsterdam
Ryan Brown
There are bikes everywhere! Its insane. However, there must be something in the water (or the coffee) because it is filled with the nicest people you’ll ever
06 ISSUE 40
TRAVEL
COWBOYS V. BAWBAGS Rebecca (from the UK and studied in the US) and Danielle (from the US studying in the UK) moan about the mild annoyances of studying abroad demonstrating the different evolutionary paths we’ve taken since the Mayflower drifted west. US vs UK (Blue = Danielle • White = Rebecca)
On Weather
On Language
There is no sun. • I never thought I would miss not getting sunburnt every time I stepped outside.
Nobody understands when you say faucet, or bandaid, or arugula, or zucchini. • They have weird names for vegetables (e.g. zucchini).
No matter how often people compliment the weather, it’s still crap. • A hurricane just feels like a normal day in Scotland.
Let’s get this straight Brits, shag is a type of rug, none of this hanky panky sex business • Everyone says “mmmhmmm” instead of “you’re welcome” when you thank them. Order chips, and it’s like you said ‘surprise me’ • Everything seems to be from France – ‘french fries’, ‘french vanilla’, ‘french waffles’etc.
On Food Beans on toast seems to be a breakfast, lunch, and dinner sort of thing. • Nobody told me how much I would miss bacon. Deep-fried Oreos sounded like a good idea at the time. There is no In-N-Out Burger. • Coffee can be bought EVERYWHERE. I had to teach three Americans how to make instant. Pies aren’t just for Thanksgiving, they’re for holding steak, and curry, and potatoes, and whatever else goes out of date tomorrow. • There is more than one flavour of Cheerios and I am still regretting eating the apple ones…
On Culture I learned everything I needed to know about the UK from Jeremy Kyle. • Watching a Harry Potter film in an America cinema gives you a new perspective on life – they found the films hilarious and categorized them as ‘comedy’… Yeah, yeah, we get it, the queen’s cute already.. although pretty sure our prezzie could take her any day • People look at me weird when I say I’m from Scotland and I’m not wearing a kilt. They also think my English is very good. I got myself a Tesco clubcard, which practically makes me a citizen. • Apparently it’s not possible to buy a sandwich with your bus pass. I wish someone had warned me not to stare at neds, I still have some of her fake tan on me. • It is acceptable to wear a cowboy hat in everyday life.
ISSUE 40 07
LIFESTYLE
THE HUNGER GAMES R
eality is, you are probably going to put on weight at uni – sorry, but it’s inevitable. Like it or not, those massive portions of pasta and boozy nights out will make you pile on unwanted pounds. So will hitting your twenties and losing the fast metabolism that shaped your teenage body (wah!). The media continues its fascination with maintaining a hot-bod all year round. Pictures of Hollywood babes sporting teeny tiny bikinis circulate social media sites highlighting that fitness is still the ‘in thing’. I happen to be one of those women who was brainwashed and became obsessed with looking toned. Despite being 4’ 11” and definitely not having a ‘high’ chance of becoming a supermodel, I still jumped on the fitness bandwagon. I attempted all the 30-day challenges, did those smoothie detoxes, bought the full gym kit… all in a bid to get me that dream body. Although eating healthy was fine, I still gave into temptation every so often; a Mars Bar tastes so much better than carrot sticks and hummus! Restricting treats to one day a week didn’t really work for me, but maybe everyone’s different (or maybe I’m just greedy). But is it willpower that sustains a healthy diet, or is it okay to give in to junk food every so often? Whatever the answer, I felt guilty each time I ate a Kit-Kat. I slipped into an unconscious spiral of obsessive calorie counting; my body-image aspirations began to consume my thoughts every time I ate.
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It’s a bit sad that so many of us have become obsessed with the way we look and are unhappy with our bodies. Now that the festive period of ‘guilt-free’ indulgence is over, these health and fitness challenges will no doubt be appealing to you to get back into your old dress size ASAP. If you’re planning on participating in any of these diets; my advice is to just be cautious and most importantly, be under control.
“
I happen to be one of those women who was brainwashed and became obsessed with looking toned. Even after I reached my personal target, with a satisfactory ‘thigh gap’ and toned stomach, my obsession with calorie counting continued, even with fruit packets and juice bottles. Could I help it? I don’t think so – the media is forever publishing health and fitness regimes, drilling into our heads that we should aspire to a size-zero heroin-chic like Kate Moss, or buff David Gandy lookalikes with six-packs – the very same images swamping our newsfeeds. Ironically, viewing pictures of these models (and talking about them right now) is enough to make me march out and buy a tub of Ben & Jerry’s to devour in delicious self-pity…
LAUREN BRAND
LIFESTYLE
The RIGHT WAY TO KATIE LAKIE
Here are a few simple tips that will help you stay healthy, shed the pounds, and keep you motivated.
1
2
Avoid Diet Coke and other ‘diet’ drinks! Drinks that have had the sugar replaced with sweeteners are as bad for you as their full fat brothers. Although sugar makes you gain weight, sweeteners kill off brain cells which, in the long term, can cause some serious nasty consequences (which’ll make being fat seem like a walk in the park). In addition, the chemicals used in diet fizzy drinks induce cravings for carbohydrates so you’ll unconsciously consume more food than you normally would and it slows your metabolism!
Don’t be fooled by the words ‘Fat Free’. Anything that says ‘fat free’ on the label is not a good thing. When the natural fat is reduced or taken away it is replaced with sugars, and it’s sugar, not fat, which our bodies convert into fat.
3
Make some simple switches. It doesn’t all have to be muesli and celery sticks, there are many easy tricks to cut down on your sugar intake here and there. › Swap your bagel for a wholewheat english muffin. › Instead of a sandwich, put your sandwich filling in a wrap and drastically cut carbs. › Instead of milk chocolate, eat dark chocolate – it has half the sugar. › Instead of golden syrup, use honey. › Instead of a Vanilla Frappuccino have an Iced Vanilla Latte and save yourself 40g of sugar.
4
Think positively. The reason most diets fail is because people think that they can’t eat something when they really want to. Instead of saying I ‘can’t’ eat chocolate anymore, say to yourself I ‘don’t want’ to eat chocolate anymore. ISSUE 40 09
LIFESTYLE
HITTING SNOOZE THE PROS AND CONS OF BEING AN EARLY BIRD
PROs
CONs
DANIELLE AMES
1
You always have hot water; in fact you’re the son of a bitch who uses up all the hot water.
2
You get to finish off the milk for breakfast, leaving your flat mates in a drastic fit of dry cereal.
3
If shit gets tough you can just go to bed, after all it’ll be easier in the morning.
4
You can spill coffee all down your top, go back to the flat to change and still make it in time for your 9am.
5
You’re so knackered by the time night rolls around that you sleep straight through your international flatmates howling family skype sesh next door…well mostly.
6
For the truly ambitious, gym in the early am is a prime time to avoid people seeing you sweat.
7
See the sunrise, that much rumoured enigma.
8
Success stories require hustle, create your own tale of resistance, start with the morning.
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FELIX REIMER
1
If you get up late enough, there’ll be plenty of hot water again – and your flat mates won’t knock on the bathroom door because they need to shower as they’re all at class.
2
By the time you leave the house, it’s already time for lunch, which is a much more enjoyable meal than breakfast anyways.
3
Get on campus late enough and you won’t run into the lecturers whose classes you missed earlier that day – WIN!
4
The definition of a good night: Party late, get some, sleep in. It doesn’t say ‘rise early and be cheery’ anywhere in there, does it?
5
No need to do your hair or iron your shirt: By the time you hit the town, it’ll be full of locals instead of bright-eyed, overly ambitious students, so you’ll fit right in.
6
Pure Gym is open 24/7, so you can go at night, and no one will judge you for snapchatting your friends for most of your ‘workout’.
7
Catch up with the sunrise pics your early-rising friends have posted on Facebook and Instagram. Or – this being Scotland – just turn around when you hear the familiar sound of rain drops against your window.
8
You get to sleep longer. ‘nuff said.
CURRENT AFFAIRS
The Referendum Campaign in 2013
T
oday, people look forward to the year ahead and others reflect on the past year. Reflection is certainly something those at the top of the independence and unionist campaigns will be doing as 2013 was a massive year for all involved. Nationally, two major events happened in 2013 in relation to independence. The first was the passing of the Referendum Bill which officially turned the dreams of those on the pro-independence side into a reality. Secondly, there was the launch of the widely anticipated White Paper which sets out the Scottish National Party’s vision for an independent Scotland. Some key topics are childcare, the use of Sterling pound, the scrapping of Trident and a new immigration policy.
Together campaigns and Deputy First Minster Nicola Sturgeon, among others. The events have proven popular, always pulling in large crowds who want to find out more about the referendum. Furthermore, 2013 did not run its course scandal free. Shona Robison SNP MSP caused a stir when she accused the 5 Million Questions group of not being impartial as one of its founders privately backed the Better Together Campaign. After much furore and
OVER the coming year in dundee there is to be more delivered from the 5 million questions group... In Dundee, 2013 saw the launch of the 5 Million Questions project. This group aims to put across both sides of the campaign to the public through the medium of public debates, lectures and in conversation events. So far the group has attracted the leaders from both the Yes and Better
letters from leading academics, the First Minister publicly backed the right of everyone to have an opinion on the campaign. More recently, the SNP’s proposition that an independent Scotland could still charge students from the rest of the UK tuition fees was brought under fire.
Of course, there are also several student groups actively discussing the referendum on campus. Those are: The Dundee University UK-United Society, the Dundee Better Together Students group, the Dundee University Yes, and Radical Independence Student group. They’ve all worked on canvassing several areas in Dundee, leafleting and talking to students, as well as appear on different outlets of DUSA Media. Over the coming year in Dundee, there is to be more delivered from the 5 Million Questions group, as well as intensifying debate amongst the highly active referendum student societies. In September 2014, one can only guess what the outcome of this referendum will be.
EUAN FORBES
ISSUE 40 11
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Spain’s repression of the Basque prisoners movement The Basque separatist group ETA (Euskadi Ta Askatasuna – Basque Homeland and Freedom) are probably the first thing which comes to many minds when hearing of the ancient, enigmatic nation straddling the Pyrenees between France and Spain. The formation of ETA in the late 1950s was a direct response to the suppression of the language and culture of the Basques under Francisco Franco’s long dictatorship. ETA carried out a series of bombings and assassinations aimed at bringing down the fascist state and driving it from the Basque Country, the most notable being the assassination of Franco’s presumed successor, Carrero Blanco in 1973. It stepped up the confl ict in the aftermath of Franco’s death, but steadily lost support: only 36% of Basques rejected ETA’s use of political violence in 1981, but by 1996, this figure stood at nearly 75%. Peaceful resolutions to other confl icts, such as those in South Africa and Northern Ireland, inspired a change of tone. ETA declared several ceasefi res beginning in 1998, culminating in a permanent ceasefi re and secession of armed activity in October 2011.
end of ETA’s armed struggle would see the release of all prisoners not directly implicated in the use of lethal force. At present, approximately 600 Basques remain in Spanish and French custody, all but 15 of them held outside the Basque Country, necessitating round-trips of up to 1,500 miles for visiting relatives. Many relatives see this as a second sentence imposed upon prisoners’ families. Several have been killed in road accidents.
After well over two years of ceasefi re, the Spanish Government remains locked in an ‘ETA-hunting’ strategy, and refuses to entertain the possibility of a peace process as in South Africa or Northern Ireland. It goes as far to defy its own previous policy, the 1988 Ajuria Enea pact, which accepted that the
As of present, there have been few positive developments from the Spanish state. A march in Bilbao at the beginning of January this year calling for the repatriation of Basque political prisoners was banned by a judge in Madrid. Such a ban is practically unprecedented since the restoration of democracy. However, Basque political parties, including the conservative PNV (Basque National Party), which seldom participates in public protests, responded by calling a new march demanding prisoners’ human rights and confl ict resolution. On the 11th January, around 130,000 joined one of the biggest demonstrations in Basque history. Two days later, the Spanish state responded by imprisoning eight mediators from the Basque Political Prisoners’ Association, including three solicitors.
around 50 prisoners had continued to be detained long after their sentences expired 12 ISSUE 40
Instead of bringing relief to Basque prisoners, the ceasefi re, if anything, has caused the situation to deteriorate further. Until a ruling late last year by the European Court of Human Rights forced their release, around 50 prisoners had continued to be detained long after their sentences expired, under a Spanish policy known as the ‘Parot Doctrine’.
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Spain’s ruling Partido Popular are beset by problems from all sides. They won only 11% of the vote in the last Basque election. In comparison, the PNV and Euskal Herria Bildu (the main left-wing proindependence party, which includes Sortu, successor to the banned Batasuna, which was allegedly linked to ETA) won 60% between them. Catalunya seems even further ahead than the Basque Country on the road to Independence, with a referendum scheduled for November this year that Madrid is trying to ban. Spain’s King, Juan Carlos, who has politicised his role with increasingly open anti-separatist sentiments, is increasingly viewed as little more than a fascist-appointed relic – two thirds of the Spanish population want him to abdicate. Public-sector pay has been frozen since 2010, the minimum wage is frozen, pensions will rise by only 0.25% this year, and unemployment has hit 26%, only matched by Greece within the EU. The PP itself descends from reformist elements within the Franco dictatorship, and has stalled on efforts by the previous social-democratic Government to compensate aging victims of the dictatorship, exhume mass graves, and remove monuments glorifying the fascist regime. Arnaldo Ortegi, the leader of Sortu, imprisoned since 2010 for discussing reforming Batasuna, suggests that ‘The disappearance of ETA’s armed violence creates a serious problem for Spain, to the extent that there’s now no excuse not to tackle the real political debate, which is none other than respect for the Basque people’s right of self-determination.’ Pádraig Durnin
ISSUE 40 13
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Why does voting matter?
O
ver the past months there only seems to have been talks of elections; elections everywhere. Whether it is about the Independence referendum in 2014, European Parliament and UK elections, or to Student Representative Council (SRC) and Dundee University Student Association (DUSA) Executive elections, many of us probably ask ourselves: why should we vote in student elections? It doesn’t affect me that much, does it? This apathy seems extremely prevalent amongst students, in particular at the University of Dundee. The university has one of the lowest voting turnouts across Scottish Universities, and having conferred with some students on what they thought was the cause to this, answers mostly came to a lack of awareness about the elections, as well as an understanding of what the Executive even does. DUSA has introduced future referenda in order to change anything relating to policy, and that it only requires a total of 10% of the total students at the university to be considered valid clearly shows that DUSA is well aware of the fact that a low turnout is to be expected.
14 ISSUE 40
Why should your vote matter then? Being at university is not only about going to classes, getting good grades in order to get that job you always wanted. It is about personal development, about understanding that you make a difference! You have three, four or maybe even ďŹ ve years to take a part in how your University is run, how your student experience becomes. Most of your life, you will hear that you should vote for a certain party or a certain person. Last year 1,500-2,000 students decided on the way that 17,000 students were to be led at the university, were you one of them? The important part is not for whom you are voting, it is that you use your vote, use your right, make a change.
Robin Van Mulders
You have three, four or maybe even five years to take a part in how your University is run...
FEATURES
contract hours zero
Rebecca Shearer
DESPITE DENIALS, UNIVERSITY USED ZERO-HOUR CONTRACTS FOR ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES
The University of Dundee currently employs 75 staff members on zero-hour contracts, according to numbers obtained by DUSA Media through a Freedom of Information request. The College of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing have hired five markers on zero-hour contracts. It is unclear where these markers have been hired from and whether they are already employed by another department within the University. According to the Freedom of Information request, ‘these [contracts] come to an end next year and will not be renewed on the same basis.’ The use of the markers seems to contradict an earlier statement the University made in August 2013, when it told The Herald, ‘We do not use any zero-hours contracts across our academic and research activity.’ However, the University has since replied ‘the markers in question are not core academic staff (i.e. lecturers, Fellows, teaching assistants and so on) and are used on an ad hoc basis for marking
of certain distance learning modules. The University does not use any zero-hours contracts across teaching and research. The University currently employs over 3000 staff.’
ridiculous that the University employs staff and students on zero-hour contracts. On several occasions, it has taken months for me to get paid, and even then they hardly get the pay rate right."
The majority of zero-hour contracts, 48 of the 75, are within the University’s Institute of Sport and Exercise (ISE). Eight sports and exercise teachers, 22 coaches, 11 exercise teachers, three personal trainers and four swim teachers are employed on the basis of the controversial contracts. These employees are University students, freelance exercise teachers, and other staff employed elsewhere in the ISE who also lead exercise classes.
A zero-hour contract is often used to employ a casual worker, even though the work available may be sporadic. Often, an employee on this contract is required to be able to work when called upon by their employer, though the nature of the contract can sometimes allow for an employee to refuse to do the work. Zero-hour contracts mean that the employer does not have to guarantee the employee any work and the employee is not entitled to the same employment laws and rights as other workers will be within the company. Often, these types of contracts are used in a retail environment where extra demand must be met, such as in the build-up to Christmas. It is very unusual to have employees on zero-hour contracts within an academic setting.
The University's External Relations department employed another 22 students on zerohour contracts for the alumni telephone fundraising campaign. An employee on a zero-hour contract with the University who wanted to remain anonymous told DUSA Media, “It is absolutely
‘ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, IT HAS TAKEN MONTHS FOR ME TO GET PAID, AND EVEN THEN THEY HARDLY GET THE PAY RATE RIGHT.’ ISSUE 40 15
FEATURES
“So.............
WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME? ”
A FIRST TIME RUN-IN WITH SPEED DATING Leona Reid
It’s 5.30pm on a Thursday evening and where do I find myself ? In the library like a responsible student? Curled up in the foetal position nursing a hangover? Doing anything which even remotely resembles student behaviour? No. I’m on a bus to Glasgow, accompanied by fashion editor Claire on our way to a speed dating event. With V-Day fast approaching, the Magdalen editorial team thought it a fun experiment to send two first-time speed daters on an outing. A part of me hoped it would be something like the Hunger Games; eyeing up the competition, killing off the weakest prey early and, of course, epic archery skills... I was sorely disappointed when the realisation kicked in that I would be making awkward conversation 16 ISSUE 40
with multiple strangers that evening. My breakdown took place the night before at Claire’s flat; “I’M NOT GOING AND YOU CAN’T MAKE ME.” It’s okay, I got over it.
SHOOT ME NOW On the bus down, we make a list of forbidden conversation topics, in addition to practising handshakes; apparently a limp one makes the recipient assume you are a bad person. So, err on the side of caution and engage those upper arm muscles. We arrived in Glasgow ready to meet the loves of our lives. We got there early and inadvertently found ourselves waiting for a salsa dancing class for the over-30s to
end. Side-stepping our way out, we located the bar and enjoyed ourselves accordingly. Everything was going fine until I remembered Claire gets super grumpy when she’s stressed; “I hate this. Why the hell are we even doing it? Just shoot me. SHOOT ME NOW.” It’s okay, she got over it. The place filled up and we were reassured to see so many normal looking girls (we obviously fit in perfectly). As for the guys, some didn’t even bother showing up. Soon we were called to a secluded area of the bar, given name tags and a little pep talk by the organiser. Ladies were assigned table numbers where they stayed throughout the night whilst the men rotated; so far, so good.
FEATURES That is, until a man actually sat at my table. If you have ever been speed-dating you will understand the tediousness of introducing yourself 12 times in a row to different people. Five of them misheard and proceeded to call me Fiona for the remainder of the four minutes. I didn’t have the heart to correct them, figuring it was my own fault for being too cool for name tags.
‘I’M NOT GOING AND YOU CAN’T MAKE ME.’ There were definitely some characters, including one of the most intensely terrifying men I have ever met, with the thickest Glaswegian accent; “D’ya ever watch ‘em YouTube videos, aye?” I don’t even want to know what he meant by that. Speaking of accents, my Northern Irish inflection was picked up on once or twice, leading to a charming conversation with one man about loyalism, Rangers, the Red Hand of Ulster and, of course, flute bands. That said, many of the guys seemed a lot more relaxed than I was, but then again they were probably steaming. Halfway through we were granted a 20
minute bar break, at which point I realised the back of my skirt had unzipped; classy.
CONFESSIONS
The remainder of the ‘dates’ were fairly uneventful, just more questions about what I do in my spare time, which I soon realised is nothing. Obviously the fact I study law was brought up and the best response by far was “Oh, so in a few years you could be prosecuting me?” Good grief let’s hope not. Eventually it came to an end and we handed in our score sheets. Out of the 12 guys, I only found three remotely dateable. Claire thought this was cruel, but I considered it rather generous. The next day we were emailed with our ‘matches’ and their respective contact details. Turns out the three people that didn’t make me want to throw myself out of a window felt the same way about me… Aw shit.
2 DAYS PRIOR: Realise I have accidentally registered myself as male. Many awkward emails and phone calls ensue before the situation is finally resolved. Phew.
All in all, speed dating was definitely an interesting experience (for want of a better word), and I wouldn’t discourage anyone from going for a bit of fun – make sure to have a couple of drinks first. But if you are looking for your soulmate, you probably won’t find them there.
OF A FIRST-TIMER
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THE NIGHT BEFORE: The nerves start to kick in. Spend all day listening to Beyonce to try and encourage confidence. Give up attempting to feel sexy and empowered, and order a midnight Domino’s.
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D-DAY: NEVER get a two-hour bus to any dating event, speedy or otherwise. We both fall asleep and arrive feeling groggy and gross. We are early, but Leona passes time by trying to figure out if a man old enough to be her Dad is coming to the same speed dating event as us.
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THE DAY AFTER: Best Date- A guy from Baltimore who sang me a song from Hairspray, jazz hands included. Worst Date- A Chinese man who accused me of being racist after I commented on his Glaswegian accent.
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MY CONCLUSIONS: Speed dating is a fun night out: unless you’re single and really looking.
Claire McPhillimy If you fancy trying your hand at speed dating, come along to the event being held by Save the Children on Friday the 14th February in Air Bar at 8pm, entry £3. ISSUE 40 17
FEATURES
Lauren Jean Findlay
The Take-over of Hearts
Partner Pressure!
Heart-shaped everything! Chocolates, balloons, confetti, cards, cakes, teddies, walls, windows – anywhere they can stick a heart really. And Cupids. Anyone else think a flying baby in a nappy striking people with arrows is a bit creepy?
Valentine’s Day should be changed to ‘buy your girlfriend lots of gifts or pay the consequences’ day. I thought it was supposed to be a day to celebrate love, not spend a vast amount of money on expensive jewellery and extravagant restaurants. Love isn’t how much money your partner can spend on you. (Note: To my boyfriend, disregard this point.)
Stuffed Teddies Every other day of the year I am too old for teddy bears. Why should that suddenly change if someone likes me on February 14th? What am I, five?!
The Cliché Dilemma Okay so we’re not technically a couple, but how will they react if I give them a card, or I don’t get them one and they get me one, or I get them one and they don’t get me one. Why can’t they have cards for ‘friends with benefits’ to stop all this awkwardness?
The Single Ones Yes, you love being single and you can’t stop telling us how great it is not being tied down blah blahh. Stop trying to ruin it for all the happy couples out there!
The Loved-up Ones All those lovey-dovey couples who talk constantly about how wonderful and amazing and great and thoughtful their boyfriend/girlfriend is whilst flaunting their Valentine’s Day plans to you. Boke!
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The ' I forgot' Line How could you forget? Were all the hearts, teddies and roses taking over every shops display windows not a major giveaway? When we said love isn’t money expenditure I didn’t mean don’t get us anything!
Commercialisation Just like Easter, Christmas and Halloween, we feel the holiday burden on Valentine’s Day. Most people don’t even know how V-day came about or where it stemmed from, it’s just another holiday to exploit our bank balances.
The Sad Truth For some people in relationships, February 14th is the one romantic day that they get all year. It’s gone in a flash and then they have to wait another year for a foot rub.
Gimme Gimme Some Lovin' The worst thing about Valentine’s Day has got to be that as much as we claim to ‘hate’ it, we’re all hoping for some loving come the big day.
FASHION
Hazel Rhiannon Hayden and Jilly Davis Dreaded V-Day is rearing it’s ugly, confetti-filled, Clinton card head, and for those of us not intending to spend the evening with Ben & Jerry, The Notebook and our pet cat (or ‘rabbit’) we have taken it upon ourselves to trawl the finest Dundonian students (of both sexes) and compile the ultimate list of date night Do’s and Don’ts!
The Do’s Pull yourself together gurl, there ain’t no dim forgiving lights like mono dance floor. Chipped nails and roots so long you’re almost rocking ombré ain’t gonna cut it when you’re one-on-one across a two-foot table in a fancy restaurant with lover-boy/gal. Go for understated make up, giving you a healthy glow. If you’re feeling frisky opt for a spray tan rather than grabbing that mitt and tactically tanning only the places that show/you can reach. That pale triangle between your shoulder blades doesn’t match the sexy underwear you bought. Aim for the classic girl next door, “wife that b*tch” vibe. Chances are if you’re being wined and dined on Valentine’s, it’s not a first date; you’re stoking the fiery flames of passion. According to a cross section of available males in your area, V-Day is simply too intimidating for a first date. Opt for a dressy jean cropped slightly above the ankle with an on trend strappy stiletto, understated tee and statement necklace.
Think Tyra without the Bank(s). Think Lady with less of the Gaga. Think Be with a whole lotta Yoncé.
The Don’ts Overdo the dramatic eye. Leave the diamanté studded, triple layer, feather effect falsies on your bedroom floor and opt for individual lashes strategically placed at the outer corners of your eyes- then you can really open them up and create the doe-eyed Bambi look. Go all out. A hint of bosom is adorbs, a deep V needing tit tape is too obvious and simply déclassé. Avoid mesh, leather, frills and florals. Pink and Red. Unless you’re 13 and handing out heart sweets or signing your V-Day cards ‘from your secret admirer’ don’t go for these colours. It’s kitschy cliché and overrated, never mind hard to pull off without emulating Barbie.
Alternatively, go for some high end tailoring. If you’re going somewhere hoity toity and want to showcase your razor-sharp, street-style, pair patterned trousers with a plain turtleneck.
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FASHION
Keepin Keeping it blinged It’s not possible to discuss accessories and Kim Kardashian without mentioning one of the most extravagant proposals of all time, featuring a jumbotron, an orchestra, and a 15 carat diamond ring. If proposals from billionaire rappers seem unlikely at the moment, try Kim’s style, with massive statement necklaces which add a pop of bling sure to brighten up any outfit. Keep it simple and hold off on other accessories, as there is such a thing as too much sparkle.
Limited Cream Double Corded Jewel Necklace, New Look –£17.99
Limited Pink Beaded Flower Necklace, New Look – £19.99
Keeping it monochromatic
White Aztec Lace Roll Sleeve Crop Top, New Look – £9.99
Black Mesh Insert Textured Pencil Skirt, River Island – £22.00
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Simplicity is key, a phrase rarely used about the Kardashian clan. However, Kim’s recent choices have gone in the black, white, and beige palette. Famous for her curves, Kim has found the silhouette that most flatters them and stuck to it: high-waisted pencil skirts. For inhabitants of windy Scotland, knee-length skirts are a no-worries outfit. High waists and crop tops flatter all silhouettes, with the midriff just barely showing. For the perfect yes-Iam-dating-the-man-who-criticized-a-president-onnational-TV look of confidence, throw a coat over your shoulders, cape-style.
FASHION
ing it Kim by Sarasvathi Arulampalam
Keeping it natural A notion not often connected with the Kardashian clan – natural. Kim has left behind black hair strenuously curled into bouncy, artificial locks. Post-North she’s gone for a honey blonde, sleek look which reminds of galas and yacht trips the average university student will never experience. For the best and quickest imitation use sleek serum and some anti-frizz spray to keep that look going through any number of Kesha songs; match with some nude, glossy lips, easily accomplished with some concealer and lip gloss.
2True Plumptuous Lip Gloss No 1 Clear, Superdrug – £1.99
Tigi Bed Head Control Freak Serum
Keeping it teetering
Spring Break Pointed Heels, Asos – £25.00
Graceland Court, Deichmann – £14.99
While Kim’s donning of Kanye West for Guiseppe shoes can neither be recommended nor afforded, her other shoe choices follow the current theme of discrete colours. Suggesting the new mother needs to wear practical footwear is both condescending and untrue, as teetering stilettos are a sure choice for pram pushing. Kim keeps the outfit simple with a pair of black stilettos, a girl’s best friend – appropriate for a court date and a basketball game. If the monochromatic outfit has taken a turn for the beige, add a pair of blue heels to brighten things up.
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FASHION by LEONA REID
Water marbling, glitter gradients, dotting tools – when it comes to the weirdly wonderful world of nail art, it seems there is no end to the products available. Over the past few years our old pal the beauty industry has exploded with new and innovative products, just waiting to be put to use! So, where does one begin? A gazillion different brands have caught up and now have their own nail art ranges. Barry M will always be a favourite of mine for their amazing colours and epic value too! Models Own Artstix Nail Beads are a great and easy way to update your nails, or how about Revlon Nail Art Chalkboard? With this you get a matte finish and are free to do whatever design you want! Topshop has also become a great go-to for nail art; they do a brush kit for £10 which contains pretty much everything you’ll need. Alternatively, there is a plethora of similar products available on Amazon, and they come pretty cheap too! Now, I know what some of you may be thinking; “this is all very well and good, BUT I HAVE NO SKILLS.” Believe me when I say that I am the least artistic person on the face of this earth. Seriously, when I was (much) younger, I decided I was going to start my own plate designing business. This consisted of me cutting faces out of magazines and affixing them to plate-shaped pieces of paper. Yes, I was a strange child. Regardless, my 22 ISSUE 40
business venture never really took off and I never forgot it. However, there is still hope for people like me and it comes in the shape of nail art bloggers, the best kind of people in my opinion. Not only do these lovely human beings think up all sorts of crazily creative nail designs, they spend time making tutorials to help poor souls like you and I who otherwise would have no clue what they were doing. Better yet, there are countless
ways of connecting with them; the easiest of which I find is via Instagram. Check out some of my favourites below and examples of their work. Oh, and happy painting!
Some nail-tastic bloggers!
@onenailtorulethemall @britnails @fundaflawless @thesammersaurus
ENTERTAINMENT
Wildcat! Wildcat! I don’t usually talk about lyrics here (songs, by nature, are open for personal saturation) but their infusion should be rewarded. Wildcat! Wildcat! tackle youth apathy, which (I believe) is one of the most distinct features of our current culture. God forbid that we actually have to do something for ourselves – that we aren’t just automatically entitled to being indulged and gratified throughout a hedonistic life.
‘to-the-point lyrics to swing the bat at youth apathy. . .’ This band’s soulful and buzzing dream-pop collaborates with its to-the-point lyrics to swing the bat at youth apathy with the idea of youth itself.
LIYL: MGMT, Chvrches, Ben Howard. Listen to: ‘The Chief ’, ‘Garden Grays’, ‘End Of The World Everyday’
Reminding us of youth – as an energetic moment, as a function, an ability, but also something vulnerable to time – to motivate us to “play while we’re still young”. Save yourself now. Bop about to Wildcat! Wildcat!’s electric EP. Stop living as if to get “another day out of the way”. Carpe the bloody diem.
Luke Sital-Singh Luke Sital-Singh’s 3 EPs of flooding baritones and choral hauntings give body to emotions. You can feel the ghosts he’s fighting. “Cry your eyes out and fill your lungs up”. So much is physical about this artist. You can see how obtrusive he is, re: my inarticulation above.
LIYL: Damien Rice, Perfume Genius, Ed Sheeran. Listen to: ‘Inaudible Sighs’, ‘You Love, You Love’, ‘Dark’, ‘I Have Been A Fire’.
‘. . .he has been hailed as the British Bon Iver’
It’s comes as no surprise then that he has been hailed as the British Bon Iver. There’s always a storm building in the calm of the guitar-centred hymnals that are both impressively arranged and virtuous. I don’t think I’ve so gladly fallen into the mellows of an artist since Daughter (who, incidentally, were the first band I wrote about for Magdalen). We’re definitely going to seeing a lot of Sital-Singh in 2014. Kirstie Allan ISSUE 40 23
ENTERTAINMENT
GIRLS I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar!
“No boyfriend, no job”. To be honest, that sounds like several people I know, probably several people everyone knows. Not having a partner on top of not having a job just seems to rub in your face that life sucks. At least that’s how it seems on HBO’s Girls. Deemed this generation’s Sex and the City, people either love or hate it, and many attempt to work out which ‘girl’ they are. As with Sex and the City, sex is a huge element in the series, it includes the typical nudity you tend to see on HBO. Where season two saw main character Shosh popping her cherry, season three has begun by alternating between her library lifestyle and newfound promiscuity. While other characters, like Jessa, have a reputation for licentiousness, Shosh’s storyline demonstrates development.
‘ . . . includes the typical nudity you tend to see on HBO’
You do not need to be female to understand Girls. It channels the universal psychology of virginity, having your first serious partner and breakup, and indiscriminate sexual experiences with near-strangers. While the sex element may seem over the top to some, Girls is about much more.
Each character goes through their own relatable drama; unemployment, being cut-off from your parents, a seeming pointlessness or lack of direction to life, mental illness, crazy ex’s and the like. You do not have to be a twenty-something white woman to relate. For instance characters Hannah and Marnie represent life after university. Marnie’s character realised that her humanities degree did not and could not provide her with the life she dreamed; nor did getting back with her stable boyfriend provide the direction she thought it would. On the other hand even Hannah, ‘hot mess’ extraordinaire, got herself a stable job (while pursuing a career as a writer) and is learning to live with her obsessive compulsive disorder.
‘You do not have to be a twentysomething white woman to relate.’
Girls creator and star Lena Dunham has produced a show that represents this generation. She has created characters with deep personalities that many people can relate to. It also shows that playing truth or dare over Whatsapp and Snapchat can be a never-ending source of entertainment. Guy or girl, we all probably have those friends: the seemingly perfect, altogether, motherly one; the spontaneous, philosophical, unattached, theatrical one; the innocent-yet-still-life-aware fashionista; and the weird, creative, funny one whose wardrobe could use a facelift. You can pick and chose the relatable elements, but when it comes down to it most of us are part of a small inner-circle of friends that go through their own stuff and yet are there for each other. Mayda De La Fuente
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The Return of the TV Spin-Off Iain MacKinnon
The television spin-off, once commonplace in sitcoms but now an area reserved for endless police procedurals and god-awful talent shows, has been making a return to our screens over the past year or so. But is this a good thing? For me, the short and sweet answer is a resounding yes. The fact that critically acclaimed and well-loved shows are spinning off in new directions can only be a good thing, giving the viewer a chance to return to a place they loved, or see a new side of their favourite TV show.
‘DC’s other character The Flash who gets his own pilot episode later this year.’ The leader of this trend seems to be US channels The CW and ABC Family; channels which don’t have enormous budgets but aren’t afraid to take risks to please an already existing fan base. With teen dramas like Pretty Little Liars and the more grown up The Vampire Diaries shooting off into darker territory with Ravenswood and The Originals respectively, it’s giving the audience a chance to see more of the characters they loved first time round but which didn’t get a proper chance to shine.
Unsurprisingly, superheroes are also getting in on the mix. The people behind Arrow, a realistic retelling of DC Comics’ Green Arrow, use Grant Gustin’s portrayal of Barry Allen to hint at DC’s other character The Flash who gets his own pilot episode later this year. And on the big networks, ABC’s Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is in itself a spin-off of Marvel’s ever-expanding cinematic universe. That’s not to say spin-offs are always a good idea. ABC has had a lot of success with their modern version of classic fairytales Once Upon a Time but its spin-off Once Upon a Time in Wonderland doesn’t seem to be winning over audiences in the same way. Recent episodes are only bringing in half as many viewers as its older sister, despite relatively good reviews.
‘Better Call Saul will be hitting TV screens . . .’ Even America’s cable networks, traditionally the home of original content and critically acclaimed genius are getting in on the mix. Not wanting to lose any viewers after the end of Breaking Bad late last year, AMC have already commissioned a spin-off focusing in on corrupt lawyer Saul Goodman. Better Call Saul will be hitting TV screens later this year. Does this slate of spin-offs indicate TV is running out of fresh ideas? If you ask me: no, of course not. TV can still be the birthplace of great ideas alongside spin-offs, and there’s no reason at all why the two can’t coexist in harmony. After all, you wouldn’t deny the world The Simpsons or Frasier, so why stop these modern spin-offs from having their chance in the sun? ISSUE 40 25
ENTERTAINMENT
THE GAME THAT GAVE ME AN INSATIABLE DESIRE FOR HUMAN FLESH: Struan Fraser
DAY Z
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o begin with, I was a hero of the wasteland; a friend to the everyman. Bandages, intravenous drips and antibiotics flowed freely from my bountiful backpacks. I spent hours looking around empty houses and abandoned barns in order to aid my brethren in a world of chaos. Then I started taking a punch here and a knife there. I was confused at the hatred that flowed in the face of my kindness. People started axing me in the back as I bandaged their legs; even after I’d died, they’d continue to hack at my lifeless, sad and confused corpse. You can shout at your attacker from the afterlife in Day Z, so even if you choose to get your own back on someone in this cruel world, you’ll fi nd plenty of people with headsets, ready to shout spoilers for any popular TV series they can think of. The more I played the more I would see others going completely insane. It’s not rare to see people sprinting in the middle of the road blaring ‘I Will Walk Five Thousand Miles’ or the Sonic theme tune over the intercom. Many opt for battle tunes like the “Mortal Kombat” theme tune. I was even ambushed by a local Scot; all I heard was ‘TAPS AFF!’ before being punched into the dirt.
The most humiliating exchange was when I was held at gunpoint by some military mouth breathers. I was told to take all my clothes off. I complied. They handcuffed me, they force fed me bleach and then they set me loose. The bleach had blinded me. I had to run around cluelessly with only mocking laughter to guide my direction. This is the point where I wanted to kill myself but the game won’t allow for that; it’s too easy. That’s when I changed. I called in the help of some friends. Suddenly, we were capable of scavenging military camps. We’d gone from baseball bats and axes to sniper rifles and fully automatic machine guns. We became the hunters. I killed every single person I could see whether they claimed to be friendly or not. If the game allowed me to eat their flesh, I would. No-one deserves to be incapable, blind and in their scants. Let me be clear, Day Z is a game; a game that removes all humanity and goodness and leaves a voracious id that will not be sated. It’s fun but it’s the wrong kind of fun.
IF THE GAME ALLOWED ME TO EAT THEIR FLESH, I WOULD 26 ISSUE 40
CAMPUS NEWS
Laura Darbyshire Jekyll and Hyde is a musical thriller, based on the famous novel The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson. Originally composed by Frank Wildhorn and Steve Cuden, the musical became wildly popular. It then embarked on a US and UK tour, breaking box office records worldwide. Now Dundee University’s Opsoc (the musical theatre society) are bringing it to Bonar Hall in March with plenty of macabre antics, corsets, debauchery and questionable potions! We chatted to Chris Tomlinson, the director, about his aspirations and visions for the show.
What made you choose Jekyll and Hyde? I was familiar with the soundtrack but had never seen the show, but certainly the ideas and themes behind it got me really excited and I knew it would be something I’d have fun exploring. The biggest enjoyment for me was getting the opportunity to explore Hyde’s character. The classic approach to Hyde is a universal monster, but that never rang true to me. Hyde is born from all of the worst values that reside in Jekyll, and we need to see these in Jekyll in order to give Hyde any relevance later on. What’s also interesting to me is that these are all very relatable and common traits that we all have as human beings, and the show is about tapping into that fear of who we would become if there was nothing to hold us back. Tell me about your staging decisions for the show. In terms of staging, the vision is to try and keep it as one, fluid, moving piece that’s continually heading towards a main goal, rather than lots of individual scenes that are all self-contained. I’ve tried to implement this idea into the blocking, so the transitions into scenes and the entrances and exits all flow into one another. As far as set is concerned I wanted something simple, yet visually striking and something that played on the dual nature at the heart of the show. Throughout, the story unfolds and certain elements of the set will slowly start to change and reflect the shift in Jekyll as he begins to lose control of himself.
Photo by Neil Lavin
Finally, what’s your favourite thing about getting the chance to direct this production? There’s a wonderful sense of community that I associate with Opsoc, which continues outwith rehearsals and well into everyday life and especially during show week. What’s also great is that every year there are new students joining and so we have this amazing pool of talent that never runs dry and we gain new members who are always integrated really quickly and made to feel welcome by everyone. Jekyll and Hyde will be showing at the Bonar Hall from Wednesday 5th March – Saturday 8th March. Tickets will be on sale very soon but are available online NOW at opsocticketsource.co.uk (student tickets are £5).
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CAMPUS NEWS
What is it really like to work at the University of Dundee? REBECCA SHEARER SUMMARISES THE KEY POINTS FROM A UNIVERSITY OF DUNDEE STAFF SURVEY In June 2013 staff at the University of Dundee undertook a survey, designed by Capita Surveys and Research, to give their opinions on the University as a workplace. Rebecca Shearer managed to obtain a copy of the published results of this survey and has summarized the key points: Out of over 3000 surveys sent out (or conducted over the telephone), there was a response rate of 60 percent (approximately 1,947 respondents), the majority of which came from the School of Medicine (20 percent) and the Life Sciences School of Research (17 percent) in terms of departments. Interestingly, only 76 percent of all respondents work at the main city campus. Although, out of the main University colleges, it was CASE (College of Art, Science and Engineering) that had the highest overall response rate at 61 percent. Also, 58 percent of the survey’s respondents were female members of staff and 81 percent of overall respondents held a full-time post within the University.
81 percent of overall respondents held a full-time post within the University In section one, which looked at ‘Employee Engagement’, 90 percent of the respondents agreed that the University is a good place to work in 28 ISSUE 40
general, with 53 percent claiming they felt valued by the University. Interestingly, only 65 percent of staff said they felt fairly paid for what they do at the University with 50 percent of overall respondents claiming that, on the whole, communication within the University is effective. In comparison to other Universities, where the average of respondents claiming that communication throughout the university is effective currently rests at 61 percent, it seems that the University needs to improve drastically on its communication between facilities, colleges, schools and departments. Another interesting figure that arose from the survey was that 9 percent of respondents said they felt harassed or bullied at work and 10 percent (of those who felt bullied) claimed they had felt discriminated at work during the academic year 2012 -13. Amongst the 9 percent of respondents who claimed to feel harassed or bullied whilst working for the University of Dundee, 51 percent of these people felt that it was because of their role within the organization and 24 percent because of their gender. Further to this, 11 percent of respondents disagreed that the University respects people equally regardless of their age. Additionally, of the 9 percent that felt bullied or harassed in the workplace, 51 percent said they had felt harassed from their colleagues, 56 percent said from their manager, 2 percent from students at the University and 4 percent said visitors to the University.
CAMPUS NEWS
Ultimately, from the various forms of harassment and bullying that were listed in the survey, the majority said that they had experienced ‘selective application of rules’ (59 percent), with the minority claiming they had experienced ‘inappropriate physical contact’ (2 percent) as a member of staff at the University. The areas where the University of Dundee seems to excel the most, in the opinion of the majority of respondents, are that the University respects people equally; most staff are truly interested in the University and do not see their role as just a job; most feel they have the right equipment to carry out their job effectively and the majority of respondents feel the Campus provides a satisfying work environment. There were also some areas that staff felt the University could improve upon: several members of staff had to work extra time to meet their workload requirements in the academic year 2012/13; more could be done to help staff prepare for and cope with changes; there is a lack of communication throughout the University; there are too many approvals needed for routine decisions and there is a lack of opportunities for career development. Some other interesting figures that arose from the staff survey were as follows. 31 percent of respondents disagreed that the University helped them balance work and their personal commitments
and 10 percent of respondents said they did not feel proud to work for the University. In addition, 20 percent of respondents said that they don’t think the senior management team manage lead the University very well, with 36 percent of respondents agreeing that they do not feel the senior management team listen or respond to the views of other members of staff.
36 percent of respondents agreeing that they do not feel the senior management team listen or respond to views of other members of staff Finally, staff were asked to choose from a long list the three best things about working at the University and the three things they felt could be most improved. The top three were job satisfaction (20 percent ranked this in their top three); pay and benefits (15 percent); and relationships between staff (14 percent). The things that staff ranked as to be the most improved by the University of Dundee were the senior management team (13 percent); communication (12 percent); and feeling valued by the University (11 percent).
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CAMPUS NEWS
SHELVED:What is Dundee University’s book reading society explores the history of the Spoken Word movement.
Spoken Word? Lynsay Smith & Laura Darbyshire
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The truth of poetry is to paint the human soul truly. - John Stuart Mill
O
n 21st March 2014 the Shelved (book reading) society will be holding an evening of spoken word, ‘aka: Speakerbox’ in Air Bar, DUSA. All the money raised will go towards the National Literacy Trust –a truly fantastic charity. Lynsay and Laura from Shelved explore the history behind the Spoken Word movement… Poetry, whether written or spoken, is an art form that allows us the freedom to express our emotion, experience and circumstance. Whilst poetry permits us to explore our deepest realities, it can also allow us to escape them, becoming a physical manifestation of our imagination. Words are a way to express stories, quell pain and to understand oneself. One way in which the artist does this is through the medium of Spoken Word poetry. 30 ISSUE 40
Spoken word stems from the Harlem Renaissance movement in New York in the 1920’s that began after the abolition of slavery. During this period, ethnic minorities fi nally discovered a way to voice their opposition to the oppression that they had suffered. Ultimately, a new form of artistic expression was born. Poets such as Claude Mckay (a Jamaican immigrant) wrote of immigrant nostalgia, pride and rage. Moreover, political groups such as ‘the last poets’ formed, giving a voice to the Civil Rights movement. Voicing opinions through creative writing suddenly boomed in New York causing Spoken Word to develop extensively. A fantastic spoken word poet, Andrea Gibson, has one piece called ‘Ashes’, which she wrote to commemorate brutal gay deaths in the world. This poem is an
example of one of the wonderful ways that words can create a powerful and political meaning. Many artists all over the world are using Spoken Word to initiate change. For instance, Phil and Sarah Kay’s ‘Project VOICE’ aspires to use Spoken Word Poetry as an instrument through which teenagers can explore and better understand their culture, their society, and ultimately themselves. Also, the project ‘To This Day’ (www.tothisdayproject. com) by Shane Kozycan uses Spoken Word to voice Shane’s experience of bullying at school, he wrote it to offer solidarity to those who are bullied, and to tell them it will get better. Finally, a great organisation called “The Project” in the US is using spoken word to run therapy workshops for soldiers suffering from PTSD. There are so many great things that stem from the Spoken Word movement, so please join us for Speakerbox on the 21st March.
SPORT
When Two Worlds Collide Scottish Sport and Politics
It’s safe to say that there are a couple of fairly major events appearing on Scotland’s radar in 2014. One of these is the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow; a wonderful chance for our nation to unite together in enthusiastic support of our sporting stars. Another is the Scottish Independence Referendum; a brilliant opportunity for society to be reduced to petty squabbling and divisions over whether they are going to vote ‘Yes’ or ‘No’. These might be tightly intertwined events; Alex Salmond cunningly placing the time to vote at a period where national pride should still be soaring from a hopefully successful Commonwealth campaign. But how much will this really influence voters?
Katharine Sharpe there was once again an overwhelming majority; 82% said it would make absolutely no difference as to how they voted (be that pro or anti-independence). 5% actually stated it would move them towards a ‘No’ vote, 12% still hadn’t decided their stance on independence, and only one solitary student admitted Commonwealth success would sway them towards the ‘Yes’ vote. So perhaps Mr Salmond’s tactic of placing such a crucial vote after such a major event will not have quite the impact he had hoped; at any rate, if we take these results to represent a majority of Scottish students, most of us have our minds almost entirely made up on the matter; whether we are met with sporting glory or humiliation.
Of over 100 Scottish University students surveyed, the vast majority (87%) said they prefer when Scotland compete as part of the UK; ie, they like the Olympic ‘Team GB’ format more than when we play as ‘Scotland’ in the Commonwealth Games. When asked whether they thought success competing as a smaller nation would influence their vote in the Referendum,
D-12
A-1
B-5
1 Do you prefer: A B
C-85
The Olympic system – ie, Team GB Commonwealth System – ie, Scotland England etc compete separately?
B-13
A-90
2 If Scotland proves capable of competing successfully outwith the Team GB format, do you think this will actually influence your vote in the Referendum in any way? A B C D
More likely to support independence Less likely to support Independence No change to feelings on Independence Still don’t know enough about Independence to have decided ISSUE 40 31
SPORT
Bigger Across the Pond Greg Taylor
It’s pretty rare to walk from one side of campus to the other without seeing a Sports Union hoodie. With Scottish and UK championship winning teams, Dundee isn’t a pushover when it comes to sport; it seems a pretty big deal here. At least that’s what I thought before studying in America. People say everything is bigger across the pond; sport is definitely no exception, especially in University. I didn’t even study at a sporting powerhouse, but it was obvious how much importance is placed on those willing to represent the team. Before even coming to University, students are scouted and offered scholarships to play. There are also concessions. At my college, “student athletes” received priority when choosing classes and were given access to all the facilities (including a catered campus). It sounds easy for those talented enough to make the team, but it wasn’t without sacrifice. Some athletes trained for hours every day, were required to attend mandatory team study sessions, and between it all they were often too exhausted to do anything. Nothing comes easy, and a place on the team is no exception. It seems excessive, but University sport in the UK is, for the vast majority, a hobby. In the US it’s so much more. It’s a business; big sports bring massive amounts of money to Universities with the strongest teams. Coaches are hired and
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fired, with often the highest salaries paid out by the university. Millions are spent on constructing stadia bigger than some professional teams. TV broadcasts of college (American) Football, Basketball, Baseball, Lacrosse and other sports bring in bigger audiences than professional games. Many in the US actually prefer watching College football on TV, because it features “the stars of the future”. With the exception of “prep-to-pro” prodigies like NBA superstar LeBron James, who go professional straight out of school, they are right. There are channels dedicated to University sport; the best High school players in the country are broadcast live deciding which University to attend, while millions watch with bated breath. Millions are spent on coaching staff and equipment; everything within the legal power of a University is done to entice high school stars. Like I said, I didn’t go to a top level sporting institution, but they still had teams with brands built around them. You couldn’t move for merchandise. Logos were on everything: cups, socks, umbrellas, bottle-openers, bumper stickers, flags, wristbands, hats, pens… and hoodies. Their logo was even emblazoned on a state-of-the-art artificial grass field. Sport in the US is, often literally, a whole other ball game.
All my life, people have assumed that, because I am above average height, I would be some sort of prodigy on the basketball or netball courts. ‘Wow, you’re tall! I bet you’re really good at... Netball and things!’ Sadly, life is cruel and, despite my structural advantage, after attending a couple of training sessions I learned that this sport requires a level of coordination, speed and agility that I’ll never possess. I caught up with First Team Captain Fiona Farquharson to talk about what it’s like being part of one of the University’s most successful teams. katharine Sharpe What sort of opportunities has University Sport presented you with? Aside from meeting my best friends through the club, the University Sport set up has been very good at helping me balance my work and sporting commitments through their scholarship programme. This year the netball team are the University Scholar team which means we receive a lot of support from the Sports Union and ISE. This help has allowed the team to compete with the best teams in Scotland. Being part of the netball club in Dundee has also allowed me to trial and be selected for the Scottish University’s squad this year.
Dundee University Netball Club As captain, what do you Find to be the hardest aspect? As the team are so close it can sometimes be difficult making quick decisions at quarter time about who takes the court. Taking morning fitness sessions can also be difficult because no one likes the thought of having to get up early, but once you’re there it isn’t too bad (I hope!).
What sort of success have you achieved recently? The First team are doing very well in the BUCS league successfully beating our rivals St Andrews twice in a season for the first time in years. We have also been awarded the University’s Team Scholarship for sport this year. We are currently winning the Dundee local league and the Dundee netball club was given a commendation at the Netball Scotland awards due to improving netball in the area, and the work that has been out in to establishing four competitive teams and one recreational team in the club.
What are the strangest pre/post match rituals any of the girls have? None that are appropriate here…
What is the social side like? There’s a healthy social scene within the club; events are at least once a week. Low standards and poor decisions would be an accurate description of a DUNC night out.
iversity Netball 2nds DUNC2 - DUndee Un
Like the sound of this girls? Training times for First to Fourth teams vary; check the ISE website for details! ISSUE 40 33