summer issue
Editor’s Pick It’s the end of another academic year, which means
Editor-in-Chief | Lauren Chivers
it’s the final print issue for this year’s editorial team.
contact@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
I started out as lifestyle editor back in 2013 where I
Deputy Editor | Madison Taylor
spent endless hours providing the best hints and tips
maddy@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
from students at Plymouth University. Following this success I took over as Editor in Chief in 2014 to
News Editor | Emma Chappell
continue the great work that came before me and
emma@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
help raise awareness of the paper.
Opinion Editor | Samantha Lees
Although the year began with a rocky start, the
samantha@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
majority of the year has been spent working alongside a great team of editors, media, and design
Life Editor | Megan Pollard
to cover as many events, successes and student
megan@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
voices as possible. We’ve also been able to host a number of charity fundraisers and an incredibly
Style Editor | Lizzie Morgan
popular Pub Quiz. I’d like to thank everyone that has
lizzie@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
been involved this year and made the paper what it is whether you’re an editor, a writer or simply someone
Arts Editor | Kallum Catterall
featured in Campus Style. I’d like to give a special
kallum@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
thanks to Jordon Hill who has developed this print issue to be bigger and better than ever with a brand
Entertainment Editor | Simon Stone
new size and design to cover even more content.
simon@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
Jordon will now lead a new team of editors, who
Sports Editor | Rhiannon Squire
already have some very exciting plans. After her
rhiannon@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
dedication to the paper as writer and section editor, Samantha Lees will assist Jordon to ensure that the
Societies Editor | Tina Colwell
quality of our content continues and improves.
societies@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
For this issue however, we celebrate the General
Head of Media | Larissa Ellis-Jones
Election, winners of Sports, Society and SSTAR
media@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
awards, Plymouth as one of the top 5 best new universities in the UK, and have a chat with the
Head of Design | Jordon Hill
new executive officers. In this issue you’ll also find
design@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
articles on cocktails, UPSU’s Summer Ball and a festival ticket giveaway.
Events Manager | Jodie Ridgen events@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
So grab a pint on top of the SU and enjoy our final print issue this year. Lauren Chivers Editor in Chief
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summer issue
Editor’s Pick For my final editors pick I have to choose Laura Hooper’s ‘7 Things University Taught Me’. As a new writer Laura’s first article for The Knowledge covers everything you need to know about being a student and being in Plymouth. Her hints and tips are relatable to everyone both first and final years whether it’s making friends, watching Netflix or having a drink and are sure
Conseratives dominate Plymouth with all-blue win
4
Plymouth – One of the Top Five ‘New Universities’
5
Labrinth to headline Summer Ball
6
USPU Celebrate
6
to remain useful for students to come.
Why you should get work experience this summer 7 things that my first year at university has taught me
With my first year at Plymouth University coming to an end in 3 weeks time, I felt it would
eight tips for starting university...
11
The secrets of a long distance relationship
12
A conversation with your new Executive Officers
14
Top refreshing summer cocktails
16
Summer Ball
17
What to do if you’re not at the Summer Ball?
18
Summer 2015 festivals
20
A dedication to Rose
22
Plymouth Students become National Champions
23
be a nice idea and helpful to any upcoming Freshers if I reviewed my year, compiling my top
10
Continues on page 11...
@PlymUniStuNews
3
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summer issue
Conservatives dominate Plymouth with all-blue win A Conservative win for Plymouth’s
Talking to The Herald, Streeter
Finally, for the Plymouth Sutton
three constituencies after votes
said “It was worth waiting for. I
and Devonport constituency,
were cast (on May 7th 2015)
am thrilled, it’s quite humbling
with a turnout of 65.26%, Oliver
for the general election.
that people have put their trust
Colvile of the Conservative Party
in me again and I pledge myself
is re-elected and gains the highest
For the three constituencies:
to work as hard as I can.”
number of votes with 18,120.
South West Devon, Plymouth
Johnny Mercer gets a majority
Moor View and the third
of 1,024, with 16,020 votes
Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport,
for Plymouth, Moor View
the results were as follows:
constituency defeating
re-opening the airport and making
Labour’s Alison Seabeck.
sure we have a stronger military, the Royal Navy in particular and I hope
Gary Streeter of the Conservative Party is elected for the South West
Colvile’s priorities include: “looking for better trains, potentially
“I’m in the Conservative Party
Devon constituency with 28,500
but that does not mean I can’t
votes and a turnout of 71.08%
think for myself and do what is best for my constituents. That is
we will have a council that is going to keep the council tax down.” Lauren Chivers
what is missing from politics”
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news
summer issue
Plymouth – One of the Top Five ‘New Universities’ Plymouth has recently made a
in the 100 Under 50 to Australia”.
comeback in rankings over the
Phil Baty, Editor from the
past two weeks, after the Times
Times Higher Education said:
ranked among the top 40 global universities under the age of 50,
Higher Education lists the ‘top 100 new universities’ at the
“It’s a great achievement to be
“this ranking is about the
and it demonstrates the sustained
Young Universities
future generation, about
progress we’re making, guided by
Summit in Dublin.
the young pretenders
our mission of transforming lives through education and research.
The University of Plymouth
“[the University of Plymouth] is
is officially amongst the top
focused on the regional economy, it
modern universities of the
does a lot of work in marine science.
“Plymouth University has a very distinctive and modern mindset,
world, making it to 4th place
It’s got real pockets of excellence
one that reflects a willingness to
in the top five universities of
and it doesn’t try to do everything
challenge expectations of what a
the country, whilst ranking at
for everyone. It focuses on really
higher education institution can do
37th in the top 40 worldwide .
good opportunity for students with
for its region and its communities.”
A crucial set of placings, when
these young universities can offer”
particular specialists areas that only
moved up five places from 2014,
As a response to these
despite the publication of these
rankings, Plymouth’s Interim
results showing that “The UK
Vice-Chancellor, Professor
has lost its position as top nation
David Coslett said:
@PlymUniStuNews
What do you think about these rankings? Let us know online.
considering that Plymouth has
5
Emma Chappell
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summer issue
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Labrinth to headline Summer Ball The line up for the University of Plymouth’s 2015 Summer Ball has been announced. Just some of the acts which will be performing are Labrinth, Blonde, Jaguar Skills, Jus Now and Becky Hill. Last year the summer ball tickets sold out in less than 24 hours, and this year students have once again flocked to the SU to get hold of tickets. Other acts include: Dr Meaker Artful Dodger Twin Wild Hong Kong Ping Pong Freejak DJ Jonezy UP:Beat Ashleigh Sladen Harry Willis Josh & Charlie Olly Parker Jamie Yost Steve Sampson Tom Baker Robin Evans Manuka Bella Dalton
Photo Credit: Elliot Morgan
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news
1
summer issue
UPSU Celebrate: Sports Awards UPSU Sports Awards are a chance for us to celebrate our achievements in sport over the past year and to recognise outstanding contributions socially, competitively and professionally. Half Colours Awarded to individual students for dedication and/
Sports Personality of the Year
or involvement within a club. Can also be awarded to outstanding team captains, those going over and above what is required as a committee member or to a club member who has made a huge a contribution to the club. Congratulations to:
awarded to
Matt Dark
Abi Page, Abigail Horlock, Alex Young, Alexander Baker, Alison Sarson, Andrea Haas, Andrew Whapshott, Antony Gray, Ben Leaney, Cameron Sinclair, Catherine Bell, Charles Markham,
Sports Woman of the Year
Charlotte Patmore, Chris Howe, Christopher Lawler, Christopher Nesbitt, Craig Dibb, Edward Mitchell,
Sports Man of the Year
Eliot Law, Ellen Genders, Ellie Hawthorne, Emily
awarded to
awarded to
Mulligan, Fiona Murray, Frankie Patmore, Gavin
Madelijn Hollick
Aidan Smith
Scott, George Imbert, Isla Findlay, Jack Finch, Jack Hale, Jack Irwin-Smith, James Gill, James ParkerMowbray, James Ryder, Jessica Fewings, Jessica
Sport in the Community awarded to Charli
Gallacher, Joanna Speer, Joe Edwards, Joe Hunt,
Pengelly
Joshua Robinson, Katie Riley, Kaya Teare, Kayleigh Bunker, Kelsey Pillage, Laura Grace Barnfield
Sports Charitable Award awarded to Benjamin
, Levi Lucas, Lizzie Foley, Lucy Russell, Mary
Devall
Springett, Melissa Christie, Mike Jacot, Mike Kelley, Natasha Simmonds, Paul Payne, Poppy Gitsham,
Contribution to Sport awarded to Kayleigh
Sam Watson, Samuel Bray, Sarah Murray, Sophie
Bunker
Cadwgan, Sophie Drew, Soraya Williams, Stephanie Most Improved Club awarded to Dance
Davis, Theo Rumen
Highly Commended awarded to Ultimate Full Colours
Frisbee
Awarded to individual students who already hold
Outstanding Performance awarded to Ju Jitsu
half colours except in exceptional circumstances.
Highly Commended awarded to Underwater
Exceptional circumstances include winning an
Hockey
international/national or BUCS Competition or representing their sport at a national/international
Team of the Year awarded to Sailing &
level. Congratultions to:
Powerboat Club, 1st Team Racing Highly Commended - Ladies Lacrosse, 1st
Charlotte Cooper, Ellis Hughes, Harry Alexander,
Team
Henry Stephens, Jocelyn Nuttall, Lucy Neve, Club of the Year awarded to Adventure & Expo
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7
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summer issue
UPSU Celebrate: Society Awards UPSU Society Awards are a chance for us to celebrate
Most Improved Society awarded to
our achievements in everything societies and to
Rock and Live Music
recognise outstanding contributions both socially,
Highly Commended - Biomedical Sciences
and professionally.
Highly Commended - Harry Potter
Awarded to individual students for dedication and/
New Society of the Year awarded to
or involvement within a society. Can also be awarded
Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle
to outstanding teachers, those going over and above
Highly Commended - Friends of MSF
what is required as a committee member or to a society member who has made a huge a contribution
Best Project awarded to
to the society. Congratulations to:
Choir at Mayflower School Highly Commended - Poppy Making and Selling for
Abigail Turner, Adam Bent, Alex Nolan, Aman
the Royal British Legion
Chadha, Antony Lam, April Welsh, Birte Irmer, Charlotte Laden, Christopher Nesbitt, Ella Downing,
Society Charity Champion awarded to
Emma Chappell, Enrico Eberhard, Georgia May
Marrow
Rivers, Grace Matthews, Hannah Shelton, Holly Williams, Ian Grainger, Ian Turner, Jack Edwards,
Outstanding One-Off Event awarded to
Jamie Booth, Jasmine D’Souza, Jessica Hamlyn, Jo
Our House, The Musical - Musical Theatre Group
Briffitt, Joanna Smith, Jonathon Charnock, Kallum
Highly Commended - I’m a Student Get Me Out of
Catterall, Kathleen Sadrazam, Lauren Chivers,
Here! - Zoological Society
Maddie Emery, Madison Taylor, Megan Douglas, Phillip Merritt, Polly Brown, Rhiannon Squire, Robin
Society Person of the Year awarded to
Lewis, Rose Amelia Fanning, Sam Pomeroy,
Ian Turner
Samantha Lees, Samantha Sutton, Sarah Lawrence, Sarah Reed, Simon Stone, Stephen Allard, Vicky Jackson UPSU Society Full Colours
Society of the Year
Those who already hold half colours can be awarded full colours if they show continued outstanding dedication or made an exceptional contribution to their society, whilst also demonstrating commitment to the Students’ Union and/or student societies.
awarded to
Congratulations to:
Med Soc
Christina Colwell, David Brown, Ellen Lamb, Peter Lord, Robin Evans
Highly Commended Outstanding Contribution to Students awarded to
Engineers without Borders
Ellen Lamb Highly Commended - Ian Bugg Community Contribution Award awarded to Engineers without Borders
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news
summer issue
UPSU Celebrate SSTAR Awards Each year UPSU holds the
Cornwall College - Emma Clifton
Health & Human Sciences - Carol
prestigious SSTAR Awards. These
Science & Engineering - Stacey
Coleman
awards recognise the many
DeAmicis
Medicine & Dentistry - Andy Foey
excellent university staff members
Overall Winner - Paul Richards
City College - Darren Crocker
and dedicated course reps we have here at the Plymouth University.
Science & Engineering - Mike Outstanding Support Staff -
Foulkes
Faculty & School
Overall Winner - Carol Coleman
Most Dedicated Dissertation
Faculty Winners:
Project Supervisor
Arts & Humanities - Karen
Best Feedback
Faculty Winners:
Sedgman
Faculty Winners:
Arts & Humanities - Ciaran
Business - Nina Hughes
Arts & Humanities - Lee Whittock
O’Sullivan
Health & Human Sciences - Julie
Business - Julie Williams
Business - Helen Mortimore
Moody
Health & Human Sciences - Gary
Health & Human Sciences -
Medicine & Dentistry - Allison
Strong
Alyson Norman
Raven
Medicine & Dentistry - Jolanta
Medicine & Dentistry - Simon Fox
Cornwall College - Beccy Johnson
Kisielewska
South Devon College - David
Science & Engineering - Will
South Devon College - Jo Button
Chambers-White
Vevers
Science & Engineering - Jill
Science & Engineering - John
Overall Winner - Karen Sedgman
Schwarz
Moody Overall Winner - Simon Fox
Overall Winner - Jo Button University Wide Nominees:
Best Course Rep
Outstanding Personal Tutor
Alex Bordoli
Faculty Winners:
Faculty Winners:
Jon Hall
Arts & Humanities - Rhiannon
Arts & Humanities - Armani
Nadine Jeffery
Pike
Shepherd
Nicola Symons
Business - Melissa Reed
Business - Kristin Finn
Overall Winner - Jon Hall
Health & Human Sciences -
Health & Human Sciences - Jon
Michelle Kennedy
Perry
Best Placement Support
Medicine & Dentistry - Isabelle
Medicine & Dentistry - Simon Fox
Nominees:
Drummond
City of Bristol College - Dawn
Lauren Kay
South Devon College - Josh Pillar
Miller
Caroline Leeson
Science & Engineering - Robert
Science & Engineering - Dave
Sylvia Terbeck
Forster
Easterbrook
Overall Winner - Lauren Kay
Overall Winner - Michelle
Overall Winner - Dave Easterbrook
Kennedy Championing Career Development
Student Voice Gold Awards
Nominees:
Stand Out Forum Chair
Sophie Godwin, Jessica Small,
Francesco D’Alessio
Nominees:
Alan Willetts
Kerry Howell
Henrietta Beynon, School of
Lee Whittock
Biomedical Sciences
Overall Winner - Kerry Howell
Lucy Richardson, School
Most Innovative Use of Teaching Methods
of Geography, Earth &
Faculty Winners:
Inspirational Teaching
Environmental Sciences
Arts & Humanities - Mike Blow
Faculty Winners:
Alan Willetts, School of Health
Business - Paul Richards
Arts & Humanities - Simon Lock
Professionals
Health & Human Sciences - Gary
Business - Craig Newbery-Jones
Overall Winner - Henrietta
Strong @PlymUniStuNews
Beynon 9
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opinion
summer issue
Why you should get work experience this summer In a careers market of hard-
see that students have a heart.
to-come-by-jobs, there is an
This doesn’t necessarily have
Okay, again, this might be
ever-growing need for students
to take the form of working in
reading as ‘work-experience
and young-people alike to adorn
a charity-shop or at an elderly
for dummies’, but this albeit
their CV’s with a plethora of work
people’s home – though you
sometimes far from the field
experience. This work-experience
may feel like you are doing
you are interested in, can look
epiphany is something that I,
your bit for society, can be a bit
impressive on your CV. And, you
myself, have undertaken and
dull. Be adventurous and help
are getting paid, which I know
carried out and now my CV,
organise a charity event, which
for some students the summer
as a soon-to-be-graduate is
will accentuate your many, many
holiday is a necessary hiatus to
something that I am not
skills.
save money for the next academic
ashamed of.
year. This can demonstrate Internships
essential work-skills which are
This has been hammered into me
desirable in many career paths
since my first year as a student
So, you may feel a little hard done
– so don’t be disheartened when
and I’m sure that tutors, parents,
by, by taking on an internship
your coffee shop job doesn’t quite
older siblings and friends have
as they are usually unpaid and
match the marketing CEO you
also reiterated to you and now it is
overworked. However, this is a
have in mind.
something that I shall do as well –
good way to establish the field
having a degree, even a first class
you may want to enter into once
one from the likes of Oxbridge,
looking for a career. You can also
is not enough, work experience
make some amazing contacts, get
is essential and can only be a
a good reference and who knows,
positive. So take this long, long,
if you are super lucky and your
long summer and be productive –
company really likes you and are
there is more than enough time to
impressed by the work that you
have a holiday (or two), kick back
do, may want to hire you at a later
and relax but also have something
date (with a salary!).
Madison Taylor
to show for it apart from a decent tan and some tagged photos on
Part-time Work
Facebook. As follows, are some examples of work experience you can undergo that will make you shine in the eyes of your future employer. Volunteering This seems obvious. And maybe it is but I thought we should probably start with the basics. Volunteering is endearing. It shows commitment to a cause, it also shows where your ethical morals lie and employers like to
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opi ni o n
summer issue
7 things that my first year at university has taught me With my first year at Plymouth
everything to. Whilst it’s fine
Spend time getting your room
University coming to an end in
to be just as close with your uni
right.
3 weeks time, I felt it would be
friends, make sure that you don’t
a nice idea and helpful to any
neglect your old friends either.
Before leaving for uni, I went on
upcoming Freshers if I reviewed
Some of my best friends are from
a ginormous Ikea haul – buying
my year, compiling my top eight
school and we still make sure
an array of things from a full
tips for starting university:
that we’re up to date with all of
length mirror, cute tortoise pins
the gossip via group chat and see
and a hot pink ambience light, to
If you’re unhappy, don’t stay
eachother whenever we’re home,
frying pans and knives and forks.
quiet, do something about it.
a catch up I always look forward
Although buying trivial things
to.
such as tortoise pins may seem
I cannot stress this point enough. Despite it being my first choice,
silly, I would 100% argue that Don’t get lazy.
buying such items and making
when I arrived at Roehampton
your room feel comfy and homey
University in London, I knew it
As a fresher (who’s first year
is a must. You will feel far more
wasn’t right for me. If you’re
often doesn’t count), many can
settled if you’ve got a lovely room
feeling unhappy at uni, try and
fall all too easily into the trap of
to be in, and I would definitely
stick it out for a couple of weeks
‘ordering in, pjs, lying in bed all
recommend Ikea being your first
to see if it improves; but if you’re
day’ kind of mood. If possible,
port of call. Other great things you
like me and are still finding it
I urge you to try and stay away
could put in your room could be
hard, then do something about it.
from this. Obviously if you’re
cushions, photos, posters, and bed
I was lucky enough to be able to
hungover or ill it’s only right
throws (I am guilty of all of the
transfer to my insurance choice
that you should lie in bed feeling
above).
in Plymouth within the space
sorry for yourself; but in any other
of a weekend, and I am so much
situation, resist. Go out, grab
You will not survive without
happier because of it.
lunch, go to the gym, do some uni
Netflix.
work (I know, I can’t believe I’m Don’t be afraid to reach out and
saying that either), just whatever
Sure uni is great and all, but like
make new friends.
you do, get-out-of-bed.
anywhere, it does have its boring
One of the best experiences that
Ask for help if you’re stuck.
moments. For those who don’t university offers, is the chance
have a TV in their room or even for those who do; all I can say is, get
to meet new people and make
Whether it’s money problems, uni
a Netflix account. Trust me, it will
new friends. This may sound
work or your first time washing
be your lifesaver.
unintentionally patronising,
your own clothes, if you’re in a
but everyone is in the same boat
tricky situation and don’t know
I hope you like my top tips for
and are just as scared as you are.
what to do, ask. Along with asking
starting university, and that
Someone just needs to make the
flatmates for cooking advice,
anyone starting in September has
first step that’s all – why not let it
followed by googling the answer
a great experience.
be you?
when they don’t know either, I often email my uni tutors for help
New friends are all good fun, but
with coursework. This really can
don’t forget your old ones either.
help to put your mind at ease if
Laura Faye Hooper
you’re struggling – I would really Before university, your ‘old’
recommend to anyone that needs
friends were the people you’d
that little bit of extra help.
do everything with and tell @PlymUniStuNews
11
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opinion
summer issue
The secrets of a long distance relationship As a student who has been in one, gone through A
the messy results, and moved on, I can now
while ago I
look back at it with a pair of objective eyes, and
was asked to write an
attempt to answer a few of the questions that I
article on what it was like to
have most often encountered, and maybe shed
be in a long distance relationship.
some light and relief on the subject: Question 1: How can you be in a relationship with
I found it quite a challenge, and worried
someone you’re never with?
about writing something so personal, and something that I was still involved in and coming to terms with. I decided that I would
The distance between me and ex was about 140
approach this subject when I had actually
miles, so just over a two hour drive, admittedly
come to the end of my university life, by then,
not an extensively long distance, but still enough
I thought, the whole experience will surely be
that I could only see him once a month. I had my
made clearer to me.
studies, he had his job, and admittedly we didn’t get much time together in the physical sense.
I was with my partner since the age of 16, and
But today we live in the digital age, with Skype,
when I told him I had gotten into university it
Facebook, Whatsapp, Snapchat, Twitter, let’s face
was a very bittersweet moment. Though, we
it, not a lot is really private or hidden anymore.
both agreed we were going to make it work, and
We used to get by with one promised Skype
that’s exactly what we tried to do.
session a week, with other small sessions at our convenience, and this worked pretty well for the
Sadly, we broke up February last year, so
first year.
we lasted around a year and a half. My fellow single students often ask me
Question 2: How do you keep
what it was like, and how I coped.
the spark?
When my course mates who have managed to continue with a
Make sure that person remains a priority. It was
long-distance relationship struggle, they ask me for advice. The
year that we begun to get lazy with our Skype
often ask
couples that are together at
at some point during the first term of my second university
calls and text messages. It literally turned into a
questions such
‘hey’, ‘hey’, ‘you okay’, ‘yeah you?’ conversation
as: “How did it work
everyday. Once that starts happening, alarm bells
though? Didn’t you miss
should be ringing. We failed to keep our spark,
him? Surely you missed out?”
but that was due to laziness on both our sides. It worked for us during the first year because we
I believe the long distance relationship
kept each other as a priority.
is something that many students feel Question 3: Didn’t you ever feel like you missed out on
quite hard to come to terms with, and a
University life?
definite first year struggle for some. “How can you actually enjoy university?” is the question most often asked. It is even met with contempt
There were times during my first year, and more
by some; many people perceive it as an endeavor
so through my second year, where I felt contempt
that’s doomed from the start.
and restraint. Personally, I’ve never been one for one-night-stand’s or drunken goings on. The thing that I found difficult was the fact
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opi ni o n
summer issue
that my partner did not like that I was meeting make
new people and going out every week, he’d be
it work, and
irritated when I tried to tell him about something
I failed to do that. It
funny one of my new friends had done on a night
has been over a year now,
out. I was participating in what I consider to be
and when I look back, in no way
‘university life’, but at the price of an argument
do I consider it a waste of time. I loved
with my boyfriend at 3am at the end of it. I didn’t miss out, but my participation in it did put a
someone enough to dedicate myself
strain on my relationship.
to them, despite only seeing them one
I do not think all hope is lost, I know a friend
lot of my time. I made many mistakes, and
weekend a month, and having to sacrifice a who has got the long-distance relationship down
if I could go back I would do many things
to a T, and she is a massive social butterfly. We
different, but I don’t regret it.
have all met her boyfriend from back home, he has joined us on many nights out, and we all get
During the past year I have dated other
on very well. My partner didn’t try to mix with
people, and have even been through another
my university friends, and admittedly I didn’t
relationship. I no longer speak to my long-
endeavor to get him to as much as I should have
distance ex. I have moved on and that is what
done. Therefore, I don’t believe a long-distance
we decided to do, a decision which I do still think was ultimately for the best. But as for ‘the
relationship means you miss out on university
secrets of a long distance relationship’, there
life, you just need to make sure that once again, it
aren’t any. If you’re dedicated enough,
doesn’t make you neglectful.
remember to keep them included in your life, and do not forget the key word
Overall, despite my own bad experience, I do not view the long-distance relationship as a
‘priority’, if the love is there, you will
hopeless endeavor. I admittedly know more
do just fine. To be honest though, that goes for any relationship.
people it has failed for than worked for, but for the couples it has worked for, they are definitely
Emma Chappell
some of the happiest couples I know. A longdistance relationship is an extreme test of your commitment, love, and respect for one another, and when mine ended, I felt like I had failed. Which brings me to my final question: Question 4: Do you look back and think it was all a waste of time? Many associate the long-distance relationship with a wider sense of sacrifice, determination and commitment than with the normal-distance relationship, people are more inclined to view its attempt as a higher extremity of wasted efforts once it has ended. As I previously stated, what I initially felt when we finally accepted it was over, was failure. I promised this person that my choice to move away would not affect us, that I would
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13
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l i fe
summer issue
A conversation with your new Executive Officers President
VP Sports
VP Societies
Ruth Titmuss
Matthew Dark
James Stoner
Marketing
Animal Behaviour &
Events Management
Welfare 1. I became interested in the exec
1. I really want people to be more
1. After spending years of students
role when I was on placement,
confident when coming to uni and
helping me with everything I do,
seeing the influence the officers
a great way to become an active
this is my chance to make a real
could have was amazing and I
university member is through
difference and give something
wanted to be able to influence the
sports. There are so many sports
back, as cliche as it sounds!
student experience for the better!
out there and I want to influence
2. Apprehensive. Even though I
people to take part in something
2. To summarize it into one word,
that they may enjoy.
curious. It’s new, it’s interesting
have been in the team this year,
and I’m excited to see what is
I have a lot to live up to and a
2. I am a bit nervous to take over,
on the way. I get to work with a
new challenge to take on. It’s an
I feel people have extremely high
cracking bunch of people and I’m
incredibly exciting time though
expectations from the past exec
very keen to say the least.
however I will miss the current
officers and I want to live up to
team a huge amount. My heart
those expectations.
doesn’t know what it is feeling!
3. I cannot wait to start working with our incredible media teams,
3. My plans over the next year are
societies and RAG, Volunteering
3. Naturally when the new
to become a well-known member
and such. Getting more students
academic year starts, new plans
of staff. I want people to come and
involved in as many different
will grow and that’s one of the
talk to me when ever they want,
opportunities as possible. The SU
really exciting things about being
about any problem they may have.
is a great place, people just need to
a officer – you can constantly
get stuck in and find out.
develop new ideas. I’m sure there
4. I personally think that
will be plenty more.
introducing a sixth member of the
4. Buzzing. Looking forward to
team was a great idea. Sports and
working alongside Matt, and the
4. Having seen & been through
societies, although many people
rest of the team of course, but we
the amount of work and pressure
join both, are completely different
both know our roles will overlap in
officers have been put under this
from each other. I feel that myself
places for the Sports & Societies.
year, we definitely need a sixth
and James will be able to focus
Having two people to work on
officer to help us to complete
more on our role and helping the
these projects should mean
more campaigns, tasks and
clubs and individuals that fall
twice as much fun and a better
representative functions than ever.
under our position.
experience for you guys.
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li fe
summer issue
We asked your new executive officers are these questions: Why you wanted to be an exec officer? How you feel about taking over? What are your plans over the next year? What are your thoughts on introducing a 6th member of the team?
VP Education
VP Welfare
VP International & Outreach
Steph Wearne
Jessica Small
Dave Bertelli
History
Psychology
Geography & International Relations
1. Throughout my final year I
1. I would say it was the influence
1. I’ve been a student at Plymouth
became more involved in the SU
of a few close friends that made
University since 2010 and I know
by being elected as the Humanities
me so passionate about getting the
I can contribute to an overall
and Performing Arts School Rep. I
position, I persistently thought
improvement of our students’
really enjoyed the responsibilities
I was not good enough and they
university experience.
of the job and the people I got to
always convinced me otherwise.
meet through it, so I wanted to
2. To be honest, I’ve had such
take this a step further and put
2. I say this constantly - the
a busy time with deadlines and
myself forward to become and
thought of being an ‘adult’
exams since election week, that
exec.
terrifies me, so I am scared and
the whole thing hasn’t quite sunk
it is a big deal to me. At the same
in yet.
2. I am so so nervous but I’m very
time I am really excited to get
excited to get started!
started and make a change to
3. Fulfil my manifesto points, first
things, it’s especially exciting for
of all! But I would also like to see
3. I have a few ideas that I’m keen
me as my younger sister is looking
more student engagement with
to get working on but to begin
to start and Plymouth next year.
any activity that we plan. We,
with I’m gonna work really hard on achieving my manifesto points
the exec team, need to be visible, 3. Aside from my manifesto, I
transparent and approachable;
would love to get students more
students need to know who we are
4. I love that we have a 6th person
vocal. Students should be able
and what we are up to.
this year! I do think it was the
to lobby their university to meet
right decision to split the role
their needs, as well as being able
4. I always think the more
because now more attention can
to stand up for what they believe.
the better. Splitting societies
be paid to Sports and Activities individually
and sports will bring more 4. I believe that the role of the
representation. I will also consider
students union is to represent
putting forward the idea of
the needs of students, and this
splitting my position to guarantee
will obviously help so I think it’s
a particularly underrepresented
great and that we should aim to
group’s voice is heard.
represent students as much as possible.
@PlymUniStuNews
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l i fe
summer issue
Top refreshing summer cocktails Lauren Chivers The weather’s getting warmer and exams are almost over, meaning barbecues on the Hoe and flat parties to celebrate the end of the year. But no summer party is complete without refreshing cocktails:
Sangria (pitcher)
Long Island Ice Tea (per glass)
Slice up apples and oranges and place in a pitcher
In a glass full of ice, pour in a shot of white rum,
Add a bottle of red wine
vodka, gin, tequila and orange liqueur.
Add lemonade and orange juice to taste
Add sugar syrup and the juice of one lemon juice and
Top with ice and fresh mint
one lime juice Top the glass with coke
Mojito (per glass) And of course, the humble Pimms (pitcher) Put sliced lime and 2tsp of sugar into a glass Add fresh mint
Fill a pitcher with ice
Fill the glass with ice
Chop and fill with strawberries, orange, lemon, lime,
Pour in a shot of white rum
cucumber and mint
Fill the rest of the glass with soda water
Pour in Pimms and Lemonade to taste
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s t yl e
summer issue
Summer Ball You don’t have to look far to find that perfect outfit for the Summer Ball. We’ve narrowed down a few of our favourites and for a decent Top Shop
affordable price.
Plunge Maxi Dress Price: £52.00
Top Shop Mesh Insert Skater Dress Price: £36.00
New Look
New Look
Black Lace Ankle Strap Cork Wedges Price: £19.99
Lenn12 Chunky Platforms Price: £55.00
Topman Navy Skinny Fit Suit Price: £100.00
Next Black Tuxedo Suit Price: £89.00
Next Black Perforated Lace-up Price: £30.00
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Topman Mardy Black Distressed Suede Brogues Price: £65.00
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theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk
summer issue
e n te r tai n me n t
What to do if you’re not at the Summer Ball? For some, going to the Summer Ball is a great way to finish of the year, but it’s not for everyone. Here are a few cheap alternatives for you and your friends. Plymouth Fringe Festival That’s right, from Monday 25-Saturday 30 May, Plymouth will be holding their first ever fringe festival. Prepare to be entertained as some of Plymouth’s best home grown talent will be performing across the week at venues such as Theatre Royal Plymouth, The House and The Barbican Theatre. Night out on North Hill It might be quiet and it might not pick up until 1am, but North Hill might be another great alternative to the Summer Ball. It’s familiar, and so whether it’s cheap pool in Mousetrap, a chilled pint at Air, or a night on the Cuba pole, you know what you’re getting. Free Cuba Party Fancy a night of embracing another culture? This extravaganza will be accompanied by Latin music, including the best in salsa, merengue, bachata, son and more. Drinks such as cocktails will be available from the bar. The event will take place in B-Bar, on the Barbican. Take a trip to Vue Instead of going to the Summer Ball, you could catch up on the latest cinema releases. Films include a remake of the horror classic, Poltergeist; to a British Rom Com in the form of Man Up. A standard night in If all else fails, just invite your friends over, order in a takeaway and just take the night as it comes. What are your plans for the Summer Ball? Simon Stone
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WICKERMAN FESTIVAL
WIN TICKETS The Knowledge have two tickets to give away, all you have to do is email us at giveaway@theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk and tell us your most outrageous festival story to be in for a chance of winning! Worth over ÂŁ220, acts include Tom Odell, Example and Lulu, 24-25th July. You could win 2 weekend tickets and 1 car space, winner will be announced 8th June.
summer issue
e n te r tai n me n t
Summer 2015 festivals For the many of us whose only glimpses of Coachella were in the form of the Snapchat anecdotes, rest assured there are tons of raves to hit and music scenes still to explore; queue list: Check out these top festivals to rage at this summer, ladies, get your Hunters, excessive amounts of glitter and flower-crowns at the ready and lads, well, baby wipes will solve anything. Somersault, 23rd – 27th July: North Devon’s newcomer is already proving a hit with locals and natives alike, selling out in it’s first year this festival with a vision boasts a vibe Glastonbury, 24th-28th June:
inseparable from the laid back and uniquely west coast, state of mind. Backed by Surfers Against
If you were one of the lucky
Sewage, this festival (in the not some jumble opinion
ones to be granted tickets to
of a local Cornishman) could not tick any more
Glastonbury 2015 then I applaud
boxes! Spanning five days and featuring sets from
you, *hand clap emoji* with
Bombay Bicycle Club, Passenger, Laura Marling and
performances from the likes of
many, many more, this festival is a steal at £135. Not
Foo Fighters, Kanye West, Pharrell
convinced? Check out the video from last year: http://
Williams and Florence and the
somersaultfestival.com/2014-film/
Machine this years pilgrimage is
See full line up here: http://somersaultfestival.com/
set to be as good as any!
programme
Though for those of ya’ll who don’t have £220 left of your student loan here are a bunch of festivals to suit any budget!
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ent e r t a i nme n t
summer issue
Boardmasters, 5th – 9th August: This festival has a special place in my summer itinerary! Having made the 20 minute pilgrimage from my house to this festival for Wickerman, 24th -24th July
the past four years I can safety say you get a lot of bang for your buck! It’s not just music, but Surf,
Located on the Boarders
Skate and BMX competitions, if
Dundrennan, this Scottish
that wasn’t enough, the chaps
festival is no Nevada’s Burning
have also arranged a bunch of
Man, but does boasts a set from
stellar after parties in neighboring
chart toppers Example and Tom
Newquay town centre! For the
Odell! And as it happens, you
sum of £139 you could be basking
may be able to get there for
in knowledge you’ll be treated
here! The Knowledge have two
to performances from the likes
tickets to give away, all you have
of Rudimental, Clean Bandit and
to do is email us at giveaway@
Bastille, but to name a few! For the
theknowledgeplymouth.co.uk,
full line up, head over here: http://
and tell us your most outrageous
www.boardmasters.co.uk/line-up
festival story to be in for a chance of winning! Power to ya!
Boardmasters 2014 after movie: Kallum Catterall
https://youtu.be/drXtSagRsqI
@PlymUniStuNews
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summer issue
so ci e ti e s
A dedication to Rose After judging over 25 submissions, exclusively from Design Society members, judges Joshua Blackwell, Rachael Gomery and James Brocklehurst (Bread & Roses designer, events organiser and Graphic Communication course leader respectively) chose 10 posters, including 3 winners, to be displayed for the entire week-long event running 21st-28th April at Bread & Roses: Plymouth’s only social enterprise pub. The brief was to create a poster inspired by the famous quote by Rose Schneiderman, “The worker must have bread, but she must have roses too”, the quote the pub is named after. A variety of pieces were created in various formats including handcrafted collage, graphic art and letterpress. After scouring the submissions, the judges picked three winners; first prize went to Thom Skinner winning a £30 bar tab, a bottle of whiskey and his work permanently displayed in the Bread & Roses, second prize went to Jonny Aldrich coming second and winning a £20 bar tab and a bottle of champagne and third: Matthew Down winning a £10 bar tab and a bottle of finest bucks fizz. Relive the event online by watching the incredible video, filmed by Aletalk Productions. To keep up with future events from Design Society like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter. Jordon Hill The featured image iss the first prize winning piece created by Thom Skinner. To see more of his work visit: behance.net/thomskinner
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societies
summer issue
Plymouth Students become National Champions 23rd and 24th March 2015 saw
So then it was onto nationals?
Francesco D’Alessio, Michelle
Yeah, that was a 2 day event at Lancaster University between 16
Singh, Mingaile Rutkauskaite,
university teams. We went up the night before and were given the
Marc Rowbury, Usaj Basnet
scenario in the morning, which was to create a wearable healthcare
and Jack Stevenson take part
device, so our idea was to create a diabetes band that would analyse
in the two-day finale of FLUX
blood glucose levels through sweat, and then send the information to an
500, in which entrepreneurs are
application on the iPhone. We had to come up with how we were going
encouraged to solve business
to market it, finance, distributions… We basically had to come up with
challenges before pitching to a
an entire business in 2 days.
panel of judges. The Knowledge was lucky enough to speak to the
On the second day we were given a risk scenario; ‘some people in your
team’s leader Francesco about the
community are worried about the information leaking and the data
event.
protection’. We had to fix that problem, and if we were chosen we had to pitch the solution, and then they said ‘Plymouth University’ so
Can you describe the event in your own words? We were set a business challenge and asked to solve it in a creative and efficient way, and demonstrate professionalism through meetings and pitching. What made you decide to enter the FLUX competition, and how did you decide who your team would be? I took lead of the Entrepreneurial Society at the beginning of the year and we decided to do a uni competition, so we chose FLUX as an awareness strategy for the society. I handpicked the members from the society for their different skills, and we
we had to pitch it to them. Our
What’s next for you guys? Will you
decided to go for it and see what
solution was to install touch ID
be reuniting as a business group?
happened.
and a password lock, and then we
Sadly no, two of us are leaving,
decided to donate £1 to Diabetes
only one is staying for a year and
UK for every purchase.
the rest of us are on placement.
What did the RNLI FLUX involve? We were asked to create a strategy
There is talk of us reuniting in our
to help the RNLI grow their
Is it difficult when you’re given a
final year and we could try to win
volunteers and awareness. We
scenario in an area you’re not
it again, because that’s never been
had to do a 6 minute pitch with 4
familiar with?
done so that would be cool!
minutes of questions and we got
Yes, we found that our original
in touch with local businesses
idea wouldn’t work and so we had
Well done to Francesco and all the
for their advice. Then we got to
to do loads of in-depth research
team for your national title!
the final pitch which was a battle
into how it would actually work. Nicola Tyrer
between 2 teams.
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