The University Paper January 2015: Coventry

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Sit-in protesters threaten to return if university fails to meet demands

WE’LL BE BACK Taking a stand: Protesters during their sit-in

CATHERINE LYON STUDENT protesters have shrugged off legal threats and vowed to return to the University of Warwick if it fails to meet a string of demands. Warwick For Free Education, which

occupied a building on the campus in the wake of scuf�les with police, has called on the university to support students who take legal action against of�icers and to condemn the alleged violence used against demonstrators. The group released a statement after

being removed from its eight-day sit-in, saying: ‘The university needs more than court injunctions to stop this movement. We will continue to �ight against the policing of dissent and the cancerous effects of marketisation, irrespective of the legal risks. In the attempt to

Student lets for Coventry and Warwick students

criminalise dissent, the university has not silenced us, but only made us more outraged, more determined and more ready for direct action.’ The warning came after protesters,

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January 2015

Fancy a buzzing night out? Better get Onitt 2

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Nicole is a wheel success TRANSPORT design student Nicole Agba has won a prestigious automotive industry award – just a week after graduating. Nicole’s concept for a biometric steering wheel which uses smart fabric to monitor a driver’s health and even alcohol intake earned her the Autocar-Courland Next Generation Award. The 23-year-old, who graduated from Coventry University, won £7,500 and five months’ work experience with some of the biggest names in motoring. She said: ‘I’m so thrilled. The work experience is sure to open some amazing doors for me.’

Screenshot: The app

CATHERINE LYON THEY say some of the best ideas come to people in pubs. And for two product design graduates, that was certainly the inspiration for their new and rapidly growing app. Ben Tayton and Alex Dresch have created Onitt, designed to be your best friend on a night out by pointing you to the best deals being offered by pubs and clubs. The 23-year-old Coventry University graduates have one of their friends to thank for the idea. ‘We took inspiration from one of our mates who uses the phrase ‘’Are you on it?” and “Let’s get on it” before he goes on a night out,’ said Ben. The app, which was launched on the Apple store

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£99,000 for disabled app Big plans: Suzi Archer of Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub, with Ben Tayton, centre, and Alex Dresch in September and updated in October, is already earning �ive-star reviews. The boys received a £6,000 grant from the government’s regional growth fund which allowed the app to be coded and for the creators to concentrate on the look of Onitt. Working with Coventry

clubs and bars, they regularly update the app so that users can view all the latest deals and events. In addition, you can share the event on Facebook, Twitter or Whatsapp, navigate your way to venues in unfamiliar towns, follow your favourite venues and even access the best taxi

services available when your night is over. Despite already having these features, Ben and Alex are looking to grow and develop the app as well as the business. ‘This app is the beginning since it’s the most basic variation,’ said Alex. ‘We want to further develop the app to make

it slicker and more interactive for our users in the future. ‘With this initial version we decided to concentrate on Coventry but in the future we’re looking at major university cities such as Birmingham, Manchester, Nottingham, Shef�ield, Cardiff and Newcastle.’

AN app geared to helping disabled people boost their job prospects has been given a £99,000 small business grant. Coventry University’s Serious Games Institute, working with Remploy and Hereward College, has developed Work Buddy to be available across all platforms.


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January 2015 WARWICK VICE-CHANCELLOR SIR NIGEL THRIFT

‘FOR many years the student protests we have experienced at Warwick have been characterised by a spirit of co-operation between protesters and university staff. I was therefore disheartened that this protest uncharacteristically saw an unprovoked assault on one of our security team that gave us no alternative but to ask the police to attend. Let me be clear that the police were called solely to investigate the alleged assault and not in response to the protest on campus. When the police arrived, our security team endeavoured to get the

individual alleged to have made the assault to fully identify himself. Sadly, that individual and others present would not co-operate with this request and the police were obliged to intervene. I, like many others, have been saddened by the images of what then occurred. I am sure the vast majority of our university community wish that campus protests are peaceful.’

WEST MIDLANDS POLICE POLICE denied that a Taser gun drawn by an officer at the scene of the protest was fired or pointed at anyone. But they admitted using CS gas on a group of protesters they described as ‘advancing on officers’. Coventry commander Chief Supt Claire Bell said: ‘Police officers are highly trained in

We’re afraid

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dealing with all public order situations and using appropriate levels of force. We are aware of videos of the protest being circulated on social media sites. We expect the highest standards from all officers and if any officer is found to have fallen below these standards, they will be thoroughly investigated.’

Meeting is set to plot next move CATHERINE LYON and HANNAH FROGGATT ANTI-fee activists have made a fresh rallying call as they vow to continue their protests at the University of Warwick. Warwick For Free Education plans to gather supporters at a campus meeting on January 9 to discuss its �ight. Protesters were forced to end their eight-day occupation of the university’s Rootes conference centre after a university-issued court injunction gave security guards powers to remove them. On its blog, the group said: ‘We call on everyone who supported us to come and con-

Fall-out: Court papers naming the pair and, left, a sit-in activist

tribute to a meeting where we will share information about our situation and decide on how we will respond to the university’s ongoing attempts at intimidation and �ight for free education.’ Protesters have been banned from any future sit-ins on campus but said students’ resolve was stronger than ever. Activist Callum Cant, who was one of two singled out on the High Court injunc-

tion, said even those hurt in clashes with police on December 3 had not been put off. ‘People who’ve been assaulted... I’ve seen a huge change in them as people. ‘They now feel unsafe on their campus when they’re doing something such as handing out lea�lets. ‘People have become more afraid – but also more committed, because being attacked by police and security guards

has a strong radicalising in�luence.’ Hattie Craig, a University of Birmingham student who was also named on legal papers, said: ‘I was impressed that people weren’t afraid and weren’t intimidated by what had already happened. ‘In fact, it seemed that they were more determined to carry on protesting.’ The location of Friday’s meeting is yet to be con�irmed. For our full interviews with Callum Cant and Hattie Craig, visit www.unipaper.co.uk

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January 2015

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Protesters warn of more action ahead from p1 who were staging a demonstration against tuition fees in Senate House, were reportedly pepper sprayed, threatened with a Taser and manhandled by West Midlands Police – called after a university staff member was allegedly attacked. After the clash, a video emerged online appearing to show students being pushed and threatened with pepper spray by police. A demo against the attacks was held two days later, with protesters occupying the Chancellor’s Suite in the Rootes Building. The protest continued

for several days and led to the closure of the whole building. The occupation ended when an injunction was served by the university against the occupiers, although the only two students named on it – Hattie Craig, from the University of Birmingham, and Callum Cant, from Warwick – deny being part of the occupation. Warwick vice-chancellor Sir Nigel Thrift, who was knighted in the New Year’s Honours list, has also come under attack from WFFE after he released a statement condemning the alleged attack on a staff member, which the protesters vigorously deny took place.

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Battle lines: Police clash with protesters, top; a victim of pepper spray, inset, and, bottom, supporters at Coventry Police Station PICTURES: YOUTUBE/WARWICK FREE EDUCATION

It was brutal and chaotic DANIEL DAWSON ‘It was a peaceful sit-in – then the police began to break us up and attempted to arrest us. They pulled out Tasers and used CS spray, which was a totally disproportionate response. Two Tasers were pointed at me and I was threatened with their use before I was arrested. The brutality, the refusal of our right to protest and to give us a free education is against the Human Rights Act and now we are trying to figure out the next move for the movement.’

LUKE DUKINFIELD ‘The police entered without declaring their intentions and then they just started arresting people, getting them in headlocks and holding them by the neck. I was pinned to the ground by a Warwick security guard, which is how I broke my glasses. Then the CS spray was deployed and there was the threat and use of a Taser. Three people were arrested. It was brutal and chaotic. I was then arrested and carried out of the building. The police force and university management – they are all colluding to repress political intent.’

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Lewis: ‘This issue is close to the heart but it is also important for the nation. In the new year there will be more action. This campaign has brought the issues to the forefront. We are here to express solidarity and support for those who are involved.’ Sarah: ‘We are all students who don’t have much money but they are using this to get what they want. Free education is an important issue and campaign.’

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January 2015

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Hard work pays off as clubs agree to talk about sex IT’S a struggle to get people to tackle sexism – but for the University of Warwick’s Josie Throup, it was a battle just to get societies talking about it. Josie, women’s officer at the students’ union, was turned down in her attempts to bring the NUS Sexpression workshops I Heart Consent – which combat sexism and debunk common myths about rape – to university. The NUS said they gave priority to unions that had a Sexpression centre nearby and it was looking for unions that had something similar already set up. Not to be

defeated, Josie pestered the NUS and eventually received training to deliver the seminars herself. She was then delighted when 20 students stepped forward to help her lead the campaign, which will tackle lads culture on campus. The first-year English literature and creative writing student has had every society attend a meeting. Warwick has now become one of 20 universities to run the sexual consent courses, with more planned in the new year. Hannah Froggatt

Rugby ban after video nasty A CLUB has been banned from students’ union events after an initiation video emerged of half-naked freshers lying face-down in the street. Warwick men’s rugby union club is not allowed to take part in the Sports Ball or the remaining Pop! or Skool Dayz of the academic year, although individual members, including the club leaders, can attend. Rugby club captain James Clark said: ‘The club accepts that the behaviour we displayed was inappropriate.’

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PHYSICIST FOODIES: Your mum might have told you not to play with your food but if she knew you were using pasta to explain complex molecules like this physicist, she might not have minded. Warwick University physicists Davide Michieletto and Matthew S Turner

have become an internet hit after creating ring-shaped pasta and tangling it up. While undoubtedly annoying to eat, the pasta shows how polymers – large molecules like DNA – get mixed together as well. ‘Ring-shaped polymers are very poorly understood,’ they wrote.

Union bars club night fire alarm troublemakers TWO pranksters have been banned from student union buildings after fire alarms were repeatedly set off during events. Clubbers at the University of Warwick students’ union’s Copper Rooms had their nights cut short as the premises, home to popular events including Skool Dayz and Pop!, were evacuated. The union launched an investigation after the alarm was set off and the venue emptied on the final night of Skool Dayz in November. Its security staff found the

CATHERINE LYON troublemakers on CCTV at the Copper Rooms and discovered they had fiddled with the downstairs alarm control panel. They have now been barred. Partygoers took to social media to condemn the pranksters. Sabine Chassagne wrote on Twitter after the latest evacuation: ‘Not happy. This is the second time I pay for a ticket back to Skool Dayz and the second time a fire alarm ruins my night.’ David Pearce

added: ‘The whole fire alarm farce is a joke. What’s going on? Something must be done.’ The union said in a statement: ‘We apologise sincerely to everyone whose nights were disrupted at Skool Dayz this term by the actions of a thoughtless minority. ‘We hope that these measures reflect the seriousness of interrupting student union events in this manner.’ The union said it would also be monitoring those going to future events.


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Dale’s lost in space but finding his place in film CATHERINE LYON A FILM-maker’s story of two astronauts stranded in space has received recognition from across the globe. Coventry University graduate Dale Driver has been riding high this summer after taking his interstellar short film, Citizen, on a film festival tour across America. After screening the movie at the university’s degree show last year, the 31-yearold has earned many accolades, most notably as runner-up in the best sci-fi film category at the ITSA Film Festival in California. A sheet metal worker by trade, the former media production student used his skills to create the set of Citizen, as well as writing, directing, producing and promoting the film himself. By calling in favours from contacts he’d made in the workplace, the avid film buff also managed to source a decommissioned stormer tank, the interior of which provided the spaceship cockpit shots for the film. He said: ‘Making Citizen is the culmination of a lifelong dream for me. ‘It’s been hard work and I’ve made a lot of sacrifices but it’s all been worthwhile. ‘I was blown away by the reception I received from audiences in America when I screened the film there.’ After its release on Vimeo and YouTube in December, his film gathered consider-

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Victim of lads’ culture tells of sex assault ordeal in crowded nightclub

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Attacked: Francesca was depressed for a week after the incident PICTURE: CRAIG LEIPNER

A STUDENT has spoken of her ordeal at being sexually assaulted in one of Edinburgh’s most popular hangouts. Francesca Penny, who is studying English at Napier University, was attacked in the early hours while celebrating a friend’s birthday at the Hive. The fourth-year student was dancing in the nightclub’s alternative room at the time. ‘It was pretty crowded so it wasn’t unusual for people pushing past in the crowd to accidentally touch you,’ said Francesca, who has waived her right to anonymity. ‘While dancing with a group of friends, I noticed a white male push past me, but he was far too close for my liking. He had his hand on the small of my back and was pushed in right against me.’ Francesca asked the man to leave her alone but his reaction made the situation

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have more mess. We and see the homes being behind the and more family (multiple who was against into HMOs student the Player, said she was not converted and a year for motion, the current occupancy houses) courses. but said ‘We pay £9,000 students doing our are going up. on any privilege of to suggest that we system was unfair. the students blocks a big loophole and making they will pass or It is time lodgers. the fear is, ‘It is people of It’s ridiculous cost to their OUGH ‘Either landlords the councillor, landlords a lot of money. additional student said: are somehow depriving ’ said nd. ALICE GOODEN should pay, tax in One 20-year-old Westmorela to have a debate.owners not being exempt money.’ bills of to pay council asset to students areand land- who represents are facing ‘If you have no council tax in ‘Why are the a valuable Full-time tax STUDENTS £2,000 a year after ‘Students are ward they do not versus choose to from paying council turn to p5 inves- Bath one will more than paying business Bath but in my of that contribuagreed to Bristol, no into also escape in Bath. landlords Bath councillors see the bene�it a year lords on properties converted hear the noise can chase come to university rates to pay £2,000 dwellings. instead they tigate if theyrates. ‘We’d have as a household, just multiple occupancy June tion; stubusiness for t councillor plan to pursue in council tax,student house.’ Independen Although a for council tax was to live in our Spa student added: dents directlycouncil seems likely And a Bath And defeated, the their landlords. to target

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Rising star: Dale Driver is due to begin shooting a new sci-fi drama after success with Citizen

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petitive arena and, of course, it’s a visual medium so it’s obviously important that as many people as possible see your work. ‘So, with Citizen now available online and having been picked up by My Channel on Sky, I’m hopeful the film will develop a new following.’ The sci-fi fan’s film has drawn parallels with the film Aliens (Dale’s favourite), and TV series The Twilight Zone. More information about Citizen is available on the film’s official website, www. citizenfilm.co.uk .

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able interest from local and American audiences, also gaining a slot on Sky’s My Cine Shorts. Dale has now established his own commercial and corporate film company, Blue Ridge Films, with creative partners in the West Midlands. He is currently working on another sci-fi drama, with shooting due to begin next month. ‘Getting your work out there is a challenge for any up-and-coming film-maker,’ he added. ‘Cinema’s a hugely com-

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Dreams: Final year law student Rebecca Edward, 22

worse. ‘I proceeded to push him off and told him not to touch me,’ Francesca said. ‘He then asked me if I was foreign and I replied with a tart “No” and reiterated that I wanted him to leave me alone. ‘This seemed to enrage him because the next thing I knew he had me in a tight bearhug so I couldn’t move, and he proceeded to tell me that I “Should be foreign because I was f***ing hot”.’ The man then told Francesca he hated her before physically attacking her. ‘He let go and I turned round to confront him,’ she said. ‘But he aggressively groped my right breast and proceeded to run out of the club when I EDWARD JONES the north-east for a few exposed lunged after him. I had to leave weeks both TWO universities were at with when she went down alert, althoughwere put on the Hive after that because theI centre of a meningitis a fever and vomiting. no other cases have been reported. was so distressed.’ Her brother, Jeffrey scare after a student Elvin, Newcastle Francesca said felt ‘quite from the infection died claims the 22-year-old University Nor- said every within thumbria depressed for a week after year meningitis days of being taken Uni law degree ill. awareness events the assault’ but reported the student was sent Nine people who were held home came from into contact with hospital with only for new students. Rebecca turn toEdward p5 Housemate Venothani were offered anti- medication to treat �lu. She Rajagopal was dead within two said: ‘Rebecca biotics in case they days. had had many dreams With large numbers tracted the condition. conand one of of them was students and staff Ms Edward, from at both icient money to save suffMalay- Northumbria sia, had only been to get an air and Newcasback in tle universities potentially

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January 2015

One of the best cities on earth... IT’S official – Coventry is a better city for students than Prague, Brussels and Osaka. It came 45th in the QS Best Student Cities 2015 league table, one of only four British universities to make the list. The city’s array of theatres, art galleries and sports and music venues were all mentioned as being part of the reason why it featured in the top 50. It was also commended on its vibrant student community and strong reputation among graduate employers. Paris topped the list, while London was the highest-ranking British city, coming third.

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January 2015

Caught by curse of social media BEN SAUNDERS-COURT SOCIAL media is as much a defining characteristic of our generation as the ‘war on terror’, Banksy and X Factor. In 20 years when you’re watching Liam Payne and Alex Turner on I Luv 2017, reminiscing over the birth of Facebook you will understand its scope. Your grandchildren will look up at you with their cherubic faces and ask: ‘Nana, did you really store all your personal information in the cloud and willingly put your photographs, birth date, phone number and address on a public forum?’ and you’ll reply, ‘Yes my little love’. ‘But why Nana?’ they’ll ask, and you’ll think about it and sigh, ‘because they told us it

would be fun’. That’s the truth, isn’t it? We post our most personal secrets online for everyone to see because we believe it is fun. We are told that it is the future. But this idea has worked a little too well. It has become ingrained in us. A couple of years ago people would talk about how beneficial it was to leave your phone off for a few days and have a little technological holiday. Nobody says that any more. We panic if they we haven’t checked Facebook for a couple of hours. Factor in Twitter, Instagram and WhatsApp and you realise that something fundamental about our relat­ ionship with social media has changed. We have lost our sense of perspective. We have

closed off the emergency exits and wholeheartedly bought into the information age. We can’t even pin the badge of blame on the anonymous ‘they’. If ‘they’ jumped off a cliff would you follow? Maybe if it would get you a couple of extra levels on Angry Birds? The truth is that ‘they’ are, in fact, us. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram is all just software. We have lapped it up. You use these sites because your friends do. You got rid of Myspace because your friends did. We are changing our own constitutions, altering our physiology. That’s why you panic when you can’t feel your phone in your pocket or Instagram won’t refresh. We have blinded ourselves into believing that this is for the best.

If you spot an error, we are committed to putting it right. Contact us at corrections@unipaper.co.uk. If you do not wish to receive a copy, then email us with your address at nothanks@unipaper.co.uk. We print 200,000 copies in 16 university cities. The University Paper is published by The UniPaper Ltd, in association with Simian Publishing, 23-24 Margaret Street, London W1W 8RU. Printed by Newsquest, Oxford.

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talkingPOINTS WRONG IMAGE: How much of your food intake is dictated by how it makes your body look? How many desserts do you dismiss because they’ll only taste like guilt? How much of your time and energy is taken up thinking about what you look like and how you can change it? This attitude has become the infectious disease in our society that the NHS has yet to immunise against. It is the black plague of the 21st century Kathryn Thomson

JOIN THE FRAT PACK: Many of us have heard of frats and sororities through films such as American Pie. They have mad names such as kappa phi delta, throw toga parties, cause havoc across the campus and drink beer like it’s water. The bit the movies leave out is the good that fraternities do for their universities. Members have to do at least ten hours’ charity work, they need to get above-average grades and the fraternity is expected to compete in a sporting league. Fraternities are much more than just parties – they are a way to make great contacts and, once you are in, you are in for life Elliot DaCosta

WHY BORING IS BAD: The great Marilyn Monroe once remarked that ‘it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than boring’. This is a lesson every student should learn. By now your flatmates probably reckon that they have a pretty good idea of who you are. Frankly, this is not acceptable. They should not feel safe or comfortable in your presence; they should feel nervous excitement whenever they see you Jack Meggitt-Phillips

PICTURE: JESSICA LAIL

MEDIA MYTHS: Being a media student is tough. It really is. There’s this stigma with being a media student because people think it’s a joke subject where we are ‘glorified camera operators’. It’s as if we all congregated together to do a media degree for lack of something better and that we probably wouldn’t be intelligent enough to be lawyers, doctors, teachers or physicists anyway Anna Landi

DASHED DREAMS: Every year the job market is flooded with graduates, fresh-faced and full of ideas about changing the world. ‘I want to be an environmental lawyer’ they cry; ‘I’m going to work with under-privileged kids,’ they shout. Check back three months later. Living back at home, their driving desire is just to find a job… any job. Sporting an ill-fitting Marks and Spencer suit they join the line of other graduate interviewees, beginning the process of becoming dead behind the eyes. They join the world of the depressed office worker, living for the increasingly s*** weekend in which cool uni friends have been replaced by bloated fortysomething colleagues promising a long and fruitful career in paperwork management Joe Evans

LACK OF RESOLVE: We’ve all done it. We’ve all had the thought: ‘This year I’m going to be different’. We will try to convince ourselves that we’ll change in the new year. Resolutions about being focused at university, making more effort with friends or changing our lifestyle are made, and broken, at the year’s end. Let’s be honest – we all stick to our resolutions for about as long as it takes for the new year fireworks to finish Kelly Smith

facebook.com/TheUniPaper You can read fuller versions of these pieces at www.unipaper.co.uk. Then, let us know what you think; email us at comment@unipaper.co.uk


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January 2015

theINTERVIEW: Neil Amin-Smith Uni survivors: Clean Bandit members Neil Amin-Smith, far right, with Luke and Jack Patterson and Grace Chatto

Rather talented N

EIL AMIN-SMITH has to apologise for being late. It is the day after the night before, when Clean Bandit proved one of the highlights at the BBC Music Awards, winning another legion of fans with an orchestral version of Rather Be and breakthrough hit Mozart’s House. All is forgiven, though, as he laughs it off, explaining he was at an afterparty in Mayfair: ‘Sorry about that – I’m actually usually really good at getting up.’ We feel his pain. After all, he’s talking to students; we’ve all tried this little white lie when we’ve stumbled into a lecture an hour late smelling of the SU. Amin-Smith, 25, is still on a high after being nominated for song of the year, despite being pipped by Pharrell Williams’ ubiquitous

THEY are the breakthrough act of 2014, a year crowned with No.1 hit Rather Be. Clean Bandit’s fusion of classical and electronica has won them adoring fans worldwide and a nod at the BBC Music Awards. Violin player Neil Amin-Smith tells CAVELLE SIMPSON and JOSHUA EVANS about the slog to the top and surviving university ditty Happy. ‘It was amazing to be nominated,’ he says. ‘The list of songs and the list of artists to have been nominated are so huge.’ Since entering the spotlight with Mozart’s House, his band – Jack Patterson, 28, on beats, synths, and midi-saxophone; his little brother, Luke, 22, on drums; and Grace Chatto, 29, on cello – have been unstoppable. The story of the Cambridge undergrads who went from classical quartet to dance floor darlings is becoming familiar as they sweep up the accolades, including for their No.1 hit Rather

Be, featuring Jess Glynne. But how did the partnership come about? Amin-Smith says: ‘We actually had the whole song finished for a long time. It was just looking for the right vocals. Our label played us a track that Jess was on and we thought we’d give it a go with her because she was on our level.’ It proved a wise choice, hurling the four-piece to the top of the charts. But fame took time. ‘It was kind of a long slog,’ he adds. ‘The thing that really made a difference with us was when we started making music videos and posting them online.’ His group

INSIDE: What’s on in your city P10-13

are known for drawing on genres from classical to deep house. ‘Jack listens to a lot of jazz,’ Amin-Smith goes on. ‘We all listen to different kinds of music, like garage. In terms of how we present ourselves live, people like Rudimental are influencing us a lot.’ They are also the ultimate university survivors, having formed at Jesus College, where Jack would record then-girlfriend Chatto’s recitals and remix them. Any advice on how to get through university? ‘Don’t see it as something you have to “get through”,’ Amin-Smith smiles. ‘It’s over far too quickly.’

Did they have their wild moments, like the rest of us? He pauses for a second, before chuckling: ‘Grace and Jack once got caught… um, together… in a cupboard at our college library.’ Most of us have our favourite uni party venues. Amin-Smith prefers a more intimate set-up: ‘I like small clubs. I’m not really into massive super-clubs.’ For Clean Bandit, life after uni has been pretty sweet – and they’re not slowing down. ‘We’ve come to the end of a really relentless touring period,’ Amin-Smith says. ‘In March, we’ve got our biggest-ever UK tour. We’re really looking forward to that.’

Clean Bandit play 02 Academy, Birmingham, on March 9, 02 Academy, Glasgow, on March 10 and Apollo, Manchester, on March 11

Rae Morris: Don’t be shy, chase your dream P14

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January 2015

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clubbingCALENDAR mon, jan 5 Bubbleluv, Kasbah Nightclub, £4

tue, jan 13 I Love Smack, Smack, £5

wed, jan 21 Pop!, Warwick SU, £5

tue, jan 6 I Love Smack, Smack, £5

wed, jan 14 Pop! , Warwick SU, £5

thurs, jan 22 Twisted, Smack, £5 Jager Nation, Club M, free

Legendary event: Catch Game of Thrones star Kristian Nairn at Kasbah. Inset, Nairn as the seven-foot tall Hodor carries Bran Stark

Magic night from EDM giant HE is best known as the mute, grunting giant simpleton Hodor but Kristian Nairn has a funky side. The Game of Thrones star is relieved from his servant duties

and will be picking up the EDM vinyls for a mythical night. Hodor: Rave of Thrones will take place on Saturday, February 7 with tickets costing £5.

thurs, jan 29 Twisted, Smack, £5 Jager Nation, Club M, free

fri, jan 30 Jagermonster, Neon, £5 Kinky, Kasbah Nightclub, £5 Peaches and Cream, Iglu, £5 before 1am Free Entry Fridays, Rainbows, free

wed, jan 7 Pop!, Warwick SU, £5

thurs, jan 15 Twisted, Smack, £5 Jager Nation, Club M, free

fri, jan 23 Jagermonster, Neon, £5 Kinky, Kasbah Nightclub, £5 Peaches and Cream, Iglu, £5 before 1am Free Entry Fridays, Rainbows, free

sat, jan 31 Saturday Rocks, JJs, £4.50 Tricky Disco, Kasbah Nightclub, £5 The Saturdays Sensation, Iglu, £3 before midnight Your Big Saturday Night Out, Rainbows, free before 11pm

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January 2015

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clubbingCALENDAR thurs, jan 8 Twisted, Smack, £5

fri, jan 9 Jagermonster, Neon, £5 Kinky, Kasbah Nightclub, £5 BOOM Fridays Just Got Bigger!, JJs, £4.50 Peaches and Cream, Iglu, £5 Free Entry Fridays, Rainbows, Free

fri, jan 16 Jagermonster, Neon, £5 Kinky, Kasbah Nightclub, £5 Peaches And Cream, Iglu, £5 before 1am Free Entry Fridays, Rainbows, free

sun, feb 1 Sunday Sessions, JJs, £1

Sunday Sessions, JJs, £1

sun, jan 18

I Love Smack, Smack, £5

tue, feb 3

Pop!, Warwick SU, £5

Monday: 9am - 11pm Tueday: 9am - 11pm Wednesday: 9am - 11pm Thursday: 9am - 11pm Friday: 9am - Midnight

filter

COFFEE or TEA

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Pop!, Warwick SU, £5

thurs, feb 5 Twisted, Smack, £5

OPENING TIMES

FREE

Varsity, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, West Mids, CV4 7AJ

wed, jan 28

wed, feb 4

I Love Smack, Smack, £5

VARSITY

tue, jan 20 I Love Smack, Smack, £5

tue, jan 27

Bubbleluv, Kasbah Nightclub, £4 Deja-Vu Urban Nights, JJs, £5 before midnight

Bubbleluv, Kasbah Nightclub, £4 Deja-Vu Urban Nights, JJs, £5 before midnight

Bubbleluv, Kasbah Nightclub, £4

Bubbleluv, Kasbah Nightclub, £4 Deja-Vu Urban Nights, JJs, £5 before midnight

mon, jan 26

mon, feb 2

mon, jan 12

mon, jan 19

Sunday Sessions, JJs, £1

sun, jan 25 Sunday Sessions, JJs, £1

sun, jan 11

Saturday Rocks, JJs, £4.50 Tricky Disco, Kasbah Nightclub, £5 The Saturdays Sensation, Iglu, £3 before midnight Your Big Saturday Night Out, Rainbows, free before 11pm

sat, jan 17 Saturday Rocks, JJs, £4.50 Tricky Disco, Kasbah Nightclub, £5 The Saturdays Sensation, Iglu, £3 before midnight Your Big Saturday Night Out, Rainbows, free before 11pm

sat, jan 24 Saturday Rocks, JJs, £4.50 Tricky Disco, Kasbah Nightclub, £5 The Saturdays Sensation, Iglu, £3 before midnight Your Big Saturday Night Out, Rainbows, free before 11pm

sat, jan 10

Saturday: 9am - 11pm Sunday: 10am - 10pm We serve food from 9am - 10pm Mon Sat, 10am - 10pm Sunday.

Classic 6oz Burger & drink £7.95

with any breakfast

Classic burger & pint of Carling, Strongbow, John Smiths, Regular Coke, Regular Lemonade, appletiser, 175ml house wine or 330ml mineral water

Valid everyday 9am - 12pm

Valid everyday 12pm - 5pm

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Phone: 02476695998


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January 2015

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what’sON theatre

Comic dissects glitz and glamour

Until January 10: ALADDIN, Belgrade Theatre, tickets £10.25£18.75 January 17 to January 24: THE EXORCISM, Loft Theatre, £10.50 January 21: MARRIAGE OF FIGARO, Belgrade Theatre, £12.25 January 22: NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: TREASURE ISLAND, Warwick Arts Centre, £18 January 27: ARISTOPHANES’ THESMOPHORIAZUSAE, Warwick Arts Centre, £4.50 January 28 to January 31: DEAD SIMPLE, Belgrade Theatre, tickets £11.25-£29.50 January 31 to February 7: PROOF, Criterion Theatre, £10.50 February 3 to February 7: THE HISTORY BOYS, Belgrade Theatre, £10.75 February 4 to February 6: JOHN, Warwick Arts Centre, £13.50 (under-26s)

comedy January 28: JOHN SHUTTLEWORTH – A WEE KEN TO REMEMBER, Warwick Arts Centre, £15.50 January 31: OMID DJALILI - IRANALAMADINGDONG, Warwick Arts Centre, £24

WHETHER you loved or loathed school, there was no denying drama was always just around the corner. The History Boys, showing from February 3 to 7 at the Belgrade Theatre, encapsulates those turbulent days, following a group of quick-witted pupils getting to grips with sex, scandal and scholarship as they prepare for their Oxbridge exams. Tickets start at £8.50

THE UNIVERSITY PAPER NEEDS YOUR HELP! If you’re in the know about student life, outgoing and keen to work with a fantastic team of people, we’re on the lookout for new recruits to help with distribution, street teams, promotions and more. Fantastic rates of pay. If you’re up to the challenge, please contact: editor@unipaper.co.uk

HAVING entertained the masses since the 1990s, Omid Djalili is well-placed to discuss the perils of celebrity. The British–Iranian comic has been in some of the biggest films of the last 20 years, including Gladiator, Notting Hill and Pirates Of The Caribbean. Now he’s here to dissect our fascination with fame, as well as discuss themes such as relationships and getting older. The Iranalamadingdong tour hits Warwick Arts Centre for one night only on Saturday, January 31. Josh Payne


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January 2015

what’sON music

Our comprehensive guide to entertainment in Coventry. If you have an event you would like included, please email us at whatson@unipaper.co.uk

Gould-en comeback for The Waterboys

January 7: STEVE WALWYN + FRIENDS, Zephyr Lounge, £5 January 9: GUNS 2 ROSES, Arches Venue, £7 January 11, 18, 25, February 1: OPEN MIC, The Coal Vaults, £1 January 14: HATS OFF TO LED ZEPPLIN, Belgrade Theatre, £17.25 January 15: BUDDY HOLLY - A LEGEND REBORN, Belgrade Theatre, £17.25 January 16: BON JOVI UK, Arches Venue, tickets £7 January 17: YOU2, Arches Venue, tickets £6 January 17: 80S MANIA, Belgrade Theatre, £19.75 January 18: UNDER THE RADAR: THE JIGANTICS, Warwick Arts Centre, £7.50 January 19: LAURA JURD SEPTET, Warwick Arts Centre, £11 January 20: HAYSEED DIXIE, Copper Rooms, £15 January 22: RAT PACK LIVE, Belgrade Theatre, £19.75 January 23: THE ELVIS YEARS, Belgrade Theatre, £19.75 January 17: MORETALLICA, Arches Venue, tickets £5 January 24: LITTLE CHIX, Belgrade Theatre, £13.25 January 24: PINK AS FLOYD, Arches Venue, £8 January 29: LADY GODIVA’S OPERATION #2: TREMBLING BELLS W/MIKE HERON + MACGILLIVRAY + LAURA CANNELL, The Coal Vaults, £8

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Revival: Catch folk rockers The Waterboys for one night only at Warwick Arts Centre on February 2 January 29: KING CREOSOTE, Warwick Arts Centre, £16 January 30: RUBY TURNER, Warwick Arts Centre, £20 January 31: NAILA + THE BOTTLENECKS, The Coal Vaults, £6 adv/£8 on the door January 31: THE SEX PISTOLS EXPERIENCE & ED TENPOLE TUDOR, Arches Venue, tickets £8

January 31: BONNIE DOBSON & HER BOYS, Warwick Arts Centre, £16 January 31: HELLS BELLS, Arches Venue, tickets £7 February 2: THE WATERBOYS IN CONCERT, Warwick Arts Centre, £28.50 February 3: RÖKKURRÓ, The Coal Vaults, £4

WHEN 50 men were asked frank questions about love and sex, John’s story stood out. Now the tale of his life has been reimagined and brought to life by DV8 Physical Theatre through movement and spoken word. JOHN, which contains strong language and nudity, is at Warwick Arts Centre from February 4 to 6.

art Until January 11: PEOPLE OF INDIA: PHOTOGRAPHS BY JASON SCOTT TILLEY, Herbert Gallery, free January 17 to March 7: JOHN AKOMFRAH: THE UNFINISHED CONVERSATION, Warwick Arts Centre, free

January 17 to March 7: CLOSE AND FAR: RUSSIAN PHOTOGRAPHY NOW January 16 to February 20: FLOCK O MANIA, Lanchester Gallery, free January 30 to April 26: RECORDING BRITAIN, Herbert Gallery, free Until February 1: THE GREAT WAR: COVENTRY’S STORY, Herbert Gallery, free

IT HAS been more than 20 years since they formed but The Waterboys are undergoing a miniature revival into the mainstream. In 2013, pop star Ellie Goulding scored a top three hit with her cover of How Long Will I Love You?, while Prince performed The Whole Of The Moon during last year’s Hit + Run tour in London. They have even hit the small screen, with The Voice finalist Sally Barker performing the same song on the BBC1 show. The band are currently promoting their 11th album, Modern Blues, a gloriously freewheeling rock ‘n’ roll record, with two UK dates. Catch the rockers, who re-formed in 2000 following their 1993 split, at Warwick Arts Centre on February 2.


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January 2015

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A full version of our interview with Rae Morris appears at www.unipaper.co.uk

I took opportunities... even the bad ones M

OST people were �irst introduced to Rae Morris as the ethereal voice on Bombay Bicycle Club’s single Luna last year. But her loyal fans have been appreciating her music since she set out on the road to stardom three years ago. The 22-year-old’s debut album, Unguarded, will be released later this month before she heads out on tour. TUP caught up with her to �ind out more. Is there a different process when producing an album, as opposed to working on EPs and singles? Mentally, I knew I had to create a whole body of work. So, I was quite nervous at �irst, but the producer just said: ‘Look, don’t be scared – because what’s the

worst thing you can do?’ Would you say your hometown of Blackpool has been a positive place for you as an emerging artist? Absolutely. I think the good thing about Blackpool is that because it’s so small, it makes you stand out a little more. I realised at the time that if I was in London coming on to the scene and playing open mic nights, it’s musically so vast and such a big city that it’s easy to get lost. Does the media compare you to your contemporaries and do you �ind that a problem? I’ve never really had a problem with being compared to the people I’m in a peer group with. I’m a massive Kate Bush fan,

so often people say about my music, ‘that sounds a bit like Kate Bush’. And obviously that’s not true. I am inspired by her – but I don’t sound like her. What would be your advice to young artists struggling to get their music heard? Take the opportunities. I don’t mean be desperate or sell yourself or anything like that – I just mean never say no to anything just because it doesn’t sound great. I took a lot of gigs where I was like, ‘Oh, gosh, I’m not sure – I don’t think it’s going to be a good one’. And then you get there and it happens to be the best gig you ever played. Mollie Carberry

theBEAT Star in the making: Rae Morris has her first album out this month

tourDATES Catch Rae on tour: February 1, Kazimier, Liverpool; February 3, King Tut’s, Glasgow; February 4, The Wardrobe, Leeds; February 5, The Institute, Birmingham; February 6, Gorilla, Manchester; February 14, The Thekla, Bristol; February 15, Rescue Rooms, Nottingham


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theBEAT

January 2015

15

Love your music? So do we! Tune in here for all the latest interviews, previews and reviews

Inspired by dad’s wisdom I

T’S a mantra we would all do well to follow: Always do what will make you happy. For rising star Billy Lockett, the words of his late father, John Luce, have underpinned his determination to forge a career in music. And, so far, it is paying off. Lockett, 22, is climbing to the top despite having yet to sign a record deal. He has supported the likes of Lana Del Rey, Birdy and KT Turnstall, most recently touring with Scottish songstress – and Ed Sheeran protégé – Nina Nesbitt. In March, he embarks on his own four-date headline tour, while his latest single, Old Man, is a beautiful tribute to his father, who died earlier this year from prostate cancer at the age of 62. ‘I sort of hated him sometimes,’ says Lockett. ‘We had a lot of fights but a lot of laughs. Overall, it was great to have someone that cared

How rising star Billy was urged to follow his dream so much about me and about what I do.’ His father, a well-known artist in his home town of Northampton, was constantly pushing Lockett to follow his dream and his words have stuck: ‘Make sure that whatever you’re doing you’re enjoying. Make sure you’re constantly doing something that makes you happy.’ It’s hard to pinpoint Lockett’s musical style, as each song varies from soothing melodies to more upbeat rhythms, all intertwined with charming piano and guitar. Raw emotion can be heard in his soulful, expressive voice as he reminisces on his life. So it’s odd to hear his love of music grew from a childhood

obsession with Eminem. He says: ‘I love his lyrics and everything about him really. I wouldn’t really say he inspires me, because he’s nothing like me, but he was one of the first people that really got me into music.’ Lockett knows he has yet to crack the music business. ‘It’s great knowing that everyone’s there to see you when they’ve bought tickets for your gig,’ he says. ‘But I also love trying to win people over as a supporting artist.’ And despite admitting that ‘things could be easier’, he declares: ‘I don’t want to do anything that’s going to make me depressed in the long run.’ Clearly, he’s been listening to his dad. Eloise Vanstone

KNOW THE INSIDE

DO headline tour: Where you can catch Billy on his nge, Manchester Lou y Rub The Sunday, March 22: gow Glas s, Monday, March 23: King Tut’ tol Bris kla, The 25: ch Mar Wednesday, , London Thursday, March 26: Bush Hall

tourDATES

Boys find a fresh voice... with a little help from their friends THANK heavens! The Bastille boys are back and they’re mixing with some of the best in the business. The indie four-piece have returned with their second album and have invited the likes of Haim, GRADES and Rag ’N’ Bone Man to join them. Although Dan Smith’s haunting vocals still

YOU

T R AC K O N

CAMPUS?

Bastille in VS. (Other People’s Heartache Pt. III)

dominate, the band explore new genres and styles, finding fresh inspiration while playing around with their old sound. It’s the perfect mixtape for the walk to lectures or revision – a chilled offering you’ll find yourself singing along to

without even realising your lips are moving. If you’re going to spend your student loan on one CD this month, make sure it’s this one. Trust me – you won’t regret not having spent that tenner on vodka trebles for this. Henrietta Painter

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


16

January 2015

hiTECH

www.unipaper.co.uk The latest in everything gadgets and gaming

It’s war but not as we know it

E

XAMS are over and you’re looking to treat yourself to a �irst-person shooter, packed with cinematic explosions and futuristic weapons. Look no further than the latest offering from the Call Of Duty series. Advanced Warfare is set in the battle�ields of the future, providing combat in an age of robotic exoskeletons and private military contractors. The setting has had more

Call Of Duty: Advanced Warfare

than just a super�icial lick of paint, with both weaponry and mechanics getting an overhaul. Double jumping, lasers from space, arm-mounted grenade launchers – they’re all here. The campaign mode has all the �lair you’ve come to expect of a high-budget �irstperson shooter. And with its

Glimpse into the future: The game offers all-new tech

Rating: 4/5

Hollywood explosions and Kevin Spacey taking on the role of lead protagonist, the game’s storyline is grand in scale. Advanced Warfare is the most signi�icantly changed Call Of Duty since Black Ops 2 – it represents a genuine departure from the morose battle�ields of the past, bringing something a little

fresher and more exciting to the table. Like other titles in the series, you’ll be �ighting in locations around the world, such as Argentina and Antarctica – but the real draw is the multiplayer mode, and that you’ll �ind as thrilling as ever. Developer Sledgehammer Games has tweaked the winning formula – but don’t worry, you can still

build up your player and unlock new kit. The only issue comes to the fore over long periods of game play, with online play stuttering on occasion for little discernible reason. Even so, Advanced Warfare is heaps of fun and comes highly recommended for anyone with some downtime and the desire to score a few headshots with friends. Michael O’Connell-Davidson

out soon Dying Light HORDES of flesh-eating zombies are everywhere and it’s down to you to stop them. During the day, you traverse the virtual world, helping survivors and picking up supplies. By night, as the infected grow stronger, you change from hunter to prey. New enemies, such as the Predators, will only appear at sundown – meaning you must find safety. The game’s RPG element allows you to build your own style of playing. But will you go for silent killing or all guns blazing? James Williams Rugby 15 WITH the World Cup just months away, a rugby-based video game was inevitable. However, such games are notoriously difficult to produce because of rugby’s intricate rules. HB Studios’ attempt allows you to play in the world’s top leagues or for your country – but the game looks similar to any other, except for a new rucking feature that adds a real-life element. With average graphics and game play, you’d be better off stepping back in time and getting EA’s Rugby 08. Matt Bullin Saints Row IV: Re-Elected

Pass it on: Play friends as though you’re in the same room

Share a journey back to the ’90s FOR twentysomething gamers, childhood evokes memories of basking in the warm glow of a TV at a friend’s house, rejoicing in the multiplayer nirvana of GoldenEye 007 and Mario Kart 64. It was an era when split-screen reigned supreme. But the popularity of the ‘couch multiplayer’ dwindled with the advent of online gaming. Now, with Sony’s latest system software update on the PlayStation 4, the couch is back. Introducing Share Play – the ability to play games online with a friend as though you were back on that patterned ’90s

couch once more. Share Play lets you effectively ‘pass’ your friend your controller, allowing them to take control of your game as you see it on your screen. Alternatively, you can pass them a second controller and play local multiplayer online. Buzzwords such as ‘game-changing’ and ‘revolutionary’ are industry prerequisites for marketing campaigns nowadays – but this really is the next level for gaming. With all the releases January has to offer, Share Play is the console exclusive worth having. All hail the couch! Graham Wardle

PICTURE this: you’re president of the US and aliens invade, intent on enslaving humanity. What do you do? Well, in Saints Row IV: Re-Elected, you go out and kick some ass. The game is a revamp of the excellent Saints Row IV for the new generation of consoles. If you find Grand Theft Auto too stuffy, you’ll enjoy the unique humour of this series. In GTA, you can break the law; in Saints Row IV, you can break the laws of physics. If you’ve got an appetite for the ridiculous, it’s a no-brainer. Michael O’Connell-Davidson

Menaces: Destroy aliens


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January 2015

onSCREEN

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Love a good night at the movies? Or perhaps you need a quiet night in front of the TV? Read on to �ind out what’s on...

How they saved our Saul Return of Breaking Bad rogue

B

Flying high: Channing Tatum with heir to the Earth Mila Kunis in Jupiter Ascending

out soon Wild (Jan 16) AFTER a series of tragic events, Cheryl Strayed embarks on a gruelling quest — hiking 1,100 miles along the Pacific Crest Trail. Based on a true story, Wild sees Strayed (Reese Witherspoon) come to terms with the death of her mother, using heroin and getting divorced. The film is adapted from Strayed’s autobiography by screenwriter/novelist Nick Hornby and director Jean-Marc Callée, who mixes scenes from the lead character’s turbulent past with challenges from her journey. Emily Lewis Kingsman: The Secret Service (Jan 29) SMALL-TIME crook Gary ‘Eggsy’ Unwin (Taron Egerton) is taken under the wing of gentleman spy Harry Hart (Colin Firth). Unwin’s tough first assignment is to deal with global threat and mad techterrorist Valentine (Samuel L Jackson). Armed with innovative weaponry, such as Oxford Blades and the Gunbrella, can the pair save the day? Kate Johnson

ENT lawyer Saul Goodman reached cult status in hit show Breaking Bad. Now, the lovable rogue is back in the muchanticipated spin-off from creators Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould. Better Call Saul sees Bob Odenkirk reprise the role of Saul, real name Jimmy McGill, as he struggles to make his name as a lawyer six years before the events of Breaking Bad. However, rumour has it the prequel will also deal with events during and after. Although RJ Mitte, who played Walt Jr in Breaking Bad, has said the new series

Spin-off: Bob Odenkirk is back as bent lawyer Saul Goodman has ‘nothing to do’ with the Emmy award-winning show, its success should guarantee Better Call Saul a global audience. Despite funnyman Saul taking the lead, the show is set to be just as gritty as its big brother, with Odenkirk insisting it will be ‘85 per cent

drama, 15 per cent comedy’. With Jonathan Banks also returning as ice-cool hitman Mike Ehrmantraut, Breaking Bad fans will be able to sate those withdrawal symptoms. The show is to premiere in the US on February 8 and will hit UK Net�lix shortly after. Josh Mcloughlin

New look: Spy Colin Firth. Below, Reese Witherspoon Inherent Vice (Jan 30) PRIVATE detective Larry ‘Doc’ Sportello (Joaquin Phoenix) investigates the disappearance of his ex-girlfriend’s (Katherine Waterson) new lover, Mickey Wolfmann (Eric Roberts). This drama-comedy, also starring Owen Wilson and Reese Witherspoon, is adapted from the Thomas Pychon novel of the same name by writer and director Paul Thomas Anderson. Rebecca Cattell Mordecai (Jan 23) ENGLISH gent, debonair art dealer and part-time rogue Charlie Mortdecai (Johnny Depp) wants to get his hands on Nazi gold. Standing in his way is an international terrorist, the MI5, angry Russians and

almost everyone else. The film’s trailer offers cheap laughs, poor English accents and the same post-Jack Sparrow Depp that lost its charm a long time ago. Gwyneth Paltrow plays beautiful wife Johanna Mortdecai and Ewan McGregor, investigates as Inspector Martland. Morgan Hinton

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Jupiter Ascending (Feb 6) AN ALIEN life force plans to wipe the planet clean, keeping only the humans it deems worthy. Enter down-on-her-luck earthling Jupiter Jones (Mila Kunis), who also happens to be a potential heir to the Earth. Caine Wise (Channing Tatum), a genetically engineered interplanetary warrior, is sent to tell Jones she is royalty and protect her from the bounty put on her head by evil alien Balem. Daisy Edwards

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January 2015

www.unipaper.co.uk

Fashioning their future with words

Lauren Kelly

inSTYLE

Julia Ward

Four student fashion bloggers give ELLA ROSE POYZER advice on how to dress with style for lectures and reveal how blogging has changed their university experiences

W

HAT is your go-to outfit to wear for lectures? Lauren Kelly: Skinny jeans for comfort and I always have a blazer on to smarten everything up. If anything is scruffy, it’s my hair – never my outfit. You can’t tie that up in a bun with it still looking presentable. Julia Ward: I like to dress smart-casual. A pair of highwaisted jeans with a cami-top

and a kimono or cardigan is just the right amount of smart and comfy. Eleanor Danks: I tend to stick to jeans, a top and my trusty leather jacket. Aisling McGarrigle: Always some sort of jersey skirt and a casual top or jumper, some tights and usually brogues. For a typical university night out, what kind of outfit is always your first choice?

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R O F F ITY PAPER OF S IVER S UN

READ

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Eleanor Danks Eleanor: My disco pants or velvet leggings, a bralet or crop top and heeled boots. I prefer boots to heels – heels hurt so bad! When on a budget, what shops are your favourites? Lauren: H&M for basics,

Aisling McGarrigle New Look for jewellery and pumps. Both give easy ways to make a simple or recycled outfit look new – and without breaking the bank. Julia: One of my favourites has to be Primark. I can guarantee I will find

something I love in there every time I go – and, of course, it’s great on the purse strings. I also love Matalan. You’d be pleasantly surprised at the number of great quality pieces and accessories you can find in there. Do you feel as though blogging has enhanced your university experience? Julia: Life at university isn’t all about getting your degree. Granted, that is important – but it’s also important to have something extra that makes you stand out from the rest. For me, that something extra is blogging. It’s the perfect escape from university work and something I look forward to doing after a long week. Aisling: I studied zoology, which is a far cry from make-up and beauty, so I feel like my blog has opened doors for me that wouldn’t have been an option normally. I recently got a job in The Body Shop and I feel my blog had so much to do

with it, as it was clear I was passionate about the brand and products. What advice can you give for any student thinking of starting a blog? Julia: I’d say to just go for it. My blog is for me, not to impress anyone. It’s a way of expressing my passion. If people read it and love it, then that’s an added bonus. Eleanor: Have a good think about what your blog content will focus on – start planning and scheduling your posts, research the best photo editing software and look at other blogs for inspiration. Don’t forget to network – it’s a great way to build connections and friendships with other bloggers to increase your readership. Aisling: Plan your time and posts effectively. When I started, I was just posting whenever I felt like it – but I wasn’t happy with my posts. Now I have more structure, I feel my blog is much better and is well put together.

Follow Julia at www.blondeambition13.tumblr.com; Lauren at www.laurenmariesreveries.blogspot.co.uk; Eleanor at www.dreamlovelivefashion.blogspot.co.uk; and Aisling at www.rosysmiles.blogspot.co.uk

Little White Lies is a British, London based brand bringing timeless quality pieces to the 18-35 year old fashion conscious women. Little White Lies creates exquisite collections, each piece has a unique point of difference- a trim, beautiful buttons or hidden pockets. Every garment has been thought about in detail from beginning to end creating contemporary modern pieces with a nostalgic retro charm.

We use the highest quality fabrics to create soft dresses and separates; with the use of delicate velvets, vegan leathers, silks and georgette overlays. Attention to detail is what makes this brand so charming. This is carried throughout all designs, giving a feeling of femininity with an urban edge keeping Little White Lies in touch with premium fashion trends. The brand is stocked across the UK, Europe and the USA making a name for itself as Drapers Young Fashion Brand finalist. To celebrate the growing success, Little White Lies would like to offer University readers 25% off their next shop online at www.littlewhitelies.com

Go to www.littlewhitelieslondon.com and enter code LWLU25 to claim your discount Can be used on full price items only, cannot be used in conjunction with other coupons.


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inSTYLE

January 2015

xx

News and views from the world of fashion... all with a student budget in mind

Reem: Towie’s Joey Essex takes time out for a snap, right. Above and left, faux fur and flowing skirts steal the show at CSL

Dozy Joey heads fashion followers at annual style fest

Glitz with a ditz

T

HEY gave us neon and New York; they had the greats and not-so-greats of the fashion world; they even had Joey Essex. Now in its 26th year, Clothes Show Live arrived at Birmingham’s NEC with all the hoopla and celebrity endorsements you might expect of an event that launched the modelling careers of Erin O’Connor, Holly Willoughby and Nina Porter. It attracted about 100,000 visitors between December

A star-struck SHANICE ABBOTT sneaks a peek behind the scenes as Clothes Show Live rolls into town for its 26th year

5 and 9, with the 500,000 sq ft-plus of the NEC transformed by 400 stalls, each plying every kind of clothing from cheap and chic to vintage. There were complaints this year about the lack of bigname stars – but Amy Childs, Joey Essex, Millie Mackintosh, Lauren Goodger, Peter Andre, Henry Holland and more were in attendance. Cheeky Towie star Joey Essex,

who was there to meet fans and sign his 2015 calendar, said: ‘I’m looking forward to meeting the models.’ Flashing his famed Rolex, the fashion fan said that, while he loves his bling, he remained unable to tell the time. As though to prove his point, ever-ditzy Joey finished the conversation by asking what day it was. When informed it was Friday, he laughed: ‘Oh, my

watch says Tuesday – I don’t know where I am in the world.’ Fellow reality star Amy Childs could be spotted selling her stunning women’s clothing collection, while Peter Andre was there to sign bottles of his latest perfume, Scarlet. House Of Holland founder Henry Holland presented a heavily choreographed catwalk show, with themes including neon, winter and New York. And headliners Neon Jungle kept the crowd entertained as celebrities mingled with fans.

Chelsea boy: Spencer Matthews of Made In Chelsea fame shares a hug with our reporter, middle. Left and right, bold prints dominated the catwalk at this year’s CSL

PICTURES: SHANICE ABBOTT


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yourNIGHT

Enjoyed a big night in Coventry? We have all the pictures from the city’s hottest nightspots... see if you can spot yourself.


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January 2015

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mealBREAK Our fantastic selected recipes are tried-and-tested favourites among students who want to eat well on a budget but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. So, get cooking and enjoy

Top chocs: These iced treats are great to share with friends

Chicken arrabiata

Ingredients: Chicken breast, sliced; three rashers of bacon; tin of chopped tomatoes; half a pepper; whole chilli; two tbsp tomato purée; chilli powder; garlic powder; mixed herbs; salt and pepper; low-calorie spray Method: 1. Spray a pan with low-calorie spray and wait for it to heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook on a high heat until golden 2. When the chicken is almost cooked, add the bacon 3. Meanwhile, chop the peppers and chilli, adding to the cooked chicken and bacon 4. Stir in the tinned tomatoes and tomato purée 5. Add the chilli powder, garlic powder, mixed herbs, and salt and pepper 6. Simmer on a low heat for ten minutes 7. During this time,

breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon zest and herbs and season well. Pour in the butter and mix with a fork or your �ingers, until combined 3. Cover the �illets with the crumbs, pressing down on each 4. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the crust is golden Aramide Pearce Vanilla cupcakes with chocolate icing

cook the pasta 8. Once cooked, combine the pasta and sauce 9. Add grated cheese to the top to enhance the �lavour Tip: If you’re feeling brave, try adding two chillis to the sauce Shannon Barrett

Herb-crusted fish

Ingredients: Two �ish �illets; two garlic cloves, crushed; 10g butter, softened; one tbsp fresh basil, chopped (dried is �ine, too); lemon zest, grated (juice is �ine, too); breadcrumbs (made

by grating two slices of toast); salt and pepper Method: 1. Heat oven to 200C. Place the �ish on a large greased baking tray and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper 2. Combine the

Ingredients: For the cupcakes: 100g unsalted butter; 100g sugar; 100g �lour; two medium eggs; one tsp vanilla extract For the chocolate icing: 100g unsalted butter; 260g icing sugar; 40g cocoa powder; four squares of baking chocolate; three tbsp double cream Method for the cupcakes: 1. Preheat the oven to 180C and line a baking tray with cupcake cases of your choice 2. Cream together the sugar and butter in a mixing bowl until light and �luffy 3. Crack both eggs into the bowl and add two tbsp of �lour, plus the vanilla extract

4. Fold in the remaining �lour until combined. Do not over-work the mixture as you will extract all the air and the cupcakes will not rise 5. Divide the mixture evenly between the cake cases 6. Bake for 15 minutes – they should be golden on top and spring back into place when you press down on them. Wait until the cupcakes are cool before you attempt to ice them Method for the chocolate icing: 1. Beat the butter until light and �luffy; it should turn a very pale colour, which is key to getting the perfect icing 2. Add the icing sugar, 100g at a time 3. Add the �inal 60g of icing sugar along with the 40g of cocoa powder 4. Melt the four squares of baking chocolate and add to the mixture 5. Next, add the double cream until the icing is light and �luffy 6. Place the icing mixture into a piping bag and ice the cupcakes 7. Sprinkle with decorations of your choice and share with friends Shannon Barrett


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January 2015

mealBREAK

23

We’ve all got to eat. So whether you fancy preparing something at home or popping out for dinner, we have the recipe for a great meal

Go global with your grub Y

Finish off with fudge

LET’S face it – running to the shops and satisfying your sweet tooth is easier than cooking yourself. However, nothing beats homemade treats. Check out this easy, inexpensive chocolate fudge recipe that will sate those cravings. Ingredients: 450g caster sugar; 50g unsalted butter, diced into small cubes; 170g can of evaporated milk; 150ml milk; 150g plain chocolate Method: 1. Grease a square tin, roughly 18cm by 18cm, with margarine 2. Gently heat the butter, sugar, evaporated milk and milk, until the sugar has dissolved 3. Bring it to the boil

Fine finish: Satisfy your sweet tooth and stir for 30 minutes 4. Remove from the heat 5. Break the chocolate into pieces and melt in the microwave

PICTURE: CLARE HORRIGAN

6. Stir the chocolate and fudge mixture together, and pour into a tin 8. Leave to set overnight Clare Horrigan

OU’RE on a budget, you can’t afford to travel. But that shouldn’t stop you from getting a taste of the exotic straight from your very own kitchen. Why not invite your friends over and treat them to the �inest cuisines from Guadalajara to London via Barcelona? Mexico: Tacos Pockets of happiness you can �ill with anything. Popular �illings include fried meats, cheese and sour cream – but why not try something more unconventional? Raid the cupboards and give whatever you �ind a try. For drinks, you are spoilt for choice — margaritas, mojitos, Sol or even tequila! Sombreros are optional. Italy: Pasta There are endless choices. Tomato Neapolitan sauce, creamy carbonara or,

Get a taste of the world without leaving home of course, spag bol. To save cash, make loads and keep some in the fridge. There’s a bonus, too: it may be the only legitimate time to consume gallons of wine while staying in theme. Spain: Tapas The ultimate sharing food – little plates of nibbles, be they hot or cold, that you can throw out in large quantities safely knowing there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy. Excellent for get-togethers and nights in with the television. Drink whatever you fancy – but sangria is always a start. Thailand: Green curry Subtler than its Indian cousin, this still goes in the comforting, cheap

and easy-to-make category. All you need is some chicken, green beans and a jar of paste. Pour in some coconut milk and lime juice and you’re almost in Bangkok. Feeling adventurous? Then make your own paste; it’s only ground up garlic, chilli, spices and soy sauce, after all. Eat with rice and sink with Singha beer England: Casserole Leave the meat and veg to cook in wine and stock at a low heat in the oven. It will �ill you up for ages and leave you with a warm glow like proper comfort food should do. Drink tea and listen to the gasps of joy that echo all around. Lauren Bailey

Download the GBK app to unlock your 30% Student Discount gbkapp.co.uk/uni

www.gbk.co.uk


January 2015

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C

an you match the quote to the well-known person?

A: ‘I have this weird thing that, if I sleep with someone, they’re going to take my creativity from me through my vagina.’

B: ‘First, my mother was Spanish. Then, she became a Jehovah’s Witness.’

C: ‘I definitely want Brooklyn to be christened, but I don’t know into what religion yet.’

D: ‘I just want one day off when I can go swimming and eat ice cream and look at rainbows.’

E: ‘I created punk for this day and age. Do you see Britney walking around wearing ties and singing punk? Hell no. That’s what I do. I’m like a Sid Vicious for a new generation.’

Take a break and put your grey cells to work with our selection of puzzles

Who said what? 1 Paris Hilton, 2 Mariah Carey, 3 Gwyneth Paltrow, 4 Geri Halliwell, 5 Chris Brown, 6 David Beckham, 7 Avril Lavigne, 8 Ashton Kutcher, 9 R Kelly, 10 Lady Gaga

F: ‘I think every decade has an iconic blonde, like Marilyn Monroe or Princess Diana and, right now, I’m that icon.’

G: ‘Can I get your number? I promise I won’t beat you!’

ANSWERS

1

9

7

2 8 5

2 8 3 8 9

7

1

6

J: ‘All of a sudden, you’re like the Bin Laden of America.’

4

7

5

6 3 4

4 1

7

3 2 5 9

2

1 9

5 4

H: ‘I’d rather smoke crack than eat cheese from a can.’ I: ‘The number of lines in your forehead tells how many lives you’ve lived.’

2

6 1 9

4

2

1 8 6 4

3

7

9

4

2 5

8 9

5 1

3 6

Can you unscramble these singers’ names?

1. MURY OLLS 2. WHEN BOARD 3. WARGER DAY 4. WACK JHITE 5. EJJE SIS 6. ZAKIES

3

2 8

3 8

7

in a

muddle

7. LEEK 8. LOIN PAIN OUT ANSWERS

1 Olly Murs, 2 Ben Howard, 3 Gerard Way, 4 Jack White, 5 Jessie J, 6 Kiesza, 7 Kele, 8 Paolo Nutini

brainTEASE

A10 B4 C6 D2 E7 F1 G5 H3 I8 J9

24


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January 2015

competitionCORNER

Your chance to win fantastic tickets, trips and treats

WIN pizza for a year Great prize is worth a lot of dough

WIN

Hoping for an excuse to stay in?

P

IZZA? Free? For a year? What more could any cash-starved, deep crust-loving student want? We’ve teamed up with Pizza Hut to offer one lucky reader a £30 voucher for every month of 2015. The winner can pick from a menu featuring the �laming hot blazin’ inferno or famous deep-pan meat feast, each accompanied with unlimited salad and soft drink re�ills. You can even add a pudding from the selection of warm cookie-dough desserts. Or what better way to keep the hunger pangs at bay by heading for the unlimited buffet every weekday?

25

ARE you dreading stepping outside into the winter weather? Thanks to HBO UK Home Entertainment we are offering the perfect excuse to stay indoors. We have a haul of hit series up for grabs including Band of Brothers, The Paci�ic, True Detective and Boardwalk Empire seasons 1-4 to keep you and your housemates entertained.

To enter, email your name, university and year of study to win@unipaper.co.uk

Slice of luck: Why not use your winner’s voucher to treat your friends to a spicy blazin’ inferno or tuck into unlimited salad?

Learn to code in a day for FREE! Get your FREE eLearning course worth £99 exclusively with QA and the University Paper! •

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Learn from the comfort of your browser at a time that works best for you

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Gateway Programme Terms and conditions: Offer finishes on the 20th February 2015. Emails received before 20th February will receive the eLearning course. By emailing us for this promotion you agree for your email address to be added to the Uni Paper database and the QA Gateway Programme database.

To enter, email your name, university and year of study to win@unipaper.co.uk

To receive your FREE eLearning course worth £99 go to: https://kvgo.com/qa/ learn2code


26

January 2015

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Horoscope 

What’s written in the stars for you this month

ARIES: MARCH 21APRIL 19 January is not a time to sit still, Aries. The new year will bring exaltation and energy but don’t get too carried away. Pay particular attention to �inances and relationships TAURUS: APRIL 20MAY 20 Luck will be on your side this month,Taurus. The world is your oyster this year and it will feel as though you have just hit the jackpot. Just remember to trust your intuition GEMINI: MAY 21JUNE 20 The new year is an exciting time for you, Gemini. It will

be as though a veil has been lifted and for the �irst time you are seeing everything from an entirely new perspective CANCER: JUNE 21JULY 22 Have you been thinking of changing something up for a long time, Cancer? Now is the time to do it. Currently, you have everything you need so what are you waiting for LEO: JULY 23AUGUST 22 Time to focus on yourself, Leo. The new year will enable you to discover talents you didn’t even know you possessed. And, you know what they

say, practice really does make perfect

VIRGO: AUGUST 23SEPTEMBER 22 The new year brings positivity for you, Virgo; however, an unthinking step could land you in trouble, so stay in control and you will make great changes

LIBRA: SEPTEMBER 23OCTOBER 22 Don’t jump the gun, Libra. Stay a few steps ahead and consider all possibilities. Complicated situations will arise but stay in control and they can be solved with ease SCORPIO: OCTOBER 23NOVEMBER 21 You are going to have to

take responsibility for the actions of others this month, Scorpio. Even if you are not in the driving seat, be ready to accept the consequences SAGITTARIUS: NOVEMBER 22-DECEMBER 21 Those around you may be shrouded in negativity, Sagittarius, but don’t let this throw you off. Don’t be afraid to �ight back as it is best to trust your intuition right now CAPRICORN: DECEMBER 22JANUARY 19 There is no time like the present, Capricorn. A goal you have been working towards for a

long time is beginning to manifest and you will have luck on your side like you never have before

AQUARIUS: JANUARY 20-FEBRUARY 18 You are about to enter a very content phase, Aquarius. You have been working very hard of late and everything is about to fall into place, so why challenge fate for more? PISCES: FEBRUARY 19MARCH 20 You are responsible for every aspect of your life, Pisces, so if you are unhappy with certain aspects now is the time to make change. Don’t doubt your inner strength

Rock it... but ditch the booze In his latest column on LGBT issues, masters student FILIP BIGOS argues you don’t need to drink or take drugs just to conform to a hard-partying stereotype

E Go online to: www.unipaper.co.uk for more quizzes.

VERYBODY likes a good party. The music, the rush, the heat… When the beat drops, alcohol starts pouring and we get going. Especially the gays. Everyone knows gay clubs are the best – we know how to rock it. Fun, alcohol and drugs is pretty much what the gay community is all about. Or, at least, seems to be. Wherever we go, whatever we do, people always drink. And with age (and depending on how rich their sugar daddy is) they move on to drugs. To switch off. To loosen up. There is an awful lot of pressure on us to drink,

let’sTALK

and very often to do chems and slam. Yet owners of gay venues don’t tend to think about alternatives for people who don’t want to get wasted every day. I apologise for targeting gay men but they are the group most guilty of this. It damages our reputation and shames our community. It is possible to party without alcohol. I am a 22-year-old gay man – I don’t drink, yet I still date and have a great time. Most importantly I will remember it from start to �inish. This requires a real pair, because although I am gay, I am still a man and I am myself.

Little and often: Short bursts will help you focus

Festive fun is �inished, now get revising

CHRISTMAS is over and the exam period is back with a vengeance. Before you start panicking, take a deep breath and check out these �ive revision tips. 1. Write it all down: It may be a pain but it is guaranteed to help you remember all those facts and get them imprinted into your brain 2. Start with the tricky bits: It’s only natural to go for the stuff that we �ind the easiest but consider how stressfree the last few days of revision would be if you were working on the stuff you already understood the most 3. Try short, sharp bursts: Two to three hours of revision each day should do the trick. Accumulated over January (and hopefully some of December, too), that’s a lot of study time 4. Colour-code your notes: Research shows that a splash of colour can make all the difference 5. Reward yourself: Whether it is your favourite chocolate or a night out with friends once you’ve �inished a topic, you deserve a treat. Ellie Connell and Kelly Smith


www.unipaper.co.uk

January 2015

let’sTALK

Relationship trouble? Sex worries? Feeling low? We’ve got wise words to set you right

Alice ask

getting on with life – and so are your family and friends – but they will always be there for you. That much will never change.

M

Y STUDENT loan didn’t come in on time so I took out a payday loan. I thought I wouldn’t have to admit it to anyone – but I’m still waiting on student finance and now I owe double the amount I borrowed in the first place. Josh, Bristol

M

Y BOYFRIEND dumped me on New Year’s Eve... over champagne, no less. If that wasn’t bad enough, I tried so hard to make him happy. I often put him before studying. Now, exams are just weeks away and I feel like I’m drowning. I’m starting to wonder whether I should continue with my course. Rebecca, Liverpool

Exams are exactly what you need right now, Rebecca – hear me out. Throw yourself into revising, not re-reading every text you ever sent each other. Break-ups take time to heal. Nothing can beat a night in with the girls right now – but you also need a distraction. Before you know it, you’ll be back on your feet. Besides, let’s be honest – a guy who breaks up with you on New Year’s Eve isn’t worth your time. Your course, however, is.

Lovers’ tiff: But revision can provide the perfect distraction

H

OME isn’t home anymore. When I went back for Christmas, my parents showed me to the guest room – which was, in fact, my bedroom until four months ago. But the biggest

shock is my friends. I don’t feel like I’m part of their lives any more. I spent so much of the first term feeling homesick – and now it’s as though I don’t even have a home. Tom, Birmingham

Club drugs... why the song and dance? T

HE drugs market is changing fast. Traditional substances, such as heroin, are in decline, while newer, synthetic chemicals are flooding the market. Last year, 81 new psychoactive drugs were detected on the European market – the highest number on record. Many of these substances are virtually unheard of. What’s more, many are entirely legal and can be bought via the internet. Probably the best-known legal high is mephedrone, or ‘meow meow’. Many others are known by their brand names, or simply as ‘research chemicals’. But are they safe? It’s a difficult question to answer.

27

We’ve all been there, Tom. As much as everyone loves living in halls, it isn’t home. But, as you said – go home and you feel like a teenager again, having to tiptoe around. Do you know what, though? You are

DR OWEN BOWDEN-JONES founded the Club Drug Clinic, a London NHS service aimed to inform young people about the effects and dangers of new substances Because they have been manufactured to mimic the effects of drugs such as cocaine and cannabis, these new substances can be stimulants, sedatives or hallucinogens. There is no doubt that some of them are extremely powerful and, when substituted for drugs such as MDMA (ecstasy), the effects can surprise the user and even lead to overdose. In the long term, some legal highs cause similar problems to more traditional drugs – dependence, psychosis and depression have all been seen in users. So, despite being cheap and legal, there

is no doubt that at least some are really harmful. If you do decide to take a chance on a research chemical, take care of yourself by starting small and telling your friends what you are using. If you run into trouble, they can tell the ambulance crew. Don’t mix – this includes alcohol. The more types of drug you take at the same time, the bigger the risk. Stay hydrated by taking regular, small sips of water. Don’t drink more than one pint in an hour, otherwise you might over-hydrate. For more information, visit www.clubdrugclinic.com.

Submit us your questions and get the answer in next months issue

Don’t sit on this any longer, Josh. Head straight to your university and talk to someone in student services or the students’ union. There will be a support fund for people experiencing financial difficulty. The amount awarded will depend on your assessed needs and you will not have to pay it back. In future, steer clear of payday loans – the interest rates alone will leave you in much worse position than you were in before. Struggling with your studies, wrestling with a relationship or is your social life at a standstill? Contact our agony aunt on alice@unipaper.co.uk


BE SEEN 850,000 BY UP TO

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January 2015

moneyMATTERS

29

We’re all on a budget... here are our ideas on how to make it stretch as far as possible

£10,000 masters stroke? caseHISTORY

Worth it: Faye Saville worked more than 70 hours a week, juggling a job with her studies

My 13-hour days for an MA IF GETTING a masters wasn’t hard enough, imagine having a fulltime job on top. But that’s exactly what recent graduate Faye Saville did to avoid exorbitant debts. Juggling a PR role with 30 hours of weekly study towards her MA in strategic communication at the University of

Central Lancashire, Faye found herself working up to 13 hours a day. ‘It’s a mental test,’ the 28-year-old said. ‘You have to push yourself to the limit – but you do amaze yourself with how mentally strong you are.’ Her friends, family and employer backed her over the three years it

took to complete the course – and she said she would do it that way again, rather than take on the proposed loan. ‘Of course, there are always times when you think, “Can I really do this?”’ she added. ‘It was hard. I didn’t go out much and socialise – but I got there in the end.’

superSCRIMPING IT’S a new year, so the partying is over and, predictably, you’re broke. After chucking away all of your money over Christmas, here are some apps that will help you keep hold of your cash in 2015...

 Organise your

outgoings: If 2015 is the year you have decided to get organised with your outgoings, then the Goodbudget app is for you. Splitting your spending

between different categories, this free app allows you to easily keep tabs on your expenditure. It can also be synced with other mobile devices – perfect for splitting household bills

 An eye for a bargain: Your bank balance may have taken a hit over Christmas but that doesn’t mean living like a hermit in January. Offering discounts at retailers such as H&M, Pizza Express and Tesco, VoucherCodes

uses GPS to find the best deals closest to you

 Get cash quick: Why

not make some money out of your unwanted Christmas presents? While eBay is the obvious choice, there’s a cheaper auction site out there – eBid. The app allows you to flog your stuff and for a fraction of the price. With more than 3.5million bids last year, there’s a good chance someone will bite

F

OR many masters students, their degree has been a battle of survival. They have had to �ind ingenious ways to fund their extra year or two of studies. Some borrow money from their families, while others take on a part- or, even, fulltime job while keeping on top of their course. Now they have an alternative after the government announced a funding scheme that will allow those aged under 30 and studying towards a masters degree to get a loan of up to £10,000. The plan, which is planned to come into force in the 2016/17 academic year, will replicate the undergraduate model, where students only start paying back their loans once their earnings reach above a certain level. James Coe, vice-president of University of Liverpool’s students’ union, said: ‘I am

Loans ‘will help more than 40,000 students’ pleased the students’ movement won this. We must continue to �ight for these loans to be extended for students over 30 and an education system that does not force such high levels of personal debt on to our student members. ‘Postgraduate loans are an important step in widening access to this type of study.’ The government predicts the loans will help more than 40,000 students and enable about 10,000 more individuals to undertake postgraduate study each year. Sam Smith, a third year at the University of Liverpool, praised the proposal, despite masters degrees being funded on his

course. ‘To become a chartered engineer, a masters degree is needed,’ he added. ‘In the long run, the loan will be bene�icial to others, as it allows people to get further in their job.’ However, students could leave university with debts of more than £60,000, while undergraduate and postgraduate loans will be paid off at the same time. Luke Stevenson, a Liverpool John Moores University English graduate, said: ‘It’s a trap – a pathetic token measure by the Tories to attract gullible students. ‘Forget loans – we want no tuition fees. Education is for everyone, not just the elites.’ Charlotte Seddon


Moody’s – 12 Month Graduate Placement In joining Moody’s 2015 Graduate Programme, you will have the opportunity to work with analysts on the rating process, including drafting credit documents, formulating ratios, preparing spreadsheets, comparative statistics, as well as exposure to special projects, at times on a global scale. Location London, Frankfurt, Madrid and Paris

To find out more and apply, please visit: http://bit.ly/milkround-jobs

Salary Competitive package Posted 03 Nov 2014 Closes 03 Jan 2015

The Berkeley Group - Graduate scheme, Construction & Property

REPL Group – Graduate Management Consultant

The Berkeley Group is looking for the brightest graduates with degrees in disciplines related directly to the skills and knowledge required in our operational departments. Berkeley Homes are currently recruiting for graduates in the following disciplines: Land and Planning, Technical, Commercial (Quantity Surveyors), Construction, Customer Service Location London (Greater)

REPL is a fast growing UK based technology group with offices in the USA, Canada, Australia and Singapore. We deliver sophisticated project management techniques to unlock commercial potential. Our team sits at the cutting edge of where the retail industry meets the next generation of mobile technology, where gamification overlaps with multichannel.

Salary £27,000

Salary £22,000pa + London Weighting, travel allowance, bonus and benefits

Closes 17 Nov 2014

Closes 17 Nov 2014

Hastings Direct - Graduate Scheme

Accenture- Industrial Placement

We have ambitious plans to attract 3 million customers by 2020 and we are looking for talented graduates to join us whilst we grow and help shape our business. As we are relatively small compared to the big names, you will truly get the opportunity and exposure with our management team to do this. Our Graduate Scheme is designed to help you develop as a future leader of our business, fast tracking your career within Hastings Direct. Roles available in Accounting & Finance, Insurance, Marketing & PR.

Bring your talent and passion to a global organisation at the forefront of business, technology and innovation. Collaborate with diverse, talented colleagues and leaders who support your success. Help transform organisations and communities around the world. Sharpen your skills with industry-leading training and development, as you build an extraordinary career.

Location Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex Salary Competitive Closes 04 Jan 2015

Avanti Communications Group plc – Graduate Engineer Are you expecting a 2:1 or higher in a computer related subject? Are you interested in working in a fast paced environment with the latest technologies in a truly global footprint? Yes? That’s a great start, but beyond that? Avanti seeks your inspiration, your energy and your enthusiasm.

Location London or Midlands

Location Nationwide Salary £Competitive Closes 28 Aug 2015

J.P. Morgan – Technology Graduate Programme There’s not a single part of our business that isn’t empowered and enhanced by the creative thinking of J.P. Morgan technologists. In an industry this competitive, being the best means deploying high-speed software and infrastructure alongside leading engineering and application development. Location London, Bournemouth, Glasgow

Location London (Central)

Salary Competitive + benefits

Salary £23,000 p a

Closes 30 Nov 2014

Closes 31 Mar 2015

Opus Energy – Graduate Analyst Opus Energy, a dynamic and fast growing organisation, is recruiting to expand its analytical support. Analysts with Opus Energy carry out a wide range of analytical tasks designed to help keep the company on track. Location Oxford, Oxfordshire Salary £23,000 - £25,000 DOE + £1,000 welcome bonus + £1,000 at end of year 1 & 2 Closes 03 Dec 2014

Rothschild – Private Equity Long Term Internship – Merchant Banking This London based 4-6 month internship is an exciting opportunity to intern with Rothschild’s flagship private equity fund, Five Arrows Principal Investments – a €600 million fund focused on mid-market companies in Western Europe. Location London Salary Competitive Closes 31 Dec 2015


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January 2015

beyondUNI

Strike a balance between study and job

MANAGING deadlines can be hard enough without having to work as well. For some students, though, money can be tight and a parttime job is required. Unfortunately, there can be a down side to having a job while studying – trying to balance everything. Here are some useful tips on how to keep on top. 1. Planning: When it comes to writing an essay or preparing a presentation, knowing where you are going to start saves lots of time. Try writing ideas in your phone, so you can add to it on the move 2. Plan your diary: When deadlines are approaching, it is great to know when you have free time. For example, if you work nights and have a couple of spare hours before a shift, you could spend that time researching your masterpiece 3. Release that stress: Juggling everything can take its toll, both physically and mentally, so take time to relax. Find what works best for you and incorporate it into your time 4. Remember: A parttime job is only for now. Make university work your priority. After all, that’s what you’re there for Jasmine Martin

Need a job? Considering a gap year? Graduating and struggling for inspiration? Then, read on...

Rising star: YouTuber Alice Taylor discusses her life

More vlog, less slog

I

Want to earn money sitting on your sofa? Just talk and upload

MAGINE sitting in front of a camera and filming yourself taking on stupid challenges or capturing everything you do throughout the day, from what you eat at lunch to what you watch on TV. Now controversy last month after imagine getting paid for it. admitting her book (which It sounds too good to was the fastest-selling debut be true, but that is exactly novel ever) was ghostwritten. what vlogging is all about. Looking to recreate her With audiences of between 2 and 6million, the best vlogs get thousands of views each day. Perhaps the most famous vlogger is fashion and beauty adviser Zoella, Go for it: You could earn cash from vlogs who caused

success is 18-year-old Alice Taylor, an up-andcoming YouTuber who creates comedic videos about her day-to-day life. Speaking to TUP, the former student, who now works in TV and film, said: ‘If you are lucky enough, then vlogging can compete with conventional careers. ‘Digital content is becoming more prominent, so there’ll be jobs popping up all over for it.’ With its rise in popularity, vlogging has become a job

for many of these big-name content creators. Top brands are approaching YouTube stars to reach younger audiences and are offering large sums of money for an advertising opportunity within their videos. With a sizeable income (let’s just say enough to cover the rent… and then some), these internet sensations can afford a luxury lifestyle without a nine-to-five job. However, Alice added: ‘YouTube can be seen as both a hobby and a job – but

Spot the spelling errors and count the cash

PROOFREADING is a necessity of university life. We have all had to do it for stressed-out flatmates or ourselves. But proofreading is also big business. There are a number of online proofreading agencies – and most will pay students to work for them. Such agencies look for neat handwriting for hard

31

five to try

n www.proofreadingagency.co.uk n www.freelance-proofreaders.co.uk n www.globalproofreading.com n www.academicword.com n or why not offer your services via Gumtree.co.uk?

copies, methodical readthroughs and, of course, excellent English. It is

also advantageous to be a graduate or undergraduate in any discipline, as a

technical knowledge of a specific subject can help. The benefit of proofreading professionally is that the work is freelance, so you can work from home and choose your hours. With different payment methods and variable salaries, it is best to find a legitimate, well-established website to work for. Charlotte Pick

if my channel ever got to a level that it supported me, I still probably wouldn’t quit my current job.’ So, does the rise of vlogging mean we should we all quit our degrees, rush out to buy cameras and start filming our beans-on-toast dinners? Fraser Green, an Australian YouTuber with more than 4,000 subscribers, said: ‘YouTube is a new creative platform that the majority of society still doesn’t understand, mainly due to ignorance.’ The point is, do your research, build a following and, maybe, one day, you can make your money by sitting at home, eating food in front of the computer. Ryan Lynch Eagle-eyed: The only tools you need are an eye for detail and a pen


32

January 2015

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yourSPACE

Finding the right place to live, choosing the right people to live with and keeping your place right

Beat the chills, freeze the bills

T

HE summer has gone, leaves have fallen from the trees and winter is upon us. Of course, you can’t afford to put the heating on full-time, so how can you stay warm without busting the bank balance? 1. Layers are important: No wonder you think the house feels like the North Pole if you’re only wearing a vest and shorts. Wear jumpers; even put on your fluffy onesie. Your housemates have seen you looking worse. 2. Shut the door: This

insulates the house and stops cold air creeping in. There is no point in putting the heating on only for all that lovely warm air to escape through the gaps, so make sure you shut your windows, too! 3. Get a hot water bottle: Who needs a partner to keep your bed warm in the winter? It’s as simple as boiling the kettle, filling it up and, as if by magic, you instantly have something warm you can

Ease the pipe pain

Keeping snug: Wrap yourself in layers, get your friends over and huddle up spoon to sleep. Better still, there are no strings attached. 4. Pour a hot drink: They work as a perfect hand and body warmer . Also, who can honestly say no to a hot chocolate? Furthermore,

there isn’t any chill that a hearty meal can’t banish. 5. Huddle up like penguins: Invite all your friends round and make sure they bring duvets, sleeping bags and blankets. Bundle

together in front of a good film and order a takeaway! 6. Use heating sparingly: An hour in the morning and at night on those really chilly days won’t break the bank. Hannah Southern

A BURST pipe spells nothing but a heap of soggy trouble. If you suspect you have a frozen pipe, act quickly: 1. Turn off the water supply immediately 2. Ensure all cold taps are turned on. This leaves room for any thawed water to escape 3. If you find the frozen pipe, try warming it gently with a hairdryer 4. Remove anything from the room or area where the frozen pipe is in case it bursts 5. If you find a leak, contact a plumber Hannah Southern

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January 2015

33

Graduating? Do it all again Up sticks instead of heading home

Y

OU’RE graduating in a few months’ time. Your parents and lecturers go on about you finding a job. But, first things first, where are you going to live? Moving back home is the obvious choice after university but after three years of freedom it will be difficult to take orders from your parents again. You might begin to wonder what all that maturing and independence at university was for. But that’s not the only option. University has taught you the basics about renting and the

In it together: Living with other people makes life fun – and cheaper

IF you’re completely useless at DIY, super glue works wonders. A broken handle, coat hook and a broken drawer are things I’ve solved with the power of super glue. Any pound shop will sell ‘two-part resin’ and, believe me, it does the job Seán O’Connor

Alpha housemates are the organisers who everyone listens to and everyone aspires to be. They’re the kings and queens of halls. So how do you go about usurping them? With sabotage, naturally Hannah Froggatt

For fuller versions of these go to www.unipaper.co.uk

PICTURE: LAUREN KNIGHT

Wise steps that will help you buy

WE leave university with tens of thousands of pounds of debt so to most of us buying a first home seems like an impossible dream. With house prices spiralling, banks refusing mortgages and restricting the amount you can borrow, it is easy to feel condemned to years of living at home or in shared rented houses. But there are ways in which graduates can make themselves more attractive to lenders. First, show lenders that you are ‘stable’. Let them know you have held down a steady job and that you have regular income. Try to limit your student finance. The thought of having £7,000 put into your

bank account from Student Finance every year sounds great but added to the £9,000 tuition fee a year you pay you could be saddled with £48,000 of debt. Make an effort to clear your student overdraft and credit card debts. If lenders see that you have too much credit available that you do not use, this could affect your credit rating. Finally, and most crucially, start saving for a deposit. Even without student debt, lenders will still expect you to pay a percentage of the house costs. That may mean working through uni, saving your student loan or moving back in with your parents for a few more years. Nakita Capp

costs so why not do it for real? If, for you, it’s about employment then let the job lead you, apply everywhere and be prepared to begin an adventure into the unknown. You’ve moved to a new city before; you can do it all again. Another fresh start can be scary but your new workmates will be able to recommend places to live and perhaps introduce you to your new city. Time, too, maybe to find some new housemates. You’ve had your first taste of community living in halls and in your shared student home,

so why not carry on? We need company. Humans are not the kind to sit alone doing our own individual things. As students, it is the reason we get so little work done when we need to. Companionship and friendships are what we strive for, so why neglect our natural instincts when we move away from the safe haven of the university campus? Besides, rent is cheaper when the cost is spread, as are utility bills, food shopping and the TV licence. Lucy Robinson and Megan Haddaway

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January 2015

yourSPACE

Finding the right place to live, choosing the right people to live with and keeping your place right

Choice is hall yours ... but pick who you live with even more carefully

T

HAT time of year is upon us again – househunting season. No matter how long you’ve been at university, choosing next year’s accommodation is a big decision and one that tends to weigh people down for a few weeks every year. Many students look back on their �irst year in halls – the glory days when heating and electricity bills were still a problem only for grown-ups – fondly, while others love the independence and maturity that comes with their

35

freezing cold eight-bedroom house, complete with mould spreading across the walls. University-owned accommodation is, in the main, fantastic. Most �lats come with en-suite bathrooms and cosy bedrooms. The tightly packed layout of halls means that there’s always a buzzing atmosphere at home and you never feel lonely – something you may suffer when treading the numerous narrow corridors of student housing. However,

the relatively peaceful atmosphere of a suburban neighbourhood triumphs every time over the constant loud noises from surrounding �lats in halls. University accommodation

is usually far more hygienic and attractive, while private accommodation can �it the grimy, dingy student housing stereotype. Whichever option you choose, remember that a great group of friends

Best of both: Halls are cosy, but a house can be peaceful can compensate for those stained curtains and cracked windows. Don’t rush, and choose your housemates wisely – �inding a place to live will seem easy after that. Harriet Stevens

HALLS v houses: Liverpool students offer their views to SOPHIE CORCORAN Emma Jones, 19, has stayed in halls for her second year. She said: ‘The flat is really nice and I am sharing with lovely people.’ Emma Keeley, 19, lives in a rented student house. She said: ‘I love the house we live in but halls were better. Ours was homely and we socialised with neighbours a lot more. It felt safer and it also meant we didn’t have to pay a fortune on taxis.’ David McLaughlin, who also lives in a student house, said: ‘Halls were a really good way to meet people and have fun – but the workload wasn’t as high as it is now.’

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January 2015

37

wellFIT

Advice for a healthy lifestyle and staying in shape

Get buff...but on a budget Shape up when funds are thin

Cut-price weights: Why bother reading a book when you can use it to keep fit?

I

F THERE’S a time of year when you’re most likely to join a gym, it’s January. After eating, drinking and making merry for most of December, you might be ready to ful�il that new year resolution to get �it. There are some great deals for joining gyms – but, if your budget won’t stretch to a membership, then here’s our guide to keeping �it for free… High-intensity interval training: A great way to burn fat, especially if you’re short on time. HIIT focuses on short bursts of intense exercise, with a less intense rest period. Head to the park with a mate and sprint

– make it into a race. If you don’t feel like leaving the house, try running up and down the stairs. Circuits: You don’t need a lot of space to set up a minicircuit in your living room. Use a chair to do arm dips, lean on a wall to support yourself in a handstand

position and clear a space for burpees and planking. Weights: If you want to use weights but can’t afford any, make the most of what you already have. If you have a particularly large book from your course, use it as a weight to hold to your chest when squatting. Use tins of

baked beans for bicep curls and hold your full laundry basket while lunging. Run: It may seem obvious, but go for a run. If you’re feeling the pressure of coursework deadlines, getting outdoors can relieve stress and help restore your focus. Samantha Coles

How to stay focused 1. Be realistic: If running for the bus leaves you gasping for breath, it’s probably not a good idea to sign up for a marathon. Set yourself reasonable goals 2. Fuel: Unfortunately, going for a five-minute jog doesn’t give you an excuse to have two pizzas for dinner. You can’t out-train a bad diet 3. Mix it up: Never do the same workout. Increase your speed, weights or reps each time you train to challenge yourself 4. Rest: It can be tempting to go hell-for-leather in the first two weeks. Don’t push yourself too hard to begin with, as this can result in injury 5. Stay positive: Bad training sessions happen. Don’t let them get you

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down – acknowledge that you know you can do better next time 6. Moral support: It’s natural to feel selfconscious about exercising alone. Why not get a running club together with your housemates? Having a training buddy can help you push harder 7. All the gear: It’s important to have good training shoes. Any new kit can boost your confidence 8. Remember why you started: When you’re tired and it’s freezing, staying indoors in your onesie is often more appealing than training. Remember why you started – visualise your goals and think how much better you’ll feel afterwards SC


38

January 2015

www.unipaper.co.uk

sportNEWS

League title is in sight after 11-try win JOSHUA PAYNE COVENTRY University’s rugby league team are on course to clinch the league title after a thumping win against rivals Northampton. They sit six points clear at the top of BUCS Midlands 1a after an 11-try demolition of their east Midlands foes. Liam Scott was particularly impressive for Coventry, bagging a hat-trick in the 62-4

victory. Jordan Smitham and Connor Slater grabbed two tries each, while Dylan Bale, Chris Barrett, Dan Aldham and Fergus Stewart rounded off the try scoring for Coventry. While Coventry are riding high, winless Northampton are rock bottom. Elsewhere, Coventry’s men’s football II and III sit at the top of Midlands 4C, with the third team leading on goal difference, ahead of

Dominant: Coventry University’s rugby league team enjoyed a thumping win over Northampton PICTURE: FACEBOOK the likes of the University of Warwick III. Warwick’s badminton teams are also enjoying a positive season. The men’s third team are top of Midlands 3A but are still yet to face their title

PART OF A SPORTS TEAM? Get a write-up in this month’s paper.

Contact: editor@unipaper.co.uk

rivals, Nottingham Trent II. The women’s first team are second in their group, which could change depending on their result against current leaders Loughborough. With five wins out of five, the success story at Warwick

is the women’s volleyball first team. They are comfortably top of the league and look almost certain to clinch the Midlands 2A title. In the BUCS overall league table, Warwick sits 20th with 965.25 points, with

badminton, tennis and table tennis contributing heavily to the score. Coventry sit in 50th place on 520.25 points. Loughborough University leads the way with 2,674 points, more than 400 points ahead of Durham.

Competitive: Matthew

opposition goalkeeper were convinced it was heading out for a goal kick. The ball rifled into the bottom lefthand corner. Everybody was left in disbelief. Favourite aspect of being in UWMFC? It was a really good way of meeting people with similar interests and making friends when I first arrived at university. The social side is really good fun and gives me a good escape from my studies. Sporting hero? Steven Gerrard – I love the passion and hard work he demonstrates when he plays the game, especially because he does it for Liverpool FC (the team I support). His belief and desire on the pitch has a tangible impact on the rest of the team.

We all thought ‘don’t shoot’ and it flew in... MATTHEW HARRISON has become one of the first names on the team sheet of University of Warwick’s men’s football club. A right-back, he previously played for Cheshire schools under-18s and also referees regularly for the university’s inter-mural leagues. Owen Hall asks the questions... Favourite thing about football? I’m a very competitive person, so naturally I enjoy the competitive and physical elements of the game. However, I love football because it is a great way to make friends and connect with new people. I also enjoy the passion and emotions you go through during a game. Favourite moment this

season? I produced a poor cross into the box which was headed clear. The ball looped towards our captain who must have been 30 yards from goal. At the time, everybody was thinking the same thing – ‘don’t shoot’. He struck the ball first time and, although he made good contact, myself and the

contactLIST Email us at coventryeditor@unipaper.co.uk Editor: Josh Payne News editors: Christine Braganza and Hannah Froggatt Comment editor: Ben Philpott Accommodation editor: Jack Meggitt-Phillips

What’s on and entertainment editor: Samantha Campbell Sports editor: Owen Hall Photographers: Lee Morely and Emma Axelsson

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January 2015

sportNEWS

39

Time for vengeance? Coventry seek to end years of hurt OWEN HALL IT’S here. More than 50 events, spread over seven days of competition, with one title at stake: varsity kings. The varsity gauntlet has been thrown down once again between the rival universities of Coventry and Warwick. And this year, nothing less than victory for Coventry can possibly do. After ten successive years of hurt, the pressure is on for the sporting stars of Coventry to �inally end the hoodoo. And with con�idence-boosting wins in netball, motorsport and football at last year’s contest, perhaps, for the �irst time in a decade, Coventry has a sniff of an upset. First up, on January 30, are the basketballers, who kickstart a packed programme featuring everything from rugby union and league to snooker. The statistics from the most recent clashes make grim reading. Although Coventry posted its highest points tally last year, Warwick ran out 63-37 victors. This came on the

January 30: BASKETBALL WOMEN I, BASKETBALL MEN I January 31: FUTSAL WOMEN, FUTSAL MEN, TENNIS WOMEN II, TENNIS MEN II February 1: FENCING MIXED, FOOTBALL MEN IV, FOOTBALL MEN III, RUGBY UNION MEN II, FOOTBALL MEN II, AMERICAN FOOTBALL MEN, LACROSSE WOMEN I, TENNIS WOMEN I, FOOTBALL MEN I, HOCKEY MEN II, RUGBY UNION MEN I, LACROSSE MEN I,

Clash: Warwick dominate alternative sports, such as American football

Netball: Coventry, top, will hope to beat Warwick back of the 2013 humiliation which saw Warwick rack up a 70-20 win. In 2010, Coventry came within two points of posting their only win, �inally going down 36-34. They will be hoping for more success on the football �ield after the �irst and third teams overcame Warwick’s respective sides. Netball also proved a happy hunting ground for the Times’ modern university of the year, as each of the three matches between Coventry and Warwick’s ladies teams ended in wins for Coventry. The university also won all

three of last year’s motorsport races. However, with Warwick enjoying dominance in most of the mainstream sports as well as the more alternative ones, such as ultimate frisbee or American football, it is hard to see Coventry wrestling the initiative away from the Russell Group university and winning bragging rights for the remainder of the year. One thing’s for sure – when the �inale of the varsity series comes to a head on February 7, with ice hockey providing the last drama, tensions will be high and the atmosphere should be electric.

theFIXTURES

CRICKET MEN III, WATER POLO MEN I, HOCKEY WOMEN II, TENNIS MEN I, TENNIS MEN III, CRICKET MEN II, HOCKEY WOMEN I, BASKETBALL MEN II, HOCKEY MEN I, SWIMMING MEN February 2: SNOOKER MEN, EQUESTRIAN MIXED February 4: MOTORSPORT FIRST PLACE/SECOND PLACE/THIRD PLACE, SNOWSPORTS MIXED, ATHLETICS MEN, ATHLETICS WOMEN,

ULTIMATE FRISBEE MIXED, SWIMMING WOMEN, SQUASH MEN I February 7: VOLLEYBALL WOMEN I, BADMINTON MEN II, GOLF MIXED, SQUASH MEN II, NETBALL WOMEN III, BADMINTON WOMEN I, VOLLEYBALL MEN I, NETBALL WOMEN II, RUGBY UNION WOMEN I, FOOTBALL WOMEN I, RUGBY LEAGUE MEN I, LACROSSE MIXED, BADMINTON MEN I, NETBALL WOMEN I, CRICKET MEN I, POOL MEN, ICE HOCKEY MEN

PART OF A SPORTS TEAM? Get a write-up in this month’s paper.

Contact: editor@unipaper.co.uk


Where are you living this year Sept-2015?

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01926 470022 www.dhesiestates.com


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