thewaterfront the official student newspaper of swansea university
Free Issue 223 28 January 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk
INSIDE INSIDE NEWS
Research as art?
Aniball!
page 7
FEATURES
More photos on page 9
STUDENT BADLY HURT BY FALLING BUILDING by Chris Flynn
waterfrontci@swansea-union.co.uk A STUDENT officer was seriously injured when a huge piece of metal cladding on the newly refurbished Faraday Building fell on him. Mahaboob Basha, the International Officer, was on his way to the campus mosque when the accident happened. The full time officer was hit in the back when a piece of cladding the height of the building struck him in the back. He is suspected of having broken three ribs, and is suffering pain in his hip joint and his left leg, as well as multiple bruises and stiffness in his neck. He is awaiting the results of X-rays but doctors have told him not to drive or operate machinery for six months. The £2.75 million refurbishment
Probe launched after metal cladding on Faraday smashes down on student
of the Faraday building was only completed last term. The exterior has been clad with multi-coloured glass and metal panels. It was one of the metal panels at the rear of building which fell off. The Waterfront contacted the Leadbitter Group, the company which did the refurbishment, but they refused to comment on the incident. Leadbitter’s website states that they are “delivering quality and robustness in every construction project” and have been involved in building works on universities, schools and housing projects across the country. A spokesperson from the university said: “A piece of cladding came off the rear of the Faraday building
early (around 6.45am) on Friday 18th January. The area was cordoned off immediately and the fire brigade were called. The cause of the incident is being investigated but there had been snow and high winds. “We were not aware that an individual had been involved in the incident but having now been made aware of this our safety team will be carrying out an investigation.” Swansea Students’ Union Welfare officer Charlotte Britton said: “It is very worrying that part of the building fell off. We still haven’t found out why it happened yet but the university BROKEN RIBS: Mahaboob Basha at the definitely are looking into it. “The students’ union is supporting scene of the accident. The bottom panels Basha and making sure he is OK.” also fell off but have since been replaced.
Four-page student housing pullout page 15 SPORT
Best of the semester were... page 31
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02 I NEWS
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Exams postponed as wintry weather envelops Wales
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SNOW and wintry weather wreaked havoc with the exam timetable, causing many exams to be postponed and wrecking the travel plans of some students. The decision to postpone some tests was taken by the university after a red level snow risk was issued by the Met Office. All exams due to take place on the last Friday were rescheduled for the following Monday. Bus services in and around Swansea were suspended, including the 82A, which left many students unable to get to campus, and most trains were cancelled after Cardiff. Some students who had booked holidays abroad during last week’s Employability Week were angry they had to reschedule flights. Chloe Dymond, posting on the university’s Facebook page said: “We’ve booked flights for Monday and now we have to pay an extra £140 to change them.” A university spokesperson said: “In deciding to postpone the examinations we took account of the best available weather forecast at the time and consideration of the need to give students certainty as to what would happen in the event of the predicted bad weather arriving.” Most services on campus were running normally, with the exception
BAD WEATHER: Snow falling on the balcony of Fulton House. of JC’s which opened later due to childcare issues. Education Officer, Zahid Raja said: “I’m currently working with the academic registry to make sure we get the best deal for students who had plans to go away next week. “I cannot make guarantees, but be assured that this is currently my top priority. I am incredibly pleased that the library was open 24 hours on the Sunday – I would like to thank staff members in the library for their commitment to students.” All exams took place in the same venue and at the same time, just the date changed. No advice was given
to students who might have further special circumstances other than to contact their college. The university said: “Employability Week has a full schedule and we wanted everyone to avail themselves of the opportunities on offer. We are disappointed to learn that some opted out of this facility but are mindful that some students have to attend other events during this week. Where students can’t manage to get to their exams we will look very positively at any requests to sit them at another time where there have been incidents which have occurred which were beyond their control.”
Students angry over park gritting by Catrin Lewis
waterfrontculture@swansea-union. STUDENTS have spoken out over their anger that Singleton Park, a main route into the university for thousands of students, has been left untreated during the recent spell of icy weather, leading to dangerous conditions. As temperatures fell sharply, the park was not gritted as it has been in the past, leading to several students slipping in the park on their way to the university and some minor injuries. Chloe Newman, a third year Social Policy student said: “I was walking to my morning exam and thought I should take the long way round the park as it looked safer. “As it turned out, it really wasn’t. I fell over and landed on my thigh, resulting in a dodgy looking wet
patch that I had to try and get rid of instead of revising. “I’m lucky it was more funny than serious, but I could have really hurt myself.” Ceri Davies from the Culture, Leisure and Tourism department at Swansea Council which is responsible for the park said: “Gritting Singleton Park has been done previously but has been overlooked this year. We don’t want anyone slipping over and injuring themselves and will look into gritting the route from Brynmill.” Zahid Raja, Education Officer, was also hurt after falling over. He said: “I was walking into university around 8am so there was a good amount of light. I slipped, fell down and injured my knee. “The council grits pathways that are going to be used lots and are very hazardous – thousands of students
were going to use that path to get to university, so it’s an obvious area to grit. “Students aren’t any less important than other people in the city, but the way we’re treated by the council certainly makes you feel that way. It’s all very awkward seeing as we bring in a huge amount of commerce into the city.”
Varsity warm-up SWANSEA University will play Cardiff University at rugby at the St Helen’s Ground in Swansea at 7pm on Friday, February 1. The BUCS match will be a warm-up and fund raiser for Varsity.
Could you be our new games editor ? WOULD you like to learn valuable journalistic skills and increase your employability by volunteering for The Waterfront? We are looking for someone to be our new games editor. If you have a passion for gaming and would like to organise The
by Jon May
front@swansea-union. co.uk
by Jon May
front@swansea-union.co.uk
Editor Kay Byrne editor@swansea-union.co.uk
Nominations open for elections
Waterfront’s coverage of this subject, please write expressing your interest to editor@swansea-union.co.uk. Gemma Parry, news editor, says: “Working for the Waterfront has been an experience that is both rewarding and challenging. Since joining, my writing style has improved in leaps
and bounds and I have met fantastic people who are driven by the same things that I am. “ Sam Booth, features editor, said: “I’ve never laughed so much as when I’m in the office. There’s lots of journalism-related banter to get involved with.”
STUDENTS are being encouraged to nomiate themselves for the upcoming Students’ Union elections which will determine the new full-time officers for the next academic year. From January 24th through to February 7th, those interested can apply to be part of the officer team which maintains the union and provides vital support and services to students. During this fortnight, students can pick up a nomination form from the union reception and must obtain 20 signatures from other students who agree the candidate would make a good officer. Seven officer roles will be up for election, including President, Societies and Services Officer, Welfare Officer, International Officer, Women’s Officer, Education Officer and the Sports Officer. There will be statements from all the candidates in the next issue of The Waterfront and online polling will take place On March 5, 6, and 7. Voting will take place via www. swansea-union.co.uk. Results will be announced after 9pm of March 7. Election coverage will start on results night on The Waterfront website and we’ll be covering the event live through the campaign week.
Looking for a new place to live? by a Waterfront reporter
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk THIS week’s edition of The Waterfront contains a four page pullout of student housing available through SAS, the the lettings service run by the university and the students’ union. SAS was created years ago to provide students with a housing and a letting agent they could trust, who wouldn’t rip them off. Instead of providing everyone with a list of bad landlords and agents (which would very quickly get us sued), the SU and the uni concentrate on providing students with the information to enable you to make a good choice instead. SAS is run for you. That’s why our managed properties don’t need a deposit, have contents insurance included and we never charge fees for our services. Even our tenant find service for private landlords means that we have checked houses are up to our specific standards before they can get on SAS’ books. SAS will have new houses added to their books in February, so keep checking the website for more properties.
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NEWS I 03
Choral Society praised by pop star for acoustic version of chart hit by Samantha Booth waterfrontfeatures@swansea-union.co.uk
SWANSEA University’s Choral Society has been recognised for their a capella cover of Rudimental’s ‘Feel The Love’. The cover was filmed at the society’s annual Christmas performance at St Paul’s Church, Sketty. John Newman, who featured on the chart topping single, tweeted the society after watching their cover on YouTube. President of the society, Imogen Hughes says: “Feel the Love is the furthest we’ve ever moved away from traditional choral music so it was amazing to have it so well received. “When the original artist got in touch saying ‘it’s amazing to see this happen to your music’ it couldn’t have been a bigger boost for the choir, especially Nathan, who arranged the song himself by ear. “John then tweeted us saying ‘skillz, wanna get on my album?’ So, watch this space.! John later went on to post a
ON SONG: Swansea University’s Choral Society have been congratulated for their version of ‘Feel the Love’ by singer John Newman (right). comment on the YouTube video saying: “I wanted to say this is amazing and thank you so much for doing this, I really love the arrangement you have smashed. Honestly it’s amazing to see this happen to your music!!!”
Said Imogen: “We have also been contacted by the organisers of Beach Break Live and been asked to perform there! It would take a lot of work on our part but we’re going to try our best to make it happen.”
Societies and services officer, Josh Hayman said: “This recognition is testament to the hard work that is put in by all involved in the Choral Society. They have continued to improve since winning last year’s SU Award for Best Society and I’m sure that they will be even better this term. “A huge effort was put into this year’s Christmas concert and I would like to congratulate all those involved for putting on such a fantastic event.” A university spokesperson said: “We were delighted with the professionalism and creativity of the Swansea University choral society in taking this song and making it their own in this fantastic performance. “We echo John Newman’s accolades and wish the society every success for their future performances.” •To watch the Christmas performance, visit the Choral Society YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/ swanunichoral.
Blackboard outage anger by Gemma Parry
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk SWANSEA University students were angry to be left without access to revision materials after Blackboard crashed twice during the exam period. The service was down for almost a day in each case. The university said the first outage was due to a malfunction in the SQL database service and said the second was caused by a Microsoft Windows Update that caused the server to crash. Swansea University Students’ Union Education Officer, Zahid Raja, said, “Students anywhere in the UK expect their university to provide a reliable service through which students can access their lecture notes to revise. We are no different in Swansea. “The university Blackboard team works hard to keep things running, however, outages regarding learning resources are unacceptable during assessment periods. “I will be meeting with the university to discuss how we can work together to set up a 24 hour contact point that students can use to report disruptions.” The university issued an assurance that the two events were not linked, and that they took the reliability of this and other core services very seriously.
Student reps gain powers by Jon May front@swansea-union.co.uk
STUDENTS will have much more say in how their courses are structured and assessed, under new powers announced this month. Education Officer Zahid Raja said: “Subject reps and college reps will be able to participate in comprehensive reviews of courses. Powers include making college reps full members of panels that review courses for periodic reviews as well as panel members for cause for concern reviews when courses are deemed by students to be not doing so well. “Full training will also be provided to ensure students can fully engage with the process. This
will drag what Swansea University and Swansea University Students’ Union does in line with best practice across the university sector. Said Zahid: “Before today, full time officers would be invited to sit on those reviews about courses they’d have no idea about (aside from the reading provided to them by the university.) “Today, I’ve decided to scrap that. Instead, from now on, we’ll start by asking college reps to be part of the panels that judge the review and in time, make sure it’s subject reps – the people elected to represent students in a particular subject area who sit on those panels. “Students will now have the power to shape course content, and the way assessments are delivered.”
Silent disco let down for Tooters by Samantha Booth waterfrontfeatures@swansea-union.co.uk
SILENT Discos were unable to go ahead this exam period due to economic limitations. The discos were due to replace Tooters during the beginning of January to lower noise levels at on-campus nightclub, Divas. The discos were a policy in the manifesto of Josh Hayman, the Students’ Union Societies
LOCAL MAPS WOMEN’S officer Becki Warrillow has commissioned a series of maps to help students get the most out of their local area. The first,
and Services Officer. On the issue, he said: “I researched into putting on Silent Discos last term ready for this exam period, however due to financial constraints on us at the moment, it wasn’t viable for us to put them on this January as we would be making a significant loss. “It has however, given me a good opportunity to gather some feedback from students impacted by noise issues and will help put forward a case to the university for the summer exams.”
Uplands, was published in the last edition of The Waterfront and we are reproducing the rest on pages 28 and 29. “I said I would deliver maps of main student areas
around Swansea which highlight where key points are for student safety and general knowledge; some of these points are taxi ranks, free cash points and phone booths,” she said.
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21/01/2013 17:22
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NEWS I 05
New facebook page causes a very quiet uproar in the campus library by Samantha Booth
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk AN anonymous Facebook page has caused discontent at Swansea University. The page called Spotted: Swansea University Library posts anonymous messages from students in the university library, often describing other student’s physical attributes. Last semester, a similar page with the same name received thousands of Facebook ‘likes’ but disappeared off the social network site during the Christmas break. Since then, the new ‘Spotted’ page has maintained the popularity with over 1,800 likes in around two weeks. Most significantly, the status of the page has become known with active online students and has caused conflicting views. Sophie Wiggins, a 19-year-old Media Studies student says she has avoided the library for the fear of being ‘spotted’. “The posts are so judgmental. I’d definitely be a target. Some of them
are funny and not all of them are nasty but I have seriously avoided the library because of it,” she said. Beth Angharad, a 19-year-old English Literature student thinks the page is entertaining but there is pressure on students to think about their appearance before entering the library: “Although I find most of the posts
really funny (unless they’re rude or insulting), I do think there’s now this pressure to dress up and make yourself look good, just to go to the university library; a place where you shouldn’t really feel the need to make an effort for anyone or anything! “The page is entertaining but it shouldn’t discourage individuality.” It’s not only Swansea University
KIDS IN CHARGE: Volunteers at the Egypt Centre.
Second award for ‘Nubies’
by Jazz Dicker
waterfrontnew@swansea-union.co.uk VOLUNTEERS at the Egypt Centre are celebrating yet again having been awarded the prestigious Diana Award for Champion Volunteers for the second year running. The volunteers, who are known as ‘Nubies’, were nominated for their work as gallery assistants. The Nubies run the museum on a Saturday and help the public to experience ancient Egypt in a new and exciting way. The Diana Award congratulatory letter said
that the nominees were excellent role models and had that “Wow” factor that they were looking for. The Nubie programme has been running for over 13 years and in that time over 200 children have become child volunteers. Young people come from all over South and West Wales and the programme is so popular there is a waiting list for places. Tom Clarke, aged 11 from Llanelli, joined the Egypt Centre when he was 10 years old. He said: “Volunteering has made me more confident around other people. I love working with the public and telling them about Egypt.”
students being affected by these pages. Other Facebook pages have been set up naming university libraries. Spotted: Exeter Library was closed down due to “popular demand” and pressure from Exeter University. Charlotte Britton, the Students’ Union’s Welfare Officer, expressed her concerns on her blog at www. swansea-union.co.uk: ‘Anonymous Posts on Facebook – Cute or Creepy?’. She wrote: “Most of them take the p*** out of people for the way that they look, and other ones are pretty creepy posts about girls that make me feel uncomfortable. “ A university spokesperson said: “The managers of this site have stated on the Facebook page that they will not post messages deemed offensive/hurtful so they do appear to be taking a more considered approach by vetting people’s messages before they are posted. “However the general reminder to anyone is that irresponsible use of social media could damage their future employment prospects.”
BBC Three Comes To Swansea by Samantha Booth
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk BBC Three current affairs debate programme, Free Speech, is coming to Swansea and seeking 18-25 yearold students for the live audience. Rick Edwards takes over as chair of the show which this month will discuss the issue of long-term unemployment on 13 February. Featuring on the panel is London Grime artist Devlin and leader of Plaid Cymru, Leanne Wood. The panel will face questions from the live audience including discussion of recent reports of ‘slut-shaming’ and online safety. Radio 1’s Breakfast news and sports presenter, Tina Daheley, will be taking the role of Social Media Jockey, reading the web responses and online comments. The panel will also take questions from viewers at home through social media and a Free Speech Power Bar, which allows audiences at home to show what they think of the panel. To apply to be on the show, email freespeech@menorn.tv by 5 February.
waterfrontonline.co.uk
NEWS I 07
‘Squillions’ of student sex workers says veteran
Turning research into art
by Catrin Lewis
waterfrontculture@swansea-union.co.uk A FORMER madam working with the Sex Workers Project at Swansea University claims that students ‘flooding’ into the sex trade is having a detrimental effect. Becky Adams, a sex industry consultant who owned brothels for 25 years, claims that the recent influx of students joining the industry to help pay their way through university is increasing competition and driving down prices. Speaking to WalesOnline, Becky said: “The number of young people turning to sex work to pay their way through university has increased to the extent where the market is almost flooded with them… There are just squillions of them.” “An hour used to be £150 in the 90s and now you can find an hour for £70 or £80. “That is a result of supply and demand because there are so many more people at it.” Although it is not clear quite how many students are involved in sex work, numbers have risen in recent years as university has become more costly than ever before. A former student sex-worker who preferred to stay anonymous said that she worked alongside many other students doing webcam work and as a lap dancer. She also said that she wasn’t surprised by the rise in students choosing to
CONCERNED: Becky Adams thinks that the increase in student sex workers is lowering prices. take up the profession: “I’m not surprised about student involvement, because at the end of the day the work is cash in hand. My motivation to do it was financial. “Not everyone is in a position to be able to wait for a pay day, [and] that’s if they can get a job that fits around their studies in the first place. “I wouldn’t put anyone off who wanted to do it, although I would give them a few pointers on what to watch out for!” The Student Sex Worker Project, which began in June 2012, aims to promote learning and understanding about student sex worker needs and associated issues, as well as providing an innovative sexual health service for them. This is due to the lack of associated research and policy on the topic. More information can be found on: www.thestudentsexworkproject.co.uk
SMU-PGCE-hpage-waterfront-Oct12_SMU-PGCE-hpage-waterfront-Oct12 30/10/2012 17:43 Page 1
OUTSTANDING: A student and staff member’s photos are on display at The Royal Institution. The winning piece in the Research as Art competition was ‘Sal Cristallum’ by engineering post grad Hollie Rosier (right). Tavi Murray, a geography professor, was credited for his picture ‘Broken reflections’ (top).
Holocaust survivor to talk at university by Jon Griffiths
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk
THE History Society has invited a Holocaust survivor to give a guest talk about her experience during the Second World War. Eva Clark will be speaking in the James Callaghan Lecture Theatre on Wednesday 30th January at 2pm about her time at Auschwitz as a young child; talking about how she and her mother suffered under the power of Nazi control.
PGCE / TAR 2013 THOUGHT T WHAOUR Y ARE S AFTER ? PLANUATING D CH GRA DDW A FY EUD BETH’N EI WN CHI AR ÔL ? DDIO GRA
The concentration camps of Auschwitz saw the mass murder of more than six million Jews during the period of 1939 up to 1945, and it was through her mother that Eva learnt about these horrific events before they were released. The event is free to attend and is expected to last 90 minutes, split up by 60 minutes of speaking and 30 minutes of questions. Secretary of the History Society Isabel Costello said: “We are expecting this event to be popular and we will be opening the event up to other students in the university.”
ABOUT TRAINING TO TEACH?
YDYCH CHI WEDI YSTYRIED CAEL EICH HYFFORDDI I ADDYSGU?
PGCE SECONDARY VACANCIES FOR SEPTEMBER 2013
LLEOEDD GWAG TAR UWCHRADD AR GYFER MEDI 2013
In your final year and about to graduate or maybe you’re uncertain about your future and looking for a change in career?
Ydych chi yn eich blwyddyn olaf ac ar fin graddio neu efallai eich bod yn ansicr am eich dyfodol ac yn dymuno newid eich gyrfa?
If you hold, or about to hold, a degree or equivalent qualification in any of the subjects opposite why not study for a PGCE in secondary school teaching and gain qualified teacher status. Teaching is a rewarding profession which can offer great career prospects and competitive rates of pay.
Os oes gennych, neu os ydych ar fin cael, gradd neu gymhwyster cyfwerth mewn unrhyw rai o’r pynciau gyferbyn, pam na wnewch chi astudio TAR mewn addysg ysgol uwchradd a chael statws athro cymwysedig. Mae addysgu’n broffesiwn boddhaus a all cynnig rhagolygon gyrfa grêt a chyfraddau tâl cystadleuol.
PGCE SECONDARY INFORMATION MORNING TUESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2013
BORE GWYBODAETH TAR UWCHRADDDYDD MAWRTH 5 CHWEFROR 2013
THE SWANSEA SCHOOL OF EDUCATION, TOWNHILL CAMPUS If you would like to attend, please register YOUR place by contacting Kim Wills on 01792 481202 or email kim.wills@smu.ac.uk
YSGOL ADDYSG ABERTAWE, CAMPWS TOWNHILL Os hoffech ddod i hwn, cofrestrwch drwy gysylltu â Kim Wills ar 01792 481202 neu anfonwch e-bost i kim.wills@smu.ac.uk
● ART AND DESIGN ● BIOLOGY ● BUSINESS STUDIES ● CHEMISTRY ● CYMRAEG ● DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY ● ENGLISH ● GEOGRAPHY ● HISTORY ● ICT ● MATHEMATICS ● MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES: FRENCH/FRENCH WITH GERMAN/FRENCH WITH SPANISH/GERMAN WITH FRENCH ● PHYSICS ● RELIGIOUS EDUCATION ● SCIENCE 11-16 ● CELF A DYLUNIO ● BIOLEG ● ASTUDIAETHAU BUSNES ● CEMEG ● CYMRAEG ● DYLUNIO A THECHNOLEG ● SAESNEG ● DAEARYDDIAETH ● HANES ● TGCH ● MATHEMATEG ● IEITHOEDD TRAMOR MODERN: FFRANGEG/FFRANGEG GYDAG ALMAENEG/FFRANGEG GYDA SBAENEG/ALMAENEG GYDA FFRANGEG ● FFISEG ● ADDYSG GREFYDDOL ● GWYDDONIAETH 11-16
*yn amodol ar gadarnhad terfynol
Apply now through GTTR at www.gtr.ac.uk or contact kim.wills@smu.ac.uk for further details.
www.smu.ac.uk
Gwnewch gais nawr trwy GTTR yn www.gttr.ac.uk neu cysylltwch â kim.wills@smu.ac.uk am ragor o fanylion.
www.smu.ac.uk
www.waterfrontonline.co.uk
NEWS I 09
Swansea Uni sees rise in applications for next year by Gemma Parry
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk APPLICATIONS to Swansea University for entry into the next academic year have increased by 19% on the current year. Other universities have reported increases of up to 25%. The increases at Swansea University include 13 out of 15 subject groups, including a 15% rise in Languages, a 20% increase in History and a 64% rise in Maths, Computer Science and Engineering. The trebling of tuition fees to £9,000 for many courses saw a fall in admissions last September when applications dropped by an overall 8%, with a 25 per cent drop in the college of arts and humanities. Universities have since been attempting to buck the trend both by lowering the tariff for A level grades and offering courses that will lead to a higher chance of employment. Swansea University has already reduced A-level grades for 2013 offers after a review of subject curriculum in September.
Additionally, changes have been made to the way in which interviews, open days and school visits are being run in this academic year. Swansea University Students’ Union Education Officer, Zahid Raja, said: “Whilst this is fantastic news, the hard work is yet to come as we try and convert offers that we send out into conditional first choices. “The union will be working alongside the university to get students committed to the Swansea experience as soon as they decide that they’re coming here.” Professor Alan Speight, Pro Vice Chancellor for the Student Experience said: “These figures are excellent news, as it shows that students are recognising a university that is on the way up. “Overall, student satisfaction has been steadily increasing, and last year we achieved a score of 87%, which is higher than the Wales and UK average. “The increase in applications is a vindication of the massive investment which is being put into the campus expansion, alongside the recognition of the support we have from the Welsh government.”
Copperworks is set for regeneration SWANSEA University is leading a project to regenerate the last standing buildings from the copper industry. The Hafod and Morfa Copperworks (pictured above) date back to 1810, and include 12 buildings and structures of international historic significance. They stand on the banks of the River Tawe not far from the Liberty Stadium. The current phase of the project has been funded by the Welsh Government and European Regional Development Fund, which aims to protect the listed buildings, create
by Gemma Parry waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk
walking trails and install information panels. There will be many opportunities for students to get involved through work placements linked to the university employability award, community archaeological digs, physical conservation activities and other events. Swansea was once the centre of the global copper industry, importing copper ore from around the world and shipping copper products
back out. Professor Huw Bowen, of Swansea University, said: “This is one of the most important industrial heritage sites in Britain, yet it lies neglected. We’re delighted to be taking the next step in this exciting and ambitious project which will provide an opportunity for more people to learn about Swansea’s leading role in the industrial revolution.” The copperworks was built by the Vivian family, who bequeathed Singleton Park and Abbey to the university in 1920. Work on the site started this month.
From the jungle Student forum to the dance floor debate fiasco by Jon May
front@swansea-union.co.uk
Oceana held their annual Aniball on 21 January with costumes ranging from Noah’s Ark (far left) to tropical parrots (left).
DECEMBER’S student forum saw the only motion on the table being scrapped of all parts, and then approved in a hollow victory for democracy campaigners. The motion stated that the online voting should not be opened until a full version of the video of the student forum is posted online, so that viewers at home can be more informed about the debate before they cast their vote. It was proposed and debated that the resolves should be removed. Those who argued for the part to be removed said that added pressures would be put onto the Swansea University Computer Society (SUCS) who have to edit and upload the video. The forum decided that was unfair as they are students who need to focus on their degrees. SUCS spoke to remove the part as they said it would compromise democracy somewhat because SUCS would have full control over when voting opened depending on when they uploaded the video. It was put up to the vote and the resolves of the motion were removed. However, the motion without the resolves was passed. The union must now think about videos and 24-hour voting, but has not been mandated to do anything. The next Student Forum is at 6pm on Tuesday, January 29 in the Fulton House dining room.
front!
Your what’s on guide
Student housing pull out
Movies to see in 2013
Fashion: Winter warmers
Local area maps for students
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L i f e s t y l e f o r S wa n s e a s t u d e n t s
12 a r e a s o n t o h av e a pa r t y e v e r y d ay
features
3rd April, 2013 Fish Fingers and Custard Day
23rd February, 2013 Curling is Cool Day
Doctor Who fans will know what this celebration refers to but if you’re not a watcher, then this day recognises the anniversary of Matt Smith’s famous “Fish Fingers and Custard” scene in the episode ‘Eleventh Hour’. On this day, you are invited to record yourself trying the recipe and upload it on to YouTube. Surely, it cannot be that bad, can it?
It’s that sport. You know, the one with the run over bowling balls, broomsticks and an ice rink. This day attempts to break away from the preconceptions that curling is an odd activity and to show it can be a cool and exciting sport.
(365) days of celebration Wonder what day you share your birthday with? Samantha Booth explores the random days of the year calendar that you should celebrate in 2013.
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ET us all raise a glass to 2013: the year of Water Cooperation. And let us not forget February: the Library Lovers’ Month, and the Day of Awesomeness of March 10. The card shops rotate seasonal stocks of themed designs for the usual Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Valentine’s Day and so on, but what about the days, months and annual celebrations that are not recognised? For instance, if we celebrated from the 27-30 June we would be spitting seeds at each other in recognition of Watermelon Seed Spitting Week. The 20 July sees the celebration Toss Away the “Could Haves” and “Should Haves” Day and for those who don’t succeed, don’t worry, Cheesecake Day is on 30 July. National Awareness Days raise recognition of
1st January, 2013 Z Day Zoe, Zahid, Zachary, Zane and Zebedee, are you tired of being last of every list? Z Day gives those names beginning with Zs a chance to go first in line, to get picked earlier and to stand in front for a change. Sort your iTunes, contacts and addresses back to front for one day. Sorry Abbie, Alex and Andrew. Get to the back of the queue.
health-related events and often raise money for charity. The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning in September 2012 raised a record £10 million in aid of Macmillian Cancer Support. On February 28, Rare Disease Day raises awareness of diseases that most people will not know of and also improve access to treatment. So far this year, we have missed celebrations of Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day, Appreciate a Dragon Day and Chocolate Covered Cherry Day. Visit www.daysoftheyear.com to make sure you do not miss any non-conventional parties this year. You would not want to miss Quirky Country Music Song Titles Day now, would you?
1st June, 2013 Go Barefoot Day Join people across the country to ditch the shoes for a day and build your soles up in aid of Soles4Souls, a global charity trying to put shoes on the feet of 300 million underprivileged children. Rebel against your shoes for the national day and it’ll give you a reason to get that well needed pedicure too. But please, if you’ve not got the most fresh-smelling of toes, keep them away from faces.
21st September, 2013 Eat an Apple Day Whether it’s a Granny Smith, Pink Lady or Bramley, pick up an apple variety and enjoy the treat. They contain no fat and lots of cholesterol-fighting compounds.
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SIN CITY PRESENTS LIVE & LOCAL Sin City, Wednesday February 6 7:00pm
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If you haven’t already been to one of Sin City’s Live & Local nights and fancy a night off from Wind Street, then be sure to get your backside down to this one. Many times the words “live” and “local” stringed together in a sentence make music lovers’ ears bleed, but fear not friends, you’re in for a treat. For one night only Sin City have teamed up with Swansea University’s Live Music Society to give your exhausted little brains a break after exams. To warm you up Sin are kicking things off with acoustic acts Aidan Peppin (whose cover of King Louis’ “Wanna Be Like You” on Youtube is not one to miss) and Nick Skelton. Next on the list is the unforgettable and very loud PRAYNTELL, followed by the village’s Crikey and the Whoopsies. The headlining act is of course, Swansea University’s finest ska band The Singletons. If you managed to get to Flux’s Love Music Hate Sweatshops fundraiser last term then you’ll remember singing along to their memorable cover of Rusted Roots’ “Send Me On My Way” (that’s if you weren’t already too intoxicated). Not only are the tickets stupidly cheap (£3 to be precise), but all the proceedings go to the Live Music Society, so they can carry on bringing you more fantastic nights like this one to come. Worth every penny.
Olivia Rosenthall
The Singletons and PRAYNTELL at Flux last term
ilovemondays: TEQUILA VS SAMBUCA
Life of Pi
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Oceana, Monday 4 February Advanced ticket/t-shirts: £5
Voted last year’s favourite VERSUS event, Team TEQUILA and Team SAMBUCA return once again for another night of absolute havoc. For the last three years Team Tequila has outshone Team Sambucca (rightly so), but is it finally time for Team Sambuca to take the glory? To grab a free Jose Cuervo Tequila or Antica Sambuca t-shirt get your ticket ASAP from Fulton Outfitters, The Wonky Sheep or studentswansea.co.uk. Remember: Only the FIRST 2,000 people to buy advance tickets will receive a free t-shirt, so grab ‘em while you can. Choose between the Cuervo Tequila Icehouse (Room 1) or the Antica Sambuca mash up Disco Room (2), or mix it up! Featuring DJ Daz and DJ Stu, £1.60 drinks, 2-4-1 cocktails and £2.50 doubles, it will definitely be a messy night to remember.
Taliesin Centre, Tuesday 5 - Wednesday 6 February Tickets: £5
Above, Life of Pi film poster Below, Chris Addison Photo: Brett Jordan
Olivia Rosenthall
Wax Launch Night
The Garage, Friday 8 February
Nominated for 11 Oscars and 9 BAFTAs, amongst a plethora of other awards, the film adaptation of Yann Martel’s Booker prize winning novel ‘Life of Pi’ promises breathtaking cinema. The story of a boy stranded on a boat with only a Bengal tiger for company seeks to bring more than a castaway plot to the screen. It is a journey of discovery, adventure, companionship and survival against the odds. For those of you who have read the book, it doesn’t disappoint. Director Ang Lee and actor Suraj Sharma (with the aid of impressive CGI) brings Pi and his struggles in the unrelenting wilderness of the Pacific Ocean to life. It is a compelling film which will not only ensure your emotional investment in Pi’s experiences but will also carry across a plot that will really make you think. If you haven’t already seen it, now is your chance.
Becca Hopkins
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For those looking for an alternative to Tooters, local legends of house and techno Chesus and Owain K are coming to the Garage in Uplands. Chesus (pronounced “Chay-zuss” just so you know) is currently a DJ/producer whose solo material is a blend of 90’s house music and classic soul and jazz. Bristol-born DJ Owain K (Owain Kimber) has been involved in house and techno promotions in Cardiff since 1997. Having also been involved in labels such as Poker Flat and 200, it’s clear you’re in for a big night. Guaranteed to be rammed with hardcore 90’s debauchery, it’s not one to be missed.
Charlotte Bunker
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Chris Addison
The Grand Theatre, Wednesday 6 February Star of the ‘Thick of It’ and ‘Mock the Week’, curly-headed comedian Chris Addison is coming to the Swansea Grand with his brand new, twice extended stand up tour ‘The Time is Now, Again’. Expect topical, intelligent comedy with smatterings of boyish silliness and plenty of charm. For £22.40 you can catch Addison’s critically acclaimed performance from www.seetickets.com Now you’ve got plenty of things to do this week. Charlotte Bunker
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Ivan Brackenbury
YMCA Theatre, 1 The Kingsway, Swansea Wednesday 6 February
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Swansea YMCA is launching Y So Serious? a new comedy night to combat the winter blues. In the first show, Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Ivan Brackenbury takes to the stage with his hospital DJ show. Going from ‘Disease Hour’ to beyond the grave, it’s an hilarious spoof that proves laughter really is the best medicine! Doors open 7.30pm, tickets £8, £10.
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film
Ten movies not to miss in 2013
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OORAY! Now that 2012 is over, the year the Mayans were proved wrong and Mitt Romney was made a skid mark on the underpants of politics, we can all look forward to what 2013 has in store for us. We all know Superman is making a return, along with Star Trek, Iron Man and Thor, but what else is gracing the silver screen this year? Here’s our definitive guide:
1. Upstream colour
Shane Carruth lit up the Sundance festival in 2004 with Primer, one of the most intelligent science fiction films of the last decade. Finally the director makes a return with Upstream Colour, a film with a complex story weaving together the life of a man and woman both consumed by a larger force.
2. Welcome to the Punch
Being billed as the British Heat, Welcome to the Punch tells the story of James McAvoy’s detective Max Lewinsky who’s obsessed with catching a gangster (played by Mark Strong) who crippled him. Finally a British crime thriller that can rival the releases coming from across the pond.
3. Stoker
Chan Wook Park, the director of Korean hit Oldboy, returns with his first English-language film. Starring Nicole Kidman and Mia Waisikowska, we are set for some Hitchcockian gothic horror that has the potential to make up for all the terrible horror remakes and sequels of recent years.
4. Only God Forgives
Ryan Gosling and Nicolas Refn team up again, after their 2011 release Drive. Set in Bangkok and about a fixed boxing match in which Gosling has to avenge his brother’s death; expect violence, gore and the best soundtrack of the year.
5. Promised Land
Originally set to be Damon’s directing debut, Promised Land reunites the partnership of director Gus Van Sant and Damon in a drama about two salesman attempting to buy drilling rights from locals in a Pittsburgh town. It may not be the most exciting storyline but Sant and Damon were the minds behind the brilliant Good Will Hunting.
6. Filth
From the same pen as Trainspotting, Filth drenches James McAvoy in darkness and gets him performing his most challenging part yet. It’s a story about a junkie policeman who works to get his family back, with violent and black humour in the typical style of Irvine Welsh.
7. The Place beyond the Pines
Ryan Gosling had a rather quiet 2012 but he returns with Derek Cianfrance, who directed Gosling in Blue Valentine, with thriller The Place Beyond the Pines. It centres on Gosling’s stunt biker becoming a father and a criminal. Expect a perfect mix of action and emotion.
8. Trance
Most would assume the best move for Danny Boyle after the Olympic opening ceremony would be a multimillion pound blockbuster but instead Boyle stayed loyal to his roots with a story concerning an art heist. An art auctioneer (James McAvoy), who has become mixed up with a group of criminals, partners with a hypnotherapist in order to recover a lost painting.
9. Antiviral
Brandon Cronenberg, son of David, releases his first feature this year with a film that’s as bold as any in his father’s collection. Antiviral concerns a company that harvests diseases from celebrities to sell to their die-hard fans. Like a disgusting petri dish for social satire. .
10. Dark Skies
Minimalistic science fiction is a rarity in Hollywood but Dark Skies tells the story of a small family who believe they have are being experimented on by aliens. Science fiction with the backdrop of social suburban anxiety is in stark contrast to the likes of Bay (Transformers) and Emmerich (The Day After Tomorrow).
Top: Upstream Colour. Upper middle: Promised Land. Lower middle: Only God Forgives. Below: Antiviral.
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Film Reviews Berberian Sound Studio
Quartet
RECENTLY horror films have become a grotesque platform for torture porn in the form of Saw and Hostel, films that have managed to deform the once intelligent genre into a gore fest. But Peter Strickland’s 2012 second feature, Berberian Sound Studio, reflects some of the greats of horror such as Dario Argento and Luciano Ercoli. Toby Jones plays sound engineer Gilderoy, who travels to Italy to work on a mysterious horror film, The Equestrian Vortex. None of the film is shown but instead Strickland subtly uses sound to suggest the horror that Gilderoy is faced with. It’s also Strickland’s creation of a Kafkaesque sound studio, where you are never sure if it’s night or day or for how long Gilderoy has been working on the film, which creates a genuine sense of tension and horror. Not until the final act does it take on the true form of a horror film but still manages to retain its integrity and originality. Disappointingly ignored by the BAFTAS and predictably ignored by the Academy Awards, Berberian Sound Studios’ originality and intelligence makes it a magnificent piece of film making. In my opinion, it’s the Oscars’ loss.
LOVED The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel? So did I - but it’s a shame that Quartet, with a similar plot about retirement, could not live up to such a fantastic film. Quartet is the much anticipated drama comedy about three residents at a home for retired musicians, who are surprised when their former singing partner, a star soloist (played by Maggie Smith), joins their ranks. It’s a film that is ruined by a boring, pointless and pathetic ending. With a star studded cast, including Tom Courtenay, Billy Connolly, Pauline Collins, Michael Gambon, and a personal favorite of mine, Sheridan Smith, the film was set to be a fantastic start to the movie world of 2013. The film sees characteristically fine performances from stars such as Maggie Smith, however, Quartet itself is terribly cloying and cutesy, except for at the end when all the emotion built up throughout the film is brought down a few octaves to an emotionless finale. The film is full of original, witty humour, it’s just a shame that it ended with such limited effort and emotion.
By Saul Masters
By Rachael Wines
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey DESPITE the sub title, this film is pretty much exactly what one would expect a Lord of the Rings prequel to be, and this is what makes it so enjoyable. From the serenity of Rivendell to the majesty of Erebor, to the comfort of Hobbiton, the film’s rich visuals, epic cinematic form and fantastic soundtrack really bring back the magic of Middle-Earth. There are differences, of course. With the dwarves’ quest to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug driving the plot, this is a much more personal story than the Lord of the Rings, with Martin Freeman’s superb portrayal of Bilbo Baggins standing out amongst the rugged rabble that is the company of Thorin Oakenshield. The new faces of the dwarves are offset nicely with the return of familiar ones, such as Ian McKellan as Gandalf and Hugo Weaving as Elrond. The decision to make the Hobbit a trilogy has caused concern among viewers, as has the high frame rate, but there is certainly ample material for three films, and the camera work is so smooth one barely notices the frame rate. Enter the cinema expecting epic Tolkien fantasy to the very core, and this movie will not disappoint you. By Luke Maxwell-Libby
careers
So Mr Bond, what’s your favourite film? I
NTERVIEWERS are often seen as bad guys or villains whose only mission in the interview is to make it as uncomfortable for you (the graduate) as possible. Sometimes you may come across such an interviewer, but the truth is that each interviewer has their own techniques. It essential that you accustom yourself to each technique to ensure your chances of success are the best they can be. Dr Julius No Renowned for his sidekicks, he will fire questions at you from all angles. This is more likely to be the group interview where you will have the direct manager, the HR manager, and an additional authority figure. It will be daunting at first with three sets of eyes on you listening to every word you say. However this allows
you the choice of three people to make a connection with. It also allows you to alternate your attention between three different people rather than focusing on one person for the entire interview. Elektra King Elektra sat back in silence working her way round in a secretive manner. This type of interviewer will not give anything away and will not point you in the right direction. They will simply sit back and let you run the show. This is time for you take responsibility and demonstrate your initiative to control the interview and direct it in the way you want it to go. It’s your chance to get your strengths to the forefront and really shine. General Orlov Orlov demanded the word and this type of interviewer will expect you to give full and in depth, ground breaking answers
to every question. If they don’t get that answer then they will continue to ask you questions around it. Don’t be put off by the fact you are continuously being questioned around the same area. It simply means that your interviewer is looking for more of an answer. On one hand it takes the control away from you but on the other hand it ensures you supply as much information as possible. Alec Trevelyan Alec betrayed James Bond whilst pretending to be his best friend. The whole purpose of this interview is to get you to open up. It is thought that the more relaxed you are the better your answer will be, rather than being concerned about being analysed. Don’t let your barriers drop so far that you start talking to the interviewer like a friend, but use it to your advantage to strike an instant relationship.
Ernst Stavro Blofeld This is the bad guy who re-appears and re-appears and always with a different approach. This is ultimately the hardest type of interview you will come across. How do you tackle this I hear you ask! You simply move with them, remaining professional through the serious questions and then upbeat and friendly through the ice breakers. It is essential you identify how the mood of the interview is changing so that you can adapt to it. Pay attention and you will be fine! Sometimes it is tricky to know what to expect when you go to an interview, however you can help yourself by doing some solid research on the organisational culture and the person who will be interviewing you. This can give you key insights on how best to tackle the interview and be in the driving seat. This article has been written by Dan Hawes on behalf of The Graduate Recruitment Bureau (www.grb.uk.com)
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The Big Freeze fashion
Beat the January Blues!
Traditional Fairisle hat, £14 Topshop
Grey long-sleeved crop top, £24 American Apparel
NKNC sweater £15 - www.noirapparel.co.uk
Traditional Fairisle snood. £18 - Topshop
Chunky cable fur knit mittens, £14 - Accessorize
Studded longline washed Parka, £90 - ASOS
Print leggings, £8.25 - Forever 21
Basic knit sweater, £17.99 - Zara
Floral Castel 8 eye boot, £95 - Dr. Marten’s
Get Involved!
We are always looking for writers to join us at Waterfront Fashion to bring the latest style to the students of Swansea. If you’re interested in joining the Waterfront in 2013, get in touch with Cat and Fran at waterfrontfashion@swansea-union.co.uk.
music
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Going for the record - with alex gibbs
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Love Music! Hate Sweatshops!
N TUESDAY 27th November 2012, ‘Flux’ hosted its first live music gig featuring five local acts, writes Laura Fiteni. The night promised an amalgamation of musical genres from the sweet acoustic to alternative rock, all in aid of People and Planet’s campaign for the ethical treatment of employees worldwide. So, performing against a profound backdrop, emblazoned with the campaign’s slogan ‘Kids in School, Not Sweatshops’, (explicitly summarised by the first act - SpecialJ as “F*** Sweatshops” during his performance) all the acts had to give it their all. The three bands, PrayNTell, The Singletons and Expendable, alongside two solo musicians SpecialJ and Beth Angharad, graced the stage to make the People and Planet’s campaign
proud. Special J’s comedic first act set the tone for the night with amusing titles such as ‘Conscientious Bad Man’ which combined unadulterated London-style rap with simple chord progressions. Next on was Beth Angharad with another acoustic set but very different in style, to keep the crowd on their toes. Her soft melodies coupled with sweet finger-picking-style guitar provided an intimate experience for the growing audience. PrayNTell added a heavier element to the night, as the four-piece cranked up an industrial noise on drums and guitar and inspired a bit of movement within the crowd, with the addition of one lone crowdsurfer. By far the most popular band on the stage that evening was The Singletons, who crammed the stage with talented
musicians performing indie/rock/ska music pieces and whose infectious sound created a contagious and excitable atmosphere. Covers such as Rusted Root’s ‘Send me on my way’ proved tremendously popular with our Swansea students. Finally, Expendable took the stage with a heavier noise blaring from the amps again. An outfit of four who whipped the crowd into a rowdy moshpit; they certainly pulled off a personal set of well-composed pieces, whilst a cover of Red Hot Chilli Peppers ‘By The Way’ provided a perfect ending to the gig. Flux is available every Tuesday in Divas featuring a variety of music from the Indie genre. Come down and give yourself a well-deserved break from work for the night... and for just £3, you have no excuse not to!
Beth Angharad. PHOTO: Olivia Rosenthall.
Flux is on every Tuesday Night at Diva’s on Campus, for only £3! Find out more at: http://www.swansea-union.co.uk/
SPOTLIGHT: The Delegators BASED in London, The Delegators have been distributing their musical talents all over Britain since 2008 from the intimate, feelgood gigs to grand festivals like Latitude 2012. Speaking of Latitude, I caught this unsigned act whilst passing by and could not help but be mesmerised by Janet Kumah’s soulful vocals. Defining their music as an assortment of Reggae, Ska and even some Motown Soul and Gospel, The Delegators demonstrate their soul and enthusiasm by how Kumah musically fuses with her instrumental backing selection perfectly, from Leon Vince on saxophone to Beranger’s drumming skills, with three of the five-piece as backing vocals.
Janet Kumah.
‘I Need Love’ discusses Kumah’s need for intimacy with a special
PHOTO: Alex Gibbs
By Alex Gibbs man, as she chimes “I don’t need no caviar; I just need to make you mine”. Backed with a band that mimics the sound of an elegant, upper class establishment’s house band, this track exhibits how talented these musicians are. ‘World To Me’ has a bit of a reggae vibe whilst flaunting Kumah’s gorgeous, honey-smooth voice, yet ‘Movin’ On’ shows Kumah’s fiery temper with an empowering female vibe, saying she won’t put up with being messed around; perfect as a feelgood for girl who loves to be single and not be defined by man. Whilst The Delegators do not have a record deal and may not be nationally notorious, this little gem has definite potential with their jazz, soul-filled band. Kumah’s vocals and musical energy is incredible to witness live and accompanied by a talented variety of instrumentalists, this band is one to watch.
Do you think a band or genre should be featured? E-mail us at waterfrontmusic@swansea-union.co.uk
albums
singles
Bruno Mars
Bullet For My Valentine
Little Green Cars
‘UNORTHODOX JUKEBOX’ does exactly what it says on the tin, writes Alex Gibbs. Bringing nostalgic 80s music vibes to ‘Gorilla’, ‘Treasure’ and the echoing of Michael Jackson’s style in ‘Moonshine’; Mars adds contemporary qualities of explicit lyrics and synthesisers, making several tracks unorthodox in style, but flawless in composition. Starting and ending the album with his iconic voice, Mars showcases a musical career that just keeps soaring. ‘Locked out of Heaven’ is a sensational track yet doesn’t define the album whatsoever, as Mars dedicates the majority of his tracks to low-tempo paces like the melancholic ‘When I was Your Man’ and ‘If I Knew’. Yet, if you missed Mars’ mischievous, naughty character, there’s plenty more in ‘Natalie’ and ‘Money Makes Her Smile’ – personally dedicated to strippers! Packed with musical genius, this album will skyrocket in sales.
‘TEMPER TEMPER’: the debut track from Bullet for My Valentine’s upcoming fourth album begins with one of their signature guitar-heavy intros, demonstrating why they are currently one of the most appreciated British metal bands, writes Verity Rogers. Matthew Tuck is on top form, snarling the standard irate lyrics while the guitarists tear up the song with furious riffs; however, it does lack some of the energy and anger found in earlier work. The song’s structure and theme is familiar, but when you know something works why change it? Even though the track has received criticism from some diehard fans, their reputations for producing yet another tightly wound attack of a song is secure for now. A promising start - let’s just hope the rest of the album follows suit.
LITTLE Green Cars came soaring into the music scene last year with their anthem track ‘The John Wayne’, writes Jodie O’Donnell. This track features an insanely addictive guitar line, accompanied by the harmonious vocals of each band member. Their lyrics are short and simple, which is all that is needed to fuel the power and stability of their solid instrumental sections. With a band presence comparable to the euphoric Arcade Fire but with an addition of a rocky edge, this Irish quintet has produced the most unique sound of the indie genre. It is no surprise that they have been nominated for BBC Sound Of 2013 for ‘The John Wayne’ alone.
Unorthodox Jukebox
Temper Temper
The John Wayne
relationships
Dear Aunt Catrin, I’ve always been a big girl, but lately it’s really been bothering me. I’m the biggest out of all of my friends and I just can’t shake the feeling that everyone’s just laughing at me whenever we go out anywhere. I’ve tried dieting but hate it. Madeleine. I believe it was Destiny’s Child whose deepest, most insightful hit included the line ‘I don’t think you’re ready for this jelly’, referring to the unkind words and thoughts that are often associated with being bigger than the standard that the media has thrust upon us. However, what strikes me about your letter is that you, yourself, appear to be unready for this jelly, something that you need to address. As a girl of a spherical stature myself – I have the body of a God, it just so happens that God is Buddha and my temple is made of gingerbread – I have long struggled with the problem of how to present myself in a world of Photoshopped beauties and girls in Oceana with legs that even Bambi would be jealous of. Now, I have found that there are two main methods to survive this. The first is that you can hate yourself, pick upon every flaw that you have and try to guilt trip yourself with back-to-back episodes of America’s Next Top Model. The second is that you can learn to appreciate yourself for what you are. Learn to appreciate Mika’s ‘Big Girls (You are Beautiful)’ and cheer yourself up with Supersize vs Superskinny on 4OD. Oh, and my biggest tip? Stop listening to your friends who say that they look fat and disgusting; those words should have been separated at birth. Looking good and feeling happy is all about the confidence you’ve built up by yourself, which allows me to say that I might have a bum that could rival the biggest family Christmas turkey, but I’m also highly aware that how much I weigh should not, and does not, define me. Dear Aunt Catrin, As you are aware it is the new year, which means resolutions! As many do, I have jumped on the ‘healthy eating’ and ‘going to the gym’ bandwagon in search of washboard abs. Unfortunately the essay and exam period we are all currently going through is making it very hard to stick to my resolutions. Joe (aged: 21½) If you refer to my previous letter, you’ll see just how passionate I am about healthy eating and keeping fit, so I feel it appropriate to reply to your letter with haste, right after I retrieve this stray Cheerio from down my onesie. Essay season makes a mockery of many of us and even the best find themselves struggling with their best intentions and their lack of will as slowly increasing word counts eat away at their will to live. This is a time when remembering to put on clean pants every day is a struggle. Firstly, I want to remind you that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Look at your calendar. I bet you have the date of your last assessment circled already, perhaps with a twee little note along the lines of FREEEDOOOOM!!!; and if you don’t, why don’t you? You’re obviously not committed to the cause. Secondly, remind yourself why you’re at university. The stress and anxiety is character building! I know that one day, when I’m in a career completely unrelated to my degree, that I will look back on those heady days in the library and be so incredibly happy that I will never have to undergo those 2,000 word torture devices ever again. Last, but not least, don’t forget that new year’s resolutions don’t necessarily have to be made when the majority of the world celebrates new year! Remember, not all countries and societies subscribe to the Gregorian calendar, giving you a choice of start dates. After all, why do something today when you can put it off until tomorrow? Hope that helps!
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Ask Aunt Catrin
Email your questions to waterfrontfeatures@swansea-union.co.uk. (Aunt Catrin is unqualified to give real advice and so all responses are intended to be more amusing than serious. The Waterfront recognises that occasionally she can’t even manage that, so please take all letters with a pinch of salt and refer to proper, grown-up professionals for real advice.)
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28 January 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk
Blind Date When Stephanie met Tom Stephanie Butler, a 19-year-old English Literature student, and Tom Cullimore, a 19-year-old Economics student, meet in JC’s for The Waterfront blind date.
Stephanie on Tom What were your first impressions? When I saw him walk in, I was hoping and praying he’d be the one who would sit down at the table. He was a total heartthrob. What do you think of the choice of venue? Perfect!!! Any striking conversation points? As we started talking the dream boat facade slowly faded away, this blonde bombshell wasn’t all I hoped he’d be, all he cares about is his football and that’s not what I want from a guy. Did you wonder why he wasn’t in a relationship at any point? No, it was pretty obvious. If you were to be married and have babies, what would you want your baby to inherit? My looks and personality. Any potential for a kiss? He tried a few times. Out of ten, what is your compatibility score with the other person? 10 on looks, we’d make a really cute couple. Would you introduce him to your parents? No, they don’t like people like him. Generally, how do you think the date went? The initial chemistry was overpowering and I really had high hopes for our names going down in the books along with Romeo & Juliet, Posh & Becks, Bonnie & Clyde. However, when he opened his mouth my fantasy of us being the best looking couple on campus shattered. Would you like to meet again? No. I’m still single and looking, if you think you’re up to scratch (9s or over) you can find me on Blackboard!
Tom on Stephanie What were your first impressions? I was in awe. The girl who stood before me was like no-one I’d seen before. It truly was love at first sight. What do you think of the choice of venue? JC’s was great. Provided a lovely cool atmosphere to counteract my racing heartbeat. Any striking conversation points? Oh the banter was FLOWING left right and centre. We talked for hours. Did you wonder why she wasn’t in a relationship at any point? No, I could see that she was waiting for the right man. And there I was. If you were to be married and have babies, what would you want your baby to inherit? Her eyes. They were like two crystal balls of blue. Out of ten, what is your compatibility score with the other person? I’ll never forget her. 10. Would you introduce her to your parents? No, because my dad’s a killer for younger women. Generally, how do you think the date went? It’s put me on a natural high ever since. Outstanding. Would you like to meet again? I’d do anything to lay my eyes on her once more. •If you are interested in featuring in the blind date, email your name, age, course and level to Blind Date editor Holly Miller at waterfrontfeatures@ swansea-union.co.uk.
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Morris House Nursing Home
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Green B J W – 44 Eaton Crescent, Brynmill. SA1 4QL City Dental Lab – 8 Francis Street, Brynmill. SA1 4NH
Law Courts, St Helens Road, Brynmill. SA1 4PF Launderette, King Edwards Road, Brynmill. SA1 127 Rhyddings Park Road, Brynmill. SA1
Brynmill Roundabout, Bryn Road. 43 Brynmill Roundabout, Bryn Road. 42
Bus Stops to City Centre
Brynmill Roundabout, Bryn Road. 116
Ln
Doctors/Dentist
Cash Points
Life Style Express – 1 Brynymor Road, Brynmill. SA1 Post Office – Brynymor Road, Brynmill. SA1 Spar – Francis Street / St Helen’s Ave. SA1
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Melrose Cottages
Dumbarton House Court
St Margrets House
The Cloisters
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28 January 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk
The Crescent
Stella Morris Convent
Brynmill Roundabout, Bryn Road. 43 Mumbles Road 4 Rhyddings – Brynmill Avenue / Marlborough Road 19
Bus Stops to Hendrefoelan
Hen Dderwen, Sketty Park East. 82A
Post Office – Park Way
Bus Stops to Uplands
Phone Booths
Hen Dderwen, Sketty Park East. 20A ent Cresc Harlech
CK Supermarket – Park Way, Sketty. SA2
Pen-Yr-H eol Driv e
A4118
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Gower Rd
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28 January 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk
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Protech Dental Ceramics- 48 Coedfan, Sketty. SA2 8NS Bar – Gower Road, Sketty. SA2 9JL Gould Stephen
Dun v ant Rd
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oi Park Way, Sketty. SA2 Holy Trinity Church f– la He n Parklands Evangelical Church - Heather Crescent, Sketty. SA2 n
Co-op Pharmacy – Park Way, Sketty. SA2 8JJ
Shop Student Doctors/Dentist Village
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Pharmacies
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Co-op pharmacy – Dillwyn Road, Sketty. SA2 9QA National Co-op Close Chemist Ltd – 5 Dillwyn Road, Sketty. SA2 9QA Benbow
HSBC – Dillwyn Road, Sketty. SA2 9QA Tesco – Gower Road, Sketty. SA2 9BX Lloyds TSB – Gower Road, Sketty SA2 9BX Post Office – Gower Road, Sketty. SA2 9BX
Lloyds TSB, Sketty Cross, Gower Road. 21A Lloyds TSB, Sketty Cross, Gower Road. 21B Lloyds TSB, Sketty Cross, Gower Road. 20A
Phone Booths
Opposite St Pauls Parish, Gower Road, Sketty Cross. 53 Lloyds TSB, Sketty Cross, Gower Road. 53 Sketty Library, Vivian Road, Sketty. 41 Dillwyn Road, Sketty Cross, Sketty. 41
Doctors/Dentist k
Sketty Medical Centre – 43 De-La-Beche Road, Sketty. SA2 9EA Mark & Sian Harris Dental Surgery – 26 Dillwyn Road, Sketty. SA2 9AE Cambria Dental Surgery - 25 Eversley Rd, Sketty, Swansea. SA2 9DB ls ira m d Religious Venues A Sketty Baptist Church – Carnglas Road, Sketty. SA2 St Pauls Parish – De-La-Beche Road, Sketty. SA2 9AR Ave Bryn CaeW al
WOMEN’S officer Becki Warrillow has commissioned a series of maps to help students get the most out of their local area. The first, Uplands, was published in the last edition of The Waterfront and we are reproducing the rest here. “As part of one of my manifesto points I said I would deliver maps of main student areas around Swansea which highlight where key points are for student safety and general knowledge; some of these points are taxi ranks, free cash points and phone booths,” she said. You can also see the maps on the Swansea Students’ Union website. For more information read Becki’s blog post at w w w. s wa n s e a - u n i o n . co.uk/union/officers/ beckiwarrillow.
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Olchfa Comprehensive School
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HSBC – Dillwyn Road, Sketty. SA2 9QA
Cab Company Sketty Cabs - 114 Eversly Road, Sketty. SA2 9DF
Bus Stops to University
Bus Stops to Hendrefoelan Lloyds TSB, Sketty Cross, Gower Road. 21B Lloyds TSB, Sketty Cross, Gower Road. 20A
SPORT I 30
waterfrontonline.co.uk Sport Swansea
Mountaineering
BUCS top 25 universities 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Loughborough Durham Bath Birmingham Exeter Nottingham Leeds Met Manchester Edinburgh Bristol Newcastle Leeds Oxford Northumbria Cardiff Nottingham Trent Warwick Cardiff Met Sheffield Imperial College Swansea Stirling Brunel Sheffield Hallam Cambridge
2453 1827 1642 1640 1565 1539 1449 1408 1271 1185 1173 1071 1038 1009 1005 998 947 915 908 813 780 765 748 736 731
Fresher Clow tops the bill at Cardiff bouldering event by Craig Hadley waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
CANADIAN exchange student Andrew Clow celebrated his first win as a Swansea University representative at this winter’s bouldering competition in Cardiff. Matthew Everett, fellow member of the Swansea University Mountaineering Club, described Swansea’s performance at the event as “great” following Clow’s success. “It was a great effort from everyone who travelled from Swansea to the event,” said Everett. “I’m very proud of everyone who competed in Cardiff. “There’s a lot of natural climbing talent in the club this year and this competition proves it.” Civil-engineering student Clow finished first in the men’s fresher category with success following in subsequent categories. Zara Sheady finished second for Swansea, just behind Newportbased Emily Clark in the women’s
elite category. Fellow student William Johnson also finished in second in the men’s elite category, missing out to impressive Glamorgan climber David Cover. An experienced Bristol team took the top award, winning the event overall with 111 points, 17 more than second-placed Swansea, with Cardiff rounding off the top three with 80. The competition itself involved 20 bouldering problems in which participants had to navigate their way up using various holds on the climbing wall. The scores are determined by how many attempts it takes the competitor to reach the final hold without error. The event was hosted at ‘Boulders’ indoor climbing centre in St. Catherine’s Park, Cardiff. The next event, ‘the routes competition’ will take place in February. For more information about the club visit: swansea-union.co.uk/ activities/SUMC
FIRST ONE TO THE TOP: Clow during one of his final climbs at St. Catherine’s Park, Cardiff.
waterfrontonline.co.uk
SPORT I 31
Hockey
Sport Swansea
BUCS cup and trophy update BUCS Cup Round Three Results: November 28 Men’s Badminton
Swansea 1st 7-1 Winchester 1st Swansea 2nd 5-3 Cardiff 2nd
Women’s hockey goes from strength to strength
Men’s Basketball
Swansea 2nd 65-91 Glamorgan 1st Men’s Fencing
Exeter 1st 108-134 Swansea 1st Women’s Fencing
Swansea 1st 127-112 Queen Mary 1st Men’s Hockey
Swansea 1st 2-3 Gloucestershire 1st Cardiff 4th 2-5 Swansea 2nd Women’s Hockey Swansea 1st (p) 0-0 Cardiff Met 2nd Netball
FIRSTS’ FOCUS: The women’s hockey first team were Swansea’s most successful side last semester, and seem sure to achieve great things in 2013. by Finlay Boland waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
SWANSEA women’s hockey firsts are keeping their feet on the ground, although results suggest they are flying so far this season. It was a great close to 2012 for the side, who remain unbeaten so far in both the league and cup.
Swansea University’s most in-form side are hoping that 2013 will see much of the same, and captain Kira Davies made it clear what her aims are. “We’re focusing on a game at a time,” she said. “We feel we are more than capable of remaining unbeaten for this semester, winning the conference cup and finishing the season with a win at Varsity”.
The hunger is there for the side, but Davies also expressed the need to “keep focus going into the games this semester and to make sure we don’t become complacent. We were so close to promotion last year, and we have used this to just spur us on to do well this semester”. She also believes the team’s confidence and effort will provide
a boost in the short term, and for Varsity in the long run. The focus of the team is clear, and hopefully that determination will allow them to carry on their brilliant achievements into 2013.
HONOURABLE MENTIONS: 2. Fencing 1sts 3. Volleyball 1sts 4. Netball 1sts
Badminton
Swansea 1st 44-25 Marjons 1st Swansea 3rd 27-44 Newport 1st Men’s Rugby Union
Swansea 4th 21-5 Cardiff Met 4th Women’s Rugby Union
Aberystwyth 0-61 Swansea 1st Men’s Squash
Swansea 1st 1-4 Gloucestershire 1st Men’s Tennis
Southampton 2nd 8-4 Swansea 1st Gloucestershire 3rd 0-12 Swansea 2nd BUCS Trophy Round Two Results: November 28 Women’s Badminton
Swansea 1st 2-6 Bath 2nd Men’s Lacrosse
Swansea 1st 4-12 Cardiff 1st Women’s Lacrosse
Exeter 2nd P-P Swansea 1st BUCS Trophy Round Three Results: January 23 Men’s Fencing
Cardiff 1st 110-108 Swansea 1st Women’s Fencing
Clinical Swansea off to strong start
Exeter 1st 135-124 Swansea 1st BUCS Cup Quarter-Finals Fixtures: January 30 - February 6 Men’s Badminton
Swansea 1st v Cardiff Met 1st Exeter 2nd v Swansea 2nd Men’s Hockey
Gloucestershire 1st v Swansea 2nd Women’s Hockey
Bath 4th v Swansea 1st Netball
BADMINTON BRILLIANCE: Swansea University badminton club enjoyed great success last semester, and hope to maintain their good form in 2013. by Jodie O’Donnell waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
SWANSEA badminton men’s first team sit two points clear of second-placed Exeter at the top of their Western 2B league. The side lost only once before Christmas, and there is no reason they cannot achieve the same standards this semester. Captain Sam Gorell has
emphasised his pleasure in the team’s focus and motivation, for which he credits the team’s great success. However, it is not just the men’s firsts who are experiencing success so far this season. The combined effort of the whole badminton club has gained a total of 70 points to contribute to Swansea University’s overall BUCS ranking this season. This makes them the third most
successful team last semester. Barry Garnham, who has committed so much time to Swansea’s badminton over the past years, states that “it is the combined result of the whole team that gives the final score”. Both Gorell and women’s captain Alice Palmer have stated their confidence in achieving victory at Varsity this year, which, outside of the league, is the team’s highest priority. The club will also be taking their
success to the Guernsey International Badminton Tour, as well as aiming to rank top in the BUCS Individual championship in Sheffield. If they can replicate their first semester form this term, there could be no stopping Swansea University badminton club this year.
HONOURABLE MENTIONS: 2. Hockey 3rds 3. Fencing 1sts 4. Squash 1sts
Swansea 1st v Bristol 2nd Men’s Rugby Union
Swansea 4th v Trinity St David 1st Women’s Rugby Union
Manchester 1st v Swansea 1st Men’s Tennis
Plymouth 1st v Swansea 2nd Women’s Tennis
Swansea 1st v UWE 1st Men’s Volleyball
Swansea 1st v Glamorgan 2nd
sport thewaterfront
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Issue 223
waterfrontonline.co.uk All of our articles throughout the year can be found on our website, it’s updated regularly so check it out today !
28 January 2013
SWANSEA LOOK SET FOR HIGHEST BUCS FINISH EVER
Inside This Issue Mountaineering
Fresher Clow finishes first in Cardiff bouldering event
BUCS Overall Ranking p30 Hockey
1
Davies continues what Gosney started last year
11 21 31 41 51 61
SWANSEA SOARING: Swansea University’s BUCS ranking is currently the highest it has ever been, with the current ranking of 21st beating last year’s record of 25th. by Tom Nightingale waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
AT the break in the 2012-13 year, Swansea University are on course to achieve their highest ever points total in the British Universities and Colleges Sport overall championships. BUCS, the latest incarnation of the student sport association, was established in 2008 from the merger of British Universities Sports
Association (BUSA) and University College Sport (UCS). Swansea currently sit a bestever 21st position out of over 160 institutions, aided by some superb performances from many of the university’s sports teams (see inside). Even allowing for the scoring system having been altered on occasions, Swansea could be set to also break their own points record. Sports Officer Imogen Stanley is pleased with the university’s sporting progress, and suggests there is no
reason things can’t further improve. “Last season’s 25th position was our best finish ever in BUCS,” she explained, “and we’re on course to improve that once again. “Richard Lancaster, our old AU manager, did a lot of work for Swansea University sport, brought a lot of structure, and Sadie [Thwaites, Sports Administrator] has done great work to take this further this year. “The university seems to be taking sport a lot more seriously now and are recognising its importance to
the students, and for marketing and promotion with our links to Swansea City, the Ospreys and the Harriers. “We’ve still got some big events left this year, which, if we are successful in, can propel us on to further success. “We undoubtedly have big aims for the next few years, leading up to our centenary in 2020. “We can’t say too much, but with the help of the right investment and priorities, we can continue to reach unprecedented highs as we get the most out of our sport.”
Intramural Returns... 11.02.13
p31 Badminton
Swansea’s class shines through this season
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