The University Paper Preston - November 2014 by The University Paper

PRESTON NOVEMBER 2014

ED SHEERAN ON THE RECORD

WIN: A holiday to Les Deux Alpes & tickets to Rise Festival FIND OUT HOW ON PG 12

THE LATEST SPORTS FROM YOUR UNIVERSITY

PAGE 07

PAGES 37 & 39

DID FRESHERS LIVE UP TO THE HYPE JAMIE KEHOE

SOME PEOPLE call it Student Orientation, others Freshers, but one thing’s for sure; it’s the one time of year that you can actually go out every single night without breaking the bank with entry fees and drinks. It’s sure as hell marketed as a week not to be missed, so we as students, are well within our right to expect amazing things from this most holy of periods. Now that it is over, we can sit down (or lie down, depending on how well it went) and evaluate. Did this week actually live up to expectations? Did the promoters earn their keep? Did this year’s Freshers uphold tradition? According to Preston Freshers Facebook page, the most popular event was the Super . The ‘SSP’ featured in some of the biggest party scenes around the world over summer, including Kavos, Malia and Zante. The event was heavily promoted on Facebook, promising students the ‘paint party experience of a life time’. Joe Williams, who worked on the paint guns at the party, said: “It’s by far the best paint party I’ve done up to now. I sold more tickets for this than I did for any other event. The atmosphere was outstanding. Without a doubt my best night of freshers.” Another notorious event at UCLan freshers is Skoolies. It’s a tradition that even Primark has cottoned on to… selling hundreds of shirts, ties and glasses each year. With Skoolies being held at most of the night clubs, Preston is swarmed by geeks and school girls. But how was it this year?

“The university put on some great events with Skoolies being a particular highlight. Knowing it would be my last I tried to make the most of it and I think I did.” 3rd year Sports Journalism student, Brad Poole, went to 53 degrees and Evoque. Sports Coaching student, Claire Temple, went to 53 degrees for Skoolies, but didn’t enjoy it. She said it wasn’t very busy so they left early and went in to town instead. At the beginning of freshers, a secret night was leaked to all students in the Freshers Facebook group. The Swedish themed AIRPORT event at Baluga was hosting Basshunter, and he was going to perform his biggest hits. The freshers’ Facebook page erupted when the guest was announced. But a lot of students were left feeling let down, after waiting for hours for a short performance before Basshunter left the club. Emma Gilespie, from Northern Ireland, actually knows Basshunter, and she said: “He played for 15 minutes, he was good though. He partied with everyone afterwards in Evoque, and he let a lot of people into VIP with him at the end.” It is normally the venue for all of the main freshers’ events, but it is due to close in the New Year. Although this was the last chance for UCLan students to experience the traditional welcome week that has been around for years, all of the events seemed to be a lot more spread out.

» CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

HALLAM STUDENT DODGES CAMILLE BROUARD AND ANNABEL TWIST

Environmental student Krystle Morley, currently studying at Sheﬃeld Hallam University, managed to narrowly escape death twice this summer. “Car sized” boulders came crashing down on her twice whilst she was climbing Franz Joseph glacier in New Zealand. Having returned to University this September, Morley is feeling a new zest for life after her ﬁrst experience of ice climbing, a

long-term ambition inspired by her love of travelling and adventure, went dreadfully wrong. Morley commented that for the main part of the expedition “trying to do vertical climbing whilst holding onto ice axes was painful!” but also “really good fun”. Her small group, including an experienced climbing guide and two Australian climbers, ascended up Franz Joseph

within a matter of hours, blissfully unaware of the lurking dangers. Waiting on the helipad for her ride home, Morley took a photo of the beautiful mountain scene behind her, eager to share her experience with those back home. She added: “we’d taken our crampons oﬀ, our helmets oﬀ, we were all getting ready to be taken away.” Soon after she heard a

loud, thunderous, rumbling sound, coming from nearby. She recalled: “There was a clear blue sky, so we didn’t think it was thunder. I thought maybe someone was shooting or blasting up the valley.” It was at this moment that her pleasant, ﬁrst experience of ice climbing rapidly changed into a desperate ﬁght for survival. She turned around to see

W W W.UNIPA PER.CO.UK

StudentS

25% Off all day every day

Sizzling fajitaS

l COO

l tai

k COC

See inSide fOr detailS

THE UNIVERSITY NOVEMBER 2014

L CAL NEWS

FIRE SAFETY MANE GRIGORYAN

PHOTO CREDIT: MANE GRIGORYAN

PRESTON PHONE THEFTS EMILY CARPENDALE

PHOTO CREDIT: RACHEL POOLE

PRESTON IS in the top five highest risk cities in the country for mobile phone thefts. Insurance figures taken from around the top 30 biggest towns and cities in the UK claim that Preston is one of only six cities that has seen a rise in minor thefts in the past year. It has been suggested that one factor for these findings is due to the city being highly populated with university students, who can be seen as easy targets. The figures came as a surprise to Jim Sandham, from UCLan security. He said he was unaware that phone theft was such a problem in Preston. Mr Sandham thought that his lack of knowledge on the subject may have been due to these types of incidents not being reported. He encouraged students to register their phones at the police station, which enables phones to be blocked if stolen. Another way of protecting phones against theft is to get the device marked with SmartWater. This is a

HOW MANY times have you been escorted out of your halls in the middle of the night, thinking ‘please just let me go back to bed’? Like many other universities, UCLan has been the grand central of false fire drills during its notorious fresher’s week. But, when the alarm sounded at Leighton Halls in the early hours of the morning, it was because a real fire had spread, caused by problems with an extractor fan. It was quickly taken care of by the three fire brigades that arrived within 15 minutes of the alarm being activated. Twenty-one year old Masters student, Arjun Sunil, lives at Leighton Halls, and he describes the experience. “I was eating a late night dinner at about 1 am when the fire alarm went off, so I had to wash my hands, dress up and go downstairs.” He tells us that this was the 5th fire drill of the week and he was frustrated to be interrupted once again. Alyx Nutting is another student who lives at Leighton Halls, and she said: “During the week leading up to the fire, the alarm had gone off quite a few times. Although this made us aware of the exits, it also made me think that the real fire was just another false one.

“This could be dangerous if people can’t be bothered to leave the building, because they think it’s another fake alarm.” It seems that fire drills have become a mundane routine for students living in halls. But could this jeopardise the safety of students rather than help them? Richard Hull, who is the Professor of Chemistry and Fire science, told us that he sympathised with students being dragged outside at all hours. “The reason for such a response is that investigation of major fire disasters has consistently shown the importance of having a well- rehearsed drill.” Residents are recommended to test their personal electronics with a PAT (portable appliance testing) test by a qualified electrician as well as checking that electrical items are fitted with the right fuse, especially for foreign students using adaptors. There are probably countless times that many students (including myself) have stupidly left the stove on while rushing out of to a lecture, or they’ve left their hair straighteners on before a big night out. So before you leave your flat, remember to double check everything is switched off.

traceable liquid that helps to identify thieves and return mobile phones to their owners. Street level crime is higher in City Centre, than any of the residential areas in Preston, according to UK Crime Stats. Evoque nightclub is aware of the risk of thefts inside the club, and has advised people not to display phones for longer than necessary, keep them in a safe place (not a back pocket) and to keep handbags closed. Another tip is to activate GPS tracking apps on your phone, so if the worst happens, you should be able to find it. Lancashire police advise to always keep mobile phones locked with a PIN code, and to avoid using phones at night, as the bright light can attract thieves. Have you ever had any issues with street crimes or phone thefts? Let us know on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheUniversityPaperLancashire

LFRESHERS CAL NEWS GUIDE 4

NOVEMBER 2014 THE UNIVERSITY

The BIG Vote Result JOHN COLLINS

THE SHUTTLE bus that ferries students from the Students’ Union to UCLan’s Sports Arena is back, after winning The BIG Vote. The vote and campaigns received a massive response with 4826 votes cast, 1300 more than last year. This announcement at the BIG Meeting confirmed that the shuttle bus campaign had won with a majority vote of 1757, followed by the Lad Culture Campaign and Residential Assistants (two motions that were passed at the Big Meeting.) Claire Temple, Secretary of UCLan Ladies’ Football team, said: “I’m so glad the shuttle bus is back, it was a lot of effort having to book minibuses each week. I think it will really help

raise participation if there is an easy, free and safe way of getting to training.” The least popular campaign was for the General Election with only 256 votes. But why would it gain higher? Maybe a lot of students would rather vote for something that will immediately affect them. The shuttle bus was originally cancelled after cuts to funding. But now it has been reinstated, and you can find the bus timetable on UCLan Sports Arena’s Facebook page.

SCARE KINGDOM CHARLOTTE ARROWSMITH

AS HALLOWEEN looms, braver UCLan students can now visit Scare Kingdom, a scream park just outside Preston. The park, based in Ribble, offers guests a unique and seriously twisted journey, through a series of 6 different attractions, including the Clonefields, the Human Zoo, and finally the Psychomanteum. At an additional charge, the Psychomanteum is even scarier. It’s a sensory-deprived psychosexual experience, set in a ‘seriously twisted’ correctional facility, which visitors must enter and endure alone. A Lancashire Evening Post reporter went into the Psychomanteum, where she experienced being strapped into a chair, a man climbing on top of her and a man waving a sex toy in her face. The attraction has been branded as very controversial, and the charity Rape Crisis has described it as horrific. But it was voted UK Top Rated Scream Park in 2013, and www.scarerater.co.uk said “Scare Kingdom is like nothing else you will ever have ever been to. The whole experience from beginning to end is terrifying but exhilarating.” The park is open in October and November, and you can book tickets online. Let us know on Facebook whether you dare take on Scare Kingdom.

THE UNIVERSITY NOVEMBER 2014

Commuters’

BIG night out

CHARLOTTE ARROWSMITH

PHOTO CREDIT: JOSH BAMFORD

The perks of being a UCLan student

JOHN COLLINS

PHOTO CREDIT: CHARLOTTE ARROWSMITH

AS UCLAN students, most of you will be entitled to the Advantage Scheme, but do you know all of the perks? Here are some of the freebies and facilities that will make you glad you chose UCLan. The amount of money poured into the university over the last few years has paid off. How many university’s offer students a free gym membership, free Microsoft Office, free foreign language lessons or even a library open 24/7? As students we have little excuse not to remain active or able to do work. The travel bursary scheme allows students to go all over the world and volunteer at a very low

cost. The trip to China to develop a story-telling application was free, and a great opportunity. It might not be the biggest university in the country, but everything we need as students is right at our fingertips. With the campus being so close to the city, you never have to miss out on anything. The size of the university and proximity of different accommodation means it’s easy to get to know everyone. It’s hard to leave the flat without seeing someone you know, and it also means it’s hard to feel lonely at UCLan.

students

25% off all day eVery day

BEING A commuter at university can often mean that going on a night out with your course is problematic. Especially in the first few weeks, when you don’t quite know your mates well enough to ask – can I kip on your sofa? You’ve got to make the decision… do you go home early and miss the best part of the night? Do you wait around for ages until the first train home? Do you pay a fortune for a few hours’ sleep in a hotel? Well one UCLan student, Liam Conroy, said it’s a hassle trying to get home after a night out. So he decided none of these were for him, and slept in UCLan library instead. And why not? It’s warm, dry, free… and has plenty of toilet facilities, but surely this can’t be the best option for UCLan students who don’t live on campus. Sarah Williams, a Religion and Culture student, commutes from Wigan. After a night out in Preston, she prefers to wait until the first train back, which isn’t until 5.33am. This may not sound too bad, but bear in mind,

while most of us are stumbling home to bed with a pizza (and who knows what else), sitting in a cold train station does NOT sound very appealing. Sarah doesn’t enjoy the wait either: “It’s very annoying as we have to wait a couple of hours in the cold, but we have no other option as we can’t afford to stay over.” And taking it to the other side of the spectrum is UCLan student, Heidi, who decided to pay £80 to stay in the Premier Inn after a night out. £80 on top of taxis, entry fees, drinks and other night out expenses makes for a pretty steep evening. Although there are a few different options available, there is no denying that a commuters night out is always going to be a big one.

Visit

www.Chiquito.Co.uk www.Chiquito.

to apply for your exclusive student card which gives you

sizzl

ing f ajita

25% off your food bill all year round

il kta CoC

de n

here it is!

off 25% stu

all

d ay

w .C

eVe

h iq

u it

ry o .C

d ay o .u

Chiquito.restaurant @TheChiquito

t&C’s &C’s at Chiquito.co.uk

@The_Chiquito

COMMENT FRESHERS

GUIDE WHERE ART THOU

NOVEMBER 2014 THE UNIVERSITY

SPECIAL

We confront the issues that ma er to you, right here on campus. Have an opinion? Contact us at: editor@unipaper.co.uk to have your say

THE BIG QUESTION

Are Student Campaigns making a diﬀerence?

NATASSIA TANG

In the wake of the Hong Kong student protests, the recent DSA commotion and the Big Vote at UCLan, we’re wondering if student campaigns actually make a difference.

YES: It’s undeniable that student campaigns have fuelled changes to NUS, universities and in some cases completely shaken up politics. Whether it’s something big or small, time and time again students have demonstrated that they are a force of the world. For example, last year we wanted to have a venue to donate blood within campus, and this year students are able to do this at Sir Tom Finney Sports Centre. Even if it does not have an immediate effect, students are getting involved and genuinely promoting great causes such as the horrors of Gaza, mental health issues and support against domestic abuse. By spreading the word, they are reaching a wider platform and ensuring that others know about these issues; and therefore they are making a difference.

and just take the world as it is. In this sense student campaigns can’t make a difference due to a laisses faire attitude in society. In addition to that, we live in a corporate world where financial profiteering is of top priority, and it is due to this most campaigns are ignored as it does not benefit people economically. A combination of the above means that certain campaigns are doomed to fail.

SPARE COMPUTER?!

LIZZIE LONGLEY

COMPUTERS ARE an everyday necessity for people around the world and without them we would be lost. People have become so dependent on computers, whether it’s for browsing random things on the internet, online shopping or studying for a degree, computers are constant in many people’s lives. So why is there never any available to use in the university library? The library is always full to the brim of students on the computers, but very rarely are they doing work. I’ve seen people watching funny videos on YouTube or listening to the latest Number 1 in the music charts. The amount of girls that use the library as a room to online shop is endless and I wouldn’t be surprised if you caught boys having a cheeky look at porn and giggling to themselves. I don’t condemn these people for using the computers for these things because like them I online shop and endlessly watch YouTube videos (minus the porn) but when they are taking up a computer that is needed for educational use that’s when it starts to get irritating! It’s not just the students that take up all the computers for unnecessary use, it’s the random

astray of baggage and jackets that claim a seat. So many times have I gone over to what I thought was a spare computer to find a jacket taking charge of the seat without a body in sight. Whoever it is that leaves their stuff there for hours must be a very trusting person. But, when a jacket is taking over the chance for you to work you know there is an issue. I say all this but I’m sure I’m probably guilty of all these things (again minus the porn) so I don’t really have room to talk. I don’t believe there are enough computers in the library to accommodate to the vast amount of students, whether doing work or not there still should be enough computers on campus for the students to use. We are spending £9000 a year after all….

CONTACTS

NO: A lot of people don’t care. That is the unfortunate truth; this especially applies to students who would rather have an extra five minutes in bed than catch up on current affairs. Like a lot of people, some would be more passionate about issues which affect them directly, such as the £9000 annual tuition fee. However, most would happily go on regardless

EDITOR: Charlotte Arrowsmith LOCAL NEWS EDITOR: Molly Roberts ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR: Josh Bamford COMMENTS EDITOR: Natassia Tang

SPORT EDITOR: Tom Greggan For all editorial enquires please contact: prestoneditor@unipaper.co.uk For all advertising enquires please call: 020 7580 6419

LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR A

CHANCE TO

WIN

£2000 WORTH OF APPLE PRODUCTS facebook.com/TheUniPaper

13” Macbook Pro | iPad Retina | iPhone 5S | iPod Touch

SPECIAL

THE UNIVERSITY OCTOBER 2014

Indepth, Insightful, & uncompromising: Interviews by ANDY WELCH

A Good Ed On His Shoulders Ed Sheeran is sitting in his dressing room in Melbourne Cricket Ground. In the background, Tom Jones can be heard soundchecking. “WE’RE SINGING the Prince song, Kiss, together,” says Sheeran, “but we’ve already rehearsed that.” The night before, Sheeran and his new pal Jones - who performed together in Australia last week went out for a few glasses of wine, and 74-year-old Jones regaled 23-year-old Sheeran with stories of appearing in The Simpsons and hanging out with Elvis Presley in Las Vegas back in the day. This is the world in which Sheeran now lives, where rather than him seeking out the biggest names in music to learn from, they request an audience with him. Elton John asked to perform with Sheeran at the Grammy Awards in 2013, and Paul McCartney, after the special concert earlier this year, marking the 50th anniversary of The Beatles landing in America, invited him to his trailer for a margarita. “I wasn’t expecting that one. I was with my parents and ready to go home for the night, and the next minute, that happened,” he says, like it was no big deal. He counts Taylor Swift and Harry Styles among his closest showbiz friends, and while recording his second album x last year, Friends star Courteney Cox let him stay in her Malibu home. Sheeran had been performing in LA when Spin City and Scrubs creator Bill Lawrence, and his actor wife Christa Miller, asked if their daughter could have her photo taken with him after the show. “The next night, I was having dinner in Malibu and Bill and Christa were in the same restaurant. They came over to thank me for being nice to their daughter and then invited me to a house party.” “I thought, ‘Why not?’ It turned out to be Courteney’s house party. It was miles from anywhere, and I’d sent my driver home so I had to stay over, and that’s when we became friends,” the singer explains. He’s a long way from Framlingham, the Suffolk village where he grew up, but spend any amount of time with Sheeran and it’s not hard to understand why so many A-listers want to hang out with him; he’s impeccably mannered for a start, and down to earth in a way most multi-million-selling artists just aren’t. Unassuming isn’t the word. He admits he’s changed a bit, though, since his first album was released and worldwide fame followed. He’s a bit more paranoid, and wary around new people, he says, but he’s generally much happier with his lot than he was three years ago. “I was quite well known among people my age, from the mix-tapes and YouTube videos that were doing the rounds, so I would get stopped and asked for photos and things,” he says. “That still happens, although back four years ago, I was broke, so there wasn’t the upside. Now I’m financially comfortable, and I’ve made my family financially comfortable, so I can see the rewards.” Other musicians seek him out too, including Pharrell Williams and producer Rick Rubin, who both went to Sheeran offering their services on a collaboration. The track with Williams, Sing, resulted in a No 1 single, while Rubin produced two tracks on x pronounced multiply - Don’t and Bloodstream. Of Sing, he says it was the first time he’s tried to write a song without a deep, emotional meaning. “Going in with Pharrell, I knew I wanted to

“I knew I wanted to make a bona ﬁde pop song ”

make a bona fide pop song and we were just trying some things out. It’s just me explaining how I had fun on a night out, had a drink and had a dance with a girl, and that’s it.” “I’ve never really done that before, and it was nice to do it and to not worry about how it would make people feel, and whether it was me opening up enough. I just wanted to write a song that was fun.” He says if the aftermath of his debut + taught him anything, it was that his songs were being used as emotional crutches by his fans. “I’d get people talking to me saying they’d listened to my record on their own in their bedroom, while eating ice cream and crying, or that they’d listened to my record after they’d broken up with a partner, so it was a very melancholic album.” “I learned I need to give people some fun here and there. I am not a hugely depressed person, I like to have fun and the melancholy doesn’t reflect who I am. Sometimes, it’s just good to sing about stuff that’s pointless. Talk Dirty by Jason Derulo is not a song that comes from a lot of heartbreak or upset, but it is a great pop song, and I want to do that too.” Despite the success of his first bona fide pop song, he still doesn’t see himself as a pop singer, however much he’d like to be “I really want to be in that world, among those big pop singers,” he says, referring to the likes of his friends Taylor Swift and Pharrell Williams. I think I am placed in that world when it comes to award shows and things, but I don’t get mentioned

in the same sentence as those stars when it comes to music.” If he’s not seen as a pop singer yet - he’s more your little brother’s scruffy mate who plays the guitar - it won’t be long. So far, x is the fastest-selling album in the UK this year, having sold 180,000 copies during its first week, beating Coldplay’s Ghost Stories, which had previously held the record, by around 15,000 copies. “Yeah, but,” counters Sheeran, “that Coldplay album is the only one they’ve not really promoted, so they could still beat me if they wanted.” His grasp of the way records sell is second to none, and some might accuse him of careerism. It’s simply not the done thing for an artist to admit they’re so acutely aware of how their music is selling, or how many tickets have sold for a forthcoming tour. Of course, Sheeran’s not really an exception here - almost every artist is just as aware of this stuff as he is, he just talks about it in interviews, while they feign ignorance. After the UK leg of his tour, he’s off around the world again, due to finish up next August, when he plans to take a break and write some more songs. “This is the first tour I’ve ever done where I set off on one date and know when I’m going to finish. All my other tours have started, and then 30-date tours in other countries keep getting added as we go along,” says Sheeran. “This time, it’s structured, and if there’s one thing I’ve been lacking for the past few years, it’s structure.”

NOVEMBER 2014 THE UNIVERSITY

WHAT’S ON

The BEST nights this Freshers week & throughout the month

THIS MONTH MONDAY 20TH OCTOBER

● Monday madness @ MAC’s ● Social @ Cameo & Vinyl ● Beans @ Mokai

● Vodka House @ Rift & Co. ● Bed @ Mokai ● Xentrix Gig @ 53 Degrees

WEDNESDAY 29TH OCTOBER

● Epik! @ Evoque ● Open Mic @ The Ferret ● Student night @ MAC’s

SATURDAY 25TH OCTOBER TUESDAY 21ST OCTOBER

● Karaoke Cocktails @ Source ● Student @ Warehouse ● Treble Tuesdays @ Mokai ● Quiz Night @ The Ferret ● Open Mic @ Korova WEDNESDAY 22ND OCTOBER

● Kristian Narin @Evoque ● The Sunshine Underground @ 53 Degrees ● Open Mic @ The Ferret ● Student night @ MAC’s THURSDAY 23RD OCTOBER

● Pound Party @ MAC’s ● Loveshack @ Baluga ● Last Band Standing Round #1 @ The Ferret ● Big Beat Thursdays @ Evoque ● Hawklords Gig @ 53 Degrees FRIDAY 24TH OCTOBER

● Alibi Fridays @ Evoque ● Fave Fridays @ MAC’s

● Preston Comic Con @ The Guild Hall ● The Subways gig @ 53 ● New York Tourists Gig @ The Ferret

Warehouse ● Treble Tuesdays @ Mokai ● Quiz Night @ The Ferret ● Open Mic @ Korova WEDNESDAY 5TH NOVEMBER

THURSDAY 30TH OCTOBER

● Ghoolies @ MAC’s ● Loveshack @ Baluga ● Big Beat @ Evoque

● Bonfire Night Party @ Evoque ● Open Mic @ The Ferret ● Student night @ MAC’s

THURSDAY 6TH NOVEMBER SUNDAY 26TH OCTOBER

● Turin Brakes Gig @ 53 Degrees MONDAY 27TH OCTOBER

● Little Comets Gig @ 53 Degrees ● Halloween Social @ Cameo & Vinyl ● Monday Madness @ MAC’s ● Beans @ Mokai

FRIDAY 31ST OCTOBER

● CarnEVIL @ MAC’s ● Scarefest @ Evoque SATURDAY 1ST NOVEMBER

● Blood Lips, Sweet Deals on Surgery Gig @ The Ferret SUNDAY 2ND NOVEMBER

● Jon Richardson Live @ The Guild Hall

TUESDAY 28TH OCTOBER

● Karaoke Cocktails @ Source ● Warehouse Tuesdays @ Warehouse ● Treble Tuesdays @ Mokai ● Quiz Night @ The Ferret ● Open Mic @ Korova

● Big Beat Thursdays @ Evoque ● Last Band Standing Round #2 @ The Ferret ● Pound Party @ MACs ● Loveshack @ Baluga FRIDAY 7TH NOVEMBER

● Frog & Bucket Comedy Night @ The Guild Hall ● Alibi Fridays @ Evoque ● Fave Fridays @ MAC’s ● Vodka House @ Rift & Co. SATURDAY 8TH NOVEMBER

MONDAY 3RD NOVEMBER

● Beans @ Mokai ● Social @ Cameo & Vinyl ● Monday Madness @ MACs

● BBC Radio Lancashire Introducing ft. The Hyena Kill & Fighting Bears @ The Ferret MONDAY 10TH NOVEMBER

TUESDAY 4TH NOVEMBER

● Karaoke Cocktails @ Source ●Warehouse Tuesdays @

● Social @ Cameo & Vinyl ● Beans @ Mokai ● Monday Madness @ MACs

TUESDAY 11TH NOVEMBER

● Karaoke Cocktails @ Source ● Warehouse Tuesdays @ Warehouse ● Treble Tuesdays @ Mokai ● Quiz Night @ The Ferret ● Open Mic @ Korova WEDNESDAY 12TH NOVEMBER

● Toga Party @ Evoque ● Open Mic @ The Ferret THURSDAY 13TH NOVEMBER

● Big Beat Thursdays @ Evoque ● Last Band Standing Round #3 @ The Ferret ● Pound Party @ MACs ● Loveshack @ Baluga

SUNDAY 16TH NOVEMBER

● King Champion Sounds @ The Ferretz MONDAY 17TH NOVEMBER

● Beans @ Mokai ● Social @ Cameo & Vinyl ● Monday Madness @ MACs TUESDAY 18TH NOVEMBER

● Karaoke Cocktails @ Source ● Warehouse Tuesdays @ Warehouse ● Treble Tuesdays @ Mokai ● Quiz Night @ The Ferret ● Open Mic @ Korova WENESDAY 19TH NOVEMBER

FRIDAY 14TH NOVEMBER

● Aynsley Lister Gig @ 53 Degrees ● Alibi Fridays @ Evoque ● Fave Fridays @ MAC’s ● Vodka House @ Rift & Co. ● Bed @ Mokai SATURDAY 15TH NOVEMBER

● Evening Of Burlesque @ Charter Theatre ● The Doors Alive Gig @ 53 Degrees

● FRAT Party @ Evoque

THURSSDAY 20TH NOVEMBER

● Big Beat Thursdays @ Evoque ● Pound Party @ MACs ● Loveshack @ Baluga

THE UNIVERSITY NOVEMBER 2014

FOR THE LATEST ENTERTAINMENT NEWS:

Get the party started!!

www.unipaper.co.uk www.facebook.com/theunipaper www.twitter.com/theunipaper

FIND US ONLINE

AND IN LOCAL NEWS:

PRESTON’S FIRST COMIC CON JERRY SWIATEK PRESTON’S FIRST Comic Con begins on the 25th October, at the Guild Hall, with doors opening from 10.30am. WWE star Mason Ryan will be amongst a wide range of TV and film stars from shows like Game of Thrones and Doctor Who. Comic artists and writers from Marvel, DC and 2000ad will also be appearing. As well as the special guests, there will also be 40 stalls selling everything from collectibles right down to cupcakes and t-shirts. The event, organised by part of the team behind the annual Star Wars Fan Fun Day in Burnley, looks set to be a success and is likely to become an annual event.

KOROVA’S KOSMIC OPEN MIC @ KOROVA ARTS CAFÉ - TOM KONSTANTYNOWICZ ‘DO YOU know what this place reminds me of? One of them Amsterdam coffee shops’, overheard from a table nearby just before Korova Arts Café’s open mic night is due to start. They’re not far wrong, it has the aura of an ambient café from one of Europe’s hipster areas, picked up and placed in the slightly less trendy centre of Preston. In a town dominated by the bright lights of student nights and two for one drinks offers it sticks out like a sore thumb while simultaneously blending in almost

anonymously just off the main high street, catering for the emergent local arts scene. On open mic night anything goes, musicians, comedians, poets and whoever can take to a makeshift area where a few tables and chairs have been pushed and piled to one side making way for a microphone stand and speaker. The audience watch from wherever there’s a space, on a couch tucked in the corner or leaning in an archway. Host for the evening Olly Taylor is a genuine talent and there are other shining lights too within the quick flowing, ‘three songs each’ format. Unfortunately tonight the variety is limited to acoustic guitar and one pianist but manager Sam Buist assures that this is odd.

More people are drinking lattes and green tea than alcohol, although the bar has a good selection of obscure craft beer and cider from local breweries, there’s a real local community, living room vibe. It’s more jamming session round at a mates’ house than city centre music show. Arty cliques can be among the most intimidating and inaccessible for people who fear they don’t belong there, or aren’t quite cool enough, which is maybe why places like Korova have failed to reach out to the students of Preston in any real mass, but if you fancy an alternative to a night in the Student Union, you’ll be guaranteed a warm welcome here, plus some great, diverse acts.

NOVEMBER 2014

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

YOU AND THREE OF YOUR MATES COULD BE HEADING TO AMSTERDAM FOR VALHALLA FESTIVAL SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

FOLLOWING TWO SOLD OUT FESTIVALS, VALHALLA IS RETURNING ON DECEMBER 20TH FOR AN EVENING OF ACROBATICS, CLOWNING, FREAK AND PEEP SHOWS TO WIN FOUR FESTIVAL - NOT TO MENTION TICKETS SIMPLY EMAIL LIVE SHOWS FROM YOUR NAME, UNIVERSITY JORIS VOORN, KOLSCH, AND YEAR OF STUDENT BODDIKA, AMINE EDGE TO WIN@UNIPAPER.CO.UK AND DANCE. ENTRIES CLOSE ON DECEMBER 12TH GOOD LUCK!

VALHALLAFESTIVAL.NL

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

NOVEMBER 2014

11 Need a little something to spice up your pre-party? Check out Mindbenders

» MINDBENDERS ON PAGE 28

THE UNIVERSITY OCTOBER 2014

BY PHIL HAMILTON

PICTURES: BANG SHOWBIZ AGENCY

NUDE PHOTOS OF KELLY BROOK have been leaked online

The 26-year-old model - who recently split from her ﬁancé David McIntosh - is the latest star to have intimate images of herself, which include her lying naked on a bed, posted online and she is said to be “very upset” about the leak.

A FRIEND of Kelly told The Sun newspaper: “She is naturally very upset. “She may have profited from images of her body in the past, but these were private images pumped out to the world. She’s horrified.” The brunette beauty was previously named in a list of celebrities whose private photos had been targeted by online hackers - which is also said to have included stars Jennifer Lawrence, Kim Kardashian and Kate Upton - but denied the existence of the stolen images. She said at the time: “The only nude photos that you’ll ever see of me are the ones that I ‘leak’. And the ones that my head are superimposed on.” Fellow victim Jennifer Lawrence - who was targeted for the second time last month when trolls released a further 55 x-rated images of the star on websites 4Chan and Reddit has spoken out for the first time following the scandal and has defended her decision to take the nude shots. She said: “Just because I’m an actress does not mean I asked for this. I was in a loving healthy relationship for four years. It was long distance and either your boyfriend is going to look at porn or he’s going to look at you.”

Ed Sheeran listens to Britney Spears and N-Dubz’s greatest hits albums when cooking. THE FLAME-HAIRED singer likes to rustle up his own meals when he is not busy touring the globe and he can’t get enough of the 32-yearold singer’s successful songs because he is a “big fan” of both her and the pop trio. He said: “I’m a big Britney fan! I’ve actually got her greatest hits, I cook to it. I cook to Britney’s greatest hits and N-Dubz’s greatest hits - what does that say about me? Seriously, I’m not joking.” Ed also admitted he would love to write a song for Britney one day but insists it would resemble her slow song ‘Everytime’ rather than her more fast-paced eﬀort ‘Work Bitch’. He added: “She’s had consistent hits for a while but I wouldn’t write ‘Work Bitch’. It’d be something a bit more like ‘Everytime’. Remember that one?” When Ed isn’t penning tracks for pop superstars he could be found performing at his fans’ weddings after he accepted a supporter’s

PROFESSOR GREEN SLAPS CONCERTGOER PROFESSOR GREEN slapped a concertgoer on Friday night (03.10.14). The 30-year-old rapper was caught on camera getting into a scuﬄe in the middle of his gig at Durham University’s Student Union Welcome Ball after a member of the audience shouted abuse at him. However, the scrap didn’t last for very long as the ‘Remedy’ hitmaker - whose real name is Stephen Manderson - returned to the centre of the stage to explain why he ended up swinging his arms at a fan. He told the audience: “That’s what happens when you call me a c**t. Are we going to have a f***ing good time tonight or what?” A representative for Pro Green, who is

married to reality TV star Mille Mackintosh, conﬁrmed that the star had got into an altercation with a fan during his set and the student was later escorted oﬀ the premises. The spokesperson told the Daily Mirror newspaper: “During Professor Green’s live show at Durham University on Friday night, a student verbally abused Green repeatedly and then went to strike him. Green reacted. The student was subsequently escorted out from the venue for being too drunk. Green carried on the show to perform his full set.” Pro Green then appeared to reference the aggressive situation on Twitter after the show but later deleted the post from his social networking site.

JENNIFER LAWRENCE SAYS SHE FELT SEXUALLY VIOLATED AFTER HER NUDE PHOTOGRAPHS WERE LEAKED ONLINE.

invitation to perform at her nuptials in February 2016. After being asked by the lucky fan at an #AmazonFrontRow Q&A in central London yesterday (30.09.14) whether he would play on her big day, he replied: “That’s actually a possibility because I’ve got nothing booked in February 2016. It’s not on my birthday either. “We should talk. Do you have a card? Give me your work card. I’ll drop you a line. If I’m not working then it’ll be cool.” Ed Sheeran performed live for customers at the #AmazonFrontRow event at the Amazon London oﬃce roof top. For more information on Amazon Music visit www.amazon.co.uk/music

The 24-year-old actress, who is dating Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, admits she was very upset and angry after hackers stole dozens of private images from her iCloud account and posted them on websites in late August. The Oscar winner told Vanity Fair magazine: “It is not a scandal. It is a sex crime. It is a sexual violation. It’s disgusting. The law needs to be changed, and we need to change.” The ‘Hunger Games’ star also hit back at critics for suggesting she shouldn’t have taken or stored the intimate images in the first place, insisting they were only meant to be seen by her ex-boyfriend Nicholas Hoult, whom she split from earlier this year. She said: “I was in a loving, healthy, great relationship for four years. It was long distance, and either your boyfriend is going to look at porn or he’s going to look at you.” The blonde beauty initially planned to apologise for the photographs because she was worried about her career. But she said: “Every single thing that I tried to write made me cry or get angry. I started to write an apology, but I don’t have anything to say I’m sorry for. Just the fact that somebody can be sexually exploited and violated, and the first thought that crosses somebody’s mind is to make a profit from it. It’s so beyond me.” She added: “Just because I’m a public figure, just because I’m an actress, does not mean that I asked for this. “It does not mean that it comes with the territory. It’s my body, and it should be my choice, and the fact that it is not my choice is absolutely disgusting. I can’t believe that we even live in that kind of world.”

NOVEMBER 2014

MUSIC LITTLE

SIMZ LAURA RAPHAEL

ALREADY A hip hop heavy weight, there is definitely nothing pint size about Little Simz. Having been picked up at the tender age of 16 by Radio 1Xtra’s DJ Semtex, she has gone onto receive critical acclaim from superstars such as Jay-Z, headline a gig in Times Square, not to mention she has just been nominated for two MOBO awards. The MC honed her craft at St Mary’s Youth Club in Islington, alumni to stars such as Alexandra Burke, and if 2014 is anything to go by Little Simz will be another name to add to the roll call. So remember you heard about her in The University Paper first.

LIFE OF THE PARTY? ALWAYS OUT AND ABOUT? Did you catch up with our snappers? Check out pages 10 and 11 to see if you made the cut.

2014 has been quite the year with the release of E.D.G.E and your Madia Vale session with Huw Stephens, how has it been for you? I didn’t expect for my EP to do that well which is always good to exceed your expectations. And to be like the first unsigned rapper to do Madia Vale is a good achievement in my eyes. Huw has heavily championed me throughout the year so for him to give me that opportunity was crazy. How was it playing the BBC 1Xtra stage at Reading and Leeds this summer? I felt it was inevitable that it would happen but when it actually did I was like “shit this a surreal” but it was sick and hopefully I can do Glastonbury and Wireless next. I was actually meant to play Glastonbury this year, but I was in New York and our flight got oversold so we were stuck in the airport. I felt like it happened for a reason, I don’t think I was supposed to play this year, but at the time I was so annoyed. You have received a lot of underground acclaim through SoundCloud, that and for recording in your bedroom, do you prefer the stripped back approach? Where I am not signed everything has to be done myself and it is hard to get a big push especially releasing music, there are only so many outlets. It is not conscious decision, it is just me having freedom for now.

me a lot, but I have comes to terms with it now. There isn’t an easy way to describe it, but I feel that this is bigger than me being a female or even a rapper. I want to be an entrepreneur and a humanitarian and I hope music is going to take me to those place in life. Considering you are only 20, how does it feel having been championed by the likes of Zane Lowe? I feel like I have a long way to go. I’m studying Music Technology Specialist in West London and learning how to balance things. I was thinking of dropping out because the last year has been so crazy. But I want to challenge myself, to break barriers and prove that it is possible to have a degree and be unsigned, instead of say having a particular look. What’s next for Little Simz? I am going to be working on new tracks and doing a collaborative project that I can’t name just yet, but it is going to be exciting. But right now? I am just trying live to be honest. I have done a lot musically, there was a point where I was writing everyday and it was getting repetitive as I was talking about the same things. So I am just trying to be 20 and live this uni life and be me in order to have more to write about.

Have you been approached by any labels yet? I have been approached by everyone, but I don’t feel like I want to be signed right now. I’m in no particular rush or eager for a deal. I would like to more business minded before signing away a lot of my power, especially when I am an up and coming artist. I feel like I have worked too hard to hand my music over to a group of executives, they need to understand me, my music and my vision first. What is it like being a female rapper? I’ve tried not to let that phase me and look at myself as an artist regardless of gender or age that instantly categorises me. It used to bother

How to become a hipster in 400 words

PICTURES:OLI POULTER

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

OLI POULTER

THE RISE of hipster culture seems to have emerged through the amalgamation of the nerd and the suburban street wise kid, giving birth to this cross hybrid contradiction. After the drug crazed intensity of the rock and roll era, it now seems to be classed as cool to use big words like ‘idiosyncratic’ and talk about Avant guarde films with apparent ‘deeper symbolic meanings’. We’ve been observing these fascinating creatures and have come up with a few simple steps to show you how to jump on the bandwagon and become as edgy as ever. A fixed gear bike is key to any kind of success in the hipster arena. Weird wacky colored wheels are only the start of your newly found creative lifestyle. Fixies are limited to 1 gear only and are commonly ridden without brakes, to slow down you must reduce your pedal rate. You can design your own fixie with infinite combinations of crazy colors at http://www. mangobikes.co.uk.

Music is a large part of anyone’s life and when it comes to embarking on your new expressive lifestyle, weird music is a must. Your ITunes must be packed to the brim with undiscovered tunes comprising of odd distorted bass lines and un-quantised beat loops that no one really enjoys to listen to let alone dance to. It’s real easy to let yourself go and dance to Jason Derulo in Forum on a Friday night, but we suggest you maintain your hipster front by seeming unimpressed and make a request to the disc jockey for some unknown music group that may not even exist. Check out the boiler room for some outstanding role models in the hipster music scene. When it comes to clothing anything goes. From bomber jackets with deliberately tasteless color schemes to ridiculously long silk shirts, it’s all good stuff as far as the hipster assemblage are concerned, just make sure the clothes you buy are vintage to really enhance the bohemian theme you’re looking for. Be

sure to check out Wavey Garms on Facebook for more ideas. Finally on to the gratuitous additions. From the research we’ve undertaken it seems compulsory to wear some kind of overbearingly big glasses whether you need them or not. Facial

hair for the guys is optional, but we think it really adds that edge. Unfortunately the plight of the dreaded top knot still seems to have a firm grip upon the hipster community but we advise against it, quite frankly it looks like a cry for help.

NOVEMBER 2014

TECHNOLOGIC PHIL HAMILTON

TECHNOLOGY EDITOR

GADGETS

GRILLING MACHINES

GAMES

MOBILES

COMPUTERS

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

TABLETS

APPS

BEAT YOUR MEAT

Remember George Foreman? Here are two of the best machines out there giving the boxer’s grill a hiding.

REVIEWS BREVILLE HALO+ HEALTH FRYER RRP: £169.99

I CAN remember a time when most households in Britain had a deep fat fryer. What could be better of an evening than crispy chips and fried sausages all cooked in the same pan of oil which could catch fire at any moment and burn down the house in minutes? Then the health police told us it was bad for our hearts and arteries and everyone got rid. Now I have the Halo+ Fryer in my life, the fryer for the “health conscious”. You only need to use half a tablespoonful of oil to cook 1kg of chips in this one. And if you have any doubts that they won’t come out delicious, think again. My first attempt produced a plate of golden brown, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the

TEFAL OPTIGRILL BLACK DO YOU like eating mouth-watering steak but don’t have the energy or will to turn it over mid-cooking? Do you like chicken but don’t have the attention span to watch it to make sure it’s cooked and won’t give you salmonella poisoning? Do you enjoy the delicious taste of lamb chops but can’t be bothered to fry them in a pan? Well now you don’t have to with the Tefal OptiGrill Black. It is the Rolls-Royce of grills, making the George Foreman grill look like a Robin Reliant. Everything about it is automated. Plug it in, choose the type of meat you’re cooking and then wait for it to heat up. Once it’s ready, slap your meat on and the grill’s in-built technology automatically measures its thickness and starts cooking it, both sides. The LED display tells you what stage it’s cooked at (with rare, medium and well done settings) and an alarm goes off at each of those. I tried an aged rib eye steak on it and it

RRP: £149.99

“IT IS THE ROLLS ROYCE OF GRILLS, MAKING FOREMAN’S KIT LOOK LIKE A ROBIN RELIANT” was seared, juicy and took less than five minutes to cook. This is a top bit of kit that sorts out all your meat needs and gets it to the plate without you having to do much actual cooking. Luckily for your wife, girlfriend, significant other it still needs cleaning so they’re not redundant just yet (I know - ho, ho, ho.) Available exclusively at Argos.

HEALTH GIZMO OF THE MONTH

BREVILLE BLEND-ACTIVE NO-ONE will ever accuse me of being a regular gym goer, cycling enthusiast, ardent jogger, yoga stretcher or a follower of any currently popular fitness fad. Rest assured I’m not turning into some huge lump of lard like Katie Hopkins. I still regularly drag my body round the football pitch and then complete my workout with a couple of nutritious pints. For those of you who do partake in regular sports, I’m assured the Breville Blend Active is perfect.

inside potato goodness. Just add the salt and pepper and ketchup and you’re away. I haven’t tried making Crème Brulee in it – the manufacturers say you can – but I did cook sausages, chicken and battered fish in it and it was top notch. The parts can go in the dishwasher and there’s grill and roasting options. Yeah, it’s a bit pricey but is well worth it. And for the cash you can fry a whole meal in one again, with much less chance of torching your gaff.

Like all good gadgets the beauty of the Blend Active is in its simplicity and practicality. Before this bit of kit you had to make up your protein shake and then pour it in your sports bottle. What a pain in the arse eh? With this product the sports bottle is the blender chamber – you pop on the blade cap, put on the base unit and blend your drink. Take it off and replace with the drinking cap and you’re ready to head to the gym with your refreshment in hand.

RRP: £25 If you’re not a fitness freak you can use it to make a fruit smoothie for the train in the mornings, or an iced coffee, or a milkshake. You get the picture – it blends stuff and you take it with you. I still prefer to just pay £2 for a ready blended drink before I squeeze myself onto the packed Tube with a bunch of ‘hipsters’ whose religions are obvious through their skinny jeans. But that’s just me. I have more spare cash these days because I don’t actually pay for these gadgets.

EVERY YEAR that gets us fuelled Geor This is bas of the legend It’s been g original Sega of British kid smashing sp Despite ne or live – alth during a grid – I’ve always This latest The graph commentato realistic and next-genera Its biggest since the las defensive pl when your te you’re encou tackling. I re order to sack

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

NOVEMBER 2014

TRANSFORMERS

TOASTIE MAKERS

HEADPHONES

SPEAKERS

GAMES

LAPTOPS

NIGHT VISION GOGGLES

DRONES

VUVUZELAS

REVIEW: DIABLO III: ULTIMATE EVIL EDITION

SO IT’S finally made it to consoles. Blizzard have brought Diablo III to those of us who mainly use PCs for work... and other extra-curricular pursuits of course. The good thing about playing on a console is multiplayer is much better. And the thing practically everyone loves about Diablo is it involves exploring, crafting and killing together - or killing each other. The game is addictive with friends (if you have any.)Unless your improvisation skills are great you will get bored playing alone. Without friends the game feels like repetitive button smashing to

hack’n’slash and that isn’t always enough. But with friends in the co-player modes it comes alive and you start feeling like a true basher-smasher-lasher-dasher killing machine. The graphics are nothing to shout about. They keep the look of the series but you’d think on a nextgen console Blizzard would at least brighten its different worlds and improve the artwork. Unfortunately it is dull and boring and the best thing about the artwork is the crows that decide to sit on the lamps, because, well, I like crows. Problem? However, at the beginning the intro is surprisingly amazing, the faces look real, the people act real, it feels real and I’m disappointed they couldn’t achieve that in-game. I’m torn about Diablo III. The main character is unappealing and hard to understand. The storyline is very linear; the plot is dull and could do with a more interesting twist. In summary, this edition is only made for multi-player.

PREVIEW: ALIEN ISOLATION

“YOU’VE ALREADY PAID £44.99 FOR THE GAME. WHY SHOULD I HAVE TO PAY FOR A GAME-PLAY OPTION TOO? IT ANGERS ME ME”

REVIEW OF THE MONTH MADDEN NFL 15 EVERY YEAR the FIFA franchise gets an update that gets us more excited than a vodka/Red Bullfuelled Geordie in a tanning salon. This is basically the American football version of the legendary soccer title. It’s been going strong since 1990 and the original Sega Mega Drive introduced a lot of British kids (including me) to the bonesmashing sport of the NFL. Despite never being a fan of NFL either on TV or live – although the beer and snacks they serve during a gridiron marathon numbs the boredom – I’ve always been a big fan of the Madden games. This latest edition doesn’t disappoint. The graphics are brilliant. Players, commentators and coaches all look ultrarealistic and we’re now starting to see what these next-generation consoles are really capable of. Its biggest improvement gameplay- wise since the last edition (Madden NFL 25) is in the defensive play. Before, you felt like an onlooker when your team was defending, but in this game you’re encouraged to get fully involved in the tackling. I recommend you use the Hit Stick in order to sack a quarterback in the same way a

school bully crushes a nerd. Offensive play has been tweaked for the better. Your runners speed through the opposition defence like a fatty running for a finger buffet and when you’re passing as the quarterback you’ve got more options than a customised Domino’s pizza. Purists will complain there are too many interceptions and all those NFL intricacies which hold up play. But Madden NFL has always eradicated some of the more boring aspects of the real sport (how many fucking time-outs do they really need?) in order to make a video game that is more fun and has plenty of flow. There are loads of game modes including Connected Franchise where you get to choose to be a player, coach or owner to try and take your team (it’s got to be the Miami Dolphins for me) to Super Bowl glory. The Ultimate Team option is great but you have to pay extra for it. You’ve already paid £44.99 to play the bastard game! So it makes me angry you have to pay extra for a gameplay option. It’s still a must-have for gaming American football fans.

THIS IS the game I’m most excited about getting my hands on this year. It’s just you – as Amanda Ripley, the daughter of Sigourney Weaver’s character Ellen Ripley from the 1979 Alien film – with one of the alien creatures (known as a Xenomorph to movie gimps) and you’re determination to find out what happened to your hard-arsed mum. It’s a survival horror and you only get a tracker and whatever you can get your hands on to protect yourself. The game is set in 2137, 15 years after the events of Alien. It sees Amanda flown to the space station Sevastopol to find the flight recorder of Nostromo, but an alien is already there. It’s your job to find out what happened to your mother and the people who were living on the space station – which has been painstakingly recreated in the

style of Ridley Scott and late surrealist artist H. R. Giger’s work on the original movie.\ From what I’ve seen of the title there’s a lot of detective work to do all while trying to avoid attracting the attention of the Xenomorph – which is set to be one of the most intelligent AI characters in video game history if it lives up to Sega’s hype. I cannot wait for this game. Alien is my favourite film of all time, survival horror is my favourite video game genre and this title puts you firmly in those two settings. I really, really, really don’t want this game to be shit. Next issue we’ll know.

Coming soon for PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4, Xbox One and Xbox 360.

KNOW THE INSIDE

DO YOU

T R AC K O N

CAMPUS?

IF SO THE UNIVERSITY PAPER WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU. We are scouring the UK for student journalists, so whether you are looking for work experience or simply spending too much time in the SU, get in touch today. We are on the look out for opinion leaders and change makers who can write engaging copy. Your pieces will be printed in The University Paper which is read by thousands of students across the UK and you will get that all important byline - perfect if you are looking to build a portfolio. Not to mention that age old adage, it will look great on the CV. So if you would like to be an influential voice for the student community or just have a strong front page tell us what is going on - pitch your ideas to The University Paper, email: editor@unipaper.co.uk

THE UNIVERSITY OCTOBER 2014

CURRENT

» CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER

DID FRESHERS LIVE UP TO ITS EXPECTATIONS? “It wasn’t was very clear, it resulted in a more widely spread and extremely confusing freshers.” With a jam packed two weeks of different events and massive themes, a whole bunch of celebrity guests including Made in Chelsea’s Spencer & Binky, TOWIE’s Dan Osborne and Basshunter, expectations of this year’s freshers were huge. For some people, the expectations were definitely exceeded: “I loved it. Literally the best time of my life.” Said Alice Wherrett, a first year student who lives at IQ Preston. Another student, Kirsty Watt, had a more

balanced view on freshers; “I had better expectations. I felt it was tame. The events started to lose steam. We stayed until the club kicked us out but others weren’t so committed. The promoters built it up. It was oversold. I got in quick and got a wristband, which paid for itself but just about.” “I didn’t really rate it to be honest, I just didn’t make much of the events. I bought a wristband and hardly used it.” This was second year, Fashion Promotion student, Molly Roberts’ opinion on the fortnight. One thing is for sure, students were definitely spoilt for choice this year, as there were two wristbands to choose from. It only seems natural, considering that we have two weeks of continuous events that it would steadily decline in popularity, as more and more people succumb to illness or fatigue. Yet, with the vast variety of students coming to university, it remains a fact that the expectations will stay the same, only what you make of it changes.

» CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER

HALLAM STUDENT DODGES DEATH TWICE She turned around to see her photogenic landscape transformed into one of instant threat, as a rock fall began hurtling towards the group. “The rocks came flying down and started bouncing up over the side of the glacier. Big boulders, the size of a small car, started coming over. The guide shouted, “run!” I didn’t know where I was going to be running to, because there was nothing to hide behind. “Knowing it was coming after us … we were just running away from what could potentially hit us, obviously when there’s rocks the size of dinner tables flying through the air there’s no way you can outrun that.” Morley slowly struggled to escape due to icy conditions up on the glacier. Slipping on the ice, an embarrassing but minor incident for most during the winter, could have been perilous in her situation. Thankfully the guide quickly grabbed her and hurled her away from the impending boulders. They both took cover at the edge of the helipad, which was dipped in and allowed the rocks to fly over them. “I wouldn’t say the first rock fall went over a minute, but it seemed like an eternity when it

was happening, watching things fly past us”, said Morley. When the first rock fall ended Morley and the other climbers slowly made their way onto the helipad, checking themselves over for injuries whilst waiting for a helicopter to make its way to them. Unfortunately, just as they were about to board the helicopter, disaster struck a second time. “Me and the guys were pretty much almost there, just underneath the propellers, but we saw the helicopter pilot pull a funny facial expression and he flew off again.” A second, smaller but equally dangerous rock fall began, forcing the helicopter to flee without the climbers. Once again Morley was in imminent danger and jumped into survival mode. They found shelter in the same helipad edge, which had saved them the first time. Miraculously they escaped yet another terrifying ordeal unscathed. Thankfully for Morley and her group, the helicopter arrived soon after. They all frantically jumped into the helicopter, urging it to fly away quickly. Morley commented: “as we left, the pilot flew over where the rock fall originally came from,

and we could see a massive chunk out of the top of the cliff. We then had a rather thankful journey back to base.” Even after such an extreme incident, Morley’s appetite for climbing and other adrenaline-inducing sports is still strong: “I actually want to get out more to climb, because I will not be defeated by a bit of rock! “I do get a bit more cautious when I’m climbing on a flake, or a chockstone that’s a bit wobbly, and I was in the Lake District last week going through Hardknott Pass, there’s been so many rock falls there, there’s just boulder fields. “The experience has made me more aware, but other than that I just want to go out more and more.” The incident has even inspired her degree choices and future career interests. She has recently swapped an elective module on Conservation to one about Natural Hazards, wanting to find out more about the significance of natural dangers in tourism and sports. “Following the rock fall I realised I know nothing about natural hazards or mitigating them. It’ll be part of my future career prospects hopefully.”

NOVEMBER 2014 THE UNIVERSITY

Fashion

Whether you want to dress up or down, we’ve picked the top ten buys for guys and girls out this month. From cosy faux fur and parkas to striking sequins and suits, make this your shopping tick list.

n e m o W

FURBULOUS

ANIMAL PRINT

Wrap up in a little bit of luxury with this faux fur coat.

These leopard print block heeled boots are the perfect day to night number.

£89.99, ZARA

SHOWPIECE

Julian MacDonald gives the pencil skirt some of his signature sparkle.

£149, M&S

£40, DEBENHAMS

STATEMENT SLACKS Beautiful winter florals with a splash of this season’s teal.

POWER PRINT

This geo print pelmet skirt packs a stylish punch.

£28, DOROTHY PERKINS

£36, TOPSHOP

JUICY JEWELS

Add these colourful gems to upgrade any outfit.

£17.99, NEW LOOK

CUFF IT

This pretty Perspex number is part of Accessorize’s Christmas collection.

£12, ACCESSORIZE

HAT TRICK

Top off your winter look with a floppy felt hat.

PETAL POWER

Daisy print + navy + ruffles = the perfect playsuit

£46, TOPSHOP

£8, PRIMARK

PRETTY KNITS

We love the floral detail on this charcoal sweater

£69, MONSOON

THE UNIVERSITY NOVEMBER 2014

N E M BUCKLE UP

This smart backpack in grey will go with any outfit.

TOP TEE

Idle Man has collaborated with streetwear label Hype resulting in this exclusive range.

£69.99, H.E AT MANGO

£25, HYPE X AT IDLE MAN

BUTTON UP

This cosy parka will keep you warm and look good while it does it.

SEEING SPOTS

£65, NEXT

Forget winter brights, statement prints are the way to get spotted this season.

£28, RIVER ISLAND

BLACK AND BLUE

Be bold and put some animal in to your outfit.

WINTER WOOLIES

£79, REISS

This bright beanie hat will keep you toasty.

£12, NEXT

SUITED & BOOTED

A simple, no frills suit to smarten up your party season look.

JACKET £79, BURTON TROUSERS £40, BURTON

CHECK MATE

This style staple will look great under 6 and 7.

£16.99, BLUE INC

FANCY FEET

Pull on these bargain Chelsea boots for an instant feel/look good factor.

£29.99, NEW LOOK

ADVICE

NOVEMBER 2014

NO-NONSENSE ADVICE THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

A word of advice

Know when to quit

BY THIS point, you’ve almost certainly had all sorts of people ambushing you about how to make the most out of university. Interested in your course? Become an academic rep. Student journalist? Get work experience, and write for as many places as possible. Human being? Join a society filled with other human beings who may or may not share interests with you. There’s some truth in the phrase that university is what you make of it. But it’s a big commitment that costs nine thousand pounds - with the cost of living added to that - and graduate employers aren’t just going to disregard you because you didn’t join four sports clubs and a

tea appreciation society. If universities offered nothing more than your local sports centre or church hall, there wouldn’t be any point going. So it is, then, that you need to know when to quit. Yeah, nobody likes a quitter - but you’re more likely to find a job at the end of your degree if you’ve done one thing and you’ve done it well. By all means, join all the societies you want, but unless you want to become an all-singing alldancing Swiss Army Knife of a person, know when to say: “I’ve done enough to be proud of myself.” That’s all anybody can ask for, and anybody who wants more isn’t worth it.

you can do to make yourself easier to live with Hey, we’re all guilty of this. But if you’re a big fan of neo-classical folk rock or melodic doom metal, there’s a smidge of a chance that people in your household won’t share your enthusiasm. Start quiet and slowly turn the music up as the days go by, rather than starting loud and waiting for them to complain.

Come on, we’re adults. You probably know this one. But I lived with a guy who would use all his stuff, refuse to wash it, and then start using everybody else’s. He was about as popular as diarrhea, and almost as inconvenient. Don’t back up the sink with plates that have last week’s food on it, as it’s only going to make everybody’s life harder - especially your own, if you have to scratch dried leftovers off a plate with a fork.

3 4. PAY THE BILLS, ON TIME

Compared to the other things on this list which are just conveniences, this one is essential as not doing so might land you in court. If you leave your housemates in the lurch, you can damage their credit rating (or your own), and you’re not going to avoid paying the cash - so pony up sooner rather than later. That goes for damage, too. Don’t be the guy who sets a fire extinguisher off and makes the whole flat pay for it. Nobody likes that guy.

STUDY ESSENTIALS

Feeling productive? With the right equipment, you can always get more out of your time. Try the following if you need a little something extra

2. DO THE WASHING UP. NOW.

Do the cows a favour: buy 4 pints for the house rather than a pint each. It’s more economic in terms of space, and certainly more cost effective. And that goes for more than just milk - share pasta, rice, and even toasters and other general equipment. If you’ve got multiple smoothie machines in your house, you’re either working for innocent or you’ve got too many.

1. KEEP THE MUSIC DOWN

3. SHARE!

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

A GOOD CALENDAR APP ON YOUR SMARTPHONE.

GUM.

Google Calendar is great and even syncs across multiple devices, so you can always stay on schedule. The reminders are fantastic, too!

Yes, it’s the bane of every cleaner’s life. But chewing (“mastication,” for those inclined towards funny sounding words) has been shown to improve learning and your ability to recall details. Just don’t stick it under the desk!

USB STICK KEYCHAIN.

Always be able to say “yes” if someone asks if you have a memory stick by attaching one to something you can’t leave home without: your keys.

A VACUUM FLASK.

Sometimes, water isn’t enough (although a bottle of water is another great thing to keep on you). A Thermos full of coffee is a great thing to keep on you for a day of lectures so you can stay focused while saving time and money you’d spend on trips cafés.

DROPBOX.

Ok, so it’s not a thing per se - it’s a service. But Dropbox and services like it provide a space for you to backup essays in case your computer dies. Like the keychain, it’s also accessible from home.

TABLET COMPUTERS.

Yeah, iPads and kindles cost a lot of money. But it’s an investment: digital books can save you lugging course reading around all day, making trips to the library less painful.

A GOOD DATA ALLOWANCE ON YOUR PHONE.

I’m lucky enough to have unlimited 4G, meaning I’m never without an internet connection. Perfect if you need to access resources such as timetables on the move - because who doesn’t forget where to go on the ﬁrst day?

POST-IT NOTES.

Chances are you’re not actually studying a degree if you haven’t felt the need to put sticky notes on absolutely everything. Indulge and buy a stack before long, you’ll be hooked.

The

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

NOVEMBER 2014

Homesick? FRIENDS ARE NEVER FAR AWAY PIC: SHUTTERSTOCK

IF YOU’RE feeling the burn of being away from home, chances are you’re not alone. Not everybody is rushing away from the creature comforts that come part of living with your parents. Home cooking is effort free, and as the good book says: Man cannot live by Instant Noodles alone. But jokes about microwave food aside, many complain that a real sense of loneliness sets in once the novelty of halls wears off. Even people in second year and beyond find themselves missing home, sometimes without warning. Yet take solace: we live in a hyper-connected society. It’s a bit of a trite phrase, but it’s absolutely true. Almost every laptop and tablet PC has some sort of webcam, so if your parents don’t use computers, keeping in contact with Skype or FaceTime is a great incentive for you to teach them. And while adding your parents on Facebook is a generally big no-no, adjusting your privacy settings so they don’t see the worst of you but can like the odd results post you make is a great way to keep them updated without expending too much effort. Distance is a horrible thing, and it can affect you profoundly when you’re in no position to travel. But the internet has made the world feel a lot smaller. Even if it’s too late at night for you to turn to someone from college or your family, listening services such as Nightline are never far away and deal with problems like this on a daily basis.

FRESHERS:

There’s life outside of halls. LAURA RAPHAEL PIC: SHUTTERSTOCK

What’s the best hangover cure? The answer might surprise you. PIC: SHUTTERSTOCK

YOU’VE HAD a heavy night. You and your mates said “just one more” quite a few times, and you’ve woken up feeling like you’ve been hit by a car made of pure vodka. What do you do? Spoilers: there’s no such thing as a hangover cure. A greasy breakfast? A myth. Aspirin? It’ll help the headache, but not the dehydration. Another drink? Don’t be crazy. They say time heals all wounds. In this case, they’re right: there’s no doubt that drinking water helps (and if you can do it on a night out, then all the better), but you should be drinking water anyway given that it’s a big part of staying alive.

Buying a huge breakfast isn’t going to do anything for you except hurt your wallet and leave you feeling bloated. And while fry-ups are nice, nobody’s ever been prescribed fried eggs and bacon. (If you have, please get in touch. That’s one hell of a story). Of course, I’m not going to tell you that the best cure is not to drink. It’s hard to avoid a night out at university. What I can tell you that if somebody’s selling a miracle remedy, then chances are, it won’t work, or it will make you feel worse. Save your money, nurse your head, and brace yourself for the next time you have one too many.

eeting new people is terrifying. There’s no doubt that once you’ve settled in with your flatmates and all learned how to get along you probably won’t be rushing to repeat the experience. However, beware: good housemates are a blessing and a curse. Too many people spend their first year with housemates they were randomly allocated. Seeing as relationships generally don’t rely on random chance, rushing into a house with those in your hall can lead to disaster once you realise that you’re all significantly different people. And while you may not realise that during the second semester, chances are you will by the end of year two. That goes the other way, too. Making a single group of friends outside of your house - a society committee, for example - isn’t going to do you any favours either. Life as the absent housemate will only alienate you from people you can’t really avoid, especially if you’re not lucky enough to stay in an en suite room. Remember: there are thousands of people at university. You’re doing yourself no favours by limiting yourself to a certain group. Step outside, breathe the air, and find some people without being grouped together by chance.

NOVEMBER 2014

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

MY MONEY IMPARTIAL, EXPERT ADVICE BY: LAURA RAPHAEL

THE MONEY LIST

Get paid for your opinion Ge ing paid to lie in bed on the internet might sound too good to be true when it comes to making money, but thousands of students diligently fill out online surveys every year. So if you are a sucker for BuzzFeed quizzes this might just be the perfect job for you. Here are The University Paper’s top three sites:

The OpinionPanel Community

The Opinion Panel is the largest youth and student research community in the UK with over 120,000 members. What’s even better as a student you get paid a tenner simply for signing up. You can take part in surveys and online focus groups for big brands and get paid for writing for their website opinionpanel.co.uk.

YouGov

This one is a little different to the rest as the surveys focus on social issues from politics to public affairs. The results are then used by clients such as The Economist, so if you have strong views yougov. co.uk is for you. Also you’ll be quids in if you get your friends to sign up too.

Toluna

One of the best perks of being a student is the freebies right? So what could be better than Toluna sending them directly to you to road test. You don’t even have to send them back afterwards. You can also fill out surveys on their website uk.toluna.com in return for Amazon vouchers.

Don’t sell yourself short Out of 2,300 students 80% do not have enough money to live on and what’s more one in four would even considering selling their body in order to stump up some extra cash. The students questioned as part of a survey conducted by Save the Student said they would either turn to the adult entertainment industry or medical trails. WITH AN estimated £600,000 to £3m per institution going straight into higher education from the sex industry this is nothing new. But even less is know about students undertaking medical trials. However it is not as simple as turning up to hospital, popping some pills and receiving a cash injection. First you have to go through initial assessments to make sure you are fit for the trial, followed by a hospital stay and follow-up sessions that can last months. However you do receive food and board while staying in hospital.

There are also different types of trial, the best paid being a phase 1, as these drugs have never been tested on humans before and for this you can expect daily rates of £120. All clinical trials are run by a regulatory agency and ethics committee to ensure that they are in the interest of the public and medical profession. However this does not safeguard you from side effects and in the extreme have results in death. Volunteers are contributing to medical science but it is best to arm yourself with the short and long-term consequences before committing.

ENTREPRENEURS

MOVE OVER GANDHI, HERE’S ROB AND PAUL

Changing the world one flipflop SUPER at a time… SCRIMPING LAURA RAPHAEL

Freshers has been and gone, along with your student loan. Sure your ﬁrst payment for halls took a chunk out of it with the rest falling somewhere between your local boozer and Perfect Fried Chicken. use these apps to make up the rest.

» REDLASER

Want price comparison at the click of a button? While you are out and about simply scan the barcode of the product you want to purchase and it’ll ﬁnd you the cheapest store both online and oﬄine. You can then purchase items through the app and have it delivered right to your door.

» METER READINGS Ok, so this one will set you back £1.49 but it could save you hundreds over the course of the year. As we head into autumn it is all too easy to whack the heating up or spendﬁve more minutes in the shower: Meter Readings however will allow you to keep a track of how much you are spending before you go over budget.

» 0800 WIZARD

So you’ve got unlimited minutes on your contract but ironically calling the bank of all places is costing you a small fortune. Calling 0800 numbers can be as high as 20p a minute but 08 Wizard replaces the 08 with a 01 or 02 landline number and you won’t face a charge on top.

This year will mark the tenth anniversary of the Boxing Day tsunami that claimed 230,000 lives. A poignant anniversary for brothers Paul and Rob Forkan who lost their parents that day, and only narrowly survived themselves. However out of tragedy is where Gandys ﬂip ﬂops was born. The brothers began the social enterprise out of their bedroom in Brixton to now with a growing team behind them in their London HQ. CO-FOUNDER Paul Forkan says: “the idea is to give back to those less fortunate - profit for purpose”. With 10% of all profits going into the Gandys Foundation, towards their mission ‘Orphans for Orphans’. The brothers have been able to fund children’s homes in Sri-Lanka and India, giving underprivileged children access to basic essentials such as housing, healthcare and education. Paul says it has been: “Exciting as well as a challenging journey... You are basically just a flip flop to people, so when you are competing against big brands who have been going 50 odd years you have to think outside the box and Gandys is proving to deliver this success through our new ever changing designs and prints. ” The brothers have already been invited to don their signature flip flops at Buckingham Palace and Number 10, even flying to Sri-Lanka with David Cameron in 2013. Rob laughs: “The only place we’ve actually been turned away from for wearing them was our local pub a couple of months ago”. And the future is set to be even brighter with the brothers vision to open children’s homes all over the world.

“The only place we’ve actually been turned away from for wearing them was our local pub a couple of months ago”

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

NOVEMBER 2014

YOUR QUESTIONS: ANSWERED Yo ho WHAT? It’s only November!!!

FORGIVE US for mentioning the c word but with Christmas fast approaching it is time to start applying for seasonal jobs. And what with the festive period rearing its ugly head earlier and earlier every year, it is time to start handing out your CV already. Christmas creates new jobs as companies employ extra staff to see them through the festive period. What’s better there is even the lure of time and a half over the bank holidays. But if you fancy a job a little out of the ordinary here are jobs for you. Just like marmite - some people love them and some hate them but with £50 million spent on sprouts alone in the UK someone has to pick them! However, if you want to get your hands dirty but sprouts aren’t your thing then how about becoming a professional present wrapper? Or even a Christmas cracker joke writer, we kid you not. Although with this comes great reasonability in beating “what is brown and sticky”. And finally what a better way to get into the Christmas spirit than being an Elf or even Father Christmas himself at a department store or garden centre near you.

How not to get ripped off as an intern PIC: SHUTTERSTOCK

IF IT isn’t bad enough you are having to fork out £9k a year for tuition fees alone now you are expected to work for free? Ah yes, internships. Some have even gone under the hammer at Christie’s, with a week’s worth of experience at GQ finishing up at an eye watering £3k. However, it is not all bad news. Internships can set you apart

from the crowd, get you valuable contacts and sometimes even paid work. And considering Simon Cowell started out in the EMI post room you might not want to scoff. However a recent Inland Revenue crackdown on unpaid internships just goes to show you need to know your rights. If you are doing an internship as part of a higher education course, the company are not

entitled to pay you, but you should receive a reasonable allowance to cover your travel and lunch. However if you undertake an internship outside of your course you may qualify for “worker” status, which means national minimum wage and no more than 48 hours a week. What’s more if you are promised future work from the offset you immediately qualify for worker status.

NOT ALL DEBT IS BAD

Did you know there is such as thing as good debt and believe it or not your student loan is just that. Considering we’ll be paying it off way into our 50’s with the average debt totaling £44k it is hard to believe, I know. So what exactly is good about that?

PIC: SHUTTERSTOCK

It’s basically an investment, as it will increase your potential future income and it has lower interest than other loans. So now that you have invested wisely, here is how not to get into all sorts of bad debt. The worst offenders of bad debt are payday and cash advance loans. Why? This is not a long term investment and whatever you squandered it on has probably already lost its value. Many student unions have even banned payday loan companies from even advertising on campus as they believe they target vulnerable students. Not only will you have to pay back the original sum borrowed but also interest incurred, with some starting at 300% annually. Credit cards are another to watch out for. So your bank have just given you a shiny new piece of plastic and it’s contactless to make paying even easier. Fantastic. Until all those clothes from Topshop have been sitting on your statement for three months and the interest you are

It’s basically an investment, as it will increase your potential future income and it has lower interest than other loans. paying on them is making them even more expensive than they were in the first place. Sometimes dipping into the red might be unavoidable that’s what your interest free overdraft is there for, but reserve it for emergencies.

www.unipaper.co.uk www.facebook.com/theunipaper www.twitter.com/theunipaper

FIND US ONLINE

NOVEMBER 2014

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

STUDENT CHEF

TOP

PICTURES:SHUTTERSTOCK

EASY STUDENT

MEALS

STIR FRY 1. CHICKEN

4. RICE (MIXED WITH WHATEVER)

Quick, simple and easy to make! This dish work can work as a meal for the whole house or just a couple of meals for yourself throughout the week. Using some of the easiest ingredients to get hold off, meat, vegetables and noodles, this dish can be whipped up in just 10 minutes. It also an easy dish for any cooking novices as well, with the recipe relatively easy to follow. Cut the chicken, fry for around five minutes, and then add the other ingredients including sauce to have a perfect little healthy dish. A further bonus is the use of pots is kept to a minimum meaning less washing up to do after you have finished eating.

Ever wanted the perfect way to get rid of a number of leftovers in the fridge? Then look no further than this tasty little dish. All you need is rice and whatever else you want but it is recommended to mix some meat and vegetables in throughout. Cooking the rice is simple, boil a pan full of water and add the rice which will be ready in around ten minutes. In a separate pan, fry whatever it is you want to mix in with the rice and when both pans are finished, mix the contents and there you have it, a perfect little dish which has used up a number of leftovers.

2. HEALTHY PIZZAS Pizza is an essential part of any student diet but normally Dominoes is the first port of call. That was until now! With this cheaper take on the classic spinach and egg â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;florentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pizza, the healthy alternative will also work out as the most rewarding. Using flatbread instead of traditional dough, you will have to spread 1-2 tbsp of passata over each one. Next you need to get as much water out of the spinach as possible before scattering them across the top. Baking two pizzas at a time, you will have to crack an egg in the middle of each before seasoning with nutmeg. Bake until the cheese is melted and the egg is cooked to how you would like, approximately seven minutes.

PASTA BAKE 5. TUNA

Another simple dish and one that always seems to be a winner amongst housemates, if you like tuna that is! Easily made from an assortment of ingredients that should be found in many student houses (even if you have to raid the other cupboards in the house). Start off by boiling pasta but the sauce is a key ingredient! To start you need to melt butter in a saucepan, stir in the flour, cook for one minute and then add some milk to make a thick white sauce. Moving back to the pasta, drain it before adding the white sauce, tuna and sweetcorn before putting it in to a baking dish and topping with grated cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes and you have yourself a perfect meal.

CHILLI 3. TURKEY JACKET POTATOES Jacket Potatoes are staple food in a student household, with a number of different options for toppings. This version incorporates a Mexican-style twist and the best thing about it is turkey mince is cheap and quite easy to get hold of. Whilst the potatoes are cooking in the oven, prepare the chilli with the mince, onion, garlic being cooked before the spices are added towards the end. An easy meal to make for one or more of your friends, depending how many potatoes you have! When everything is ready, cut a cross at the top of the jacket and add chilli before sprinkling with cheese.

NOVEMBER 2014

ESSENTIALS TO HAVE AROUND THE HOUSE

Different type of cooks in the household FRUIT

It might seem obvious but having any amount of fruit in your room, draws or just in the general household is a must. Takeaways and fast food won’t ever be far away, but when you are looking for fruit, the healthy option can sometimes go amiss so make sure you have some in.

PASTA/RICE

This ingredient will probably make up 50% of your meals at University! Pasta and rice are key ingredients to have in your cupboard as they go with whatever you would want to cook of an evening. Both also provide quick and easy meals aplenty when you are looking to maximise your pre drinking time.

JACKET POTATOES

Just think of the endless possibilities that can be had on top of a jacket potato. Beans and cheese? Chilli? Coleslaw? Whatever you want, as long as you have something to put them on, you can create many weird and wonderful toppings for your tea.

There you have it, all the food you need to move yourself away from having McDonalds every day.

PICTURE:SHUTTERSTOCK

THE UNIVERSITYPAPER

Moving into University is a great experience for many reasons, but what really brings many first year (and second/ third) students down to earth is cooking for themselves. EVERY STUDENT will learn to get by but it is the different ways in which young people look after themselves that differs from house to house. You have the people who think they are professional chefs. These students get every ingredient they need (not easy on a student budget) and make some wonderful dishes that everyone wants to try. However, by the time they have finished cooking the meal it has taken them a number of hours to prepare, not good for nights when you want to start pre drinking early. You can also have the people who are reliant on readymade meals and takeaways. Hardly a ‘cook’, this student has every takeaway menu in their room and on

the odd occasion they do use the kitchen, it is normally to microwave a Tesco’s own lasagne or chicken tikka masala. And then you have the student who falls in the middle! Not quite able to prepare the meals associated with the ‘professional chef’, this person still knows how to look after themselves even if the takeaway menu is lost. They are more at home if they can just put something in the oven, but if a tasty meal needs preparing then they don’t mind putting in a little bit of work. So which category do you fall in to?

LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR A

CHANCE TO

WIN

£2000 WORTH OF APPLE PRODUCTS facebook.com/TheUniPaper

Kopi L INDON 13” Macbook Pro | iPad Retina | iPhone 5S | iPod Touch

Kopi Luwa coﬀee” (yes, expensive co made by coll of a cat-like somehow I c #catpoocoﬀe

Marti NEW Y

NOVEMBER 2014

HOROSCOPES ARIES

MARCH 21 - APRIL 19 The beginning of the month is big for you Aries with the Full Moon on October 8th. It is a time to indulge yourself and a time for high romance too. On October 23rd during the New Moon you may well feel the weight of the world on your shoulders but this will soon pass on October 26th when Mars enters the sign of Capricorn. ST

TAURUS

SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 22 Sparks will be flying during the Full Moon on October 8th Libra and you are the one they will be shooting off. When Mercury and Venus conjoin on October 17th, your heart and head will be perfectly in tune. Expect this to be a period of productivity. You will find some relief from finances during the New Moon on October 23rd you will finally be free from that nagging debt.

APRIL 20 - MAY 20 The Full Moon and Luna on October 8th will be a time of intense introspective soul searching for you Taurus. Take some time to be alone and you will learn lots about yourself. When Mercury enters Libra on October 10th you will be at your most peaceful with a generous air of give and take. Expect a shake up on October 23rd when The New Moon will hit you hard.

SCORPIO

GEMINI

SAGITTARIUS

MAY 21ST - JUNE 20TH On October 4th Mercury goes retrograde and to avoid chaos, patience and organisation is key for you Gemini. But you will soon reap the rewards on October 8th when your social life is in full swing. During the New Moon on October 23rd you will get an awakening which will remind you to take care of your heart, head and soul

CANCER

JUNE 21ST - JULY 22ND It’s time to show everyone what you are really capable of Cancer and during the New Moon on October 8th your potential will only be too apparent. On October 14th be aware of people spending time with you who may have alter motives. You will be at your most in tune and creative on October 23rd with the New Moon these memories will last a lifetime.

LEO

JULY 23RD - AUGUST 22ND Be ready to be the go to person for help, advice and favours Leo during the Full Moon on October 8th. And if you’ve been waiting to meet that someone special October 17th could just be it when Mercury conjucts Venus. The New Moon on October 23rd will be a productive time and you will feel at ease if you finally get down to your finances

VIRGO

Who Said What?

MATCH THE QUOTE TO THE CELEB...

AUGUST 23RD - SEPTEMBER 22ND You will be all about goodwill and getting problems solved during the Full Moon on October 8th Virgo. When the moon is in Virgo on October 20th you will enter a period of stability and sensibility and you will be awash with good feelings. The New Moon on October 23rd will be a time to celebrate and you will be even closer than usual to your friends.

AGONY AUNT :

ASK ALICE

LIBRA

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

(WE DON’T KNOW ANYONE CALLED ALICE, BUT IT SOUNDED BETTER THAN ALAN)

CONTACT ALICE: editor@unipaper.co.uk

OCTOBER 23RD - NOVEMBER 21ST Take care during the Full Moon on October 8th Scorpio, you are craving something reckless and you are not entirely sure why. Be careful what you wish for. Come October 23rd, you softer and sweeter side will be flourishing, so express to impress. This will boil over on October 25th when Mercury goes stationary - say what is in your heart to be accepted.

NOVEMBER 22ND - DECEMBER 21ST Your inner child will run riot during the Full Moon on October 8th Sagittarius. It will be all fun and games as long as you don’t gamble. October 23rd will be a quiet time of reflection, especially of those around you. If there has been a secret or two lurking among friends now it is the time to get it out into the open. Come October 27th, you will be feeling fabulous, enjoy it

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 19 At the start of the month you may be feeling paranoid or on edge Capricorn, relax your sign can handle this better than most. Come the Full Moon on October 8th your family and home life will be the centre of attention. On October 23rd you are bound to feel under pressure at work. Don’t let your public image slip now is not the time to be insecure about your accomplishments. ND

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 20TH - FEBRUARY 18TH Don’t expect a bump free ride on October 4th Aquarius, even the best-laid plans are bound to go awry. During the Full Moon on October 8th you will enjoy a small social gathering with a select group of friends. Prepare for a spiritual insight during the New Moon on October 8th. Your heart and head will be open and you will connect with others on an entirely new level.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 19TH - MARCH 20TH Your finances will be fruitful this month Pisces, money is the name of the game. This will trigger a new found independence, be proactive and not reactive and you will reap the rewards. The New Moon on October 23rd will draw you close to those around you, their concerns and how to approach them.

I’m loving everything about university except for the lectures. It’s not that I’m in bed with the hangover from hell compulsively watching catch up, I just don’t think a degree is for me. I can’t see myself making it to the end of the year let alone three. Everyone was so proud when I left for London and I’m the first in my family to go to university. How do I break it to them? Tom, London At some point every student has questioned whether they are on the right course, I even had moments right up until I graduated. But believe me this is all part of being a student and finding your feet. Not everything works out in life how you had imagined but it is best to consider your options before you act. Give your course a chance or look into transferring. But first of all, book a tutorial with your course leader. They will have seen many students over the years in the same situation. Whatever you decide, good luck. Freshers week was a blast, so much so I haven’t exactly stopped and I’m downing jager bombs on a daily basis. All my flatmates have started to settle into their courses but I’m worried that my focus is going to Sainsburys for their £4 bottle of Soave. Sarah, Falmouth

“I know what I believe. I will continue to articulate what I believe and what I believe - I believe what I believe is right.”

You’ve moved to a different city, met a load of strangers and had information overload in lectures, so sure a glass of white has helped you along the way but don’t let this become your crutch. Keep drinking to the weekends, it’ll keep you and your bank balance healthy. If you find that scaling back your drinking is taking its toll then head to your SU for some confidential support. My neighbours in halls are doing my head in. I can hear them having sex what seems like 24/7 and to make it worse did I mention I am a virgin. I think I’ve managed to get through freshers unnoticed as a sexual novice but this constant daily reminder of what I’m missing out on is not helping. Cherry, Leicester You are not the first and definitely not the last student to arrive at university a virgin, and you know what some even leave with their flower still intact - so don’t worry. Concentrate on your course, and if the time is right it will happen. But don’t make it your mission or you might live to regret it. As for your noisy neighbours I suggest on investing on some ear plugs, hopefully they will soon tire each other out.

There are four basic human needs: food, sleep, sex and revenge.”

I’m Crazy, I’m nuts. Just the way my brain works. I’m not normal.

I won’t go into a big spiel about reincarnation, but the ﬁrst time I was in the Gucci store was the closest I’ve ever felt to home.”

I have a different constitution. I have a different brain; I have a different heart; I got tiger blood, man.

We are going to turn this team around 360 degrees

Smoking kills. If you’re killed, you’ve lost an important part of your life

Predictions are difﬁcult, especially about the future.

Brooke Shields

Yogi Berra

Charlie Sheen

Britney Spears

Kanye West

Banksy

Justin Beiber

Jessica Simpson

George Bush

Jason Kidd

Is this chicken, what I have, or is this ﬁsh? I know it’s tuna, but it says ‘Chicken by the Sea.’

I’ve never really wanted to go to Japan. Simply because I don’t like eating ﬁsh. And I know that’s very popular out there in Africa.

est

THE UNIVERSITYPAPER

NOVEMBER 2014

MENTAL AGILITY

AND IN LOCAL NEWS:

UCLan climbs University Ranks GALILEO WEST

PIC: RACHEL POOLE

UNIVERSITY RANKING tables show progress, but more than that they show a university’s potential and their strengths and weaknesses. In the latest university league table, published by the Sunday Times, UCLan has become one of the North West’s highest risers. The Sunday Times Good University Guide commented: “Central Lancashire has always been one of the most enterprising post-1992 universities.” UCLan has risen 11 places in the rankings from 88th to 77th out of 123 making it the second most improved in the region. Perhaps the cause of UCLan’s success is the amount spent on facilities in relation to the number of students. The university also scored highly in the student to staff ratio category as it improves from 66th to 50th. UCLan also scored particularly well in subjects related to hospitality, leisure, recreation and tourism where it was graded third in the country. It made large gains in its ranking for nursing and sports science by climbing 24 and 28 places.

UCLan Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Mike Thomas said: “This is an extremely encouraging result. By climbing eleven places in this year’s table we are the second highest risers in the North West.”

KNOW THE INSIDE

DO YOU

T R AC K O N

CAMPUS? IF SO THE UNIVERSITY PAPER WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU. We are scouring the UK for student journalists, so whether you are looking for work experience or simply spending too much time in the SU, get in touch today. We are on the look out for opinion leaders and change makers who can write engaging copy. Your pieces will be printed in The University Paper which is read by thousands of students across the UK and you will get that all important byline - perfect if you are looking to build a portfolio. Not to mention that age old adage, it will look great on the CV. So if you would like to be an influential voice for the student community or just have a strong front page tell us what is going on - pitch your ideas to The University Paper, email: editor@unipaper.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2014

Picking the right part time job

HOW THE “SOCIAL YOU” CAN SCUPPER THE “REAL YOU” I guess now’s the time the more forward-thinking of you third years are starting to think about applying for jobs... constructing your CVs, agonising over the wording of your covering letters, completing endless online application forms and, if you’re lucky, being called for interviews and assessments. The rest of you are either panicking about impeding exams or are sitting in a pub with your heads ﬁrmly stuck in the sand. However all of you, unless your parents are very generous, will have to, at some point, bite the bullet and seek employment. Not just employment… a ‘real’ job… the ﬁrst step in your career. Over the next few issues I’m going to be offering you, hopefully, helpful hints and tips on the practicalities of how you go about this, e.g. where to look for jobs, what employers are really looking for, interview and CV preparation and how not to shoot yourself in the foot before you even get started.

Maintenance loans only go so far. If you want to socialise, stay entertained and still have enough money for books, you’re going to need to budget like an accountant or get a job. HELP IS AT HAND Thankfully, most universities have job boards and employment centres associated with them. These may offer jobs in the local community, or even within the university itself. But you may end up employed by people who perhaps aren’t as understanding when it comes to working with students. As such, picking the right part time job is important. So what should you be looking for?

LOOK AT HOW THEY OPERATE f they presently employ a large number of students, that’s normally a good sign as they will be used to dealing with the needs of those in study. Casual shifts, freelance work and remote work are great as they allow you to set your own hours - but these opportunities can be hard to come by.

PLAN AROUND YOUR DEGREE Avoid taking hours which are too close to scheduled study periods. If you don’t have the time to talk to staff after lectures, it may damage your degree in the long run. And remember: no job is more important than your degree, as it’s what you’re trying to fund in the first place.

That’s where we’re going to start – have you any idea how many employers ‘google’ you before they’ve properly read your CV masterpiece? Lots I’d guess, I know they shouldn’t – I bet they do. With social media becoming arguably the primary method of communication for Generation Y (that’s you), it has now become an instant snapshot of your life, your friends, your actions, your habits, your likes, your hates… in short – you. Whereas in my day, with a well constructed CV, a cleverly placed phone call or a good recruitment agent, I could make my first real impression with an employer at interview – now it’s likely to be your 5am shenanigans in Magaluff or your nek nominate in the ladies loos. So before you even put yourself out there in the job market – clean up your online self. Take down those Twitter rants rivalling James Arthur, set your privacy settings to maximum on Facebook, replace your profile shot with something innocuous and think carefully before you Instagram anything from last Friday night. The very proactive of you might even set up a LinkedIn profile – this is pretty much Facebook for business people and we’ll talk about it in coming weeks. In the meantime, take my advice and make the ‘social you’ a complementary façade for the real you. Sara Sainsbury is Group Talent Director for RSG Plc. RSG is an independently owned, and Bristol based specialist recruitment business, with over 35 years of trading history, operating across the U, and recognised as one of the Sunday Times “Top 250” fastest growing organisations in the UK, with a current turnover in excess of £170m.

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

PROFESSIONAL INSIGHT :

ACE THE INTERVIEW So, you’ve filled out a 1000 online applications, you’ve spoken to every recruitment consultant from here to Lands End, you’ve written more covering letters and emails than you can shake a stick at – now you’ve got it….finally…an interview. APPROXIMATELY 60 minutes to launch your career trajectory, to make/break/change your life forever. No pressure then.

START WITH BASICS – this might seem blindingly obvious but you’d be amazed how many people fail at the first hurdle. Where is the interview and how do you get there? Check the date, time, location; which bus to catch, where’s the nearest car park, how long can you park there, how much change to have ready. BE ON TIME. Do not, EVER, be late for an interview, you might as well not bother showing up at all. Don’t be ridiculously early either – anything more than 10 minutes early makes you look, at best, like you’re confused between the big and the small hand, or at worst, like you’re just a little bit obsessive. WHAT IS THE INTERVIEW FORMAT? Establish in advance what the interview format will be e.g. Q&A, competency based, one to one/group/panel and how many stages there are? Who are you meeting, what is their role?

RESEARCH THE COMPANY thoroughly and make sure it’s the right company – don’t start reciting the mission statement and values of Bloggs & Co when you’re interviewing for Blaggs Plc. Look into their history, nature of business, USPs, competitors, success, values – all the information you need is just a Google search away, and interviewers know that. If you don’t demonstrate a good knowledge of their business it’s insulting to them and lazy of you. Most interviews these days are competency based, meaning the employer has a set of core competencies that are required in all their jobs. Again, you may be able, through the power of t’interweb to find out their specific competencies or you could just assume they will be along the lines of the generic e.g “team working”, “problem solving”, “taking initiative” “results driven” etc and be prepared with examples of when you displayed these traits. This is worth quite a lot of thought at this stage in your career, as whilst you may have a number of vacation or university jobs under your belt, you may not have a vast array of examples from a professional sphere. So be prepared to use examples from your school/university/ sporting/extra curricular activities.

KNOW YOURSELF. It’s a clichéd and dull interview question but the less creative interviewers amongst us could well ask “What are your weaknesses?” - do not at this point say “I’m too much of a perfectionist” unless you’re happy to receive a punch in the face – even a metaphoric one. Know your weak points but also how they can be improved with training and commitment – dwell more on your strengths.

DRESS SMARTLY. If in doubt wear a suit – preferably in a dark colour, keep the cream linen number for Hawaiian theme nights; gents wear a tie – a normal one, not a bootlace/kipper or comedy tie. Lose the facial piercings/flesh tunnels and hide all tattoos. Have normal hair – don’t overgel it/crimp it or decide to try out that crimson rinse the day before. In short, do not try to express your personality through your wardrobe on this occasion – let the employer know you are a blank canvas….a smart, respectable, well groomed blank canvas. RELAX, maintain eye contact, have a firm handshake (practice this, preferably with a friend rather than yourself), be positive and enthusiastic, keep to the point and listen. Have prepared some relevant questions – NOT “what time is lunch?” more along the lines of “what are the company’s plans for expansion”, “what’s been your progession at XXX” or “I’ve read your blog on blah blah blah, what led you to write it”? The last couple are good ones – you should’ve fully researched the interviewer so you know who you’re meeting, but everyone loves talking about themselves. THIS WORKS TWO WAYS. Finally, remember this is a two way process. You are meeting them ostensibly to “sell” yourself, however, you need to be completely comfortable with what they are describing in terms of the role, the company, the opportunity and a good interviewer will want you to “buy”. It’s your life and your choice…..there is a chance that you’ll be offered a job but you decide it’s not the one for you. That’s fine, don’t be pressurised by anyone: friends/parents or the company themselves into accepting something that doesn’t feel right for you. Just identify what you didn’t like, change the focus of your search and commence the hunt for your new opportunity with renewed vigour. Good luck!

WWW.CV-LIBRARY.CO.UK

THE UNIVERSITYPAPER

NOVEMBEBER 2014

OPPORTUNITIES

Graduate Technology Consultant

Graduate Graduate Graduate HR Assistant Tech support PHP consultant Developer (permanent)

(permanent)

Graduate Scheme Audit

Location: London Salary: £32,000

Location: London Salary: £20-£24,000

Location: Harrow Salary: £21-£23,000 D.0.E

Location: Nationwide Salary: £18,000

Job ID: UP25728050

Job ID: UPHR2201

Job ID: UPTS6505

Job ID: UPAD01

Location: Nationwide (several locations) Salary: £20-£25,000 Job ID: UP25534475

Description: My client is looking for an ambitious graduate to join a growing team. Minimum requirements: 2:1 degree, 300 UCAS points and knowledge of at least one programming language. You must have real drive and a thirst for learning. For more information and to apply please email london. graduates@reedglobal.com quoting the Job ID above.

My client is looking for intelligent, hard working graduates to their company at an entry level HR position, candidates must be keen to advance as progression will be available and you must have a good understanding of HR. Candidates must have a 2.1 and 300 ucas points. For more information and to apply please email london. graduates@reedglobal.com quoting the Job ID above

Our Client is a leading email marketing software and services provider. They are looking for an ambitious IT graduate to join their expanding technical support team in Harrow. The candidate must have a Computer Science degree and must have achieved a 2.1 or above from university. For more information and to apply please email london. graduates@reedglobal.com quoting the Job ID above.

My client is looking a graduate in a computer related degree to go into PHP developing. They are looking for someone with good knowledge in PHP, Javascript, CSS3 and HTML along with SQL. This would be ideal for someone looking to get into the software side of IT.

Graduate Web Developer

Graduate Training Managerial

Graduate Graduate Recruitment Research Consultant Associate (permanent)

(permanent)

Graduate Finance Assistant

Location: Nationwide Salary: £18,000

Location: Nationwide Salary: £25,000 Job ID: UP25690464

Location: London Salary: £25-£28,000 + discretionary bonus Job ID: UPDTR2528

Location: Nationwide Salary: £18,000 - £22,000

Job ID: UP6491746

Location: Nationwide Salary: £18-£23,000 + uncapped commission Job ID: UPDTR7698

My client is looking a graduate in a computer related degree to go into PHP developing. They are looking for someone with sound knowledge in PHP, Javascript, CSS3 and HTML. You will be involved in the development of websites for the company and their clients. For more information and to apply please email london. graduates@reedglobal.com quoting the Job ID above.

My client is looking for ambitious graduates to join a management development program. Minimum requirements: 2:1 degree, 280 UCAS points, geographically mobile around the UK. You must be able to demonstrate leadership skills or potential. An interest in transport and logistics would be beneficial. For more information and to apply please email london.graduates@reedglobal. com quoting the Job ID above..

My client is looking for an ambitious graduate to join a growing team. Minimum requirements: you must be ambitious, money hungry and willing to put in the time for big reawards. For more information and to apply please email london. graduates@reedglobal.com quoting the Job ID above

My client is looking for intelligent, hard working graduates to join an elite company based in the city of London, you must have at least a 2.1 and 320 ucas points. For more information and to apply please email london.graduates@reedglobal. com quoting the Job ID above.

My client is looking for a ambitious graduates to join their expanding company. Although they are currently based in London they are looking to open additional offices over the UK due to a continued aggressive growth plan. You must be ambitious, have ay eye for detail and passionate about a career in finance ideally with a 2:1 from a related degree. For more information and to apply please email london. graduates@reedglobal.com quoting the Job ID above

(permanent)

My client, a top 4 accountancy practice have a few spaces left on their 2014 graduate scheme - 3 year program. Minimum requirements: 2:1 degree, 300 UCAS points, English/Maths GCSE A or B. You must have an interest in Audit, study support for ACA qualification available. For more information and to apply please email london. graduates@reedglobal.com quoting the Job ID above.

(permanent)

Job ID: UPF521698

To find out more and apply please visit http://www.reed.co.uk/jobs/graduate

WWW.CV-LIBRARY.CO.UK

SPECIAL

NOVEMBER 2014

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

ACCOMMODATION

IN FOCUS:

PLUNGINGTON

By Charlotte Arrowsmith PHOTO CREDIT: ALYSSA WALKER

PLUNGINGTON ROAD is an area of Preston, just north of the UCLan campus. It is highly populated with students, and is only one mile from the university. The location attracts a lot of students, a short walk to uni in the morning is a big selling point from landlords and estate agents. Although the walk to the city centre is slightly longer, students who live in Plungy don’t need to worry. There are a lot of businesses and shops located on the road, giving the area the feel of a little village. Take care if you’re walking around during the night, you only have to Google ‘crime in Plungington’ and you’ll get an idea of what might be going around you. Just last month, one man from the area was arrested for a multi-million pound carbon credit fraud… If you’re looking to live in Plungington, here are some of the perks… Need to send a love letter to your ‘bae’ at another university? Well there’s a post office right on your door step. This is also handy for returning online shopping when you realise your loan isn’t as big as you thought. Can’t be bothered to cook? Well Plungy is surrounded by takeaways. Whether you fancy a Chinese, some Fish & Chips or a Pizza Hut, the choice is yours. If you decide to go out last minute and need alcohol for pre-drinks, there is a Bargain Booze off license on your road, which can fulfil all your needs.

YOU AND THREE OF YOUR MATES COULD BE HEADING TO AMSTERDAM FOR VALHALLA FESTIVAL SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

VALHALLAFESTIVAL.NL

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

NOVEMBER 2014

LOOKING FOR NEXT YEAR’S DIGS AMY DEAN

MAKE YOUR ROOM A HOME SO, YOU’VE only been living away at university for a few weeks, but it’s never too early to start looking for next year’s digs! Even though you’ve just met your new friends, the best houses tend to get taken by Christmas, so now is the best time to at least think about who you want to live with. Once you have that figured out, you need to choose whether you want to stay in halls or venture further into the wide world and live in a house. If you do choose to rent privately, get someone to check your tenancy agreement before you sign it and do not feel pressured! If you’re sharing a house with others make sure each everyone has their own tenancy agreement. This will ensure you pay for your room only and your bills. And remember to get a receipt for your

deposit when you hand it over, and that your deposit is protected on www.mydeposits.co.uk, a government scheme which keeps your deposit secure. You should also start to consider where you want to live. Do you want to be 5 minutes away from campus and extend your lie-ins? Or would you rather live closer to the train station for when you’re lugging your heavy bags of washing home? I know it sounds early, but getting it sorted in December means you can relax over Christmas without any housing worries on your mind. If you need someone to talk to regarding your accommodation, the Students’ Union Advice Centre can offer impartial advice at www.uclasu.co.uk/advice.

MANE GRIGORYAN

YOU’VE MOVED into your new home for the next three years, now what? You can’t help but feel like your new room is a little drab and not very ‘homely’. Well, here are a couple of tips on how you can add a bit of glam to your digs! Ladies, unfortunately the world has caught up to your secret love of frosted items. One way to add a little sparkle is to empty out a vintage looking jar and add some battery powered fairy lights inside. Simple yet cute, and without the danger of using candles. Pillows can be the perfect tool to add a bit of warmth. A few colourful throw pillows and voila you have yourself a comfy and cosy looking

house, and at a very small cost too. Gents, why not find a few newspapers articles on your favourite team or sport and just collage them onto a big piece of craft paper. Or if sport’s not your thing, what about music, or just cool photos? It’s almost free and you get your own personal wall of fame. This all sounds fair and good but you are probably thinking, it might be nice to have some useful décor! One easy hack is the notorious ‘toilet roll speakers’. If you take a toilet roll tube and cut through it to fit your phone in, you have yourself a pretty powerful free set of speakers.

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

NOVEMBER 2014

SPORT

RUGBY LEAGUE’S RIGHT PRIORITIES SAM ROBINSON

NEW COACH, NEW HOPES

With a new coach and a massive increase in participation UCLan Ladies Football Club are hoping to bounce back after a disappointing end to the 2013/14 season.. CLAIRE TEMPLE

DESPITE THEIR hard work the girls struggled to ﬁnd success last season which saw them being relegated to the BUCS Northern 2A league for the upcoming season. However, the team has since recruited a new coach who also works for Blackpool FC and has a wealth of experience behind him which could be exactly what the team needs. New coach, Chris Vickers, says he is excited about what is possible with the women’s team; “There is a great bunch of ladies here and huge backing from the university which could lead to great success this year.” Since pre-season training begun Chris has been a big hit with team, with participation levels increasing to almost double that of last year. Whilst asking Chris what his hopes are for the new season he stated “As we look to begin our campaign next Wednesday we are looking to challenge every team in our league and see how we progress. It’s an exciting time for the club and an opportunity for the girls to fulﬁl their potential.” The girls have gone from struggling for numbers for one team last year to having 30+ girls regularly attending training and are now campaigning to have a 2nd team entered into the BUCS league.

PHOTO CREDIT: UCLAN RUGBY LEAGUE

UCLAN ATHLETICS AIMING HIGHER

THE START of the new academic year often means a huge turnaround in players for the university’s sports teams and UCLan’s Rugby League team has been no different. After being pipped to the British Universities & College Sport (BUCS) Northern Division 2A title by Manchester 1sts last season, the team’s league campaign is very much the priority this year, with promotion the primary target. Club Chairman Cameron Ladd said: “Our goal this season is to win the league and gain promotion. We’d like to win the cup competition, as we believe we have the squad capable of winning it. “We’ve narrowly missed out in the league in the last two years, coming within inches, so we’re desperate to go one better this time. Myself particularly as it’s my final year; I want nothing

more than to win the league,” he told Frequency Radio, the university radio station. Training on Monday evenings at the UCLan Sports Arena, the team have been performing well, although they were beaten 44-26 in a friendly by Huddersfield University last week with a number of players making their debut in university rugby. Indeed, the turnout of players has been so good that there were two teams representing the university when they entered a Student Rugby League 9’s tournament at Edge Hill University in Liverpool last Wednesday afternoon. “The 9’s tournament will be a big help for fitness as it’s a lot faster,” Ladd said. “The lads could do with the extra bit of running after all they’ve eaten over the summer so it will do them the world of good!

“It should be good fun - it’s a festival type of rugby and it means that all of the fast lads can show off their pace.” Success for the university team could lead to higher honours for the UCLan players, as their Chairman explains: “Last year we had seven UCLan players representing the North West in the regional championships with Liam Thompson and Aaron Hall going on to be selected for the England students’ team.” Rugby players are often regarded as gentlemen thanks to the Henry Blaha quote “Rugby is a beastly game played by gentlemen; soccer is a gentleman’s game played by beasts” and the team are looking to maintain that public image by having an impact off the field and raising money for the Christie charity, which treats cancer patients in the North West.

UCLAN ATHLETICS have made great strides in the last few years, particularly during the last 12 months, in attracting more and more members to their club. Last October saw the first time the club had put a women’s team out at the first competition of the year,

the Manchester relays. This year, with the race taking place on Saturday October 25th, club chairman Shaun Barnsley is hoping for at least two women’s teams which is testament to the progress the club has made. After Manchester, UCLan Athletics has two more

MIKEY SMITH

events before Christmas. The Leeds relays, which follow a similar format to Manchester and the Edinburgh Braids hill cross country race on November 15th, a great weekend culminating in a 6 mile men’s and 3 mile women’s race across the Edinburgh hills.

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER

NOVEMBER 2014

SPORT

WILL UCLAN TENNIS BOUNCE BACK?

ANTHONY GILMOUR

SU LEAGUE IS BACK MARK DAVIES

PHOTO CREDIT: LAURA SHEPHERD

PHOTO CREDIT: UCLAN

THE STUDENTS’ Union League has kicked off in a last chance saloon for wannabe footballers/managers to prove themselves at the very lowest level. Forty pound per person gets you some nets lacking sufficient pins, corner-flags that seldom stay up, a referee who can’t keep up with the action and a right to play on a field which once saw grass. Rivalries are born, ridiculous team-names are created and one self-righteous so-and-so gets the right to pick the team. It’s the perfect distraction from an impending essay or that special someone who hasn’t text you back, a Wednesday afternoon with a group of mates making the beautiful game anything but that.

Fulwood and West View Climbing & Leisure Centre

All this for

£22

per monfeteh No joining

NORTHERN CONFERENCE Cup Doubles winner Danny Jones believes UCLan’s Tennis Society can have another successful year, after having a strong finish to last season. The tennis club gained promotion from the third division after finishing top of the league, with an incredible GD of +74. It was a league victory that becomes even more impressive after UCLan had to give a walk over away to Keele University; being unable to field an eligible team. The club also enjoyed success in the cup with wins in both the doubles and singles finals. They narrowly missed out on victory in a second Doubles final, losing 11-9 on a third set tie break in a close match. The upcoming season should pose more of a challenge to the society; last season’s promotion means they will face tougher opposition this year.

However, Danny is still confident that the club can be competitive this year. He said: “UCLan tennis stand a good chance of winning the league, if not, hopefully top three. We beat the league leaders of the second division last year, so we are confident of a good finish this year.’’ A more competitive league won’t be the only challenge UCLan will have to face, as players who have graduated now leave vacant spaces in the first team. But with these vacant spaces comes the chance to unearth new talent. There are also still some first team members who performed as part of UCLan’s winning side last semester. “We still have three of the first team players from last year. We’re probably looking at making it to the semi-finals of the cup’’, said Danny after his winning pairing with Jon Bradley in the NCCD

Doubles final. Of course being involved in a sports society isn’t just about winning medals and trophies; it’s also an opportunity to enhance your university experience by making new friends, learning new skills, or simply doing something that you’re passionate about. Danny has certainly enjoyed his first year as part of the tennis society. He said: ‘’Being a part of the society has allowed me to make new friends, gain more confidence, and travel to different cities like Liverpool and Leeds.’’ UCLan’s Tennis Society has an open Facebook group, so if you fancy yourself as the next Andy Murray or in fact just want to try something different then you should check it out. Especially as the 2014-15 season could be another successful one for the club.

✓ Gym ✓ Swim ✓ Classes ✓ Sauna ✓ Climbing Full details can be found at

www.preston.gov.uk/18to24 Fulwood Leisure Centre Black Bull Lane, Fulwood, Preston PR2 9YA

West View Climbing and Leisure Centre Ribbleton Lane, Preston PR1 5EP

Tel: 01772 716085

Tel: 01772 796788