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thegazette • Monday, August 19, 2013
Guiding you through these treacherous waters Julian Uzielli Editor-in-Chief The day has finally come. You picked your schools, sent out all your applications and spent anxious weeks checking the mail every day for that envelope emblazoned with a purple seal. Finally, you got your answer, and for one reason or another you decided to come to Western. Arriving at university for the first time is a strange experience for everyone. You may feel a bit like a shipwreck survivor, traumatized by a sudden change in circumstances and marooned on an island filled with strange inhabitants. Everything is confusing, and you don’t know where to go. That’s where we come in.
What am I holding?
You hold in your hands The Gazette, Western’s student newspaper, which we are proud to say is Canada’s only studentrun daily. We publish Tuesday through Friday throughout the academic year to help you navigate the alien landscape and strange culture on this sprawling campus. Not sure what the University Students’ Council is? We’ve got you covered. Interested in getting involved on campus, but not sure where to start? Look no further. In this issue you’ll find everything you need to know to find your way at Western, and in every issue afterwards you’ll find plenty of informative news, entertaining arts and life, thoughtful opinions and riveting sports content to keep you connected to your campus. This place will be your home for the next three to seven years, and it’s our job to keep you informed.
Who are those handsome dudes?
We are The Gazette’s Front Office, the three editors in charge of the whole operation and the only three people at the paper who aren’t students—though we just graduated in June. The rest of our staff — 21 editors, as well as dozens of volunteers — are students, just like you, who put in the time between
Kelly Samuel GAZETTE
OH CAPTAIN, MY CAPTAIN. These here handsome gentlemen are in charge of editing The Gazette this year. From left: Jason Sinukoff, managing editor; Cam “Smoth” Smith, deputy editor; Julian Uzielli, editor-in-chief.
classes every day to churn out another issue.
That sounds cool! Can I help?
Absolutely! Whether you like to write, take photos, draw cartoons, create computer graphics, shoot video or fiddle with web design, we’ve got something for you to do. If you have a thirst for knowledge and you find people often tell you to stop asking so many damn questions, then you sound like a good fit for our news department. If you were a drama kid in high school or listened to The National before they were cool, then our arts & life section is for you. And if your friends are sick of you talking about how advanced stats predict the Leafs’ imminent implosion, you’ll feel right at home in the sports section. Opinion columns are reserved for editors, but that doesn’t mean you can’t contribute there too — you can tell us how much you hate us four times every week by writing letters to the editor, or even more often by tweeting us @uwogazette. You might even make it into the tweets of the week. Contributing to The Gazette is a great way to make new friends and improve your writing, and can even be a springboard to greater things — many of our alumni can be found at places like
The Globe and Mail, The Toronto Star, Maclean’s, CBC, CTV and more.
Sign me up, captain!
That’s chief, actually, but I’ll let this one slide. If you think you might be interested in getting involved, then we want to talk to you. Don’t be shy — there’s no experience necessary to contribute, and all of us were frightened froshlings once upon a time. Come visit our office on the second floor of the University Community Centre in room 263, and we’ll be ready to get you started. You could even see your name in print on the very next day.
That doesn’t really interest me, actually.
Well, that’s fine too. Our office is only so big, after all. If you want to get involved somewhere else, we won’t hold it against you. Go and rush for a fraternity or sorority, join the skydiving club (yes, it exists), or start a club of your own. Whatever you do, there will always be a fresh issue of The Gazette waiting for you on campus.
E-mail Julian at editor@westerngazette.ca or follow him on Twitter at @JulianAtGazette.
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thegazette • Monday, August 19, 2013
Resources for maintaining mental health Jesica Hurst Online Editor Every September Western welcomes several new students to its campus, some of whom are, or at some point throughout university will be, affected by mental illness. However, by taking control of their health and understanding what resources are available on and off campus, students may find it easier to manage any difficulties they are dealing with. Sandra Fisman, a professor of psychiatry at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, explained some students may have a difficult time transitioning into university — which could potentially lead to them experiencing mental health issues. “The most common mental health difficulties that we see are anxiety and depression, with potential risk of suicidal thoughts and actions where students become hopeless and feel isolated,” Fisman said. “More commonly, increasing anxiety and depression become evident after the initial excitement of frosh week subsides and the stress of coping with academic demands and being away from home and family support increase.” Fortunately, there are several ways students can cope with these additional stresses, focusing on the importance of being proactive. “My advice to students is to reach out and ask for help early when they feel that they are struggling with academic demands and the added
Logan Ly Gazette
stress of being away from family support,” she said. “Students and their parents benefit from proactively accessing support services prior to [the start of the term] when the student has had pre-existing mental health or learning difficulties.” If you’re struggling with depression or anxiety, Fisman said, you’re not alone — there is a good chance your peers may also be quietly struggling. For more concrete ways to take
care of their overall health, Fisman recommended students get a good amount of sleep, eat a well-balanced diet and take part in regular moderate exercise. She also advises caution against drinking to excess, and if students do choose to drink they should understand the multiple risks that can occur with intoxication. There is a full slate of mental health resources available to students on and off campus, including counseling services, a peer support phone line and support groups.
There’s a full list of the available services at health.uwo.ca. Student Health Services runs a crisis phone line at 519-661-3030 or 519-661-3371, and they are open for visits in room 11 of the University Community Centre. The Student Development Centre on the fourth floor of the Student Services Building also offers counseling for everything from personal issues to eating disorders to sexual assault. They can be reached at 519-661-3031.
Your map to getting the most out of OSAP Jeremiah Rodriguez News Editor Short of having an estranged uncle dumping an inheritance on you, you could’ve been fresh out of luck paying for school if it weren’t for OSAP. The Ontario Student Assistance Program is a joint program between the Ontario and federal governments, which helps students pay for expenses during undergraduate study. For full details and application you can go to osap.gov.on.ca — but here’s the rundown: OSAP doles out both grants — money you don’t have to pay back — and loans, money which you must repay. I can’t stress this enough — make sure to look up grants and apply for everything you’re eligible for. It could save you a lot of dough. Interest rates for loans are frozen at zero during undergrad, but six months after graduation, interest rates are unfrozen, your gravy train Keep in mind: There are a crap-load of forms to fill out, so start early, have documentation ready and have patience — you’re going to need it. Applying for OSAP means you’re automatically considered for the “30 per cent off” Ontario tuition grant. Remember that loans will need to be paid off eventually, so keep track of exactly where you’re funneling your OSAP money to throughout the year. After graduation, you have nine and a half years to pay off all of your debt. There are repayment programs and structures online that will be offered when the time comes. Start paying off OSAP whenever you can during undergrad.
ends and you have to start paying it off through monthly payments. You can apply for OSAP if you’re a Canadian citizen, a landed immigrant or a protected person. The application deadline is 45 days from the start of your study period — 60 days is the final cutoff, but don’t push your luck. OSAP is given in two installments, with one at the beginning of each semester. What you get essentially depends on three things: 1) Your education expenses: Books, tuition, supplies, child care, living
expenses; 2) Your personal financial situation: How much you’re expected to make and how much your family is likely to fork over based on how much they make annually; and 3) Whether or not you’re a full-time Mustang or not: Full-time means you’re taking at least 60 per cent of a full course load. The formula works like this: (Educational expenses) – (Money you’re expected to contribute) =
Financial need, A.K.A. OSAP payout. Before applying online make sure you know if you fit into special circumstances, like if you have aboriginal status. Make sure to have not only your financial holdings but also those of your spouse or parents at the ready. The step-by-step process on the OSAP website is pretty straightforward — just do it carefully.
documents — all documents submitted online must also be given directly to Western’s Financial Aid office.
1) Submit Master Student Financial Assistance Agreement
Remember: If any of your provided info changes, let the Student Financial Aid office know in writing.
2) Submit all required OSAP
3) School confirms enrollment before disbursement 4) Before receiving second OSAP installment, you’ll have to update your income again.
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thegazette • Monday, August 19, 2013
MEN
WOMEN
In addition to its firm grasp on Canada’s best student experience, Western is also known for its good-looking group of students. We’re not sure if it’s the beautiful campus background or something in the Spoke coffee, but for whatever reason Western boasts a fine, fresh and fierce student body. With many first-year students coming from uniformed schools, making the change may be intimidating. Because The Gazette wants you to stand out in those 300-student classes, here are some simple, must-have items that will easily become staples in your university look.
Kelly Samuel Gazette
Kelly Samuel Gazette
1. White V-Neck
1. Patterned Scarves
Though seemingly simple, you’ll quickly learn that the V stands for versatile as a white v-neck shirt is the chameleon of any wardrobe. Its sharp and simple look allows the shirt to go well with virtually anything: Cardigans, dress shirts, sweaters — the list can go on. The V shape of the collar will also stretch out your neck and shoulders, complementing your upper body even if you don’t make it to Western’s Rec Centre.
The right assortment of scarves can heat up both your style and your neck! Even if it may not offer the best wind protection, a colourful scarf can create a statement when you walk into that classroom. Go classic with bold colors or be brave with exciting animal prints. Also, a scarf affords the perfect cover for any lunchtime stains or nighttime hickies.
2. Cardigans Cardigans are perfect for school because they can complete a classroom preppy look and a grungier look for chilling on UC Hill. An easy add-on to any graphic tee or dress shirt, a cardigan can provide warmth without being too stifling. The pockets will also come in handy for easy access to your class schedule, or maybe when you need to stash your phone away from the eyes of an agitated professor.
Ladies can bring some class to the classroom with a casual blazer. Though you don’t have to go to the Elle Woods extreme with a full pink suit, you can channel her confidence and sass with a stylish blazer. A blazer can help create a look that will tell your classmates you have the answer, even if you don’t. Depending on the rest of your outfit, the blazer can even be part of a relaxed look when you just want to grab a plate of Spoke fries with some new classmates.
3. Dark Jeans
3. A Dual Purpose Bag
Like the v-neck and the cardigan, a good pair of dark jeans is an asset to any guy because they work in a variety of settings and with a number of styles. With the right fit, these jeans can be comfortable classroom wear while still looking more put together than that guy in the sweatpants. It’s worth mentioning the darker shade will also hide stains and keep you from going to the laundry room between classes.
It’s time to put away the Dora the Explorer backpack and introduce a stylish new bag to your look. Functioning as both an eye-catching accessory and a schoolbag, the right bag can help you carry your books in style — but as such it’s important to keep a few things in mind when shopping for one. You want a tough bag that’s good quality, so canvas, leather, or strong faux-leather materials are all safe bets. And be sure to grab one with loads of pockets and zipper compartments — organization is the key to success! —Kevin Hurren
2. Casual Blazer
Now that you look good, learn to study Richard Raycraft News Editor Following a glorious debut at Huron University College, I quickly realized in second year that I was entering something of a sophomore slump. Pressing the panic button, I decided to put less of my time into drinking myself into a blackout and surfing the Web, and more into hitting the books. It was around this time that I realized studying hard isn’t the same as studying well. To succeed, you will need to do both. This seems obvious in principle, but to understand it in practice is difficult. Luckily, I’ve compiled what are, in my mind, the most important tips for studying at university.
1. Know thyself! Some study tips are pretty much universal, but the most important one involves understanding how you study best. I personally like some background noise to go with my reading and reviewing, but a lot of people completely lose their focus upon hearing a whisper. Will games, acronyms or funny sayings help you understand and internalize concepts and definitions? The only way to know is to engage in some healthy experimentation. It will take time to figure out your optimal study style, but it will be well worth it in the long run. 2. Understanding over memorizing! The “what” is important, but
so are the “why” and the “how”. Understanding material is more efficient than simply memorizing it and it makes for a better learning experience. If you feel like you don’t understand something, one of the best things you can do is chat with your professor or teaching assistant. For whatever reason, many students are very hesitant to do this, as if it were some sort of admission of defeat. Don’t be like that. They teach the class for a reason, so talk to them. 3. Find a dedicated study partner/ group! You want to do well, and others do too. Group studying and discussions are good for providing
outside perspective on the material and bringing in diverse areas of expertise. Have members specialize in different areas, and then explain them to each other. This will save time, effort and especially stress. 4. Study in intervals! Not only is studying for 12 hours straight about as pleasurable as a punch in the kidney, but you’re sure to forget most of what you learned in that period. Take breaks during your study sessions, and don’t hit the books for too long at a time. For this reason, cramming should be avoided at all costs. Test and exam preparation should begin weeks in advance.
5. Don’t forget why you’re here! In your early years here you’re probably going to focus on your social life at the expense of your academics, but try to keep a good balance. Yes, you only live once, but you’ll also probably only have one chance to do your undergrad. Everyone has different goals and aspirations, but with an increasing number of students seeking entry into competitive professional and graduate programs, you want to make sure you’re happy with the numbers on your transcript when it’s all over. Education is an investment in yourself, so make the most of it while you can.
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thegazette • Monday, August 19, 2013
Keeping your head 10 things I wish I knew in first year above the water Brent Holmes Arts & Life Editor
Kaitlyn McGrath Associate Editor Odds are during first year you’ll encounter a few problems throughout the first few months at Western. But don’t fret because after every rainstorm, comes a rainbow… or something like that. The fact is, you’ll get through it, but in the meantime, here are some tips on how to deal with some common issues new students come across.
Hate your roommate Being forced to live in close quarters with a complete stranger takes some adjustment. Sometimes roommates go together like peanut butter and jelly — which you will eat a lot of in first year, just a heads-up — and other times they go together like oil and water. Either way, you’re in this for the long haul. If you’re having difficulty with your roommate, simply try to express your frustrations and talk things out. If necessary, ask your RA to moderate the discussion. This one awkward conversation might save you from a year of tension.
Fail an Exam If you’ve made it this far, chances are you’re not accustomed to failing. Unfortunately, university is a different beast and sometimes the
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first test doesn’t go as well as you would like. First step: Don’t freak out — struggling is completely normal and it’s likely you’re not the only one. If you’re finding a class challenging, form a study group with other students in the class. Also, reach out to your TAs — they are there to help and appreciate when students seek their assistance.
Hate your major So you thought you were a biology buff, but lately you’re really enjoying your English class. No fear, it’s completely okay — and very common — to switch majors. If you’re interested in exploring other academic avenues, head to your current faculty academic counsellor and talk to them about transfer options.
Feeling homesick You never thought you’d say it but you miss your family, don’t you? That’s totally cool — we all do sometimes. To alleviate homesick symptoms, try hanging up some pictures or mementos that remind you of home. Also, there’s no shame in taking some time out of your day to give your family a call. Try using Skype to avoid pesky long-distance charges.
1. Having Fun Isn’t Hard When You’ve Got a Western ONECard: A Western ONECard not only functions as a student card but it also allows access to the Western Rec Centre and the meal plan in residence, on campus and in London. 2. Leave Your Door Open: In residence, it is easy to close your door and spend a lot of time in your room trying to get adjusted. However, the fastest way to adapt to university is to get talking to people — go exploring, find a group of people talking and hang out, do silly ice-breakers, get a crew of people together to have meals with — just remember to close your door when you leave. 3. Prepare to be Boarded: Posters are all over campus. In a random hallway on campus, there may be posters for upcoming concerts, plays and film screenings. Keep checking those boards to see what is going on at Western and beyond. 4. Residence Food Is Made of Soylent Green: Eventually, one will become tired of residence food. The Grocery Checkout in the basement of the University Community Centre, farmer’s market at Bresica and
Masonville Plaza can provide much needed relief from a depressing diet of pizza and fries. Items like fruits and salads can provide healthier, fresher alternatives.
5. Do Drugs: Being sick away from home sucks. Being sick when it’s mid-term or essay-writing season sucks more. In residence, colds spread rapidly — when your friends start sneezing and missing classes, start chugging those orange juices and Cold FX pills. If you get really sick and need release from academic commitments, go see Student Health Services in the basement of the UCC immediately. 6. Winter is Coming: There’s a reason university tours occur when the leaves are changing colour or when spring is starting. The school year is like being beyond the wall in Game of Thrones; it’s cold, grey and there’s a ton of zombies wandering around after big party nights. Every year, they find a few bodies of frosh who came expecting summer time warmth buried in the snow. Dress warmly. 7. Every Day I’m Shuttling: There is a free shuttle bus that travels between the affiliate colleges. It stops at Huron, Brescia and King’s, but also makes stops throughout the main campus. Figuring out what
times the shuttle comes can be a quick way to get across Western.
8. Stock up on Ceiling Tiles: The drunken residence dweller has two loves: Making a mess of the bathroom and breaking the ceiling tiles. During O-Week steal a few from other floors and put them in your own floor at the end of the term. Good luck and may the endof-year damage fees be ever in your favour. 9. Home Is Not Where The Heart Is: If it is an option, it is very tempting to go home. The food is fresher, the beds are more comfortable and there’s no chance some idiot is going to pull the fire alarm three times in the same night. That being said, don’t. To have the best university experience, one has to be at the university. The Western ONECard is accepted at the following restaurants off campus— Domino’s Pizza, Jack Astors, McGinnis Landing, Papa John’s Pizza, Pizza Pizza, Subway, Swiss Chalet, Tony Roma’s, Mongolian Grill, Wok Box, Yo Yo’s, Moxie’s, Lone Star, East Side Mario’s and The Windermere Manor.
Gained the Freshman 15 The pizza and French fries, though delicious, are not low in fat. Without anyone telling you to eat your vegetables, your diet can go a little off the rails during first year. Lucky for you, Western has one of the best campus gyms in the province — and membership is included in your tuition. Plus working out can also help reduce stress and taking classes provides another opportunity to meet new people.
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Cameron Smith Deputy Editor Nothing defines a freshman’s university experience quite as distinctly as their first night getting absolutely, absurdly, dangerously plastered. Sure, we’ve all done this (many of us in years more recent as well). Yet, there comes a time in everyone’s life where the habit of saturating one’s anatomy to the point of violent nausea becomes less appealing. This doesn’t mean you necessarily need to drink less. The pleasure of a good beverage is incomparable. There is, however, a way to do it properly without rendering yourself a quivering, vomit-covered mess. After lots of trial and error, here are my Three Golden Rules to consuming with class:
Alcohol Always Up We’ve all heard the old adage “beer before liquor, never sicker, liquor before beer, you’re in the clear.” But has anyone ever actually achieved success following this method? Personally, I think it’s horseshit. I follow one very simple rule for ordering my beverages, and that is Alcohol Always Up. Essentially, the percentage of alcohol in your drinks should always increase as the evening progresses, while the quantity diminishes. Start with beer, or light cocktails, work your way up to wine or stronger mixed drinks and end the evening with hard liquor, like brandy or whiskey. I like to think this method is effective because the volume-heavy drinks are consumed on a fresh stomach, while the more alcoholic drinks are consumed in smaller quantities when you are less apt to digest a heavy, carbonated beer.
Bill Wang Gazette
Don’t be afraid to mix different boozes, just mind the order in which you do it.
Hydrate Okay, fine, your grandmother could have told you this one. Well your granny is goddamn right. Most people think it’s about grabbing a glass or two of water to take to bed in an attempt to fight off the dry-mouth and hangover. Nah. If you want to properly prepare for a night of serious drinking, you need to drink water well before your evening commences, in between your boozey-bevvies and before bed. I like to have 500ml of water before I drink, 500ml while I drink, and bring 500ml to bed with me. This keeps my stomach more full, and helps mitigate my booze consumption. Yes, you’ll piss like a racehorse, but when you climb out of bed with a moist mouth and fresh as a daisy, you’ll be the envy of your peers.
Sip it Slow There’s a reason I end every “Sipping With Smoth” column with this maxim. Of all the golden rules, this is the most important. Not only does it refer to savouring your drink, Sip it Slow also ensures you are consuming your beverages at a steady and even rate. Give yourself a chance to digest your drinks before you plow on to the next one. It’s not a race, and the night is still young. If you’re genuinely buckled in for a night of heavy drinking, then pace yourself. You can keep that perfect glow going a lot longer by steadily adding logs to your fire, rather than dumping all your wood on at once. Everyone should drink in moderation. But sometimes it’s fun to just cut a little bit loose, and imbibe a bit more than the doctor prescribes. If you’re going to do it, just remember to order your drinks properly, drink water before you drink booze and never forget to sip it slow.
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thegazette • Monday, August 19, 2013
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Beating the bland Megan Devlin News Editor Aaron Zaltzman Associate Editor
1) Sleep through an exam, cry your way towards a rewrite. 2) Floorcest. 3) Visit every building on campus, and drink in every building on campus. 4) Tray-bogonning down UC Hill.
5) Win a round of Sledgehammer Bingo at The Ceeps. 6) Go to Rick night at the Spoke. 7) Get 100% on an exam. 8) Get 10% on an exam. 9) Go to trivia night at the Grad Club. 10) Locate every underground tunnel on campus.
11) Spend at least three days without seeing the sun. 12) Go see a Friday night Cult Classic at the UCC theatre. 13) Complete the Spoke Beer Tour. 14) Seduce a TA and/or professor. 15) Eat five residence cafeteria
meals in a day. Feel shameful remorse for two days. 16) Finish an exam first. Laugh at rest of the room. 17) Drunkenly run for your residence floor president or fire marshal.
18) Attend a USC presidential debate, get a penis-related tweet on the screen. 19) Finish the Gazette crossword.
20) Volunteer for The Gazette for a semester. Disappear forever. (Kidding! Please stay and write!) 21) Get kicked off RezNet for downloading too much…data. 22) Learn every single bus route in London. Take only the 6, 13 and 2
for four years. 23) Listen to CHRW. 24) Get drunk with a professor. 25) Change majors. Twice. 26) Get a massage from Western’s residence masseuse. 27) Go to class in your PJ’s. 28) Go to an exam in your PJ’s. 29) Grab a coffee at every Tim Hortons on campus.
30) Go to the Barney’s patio and Jack Astor’s roof, on the same day. 31) Skip a morning event during frosh week, if you dare! 32) Be a subject in a student psych experiment. 33) Play on an intramural team. Win the Purple Shirt. 34) Turn your residence shower into a sauna.
35) Start a food fight in a residence cafeteria. 36) Swear for five full minutes because a full bus drove by you. 37) Spend over 24 hours in a campus library. 38) Go to a varsity sporting game. 39) Dance like a jackass at Jack’s. Experience regret.
40) Dance lavishly at Lavish. Have zero regrets. 41) Go to a St. Patrick’s Day kegger at a complete stranger’s house. 42) Cite yourself as an academic source in an essay. 43) Take a bus from Nat Sci to Alunmi House. Cry when I scream at you for ten minutes. 44) Become “enlightened” by a professor. Realize later you’re an idiot.
45) Call someone from MIT a hipster. 46) Call someone from Ivey a douche. 47) Try everything on the menu at the Spoke. 48) Take a trip to Fanshawe. Leave soon.
49) Buy a “Festern Wucked Your Mom” T-shirt. Be a shitty person. 50) ____________________________ Illustrations by John Prata
Western’s residence rooms can look anything from industrial to ancient, but don’t let Saugeen’s cinderblock walls or Delaware’s questionable carpet stains keep you from having a chic and inviting living space for your first year.
1) Rearrange the furniture When you first move in, your dorm room’s furniture can sometimes be laid out in the least convenient way possible. Move the desk and bed around to make the most out of your space.
2) Organize The first step to keeping a stylish room is keeping it neat. Under your bed is a great place to store your stuff, so invest in a few rollout bins from Ikea or Wal-Mart. Organization can also double as decoration. Choose some colourful, patterned bins to organize your things on the top shelf of your desk or in your bookcase. Additionally, your possessions can double as decorations when stored in unique places. Storing high-heels front and centre on your windowsill or bookshelf instead of tucked away in your closet can open up space and add a fun vibe to your room.
3) Walls Covering your walls is probably the fastest way to make your residence room feel more like home. The photo wall is an essential part of every dorm room. Since sticky tack and tape are the only ways you can stick things to your wall, photo prints are your best bet. Create a collage featuring friends, family, pets and fond memories from back
home. This is one of the most uplifting things to look at when tests and assignments make you homesick. The photo kiosks at Wal-Mart allow you to print photos straight from Facebook, so they don’t even have to be your photos (you can just be tagged in them). Be sure to hit the poster sale in the UCC (it usually comes before the end of September) to get some cheap posters to cover your walls. Some other ways to fill the blank space on your residence walls include tearing out pages you like from magazines or adding wall stickers with inspirational quotes.
4) Lighting The overhead lights in your residence room can be harsh, so using a lamp from home or softer Christmas lights can create more peaceful space. White Christmas lights can be strung along your headboard, around your photo collage, around your mirror or across the top shelf of your desk to create a friendlier atmosphere.
5) Bed In a room as small as your dorm, your bed is probably the largest item. Picking a bold comforter can really attract the eye and transform the space. Also consider a throw blanket for your bed, so that you can sleep on top of your comforter and not have to re-make your bed as often.
6) Decorations The best decorations for your room are personal ones. Whether they are pictures, books, ribbons, exercise equipment, instruments or sorority letters, personal tokens are conversations starters and serve to make the room yours.
Keeping off the Lbs Mary Ann Ciosk Arts & Life Editor Is it true that most students gain a full 15 pounds in their first year of university? Why does this happen? Is it inevitable? The dreaded Freshman 15 looms in the minds of many young students as they prepare for their first year away from home. Fortunately the “15” in this infamous expression is an exaggeration. According to research from the State University of New Jersey, frosh on average gain approximately 3 lbs, and among those who do gain weight, it usually does not exceed 7 lbs. So not everyone will gain weight, and in most cases the gain will not be as dramatic as 15 pounds. However, gaining weight in first year is typical and students who wish to avoid it should arm themselves with knowledge of the common causes. Likely the most prevalent cause is simply overeating. The easy access to unhealthy food, no longer having home-cooked meals and the increased alcohol consumption creates a perfect storm for wreaking nutritional havoc. Buying a meal card is often mandatory when living in residence at university and this largely dictates what a student’s diet consists of. Without parental restraint, freshmen opt for greasy, deep-fried meals more often than not. No mothers are around to scold children lest the proper quota of vegetables aren’t consumed, leading students to satisfy their hunger with candy over carrots. In fact over 60 per cent of university students
choose processed foods high in sugar and fat over fruits and vegetables, according to nutrition expert Amanda Ursell. Freshmen are also well-known for their high levels of binge drinking. One 12 oz bottle of beer is typically 150 calories, so if a student drinks five beers one night, that’s an additional 750 calories on top of their food for the day. Potentially worse than the alcohol itself is the “drunk food” consumed after drinking. London’s downtown core offers poutine, pizza, burritos and other fast food for late-night eats, all of which are sure to pack on the pounds. The lifestyle in first year easily facilitates weight gain, but if students are aware of the inherent dangers of freshmen life they can take steps to avoid them and pursue healthier choices. Although campus boasts a wide array of high fat choices to choose from, try opting for foods with whole grains, vegetables and fewer creamy condiments when possible. Find your favourite fruits and use them as snacks instead of chocolate bars or chips. Although not always easy, try limiting your alcohol consumption as well as having healthy food that you love readily available for your post-drinking meal. Also be sure to check out the Rec Centre, fitness classes and sign up for intramurals to stay active during the year. It can be a challenge, but keeping off the Freshman 15 is definitely a choice you can choose to make.
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Intramurals: The way everyone can play Daniel Weryha Sports Editor Whether you’re looking to stay involved, get involved or to try something new on campus, Western offers a wide variety of activities to pique student interest — none more popular than the Western Intramural Sports Program. In fact, Western has one of the highest intramural registration totals in Canada. In last year’s fall term alone, the intramural program registered over 700 teams — a number that will surely grow with all of this year’s additions. Over the summer, Western added two new artificial turf fields located behind TD Waterhouse stadium, which took the place of the old soccer fields. These new fields will help the intramural program accommodate a larger number of teams, sports and players. The program offers 16 different sports. Each sport has both a recreational division for participants who are still unfamiliar with it and a competitive division. Each division has multiple timeslots to accommodate student schedules. Through this assortment of sports and leagues, students can find a team that matches their skill level — not to mention a chance at bringing home Western Intramural’s legendary purple shirt. The purple shirt is a symbol of sports supremacy on campus, a type of trophy awarded to each member of the league’s best team. This year, Western Intramurals will introduce three new sports and three more ways to take home that purple title. Due to the sport’s popularity on campus, the program has included a seven-on-seven soccer league. With only seven on a side, a full-length turf field can be divided into three separate playing fields with each using the width. The sevens flag rugby league will operate similarly to the aforementioned soccer league, and finally,
Western’s biggest addition — Muggle Quidditch. Muggle Quidditch is the offspring of the wizard game played in the narrative universe of J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter. Just like the novel, each team fields seven players—three chasers, two beaters, one keeper, and one seeker. Players must run with a broom between their legs. “I was riding the subway after the Boston Marathon a couple years ago, when a bunch of students got on wearing school colors, and holding broomsticks,” Gareth Cunningham, manager of recreations, said. “As it turns out, Muggle Quidditch is very popular in the United States, and in many parts of Europe — I figured we should give it a try.” The object of the game is to outscore the opponent by putting the quaffle — usually a volleyball — between one of three opposing hoops defended by a keeper. Each score is worth 10 points. The game ends when one of the seekers catches the snitch. The snitch is typically a racquetball stuffed in a sock, which is then tucked into a designated “snitch runner’s” shorts, who must defend it at all costs. Students can register as a full team or as free agents. The leagues are restricted to Western students, and people with a Campus Recreation Centre membership. There is, however, one non–member allowed per team. A full team enrollment costs approximately $300, which is paid in full by a designated captain, and $35 for a student registering as a free agent. This excludes ice hockey due to the cost of ice time and officiating. For those now interested in unleashing their inner wizard, registration for the fall session is available online at shop.westernmustangs. ca, or in person at the Campus Recreation Centre, on September 5 — the day that marks the beginning of yet another campus–wide quest for the purple shirt, and the bragging rights that come with it.
Who be the USC?
Pat Whelan
Sam Krishnapillai VP Internal
VP Communications
Pat Whelan represents and is the primary spokesperson of the University Students’ Council. As president of the USC, he sets strategic direction for the USC, advocates for the student body with various groups, and is chairperson of the Executive board, made up of the president and vice-presidents.
Sam Krishnapillai’s main duty is to ensure equal opportunity for any individual student, social group or student group. She advocates for underrepresented groups, oversees USC services that encompass diversity, sensitivity and other issues and promotes awareness of issues facing students.
Jas Irwin is responsible for the branding of the USC and for developing marketing and promotions campaigns. She ensures the USC stays current with their means of communication with students. She is also the main press liason between the USC and campus media, including CHRW and The Gazette.
USC President
Amir Eftekharpour
Jas Irwin
VP External
VP Student Events
Adam Smith
Spencer Brown
Amir Eftekharpour advocates on behalf of students with the federal and provincial governments, as well as other institutions that affect post-secondary educational policy. He also represents our university as president of the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance.
Adam Smith is tasked with maintaining Canada’s best student experience by organizing events and programming for students. He oversees and supports the campus’ over 200 clubs and encourages all students to participate in out of class activities.
Spencer Brown is responsible for managing and allocating the finances of the USC. He updates and advises the council on the financial position of the USC and creates the annual budget, which totals around $12 million. He also manages club finances and promotes financial literacy for students. —Iain Boekhoff
Photos courtesy of Jas Irwin
VP Finance
one stop ices is your rv e S e v ti a n, graphic Cre r web desig fo n o ti a in dest s and otional item ll of your m ro p , n g si de ell as a thing, as w custom clo ur, black & lo eds — co e n g tickets. n ti n ri p ination and m la , g in d white, bin
Formerly InPrint & Purple Door Promos
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I’m a __________ person. What should I do? Nusaiba Al-Azem Sports Editor Are you nervous about starting university and leaving behind friends? Are you an off-campus student who worries that it will be hard to meet new people without living in residence? Or are you simply dreading a year stuck in stuffy libraries, studying all day? Have no fear — Western’s extra-curricular life is brimming with activities to suit everybody. Athletic? Check out Western’s
vivacious recreation centre and try getting involved in Western’s many sports leagues. From teams for varsity athletes or those interested in intramurals to drop-in hours at the Rec Centre, Western offers a variety of ways to stay active for those of you who just can’t stay still. Visit westernmustangs.ca for more information on all things sports related. Diplomat in training? Western is full of politically-minded students just like you. Check out the clubs for different political factions on campus, such as Western New Democrats, Western Liberals, UWO
Conservatives, or other politicallycharged groups such as Students for the United Representation of Latin America (SURLA). Ready to save the world? Be sure to join humanitarian clubs if you’re a do-gooder looking to make a difference. There’s a type of social justice initiative for everyone. Some clubs are focused on helping make change right at home, with volunteer opportunities in London, while others are focused on international change, such as transitional justice or resisting apartheid. Check out clubs
like Transitional Justice, Western Microcredit Society, Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights, the Red Cross Society at Western, Relay for Life Cancer campaign, Free the Children Western and many more. Looking for new cultural experiences or want to stay in touch with your own culture? Western has multiple cultural-based clubs, such as the Afghan Students’ Association, Arab Students’ Association, Korean Students’ Association, Irish Cultural Society, Hillel, and the Spanish and Latin Students’ Association (SALSA).
And lastly... are you a reporter ready for duty? You’ll want to explore CHRW — Western’s own radio station — or The Gazette to be involved in the country’s only daily student-run paper. No experience is required! Not certain where your interests lie? Be sure to attend Western’s annual Clubs Week to have the chance to speak to representatives from Western’s approximately 300 clubs and sign up for the school year, because you just may find your passion there. At Western, there’s something for everyone.
Frosh Dictionary Bradley Metlin Arts & Life Editor Concrete Beach: A huge lie. Refers to the area in front of the University Community Centre where events and other fun things happen. While it is a huge slab of concrete, it is, in no way, a beach. HOCO: Homecoming. A big football game on September 28th where people get very rowdy and “hydrated.” Stüph: A combination for Staff and Soph used in residences. UC Hill: The giant hill in front of University College. One of the most iconic parts of campus, some even claim just walking up it everyday is more effective at toning your calves than a traditional workout. UCC: The University Community Centre; the most central part of campus. The Gazette, USC, bookstore and health services are located here. Also, it’s where you find all the coffee places (Williams, two Tim Hortons, Starbucks, and the Spoke).
BETTER LIVING 101:
Club Weldon: Biggest library on campus. You might find yourself here late at night studying frantically.
WHY CHOOSE ROGERS?
Midterms: Exams that start in October and can creep up on you. Be prepared!
Rogers Digital TV
ROGERS ON DEMAND
Foot Patrol: Lovely folks who, if you give them a call, can walk you home during the nighttime.
Watch your favourite TV shows and movies whenever and wherever you want on TV and now online with Rogers Anyplace TV!1
HBK: Abbreviation for the affiliate colleges, Huron, Brescia, Kings.
Rogers Hi-Speed Internet
Panda: The Physics and Astronomy building. The atrium is beautiful and a great place to study!
Customize your internet with speeds and features to fit your needs.
SERT: Student Emergency Response Team. In the event of a medical emergency, they’re the first to arrive on the scene.
GET THE SPEED THAT SUITS YOUR NEEDS
CHRW: The campus radio station (94.9 FM) which features everything from talk radio to news to music.
Rogers Home Phone
GREAT SERVICE FOR AN ALL-IN-ONE PRICE
Richmond Row: The main drag of London featuring the vast majority of bars popular with students, an eclectic mix of restaurants and a variety of clothing stores.
Now with the NEW Rogers Home Phone Packages you get the flexibility and savings you’re looking for.
CALL 1 800-897-0427 FOR DETAILS. 1. Charges apply to some On Demand programming content. Rogers Anyplace TV only available within Canada with an internet connection. Rogers On Demand not available in all areas. ™Rogers and the Mobius design are trademarks of or used under license from Rogers Communications Inc. or an affiliate. © 2012 Rogers Communications
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The Gazette: What you’re holding. The best newspaper ever. Read us everyday from Tuesday through Friday (shameless promotion over.) Intramurals: Sports teams of all sorts which anyone can join (look to your faculty, clubs, or residence to form a team.) Sports range from the conventional (basketball) to the more exotic (inner tube water polo).