FRESH. With her smooth vocals, sensual stage presence and catchy tunes, breakthrough Jetta chats to Vision
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Contents
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ISSUE 3
7 Ever visted York? No? It’s pretty quirky... 8 From Kuda to Revs - we map out the nightlife here in York 9 Everything you need to know about sex at York 10 For those of you who get bored with the same club nights... 13 We heard someone became YUSU President... so we grilled him on his new job 14 Vision spoke to our lovely cover star JETTA check it out! 19 We’ve racked our brains and chosen the 10 students you should know about 23 Vision chat to Peter
Hitchens 24 What is Willow? You should probably read this 26 Check out what to wear this Freshers’ Week 32 We know it’s tough to start with - so check our must buys to get you through term one 34 Societies guide and a lesson from the NUS journalist of the year 36 If you’re LGBTQ and you’re finding it tough, read some of our advice from staff and students 38 Vision’s sports guide & an interview with YUSU Sports Prez Cass Brown 40 Don’t know how to cook? Look no further...
26 42 International Students’ advice, just for you 44 Advice from a Gadd/ Grad - however you want to say it 45 We traced the BNOCs so you didn’t have to... 46 Vision’s famous bucket list (keep us updated!)
Letter from the Ed.
W
elcome to Fresh, the annual Freshers’ mag brought to you by York Vision. Move aside second years - we have a new batch of baby faced youths to show us how to really dance in Willow. We’ve been working all summer to bring you a slice of uni life here at York - and you’re in for a treat. Open up and take a read - it’s jam packed with useful info I wish I knew when I was a fresher! So, what exactly is York Vision? York Vision is the UK’s most awarded student publication, and York’s best source of top news, gossip and more. We’re also the uni’s most read student newspaper and website. We publish three times a term, brimming with news, gossip, sport and the hottest fashion tips - and that’s just scratching the surface! We’re a tabloid, which means our approach is a bit different. We don’t take ourselves too seriously, but we care about the service we provide you. We are unashamedly written for students, by students.
LEON MORRIS, EDITOR
Contributors Helena Horton, Will McCurdy, Selina Pope,
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Lorenzo Wong, Thomas Murray, Tom Davies,
Jack Gevertz, Charlie Benson, Sophie Gadd
Design Leon Morris, Charlie Benson, Helena Horton
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IN THE KNOW Many things have happened at this university. Here’s a rundown of some famous faces, goings-on and news stories which you ought to know about.
Jenna-Louise Coleman was going to study English here before she took up a role on Emmerdale. The 28-year-old, who is better known for her role as Doctor Who companion Clara Oswald, revealed the information in an article with The Independent newspaper.
An ex-Big Brother winner, Sophie Reade, pretended that she was going to study music here, but it turned out to be a Facebook hoax. Her management confirmed this to Vision in 2011 after the news attracted several comments on social media. The profile and description of the glamour model were copied when she entered the house.
By Jack Gevertz Yes, there was an “orgy society” on campus - and no it isn’t still around. It was based in Alcuin College and ran for a few terms in 2011 before its seedy antics were closed down. A Facebook group, called ‘Alcuin Porn Soc’, had its settings changed to full thanks to an inundation in requests to join. According to one, “everyone” was having sex.
Somebody did actually steal cushions from the Vanbrugh common room – and beanbags from the Goodricke one. Officials from Goodricke even put up a poster calling for the culprits to be brought to justice. A similar appeal, although not via a poster, was also launched by Vanbrugh which resulted in the cushions eventually being returned. In an email, college staff warned students they would involve the police.
Deputy Labour leader and Shadow Deputy Prime Minister Harriet Harman studied here in the 1970s.
Jenna-Louise Coleman was going to study English here York students have on average 4.06 partners during their time here meaning they spend an awful lot of time watching porn. In fact, according to an FOI, 103,320 visits were made to dirty sites in the autumn of 2012.
We’re screwed if aliens turn up at the university. Bosses admitted in a Freedom of Information Act request that they had no plans to ‘tackle’ an invasion if one occurred.
York student James White pleaded guilty to animal cruelty in 2013 after he fried his flatmate’s hamster. The cruel politics student was reportedly so drunk that he had no recollection of the incident.
More than 30 horse and carts pulled up outside Revs to give willing partygoers a ride home in January 2011. The unique event, which stunned students, is thought to have been provided by a traveller convoy which had assembled at Tang Hall earlier in the day.
Miss Derwent Camilla Dutton hoped to pick up the award for Miss Wales in 2011. The law student was selected as a finalist for the beauty competition after soaring through the heats of Miss Wrexham.
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A student shocked the university after they claimed a piece of broccoli purchased from a campus store was maggot infested. The undergrad, who did not want to be named, said they noticed it when placing the broccoli inside a food bowl ready to be cooked.
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VISION’S OFFICIAL CLUB GUIDE The four main weekly YUSU nights are on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. There’s plenty to do every night of the week in York, so check out our Alternative York guide if you want to know more, or try something different. But these are the big four that are absolutely packed from 11pm-3am for their respective weekly events; playing music, serving drinks and enabling you to have some of the best nights of your life!
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
Club: Kuda What to wear: Girls; black skinny jeans/ bodycon skirt and statement top. Guys; chinos and shirt. What you’ll be dancing to: Downstairs; Hip Hop and RnB. Upstairs; chart and mainstream house music.
Club: Salvation What to wear: Most likely fancy dress, if not, something super light because it gets HOT in there. What you’ll be dancing to: Downstairs; chart music, standard. Upstairs is all about the cheese. If you’re still kinda into S Club 7 (or you’re smashed) that’s where you want to be.
Spread over three floors: the terrace, main dance floor and then a separate tiki bar downstairs. Kuda provides something for all sorts of moods. The compact main dancefloor descends into a sweaty moshpit on a busy night, if you don’t necessarily enjoy the pleasures of unwelcome human contact, upstairs is awash with a selection of sofas perfect for resting on and a balcony to view the carnage below in comfort.
Salvo Wednesdays are all about sports social antics, cheap drinks and an all round messy night! Expect to see rugby players in tight dresses, bad decisions and general decadence. Do not wear your favourite shoes....trust us. Anything goes.
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
Club: Fibbers What to wear: Think Kuda but with a bit more edge What you’ll be dancing to: A mix of typical chart fare with quirker picks
Club: Vodka Revolution What to wear: Something slightly dressier than you’d wear to any of the others. Guys; smart jacket. Girls; LBD or equivalent. What you’ll be dancing to: You’ll be too worried about spilling drink on your new oufit for any of that.
Fibbers used to be a small, alternative venue running Indie, Funk, Soul, 80s nights and so on, along with being a centre of the York live music scene. Fibbers has now moved into what was once clubbing giant Tokyo, now given a plush upgrade. Boasting a huge capacity and the best sound system in York, the new Fibbers has a lot of promise. Expect big things.
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Sunday Revs could not be more different from Salvation on a Wednesday. Everyone dresses up to get their photo taken on the way in (so maybe don’t pre-drink too much...) and there’s a vast cocktail menu to choose from - expect your bank balance to have taken a hit come Monday morning.
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Everything you need to know about
Sex at Uni
‘I Confess’...
When I came to uni I had never had casual sex before and was curious... so in Salvo one night I was dancing with this guy and asked him to come home with me. We had sex... a lot. Then I kicked him out at 5am and declined his Facebook friend request. Casual.
I was still new to the whole gay thing, so ‘coming out’ again was fun. Thing is - most guys are in the same boat, so I knew I could exploit that freedom they were feeling. 20 (ish) guys later after my first term... Everything was going well until I realised that I’d slept with my college tutor - so I quit sex. For about a week.
GOT CRABS? We have a campus STI drop in every Friday from 12.30pm to 2.30pm. They, however, can only treat Chlamydia and nothing else (though they can test for other things). There are always long waits and you have a good chance of bumping into someone you know. We personally recommend the Yorclinic at Monkgate health centre in town, they run drop-ins, but also take appointments and give you a proper check up. You often get referred there by the University campus so it’s like skipping a step.
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It started out as a joke when my parents were away, but after the first time my ex and I “broke in” my parents’ bed we never stopped. For some reason we thought it was hot and it became our thing. Needless to say, home alone got a different meaning...
WHERE TO GET SEX SUPPLIES
JEMIMA BUSBY
Any q’s? Email YUSU Welfare and Community at j.busby@yusu. org and they’ll help!
GS Grab more handy freshers tips at yorkvision.co.uk
NIGHTLINE has a supply of condoms, pregnancy tests and information; all of which are provided for free at their flat or you can get it anonymously sent to your college. YUSU have supplies that you can pick up from their offices. LGBTQ have a wide range of sexual health supplies and facilitate termly HIV tests. COLLEGE welfare teams have various sexual health supplies.
GIRL ON THE NET Welcome to the first year of Uni – the rampant shagathon during which you will sleep with everyone you’ve ever dreamed of, form lifelong friendships with people who can help you write searingly insightful essays, and drink without ever having to worry about 9 am lectures. OK, it's not quite like that. But there'll be plenty of people telling you this kind of bullshit, so you could be disappointed at the end of Freshers’ Week when you've spent most of your time forming friendships with people you won't look twice at come December, and failing to score with that hot guy off your course because it turns out he's got a girlfriend at home. Such was my first year, anyway. Imagine my disappointment when Uni didn't turn out to be a wild and exciting three year party. By Christmas I was feeling a bit lonely, very stupid compared to my coursemates, and increasingly like I might have a liver condition. Most upsettingly, I failed to get laid until well into the second term, despite all the effort I'd put into having the tedious 'what course are you studying/ where are you from/be honest was this really your first choice Uni?' conversations. This isn't said to put you off, by the way. Don't pack up and run home, or send angry tweets to the people who've been fanning the flames of your expectations. University is the first big step to prepare you for life, so it's fitting that what it teaches is that life itself is pretty disappointing. But alongside the late-night loneliness, bizarre flatmates who keep Coco Pops in the fridge, and terrifying chats with dead-eyed medical students, there'll be fleeting moments of total joy. That essay you wrote at 4am high on Redbull and stress that ends up getting a First. The midnight takeaway run that leads to an impromptu halls party. That golden, magical night when he liked you and you liked him and you had the wanton, casual sex your parents always warned you about. Those moments are worth even more because they're rarer than you imagine. Make the most of them before you become one of the bitter old twats who hands out warnings themselves.
www.girlonthenet.com
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Alternative York York is a small place. In the grand scheme of things it’s tiny. But small doesn’t necessarily mean boring. I’ve been at York for over two years and I’m only just starting to scratch the surface of it. It’s a pity - not a month goes by I don’t find something new: a new pub; a new shop; a new band, and as soon as I’ve found my feet I may have to pack up again and leave. I’ve only one year left, but you – you’re lucky. You have three. By Will McCurdy
LIVE MUSIC or a town of its size York has a vibrant live music scene. Fibbers and Duchess have gigs almost nightly - acts like British Sea Power and Dan le Sac and Scroobius Pip, as well as the cream of local talent. Smaller venues also provide much in the way of showcasing quality independent music. Venues like The Basement and The Woolpack showcase local talent, with artists like Boss Caine producing home-grown and effecting blues folk, and the Fawn Spots producing their own brand of energetic noise punk. Local pubs The Habit and Rose and Crown host open mic nights on Thursdays and Mondays respectively, where homegrown and developing artists get a chance to show their strengths. There’s nothing better than going out one night to a random gig and coming home with a new favourite act. If you fancy something a little bit more offbeat, the Spread Eagle pub holds live reggae events every week to enthusiastic dreadlocked fans. The jazz is also relatively strong, with the Phoenix hosting quality jazz music every Wednesday night.
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CLUB NIGHTS here’s a lot going on besides YUSU club nights and Willow. Some York University students have taken nightlife into their own hands, booking out nightclubs and risking money to play their own music, side by side with local promoters. From Funk to House, to Hip Hop and Rock – every kind of taste is catered for. The electronic music scene is particularly vibrant with nights like Milli Vanilli, Freakin, and On & On pumping out house music to fans all night long, with nights like Frequency dipping into DnB, and nights like Animaux playing techno. The quality of student DJs, thanks in part to nurturing by societies such as Breakz remaining consistently high. But if dance music isn’t your thing, a wide range of other genres are represented, nights like Get On Up play disco revival, while Gin & Juice plays hip hop both old and new. The Duchess hosts a particularly popular night, Itchy Feet, which plays old school rock n roll classics to packed audiences every term.
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Vision does...
A CHAT WITH SAM MAGUIRE A quick lunch break with YUSU Prez Sam Maguire gave us a chance to grill him on his new job... By Leon Morris What message do you have for freshers coming to uni for the first time? The thing that’s great about York is that there is somewhere for everyone, we have 164 societies, we have people who make a lot of sports, people who find themselves in the college system. I’d say be yourselves and find something that you enjoy. Are you changing anything that’s going to have an impact on students here? A bit of professional stuff, which will serve students better, but I also want to look at the physical things. During elections I looked at what students liked from other candidates. What people liked was the idea of getting hot water on campus in various places, more lockers and things like that. We want to change some practical things, and I really want to have a big push to change the diversity in candidates running for election. I ran against one female and seven males and I’m talking in gender binary but it is a big thing; it’s very white male dominated. This isn’t reflected in the student body and I want to change that. How are you going to work with colleges for Freshers’ Week? Basically, the Sabb team are going to be an extra pair of hands. I’ve asked the college team when they want us there. Those guys know what they are doing, they’ve had their plans for ages. We’re just going to be there to be helpful. We want to support STYCs, too. What are you going to bring from being
Omg Sam Maguire ran his election campaign using the Republic of Ireland flag, but is actually from Coleraine in Northern Ireland.
He studied Management at the University of York, graduating this year with a 2:1. Before being elected YUSU president Sam Maguire served as JCR chair of Langwith College. Sam Maguire supports Liverpool FC. Maguire is running a 10k obstacle course this October in support of the NET patient foundation and Macmillan Cancer Support
Chair of Langwith College? I’m very comfortable with talking to University staff, having the relationship with talking to them positively but also holding them to account, which is really key. It’s something I feel very comfortable doing. Why should students get involved with YUSU? It’s a great way to meet people, great fun and you can gain great skills for the future. We’re all entering a very competitive job market, but also it makes your University experience so much more worthwhile. 1 in 7 students weren’t satisfied in this year’s Student Survey - why? People have higher expectations because of the rise in fees and the change in Vice Chancellor will boost us because there was that transition period before he came in, the University before had a lack of direction. I’m very pleased with the VC’s strategy. Student Experience is in the strategy but it’s never been there before. What are your views on the state of Hes East? Shops will be on Hes East this year, but they should have been there years ago. There ARE more plans and I’m not sure about what I can say at the moment, but we are talking about other exciting buildings on Hes East too, and you’ll see plans for those in the new year.
MAGUIRE ANSWERS QUESTIONS AT S.MAGUIRE@YUSU.ORG yorkvision.co.uk
GS
Don’t forget to let us know what you think at vision@yusu.org or tweet us @YorkVision.
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Jetta
She’s been widely touted as the next big thing in music, tipped as ‘one to watch’ by both RolLing Stone and iTunes. We chatted to Jetta on her recent breakthrough. BY HELENA HORTON
J
etta has a smile in her voice as we talk over the phone - I caught up with her in my lunch break in a cafe in London. The young star’s schedule is so busy that she only had one hour free to talk to me in the entire week. The Liverpudlian’s parents are musicians, she grew up around music. I asked her whether she always wanted to be a singer, as she started touring at 16 and never went to University. Jetta laughed; “I used to want to be an astronaut, but when that dream faded, singing was all I wanted to do,
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yeah.” “When I was sixteen I put on my own show and nothing gives me that rush, it’s crazy, and that showed me that there is nothing else I’d rather do.”
A
t York, we have so many music societies, from the serious orchestras and choirs to playing and singing for beginners, or just for a bit of Saturday afternoon enjoyment. You don’t have to be a pro to play. I asked Jetta whether she recommends students get involved in the musical societies at York. “Definitely! Even if you don’t feel like a natural singer or musician, music is energy and getting involved is really important. It’s good for you mentally and physically.” Pharrell listened to Jetta’s demo and loved it. She’s the first ever UK act to have him produce her album, she blew him away and he is now her mentor. We can expect great things from this duo, with her amazingly strong, sweeping vocals which can do both breezy pop and heartwrenching ballads. “Yeah, he listened to a few of my songs, loved them and flew me out to Miami. It was amazing, I’ve been a huge fan of him for years. To work with him is such a fantastic opportunity.” Though she will soon be a star in her own right, Jetta is no stranger to working with industry giants. The singer spent time on tour singing backup for Paloma Faith. I asked how they met. “I was living in Liverpool and met a load of people who knew her and they introduced me. She taught me a lot.” You really can hear Paloma Faith’s soulful influence in some of Jetta’s music, and I can easily imagine the two working well together. Jetta bravely left school after GCSEs to pursue her dream “I was singing on tour when I was 16, with Natasha Hamilton who you might know from Atomic Kitten! We knew each other from the music scene in Liverpool,
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and my mum taught her how to sing,” Her musical idols, Bowie and Annie Lennox, I don’t think are that obviously reflected in her music, though Jetta is a very versatile singer who can channel Kelis just as well as she can Adele. The favourite song she’s ever written isn’t released yet. “‘Start a Riot” is everything I stand for. I haven’t released it yet, and it’s on my album next year.” I’ve seen Jetta on club night pictures from Sink The Pink, which is a drag night in London. “My best friend, Louie Banks, who is a photographer, runs Sink The Pink! We are really close. I love drag, it’s a form of expression and I’m really glad the people who dress in it are free to be themselves.” She’s also been involved in some ASOS advertising campaigns and often posts pictures of her outfits on social media, Jetta is somewhat of a snappy dresser! She laughed when I told her that, and said, “I love fashion, probably as much as music, I design clothes and make my own stuff. Vivienne Westwood is my favourite designer.” We got talking about music festivals and festival fashion. Jetta performed at London Calling this year in Clapham. “I opened the stage for Stevie Wonder which was amazing. If I could perform at any festival in the UK, though, it would probably be Glastonbury.” Finally, we got a little deep. Jetta previously said in an interview that she doesn’t think women who pose in scant clothing for promotion are objectifying themselves and they shouldn’t be called a victim for doing so. So, naturally, I asked her whether she was a feminist. “I wouldn’t call myself a feminist, but I stand for feminsim. Everyone makes their own choices and it is not bad for women to be proud of themselves and their choices. Thanks Jetta. Her EP, ‘Crescendo’, is out now on iTunes, she’s touring next month and her album is out next year.
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GS Tell us what you think at yorkvision. co.uk, on Twitter @YorkVision or at Facebook.com/ YorkVision. You can also email vision@ yusu.org!
‘I’VE BEEN SINGING MY WHOLE LIFE!’ Milo Boyd decides whether Jetta’s music stands up to the hype. ‘Can you hear me now?’ Whether an astute business woman or just shot through with HBO levels of emotional turmoil, ‘Can You Hear Me Now’ is the leading track of Jetta’s fledgling career and one that has already started popping up on adverts. Graced with a touch of Adele’s more uplifting offerings, it’s a roller coaster of a song. You’ll cry, you’ll look in the mirror, you’ll sniff resoundingly and then, with the swelling London Grammar bit in the middle, realise he’s not bloody worth it. ‘Feels like coming home’ This is by far the best Jetta song I’ve heard. Paloma Faith-inspired, soaring and soulful vocals cut through the scant accompaniment like a knife through the most distraught butter in the world. Her voice is so strong, and it’s a shame that ballads don’t sell as well as Pharrell-produced breezy pop, as Jetta really shines on this track. yorkvision.co.uk
Omg 8th September 1990: Jetta was born as Jetta JohnHartley in Toxteth, Liverpool. 2012: She makes a music video for her song ‘Feels Like Coming Home’, which clocked up 30 million YouTube views and was chosen as the soundtrack for Google Zeitgeist’s worldwide ad campaign. 13th December 2013: Jetta’s song ‘Feels Like Coming Home’ was released on ITunes 4th February 2014: Jetta releases her first EP ‘Start a Riot’ 1st July 2014: Releases second EP, ‘Crescendo’
‘Crescendo’ Weirdly for a song called ‘Crescendo’, there is very little aural scope. The beat bobs along nicely underneath an auto-tuned sing along that sounds a little like Lady Hawk. Although undeniably catchy, listeners brought to Jetta through ‘Can You Hear Me Now’ will wonder when she got so happy and what on earth the echoed duck noises in the background are.
LISTEN Check out some of Jetta’s tracks on our website at yorkvision.co.uk or tweet us @YorkVision and we’ll link you!
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THE 10 PEOPLE YOU NEED TO KNOW TO RHEYA:D W yorkvision. co.uk
NICK BUTTON
CASS BROWN
2
3 MADDIE BODEN
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1
THOMAS RON
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9
ANDY BOSTOCK
8
JELENA HORVATIC
HARRY SCOFFIN
5
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CALLUM DZIEDZIC
NICK CHU
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ROBERTS FRESH. 19
CASSANDRA BROWN Cass comes back for another year and there’s much in store... Cassandra Brown is the York Sports Union President and the BUCS Student Director. She manages 63 different sports clubs with the responsibility of ensuring that students’ views are equally represented. Having originally been elected to her presidential position in 2013, Cassandra has helped reduce ableism and homophobia in sport, as well as tackle lad culture. Earlier this year, the team also made 38th in the BUCS league. During her tenure from October 2014 to June 2015, Cass pledges to introduce a club mentor/alumni scheme and to improve the effectiveness of the York Sport committee to ensure that clubs get the most from it. She also plans to work with the university’s recruitment and admissions department to ensure that sport is promoted to students and that the best athletes are choosing to study here. Cass also wants to lobby the institution for cheaper facilities to make the university more accessible to more students.
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JELENA HORVATIC PhD Education student Jelena Horvatic is the president for the Graduate Students Association. From Zagreb in Croatia, she was elected to the position’s first full-time post earlier this year. In her manifesto, Jelena pledged a Buddy System for new students and also better quality workshops and training on offer. She also wants herself and other students to lobby the university for reduced printing costs and conference expenses to enhance life for postgraduate students. Jelena also wants to build cross-cultural networks through activities such as film nights and pub quizzes to encourage integration.
HARRY SCOFFIN Politics student Harry Scoffin is on the executive committee for the York Union. He only joined the university in 2013 but has already helped organise speaker events, including gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, controversial UKIP character Victoria Ayling, The Telegraph’s Dan Hodges, Alp Mehmet from Migration Watch and Afshin Rattansi from Russia Today. In addition, Harry also discusses political events via his work for student newspaper Nouse. His first article talked about political turmoil in Thailand, dubbed “Thailand’s tug of war”. He is originally from the UK but lives in Singapore where he enjoys ‘80s pop music and big Hollywood movies. yorkvision.co.uk
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Alumni Advice
Peter Hitchens The Mail on Sunday columnist, author, journalist and political commentator studied here at York. We spoke to him about his experiences of York and why he never really grew fond of Willow... By Helena Horton How did studying at York affect your political views? Not much. I was already a member of the International Socialists when I came up in October 1970. Several of my teachers were sympathizers with the Left, and some also members of IS. A lot of Student Unions have banned ‘Blurred Lines’ and Page 3 - last year was dubbed the ‘year of the ban’ by The Tab. Should SUs be banning things because they are sexist? Universities are places of free thought and inquiry, where I should have thought it obvious that it was a duty to defend all sorts of free expression (short of incitement to violence) . This necessarily involves defending the expression of views you hate. Free speech isn’t free unless it applies to your bitterest opponent. Anyone who won’t defend free speech doesn’t understand what a university is for. Why do you think students are less politically motivated today? We were in the backwash of Vietnam, jealous of the American protestors against that war and anxious to find our own cause, in the first excitement of rock music, and also in the midst of a cultural revolution. We were comparatively well-off, safe and had grown up under fairly restrained circumstances, yet were suddenly free to do as we wished, so it was as if the lid had been taken off a pressurecooker for most of us. Your generation are just
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Omg Hitchens originally hoped to become a naval officer, but an eye defect prevented him from doing so. Peter once debated Matthew Perry from Friends about alcohol addiction. Peter studied Politics at York at the same time as Labour Deputy Leader Harriet Harman. Hitchens was in Alcuin College whilst he was at York. Hitchens won the Orwell Prize in Political Journalism in 2010.
normal. We were a peculiar, unique episode. I don’t think it will happen again. Did you ever go to Willow? I have never liked Chinese food. We seldom, if ever, ate in restaurants, unless our parents came to visit, in which case there was a pleasant Italian restaurant off Stonegate called, I think ‘Giovanni’s’. I made a lot of use of the Walmgate Bar fish and chip shop, and cooked meals from ingredients bought at Hillards, which I think was then York’s only supermarket, on the Hull Road. The comrades also used to go to the Minster café on Goodramgate (now I think vanished) for tea and toasted teacakes after a hard afternoon selling (or not selling) the Socialist Worker to the people of York. What do you think of the drinking culture prevalent at Universities? It sounds rather sad, especially the ghastly Freshers’ inductions when everyone goes out on conducted pub crawls. When I were a lad, we could find our own way t’ pub. And when we got there, we could only afford halves.
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WHAT IS
THE WILLOW RESTAURANT? ‘MORE THAN ONCE I RECALL HEARING THE GAME OF THRONES THEME MUSIC’
O
ne thing that anybody could tell you about The Willow Restaurant and Disco is that it is horrific. There are small aspects of the experience that lend grace to the complete abomination of an institution that Willow is, but it is still undeniably like having slow boiled sewage industrially pumped into your sensory orifices. Simultaneously, it is undeniable that Willow has gone beyond cult status and has acquired a dedicated and large group of followers that frequent its creaky stairs and sticky dining tables. These two facts need to be appreciated and reconciled to understand quite what Willow truly is. Superficially, Willow is a Cantonese restaurant on Coney Street that no longer serves food (but God help you if you cajole the staff into making some for you) and has been converted into a full time parody of a school disco. It occupies the upstairs space above La Senza and is often attended in droves as a romantic last chance saloon of the evening, owing to its late closing time and admirable tolerance of crippling inebriation in the queue. The club is owned by Tommy Fong, a no-nonsense, straight talking Yorkshireman straight from Guangzhou (maybe), with a penchant for unnecessary animosity (in my experience). Peculiar in his outlook, Fong once replied to my request for advertisement for The Lemon Press with “Bugger off, I would rather go to bed and look at my money in a jar than give it to you. I don’t need no advertisement”, and this probably encapsulates the philosophy behind Willow. Every expense is spared to make your night luxurious and glamorous. To Willow’s credit, the bar (staffed exclusively by international York St Y FONG TOMM John students, and Tommy himself), offers £1 tequila and sambuca shots, and I have become pleasantly accustomed to the chilled cans of Fosters available for £2. The DJ is generally amenable to requests, at least in the earlier hours of the night too, which accounts for some bizarre soundscapes as you blindly stagger your way to the toilets. More than once I recall hearing the Game of Thrones theme music in the distance as I curse
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You’re set to hear a large amount about this York staple. Luckily we have two men, Thomas Murray and Tom Davies, who have sampled the delights of the Cantonese disco, to guide you through the place you’ll spend most of your student loan. And no, it’s not a restaurant...
the fact that there is no soap (there is never soap), and that the sink is full to the brim with some poor soul’s dinner. Keeping true to his roots, Tommy supplies prawn crackers for free at the bar, but woe betide you if hunger gets the better of you, because goodness knows what foul concoctions have tainted the box in which they are kept. Willow is a convergence point for the sexually despondent, terminally imbibed and chronically foolhardy; it is caked with filth and your shoes will stick to the floor; it is run by a professional lunatic and burns the health and safety manual to keep the club warm in the winter. Yet, Fong is a rolling in it because he has somehow found an exploitable gap in the market. For reasons unbeknownst to me, those who attend Willow collectively subscribe to this wonderful apathy of inhibitions, liberated by more than just alcohol. There is a mass appreciation that pretences, self-consciousness and dignity sail out of the window, and wanton, insouciant joviality reigns supreme. This accounts for the reprehensible romances, unmitigated fuckwittery and amnesia inducing nights that make your time at York different.
‘IT’S AN UTTERLY HEINOUS CESSPIT’
W
illow, the Chinese restaurant come student disco run by notorious local entrepreneur Tommy Fong is, if anything, a kind of seedy metaphor for life from a deeply misanthropic perspective. It teaches you that orderly bar queueing without elbowing someone in the throat is for pussies, that most of the best things in life are probably brought to you by crooks and that once you get sambuca on your corduroy elbow patches; it stays on your corduroy elbow patches. If you were of this mindset, Willow would only serve to confirm your prejudices that 21st century Western society is crumbling at the foundations, hopelessly circling the drain of avaricious depravity. At Willow, you don’t ask questions, you just drink off brand spirits and demand the DJ play pop songs dredged from the midden depths of your subconscious. Like ‘C’est La Vie’ by B*witched and… well… it’s usually ‘C’est La Vie’ by B*witched to be honest with you. Fong, the Willow King, is a bitter, temperamental figure of an utterly indeterminate age. He’s been running the Willow since its inception as an actual restaurant back in the 80s, and an interview by this paper a few years ago revealed that his favourite drink is “boiling water”, but other than that, next to nothing is known of him, and even less understood. A long standing rumour states that he is some sort of immortal, antediluvian demi god who has been a purveyor of biblical grade vice and depravity since time immemorial. I believe he cropped up in one of those books they cut from the Bible at the Council of Nicea, running a string of flop houses in Gomorrah. The aesthetic of Willow relies heavily on the fact that Fong has changed utterly nothing from his days as a restaurateur, and has spent next to nothing on maintaining the décor that he already had. As a result, the club has the look of a triad front, only packed out inebriated university students. His men’s bathroom is a particularly egregious example of Fong’s devil-may-care Tell us what attitude to basic facilities upkeep, unless he’s actually been taking interior you think at yorkvision.co.uk design tips from the first Saw film. on Twitter @ In short, Willow is awful, it’s terrible; it’s an utterly heinous cesspit that YorkVision or highlights the worst of capitalism, the human condition, post 60s sexualat vision@ ity, popular music and probably a hell of a lot else besides. And I strongly yusu.org suspect that, like me, you’re going to love it.
GS
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YOU’RE IN LUCK. WIN A TERM’S SUPPLY OF LYNX PRODUCTS
Email why you think you should get a term’s worth of Lynx supplies to: vision@yusu.org
FRESHERS‘ FASHION Make an impression in your Freshers’ week with ideas from our style shoot. Strike a pose... Styling by Selina Pope
From left to right Rachelle wears: dress, New Look; £22.50 Michael wears: shirt, Zara, £25.99; shorts, Topman, £22 Anna wears: backpack; ASOS, £29.99; pumps, New Look, £9.99
From left to right Erdoo wears: bag, ASOS, £29.99 Patrick wears: shirt, H&M, £19.99; shorts, ASOS, £40 Rachelle wears: bag, New Look, £22.99
From left to right Rachelle wears: sandals, Office, £25; Michael wears: sneakers, Zara, £29.99; Anna wears: jeans, Ark, £29.99
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yorkvision.co.uk
Erdoo wears: cardigan, Zara, £25.99; top, Ark, £14.99; shorts, Topshop, £34; plimsolls, Primark, £6
Anna wears: earrings, Accessorize, £15; top, Missguided, £12.99
BEDROOM
Sleeping Bag, £12.49, Argos For when friends visit...
Leopard Print Onesie, £30, ASOS. Reusable Earplugs, £6, Amazon EARPLUGS You don’t want to hear your housemate’s house music all night, or the fake orgasms of his stupid girlfriend.
LET’S GO SHOPPING
Get inspired by our fave uni items and get yourself spending that student loan. You’ll thank us for them. By Leon Morris
A ONESIE/PJs
A DESK LAMP
Onesies are great for when you want to look like a ‘banter lad’ at a party, but also for when you are watching X Factor with your housemates.
Okay, fancy pants. You probably don’t need anything like this lamp but there are some pretty fine deals on eBay. You will definitely need to invest in a good bedside lamp.
HEALTH TWO DUVET COVERS
If you don’t wash your duvet covers, you will get covered in acne. Not sexy. Also you will smell. Get a spare set for when your other lot are in the wash, or when you spill vodka Single Duvet Cover Set, from vimto all over your existing ones. You’ll £5, Tesco thank us later.
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Don’t buy these - go to YUSU and get as many as you want (need?) for FREE. Don’t make the mistake a lot of freshers make and spend money on these things. A decent first aid kit isn’t a bad idea though - check out this one for £6.99 at Boots.
yorkvision.co.uk
KITCHEN
The Ultimate Student Cookbook, £7, Amazon AN UMBRELLA It rains up here. A LOT. Word.
A COOKBOOK
POSTER/ PHOTO FRAMES
A SPEAKER Great for pre drinks, setting the mood, and annoying your housemates. Depending on how much you want to spend - portable speakers go for as cheap as £15 at Argos.
This will make you look like a fantastic chef to any ‘house guests’, but also you want to be able to cook more than ramen and boiled eggs, right?
You want to look cool and cultured right? And like you have mates at home. However, don’t buy a Bob Marley or Che Guevara poster as you’ll look like an absolute twat.
A GOOD KNIFE Good for stabbing housemates who have really loud sex but also also for making sure you don’t stab yourself when cutting onions.
STUDY
HIPFLASK Makes you look like a pirate, but also it makes nights out more affordable. A must buy.
Cat Hipflask, Urban Outfitters, £12
A NICE (FANCY) RUG This makes your room look much nicer and also lets you make the most of your Gap Yah to India. You know you want to.
EXTENSION LEAD You might only get two plugs in your room, away from your bed. Shit for hangovers.
A SPARE PHONE 16 GB Memory Stick, £9.99, Argos
yorkvision.co.uk
Just for those times when you puke over your good phone on a night out. Bound to happen.
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VISION’S ULTIMATE SOCIETY GUIDE
York has hundreds of societies. How will you choose which to join? Luckily, we have compiled a handy guide for you to bear in mind before you’re bombarded by flyers and free shots at Fresher’s fair... LEMON PRESS These people are legitimately so funny and if you join them they will help you become hilarious too. They’re York’s satire magazine and they are friendly and excellent. Join them.
Remember to sign up to lots of socs Sat Week 1!
FETSOC If you’re into kink, or you just want to have tea and cake with some interesting people, Fetish Society could be the one for you! They’re welcoming, safe and inclusive.
If you want to try something new... HAZSOC Hazsoc, or Humans vs Zombies, turns a normal walk around campus into a paranoid nightmare. It’s LARPing but it’s not uncool because zombies are much cooler than wizards.
DOUGSOC Douglas Adams society is a weird one. They exist to be quirky and are not actually allowed to talk about Douglas. Can you go and find out what they are about for us?
PANTSOC One of the most fun societies on campus, you don’t have to be amazing at singing, acting or dancing to join. Their socials are also very fun and they love fancy dress.
VISIONS’S HOT SPOT
If you want to perform...
DID YOU KNOW? York has more societies per person than any other University in the country!
If you want to change the world... CONCERT BAND
AMNESTY
They’re friendly, chilled out and talented. This student-led band goes on an international tour every year which is so fun. They practice every Saturday in the Jack Lyons.
These lot fight really hard for important causes, are one of the most active charity groups on campus and can put on a cracking party to boot. They also have cake parties!
DRAMASOC
PEOPLE&PLANET
This is the official soc for anyone who is a thespian. Whether they are putting on original shows in the Drama Barn or doing massive plays in Central Hall, they’re quality.
Bonfire parties, vegan clambakes and an allotment to boot? People and Planet are a lovely society, join them and feel slightly better for getting the bus everywhere.
CHMS
TEA&COFFEE
If you love musical theatre then Central Hall Music Society are for you. They put on fantastic big budget shows and also have an extremely friendly atmosphere.
Tea&Coffee Club meet weekly in Derwent to drink tea and coffee and play bingo with elderly people. It’s an hour out of your week and is a really sweet idea.
For more visit www.yorkvision.co.uk/freshers or tweet us @YorkVision
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yorkvision.co.uk
‘get involved’ says...
NUS STUDENT JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR Jack Gevertz, 2nd year politics student, took home the award for NUS journalist of the year in his first year. The secret - joining a uni society. Being thrown into a new environment for the first time can be a daunting experience. When my parents threw me in at York, it wasn’t my washing, my ironing or getting to lectures on time that worried me: it was settling in and feeling comfortable. Saying goodbye to mum and dad in my small ensuite room at Halifax College on a dreary Saturday afternoon was no easy task. I had lived with them through thick and thin and they had seen my every move: from my first walk to receiving A-level results. So when they left shortly after 4pm I realised I was on my own. It was now time for me to take my first step into adulthood: meeting my university flatmates. A petite girl named Aisha was one of the first that I greeted. She had this distinct door opening technique where she put a hanger on the radiator and attached it to the handle so it would stay open. The second was a guy named Matt. He is one of those stereotypical computer fans: loves Guitar Hero and staying up on his Xbox. And the third? An independent woman named Lucy. Who, just to add, taught me how to drain a pan without needing a colander. So once I eventually got round to the other nine, I sat on my bed and thought about my surroundings. Would I like it here? Would I be happy? Something else was on my mind too. Would I make friends? Joining Vision, I can say I have. Quite a few in fact. Some are now in second year, some are in third, and some have even left these parts. But those memories: the endless laughs in the office, the seemingly endless nights spent laying up and the constant haranguing of YUSU staff for quotes I will always remember. None of that would have been possible, however, without the initial bravery. I had to suck-up all emotions and stick my neck out to be Chief News yorkvision.co.uk
Omg Jack became News Editor and Chief News Reporter in his first term at York Jack has had his journalism picked up by the Metro, the Mirror and The Independent Jack hit gold when he was invited on the Jeremy Vine Show after his very first Guardian blog
Jack won the NUS Student Journalist of the Year award at the age of 19
Reporter and News Editor back in my first term. It’s never easy to run as a fresher for such demanding roles. You don’t know anyone and you don’t know what you’re dealing with: the union, the university itself or the students. You’re a nobody. I quickly became a somebody though. Not at the university but in the society. I covered stories on mental health, animal welfare, racism and homophobia. And in January, I finally began writing for a national newspaper, The Independent. Then, in March, I pitched to the Guardian, and became a controversial character after I debated working class students at Russell Group universities on BBC Radio 2’s The Jeremy Vine Show. The piece, in turn, landed me a chance to go to the broadcasting studios in London where I met the former Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott. But it wasn’t until after all of this that I would top it off: by winning Student Journalist of the Year at the National Union of Students Awards. What I am trying to say in this piece is: dive in and don’t look back. You’ll meet new people. You’ll embrace new challenges and you’ll make new friends. But crucially, you could achieve things you never thought possible.
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EFE’S PIZZA DELIVERY TO UNIVERSITY IN 15 MINUTES 01904 652210 4PM - 3AM 7 DAYS A WEEK
20% STUDENT DISCOUNT Available on orders over £14 when valid NUS card is shown on delivery, after 11PM only
yorkvision.co.uk
26 Heslington Rd, York, North Yorkshire, YO10 5AT
COMING OUT AGAIN Here’s some advice and anecdotes for incoming LGBTQ freshers...
I
was very much ‘out’ when I lived at home. It was therefore quite weird, after years of being known as LGBTQ to come to York and live with people who assumed I was straight. My housemates were confused by my sexuality, and constantly made me explain it to them. There was one girl in particular who was my best friend until she found out that I liked girls. It meant that I didn’t feel at home in my own Helena Horton flat - there was a little bit of bullying. I emailed my provost, who gave me support, and went out with LGBTQ social a bit instead of my housemates and made new friends there and at the student paper. Though the bullying was hard, I ended up making friends outside the flat and putting myself out there more - I ended up being involved in seven societies, having loads of cool friends outside the flat and being the Editor of York Vision! There also wasn’t an LGBTQ rep at James to give me support, so I stood for the position and got it, and managed to help people who were in a similar situation to me. Learning from this, the best advice I can give is that even if you’re living with small-minded people, there are thousands of cool, accepting people at the University. Put yourself out there, get involved and ignore the haters as they are just a few people in a sea of 15,000. Also - there is support if you need it, so don’t be shy. I now feel completely loved and accepted by all my friends, and feel that my time at York has been very successful. I hope yours is too.
U
niverisity is always a difficult time of life for anyone - whether you come from a wealthy, or less than poor, background. You may have come straight from school/college, or you may be like me and fancied a crack at a career before coming to university. Whoever you are and wherever you’ve come from just remember that you’re entitled to the same Freshers’ experience as anyone else. What is particularly annoying, and something I found Leon Morris rather prohibiting, was the fact that you will no doubt have to ‘come out’ to your uni mates. You may take this opportunity to ‘try something new’ and, by all means, do what you want. But, heaven forbid, don’t try to be someone you’re not. I flirted with the idea that I could be straight and goodness me, it’s not fun. Something you’ll find out rather quickly about York is the openness. Yes, there are some dicks in the world that managed to make it to a decent uni like York but fear not - if you meet any of these bigots, just remember that they are in their minority at this university. I always find it incredible how many openly gay and bixesual men I know (something, if you were like me, will be difficult for you at first if you come from a very heterosexual background!). Just remember that there are hundreds of people to talk to you about any feelings you may have about coming to uni - you’re not on your own. Promise. yorkvision.co.uk
HOW I SEE IT We had a quick Q&A with ‘out’ Chemistry lecturer, Prof. Dave Smith What do you say to students who may have to 'come out' again at university? Whether you are already out, or have previously been unsure about your sexuality, university offers a new start and a chance to redefine yourself. Coming out is different for everybody, and even today is not always easy. However, many people who come out find they were more worried about it than their friends and feel much more relaxed and happy afterwards. Who can students talk to if they are worried about coming out? University is much more diverse than school, with students from all kinds of backgrounds and all over the world - it should also offer a safe space to explore your sexuality. If you are worried about coming out, you can find support from LGBTQ student representatives in your college or, if you want anonymous advice, services such as Nightline. Is it difficult being one of the only "out" lecturers at the uni? I took the decision to be out at work, including my students knowing. I think it's important that students see that their lecturers are human, and that anyone can succeed at university, irrespective of who they are. I have also found that students in chemistry are now more likely to pop into my office if they feel in need of support or advice - I think this has been really positive. Do you think York is a good city for LGBTQ students? Overall, York is a friendly city and you will be welcomed here - although it doesn't have a big gay 'scene' like some larger cities. The university has an excellent LGBTQ network, organising events for students and helping connect you with the wider city. There is usually one 'gay pub' in York (currently Monroe's) and a monthly club night (Proud - find details on Facebook). The big city event is York Pride, which is normally during the summer term and includes a parade and festival - last year over 3000 people attended. Furthermore, Leeds is only 30 minutes away on the train (including late night trains home) and has a gay 'village' close to its railway station.
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THE VISION
*Words only useful when considering sports clubs, so a mild enthusiasm for them will do. Not that your feedback is taken into consideration, this is all going on my CV regardless.
GUIDE TO YUSU SPORTS
Lorenzo Wong gives you a definitive guide to the sports available at the Union
If there’s one piece of advice I can give you all regarding the Freshers’ Fair, it’s this: do NOT approach it with a superficial enthusiasm for “trying a range of new things” or “venturing outside one’s comfort zone” like I did. A year on, around 70% of my inbox now consists of pleas from the Caledonian Soc and invites to the Italian Society’s karaoke nights. It’s enough to lose your sh*t over. With that in mind, it’s important not to catch the glare of the puppy eyes behind each stall. Be remorseless, set yourself a list of criteria you must adhere to, and, most importantly, follow my words religiously*.
KEEP IN THE KNOW Top footie facts to know - York football finished 58th in the BUCS leaderboard last season, level with the dizzy heights of Buckinghamshire New University. - Halifax are the current holders of the prestigious College Cup, winning the tournament three times in the last four years.
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- Trials for the University Football Club, UYAFC, take place Monday to Friday of Freshers Week on the 22 Acres from 2-4 pm. - The Club has four XIs which you can compete to play for.
GS
Don’t forget to find more tips online at yorkvision.co.uk or you can email us at vision@ yusu.org.
Captain to watch - David Belshaw
Having captained a wonderfully attacking Derwent side to the College Cup final last season from the sidelines due to injury, the new UYAFC captain will be buzzing to get back on the field and strive for similar success with the university team.
AND THE RUNNERS-UP...
COLLEGE CUP 2015: The pinnacle of college football is a worthwhile experience, with a unique group stage and knockout system and plenty of campus coverage.
CALEDONIAN SOCIETY:
LEONARDO DICAPRIO:
I feel a bit bad about mocking them earlier, so thought I’d be a gentleman and do a bit of plugging.
I was asked by my superiors to do 1520 words for each runner up, so here you go.
yorkvision.co.uk
HOW I SEE IT YUSU Sports President, Cass Brown, talks Roses excitement and why York is now the best uni for sports
For the Team Player... Water Polo If it’s an element of camaraderie you’re looking for in a sports club, look no further. Last year, the swimming team held seven training sessions per week, making it easy to socialise, Additionally, anyone into waterpolo will understand the teamwork that’s required in the pool, a quality epitomised by the club’s thrilling 9-8 victory over Lancaster at Roses.
For the Adrenaline Junkie... YUSnow Easily one of the most popular societies at the university, YUsnow will guarantee you a whirlwind ride on and off the piste. They head to Castleford once a week. What’s more, their socials always make for an entertaining night, with wacky drinking games taking centre stage.
For the competitive...
TOP 5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SPORT AT YORK 1. COLLEGES The collegiate system makes for fierce competition and compelling viewing.
Cycling 2014 has certainly been an exciting year for the university’s cycling club, with the Tour de France having passed through the city centre. In fact, this fresh enthusiasm has contributed to the unveiling of a state of the art outdoor velodrome on the Heslington East campus.
2. VELODROME
For the Lone Wolf...
3. EXCLUSIVE?
Tennis Club I could have opted for many a sport in this category. The reasons behind my choice stem from the lack of publicity surrounding the tennis matches at this year’s Roses. Coupled alongside the fact that the sport can now be played all year round under the newly built tennis dome, the club needs a player who can crank campus necks.
For the barmy.. VX Brace yourselves, there’s a new university sport in town. VX involves two teams of five each equipped with a ‘Vstix’ used to hit opposing players with a low impact tennis ball. Despite it sounding like a stoned lacrosse player’s swing on a game of dodgeball, it could be worth a taster session or two... yorkvision.co.uk
The recently built York Sport Village and outdoor velodrome on the Hes East campus shows we mean business.
Don’t be afraid of overly competitive or exclusive societies - there’s plenty for those who just want to have fun.
4. ROSES 2015 Whether you’re competing or just viewing, Roses 2015 will be one of the highlights of your year.
5. JUST DO IT Trying at least one sport here is a must for the ultimate student experience.
Welcome to York! It’s exciting being here for a second year. I’ve spent quite a lot of time listening to students and what you want. Recruitment is one big area that I’m going to focus on this year. We’ve got some fantastic facilities and I want to make prospective students realise that. We’re also focusing on scholarships at the moment. At the minute, we have 9k a year for a scholarship program which is pretty naff really. I introduced the welfare officer last year onto the York Sport committee so I plan to work with her and improve the key contact scheme to make it bigger and more accessible. I think we have a fairly big problem with lad culture which needs to change. Pre-season’s coming along brilliantly. I want to make it bigger than ever so we’re looking at getting a few guest speakers in. I’m also working with the physio that we partnered with this year to offer more flexibility sessions and more practical advice on preventing injuries rather than treating. College varsity is bigger this term - which is exciting! Increasing the number of fixtures is important so more people can participate - we don’t want another white rose varsity experience. We want it to improve - which I’m sure it will. Roses is home this year - which is obviously a huge focus of mine. We lost last year, which was heartbreaking. I’ve got a few big ideas up my sleeve but I don’t really know how much I want to say at the moment... Get involved early. In the sports clubs, Roses is something that’s drilled into you from being a fresher. And it’s kind of what everyone’s working towards. The committees love it, the spectators love it, the community loves it. I’m also BUCS student director! It’s voluntary - a lot of people think I’m leaving! In a status way - it’s amazing for York. It puts us on the map nationally. We’re really good at sports these days as well. We moved up five places last year (ten initially!). We need to sustain it - but we need to strive to be better. As long as we’re above Lancaster, I’m alright. At York we’re so lucky - we’ve got a massive 62 sports on offer - a lot with a recreational element to them. If you don’t want to get involved at a high level though, there’s still so much you can do if you want to play sport.
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FRESH. MEALS
Tomato and chickpea curry Prep: 5 minutes Cooking: 15-20 minutes Serves: 2
*Can of chickpeas, drained *Curry powder *Cumin
*1 onion *1 clove of garlic *1 can of tomatoes * A drizzle of oil
1 Finely chop the onion and add, with oil, to a hot saucepan. 2 Cook for 5 minutes until translucent and add the garlic. 3 Stir for a minute or two, then add curry powder and cumin. 4 Cook for a couple of minutes. 5 Add the chickpeas and stir for a minute. 6 Add the tomatoes, bring to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes. 7 Serve with fluffy rice and mango chutney!

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yorkvision.co.uk
Homemade pot noodles (and they’re healthy!) Prep: 10 minutes Cooking: 15 minutes Serves: 1 *1 medium sized mason jar, or spring top jar *1 cup of your favourite dried noodles *1 vegetable stock cube OR 1 tbsp vegetable stock powder *Crushed garlic and ginger
*A handful each of your favourite fresh (or frozen) veggies (spinach, mushrooms, parsley, coriander, carrots, beans, peas, dry seaweed, corn, chives, celery, cabbage, etc.) sliced finely
1 Put the noodles in the jar, add the stock, garlic, ginger and some salt and pepper to taste. 2 Add your veggies until the jar is almost full. 3 Ten minutes before you’re ready to eat, fill the jar with boiling water so that it just covers the ingredients. 4 Close the lid and allow to sit for 10 minutes, or until the noodles are ‘cooked’. 5 Add a squeeze of lemon juice and some soy sauce for extra flavour, if you like. 6 Eat it straight from the jar.
NOSH HACKS
Night Out? Rustique, Castlegate
Omelettes
If, like most students, you’re a bit low on cash, make sure you stock up on key ingredients to maintain a balanced lifestyle throughout Freshers’ Week. Here are a few tips for you to get started...
Probably the shortest way to a healthy and filling meal. Chop up some veg, or just take some frozen peas/corn and throw them into a pan. Cook until they’re soft. Pour in the egg mixture. Whisk two eggs, some milk, some salt and some pepper. Let the omelette solidify and turn it over. For some extra protein, add any type of diced or sliced meat to the vegetables.
Yoghurt
Onions
Crepes/ Pancakes
Low-fat yoghurt has the most protein, least calories and fat than all of its dairy relatives. Have it as a snack or breakfast with any combination of fruit, cereal, nuts or honey. Use it to thicken sauces, or mix it with some condiments for a lighter dip to your chips.
Onions are God’s gift to the lazy cook. If you’re making pasta just slice an onion as thinly as you can and put it in a pan with some oil for a few minutes. Add the sauce; let it simmer for a bit and your homemade-like sauce is ready to eat!
Flour, milk and eggs. That’s all you need to make the batter. For American-style pancakes, just increase the amount of flour and eggs and add some baking soda. Make sure your pan is hot and oiled when cooking. You can store the batter in the fridge for up to two days.
yorkvision.co.uk
GS Check out more super cheap tips and meals to get you through the year at yorkvision. co.uk/lifestyle
Treat yourself to some posh nosh at Rustique. Its set menu and classy atmosphere makes it a firm favourite for dates - it’s always booked up on Valentine’s day! The favourite restaurant also does traditional French bistro food, with all local ingredients from Yorkshire. It’s a must visit and a great place to bring any visiting relatives.
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WHAT OUR INTERNATIONAL York is home to many international students. If you’re international, moving to a new country can make Freshers’ even more scary. Don’t worry though, we have tips from people from all over the world for you. Have a great Freshers’!
CZECH REP. Norman Vitarigov As an international student, it is important to actively engage in the community due to the challenges that can arise from culture shock. However, remember that where you’re from is part of your identity and that immersing yourself in a new society does not mean compromising who you are. Open-mindedness is also quite significant, as being surrounded by a new culture will bring forth entirely new perspectives, building further your own identity.
LITHUANIA Karolis Kincius
It doesnt matter where you came from - whether you have a rich or a poor family, or if you’re from overseas - you’re all are here in one place so try to get the most from your student life here in York. Don’t be afraid to meet people or try new things because it’s really easy to do at this stage of your life. Don’t worry about tomorrow too much, just don’t forget that you are in uni (because it’s really easy to do!) Try to stay focused when you have to and go crazy when you want to. Three years will fly, so make sure you make it to the end in one piece and just enjoy it, everyday - rainy or sunny. Peace.
SPAIN
Sophia Kelly
As a foreign student, my main advice is to be open minded! I didn’t know anyone who was starting York in my year, so Freshers’ Week was fundamental. There are people from all over the world, so socialise as much as you can (and learn British drinking games!). Freshers’ Fair is a good chance to get involved in sports
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or activities that you liked back home and it is also a good idea to join your national society, which is always comforting when you feel homesick. If you miss your national cuisine Tesco and Waitrose online have a good selection of foreign products for when you need a bit of home away from home…
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L STUDENTS HAVE TO SAY... GREECE Eliza Gkritski University means freedom, and this freedom is a doubleedged sword. You are free to be yourself, even if you don’t know who that is. You are free to get home whenever (or if at all). There is no greater thing about uni than that. It forces you to make real choices, own up to them
and accept any potential consequences. But it’s also the greatest threat to your wellbeing. Your coursework may suffer, your diet may go down the drain. My advice would be to determine what your priorities are and then exploit your freedom towards them.
CHINA Kingma Ma York’s windy weather, northern accents and weird love for waterfowl can be a bit of a culture shock to many of you at first, so here’s some advice to help you settle down faster and make the most of your time here. Participate in the ISA (International Students Association).
The ISA is a fantastic studentrun network whose mission it is to support international students in any way possible. As an international student, you are automatically a member and there is no signing up process. Email isa@yusu.org and follow its official Facebook page.
Need help? Your STYCs (Second and Third Year Contacts) will all be there for you throughout the week, but the International Students Association are a great, vibrant society who are there to answer all your needs. Your college will have an International Rep, too. Don’t worry - you’re well looked after.
on TELL US HOW YOU FOUND FRESHERS’ @YorkVision
Vısı RK YO
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ADVICE FROM A GADD Here’s ex-Lemon Press editor, and graduate, Sophie Gadd with the most valuable lessons for your first year... Congratulations on choosing York! If you’re like 90% of York students you got rejected from Oxbridge and chose the city that looked most similar (the other 10% are Americans who thought the Shambles was Diagon Alley). That rejection is probably still smarting, but look it’s not all about coming first, where’s Leon Jackson now? Your Oxbridge friends will soon be complaining about their three essays a week while you settle in for another day of Netflix and biscuits. So what vital knowledge can a recent York graduate impart? Here’s some of my top tips for those who haven’t been obsessively lurking the Student Room since March. Some are sillier, some are a bit more sensible (a fairly accurate definition of York students actually). Don’t buy loads of books in week 1. There’s no point spending your precious loan on books you can get for free at the library, even if those shiny new copies of Foucault do make your room look really fancy. Wait a bit and then you can see if you ABSOLUTELY need them. Try to experience daylight. The sun sets very early here, get into a pattern of sleeping til 4pm and you’ll start to go a bit mad. Avoid the campus shop. These days going to university is only slightly less expensive than joining the church of Scientology, therefore avoid the extortionate campus Nisa at all costs (you won’t be able to resist. No one can.) Beware the locals.
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Steer clear of the town centre on a Saturday afternoon/evening unless you enjoy being accosted by hen dos of Middlesbrough women who’ve been drinking since 7am. Beware the races. Race nights should also cause alarm bells to ring. The races are generally pleasant, but the after parties in the cities clubs are a debauch Royal Ascot after dark (5 points if you spot a man vomiting in his top hat) Get a job. Get a job (or volunteer if your parents are loaded, or both if you’re a high flying wannabe investment banker). It’s amazing how many hours there are to fill in a week when you only have 3 lectures. Don’t be afraid of speaking up in seminars. Being chatty makes it a lot easier to make friends with your classmates and it shows your tutor you’re actually engaging with the course. Try out a few different societies, particularly outside of your subject area. On that note, don’t feel intimidated by student journalism. We all started at the bottom, take a punt and pitch something or run for an editorial position (then wow your grandparents with your impressive byline at Christmas). Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your supervisors and tutors want you to do well. The Nightline team are available to talk anything over, whether it’s course worries, stress, housemate drama or something else. And finally... Try not to worry about everything too much. No one ever does as much work as they want to, so just enjoy your very short time at university. Your parents will very soon be deconstructing the gym/sewing room/office/bar so they can turn it back into your bedroom again.
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Absolute BNOCs!
You can find the Sabbatical Officers in their offices in YUSU over at James College. There’s a Costa there too.
<Sam Maguire is our YUSU president. You’ll doubtless see him out in Freshers’ Week. He’s the public face of YUSU so being a BNOC is basically his job!
>George Offer was the Welfare Officer last year so is fairly well known, but the Academic Officer post which he now holds is notoriously a quiet one.
WHO’S WHO?
>Chris Wall is the man you’ll meet if you ever hold a position in a society. He used to be a YSTV big dog and has quite strong banter.
The hot and the not of who YOU need to know...
>Cass Brown is the woman for you if you’re into sports at all. She never misses a sports social on Wednesdays, so you’ll see her there...
<Michael Duncan is the chair of Vanbrugh, one of the biggest and most social colleges on campus. Chairs of the V often end up going for YUSU Prez. Nuff said.
^Jemima Busby is the Welfare Officer. You’ll meet her when you run out of the condoms in your Freshers’ Pack. let’s ry but w myste o to Willo f o n ma ug g is a t him if yo n o F y e Tomm y you’ll me a just s ... h enoug
^Ben Leatham is the chair of the laddiest college, Derwent, so obv we included him on our list. He revamped Big D so it was actually in profit this year!
t. e righ , swip r love cillor David o f g Coun lookin ou’re nd Labour a ct: if y Fun fa president SU r... Ex YU is on Tinde e n e v Le
^Tara Annison is the chair of Goodricke. Tara, along with Sam Maguire, has helped put Hes East on the map, arranging cool events for last year’s freshers and being a bit of a socialite.
You’ll probs never see them...
<Greg Dyke is the Chancellor, though he is quitting this year. He had top banter at the YUSU elections and is an all round massive lad. Big love for the G dog.
>Koen Lamberts is the VC and makes all the decisions. You won’t meet til gradation though.
>Jane Grenville is the Pro Vice Chancellor for Students. She’s very important... apparently, but you’ll only meet her if you ask for mit circs in your exams.
Vision’s Legendary Bucket List The official York Uni bucket list...accept no subsitutes! Stay in Willow ‘til closing time
Get with a BNOC
Leave a lecture to be sick
Complete the Micklegate Run (ask your STYC what it is!)
Use Nouse as toilet paper
Eat everything on the Courtyard menu
Coax a goose into your kitchen
Eat a 16 inch Efe’s pizza
Get a selfie with Tommy Fong
Pull in every YUSU club night in a week
Gatecrash a sports social for a sport you don’t play
Make out with someone at the top of Central Hall Have sex in the Quiet Place
Turn up to a seminar in last night’s fancy dress
Roll down Clifford’s Tower
STICK THIS O N YOUR WALL 12 FRESH.
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