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MAY 2017
ISSUE 272
MAY 2017
from the editor Declan Murphy
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
Alas we’ve come to the final issue of the year. All that’s left is to get those last exams out the way and you’re clear for Summer. One thing that I’ve found quite interesting when watching others is comparing them to themselves at the beginning of the year. How people have changed or grown, what new friends they have or have maybe lost. A lot can change in a year; anything from what your job prospects might be when you leave to more menial stuff like developing a less than affectionate disposition to one of your flatmates. This set of changes is amplified for those of you in First Year I imagine. Going from entering a completely new area, new people, new life to developing relations with all sorts of people. Change is a strange one when you think about it, especially when you consider how little time it takes to adjust. One momentous change that’s going to be happening for me soon is leaving the Waterfront. Over the last three years I’ve been lucky enough to work with such amazing writing talent and for someone looking to get into this market I’ve been given an excellent start by this ever-changing group of individuals. I’d like to thank, in no particular order: Hilary Webb, the first person to point me in the direction of the paper, without her I wouldn’t have ever got to where I am no, I am eternally grateful; Kay Bryne, the old Editor of The Waterfront, she’s amazing and I cannot credit her enough for her guidance, even now; Sunil Bajaj, my first Writer as
Gaming Editor at the time, and what a writer he was; Iain Fisher, he’s always been adaptive to everyone’s situations in SSM and able to help; Shona Johnson, one of the best people I’ve ever had the fortune of working with, always understanding and cheerful, the University is in for a treat when you become an FTO, Shona; Hazel Stabler, designing the paper is no easy task for someone who knows what they’re doing to begin with but Hazel came onto the paper, learnt InDesign and Photoshop and then on top of that started designing the paper’s layout, I can’t think of anyone with a better work ethic; last but no means least, Rhydian Morris, he came to the paper at a dark time when News was going downhill fast and turned it around, I’m gutted we couldn’t have worked together more but with his determination he’s going places. Speaking of change, let’s change the subject! Of course we all mostly have exams to prepare for but after that we get to enjoy the fine summer Swansea has been giving us so far, with Summer Ball, the SU Awards and Society Dinners all on the horizon. When you see the cover of the prospectus and everyone seems to be on the beach having fun, this is what they meant. So enjoy the weather whilst it lasts. Enjoy hanging around with the friends you’ve met, the people you’ve spent the year with. Summer is almost her and with it comes a long break but come September a lot of us will be back at it again.
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11/08/2016 12:15:26
MAY 2017
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
from the deputy editor Hilary Webb
This is our seventh and final issue of Waterfront this academic year, and it is a really special issue. Packed full of articles to fill your revision breaks and help you enjoy BBQ weather (if/when it arrives), this issue is also the final issue for a whopping ten of our Editors, our Designer and many more of our wonderful writers. While the paper might miss Nathan Lloyd’s vegan twist recipes, Heather Wood’s inspired student cocktail hacks, Zoe Stabler’s Shoreline reviews, Harry Ballmann’s hipster vinyl recommendations, Ellie Thompson’s wardrobe remedies, Shannon Jones and Faye Vlietstra’s ‘sound’ advice, Megan McNab’s, I’m assured brilliant, Welsh coverage, and Akosua Darko’s vision, it will want for nothing as the fantastic incoming team are ready to get cracking. I myself will be leaving Waterfront and Swansea, after four years and thirty-nine issues. The last year has been difficult for Swansea Student Media, with the University and Union failing to provide the stability SSM needs to function at its best. SSM has changed beyond recognition and, despite challenges, has come together like never before to produce stunning journalism and broadcasting, showcased at the SU Elections and at Varsity. My time as
Deputy Editor this year would not have been the same without Editor Declan Murphy’s innovation, Iain Fisher’s tenacity and Hazel Stabler’s motivation to make Waterfront look and read the best it ever has. There are still positions available and Waterfront will always be open to contributors, so if you’re interested in writing, editing, design or photography be sure to contact the relevant people on our now updated contact list at the front of this issue. While some familiar faces will be staying at the paper (don’t despair, Sarah Harris’ hilarity will now be with you on the music page!) for now we leave you in the more than capable hands of Rachel Sanders, Ulysses Jones and their team. We can’t wait to see what mark you leave on Waterfront. One last, but very important thing: REGISTER TO VOTE. It is essential students double check where they will be on June 8 for the General Election and assure that they are registered in the right location or that they have requested a postal or proxy vote. Visit gov.uk/register-tovote to help make the student voice louder than ever before. Try to enjoy the rest of the semester. Before you know it you’ll be getting nostalgic about everything from your last week of classes to your last run for revision snacks, and, god forbid, your last night at Sin.
Editor Declan Murphy (outgoing) Rachel Sanders (incoming) waterfronteditor@swanseastudentmedia.com
Film Rachel Sanders (outgoing) Becky Elms (incoming) waterfrontfilm@swanseastudentmedia.com
Deputy editor Hilary Webb (outgoing) Ulysses Jones (incoming) waterfrontdeputy@swanseastudentmedia.com
Food Heather Wood & Nathan Lloyd (outgoing) waterfrontfood@swanseastudentmedia.com
Designer Hazel Stabler (outgoing) waterfrontdesign@swanseastudentmedia.com
Music Harry Ballmann (outgoing) Sarah Harris (incoming) waterfrontmusic@swanseastudentmedia.com
News Megan Thomas (incoming) waterfrontnews@swanseastudentmedia.com
Relationships Shannon Jones & Faye Vlietstra (outgoing) waterfrontrelationships@swanseastudentmedia.com
Sport Waterfront Team waterfrontsport@swanseastudentmedia.com
Societies Zoe Stabler (outgoing) Heather Dimmer (incoming) waterfrontsocieties@swanseastudentmedia.com
Creative writing Zoe Stabler (outgoing) Emily Maybanks (incoming) waterfrontcreativewriting@swanseastudentmedia.com Culture Sarah Harris (outgoing) Aaron Matthews (incoming) waterfrontculture@swanseastudentmedia.com Fashion Ellie Thompson (outgoing) waterfrontfashion@swanseastudentmedia.com Features Hilary Webb (outgoing) Emily Williams (incoming) waterfrontfeatures@swanseastudentmedia.com
Tech Declan Murphy waterfronttech@swanseastudentmedia.com Student Media Coordinator Iain Fisher iain.fisher@swansea-union.co.uk
waterfront is a free print and online publication from swansea student media and the students’ union.
summer ball
07
features
07
cymraeg
07
food
07
culture
07
relationships
07
liberation
07
creative writing
07
fashion
07
music
07
film
07
tech
07
sport
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big names on campus
students as consumers // ten types of students
gym gym
barbeque planning // the bucket list
la boheme // proud to be a millenial
agony aunts // blind date recap // older men // goodbye
year in review
glory
fashion history & future
album reviews // biorhythyms
beauty and the beast // brooklyn nine nine // mindhorn
VR zone
Varsity 2017
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ISSUE 272
L-R: Pendulum frontman Rob Swire, pop princess Charli XCX and Dr Meaker frontman Clive Meaker.
by Harry Ballmann
Swansea Summer Balls understandably aspire better the previous year, and the 2017 ball proves no exception. With a host of live performances, remaining optimistic for Swansea’s weather and being high in anticipation seems to be the only things left to do. Always a pleasant afternoon jaunt in the fields of the university, sipping gin and tonic in your
chinos, it’s certainly an afternoon of festivity, enjoying the acoustic rhythms of Swansea University’s own Tom Martin. Certainly worth a listen for those wanting a more summery atmosphere, light-hearted banter ensues as he takes to the stage. The main stage will be prove slightly different however, kicking off with Nadia Rose, an artist whose career began centric to the hip-hop movement, moving into a direction far more versatile and individual. Second will be AJ Tracey, primarily a grime artist from West London, boasting an array of
accolades already in 2016, including two MOBO (Urban Music and Culture) nominations and above all, selection as one to watch by MTV, Vevo and the BBC Sound Poll. The next artist I am particularly excited to watch, being a huge fan of the Bristol electronic movement featuring the likes of Tricky, Massive Attack, Portishead and The Cortinas, Bristol is infamous for the avid music fan. Dr Meaker seeks to bring an incredible energy to the stage, with an exciting take on original drum and bass, swooning rhythms and powerful vocals
MAY 2017
HARRY BALLMANN // MUSIC
L-R: MOBO nominated AJ Tracey, emerging UK rapper Nadia Rose and singer-songwriter Raye. characterise this exciting band. As the fairy lights turn on, the music and alcohol in full flow, Raye takes to the stage, quite a feat for the 18 year old Londoner. Supporting Jess Glynne on her upcoming arena tour, Raye’s only has eyes for the top of the industry, and at only 18, co-writing songs with a colossal prestige, such as I, U, Us (co-written by Charli XCX) and boasting her own fashion line, she is certainly on her way. However, there is one band which will take our fancy because of the nostalgia within us. 2010.
Watercolour. Immersion. Pendulum. A band which needs an extremely small introduction, with a CV which includes sets on Glastonbury’s world renowned Pyramid Sage, headlining T In the Park, V Fest and Bestival, their professionalism and class is certainly second to none. Nothing can quite be compared to what’s in store for this year’s headline act; with some unaware of just how talented Charlie XCX actually is. Taking the credit for writing Iggy Azalea’s Fancy, in addition to Icona Pop’s somewhat cheesy and still somehow iconic
single I love it, Charli XCX is at the peak of her powers, receiving thoroughly well-deserved Billboard ‘Hitmaker of the Year’ (2014) and SESAC ‘Songwriter of the Year’ (2013). She will certainly be the best headliner Swansea has ever had, and potentially ever will have, an array of talent lies in store, with a collection of genres descending on Swansea’s main stage on the 18th June. Official Summer Ball 2017 packages on sale now! swanseasummerball.com
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ISSUE 272
Students as Consumers:
Fair or Fatal?
The end of every university year is always a little more ‘final’ for some more than others, the some being the non-returning graduates. Three or four years of optional education over, too many tears, pints, deadlines and laughs to count but you are ready to fly university’s warm, safe nest. Now for your reward: travelling back to Swansea in July to graduate on a building site of a campus that you haven’t spent a second on and that didn’t exist when you started your degree. All jokes aside, I have loved almost every second of the academic aspect of my degree, and I know I am incredibly lucky to be able to say that. Because I am of the belief that education should be free and accessible to all, I, regardless of the debt piling up in my name, approached my degree like it
by Hilary Webb
Modern
Languages was free. I made a point of studying what I wanted to learn, rather than what would guarantee me a job. Such an attitude has led me study some amazing things and spend a year teaching English in France. It has been the best. But has it been worth my £45,000 debt? I’m not so sure. Swansea Students’ Union Education Officer Robiu Salisu told Waterfront that he knows of ‘students who have chosen to study certain subjects or modules based on the sole reason of money and job prospects’. While he agrees that there is nothing wrong with worrying about job prospects he also rejects the ‘idea of making it
a priority when you’re a student because the notion of consumerism means students are being forced to avoid to think less independently and more anxious in playing it safe’. In 2014 Waterfront reported on two Which? consumer surveys that revealed that after the tuition fee hike to £9000 in England, students who considered their degree value for money dropped from 81% to 68%. It also exposed many universities in the UK to be unlawfully changing the terms of a student’s degree, like the course title, during their time at university. The problem with Which? running these surveys is that they are a consumer research company. They look out for customers buying a product. It poses the interesting question: are students consumers? Higher Education should be a mutual
MAY 2017
partnership between students and educators, a commitment to learn, to discover, and to make the world a better place on personal and global levels. It should be fair, affordable and enriching. Yet when so much money comes into play, it risks becoming something else. When you’re paying £9000 a year, it is easy to feel like you expect to receive something in return, regardless of the effort you may or may not put in. Value for money becomes something students often look for throughout their degree. In August 2016, Swansea University’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard B Davies told BBC that there were ‘good reasons’ for taking up government proposals to increase the tuition fee cap to £9250 in England. Professor Davies talked of the difficult choice between increasing access to funding via other options, like taking on more international students, or taking advantage of the cap increase. He said ‘it would be of no kindness to students to offer them a cheap and cheerful education’. For those of us with an ever piling debt, it can be difficult to see how exactly our current experience is ‘cheap and cheerful,’ but universities must get funding somehow, or else risk losing out to competitors to the detriment of its students. This is part of a much larger
HILARY WEBB // FEATURES
problem as our country’s higher education system becomes increasingly like the elitist system in the United States, where the best education can only be accessed by a privileged few. While there are no current plans to increase fees in Wales, Salisu championed the motion for our SU to ‘support and fight for a free education system. One that stands up not just for English students paying £9000 but our International students too’. ‘I believe the rise in tuition fees from £3000 to £9000 for non-Welsh home students reflects the cultural drift towards the acquisition of money as the most important thing in life’ said Salisu. ‘Education is a fundamental right and not something that should be commoditised’. However, student loans are structured very differently to regular loans and this undoubtedly influences how students view their tuition fees. Fourth year American Studies student Emily Ellis told Waterfront ‘I would 100% say my Swansea degree gave me bang for my buck’. Ellis explained that ‘I never think of our student loans as a debt. I was always told to think of them as a graduate tax because you will never again borrow money so cheaply or with such good repayment requirements’. Yet, according to the Guardian, last summer saw many graduates
outraged as terms of repayments were amended and frozen. The changes left some graduates paying while under the minimum earnings threshold or saw their payments increase up to £180 a month because of interest. It poses the problem that if we ignore our loans and just try to enjoy our degree as an educational experience, this may come back to bite should the government change the terms of our repayments again in the future. Potentially, the more you ask students to pay then the more they begin to feel like customers and the less patient they become with slip ups. I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard friends groan ‘we’re paying £9000 for this?’ when lecturers are late or if a class leaves us more confused than educated. Charge students any more and they’ll be less complacent about disappearing lecturers, outsourced counselling services and unsuitable accommodation on HSV. The financial investment 18-year olds now have to make when choosing higher education risks leading them to expect something from their degree regardless of the work they put in. An attitude Salisu hopes students will resist, as he urges them ‘to continue this discussion on campus about free education, what it means and how higher education should be funded’.
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ISSUE 272
So, I Joined a Sorority...
by Shannon Jones
We’ve all heard the stereotypes of the sorority girl: the pretty, popular, stuck-up girls that aren’t too sharp when it comes to education, but if you’re looking for a party, they’re the girls to go to. All these stereotypes have been reinforced through television and movies, so heading into my
year abroad that is exactly what I expected to see once I hit my new campus – and thank god those stereotypes were so wrong. I had no plans on joining a sorority once I got to America, but within a few days I was coerced by a fellow British exchange student to sign up and give it a go. And I can honestly say, even with the $72 fee to sign up for recruitment, (no, you don’t get it back if you don’t get into a sorority. And unfortunately the money only
goes up from there), I would say it was money well spent. And with that, I was thrown into the sorority life and went through recruitment…two of the strangest weeks of my life. “Holy cow!” Were my thoughts after the first night of recruitment. Imagine over fifty girls – all exceedingly happy, all incredibly enthusiastic, and all sporting grins – singing and cheering songs to you as loud as they can, and then having that happen to you NINE times each day.
MAY 2017
If that sounds fun to you, then sorority life is definitely for you. Recruitment is everything to sororities, so each one puts 110% towards putting on the best show and making a great first impression to recruit new members. Eventually the singing isn’t so bad…or you just find a way to ignore it, and you come to learn a lot more about each sorority: their values, traditions, their mottos, and the philanthropy they choose to support. Taking all of that into consideration, as the weeks go on you come to figure out which sorority works best for you, and you’re in!...so long as that sorority, or any other sorority picks you up. One thing I wish I had fully understood and known before joining was the financial commitments that comes with joining a sorority. Each sorority has a set amount of dues that each member has to pay, and if you plan on joining a sorority on your year abroad, you better get saving now – especially as dues can range anywhere from $600 plus per semester. The price isn’t cheap, but it’s definitely worth it in the end. Now back to those pesky stereotypes. Yes, a lot of the girls in sororities are pretty and many are popular, but that is due to their presence on campus. Students in Greek life have one of the highest presences on campus, involving themselves in numerous clubs, societies, and the student government association – so naturally, they would be well-known. With the odd exception, (no need to get into that though) sorority girls are not stuck-up, and if you find a few that are, well, that’s life. But as far as I can tell you, they’re a bunch of cool, fun girls. Now as for partying, in the words of the great Beyoncé: we like to party. Much like any other university student, from time to time, sorority girls like
HILARY WEBB // FEATURES
to party, and we know how to throw a party – but you’ll never catch a party or alcohol at a sorority house, as unlike fraternities, it is prohibited. But that doesn’t stop them from heading to a fraternity party, bar, or throwing their own party. Sorority parties, or ‘date parties’, are a big occasion and the build-up is just as big. Typically they will be thrown at a bar rented out exclusively for the sorority and any dates that each girl chooses to bring for the night, and I guarantee you will have a ball of a time. Plus each date party comes with a cool t-shirt to remember the event. What more could you want? There are 3 qualities that you can find in any existing sorority
Sisterhood
Without sisterhood, there is no sorority. Each sorority prides themselves on the sisterhood that they have with one another within their sorority, and much like my sororities open motto, each girl truly does live for each other. Something which is extended to girls in other sororities. Just think of it as one big happy sorority family.
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Philanthropy
Charity is a core value in Greek life, and each sorority and fraternity is committed to supporting their chosen philanthropy, and raising as much money for it as possible. When choosing a sorority to join, their philanthropy will tell you a lot about that sorority. But beyond that, most Greek organisations will do as much as they can to support their community.
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Education
Despite what you may hear, sorority girls any by no means dumb. Each sorority has a certain grade that must be met by its members each semester. If you don’t meet it, then you will be put on probation, which means no more parties or social events for you. And if the sorority as a whole fails to meet the grade, then the whole sorority gets put on probation. So, during the week, don’t be surprised if you see a herd of sorority girls in the library. Understandably sorority life isn’t for everybody and going through recruitment, I came close to dropping out and giving up. But having joined, it definitely made my experience during my year abroad a lot better than it would have been had I not. Being in a sorority provided me with a home away from home and opened me up to many more opportunities, and still away from my ‘sisters’ the values, traditions, and motto of the sorority remain close to me. If you do plan on joining a sorority on your year abroad, try to find out as much information on the organisations at your university, save up, keep an open mind, and warm up those vocal chords as it won’t be long before they get you singing too.
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ISSUE 272
The ten types of students during exams
by Sarah Harris
With the impending dark cloud of exams following everybody around, it’s a familiar reality that those around you will be dealing with revision and coursework in their own unique way. Although, in this case, their own way tends to fall into one of the following ten categories.
The Ones You Never See
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They stay in the library all day, revising for 15 hours at a time. When you do see them you feel uncomfortable because they ask
you how your revision’s going with a smug smile on their happy face before admitting that they’re “kind of excited” for their exam tomorrow. Little do you know that they have mini breakdowns behind their desk and furiously google brain foods, hoping their kale with wild salmon will make them more intelligent overnight.
The Laid-Back Ones
Totally different to ‘The Ones You Never See’, The Laid-Back Ones are always around. You see them in the kitchen, casually drinking enough coffee to keep them awake for a week, you see them on the sofa, laptop in one hand, revision notes in the other and the telly on
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full volume, you even see them in Tesco, buying a bottle of red wine to drink that night over a thick study book. They are often seen smiling or humming and are always game for a long chat, as long as it’s not about exams.
The Fitness Fanatics
Who cares if they’re starting their New Year’s Resolution five months late? Summers fast approaching and no exams are going to get in the way of that beach bod. The fitness freaks who couldn’t even be bothered to walk down to the shop before, take procrastination to a whole new level. They’re out every day, in the rain and the cold, running miles along the beach front then
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heading to the gym to do the circuit and yoga classes that they’ve only just joined. They keep saying that exercise is the key to relax and to have a clear mind, but we all know that they just don’t want to revise. At least they can say that they’ve done something productive with their day.
The Ones Who Do Everything But Revise
Similar to ‘The Fitness Fanatics’, they also procrastinate to the max, but think it’s completely acceptable because everything they do is highly “educational”. Whether it’s writing tens of articles for the university newspaper (mmhm), planning socials for their society, working at a local bar, volunteering at the soup kitchen, or visiting high school pupils as a course ambassador, these students know that even if their grades won’t be high, their CV will still look amazing.
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The Ones Who Eat All Day
These are the ones you see spending half an hour in Tesco’s, going around very slowly, looking at everything and taking ages to decide what ten items to buy. They struggle to unlock their doors because they’re holding what looks like a fantastic picnic for five people in their hands; having not wanted to pay 5p for a bag of course. They can finally relax when they get to their seat and set their food around their computer like a work of art. They sit there all day, never not nibbling at something, because food, after all, is the only way they’ll get through revision.
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HILARY WEBB // FEATURES
The Not Feeling Well Ones
These students are so nervous that they think they’ve caught a vomiting bug, even though it’s all in their head because they’ve worked themselves up so badly. They feel ill just looking at a past exam paper so they go to the doctor’s anyway, just in case, knowing deep inside that nothing’s really wrong but still hoping to get a note for extenuating circumstances. Sometimes their housemates are even concerned that they’re trying to give themselves food poisoning when they cook their chicken in the microwave.
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The Worriers
These students will be living in the library, looking up every single topic possible, just to make sure that they haven’t missed anything and that they will be sure to know every single answer in their exam. Whenever they are not near their books they will be muttering complicated sounding words to themselves and will have to suddenly rush to their room to check if they still know an answer to a question they had been trying to memorize. Sadly, they never sleep because they find it impossible to when their revision notes are stuck in their head and they can’t think of anything else, lest they forget something.
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The Ones Who Need Reassurance
These ones won’t leave you alone; always reading you their essay and asking for your opinion, they really get on your nerves but you know that they’re just scared and want someone
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to tell them that it’ll be alright, that their essay is good, even though it’s clear that you have no idea what it’s on about. These students also keep telling you exactly what they’re going to be revising that day and how they’re going to do it, just because hearing it out loud makes them feel more organised and motivated. What annoys you the most is how they say that everyone thinks their degree is easy but “it’s actually not, you know” and that they have so much work to do, “more than you”, but always come out with a first anyway.
The Pessimists
These students won’t stop complaining how they’re going to fail every single exam and every single piece of coursework. Some of them will carry on working while sighing and shaking their head, knowing nothing good will come out of it, others will have given up a long time ago and will have already looked at backpacking trips, opportunities to teach English in Japan, or applied for full time jobs at Sports Direct or Tesco.
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The Ones Who Have No Exams
Half of these students only have essays to do and think the best way to do them is to pull an all-nighter, at the last minute while sharing a tub of KFC chicken wings with a friend. The other half have no work at all to do and keep moaning about how they’d rather do exams than “die of boredom” and how it’s so rubbish at Sin with only the locals and Met students around. They have no idea how much everyone envies them.
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Reaching Wider
The South and West Wales Reaching Wider partnership offers a range of learning and aspiration raising activities to those living in Communities First areas and care experienced young people from across South West Wales. Reaching Wider has been working to raise the academic aspiration for care experienced young people across South West wales. It is estimated that approximately only 7% of young people who are in care go on to study at university. Multiple changes in where the young person lives and frequent changes of schools are just two of the factors which can make the path into Higher Education extremely difficult. Often care experienced young people will enter university later than those who have not been in care. Reaching Wider is working to ensure that academic aspiration remains at the forefront for each young person, providing a path to access all opportunities available to them. Reaching Wider has been working with the Looked After Child Education departments in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and most recently Carmarthenshire to provide aspiration raising opportunities for care experienced young people across South West Wales. The programme has been varied ranging from single day events where the young people have experienced events such as Fireworks workshops and Tower Car racing to Stress Management, Mindfulness
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
and taking over the Swansea University TV, Radio and Waterfront newspaper. Reaching Wider have also organised opportunities for young people to come and visit departments that are of particular interest to them and also to meet with Money@Campuslife who have been able to discuss the Care Leavers support package that is available at Swansea University. Reaching Wider has arranged for one young person, who has a keen interest in becoming a lawyer, to work with Bridget Kerr of Swansea University’s College of Law and Criminology. The young person has been coming down to the university after school for 6 months and focussing on different aspects within the field of Criminology. She had the opportunity of meeting with Elwen Evans QC, Head of the College of Law and Criminology, who spoke to her about what it is like to be a lawyer and the experience of being in court. This was an incredible experience which the young person will remember for ever. When asked about how working with Reaching Wider and the College of Law and Criminology has impacted on her she said “Going to the university and spending time with Bridget has really improved things for me and made me feel that I can have a better future. It has made me feel good about myself. I feel comfortable at the Uni”. Most recently the young people have had the opportunity to attend a Criminology day and a Creative Writing – Fairytales and Superheroes day, delivered on Singleton Campus and supported by the Reaching Wider Student Leaders. Coming up in July, the young people will attend a two day residential experience on Singleton Campus, where they
will undertake aspiration raising activities during the day and then stay overnight in University Halls of Residence, again organised and delivered by the Reaching Wider team and their Student Leaders. Reaching Wider has been visiting the social work teams across Swansea and Neath Port Talbot to talk to the social workers about the educational opportunities available to the young people they support and also delivering training sessions to Foster Carers and Social Workers. A young person’s guide to FE and HE for Care Experienced young people has been produced by Reaching Wider and can be found via the Reaching Wider website http://www.swansea.ac.uk/ reaching-wider/lacandcareleavers/ Reaching Wider offers casual work opportunities for university students who wish to gain experience of working with young people. Our opportunities can fit around your timetable, boost your CV, count towards your HEAR (Higher Education Achievement Report) award and also offer generous rates of pay. If you are interested in working for us we would love to hear from you. Contact us at www. swansea.ac.uk/reaching-wider/ and reachingwider@swansea.ac.uk
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MEG MCNAB // CYMRAEG
Gym Gym (Gymdeithas Gymraeg)
by Rebecca Martin translated by Meg McNab Ar y 25ain o Fawrth, 2017, fe wnaeth Y Gymdeithas Gymraeg cynnal digwyddiad a oedd yn gwbl newydd i’r gymdeithas. Trefnwyd trip am fyfyrwyr rhyngwladol i St. Fagans, Amgueddfa Werin Cymru, lle bu dros bedwardeg adeilad o ganrifoedd amrywiol dros Gymru i gyd eu hailgodi yn un man. Cynhwysodd y grŵp o genedligrwydd gwahanol a oedd i gyd yn awyddus i ddysgu am ddiwylliant a thraddodiadau Cymry.
Roedd gan bob myfyriwr lefel gwahanol o wybodaeth am hanes Cymru – yn amrywio o’r rhai oedd yn gwybod ychydig i ddim o gwbl, i’r rhai oedd eisiau gwybod mwy am hanes eu gwlad. Bwriad y trip oedd hyrwyddo hanes Cymru a’i draddodiadau i eraill, gan hefyd dod â myfyrwyr o wahanol gefndiroedd diwylliannol gyda’i gilydd. Gobaith y gymdeithas oedd datblygu perthynas agosach rhwng cymdeithasau diwylliannol a myfyrwyr rhyngwladol yn gyffredinol, er mwyn sicrhau digwyddiadau tebyg yn y dyfodol. Hoffai’r Gymdeithas Gymraeg
estyn diolch fawr i’r Undeb Fyfyrwyr, Alun Bryn (Swyddog yr Iaith Gymraeg) a Tŷ Tawe am y cymorth ariannol – ni fyddai’r trip wedi cael ei gwblhau heb eich haelioni. Hoffai’r gymdeithas hefyd estyn diolch i Stuart Grey am y cymorth parhaol am y trip i fynd ymlaen – roedd ei gydweithrediad gyda’r gymuned am gynllunio a hyrwyddo’r digwyddiad yn hanfodol am drip llwyddiannus. Mae’r Gymuned Gymraeg yn gobeithio bod pob myfyriwr a mynychodd y trip wedi cael amser bendigedig, fe fyddwn yn eich gweld chi i gyd yn y dyfodol agos. Diolch!
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ISSUE 272
How To Plan The Perfect Barbecue
The temperature is rising, the shops are selling sunglasses and swimsuits. It must be summer. Well almost. The evermore occurring sunshine means the perfect opportunity for a barbecue, and with access to one of the best beaches in the United Kingdom, is there really an excuse not to go? Here at the Waterfront, we’re here to help you to deliver the best barbecue this summer.
Alcohol is arguably the best part of summer, so here’s some easy cocktail recipes to bring with you to the barbecue. For all these three cocktails, all you need to do is combine the ingredients to achieve your desired alcoholic beverage.
by Heather Wood
Do
Don’t
Remember to bring the matches.
Forget fire responsibility.
Bring the blankets, it can get cold in the evenings.
Don’t use utensils and plates that have touched raw meat - it’s easy forget but food poisoning is not fun.
Remember the bottle openers or cork screw.
Stay clear of the tide, remember the movement of the waves.
Choose dry firewood for your barbecue, otherwise there will be little flame action.
Buy some food that doesn’t need to be cooked, believe me. It will save you from some very hangry reactions when the fire won’t light.
Bring some firelighters, *ahem* newspapers or your lectures notes burn well.
Don’t mix drinking and swimming. Stay clear of the tide if you have had a few - especially at night.
Be considerate of others around you, there are many other beach users.
Urinating on the fire or barbecue doesn’t kill the flame.
The old school classic - Pimm’s For this you simply need: • Pimm’s • Lemonade • Cucumber • Mint • liced oranges, and strawberries to give it that extra slice of summer • Ice
Sparkling Raspberry Limoncello For this you simply need: • 1 bottle prosecco, chilled • Limoncello liqueur, chilled • Raspberries • 6 sprigs fresh mint • Ice
Sangria Don’t cook frozen meat on the barbecue. Pre-cook at home or you’ll be eating at midnight.
The perfect cocktail to use cheap wine to its full advantage
Don’t leave your barbecue burning and pick up all your litter. No one wants to step in broken glass.
• Rose or white bottle of wine • Any berries you have to hand. • Lemonade • 3tps of Sugar – to your taste • Ice
MAY 2017
HEATHER WOOD & NATHAN LLOYD // FOOD
Fan of Craft Beer and Burgers? You Need to Try The Bucket List
American food is equally as easy to nail as it is to mess up monumentally. Hands up, who’s had more than one subpar burger in their lifetime? People think that throwing together familiar ingredients breeds results, but that’s certainly not the case. Fortunately there’s somewhere new for you to try before the end of Uni that isn’t a stilted rehash of the TGI Friday formula. Situated at the bottom of Wind St is The Bucket List, is a little slice of tastefully done Americana in Swansea. Its name belies its MO, it’s a ‘bucket list of beers you have to try before you die’, and as such it offers a great range of international craft beers. From Norwegian Lervig Aktiebryggeri to homegrown talents like Newport’s Tiny Rebel to Bristolian Arbor,
by Nathan Lloyd
there’s enough variety on the beer menu to satisfy the connoisseur and the newbie alike. Foodwise, expect American classics like buttermilk fried chicken & humongous burgers, all served in buckets with a fistful of fries, paired really well with the beers. For £5 you can get yourself a members’ card that gives you some deals and opens up the members’ room upstairs. This one seems squarely aimed at students in many ways which may leave you a little cynical, but it’s worth a look as the atmosphere is very chilled. It even has football tables and pool tables for you to enjoy with a few friends. So why not check it out!
MAY 2017
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
Beetroot, Butterbean & Dill Burgers by Nathan Lloyd
On the subject of ‘the end of uni’, it’s quickly approaching the time when, like turtles looking for a mate, migrating students return to the beach for barbecues, beer and banter. Nothing sees out the year quite like a get together along the front so why not prepare some delicious treats to take with you? This easy recipe for some tasty ruby red patties will set your barbie apart from the other ‘scavenged from Tesco’ wannabes further down the dunes.
You’ll need: • 2 tins of butterbeans, drained • 1 Roasted beetroot, grated • 1tbs lemon juice • 100g breadcrumbs • Glug of garlic oil • 1tsp dill oil (optional) • Handful of fresh dill, chopped • Handful of fresh parsley, chopped • Salt & pepper
Method: First you need to roast the beetroot, drizzle them liberally with the oil in a baking tray and sprinkle with salt. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes on 180 and then leave to cool. Drain the beans but keep the aquafaba. I tend to sieve mine over a cup or bowl. Place the beans into a bowl and mash them until they’re mostly broken down. Combine with the other ingredients and mix thoroughly (hands are better than spoons!). Form them into patties and place them on a greaseproof lined tray, leave to firm up in the fridge for (min) 30 minutes to 1 hour. When ready, place in a 160 oven and cook for around 10 minutes on each side (turn and repeat). Take out and leave to cool. They aren’t done yet but the cooling helps keep them together. When you’re ready to eat them, fry them in an oiled pan or over the barbie. The frying will bring out all the lovely redness of the beetroot and give a certain wow factor. Watch they don’t burn too much - best to keep them at the cooler end. Serve with some sliced avocado for a vivid clash of green and red. Enjoy!
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ISSUE 272
La Boheme Swansea Grand Theatre
by Carlos Tseng
It’s hard to find an opera more instantly iconic than Puccini’s La Boheme, and Ellen Kent once again puts on a fabulous production. Featuring internationally acclaimed French soprano Olga Perrier in the role of Musetta, Puccini’s classic opera soars with its high notes before breaking the audiences’ hearts with its ending. La Boheme tells the story of Mimi who falls in love with a penniless writer, Rodolfo. The story is flirtatious but also deeply romantic. The roles are taken on well by Alyona Kistenyova and Giorgio Meladze who we see fall passionately in love with one another. But Meladze’s character also becomes cripplingly jealous of Mimi’s kindness and warmth to other men. All the performers are highly commendable with the vocals being the highlight of the evening. Perhaps what made this production even more exceptional was the fact that they acted equally as well as they sang. In particular, Olga Perrier’s Musetta was a highlight from the beginning where she really acted the part of the diva, even bringing Betsy, her dog onto the stage. From Meladze’s first aria ‘Che gelida manina’ all the way to the final act, the performances were uplifting and heartbreaking. It’s a tragic romance which is destroyed
Alyona Kistenyova as Mimi by consumption and jealousy, romances which unfortunately continue to exist to this day. Where La Boheme perhaps suffered however was on the technical front. Ellen Kent kept La Boheme’s Italian roots where the arias were performed in Italian with English subtitles displayed throughout the show. However, the subtitles were often hard to read and were only visible if one were to sit substantially close to the stage. Don’t get me wrong though, when a show is as sublime as La Boheme, it’s almost unnecessary to read the subtitles. The high-flying arias were enough to convey the plot and the characters’ emotions and inhibitions. There was also an unusually long break between the first and second act which seemed to puzzle the audience but this was largely forgotten once the music returned to the stage. Perhaps what was most
heartbreaking about this performance however was the fact that Swansea’s Grand Theatre was half-empty. It doesn’t need to be said that the art of opera has often been seen as “elitist” and rarely appeals to younger audiences. I must admit that when I looked around, the average age of the audience must have been around 60+ which brings me to question the future of the operatic arts. I suppose one of my biggest fears is that in 50-60 years’ time, there won’t be an audience for opera and any performance will be recorded and available on your smartphone. It’s hard to imagine how the cast felt performing to a half-empty theatre but I can’t imagine it felt good. The energy nonetheless was phenomenal and you could feel the atmosphere, an atmosphere which could only be found in a live performance. It is here where I would like to conclude by saying that Ellen Kent’s performance despite its flaws was truly sensational. A well-cast and timeless masterpiece. I would also like to extend my love for the arts to my fellow students and encourage you to support the Grand Theatre and Opera productions. There is much to admire about the theatre and its history but it’s always the enjoyment of live performance which lures me back. All in all, it was a very enjoyable evening and I look forward to the next Ellen Kent production.
MAY 2017
SARAH HARRIS // CULTURE
Why I’m proud to be a millennial by Sarah Harris
I am a millennial... Bad news for those of you who were born in the years ranging 1980 to 2000, you are too. You are part of the jilted generation: a generation supposedly destined to never own a house, find a stable job, or earn disposable income. A generation which are being denied their own voices and opinions. Many still swear by the old mantra “with age comes wisdom”, but how much significance can this still hold? We’re often known as the ‘Peter Pan’ generation because of our tendency to delay milestones in our lives. It is alleged that we are also narcissistic and tend to have a greater sense of entitlement. In China, we are known as “ken lao zu”, or, “the generation that eats the old”. In Japan we are “nagara-zoku”, or, “the people who are always doing two things at once”. How about “Generation Maybe”? That’s how we are known in Germany because of our inability to make definitive decisions as we have too many possibilities available to us. It’s easy to see that when the term ‘millennial’ is used, it’s not generally as a compliment. In school there were awards for perfect attendance (more a badge of shame than honour) and I even once won an award in PE for most-
improved (code for worst player, but brings her kit each week). Was I coddled? Maybe. Did my parents tell me to dream big and that they’d support whatever decision I made? Absolutely. But when I speak to other generations, the accusations of over-indulgence and debauchery seem to contain hints of jealousy. Children are raised differently in each generation, it’s a constant evolution. The supposed mollycoddling comes from parents wanting their children to have a better life but, for those dealt a meaner hand that can breed resentment. It is very easy to dismiss the millennials. We have been spoon fed from an early age, with the internet at our fingertips everywhere we go. It isn’t surprising, then, that we often find ourselves excluded from political spheres. Many millennials express a sentiment that none of the main political parties represent their views. With rising tuition fees, an inaccessible housing market and an education system in need of radical reform, it is easy enough to see why many young people feel disillusioned by the politics. Our intellectual and political views are often dismissed by those who unfalteringly believe that with age comes wisdom. We have higher rates of higher education, at least in the UK, but our ideas are often still dismissed by the more traditional standpoint. Our mediums of communication are changing. We generally prefer
Facebook to radio, smartphones to broadsheets, and text message to a letter. We enjoy dismantling the idea that older is better. The ability to easily access a vast wide sea of information makes us one of the best educated generations to date. The millennials may be considered to be narcissistic but they are also credited with often being more tolerant than their elders. Take the selfie for example, the omnipresent form of portraiture that is apparently a sign of our culture’s mass narcissism rather than a show of self-confidence that is apparently, not okay. Open-mindedness, awareness and compassion are a few of the positive qualities to which much our generation can lay claim. Times change and people change. The world isn’t the same as it was 50 years ago, and us as millennials have adjusted accordingly. As the great Mark Twain once remarked, “all generalisations are wrong, including this one.” We’re still finding our way in this world, and sure, we’re bound to make mistakes. But just as those generations before us, we’ll live and learn, and I for one am proud to be a millennial.
MAY 2017
SHANNON JONES & FAYE VLIETSTRA // RELATIONSHIPS
Agony Aunts Dear Shannon and Faye, I’ve started dating someone, I really like them, but there are a couple of red flags. Their personality has completely changed and they’ve started to become obsessive and possessive, and constantly checks up on me throughout the day. I thought this was just casual, what do I do? Luke, Third Year. GET OUT! It is not okay for someone to be constantly checking up on you and trying to control your life. Obsession and possessiveness are major red flags and we’ve never known anything good to come out of ignoring them. Try and talk to them and make them aware you think this is moving too quickly. If they don’t take it well then run away fast and find someone else. Here’s a tip for next time: choose more wisely.
If you’re interested in going on a Blind Date or have a question you want to put to the aunts, you can contact them at: waterfrontrelationships @ swanseastudentmedia.com
Dear Shannon and Faye, My girlfriend has said several times that she’s down for having sex when she’s on her period. While I’m happy that she feels comfortable enough to share this with me, I’m really grossed out by the whole idea. How do I get her to stop talking about it? James, Second Year. Really James? Sure, everyone gets a bit squeamish about blood, but at the end of the day periods are completely natural, or did you miss that class in biology? The fact that she’s wanting to have sex with you when she’s on her period, shows that she completely trusts you and is comfortable, as that’s a big thing! So, what if you get a bit of blood on you, just hop in the shower, wipe yourself down, and move on. Heck, you could even ask her to join you. Just go with the flow, and don’t try to silence her, it only makes you look bad.
While very knowledgeable, Shannon and Faye are not qualified to give out expert advice so Waterfront suggests that you take their advice with a pinch of salt and use the Students’ Union’s support services for serious guidance.
MAY 2017
SHANNON JONES & FAYE VLIETSTRA // RELATIONSHIPS
Goodbye my lover… we’re just friends
by Shannon Jones & Faye Vlietstra So, you’ve finally done it, you’ve finished your essays, finished your exams, all that’s left to do is graduate…and finish your relationship (if you decide that after reading this article that is the best choice). Yeah you may feel like you’ve found the love of your life while at university, and after those three/four years together you feel like it can only get better from here on out. Sadly,
you just might be wrong. The reality of it is, the real world just isn’t uni. The constant dates, movie nights, and daytime hook-ups will long be a thing of the past, much like the free time you had. Things change once you graduate. New jobs will take you in different directions and you may find yourself having to choose between your job or your relationship, and we all know which is the most important. But look on the bright side, you are young. At such a young age can you really say with any certainty that you have found ‘the one’? Out of the whole world, you have been stuck in
the same place for the past few years, you haven’t seen it all and you haven’t experienced it all. For all you know, the real one for you could be on a beach in Bora Bora, or in an office in Leicester. Sure, you had a good run with your current partner, but life is for living, don’t settle for what you feel comfortable with, go out and live. We are not saying you have to cut all ties with your ‘bae’, we are just saying that friendship might be the best route. Raise that anchor and let your ship sail. But make sure you do it before graduation… don’t want to ruin those photos.
MAY 2017
SHANNON JONES & FAYE VLIETSTRA // RELATIONSHIPS
Blind Date Re-cap
Seeing as it’s the end of the year, we decided to catch up with a few of our blind date participants to see if love blossomed. Did you stay in contact after the date? E: Not really, although we matched on Tinder J: I didn’t stay in contact Do you regret taking part in the blind date? E: Not at all, it was fun J: I don’t regret it at all
Emily & Josh
What is your current relationship status? E: It’s complicated J: I’m in a relationship
Did you stay in contact after the date? L: Yes, me and Heather still talk, she’s lovely. H: Yes, we stayed in contact and text each other on occasion Do you regret taking part in the blind date? L: Not at all H: No it was nice to meet someone who had some similar interests
Laura & Heather
What is your current relationship status? L: Single H: I am single
Did you stay in contact after the date? E: Not really A: Nope Do you regret taking part in the blind date? E: Not at all, it was a great experience A: Hell yes
Emily & Alex
What is your current relationship status? E: Can I get back to you once I’ve had ‘the talk’ with my current lad? A: Single as fuck
As you can see, we may not have succeeded in creating love but at least they got a free drink! If you want to try your luck (or get a free drink), blind dates will be back next year with the new Relationships Editors - be sure to contact them to get on the waiting list.
MAY 2017
SHANNON JONES & FAYE VLIETSTRA // RELATIONSHIPS
A Case For Dating Older Men by Anonymous
I am sick of going on dates with people around my age, 21. Most of them have no goals, ambition or gentlemanly etiquette. They cannot keep a conversation going, it’s mostly about their interests which are very few and far between and, not particularly interesting half of the time, and their question of ‘what are you looking for?’ - I will figure out whether you have the potential to be during the date, and they are just bland. Whereas dates with older men are much more interesting.They know how to lead and carry an INTERESTING conversation related to your interests and theirs and are just generally good with banter and making you laugh etc... They have been around women for longer and know how to sweep a lady off her feet. Older men have mula (money), at least the ones you are into should, because otherwise you’re dating the 21 year old who never grew up. Older men can spend on you and teach you a thing or two about handling money. Luxurious dates and support with money will come your way. Older men are also more mature. Enough said. Unless, of course, you are dating the idiot who didn’t grow up. They treat you like a princess. Many older men dating younger
women, feel proud that they could get a younger woman and tend to spoil and treat her like a queen. Which is something I do not mind. Older men are also ready to have serious relationships (Adult serious relationships). The guy your age is probably not ready to handle the maturity a proper serious adult relationships needs. He can’t even decide what he wants to do with his life that evening. The older man has probably had lots of previous relationships and so is more experienced in what they require. Even if he’s been a serial batchelor, he has experienced more life and so is more sensible. Also the majority of older men are tired of playing the field (bar those who are still trying to find their youth at an old age) and want a serious relationship.
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ZOE STABLER // CREATIVE WRITING
Drunken Glory Inspired by the lyrics of ‘Glory’ by Bastille
We’re lying with our backs against the solid, cold pavement; our heads against the curb, dangerously close to the road. The velvety black sky far above us is dotted with twinkling stars. I raise my head slightly to take a sip from the glass bottle in my hand before passing it to you. “Aeroplane,” You giggle, pointing towards the sky as you take the bottle from me. I look back up and indeed, there is an aeroplane soaring across the sky. “I love watching planes fly overhead,” I murmur, “Imagining where they could be going.” “Where do you think that one is going?” You ask, amused as you point at another plane. I sigh heavily, feeling my mood drop dramatically in a few seconds, “I don’t know. But, I wish I could go too,” You press the bottle in my hand and I take in a long gulp. In a quiet, concerned tone, you ask, “Are you okay?” The stars in the black abyss above blurred as tears swam in my eyes and trickled down my face. “So many stories were told today,” I whisper, shakily, “Everyone there had a story that they were
by Emily Maybanks
desperate to tell, that they wanted heard; a story about their time with him. They didn’t ring true to me; all their words sounded empty. They didn’t know him like I knew him. Then, when I stood up to tell my story, the words got lost because I’m not ready to share my memories, my stories of my time with him, not yet. I ruined the day. I ruined everything, like I always do,” “You didn’t ruin the day,” You say firmly as I have some more drink, “Just because it didn’t go to plan doesn’t mean that you ruined the day; you made the best of what you had in a very tough situation. I know he’d be proud of you; I’m proud of you,” I remain silent, staring up at the sky, my thoughts eating away at me. The alcohol is starting to have more effect at last. “We can never know how things will turn out,” You sound thoughtful; “We don’t really know anything at all.” I mumble in vague agreement as I have another sip from the bottle. “He’s up there somewhere,”
I sob eventually, letting emotion engulf me, “He’s up there amongst the stars, in heaven. Right now, I wish I was there too.” “No,” Your voice is firm but gentle, “You’ve just had a really rough day,” “Really rough,” I agree, smiling weakly. My emotions are all over the place. “And, from down here, heaven is too far away,” You chuckle lightly and have another drink before handing me the bottle to finish. “I am so drunk,” I half giggle and half sob simultaneously. You gently entwine your fingers with mine, “Me too,” You grin and suddenly, we’re both laughing so hard that I can feel my body aching, enjoying the feeling of laughing. “If I died,” I moan cheerfully, “It would be because you made me laugh so much that I died,” “Can you think of any better way to choke?” You ask; amusement in your voice and I shake my head, giggling, my head spinning a little. We fall silent for a few minutes, simply staring, hand in hand up at the planes and stars in the sky. “Thank you for coming to be with me this evening,” I say quietly,
MAY 2017
seriously now. I look at you, grateful. “It’s absolutely fine,” You whisper sincerely, “I’d rather you call me like today than do something stupid. Plus, I love spending time with you,” I smile and look back up at the sky. “There’s another plane, leaving us behind,” I sigh, gesturing upwards. “Do you wish you were on it?” You ask anxiously. I smile, genuinely, “No,” I reply, “No, I think I’ll take my chances on the curb, here, with you,” You squeeze my hand softly and I turn my face to look at you. “Stop looking up for heaven,” You whisper, “Heaven is here, heaven is being alive, being together; heaven is now,” “Glory,” I giggle, edging a little closer to you. Our entwined hands are resting on your hip. “Gosh, I am so drunk,” I laugh. Your serious tone calms me down a little. “The story you wanted to tell today,” Your voice is soft, “One day, when you’re ready, I’ll listen. I will listen to your words, your story,” “Why?” I ask sadly, “They sound so empty in my brain now.” “I love listening to your stories,” You say sincerely, “I adore hearing your words. All your words are like glory,” Tears sting my eyes again. With your free hand, you lean over and wipe them away before lying back down next to me so we’re nose to nose. I’m nervously excited; heaven; glory. “Your lips look like glory,” I breathe. Before I know it, your lips touch mine, enveloping my lips in a sweet kiss. This is our heaven. Deep, in the middle of the night, lying in the middle of the road, passing the drink from hand to hand, drunkenly setting the world to rights; this is our moment. This is our drunken glory.
AKOSUA DARKO // LIBERATION
Liberation: Year in Review
by Akosua Darko
I am proud to have been Waterfront’s first Liberation Editor since 2015. Thank you to everyone who has read my articles and kept up to date with the column. The past two years have been great for liberation within the student movement. Here are some of the highlights. Jainaba Conteh, our Women’s Officer was awarded NUS inspirational woman of the year 2017. Swansea university had its first black female president, Chisomo Phiri elected in 2017. Robiu Salisu served two years as Education Officer, from 2015 - 2017. I served two terms as Black Students Officer in Wales, but unfortunately did not manage to stop NUS Wales from working with UKIP or getting a
reserved space for a black student for every union that could send four delegates to NUS Wales conference. Heather Wood became Lesbian Rep in NUS Women’s committee in 2016. Hannah Stewart became the LGBT women’s Rep in 2016. What I would say is to people in liberation groups is to always fight for your rights! Be proud of who you are - people’s ignorance is not your problem. You are wonderful. Hateful people are not. Find people who appreciate your beauty and keep them around. Don’t waste time with those who do not. Live a good life, use the services available to you and never be ashamed or feel less than the wonderful person that you are. For those wishing to be activists, be strong! The student unions and NUS may not always support you. But fight for your conviction and your rights, be strong, be unwavering and one day you will win.
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ISSUE 272
Fashion: Where Did It Come From and Where Is It Heading?
MAY 2017
by Ellie Thompson
As my role as Fashion Editor and undergraduate at Swansea University is coming to an end, I’m looking ahead at what I’m going to do once I graduate this summer. This made me think of relating my last article in Waterfront to what will happen to fashion in the future, when I’m no longer writing about it so regularly. When thinking about fashion and attempting to understand where it is leading, it is important to think about its history and how it has developed. Clothing has been around for as long as humans have been on the earth but the the first designer to have a label sewn into garments like we have today was a man called Charles Frederick Worth who owned The House of Worth which is still around today in a revived form. It specialised in haute couture (custom-fitted clothing) and ready-towear clothes that are seen in shops today. Worth was known for preparing several clothing designs for each season which were then displayed by models. During the 19th century when this was all happening, wealthy women
ELLIE THOMPSON // FASHION
would have four changes of dress a day so would often purchase an entire wardrobe from Worth. Department stores emerged (such as Selfridges, Harrods and Bainbridge’s which is now owned by John Lewis) and around the 20th century fashion magazines began writing about fashion and showcasing photographs of clothes which made fashion and style even more influential. During the 1920s Coco Chanel became the first designer to create loose women’s jerseys rather than traditional women’s clothing such as long dresses and corsets. These jerseys were conventionally used for men’s underwear which gave them a relaxed feel and comfortable style and they soon became popular with women and the post-war generation to which the corset seemed old-fashioned and impractical. Fast forward to the 1960s and young people’s income was at its highest after World War II, designers like Mary Quant designing clothes that were specifically aimed at young people – one of these items being the mini dress. Skip to the 1980s and fashion was creative and adorned in block colours, high waistlines and bright accessories with the 90s being pretty much the same but more loose-fitting. So what about the future of fashion? Alexa Chung who has been in the fashion industry since she was aged fifteen and now contributes to British Vogue says: “fashion has the power to create social change and challenge ideas about body image and sexuality. But I feel like the general public don’t take it seriously enough.” In her documentary series about the future of fashion, she explores a talent identification scheme called NEWGEN which was created by the British Fashion Council (yep, they are real) in 1993, which showcases and promotes new designer businesses that we see today. NEWGEN also encompasses menswear
and has been doing so since 2009. Sarah Mower, ambassador for emerging talent for the British Fashion Council and chair of the NEWGEN committee states “there is little awareness in schools and in this parental generation that the fashion industry [in the UK] is worth £28 billion, even bigger than the automotive industry. When asked about what she hopes the future of fashion will be like she says, “I really hope that designers that have established themselves now will be there in another twenty years as great brands and that they are incredibly important employers of the next two generations.” With that being said, it seems safe to say that the future of fashion looks promising. It has been an honour to be able to write for Waterfront and be a part of it and I’ve enjoyed every minute of the experience. I hoped you’ve enjoyed reading my articles on fashion and don’t forget if you want to apply for this role then get in touch with the new team. You’ll really enjoy doing it alongside your studies and it’ll look great on your CV as an example of writing experience. My parting words are these: life isn’t perfect but your outfit can be!
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ISSUE 272
Music Reviews with Harry Ballman Alt J: Relaxer
Alternative art-indie trio prove as enigmatic as ever, boasting a musical collective; surprising their audience with an array of sounds and instruments seems to be their motive. Giving this album a few listens fails to suppress the surprise found within it, hidden nuances lay at the back of the mix, subtle violin and synth characterise another off-beat album. Not wholly in love, Relaxer is certainly a more challenging listen compared to the summery beats of An Awesome Wave. However, songs like In Cold Blood still grasp Alt-J’s obvious indie intentions with gloomy guitar, fluctuating between palmmuting and powerful chord strums amongst a heavy orchestral influences.
Rating: 6/10 Standout Track: In Cold Blood
Blondie: Pollinator
Representing a seeming forty-year musical adventure, Pollinator is a culmination of Blondie’s unique sound. Recorded at the infamous New York recording studio Magic Shop, most notably a favourite of David Bowie and Lou Reed illustrates the magnitude of Blondie’s musical prowess. The almost juxtaposed, typical 80s keyboard alongside a punk guitar style with riot infused guitar solos makes for an interesting listen, with Debbie Harry, the band’s lead singer and co-writer praising the album as a “celebration of recycling”; Pollinator is certainly a reminiscent and nostalgic album reflecting Blondie’s numerous decades at the top of the industry, a rock and disco hybrid of easily accessible, fun loving music. Rating: 8/10 Standout Track: Love Level
MAY 2017
HARRY BALLMANN // MUSIC
Biorhythms with Ballmann: A BBC Radio 6 Interview Our Music Editor Harry Ballmann was given the opportunity to take part in a radio interview on BBC6 Music with presenter Lauren Laverne, speaking about his biorhythms; songs that are an integral part of people’s lives, provoking physical, emotional and intellectual responses.
Physical: Bambro Koyo Ganda by Bonobo
Blink-182: California (Deluxe)
It would surprise me greatly if not everyone in their teenage years went through a pop-punk phase, loving the likes of Blink-182, All Time Low, Green Day and the like. As an almost forgotten band for me over the past five years, they have certainly come back fighting, with an entirely new direction. Indeed, California boasted a number one position in the UK chars, the first Blink-182 album to ever do so, but attempting to get past the unmelodic youthful vocals of Tom Delange is proving extremely difficult. For me at least, he characterised the Blink-182 sound, the one saving grace in the deluxe issue of California is Travis Barker stepping forward, contributing another distinctive voice along-side new lead singer, Alkaline Trio’s Mark Hoppus. Boasting a fun, bawdy and carefree sound, with an underlying mix of melancholia is certainly Blink-182’s talent, seeking to keep their hormonal teenage fan base. The deluxe issue of California’s standout track is Misery, a song which certainly has a new dynamic whilst maintains the remnants of the Blink-182 that was loved by so many.
Rating: 5/10 Standout Track: Misery
I chose this track because the whole album is about fluidity and physicality. The album itself is called migration, inherently about movement. The song’s Moroccan influences, including input from New York based Moroccan band Innov Gnawa illustrates the track’s reach beyond western listeners, inspired by a collective of international music.
Emotional: Truth is a Beautiful Thing by London Grammar
This track’s beauty and emotion lies in its contrast; somewhat subtle and soft at the beginning, launching into something extremely profound and powerful. With Hannah Reid’s melodic voice in conjunction with one piano creates an eerie atmosphere like nothing else, provoking deep and heartfelt emotion.
Intellectual: Euro Child by Massive Attack
As a politics student, I couldn’t help choose this song, it’s rolling satire and gloominess, still as relevant today as 22 years ago at its release. The LP Protection and Euro Child’s EP features a doll, with rings around its head, representing the European Union, with the song almost inferring creating a union out of chaos, something seemingly relevant today, more than ever.
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A Tale as Old as Time by William Kriescher Who isn’t a fan of Disney? We all love them. However, when I heard they were making a live action movie of Beauty and the Beast I couldn’t get hyped; I’d seen the cartoon so many times. One of the reasons I did go and see the film was because it supposedly contained some ‘controversial’ homosexual themes. Would Disney really address the 21st century topic of gay love? Sadly, Disney went with the PG version. Beauty and the Beast is a loyal adaptation from its original. The high-quality acting from a cast consisting of actors like Emma Watson and Ian McKellen made every second a pleasure to watch. The sheer talent on screen takes your breath away. What about those iconic scenes from the original? My biggest fear going in was that these scenes would not live up to my expectations. Fear not, they remain as fantastical and stunning in live action. We all know the ballroom scene from the original movie - Belle’s yellow dress swaying as the couple dance around the floor to one of the most perfect songs in Disney movie history. This film did not make $357 million dollars in its opening weekend by disappointing fans. The biggest issue with Beauty and the Beast is the singing. For 90% of the songs the singing is superb. However, during the quieter moments it is possible to hear the grind of auto tune that makes a musical feel slightly more mechanical than it should. If noticed, it can be a very big distraction from the superb acting that (for example) Luke Evans puts into Gaston. This is a film that will not disappoint even the most hardcore fans of the original, it is well and truly worth going to watch. If you’re going to procrastinate this exam season, you might as well do it at the cinema.
P i c ture cre d i t t o : Bl u e J
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MAY 2017
by Rachel Sanders
Paying obvious homage to films such as Anchor Man, Mindhorn is a quirky black comedy with enough laughs to make you forget how awful it could all be. The audience was (at first) unsure how to take the ‘in your face’ American-style humour, the audience were British after all But the very British cast (inc. Julian Barratt, The Mighty Boosh, and Russell Tovey, Being Human) do a superb job of taking the mick out of themselves. They know the humour is ridiculous and they play it well – managing somehow to find the only shred of believability that could be found. In particular, Russell Tovey as the Kestrel manages to make the audience feel compassion for his mixed-up, evilness, so that by the end of the film we all just want to
RACHEL SANDERS // FILM
take him home and give him a cwtch. The film is ludicrous and it knows it. It is unashamed - even proud and that is its strength. It does not apologise for its bad jokes, one liners or ridiculous stereotypes (Simon Farnaby – The Mighty Boosh and more recently Rogue One - as the stunt man, Clive Parnevik, is definitely my favourite). The film revels in the nostalgia that we all love from a bygone age. It is not simply a hark back to the past however, Andrea Riseborough (Birdman) plays a superb modern day female villain, DC Baines, who does not apologise for her existence by batting her eyelids once AND she looks damn hot in bike leathers – did I mention she rides a motorbike while shooting a gun? Badass. But the best part of all this is that none of it is an issue. None of it is drawn attention to, it is simply taken as given that of course a female character can ride a sports-bike and shoot a gun and be mercilessly
evil. The film sets up her modern contradiction to Mindhorn’s archaic misogyny in one fell swoop right at the beginning of the film when he, acting as a gentleman, opens the passenger side car door for her. The young, male, PC Green (Robin Morrissey) says ‘thank you’ and takes the seat leaving a confused Mindhorn watch while DC Baines, without a word, walks past to the driver’s side. A simple feminist statement that has been done before you may say, but it is done so simply and matter-offactly that it is hilarious to see just how times have moved on when some people (like Mindhorn) haven’t. Overall, this film is a good laugh. It is not going to move mountains with its script but the acting from a wonderful cast and so many cameos from the likes of Simon Callow and Kenneth Branagh make it well worth the watch. If you need some fun to distract you from exams, go and watch Mindhorn.
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RACHEL SANDERS // FILM
by Becky Elms
It’s that time of year again; the sun is shining and we poor students are forced to sit inside cramming a whole year’s worth of revision into a few weeks. It is the time we all dread, and procrastination is inevitable. So, I recommend in the spirit of ‘helping’ you fill that time with some much-needed relaxation a.k.a. Brooklyn Nine Nine - short, twenty minute episodes which will fill out those much-needed revision breaks. Think The Office with handcuffs. The show is set in a Brooklyn police precinct following the lives and adventures of the quirky detectives that work there. Peralta, the smartass golden boy of the precinct, is offset by a new arrival, Captain Holt, whose deadpan expression hilariously contrasts the oddball detectives in the precinct. Boyle, clumsy and with little awareness of the world around him, serves as Peralta’s enjoyable counterpart. Amy Santiago challenges Peralta at every chance she gets and unashamedly sucks up to her boss, Captain Holt. Diaz (a personal favourite) hates everyone she meets and the other characters all add their own unique spark to this weird and wonderful precinct. With three seasons of twenty-two episodes each there should be more than enough content for you to procrastinate with. Happy Revising!
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TheVRzone: Swansea’s New Gaming Experience by Declan Murphy
Right above the High Street Arcade near Gamers’ Emporium across from Argos, you’d be forgiven for not noticing this little gem at first. But keep your eyes on the lookout and you’ll come across theVRzone, the brainchild of Danial and Rhys Morris, a local fatherson duo who’ve got their sights on bringing VR to the masses. Having spoken to the pair, it’s clear to see the passion they have for their business. The time and effort is clear from wall-to-wall, but is it what Swansea needs or even wants? For those of you unfamiliar with the term, VR is the initialling form of Virtual Reality, one of the biggest tech crazes sweeping the world. Danial spoke to me about the lack of a large-scale VR experience company in the UK and how he hopes his more than affordable price and stellar experience is enough to win the hearts of the consumer. And personally, for me, it does. theVRzone has three stations featuring HTC Vive set-ups along with an Oculus driving-sim setup. The range of games, although not extensive at the moment, is promising. The layout is well thought through and thought out. Including retractable cords on the gear, premium headphones, space to fit the recommended Vive moving-area and padded walls, it’s clear that they’re
going all-in with no question of quality and leave all their talking to the gear. Featuring all the games that you’ll find VR-based YouTubers playing like The Lab and Space Pirate, it’s clear that they’ve done their research. Danial spoke to me about how adaptable he’s hoping for the set-up to become, soon to feature games like Paranormal
Activity, Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes and Portal. theVRzone has the potential to become a quintessential part of Swansea activity and gaming range, joining Laserzone, The Gamers’ Emporium and Limitless as the place to spend your free-time along with friends. Given that it’s also a new and expensive market, you’d be forgiven
MAY 2017
for thinking the experience is going to set you back a fair few bob; but instead we were pleasantly shocked to find that for two people the price is a measly £14.50, which when you think about the cost of the equipment is incredible. Danial spoke to me about his reasoning, stating that it was more about expansion and getting people to try it more so
SWANSEASTUDENTMEDIA.COM
than trying to make a quick buck. As a student who isn’t always captivated by ideas on how to spend my weekends and evenings, sometimes feeling like Swansea’s offering is lacklustre and leaving something to be desired, theVRzone fills the gap by offering something not many places in the UK get the opportunity to host at all.
So if you’re looking for something to do this weekend with your flatmates or your society is looking for a great experience day I thoroughly recommend theVRzone. Even if it’s just for the experience of trying VR, it’s something everyone should do. If you’re keen to try it you can book a reservation or ask questions on their Facebook page.
MAY 2017 • WEEKLY EVENTS 01 MON 18:30 23:30 til
Mexican Mondays JC’s
02 TUE 17:00 19:30 til
Swansea Sessions Divas 2
03 WED
04 THUR
19.30
AU Sports Awards Brangwyn Hall
Summer Ball Release date
22.30
GWA Idols & Walkabout Captains Bar
Voting day Local Elections 19:00
10 WED 12:00 16:00 til
17.00
19.00
22.30
Take A Break with Campus Life Bay Campus Library Politics + IR EU Panel Discussion Callaghan Lecture Theatre
til
18:30 23:30
19.30
18:30 23:30 til
Cruse Bereavement Workshop Mosaig Room Singleton Digitech Curry Club JC’s
19 FRI
12:00 13:00
Samaritans Suicide Prevention Talk Mosaig Room Singleton Digitech
19:00 23:30
Karaoke JC’s
22:00 02:00
Tooters Divas
10:00 11:00 til
til
til
til
30 TUE 17:00 19:30
Swansea Sessions Divas 2
20:00 23:00
Open Mic JC’s
til
19:00
Quiz Night 52 Degrees
17:00 23:00
Quiz Night Wonky Sheep
til
Curry Club JC’s
12 FRI 12:00 15:30 til
Puppy Petting Day Mosaig Room Singleton Digitech
19:00 23:30
Karaoke JC’s
22:00 02:00
Tooters Divas
til
til
13 SAT 11.00
19.00
Tolkein 24hr Marathon Lecture Room C Fulton House Musicians’ Concert Singleton Refectory
GWA Idols & Walkabout Captains Bar
til
til
Shoreline Theatre Presents: Doctor Faustus Grand Theatre Arts Wing
Shoreline Theatre Presents: Doctor Faustus Grand Theatre Arts Wing
18 THUR 10:00 12:00
11 THUR
Dr. Who & Sci-fi May the 4th Party Divas
31 WED 22.30
GWA Idols & Walkabout Captains Bar
22 MON TBC
Drugaid Workshop Singleton Advice Centre
23 TUE 17:00 19:30
Swansea Sessions Divas 2
20:00 23:00
Open Mic JC’s
til
til
Voter Registration Deadline General Election 18:30 23:30 til
Mexican Mondays JC’s
19:00
Quiz Night 52 Degrees
17:00 23:00
Quiz Night Wonky Sheep
til
07 SUN
05 FRI 10:00 16:00 til
Clothes Swap Mosaig Room Singleton Digitech
19:00 23:30
Karaoke JC’s
22:00 02:00
Tooters Divas
til
til
Rep Conference Singleton Refectory
08 MON 18:30 23:30 til
Mexican Mondays JC’s
09 TUE 17:00 19:30
Swansea Sessions Divas 2
20:00 23:00
Open Mic JC’s
til
til
19:00
Quiz Night 52 Degrees
17:00 23:00
Quiz Night Wonky Sheep
til
14 SUN cont...
Tolkein 24hr Marathon Lecture Room C Fulton House
15 MON 18:30 23:30 til
09.00 10.00 til
10.30 11.30 til
12.00 13.00 til
18:30 23:30 til
24 WED 22.30
GWA Idols & Walkabout Captains Bar
Mental Health Awareness Week Mental Health Awareness Workshops Multiple sessions through the morning Location Mosaig Mexican Mondays JC’s
25 THUR 18:30 23:30 til
Curry Club JC’s
16 TUE 17:00 19:30
Swansea Sessions Divas 2
20:00 23:00
Open Mic JC’s
til
til
19:00
Quiz Night 52 Degrees
17:00 23:00
Quiz Night Wonky Sheep
til
26 FRI 19:00 23:30
Karaoke JC’s
22:00 02:00
Tooters Divas
til
til
For further information on our events head to our Official Swansea SU Events Facebook page.
17 WED TBC
22.30
Time To Change + Hafal Mental Health Workshops TBC GWA Idols & Walkabout Captains Bar
29 MON 18:30 23:30 til
Mexican Mondays JC’s
Official Summer Ball 2017 packages on sale now! swanseasummerball.com
FREE
CHARLI XCX
GWNEWCH EICH MARC MAKE YOUR MARK
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FREE
CHARLI XCX
GWNEWCH EICH MARC MAKE YOUR MARK
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PENDULUM
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RAYE
// DR MEAKER //
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AJ TRACEY //
NADIA ROSE
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Varsity 2017 A look back at the events of this years Varsity tournament