2018
Lampeter Student Magazine
The magazine of University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Lampeter
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As a prospective student of University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Lampeter, this magazine is for you.
Contents 3 - 4.
Welcome from Lampeter’s SU President Josh Whale
5 - 6. #MyStyle
It’s designed to give you that extra insight into what being a student at Lampeter is really like. The stories are all written by current students and focus on a range of subjects from fashion to rugby, from open days to giving yourself that all-important advice. So now over to our students, we hope you enjoy reading…
uwtsd.ac.uk/humanities-performingarts
7 - 8.
This Lampeter girl can
9 – 10.
Insider’s Guide to Your Open Day
11 – 12.
Letter to my 16yr old self
13.
Tips for Fresher’s living in halls of residence
Hel Welcome from Lampeter’s SU President
My name is Josh Whale and I am the current President of the Lampeter Campus with TSDSU. I am thrilled that we have a magazine coming out in Lampeter, and would like to start by thanking everyone who worked hard to make this happen. Everything included in this magazine is just a small glimpse of life in Lampeter and it’s fantastic to see how passionate students are about the town and university! Life as a student in Lampeter is such a unique experience for a variety of different reasons, it’s not an exaggeration to say that you probably wouldn’t get the student experience that Lampeter offers anywhere else in the UK! Situated in the heart of the Welsh countryside, students who decide to study at UWTSD Lampeter will become a part of the community, which is what makes Lampeter so special. Our campus isn’t the biggest, but this brings its own benefits you won’t get with larger campuses. The relationships you will forge with lecturers, staff and other students will make your time in Lampeter uniquely special. Everyone in Lampeter cares for each other and looks out for one another, and you will always be able to get the support you need to make your degree a success. In Lampeter, you will find over 30 clubs and societies to join. From Rugby to Gaming, Football to Reenactment, we will probably have something to suit you. Even if we don’t, there would be nothing stopping you from being able to create a new society or club, so the possibilities are endless!
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Clubs and societies aren’t the only thing that the Students Union offers for you however. If you wanted to help give feedback on your course and shape how lectures are delivered to students, you could become one of our Course Reps, or even a faculty rep! You can become a part time officer, and help to represent our students, run awareness campaigns, run fundraisers, help find volunteer opportunities and so on. We value the student experience in Lampeter, we strongly believe that all of our activities should be student led and so we are willing to make your idea’s happen. But that’s enough from me. You are about to read what life in Lampeter is like from some of our current students who aptly sum up what it is to be a student here. I hope you enjoy this magazine and decide to come visit us soon! Josh Whale Lampeter Campus President, TSDSU.
llo! 4.
MyStyle
5.
“ I chose to come to Lampeter due to its unique character, beautiful scenery and the freedom to make of it what you will. This kind of freedom I could not find anywhere else and this is thanks to Lampeter’s small size and friendly environment.
FASHION IS SOMETHING UNIQUE TO EACH INDIVIDUAL, THROUGH TASTE, STYLE, CULTURE AND BEHAVIOUR. FOR MANY, WHAT WE WEAR REPRESENTS OUR PERSONALITY, HOW WE FEEL AND HOW WE LIKE TO BE PERCEIVED. UWTSD LAMPETER STUDENTS CERTAINLY HAVE A STRONG SENSE OF INDIVIDUALITY, ESPECIALLY THROUGH THEIR FASHION. IT’S NOT UNUSUAL TO WANDER AROUND CAMPUS AND SEE SOMEONE DRESSED IN CHAINMAIL, SPORTS GEAR, OR BLAZERS, ALBEIT NOT AT THE SAME TIME.
My favourite piece of clothing is a doublebreasted blazer that I found on eBay. We caught up with one student who has a particular style, to find out what inspires him, where he shops and his top 3 fashion tips. We also find out why he chose Lampeter and his plans, now over to Rufus… I am Rufus Malim a second-year undergraduate student reading anthropology. I would describe my style as smart or smart casual; this depends upon the day or event. The inspiration behind this has come from two origins; the delightful dashing outfits worn over the last two centuries, how attractive they have been and the resultant clash it has had with modern day fashion and a personal philosophy. You are only young once in life so enjoy it whilst it lasts to become the best you can be. Mainly I shop for clothes on eBay and sometimes in discount clothing stores (between the two you can find almost anything). This makes for affordable clothing and if you’re buying second hand then it is a more sustainable choice for the environment. After university I am considering the diplomatic service as a potential career choice.
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MY TOP 3 FASHION TIPS ARE:
1.
To be smart. Be clever and thoughtful about the clothing you choose. Does it work as an outfit? Do you like it? How will it affect you and what effects might it have? Is it right for the task at hand?
2. Be relaxed. Find something that you feel comfortable and happy wearing. You have to like the outfit for it to work.
3. Find something that both fits and suits you well. A smart fitted outfit always beats the rest, and this doesn’t only mean the physical. You will want to find, or even design, an outfit that matches your character as well as physique.
6.
This Lampeter Girl Can It’s a sunny but cold day at UWTSD Lampeter and the place is alive with shouts, whistles and cheers. It’s the Challenge Cup Final and teams from across UWTSD and other universities are competing in basketball, hockey, football, netball and more. Being the home of rugby in Wales it’s no surprise that the day culminates with a big rugby match but it’s not just the men’s team we are expecting to see, Lampeter’s Women’s RFC are stretching and warming up on the touchlines. Martha Warren, a final year student speaks to us about joining the women’s team and what it means to be a part of the surge of women taking up the sport.
How long have you been playing rugby?
I signed up to the rugby team in my first year, which was the first time I had ever played rugby. My only previous experience was throwing the ball around in the garden with my dad, brother and dog who is great at catching the ball. Even since I signed up in first year I have been hooked and I am still playing now, I only wish I had had the opportunity at school to play before coming to university.
Where do you train and how often?
7.
We generally train on the university pitches twice a week, we also try and do one fitness session a week. At the moment this has taken the form of 5k training, as we have signed up as a team to do a 5k run in aid of Cancer Research. Although that might sound like a lot of training it is a great way to have a break inbetween work and partying, it also does wonders to clear you head and help boost endorphins.
What is the social side of the sport like?
The social side of the rugby is a big part of what it means to be in the team. While we all enjoy going out and socialising and having a few drinks, that isn’t the only social activity. We are a big close nit family who always support each other. This means that we have study socials every week where everyone can get together and do work. It’s really useful as some of the older girls can help the first and second years with their work if they need help.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
I will be graduating this July and I hope to be able to continue my education here in Lampeter come September. Hopefully I will be doing a master’s degree in Ancient Religions. Most people that study at Lampeter are so enthusiastic about learning that many go onto do further degrees.
Have you noticed that more and more women are taking up rugby since you started?
What has been your greatest achievement since being a student at UWTSD Lampeter?
There has definitely been a massive increase in the number of women playing rugby since I started. In my first year we were lucky to have five girls turn up to training, now we have nearly a full team (15). It has been great to see more and more girls joining in and giving rugby a go. I think it has helped that we marked ourselves very much as a beginner’s team and so anyone who just wants a bit of a run around can join without worrying about any serious matches going on.
My greatest achievement whilst being in Lampeter has probably been my elected position at Volunteer Part Time Officer (PTO). This position has allowed me to make real changes at the University and help the students. One of the highlights has been my four nominations in the Lampeter Awards this year, it has meant so much that people have nominated me, and I feel very humbled.
Why did you decide to come to UWTSD Lampeter?
What advice would you give to other students wanting to join a sports team when starting university?
I decided to come to Lampeter not only because the course here was fabulous, but also because I fell in love with the town and campus. It is so lovely being able to walk down the street and be able to smile at people and know nearly everyone you pass. Having grown up in a rural community, Lampeter has been the perfect place for me as I feel right at home.
The one piece of advice I would give to anyone who was thinking about joining a sports team is: just do it! Everyone on all the teams are so lovely and welcoming. Being on the rugby team has been one of the best decisions I have ever made, it can be really easy to get cooped up in your room as a student and joining a team gets you out of the house. If anyone was worried they may not be fit enough or experienced enough then don’t worry. Every team, especially in Lampeter, has lots of beginners.
8.
Going to university is a big decision, the time and effort that you would put into your years of study would not only shape you intellectually, but also as a person. However, the process of application is not as easy as saying ‘I want to go! Where do I sign up?’ There are many factors to consider and that’s where Open Days come in, they are the perfect taster and sometimes, what helps you decide which university is more likely to be a perfect match.
An expert’s guide to Open Days at UWTSD Lampeter Having been a Student Ambassador for 3 years, I not only have the experience of having been to many of them when I myself went through the process of choosing a university but I can also offer the point of view of someone that has had to work these events and have had to answers many questions from prospective students and their families.
Take a tour
Ask questions
Regardless of what university you are visiting, you are going to have the opportunity of going on a campus tour. Here at UWTSD Lampeter they usually take an hour, although our campus is small, there are a lot of things to know about it, we discuss and view the accommodation available on campus, tell the students tips about the area, talk about the clubs and societies that you can join, etc.
Student Ambassadors know that there are basics that we need to cover, however, the campus tour is not for us! When we tell you to ask questions, we mean it! Ask us anything at any point of the campus tour. I know that it’s not easy to speak in front of a group of people, but you have one hour to ask anything about our campus that you can think of, don’t be shy and make a list if you need it. Don’t go home with any doubts.
9.
“
our lecturers are incredibly approachable and friendly, even if you see them as very serious academics
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Academic sessions
What about Lampeter?
During the open day, there are usually a couple of academic sessions organised so you can get a feel of what it is to be in a lecture. Don’t think of it as a time to listen to the human in front of the class and be quiet, on our campus, our lecturers are incredibly approachable and friendly, even if you see them as very serious academics, feel free to challenge them! Or to tell them that you have no idea what’s going on! It wouldn’t be the first time they’ve heard this. Be productive, ask questions, make the most of the time in your session. If you have feedback on your experience of a particular session, let one of the ambassadors know, positive or negative, we want to hear about it.
All in all, remember that if you are going to an Open Day, you are not only researching your possible future university but also the place that you will be calling home for at least 3 years of your life. Here in Lampeter, prospective students need to make sure they know about our campus but also you should ask about our community; many events that make the student experience what it is are run by our Students’ Union, but there are many others that are run by the town! So get involved, ask about what goes on in Lampeter, what to expect when you move here, and what events are worth keeping an eye out for.
Finally Good luck and remember to enjoy yourself!
10.
6 1 o l l e H ! e m d l o r a e y
We all know that exams, essays and deadlines can be us can extremely difficult, even for the best of us. As none of ive see into the future it’s tricky to always keep a perspect from on things, if only we could get some words of advice even someone who’s been there, done that. Wouldn’t it be re better if it came from the one who really knows how you’ feeling – you? just Tom, a final year student at UWTSD Lampeter did e that, he’s written a letter to his younger self at a stag ssful when he embarks on one of the busiest, most stre but exciting times of his life...
11.
Having completed two years of A-Levels and three years at university, I like to think I have learned a thing or two, and know a lot more now than I did when I was you. To make your life easier, I have a few pieces of advice to share with you.
1
Your teachers weren’t lying when they said that A Levels were going to be the hardest steps in your education. That’s not to say that GCSEs and a degree aren’t hard work and difficult, because they are. However, the jump from GCSE level to A level is by far the hardest transition. Do your best and work hard, and you can accomplish anything you put your mind to.
3 5
You can be smart AND have friends. It may seem like a choice between one and the other, but it isn’t. Work hard to get where you want to go, and you’ll make some of the best friends you can possibly imagine. Lampeter brings together like minded people, and on such a compact campus, you will meet them. Whether they be sporty, a performer, historical re-enactor, or someone else entirely, you will all share a love of Lampeter and the humanities, and this will lead you to meet people you never thought you’d get on with.
Most importantly, have fun! I remember being told in one of the welcoming speeches I was given at the start of uni in 2015 that you will only have around 1000 days at uni, so make the most of them. Even if you have a lazy day, don’t regret any of the decisions you make. Yes uni is primarily about working hard and graduating with a good degree, but it is also your first time away from home, and your first time to fully make your own decisions. So be your own person, make friends, party hard, work hard, and enjoy! You’ll only be 18 and at university for the first time once.
2
Don’t be put off of studying in Lampeter because you think it’s too small. Yes, it’s a small and rural university, and all of your friends are going to large, city based universities, but I can honestly say that choosing UWTSD has been the best choice I could have made. The lecturers are some of the best people I have ever met, and are some of the most knowledgeable in their fields. Add in the archive and hands-on teaching styles, and you’ve got a winning combination! Who would ever have guessed that I’d be allowed to handle 14th century manuscripts as a normal part of the course?! I certainly didn’t, but can now say I have, and what a great experience! Plus, learning in the countryside is really peaceful and relaxing – best way to not stress over your studies. It’s even nicer when it stops raining, it does sometimes!
4
Choose your courses for you and what you think you will enjoy, rather than choosing them because you think they’ll benefit your future. The right courses and modules for you are the ones that you find interesting now, not the ones that sound the most impressive, or you think will read the most impressive on a UCAS application. Choose the subjects you enjoy, and you will get better grades in them because you enjoy them. Don’t choose the courses or modules your friends are taking because your friends are on it, you can make new friends, you cannot force yourself to do well on a course you have no interest in. Choose for YOU.
I hope this advice is helpful, and serves you well. It certainly has me. Good luck, enjoy your journey on the path to becoming me, and revise hard. But don’t stress too much, they’re not worth it. Exams aren’t the end of the world, even if they seem like it at the moment. (I know I said I was done with the advice. I am now, promise... I think...!) The 21 year-old you, Tom
12.
Tips for Freshers living in halls of residence
So you’re starting your first year of university and you have signed up to halls of residence. The summer before September is usually filled with fun, work and shopping for items to take with you to your new home. What you buy may be influenced by the type of hall you have chosen. For example, if you are going to be living in a hall of residence with shared bathrooms, it’s unlikely you will buy bathroom items, such as a bathmat or a personalised shower curtain (this could also be applied to rooms with bathrooms en suite). Living in Halls can be daunting; a new place, new people and new experiences. The first day in halls is different for everyone. Regardless of which uni you attend, halls become places of mixed emotions and anticipation for the adventures ahead. One such adventure is Freshers’ Week, which may in fact be longer than seven days, depending on where you study. Freshers’ is a fun, busy time where you get to mingle before the work starts.
“During Freshers’ Week try to keep your door open. It is easier to meet people this way and get to know your flatmates”
Tip 1.
Tip 3.
Tip 5.
Get a bucket or a washing up bowl, not only for the craziness of Freshers’ Week, but for when inevitably the whole of the university gets Freshers’ flu. It’s even handy for those who don’t drink.
Space in rooms is sometimes limited so it’s worth investing in different storage options as they can not only make moving easier but also help keep the room tidier overall. Multi door hangers can help clear wardrobe space. Try to get some for the kitchen also as there may not be enough space.
During Freshers’ Week try to keep your door open. It is easier to meet people this way and get to know your flatmates. Try to get to know each other and decide flat rules early. Cooking for each other and sharing food/drinks (not necessarily alcohol) is a fantastic way to mingle
Tip 4.
Remember that university is a new chapter of your life and can be chaotic but also fun. Take time for yourself every so often. There can be pressures placed on Freshers to do things they may not be comfortable with; you are allowed to say no and people should respect that. A hot drink or a walk on your own can be cathartic. Enjoy your time and make the most of the experience living in halls and university can offer you.
Tip 2. Home comforts. You may, or may not, get homesick at times. Blankets, favourite pillows and so on are a great comfort while posters and favourite plants, if you have any, can really help to create a space of your own. Check with the university you attend, but some may allow you to move furniture around, creating a personalised space.
13.
Something to cancel noise, either speakers or noise-cancelling headphones. People are noisy and being able to shut out the noise can help if you have active flatmates.
Visit UWTSD Lampeter Visiting the Lampeter campus is a great way to get a true taste of what a beautiful, historic yet forward thinking place it is. We have many opportunities where you can spend a day, an afternoon or even a weekend. From our Student Experience Weekends to our Visit Days, look at our website to see what type of visit suits you. uwtsd.ac.uk/visitus/ lampeter-open-day-booking-form
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I thought the weekend was really helpful when I was choosing which uni to come to... I stayed in contact with quite a few people I met on the weekend and a couple of existing students, who were really helpful with my questions just before I came. Student Experience Weekend Attendee
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