UniVerse | Volume 23 | Issue 9

Tuesday 17th March Volume 23, Issue 9

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Elections cancelled: Recast your votes now!

Kealie Mardell | Print Editor

I have experienced running in several elections myself and

This issue of UniVerse I completely understand how should have been a celebratory the candidates must feel. It is one, announcing the winners of such a difficult time full of hard Hertfordshire Students’ Union work, fun, emotions, tiredness; 2015 Elections. However, on the it’s all very full on.” night of the Elections Results Party, students were informed In the following days, just 30 minutes before the students speculated about the event was due to start that the cause of the “unusual voting results had been cancelled. activity” before it was revealed that “a small number of votes

In an update on their were cast by people using website, the Students’ Union incorrect accounts” on the reported: “We noticed there Students’ Union website. had been some unusual voting activity during the voting Anyone who tried to process. We are therefore sign into the website faced unfortunately unable to the following message and an announce the results of email with instructions on how our elections until a full to revalidate their accounts: investigation is concluded.”

“We would like to make

They added: “We hope to very clear that no personal data complete our investigation as was lost or viewable during quickly as possible, and we will this illegitimate access to our provide you with an update on website and we are confident the situation next week.” They the problem has now been also thanked everyone who had resolved. However, to ensure participated in the elections. that only the right person is accessing your account, After a week of we need all students to now campaigning, and months of revalidate their accounts preparation for some, many in order to continue using candidates were left devastated particular areas of our site.” by the announcement. However, this didn’t stop candidates, As it was not possible to staff, and students alike from isolate those votes which may heading to the EleHouse for have been compromised, it was a night of karaoke, hosted decided to rerun the casting of

by Trident Media’s own Matt votes while the investigation Creasey. continues. Students who voted in the elections would be able

Gurpreet Singh, current to recast their votes from 10am elected President, said: “I Monday 16 March – Friday 20 am absolutely gutted for the March 3pm. candidates as I know they put such hard work into running good campaigns in Hertfordshire Students’ the Students’ Union Elections. Union said: “We would like to

apologise for any inconvenience this process may cause you, and we would like to offer you our sincere thanks for your patience, understanding and participation in our elections process.”

Singh said: “The Students’ Union are doing everything they can to rectify the situation and a full investigation is taking place to ensure that student voting is fair for all those involved, and representative of the students voting. I understand this is a frustrating time for candidates, students and staff alike, but we want to do the right thing and ensure our elections are fair and reliable. We will keep students updated with the progress of the elections and if anyone would like to contact us please do.”

Alex Lowry, a final year LLB Law student, said; “I will be recasting my vote. What happened with the voting was unfair on the candidates. They put in a lot of effort and not just in the campaigning week, these candidates spent months working on their manifestos and their teams and thefore they deserve the result to be as accurate as possible. We should not let these irregular If you have any questions votes ruin the election.” about the elections email contact@hertfordshire.su.

Law and Psychology student Mattey Avgustinov said: Trident Media will “I will also be recasting my vote share any further updates as I want to support the process and the announcement of for better democracy at the SU, our new Elected Officers on and I feel that neglecting to TridentMedia.org. participate in the recast will be the same as leaving the forged votes without consequence.”

Midwives to graduate at de Havilland campus instead of St. Albans Abbey |

Students who voted were Page 3 emailed with the details of the recasting process, which added that those who vote during the For/Against - Are Selfie Sticks socially allocated timeframe will also acceptable? | Page 11 be entered into a prize draw to win one of three cash prizes, ranging from £50 to £150.

How to prepare for a Solar Eclipse | Page 16

“We will be announcing the results on 20 March 2015, and we look forward to sharing Mixed Netball Tournament in aid of those results with you,” said Breast Cancer Campaign | Page 19 Chief Executive Officer Phil Mackay. Due to the ongoing investigation, Mackay was unable to provide any further information.

News •

Features • Health • Sport •

Editorial • 2

Raise Money for Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice Shelby Loasby | Print Editor

Students from the

Students at the University of Hertfordshire are holding a quiz afternoon, with tea, cakes and a raffle packed full of prizes on Saturday 28th March, in hopes to raise money for terminally ill children.

Business and Event Management students, Holly Parsons, Hollie Brodie, Ellie

Written, designed & edited by UH students, and provided by Hertfordshire Students’ Union

Leaning and Gokcen Kurtarici are organising the event to raise awareness and much needed funds for Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice - a local charity, desperate to build a hospice that will provide overnight rest for those who need it.

support for such an important cause.

The Quiz Afternoon will take place at The Coach House Restaurant at Hatfield House on Saturday 28th March, 2-4pm.

Each ticket will cost £10, and all proceeds will go to Noah’s Ark

Parsons said that they Children’s Hospice. The ticket chose to help Noah’s Ark “because will get you entrance to the quiz, of the fantastic work they do for tea, cakes, and a ticket for their terminally ill children and the ‘goody-filled’ raffle. crucial support they provide for the family.” Parsons herself has As it stands, the raffle a disabled sibling who was once prizes include; two nandos feared to be terminal, she said, vouchers, Blow dry at Toni & Guy “It touched our groups’ heart to in London, chocolates, beauty see how they put a smile on the goodies, biscuits and many more faces of those going through the to be revealed. unimaginable, and the continued support they provided after the If you want to buy a ticket, loss of loved ones.” donate or find out more, you can find Altitude Events by email;

The group of students, also altitude_events@aol.com; on known as ‘Altitude Events,’ are Twitter @_altitude events; or on not only hoping to raise money Facebook by searching altitude for the charity, but to also raise events. awareness and generate further

Print Editor

Shelby Loasby Kealie Mardell print.editor@tridentmedia.org

Deputy Editors

Brad Johnson Laura Noakes deputy.print.editor @tridentmedia.org

Sub Editors

Emma Langschied (design) Shelby Loasby (news) Mercedes Brazier (sports) Taveena Atsu (features) Krystyna King (events) Rebecca Harding (photos)

Contributors

Aiden Perrins Carly Benton Berta Kreismontaite Uchechi Ezenyirioha Danielle Palombo Zedella Young Matt Creasey Kieran Burman

Editor in Chief Shannen Rock

Copy Editor Sean Howlett

Contact Us

vp.comms@hertfordshire.su VP Comms & Media Hertfordshire Students’ Union College Lane Hatfield Herts, AL10 9AB

Holly Parsons

Hello readers!

For this issue of UniVerse we’ve decided to have a Committee Takeover, allowing other members to try out different parts of the Committee, in preperation for the team next year! As you can see I have taken over as Print Editor and it hasn’t been easy! Kealie Mardell has been Shelby Loasby | Print Editor my Media Guru throughout

Published by Iliffe Print Cambridge Winship Road Milton Cambridge CB24 6PP the whole process but I have really enjoyed putting this issue together. So to introduce the rest of the Takeover Committee, we have Jennie Couling as our Design Sub Editor, Oliver Price as News Sub Editor, Kat Clements as our Health and Science Editor , Chloe Burrowes as Features Sub Editor, and Aiden Perrins as our new Social

Media Manager. We have all worked really hard to bring you your fortnightly student newspspaer so we hope you enjoy reading it! We have some of our usual features, as well as a new Comments section for student’s opinions, and a Coffee Break where you can catch up on your ‘horoscopes’ and do a little wordsearch.

@TridentMediaUK tridentmedia.org

3 • News

Midwives to graduate at de Havilland Campus instead of St. Albans Abbey Laura Noakes | Deputy Editor

After a change in graduation dates, Midwifery and other Allied Health students have been told they are not going to graduate at the historic St Albans Abbey, where the majority of students have their graduation ceremony, but in the Weston Auditorium at de Havilland Campus.

Anne Austin, Assistant Registrar (Exams and Awards) stated that the reason for this change was, “the obvious factor of a warmer month of September” and, “it was also recognised that holding the ceremonies shortly after the majority of students’ Examination Boards may improve the employability prospects of graduates.”

Anne Austin adds; “This view was endorsed by the Student Union who canvassed student opinion.”

However, many students affected by this decision are disappointed and an online petition has been started by Shannon Wheeler, a third year Midwifery student, to try and get the graduation ceremony moved to St Albans Abbey.

The petition currently has nearly 1000 signatures.

Kirsty Jukes

Shannon states; “We are all feeling disappointed and slightly cheated about the change in graduation ceremony.” She went on to say; “We were told when we applied to the university that we would graduate the same year at the Abbey. The reason why I started the petition was to highlight how many people disagree with the change.”

She adds; “The response so far from the exam office was that it was a decision made by the senior members of the University including the Vice Chancellor to move the ceremonies to September.”

However, the Allied Health professions exam board process is also in September, meaning that they cannot graduate that month. Instead, a graduation ceremony has been arranged for December at de Havilland campus.

If this is unacceptable to students, there has been an offer to graduate at St Albans in September 2016. Shannon states that; “Graduating a year late is unacceptable and unfair.”

St. Alban’s Council

Anne Austin explained, “It is not possible to use the Abbey in December due to Christmas celebrations and graduate numbers are not sufficient to make this a feasible venue.”

Shannon feels that;

“They have not thought about us as students which goes against the university missions and values,” and states that she is, “yet to have a response from the Dean of the School and the Vice Chancellor.”

Other students have also shown their support for the students who have

Herts.ac.uk been affected by this change. Hannah Gladwell, a third year Law student states, “after years of hard work, just because their course finishes later than other courses shouldn’t mean this tradition is not followed. It’s not going to be memorable if they are graduating in a lecture theatre in de Hav!” Do you think its unfair the change in graduation dates has affected students negatively? Share your views on twitter @TridentMedia or on Facebook www. facebook.com/TridentMediaUK.

News • 4

Student Volunteers lend a hand at Bayfordbury Conservation Day Oliver Price | News Sub Editor

A conservation volunteering effort organised by Carly Benton of the Hertfordshire Students’ Union took place at the Bayfordbury Campus on Wednesday 4th March. The event was coordinated in cooperation with the Ecology department at the University.

The volunteer event consisted of coppicing at Hooks Grove; coppicing is a method of woodland conservation very common in England which involves chopping down a section of woodland on rotation every 15 years. This is done to prevent woodland areas becoming overgrown which can result in less sunlight and less wildlife.

There is a large variety of wildlife at the Bayfordbury Field Station. Dr Chantal Helm, academic coordinator for the site, said: “We’ve got snakes; we’ve got newts; we’ve got bats; we’ve got small mammals; badgers.”

Christine North, a 2nd year Model Making student, volunteered for the day: “I’ve wanted to do volunteering for a while,” she said, “it seem like a good thing

to do and I finally had some time off so why not give it a go?”

She said that coppicing, “takes some practice.” When asked if she’d stabbed anyone with a saw, she responded: “Not yet, and I haven’t hit anyone with a tree falling down.”

Robert Searle, Student Activities Coordinator, said, “I just come up here every now and then with the group,” and that, “I do enjoy it. It’s nice break out of the office for myself, it’s a good way for environmental students to get involved… it’s just a nice project. And of course we’re contributing to the University and the community where we’re studying and where we’re all living at the moment, so that’s nice as well.”

Oliver Price | UniVerse

These events, as well as other volunteering events are run often by the Students’ Union, so why not give back to the community? Check out how you can get involved at hertfordshire.su/activities/ volunteering/ Oliver Price | UniVerse

Could you be the winner of the Community Student Award?

Shelby Loasby | Print Editor

a positive impact in the community. This can be due to a single act of kindness, such as; looking out for an elderly neighbour, putting out their neighbours bins or helping a sick neighbour.

The award works via nominations, and anybody can nominate, from members of the public and University staff to fellow students and even local churches and organisations. Nominations are open now until Tuesday 31st March, and the awards will be presented at a ceremony in April.

The judges of the award include representatives from the University, the policing team, a Hatfield resident, a student and the University Chaplain.

Hertfordshire Constabulary

A new award has been established by the University of Hertfordshire’s dedicated policing team, for students who have gone the extra mile to help others around Hatfield.

The Community Student Award will be given to a student who has made

out for an elderly neighbour or volunteered to help others.” She went on to say that the Policing Team “felt it was important to capture this and recognise those students who go the extra mile and have a positive effect on the community whilst they are here.”

Luxford is urging people to get in touch if they have someone they would like to put forward for the award, and also wanted to point out that “the one stipulation is that the nominees are not to be notified of their nomination.”

Deputy Dean of Students, Geraldine Ward, also added, “So many of our students do great things in the local community and

The Policing Team is made up of PC these awards will recognise that. It’s also Dave Murray, and PCSOs Louise Luxford a great opportunity to work together with and Christie Hurley, who all work closely the University Policing team in highlighting with the University and students to student success.” keep the the area safe. According to the complete University Guide, the University If you know someone who deserves of Hertfordshire was the safest University the Community Student Award, please in the East of England, and the Policing send your nominations to PCSO Louise Team have worked hard to keep it that Luxford - louise.luxford@herts.pnn.police. way. uk by Tuesday 31st March, and outline the name of the student and what they

PCSO Luxford said; “Hertfordshire have done to make a difference to the students do have a positive impact on their community. community. We often hear stories about how students have helped by putting bins

5 • News

Mixed Bag Society hosts Herts’ Got Talent

Shelby Loasby | Print Editor

Thursday, 5th March, saw the Mixed Bag Society hosting their very own Herts’ Got Talent night in the Comet Room on de Havilland campus.

Over 135 people took part, showcasing their own societies’ talents and showing the large audience of students, friends and family what the university has to offer.

Tinith Pitakandage, Chair of the Mixed Bag Society, explained that they started organising the event after the Re-Freshers Fair, and “were hoping to bring societies together and make a platform for students to show their talents in every form, and not in any competitive manner.” He also said, “We wanted to give all our fellow societies an opportunity to promote themselves and gain recognition for their talents.”

Yam Yam Current Elected Officers, President Gurpreet Singh, and Vice President Student Activities, Bella Colafrancesco, were the Judges alongside Advice and Support Manager, Anwar Azari. After each six acts, the judges revealed their thoughts and comments, leading up to the finale where the winner was announced.

The night kicked off with a buffet of Asian foods in the Atrium, ranging from noodles and rice to curries and unusually green desserts.

The Society wanted to cater food from different countries and ordered through various outlets including Sambol Express, Asher & Debby foods and a Chinese caterer in Hatfield.

The talent show began around 8pm with UnionTV Director, Matt Creasey, presenting. After an introductory promotion video from the Mixed Bag Society, the first act, The Musicians’ Society, took to the stage.

They performed their own compositions of ‘Chariots of Fire’ and the James Bond theme.

Conductor and Chair of the society, Liam Richards, even brought along a martini glass and a toy gun to complete the look. The Musicians’ Society performed again later on in the night. Judges described the Society as professional and of a high standard. Colafrancesco went on to say that they looked like a “fantastic society to be a part of.”

After each six acts the judges would make some comments and the audience got a quick five minute break.

Following the Musician’s Society, the first portion of the evening saw; the energetic Salsa Society; operatic and confident singer Nikhil Samuel; a group dance from the Malayali Society; elegant singer Rushini Godakanda, and the entertaining K-POP dance group.

Unfortunately, during the first acts, the foam letters that spelt out ‘Hert’s Got Talent’ that were attached to a curtain on the stage, began falling off. Whilst it distracted the crowd, the performers continued professionally.

After a short break the next six acts showcased their talent. The Ukulele Society came out with their relaxing rendition of Keane’s ‘Somewhere Only We Know’; Vihara Prabodani sang a native song, with elegance and class; the Hip Hop Dance Society blew the audience away with their dance and body-popping skills; the Bhangra Society followed with another group dance act; band, ‘Nada Bout’ U, performed ‘Cough Syrup’, ‘Let It Go’, and Maroon 5’s ‘This Love,’ and ballet dancer, Josephine Tiew, finished off with a graceful and elegant performance.

The next portion of the evening saw the likes of; Matt & JDeep, whose performance was atmospheric and slowly built up to an explosion of sounds; the Salsa (Bachata) Society with their saucy duo dance; the Bollywood Dance Society with their unique, diverse and energetic performance; the Sri Lankan Society, a band who performed well known songs to get the crowd going; the Bboy Society, with a fast-paced dance routine, and Shwetha

Yam Yam

Joshy, who performed a solo Baratha dance.

The final part of the evening welcomed two muscial acts; Musty and his band, and STYLEE B. Musty performed two of his own songs, ‘Blind’ and ‘Lost at Sea’, whilst STYLEE B rapped and sang a song whilst looking at and holding Colafrancesco’s hand.

Last but not least, was the Mixed Bag Society’s performance. They finished the night off with a bang, showing off their choreographic skills, dancing talent and sheer energy.

The night ended with a few words from the Judges about how amazing the event had been. Azari explained that the night had shocked him.

“It’s such a surprise to see this amount of talent.” He said, “You walk around campus all day and you don’t know what is hidden behind people’s faces...

It has been an exposure of cultures.”

Singh also added a few words, “We see societies doing a whole lot of activities and to see what everybody gets up to is amazing. There’s a whole lot of talent at Hertfordshire.”

Singh then revealed that the winner of the Commendation prize for Herts’ Got Talent was the Bollywood Society.

Colafransesco also added that “The Mixed Bag Society only got affiliated two months ago, so it is a fantastic achievement to put on an event that early.”

She then revealed that the winner of the award for best performance were Matt & JDeep for their musical maturity and enchanting performance.

Whilst the night had been heavily influenced by Middle Eastern and Asian cultures, there was still such a large variety of people showcasing their talents. The Mixed Bag society had worked so hard to produce such an amazing night of high quality performances.

The society are also hosting “Face of UH” in a couple of weeks, and are hoping to host a sports day and cricket festival in the summer. So watch this space!

For more details about each act, photos of the performances, and video footage of the event, head over to Tridentmedia.org and youtube.com/Tridentmediauk

Yam Yam

News • 6

What’s on in March Krystyna King | Events Secretary

Not only is it National Nutrition month (the month before the chocolate eggs), there is also National Puppy Day on the 23rd and National Awkward Moments Day on the 18th of March to enjoy. Trust me, there’s a day for spinach and another one for chip and dip…

Still, if you have time to break away from your spinach or your puppy here is your list of up and coming events. With the sun beginning to shine, don’t get stuck in the library all week and check out what the University and London has to offer!

University Of Hertfordshire St Patrick’s Celebrations Date: Tuesday 17th March 2015 Time: 10am - 2pm Venue: The Atrium, de Havilland Stressed with assignments?

Take some time out to embrace the Irish culture. Look out for celebrations around campuses, or choose one of the many pubs in St. Albans!

teensunitefightingcancer.org

Six Nations Final Date: Saturday 21st March 2015 Time: Noon - 7pm Venue: EleHouse, College Lane Any Rugby fans?

12:30PM Italy V Wales 14:30PM Scotland V Ireland 17:00PM England V France Hatfield Rocks presents FUNERAL FOR A FRIEND + supports Date: Saturday 21st March 2015 Time: 7pm - 11pm Venue: Forum Hertfordshire Price: £13.50 (General 14+) 14+ SHOW Hatfield Rocks is presenting: FUNERAL FOR A FRIEND live with support from Vales and Employed to Serve. Tickets went on sale from 9am Friday 23rd January- Did you get yours?

Go Ape Date: Wednesday 25th March 2015 Time: Noon - 5:30pm The 50 Day BBQ and the Pub Venue: Trent Park Society’s Beer Festival Price: £25.00 (Student) Date: Tuesday 17th March 2015 Go Ape’s the UK’s number one Time: 2pm - 5pm (10pm Beer forest adventure. The Go Ape Festival) experience is a 2 hour Tree Top Venue: Outside the EleHouse, Adventure. You will be briefed College Lane for safety before flying down Price: Free (£2.50 a pint) those zip-wires! The £25 also includes return transport.

Teens Unite love Fashion Date: Friday 20th March 2015 Time: 7pm - 11:50pm Venue: Tewin Bury Farm Hotel Price: £50 Teens Unite Fighting Cancer is dedicated to improving the lives of young people aged 1324, with cancer and other life limiting illnesses.

White Water Rafting A fashion show will be hosted Date: Friday 27th March 2015 by Teens Unite Fighting Time: 11am - 4pm Cancer! So enjoy an evening Venue: Enfield for £50, which includes the Price: £25.00 (Student) fashion show, a champagne Enjoy the experience of a reception and a 3 course lifetime as you raft the Olympic meal. For more information rapids on their 300m grade 4 on Teens Unite Fighting course. Equipment is provided Cancer or to donate then - just bring your swimmers and please check out their website: a towel. What a great break

from all those days in the Book your tickets at: library! designmuseum.org/ exhibitions/ For more information or to book tickets to any of these London Chocolate Festival at events, please check out the the Business Design Centre Hertfordshire Student Union Business Design Centre website: hertfordshire.su London Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty Date: From Saturday 14th March 2015 until Sunday 2nd August 2015 Venue: V&A, Knightsbridge Price: £9 for full time students, otherwise £16 online Savage Beauty is the first retrospective of the work of the late designer Alexander McQueen. He was known for his dramatic and boundarypushing designs, which delighted the fashion world.

The exhibition showcases McQueen’s MA graduate collection through to his unfinished AW 2010 collection.

Savage Beauty is sure to be the golden fashion ticket of 2015, so book soon!

Book at: vam.ac.uk Deisgn Museum

Designs of the Year 2015 at the Design Museum Date: From Wednesday 25th March 2015 to Monday 23rd August 2015 Venue: Design Museum Shad Thames Bermondsey London SE1 2YD Price: Adult Ticket: £11.80 to £13.00 per ticket Child Ticket: £5.90 to £6.50 per ticket This annual event, now in its’ eighth year covers all areas of design, showing innovation and originality, from across the globe. Seventy of the greatest creative talents exhibit their work, with previous winners including folding plugs and the London 2012 Olympic Torch. Be amazed and inspired by the creations that will be implemented in your lives in the not so distant future.

Date: 27th March 2015 to 29th March 2015 Venue: Business Design Centre 52 Upper Street Islington London N1 0QH Price: General Admission: £5 Tasting Ticket – includes general admission, the Best Brownie Ever trail and one session at The Tasting Lounge - £15.00 VIP Ticket – includes Tasting Ticket plus use of the VIP Lounge (with complimentary tea and coffee), and The Chocolate Festival Bag for Life - £35.00 In the spirit of Easter (almost!) indulge in all things chocolate as the London Chocolate Festival arrives at the Business Design Centre. This is a festival for chocoholics to discover the finest of chocolate creations.

The tasting lounge is where you can indulge in chocolates selected by expert Martin Christy or relax in The Cocoa Spa with Hotel Chocolat, whilst having luxurious cocoa butter beauty treatments.

There is also a Health Zone which includes samples of free-from and raw chocolate, where you can learn about their surprising health benefits. Yes, chocolate has health benefits! This year’s event is paired with the Cheese and Wine Festival. Tickets cover entry to both shows.

For tickets and more information: festivealchocolate. co.uk Business Design Centre

7 • News

Career Events to keep in your diary Krystyna King | Events Secretary

letter that will maximise your chances of getting an interview. Come along and find Work Experience Fair out why preparation is key and The Fair features an exclusive understand what employers line-up of employers, including are looking for in your CV. large corporations and SMEs. Date: Tuesday 17th March As well as networking 2015 opportunities for jobs, there is Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM an opportunity to learn more Venue: N212, de Havilland about employers’ recruitment processes in depth, and Effective Interviews understand what they are Have an interview coming looking for in their shortlisting up? This workshop will help process. Available to all you know what to expect and students. how to prepare. Interviews Date: Tuesday 17th March are demanding, but use this 2015 opportunity to maximise your Time: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM chances.

Venue: Atrium, de Havilland Date: Thursday 19th March 2015 Get that job! Brilliant CVs that Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM get results Venue: N212, de Havilland This workshop is focused on (More times and dates to be producing a really effective confirmed soon) and targeted CV and cover

Shirley Parsons AssociatesGraduate and Final year opportunities An exciting opportunity for final year students and graduates to find out about becoming a Recruitment Consultant.

Date: Thursday 19th March 2015 Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Venue: de Havilland campusroom R115

Venue: A161 Creative Edge: Digital Entrepreneurship and Creative Careers University of Hertfordshire’s School of Creative Arts presents a day of professional training and entrepreneurial engagement. The Creative Edge event includes 3 presentations, of which you can attend two: LinkedIn – a new window to your creative career The office is dead: has all How to apply for jobs in design business moved on-line? and produce an amazing Doing business online – Digital portfolio Entrepreneurship and Creative School of Creative Arts Event Careers How to apply for jobs in design Date: Wednesday 1st April and produce an amazing 2015 portfolio with Brinley Clark Time: 12:00 PM - 5:45 PM Designer from www.the- Venue: Lindop Foyer and A154, partners.com A161, A166 Date: Thursday 19th March To book your places at any 2015 of these events, log on to: Time: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM careerhub.herts.ac.uk

Crush Radio and Crush Underground March Schedule

Listen to the UK’s longest running Student Radio at 1278AM, Tridentmedia.org/crush or Tune In! You can also listen to Crush Underground, for new and alternative music. There’s plenty for everyone, from Two Divas and a Ginger to Night Life Anthems. Check out the schedules below!

Crush Radio

Time 08:00-10:00 10:00-12:00 12:00-14:00 14:00-16:00 16:00-18:00 18:00-20:00 20:00-22:00

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Breakfast Show

Breakfast Show

Breakfast Show

Breakfast Show

Breakfast Show

Country on Crush

Saturday

Sunny Side Up Sofia on Crush

Louis Reader and Friends Mash-up Madness

Tunde’s Takeover

The Podcast Guys

AM in the Evening

Linu and Bryony

Jenny Wangui

Dan & Sam Drive Time Jack’s Jukebox

Gammon & Joe’s Notorious Show

Two Divas and a Ginger

My Radio Show

Culture Shock

22:00-24:00

ABC

Added Time Late Night Lionel

It’s Nearly Friday

Crush Underground Time 08:00-10:00

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

10:00-12:00 12:00-14:00

Andrew Parce and Katt McEwan

14:00-16:00 Aisha Kasmani Dida Show?

16:00-18:00 18:00-20:00 20:00-22:00 22:00-24:00

Glen on Underground The Juniper Show

Caz’s Cassettes

Thursday

Friday

Lashura van Heerden Isoa Tupua

Caz’s Cassettes

Etelka Chung

Sunday

Kingsley Onwusu Brobbey

Sleepy Sundays

Veka Uchenna

Anya Lazarus The Folkish Show

Saturday

Beth James Nich Bagnall Anmar and Mizar

Chesh Irecat JK

JWande Somoye

Matyas Koloh Night Life Anthems

Luke Heudebourck

Features • 8

Blogging Tips from Trident Media Kealie Mardell | Print Editor

a topic, trying a product, or attending an event. Interviews also play a key part, as

There are well over 160 million having original quotes from people can blogs out there and countless people are help bring your blog post to life. taking on the role of a ‘blogger’ either for personal interests or to help further their How to write a post careers. I was recently joined by Shelby Loasby and Madeleine Odelia to host This structure varies across a blogging workshop, with advice and different styles of news and features, but information for new bloggers. Here are it provides a good foundation to make some of our highlights; sure you’ve covered everything.

• Introduction (who, what, where, why, Before you blog when) – Make sure your readers know

what your post is about and have all

Before starting a blog, think about the key information why you are blogging. Every blog should • Main points – Tell the story! Flesh out have a purpose, whether that’s a niche the key information and fill in the main topic to cover or a specific goal to achieve. body of your blog post.

With this in mind, you need to have a clear • Quotes and extra information – Start idea of who the audience of your blog will adding more in depth and personal be. No matter how much you love writing details, this is where your research and it’s not worth it if nobody is going to read interviews will come in! it! The content of your blog and each post • Conclusion – One of the best ways to should be centred around this purpose end your post is with a call to action. and targeted towards your key audience.

Encourage your readers to comment or share your post, or signpost where to

If you are starting your own blog, go for more information. then two of the most popular platforms to use are Blogger and WordPress. Both are After you blog free and easy to use, so why not try both and see which you feel more comfortable Don’t just click publish! Everyone with? makes mistakes and it’s pretty embarrassing to put your mistakes on the

When you start your blog you should internet for all to see. Now is the time to make sure it has a catchy and relevant proofread your own work and ask others name so that people know what it’s all to do the same. Once it’s ready and live about! online, make sure you share it!

With your ideas in place, there are a couple of things to do before you start writing: Research and interviews. You need to have a solid understanding of the subject area, whether that’s researching

Writing for the web

When you start blogging you will probably come across a lot of information about search engine optimisation (SEO).

This essentially means making sure that people find your post when they’re searching for information. Here are some of the things you can include to make your writing more engaging and web friendly: • Pictures

• Quotes

• Links

• Keywords

• Videos

• Social Media

• Headings

Social media is perhaps one of the most crucial parts of writing for the web.

You should be sharing your posts across different platforms and engaging with others who have similar interests to your blog. Nobody is going to read your work if you don’t help them find it!

I n t er es t ed i n v ol u n t eer b l og g i n g ?

Hertfordshire Students’ Union are looking for volunteers to blog about all the great things our student volunteers are doing. This could involve going to an event and writing a summary or interviewing students about volunteering. Volunteer blogs are found on hertfordshire.su under “Look What We Did” and could also be published by Trident Media.

If you are interested in writing for the volunteer blog or would like more information about blogging workshops, email; volunteering@hertfordshire.su.

9 • Features

Why Student Volunteering Week was awesome Volunteer bloggers keep us up to date Berta Kreismontaite | Volunteer Blogger with Student Volunteering Week.

Student Volunteering Week 2015 was an undoubtedly highlight of the year!

It was a great experience being a part of the committee and directly contributing to organising the week’s events and get involved in recruiting student volunteers.

We were pleased to meet so many proactive students who are willing to give up some of their time and share kindness.

Volunteering opportunities targeted mostly problematic areas such as poverty; we ran a food drive to give to homeless shelters. We also encouraged students to lead an environmentally friendly lifestyle by visiting local parks to plant trees (all 1600 of them in one day) and running short daily litter picking sessions on and off campus. Finally, SVW15 was a great occasion to celebrate all the work UH volunteers have been doing during the year and to demonstrate to the others that we love having fun. Free social events involved movie screening, afternoon tea, playing laser tag at Quaser and learning how to bake and decorate cakes. Finally, Carly Benton | Volunteer Blogger having nearly 500 students taking part in the activities during the week and

Our Student Volunteering Committee registering for future opportunities were a fantastic bunch of students who suggests that HertsSVW 2015 was truly a really got stuck into planning fun and success! engaging activities for Student Volunteer Week 2015! It was a pleasure working with Uchechi Ezenyirioha | Volunteer Blogger the committee to design a whole array of activities and a HUGE thank you goes to SVW 2015 has come and gone but that dedicated team of students as well as it has left behind cherished memories... the volunteers who took part and enjoyed As an international student this was my the week’s events!Some of the committee first time experiencing a fully-fledged have written about their experiences. volunteering week run by students and

I must say, it was worthwhile! From the planning sessions to the execution, I totally enjoyed myself. My most treasured moments came from the look on people’s faces when they were told that whatever we were doing was for free, no strings attached (hot chocolates, free cakes etc.) It reminded me of how much I loved helping people and just to make people’s lives better by doing simple acts of kindness.

I’m really excited to be a part of something so selfless and I hope to participate in further events.

Danielle Palombo | Volunteer Blogger Helping out during Student Volunteering Week was a brilliant way to get involved in local volunteering as well as a great chance to meet other volunteers.

During this week, each of us felt a strong sense of community which helped to create an extremely memorable week.

#HertsSVW 2015 Baking and Decorating Session Zedella Young | Volunteer short demonstration from the Blogger Society and a member creating rose toppings, volunteers were Student Volunteering given piping bags and were Week introduced six volunteers let loose on the cakes with to the Baking Society and all different colours, flavours and the sweetness that comes with design heads, as they created it. Jumping first into playing different designs including with sugar paste, Joely O’Brien lettering, animals, the moon and Holly Parsons, who run and stars before adding the society, demonstrated different sprinkles. how to create different types of sugar paste flowers, and all Once all the cakes had the different techniques that been decorated, the remaining help to make the flowers more icing was offered to all with a realistic. Once the flowers sweet-tooth and a spoon. As were slowly being mastered, the session came to a close, creating leaves added the volunteers were encouraged finishing touch to the sugar to take one of their decorated paste lessons. cakes. At the end many were interested in joining the society

Volunteers then moved after their first-hand paste and onto icing cupcakes. After a piping experience.

Features • 10

Meet your Lecturers: Ian Finlayson Taveena Atsu| Features Sub Editor

Finlayson sees everyday as a “stimulating challenge” as he explains

Ian Finlayson is a lecturer in a range that no matter what is planned, there’s of different business subjects, as well as no way to tell what mood the teacher, or English Language. He keeps himself busy the students, will be in. But challenges like and commutes between Hatfield and these make Finlayson enjoy teaching.

London as he is also a professor at the European School of Economics.

He suggests that building a relationship with your lecturers helps in

However, Finlayson hasn’t always the long run. And that teachers appreciate been in teaching. He tells us that, just before feedback too, as it can help increase working at Herts; he “was a management productivity in the classroom. As long as consultant working for American and you approach them in the right way, the British firms for eight years.” He has relationship you’ve built with yours will done his fair share of career changes too; enable you to do just this. “before that, I worked in banking and packaged goods in various marketing and Finlayson highlights the rewards of senior management roles.” “working with interesting people, people who have their lives before them.” He tells us that learning isn’t just a one way thing,

Finlayson spent many years in the “I learn a lot from students, believe you corporate world but said he “decided to me.” It’s hugely rewarding for him to think teach because, after graduating, I did a that he’s made a difference in people’s bit of teaching which I greatly enjoyed.” lives because for him, teachers played a Clearing his mortgage gave him the key role in shaping the man he is today. freedom to pursue a career that he “found “There were three teachers in particular more meaningful than making more who helped to make me who I am. And money than I needed in corporate life.”

I know from many students that I come across, I make a difference in their lives.”

He said, “When you’re in the classroom there’s nobody telling you what to do,” and that the high level of autonomy, variety and contact with others in teaching means that “it offers a lot of amusement... a lot of delightful moments with many people.” For Finlayson “there’s no doubt about it, my life is richer because of what I’ve been doing for the last few years …. And there’s no time limit on how young or old you have to be which makes it even better.”

Ian Finlayson

Grumpy Corner: Happy People or even a doctor. But how can someone, fictional or not, be perpetually happy? It’s just not a realistic character in my opinion.

Aiden Perrins | Chris Daniels

Aiden Perrins | Social Media Manager

In 2014 Pharrell Williams sent out some kind of brainwash song and now people seem happy, like, all the time. When I go to my lecture at 9am on a Monday morning I don’t want to be greeted by an upbeat smile, I want the sentence: “Hi, how are you? How was your weekend?” to be condensed into a tired grunt, please.

Lots of people being really happy around me would be similar to my version of purgatory. As if happiness was the eighth deadly sin.

It could be said that I am old before my time, but as I see it there is nothing wrong with being grumpy and appreciating a nice, hard chair which doesn’t hurt my back.

This is not saying I am never happy, but I love to rant about things, so when I am happy I enter a strange paradox where I’m annoyed at how happy I am. I am never happier than when I am getting annoyed at anything that doesn’t really matter. These insignificant irritations include people who read the descriptions in a box of chocolates before selecting one; seriously - just take a risk for once in your life.

I’m also not saying that I don’t want other people to be happy. I want other people to be happy, just as long as they’re doing all their happiness far away from me.

I have no problem with being bashful, dopey, grumpy, sleepy, sneezy

Aiden Perrins | Jacob Beckingham-Wells

11 • Features

Are Selfie Sticks socially acceptable?

In each issue of UniVerse, two of our writers go head to head on an issue. The opinions expressed here are their own and are not endorsed by Trident Media or Hertfrodshire Students’ Union. If you’d like to have your say then message us on Facebook or Twitter @TridentMediaUK!

AGAINST

Aiden Perrins | Social Media Manager

If aliens came looking for intelligent life and found us using Selfie Sticks they would just fly right past Earth. Come on people, why do we need to take photos of ourselves from ever so slightly further away than we used to? Why do we want our photos to look like we have someone on a lead we drag round to take photos of us?

I can see that if you want to get some more background in the photo then maybe you would like the camera to be a little further away, but we used to just ask a passer-by to take the photo for us.

When we take photos and upload them on Facebook do we seriously expect people to go through all 453 pictures in “Summer 2014”, or are we realistic in knowing people might look at our profile picture and then not be bothered about the other 452? In reality does it matter what the photos look

Now, I should probably like, or does it matter that we state that I’m not a huge fan had a good time wherever it of selfies to start with, but I was we took them? appreciate why other people would like them. But selfie These devices are such sticks do the lovely job of awful pieces of equipment that letting you into an exclusive some museums have actually club of dickheads. They are the banned them. Although I’m not cheaper equivalent of driving sure that Selfie Stick owners a BMW, or the more expensive are the kind of sophisticated equivalent of saying the phrase members of the human race ‘lol’ out loud, instead of actually to actually go to a museum, or laughing like a normal human. even know what one is.

Shelby Loasby

Shelby Loasby Shelby Loasby

Shelby Loasby

FOR

and possibilities. We take these types of selfies to share with the world, to say ‘I was

Granted, Selfie Sticks there.’ Whilst whipping out are embarrassing, attract a Selfie Stick is a moment of attention and the majority of embarrassment, it is a sacrifice people hate them. But who we should be willing to take in cares? It is essentially just order to create an awesome, a stick. They have existed memorable photo. for years in the form of a monopod - even GoPros have Parties are also a great them. Unfortunately it has excuse. As soon as someone been branded a ‘selfie’ stick pulls out the Selfie Stick, which will obviously come people love it, no matter what with negative connotations, their previous reservations but it’s just another form of were. However, most people photography. It means that are drunk at parties so the people can fit more into a photo, alcoholic influence may have rather than struggling to fit something to do with it. people or a landscape in. And for those shy people out there So whilst some people who don’t like asking strangers who have Selfie Sticks are to take pictures of them, or are arguably self-obsessed and scared someone will steal their vain, others just like to use it as camera/phone, the Selfie Stick an inclusive tool. As much as I is a great invention. hate to say it, this is the world we live in now. Selfies have

The photo will also become a part of our culture look awesome. It takes away and it’s best to embrace it. Go the little duck-face selfies we out and buy one! You can’t be a are used to, and opens up the hater until you try one out for selfie to more perspectives yourself.

Shelby Loasby | Print Editor

Comment • 12 Opionions expressed here are the writer’s own and are not endorsed by Trident Media or Hertfordshire Students’ Union

Jennie Couling | Design Sub Editor

When I first heard about the Ask Her More campaign I was a little sceptical.

Yes, I’m a feminist and believe that female celebrities should be treated in the same way as male celebs, but I’ve always been confused by those who see feminism and fashion as incompatible. Why can’t a woman be intelligent and love her own style? I do want to know what a celebrity is wearing and who made it, but I also want to know about how they feel about being nominated, hear more about their work, and what they plan to do next. And that’s where the problem lies - if you actually listen to a whole red carpet interview with a female celeb (which, admittedly, I hadn’t until recently) many of them don’t make it past talking about outfits. At best it’s a “Who are you wearing?”, at worst “Are you going to be able to eat while wearing that?” (seriously, I’m sure these women are capable of choosing an outfit that allows them to function as a human). If you’re still unconvinced of the insanity of it watch Buzzfeed’s interview with Kevin Spacey as if he were a female actor.

Joe Shlabotnik | Flickr media to #AskHerMore! Let’s go beyond at both the Globes and Oscars. Those who ‘who are you wearing?’ and ask better stuck with the typical “Tell us about how questions! #GoldenGlobes” and within you got ready for this event”, “Are you minutes fans inundated lazy reporters going to be able to eat while you’re wearing with suggestions for better questions such that?” and “How do you balance your career as; “What did your character teach you?” and your family?” were challenged and “What else would you like to achieve in E! had to remove their Manicure Camera your career?” and “Tell us about a woman after so many celebs reacted negatively, or who really inspired you.” flat out refused to participate.

It would be easy for us to think that none of this affects us - what are the chances of us making it onto the red carpet anyway? But Hollywood has always shown the best and worst of society and it’s so unavoidable that there’s always a trickle down into everyday life.

So while women are only being asked about how they look, we’re perpetuating the idea that that’s all that matters. We all know is ridiculous - pretty might help but it’s little use without brains, and even less comfort if you can’t pay the bills. These celebs are talented artists, not mannequins.

So let’s hope #AskHerMore survives until the next award season, because I want to know about Reese Witherspoon’s new production company and Julianne Moore’s work with Save the Children just as much as I want to see their dresses.

#AskHerMore was started by Amy Poehler at the Golden Globes which she

hosted with best bud, Tina Fey. Phoeler, as part of her Smart Girls community (“change What are your thoughts on #AskHerMore? the world by being yourself”), tweeted, The campaign was a hit with celebs and Let us know at @TridentMediaUK “The #RedCarpet is open and we want the left many a sloppy reporter embarrassed

13 • Comment

Why are students turning to Sugar Daddies?

Taveena Atsu| Features Sub Editor

As students, most of us can identify with being skint at one point or another throughout our university lives. Money management isn’t a skill that we are all endowed with, but how far are us students willing to go to get money these days?

Here, I explore what a sugar daddy/baby is, and just how popular this phenomenon is becoming with students of today.

A sugar daddy is a wealthy, older man who likes to spend his time and money on younger women. And a sugar baby is the woman who likes to spend their time with this man, reaping all the material benefits that come with his company.

According to the Mirror, there are students who, earn up to £25,000 a year from their sugar daddies. With a luxurious lifestyle that includes trips to Dubai, an Audi TT (which could pay your tuition fees) and a monthly allowance of nearly £2000 a month.

Brandon Wade, owner of one of the world’s most popular sugar daddy websites claims that the increase in tuition fees has had a knock on effect on the growth of his website, with more than 42% of his users being students, says the Huffington Post.

According to The Independent, students at the Universities of Cambridge, Kent, London School of Economics, and Middlesex all appear in the top 20 Universities for sign-ups to sugar daddy websites in 2014. This suggests that all different types of student seem to benefit from having a sugar daddy.

But has this gone too far? On the one hand, it could be argued that signing up to a sugar daddy website is just as harmless as signing up to a normal dating website, except you know the net worth of your future partner. In addition to this, as stated earlier, the rise in tuition fees, (as well as high levels of unemployment) have made it harder for students to earn cash - especially not in the amounts they would be earning from these sugar daddy websites. Sugar daddy websites make it easier for younger people to lead more financially stable lifestyles, without the burden of having to actually go out and work.

young people to be dependent on others by taking advantage of their well-earned money. But hey if it’s what they both want then who are we to judge?

The increased popularity of sugar daddy sites highlights the shifting values of society today, as well as some of the fundamental issues. If our generation would rather stay at home and spend someone else’s money as opposed to go out and work hard for it, what’s in store for the future?

Would you consider a Sugar Daddy? Let us know at @TridentMediaUK

Having said this, just with any online dating website, there is always a risk of endangering yourself meeting people.

Although some people’s ultimate goal is to have financial stability, independence is a life skill that many should possess, and these sugar daddy websites encourage

Matthew Vehn | Flickr

Opionions expressed here are the writer’s own and are not endorsed by Trident Media or Hertfordshire Students’ Union

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Comment • 14

Illustrated by Oliver Price

We need science and medicine in the NHS, not astrology.

Opionions expressed here are the writer’s own and are not endorsed by Trident Media or Hertfordshire Students’ Union Oliver Price | News Sub Editor David Tredinnick is the Conservative MP for Bosworth. He is also on the Health Committee and Science and Technology Committee in government. He also believes that “one day astrology will have a role to play in healthcare” and could be used to treat patients and reduce over crowding.

This is not good. Why is a man, whose scientific knowledge could be written on the back of a postage stamp, have any voice at all in matters relating to science?

I’ll tell you why, it’s because science doesn’t matter to most politicians. Science isn’t opinion based, it’s not based in your feelings, it’s based on actual evidence, which can be repeated and verified.

Astrology doesn’t have this.

Tredinnick compared those who disagree with him to racists: “They are also ignorant, because they never study the

subject and just say that it is all to do with what appears in the newspapers, which it is not, and they are deeply prejudiced, and racially prejudiced, which is troubling.” Mr Tredinnick, in my opinion, is the troubling one; the fact that his not science (because it isn’t) can be represented on a scientific committee is a travesty, and the fact that he thinks his ideas are above scientific scrutiny is quite frankly pathetic.

Why isn’t someone like Julian Huppert, Lib Dem MP for Cambridge, on the science committee? The man has a PhD in biological chemistry, for heaven’s sake! But of course, MPs with scientific backgrounds, are actually a minority on these committees.

In fact, only three out of the ten MPs on the science and technology committee actually have degrees in any kind of science, and one of those isn’t the chair (although in his defence, he did work as a technician).

Professor Brian Cox has the right idea, calling Tredinnick an “outlier on the spectrum of reason.”

Tredinnick’s complete lack of scientific understanding is demonstrated in his interview with the Astrological Journal: “Astrology may not be capable of passing double-blind tests but it is based on thousands of years of observation.” A double blind trial is a common scientific test used in medicine where one group of people are given the real treatment, and the other group are given a placebo (essentially designed to trick the patient to believe they have the real treatment, so the psychological effects are nullified). Neither the doctors nor patients know if they have the real treatment, so when the results are released the actual potential treatment is tested against the fake one.

Tredinnick rightly points out that astrology does not pass this test, but he just doesn’t care. Scientific rigour clearly doesn’t matter to him

Honestly, it’s quite scary that this man has the power to allocate health and science funding across the entirety of the UK. This man should be removed from his position on the science committee, and maybe be put in charge of a Committee for Rubbish And Poppycock, along with Gillian McKeith, Deepak Chopra, and John Edward. Not a parliamentary committee, just something that takes place in a Wendy House.

In fact, the entire science and technology committee should be completely reformed, with one simple requirement: You have to have a background in science or technology, preferably some kind of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) degree. Not a PhD in advanced quantum mechanics, but you should, at the very least, know how the scientific process works, which David Tredinnick clearly does not.

15 • Health and Science

Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week

Jennie Couling | Design Sub Editor

tone and are shorter than average height.

The 16th of March marks the beginning of Down’s Syndrome Awareness week.

Some people with Down’s Syndrome suffer from other health complications: around half are born with a congenital

Every year the charity Down’s heart defect; most have difficulties with Syndrome Association focus on a different their hearing and many have problems aspect of living with Down’s Syndrome. with their eyes and gut.

This year they’re looking to encourage people with Down’s syndrome to take part However, having Down’s Syndrome in activities they enjoy and get involved in doesn’t have to be limiting. People born their local community. They are looking with Down’s Syndrome have gone on to be for stories from people with Down’s actors, rappers, models, artists, olympians Syndrome about their favourite activities and graduate with honors. and hobbies.

There are plenty of ways to get

Down’s Syndrome is a genetic involved with this year’s Down’s Syndrome condition caused by an abnormality in Awareness Week. You can donate, hold chromosome 21 (usually trisomy-21) and a fundraising event, buy a membership affects around 60, 000 people in the UK. to offer support and advice for those with the syndrome, or even order your

Each person with Down’s Syndrome own Awareness Week Pack. Go to downsis affected differently, but many have syndrome.org.uk to find out more! learning difficulties and physical characteristics such as reduced muscle

New font to help make a difference to the lives of dyslexia sufferers Taveena Atsu| Features Sub created as part of Boer’s thesis Editor whilst at Utrecht Art Academy, and changes the shapes of

A new font called letters so that they are clearer ‘Dyslexie’ has been designed to those with dyslexia.

by Dutch graphic designer Christian Boer to try and create Diston knows that “there a stress-free reading experience are a number of different for others, like himself, who fonts” and that “font type does have dyslexia. We give you make a difference to dyslexic an insight on the new font students” but also recognises and interview Emma Diston, the importance of the font at Hertfordshire Disability size and the actual language Services to get her thoughts on used. In addition to Dyslexie, it too.

Diston says there are a number

The font was originally of great resources offered

which “explain how to lay out the current educational climate a document for best effect and materials should be in an to enable access to all people”. accessible format and available electronically to enable all

There are a considerable students to view their materials number of people at the in their preferred style.”

University who have dyslexia, and not all of whom were Dyslexie font style is diagnosed before their degrees. widely used in a variety of It’s not always discovered places, and appears to make throughout childhood which life easier for those who use is why there is a “diagnostic it. However, it’s important to service offered here at the remember that other factors University.” contribute towards learning, so if you’re suffering from Diston believes that dyslexia, it doesn’t always have “teaching styles and materials to hold you back - there is a wide should be dyslexia friendly” range of support available. and the University supports this too. A range of different If you or somebody you styles of support are provided know would like more learning to students with dyslexia, based support, visit herts.ac.uk/ on their needs and methods of about-us/disability-services study.

Diston agrees that the font used in the University should be accessible to all and tells us that “The font style and size currently used in all marketing was agreed in line with dyslexia.” Having said this, she also believes that “font style should never be a barrier to learning” continuing that; “in

Christian Boer | Studio Studio

Health and Science • 16

How to prepare yourself for the solar eclipse Oliver Price | News Sub Editor

On the 20th of May, the biggest solar eclipse since 1999 will occur across the UK. UniVerse had a chat with Mark Gallaway, the Principle Technical Officer at the University of Hertfordshire’s own Bayfordbury Observatory, about the eclipse.

Mark Gallaway explained that a solar eclipse is caused when “the Moon gets between the Earth and the Sun, and casts its shadow on the ground.”

Essentially, the Sun will be almost completely blocked by the moon, giving a beautiful shimmering effect around the Sun. This halo around the Sun is called the corona and is actually always there, but it is normally very difficult to see.

Gallaway gave a few tips for any of those wanting to take advantage of this once-in-a-decade opportunity.

“You certainly shouldn’t be looking at it with any kind of optical instrument unless you really know what you’re doing,” he advised. “We’ve got solar telescopes up here [Bayfordbury Observatory], so we’ll be using those, but the main telescopes won’t be used to look at the Sun as it’s far too dangerous, a good way of losing your eyesight.” - like ants under a magnifying glass.

Make sure you look at it “somewhere not cloudy,” he suggested. He also advised viewers to not “look at the Sun with the naked eye or even sunglasses; you can buy inexpensive solar glasses from

The eclipse won’t be a all good online retailers, and total eclipse anywhere in the they work fine, they cut out the UK, as the Moon will only most of the light to make it cover about 80% of the Sun, but safe.” He added that, “welding Gallaway said that it will be the goggles do quite a good job as best “since 1999, and probably well,” so if you happen to have the best until 2026”. a pair lying around (for some

reason), you can save yourself the £2.99 a pair of solar glasses would cost. He reiterated that, “you shouldn’t use sunglasses, it won’t cut out the ultraviolet light and it will do horrible things to your eyes.”

When asked what scientific research Herts would be doing with the eclipse he said: “We’ll be recording the eclipse. But we’re doing some work with the University of Reading to look at the meteorological effects of the eclipse, so we’ll be looking at the drop in temperature and the drop in sunlight. Because it’s a partial eclipse we still get quite a lot of sunlight hitting the ground, so we’re using our atmospheric monitoring equipment to do that.”

directly at the sky, mainly used to observe the weather conditions to see if they are suitable for imaging the sky, but it will also be likely to capture some nice images of the eclipse. The allsky camera can be found at: star.herts. ac.uk/allsky

He urged students to go and watch the eclipse: “You’re not going to see another one for 11 years in the UK. Basically go somewhere where you get a good view of the horizon... The eclipse starts just before 8am so you need to be able to see the Sun before eight.”

Jessica Schonhut, the Chair of PhySoc, said to watch the UHPhySoc Facebook page, as they are organising an event to go to observatory to observe

He said, “And of course the eclipse - a prime spot to we’ve got our daylight allsky watch it with minimal light camera so it will be fed on that, pollution. so anyone can see it no matter where they are.”

The allsky camera is a rounded camera that looks Allsky camera | star.herts.ac.uk/allsky

Bayfordbury | Flickr

Bayfordbury | Wikipedia

17 • Coffee Break

SUDOKU Difficulty: Medium

5 9

7

4 6 1 8 9 4 1 4 2 9 6 4 7 8 3 2 1 9 4 1 7 7 3 6 5 2 4

Results will be published online at Tridentmedia.org on the 20th March

HOROSCOPES Jennie Couling | Design Sub Editor

Beware the cape.

This is a time of great decisions for you. The stars have no answers. You’re on your own, kid.

Something’s coming. Don’t know what, don’t know when. But something. Could be life changing, could be a fiver in your pocket. Don’t get your hopes up.

No easy way to say this, but it’s going to be a left shark kind of month for you.

WORDSEARCH A L L N I G H T E R R E V I S I O N BADLIFECHOICES STUDENTFINANCE D E A D L I N E S T H E F O R U M D I S S E R T A T I O N S VODKA E N E R G Y D R I N K L R C M O U L D P I Z Z A

Love is in the air... floating around... Right past you.

You’ll be feeling adventurous this month.

Go with it. But don’t bother with the peri peri pot noodle. Not worth it.

If at times you feel anxious this month, try thinking about all the assignments you have to do. Then bury those thoughts deep, deep into the back of your mind. Procrastination is your friend.

One day you’ll get fed up of spending half your life apologising for when someone else bumps into you. Then you will knock someone and forget to apologise. The horror.

You will find your soulmate in the forum this week. Look behind you and there they’ll be. With their tongue down someone else’s throat.

Bananas are an excellent source of potassium.

Jupiter is being a right bitch this month. Test the fire alarms.

This month is going to be tough. But I have three words for you: treat yo self.

Sports • 18

One week to go - One League is already settled Matt Creasey and Kieran Burman | Contributing Writers

Edging constantly closer to the end of the season, gameweeks 5 and 6 have proved testing for Mouthampton, having been stripped of their 100% winning streak in a 1-0 loss against arch rivals, and last season’s finalists, Jägerbombs.

Convincing form, shown by Christian and Luke Durrant in Mouthampton’s famous yellow shirts, inspired the entire team to a 4-0 win over Nike Elites the following week.

Dixie Normous, as vice captain Liam Rivers predicted at the start of the season, find themselves in the mix at the top of the table heading into the final week after impressive performances from central midfield partnership Luke and Idris, and not to mention last week’s hat-trick hero, Mitch Simpson.

Nike Elites have slipped to third but still have a very outside chance of winning the league. However, Yankie Duzbeyaz will have to get his team riled up to win by at least 13 goals in the final gameweek if this is to happen. Jägerbombs were unfortunately unable to reach the final this semester despite having been the only team so far to have defeated last season’s tournament runners-up Mouthampton. Dan and; with Emilio were both highly influential as a central midfield partnership, Emilio

showing what futsal has taught Matt Creasey | Union TV him over the years, with a few touches of finesse in and around the box. Brisbane Eme also played very well as a utility man throughout the semester, however, Jägerbombs let too many results slip at the start of the semester.

Ever entertaining, weeks 5 and 6 saw Herts of Midlothian concede their first goal of the semester against Born again Ballers, but still come away with a 2-1 win as well as the emphatic team securing the title against third place Hangover 96. Both contests saw Herts struggle, something they were not used to, and this showed with tempers flaring and 5 yellow cards being shown to League B’s new Champions in gameweek 6. Star man, Lee Rix, struggled for the first time this semester with Hangover’s captain, Charlie Pearson, and centre-back, Joe Beard, who pushed up the field to mark Lee out of the game and get under his skin - it showed in his distribution and lack of discipline.

Despite this, they managed to strike up a 2-0 victory, proving the worth of the whole team with another clean sheet. Midlothian are now off to the final with one gameweek still to play - a great feat. We wish them the best of luck.

While 2 Goals 1 Cup and Hangover 96 are still both

in the fight for second place, results would very much have to go Hangover’s way for them to take the silver. Trequartista Andre and their Captain, Tobi Olasupo, have to stay composed and perform how they have been all season in order to capitalise on the position they have set for themselves going into the final week.

Down at the bottom of the table, Herts Army recorded their first win of the semester which lifted them off of the bottom of the table for the first time in 6 weeks, albeit only on goal difference. Class on Grass have taken that final spot and it will be interesting to see who finishes bottom of the pack after the final gameweek.

19 • Sports

Mixed Netball Tournament in aid of Breast Cancer Campaign Imogen Wallis | Contributing Research UK since 2010, as Writer part of an event proposal for one of their modules.

On the night of 26th With seven teams involved February 2015, the de Havilland including the University’s Sports Hall was full of the Hockey team, Cheerleaders (the sound of cheers and laughter, Sirens) and BUCS league Netball as the atmosphere heated up team, a mixture of experts and for a friendly mixed netball beginners played for eight tournament in aid of Cancer minutes a game to decide who Research UK. the semi-finalists would be.

But, most importantly, who Imogen Wallis would be winning the free tickets to the Forum that were up for grabs.

The games went by quickly as the tension and pace rose, with the boys using the basketball games to show off their bounce pass skills.

However, there could only be one winner leaving teams ‘Victoria Secret’ and ‘BDCPVII’ to play for first place.

By the end of the tournament a stream of supporters had flooded in to watch the final game and cheer for their hopeful winners whilst Organised by three the organisers sold sweets and second year Sports Studies ‘Race for Life’ merchandise. students, Clare, Holly and Emily the ladies decided to The last game was made align with the England Netball up of two six minute halves team, whose members have consisting of expert passing been raising money for Cancer skills, plenty of goals and

Imogen Wallis unfortunately one substitution due to an awkward fall.

As described by Siren member and final year Events Management student Victoria Keen, “The evening has been so much fun! I’d love to get involved in more sporting charity events however, I think the team and I need to better prepare for the next one if we have to play against the boys again!”

Event organiser, Emily, said; “It has been a but I am so glad place. It gives confidence for charity event.”

If you would like to get involved in raising money for Cancer Research UK visit cancerresearchuk.org.

The night ended with team ‘BDCPVII’ taking first place and a total of £90 raised for the charity.

Herts Halls League Hall Bellingham Court Fern Spalding Coales Hadham Redbourn Ashwell Lemsford Telford Court

Points 14 13 12 9 6 6 6 4

Participation 44 58 46 76 49 31 27 80

Hall Butler Chapman Broad Welwyn Shenley Watton Sandridge Sarratt Kimpton Aldenham

Points 4 3 2 2 1 1 0 0

bit stressful it all fell into us all great next week’s

Participation 50 73 31 14 27 19 23 13

Correct at time of printing 13th March

Throughout the academic year, Halls will get points for their success in competitions (such as Quiz Nights or sport competitions) and for their participation in events. Make sure you let us know loud and proud which Hall you are in. Not only will the winning Hall be crowned Hall League Champions at the Students’ Union Awards but they will also win an exclusive Hall Party in the Forum! For the all the latest from the league visit hertfordshire.su/halls