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MAGAZINE ISSUE SEVEN
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SMOKE MAGAZINE
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EDITORS LETTER & CONTRIBUTORS / CREDITS First and foremost…welcome Freshers! I know how it feels when you first come to university. Everything is so new and fresh and it is easy to feel completely overwhelmed and nervous! Smoke Magazine comes out every semester, and this issue is a very special one as it’s the start of the new academic year. This is my second issue now as Editor-in-Chief and it’s a very rewarding position. I would like to thank the Smoke Magazine team for working so hard to make this issue the best it can be and a huge thank you to all the contributors who sent in amazing and interesting pieces. We couldn’t have produced this without all of you, and without our fantastic Designer. This issue should stand out as being different, with a variety of articles to really highlight diversity as well as representing the University of Westminster institution broadly. Without the UWSU (the university’s Students’ Union) none of this would be possible, so huge gratification goes out to all of you.
We hope to maintain this standard of Smoke Magazine and leave a legacy behind for the new team, which will be recruited at the end of January 2016. As the Editor I really believe that this magazine should be the voice and soul of the university and every faculty individually, so by doing whatever it takes, I hope we can capture this ethos. Every article has been specially thought about and that’s what I admire about writing and creation; so I hope you can all share this outlook with the team and me! If you have any questions about anything inside Issue Seven and/or you’re thinking about contributing to our next one (coming out January 2016 for Refreshers), then please email us at: smokemagazine@su.westminster.ac.uk
From an underground spread on music in our Culture section to a piece on Tennis in our Sports section, we hope you can all enjoy this issue and look forward to more Smoke Magazine times ahead where you can become a part of it! I would also like to warmly welcome this academic year’s Sabbatical Officers who represent the University of Westminster students and will stand up for our rights and needs across all campuses: Lauren Waugh (VP Regents & LTS) Salsabil Al-Siri (VP Marylebone) Usman Mahmood (VP Cavendish) Otis Kirby-Dunkley (VP Harrow) Jim Hirschmann (UWSU President) It will be a great year! Peace and Love
We are always looking to take on-board new ideas to improve Smoke Magazine and so we encourage feedback and new writers all the time.
Gemma Smith @gemmasmith7667 Editor-in-Chief
Editor-in-Chief: Gemma Smith Culture Editor: Andy Jones News Editor: Ryan Browne
Fashion Editor: Sports Editor: Photo Editor:
Lyubomira Ivanova Louis Alexander Abdulrahman Mohammed
NEWS CONTRIBUTORS AND CREDITS • Shenelle Mattu, 3rd year, BA English Literature • Jack Mills, 1st year, BA Journalism • Yazy Tauk, 2nd year, BA English Language and Creative Writing and LGBT society • Jacob Dow, 3rd year, BA English Literature CULTURE CONTRIBUTORS AND CREDITS • Charlotte Racher, 1st year, BA Journalism • Photo Credit: Flickr Create Commons • Andy Backhouse (@andybackhouse)/Photography by Robert Paisley (@RPaisleyPho- tos) and Oscar Brown (@ZomHunterOsc) Graphic design by Andy Backhouse and Robert Paisley, Original Tube map ©TFL STUDENT LIVING CONTRIBUTORS AND CREDITS • The Harry Potter Society • Photos by Flickr Creative Commons and The Harry Potter Society • Arya Rinaldo, 3rd year, BA Commercial Music • Alumni team at the University of Westminster • All photo credits belong to the University of Westminster, alumni team • Madiya Altaf, BA English Literature and Creative Writing and from the Harry Potter society FASHION CONTRIBUTORS AND CREDITS • Michelle Whitney, 3rd year, BA Journalism • Alice Marshall, 3rd year, BA Journalism • Charlotte Racher, 1st year, BA Journalism • Photo credits: Flickr Creative Commons SPORTS CONTRIBUTORS AND CREDITS • Grant Dean Lawless, Head Coach of American Football at the University of Westminster • Photo credits: Abdulrahmen Mohammed, 3rd year, BA Media • Aled Scudamore, 3rd year BA Journalism • Maxine, Captain of Women’s Tennis
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CONTENTS
NEWS • • • • •
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A FRESHers Start Be confident in your skin, not your clothes Festival Fleek How to look Ralph Lauren on a Ralph Lidl Budget Latino Clown walks down the catwalk
SPORT • • • • • •
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A Muggle’s Guide to Westminster Meet your alumni team Student and Staff event for SCC projects – piece for Smoke Magazine Starting a Society Interning at a Startup Westminster Talks
FASHION • • • • •
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The Foundations of Liberty Are you what you are because of where you are? Sound of the Underground The Beautiful Crime
STUDENT LIVING • • • • • •
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University of Westminster March in London Pride 2015 Demokratia to Chrimata Kratia: The Fall of Democracy An Accessible City? The Night Tube: the good, the bad and the impact on student life End Austerity Now – the march from the perspective of a protester
CULTURE • • • •
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Why Sport? How the States do it Questioning Equestrian? Westminster’s the new Wimbledon It’s not all just Brutes and Beer! List of Sports teams at the University of Westminster
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NEWS
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UNIVERSITY OF WESTMINSTER MARCH IN LONDON PRIDE 2015
“I will never forget the feeling of liberation as I marched through London.” Saturday 27th June saw the streets of London flooded with rainbow flags, amazing outfits and proud people. A million people from all over the UK congregated to demonstrate and celebrate how far the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex (LGBTI) movement has come. Amongst the myriads of parade-goers was the University of Westminster Students’ Union’s LBGTI Society (UWSU LGBTI). The society teamed up with other LGBTI societies from London and we took the streets as one. We marched in the parade united. This was my first London pride, also the first time I had ever marched during a pride. Armed with a megaphone, the society and I began our two-hour parade from Baker Street through to Trafalgar Square. Liberation cascaded through my body as I looked at the people who surrounded me. Faces flushed pink as they sang and chanted as loud as their voices would allow. Eyes were bright with excitement and a sense of belonging engulfed us all. It was overwhelming to see the support as the parade continued throughout the afternoon; after every turn the number of spectators increased in the hundreds. Flags of rainbows waved enthusiastically as people from all ages witnessed the spectacular event. As the parade came to an end the party had only just begun. There were three stages throughout central London, with the main stage hosting the likes of BLUE, Collabro, Rebecca Ferguson, Bright Light Bright Light and BB Diamond, the variety of entertainment was a spectacle in its own right. Eve Hartley, a committee member from UWSU LGBTI, said: “Pride is a protest and we still have a lot to fight for. It was a passionate group of emotions that led us in the parade that day. I
was so proud of the hundreds of students from Westminster and across London and even the UK to support our cause and prove that unity is our strength.” Pride in the park commenced the following day, in association with UK Black Pride, based in Vauxhall. The Sunday was a chance to listen to some live entertainment, experience community stalls and witness sports events. It brought the magnificent few days to a beautiful end. Research conducted by a LGBT charity, Galop, said that there are 98 homophobic and transphobic hate crimes reported each week. It’s vital that these figures rapidly decrease and streets are made more LGBTI friendly. Despite Pride being a wonderful, fun event. It must be remembered that despite where we’ve come from it still has a long way to go. The LGBTI community thrives on allies and people spreading awareness and we’re lucky that Pride in London gives us that opportunity to do that. I will never forget the feeling of liberation as I marched through London, holding my girlfriend’s hand and feeling free. There was such an amazing feeling of pride in how people from all ages, backgrounds and beliefs came together for that memorable moment of unity. Next year, go and support your fellow students from Westminster, march in the parade and scream chants until you lose your voice. Go stand by their side and feel proud with them. Stand with us in unison. If you are interested in becoming active in the University of Westminster LGBTI community or would like to express experiences of any kind of homophobic or transphobic discrimination, please email us at lgbti.soc@su.westminster.ac.uk Written by Yazy Tauk 2nd Year, BA English Language and Creative Writing
PHOTO: Adrian Snood
Standing together happy and proud, the university’s LGBTI Society hit the London streets, putting the power of ‘unity’ across in every angle.
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N NEWS EWS
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DEMOKRATIA TO CHRIMATA KRATIA: THE FALL OF DEMOCRACY “Democracy as it is theorised no longer truly exists.”
favour.) With the Greek debt amounting to over 100% of national productivity the EU and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) were calling for greater levels of austerity and set targets for the Greeks to meet in order to receive financial bailout. Syriza put the decision to the public: more austerity and more bailouts, or a new
“Dictatorship naturally arises out of democracy, and the most aggravated form of tyranny and slavery out of the most extreme liberty.” – Plato
The problem in America is that while President Obama and the Democrats hold majority in the Senate, the margin by which they hold majority is not as great as the margin by which the Republicans hold majority in the House of Representatives. This, obviously, leads to frequent political stalemates, with political form often hard to pass. This is nowhere more clearly seen than in the government shutdown of 2013 where the Congress as a whole refused to pass legislation to fund government operations. This all occurred as a result of the Republican attempt to prevent the continued funding of Obamacare.
The word democracy originated in the Greek language in Athens around the year 508 BC and literally translates from the Greek word ‘Demokratia’ into English as ‘rule of the people’. It was designed as a system of political structure intended to level certain aspects of previous hierarchical states, which had prevented citizens from participating in the running of the nation. Obviously the system created by the Greeks in Athens was flawed as it excluded slaves and women, placing the power only into the hands of the male citizens. The premise, however, was revolutionary, and laid the foundation for modern politics. Recent events across the globe have shown that the tumultuous world of democracy is once again plummeting into despair, transitioning from the rule of the people to the ‘Chrimata Kratia’ - the rule of money. Greece has a rich history of philosophers from Thales to Plato, of medical developments and, of course, of plate smashing. But its greatest accolade by far is that it can proudly state it is the birthplace of democracy. As previously mentioned the word ‘Demokratia’ first appeared in writings from Athens in 508BC as the republic developed a system of citizen representation. Fast-forward 2523 years and the story is very different: women can vote, foreigners who are citizens can now vote, and so it would seem democracy has triumphed. But on second glance this appears not to be the case. In the election of January 2015, Greece saw the anti-austerity, anti-establishment, leftwing coalition party Syriza elected, and Alexis Tsipras took Prime Ministerial office upon a tidal-wave of public support. The party had a track record of opposing cuts to the public sector and appeared to be unwilling to conform to European Union (EU) demands in order to receive economic bailouts. (It should be noted that their track record and their appearance were ambiguous throughout the short election run; this has worked both in and against their
Yet it is not only Europe that appears to be failing at maintaining the facade of democracy. American democracy, one of the younglings of the modern age at only 239 years old – has traversed many of the obstacles faced by many much older states. The federal system was designed to promote democratic standards with every state having a say in the running of the country through elected representatives, the idea being that such vast political devolution would prevent autocratic centralisation as seen under the red coats.
direction? The vote was overwhelming with over 60% voting “no” to more austerity. In turn Tsipras decided to ignore the will of his people, instead deciding to take the €84 billion bailout offered by the EU and the IMF; in return he has decided to subject the nation to more fiscal austerity, increasing the retirement age, slashing state pension and purging social welfare. Many have claimed that the Prime Minister had his hands tied firmly behind his back by the EU, with Yanis Varoufakis former Finance Minister claiming he had to choose “between being executed and capitulating, and he decided that capitulation was the optimal strategy”. This huge step away from the party’s origins has drawn criticism not only from the public but from within the party itself; Tsipras recently ousted several of the left-wing members who opposed the bailouts from within his administration, including the vocal Marxist Energy Minister Panagiotis Lafanzis. By Wednesday 22nd of July 2015 the Greek Parliament must pass additional reform to meet EU requirements, to conform to IMF demands, and to ignore the will of its people.
Democracy as it is theorised no longer truly exists. Across the globe we are seeing the will of the majority ignored by those in charge and this is absolutely clear in the case of Greece whereby over 60% of the population seem to have had their votes against austerity discounted. The government of the United Kingdom is not representative of the differing political opinions across the union, and the government of the United States is more occupied with profit, funding and dollars fuelled into electoral campaigns than it is with acting in the desires of its people. The last 2500 years has seen the perpetual rise and fall of democracy all over the globe. At this moment we are undeniably experiencing one of the many pitfalls on the journey of the democratic state. We have moved to a state where money is everything, and the voices of the poor go unheard. Yet change is still possible. While unity is important and desire is invaluable, a realisation of the struggle ahead is key. In the words of V, from the movie V for Vendetta: “People should not be afraid of their governments. Governments should be afraid of their people”. Written by Jack Mills 1st year, BA Journalism
PHOTO: Feral 72
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NEWS NEWS
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AN ACCESSIBLE CITY With billions of pounds of investment being poured into “modernisation” plans, is London really the modern, accessible city it boasts to be?
When we are on our daily commute, whether it’s to get to work, or attend lectures or to ‘hit the shops’, we can’t deny the infuriating madhouse that London has become. And I think we can sympathise with one another for that one bad experience - or if not, then many aggravating experiences we have suffered in the confined tubes, buses and busy streets of London. But as bad as those experiences may have been for us, one might find it hard to imagine how this busy rush affects those who are less able to get about.
of transportation, I think we can all agree that London’s transport network should aim to cater for those more vulnerable as it is outdated.
We are now in late 2015, three years after the huge success of the paralympic games, and still we find ourselves asking: just how accessible is London? The glamorised metropolis currently boasts stunning new innovations in its public transport infrastructure, and yet a huge gap exists in the services provided for the elderly and disabled people travelling in and out of London. It would be unsurprising - and in fact entirely justified - if this portion of society felt forgotten about whilst attempting to travel in such challenging circumstances.
Adding to this, it seems we are faced with an issue of ‘pressure on TfL’s finances’. TfL made a promise to make one third of Tube Stations step free by 2013, yet this commitment remains unmet.
Not only does it cause an inconvenience but it also denies many their independence. Those with a disability, or who are elderly or mothers/ fathers with pushchairs face a constant struggle when travelling through London. Tube stations, buses, music venues and many institutions lack the means, which should allow comfort and ease of access. Many of the busiest tube stations fail to offer step-free access, making it difficult to move about in the station. In an article published by The Guardian in 2014, we are told that Ben Holt, who has cerebral palsy, visited all 270 tube stations in ‘a single run to highlight system’s accessibility problems’. Holt’s ‘tube challenge’ revealed the lack of assistance at Liverpool Street station when we are made aware that only one platform offered a stepfree route. With the on-going developments PHOTO: Aleem Yousaf
To blame this complication on the expanding population of Britain’s capital would be an exhausting excuse to consider; the increase in population was without a doubt foreseeable and it can be argued, with great audacity, that further expansion can be expected.
Let us consider the campaign ‘Uni for all’ that was established earlier this year on social media. Two disabled sisters, Maria and Elena Chiara from Italy, have shared their experiences to prove how difficult it can be for students. Their struggle is not only physical, but financial too. As international students they are not able receive support from their universities, nor from transport services. Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, and London Undergrounds’ modernisation project of 2015 fails to address all aspects of travel that ought to be considered. £5.5 billion investment gets squandered on plans to cut delays by making trains run faster and more frequently, completely disregarding the need for investment into the real “modernisation” London needs. Effective, immediate reevaluation of this modernisation plan needs to take place urgently! Written by Shenelle Mattu 3rd year, BA English Literature
NEWS
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THE NIGHT TUBE: THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE IMPACT ON STUDENT LIFE The tube is a very important matter to students as it is one of the main forms of travel while commuting to and from Uni. So how is it seen from a student’s perspective? As the summer gradually fades into a more and more distant memory, we all must face the realisation that the start of the 2015/2016 academic year is upon us. It seems like a rather well timed chance of fortune for this year’s inner-city students, as Transport for London have decided to introduce a new, nocturnal service the Night Tube. On it’s official website, TFL states that the implementation of a night service can only be a good thing for commuters, wherein they suggest that the change “will support London’s 24-hour lifestyle by offering a round-the-clock service on Fridays and Saturdays, on five lines: the Jubilee, Victoria, and most of the Central, Northern and Piccadilly lines.” For many people, this addition will be seen as a long-awaited dream come true and, indeed, it would be fair to see it as one. Still, there are three definite questions that must be answered. Is the introduction of an all night service a good thing? Or is it a bad thing? And perhaps most crucially of all, what will the potential impact be upon the life of the Westminster students? On a night out in London, there are few people who haven’t had to endure the sensible voice in the back of their head - that constant
PHOTO: Gordon Joly
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reminder that the time of the last train is most definitely approaching. Miss it, and you’ll have no choice but to fork out more money for a taxi. It has always been an annoyance, one that would typically arrive as the night gets into full swing. Therefore, it is a totally positive thing that the Night Tube comes into effect, so long as your desired destination lies along one of the aforementioned routes. However, while there is a clear and positive argument for this newfound service, it would be unfair to disregard the potential problems that such a change might bring forth. The fact is that from early-September onwards, the weekend tube will simply keep going. So, the question as to whether crime will increase as a result is a serious concern. Indeed, it could be argued that this new weekend service might double as both a 24-hour stockist for thieves and pickpockets, as well as a quick and east getaway vehicle for the fleeing individual. Yet, it could be that this is simply the unquestioned by-product comes with travelling alongside the sheer amount of people who use public transport throughout the capital. The addition of alcohol and its influence into the equation might also raise the chances of damage to trains, along with litter and carriage defilement. The question will remain unanswered until the service has been tested, but will the unpredictable nature of London’s nightlife boil over and affect the regular conditions of weekday services in the long run? As a third year student, I can honestly say that Transport for London’s introduction of a 24-hour weekend service is something that couldn’t have come sooner. I openly encourage all inner-city students to take full-advantage of this brilliant new service, and to enjoy the many nights of
university celebration it will no doubt support. Westminster students in particular should find that the reach of the five chosen lines allow for a wide and effective spread of London. Yet, it is also workers who will find solace in these changes. I spoke to one such individual - a student and a part-time city worker - who related the prospective convenience of the Night Tube as “many times I finished work at 11 or even 12, so I’d have to dash straight to the tube station, instead of going for a drink with my work mates.” However it is almost certain that opposition from trade unions will challenge the roundthe-clock service. The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) have already demonstrated this. Mick Cash, the union’s leader, said in March that the “pitiful and insulting pay offer to LU (London Underground) staff has met with a furious response from our members.” The ironic “24-hr” industrial strike action of July 8th and further threats of industrial action have reaffirmed the weight to these concerns. But I am certainly optimistic that the Night Tube will be a fantastic addition to the regular services already offered by Transport for London only time will tell whether the night life of London chooses to react with inoffensive revelry, or unnecessary chaos. The service comes into full effect on the 12th September and trains are targeted to be running every 10-20 minutes, dependent on the station and line. Written by Jacob Dow 3rd year, BA English Literature
NEWS
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END AUSTERITY NOW THE MARCH FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF A PROTESTER We began coalescing outside the Bank of England. Approaching the equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington (ironically only a couple of days after the 200th anniversary of the defeat of Napoleon in the Battle of Waterloo), we were met with welcoming smiles and greetings from the Green Party bloc, of at which point we were about to join in the demonstration. I could already see hundreds of people in plain sight, at around 10:30am - you can imagine my utter amazement at the news – the police estimated 250,000 people marching that day – on Saturday, 20th June. “Nobody knew that a quarter of a million of us would be marching out today,” said Sam Fairbairn, National Secretary of the People’s Assembly Against Austerity, speaking to the multitudes from a stage at Parliament Square. There were several parties present on the day: a Student bloc, a Communist Party of Britain bloc, an anarchist bloc consisting of the far-left group Class War, the People’s Assembly’s own bloc, and there were a few other small demonstrations occurring on the day which coincided with the End Austerity Now march. All present parties had one common aim in mind: to protest the complacency of a Conservative government elected with 36.9% of the vote (only 24% of the electorate), due to the first-past-the-post system (FPTP) which allowed them a majority of 331 seats. Many protesters, including the entirety of the Green bloc, raised the concerns of the Electoral Reform Society, which aims for a proportional representation system (PR) and the Single Transferable Vote (STV), the latter of which is an electoral method of the University of Westminster’s Students Union whereby the electorate ranks candidates in terms of preference. But there was a more urgent message coming out of the protest: we may have been protesting the Tory government and its legitimacy but the prevalence of neoliberal policies of austerity and privatisation, and the socioeconomic repercussions of such policies - these issues took centre stage. The atmosphere could have been described as euphoric - sharing an affinity with tens of thousands of other kindred spirits - and the experience couldn’t have been more communal. You find yourself in the midst of thousands of people (within sight), and usually one would probably find themselves uncomfortable, isolated or lost in such a crowd; the opposite, however, was true - being described as having a ‘festival’ atmosphere by many, this was only part of the
truth, as strangers became friends, comrades, united with a cause. As we marched on through, in our tens of thousands, several characters along the way met us. The first was a construction worker, stood about seven storeys high, waving to us from the scaffolding of a building he and colleagues were working on. Some of his co-workers joined him: they waved, cheered, gave us the thumbsup, and showed their solidarity. We proceeded onwards through Queen Victoria Street, passing by a Church of Scientology that had graffiti all over it, with messages from protesters angered at those complicit in the current economic model of placing profiteering over people. And then, as we carried on through to Fleet Street, we passed the anarchic Class War activists, one of them brandishing a ‘chainsaw’ threateningly in the direction of a banner with the faces of dominant male politicians such as Ed Miliband, Nick Clegg, Nigel Farage, and of course Prime Minister David Cameron.
solidarity in the form of organisation), particularly contributors to the “guardianwitness” app on The Guardian website, which allowed protesters to upload their own first-hand experiences. The protest has taught me two significant things (above anything else): the first being that a social movement united against the agenda of austerity was growing, and the second that the participation in active organisation efforts and demonstrations could not only enable people to seriously engage in causes they care about, but to find others who do. And this is something all students should be aware of! Written by Ryan Browne 3rd year, English Literature
Photo credits: Ryan Browne
Eventually we reached Whitehall and saw a man with a satirical George Osborne mask holding up a poster which read: “I warn you not to be ordinary, I warn you not to be young, I warn you not to fall ill, I warn you not to be old… LOL!” These events all culminated in reaching Parliament Square at last, on which several speakers, including Labour leader, and very hopeful Jeremy Corbyn MP, the Greens’ Caroline Lucas MP, Unite the union’s Len McCluskey, and celebrities Russell Brand and Charlotte Church, all lent their time on a platform to condemn the government’s continued austerity plans and other policies which have been perceived as damaging on normal people. Corbyn, the penultimate speaker, who expressed his gratitude to the hundreds of thousands present that day, described what he saw as “a social movement of all of us that can change our society into something good rather than something that is cruel and divided.” As I began my journey back from the protest to Charing Cross station, I crossed a few things I hadn’t seen previously due to such a heavy presence of marchers, such as a chalked message on the ground reading ‘Love Every Person; No Racial Divide’, and swathes of people collecting outside the gates of Downing Street (including some tourists, seemingly perplexed by the events).
The News Editor visits the capital and joins in a huge march that marks a significant moment in our times.
Shouldn’t all students be politically aware?
Some questioned the lack of a Labour presence (not a single MP, bar Corbyn himself, expressed
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CULTURE
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HOW THE MAGNA CARTA INFLUENCED THE WESTERN WORLD
“The Magna Carta has come to symbolise freedom, liberty and has become a rallying cry against the forces of arbitrary authority.” The Foundations of Liberty It has been 800 years since the Magna Carta, one of the most important documents to have influenced the Western World, was legislated. The Magna Carta has laid the basis for today’s basic social legislative liberties and although the story contrasts with what Ridley Scott would have you believe and doesn’t feature Russell Crowe’s beard it is still, nonetheless, a fascinating and historically crucial aspects of society. After his illustrious brother Richard the Lionheart died in 1199AD, King John managed to establish himself as a notorious and arbitrary tyrant. The barons of the land were so sick and tired of John’s high taxes, the poorly executed campaigns they funded and the harsh punishments administered if the taxes were not paid that they decided to take up arms and challenged the despotic king. By June 1215, the barons had rebelled against King John imposing open war at a time of possible invasion from neighbouring France. King John was forced to negotiate at Runnymede where The Articles of the Barons listed the demands of the barons helping to establish peace in the land. The subsequent agreement was recorded in the Magna Carta (The Great Charter). Over the following twelve months the Magna Carta would go through revocation and reformation as it was annulled by Pope Innocent III, less than three months later, who declared it ‘base and shameful, null and void’. Civil war engulfed England and Prince Louis of France invaded in 1216 damaging and threatening any hopes of the Magna Carta’s future. But in October 1216, at Newark Castle, King John died of dysentery. A Benedictine monk and chronicler of the time wrote ‘foul
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as it is, Hell is made fouler by the presence of King John.’ The throne was passed down to John’s nine year old son King Henry III and in order to gain support for the barons a revised version of the Magna Carta was amended and re-legislated in 1217 along with the Forest Charter a clause of the original Magna Carta. The Magna Carta has come to symbolise freedom, liberty and has become a rallying cry against the forces of arbitrary authority. Its innovation is what holds it above all previous promises of amicable governance by a King. The Magna Carta stated that none, even the king, were above the law. It demanded the right to a fair trial and the protection of law and justice for all ‘free men’. Although many of its clauses have been repealed there are still some that remain within modern law and it is for this reason that it is still referenced and held in such high esteem by activists, politicians and lawyers worldwide. The Magna Carta has gone on to inspire many other movements and periods of human history. Sir Edward Coke stressed its importance when opposing King Charles I in 1628, Thomas Jefferson echoes its words within the United States Bill of Rights and William Blackstone used it to challenge censorship of the press and imprisonment without a fair trial in the 18th Century. So massive is the Magna Carta’s influence that it is still affecting our world in more recent history as it was useful in writing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) and the European Convention of Human Rights (1953). Written and interviewed by Andy John Jones 3rd year, BA English Literature
Photo credits: Flickr- Creative Commons SCAN: James Joel
CULTURE
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ARE YOU WHAT YOU ARE BECAUSE OF WHERE YOU ARE?
The attack was disgusting and inexcusable. However, is it possible that the terrorists are breeding terrorists and are merely influenced by a violent environment? When soldiers go to war, they kill; this is what happens at war and concerning the situation there is not so much a moral dilemma. Children go to school to learn, the culture is there, the enforcers are there (the teachers), and so the children learn. If people are being brought up in an environment suggesting it is okay to kill others for no apparent reason, then this is what they shall do. 38 innocent humans lost their lives due to these attacks: British, Tunisian, Polish and Spanish people. These ‘terrorists’ and ‘killers’ are also humans. So if the terrorists were taken away from the environment they grew up in and placed in an environment which practiced basic moral values and behaviour, could they be changed and add to our humanity instead of lessening it?
manipulated over the Internet to then leave to go to a different area. This is because it is the place in which we live that means and has an effect on the ways we behave according to how our environment desires us to and who we choose to associate ourselves with. ISIS has taken people to where they are in order to absorb their brains with an immoral way to behave, so they too are killers.
PHOTO: Jason D’Great
After viewing, for the first time, the largely loved and brilliant film ‘Trading Places’ (directed by John Landis) it had sparked up thoughts regarding the tragic Tunisia attack. The terrorists effortlessly killed and injured locals, visitors and our own British holidaymakers.
In Trading Places, Eddie Murphy came from an underprivileged background, he was looked down upon and expected to be a thief surrounding his unfortunate environment and being shunned by the privileged environment. If humanity was able to ‘steal’ terrorists, I think it could be possible to have the reverse effect. Why not surround the killers with an environment of good will, morals and respect like an ANTI-terrorism group? The world can be a nasty place to live in and as humans it is our duty to make it a nice place for everyone to live happily, peacefully and comfortably in. Actions need to be taken to put a stop to the environment and culture that continues to breed terrorism just as much as terrorists themselves must be stopped. Written by Charlotte Racher 1st year, BA Journalism
There is a reason in why young people in our very own country have been stolen, or
A deep insight into the popular film ‘TRADING PLACES’ and what can be taken from it to inspire generations to step up and take action when needed.
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CULTURE
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THE HOST - ANDY BACKHOUSE Stuff your 24-hour tube, Boris! Our service is expanding from the radio, to Smoke TV, and now here in the pages of Smoke Magazine! Welcome to Sound of the Underground. In reality, it’s just a show on our student radio station - but in our imaginations, it’s a train through all the best underground music, ON the London Underground. (I know, right? GENIUS!!) Alas, I’m still banned from playing Girls Aloud, but instead, that lovely lot at Smoke Radio give me an hour to play whatever I want! From death-metal to jazz, hip-hop to folk. So long as it’s new, it’s from London, and it’s amazing! In our first year, we spent all our pocket money (and our student loans) on travelling the London Underground to interview our favourite new bands. A smug glance at last year’s guest commuters - Years & Years, Everything Everything, Catfish & the Bottlemen, Circa Waves, Rhodes and Wolf Alice - proves we can put our money where our oyster card is. Now read our chats with future commuters - Slow Club, IC, Night Engine, Oscar and The Magic Gang - before they go mainstream and start getting the taxi. Eventually you’ll start thinking, ‘God, I’m sick of all this throwing-up, free Dominoes and snogging!’ (hopefully not in that order). So if you want a guide to nights-out that aren’t traffic light parties, then grab your oyster, and get to know these immortal words: ‘please mind the gap between the train and the platform’. Sure, we wanna discover the best new music London has to offer - but health and safety first! Hear Smoke Radio’s ‘Sound of the Underground’ with Andy Backhouse at https://www.mixcloud.com/andybackhouse/
NIGHT ENGINE They say never meet your heroes, and it’s always terrifying meeting a band you love. Before a band comes in to visit the show, we’re always nervous. Will they be nice? Will they be awkward? Night Engine’s live show is always electrifying, and frontman Phil McDonnell grins and snarls like a creature of the stage. But whenever he comes on the show, we gossip like a couple of old grannies. “I’m not trying to scare the audience. The songs are very upfront, so that’s how we deliver them. I’d rather be that, than a bland boyband trying to ‘woo’ the crowd!” But they succeed in that too. A standard Night Engine moshpit looks like a swirling ocean vortex out of a disaster movie. They’re a health and safety hazard! Photo by Oscar Brown
Camden Town
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THE MAGIC GANG Don’t expect them to be pulling rabbits out the hat. When the Brighton boys set off on a rollercoaster of tour dates with Swim Deep next month, the evening’s entertainment will be all about their screech-pop ecstasy. “That’s our magic trick! The magic’s in the music.” Think life on the road’s all sex, drugs and rock’n’roll? Think again. “It usually consists of Gus plugging in his headphones and not speaking to us throughout the journey. You
CULTURE
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IC IC’s single ‘Island Girl’ takes you away to a tropical paradise of Afrobeats and World Music, and it was written just up the road in Middlesex. That takes some imagination. “I’ve been exploring different styles of music. That’s what you do when you’re young and vibrant!” From Nigeria to Middlesex, meeting Kingsley IC at Northwick Park station is like watching a rocket stuck launchpad, just bursting to explode. “My next song is going to be about love - be it love to a woman, love to a brother, love to a family.” We could always do with more love at Northwick Park. Photo by Robert Paisley
Northwick Park
SLOW CLUB Commuting the Underground, we’re off to King’s Cross to meet Slow Club. They’re not just playing the nearby venue - they’re here to play slap-bang in the middle of the station, at the peak of rush hour. And passers-by are stunned into hushed silence. “It’s going to be incredibly rude if people do leave the set to get their train,” scorns Rebecca Taylor. Together with Charles Watson, Slow Club are responsible for ‘Complete Surrender’ - the most sumptuous and sexy album in recent memory. They’re also responsible for a number of people missing their trains. Photo Robert Paisley King’s Cross
OSCAR Breaking into the world of music is getting easier than ever. Just ask Oscar. “We’re really lucky, growing up with the internet. All you need is your laptop and you can be the next... Katy Perry.” But if you’re inspired to walk out of your lecture and chase the pop dream - don’t. Few people can write lyrics as beautiful as Oscar. Of all the influences on the pop splatter of ‘Daffodil Days’, the last thing you’d expect is the iPhone. “I was unhappy in my relationship, and was texting my friend about it. Auto-correct is a bit of a devil, and it changed ‘difficult’ to ‘daffodil’, which I thought was rather beautiful.” Trust me. Now that you’re in London, daffodils will start to sound exotic. Photo Robert Paisley Oxford Circus
just think, ‘oh, he’s in the matrix, so don’t bother him.” Do you not think we’re all in the matrix? “We could wake up any moment and be brains in a jar!” Catch The Magic Gang live next month and ponder your existential existence in the universe. Photo by Oscar Brown
Great Portland Street
CREDITS Written by Andy Backhouse (@andybackhouse) / Photography by Robert Paisley (@RPaisleyPhotos) and Oscar Brown (@ZomHunterOsc) / Graphic design by Andy Backhouse and Robert Paisley Origional Tube map ©TFL
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CULTURE
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THE BEAUTIFUL CRIME
“Graffiti holds a far more important place within our race’s history than we give it credit…” Many of us enjoy being culturally ‘expressionistic’ and it says a lot about the human race and our identities. Is graffiti really as bad as a lot of people believe it to be? You may not know or realise it but graffiti, in some form or another, has held cultural significance for centuries and is arguably one of the oldest forms of humanistic and artistic expression. I remember considering this notion in January when I was reading that month’s edition of National Geographic. The cover story was titled ‘The First Artists’ and it was truly awe-inspiring. It detailed the discovery and the subsequent endeavours of archaeologists to preserve and study 400,000 square feet of a cave chamber on the coast of South Africa. The chamber had been used as a canvas by the “first artists” around 36,000 years ago and on it they depicted, with stunning precision, phenomenal mosaics of lions, mammoths, bison, rhinos and more. The astonishment the images evoked would send Michelangelo back to the drawing board. They seem to merge with the curvature of the cave chamber to give the impression that they are moving or morphing and what is even more astonishing is that many of these images were done with a single continuous line. Jump forward thousands of years (and roughly 4000 miles north); the Ancient Egyptians were scribing hieroglyphics upon the walls of some of their greatest constructions. Hieroglyphs combined the symbolic representations of images, logography, with the systematic graphemes of an alphabet to form their very own structured written language. Similarly, in the Syrian Desert, much of our understanding of the Safaitic dialect, an ancient Arabic dialect, comes from inscriptions that date back to over 2000 years ago. And considering the fact that the word “graffiti” itself comes from the Latin “graffiato” (meaning “scratched”) it is not hard for one to believe that the Ancient Greeks and Romans were privy to graffiti gracing the walls of their extraordinary edifices. Graffiti holds a far more important place within our race’s history than we give it credit for as, across various different cultures around the globe, mankind has utilised the wall to express itself in a variety of diverse and fascinating ways. In the ancient Turkish city of Ephesus there are markings that advertise
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prostitution, the famous “Kilroy was here” illustration popularised by soldiers during World War II endeavours to muster humorous elation out of chaos and death, declarations of unrequited love reside forever scorched in the ashes of Pompeii and political and cultural slogans such as “Dick Nixon before he dicks you” and “Clapton is God” have all offered insight into the lives of the commoner in ways that the history books simply never have. There’s something just too personal about it. But graffiti as we know it today didn’t really begin until the early 1960s with the dawn of spray-can paint in the Pennsylvania state of Philadelphia. Although gangs and political activist groups were using the’ graffiato’ to mark territory and express social and political opinion from very early on in the 20th Century, Darryl McCray who is more popularly known as ‘Cornbread’ is credited as the pioneer of modern graffiti art. The story goes that Cornbread had fell for a girl at his school named Cynthia Custuss and, in order to gain her attention, he began scribbling, or tagging as it later became known, the words “Cornbread loves Cynthia” all across the town. This unique wooing strategy paid off and Cornbread continued his bombing endeavours; literally tagging his name repeatedly throughout a wide area even going so far as to tag the Jackson 5’s jet as it was parked up at Philadelphia airport. Throughout the 60s news of Cornbread and his merry men had reached New York and it was there, between 1971 and 1974, that graffiti really began to take off as the sub-culture we know it as today. This new idea of tagging, where the writer sprays his name in as many locations and as quickly as possible to avoid punishment from the authorities, was taking the disillusioned New York youth by storm as it meant fame, exposure and notoriety for individuals who would otherwise have gone unnoticed as just another wage slave of the great American metropolis. It didn’t take long for artists to begin innovating their styles and methods in order to counter their rival’s attempts at kingship over the streets. Extravagant designs that included varying colours, patterns and images such as crowns and smoking joints, helped to give a writer’s tags a unique and creative edge over others. This enhancement of tags
was further contributed by the knowledge that artists could now go to subway train lock ups late at night and paint giant tags that covered the entire height of the subway cars dubbed “top-to-bottoms”. These top-to-bottoms were far more flourished and imposing for the arsenal of the graffiti artist as there was less danger of being caught so the artist was able to spend all night on its development if they so wished. Top-to-bottoms and other tags of its nature that allowed the artist the freedom of embellishment became known as a masterpiece, or a piece for short, and earn the writer high amounts of respect. The more embellishment a piece has and the more tactfully placed it is, can increase the amount of respect the writer earns.
CULTURE
From then on graffiti and its culture have done nothing but grow into a beautiful forest of anti-establishment creativity and street brother/ sisterhood. Quickly throughout the 80s and 90s new forms of graffiti such as the Throw Up, a cross between a tag and a piece, were added to the writer’s toolbox. Artist crews began to form such as TDS, CASE 2 and MAFIA which were dedicated to artists who wished to collaborate and work together as well as making it easier to deal with the authorities as a single perpetrator could not be accused of a whole group’s work. Styles began to represent a particular area or city also. Philadelphia, New York and Los Angeles, to name but a few, had begun to develop their own styles of graffiti to differentiate and preserve a sense of identity across the different sub-cultures. Pretty soon after, the craze hit other parts of the world. Graffiti is an aspect of our culture, which is constantly evolving. Modern street art and mural painting have been totally revolutionised by the advent of aerosol paint and there is even a practice of growing moss upon the wall to the specifications of the desired image. I spoke with Roo a London based artist who has a very interesting style. I asked her about her work and the influence graffiti has had upon it.
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1) Hey, Roo. Tell me a bit about what you do. I’m an illustrator and mural artist. Although I don’t actually paint graffiti I consider the legality, aims, placement, audience and content to be different. I got into the art form through my interest in graffiti, but I don’t claim to paint graffiti. I paint murals in legal spots, at festivals and events, people’s homes, etc. I got into this art form through my brother, friends at School and Graphotism magazine. 2) In what ways would you say British graffiti or street differs from any other graffiti? I would say that some graffiti and street art pieces have particular styles connected to them with regards to where they come from, but the lines are a lot more blurred these days because of the Internet and the access people have to source ideas from others. I do really rate some of the European artists at the moment like Erase, Hombre and also Dulk. They’ve got mad skills! If it wasn’t for the Internet, I might not know about these guys and that would be a shame.
different words and learning about shapes and balance, before I eventually found a love for creating characters. I’ve started to put a greater importance on my backgrounds now as well, which I think improves a piece no end - no matter how simple or complex it is. 4) What personal uses do you feel graffiti has and how high would you place it with regards to relevance and importance within a canon of artistic expression? If I had an actual canon and a few paint pots I could be quite creative. But seriously, graffiti has been around for centuries and it has gained serious prominence in the past 100 years. I hold it in very high esteem. 5) Is it important for graffiti to be a criminal act? Should it be legal? If so, why? It depends in what context. As a statement of anti-authority it can be beautifully executed. But sometimes the legality issues can impede its progress. You can follow Roo on Facebook @Roo Art.
3) So where was step one? I initially started by creating letters using
Written and interviewed by Andy John Jones 3rd year, BA English Literature
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Advice service The UWSU Advice Team exists to provide you with high quality information, advice and advocacy to meet the challenges of student life and to help you to successfully complete your studies.
Our advice is impartial, conďŹ dential and independent from the University. Get in touch with an Advisor at your campus.
Regent & LTS: advice.regent@su.westminster.ac.uk Cavendish:
advice.cavendish@su.westminster.ac.uk
Marylebone:
advice.marylebone@su.westminster.ac.uk
Harrow:
advice.harrow@su.westminster.ac.uk
For more information go to:
www.uwsu.com/advice University of Westminster Regent Campus Harrow Campus Cavendish Campus Marylebone Campus Little TitchďŹ eld Street & Wells Street Campus
@westminstersu
STUDENT LIVING
A MUGGLE’S GUIDE TO WESTMINSTER A unique guide with tips and advice about starting up at university and settling in, written by the very own
Welcome! To new and old students of Westminster a new magical year awaits! Every year the halls and classes are filled with students and some ghosts too and as daunting as it may seem, it won’t take but a couple of weeks for you to feel at home. Individually, your experience at Westminster will be a special one but together by sharing the common ground you have with your fellow students it will be a unique journey.
university has to offer. (I hear the Harry Potter Society is quite a great one!) To help you with your first few weeks at Westminster we’ve piled together a guide for you! I hope you enjoy this very muggle guide to Westminster! Written by Madiya Altaf
President of the Harry Potter Society
I must encourage you to join the clubs and societies during Freshers, and throughout the year to find out and make use of what the
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IMAGE: Pottermore
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STUDENT LIVING
IMAGE: Pottermore
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You’ve started your first few days at university and everything’s pretty bloody brilliant but you still get lost sometimes and have to do the awkward double-back in front of the other students because the university doesn’t take my suggestion of giving out free Marauders’ maps. You know where the important places are but what about the hidden rooms and secret alleyways? So, get your wands out ready for my list of places to go when you have a study break or two! Happen to be nearby Cavendish? Perhaps you just want to give blood to the muggles, do a good deed so you can be evil for the rest of the day with no consequences? Well, look no further! The blood donation centre at 26 Margaret Street is in walking distance from the campus! This centre gives great, friendly service with Madame Pomfrey’s care and love without her strict force-feeding of potions and nattering. Free lunch of biscuits, crisps, tea and coffee for every pint and free…err inter-web…I think it’s called. Like to listen to yourself talk tunefully? Then head to the karaoke bars near Cavendish: places like Lucky Voice Soho and Mahiki will let you do it whilst drinking - BRILLIANT!! Undercroft Bar is the bar that was made for students located at the Harrow campus. It sells cheap drinks, while allowing late night partying
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and a venue for many student led events. It is an ideal place for partygoers, and Fred and George clones (well…those who are too scared to prank people who are wide awake).
style speakeasy called Night Jar. There’s also gay nightclubs like Heaven and to all those who enjoy the darker side of life there’s The Windmill International; a strip club.
Also, the Harrow campus has an extensive range of Sport and Fitness Facilities. There is a gym, full size football pitches, hockey pitches, and tennis courts etcetera etcetera. For all you Quidditch lovers, we have a full size Quidditch pitch, which we have currently lost under an accidental invisibility charm. If we find it we’ll let you know, meanwhile I’m sure the footballers won’t mind you running around with a broom between your strong thighs.
At Regents, The Deep End is the epitome of chill time with your mates. It’s a modern social space with deep, cushy chairs similar to that one point in the Harry Potter film where Professor Horace Slughorn transfigure himself into a chair. Didn’t you want to sit on him? Well, you sort of can now! Plus, the university website described it as dramatic so it must be something to behold, right?
The coffee shops near the Marylebone campus are great chill out spots. Plus, celebrities of all sorts always shop around the area. Now, I’m not great at following celebrity gossip but I’ve heard if you sit at Starbucks, 126 Baker Street, you might get a glimpse of the infamous Sherlock Holmes and if you follow him he might lead you to his stash of deerstalker hats but shh…keep it on the down low. Maybe you’re more interested in nightlife near Marylebone? For those who aren’t fully-fledged wizards or witches, I’m pretty certain you’ve never heard of nightclubs so I’ll give a brief explanation. There are many different types close to Marylebone from the cabaret and burlesque of Café de Paris to a prohibition-
Spas are for the purebloods only, anybody with ‘red hair and hand-me-down robe…’ well, you’re going to have to stick with me, I’m afraid, because I can’t afford it either. There’s a really nice one called Chaun Spa just next to Regent’s Campus but I wouldn’t know…I’ve only seen pictures. If you think Regents Park is just a patch of grass, you have been living under a rock! There’s a blue lake too, if you like that sort. Not only that, this park also offers a beekeeping course and a zoo. So, if you fancy a chat with the snakes, why not go and set them loose in London? Written by Nicola Ip
Head of Slytherin, Harry Potter Society
STUDENT LIVING
At the Regents campus, we’re lucky to have our own Westminster cafe where you can get the cutest pizzas, and traditional fish and chips for under £5. It’s great if you need a quick lunch in between lectures! Opposite the university is a McDonald’s, if you fancy a burger - or if you want something that is slightly healthier, there’s an Eat nearby which makes great toasted sandwiches! And of course, for you Frappuccino lovers there’s a Starbucks not even five minutes away.
IMAGE: Pottermore
As a fresher it is most essential to know the where the right place to fill your tummy is! This is the ultimate Westminster guide on places to eat within and outside of campus. Since your bank accounts are flashing with green lights it is your duty as a student to take advantage of all that wizarding money whether it is Galleons, Sickles or Knuts.
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While Cavendish may not be as close to the famous Oxford Street, there are still great places nearby to find something to eat. If you’re on a budget, there’s the local Tesco’s, but there’s also some great cafes like Toasty’s right opposite the university. If you have more time, then the ten-minute or so walk to Tottenham Court Road is worth it, where you can find delicious pizzas at Franco Mancas. Or if sushi is more your thing, Itsu is the place to go!
Written by Khizra Saeed
Head of Ravenclaw, Harry Potter Society
A Whimsical Mundane Alley It’s worth squeezing in some retail therapy between learning at Westminster and in this section I will be giving you the lowdown on the best places to spend your well-earned Galleons and Sickles! Probably the most perceptible are the busy streets around Regents campus. As you walk through the Hercule Poirot themed elevators and ornate radiators either side, the green corner of the Monopoly board (a Muggle game, for those who are unfamiliar) is at your feet. For fancy gifts and designer gear, there is the famous Selfridges store and Liberty London’s grand entrance is tucked away along Kingly Street. The Disney store is my personal favourite, while the self-explanatory Kingdom of Souvenirs offers all the red, white and blue curiosities you could hope for! And if you need to stock up on stationary, Paperchase on Tottenham Court Road is where you need to go - it even has its own Costa!
IMAGE: Pottermore
At the Marylebone campus, you’re lucky to have a range of places to dine. Sure, you can have the basic Tesco’s meal deal, but if you’re a chicken lover then you’re in luck as there’s a Nando’s right on Baker Street! If you prefer burritos and guacamole then head to Chipotle! And if you just want a warm cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter day, then Costa is right next to a McDonalds. The possibilities are endless!
A short walk away from Harrow campus is St Ann’s shopping centre where - if you are fashion conscious - Primark and BHS can be
found. Nearby Station Road there are Topshop and Miss Selfridge. If you’re feeling cultured, Marylebone is opposite the famous museum, Madame Tussuads, which houses the waxworks of celebrities and historical figures (there’s also some famous ex-wizards!). Heading to the High Street, on the Westside there is Daunt Books, who specialise in travel books. If you’re looking for electrical gadgets, Bang and Olufsen has high quality audio and video devises. The Eastside is heavily inspired by Parisian chic, with French fashion at Maje, Loft design and Sandro. If you have a Veela friend with a birthday coming up, you could find the perfect gift! Written by Aicha Bouhalissa
Head of Hufflepuff, Harry Potter Society
We hope you enjoyed reading the guide we’ve put together and if you happen to do or visit any of the things we’ve suggested do let us know through our social media sites!
Written by The Harry Potter Society
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STUDENT LIVING
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MEET YOUR ALUMNI TEAM
The alumni team would like to give a huge welcome to all of our new Freshers as you start your journey with the University of Westminster. So, what is an alumnus anyway? An alumnus is simply a graduate of an institution such as a university, college or school. We hope you have a life-changing and inspirational few years with us and when you graduate – which may seem a long way away – the alumni team will be here to keep you connected to the University and with each other. But in the meantime, there are many things that you can take advantage of now. Here are 5 steps that you can take right away. (It’s all for free!)
1. Meet the careers team. We have an amazing careers team who can help you with your CV, interview technique and job searching now, and for three years after you graduate 2. Book yourself onto one of our events, where you can hear from some of the University’s high-flying alumni and network with past and present students.
4. Think about the future. Did you know alumni get an exclusive discount of up to 15% for postgraduate studies if you stay with the University?
Find out about all these things and more at www.westminster.ac.uk/alumni : universityofwestminsteralumniassociation : @uw_alumni : Universityofwestminsteralumni
We are there to celebrate with you at graduation
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All photo credits belong to the University of Westminster, alumni team
3. Take a peek at our alumni newsletter and annual magazine for the latest news, events and interesting articles
5. Get in touch. You can connect with us now on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter
We help organise reunions
Written by the Alumni team at the University of Westminster
We are your alumni team! From left to right: Agnes D’Souza, Laura Garman, David Brooks and Heather Ridal
STUDENT LIVING
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STUDENT AND STAFF EVENT FOR SCC PROJECTS On 14 October this year, there will be a student and staff event, which is being organised by the Student Engagement Leads (SELs). They work for the Learning Futures programme and have been supporting the student as co-creators (SCC) pilot projects that began in January 2015. The event will showcase the findings from the first round of student as co-creators research projects. There is a range of topics being explored by the projects from each Faculty and they are: MAD – Professional Development, FST – Mobile Learning Device, ABE – Enhancing Study Support, WBS – Exchanging Learning Apps, SSH – Language Learning and the Professional World. Both staff and students will be able to see what the individual research projects and teams have achieved so far, and to then ask any questions that they may have. Students and staff will hear all about the SCC projects, and there will be information about joining and running a project for those interested for this new academic year. It will be a fantastic event infused with energy and academic inspiration for achievement, and ought not to be missed by any students or staff members. Refreshments and food will be provided and there will also be prizes to be won. There will be speakers and workshops too. The central campus will be confirmed shortly so please look out for posters around your campus and/or information on social media for more information. Written by Gemma Smith
3rd year, BA Journalism // Editor-in-Chief
All students at the University of Westminster should feel inclined to get involved in projects aside from their degree, and this one in particular may just be for you. 21
STUDENT LIVING
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STARTING A SOCIETY
Here is some fantastic advice on how to be more involved with your university aside from studying for a degree. There really is so much you can do, so start thinking about it today! Did you watch all the Marvel movies this summer and then have no one but the people of the Internet to talk about them with? Or did you try a range of different types of teas but only know coffee lovers? Fear not, I have a solution to your number one problem! Start a society! Starting your own society means you get to do all the things you love best with a group of likeminded students. Here are some easy steps on how to create a society:
Step One Find an original idea and make sure it’s something that you are really passionate about. The Independent wrote an article on some of the unusual societies at university and they ranged from The Pirate Society, Mario Kart Society to even a Competitive Eating Society. I watched all five seasons of The Walking Dead this summer and now I have all these survival skills that I’ve learnt from the show but no zombie apocalypse to put them in use too. After doing some research, I kid you not, there’s a Zombie Apocalypse society in an American university! I feel tempted to change universities just to put my skills to use. Whether it’s a personal interest society or an academic society no idea can be unusual enough for Westminster! Step Two You need to fill in a form. I can assure you that the form is not 20-pages long and it’s simple and easy to fill out! You can download the Registration form from the UWSU website and to show that there is support from other students you’ll need at least 10 Westminster students’ signatures and their student ID numbers. This could be a great way to start a conversation with your classmates and to also spread the news of your society around.
Step Three Find a committee! You’ll need an amazing sidekick or in formal terms, a Vice President. This should be someone who will stick by you and help you to plan and make your events. This person should be as passionate as you are about your chosen society. Next you need a Treasurer. A Treasurer should be great at maths unless you’re like me and hasn’t used the extremely important algebra since Year 11 than just try to find someone who’s good with numbers and can sort out costing’s for your society. Then you can acquire as many committee members you need from having a sectary to a social media expert, go wild! Step Four Submit the Registration form before the term deadlines – Team one: 10th October or Term Two: 13th February. Step Five This step won’t involve you to do anything but the Student Union will discuss your idea and inform you of their decision. And there you have it, five steps on how to create a society and belonging to a society will definitely make your university experience much more memorable! Written by Madiya Altaf
BA English Literature and Creative Writing and from the Harry Potter society
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STUDENT LIVING
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INTERNING AT A STARTUP
When we talk about companies that shape the world today, the discussion won’t be complete without a mention of startups. Building a startup is now another fashionable reason to drop out of uni aside from releasing a mix tape. Hollywood found the dorm room to boardroom story marketable. And everyone’s trying to guess whom the next Zuckerberg, Page or Kalanick is. Working at a startup is indeed a cool thing. The word conjures image of 20-somethings writing codes that would change the world. ‘Startup’ is a buzzword on many top influencers’ lips and Tweets. Some even consider that startups are dethroning the music industry as the cool, youth-oriented industry with a rock & roll attitude. However, in this article I’m not talking about the multinational, multibilliondollar ‘startups’ like Uber. I’m talking about startups with three to fifteen people in the office. I’m talking about startups that literally just started out and figuring out their place in the world. As Eric Ries, author of startup bible ‘The Lean Startup’, puts it: ‘A startup is a human institution designed to deliver a new product or service under conditions of extreme uncertainty.’ For those of you looking for a graduate job or internship, a startup can be a good choice not for all the glamour but for the valuable lessons and experiences that no big, established corporations can give you. I had the opportunity to intern at a music tech startup last summer and it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. One of the leading reasons why, is that startups tend to be very, very specific. It addresses a niche need within a particular industry, which allowed me to learn more about the industry from a unique perspective. The company I interned at offered music metadata API to corporate clients. Through the experience I learnt that a lot of decisions in music – A&R, online artist recommendation, royalty payment – is driven by data. However, data tend to be fragmented and lacks a governing body to sort them all out. That’s where the company comes in to help piece the data puzzles in the music industry. Most successful startups are founded when the founders discovered a way to do things differently, hence their disruptive nature. Airbnb changed travel accommodation. Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat changed how we connect and socialise. Working at a startup challenges you to be creative when looking at a certain industry and to not accept the norm. Thinking of pursuing a career in fashion? Apply for an internship at a startup that helps retailers put the right clothes at the right time and with the
PHOTO: Arya Rinaldo
This is an insiders view and research about the continuing success of startups, and how viral they have gone over social media.
right price using a logarithm. These disruptive ideas may end up being the norm. Your insider knowledge on those companies can be a great asset in the future. Another great thing about working at a startup is its work culture. Due to its small size, startups tend to have a very flat organisational structure. There’s no strict hierarchy and there is the feeling that everyone’s on the same boat. At the company I was interning at, everyone’s desk is in the same room: the CEO, the product manager, the programmers and the interns. There is a separate room reserved for private conversations and guests, but other than that I can listen to whatever’s going on in the room, which is very transparent and worthy indeed. Startups also have a more youthful, creative spirit. Startup offices are usually filled with quirky objects (vinyl records, vintage magazines, toy scooters), which still embody certain corporate values. Table football and Ping-Pong tables are rather common in bigger startups. And it’s usual to spot someone working on a beanbag. One of the highlights of my internship was when the company threw a summer party. It was a Hawaiian themed party with beach umbrellas erected next to monitors and hula skirts taped to every table. We had pizzas, cakes and a seemingly endless flow of beer (something that house parties can learn from). Speaking of parties, there’s also the social aspect of startups. I talked about the feeling of ‘being on the same boat’ and it is not just within a company; there is that feeling within the entire startup community as well. People working in a startup tend to hold regular meetups to network and discuss the latest startup news. There is a weekly gathering of startups in London called the Silicon Drinkabout. You go there, meet kindred startup souls and network over free beers. Since it tends to get very crowded, you need to apply
at Silicon Drinkabout’s website to reserve a place at the next gathering. The area around London’s Old Street station is dubbed the ‘Tech City’ and ‘Silicon Roundabout’ – hence Silicon Drinkabout’s name – because of the amount of tech startups proliferating the area. Just check out the directory of office buildings like Rich Mix near Bethnal Green or The Old Truman Brewery in Brick Lane and you’ll find a lot of startups filling the space. However, working at a startup isn’t all fun and cool all the time. There is a lot of work involved because, as I’ve mentioned before, uncertainty is a real problem. Startups are constantly in an existential threat. At one point users might love their product, but a new technology might pop up and completely alter the product’s value. Interns aren’t really involved in the decisionmaking, but the decision that the full-time employees make can affect your workload. After a few weeks of getting adjusted to a particular work, you might be ask to do something completely new and unfamiliar. However, it is a great opportunity to develop your creativity and quick-thinking skills. Another downside to interning at startups is – surprise – money. Since startups tend to not make profit in the first several years of their existence, a lot of internship work remains unpaid. At the very least they usually give you stipends to cover for meal and travel expenses. It isn’t the ideal place to work while studying, so summer is the best time to do so. If networking and knowledge is what you’re really after, then working at a startup could prove to be a valuable investment. Written by Arya Rinaldo
3rd year, BA Commercial Music
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STUDENT LIVING
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WESTMINSTER TALKS Join our influential and high-flying alumni as they come back to campus to share their insights and experiences with Westminster Talks. We are thrilled to announce new dates for Westminster Talks, the public lecture series, which features an outstanding array of Honorary Doctors, professors and prestigious alumni. You can expect to hear personal anecdotes, intriguing facts and expert observations on topics that fascinate and influence us in our daily lives. Each lecture is followed by a Q&A (get your questions ready!) and informal networking over drinks where you will have a chance to meet other students, alumni and staff of the University. Alumni Lecture Leading Culture – A Dynamic Challenge Who: Hilary Carty CCMI (MBA 1994), Independent Consultant When: 6pm, Wednesday 7 October 2015 Where: Fyvie Hall, 309 Regent Street, London W1B 2UW Today’s arts, cultural and creative sectors encompass a broad and eclectic mix of organisations – from the well-established opera house, to quirky creative businesses, via heritage, theatres, companies and spaces. But is the leadership the same? This talk will explore the complexities and challenges of leadership and management in the cultural field.
Alumni Lecture The Secrets of a Successful Entrepreneur Who: Kirit Patel (MBA, 1988), Chief Executive Officer, Day Lewis Group When: 6pm, Wednesday 4 November 2015 Where: Fyvie Hall, 309 Regent Street, London W1B 2UW Kirit Patel will share the eleven principles that have made him a successful entrepreneur, including persistence, evaluating risk, integrity and the ability to think innovatively. The BBC – A National Asset in a Globalised World Who: Professor Jean Seaton, Westminster School of Media, Arts and Design When: 6pm, Wednesday 18 November 2015 Where: Fyvie Hall, 309 Regent Street, London W1B 2UW Do We Have Faith in the Nation? Who: The Very Reverend John R Hall BA, Dean of Westminster When: 6pm, Wednesday 25 November 2015 Where: Fyvie Hall, 309 Regent Street, London W1B 2UW Flying High: Passenger Rights, European Demos and Legitimacy of the Court of Justice Who: Professor Adam Lazowski, Westminster Law School When: 6pm, Wednesday 3 February 2016 Where: Fyvie Hall, 309 Regent Street, London W1B 2UW
Alumni Lecture Why professionalism is as important to the built environment as it is to medicine Who: James Wates CBE (Estate Management, 1983), Wates Construction When: 6pm, Wednesday 3 February 2016 Where: Fyvie Hall, 309 Regent Street, London W1B 2UW The built environment and medicine have a lot in common. Each have a number of different specialisms which seek to address particular issues. When it works it all goes well; when it doesn’t then there can be major problems. James takes us through what can go wrong when we lose focus on what we want to achieve. In or Out of Europe? Why the forthcoming vote matters Who: Roland Rudd, Chairman of Finsbury and Business for New Europe When: 6pm, Wednesday 24 February 2016 Where: Fyvie Hall, 309 Regent Street, London W1B 2UW Optimal Health: the new paradigm Who: Professor Jimmy Bell, Faculty of Science and Technology When: 6pm, Wednesday 2 March 2016 Where: Fyvie Hall, 309 Regent Street, London W1B 2UW Bombay Before Bollywood: Film City Fantasies Who: Professor Rosie Thomas, Westminster School of Media, Arts & Design When: 6pm, Wednesday 9 March 2016 Where: Fyvie Hall, 309 Regent Street, London W1B 2UW For full details of all the events and to book visit the http://www.westminster.ac.uk/ westminster-talks Written by The Alumni team at the University of Westminster
WESTMINSTER
TALKS LECTURE SERIES 2 015/16
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FASHION
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PHOTO: University of Salford Press
A FRESHER’S START
University is just that time. It’s almost comparable to when Kim got with Kanye; desperately hoping her past would be forgotten about (except slightly less seedy). It’s like every spring when the flowers bloom and the smell of freshly cut grass fills the air. Let’s face it, life is full of cycles and everyone loves to be blessed with a new beginning. Nobody knows who you are, where you came from, or where you are going. This can be both invigorating and nerve wrecking at the same time. What if university is like a real life enactment of Mean Girls? What if I don’t make friends and I literally eat my packed lunch in the toilets!? But, on the other hand it’s a wonderful opportunity to make a lasting impression. We fashion conscious individuals understand the sheer stress of planning an outfit for an unknown scenario. And there it goes: Are heels too dressy? Are trainers too casual? Will I look like a criminal if I put my hair in that messy bun? There’s just too much to think about. But university, and in particular Fresher’s week is so damn relaxed, sometimes I’m convinced everybody smokes Marijuana 24/7. That being said, if you are a fashion freak like myself, here below are my top tips to making it through Fresher’s week and university fashion in general (that I wish someone had pre-warned me of ): 1. Dried out Invest in a dry shampoo- with all the partying and coursework deadlines at the same time. Literally at the same time, you better get used to surviving on Redbull and no sleep and binge eating carbs for extra energy. There’s no way in hell you’ll be bothered to wake up early and wash your locks. So dry shampoo, hairspray, plaits or messy buns (try the hun bun for extra indie credit) will be your lifesavers. 2. Overkill Small casual heeled boots are acceptable for lectures. But stilettoes I’m afraid are not. They are
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a no go unless you want to get stared at like you’re a Russian prostitute sauntering unannounced into the House of Commons. Do. Not. Go. There.
Written by Michelle Whitney 3rd year, BA Journalism
3. Smart shopping You are going to be seeing the same people day in, day out. So guess what, much to your dismay pretty much everyone will know the contents of your wardrobe. The trick is to mix and match. Alternate items with occasional new items to always keep your look fresh and to avoid outfit repeats. 4. No money honey All this partying and attempting to impress strangers you don’t know at university can be a costly business. I would advise the sale section of Missguided for cheap one night only dresses for Freshers or any clubbing events. Also, Unidays have various discounts on a lot of major high streets stores such as Asos, New Look etc. But aside from the discount, you need to prioritise your money and use your grey matter. You want to look good, but you also don’t want to spend the week surviving on Pot Noodles because your last £300 went on a Prada tote. Try car boot sales, charity shops or customising clothes to save money and refresh old looks. 5. Simplicity is key If you ever feel stuck, completely out of ideas at that moment you are going clubbing and you haven’t planned anything. So stressed you have tears in your eyes. Do not fear, in situations like these it’s better to stick with what you know. Your favourite black dress and killer heels? Something you know works for you, and isn’t too ott. It’s better to feel comfortable all night rather than trying something risky and feeling like a drag queen while everyone stares you down the entire evening. Now, enjoy this precious time because it’s the only time in your life you will receive two thousand pounds every few months and try to justify buying a whole new wardrobe with this while living on an overdraft!
PHOTO: Christine C
Top fashion tips and necessities for anybody starting out at university for the very first time.
FASHION
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BE CONFIDENT IN YOUR SKIN... ...not your clothes. Fashion is a topic that can play on a students mind when getting dressed in the morning, just before a lecture. But is it really that important or should we just be comfortable in our own skin? I try to cast my mind back to two years ago when I had so much nervous energy buzzing around inside of me that I couldn’t possibly decide what to do with it all. My hands shake a little and there’s that uncomfortable feeling like maybe I’ve somehow accidentally swallowed my tongue without even realising. Put simply, starting fresh in a new city (maybe even new country for some, in which case, damn you’re brave) is mind-numbingly terrifying. On top of the self-doubt that you’re not entirely sure you actually managed to land the grades to get yourself a place at university and that, actually, this is all just some sick prank and Ashton Kutcher is going to come out yelling ‘You just got punk’d!’ any minute now. Or wait was it just me?! It’s also beginning to dawn on you that you’ve got to start fending for yourself. The realisation that ‘oh god, can I actually cook something that isn’t beans on toast?’ becomes something of a worry. And the fact that you can’t open said can of Tesco Value baked beans because you have literally no clue how to navigate a can opener that doesn’t have a mains socket. But above all that; above all the worries of dying from starvation and realising that your flatmates in halls can probably hear you singing your rendition of Don’t Stop Me Now in the shower if you can hear them do, …well, that. Above all of that. What the hell are you going to wear? How can you dress to more easily assimilate yourself into the student body? What’s cool? Do people even use the word ‘cool’ anymore? Should I throw out my Gryffindor quidditch scarf, or can I pass it off a nifty thrift store find? The dodgy stain probably makes the lie seem more authentic, right? You’d probably be surprised to hear that the fact that you own a Gryffindor quidditch scarf could actually help you gain a friend. More to the point, no one really cares what you wear. For one thing — and perhaps this isn’t such a big assumption to make — everyone is nervous. Everyone is quaking in their scuffed up ankle boots and their summer festival wear that may be better off being left in the past. Everyone is having the exact same racing thoughts, biting their bottom lip until it’s red raw.
University is all about clean slates and leaving behind the labels and judgements that followed you around like horrible, squelchy wet socks for the best part of seven years. It’s not so much a chance to reinvent yourself, but instead to be the truest form of yourself you can be without the restrictions of a uniform or a certain etiquette that has to be adopted in a working environment. What’s more, it’s exciting, isn’t it? To be in a room full of people who do not know you. No one knows about that dodgy haircut you had when you were thirteen (as long as you deleted all photographic evidence on Facebook, that is), and no one knows you belly flopped into a pile of your own vomit at that Sixth Form party that got a little too wild. And the thing is, whilst school might have been all about laying low or kicking it with the cool kids, university is a step away from the cliques and the drama. The appeal of higher education is built on the foundations that you can interact with a wide spectrum of people: new cultures and intriguing perspectives, clashing and broadening music tastes; everything and anything. The world is literally your oyster. Maybe it’s a little cheesy to say, but, at the heart of it, university is going to be the place where you learn a lot about who you are as a person, so really you’re wasting time trying to be anyone other than, you know: you. I can tell you now, hand on heart, that with a whole variety of cultures and cults and societies you will find your people. And you won’t need to be wearing the latest and greatest fashion pieces, hot off the shelves of some exclusive boutique. By all means, take pride in what you wear because it’s true that clothes are a part of your identity; strut around in what makes you feel good and what you believe represents you as a person, because there’s nothing better than confidence and that sensation of self love and appreciation running through you. But don’t manipulate it or splurge out on things you don’t need with the mind-set that it’ll make you more equipped to appear friend-worthy. You’d probably be pretty hard-pressed trying to pin down exactly what’s ‘in’ anyway with the fast paced nature of trends. And, besides all of that, if we’re being completely honest here, the only aspect of your stellar outfit anyone is going to take any notice of is your shoes. First days turn individuals into a bumbling hot mess, so it can be safely assumed your new best friend is probably anxiously looking down at the floor. Just like you. Written by Alice Marshall
To the trend watchers and pledged fashion addicts alike it’s probably blasphemous to say that clothes do not matter. In the grand scheme of university and its social scene, I repeat, clothes do not matter. Put simply they do not make any sort of impact on the lifelong friendships you will make.
3rd year, BA Journalism student Photo credits: Flickr Creative Commons
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FASHION
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FESTIVAL FLEEK
England is soaking up the sun and getting festivalgoers even more excited for the approaching festivals. Lovebox, based in London, Secret Garden Party, in Huntington and Reading and Leeds Festival are just around the corner. Festival fashion can be very generic (you’ll see the same New Look Kimono at least 5 times) but offers opportunity to have fun with fashion and lots of mandatory glitter. Festival fashion is essential to get right; to sway the attention from your dry shampooed hair. Your best ripped up Levi Jean-shorts (found in most charity shops!) are brilliant for festivals, they go with everything, look great and don’t prove too uncomfortable whilst you’re sitting on the shoulders of a stranger pretending to know the all words to your ‘favourite’ song. Two pieces are an excellent way to stay on trend with festival fashion but I’d recommend looking to more secluded online shops to avoid looking as duplicated as the Argos tents. Instagram is the best way to find these hidden gems, which are mostly one of a kind. ‘Luna Clothing’ is a recently established online clothing company and accessories shop with many original pieces. Their materials are sourced from several parts of the world including Morocco and Istanbul, so you’ll be sure to stand out from the crowd...Or the mosh pit.
IMAGE: Harlowheslop.com
Lastly, glitter and paint and more glitter. Festival fashion is not complete unless you have glitter implanted in your soul and UV paint on your heart. Amazon offers lots of reasonably priced spray on hair glitter, body glitter and UV paints. You should get practicing with patterns that add to the excitement of the festival atmosphere. With regards to the glitter, your ratio of skin to glitter needs to quite simply be 1:2 and your look is complete. Written by Charlotte Racher 1st year, BA Journalism
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IMAGE: Zsa Zsa Zahira
Accessories. The influence of the beautiful Hindu accessories has had a large part to play for festivals in the last two years. Bindi’s can look great to add flair and interest if you’re not too confident with clothing. Hair accessories including bandanas and flowers can look great and will always be found at the festival you’re at for last minute touches! My favourite accessory, that is taking this year’s festival fashion by storm, is the head chain. A middle parting paired with a detailed head chain can give a real Coachella ambience to our British festivals and make you feel fabulous! Asos have a great collection (don’t forget to enter a UNIDAYS code) ready for your fulfilment.
FASHION
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RALPH LAUREN ON A RALPH LIDL BUDGET
How to look Ralph Lauren on a Ralph Lidl Budget Budgeting for fashionable clothes can be highly frustrating at times (and especially for students) but with the right mind it is possible. Charlotte Racher tells us how. Just because you have very little money and, like most readers, have the buckling burden of your student loan (sorry to remind you), does not mean you do not have the fashion sense of an absolute Gucci God/Goddess. Charity shops really are a great way to find some hidden gems, and London is absolutely filled with them (if you can’t find one Google map it!). For both men and women, charity shops can seem a little daunting, sometimes smelly and a concern when you see a puffy bridesmaids dress in the window. However, it is worth taking the time sorting through the racks, thinking what would go with what you already have, could you alter this yourself and do you need to simply give it a try and stop being a snob?! Chequered and flannel shirts seem to be (luckily) in fashion for a very long time and found in charity shops everywhere. One of these shirts paired with dark coloured jeans and heeled ankle
boots can make the perfect casual, unisex, outfit. Some very generous people tend to drop off some labelled brands too (TK Max is another great shop for this) where you can find many stylish bargains. What could be better than selling off your old regretful purchases, make money and get new clothes at the same time? Very little. I would strongly recommend downloading ‘Depop’. Depop is an app where you can sell and/or purchase clothes. Many men and women have made a lot of money selling off their clothes and too often now have I complimented my friends to find out that their clothes have been an absolute steal from Depop.
If you see something you like, you can simply contact the buyer and purchase (which is generally done via PayPal). You are able to both read and write reviews on others pages (people will do the same to you), so you are able to get an idea from the ratings which buyers to go to. The best way to ‘Depop’ is to try it out for yourself! There is no need to restrain your expensive taste because your funds are holding you back, just search a little deeper. Written by Charlotte Racher 1st year, BA Journalism
A QUICK CRASH COURSE IN DEPOPING: Firstly, download the app and set up your profile. If you have items you want to sell you can post several images, complete with a description and a price. Here is an example of a profile that has just begun. By having followers, people are able to view what you’re selling and you can follow people, just like on Twitter and on your timeline will appear what others are selling. PHOTOS: LoxsToCkK
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A DETAILED AND INTERESTING STORY ABOUT TWO GIRLS WHO ENJOY AN EXPECTED MAD DAY OUT AT A FASHION FESTIVAL IN THE HEART OF THE CITY.
IMAGE: Lulu
FASHION
FASHION
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LATINO CLOWN WALKS DOWN THE CATWALK
We make our way out through the gates of Oxford Circus and the first thing that hits us is the buzzing crowd. “I thought that I’ve seen Oxford busy, but nothing like this. Madness”, my friend says and quickly took my hand so we wouldn’t lose each other in the crowd. We are now walking down Regent Street, desperately trying to find the 100-metre long catwalk as said in the brochure, which was given to one of us by one of the festival representatives. “Yeah, yeah there is a catwalk. You will find it down the road just keep on walking”, the young fella says. And right there in the middle of the street we see one huge white tent with a nicely printed script that says “Summer Streets”. “It must be the catwalk”, my friend says and we quickly make our way to the other side of it. More than 300 people are crowded in a circle around something, which we can barely see. Curious and exited, we slowly make our way to the front row. Disappointment and surprise is written on my friend’s face. We can hardly see the catwalk. Instead there are five pairs of dancers, who are passionately moving on a Latino track. The sun is up and happiness is written everywhere. The energy was very high indeed, as everyone felt the fashion spirit in the air. After enjoying that beautiful scene for a while, it is time to move on and find that catwalk. I anxiously open the brochure once again to double check if we haven’t mistaken the time, or even worse: the place. And for my surprise we have not. The date is right; we are at the named location. But then where is the fashion show? Without wasting another minute as apparently we are already really late, we keep on walking down the road. We are almost halfway through Regent Street when we hear a burst of harsh laughter, followed by loud applauses. “Do you think that’s…” I don’t hear the rest of my friend’s question, as I am already lost in the middle of the crowd. Afraid not to step on
someone’s feet, my look is concentrated to the ground while I am trying to move forward to the front row. I look around and most of the people seem rather annoyed that someone is taking over their place. Another burst of laughter follows. The curiosity insists and I slowly rise on my toes. And right there in the middle of the stage I see him. Funny looking guy, who is wearing nothing but his purple underwear and a purple mantle. “Oh well, that’s the best fashion clown I’ve ever seen”, my friend says and we both start laughing. And one thing is for sure, that guy is hilarious. He jumps, he sings and then all of a sudden he invites a guy from the audience and persuades him to be part of the next trick. Completely driven by his acts, the time literally flies. I glimpse at the rounded, golden watch that shines on one girl’s hand and I can not believe my eyes. We have been here more than two hours, and yet no fashion show in sight. Slightly exhausted by the journey and encouraged by my friend, we start walking down the road, to the nearest Starbucks. And there it is. A huge red light, lights up the tunnel of desperation and anxiety. Except for the fact it is not really a light, but more of a 100-metre long red carpet, with stunning models walking up and down in the latest fashion pieces. By the time we are there the first half of the show is almost at its end. Luckily enough, I found another representative and I quickly tell him my story. Before I can even realise it, I have a press pass and I am comfortably seated at the end of the red carpet with the other Journalist/ Photographers. “Introducing yourself as a real Journalist is not that bad”, my friend says and now we are both there, watching the show from the front row. I guess he has a point. And unlike our expectations, the show is more than glamorous. From River Island and Accessorize to Juicy Couture and Austin Reed, there are more than 30 brands, showcasing the best of their summer and autumn collections. And that is not all. There are outfits to match all styles and occasions. Madness and genius echoes in the different day to night outlooks with a little bit of weirdness. Brilliant, but to be completely honest I doubt I will ever wear those red pants by Austin. So the moral of the story is that things like this happen every day in London and all you have to do is just seek and find them. The best comes to those, who don’t wait for things to happen, but rather make them happen. Written by Lyubomira Ivanova 3rd year, BA Journalism
IMAGE: Lulu
Rumour has it that Oxford Circus is not only London’s most elegant street with the greatest architectural curve in town, but also the most popular shopping destination. And while one might think that the street could not be more tempting, we can prove you are wrong. For the fourth successful year, Summer Streets transformed its outlook, making it the greatest summer destination for both Londoners and tourists. By turning it into a traffic-free open space full of joy and entertainment, there were four various festivals hosted over different weekends in July. But, the one, which we found most stunning and worth to be summed up, was the Fashion Festival 2015. Despite we didn’t have any expectations, it turned out to be better than we could have even imagined. And here the story goes…
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SPORT
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WHY SPORT? Sport, as we know it, is a great way to keep fit and participate in a competitive manor. Many of us are introduced to sport at a very young age by our ambitious parents, wishing their child would become the next Wayne Rooney or Jessie Owens. Others adopt sport as they grow older and see the social benefits from participating in a team. And there are some people who believe that they are simply not cut out for it and they choose to seek enjoyment by other means. The simple fact remains though, sporting participation DOES improve your life, but sometimes the conscious eye does not always see the benefits. Besides keeping fit, improving confidence and developing skills (which are some of the more commonly recognised benefits), there are lots of other attributes one can gain from choosing to be actively involved in a sporting society at Westminster. So what are they? Well teamwork is certainly one that springs to mind, and I’m sure most of your lecturers would agree, developing team working skills is consistently encouraged while your studying here at the University of Westminster. Also discipline, something that is so over looked these days in terms life style and social choices, especially when it is deadline day and you have the decision of going to the pub with your mates or hitting the library to push for that First. You may be wondering how participating in sport can help you improve these attributes, if you’re not well then congratulations because you’re all ready doing it, if you are well then this next part is for you. By choosing to participate in a sporting society here at the University of Westminster, you are naturally opening up doors for new opportunities. You will make more friends, develop your confidence, have a chance to feed your competitive hunger, improve your fitness and, not to forget, be involved in the famously, epic nights out that are set up by some of the sporting teams. Not only that but believe it or not, you will improve your chance of gaining employment during your university journey and most importantly, when you graduate. A recent study at Sheffield Harlem University proved that participation in sport has a direct, positive impact on your career. The study looked at the general salary that graduates were earning, both those who was involved in sport and those that were not, on average those who did were earning £5000 more per year than those that didn’t, and sports Captains and Managers would rarely see a period of unemployment. Even employers said that the soft skills developed while participating in
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sport during university are just as, if not more important as the academic skills we are so desperately trying to gain. Interesting right? That’s what I thought! So I hope now if you are reading this and not currently involved in a sporting activity you have began to change your mind. If you already are then keep up the good work, enjoy and watch your self reap the benefits. There are plenty of sporting societies for you to choose from here at Westminster and thankfully there really is something for everyone. Have a look at the list on the other page and email the sports team/society you wish to get involved with. Remember there’s more that meets the eye when choosing to be involved with a sporting society at the University of Westminster! Written by Louis Alexander
3rd year, BA Commercial Music
An article looking at how participating in sport can improve your employability chances and have an overall positive effect on other areas of your life.
SPORT
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DOWN! SET! HUT! How the States do it Miami Dolphins, Tom Brady, Seattle Seahawks, JJ Watt. Welcome to American Football! (They have lots in store for you.) Down! Set! Hut! The UWSU Dragons are a team like no other at the University of Westminster. What sets us apart is no experience is necessary, everybody makes the team and it’s a mixed gender league. We train on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons. We will be recruiting at Freshers events and we will be holding a taster session for anyone that wants to see what we are all about during the week. Our first official session is on Sunday 27th September: 1pm, at Marylebone Campus foyer. “I have never played American Football before, does that matter?” Most of our players had never played American Football before joining the Dragons. Our experienced and extensive coaching staff will teach you the rules and techniques of the game, and turn you into an American Football player in no time at all. All you need is the ability to listen, learn and have a will to win.
“Do I need my own equipment?” No! American Football equipment is expensive, roughly £300 for an average full set. The club has a supply of equipment, which it loans to its players for the season. But some of our players have purchased their own equipment, and if you are interested in buying any items, then we can direct you to the best places. All you need to bring along is a pair of football/rugby boots, trainers and a coloured mouth guard. “How far can I go in the sport?” How far you go is really up to you. Our coaches will give you some of the best coaching available in the UK, from there it is down to you! You will have the opportunity to represent the Great Britain Lions in European competition. In addition to this, many of our players go on to play Summer Football with the local adult teams: the London Olympians, Warriors, Blitz or in their hometowns.
Impress the Dragons and you could spend your summers with free accommodation, food and a wage, sunning it in Germany, Norway or Sweden. It really is that great! For more information please contact the Head Coach, Dean Lawless at: grantdeanlawless@gmail.com Written by Grant Dean Lawless
Head Coach of American Football at the University of Westminster Photo credits: Abdulrahmen Mohammed, 3rd year, BA Media
If you’re good enough, the Dragons coaching staff will recommend you to the Great Britain Programme. If you have the desire, the coaching staff can even put you in touch with NCAA College programmes. In addition to the above, various clubs in Europe, North America, South East Asia and Australasia pay players to play.
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SPORT
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QUESTIONING EQUESTRIAN?
A new sporting society called Equestrian Club has been capturing the attention of many within the Westminster institution, but unlike the usual physical team activities we are all used to, such as Rugby, Football or Hockey, this society offers something completely different. Horse Riding. Situated just 30 minutes from the Harrow campus, it provides students an exiting escape from the city lifestyle. The recently formed and official UWSU Dragon sports team, Equestrian, have gone from strength to strength. Having heard this information and finding myself extremely intrigued I decided to contact the Team Captain Charlotte Longhurst about the sport.
party. We have got some great social events lined up too, including beach rides, camping trips to international competitions, riding holidays in Spain, polo lessons and some great opportunities to ride and compete. We will also have regular nights out, meetings and so much more! We will have try-outs for BUCS and try-outs for GB Student Riders, so come and get involved! We have also teamed up with the Men’s Football Team to allow members to be introduced to more of the Dragons family and get involved with as many social activities as possible.
This exclusive interview with the Captain of what’s been called the most ‘up and coming’ sporting society here at Westminster shows just how anyone can reap horseriding benefits. Q. In a single sentence how would you sum up your sports team? A. We are a friendly bunch of people with expert instructors, lovely horses and a huge passion for all things horsey! Team try-outs will be held on Monday 28th September. The Introduction party is on Wednesday 30th September and the first meeting will be on Friday 2nd October. The official page is on the new UWSU website (www.uwsu.com). Our Equestrian Club can also be found on Facebook and Twitter and have also featured on Smoke TV’s You Tube channel with a promotional video for the Equestrian Club. One thing is for certain, is that this sports team is one to look out for in the future years at University of Westminster. For more information and to sign up, please contact the team Captain, Charlotte, at the following email address: equestrian@ su.westminster.ac.uk Written by Louis Alexander
Q. Why should people choose to get involved in your society and how will they benefit?
3rd year, BA Commercial Music
A. People should get involved simply to try something new. Horse riding is a great way to keep fit, improve your balance and posture, and learn to communicate with an animal in a completely new way. It’s rewarding and you never stop learning. For existing riders there are still a number of opportunities within our club. We not only compete in the BUCS tournaments, but this year we will also be training with the Great British Student Riders, to select the best riders to compete for our country, at both national and international competitions. It is the perfect opportunity to meet new, like-minded people and get involved in the equestrian world. We also recognise that horse riding is seen as a very expensive sport, so we have ensured that it is affordable for all of our students here at Westminster. Q. What do you have in stall for students during this academic year? A. This year our club will be even bigger and better. During Freshers we will be holding team try-outs and hosting an introduction PHOTOS: UWSU Horse Riding Team
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SPORT
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WESTMINSTER’S THE NEW WIMBLEDON The women in the tennis team compete regularly in competitive tournaments while making new friends and receiving valuable exercise. Aren’t these reasons enough to make any woman want to join? Hey there! We are the official UWSU Women’s Tennis Team! We currently have 1 women’s squad and 1 men’s squad here at the University of Westminster and compete in the BUCS University Leagues, LTA tournaments (Lawn Tennis Association) and any overseas opportunities that are organised through the university or LTA. The team commits to regular training programs that occur twice a week. These sessions involve a fitness session and a competitive match at least once every two weeks through the BUCS League. Although we absolutely love training every week, we also try and organise flexible training sessions outside of university on weekends. During the term, we compete in 4 home matches and 4 away matches within the BUCS League. We mainly proceed in having 4 Singles matches with the top #4 ranked players competing against each other and 2 Doubles matches with an open choice by the team allowing any ranked players to compete. As we are currently ranked #4 within the BUCS League, we have competed against the universities, which are within our division, including City University,
UEL (University of East London), Roehampton University, Buckinghamshire New, University of Sussex, Brunel University and UCL (University College London). As a squad of 7, we all have a different style of performance, making us a very unique set of players. Therefore, as a sporting society, we constantly learn from each other by analysing and advising each other on how to improve on our game and most importantly, supporting one another, which makes us more motivated to work harder as a team. We also enter National competitions through the LTA that counts on our individual ranking within the county that can gradually help us to qualify for top tournaments e.g. Wimbledon. In this case, the Student Union helps to fund any outside competitions; including travel expenses and entry fees.
Contact email for all those interested is: Womens.tennins@su.westminster.ac.uk Written by Maxine
Captain of Women’s Tennis All photos belong to Mariana Ortiz, member of the Tennis squad
Off the court, we do tend to organise group hangouts to maintain our team bond involving team dinners or student sports events that are organised through the Students’ Union. After becoming Team Captain for the Women’s Tennis Team, looking back on our results we have had a good year so far, winning 3 out of 6 matches within Division 3. However, we believe this coming September will be bigger and better for us and we are hoping to win more than we hope for.
ITS NOT ALL JUST BRUTES AND BEER! Do you like being physical while competing and participating in a ‘hard to keep up with’ social life? Then choosing to get involved in the rugby team at our university is definitely one to consider. Every year the rugby boys make some noise and are certainly a sporting society to look out for. But there is more than just the brutal tackles and heavyweight drinking competitions that may not be at the forth front. Aled Scudamore, Head of Rugby had this to say “We always seem to have a very good team ethos without trying, along with a thriving social life, which means you don’t only make friends in rugby or sports but in all aspects of the university.
If you are considering joining our vibrant and committed squad, you will be involved in all of our tennis activities, ensuring you get the full competitive experience like any other huge Olympic sport. We hope to have spoken to you at the Fresher’s Fairs if not, and you are interested in joining one of our teams, please contact me on the email below to get your name on the list. We will be holding a trial at one of our university sports grounds (date tbc) to determine if you have what it takes to become a tennis dragon!
working with other sports clubs and societies so we can help each others social events and possibly fill spaces if they are in need of some bench warmers. “Also there will be a focus on improving transport for training and matches.” If you feel like rugby is a bit of you and you fancy getting involved please email the rugby team at: mens.rugby@su.westminster.ac.uk and get yourself a place in what’s arguably one of the most liveliest sporting teams there are. Written by Aled Scudamore
3rd year BA Journalism
“A lot of people come out of their shells with us, which is brilliant.” When asked: what can students expect from ruby this year? He responded saying: “We are planning on
Sports teams at the University of Westminster American Football: americanfootball@su.westminster.ac.uk Badminton: badminton@su.westminster.ac.uk Basketball (Mens): mens.basketball@su.westminster.ac.uk Basketball (Womens): womens.basketball@su.westminster.ac.uk BJJ: bjj@su.westminster.ac.uk Boxing: boxing@su.westminster.ac.uk Capoeira: capoeira@su.westminster.ac.uk Cheerleading: cheerleading@su.westminster.ac.uk Cricket: cricket@su.westminster.ac.uk Equestrian: equestrian@su.westminster.ac.uk Football (Mens): mens.football s@su.westminster.ac.uk Football (Womens): womens.football@su.westminster.ac.uk Futsal: mens.futsal@su.westminster.ac.uk Handball: handball@su.westminster.ac.uk Hockey (Mens): mens.hockey@su.westminster.ac.uk Ju Jitsu: jujitsu@su.westminster.ac.uk Judo: judo@su.westminster.ac.uk Karate: karate@su.westminster.ac.uk Muay Thai: muaythai@su.westminster.ac.uk Netball: netball@su.westminster.ac.uk Rowing: rowing@su.westminster.ac.uk Rugby: mens.rugby@su.westminster.ac.uk Running: running@su.westminster.ac.uk Tennis (Mens): mens.tennis@su.westminster.ac.uk Tennis (Womens): womens.tennis@su.westminster.ac.uk TKD: tkd@su.westminster.ac.uk Volleyball (Mens): mens.volleyball@su.westminster.ac.uk Volleyball (Womens): womens.volleyball@su.westminster.ac.uk Wing Chun: wingchun@su.westminster.ac.uk
PHOTOS: UWSU Rugby
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