FREE
NOVEMBER 2018
ISSUE 282
07 01
16 01
31 01
news
creative writing
music
Swansea partners with Columbia
Dreams, Cold, Old, New Last of the Light Bringers
Eminem vs Machine Gun Kelly
09 01 culture Prohibition festival comes to Swansea
10 01 photography Get lost in Swansea
13 01 food An introduction to our new editor
14 01
18 01 study abroad Solid as a rock? A visit to Yellowstone
20 01
relationships Online dating & long distance Agony Aunt
34 01
film
puzzles
Lessons to learn from 'A Quiet Place' Why do we love being scared?
Crosswords Sudoku
22 01
36 01
travel
tech
Travel hacks: Fly like a pro Ryanair: Good or bad? Portugal: At a glance
Assasin's Creed: Review
features Good Night Out campaign
32 01
27 01 wellbeing Young Minds: Action for awareness
01 38 sport Ladies day 2018 Club in focus: Hockey
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
FILM
Carys Svendsen
Matt Walker
waterfronteditor@swanseastudentmedia.com
waterfrontfilm@swanseastudentmedia.com
DEPUTY EDITOR
FOOD
Megan Thomas
waterfrontdeputyeditor@swanseastudentmedia.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Jacob Fleming waterfrontfood@swanseastudentmedia.com
LIBERATION
Charlotte Husbands
Zoya Chisti
waterfrontphoto@swanseastudentmedia.com
waterfrontliberation@swanseastudentmedia.com
DESIGN & ARTWORK
MUSIC
Iain Fisher & Waterfront team
Fin Hardie
waterfrontdesign@swanseastudentmedia.com
waterfrontmusic@swanseastudentmedia.com
PROOFREADING
PUZZLES
Caitlin Jones
Laurence Brown
proofreader@swanseastudentmedia.com
waterfrontpuzzles@swanseastudentmedia.com
NEWS
SPORT
Polly Manning
Jessica Hayden
waterfrontnews@swanseastudentmedia.com
waterfrontsport@swanseastudentmedia.com
CREATIVE WRITING
STUDY ABROAD
Rory James
waterfrontcreativewriting@swanseastudentmedia.com
CRIME
Bronwen Beard
waterfrontstudyabroad@swanseastudentmedia.com
TECHNOLOGY
Becky Barnfather
Henry Burgess
waterfrontcrime@swanseastudentmedia.com
waterfronttech@swanseastudentmedia.com
CULTURE
TRAVEL
Open position
Meryl Hanmer
waterfrontculture@swanseastudentmedia.com
waterfronttravel@swanseastudentmedia.com
FASHION
WELLBEING
Open position waterfrontfashion@swanseastudentmedia.com
FEATURES
Emily Williams & Olivia Rogers waterfrontwellbeing@swanseastudentmedia.com
STUDENT MEDIA COORDINATOR
Open position waterfrontfeatures@swanseastudentmedia.com
Iain Fisher
iain.fisher@swansea-union.co.uk
CONTRIBUTORS Polly Manning • Nicola McAndrew • Jacob Fleming • Jack Knight • Catrin Edwards • Brownwen Beard • Charlotte Husbands Michael Fraser • Alex John Udraufski-Osborne • Meryl Hanmer • Maddy Price • Becky Barnfather • Joshua O'Mahoney Katie Brewster • Grace Hannaford • Laurence Brown • Henry Burgess • Sophie Hargreaves • Gavin Williams • Katie Woodward
WATERFRONT IS A FREE PRINT AND ONLINE PUBLICATION FROM SWANSEA STUDENT MEDIA AND YOUR STUDENTS’ UNION. SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
hello from your editors
Carys Svendsen
Megan Thomas
Editor-in-chief
Deputy Editor
Has a month gone already? Wow! There’s even a new issue to celebrate it! We’re now entering that time of the year where everybody is starting assignment season as well as Movember (the moustache is all natural, I swear). Need a distraction from all that? Waterfront is here for all your procrastination tendencies! We’ve got the return of Agony Aunt, all new crosswords, a great photography feature and many other things. This issue is best enjoyed with a pumpkin spiced latte (tis the spooky season, after all), and if you ever fancy writing an article for us, then send myself or one of the section editors a message. For now, enjoy this issue and see you next month!
Another month, another Waterfront! Freshers is finally over and now it’s time for the real work to begin. If you’re anything like me, the deadlines are starting to trickle in and your lecturers are starting to expect you to actually understand your course? We’ve fallen into the awkward bit, just between Halloween and Guy Fawkes night, but we’ve still put together some great stuff. From an in-depth analysis on why we love horror movies to news about a prestigious opportunity for Swansea University, we have a little something for everyone. If you want to get involved yourself, email any of our fantastic editing team to find out how. Until next month!
NEWS POLLY MANNING
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Columbia is considered one of the most prestigious universities in the US
BY POLLY MANNING
The Hillary Rodham Clinton Research Programme will see joint PhDs for students from Swansea and the United States. Swansea University vice-chancellor, Professor Richard B. Davies, recently met with his counterparts at Columbia to discuss the partnership. "Swansea University’s broadening academic partnership with the extremely prestigious Columbia University signals our growing stature and reputation on the world stage and is the latest in a series of partnerships with global leaders of HE and business.” “Our academics are delivering world-leading research and we are increasingly being recognised as punching well above our weight on a global stage.” Established in 1754, Columbia University is a private Ivy League research university, based in Upper Manhattan, New York City. Known for producing numerous distinguished graduates, it is the third most selective University in the US – with an undergraduate acceptance rate of 5.5%. Potential areas for research collaboration between the Universities include genetics and neurological diseases, cyber-terrorism, and research on universities as ‘engines of change’. The program will be based at the Hillary Rodham Clinton School of Law, based on Singleton Campus. Clinton
Swansea University announces partnership with Columbia The alliance aims to foster closer cooperation on potential student exchanges and research projects.
Hilary Clinton receiving an honorary doctorate at Swansea University in 2017
received an honorary doctorate from Swansea University when she visited the city in 2017. The joint PhD program is supported by the Welsh Government, having been announced by the First Minister at the time, Carwyn Jones. Cabinet secretary Kirsty Williams was present at the meeting in New York. “This is a historic moment for Swansea University and marks the latest in a number of flourishing international partnerships with universities across the world,” she said.
Swansea University already has exchange agreements with 150 universities in 29 different countries, including wide-ranging strategic partnerships with Université Joseph Fourier in Grenoble, and numerous universities in Texas including the University of Houston and Texas A&M University. Speaking of the latest partnership, Williams added that the collaboration will allow the university to “build on its reputation for excellence and extend its work in a number of fascinating and highly important fields of research”. “I look forward to seeing the results of this partnership and hope it will open new doors for both Swansea University and Wales,” she concluded. Sian Impey, head of the International Development Office at Swansea University, said that the university aims to offer every student the opportunity to study or work abroad during the course of their degree. “This is enabled by our numerous international partnerships which span the globe,” she added.
Download for exclusive offers and rewards all year round at our catering outlets. Lawrlwythwch y cynigion a’r gwobrau unigryw drwy gydoly flwyddyn yn ein mannau bwyta. Get the free app now
CULTURE NICOLA MCANDREW
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UK’s first Prohibition Gin, Bourbon & Cocktail festival
Let’s start off with an important question: do you like spirits? EDIT: the alcoholic kind, this really is not a paranormal article (sorry Halloween-lovers). If your answer was yes, then riddle me this: do you also like the Prohibition era? Granted, it wasn’t really a very enjoyable era for those who lived in it – could you imagine a Fresher’s week during the Prohibition? It doesn’t bear thinking about. However, if the idea of moonshine and illegal alcoholic gatherings tickles your fancy (ah, to be 17 again), then we have the event for you! So, if Fresher’s has suspended you in an alcoholinduced stupor for the past couple of weeks and you’ve now missed all the snazzy events that were on, worry not! The UK’s First Prohibition Gin, Bourbon & Cocktail Festival is coming
BY NICOLA MCANDREW
to Swansea! A perfect chance for you to dive headfirst into another alcoholfuelled hibernation until Christmas – really, what more do you need? In true Prohibition style, this event is top secret, so burn your computer after reading this (EDIT: I’m joking, please do not do that). It’s taking place at the marvellous Brangwyn Hall on the 26th and 27th October, so you have plenty of time to get down there to have a look. And, of course, not to mention there will be fancy dress! You’ll have to look the part, so don your flapper dresses and your Gatsbyinspired get up and go have a ball. Fancy grabbing yourself a ticket? They’re now on sale, so just visit
www.speakeasyfestival.co.uk and get yourself one for £12.50. They’re fantastically priced, as they not only include entry (you’ll be given a password to use at the door), the tickets also cover a free Tom Collins cocktail upon entry, a branded Speakeasy glass that you can keep, and a branded wristband. There will be live 1920s-themed swing music, an American food stand serving Chicagostyle food and, most importantly of all, a wide selection of world gins, bourbons and American IPA for you to try! What more could you want from a night out? Great food, great entertainment and an amazing venue – plus the Prohibition-style alcohol. It promises to be a fantastic night, so make sure you don’t miss out. We’ll see you there!
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
ISSUE 282 NOVEMBER 2018
Find your own hidden spot at Rhossili
Get lost in Swansea BY CHARLOTTE HUSBANDS
It’s time to get lost in Swansea. One of the main ways I found that Swansea was the place to be was by getting lost - at first, you will feel like Swansea isn’t your home, but I assure you that it will be. Put on some wellies (because in Swansea you’ll never know when it could rain) and just walk, your feet will get you home. Exploring the surroundings of Swansea University helps the feeling of homesickness subside, I know it did with me. This new city will feel like yours soon and the homesickness will fade with each new adventure.
In the last three years of studying at Swansea University, I have found spots that make Swansea feel like my home. There are beaches and woodlands and coffee shops – there’s something suitable for everyone. Spending time in these beautiful places, with friends you’ll remember for a lifetime, allows you to capture the perfect memories that will be completely yours. The most obvious first choice and one of my favourite places in Swansea is Swansea Bay. Only a short walk away from both campuses, this beach is the best place for a summer barbeque and revision break. If university is getting too much and
it feels like your sanity is teetering on the edge of a cliff, a quick walk off campus can really help. Put in some headphones, kick up the sand and maybe (if there’s no one around) scream a little into the crashing waves. It is definitely not a hidden spot, but there’s always enough of the beach to be able to relax by yourself if you really need to be. No matter what the reason you still get the gorgeous view of mumbles pier and it will really make you feel lucky to be here. If you want to pursue adventures slightly further afield, there are a mass of beaches that stretch the whole way across the South-Wales
PHOTOGRAPHY CHARLOTTE HUSBANDS
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Take time to explore Caswell Bay beaches
coastline. The most well-known of these beaches is Rhossili Bay, I recommend going in summer when the sunflowers are out. This beach is voted one of the best in Europe by The Independent newspaper and as soon as you get there you will see why. On the way to this beach, you can take many detours, there are many beaches to visit, but personally, I would suggest visiting Three Cliffs Bay. This beach can be a muchdeserved break from civilisation. All of the hidden alcoves and caves to explore mean that there’s plenty of entertainment for a day’s trip. If your chosen place of escape
"Swansea will be one of those places that you will remember" isn’t one of the beaches and it’s a nice day, then I would suggest a walk up Kilvey Hill. Even though the breeze at the top is enough to sweep you back down again, if you can find your feet it’s a beautiful view. With panoramic views of Swansea university, the bay and Swansea docks, there’s enough to get lost in if you have the time to. A great way to feel more comfortable in a new place is by exploring somewhere that you can
call yours. Whether that may be the coffee shop near campus or the pub where you and your friends will spend every Monday night, I promise you you’ll find somewhere you will be able to call yours. Swansea will be one of those places that you will remember, and whilst you will remember the people who you spend the time with, you’ll remember the area too. Want to be a contributor to the Photography section or even share the perfect place in Swansea that you got lost in, please email me at: waterfrontphotography@ swanseastudentmedia.com
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
ISSUE 282 NOVEMBER 2018
YOUR NEW LOCAL MONDAY-FRIDAY 9.30 - 00.00
SATURDAY & SUNDAY 12.00 - 00.00
2ND FLOOR, FULTON HOUSE, SINGLETON CAMPUS
FOOD JACOB FLEMING
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A WELCOME FROM OUR FOOD EDITOR BY JACOB FLEMING
À la table s’il vous plait! My name is Jacob and I’m the new editor for the food section here at Waterfront. My hope is to not only encourage other food lovers to come forward and write for this great paper, but I wish to educate those of you who may be less well versed when it comes to cooking, as well as where to eat out in Swansea. Having worked in the service industry for five years, both front of house and in the kitchen, I have had the pleasure of experiencing the ins and outs of food and drink. I take these experiences and incorporate them into everything I make and/or taste to give my chow that edge of distinctiveness. I have had the privilege of growing up surrounded by a family passionate about wine. I have inherited this passion and have channelled it into fixing drinks, be they alcoholic or nonalcoholic, for any occasion. That is what I want to bring to this paper. Whatever your dietary requirements, be it vegan, vegetarian, Gluten free, dairy free etc., there will always be a balance of cuisine on this spot. Now let’s talk favourite dishes! Personally, I am an easy man to please when it comes to dining. I do, however, like everyone else on the planet, find myself in different moods when it comes to eating. I could be in an Italian mood: make my tomato sauce, boil some spaghetti and hey presto, it’s just like mama makes it! I sometimes find myself craving a meat feast. I prefer my steaks rare with an assortment of vegetables as well as some chips, finishing with a side of
peppercorn sauce. A large glass of Malbec is also a perfect accompaniment! I also love my fish and seafood. Couscous with a salmon fillet is as straightforward to make as it is delicious, but I can always be enticed with a prawn and mango curry. After embarking on a semester abroad to Hong Kong, I am always impartial to Sweet and Sour Pork served with cucumber, pineapple and plenty of rice! Whilst I’m on the topic of travel, shout out to the exchange students currently studying here in Swansea! Feel free to get in touch with regard to your favourite dishes, be them cultural staples of your home and/or food you’ve tried in the UK you can’t get enough of! Stepping away from bigger dishes, I do LOVE a sandwich (who doesn’t?). My preference: brown bread spread with hummus, cucumber, lettuce, chicken or ham, tomatoes with a pinch of pepper to finish. Filling and healthy! Last and most certainly not least: Kebabs. Most commonly consumed, usually in a drunk manner, at the end of a night out. I am yet to discover what makes
them so delectable. I suppose we’ll have to keep consuming them till we discover the secret... Now that I have discussed my favourite foods and my background in regard to the culinary world, I will now reference the work that we all can experience cinematic experiences. He may be a Youtuber but, by bringing the food of pop culture to life, Andrew Rea’s channel Binging with Babish is nothing short of Emmy worthy. Recreating dishes such as The Moistmaker from Friends to Freddie’s ribs from House of Cards, Andrew covers basics in the kitchen such as making your own bread, cooking eggs, how to handle fish as well as teaching you how to take care of your kitchen and your utensils. I wholeheartedly recommend subscribing. Another thing I recommend watching is an indie film under the title of Chef. Writing, directing and starring in this flick solidifies Jon Favreau as a heavyweight in modern cinema. Most known for his directing and starring in the Iron Man films, Favreau plays a down on his luck chef who needs to repair his career as much as he does his relationship with his son. Deciding to buy a food truck, he, his son and his best friend drive this van across the west coast of America, stopping where they can to sell their signature dish: Cuban sandwiches, otherwise known as Cubanos. With Chef currently streaming on Netflix, I only have one piece of advice: do not watch this on an empty stomach. This brings my introductory piece to an end, but the main course is still to be had! We at Waterfront are always looking for stories to publish so if you’ve had a culinary experience you couldn’t help but not write about, contact me at waterfrontfood@swanseastudentmedia.com for more details! Happy eating.
www.goodnightoutcampaign.org goodnightoutcampaign @goodnightoutcampaign @_goodnightout
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BY GRACE HANNAFORD
A YouGov poll from 2017 found that almost three quarters of young people have witnessed sexual harassment on a night out, with nearly 63% of women and 26% of men saying they had been on the receiving end themselves. This is one of the many reasons why this summer your Students’ Union has teamed up with the Good Night Out Campaign to make our venues safer for you and others. The Good Night Out Campaign, founded in 2014, is ‘an independent, international initiative dedicated to helping the night-time economy deal with, tackle and prevent harassment’. They do this by accrediting bars and clubs, supporting them to use best practice polices and an in-venue awareness campaign, and provide specialist training. With a global network of organisers and trainers in the UK, Europe, North America and Australia, the group has worked with all sorts of venues, from small bars like JC's to huge nightclubs like Fabric, and currently work with over 20 Students’ Unions in the UK.
Good Night Out Campaign So what did the training include? We decided to go for the more advanced programme, called ‘Train the Trainer,’ so all our Bar Managers and Events Coordinators can lead their own sessions to train new staff in the future. The three hour class encouraged everyone to engage with the campaign and everyone came away feeling positive about being involved. There was then a 1-hour example training session with a selection of union student staff led by the group and was used as the best practice example for the new trainers. So how does it all work? Before the training, the inhouse process and policies are reviewed, and a suggested best practice policy is given. There’s an in-venue awareness campaign in the form of posters (like the one on the opposite page). It encourages you to report anything that you experience or witness that is not acceptable behaviour.
The bar staff are now trained to deal with reports sensitively and correctly, as we want to make our venues as safe as they can be. If you are ever concerned and feel that any of our venues are not abiding to this policy, please get in touch with me on grace. hannaford@swansea-union.co.uk. What happens next? The next stage is to ensure all venues have staff that are trained and that the posters are displayed in as many places as possible. So, if you ever feel unsafe or see something concerning when you’re out, chat to any of the bar staff as they’ll be clued up on how to help. Thank you to Swansea University and the Students’ Union who helped to make the training happen and I hope that you all have a good night out! For more information head to goodnightoutcampaign.org and if you have any questions please feel free to contact me on grace.hannaford@ swansea-union.co.uk.
Dreams, Cold, Old, New BY JACK KNIGHT
Door windows of shattered colour shards, Here, where Gods hang round in bars Lilting choir on the jukebox New polish on the locks Mercury and Mars Playing cards. Where to now? Either up or down The fiddler’s bloody boat The tail of the old man’s coat Your choices made, your eyebrow Raised, lord, what a pain it was to drown. The grey city of cripples, perdurable pity. Lipstick stains, bad teeth, fleck spit. The university of rotting mind, Tulips, but the cheap kind. No sand in a sandpit, Nobody pretty. Why that end? Returned to sender Not fixed when broken Like Father had never spoken The arm was strong and slender But now it’s stuck, it won’t even bend. In the early spring, a rose blossom sea Dream of charmed things to seek A secret kiss beneath a hood A chasing game in a wood Speaking to speak Being to be. Feeling blue? A voice like a flute Will cheer you, mother. You will truly love no other. The pain you feel will be acute But children, above all else, are new.
CREATIVE WRITING RORY JAMES
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Last of the Light Bringers Awaken
BY CATRIN EDWARDS
She opened her eyes to darkness. Head raised, gasping desperately for air, she felt the coarse grains fall from her skin. She lifted a numb arm over her, clenching and releasing the fist as she did, and watched in awe at how it moved. Pressing the unfamiliar palms into the ashen ground, she pushed herself to sit up.
glowing amber eyes, accentuated with golden rings encircling the pupils. These were curtained with flowing waves of red hair, hanging down below her waistline. With a pointed nail, she brushed her hair back from her eyes.
‘Phoenix…?’ 'Yes, you were reborn from me' Seraphina looked around to see the large ash pile, the pool of water and the skyline.
‘No one.’ ‘Where am I?’
‘You have returned.’ She looked up but saw nothing, so went back to testing her limbs to see how they worked before bringing herself shakily to her feet. She shuffled steadily for a few, wobbling steps, feeling the soft ash sliding between her toes.
Her voice rang through the derelict silence like beautiful music carried by the tide. The water rippled out from where she stood, as if responding to her. As it calmed, she found a stranger in place of where her reflection once stood. She too was a very fair looking woman, much like herself, but with deep brown eyes and golden hair.
‘This is a plane plagued by darkness. Evil is all around, so you must be cautious as you press forward. There is a kingdom of men to the East of here.’ ‘East?’ ‘Look to the sun, little ember.’
‘You have learned quickly.’ ‘Who are you?’ Childish curiosity getting the better of her, she addressed the disembodied voice. ‘What are you talking about? And, where are you?’
The reflection asked. The young woman was taken aback. She hung her head sadly after a moment.
Seraphina squinted in the direction of the sun that was crawling its way up the navy blanket above. ‘That way?’ She said pointing upon the horizon to the right of her.
‘I don’t know.’ Her voice was rough, raw, and untrained, unused to human language, but the words came easily enough. The other voice gave a low chuckle. ‘I am everywhere and nowhere, little flame. But if you must peer upon me then move past the mounds of ash to the nearby sapphire pool. You will find me there.’ She huffed in defeat and moved toward the horizon; within the ends of her vision she could see the pool. It was large and glimmering in the beams of sunlight, calling her to its beauty. Approaching light of the pool, she found herself staring into a pair of
The reflection smiled warmly to her and instantly her sadness eased.
‘Yes. If you cannot summon your wings, then you must walk. Keep walking straight and you will find your destination by nightfall.’
‘Little ember, your name is Seraphina. You were born from the ashes of Phoenix; a powerful dragon of great renown.’
The water rippled once more, distorting the image of her panicked face.
‘But, why don’t I look like a dragon?’
‘No, Phoenix! Wait! How can I summon wings? Why am I here? What does the darkness mean?’
‘You are blood of the dragon, and in time you will learn how to summon your wings.’ ‘And who are you?’ ‘I am your spirit guide, always with you and beside you. My name is Phoenix.’
Her questions flooded out quickly and were answered in silence as the waters calmed to reveal her own image once more. She sighed deeply and turned to the east, taking the first, unsteady step.
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
ISSUE 282 NOVEMBER 2018
Solid as a Rock? Pondering the Foundations of International Studies in Yellowstone National Park BY BRONWEN BEARD
In American Studies, we are encouraged to pursue a year of study in the United States, so that we can experience learning about the country from its own cultural perspective. After a month of studying at the University of Wyoming, I have discovered that, as international exchange students, we have the opportunity to learn so much more than that. We can learn to see our host country, and ourselves, from the unique perspectives of students from all over the globe. On the 21st of September, I embarked on a weekend trip to Yellowstone, alongside more than 40 other international students and scholars. The University of Wyoming runs this same trip each year for incoming international students and to say that they are very well organized would be an understatement. I was able to enjoy some of the most amazing views and the enduring beauty
of mother nature in fantastic waterfalls, hiking trails and even a bison or two (or many more). I saw the Grand Teton mountain range reflected in a perfectly clear lake and the wonderment I felt reflected on the faces of my new friends. It was a brilliant trip allround, and I had the privilege of experiencing this American wonder with other students from China, Kenya and Taiwan. A significant amount of our time was spent exchanging anecdotes on our American experience thus far and comparing the views to our home countries’ (sadly, even I was incapable of making Mount Snowdon sound cooler than Kilimanjaro). It was a genuinely humbling experience to be able to converse so openly about the current affairs and the global perspective, even and possibly especially when the news wasn’t all that good.
STUDY ABROAD BROWEN BEARD & LAUREN LEWIS
Engaging in cultural and political discussion within an international group can open some wounds whilst still providing hope. I spoke extensively about international attitudes toward the LGBT+ community with a student from a country that has made being gay illegal, and I listened to someone’s experiences of Islamaphobia in a country infamous for its recent discrimination against Muslims entering the country. Collectively, we were able to navigate our way through both literal mountains and
the hardships that each of us faced; individually and nationally. Additionally, over the course of this trip, there were many times in which I became the only person that could not speak in the language being used by the rest of the group. It was another humbling moment which highlighted the hypocritical expectation that everyone should be able to speak English, and very well too. Often in the UK and the US, people are ridiculed and disregarded because they are not fluent enough to meet socially acceptable standards, and this can extend to countries where English isn’t even the national language. When was the last time we expected ourselves, as native English speakers, to be fluent in the language of a country we are holidaying in? Being multi-lingual to any degree is an admirable strength, and more than most, those of us studying in Wales should appreciate that. The country we live in has had its own long and difficult relationship with the English language superiority
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complex, and all around us you can see how it has fought back. All in all, this trip was a model globe to the prominent model UN. International study allowed us to explore global discourse in the currently tenuous political state of the world, whilst also enabling us to explore a beautiful landscape and make bets as to who would spot the first bear. We were able to make friends with people from so many different countries and acknowledge the irony of some of our friendships when compared with modern stereotyping. Yellowstone was a beautiful reminder that one of the truly important opportunities of studying abroad is sharing in the global narrative. Widen your comfort zone; explore other cultures! Experience the hilarity that ensues when colloquial terms are lost in translation, and being the only one in the room that doesn’t speak the language. What a tragedy it would be to travel halfway around the globe only to engage with those whose experiences mirror yours perfectly.
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
ISSUE 282 NOVEMBER 2018
How A Quiet Place gives lessons in horror BY MICHAEL FRASER
Over the summer, I watched A Quiet Place for the first time. I found that the film, for the most part, lived up to the impressive hype. As I watched, I realised something: A Quiet Place shows exactly how to make great horror movies. This movie has simple rules. The creatures hunt by loud sound. If they find you, you will die. I find many horror movies have incredibly complex rules and it can be hard to keep track of how things work. Why is this important? Because it’s actually scarier. I think that simple rules make something scarier, as you can be drawn into the story better, instead of sitting there and trying to figure out what the rules are. More than that, by having simple rules, you know when they are being broken. The tension is more palatable because you can easily tell if someone is at risk, rather than struggling to figure out when said tension is happening. This film has something many do
not: good characters. The characters of A Quiet Place are interesting, complex and surprisingly well established considering they can’t speak. Now, why is this important for horror movies? It is hard, at least in my view, to care about characters when they aren’t properly fleshed out (i.e they feel like actual humans). The reason The Conjuring worked so well, is you genuinely care about the family and want to see them survive. The characters in A Quiet Place aren’t that cliché. Horror movies need to end that cliché of the “five”. The characters ever present in horror movies to the point most of us can recite them from memory: the promiscuous girl, the athlete, the stoner, the nerd and the virgin. Those characters, at least for me, automatically scupper any chance of getting invested because they’re just dull. Please see Cabin In The Woods for the definition of these cliché characters. There’s another side to the characters I want to make a point of discussing here: the film focuses on them and their stories. I’ve seen enough
people on film get stabbed, torn, shot, ripped apart and killed another billion ways. It’s not interesting and just makes the film very dull. The way to make a horror movie interesting is to focus on the characters and how they adapt and survive to the world. Again making you more invested in the characters and their survival. Next, we come to the issue of effects. Bad CGI is very noticeable and at least to me, quite laughable. It takes me out of the story of horror movies especially when the effects on the monster are not convincing. It makes the film less scary. Not only are the gore and creature effects in A Quiet Place convincing, they do the smart thing by keeping the monsters and gore in the background to reduce expenditure on the effects. Bad effects usually come down to a lack of money and time, and so hiding the creature makes the effects more convincing because you don’t have to spend so much. So there we have it. These are the ways I think the horror genre can improve itself by following the lessons given by A Quiet Place.
FILM MATT WALKER
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Why Do We Love Being Scared? BY ALEXANDER JOHN UDRAUFSKI-OSBORNE
We’ve all been there. You’re home alone, curtains drawn, all the doors are locked (checked twice). The wind is howling outside, and the rain lightly taps at our windows. But other than that, silence. All we really need now is a blanket and a movie – a horror movie. As I was sat thinking about what freaky films I’ll be punishing myself with this year, I started to wonder, ‘Why do I do this to myself?’ and by extension, why do we as a human beings like to be scared? Whether it be riding roller-coasters, partaking in extreme sports (Fiction on a Friday), or simply watching a horror flick, what is the appeal? Now, I’ve heard some argue that it is down to a natural ‘curiosity’ of the unknown and the grotesque – but why
don’t foxes ever stick around when the farmer approaches the chicken coop? Probably because they understand that fear is a survival mechanism. So, why do a lot of us actively search for thrills? Now, there are explanations believe it or not. Margee Kerr, Ph.D., sociologist, and author of “Scream: Chilling Adventures in the Science of Fear” spoke about this very subject in an interview with Healthline.com. She told the interviewer that, ‘When we’re afraid our bodies release different chemicals that can contribute to feeling good under the right circumstances’. What does this mean? I’ll break it down for you. Just like with the fox example above, our body reacts to certain stimulus in certain ways. Here, we’re experiencing 'Fight
or Flight' which I am very sure a lot of you have heard of before. However, and here comes the interesting bit, when we know that we are in a safe environment (sofa, blankets, snacks) our brain hijacks this experience! This is like a high arousal state, not sexual, but like when we’re happy or surprised. Those chemical signatures look the same when we’re scared; it’s just in a different context. And that, to quote an obscure Gerard Butler film, is the Ugly Truth. Ok, there isn’t anything ugly about it, but it is the truth, as far as I can tell! What do you think? Do you enjoy being scared or do you avoid it like the plague? Let me know, by getting in touch on twitter, @ThatGuy_Alex.
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
BY MERYL HANMER
ISSUE 282 NOVEMBER 2018
TRAVEL HACKS: Fly like a pro
Despite being a frequent flyer myself, I’ve never enjoyed flying. I’ve always found it such a hassle, but because of flying so often (about two or three times a month) I’ve managed to find a few little tricks, that not only make flying that bit more bearable but also a little bit cheaper (who doesn’t love cheaper!!!!) Prioritise …. Price or comfort ? I know a lot of airlines claim ‘you don’t need to compromise’ but I’m sorry to say that in the real world this isn’t true! So if you are someone who needs comfort then be prepared to pay for higher end airlines which offer comfier seats and extra legroom, but if you’re like me (a poor student) then a cheap price is always the priority. Take time to search for your flights Don’t jump at the first deal you see that only ‘looks like the best one’. Take time to compare different search engines, different airlines or different flying times/days. Move around Sitting still for several hours at a time is never good for your body so make sure to get up and move around at regular intervals. Or another top tip is to bring a tennis ball to roll under your feet, sounds a little strange but it is a great way to get circulation and have a foot massage! Choose your seat wisely Personally, I always sit in the aisle seat near the front so I can be the first off and don’t need to
disturb anyone if I want to get up to walk around. However, I know other people love the views you get by sitting next to the window. Additionally it's rumoured that sitting near the wing means you get less turbulence. Loose clothing Although heels and skinny jeans might look good, it’s never comfy and if there’s one thing that flying demands from you, it is comfy and loose fitting clothing! Have ‘in flight essentials’ prepared Battery pack – download films on your phone and simply sit back and enjoy, with the comforting knowledge that battery isn’t an issue. Cosmetics – no matter the length of the flight, flying always leaves you feeling gross, so at minimum have prepared some face wipes and mouthwash Food & drinks – after passing security you can stock up on water , sandwiches etc in duty free and although this isn’t always the cheapest, it is still cheaper and better quality than anything you can buy on board the flight!
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RYANAIR: DO THEY DESERVE ALL THE BAD PRESS? BY MERYL HANMER
As a frequent flyer and constant traveller, I have flown across the globe with around 7 different airlines (inc. British Airways, EasyJet, Emirates and Wizz Air) but my airline of choice is always Ryanair. In the past 24 months, I have caught 18 flights, 15 of which were with Ryanair. Below are my top reasons why I love Ryanair and believe that they don’t deserve all the bad press they get. Booking tickets Route map & Fare Finder Firstly, their flight booking system is amazing! Personally, I love that there are two options for searching flights, the Route map and the Fare Finder. Both great options to use depending on whether price or destination is your priority search criteria. Cheap Prices As students, we can’t ignore the cheap prices that Ryanair consistently offer. Granted the seats may not be as luxurious when compared to the likes of British Airways, but when you’re only paying £8 one way do you really care?
passenger is allowed a small bag which fits under the seat in front and then you’re allowed a second bag of up to 10kgs with the purchase of a priority boarding ticket (prices can be as low as £2 so not much to complain about really?).
Hand luggage allowance Despite all the constant complaints about the luggage allowances, they are actually one of the most generous airlines in terms of carry on sizes. With Ryanair you are permitted a case weighing up to 10kgs whereas most other airlines only allow 7kgs. Every
Great customer service In October 2016 when boarding a flight from Valencia to Milan I suffered a Grand Mal seizure. The Ryanair staff were fast to act and wasted no time in getting me the support I needed. Following the seizure Ryanair phoned me to ensure that I was okay and assure me when I
was ready, they would rebook my flight at no extra cost and sort out anything I needed. They entirely went above and beyond what I would ordinarily expect an airline to do and could not have cared for me any better. For this reason I always advocate flying Ryanair to those with disabilities. Although there are ways in which you can be caught out with paying add-on fees, we all know that these fees exist but if you’re organised then you won’t get caught out and can instead enjoy the many plus points Europe’s top budget airline.
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Douro river, Porto
PO RTU GAL: AT A GLANCE Portugal is a Southern European country located on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering with Spain. The country each year is gaining more and more popularity as a perfect tourist destination.
Cathedral of Faro
BY ASIA KUSNIEREK
Portugal has so much to suit the needs of all who come: beautiful beaches, many fascinating places, breathtaking views, tasty local products and amazing spots for watersports. All this makes this place a perfect destination for many tourists. I would like to focus primarily on four of my favourite places there, which in my opinion can make you fall in love with the country. Fatima is a sacred place for many Catholics. It is a small town, home to the Sanctuary of Fátima, and both the town and sanctuary (which is all built in white) are worth visiting. While being there you should try one of the famous Portuguese sweets called Pão de Deus (God’s bread). The town is easily accessible from Lisbon and is the perfect idea for a day out. Faro is the capital of Algarve (the Southern region of Portugal). It is small but charming and very unique. A pure haven for history lovers check out Faro’s Cathedral,
Pastel de nata
original Moorish wall or I’d recommend the chapel of bones. If you are up for a less active form of leisure and would like to find a quiet escape in the heart of nature, a perfect solution is the one day trip to Ilha Deserta (the Desert Island). You can buy a trip from one of the local tourist offices. Porto in contrary to Faro, is situated in the northwest of the country. Well-known, not only for its historical value, but also for its fortified wine call Port, or vino do Porto in Portuguese. The Alto Duro Regio, famous for its port production
was put on the World Heritage List in 2001. This is a must visit place for any wine connoisseur. The last but definitely not least! Lisbon is one of the most amazing places I have ever been to. I think there are no words to describe how beautiful it is. The capital of Portugal has loads to offer in terms of amusement and sightseeing. My advice is to hire a bike and go for a ride along the streets of Lisbon, take the compulsory picture with yellow tramway and eat the famous portuguese custard tart, Pastel de Nata!
WELLBEING EMILY WILLIAMS & OLIVIA ROGERS
BY MADDY PRICE
One in five young adults are diagnosed with a mental health disorder; I myself being one of those one in five. Mental health disorders, specifically anxiety disorder and depression, have been something I’ve struggled with since I was young, often preventing me from socialising or doing everyday normal things you would expect from kids. Eventually, I said to myself, “You know what, you don’t deserve to feel like this, you need to help yourself”, and so that’s what I did to some extent. I was diagnosed at the age of 16 with depression and anxiety disorder but failed to find the resources to help me find coping methods for these disorders. In fact, three in four children with a diagnosable mental health condition do not get access to the support that they need. This is where YoungMinds comes in. YoungMinds is a charity that aims to bring awareness to the public and National Health Services about Mental Health conditions, stating, “We’re leading the fight for a future where all young minds are
supported and empowered, whatever the challenges.” The charity offers resources and support groups to both young people who suffer from mental health conditions, as well as educating parents on how to help their children and how to spot the symptoms of those suffering. Fortunately for me, I have a family who are supportive of my disorder, although I found they struggled at first to come to terms with it. I mean, no parent likes the idea that their child is suffering in any way, especially when you physically cannot see the problem. As part of coping with my own mental health conditions, I find comfort in supporting those who also suffer, and so I have chosen to support Young Minds by taking part in their ‘10k your way’ challenge, where you travel a 10k distance at your own pace and in any mode that suits you best. I took interest in this event as I feel it fully recognised the approach on how to deal with mental health conditions. It is a challenge, a journey, as such. Travelling a distance takes time and commitment but you must do it to what suits you best, something that I also discovered when finding your own coping method. As part of my challenge, I will be
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travelling the distance between Swansea city centre and Bracelet Bay in Mumbles. Since coming to university, Swansea has become my second home, and I take comfort in walking along the coastline when I’m stressed. Therefore, doing my challenge along this route allows me to be somewhere I am comfortable and also allows me to take in the beauty of the city. It makes me realise how far I have come, and how much I have achieved since being at university, all because I got help and pushed myself to be who I really am. For more information visit: youngminds.org.uk The Student's Union Advice & Support Centre provides free independent and confidential advice on a wide range of issues, from money, academic and housing matters. Email: advice@swansea-union.co.uk Phone: 01792 295 821 Singleton: Ground floor of Fulton House, just behind Costcutter Bay: 1st floor, Students' Union building (just ask at the ground floor reception).
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
ISSUE 282 NOVEMBER 2018
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Celebrate Halloween with Frankenstein, a production brought by Cascade Dance Theatre & Taliesin Arts Centre
T STUDEN TICKETS FROM £5 ONLY
Autumn highlights at Taliesin BY TALIESIN ARTS CENTRE
LIVE EVENTS
Friday 26/10 @7.30PM: THE WIZARD, THE GOAT AND THE MAN WHO WON THE WAR. Written and Directed by D. J. Britton (Director of Studies in Creative Writing at Swansea niversity and performed by Richard Elfyn (BA TA-winning Welsh actor . Sunday 28/10 @7.30PM: RALPH MCTELL. Award-winning nglish folk singer and songwriter. Thursday 01/11 @7.30PM: FRANKENSTEIN. isceral and engaging dance and physical theatre production with 6 performers and musicians. Friday 02/11 @7.30PM: THE SLOCAN RAMBLERS. Dynamic and entertaining bluegrass from Canada.
Saturday 03/11 @7.30PM: ROYAL WELSH COLLEGE BIG BAND: SMOKE GETS IN YOUR EYES. Some of the finest young ja musicians of Wales. Friday 09/11 @7.30PM: MUGENKYO TAIKO DRUMMERS. Sharp synchronisation, mysterious masked choreography and sumptuous soundscapes. Saturday 17/11 @7.30PM: 7 STEPS - THE MUSIC OF MILES DAVIS. Welsh trumpeter Tomos Williams from Aberystwyth plays the music of ja legend Miles Davis.
BROADCAST EVENTS
& CRESSIDA (12A). Tuesday 20/11 @ 7PM: National Theatre Live THE MADNESS OF GEORGE III (12A).
FILMS
Monday 05/11 @7.30PM: THE HEIRESSES (12A) by Marcelo Martinessi. Tuesday 13/11 @5PM & 7.30PM: THE SEAGULL (12A) with lisabeth Moss Saoirse Ronan. Monday 19/11 @ 4.45PM & 7.30PM: PUZZLE (15) with Kelly Macdonald. Wednesday 21/11 @ 4.30PM & 7.30PM:
Saturday 10/11 @ 7PM: National Theatre Live ALLELUJAH! (15) Monday 12/11 7PM: Michael Grandage Company RED (12A). About famous artist Mark Rothko. Wednesday 14/11 @7PM: Royal Shakespeare Company TROILUS
KING OF THIEVES (15) with Michael Caine, Charlie Cox Michael Gambon. more films on www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk
SIGN UP FOR A FREE MEMBERSHIP CARD AT THE BOX OFFICE AND SEE YOUR FIRST 3 LIVE EVENTS FOR FREE!
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
ISSUE 282 NOVEMBER 2018
MUSIC FIN HARDIE & JOSHUA O' MAHONEY
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EMINEM VS MACHINE GUN KELLY Now that some time has settled in the long awaited war of words between Eminem and Machine Gun Kelly, I am sure that I won’t have been the only person disappointed with the eventual outcome. It was painful enough that I had to listen through Not Alike by Eminem again in the lead up to this article, but knowing now how much of a nothing ‘rap beef’ came after, it only saddens me even more. Eminem and Machine Gun Kelly, two supremely talented artists in their own right, one of which being arguably the biggest artist of all time, couldn’t impress the general public in the end. The real question is; why? Diss tracks and rap beefs have been a staple of Hip-Hop music for a while, the art of insulting someone through a song is a highly regarded talent, and for most artists it seems to bring out some of their best work. The extra emotional edge and sheer willpower that gets put into these songs creates tracks that become some of the most celebrated of artist’s careers. It was only a few months ago that Drake was at the heart of more beef when he and Pusha T went head to head. Fans thought it was another undisputed win for the Canadian when he released Duppy Freestyle, but it was on Pusha T’s response that we found the real hardhitting stuff. He claimed that Drake had a secret child, and that he was hiding his son from the world because the mother, Sophie Brussaux, was an adult movie star. This ended up being so harsh that Drake did not respond, ending in a resounding win for Pusha. Those who don’t understand the genre will most
MAHONEY BY JOSHUA O'MAHONEY BYJO SHUA JOSH UAO' O'M BY AHONEY
likely be confused as to why fans find this kind of thing entertaining, however I like to compare it to a boxing match. Boxers fight with their hands, rappers fight with their words. The time old hobby of popular media is constantly arguing which artist/actor/sportsman is better, and all rap beef gives us is a simple way of finding out the answer. So, with all of that considered, what was so disappointing about the beef between Eminem and Machine Gun Kelly? I’ll say immediately that, other than Eminem’s initial diss track, I thought the songs that the two of them released were still fairly good. Rap Devil and Killshot were both solid tracks, but for different reasons. In short, Not Alike had a great instrumental and feature from Royce da 5’9”, but Eminem’s flow and lyrics were painful to say the least (as they have been for a while now). For those of you well-versed in your internet memes, listen to Not Alike and ‘cash me outside how bout dat’ girl Bhad Bhabie’s Hi Bich (not a typo, it’s genuinely spelt like that), side by side, and you’ll hear the striking similarities. Never should a legendary artist of Eminem’s calibre be taking pointers from a teenager who has appeared on Dr. Phil, ever. The highly publicised response from MGK, Rap Devil, then came out and shocked everyone. The instrumental was gritty and well produced, while Kelly’s flow was cold and menacing. Shots were taken at
Eminem’s beard, age, and apparent softness, but it didn’t go much further than that, lacking any real dirt on the Detroit rapper. That’s where I took issue, it was a great song, but a weak diss track, despite some funny lines about Eminem ‘yelling at the mic’ when he’s in the studio. In my opinion, Eminem’s response, Killshot, was the complete opposite. The instrumental was non-existent, and his flow was questionable, but the lyrics were there. The general gist of the track was that MGK is irrelevant in comparison to Eminem, and that even at the age of 45 he is still outselling Kelly. It was a good response, but not a perfect one. But that’s exactly it. Neither of these songs represent the best work from either artist. It was a rap beef that was glamorised and cleaned up for the general public to enjoy, not for real Rap and Hip-Hop fans. The biggest problem with the beef was one that I discovered while reading an article about how both artists may have gone too far in their respective tracks, without taking into consideration that ‘going too far’ is exactly the point. They don’t like each other, why should they censor themselves? At the end of the day, it was clear that they both held back. All we’ve had since Killshot was released is more bickering, an Eminem interview that he set up but still struggles to get words out in, and a Machine Gun Kelly interview where he does nothing but whine like a little kid. If only it could have turned into something more.
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
ISSUE 282 NOVEMBER 2018
ONLINE DATING & LONG DISTANCE WHEN IT’S RIGHT IT’S RIGHT: THE STORY OF MR & MRS SHACKLEY William and Rebekah Shackley are dear friends of mine, whose wedding I was fortunate enough to attend last April in Las Vegas. It seemed to be a long time coming. BY KATIE BREWSTER
Will was living in Swansea, Bekah in Cedar city, Utah. They met on March 6th 2016 on the app ‘Whisper’ striking up a conversation and starting their relationship just 10 days later. To burrow down on some record breaking stats over their two year online relationship they spent 4688 hours on Facebook messenger call, with their longest conversation spanning 52 hours! You may think this is extreme but as Will told me “when you know that person is the right one you’ll make it work” regardless of the stigma of online or long distance relationships. I interviewed Will and Bekah to gain some insight and advice for any of you involved in either an online or transcontinental relationship. What would you say was the hardest part of the distance?
What was it like the first time you actually met in person?
save, save! On average, it would cost $2000 a trip.
Will: Communicating through text.
W: Nerve-racking! Especially as the passenger next to me made no secret he thought I was being catfished. But the moment I saw her that all went away, it was like being home after a very long trip.
B: Take your parents so it can count as a family holiday!
everything
Bekah: I found that part easy. It was more incorporating that communication and the tech required into our everyday lives, especially while I was transitioning from high school to college and work. We made noise signals so we could still communicate on call while I was at work so snorts and claps. I also worked at T-mobile and when Will was on the phone with me whilst a customer asked me a question which I didn’t know the answer to he quickly googled it for me as I didn’t have a clue!
B: It was great, he was so smooth and wonderful. I kissed him and it felt so natural. I remember thinking how great he smelt. He dozed on my shoulder on the drive from the airport and I loved it. How did you cope with the financial issue of travel during that time? W: Nicked all our parents air miles and vouchers to bring costs down and save,
This will be something a lot of our readers won’t have to worry about, but, what was it like bring both your families together as there are from different upbringings? W: We were very fortunate that our parents fit well together. Both our dads are engineers, both our mums are very crafty and creative. Finding things to talk about was crucial though. B: My parents were very much like Arthur Weasley when they met. Asking so many questions about Britain and how different
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things here worked. My parents were very keen to meet Will’s parents, which really helped. How important have your family been in supporting you through your relationship? B: I wouldn’t be here now. We would have needed to elope and live who knows where. They were so helpful with the wedding and getting me out here, I even have them on all my banking and assets.
AGONY AUNT
W: Sorting out Bekah’s visa even after we were married was a huge difficulty and my parents were so helpful in getting everything together for the application. How was it introducing each other to your parents? W: Well, being a female meeting someone online I had to be careful, introducing small bits of information to my parents over time. My Mum would like to tell me that for all I knew Will could be a 90 year old man wearing nothing but a tutu. B: Once our relationship was on Facebook her dad said I had to come to the states and meet him before Bekah could go anywhere. I had pretty much already booked my flight. If you could give advice to a couple embarking on a long distance relationship what would it be? W: Stick with it, and become comfortable with yourself on camera. B: Do things together, read to each other, discuss something you both love. Play games online, whatever works for you. Both agreed that you should splurge on good Wi-Fi, data and tech. They also said planning for the next trip is a motivator, providing something to look forward to. Plan for a future together short term or long term. The Shackley’s are a testament to making a relationship work no matter what obstacles there are. If you find the right person it is all worth it, no matter how you meet or where you are.
I cheated on my partner. I have nothing but regret but they won’t give me another chance. What should I do? Cheating, no matter on what level, is wrong. If I was advising your partner, it would be for them to stay clear. However, everyone makes up their own minds, and all you can do is give them space to make peace with what you did and you have to do the same. If you two are truly meant to be together it is unlikely it would come to this. They may be able to forgive you but that’s down to them, so all you can do is give them space but stay available to them for as long as you’re willing to try and make this work. I’ve started university as a virgin and I worry about this because it feels like no one else is in my position. Trust me, don’t worry - more people will be in your position than you think! I know many people who started university as virgins or very inexperienced. Since then many have formed relationships or casual acquaintances. Just make sure you don’t feel like you have to get rid of it. I’ve known many people over the years who have slept with someone for that reason only and have always regretted it. Find what’s comfortable and make sure you are honest with your partner when the time comes.
I am in a long-term relationship and have been for the last 4 years but this summer I went away on a volunteer project and met someone who has become very important to me on a romantic level. It’s never been more than feelings but what does this mean? Forming strong feelings for another person is never a good sign. It might be signifying that you and your partner have grown apart and you’re looking to someone else for that romantic comfort. However, this could just be a warning sign telling you to both work on your communication. Your relationship might be missing something that made you love your partner so strongly in the beginning, so find what that is and revive it. My partner is coming to visit. I live in halls and I’m worried about my flatmates hearing us. Honestly this is just a rite of passage for couples in halls. These are people you have to spend another 9 months with so be respectful with noise levels but don’t worry too much. By the end of the year you would have heard and seen much worse from each other but somehow it will all seem natural! If you have a question for our Agony Aunt, please email waterfrontrelationships@ swanseastudentmedia.com
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25 Heat Water (4) 29 Mythical creature (6) 31 Group of Geese (6) 33 Lift (8) 36 Fruits of the oak tree (6) 39 Ancient Empire (5) 40 Boy's name (4) 41 Heinz etc (5) 42 Surround Fortification (5) 43 Equipment (3) 46 Lice (3)
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Last year’s Assassin’s Creed Origins left us with an appetite to want to traverse the ancient world further. Fortunately, 12 months later Assassin’s Creed Odyssey was released. The 11th edition of the series moves West from its predecessor into a Grecian setting. BY HENRY BURGESS
ISSUE 282 NOVEMBER 2018
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey: Review It’s a turbulent time in 431BC, the outbreak of the Peloponnesian War; the infamous historical conflict between Greece’s two most prominent superpowers. Odyssey brings an open world gameplay scarcely seen before, with the scale of the area open for exploration dwarfs that of previous instalments, allowing you to wander the entirety of the Hellenistic world. The open world feel to the game does not end with the far-reaching borders but also the side missions and side characters bring greater depth and breadth to Odyssey as a whole. Odyssey is unique in that it lets you choose the protagonist you play as either Alexios/ Kassandra, (both are essentially the same character in the game), who are descendants of the Spartan King Leonidas. The flexibility of these characters is greater than
in any of Odyssey’s predecessors, and it’s entirely your own decision in which path your character should take either that. Whether it’s a merciless mercenary or an executioner with a consciousness, the dialogue only amplifies the personality you create, and rarely influences the main story. The detailing of ancient Greece is superb; however, the animation of the protagonists’ faces is equally remarkable, with their facial expressions requiring no words to accompany their reaction. This standard of animation is beyond many contemporary games and really brings a greater richness to the gameplay drama. Although, there is tremendous quality to the detail of the character and the world surrounding them, the quality of the accents certainly fluctuates, nonetheless is this is
TECH HENRY BURGESS
minor criticism in an otherwise totally compelling game. Assassin's Creed has long since followed the conflict between the Assassin's and the Templars through the ages, but in Odyssey, you wave farewell to that tedious conflict as the story now orientates around a family feud. The change is something that was in dire need as the Templar dispute had become outdated, and this new direction is one of many aspects of Odyssey which breathes new life into the series. Side missions have been a highlight and source of jubilation ever since the first Assassin's Creed, and in Odyssey, they are taken to a whole new level of enjoyment; there is an abundance of side/ extra missions to do post completing the story mode. There is a greater flexibility of the characters which extends into the side missions, for instance, the deeds of your character will lead you to side missions tailored to the identity you are creating. The missions you can participate in include attacking supply convoys, murdering national leaders
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and influencing the war by helping/ hindering the factions in different regions. The actions of your character can lead to consequential ripples that reach out across all the Aegean. For instance, murdering prominent figures can then lead to battles breaking out which will immerse you in the Peloponnesian war. The battles are spectacular and allow you to enhance your fighting skills and grant you the opportunity to deploy all that is in your armoury, including the notorious Spartan kick. Unfortunately, the battles you stir do not have too much of an impact on the wider conflict. The side missions bring with them a host of side characters as well who's fate depends on the character of your chosen protagonist. The world that surrounds you has been created with such precision and an awe-striking effect that it rivals the magnificence of Marvel’s Spider-man. Arguably the world constructed in Odyssey surpasses Spider-man’s Manhattan due to the diverse landscape. On land or at sea
there is much to take your breath away regarding your surroundings, and there’s something truly spectacular about the sailing and naval combat in this game, which is a pinnacle of Odyssey. The sailing side of the game really offers a sense of appreciation for the ingenuity and skill of the Athenian navy, which served as the catalyst for their rise to prominence. Odyssey's world appears all-encompassing with regards to the ancient world, and its beauty is one of the stand out features of the game. The vibrancy, colours and various textures are truly staggering and evoke wonder and amazement. Overall, Odyssey does not leave much to the imagination as it offers a sublime virtually created world, a lengthy story mode and plentiful side missions, and there is no question that the bar for its successors has now been raised extremely high. Ultimately the game is pleasantly refreshing in a seasoned franchise and has the genuine feeling that this is the finest instalment in the series and only adds to an already rich tapestry.
SPORT JESSICA HAYDEN
ISSUE 282 NOVEMBER 2018
Ladies day 2018 raises £642 for Mind BY SOPHIE HARGREAVES
Our annual ‘Ladies Day’ took place on Wednesday 3rd October, and was an event which saw women from a number of sports teams compete in a variety of sports, all to raise money for charity. This year the event saw competing teams from clubs such as Rowing, Netball, Equestrian, Hockey, Water Polo, Sirens, Athletics, Rugby, and Football. This annual event gives the opportunity for girls to participate in many different sports and to fundraise for charity. The chosen charity for the event this year was Mind, who provide advice and support to those suffering with mental health
issues. They campaign to promote awareness and understanding as well as working with others to gain respect and support. As mental health is something that affects many students at the University, the resources which Mind provide are essential for those who are suffering. The girls who participated in the event managed to raise an amazing £642 from paying to play and through the raffle! Teams had great fun participating in many different sports including Dodgeball, Volleyball, Benchball, Tag Rugby and Football. Teams were then competing to face each other in the semi-finals of Rounders, and the Tug of War final. After many matches and tight scores, 4 teams made it through to the semi-finals. Both Netball teams,
Athletics and Rugby managed to get enough points to make it through in the penultimate rounders competition. After 5 timed innings both ways between Netball teams 1 and 2, the score was tight and there was only 2 points in it, resulting in the Netball 1st team going through to the final round. An equally close score between Rugby and Athletics found Athletics and Netball 1st in the tug of war finale. Going into the final, both teams were ready to fight and had their eyes on the coveted plastic trophy prize. After a very close battle, Netball 1st managed to pull their rope over the line and claimed their victory! Feedback from those that took part said they had a great day and really enjoyed trying new sports and participating in the day. A successful day was had by all!
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Club in Focus: Hockey Here at Swansea University we have two Hockey clubs; a Ladies’ club and a Men’s club. Each boast incredibly successful sides from elite performance groups, even down to social teams, and have eight teams in total. Whilst they play and train separately, the club has weekly joint socials and operates in a ‘one club’ family environment. BY GAVIN WILLIAMS & KATIE WOODWARD
Swansea University Ladies’ Hockey Club is one of the biggest independent women’s clubs at the University. The 1st team currently compete in the Premier Division 1 Saturday league, and last season they were promoted to the Western 1A BUCS league. Additionally, the squad reached the final of the Championship Cup, won the BUCS Western Conference Cup, and were victorious against Cardiff University to win their Varsity. All these achievements were recognised by the university’s sporting body, as the team was awarded Varsity Team of the Year at the 2018 Sports Awards. For players just wanting to try the sport out, our 4th XI are involved in the Development League and regularly play friendly matches against local teams. Swansea University Men's Hockey
Club was established in 1920 as one of the founding sports at Swansea University. Starting with only one side, the club has grown significantly, and now boasts four teams and a large social community. All teams compete in the Verde Recreo Hockey Leagues on a Saturday, and in BUCS leagues on a Wednesday. Our teams cater for all different levels of hockey players, ranging from international and elite players to social players. The club has achieved much success over the past few seasons, most recently being with our second team, who achieved promotion in both their BUCS league, as well as their Saturday league. The club will be looking to build on this success in the 2018/19 season, with a large emphasis being placed on the Varsity match against Cardiff University.
Beyond the hockey side of the club, we also have a thriving social scene and enjoy friendly relations with many of the other sporting clubs within the university. The club holds joint, themed socials every Wednesday night, where members from both the Ladies’ and Men’s sides join together. This integrates all teams within the club and promotes team bonding off the pitch. The themes range from ‘dress to impress’ to full body paint, all of which are very entertaining, full filled evenings. For more information regarding the Men’s club and how you can join in, please visit our website (www. swanseaunihc.com) or contact us via our club email (hockeymens@ swansea-sports.co.uk), and for the Ladies’ team, contact us on Facebook and we can organise a taster session for you to join in!