Student Pocket Guide Winter 2023 #51 | North West Student Magazine

Just like that, we wave farewell to 2022, and embrace the shift in positivity we hope to see in 2023. It’s not just us predicting good vibes because it’s the Chinese year of the rabbit, associated with peace, prosperity and longevity.

Following on with good energy we bring you many reasons to smile. From amazing student offers, to helpful tips, and advice making student life that bit easier, happier, and healthierwe’ve got you.

If saving money, improving your education and fitness advice isn’t enough to win you over, we also caught up with the hottest names on the scene right now… Cover star Joel Corry talks all things music, goal setting, embarrassing moments and future plans. BAFTA Award winning actor Molly Windsor refl ects on her successful career and highlights. Former professional boxer, promoter, trainer and pundit Dave Coldwell talks boxing, training, and what’s required to become a pro in the ring. 5 piece band Young The Giant get deep describing their musical journey, new album, and search to fi nd meaning. Last but not least; DJ, producer and record label boss Eats Everything talks top tunes, breakthrough artists and new upcoming album!

We hope you enjoy this 51st issue we’ve worked hard to deliver and remember, we update our website daily with new student content. See you there.

All Rights Reserved. The entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form. The publishers do not accept responsibility for any of the views or opinions expressed in this guide, errors or omissions which may have occurred, or accept liability for any services or facilities featured. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that all information is correct, changes may and can occur.

KICKSTART YOUR CAREER

with one of the largest mental health and disability trusts in the country.

It’s an exciting time to join us here at CNTW as we continue to develop and invest in our services, as well as our staff. We’re offering a welcome bonus for Registered Nurses joining our inpatient services.

We offer a 12-month Accredited Preceptorship Programme, which focuses on a common approach to preceptorship across the Trust, supporting newly registered nurses in their first year of practice.

www.cntw.nhs.uk/reward @cntw_jobs

Are you lacking motivation, feeling sluggish and eating unhealthily? Do you need a push to make a (permanent) change to your life? Without going into the obvious negativities that are spiralling around the globe of recent times, there is a way to change your mindset, to look at things positively and get healthy. Read on for more…

The rst piece of advice I would o er is to ignore the news and with that try to cut down on social media screen time usage, which will also be potentially distributing negativity. Instead, make the decision that you ARE going to do something about it. Once you’ve made that decision to yourself, stick to it.

You are what you eat and drink. Despite your glamorous external looks, you have organs, blood, energy, and if your diet is poor, you could have high cholesterol from eating too many fatty foods. High cholesterol is just one problem that might occur from poor diet and can lead to heart problems and even strokes.

Yes, sorry, it’s got to go. If you drink alcohol, cut down as much as possible and better still remove it from your life. Go sober! It takes around 28 days for your skin to renew itself so cut the booze for a month and SEE the di erence. Plus, do you realise how many calories are in alcohol!?

Now you’ve cut out the poison (and calories), make a conscious e ort to eat well. Eat enough fruit and vegetables and get your ve per day! Balance your diet with healthy foods so you are getting the daily recommended vitamins, minerals, oils, and overall nutrition. Think fruit, vegetables, beans, grain, sh, eggs, berries, etc.

Drink lots of water. An adult man’s body is approx. 60% water and an adult lady’s body 55% water!

Aim to drink 2 litres of water per day, and sip it throughout, even if you are not thirsty.

I must admit, I only recently made a change to my life to help keep active, positive and lead a healthier lifestyle. I’ve followed every point above strictly thus far. I’m not meaning to brag but I’m writing this article as I cycle at the gym – I’m 45 minutes in, and 300 calories less – oh yeah! If you can a ord a gym membership, I’d seriously consider it. If not, there’s some amazing exercise workout videos you can follow. To get more out of your tness routine listen to some positive bangers.

Whatever you do, the most important thing is to stay consistent. There’s no point making a half-hearted decision and then giving up a week or two later. I’ve only stuck at it myself a few weeks, but I’ve made my decision and I’m not a quitter. So, join me and together let’s sort our bodies out. Improve our diet, release those endorphins and be happier inside and out.

Thank you for having me! The sun’s out and I’ve got a brew so I’m all good! Enjoying some time at home and making the most of seeing my family and friends before I’m working away again.

I think if I trace it right back to when I was very young, my grandparents used to take me to watch local am dram productions, like Calamity Jane & Hello Dolly, which I loved. I took part in a couple and had a good time. A few years later, I became part of what was then ‘Rama Young Actors’ (now ‘Talent 1st’) and I liked how we talked about nding the truth of a conversation, it was completely di erent to drama at school (which I really hated). I just found it interesting, I wasn’t thinking of a career or anything like that.

It was there I was cast in Samantha Morton’s Channel 4 lm, The Unloved, when I was 11. It was a really wonderful experience. I fell in love with being on set and the whole process, I couldn’t really articulate it at the time but I think that was the turning point, when I felt like I’d found something that felt so right to me. I endured school, then went to college to do my A-levels in completely di erent subjects. The college tutors didn’t understand when I said I wanted to be an actor but I didn’t want to go to drama school. I was still auditioning for stu with Talent 1st and their weekly sessions kept me going, beyond that I didn’t have a plan. My mum was brilliant and had always encouraged me to keep doing things I enjoyed, so that’s what I did.

YOU’VE BEEN ACTING SINCE A FAIRLY YOUNG AGE, BUT I’M INTERESTED TO KNOW, WHAT LED YOU TO TAKE THAT FIRST STEP IN PURSUING IT AS A CAREER?

HEY MOLLY, SO GREAT TO CHAT WITH YOU TODAY, THANKS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO SPEAK WITH US. CRACKING ON, HOW ARE THINGS WITH YOU AT THE MOMENT, HAVE YOU BEEN UP TO MUCH LATELY?

WHAT WAS IT LIKE ACTING FROM SUCH A YOUNG AGE, IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WISH YOU COULD GO BACK AND TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF?

I think my younger self could tell me a thing or two! I’m so lucky that The Unloved was my rst proper lming experience. Sam taught me so much, the way we would talk about the character/story with such care but we’d also have so much fun. It was a really formative experience and I always try to bring myself back to that.

I think the hardest part was when we nished lming. I had been out of school for about six weeks, and I found a new family in the crew that I saw everyday and was in an environment that I thrived in. It felt like magic and suddenly I was back at school, not being able to explain it to anyone and not knowing if I’d ever have another experience like that again.

AND YOUR FIRST LEAD ROLE WAS IN BBC’S THREE GIRLS , A CHALLENGING BUT INCREDIBLY IMPORTANT STORY TO TELL. HOW DID IT FEEL TO BE CAST IN THE TELLING OF SUCH A SENSITIVE YET VITAL STORY?

I took it a scene at a time and we had an incredible director, Philippa Lowthorpe, who gave me so much guidance. But it was never about us as actors or about the TV Drama, it was about getting it right for the real people who had shared their story over and over again and not been listened to. I felt so angry that the real girls were not given the support from the authorities that were meant to protect them. And this is still happening to young people all over the country.

Since Three Girls, I have gotten involved with a local charity called ‘Safe and Sound’ who are doing preventative work as well as o ering support to young people and their families, who are at risk of/a ected by sexual exploitation. I know that Maggie Oliver has also since set up a foundation that is doing brilliant work. Three Girls was made to start a conversation and I continue to feel like we need to be doing as much as we can to prevent other children from going through the same thing.

WITH YOUR ROLE IN THREE GIRLS AND THEN MORE RECENTLY IN TRACES, IT SEEMS LIKE THERE IS A BIT OF A CRIME THEME GOING ON. IS THIS A COINCIDENCE OR IS IT ONE OF YOUR AREAS OF INTEREST?

Aha I’d never looked at it like that! Coincidence I guess. I try to go by my instinct to a script and the character. Three Girls is di erent to any other project I’ve worked on, so I felt compelled to do it for the reasons we’ve already talked about. Then when Traces came along, I had recently lost my Grandad who was like a father gure to me. He was a HUGE fan of forensic science/police dramas and Alibi was always on at his house. Then I met Amelia Bullmore who made me fall in love with the character she’d created. It felt like the right move, it wasn’t until we started shooting that I realised what a beast procedural crime drama is to shoot!

ARE THERE ANY OTHER GENRES OR MEDIUMS YOU’D LIKE TO EXPLORE MOVING FORWARD?

Oh there’s so much out there I’ve not explored. I just want to do good stu with good people! I try to approach projects with an open mind and my rst reaction is always based on if I believe in the script and the character. I think if you don’t believe in it, how can you ask an audience to?

I’ve recently worked on season 3 of War of the Worlds, so exploring the Sci- world was a new adventure for me. We were shooting big action sequences with green screens/stunts and I was in complete awe of the WOTW cast, it’s such a skill.

AND FINALLY, DO YOU HAVE A MOST MEMORABLE OR FAVOURITE MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER TO DATE?

Oh wow. Tricky question. I guess everyone always asks about the 2018 BAFTAs, and it sounds cliché but it was really special. To be there with the Three Girls team, nearly 2 years since the shoot, and to have that moment together…it’s really hard to describe. It meant the world to me and to have my family there too was the best. I was also shooting a lm called Make Up in Cornwall at the time, so I was running on adrenaline and no sleep but it meant I got to go straight back to a job that I really loved, with people that I really loved. When I think about that time, it was so overwhelming but I am incredibly fortunate.

Sharing a house is practically a rite of passage when you’re a student. Even if you don’t experience the joys of a shared halls of residence in your rst year, you will likely nd yourself joining up with course-mates to enter into a shared tenancy for your second and third years. This will also likely be your rst experience renting a property. With that in mind, what should you be looking out for?

It may be the case that you’re sharing your student property with a set of fellow students you don’t know so well, or even haven’t met before. Before you settle in to living together – and settle into potentially bad habits in the process – you should gather together and set some ground rules for your shared tenancy. These rules should cover respect for one another’s boundaries, as well as a united approach to household tasks like the washing up or hoovering. This way, you can maintain a harmonious tenancy together.

Student areas are often hotspots for crime, leading to an increased risk of break-ins and theft of your personal possessions. There is also the risks of re or ooding to contend with, especially in ats or terraced student houses that may have aging infrastructure. Protecting your belongings can be as simple as installing a lock on your bedroom door (with your landlord’s permission) but taking out tenant’s contents insurance can be a smart way to protect the value of your things.

Student areas are also built-up, and you may nd yourself living in particularly close proximity to other students – and even families, if you move a little further out from your university’s campus. As such, it is important to bear in mind your impact on the neighbourhood around you. University is a time for enjoying yourself, but parties every other night may not endear you to others on your street.

Student properties are not often synonymous with luxury. Nonetheless, they need to be treated with respect during your stay, if only to secure the return of your security deposit in full. Accidents happen, though, and it’s bene cial to read up on some quick DIY solutions to help you keep the house in good condition: for example, using a ller paste to cover up any holes you’ve made in the walls with nails.

But living in a shared student property shouldn’t feel like treading on eggshells when it comes to your landlord. It may well be that something is wrong with the house, whether the emergence of damp and mould or an appliance breaking.

Rather than feeling like you need to sort it out yourself, get in touch with your landlord or letting agency. Your contract enshrines your rights as a tenant to a well-maintained property; if you encounter resistance from your landlord, there are various resources you can use to ensure action – or, at the very least, safe release from your contract and return of your deposit.

Students are especially prone to mental health issues since they are living away from home for the first time. Long hours of solitary study, along with other commitments, can lead to mental stress. As a result, mental health awareness is critical at university since it will be experienced by everyone.

At university, you will have to strike a balance between your social and academic life. You are becoming an adult during these years. As you change and grow as a person you may experience mental stress. You should plan your time well to reduce mental stress. To keep track of all your activities and obligations, get a planner or utilise a calendar. Controlling your stress is critical since increased mental stress can lead to mental illnesses like anxiety and depression.

It is claimed that your physical surroundings have an impact on your mental health. Clean environments may create a sense of calm and serenity. So attempt to declutter and change things up in your university accommodation room to make it more inviting and engaging.

When you are overburdened with work, deadlines, and demands, your mental health might suffer. Only commit to things that are important and necessary to you. Keep in mind that you are not required to say yes to everything. Find the proper balance for you, and you should experience less stress as a result.

Making time for things you enjoy might help you enhance your mental health. Doing tasks that interest you will improve your mood. Some activities may enhance your physical health, while others may boost your cognitive performance. According to research, persons who have hobbies are less likely to suffer from stress, poor mood, and depression.

Binge drinking is a major problem in universities. Know your limits when it comes to drinking. Alcohol influences your mood not just when you are drinking it, but also afterwards. As alcohol is a depressant it can change your thoughts, feelings, behaviours and in some cases, your long-term mental health.

Mental health awareness is a critical problem in universities. Everyone may experience difficulties with their mental health; therefore it is critical to work on it and be aware of it. All universities will aid students and will take mental health awareness seriously. However, as an individual, you must also ensure that you are supporting your friends and peers.

Don’t confuse the terms “mental health” with “mental illness.” Mental health refers to our state of mind, how we feel emotionally, and socially while mental illness will have been diagnosed.

If you think that you are experiencing mental illness problems, you should get expert help. There are several ways to accomplish this:

Contact your student welfare team; this is your initial point of contact because your university will be able to assist you immediately.

Schedule an appointment with your healthcare practitioner, where you can get counselling.

For quick assistance, call the Samartians at 116 123  at any time of day or night.

We hope this article gave some insight into managing your mental health and what to do if you need to seek help.

HEY JOEL, THANKS FOR YOUR TIME TODAY –I’M REALLY EXCITED TO TALK TO YOU! CAN WE START BY SETTING THE SCENE, WHERE ARE YOU NOW AND WHAT CAN YOU SEE?

Hey! I am chilling in my hotel room at the W Hollywood in LA having a few days break from my US tour!

LIFE MUST BE VERY EXCITING FOR YOU! YOU’RE ABSOLUTELY SMASHING IT! YOU’VE SHOT TO FAME RELATIVELY QUICKLY, HOW ARE YOU COPING WITH THAT SIDE OF THINGS, AS I GUESS YOU SURELY GET RECOGNISED EVERYWHERE YOU GO…

I would never consider myself famous! I am just a normal lad who chased a dream. I’m lucky that my breakthrough in the music industry happened when I was 30. If it happened earlier in life, I think the pressure of the industry would have been harder to cope with. When my opportunity came, I was ready for it.

LET’S TALK MUSIC! YOUR RECENT SINGLE; LIONHEART (FEARLESS) IS SUCH AN EPIC, POSITIVE AND BOUNCY TRACK – HANDS UP, LIGHTERS OUT! WHAT FEELING DO YOU GET PERSONALLY WHEN LISTENING BACK TO THIS TRACK? HOW DOES IT MAKE YOU FEEL?

Lionheart makes me feel motivated, inspired and like I can take over the world! I love the emotion and energy in the record and hope these feelings resonate with people when they hear it.

IT’S A SUPERB COLLABORATION, WHAT WAS IT LIKE WORKING WITH TOM GRENNAN?

Working with Tom has been a dream! The process was so fun and easy. He is an amazing talent and a great person. We clicked instantly when we met and have become really good friends and I’m excited to be on this journey together.

JOEL CORRY - 5X BRIT-NOMINATED DJ/PRODUCER, COLLABORATIONS WITH THE LIKES OF TOM GRENNAN, DAVID GUETTA, JAX JONES, MULTIPLE TOP TEN SINGLES INCLUDING 2020’S #1 SINGLE ‘HEAD & HEART’ FT. MNEK. WHAT’S BEEN YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT SO FAR?

There have been so many highlights over the last few years, it’s been a total roller-coaster. If I had to pick one, it would be ‘Head & Heart’ because it was my rst number 1 single and I got to share that with MNEK. I’m so happy to be a part of MNEK’s journey, he is an amazing artist and friend. ‘Head & Heart’ will always be a special moment in my life. I know that it helped bring positive vibes to people during a di cult time in lockdown and that means a lot to me.

YOUR SONG HEAD & HEART WITH MNEK HAS ALMOST HIT 1/4 OF A BILLION VIEWS ON YOUTUBE, THAT’S SUPERB. ONE OF THE YOUTUBE COMMENTS READS: “THIS VIDEO BRINGS ONE BOLD MESSAGE - WHAT YOU PERCEIVE IS WHAT WILL MANIFEST IN YOUR LIFE. BE GRATEFUL IN EVERY LITTLE MOMENT”. DO YOU AGREE WITH THIS AND HOW DO YOU PERCEIVE YOURSELF?

I totally agree with this! I try to keep a positive mindset and make every day count. Having a positive outlook on life has played a big part in my success over the years. If I am tired and run down from a crazy schedule, I remind myself that there is nothing to complain about and that I am so lucky to be in this position. Taking those moments to be present and grateful for what is happening keeps me grounded and motivated.

ANOTHER COMMENT TO THE SAME VIDEO READS “I’M BEING BULLIED AT SCHOOL AND THIS SONG HAS MADE ME PUT IT BEHIND ME AND GET ON WITH MY LIFE”. HOW DOES IT MAKE YOU FEEL TO KNOW YOUR MUSIC IS CHANGING PEOPLE’S LIVES ON SUCH AN IMPORTANT SCALE?

Reading messages like that makes me feel amazing inside. It’s easy to get caught up in the industry side of things, but messages like that remind me why music is important. Forget about chart positions streams, a ecting somebody’s life in a positive way through music is priceless.

WHAT HAVE BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?

One of the biggest challenges in the music industry is staying consistent and ahead of the game. I need to work harder than ever to keep the momentum going and reach the next level. I am 100% dedicated to achieving my goals and I have an amazing team around me that are committed and believe in me.

YOU’RE ALSO INTO MUSCLE, HEALTH AND FITNESS AND HAVE PREVIOUSLY WON MULTIPLE BODYBUILDING SHOWS. YOU’RE CLEARLY A VERY DETERMINED AND HIGH ACHIEVING PERSON. WHERE DO YOU GET THE DRIVE AND INSPIRATION FROM, AND WHAT SMART STRATEGIES MIGHT YOU ADVISE FOR SOMEONE JUGGLING A BUSY SCHEDULE?

My drive comes from within. It has always been there. It’s like a voice in my head always pushing me to work harder. My advice to juggling a busy schedule is to keep a detailed to-do-list. I run my life on a to-do-list on my phone! I use it to plan my days and stay on track.

WOULD YOU SAY GOAL SETTING IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF LIFE, AND TO BE ABLE TO MOVE ONTO THE NEXT LEVEL? IF SO, WHERE ARE YOU AT RIGHT NOW WITH YOUR OWN GOAL SETTING AND LEVELS?

I’m always working towards goals and setting new ones. My dream is to be one of the biggest DJs in the world and I am happy to admit that, I really want to get to the top of this industry. I want to play on the main stages of the biggest festivals around the world, I want to keep growing my brand globally and collaborate with more amazing artists on hit records. Most importantly, I want to make music that brings happiness to people.

YOUR RECENT TRACK WITH DAVID GUETTA AND BRYSON TILLER - WHAT WOULD YOU DO? WILL RESONATE WITH A LOT OF STUDENTS. IN TERMS OF LOVE, DO YOU AGREE IN LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT AND WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A PARTNER?

My love life is non-existent, so I am not the best person to give an insight on this subject! I do believe that there is someone out there for everyone, and when the time is right, you will meet that person.

TRUE STORY: I WAS ONCE STOOD NEXT TO GUETTA ON THE MAIN STAGE OF CREAMFIELDS WATCHING CARL COX DJ RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME. I WENT TO TAKE A SELFIE ON MY OLD HANDHELD CAMERA, BUT NEVER TOOK THE LENS CAP OFF SO HAVE A BLACK PICTURE AS THE MEMORY. GUTTED. CAN YOU TELL US A FUNNY OR EMBARRASSING STORY ABOUT YOURSELF?

I recently had a gig and when I arrived, the club owner had all these tequilas lined up for me. I haven’t drunk much this year and I got carried away! I had to phone my sister at 5am and get her to come and look after me. She turned up and I was on the bathroom oor… I can’t remember the rest!

WHAT EXCITING PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR 2023?

I have announced my 2023 UK Tour which I am so buzzing about! I have been touring around the world so much in 2022, so I am excited to be back on home soil in 2023. Tickets are on sale now via my website www.JoelCorry.com

HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO DJING AND MAKE THE TRANSITION TO IT BECOMING A FULL-TIME PAYING JOB?

I got into DJing when I was 12 years old. I was already playing the drums and then went round to my mates house, his older brother had some  Technics 1210’s, I had a go, and could do it immediately. So that Christmas my mum bought me a set of JB Systems Disco 2000 Belt Drive turntables and a Kam Made2Fade Mixer and I started popping o at home! I made the transition when I started making music that was resonating with wider audiences. Took me many years to break through. But it was worth it.

WHAT EATS EVERYTHING DJ SET STANDS OUT AS THE MOST MEMORABLE AND WHY?

I guess what stands out is the fact I play almost exclusively my own music and edits. So, no one else will ever play the same set as me because I have records that no one else has. I also do a lot of tricks and things whilst I’m DJing so that it’s not just someone playing one track after the other.

YOU ALSO RUN YOUR OWN LABEL EDIBLE –WHAT ARTIST DO YOU THINK IS ON THE BRINK OF A BREAKTHROUGH FOR 2023?

I think that Fleur Shore is gonna really start properly smashing it in 2023. She has great taste in music, makes great records, is a great DJ and she is cool as f*ck as well. She has it all.

LOOKING BACK AT YOUR OWN SUCCESSFUL MUSIC CAREER, WHAT IS ONE OF THE MAIN HIGHLIGHTS?

It’s hard to pick one but I guess playing back-to-back with Fatboy Slim at Glastonbury to 60,000 people is up there. Amazing!!!

WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST TUNE FOR YOU FROM LAST YEAR?

Hmmm tough one, as I only really play my own stu or edits. But I guess it would probably be that Oddmob – Left To Right track. That always worked.

WHAT DOES 2023 HAVE IN STORE FOR EATS EVERYTHING?

An album, a load more music under di erent aliases and a lovely, lovely time, I’m sure!

CITY YEAR UK

Give a year to tackling educational inequality

Few things are as nerve wracking as meeting a new romantic interest for the rst time. Mostly due to considering all the ways it could possibly go wrong. After all, you’ve got to prepare for the worst! Most of the time, rst dates go pretty well. Even if a second date doesn’t follow, the rst is usually at least bearable. Yet, this is not the case for all of them. Whether you’ve had a rst-hand experience of a disastrous rst encounter, or you’re running through all the ways your upcoming rst date could go wrong, hearing similar tales can be comforting. Or can make yours seem a little less mortifying! Here’s a collection of some of the cringiest, “Please ground swallow me up” rst date scenarios…

While waiting for a date at a restaurant or bar, you would, understandably, be nervous. So having a quick tipple or two to calm the nerves probably wouldn’t go amiss. Taking this too far, however, could be a nightmare. By the time the date has arrived, you may already be fairly merry. Add this onto the alcohol enjoyed during the date itself, and you’ve got quite the mix going. Food, alcohol, and nerves aren’t a combination good for a settled stomach. Long story short, throwing up over/in front of your date may not be the impression you’re wanting to give! Staggering around in a state would certainly be regrettable, especially the morning after…

Dating apps are the new way singletons can get themselves on the market. Wanting to put our best foot forward, we add pictures that atter us and make us look the way we want to. That’s all ne, until Photoshop and lters come into play. Imagine setting up a meeting, only to nd an unknown stranger in the spot you’ve agreed on, because they’ve edited their pictures so heavily. Cringing your way through conversation with someone you’re completely uninterested in isn’t a perfect rst date. When the question of a second comes up, the cringe-factor only increases. How do you explain to the cat sh, that they’re a cat sh?!

Most of us make ourselves look the best we can for a rst date. Digging out our favourite clothes, getting glammed up, and slathering on the best scents is a dating ritual. Sitting through the date, you wonder why they keep looking at your mouth. They must be interested! The mouth is an intimate thing after all. Yet by the end, no mention of a follow-up meeting is brought up. You wonder why… until you get home. A lettuce green mouth-lodger has been peaking out at your date the whole time – and they said nothing! How embarrassing!

A lot of the time, you can do everything you need to on a rst date. Presenting yourself well, keeping the drinking to a minimum, double checking your teeth. Sometimes, it’s the other person at fault. It isn’t unheard of to notice the person opposite’s eyes wandering. You may wonder, what do they keep looking at? Well, some people may get distracted by what they see as a better o er. A irty member of the waiting sta , a bartender, or another unfaithful customer. Knowing they’re just not that into you, while having to carry on as if you suspect nothing, is a cringefest at the best of times!

These catastrophic rst dates still give those who experienced them the shudders. Hopefully after reading them, yours don’t seem nearly as cringe as you once thought.

WHAT INITIALLY ATTRACTED YOU TO BOXING WHEN YOU WERE YOUNGER?

I was bullied as a kid at school and was experiencing a rough time at home as well and I saw boxing as a way to protect myself. I wanted to start at the age of 10 after watching Sugar Ray Leonard and Mike Tyson on TV but my mum wouldn’t let me. It wasn’t’ until I was 15, and two days after the rst Eubank v Benn ght, that I rst went to Brendan Ingle’s gym in She eld, and I was hooked from then on.

AS A FINE-TUNED FORMER PROFESSIONAL BOXER HAVING WORKED AS A BOXING PROMOTER AND NOW A BOXING TRAINER, WHO WOULD YOU CONSIDER THE TOP 3 GREATEST BOXERS DURING YOUR LIFETIME?

Sugar Ray Leonard. He is one of my all-time heroes and the rst person I saw ght on TV. Floyd Mayweather. He was a master at what he did. Vasiliy Lomachenko. He is a genius. As I get older my appreciation for boxing has changed. As well as pure physicality, I now also look at technique and mentality, and Vasilily is another level.

IN

YOUR OPINION ARE SUPERSTAR BOXERS JUST BORN WITH

IT,

OR CAN WORLD-CLASS ABILITY BE DEVELOPED BY AN AVERAGE FIGHTER WITH THE RIGHT TEAM?

It can certainly be developed. If any athlete is willing to learn and be dedicated, they can improve and become world-class. You don’t need to look like a superstar at rst to become a superstar.

CAN YOU NAME 3 UPCOMING BOXERS YOU HAVE YOUR EYE ON?

Hopey Price. Maybe I am a little bias as I work with him, but that means I know him inside out. He has it all and I’m convinced he is going to be a star of the sport. He will win World title and go up through the divisions. Shakur Stevenson. He is probably already well on his way to becoming a star, but I believe he is going to dominate the sport and be a huge superstar.

Ben Whittaker - From watching him spar, and after seeing him in the amateurs, I really rate him. If he can transfer those skills across, I think he will have a fantastic career. He also has that crossover appeal, but with him it will be managing that and keeping grounded. He has a big personality, but so long as he has the right attitude and works hard behind closed doors, it will be very exciting to watch him grow.

AS SOMEONE YOURSELF WHO IS NO DOUBT IN TIP-TOP CONDITION, HOW OFTEN DO YOU TRAIN THESE DAYS, AND HAVING TO BE IN PRIME CONDITION HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE ANY VICTORIES?

I train 5 days a week. My sessions include a lot of core work, mobility work and plyometrics such as static and voicing jumps. I will then do two supersets with heavy weights working the main muscle groups.

I do celebrate, but I am straight back in the gym on Monday morning with my other ghters, so never take it too far. I also don’t drink, I haven’t had one since, I think, Bellew beat Haye for the second time.

LOOKING BACK AT YOUR SUCCESSFUL CAREER, WHAT WOULD BE THE STAND OUT MOMENTS FOR YOU AS A PRO BOXER AND TRAINER?

As a boxer, it was when I knocked out Terrance Gaskin at the Doncaster Dome in 1999. As a coach, there are so many but these are probably the top three, so far…

When Tony Bellew beat Ilunga Makabu to win the WBC Cruiserweight title at Everton’s Goodison Park.

Jordan Gill winning at O2 last time out against Karim Guer . Jordan looked to be down and out but what people don’t see is the training and preparation that went in to that ght, and how we had a strategy if the ght went that way, which Jordan executed perfectly.

Jamie McDonnell beating Tomoki Kameda for the second time in America to retain his WBA bantamweight title.

YOU ALSO MAKE REGULAR APPEARANCES AS A PUNDIT. WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE CAREER PLANS?

I think I will be a coach for about another 10 -13 years, which will take me to 60 year old. Hopefully I will have more TV and radio work during that time and after. I really enjoy that side of the business.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE WHO IS YOUNG AND INTERESTED IN THE SPORT BUT NO IDEA HOW TO TAKE THINGS FORWARD?

Find somebody or a team that are like minded and interested in developing you and getting the most out of your ability. Don’t listen to anyone telling you that you can’t do it. Work harder than anybody else. Live the life, be dedicated both on and o the pitch. Live your life for you and live your dream.

1. BASIC BOXER BOUNCE 2. BUTT KICKS SKIPPING – LIGHT ON YOUR FEET, AIM TO KICK YOUR BUM WITH YOUR FEET, PICK UP THE PACE! 3. SCISSOR FEET SKIPPING – KEEP LIGHT ON YOUR TOES 4. SIDE TO SIDE BOXER BOUNCE – LIGHT ON YOUR TOES, LOOSE THROUGH YOUR WRISTS, NEARLY THERE!

1. DEADLIFT WITH BENT OVER ROW – PINCH YOUR BACK, SQUEEZE YOUR GLUTES, USE YOUR BREATHE TO SQUEEZE AND ENGAGE THE MUSCLES

2. SQUAT, BICEP CURL – DON’T LET THE ELBOWS FLARE OUT, KEEP YOUR CORE ENGAGED, NICE AND DEEP INTO THE SQUAT 3. FRONT LOADED REVERSE LUNGES – STEP BACK, REVERSE LUNGE, DRIVE UP THROUGH THE HEEL. NICE BIG STEP BACK, KEEP YOUR CORE ENGAGED

4. SQUAT AROUND THE WORLD – PALMS FACING AWAY FROM YOU, SLIGHT BEND IN YOUR KNEES AND ELBOWS, ENGAGE YOUR CORE AND BRING THE WEIGHTS AROUND THE WORLD

1. COBRA – LOOK OVER YOUR SHOULDER (BOTH SIDES) LOOSENING YOUR LOWER BACK AND STRETCHING THE FRONT OF THE HIPS 2. KNEELING HAMSTRING STRETCH – BACK NICE AND FLAT, FEEL THAT ALL DOWN THE BACK OF LEG 3. KNEELING QUAD STRETCH – CATCH YOUR FOOT WITH YOUR HAND TO STRETCH FRONT OF YOUR LEG 4. KNEELING CHEST/ BACK STRETCH 5. PIGEON STRETCH – STRETCH FOR YOUR GLUTES, TURN YOUR HIPS IN 6. STANDING FORWARD FOLD – CROSS YOUR LEGS OVER

As the British winter clutches us in its chilling embrace, most of us crave nothing more than a good, hearty meal. We all need something to warm our bones after facing the harsh weather. Putting together a decent winter-warming dish can weigh heavily on the purse strings, costing a fortune in ingredients. So, we’ve put together the best dishes, that won’t break the bank, to make an excellent 3 course winter meal…

2 onions nely chopped, 2 sweet potatoes chopped, 2 carrots chopped, 2 parsnips chopped, 1 red chilli chopped, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 75g dried green lentils, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1.3l vegetable stock, 425ml milk, 100g Greek yogurt (optional), 1 tbsp coriander leaves chopped (optional)

Fry onions in olive oil for 5 minutes in large pan until soft. Tip in remaining veg, cook for another 5 minutes, adding the chilli and cumin for nal 2 minutes.

Add lentils and stock to the pan and bring to the boil. Once boiling, lower heat and simmer for 25 minutes until veg is tender and lentils are soft. Blend or blitz altogether with milk or extra stock if necessary. Season, then reheat to serve.

Serve with Greek yogurt and coriander if desired.

1 large butternut squash, 20g butter, 2 red onions sliced, 2 garlic cloves crushed, 1 tbsp plain our, 300ml milk, 100g shredded kale, 100g cheddar grated, 1 ½ tsp nigella seeds, 2 rashers crispy bacon bits (optional), 1 slice thick bread cut into chunks, oil for drizzling

Preheat oven to 220˚c conventional/200 ˚c fan/gas 7. Cut squash in half lengthways. Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds (discard). Put halves on microwave-safe plate and microwave on full power for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, melt butter in large, heavy based pan. Add onions and cook for 10-12 minutes until soft and lightly browned. Add garlic and bacon (if using) and cook for 1 minute more. Stir in our and cook for 1 minute. Then slowly add milk while whisking, making a smooth sauce. Simmer until thickening begins.

Put kale in a colander, pour over a kettle of boiling water. Drain, then stir into sauce with 75g of the cheese and 1 tsp nigella seeds. Test the squash esh’s softness, microwaving for 5 further minutes if required. Scoop most into a bowl, leaving enough so they keep their shape. Mash the esh and add to sauce with seasoning. Line a baking tray and place shells down.

Spoon the cheesy mixture into the squash halves. Toss the cubes of bread in oil and scatter over the top. Sprinkle remaining cheese and nigella seeds, bake for 30 mins until golden and bubbling.

100g pudding rice, 50g caster sugar, 1l milk, ½ tsp cinnamon, butter for greasing

Heat oven to 150˚c conventional/130˚c fan/gas 2. Wash rice and drain. Grease an 850ml baking sheet, then tip in rice and sugar, stirring in the milk. Sprinkle cinnamon over the top. Cook for 2 hours, until the pudding only slightly wobbles in the centre. Serve with jam, fruit, or other sweet treats.

These a ordable winter recipes are sure to be family favourites. Plus, they won’t empty your pockets either!

There’s no better time to brighten up your room than in the months when there’s less daylight, and when you’re spending more time at home because of the weather. So, if you’re bored, need some time relaxing from studying and are searching for inspiration, why not use this time to reinvent your room and give it a glow and lift your mood. Here’s some really simple tips to do just that…

Lights. A pretty obvious start, but by adding lights to your room it will be sure not only to brighten it up, but give it a new ambient feeling. Add fairy lights and maybe a lamp or two in the corners to really lift the colour. Opt for LED lights for a cheaper running cost and point them facing upwards to bounce light onto the wall and ceiling.

Place mirrors near lights and windows to re ect and bounce that brightness around, avoiding areas where there is clutter, and not above your bed!

Pick lighter colour furniture, or, if you’re living in an already furnished place, consider buying light colour throws to drape over any possible dark items such as a sofa bed.

If you’ve got a dark colour oor, again, the trick of using lighter colours to make your room feel bigger applies – purchase a light coloured rug, curtains and if allowed paint the walls a lighter colour to make the room re ect light as much as possible and feel more airy.

Deep clean your windows, clear up any clutter, and throw away any items you don’t need. Less is more, and a room without clutter leads to a more relaxed setting.

Pick low-to-ground furniture, opening up the height of the room and giving you more breathing space. You’ll be surprised at how much unnecessary height is taken up with oversized furniture.

Avoid too much wall-art and pictures. This will give an overpowering feeling, especially if you’re room is small.

Try and choose just 3 main pieces of decoration for your walls, ideally a mirror, light, or minimalistic artwork.

Photo: MK Sadler

HELLO AND THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO TALK TO US! LET’S START BY TALKING ABOUT YOUR EXCITING NEW ALBUM AMERICAN BOLLYWOOD. HOW IN YOUR OPINION DOES IT COMPARE OR DIFFER TO YOUR EARLIER RELEASES?

It’s the most streamlined concept that we’ve ever had for an album. It’s a very intentional world that we have created, not only for others, but for ourselves to live in, to build and to imagine. Having architecture like this makes it easier for a group of ve people to set to it. The album’s sonics are equally razor sharp. Every sound has a purpose, and helps tell a larger story: the in uence of South Asian music on popular western music over the decades, and the reclaiming of identity, sound, and space.

I UNDERSTAND THIS IS A DIFFICULT QUESTION TO ANSWER AS EACH SONG WILL BE SPECIAL. BUT IS THERE ANY PARTICULAR SONG FROM THE NEW ALBUM AMERICAN BOLLYWOOD THAT HAS AN EXTRA SPECIAL PLACE IN YOUR HEART?

The title track, “American Bollywood,” has to hold that spot for me. Every record for us has a “ ood gate song” that gets things going. Writing that song was so cathartic and not only helped me bring this world to life, but help explain it to the band and ask for their blessing.

YOUR MUSIC TELLS THE STORY OF DEEP AND MEANINGFUL SAGA. YOU HAVE PREVIOUSLY SAID, (I BELIEVE WHEN TALKING ABOUT THE RECORD), THAT “IT’S ALSO OUR UNIVERSAL SEARCH TO FIND MEANING IN CHAOS.” ARE YOU ABLE TO ELABORATE AND UPDATE US ON YOUR SEARCH TO FIND MEANING?

The journey to belong is universal. I never belonged. I’ve always been the minority; always been other. I get the sense that many people feel that way, not just immigrants. We do some pretty dramatic and crazy things to nd a place to feel…like we’re home: to feel good. Often times these things just end up causing us more pain and su ering. My takeaway is that my home is a place I carve for myself in my own mental landscape, every day, every hour, every second, and that there’s a ne balance between chaos and peace that all of us juggle.

CAN YOU TALK TO US ABOUT YOUR PAST AND HOW IT INFLUENCES YOUR WRITING, MUSIC AND YOUR OUTLOOK ON LIFE?

Being an outsider, I’ve always come at music from a raw perspective. I am not classically trained: I am not the most literate in music history. I am proud to say I’m a novice, and I hope to stay that way, fumbling my way to epiphany. Though we are by no means a punk band, I take the DIY punk approach to heart: I try to trust my unthinking instinct, even though I can be a pretty analytical person. I took a liking to music at a young age, but because I never really saw anyone who looked like me at the top, I didn’t really consider it a real profession until it happened. I still see myself as an outsider; as an underdog. It fuels me.

Photo: MK Sadler

YOU COME FROM A FAMILY OF MUSICIANS AND STARTED EXPLORING A VARIETY OF MUSIC STYLES EARLY ON. HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO CRAFT YOUR SOUND, AND WHAT KEY INFLUENCES DID YOU DRAW FROM?

I think Young the Giant’s sound is that we don’t have one. We’ve always respected career artists, who have not allowed society to pigeonhole them: Radiohead, Beck, Talk Talk: the list goes on. In a world where everything must be put in to a box, I think we su er from not having a particular sonic “brand.” Then again, I think it’s the same reason why we’ve been around for such a long time. It is a very freeing experience, because every record we are drawing in uences from all over the map. On “American Bollywood” I nally nd ourselves really coming in to our own. Maybe this is the closest thing we’ve ever gotten to having a sound.

I READ THAT YOU STOPPED STUDYING MEDICINE TO PURSUE YOUR MUSICAL ASPIRATIONS AND THAT YOU MIGHT POSSIBLY RESUME STUDYING TO COMPLETE YOUR DEGREE, IS THIS TRUE? CAN YOU EXPLAIN A LITTLE ABOUT THIS?

I was “pre-med” at Stanford, but I think that term was just a mind trick in my head to legitimise my true passions: ction and music. I used to say that I’d go back to the press just so I would feel less guilty about disappointing my family. But, the truth is: I don’t know if I will ever go back. I believe in the experiences of college; I miss the excitement and the buzz of learning every day, but that is just a mind set and can be done anywhere. I don’t know if I believe in it as an institution anymore, at least in America. I realise this is a student publication, so this may be blasphemous to say.

Photo: MK Sadler

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER SOMEONE WHO HAS STARTED UNIVERSITY BUT FEELS DEEP DOWN THERE ARE OTHER BETTER OPPORTUNITIES TO PURSUE?

Follow your passions. You can fail at the thing you don’t want to do. Might as well fail at what you love. Get rid of your guilt. This is your life, and your life only.

AS A FINAL QUESTION AND TO FINISH ON A LIGHT HEARTED NOTE, WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST FUN PART OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR IN THE BAND?

Having a brotherhood with my bandmates. I am truly grateful for what we’ve managed to create together. I still have so much fun making, exploring, and playing. The fact that I can make money doing it is just icing on the cake. I miss the beginnings: in the rickety van, the drink vouchers; the gas station meals. I wouldn’t trade those memories for anything.

Welcome to ‘in the Spotlight’, our brand new regular magazine feature, shining the Spotlight on unsigned, upcoming musical talent. First up we welcome to the stage, Kris Angelis, a singer-songwriter from Florida, who grew up on a farm, living musically her whole life and delivers folk/pop music with a hint of southern charm…

We recently heard your music and was instantly hooked by your folk/pop sound. Your music has a hint of southern charm, and that’s no surprise considering you grew up on a farm in Florida. Has music always been a part of your life since you were young? Yes, my family wasn’t musical but I enjoyed listening to my parent’s and grandparents’ records and grandparent’s videos of Roger’s and Hammerstein musicals, as well as being in church choir and eventually musical theater summer camp.

When was your first public performance, and how old were you?

My rst performance in front of people was probably at my preschool graduation - I was dressed as a duck and we all sung a song about di erent animals. My rst public performance as a singer/songwriter was at a pizza joint open mic when I was 18. I was terri ed but the crowd was incredibly supportive and it was a positive experience that gave me some encouragement to keep doing it.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

I mostly draw inspiration from my own life. The struggles, thoughts, feelings, and relationships that weigh on my mind and heart. It helps me process them. And of course, I get inspiration from other artists and songs that I love, nature, and sometimes other forms of art that I can relate to.

Your most recent music video for the song entitled ‘It’s Tumbling Me’, is stunning and empowering. You mentioned online you were nervous to release it – why is this, and you must surely feel extremely proud because the feedback has been superb!

It was unlike anything I’d put out before and felt very vulnerable. I was a little concerned what people might think but ultimately, yes, it’s been empowering and exciting to see the response.

Your music gives off a lot of emotion and draws you in moment by moment. When you sing, do you find yourself in a different place and getting lost in the words?

Yes, there is often imagery in my head around what I’m singing about and I’m feeling some of the emotions that were there when I was writing it but also, I don’t always want to get all the way back into those feelings if they are sad. The songs are moments in time and I don’t have to be swept up by them for them to be relatable and moving to someone else. And, to be honest, other times I’m somewhere else that has nothing to do with the song too. Sometimes if I think about it too much, I mess up!

It was nice to see you do the box opening for your new vinyl album. Can you tell us what the album represents?

The latest album that I have a vinyl for is ‘The Skies We Look To.’ The cover is a photo my friend Lee Holbrook took. He’s also the one who lmed all my recent music videos. It’s a photo of Bixby Bridge in Big Sur near where I spent my adolescence and still spend a lot of time, and it has the Milky Way rising over the mountain in the background. I thought it was perfectly symbolic of the hope and moving forward feelings on that record. Hopefully I’ll be able to get a vinyl of my latest record ‘D*mn Shame Waste’ if I can raise enough funds.

In terms of moments, can you think of a special moment in your music journey that stands out?

The tour I did in 2019 to all 50 states was a really special journey and experience with a lot of special moments but if I have to pick one moment…I was performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland in a church turned bar. When I started performing, it was almost empty and by the time I had nished a song, it was full. People had heard me as they walked by and came in to hear more. That was incredibly encouraging.

For more info on Kris Angelis, visit: www.krisangelis.com

Since the nights are still long and dark, starlings take full advantage of the low-light. Usually just before they settle down for the night, the starlings perform elaborate sky dances in their thousands. As their thrilling silhouettes dart across the late-afternoon sky, brilliant swirling images are a sight to behold. Once tired out, you’ll see them get cosy up for the night in the reeds. Listen out for their distinct chattering! Head out to your nearest marshland or reedbeds to watch this amazing sight.

Only a handful of British species turn white for winter camou age. Most of these being mountain dwellers, like white mountain hares. By mid-winter, these majestic critters shed their brown coats to reveal a blue-ish white coat. They can often be seen bounding around in snow or grass, usually alone. To spot them, walk slowly and steadily along paths in upland areas. Be prepared to see a sudden burst of speed and a white blur, as the hare seeks for another hiding spot.

As their mating season spans a 3–6-day period over the winter months, foxes can be spotted quite commonly during this time of the year. Though you certainly won’t need to see them to know they’re there. Their mating calls are distinct and loud, most accurately described as a “howl” or “scream”. You can nd these sly creatures in forested areas, or areas away from dense human habitation. Basically, anywhere humans don’t live. Even in parks in cities!

These wintry phenomena are a wonderful opportunity to delve into nature, but what if you’re wanting to get closer? Well, there are plenty of DIY projects for your garden, to encourage animals to make an appearance.

This one is probably the most common, but is also the one with the best results. Simply attach a hanger to a bottle lid, cut holes in the sides for wooden dowel perches to be inserted, make slits for the seeds to escape. And voila! Hang it up somewhere pretty high up in your garden, and there you have it! A DIY bottle bird feeder!

While some hedgehogs do hibernate in winter, this does not apply to all of them. You can still see hedgehogs scampering about in the colder months, especially if it’s a particularly mild winter. Because of this, special shelters are ideal to keep them safe during these harsher months. To do this, a simple box with a tunnel entrance will do the trick. Fill the box with dead leaves, twigs and other bits for it to snuggle up in. Camou age the box with soil, leaves or anything else to keep it as hidden as you can. Then, just wait for the hedgehogs to arrive!

After reading this, hopefully the British wintertime doesn’t seem as lifeless after all. Though on the outside it can seem quite grim, a closer look will bring much of its magic to life. If you can look past the exterior of brown leaves and cold weather, a layer of teeming life awaits.

Humans are sensitive creatures. We often change our environments to make them better suited to our tasks at hand. Whether that be a room’s lighting, an ambient background noise, or soft cushions and seats. But many forget our powerful sense of smell.

Scent is an intimate thing, often mirroring how or what we are thinking. Not to mention, the strong connections our brain makes between scent and memory. So, using essential oils to further tailor our habitats is a valuable practice. Whether they’re burned in an oil burner, or vapourised in an aroma di user, essential oils could be your secret weapon. You just need to know which ones to pick…

Maybe the most popular oil on our list, lavender’s properties are widely known. Feeling stressed or struggling to sleep? This may be just the thing for you. Its distinctive oral scent can help calm the nervous system, leading to more relaxed muscles and joints. Lavender oil is also known to relieve headaches, especially when deep breaths are taken of the vapourised oil.

This next one has double-whammy properties! Rose essential oil is known for mild pain relief, when inhaled or used on the body. The sweet scent is also known to increase “happy hormones” in the brain, particularly in children. Antioxidants in the oil have made it famous for acne prone skin, reducing in ammation, dryness and redness.

Many oils of di erent origins can have similar bene ts, like sandalwood and eucalyptus for example. Calming an anxious mind is always a struggle, therefore using these oils in a spray bottle or oil burner may be ideal to wind-down. The strong scents have also been shown to sharpen the mind, and boost memory. So, if you’re knuckling down for a test, crack out these oils and get to work!

The list of bene ts for tea tree oil is arm-length at this point. If you’re feeling a little under the weather with a cold, just inhaling the oil from the bottle can help clear stu y sinuses. Once you’re breathing freely, the oil can be used on the face, body and hair in many ways. From minor skin conditions to oily hair, tea tree oil is a valuable natural remedy. The amazing fresh scent also helps matters!

Once a holy oil and still a holy incense, frankincense has been used since ancient times. The musky scent can be a real aid to relaxation, but more so for reducing anxiety levels. Studies have also shown that depression severity can be greatly improved through inhalation. But be careful! Many don’t like the smell of frankincense, so perhaps try before you buy.

This heady scent is good for mental wellbeing. Ideal for meditating with, neroli oil can improve focus and inhibit distraction. Furthering this, it has been known to lower blood pressure levels, allowing you to relax deeper into a meditative state. For an oil to help you look inward, neroli is a perfect match.

We depend on our senses for so much. We use them to work, to have fun, to cook and clean, or just to relax. So why not use this reliance to our advantage, and make our rooms and selves smell as sweet as we want to feel? Setting yourself up with these basic essential oils could be the key to noticeable improvement. Give yourself a better chance with these sultry scents.