FREE! Issue 46 // September 2018 By Students, for Students
HERO OF THE PARKING LOT
A TRIP TO WALLSEND MOSQUE
#YAKSNAP: WORLD TOUR
Trivia, Crossword Puzzle, Comics, Horoscopes, Sports & much MORE!
Yak Magazine // May 2018
YAK
MAGAZINE The September Issue
Yak would like to acknowledge the Pambalong clan of the Awabakal people, and the Darkinjung people, traditional custodians of the land in which Yak is made and distributed. We pay respect to elders, past and present.
Cover - Jassmin Mihell Designed by:
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EDITOR’S LETTER Just picture it…you’re sitting there, ice cold drink in hand, half-read book draped over your chest and the sun beaming down on your face… welcome to Spring. But then it dawns on you, that assignment is due tomorrow, not next week, plus you have that quiz coming up. You jump up, throw your book to the side and snatch your laptop up in one quick movement. Ah second semester, the time when we all start asking ourselves…how important is my tertiary education? Fear not fellow students, Yak is back to provide you with some much-needed distraction from the insanity that is university. Find your perfect uni playlist with this month’s Student Sounds, which pairs you and the best track for your mood, or if this semester is feeling
We are Yak Media: the University of Newcastle’s student media channel, run by UON students. Our three platforms: Yak Magazine, Yak Online, and Yak TV – are run by dedicated teams of students. Yak works hard to bring you stories covering all aspects of student life, from health and wellbeing, to travel and entertainment, to politics and study tips. Let us know if you have any suggestions for story ideas, or if you would like to get involved.
a little lonely have a read of Dear Yak for some tips on making friends throughout your degree. In the mood for something thought provoking? Read up on the Disastrous Drought, or learn more about Islam in Newcastle in A Trip to Wallsend Mosque. If even this fails to distract you from your second semester deadlines, flick through to Yak Snap and ponder your own holiday break coming up in a few short weeks. Whatever you’re interested in this semester, we’ve got you sorted. Enjoy Spring in all its shining glory and, as always, happy reading.
From Mon and the Yak Team, x
Submissions The Yak editorial team is always on the look out for passionate student writers and graphic designers to contribute to the blog and magazine. If you would like to take the opportunity to get your work published, please send a sample of your writing or graphic design work to:
yakmedia@newcastle.edu.au
Stay connected
Yak Magazine is a free publication supported by Student Central at the University of Newcastle © 2018. www.newcastle.edu.au
www.yakatuon.com facebook.com/YakMedia twitter.com/YakMedia instagram.com/YakMedia yakmedia@newcastle.edu.au
UON
Printed by PrintCentre on Callaghan Campus. Yak Media is SSAF funded.
HAVE YOUR YAK
EDITORIAL TEAM
Monique Aganovic
Elizabeth Symington
Marcie Cheers
Jack Moran
Managing Editor (Mag)
Deputy Managing Editor
Deputy Managing Editor
Managing Editor (Online)
Exuberant
Awkward
Adventurous
Intense
Nadene Budden
Angelique Carr
Arlya Tuckey
Camilla Lian
Promotions Coordinator
Editor
Editor
Editor
Procrastination
Messy
Imaginative
Eccentric
Claire Ince
Hannah Simmons
Monique Smith
Editor
Editor
Editor
Olivia Wilson-Wheeler Editor
Sleepy
Positive
Bubbly
MIA
“Describe yourself in one word.”
Shea Evans
Nikola Jokanovic
Reid McManus
Alice Kjoller
Editor
Editor/Photographer
Lead Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
Curious
Boujee
Stresshead
Party!
Amy Lewis
Bonita Maher
Jassmin Mihell
Sim Hamisi
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
Perfectionist
Unobtrusive
Queen
Effervescent
Contributors: Laura Miller Niklas Gaal Rebecca O’Donoghue If you would like to contribute, email: yakmedia@newcastle.edu.au
GETTIN’ PERSONAL WITH A PRESENTER Meet Gabe Parker, Yak TV presenter and James Bond enthusiast 8. What is your favourite fast food franchise, and what do you think this says about you?
1. Summer or Winter? Justify your answer, use proper referencing. It’s winter for me. Just go to Buzzfeed for 27 reasons why it’s the best. All your arguments against it are invalid.
Burger Urge! It says that I have an urge for burgers I guess. 9. What three questions would you ask to one famous person? To any actor or film maker:
2. What is your go-to procrastination method? Definitely YouTube or gaming, guarantee no work will get done if I’m doing one of those.
1.
Can you give me a job?
3. What degree are you doing? Communication! Majoring in Media Production and Media Studies.
2.
Can you give me a job please?
4. What do you wanna be when you grow up? Always wanted to be an actor since I was really young but just anything to do with film and television is the dream.
10. What’s the worst goddamn movie you’ve ever seen? Why was it so damn bad? There are too many but I’m just going to say Nicolas Cage as a whole. Love the man; he is a national treasure (love Face/Off and many of his other movies) but God damn he has done some bad ones lately. Can’t trust him anymore! You’re letting me down, Nic.
3. (Refer back to questions one and two, repeat until successful or kicked out).
5. Settle this one for the people. Coke or Pepsi? Coke, purely because of Vanilla Coke. *drops mic*. 6. Best and worst things about UON?
11. Which character out of the Shrek series do you relate to the most? The giant Gingerbread Man in Shrek 2 because I’m tall as well.
Best thing is meeting heaps of awesome people who have the same interests as me. I think I speak for everyone that the worst thing is doing assignments.
12. Write an emoji poem about yourself.
7. Which show on Cheez TV back in the day should Netflix reboot, and why? Probably the 60s Spider-Man show because it’s amazing‌ enough said.
Designed by: Alice Kjoller
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Interviewed by: Nikola Jokanovic
Yak Magazine // September 2018
MANAGING YOUR MIND: SEEKING HELP ON CAMPUS So, the second semester is in full swing. You’ve got assignments piling up and you’re falling into a rhythm, but how are you looking after your mental health? Whether you’re a first-year student grappling with your second semester, a uni veteran powering through your final years, or a post-grad facing a big deadline, we all know the struggle of balancing uni, life, and our health. October is Mental Health Month, so why not take the time to reach out to a friend, or reflect on your own mental health. Below are a few resources you can access as a student.
with course work, Student Central can point you in the right direction and recommend services (like PASS or student mentors) that are available to you and that are specific to your degree. Peers, Faculty and Clubs & Societies I know this one sounds obvious, but if you’re feeling stressed or down try establishing relationships with those around you, or reach out for advice. This option will not work for everybody, but speaking to your peers in your degree, emailing a lecturer for advice, or joining a club or society may be exactly the comfort you need throughout your second semester.
Counselling UON offers a counselling service across most of their national campuses. For those who can’t access the service in person, there is online counselling available. The service is free and easily accessible. If you feel like you need to know more about the service before you go, jump onto the Online Counselling webpage and have a look at how you can access the service without any hassle. Student Central If you don’t feel comfortable accessing a counselling service, or you feel that you may not necessarily need to visit a counsellor just yet, consider dropping by Student Central to ask for advice. If you’re feeling overwhelmed
Written by: Monique Aganovic
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Yak Magazine // September 2018
DEAR YAK I’ve been feeling lonely on campus, is this common? How can students like myself (mature age) reach out and make friends? The Natural Approach – Claire As much as ‘age is just a number’ when it comes to friendships, it can definitely complicate things. When I first started uni, I was 17. Although this doesn’t seem like a big deal, looking back I do think it was the reason that I had trouble making friends in the beginning. Throughout semester one, the only time I really got to hang out with anyone was AT uni, because I couldn’t get into any of the parties that my peers attended. By the time I was old enough, the novelty of said parties had worn off, and my peers opted for smaller gatherings; and because they’d already formed bonds at these mysterious shindigs without me, I felt like I was constantly fifth wheeling.
Unfortunately, there is no simple formula to making friends, but in my humble opinion, the old saying “stop looking” works a treat. If your sole purpose at uni becomes making friends, I can almost guarantee that you will either fail (at making friends and probably your courses too), or become someone that you’re not in order to relate to people that deep down, you know you don’t even really want to relate to. For a while, I found myself trying to force friendships and adopt an outgoing persona (which I don’t have), but the moment I decided that it didn’t matter anymore, I met someone that is now more than just a ‘uni friend’ to me. All in all, patience is your best asset, and I promise your time will come.
The Ballsy Approach – Camilla Tell you what, I believe almost everyone on campus feels lonely (sometimes). I also believe that most of us have that inner child hoping for a potential friend to come and sit down for a chat, and to share a coffee – or whatever you’re into that is café-related.
happen to click with the person who sits next to them every Tuesday in their 8am lecture, finding themselves a friend for life. But for most of us, making friends requires putting yourself out there. This can be hard, especially for my fellow introverts, but it’s not impossible!
“Become the change you wish to see in the world,” a wise human once said. So, seize the day like the champion that you are, hunt down a desirable looking target and strike up a conversation. That person will most likely find you weird at first, but at least you gave them and yourself a more interesting day today. Perhaps you could open with something like, “Hi, sorry to interrupt, but I don’t know anyone on campus - do you want to be my friend for a few minutes?” Who knows, that person might be feeling exactly the same as you, and might have been hoping for someone to notice. If not, what have you got to lose?
One of the best ways to find your people on campus is to join a club. At UON there are so many different clubs to pick from, ranging from the Quidditch Club to the Goonion, with each one advocating to a wide variety of needs. No matter your interests there is something for everyone, introverts and extroverts alike, with the option to start your own club if you want to! Joining a club is truly the easiest way to find like-minded people who share your interests and most clubs require very little effort on your part, aside from a small joining fee.
I believe you can do this! Remember that getting used to talking to strangers is the first step towards building relationships in all aspects of life. Now, go get that friend!
University can be rough sometimes; but having even just one friend to count on can make being a broke, stressed out uni student just that little bit easier. So, do yourself a favour and get out there, and get involved. Your tribe is waiting for you. For more information about joining clubs
The Involved Approach – Monique
and societies on campus visit the UON website!
It’s no secret that making friends at university can be hard, which can make you feel pretty lonely at times. Some people get lucky and just
Do you have a question for us? Send your submissions to yakmedia@newcastle.edu.au Designed by: Sim Hamisi
ISLAM IN NEWCASTLE: A TRIP TO WALLSEND MOSQUE Designed Photo by: Shea by: Evans
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Shea Evans explores the Novacastrian branch of Australia’s fastest growing religion The history of Islam in Australia is a long one. The monotheistic faith has roots in this country dating back to the mid-1600s, when Makassan fishermen came to northern Australia in search of sea cucumbers. These fishermen brought with them metal, rice, tobacco, and cloth, as well as their religion. Anthropological studies of north Australian indigenous groups, such as the Yolngu, have found that the influence of the Makassans is still active today. This influence can be seen in indigenous art, dance, oral tradition, and burial practices. Islam became firmly established as a religion in Australia in the 1860s when 3000 camel drivers arrived from Afghanistan and the surrounding regions of modern day Pakistan. These men were instrumental in opening up the interior of Australia, their camels being much more suited to the harsh outback than horses or donkeys, and many of them married and settled in central Australia. The first Australian mosques were built by these pioneers, whose descendants still worship in them today. The institution of the White Australia Policy in the early 1900s saw an almost total halt placed on Islamic immigration, and the vast majority of Muslims were restricted from entering the country. The end of the policy in the 1970s, however, saw a boom in Islamic immigration and Muslims from many nations settled in Australia. They came from all across the world, for all kinds of reasons, and brought with them their rich and vibrant cultures.
Today, apart from being the first non-indigenous faith in Australia, Islam is also one of the nation’s fastest growing. Census data collected by the Australian Bureau of Statistics in 2016 shows that Muslims accounted for 2.6% of the general population, a significant jump from the 2.2% of 2011. In all, 2.6% of the population means that 604,200 Australians identify as Muslim, though the true number could be higher.
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2016
Yak Magazine // September 2018
Despite the firmly long and ongoing history of the Muslim population in Australia, Islamophobia still pervades the minds of many. At an open day held at Wallsend Mosque, the second stop on my interfaith journey through Newcastle, I learned that a member of the community had kicked down the fence of the mosque house two or three times.
open the door, it’s good. If we don’t open the door then we don’t know each other, but if we open the door we know each other more. And if we know each other more, we love each other more.” Salwan Ameen, Executive Chairperson for the Newcastle Muslim Association, said that there were “a lot” of University students who worshipped at the mosque. According to Ameen, the mosque plays a major role in assisting these students who might come from overseas or from a refugee background in settling into their new Australian life.
Brother Shahryar, a Wallsend Mosque trustee, said that despite this and other occasional forms of discrimination the Muslim community wasn’t taking it personally. “We don’t think that the whole of Australia is like that; we don’t take it as an attack on us… We take it that in every society there are good and bad people. Everywhere in the world is like this.”
Because the mosque does not espouse one particular sect or branch of Islam, brother Shahryar says it acts as a safe place that the University of Newcastle can recommend to any of its Islamic students. “We have a very good relationship with the University. It uses us as a reference, saying, ‘There’s a mosque in Wallsend, they’re good, we trust them.’”
“We don’t think that the whole of Australia is like that; we don’t take it as an attack on us” The open day was held in order to build bridges with the community and clear up any misconceptions, according to Brother Shahryar, “We have this day to make sure people know what Islam is about…you can ask questions, you can see us, you can listen to us, and you can come and see if there is something that contradicts what you think you know.”
Figures obtained from the ABS show that in 2016 there were 1,877 Muslims living in Newcastle, and Salwan Ameen says that these people come from everywhere. “We have people from Africa, from Asia, from Australia, from Europe…from Britain, I’m from Iraq, another from Iran, and we have people from Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Malaysia, we have people from Egypt, we have people from Algeria, we have people from Morocco.”
Shahryar, who has been involved with the mosque since its foundation in 1985, said that its open door policy was key in strengthening intercommunal understanding. “As long as we
Salwan states that the international dynamic that makes up Newcastle’s Muslim population is a unique situation when you look at it, and believes that part of the beauty of having such
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Yak Magazine Yak Magazine // September // May 2018
a diverse congregation is that, “We are not only doing our religion together but also thinking about how we can improve on our society.”
“As I left, I noticed a pile of freshly kicked in fence palings beside the mosque-house”
Brother Shahryar says there are also plenty of Syrian and Afghani refugees who live in Newcastle. These displaced persons gather at the mosque because, “they are free and secure here, they feel free and secure here.” It is a place of great benefit to their lives, where they can feel familiar and safe. The mosque and the Newcastle Muslim Association provide more than just faith based assistance to its multicultural members. Shahryar says, “it’s not only religious reasons we help. It’s also to show them Australian culture, some of the manners, some of the rules, because you have to think about where they come from. They come from different rules, from different countries. It’s all mixed up for them, they have to learn everything here, so we try to guide them and teach them as much as possible.”
gifted. As I left, I noticed a pile of freshly kicked in fence palings beside the mosque-house that I hadn’t seen on the way in, and more of the brother’s words came to me: “If I don’t know you, I can think anything about you.” So, get to know somebody; it might change your mind about a lot of people.
Wallsend Mosque’s fifth (and largest) annual open day was a major success, with several hundred people attending its seminars and Q+A sessions. Brother Shahryar’s parting advice for students of UON was, “we are open for everybody. They can come anytime, with any issue, we can help them, anything they need we can help them.” He said that, for the wider population of Newcastle, a lot of things could be learned with a better understanding of Islam. His words seemed sagely as I walked up the road, clutching the copy of the Qur’an I’d been
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Designed by:Designed Alice Kjoller by:
Yak Magazine // September 2018
SPORTS UPDATE Hannah Simmons brings you the latest sports update
Designed by: by: Hannah Simmons Photography
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Yak Magazine // September 2018
Unisport Nationals Div 2:
Nationals Div 1
2018 was the first year of the ‘Nationals’ model – whereby Universities compete either at Nationals Div 2 (July) or Nationals Div 1 (September) dependent on qualification status of each sport.
UON is still finalising registrations and teams for the Unisport Nationals Div 1 competition which will be held on the Gold Coast from 24-27 September. UON will be represented in: Athletics (Men & Women)
The University of Newcastle was well represented across all sports. Our UON Mixed Netball and Mixed Touch teams qualified for
Australian Rules (Women)
Nationals Div 1 in 2019, both claiming silver. All other teams will remain in Nationals Div 2 in 2019.
Lawn Bowls
Basketball (Women)
Netball (Ladies)
Unisport Indigenous Nationals:
Rowing (Men & Women)
Formerly known as the National Indigenous Tertiary Education Student Games (NITESG), the event began in 1996 as a joint class project between 13 students enrolled in a Diploma of Aboriginal Studies (Community Recreation) at the then Wollotuka School for Aboriginal Studies, at the University of Newcastle.
Surfing (Men & Women) Swimming (Men & Women) Taekwondo (Men & Women) Tennis (Men & Women)
UON went into the 2018 event as defending champions – winning the overall champion title in the previous two years. This year, UON finished 3rd overall.
Water Polo (Men & Women)
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Designed by: Designed Sim Hamisi by:
Yak Magazine // September 2018
HERO OF THE PARKING LOT By Camilla Lian
Yet again my morning was a clusterfuck With my hair still wet in the freezing air, I tried to find a park with fleeting luck Pretty close to defeat, My bed was tempting Then, at 8:50am I saw you leaving Although I really needed to pee, I had an outburst of glee I parked my car, And realised my wallet Was not in my bag With tears dripping on the ground, The world now weighing me down I left my car, and then Caught the best glimpse by far Dear angel, thank you my friend! Your ticket saved me again, I was so close to parking in Wallsend
Designed by: Amy Lewis
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GEOMETRIC PORTRAITS
Designed by: Laura Miller
Yak Magazine // September 2018
LOVING SPRING
Comic by:by: SimSim Hamisi Designed Hamisi
Designed by: Sim Hamisi
Designed by: Sim Hamisi
Yak Magazine // September 2018
THE INEVITABLE RESULT OF HUMAN PROGRESS By Shea Evans Welcome, welcome, gather ‘round,
By inaction alone we found ourselves,
Hear a message from beyond.
With crises on the rise,
I come from years and years from now,
Through death and war and plagued disease,
So listen to my song.
We marched to our demise.
The future which you’re headed for,
Though many questions then were raised,
Is a place of lifelong need,
We marched towards the edge,
Where the lowly of society,
Each of us too comfortable,
Are ruled by human greed.
To avoid the looming ledge.
From birth to death we are indebted,
And as the ones in front fell forward first,
Slaves of the human system,
And the ones behind them saw,
Where few have energy to speak,
They cried above to God for help,
And there are less who care to listen.
But helped none themselves at all.
The advent of our future hell, Was realised long through time,
Now the Great Fall of society,
Not after random catastrophe,
Is not learned about in school,
But through the billions who were resigned.
For the simple fact that none exist, We are the collective human fool.
Through those who dared not dream for more, Who placidly accepted fate,
I’ve come to tell you to resist,
Through those who’d not help their fellow man,
Avoid the apathy!
And instead preferred to wait.
Break the mould and reverse your march, Be good for society.
Designed by: Sim Hamisi
Designed by: Amy Lewis Photographs from unsplash.com
THE DISASTROUS DROUGHT:
DRY AND DEVASTATING Elizabeth Symington offers up ways to help farmers stricken by the nation’s drought
Yak Magazine // September 2018
depression, anxiety and suicide with the drought. To make matters worse, in these rural areas access to mental health services is very scarce.
Farmers across Australia are in crisis. The drought is pushing them towards breaking point, with the driest Autumn on record since 1902. For the past 14 months rainfall has been significantly below average, placing an extreme strain on farmer resources and activities.
There has been pressure placed on the Federal Government to cut foreign aid spending and give the money and resources to drought affected farmers within their own country.
New South Wales has been the worst affected state in 2018, with the exception of the coast line, with the past five-month period recording the lowest rainfall in over 110 years. There have been pushes to declare this period as a natural disaster, which would allow farmers to receive more help and bring more awareness to the devastating effects the drought is having.
Alarmingly, a lot of Australians are unaware about how serious this issue is, a common misconception is that the drought doesn’t affect them when it does, farmers are responsible for providing fresh produce and meat to society. We take for granted that we can turn on our taps and get what seems like an infinite supply of water, people in drought affected areas are having to buy water to drink, adding yet another cost that is making their day to day life so much more expensive.
Without a consistent source of water farmers are struggling to grow and maintain crops, and the cost of feeding and watering cattle and other livestock has become incredibly expensive. Some farmers are being pushed to slaughter their cattle or sell them earlier than intended because the cost of sustaining them has become impossible to pay for and they have very few places to turn to for help.
This devastating period seems never-ending, and those affected need as much help as possible. Here are some ways you can help those who are suffering and join the thousands of people who are already rallying around and supporting those affected.
The mental health of farmers has also become a large area of concern. Psychologists have noticed a clear link between rates of
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Yak Magazine // September 2018
“When the rain does eventually fall it will still take years for those affected to recover from the emotional and financial strain this period has placed on them� Check in with loved ones or people you know in drought affected areas
Buy Australian products This is a simple action you can take that will help to support local produce and products. Visit your local farmers market or fruit shop and avoid buying home brand products at the larger grocery chains. It may take a few extra dollars out of your pocket but it will help to put some money back in the pockets of struggling farmers.
This simple action could help save the people you know and love, letting them know someone is there to help and care for them can help to boost their mental health. To lose one farmer to suicide is too many. Ensuring that everyone we know and love is OK is one way to help reduce the number and risk of suicide.
Sponsor care and food hampers and feed through the organisation Drought Angels
Help buy hay, groceries and diesel/petrol through the charity Buy a Bale
You can help the work of Drought Angels by visiting their website making a money donation of an amount of your choice. These donations will help them to support farmers with essentials like stock feed. On their website there is also an option to donate $100 and purchase a pre-paid visa or fuel card to give to families that are affected. They can be used to cover school costs, utility bills and so much more.
You can make a donation to Buy a Bale by visiting their website and making an online donation through PayPal or credit card, or you can send postal or cheque donations to: Buy a Bale Campaign PO Box 1342 Sunnybank Hills, QLD, 4109 Any donation over $2 is tax deductable.
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Yak Magazine // September 2018
Host a fundraiser or item collection event
have the potential to inform people you know and maybe even persuade them to donate to organisations that are helping the farmers and those affected.
If you are extremely passionate about this issue why not take your support to the next level and host a fundraiser to help those affected in your local community? The items and money that you collect could be donated to the charities listed in this article or others you find on your own.
The scary part is that when the rain does eventually fall it will still take years for those affected to recover from the emotional and financial strain this period has placed on them. They need help now or the situation is only going to get worse and harder to come back and recover from.
Increase Awareness of the issue
The best way to look at it, as adopted by so many, is that after today we are one day closer to rain.
Talk to your friends about it, pass on this article, share information on social media, keep the conversation going. Too many people do not understand how difficult of a time this is. By sharing and discussing this topic you
Photograph from unsplash.com
If you or anyone you know is suffering from mental health issues, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
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Designed by: Bonita Maher
#YAKSNAP: WORLD TOUR One Yak stooge (Nikola Jokanovic) and his film camera, five destinations, hundreds of dollars in film stock and development
Photography by: Nikola Jokanovic
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Yak Magazine // September 2018
A film camera is truly a traveller’s best friend. You can snap away with your mobile phone’s camera, or even a decent digital setup, but nothing takes you right back to that very time and place quite like getting a great photo developed a few weeks or months after the fact. Here are a few I took that attest to that.
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Designed by: Amy Lewis
Yak Magazine // September 2018
CRACKING THE NUTSHELL OF A POSTGRADUATE DEGREE By Camilla Lian Imagine you are on the doorstep of finishing your undergraduate degree. The world is now your oyster - or so they say. Actually, you are probably panicking a little inside. First: Stop. Take a short trip to the ANZAC Memorial Walk, watch the sunset, and breathe.
Remember, your job is to do something no one else has done before you. Thus, a postgraduate degree may be very overwhelming, but also extremely rewarding. I will not claim to be great at this, but during my transition from an undergrad to a postgrad student I picked up some bloody good tips on what to consider before you decide to do a postgraduate degree, and what to remember during.
Among your future life-altering options lie multiple e-mails asking whether you’re considering a postgraduate degree, or maybe one of your lecturers are tempting you with a project that sounds amazing. It is all a little daunting, but you decide to apply.
1. Do not do it just because you have nothing else to do
Nek minit, an e-mail congratulates you on your achievements. You have been granted a scholarship to do a PhD. You brag a little to your family and friends, have a glass of wine or three, and show up at your supervisor’s door a little dusty the next day – realising that this weekend’s escapades have already blown out your budget.
I can’t stress this enough! Succeeding at a postgraduate degree might take you through a rollercoaster of emotions, and requires a strong sense of commitment to the project and yourself. Also, chances are you’ll have an easier time finding a job faster without a PhD in Australia today - and you’ll most definitely have a higher income than a PhD student!
What now? After all the inductions and paperwork you begin your project journey, and you will often hear this sentence: “I don’t know. You figure it out!” The thing is, nobody else knows either! Sometimes, hopefully, nobody in the entire world. Designed by: Jassmin Mihell
2. Get used to structuring your days on a regular basis Making plans and following through with them is essential in your postgraduate degree, because 28
Yak Magazine // May 2018
Student Sounds: Mid-Semester Moods nobody will do it for you anymore. You should have left your cramming habits at the door by now. 3. Ask questions as they appear in your mind, or write them down for later (actually, write down everything) Even if your supervisor doesn’t know the answer, it never hurts to ask. They might know someone you could talk to as well. Remember to write things down, otherwise you will 100% forget about the information you receive. 4. Chase opportunities to connect and build relations in your field – and present your work even if it’s scary This will likely get you a job in the future, and you will have many opportunities to do this during your postgraduate degree. Your supervisor might not tell you about these opportunities all the time, it is your job to find them if you want them. 5. Treat your degree as a job, and keep your days off sacred Everyone in a postgraduate degree has brought papers with them when they go for a holiday at some point. Nobody actually reads any of them, but they’re constantly at the back of your mind, which means you’re not as well rested when you come back. Treat your postgraduate degree as an actual job. Hustle when hustling is required, and leave the whole shebang at your desk when you’re having days off (I try to remind myself about this constantly – it is not easy).
Here are some carefully curated tunes, served up by Nikola Jokanovic, matched to some general moods and sentiments I’m sure we’ve all encountered at this point in the semester. “This degree kinda sucks. Should I switch?” Car Seat Headrest, Teens of Denial Mid-20s confusion and malaise never sounded so good! Relatable lyrics and punchy indie rock for the mid-semester existential crisis. Getting an HD Travis Scott, Rodeo Silver-smooth trap rap to pump you up at your most baller and braggadocios. It’s lit! Straight up! Freezing cold on the bus home at sundown Burial, Untrue The essential night time album. Skittery beats and faded vocal snippets make for a comfortingly lonely listening experience. I have ten assignments due in three days!!!! Flying Lotus, Cosmogramma Kind of what trying to think of 10 things at the same time would probably sound like. Or maybe like playing 10 YouTube tabs at once. Crazy sonic chaos, like a train wreck you just can’t stop listening to. “Damn dude, I just wanna chill” Solange, A Seat at the Table Solange’s voice is mind-melting. ‘Chill’ might mean ‘cry a lil’ in this context. Designed by:
In this edition of U-ON Fleek, Claire Ince chats to Yak’s very own Primary Colour Queen (aka. Layla Beech) about her love for Unidays and distaste for fake pockets. In the maintenance of her unique style, Layla Beech manages to do something that so many of us are afraid of. She exudes confidence in everything she wears, and proves that the so called 'rules' of fashion are complete bologna. #PrimaryColourQueen.
Photography supplied by: Layla Beech
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"I’m so inspired by the artistry that goes into high fashion and red carpets.”
Name: Layla Beech Age: 22 Degree: Communication
My best tip for shopping on a student budget is: Shop your wardrobe! You never know what new look you can curate from pieces you already own. Try layering things you’ve never layered before and see what happens!
My style in three words: Colourful, loud and varied. The best fashion advice I’ve ever received is: That the belief that you should 'dress for your body type' is COMPLETE GARBAGE. As soon as I started wearing what I wanted rather than wearing what I 'should', my confidence went up significantly.
My favourite place to shop is: ASOS. That 10% Unidays discount is going to be sorely missed when I graduate. My wardrobe is full of: Colour and patterns. Yellow in particular seems to be taking over my wardrobe at the moment.
“#fakepockets” I find fashion inspiration from: I'm so inspired by the artistry that goes into high fashion and red carpets. I see fashion as a form of art, so I really appreciate designer runway clothing that isn't considered 'wearable' by the average consumer. I also really love trends from the 90s and early 00s.
My favourite fashion trend is: Wide legged pants. They’re SO comfortable and super practical! My least favourite fashion trend is: It’s not technically a trend but can we just stop putting fake pockets on things please? It’s deceitful and upsetting. #FakePockets.
My favourite article of clothing is: My pair of white and blue Quay eclipse sunnies that I constantly get compliments on. They go with everything and are seriously well loved to the point that they’re kind of falling apart!
Kmart or Target? Jeans or Trousers? Designer or Thrifted? Solid or Printed? Neutral or Bright? Designed by: Reid McManus
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WHAT’S ON THIS OCTOBER S
M
T
W 1 5 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 19 20 21 22 26 27 28 29
T 2 9 16 23 30
F 3 10 17 24 31
S 4 11 18 25
1st
Labour Day Public Holiday
6th
Panic! At The Disco, Qudos Bank Arena Sydney
7th
Semester 2 resumes
10th
World Mental Health Day
11th Kesha, ICC Sydney Theatre 13th
FKA Festival, Hope Estate
15-20th Nutrition Week 15th Monday Movie : Kingsman: The Secret Service, 7.30pm, Derkenne Courtyard, Callaghan Campus 17th Folk Fest, Ourimbah Campus NeW Space Movies by Moonlight: Wonder Woman, 7.30pm, NeW Space, Newcastle City 18th Student Engagement Awards Ride 2 Uni Day Cher- Here We Go Again, Qudos Bank Arena Sydney 19th
Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase, Civic Theatre Newcastle
20th
Cher- Here We Go Again, Qudos Bank Arena Sydney
29th Monday Movie: Monsters Inc., 7.30pm, Derkenne Courtyard, Callaghan Campus 30th
Stress Less, Ourimbah Campus
31st
Stress Less, Ourimbah Campus Halloween Party, Bar On The Hill
Designed by: Jassmin Mihell
WHAT SPRING MAKES ME THINK OF...
Photo by: Niklas Gaal
MONTHLY Angelique Carr seeks guidance from above for this month’s horoscopes
January 20th to February 18th
February 19th to March 20th
Not many people have mortal enemies, but you’re about to get two today.
That Trump sex dream you keep having is completely normal. Don’t read too much into it.
March 21st to April 19th
April 20th to May 20th
REPLY TO YOUR MESSAGES. STOP BEING SO FLAKEY.
The lost set of keys are under the fridge in the garage.
May 21st to June 20th
June 21st to July 22nd
Your housemate ate a spider in her sleep last night. Don’t tell her.
Today you’re going to hear the funniest joke you’ll ever hear in your life.
Photograph from unsplash.com
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HOROSCOPES July 23rd to August 22nd
August 23rd to September 22nd
Your car is leaking coolant everywhere and I know you’re just ignoring it. You need to harden up and deal with life’s problems head on.
Your melancholy is not nearly as endearing as you think it is.
September 23rd to October 22nd
October 23rd to November 21st
I think I love you?
You will meet the love of your life today.
November 22nd to December 21st
December 22nd to January 19th
Tara doesn’t like you. You’re just going to have to accept that. Try being friends with Allana instead. She’s much nicer.
That spider you saw in the shower? You don’t need to worry about it anymore.
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Designed by: Reid McManus
YAK TRIVIA Test your general knowledge with this month’s Yak trivia! How many can you get right? 1 - What country was Elon Musk born in? 2 - How many moons does the planet Venus have? 3 - What is the capital city of Colombia? 4 - The Walt Disney Company is attempting to acquire which other media corporation? 5 - Who was the first Vice-Chancellor of UON? 6 - How many bones are there in the adult human body? 7 - Who was the first Roman emperor? 8 - How many faculties are there at UON? 9 - What children’s television series takes place on the fictional island of Sodor? 10 - Who is the current Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives?
6. 206
7. Augustus
Trivia Answers:
8. Five
1. South Africa
9. Thomas and Friends 2. None
3. Bogota
10. Tony Smith 4. 21st Century Fox
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5. James Johnson Auchmuty
W CROSS R D
ACROSS
DOWN
1. A short comedy scene
4. A political group
2. Fictional world created by Carroll
6. Roman goddess of the moon
3. Non-transparent
9. POLI1020, for example
5. Relating to the Pope
10. Due date
7. New or original
12. Large book
8. Relating to spring
13. Villain in a story
11. Fake or artificial 14. Painful, tender
DOWN: 4. Party 6. Diana 9. Course 10. Deadline 12. Tome 13. Antagonist Crossword Answers:
ACROSS: 1. Skit 2. Wonderland 3. Opaque 5. Papal 7. Novel 8. Vernal 11. Faux 14. Sore
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Designed by: Reid McManus
HOW TO RECYCLE ME Each year our university goes through 1,080 tonnes of waste. Do your part to minimise our impact on the environment by recycling and reusing me!
• Put me in the recycling bin At home you can put me in the bin with the yellow lid. On campus, bins for recycling paper and cardboard are blue bins or yellow bins. Look out for the “Be a good sort” poster to know what the bin recycles.
• Donate me Donate me to your local library, Salvos or doctor’s waiting room.
• Give me away Give me away for free on websites like Gumtree.com.au or Freecycle.org
• Get your craft on Turn me into something new! Organise a crafternoon with your friends or keep an eye out for events on campus through groups like NUSA or FEAST. Designed by: Amy Lewis and Reid McManus
BOOKMARKS "Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world." – Malala Yousafzai
CUT ME OUT!
Designed by: Amy Lewis Artwork by: Rebecca O’Donoghue
Issue 46 // September 2018