Yak Magazine: July 2018 Issue

FREE!

SECOND SEMESTER SLUMP

THE ART OF MASTERING A NEW HOBBY

WHAT’S GOING ON AT OUR UNI?

Trivia, Crossword Puzzle, Comics, Horoscopes, Sports & much MORE!

Yak Magazine // May 2018

YAK

MAGAZINE The July 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 - Bonita Maher Designed by:

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EDITOR’S LETTER This issue of Yak you’ll be seeing a lot of fresh.

Fresh pieces, fresh favourites, and fresh faces.

We’re joined by a bunch of new editors and designers this issue, and with them they’ve brought some incredibly fun and interesting takes on student life at UON. Speaking of student life, welcome to your second semester!

As you start gearing up to tackle those late-night study sessions and those early morning lectures, grab a Yak to keep you sane.

Staying sane is imperative for all you driving students, I wish you all the best of luck in your parking endeavours the first three weeks. If you can relate to the struggle, have a read of ‘The Amazing Race’ and be taken on an emotional rollercoaster of parking highs and lows.

start to feel around Week 5, with ‘The Second Semester Slump’. Or if you’re more likely to hit the ground running with your studies and somehow find yourself with some bulk spare time, check out ‘How to Master New Hobbies’ and become an expert in no time.

Don’t forget to read some fresh favourites, new Horoscopes (eerily true readings this month), new Student Sounds, and new Trivia and Crossword!

I hope your second semester is your best yet.

Don’t forget to take a break from the whirlwind that is uni life and take a moment to check out what fresh thing is going on around you.

With all these articles to explore, you have no excuse not to!

Speaking of emotional rollercoasters, learn how to beat those second semester blues we all

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.

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

Sophie Austin

Jack Moran

Nadene Budden

Managing Editor (Mag)

Deputy Managing Editor

Managing Editor (Online)

Promotions Coordinator

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Claire Ince

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Hannah Simmons

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Marcie Cheers

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Shea Evans

Nikola Jokanovic

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Amy Lewis

Bonita Maher

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Contributors: Daniel Cooper Hannah Brien

Jassmin Mihell

Sim Hamisi

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If you would like to contribute, contact the lead graphic designer or email: yakmedia@newcastle.edu.au

GETTIN’ PERSONAL WITH A PRESENTER Meet Layla Beech, Yak TV presenter and loud clothing enthusiast 1. Sunsets or sunrises? Justify your answer, use proper referencing.

6. Best and worst things about UON?

According to Science (c. 10,000 BCE) sunrises

Worst – The mozzies actually make me want to defer for half the year.

occur early in the morning, however events happening before 8am “should be illegal� (Beech 2018, p. 22). Therefore it can be concluded that sunsets are significantly superior as they occur in the evening and not at 5am.

2. MSN or MySpace?

MSN. I miss the days of changing your status to angsty emo lyrics and getting a heap of messages asking “r u oK?????//? :’( � Good times.

3. What degree are you doing?

A Bachelor of Communication majoring in Media Production! I originally was majoring in Media Studies but I soon realised production was what I was born to do and I’ve never looked back.

Best – The people and Yak!

7. If you could match on Tinder with anyone in history, who would it be and why?

Lord Byron because that man was WILD. We’d go for a picnic in a cemetery while he read me his own poetry, then he’d get trashed, probably get into a fistfight with a stranger before leaving for an orgy forgetting I was even there. He absolutely did not respect women but I’d go just for the story. WILD. 8. What is your favourite fast food franchise, and what do you think this says about you?

Grill’d - we both have the façade of being healthy.

4. What do you wanna be when you grow up?

9. What’s the worst goddamn movie you’ve ever seen?

My wildest dream is to write and/or direct feature films! But I’d also love to work on music videos because they combine my two favourite things – film and music. See ya at the Oscars! (or the VMAs!)

A Little Bit of Heaven staring Kate Hudson. Now listen, I LOVE a trashy rom-com but‌ I think this movie reduced my life expectancy it was that bad.

5. How would you describe your personal style, and what influences it?

My style is bold and a bit questionable to be honest! I love bold primary colours paired with clashing patterns, with elements of 90s and early 00s fashion thrown in. My biggest fashion icons are Hayley Williams and Harry Styles because they make everything look ICONIC. If you’ve ever seen an item of clothing and thought, “Gross who on earth would wear that?!â€?‌ Me. I would wear that.

Written by: Nikola Jokanovic

10. Favourite condiment?

Lancashire relish! It’s like Worcestershire sauce but soooo much better.

11. Which Spice Girl are you?

Posh Spice‌ duh!

Write an emoji poem about yourself.

đ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹđ&#x;ŽŹ Check out Layla’s look on our Yak TV episodes.

She’s the one with the green hair. www.yakatuon.com

STUDYING OVERSEAS AT UON Monique Aganovic gives you some tips on how to go about studying overseas while you’re a student Ever wanted to get out and see the world while studying but not really sure how? During the semester break I ducked over to China for an immersion experience as part of my degree, and it was worth the build up! Here are my top tips for travelling overseas at uni.

in your travel prep. They’ll be able to help you out with arranging travel plans and any advice you need.

Consider your finances One of the greatest things about travelling throughout your degree is that you can apply for a loan to help shoulder the costs. The OS-HELP loan is a good option for students: it’s easy to apply for and is paid off once you cross the government decided repayment threshold.

For students interested in studying in Asia, the loan payments are higher. Plus, have a look at

Know what works best for you!

I’d always thought that if you wanted to go overseas as a student, you had to do a full semester exchange. Turns out there are several ways to study abroad, and exchange is just one of them. Whether you’re after a full semester, or a short course or placement, find out what works best for you in your schedule and degree.

You can visit the ‘Study Overseas’ section of the uni website to browse the differences between these options, www.newcastle.edu. au/studyoverseas

the different scholarships and grants offered through the university. If you fit the criteria, apply! You can find these options online via: www.newcastle.edu.au/studyoverseas Have fun My immersion trip was no picnic. I worked hard each day and was exhausted by the end, but it was worth every minute. The trip gave me

Be Prepared If you need to apply for credit, or if the country you’re visiting needs a visa, make sure you’re

the chance to work on my skills in an amazing environment, and helped me build connections that will hopefully improve my career options in the future. No two trips are the same I’m sure, but studying abroad even for just a short time was definitely a highlight of degree so far.

prepared! There’s nothing better than feeling secure when you leave for a trip so having all those things sorted before you leave is a must. My tip to you before you leave is to write a prep list for yourself the minute you consider studying abroad and check it as you go through the process. Another way is contacting UON Global or Student Central and asking for a hand

To learn more about studying overseas at uni, visit the UON website or contact UON Global for more info.

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Designed by: Sim Hamisi and Amy Lewis Photography: Monique Aganovic

Yak Magazine // July 2018

DEAR YAK

“My partner calls me the same pet name as their ex, what should I do?”

The Level Headed Approach - Claire In either case, I must say that if this is the greatest concern that you have regarding your relationship, I suspect that you and your partner will be subject to a lifetime of love and happiness. Best of luck to you both.

Since you have neglected to provide me with the juicy contextual details I need in order to answer this question with a respectable level of efficiency, I’m afraid that it is impossible to provide you with any form of conclusive statement. I will however, endeavour to outline a general rule of thumb. On the occasion that your partner is calling you by the names ‘Babe’, ‘Baby’, ‘Honey’, ‘Darling’, ‘Sweetie’ or any other generic construct, I suggest two things: (A) Your partner needs a vital injection of creativity OR should be more attentive to your presumably unique personality.

(B) You really shouldn’t be offended by this, because you’ve probably done it too.

Sweet Honey Bear

However, if we’re talking ‘Pookie Bear’, ‘Hot Stuff’, ‘Cuddle Bug’, ‘Stud Muffin’, or ‘My Sweet Baby Squishleton III’, you have a much more serious problem on your hands. If this is the case, you should probably ask your partner to go to their room and have a long, hard, think about what they’ve done. Whether your partner’s choice of pet name is second hand or not, honesty is always the best policy, so if being called by said name makes your skin crawl, you should probably let them know.

Designed by: Alice Kjoller

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Yak Magazine // July 2018

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The Heated Approach - Shea

er

Well, well, well. I wonder what other petty things you like to complain about? It probably bothers you when people say ‘The Ukraine’ too. My first reaction on hearing your so-called problem is amusement, hotly followed by a certain pitiful gladness that this is your greatest challenge.

What sort of oddly specific pet names is your partner using? You realise that everybody calls their significant other ‘babe’, right? There are lonely people in Newcastle who are literally starved of affection, imagine how they feel listening to your baseless pain.

The Shady Approach - Angie Love is a zero-sum game. If he’s winning, you’re losing.

By recycling an ex’s pet name, he is assigning you a generic title, basically saying that he could replace you at any minute. They say that the best defence is a good offence, so what you need to do is make him think that you’ve already replaced him and start calling him the wrong name. His name is Josh? Call him John every now and then. Was your last boyfriend named Rick? Call the new one Slick and wait for him

What we have here is the emotional equivalent of saying,”‘This steak I just finished was medium rare… but I ordered a medium so I want a refund.” Get a grip. If your first reaction upon encountering this terrible hardship is to ask a magazine for advice, and not communicate like a human being, then your partner is probably calling you these names ON PURPOSE. I want you to know that I love and support you, we all do, but this might be on you.

to slowly figure it out. And remember, the most important thing is to make it subtle because direct confrontation is the same as losing.

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STUDENTS & SERVICES: What we do and don’t know

Yak Magazine // July 2018

Marcie Cheers digs deep into the construction on campus Being in her fifth year at university, currently

It is the first day back at uni after a long, welldeserved break, you walk on campus… only to realise the whole entrance is blocked off from construction. But what on earth is going on?

If you have ever walked on campus only to discover a whole heap of construction work that you had no idea was going on (nor do you know the purpose of), you are not alone. I spoke to students and staff about the construction, and the current and future projects planned at Callaghan campus.

studying a Bachelor pf Nutrition and Dietetics, Paige has seen the university develop over the years she has studied on campus. She feels that the construction on the Mathematics Building could have been done in sections in order to minimise the amount of disturbance for put-out students. “I am no expert, but I can’t help but wonder why the entire section had to be blocked off, rather than work on individual sections or the entrance.”

The mysterious construction outside the Maths Building

“Loud machinery can really make you lose your train of thought when you are trying to focus in a lecture.”

Most of you that have walked into the Shortland side at any point this semester would have seen the construction on the entrance to the Mathematics Building. For many students, this has been a major inconvenience – not only because they must now take the long way around to get to their classes, but also because of the amount of noise and disruption for students in the middle of classes.

With plans to be completed by Semester 1 2019, Campus Strategy Manager, Meri Butler says that the construction on the Mathematics Building is a big job that will be very beneficial once it is finished. “The project includes upgrading teaching spaces… including improvements to accessibility – with the introduction of lifts, new accessible amenities and improved pathways.”

Fifth-year student Paige Collinson explains that she only found out about the construction while running late to catch her bus home, and she believes it is a big inconvenience for students in class trying to concentrate. “Loud machinery can really make you lose your train of thought when you are trying to focus in a lecture.”

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Yak Magazine // May 2018

Blink and you’ll miss it students in the Student Services and Amenities Funding (SSAF) survey. Consequently, IFS will commence this development later this year.

Another improvement to the campus is the refurbishment of the engineering buildings – which are set to be finished by the end of the year. Meri explains that the teaching spaces, such as lecture theatres and tutorial rooms, are currently being upgraded as well as brand new student kitchen facilities. “This project will improve the experience of both undergraduate and postgraduate students, with a range of new Higher Degree by Research Student spaces.”

Keeping up with the Konstructions Let’s be honest, most of the time when we see construction on campus, 1. We have no idea what is going on 2. We don’t go out of our way to find out what is actually happening

You also may have missed the completion of the Auchmuty outdoor spaces, which have been recently renovated and expanded. The Auchmuty Learning Lounge is one of many new study areas, now open 24 hours a day.

Accessible after hours by student swipe card, the new and improved study area includes comfy, modern furniture and a ‘survival station’ equipped with hot water and a microwave – perfect for late night coffee and snacks.

Paige argues that communication about the construction is not as clear as it should be for students, explaining that most of the time students at Callaghan don’t know what is going on until it is already in progress.

“Blackboard might be a good start [to inform students about the construction]. Maybe just a notification, similar to what we receive when there is system maintenance.” By the number of students that do not realise what is going on around campus, direct messages on Blackboard or via email may be the best way to keep everyone up to date with the developments around Callaghan.

Another highly requested project in the works, is the implementation of seating outside the Bakehouse. The Infrastructure and Facility Service (IFS) division received a great deal of feedback about this concern from many 12

“The project includes upgrading teaching spaces… including improvements to accessibility – with the introduction of lifts, new accessible amenities and improved pathways.”

According to Meri, the IFS and Student Central have been working very closely to keep students notified about upcoming projects around the university. “We use a variety of mediums including email, social media and posters to inform students. By using a range of communication channels, students are aware of information that is relevant to them.” She stresses that they will continue to work alongside Student Central to make sure these important projects are communicated to students.

We can also look forward to the development of already existing teaching spaces. If you love the creative features of the Basden Theatre, this is some good news for you. Starting with the Maths Building, Meri states that the new renovations will include “the latest technology to support interactive and collaborative delivery.”

Like many students at the Callaghan campus, Paige encourages the IFS to consider putting in more parking spaces for the frustrated drivers of UON. As well as considering adding more filtered water stations around the campus, particularly around The Forum.

Future projects we can look forward to Another project that students can engage with is the University’s Environmental Sustainability Plan, which plans to tackle the effects of climate change. The report looks closely at energy and carbon, with aims to reduce carbon emissions by 20% before 2020.

For students who have suggestions about improvements that they think should be made on campus, Meri recommends that they should include their feedback on the SSAF surveys at the end of each semester.

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Photography and Design by: Amy Lewis

Created by: Bonita Maher

SPORTS UPDATE Recent Events: •

> Athletes from a variety of degrees have recently participated in the annual Unisport Nationals Division Two on the Gold Coast. Our University of Newcastle athletes battled it out from the 1-5th July.

•

> UON students Layne Morgan (B Food Science & Human Nutrition) and Joe Crawford (B Construction Management) have lined up for the Australian Uniroos at the 2018 World University Rugby Sevens Championship in Namibia.

•

> Daniel Collins (B Exercise and Sport Science) and Jemma Smith (B Education [Secondary]) have represented Australia at the Sanyo Bussan International Lifesaving Cup in Japan.

•

> The Newcastle Knights Elite NRL Touch Premiership squads were announced in May, featuring a number of UON students and alumni. Current Australian Mixed Open player and two-time Australian University Games Green & Gold recipient Alex Langbridge (B Teaching [Humanities]) will line up alongside fellow education student Jack Edwards (B Teaching [Mathematics]) and UON alumni and former UON representatives Mitch Bourke (B Physiotherapy) and Tom Dafter (B Business). Featuring in the women’s side are Jessica Potts and Amy Dufour (B Occupational Therapy); Sian Filipo (B Education [Secondary]); Milly Hughes (B Teaching [Primary]); Lily Goodchild (B Midwifery) and Ainsley Hughes (PhD Human Geography). The side had their first clash in Round 16 against the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs on the 30th of June.

•

> Scott Haynes (B Exercise & Sport Science) and Daniel Neill (B Education [Secondary]) have represented NSW Universities Rugby League in the State of Origin clash with QLD Universities on the 24th of June.

Upcoming Events: •

> Unisport Nationals Snow Sports will commence on the 28th of August.

Hot tip: keep an eye out for UON’s very own Olympian Matt Graham, who claimed the silver medal in the men’s moguls at PyeongChang.

•

> Unisport Nationals Division 1 is coming up, with athletes competing on the Gold Coast from September 24th-27th.

Designed by: Bonita Maher

Yak Magazine // July 2018

JETS YOUTH PLAYER

JACKSON FRENDO DISCUSSES JUGGLING SPORT AND STUDYING

Photo source: Newcastle Jets

Hannah Simmons sits down with up and coming Jets player Jackson Frendo The University of Newcastle has recently announced they are the official club partner for the Newcastle Jets, supporting their upcoming international youth tours.

UON Construction Management student and Jets Youth player, Jackson Frendo, knows first-hand the struggles of juggling his sporting commitments with his studies.

The club has called UON home and has an ongoing partnership with NUsport – training at Ray Watt Oval for more than a decade.

Jackson says he manages his studies and football, “by setting out a plan and trying to follow it, which is made a lot easier when both training and studying is done at the same place.

Over the years, both the Newcastle Jets A-league and W-league teams have had a number of players that are both studying at the University and playing, with two Youth League boys currently studying at the Callaghan campus.

“We also train in the mornings, so the training sessions don’t usually interfere with any classes.”

Designed by: Bonita Maher

Photo source: Hannah Simmons

Frendo says he chose the University of Newcastle because he, “heard from a few people how highly they thought of the University and how much they enjoyed studying there, which was an important factor. But also, we train there throughout the week which makes studying and playing really convenient.”

The Jets Youth team have several overseas tournaments planned for 2018, including their latest trip to Hong Kong to compete in the Soccer Sevens Tournament and their upcoming trip to China to compete in the Weifang Cup in August.

Frendo, who was a part of the Newcastle Jets Youth side that competed in the Hong Kong Soccer Sevens, helped the team to claim the 2018 Main Plate winners.

According to Frendo, the team camaraderie is something that he loves most about playing with the Youth team.

“It’s great to be part of this team because of the boys that you get to play and train with each week, but also because of the opportunities you get.”

“By the end of this year, for example, we’ll have been to Hong Kong and China to

Yak Magazine // July 2018

experience what it’s like to play against teams from different nations.”

Frendo is a part of the team that will travel to China in August to compete in the Weifang Cup, which will be held in the Shandong Provence.

When asked what his hopes are for the upcoming tournament, Frendo says, “I’m hoping we can finish in the top two places in our group [in the Weifang Cup] and progress into the knockout stages.”

Under the guidance of former Jets striker Labinot Haliti and Jets CEO Lawrie McKinna, the Youth team currently compete in the NPL Northern NSW competition.

Frendo, who has been playing football since the age of six, says he’s enjoying learning from coaches Haliti and McKinna and is excited about his footballing future.

“I don’t really know what I want to do in the future. In terms of football, I’d just like to play at the highest level I can and enjoy it.”

You can follow the Jets Youth upcoming tournament in China via their social media @NewcastleJetsFC.

FOR

CHLOE

By Shea Evans

By fourteen they were best friends,

He met her when he was the new kid,

Oddly spiritual confidantes walking against the tide,

Twelve years old and laughed at for arriving late,

Waist deep in everybody else, Swimming somewhere forward,

Fresh social climate in a dull schoolocracy, And all other associated joys of an unfamiliar educational institution,

By fifteen they were doing the fifteen-year-old version of dating, Holding hands at lunch, a peck goodbye at every bell, the occasional Saturday film,

She was bright and bubbly and laughed a lot, which he liked,

They saw Taken 2 at Charlestown Hoyts,

She didn’t pay attention in woodwork,

Agreed it was garbage,

He could never remember anything in art,

Could only have been better if he’d taken her to Max Brenner afterwards,

But they didn’t let it stop them becoming friends,

But he was fifteen and moody so didn’t, and still regrets it, He realised that she was very cute, which he liked, By sixteen they’d split,

And the friendship grew in a way that was natural but very fast,

Forced apart by a not so mutual hunch that there might be more to the world than her,

Buoyed along by a mutual passion for music,

A most egregious untruth, as it turns out,

A mutual hunch that there was oh so much more to life than P.E on a Friday morning,

She is, in fact, the whole world in a person, With all the bad parts left out,

And his hilarious puns,

Designed by: Alice Kjoller

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Yak Magazine // July 2018

But the young man who was not very serious had a phobia of things which were,

He might have needed to, though, because he learned many invaluable lessons,

Character flaws that have scarred hearts since first they pumped,

Aside from tent building, the most important was:

Chaos reigned for many moons,

It’s probably time to run away from running away,

Though the sun still shone there was little warmth imparted,

So he ran away from the circus, maybe one of a handful who have,

Other people arrived on the scene and left the scene,

Ran back to her on the night he got home,

Each important for the arcs of our heroes,

The nervousness of an uncertain reunion shattered by the power of familiar lips,

But not central to the plot overall,

Right there under the stars they stood, unlike any other two in the world, together again, By eighteen they were friends again,

All warmth and faith resurrected, bursting and clamouring to take up the space it was always supposed to,

Wary of but happy about each other, Unable and unwilling to avoid, There was closeness once more,

By twenty-one they were engaged and married, But then he literally ran away with a circus, For reasons and motivations still unclear,

And though there is oh so much more to this story, which in truth is just beginning,

And there was sadness once more

They will go on to live happily ever after,

A lapsing of chaos perhaps,

He knows it.

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Designed by: Jassmin Mihell

Yak Magazine // July 2018

THE AMAZING RACE

By Sophie Austin

It’s 8:44AM and the race has begun.

Your palms nearly slip from the steering wheel, greased with the same sweat that beads at your brow, glosses the side of your neck and rains down against your pulse point. It’s a hot-box in here but there’s no time to crack a window, even stopping for a mere second is a monumental mistake.

So you sit and sweat, Ben and Liam play some breakfast bangers on the radio. But the real anthem is the thrum of your engine, the humming reminder that this is it; you’re a sole survivor and this is your pinnacle, your paramount, your prime.

A second to spare and it’s your turn to swing through the round-a-bout, your heart skips just as your balding tires take a tenacious right turn.

You’re in, the race throttles to a start. You wipe your wrist along your forehead, send a prayer to the heavens above and press forward. You powerhouse past the ticket machine and make a fatal decision; to go left, or right?

Left. Because everyone knows that people in the ICT aren’t awake before 10am.

Unlucky for you, it’s still mid-semester, which means that Communication students haven’t hit the Week Six blues yet. Everyone is bright eyed and bushy tailed for their 9am class, which means there’s no space for you here. So you move on.

The Shortland Building is the same, a valley of polished metal and second-hand Mazdas that sit wheel to wheel, bumper to bumper. Students drag themselves from their cars, savouring their victory, drinking in the crisp morning air and the smell of safety. Jealousy makes you grip your steering wheel until your knuckles bruise white, but you carry on.

Over the hill, the Hunter side seems promising.

Surely the nursing and engineering students will be merciful, and leave you some room.

You make your way underneath low-hanging gum trees and over spindling backstreets. But Hunter side students know the tricks of the trade – you shouldn’t get to university after 8.30 on a weekday, it’s worse than forgetting your memory aid before your maths exam. They wish you luck on your way, sitting pretty with parking tickets and peace of mind.

8:44am

Designed by: Alice Kjoller

Only one option remains. It isn’t ideal, but it’s your best shot. The roof of your mouth is dry, your fingers wring against the wheel, your Kmart thong presses tension onto the accelerator. You pass the rolling green of the ovals, pass where not many men or women have been before, until your beacon of light shines. The Warabrook train station.

Along the treacherous surface of gravel and dirt waits your red ribbon finish line, the last lonely space between two cars of kindred spirit. You park with a dramatic skid to a stop, turn your car off, and sit back with a sigh.

9:00am

Hun

ter

But now it’s 9.15, and you’re late for your lecture.

Fo r

um

ICT

9:15am Overflow Parking

Yak Magazine // August 2018

MASS Madelaine & Olivia debate the necessity of the most divisive clothing option: pyjamas NO: Madelaine I’ve never understood the appeal of pyjamas.

I mean, as a concept sure; warm, comfortable clothes you can chuck on without having to worry about whether they’ll end up coated in Tim Tam crumbs after a hard day, I get it. But why do they have to match? Why are they always so brightly coloured and covered in cutesy designs?

And why are they always so flammable?!

Not to mention the insane amount of money we’re expected to pay for these outfits. I’m wearing these clothes to reach maximum comfort, so I don’t really want to worry about how much they cost when I spill red wine all over them during a particularly dramatic episode of Love Island.

I get that ‘treat yo self’ is a thing, but there are definitely better ways I could spend that money.

Buying concert tickets, for example. Or food. Or literally anything else.

Give me a good pair of track pants and a band tee and I’m set. I mean, I can barely coordinate my life and people expect me to coordinate the clothes I sleep in? No way. Not a chance.

When you really think about it, pyjamas are just a marketing ploy. They’re regular clothes disguised as something luxurious and we’re

The biggest issue with pyjamas is that they just don’t accommodate for those weird weather nights. You know, when it’s not quite freezing enough for a long-sleeved shirt AND long pants, but it’s not warm enough to wear a summer set of shorts and a singlet. What then? Wear a top from one set with the pants from another?

Ridiculous! My laundry cycle would be ruined.

being stung twice the price for them.

I say it’s time we leave pyjamas behind, and free ourselves from the (admittedly rather comfortable) shackles of capitalism!

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DEBATE YES: Olivia What’s the most comfortable you’ve ever been in your entire life, and why was it when you were wearing a set of flannel pyjamas and melting into a couch? People who hate pyjamas have not synthesised their soul and body. I’m not saying you can’t be comfortable wearing nothing but a XXL shirt, but where is the stability? You can’t form an intimate relationship with a rotation of sweatpants and sweaty shirts. Another great thing about PJs is the thoughtlessness. The best part of my day is coming home and changing into my panda covered pyjamas and not changing until I feel the time is right, which can sometimes be a disgusting length of time.

And seriously, if anyone wants to bring up “PJs are constricting” or “you look like a nonce” and I see you walking around in clothes that are skin tight or from Cool Shirtz, I will personally buy you a set.

It took me a while to get used to it, but wearing PJs in public is liberating, and it’s so easy to make outfits. Add a windbreaker and you’re post-ironic, see? It’s winter, people! I don’t care if I look like a child, I’m warmer and comfier than anyone not wearing pyjamas right now.

I understand not liking PJs and opting for the simpler nudity, but please just give the blue panda pyjamas from Kmart a chance. They will open your eyes.

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Designed by: Sim Hamisi

THE SECOND SEMESTER SLUMP (AND HOW TO BEAT IT) Elizabeth Symington shows you the best way to take on that second semester slump and come out on top

It is that time of year again… sucky second semester. Are you dreading your classes and assignments? Have you got an internship that is going to drive you insane? Are you still trying to get over the shitty time that was first semester? Are you completely unprepared for what is to come? If you answered yes to any of these questions you might have a case of the second semester blues. Here are six tips to help you maintain your sanity and get through the semester.

1- Be prepared and know what you need This one is pretty self-explanatory. Be prepared for what is to come and have all your necessary textbooks, stationery and other equipment ready. Being prepared and ready for class means you will be one step ahead, and that’s one less thing you are going to have to catch up on. Plus, you don’t want to be that person that has to borrow another person’s textbook during class.

2 - Get yourself into a routine Routines make you more efficient, create structure and will save time in your everyday life. Nailing down your sleeping pattern and diet will help this, as sleep is the key to proper functionality and so is regular healthy eating.

This may not seem as important as your assignments or classes but a crappy routine can have a negative effect on everything else in your life.

3 - Know your schedule Know your schedule inside and out, don’t be that person that shows up late or in the wrong class. Write everything in your diary for the first few weeks, the action of writing it will help you to memorise it or print it and put it on your fridge; that way you can see it

every time you go to get the milk to add to your lifesaving coffee.

4 - Write a list of goals Identifying and writing down your goals can motivate you to do the best you can, this way you know what you want to gain from the semester. Set your goals up like a check list and then you can tick them off as you achieve them and you could reward yourself by binge watching Netflix or eating chocolate.

Your goals don’t have to be complex, just write the basics of what you want to achieve down, such as ‘finish all assignments the day before they are due’ or ‘do one hour of study every Sunday.’

5 - Clean out your closet The seasons have changed, so why not say goodbye to the last semester by donating or selling some of the clothes that you don’t wear anymore? This can help you in a number of ways, it can give you a little bit of extra cash to spend throughout the semester and it will also show you the clothes you own. I don’t know about anyone else but I always find some lost treasures when I go through my closet! One might even say that cleaning your closet will clear your mind and a clear mind will help you stress less.

6 - Have some fun Try not to let uni take over your life, give yourself a break and have some fun, go to that party, read that book or hang out with friends. Uni needs to be a priority but that doesn’t mean you should let it take control of your life. Some uni free time, whether it is with your friends or by yourself, can be great for relieving stress and giving your mind a much needed rest.

Designed by: Jassmin Mihell

Yak Magazine // July 2018

THE ART OF MASTERING A NEW HOBBY Monique Smith gives you the best tips to picking up a new skill It’s no secret that university students are busy people, often juggling a casual or part-time job with a full-time degree. This usually doesn’t leave a whole lot of time to pick up a hobby.

However, there are many skills out there that you can master in a short period of time, which act as a great distraction from the pile of essays you’d really rather not be working on.

blogging, or scrap booking. It’s just a matter of finding what’s right for you.

The most important thing to know about mastering a hobby is that it takes practice!

Unless you are one of the gifted few, for most people it is more about hard work than it is natural talent. The talent usually comes later, once you have the basics covered. If you’re anything like me, you might get really excited about mastering a new hobby, only to lose interest in it a week later. It happens to the best of us, which is why it’s important to be persistent about learning your new skill. You’re not going to be Mozart after two piano lessons, but you’ll get better with time and practice. Overall, the main thing to remember is that you need to find a hobby you enjoy. After all, it isn’t about being the best, it’s about having fun and it’s okay to make mistakes.

There is an endless list of hobbies to choose from, with something for everyone. Some hobbies take a little more commitment, like learning a language or an instrument, playing a sport, painting, learning to fish, or taking cooking classes. However, there are others that are relatively easy to master with some practice, that you can often learn by watching YouTube videos or downloading free apps to your phone. These include things like knitting, bullet journaling, gaming, playing board games, Designed by: Sim Hamisi

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TO P T IP S

1. Practice, practice, and practice. 10 minutes a week can make a huge difference!

2. Take lessons! There are hundreds of qualified teachers out there just waiting to help you master your new hobby.

3. Watch YouTube videos. YouTube has a large variety of tutorials that you can access, for FREE. This is especially helpful for hobbies like knitting or even learning an instrument.

4. If you want to learn a language, download Duolingo! It’s a free app with daily lessons to keep you motivated.

5. Join a club! UON has plenty of clubs and societies for a wide range of hobbies.

Ever wanted to learn to dance? Well there’s a club for that!

6. Have fun! Your hobby is supposed to be enjoyable and if it’s not, perhaps it’s not the one for you.

STUDENT SOUNDS WITH NIKOLA: SECOND SEMESTER You only just recovered from first semester and now you gotta do it all over again.

Our resident music stooge Nikola Jokanovic has the tunes to get you through your first few weeks.

WAKING UP - Kanye West, Graduation Yeezy at his all-time cheeriest and least controversial. Just a bunch of happy-go-lucky jams to get outta bed and make breakfast to.

The first song is even called ‘Good Morning’.

IN THE LIBRARY - Boards of Canada, Music Has the Right to Children These choppy beats and chilled-out synths make for a perfect study soundtrack. Low-key enough to keep you in the zone, with just the right dash of weird to keep things interesting.

WEEKNIGHTS - Portishead, Dummy A bottle of wine, heater on, a candle burning and this album. The only way you’ll be getting through that last-minute reading.

WEEKENDS - Danny Brown, Old A ridiculous banger album. Pretty sure it somehow intensifies the effects of alcohol.

Put on ‘Dip’ at pres and see what I mean.

There’s no doubt about it: UON staff and students are some of the fleekiest in Australia. In this edition of U-ON Fleek, Claire Ince uncovers the secrets of Lucian Jade’s extensive (and immaculate) DIY wardrobe.

Lucian Jade is a student of many talents.

She designs, sews and models her own clothing, is a proud and active member of the Newcastle University Anime Club, and maintains an enviably aesthetically pleasing Instagram account, all while completing a

Designed by: Amy Lewis & Reid McManus

Bachelor of Physiotherapy. She took time out of her busy sewing schedule to sit and answer the following questions with confidence, sass, and winged eyeliner sharp enough to slice cheese.

Name: Lucian Jade Age: 20 Degree: Physiotherapy My style in three words: “I don’t know if I can do three words... but I’d probably say either ‘never left the emo phase’, or ‘business meeting at five, need to bury a corpse at six’.”

The best fashion advice I’ve ever received is: “To not really care, as odd as that sounds.

Fashion is like jazz; you may play wrong, but if you’re confident everyone will believe you’re playing right anyway.”

“Business meeting at five, need to bury a corpse at six.”

I find fashion inspiration from: “I draw a lot of inspiration from music videos, particularly Manson. I’m a big fan of Kill Star and Nugoth fashion, basically the older 80s goth kind of thing. I love anything self made

“One load of black washing is pretty damn easy.”

My best tip for shopping on a student budget is: “Don’t shop: make and alter. Check out op shops too.”

My favourite place to shop is: “Punk Rave. I admire their patterns and styles; they do a lot of asymmetric things and that sparks me to think outside the box.”

My wardrobe is full of: “Black. I’ve dubbed it ‘The Void’. One load of black washing is pretty damn easy.”

My favourite fashion trend is: “Big pants. I’m really getting into the inverted triangle silhouette.”

My least favourite fashion trend is: “Fast fashion. I don’t like poorly sealed edges or poor seamstressing. I also don’t like it when hems are too long.”

and form fitting but I also love the Victorian attire and dandy style. Also anything that embodies aristocratic power and business.”

If the house was burning down and I could only save one thing from my wardrobe, it would be: “A lace jacket that I’ve made called the “Divination Jacket”. It’s a cropped coat with a high collar that’s totally covered in lace.”

Kmart or Targ

et?

Jeans or Trou

sers?

Designer or Th

rifted?

Solid or Print

ed?

Neutral or Bri

ght?

Lucian Jade is currently acce pting commiss under Zips n Ri ions ps Seamstress ing. You can fin her on Instagra d m at @jadeso ng_cosplay.

WHAT’S ON THIS AUGUST 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, Your Week, Ourimbah 1 – 4th, The Dark Room, Newcastle Playhouse 2nd, Mid Year Party, Bar on the Hill 2nd, Regurgitator, Cambridge Hotel 3rd, NUBUG Social Bike Ride, University of Newcastle 4th, Open Day, Ourimbah 4 – 6th, Course Beer Degustation Dinner, Everglades Country Club, Woy Woy 6 – 10th, Festival of Autonomy (multiple events) 10th, Autonomy Party, Bar on the Hill 11th, The Preatures, Cambridge Hotel 16th, Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase, The Art House, Wyong 16 – 24th, Trimester 2 exams 17th, Mental As Anything, Lizotte’s 18th, Queens Of The Stone Age, Newcastle Entertainment Centre 18th, Newcastle Flame: An Evening of Storytelling, Royal Exchange 22nd, Bob Dylan, Newcastle Entertainment Centre 24th, Semester 2 Census Date 25th, Open Day, Callaghan 26th, Flight Facilities, NEX 29th, Circus Oz: Model Citizens, Glasshouse, Port Macquarie 31st, Wear it Purple Day 31st, Trimester 2 results released Designed by: Jassmin Mihell

Designed by: Hannah Brien

MONTHLY This month, Angelique Carr and Shea Evans reach out to the cosmos for guidance

January 20th to February 18th

February 19th to March 20th

Wow, there is a loud and clear message for you, Aquarius. The stars say: ‘MAYBE’. Send money if you’d like to hear more.

Sometimes the celestial signs are clear, sometimes they are vague. This time they are too rude to print, sorry.

March 21st to April 19th

April 20th to May 20th

Stop spending so much time on social media, Aries. You’re dead inside and nobody knows who you are anymore.

27.17° South, 109.38° West. BRING SCUBA GEAR AND HURRY.

May 21st to June 20th

June 21st to July 22nd

Continuing in this double life will get you nowhere fast. I suggest you take a long hard look at yourselves in the mirror. Unity within the self is more powerful than the chaos without. Also, you left the oven on.

According to Darwin’s theory of Natural Selection, every time you kill a spider in your home the rest get better at hiding.

Photograph from unsplash.com

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HOROSCOPES July 23rd to August 22nd

August 23rd to September 22nd

When was the last time you called your mum? She gave life to you and you can’t spare 20 minutes of it to pick up the phone?

.. / .... .- ...- . / -... . . -. / -.- .. -.. -. .- .--. .--. . -.. / -... -.-- / -.-- .- -.- .-.-.- / ... . -. -.. / .... . .-.. .--.

September 23rd to October 22nd

October 23rd to November 21st

Every nightmare you’ve ever had will come true in quick succession.

Get ready for an exciting day!

I know you think your therapist is into you, and it’s bringing up some confusing feelings, but think about it this way: they know you better than anyone else. There’s no way they’re interested.

November 22nd to December 21st December 22nd to January 19th

Congrats Sagittarius! Your love life is going to get a burst of energy over the next two months. Mars is moving into your power house and Mercury is going into futuregrade which means your standards will be much lower than usual and you might actually message someone back instead of picking out every single flaw, Carly.

Oh Capricorn, looks like you’re going to do that thing you always do. You know the one, be careful. P.S. it will be on a Wednesday, that’s all I’m getting.

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Designed by: Reid McManus

YAK TRIVIA Arlya Tuckey gives you this edition's tricky trivia questions

1 - What Australian aquatic mammal lays eggs and contains enough venom to make a human seriously ill?

2 - The word ‘university’ comes from what language origin?

3 - How many countries comprise the Commonwealth?

4 - Who is the Chancellor at UON? 5 - Dr Jonas Salk discovered a vaccine for what incurable disease?

6 - What movie won the best animated feature film in the Oscars 2018?

7 - What does the Spanish word ‘despacito’ mean in English?

8 - What fictional setting is ‘The Lord of the Rings’ set in?

9 - The Pambalong Clan of what Aboriginal nation are the traditional owners of the land Callaghan is situated on?

10 - Until 1993, the Overland Telegraph ran from Darwin to which southern capital city?

7. Slowly

8. Middle Earth

Trivia Answers:

9. Awabakal Nation

1. Platypus

2. Latin

10. Adelaide 3. 53

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4. Mr Paul Jeans

5. Polio

6. Coco

W CROSS R D

11

Across

12

9

8

Yak Crossword

6

13

ACROSS

3

1. A caffeinated drink usually needed first 1.

A caffeinated drink usually needed first thing in the morning 6. Something we do when avoiding study thing in the morning 9. Something Volcanic archipelago part of the study USA 6. we do when avoiding 10. Widespread occurrence of a disease 9. Volcanic archipelago part of the USA 11. A person’s facial characteristics 10. Widespread occurrence of a disease 13. A system of rules 11. person’s characteristics 14. A Group whofacial decides if someone is innocent or guilty 13.

A system of rules

4

Down

14

10

1

7

2

DOWN

5

2. Costing a lot of money (like our degrees) 2. Costing a lotown of money (like our degrees) 3. Not from one’s country 3.

Not from one’s own country 4. A plot of land used to grow plants 5. Fearless 4. A plot of land used to grow plants 7. Third in order or level 5. Fearless 8. Meghan Markle’s first name at birth 7. Third in order or level 12. To close one’s eyes and rest ( an 8. Meghan Markle’s name at birth unknown occurrence to first many students) 12. To close one’s eyes and rest (an unknown occurrence to many students)

14. Group who decides if someone is innocent or guilty

DOWN: 2. Expensive 3. Foreign 4. Garden 5. Intrepid 7. Tetiary 8. Rachel 12. Sleep Crossword Answers:

ACROSS: 1. Coffee 6. Procrastinate 9. Hawaii 10. Epidemic 11. Visage 13. Law 14. Jury

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Designed by: Reid McManus

HOW TO RECYCLE ME Each year our university goes through 1,080 tonnes of waste. Do you 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 event on campus through groups like NUSA or FEAST. Designed by: Reid McManus

BOOKMARKS “If there’s a book you really want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.” –Toni Morrison

CUT ME OUT!

Designed by: Reid McManus Artwork: Daniel Cooper

Issue 45 // July 2018