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Culture Listen to our pre’s playlist and find the cultural gems of Newcastle Page 8-9
Sport Want to be part of Team Newcastle? Club trials list is on Page 28
Thursday 20 September Issue 1372 Free
Freshers Your guide to the week and how to make it through freshers’ in one Page 10-25
Freshers’ 2018 hits Newcastle 86% The independent voice of Newcastle students
Est 1948
Isabel Sykes Deputy Editor
Freshtival themed week to host over 400 activity sessions
of students were satisfied with the social life that Newcastle University
Newcastle University is famed for its social life. It achieved 4th place out of 117 for social life according to World
The week kicks off with NUSU’s big event ‘Oblivion’ on Sunday night, offering food from 6pm and an after party in the SU run by Capital FM, featuring Sigala and CliQ as the main headline events.
This years theme will be festivals Image: NUSU
University Rankings student experience survey 2018 and was rated as one of the top institutions in the country in the 2018 National Student Survey, achieving 86% overall satisfaction. Freshers’ Week 2018 seeks to do justice to, and even exceed, this reputation. The theme of the week is festivals and the line-up does not disappoint. Beginning on Sunday 23rd of September, this coming freshers’ week is packed with events and activities, both daytime and night-time, to help new students get to know the university and its city. The official Freshers’ Week Wristband, costing £70 this year, promises access to the week’s daytime and evening activities which range from bowling and visits to the cat café to horse racing and bingo revolution. The week kicks off with NUSU’s big event ‘Oblivion’ on Sunday night, offering food from 6pm and an after party in the SU run by Capital FM, featuring Sigala and CliQ as the main headline events. Other highlights from the week include a boat tour of Newcastle, Murder Mystery evening, and a comedy night with BBC Three’s ‘Well Good Show’ star Lee Nelson.
Freshers’ Week at Newcastle is run by the Students’ Union and organised by students, who are aiming to showcase the very best of student life in Newcastle. Although the city is renowned for its nightlife, there is something for everyone as during the day the campus will be buzzing with over 90 daytime events, including opportunities to sample free food, take part in sports and activities, and watch live events. The week’s events reach a head on Thursday for the outdoor festival event named ‘We are NCL’, which draws together students from not only Newcastle but Northumbria University as well and is set to be a hugely successful event. As well as live music, the outdoor festival will feature food and drink vendors and fairground rides for those who have purchased a wristband. James Howlett a Newcastle University student spoke to the Freshers’ Week Organisers about how he made the most of his wristband during the week: “So we did alot of the night time activities specifically so we went on alot of the nights out and with the wristband you get into those clubs for free so that really paid for alot of our nights out. We did do a few of the daytime activities, not too many because we were a little worse for wear during the days. We did go-karting and go ape which on a hangover I wouldn’t really reccomend. You get the most out of your wristband by making sure that you’re here, even if
there is something for everyone as during the day the campus will be buzzing with over 90 daytime events, including opportunities to sample free food, take part in sports and activities, and watch live events.
you do feel a bit bad. Thats what you’ve paid for so you might as well come do it. You can pick up your wristbands outside the Students’ Union in the stretch tent and if you haven’t got one already buy them at nusu.co.uk/fresherswristband or inside the stretch tent.
Will strikes return?
Best (fancy)dressed
Night time events
Need help in Freshers?
NUSU Interviews
A UCU ballot is to be held over whether more industrial action should be taken News, page 4
Find out all you need to know about putting together a costume for freshers week Life and Style, page 6
Check out our comprehensive list of all the exciting nights out in freshers Freshers, page’s 12-13
Take a look at our welfare page for information about how to have fun while staying safe Welfare, page’s 16-17
Editor Louise Hall finds out the plans and least favourite sabbatical officers of this years NUSU team page’s 2,16,19,23,26
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thecourier The Courier is a weekly newspaper produced by students, for students. It’s never too late to get involved in the paper, whether you’re a writer, illustrator or photographer. Just visit thecourieronline.co.uk/about for more information. Editor Louise Hall Deputy Editor Isabel Sykes Copy Editor Laura Staniforth News Editors Grace Dean, Molly Greeves, Sidney Pinsett and Steven Ross Comment Editors Jamie Cameron, Caitlin Disken and Alexandra Sadler
Thursday 20 September 2018
NUSU Interviews: President
Louise Hall Editor
sent an email out to 6,000 freshers that was something that was quite surreal to me.
Hello Raff, the official president of Newcastle University Students Union, how are you this morning? I’m very well Louise thanks, extremely well.
What do you think your biggest achievement has been so far? I think, sorry to mention it again, but the email was a good thing, just because of it’s record breaking levels of engagement and open rate that was quite an achievement.
So how have your first few months as president been? I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the job in the first few months, what’s been amazing to me is actually seeing the impact and the outreach that I can have. When I
You have to sit on a lot of university committee’s being the union president. What are the most interesting and least interesting committee’s you’ve sat on?
Life & Style Editor Sophie Henderson Lifestyle Editors Phoebe Fielder, Holly Margerison, and Ella Williams Fashion Editors Poppy Couling Joe Hood and Miranda Stoner Beauty Editors Laura Buckle, Susanne Norris and Nimra Rafique Travel Editors Jenny Franken and Bianca Ionci
Was running for president something you always knew you wanted to do or was it more of a snap decision?
“I’m really keen to get students who aren’t interested in the union more engaged. Also I’d like to introduce grass roots change that will affect everyone”
Culture Editors Alex Moore and Carys Rose Thomas Feature Editor Ally Wilson Arts Editors Rosie Mccrum, Julia McGhee Russell and Scarlett Rowland Music Editors Charloute Boulton, Rory Ellis and Jess Taylor-Weisser TV Editors Jacob Clarke, Tom Cooney and Chloe Mullins Film Editors JImmy Athey, Helena Buchanan and Joe Holloran Gaming Editors George Boatfield, Kelly South and Matthew Neville
So the elections the year before us, I remember watching them like knowing Rebecca Bainbridge [2017 Activities Officer] and thinking I’d love to do this. But I kind of put it to the back of my mind really until nearly the beginning of my third year. I was thinking of staying up in Newcastle for another year and one night in Soho of all places it just came to me while I was out with my mates, and I thought why not I’d just go for it.
Sports Editors Sydney Isaacs, Rebecca Johnson and Harry Parsons Online Editors Rory Cameron, Jodie Duddy, Amanda Goh, Thomas Hardwick, Max Hobbs Orestis Katsoulis and Chris Wilkinson The Courier NUSU King’s Walk Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8QB Tel: 0191 239 3940 The Courier is printed by: Trinity Mirror Printing, Barton Road, Riverside Park Industrial Estate, Middlesbrough, TS2 1UT Established in 1948, the Courier is the fully independent student newspaper of the Students’ Union at Newcastle University. The Courier is published weekly during term time, and is free of charge. The design, text, photographs and graphics are copyright of the Courier and its individual contributors. No parts of this newspaper may be reproduced without the prior permission of the Editor. Any views expressed in this newspaper’s opinion pieces are those of the individual writing, and not of the Courier, the Students’ Union or Newcastle University.
So the most interesting one hundred percent so far has been engagement committee. That’s all about the universities role in society and the good it should be doing with relation to students. I love the grand discussions about what is the universities role, should it be helping people in society, should it be thinking about global issues or locally in Newcastle, it leads to really interesting conversations. My least favorite, I had one pretty boring meeting to do with Jesmond, simply because there are absolutely no students there right now. I assume they will become more important and interesting when student’s return from summer, but as of now it was just basically an hour-long discussion about bins.
Raff is this years NUSU President Images: NUSU
Speaking of predecessors, you often get a lot of stick for looking similar to last year’s president Ronnie Reid. How do you think you’ll set yourself apart from this comparison throughout the year? [laughing] the look comparisons are quite irritating but I do completely un-
derstand it. It’s difficult because a lot of the meetings that I’ve been in people do say I’ve got a touch act to follow, so I’d like to continue bringing in positive changes for students. In terms of setting myself apart I want to to create a union where we can present a united front and work together for change. With the strikes last year that was tough because of the differing opinions, so this year I’m hoping to have learnt form those difficulties and focus on working together to focus on whats best for our students. A lot of your campaign was focused around your involvement in dance society including your video, will you be hanging up your dancing shoes in your year as president? I think I’ve got to stay true to my people and as president I can join societies so I think I’ll probably be making a return to dance society, so watch this space for some more dancing. Who’s you least favorite sabbatical officer? It’s a tough one. The office is great when Sophie McDermott is on holiday [laughs] but its got to be Jack Green, because whenever I want to put some music on in the office, he puts on truly the worst music ever, it’s like capital one gone wrong. Can you describe yourself in 3 words love island style? Loyal, outgoing, down to earth. You’re the first person to do it truly the love island way and describe yourself in 3 words using more than 3 words. Yeah I literally should have just said down to earth. And finally what can we expect to see from you this year? I think you can expect to see someone who’s proactive with outreach towards students. I’m really keen to get students who aren’t interested in the union more engaged. Also I’d like t introduce grass roots change that will affect everyone on campus, making changes to the library, making Luthers more interesting and generally making campus more affordable.
Welcome to Newcastle from the Courier Louise Hall Editor
So it’s finally here, the week that every man and his dog has told you will undoubtedly the best week of your life. You’ve put the work in, got the grades,
Even if your freshers’ week doesn’t live up to be the life changing event that you may have expected it to be, its safe to say that your time here at Newcastle definitely will.
moved into your crappy student flat, worked out how much of your student loan you can blow in week one without rendering yourself bankrupt and now you actually have to follow it through. Many you may be absolutely raring and ready to go, while some of you may be a tad more dubious about the onslaught
of nights out, drinking games and unfamiliar faces that freshers’ week infamously boasts. However, whoever you are and whatever kind of freshers’ week you want to have, the Courier is here to offer guidance and support in all areas as you start your journey here at Newcastle. A massive congratulations for making it to this point from me, your Editor and from out entire team here at the Courier; we hope you have the absolute best time. The Courier is one of three branches of student media here at Newcastle, as we also host Newcastle Student Radio (NSR) and Newcastle University Television (NUTV). If you want to get involved in any way with our three branches please have a gander at our student media page to see how you can do so. We are a newspaper written by the students of Newcastle University, for the Students of Newcastle University and you need no prior experience to get involved. So after the fresher’ week thrill wears off and you want to do something a tad more productive with your time than recovering from hangovers and eating sad cheese toasties, you can always write an article for one of our 13 sections, find your inner TV presenter or show the entirety of
Newcastle just how amazing your music taste actually is. If I may of- fer you any pearls of wisdom a s an ancient fourth year sabbatical officer during freshers’ week it would be to throw yourself into
the activities wholeheartedly. Make the most of that freshers’ wristband while you can, because if you don’t, for the next two years you’ll be kicking yourself. That doesn’t always necessarily mean drinking either, there are hundreds of daytime activities to try out, and there is no other time in your life that they will all be so readily available. However, I will sign off by saying that where you’re about to live for the next three years is a beautiful, homely and fabulous city so even if your freshers’ week doesn’t live up to be the life changing event that you may have expected it to be, its safe to say that your time here at Newcastle definitely will. I hope you enjoy this extra special freshers’ edition of our paper that we’ve put together and that maybe it makes finding your feet here a little easier.
news Freshtival 2018: Behind the scenes the courier
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Thursday 20 September 2018
@TheCourier_News courier.news@ncl.ac.uk thecourieronline.co.uk/news
Editor Louise Hall talks to this years organisers to find out how the 2018 freshers week went from theory to fruition...
So you guys theres four of you so if you could just all make sure to say something for at least one question each that would be great Sam: Becky could talk for all of us its fine Becky: Wow Sam, fine I’ll be quiet in the interview I’ve not really got the energy anyway S: If you don’t say a single word in this entire interview… B: If I don’t say a single word in this entire interview I’m gonna be screwing Louise over so. George: Right come on guys I’ve got places to be please [laughter]
Okay, okay we’ll crack on. So what’s it been like organizing freshers’ this year? G: It’s been fun S: It has been really fun, it’s been a great experience of the business world and working with these guys. Ciara: Its been inspiring to see so many volunteers willing to get involved and help. G: It’s been good to see stuff come to fruition in front of us B: Yeah, it’s definitely a great level of achievement especially looking back on how much we’ve pulled together in such a short amount of time. C: And especially making it better than our fresher’s was. S: Obviously when we’ve been part of fresher’s crew or fresher’s we were like ‘oh it would be really great if we could do this’ and so it’s been great to follow that through. So as a team you have to come up with a theme for the week, where did the freshtival theme for this year come from? B: We didn’t really pick the theme as it were and start from that point. We decided what we wanted to do first in terms of the night events and then thought what theme fits this so that we didn’t have to stretch nights to fit a specific theme. G: I think Ciara also mentioned it during her interview C: Yeah I mean originally during my interview I suggested a festival theme because I knew when I left college I just wanted to go to as many festivals as possible and get away from home for the summer. S: Yeah and we didn’t want to disagree with Ciara so I guess we just had to.
[laughter] C: it’s a very open theme it allows a lot of flexibility.
So what did you want to build on from last years freshers’ week? C: so we really wanted to build on two of their really successful events, so when they hired out the entire gate because that’s never been done before ever, and also the outdoor stage closing off campus to the general public because that was amazing and really magical. So what’s the one event you’d tell freshers’ that they absolutely cannot miss and why? B: Probably our last night the ‘we are NCL’ night because its very unique and different to things that have been done in the past and probably unique and different to what will happen in the future as well. We’ve managed to get a license for exhibition park so we’re going to put all
of our freshers’ in one park and there will be a street food village, an outdoor stage, a silent disco, fairground rides and lots of different stuff. C: I’d probably say our first night is absolutely ginormous we’re expecting to have 4000-5000 freshers’ on campus, a huge main stage with Sigala playing and clique playing and then an official after party down in the SU hosted by capital which is crazy when you think about the fact that they sponsor massive clubs down in London. B: Same with Sigala, he’s going on tour very soon but has agree to play us because he loves the atmosphere in our union. S: I’m really hyped for Lee Nelson the comedian, I love stand up comedy so I think that ones gonna be great. G: I’d really recommend the boat tour of Newcastle because I’ve been before on a night and I think it’s quite a different thing to try out.
Any tips for freshers’ during the week?
C: [pleading] Please don’t climb the fences. [laughing] B: Make the most of your wristband, make sure you do as much of the daytime stuff as possible there’s over 500 sessions so no matter how busy your timetable is you can always do something. C: Buy easy to cook foods such as Ramen and Cereal and keep them in constant supplB: [with confusion] Ramen? C: Yeah we’ll go American it’s fine. Okay chicken noodles, pot noodle, pot pasta! G: I reckon be yourself otherwise they won’t be your friends forever. Everyone: awwwwww C: Realness over here from George Snape S: Don’t be afraid as well, it’s a new city a new environment but make sure you
Fun in the sun with the FWO’s Images: Louise Hall
break the barrier of fear and anxiety and really go for it. B: And then post freshers’ week really throw yourself into the union because the more societies and clubs you join, the more people you get to meet. What made you want to organize freshers’ week? B: Last year we all had the most amazing time, we were all involved in fresher’s week in different capacities and having the ability to change things to make it your own is a really inspiring thing to make you want to do this job. C: Its an amazing job, but `I also really wanted to see some changes made to the week because I thought it was getting a bit antiquated and a bit old. Its been really nice to come into it having been at Newcastle for three years and know hat there is in the city so that we can throw the best you’ve got at the job and at the incoming freshers. S: I just enjoyed the creative side, having the free reign to have this entire week and to do what you want with it. C: Yeah no-one else would ever give me that budget to spend. [laughing]
So how has it been working together? S: [sarcastically] ugh I never want to see these guys again. [laughing] G: shut up S: I get sad whenever we spend more than a day apart B: yeah when someone’s not in the office it’s really heartbreaking C: Weekends are hard B: Yeah savage S: We just sit in our rooms and cry waiting to come back to work C: I do actually really miss you all when we’re not together though I’m not joking. B: It’s weird because you learn everyone’s little habits and you learn how people work and how to interact with each other as the summer goes on. G: its been nice I feel like we’ve become really close together in a team. C: And none of us really knew each other before so it’s been a real experience to get to know each other incredibly [with a cautious look] ‘intimately’ to be fair. Continued on page 5.
Meet your friendly freshers’ week organisers Ciara
Age: 22 Course: Engineering Hometown: Brighton Favourite bev: Rum and Coke Activity: Coctail making
Sam
Age: 23 Course: Film Studies Hometown: Edinburgh Favourite bev: Southern Comfort Activity: Dog Cafe
Becky
Age: 21 Course: English Literature Hometown: Buckinghamshire Favourite bev: Gin and Lemonade Activity: Grub Crawls
George
Age: 23 Course: Urban Planning Hometown: Chorley Favourite bev: Vodka and coke Activity: Go Ape
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news
Thursday 20 September 2018
Possibility of further UCU strike action on horizon
Jodie Duddy News Online Editor It has been announced that the University College Union ( UCU) will open a ballot for its members to vote on further strike action, which will take place in the forthcoming university year. The
The strikes earlier this year affected 14 days of teaching across 4 weeks, in the most severe cases all scheduled teaching was cancelled staff could not be contacted by email
ballot will be open from the 30th August to the 19th October and members have been urged to vote in favour of strike action in the wake of unsatisfactory negotiations that took place after the strikes of March and April this year. The universities that would be affected by a further strike remain undecided at present, as are details of the duration of a poten-
tial strike, and when this might happen in the term. Dan Ashley, a spokesperson for the UCU, stated ‘Any industrial action is of course a last resort and we will be doing all we can to resolve the dispute without the need for any action.’ The strikes earlier this year affected 14 days of teaching across 4 weeks, in the most severe cases all scheduled teaching was cancelled and staff members could not be contacted by email. As part of Strike etiquette, it was ambiguous as to which staff members would be taking part in the action meaning that many students repeatedly turned up for sessions that were cancelled. One student going into their 3rd year at Newcastle noted that both of their joint honours courses ‘were completely disrupted by the strikes’ and a further strike this semester would cause them ‘frustration; with third year being the most important and stressful year as it is, especially with the prospect of staff being unable to consult on independent work’. Some students by contrast were impacted minimally by the industrial action; the major inconvenience from one STEM student I spoke to was ‘picket lines on the Robinson Bridge that meant I had to take a different route.’ They recognised though that next time they may not be so immune to the effects and a further strike ‘would result in a loss of knowledge which isn’t good for future life in
industry.’ As a result of the UCU conflict more conversations are happening about the increasing commoditisation of higher education, one student noted
The ballot will be open from the 30th August to the 19th October and members have been urged to vote in favour of strike action
‘last time was insanely stressful, being told ‘the library is still open’ is not keeping up their side as an educational institution.’ The offer by the University and College Employers Association (UCEA) following the strikes was for a 2 % raise in wages, this was rejected as members felt employers were not addressing the continuing casualisation of staff contracts and the gender pay gap in academia. The wages of university staff have not increased in line with current rates inflation, which is estimated at 3.4%, and the UCU believe their real- terms pay has been devalued by 21% since 2010. The future is uncertain for academic staff and students alike in the upcoming semester.
Brexit campaign recieves NUS support Isabel Sykes Deputy Editor
A People’s Vote rally took place in the Assembly Rooms in Newcastle on Saturday 25th August. The People’s Vote campaign demands a referendum on the final Brexit deal.
“A lack of a vision for the FE sector in a post-Brexit world will almost certainly further limit young people’s life chances.” Emily Chapman, Vice President of National Union of Students
Campaigners argue that the government’s handling of negotiations is unsatisfactory and has rendered a ‘bad deal’ for the country inevitable. The petition on their website currently has over 290,000 signatures out of a goal of 300,000, which will be delivered to Number 10 Downing Street the week before the Brexit deal returns to Parlia-
ment. The rally in Newcastle forms part of the campaign’s ‘Summer of Action’, which involves rallies and protests taking place across the country during the summer months in support of the People’s Vote. A march held in London on the 23rd of June saw over 100,000 supporters in attendance, with campaigners from across the political spectrum. After the event on Saturday 25th, People’s Vote UK wrote on Twitter that the rally was attended by over 500 campaigners. Messages of support and photographs from the event were circulated on Twitter using the hashtag ‘People’sVoteNE’. Among the politicians, activists, and supporters attending the rally were Liberal Democrat leader Vince Cable MP and Vice President of the National Union of Students, Emily Chapman, who both gave speeches. In an article published by TES magazine on Thursday 30th August, Emily Chapman explains why the NUS supports the People’s Vote campaign. She writes that conversations about the potential impact of Brexit have excluded education, arguing that “a lack of a vision for the FE sector in a post-Brexit world will almost certainly further limit
young people’s life chances.” Chapman raises concerns that funding cuts in the Further Education sector have hit student services particularly hard, resulting in “a lack of information, advice, guidance, enrichment activity, counselling services and vital mental health support.” She goes on to write: “Our FE sector is one form of education where the most disadvantaged young people are most likely to be a part of. They are the ones who will be hit the hardest, and for the longest, by Brexit.” Chapman ends her article with a call to give the 1.4 million people who have turned 18 since the EU referendum in 2016 a vote on Brexit. Her closing lines read: “Brexit is a big deal, but it’s not a done deal – and FE students will no longer be ignored.” The People’s Vote campaign continues to grow, and a leaked memo has recently revealed that they plan on attempting to change the Labour Party’s policy on Brexit. Labour’s current policy is to respect the result of the 2016 referendum, but to “leave all options on the table” if Parliament do not agree on a deal. The People’s Vote campaign is aiming to get the issue of a new referendum discussed at the Labour conference next month.
Protests in the wake of the Brexit Decision Image: Wikimedia Commons
Strikes at Newcastles Monument in the last academic year Image: Saffron-Kershaw Mee
Sucess for NCL students at annual half marathon Steven Ross News Editor On Sunday 8th September over 57000 runners took part in the 13.1 mile Great North Run. Among those participating were Mo Farah and several Newcastle University students. One student who completed the race only a half hour be-
“If only I could go back and thank the jelly baby wielding youngsters or the ice lolly bearing mums and thank them for getting me through miles 9 and 10”
Maggie Elstob, NUSU’s Athletic Union Officer
hind Mo’s incredible 1hr 59 time stated that, “It was the biggest challenge I’ve ever had in my life” and added that he could not have done it without “the people of Newcastle cheering me on” The crowds waiting to support the many runners were seen to stretch across the city and many donated to various charities when runners passed collection buckets. The sight of the Red Arrows spraying the red, white and blue across the sky no doubt also spurred on many others as they staggered across the 13th mile marker. Maggie Elstob, NUSU’s Athletic Union officer ran the half marathon for the second time this year and commented: “If only I could go back and thank the jelly baby wielding youngsters or the ice lolly bearing mums and thank them for getting me through miles 9 and 10” “This is the greatest half marathon in the world” Sophie McDermott, NUSU’s Activities Officer also ran the marathon this year
and told the Courier: ‘It’s been two years since I first ran the GNR and I was still just as amazed when the red arrows flew over the Tyne Bridge just how awesome this run is!” Krissa Ford, a third year Newcastle University Student described her own experience of the run: “The GNR was honestly one of the best experiences for me! The crowds were fantastic and gave me energy when I felt like I had none left to give. I’m already considering doing it again because of how great of a day it was! But knowing I’ve helped to change lives by doing it for the charity, Team Kenya, makes it all the more rewarding.” For any students new to Newcastle this year who are thinking of taking part in the backbreaking race, you have a year to ready yourself for the challenge. Running since 1981, the Great North Run still stands today as the 15th largest running event in the world by participation and is valued significantly by locals and students alike.
NUSU’s AU officer at the Great North Run: Image: Maggie Elstob
comment Is freshers week worth the hype?
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Thursday 20 September 2018
@CourierComment courier.comment@ncl.ac.uk thecourieronline.co.uk/comment
Deputy Editor Isabel Sykes argues that the picture perfect ‘freshers week of your life’ may actually be nothing but an illusion.
Y
ou hear stories from parents, siblings, and friends. You join all the social media pages, and the circulating photos and videos build your expectations for what is promised to be the best week of the year. But does fresher’s week always
The reality of the freshers experience is far more varied
live up to its infamous reputation? Does that single week really deserve all the hype it gets? Yes, some people spend 7 days drinking on half an hour’s sleep, immediately make best friends with their flat and (claim to) have the best week of their lives, but is this really representative of the aver-
age student’s experience in those first few days? The reality of the freshers’ experience is far more varied. Many people don’t immediately feel as comfortable in their new environment or with their new flatmates as they expected, or perhaps the events aren’t all they promised to be on Facebook. For others the exact opposite is true, and the week exceeds their highest expectations, but should we really be telling people exactly what kind of time they should be having before they’ve even arrived? It is also important to consider that the prospect of a 7-day alcohol binge isn’t everyo n e ’s idea of fun and insisting t h a t this is the only way to have an enjoyable freshers’ week risks pressuring people into d o i n g things
they aren’t comfortable with. The way freshers’ week is hyped up might feel quite limiting, or even intimidating, to some prospective students. This isn’t a call for people to lower their expectations of freshers’ week in order to have a good time, but an assurance that it is only the beginning, and for many of us it only gets better from there. If you did make best friends in t h a t first week, those friendships w i l l lik ely grow stronger throughout the year as you cross the boundary from pre-ing and parting together to living in your dressing gowns and hosting Harry Potter marathons together. Likewise, your nightlife experience gets better as you discover where you like to go on different nights, and what pits you never wish
to set foot in again. For those who didn’t have a great first
Freshers week is the start of the university experience but doesn’t define it
week, and for those who feel the stereotyp- ical alcohol-fuelled freshers’ life is n o t for them, generally enjoy uni life once they start their
course, join societies, and make friends. However, they shouldn’t feel like they have done something wrong or missed out on something if this is the case. Freshers’ week is the start of a student’s university experience but it certainly does not have to define it. Instead of hyping up the first 7 days of first year and putting pressure on students to behave a certain way to have the ‘best time of their life’, we should be telling them not to stress, offering support to those who need, and encouraging people to look forward to their whole experience at university instead of just the first week.
Are the crowds in freshers worth it? Image: NUSU
University through the eyes of a fourth year
Third year Comment Editor and fourth year Newcastle student Jamie Cameron offers some wisdom into how to make it through university in one piece
T
his is my fourth year at Newcastle University, and as I face my own crisis of identity and age it’s time to tell you not to make the mistakes I did – basically I’m going to sound like your parents.
JAMIE CAMERON Jamie has worked as one of the Courier’s comment editors for the last three years, commenting on the strikes last year as one of the sections longstanding editors.
I’ll start at Fresher’s Week. For some, this week’s drinking presents a rite of passage, a debauched romp so strong it purifies the soul and prepares you for adult life – often a life of more excessive drinking. Others say that such excessive alcohol consumption dulls the anxiety of moving to a new city where you don’t know anyone. Others say, it’s a lot of fuss over nothing, and those pre-planned Fresher’s nights out are corporate and soulless. Well I just made these people up along with their opinions, but you get the point, there’s no way to do Fresher’s Week or think about it or enjoy it or not enjoy it, and whatever you think, it’s valid. Just stay safe and don’t feel pressured to drink if you don’t want to. I’ll never forget a guy telling me he could feel his
kidneys ache – kidney pain is rarely considered the height of cool. If you ask me, don’t go out every night, and devote half your days to the daytime activities set up by the wonderful Fresher’s Crew. Take your time to explore the city on your own terms, go to the beach, check out the Laing Art Gallery, go the Fresher’s Fair and sign up to some sweet sweet societies. Finally, hope to the sweet lord your flatmates are nice and do some things together. Well that’s Fresher’s Week, but oh no, now it’s real life time. Top advice: Do your work, take your time, enjoy it while you have plenty of time to do it. Sometimes you can grade pretty well without studying much, but it’s not worth it. Learning isn’t about degrees or grades, it’s about feeding the soul (duuuuude). Looking back on your past self and thinking how much more you know is a
The Ariana Grande Blame Game Molly Greeves
Being a human being is hard. You can be an incredibly privileged person, who doesn’t face oppression or financial difficulties, and still have to battle with mental health issues and drug addiction-we are reminded of this when talented musicians such as Mac Miller, pass away before their time. Most of us can agree that when these tragedies occur, the appropriate response is to respect the privacy of the late person’s loved ones, to celebrate their art and to reach out to people in our own lives who may be struggling. Or, instead of exercising human decency and compassion, you could always take to social media and blame the late musician’s ex-girlfriend for their death, as many Mac Miller fans have been doing to Ariana Grande over the last couple of weeks. Immediately after people found out about Miller’s passing, Grande’s Instagram comments were flooded with the hashtag #ArianaKilledMacMiller, attributing his death not to his drug addiction, but to her ending the relationship and getting engaged to Pete Davidson. The absurdity of these accusations amazes me on so many levels: do they honestly think she could have saved him? Does what she wanted matter? Why do they think that they, as fans, are somehow suffering more than her? The whole ugly situation speaks to the way that we view troubled male artists and the women who love them. The people trolling Grande’s social media are failing to recognize that both she and Miller have lived complex lives, of which the small snippets that the public have seen cannot accurately represent. And instead of immediately pointing their fingers at the nearest woman, it’s time for them to question why they think it’s her responsibility to give him more than she is willing to, and whether it would even be enough.
Stay away from the dreaded allnighter.
great if sometimes embarrassing experience, try and seek it out. Life is hard. Never be afraid to stand up for yourself, what you want, and what you need. Take all the help that is offered because you deserve it. Be kind to yourself. Stay away from the dreaded all-nighter.
SOAPBOX COMMENT’S HOME OF WEEKLY RANTS
Newcastle University Image: NUSU
life & style
6
the courier
Thursday 20 September 2018
Don’t sweat it: long lasting makeup must haves
Incoming Beauty Editor Laura Buckle tells you how to keep your face fresher than freshers during those long nights out on the toon
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lthough Fresher’s Week may consist of late nights, brutal hangovers and socialising, there can still be some room for fabulous, long-lasting makeup looks which won’t budge from your 9am lecture to your 4am bedtime. Want to still look airbrushed on 3 hours sleep or want last night’s glitter cut-crease to still
lotion applied before foundation, an impressive primer can really help the longevity and improve coverage of your base product. Without breaking the bank, skincare brand The Ordinary have recently stunned the make-up world with their two
these ‘The Ordinary’ products may just save your skin (literally) during those late nights of Freshers.
look flawless? Well look no further because here’s your Freshers Week staples to keep you masking that hangover from day 1 of Freshers till day 7. 1.Face Primer Primer is often a hit and miss product amongst beauty lovers, like Marmite, it’s either a staple in your kit or something you can definitely live without. But, there is no denying the hype. Whether it be a cult high-end primer, like Benefit’s POREfessional (£27.50), or a drug-store staple, like L’Oreal’s Infallible Primer (£8.99), primers have rose to popularity in recent years and if you’re still not convinced, Freshers Week may be the perfect time to test-run a primer’s place in your make-up collection. Commonly known as a cream, balm or
Instagram: @themodelssecret
make-up primers: the High-Adherence Silicone Primer (£3.90) and the High-Spreadability Fluid Primer (£5.50). At a fraction of Benefit’s price, these ‘The Ordinary’ products may just save your skin (literally) during those late nights of Freshers. But, if face primer isn’t enough, combining your face primer with an eyeshadow primer may just be the key to keep that cut-crease or halo-eye in place all night long. Urban Decay are one of the front-
runners for eye-shadow primers with their most wanted Primer Potion (£17.50) but NYX are also a firm favourite with their Proof It! Waterproof primer (£6). 2.Finish Now, for many makeup lovers, a ‘full face’ isn’t complete without a spritz of their favourite setting spray. Whether it be Urban Decay’s infamous All Nighter Setting Spray (£24) or M.A.C’s Fix+ (£19), the setting spray game has truly grown with handfuls of cosmetics brands releasing their own spritz in recent years. Like a face-equivalent of hairspray, setting sprays aim to “fix” your makeup for hours and ensure all of your hard work stays put. So, if your rolling in at 6am and need to be up in two hours’ time for your 9am lecture, a good setting spray might just be your best friend to secure your makeup and hydrate your skin during Freshers Week. And if you’re watching that student loan closely, Rimmel’s Insta Fix & Go (£6.99) is a bank-friendly alternative to help prevent those unwanted under-eye bags from re-appearing. 3.Lips We’ve covered eyes, base and finish but what about lips? Well primer doesn’t end at lips either. After all those blue trebles in SOHO, your favourite lipstick is bound to wear off after a while. So, to make it from pre-drinks to the uber home, a primer like M.A.C’s Prep and Prime Lip Base (£14) may just be your new handbag essential to condition and retexturize your lips, with antioxidants and emollients, ready for your favourite lip product. And if you’re really in for a big night, think a
Wednesday night sports social, Rimmel’s ‘Lipstick Lock’ (£4.99) may be another product to add to your pre-freshers shopping list. Rather than a conditioning balm, this clear oil-based fluid is applied after the lip product to “lock” that lipstick
Instagram: @themodelssecret
in place all night long. So, whether you are pro-primer or a little sceptical, any form of the stuff may just be the key to unlock that rare ‘Fresher’s Week glow’ that nobody has ever heard of. Of course everyone’s skin varies but giving some of these products a whirl may really help your makeup last a week’s worth of hangovers from one of the craziest night scenes in the country.
Confront your fancy dress fears
Worried about looking like a clown during freshers at a fancy dress event? Nimra Rafique shares tips on how to create the best budget costumes
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ou`re by no means alone if you`ve tried to prepare for the unavoidable deluge of costume parties that university brings. However, it is impossible to predict your invitation to every party eventuality and there will undoubtedly come a time in the next years when you are desperately on the hunt for some incredibly niche outfit or other. Sports clubs have it all from the Greek statue to the Teletubbies
think about the reality of going out to a club dressed in a bodysuit
social. So here is your guide to dressing to impress whatever the criteria. The first question is where to shop. The best place to look first is eBay or other online second-hand apps such as Depop. The search engine simplifies the selection process and these retailers have loads to offer, as well as being generally quite well priced. If you can`t find anything online though, or you don`t have time to wait for it to arrive, then charity shops should be your next port of call. They are a gold mine of wacky garments, crazy props and cheap accessories. If you`re still unsuccessful then Primark or h&m also offer a rainbow of cheap coloured t-shirts and leggings ready to be ripped, sewn or shaped into your own fantastical creation. It`s also worth being resourceful. You may find that you don`t actually have to go too far for your costume, the essentials could already be waiting in your own cupboard, all they need is the addition of a sweet hair-do and some extra make-up artistry. As well as knowing where to shop, it it is also important that you know what you`re looking for. Always have a character or a vague idea in mind when you start the search. Just remember that
whilst it`s good to have an idea of your costume it`s also very important to remain flexible, as if you want to stick to your student budget you may have to make a few compromises. There are also a few common mistakes you should be warned about. It can seem so simple just to buy a relevant onesie but think about the reality of going out to a club dressed in a bodysuit the thickness of a blanket. I`m not saying don`t do it, but just be ready to sweat like never before. Long dresses are also dangerous as the hem will undoubtedly end up either wet, muddy, tripping you over or all three. So, you should also consider the practicality of your outfit. Another don`t of fancy dress is buying a complete look from the fancy dress shop, whilst they are low effort, they come at a high price and you might regret it later. It is also important to remember that fancy dress parties are supposed to be fun, so don`t make a half hearted effort or pick something boring. Be creative. If the theme is broad and allows for interpretation, then style outside the box. Along the lines of the guy who turned up to a ‘Dressed to Kill’ party, rocking the Domestos Bleach Germ-Kill look. After all these are the outfits that will help you find friends and memories.
Instagram: @butyourecurvy
Instagram: @ lmakeupcosmeticstore
the courier
7
life & style
Thursday 20 September 2018
The clubs you only go to in first year Learn from yours mistakes: or let Phoebe Fielder our Lifestyle Editor tell you how not to make them
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uring Freshers you will find yourself in a lot of bars and night clubs that frankly, you regret ever entering. Not to worry, this happens to all of us. Below I will be listing the places, we have all been in and don’t want to be in, and when you manage to get through freshers week and your liver has recovered, you will find places you prefer to be in. We all do.
Sinners- There is one thing we all love and will always love about this place, the cage you get to climb into and dance in.
here, as does the very handsome Promoter. . . but the atmosphere in here is a little rough and not for everyone. That and there are only so many times one can tolerate having their bottom patted. Sinners- There is one thing we all love and will always love about this place, the cage you get to climb into and dance in. And when you climb into that cadge imagining you will look a little like Christina Aguilera in Burlesque, sadly the 5 rugby lads who also climb in with dreams of becoming a Gigolo are cramping your style, as well as your entire body. Eventually the bouncer must pull you
Tup Tup Palace - So this place will probably be one of your event nights, and it is a great place to bump into people, but it tends to be a little pricey, ram packed, and the dance floor doesn’t give you much space to show off any of your moves. You find yourself able to move up and down. . . and that’s about the extent of your personal space. I seem to remember in my fresher’s week it was full of people in pink hats. Tiger Tiger- As a fresher you will probably be here alot, alot. Multi floored, music of every variety, and Drag Queen DJs’ how could you get fed up of this place? Well usually because you go there, EVERY SINGLE NIGHT. Until you just can’t go there anymore. Popworld- Pretty sure everyone has one of these in their home towns or nearby, so you go there, a little home sick, looking for some stability, something old, familiar. You have high hopes of feeling at home, but sadly it is still the same horrible place, and all you feel is the same old disgust you felt at the Popworld back home, finding yourself repeat the same thing you say every time you cross the front door’ ‘I am not drunk enough for this’. The Empress- Amazing drink deals draw you
out one by one. Ouch. Flares- (personally I will always go here again and again) The old 80s cheese vibe is hysterical, the huge disco balls are amazing, but sometimes the over 40 couple snogging and dry humping in the corner combined with a DJ who is over fond of announcing, ‘STEVEN BROWNING HAS POPPED HIS CHERRY TONIGHT’ (who ‘Stevens’ friends have asked him to repeat to the entire club ) can push you away. So here we are, all bad experiences guaranteed, you have been warned.
Image: NUSU
Fresh new looks for freshers week Beauty Editor Nimra Rafique offers her affordable beauty advice for freshers week and beyond
Unsplash: Jazmin Quaynor
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resher’s week is upon us, full of activities and events for everyone to enjoy. It gives you a chance to try something new, meet new people, or maybe join a society. It’s a time full of first impressions, so here’s some tips on
There’s nothing worse than patchy foundation or a muddy contour.
how to make you not just look your best, but also make you feel your best. When it comes to makeup if you have a flawless base all is well, it’s what forms your look. There’s nothing worse than patchy foundation or a muddy contour. The first piece of advice: less is more. Avoid going straight in with a lot of product, apply a light layer of foundation all over your face to even out your skin and then apply extra product only on areas of your face that need extra coverage. This will leave you with a flawless base without
making it cakey. The second piece of advice: cream products are your best friend. Try using a cream bronzer before or instead of a powder bronzer. Cream bronzers can be easily blended into your skin to give you a natural, yet defined look. Peaches and Cream’s cream bronzer will do exactly this, despite its affordable price it gives high end results. You might not put much consideration into picking a mascara, but one thing I’ve learnt is that waterproof mascara does more than just prevent your mascara from running. After using an eyelash curler apply waterproof mascara, this helps keep your eyelashes stay curled for a longer period of time compared to just using a normal mascara. Ditch irritating false lashes and use this easy trick, your natural lashes will keep their curl all day. There are many drugstore waterproof mascaras at good prices, such as Maybelline Lash Sensational or Maybelline Great Lash. Now, makeup is fun and all, but don’t forget you must also remove it properly and clean your skin regularly. Skincare is essential, it creates a clean surface ready for makeup. Skincare allows for easy makeup application, if your skin is clean and prepped your makeup will go on and look much
better. As well as just removing your makeup, you should exfoliate your face. By exfoliating your skin, it gets rid of dirt, dead skin and remaining makeup that may have been left on your skin. You don’t want to begin the academic year with a horrible breakout, so make
Exfoliating your skin gets rid of remaining makeup, you don’t want to begin the academic year with a horrible breakout
sure to take care of your skin. St Ives exfoliating scrub is a good product that can be found at your local drugstore for a great price, it helps remove surface oil and dirt, which will help prevent blemishes and blackheads.
Scrimp or spend?
In the world of the student there are many ways to tighten the purse strings, but according to Editor Louise Hall, there are some things that just can’t afford to be replaced...
Scrimp
Rice: Any types of dry foods like rice and pasta should always be bought on a budget. Morrisons and Asda offer savers options that are as low as 30p for a pack of spaghetti, and with products like these you are just paying for the fancy packaging when you buy more expensive versions. Cleaning Products: Similar to rice and pasta, supermarkets pretty much always offer really cheap simply packaged versions of cleaning products.They work just the same and who does enough cleaning in a student house to be spending alot of money on these anyway. Canned things: There is one exception to this listed in the spend isle, but generally you can always get really cheap canned veg, tomatoes beans and things and not know the difference. Always buy coconut milk from the international food isle because for some reason its cheaper there. Stuffing: While as a student you can’t often knock up a roast on a Sunday night, Morrisons 15p stuffing add’s a certain homliness to any meal, and leftovers are banging in sandwiches. Vegetables: More and more supermarkets have started selling non-perfect veg for cheaper prices and I literally can’t see any reason why a student wouldn’t take advantage. Mixer: Substitute your Coke for a cheap Cherryadeand your pre’s just got £1.50 less expensive. Alcohol: The only item in both sections. Cheap alcohol is great to save money if you can stomach the awful awful hangover. Fashion: Get yourself out of Topshop and into the massive Primark on Northumberland Street. Dry hair shampoo: This stuff is seriously expensive for what it is and Wilkinsons do a great really cheap option for one whole english pound.
Spend:
Tea bags: Don’t get stuck away from home without a decent cup of tea, it seriously crushes the soul after you’ve had a long day and all you have to drink is murky bag water. Gravy: Maybe I’m a bit biased on this one because I’m from Yorkshire but I really think it’s worthwile to invest in a good gravy. There’s nothing worse than getting excited to eat some hearty mash potato and then runing it all with a thin tasteless gravy. Bin Bags: I have done this so many times. I repeat, so, many, times. For the love of god don’t buy cheap binbags. It’s so tempting while you’re in Tesco and all the others cost £2 up. But there is a reason, and that reason is they actually work. It might seem like you’re doing your bank balance a favour, but you’re actually screwing future you over more than you could ever imagine. When you’re not covered in 3 week old student rubbish you will thank me. Milk Alternatives: I don’t drink these but have heard from friends that you gotta go branded on this front. Cool Original Doritos: Maggie Elstob, AU Officer of the Student Union testifies to the fact that there is no other tortilla chip that can rival the humble cool original. Ketchup: No matter what your mam says, it just doesn’t taste right. Beans: The one exception from canned food savings. Something about cheap beans just tastes inherently... cheap. Soup: Heinz chicken noodle is the only way to go. Don’t even get me started on tomato substitutes. Alcohol: Third years, invest in your alcohol, it will do you and your dissertation alot of favours. Ham/ Sandwich fillings: I don’t know what the hell is in those weird watery wafer thin ham packets, I just know I don’t want to eat it. Makeup: Treat your face to a little bit of self care. Pillows/Blankets: When you’re stuck at uni in the winter months with no heating there’s nothing better than a snuggly blanket to replace the love of your family. Toilet roll: Same issue as bin bags. Different problem. Toothpaste: I can’t really explain this one I just can’t find it within me to trust something that isn’t Colegate.
culture The must see gems of geordie-land
the courier
8
Thursday 20 September 2018
Incoming Culture Editor Carys Rose-Thomas provides first hand insight into the hidden cultural hotspots in Newcastle
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he North-East is home of many notable cultural landmarks such as the Baltic, Sage and Angel of the North. However, there are some other lesser known cultural gems to be found in The Toon. Behold, your Marauders Map of Newcastle’s Culture. 1) Star & Shadow Cinema This independent community cinema and arts space has just relocated to a brand spanking new location by City Stadium Park in Ousebun this summer. Not only is Star and Shadow a cinema, they also have a bar, gallery space and hold gigs. Perhaps you and your pals should take a night off in Freshers and instead of having a movie night with 15 of you crowded round one laptop screen on someone’s singe bed, head down to Star and Shadow for an evening of funky filmy goodness. Star and Shadow can be found on Facebook at ‘Star and Shadow Cinema’ and on Twitter, @ StarAndShadow 2) Alphabetti Theatre Another venue which relocated recently, moving from New Bridge Street near Northumberland Street to St James Boulevard near Digi, is Alphabet Theatre. Alphabetti is a fantastic independent theatre in Newcastle which showcases and creates original work by emerging artists. They also run great courses for those interested in theatre such as their ‘WRITE SOMETHING’ workshops. With many shows having a pay what you feel entry, Alphabetti provides a nice place for poor lowly
students to go and still enjoy various cultural niceties such as comedy, theatre and music without worrying about the often crippling costs of tickets. Alphabetti can be found at www.alphabettitheatre. co.uk
Instagram: @carysroset
3) The Stand Comedy Club A venue which is probably more well-known than other venues is The Stand, home to Newcastle’s finest comedy shows. However when you’re floating through life in your university bubble, blissfully unaware of most of the world around you, it can
be easy not to spot venues even as notable as The Stand. Upon entering the club’s ground floor bar you are taken down stairs to a dimly lit basement awash with primary colours. The Stand really do know how to programme a venue, with every show having you in just as many pieces as the last one. A particular highlight which can be seen there are The Suggestibles, a comedy group who improvise sketches based on suggestions from the audience. They’re there the second Monday of every month, and are not one to be missed. The Stand can be found at www.thestand.co.uk 4) The Jazz Cafe If after a week of Freshers you’re sick and tired of boozing your way up and down Bigg Market, head down to the station and on Pink Lane you will find The Jazz Cafe. The price you pay for slightly more expensive booze is worth it for the atmosphere - not to mention the beautiful music which so often floats around the cafe. With relatively cheap ticket prices for gigs there usually somewhere in the region of £5-£10, it is a bargain deal for a nice, relaxing, completely un-fresherly evening of class, sophistication and some fantastic music. The Jazz Cafe can be found at jazzcafe-newcastle. co.uk 5) Keith’s Cafe You don’t even need to venture off campus to find little pockets of cultural gold. On campus itself we have the incredibly well-known Norther Stage, but there is also a lesser known venue, Keith’s Cafe in the Fine Art Building. The Cafe is open to all
students to use and though it acts as a regular cafe most of the time, it is also used to host events by art students and is a great place to meet like-minded creative folk. If you have a free hour on campus this week pop up there to see what it’s about, and
Image: Carys Rose Thomas
get yourself some nice, reasonably priced tea and cake while you’re at it (all profits go back into the uni’s art department). Sadly Keith’s Cafe isn’t on any social medias! You’ll just have to snoop it out for yourself.
Does music journalism need a
Feature Editor Ally Wilson reflects on the climate of music journalism in todays industry, and where it seems lacking
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bit of gritty honesty now; when was the last time you sat down and read a carefully considered review of an album by an artist you’ve never listened to before? Or a review of a gig by a band you’ve never heard of?
ALLY WILSON Ally Wilson was one of three Music Secttion Editors last year helping it win section of the year at the Student Media Awards. She is now the Couriers Feature Editor
And here’s another question; when was the last time you heard about some beef between two artists and read an article about how they were possive-aggressively tweeting about each other or referencing each other in lyrics? Or about how this rapper is not in fact cheating on his girlfriend but has been seen with a model? I myself ended up reading an article the other day about Lenny Kravitz’s new toothpaste enterprise, and I found myself caring less about it after reading it than I did before. News about music seems to be diminishing into the same sludgy celebrity naming and shaming which blights the front pages of our tabloids and usually end up in somebody or other getting sued and having to pay a large fine to an angry A-Lister. What used to be an interesting and informed insight into new and exciting musical movements is becoming nothing more than the same Chinese whispers in the playground that used to get us called to the head teacher’s office. Why is it that we can’t listen to a track without needing to know who the singer is dating and what drugs they’ve taken and how many speeding fines they’ve paid. I am very guilty of this crime and it often leads
to me enjoying and appreciating music less, whilst simultaneously missing out on new discoveries because I for some reason think that finding out if that necklace Taylor Swift is wearing in her latest video has something to do with her relationship with Tom Hiddleston is more important. Music journalism is important, it’s not just a chance for someone to rant about what they do and don’t like, it’s about opening debate and introducing new genres and movements to people who otherwise might not come across them. It’s about offering both praise and scrutiny to bands about their work, which they need, just as any artist, chef or writer needs in order to improve it. Without us, who would they have to please? Why should they even try? And the more that is written and read about their flamboyant personal lives
I implore you this year at uni, listen to music, read music journalism, write music journalism, not just at the Courier but anywhere you can
rather than their music just gives them a reason not to. So I implore you this year at uni, listen to music, read music journalism, write music journalism, not just in The Courier, but anywhere you can find it, and trade in those celebrity quarrels for some constructive criticism. Image: YouTube
Image: YouTube
the courier
9
culture
Thursday 20 September 2018
Are coming of age films realistic? Pre’s playlist Joe Holloran evaluates the portrayals of university life set up by some our favourite coming of age films
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reshers week has arrived. If going out every night revelling is not for you or if you’d like to spend at least one night during the week resting your head, then film is here to help. So, lets take a look at some of the University themed films from the last fiftyyears, in genres ranging from the absurd and slapstick to the poignant and perspective changing. Let’s start off with come classics from across the pond. The Americans are the kings of the Uni gross out films, going back to the great John Landis 1978 comedy Animal House staring the ultimate ‘frat-boy’ John Belushi. Animal House has had many spiritual successors over the years, but not have really reached its height. The late 90’s saw an explosion of cinematic juvenile antics. Films like the American Pie series grossed out audiences and generated many laughs along the way. The ‘fratsplosion’ genre reached a high (or low) point with 2000s Road Trip. Here Breckin Meyer and the genres’ King himself Seann William Scott (From every late 90’s teen comedy) leave the books behind and travel across the states to reunite with Meyer’s ex played by Amy Smart. The film
a remix?
ticks all the boxes first laid out in 1978 and does so with abandon. There are of course some more dramatic and ‘highbrow’ University films, most of which come from our own shores. History Boys (2006) based on the novel by Alan Bennet, shows the pressures and comradeship engendered by student life as a group of guys trying t o get into either Oxford or
TV: it’s all too much Harry Parsons laments that there may be a huge quantity in the TV out there, but it’s quality is often questionable
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he final straw came when I went to go and show my mum the hit US Drama “This is Us”. The show, which airs on NBC over their and More4 here has it’s Series 1 boxset sitting ready on Amazon Prime. This meant I had to go far into the delves of the smart box that sits next to my television to show her the first episode. When she realised that it was Amazon that were delivering this service it took me several minutes to explain to my mother that the same people that we buy extension leads on one day delivery from, were also now the hosts of popular US dramas that that girl at your work says “you just
When was the last time somebody you know turned round to you and said “Have you watched [insert name of TV series you definitely meant to start watching but never actually did]?!”?
Image: Unsplash: Edward Cisneros
Cambridge by completing bizarre tasks. 2006 also brought us Starter For 10 by Tom Vaughan, about a group of students – led by a young James McAvoy- competing on University Challenge. Both films are distinctly British in the humour but also have moments of pathos lacking in their Yankee counter-parts. The 2000 film Wonder Boys staring Michael Douglas and Toby Maguire flips the script and shows academic life from the perspective of a creative writing professor going through personal and professional turmoil. While the film may not be relatable right now, it does remind us that our professor, as knowledgeable, and intimidating as they may seem were once like us, young, ambitious & (hopefully) successful. But, as the film shows, we really don’t know what goes on once the PowerPoint is over. While watching these movies remember that none of them is a true representation of university life. There is no ‘correct’ way to be a fresher, student or even person, so don’t let these films make you feel like you have to change. Whatever emotions you’re are feeling going into your life here at Newcastle University you can find a film to relate to and get you ready for the journey of a lifetime. Film can also be a great distraction from the pressures of Uni life, so keep an eye on The Courier during your time here to learn about new features and past classics that can take you away, even if only for a few hours. Images: YouTube
have to watch”. I hadn’t really thought about it much but her confusion was by no means unfounded. There are too many places to watch television. But with that a bigger problem arises. There’s too much television altogether. When was the last time somebody you know turned round to you and said “Have you watched [insert name of TV series you definitely meant to start watching but never actually did]?!”? It was probably in the last week. We’ve all had the conversation where we pretend to act like we will watch Hulu/Channel 4’s ‘Handmaid’s Tale’ but we know that we won’t watch it if we haven’t started already. But you’re just as bad, the previous week
you said to a different friend that they really should get round to watching “Mr Robot” and they probably lied and told you that they’d already watched it and “absolutely loved” it. Whether it is Riverdale or Stranger Things, Handmaid’s Tale or The Bodyguard, Westworld or Game of Thrones it has all become too much. It is now pretty much impossible to watch it all. When scrolling through Netflix you’ll see Jason Bateman’s “Ozark” advertised and, much like Amazon Prime’s “Goliath”, you won’t have watched it. Because I am pretty certain nobody has. I am almost certain that not one person has clicked yes to the self-described “legal drama about a man (Billy Bob Thornton) who spends more time in a bar than in the courtroom”. There always has been this much television; just never so high budget, never with so many big names, never so just the thought of thing you ‘might’ watch. Therefore the biggest victim of all of this? Trash TV. Channel 5 recently announcing the end of Big Brother, for better or worse, is a sign of things to come. People no longer want to tune in to ‘real-life’ daily television shows (with notable exceptions *ahem* ‘Love Island’) which suck up an hour of their time every single day. If this trend continues, where we all desperately have to watch the latest episode of ‘Designated Survivor’ instead of just turning on the tele box and seeing what’s on true trash TV casualties will arise. Golden televisual gems like Bargain Hunt and Homes Under The Hammer will disappear out of your TV schedule at the expense of the latest pretentious nonsense Netflix about a doctor gone rogue in 1920’s Finland or something like that. The next year is going to be a busy one for you and for those pesky people that make all that “great” television. There isn’t really a solution to the problem of not being able to watch it all other than to just ignore every conversation you have about it, nod along, pretend you’ve watched it and carry on spending your afternoons watching reruns of Come Dine With Me on Channel 4+1. That being said you really just have to watch This Is Us. It’s Incredible.
Our Music Editors list their must have tracks for the perfect pre’s for freshers week and beyond.
Charlotte: If you’re ready for a night of 80s inspired disco tunes like the ones often found at Powerhouse or Flares, starting off with St Vincent’s ‘Fast Slow Disco’ never hurt anybody. The up-tempo update to the ballad from her latest album, Masseduction, gives an irresistible thumping beat and new layer of pop fun to the track. Heralded by fans as a “gay disco dream”, let the chanting of the chorus take you away to a place where you can let loose and dance to death...or, maybe, just until your feet hurt and the takeaway calls your name. ‘The Less I Know The Better’ is undoubtedly one of Tame Impala’s biggest tunes, and can regularly be heard at Newcastle’s finest indie night, Rebel Thursday’s. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t still deserve a spin at pre-drinks, whilst you’re getting ready or just any other time you need a groovy pick me up. With synthpop vibes and surprisingly woeful lyrics, Tame Impala have crafted a song that never fails to get my head bopping. Recognisable from the first seconds, it’s guaranteed to get you and your mates in the mood to party. Who can resist a good indie banger? Rory: Swingers – Sister Sledge – ‘Lost In Music (Dimitri From Paris Remix)’ This seven minute wonder encapsulates the popular night in a song. I hear the classic every time I go. Alongside ‘Space Cowboy’ and other disco staples it gets played in the hours before the Grey’s night club gives way to dance music later on in the night. If you’re prepping for a packed night on Swingers Terrace then this is the perfect way to get in the mood. Cosmic Ballroom – Oxia – ‘Domino’ Cosmic Ballroom, bedrock of Newcastle’s underground music, is probably somewhere you’ll hear about in freshers. It’s always nice to hear something you know amidst what can sometimes be pretty heavy and unfamiliar house. So it’s worth getting used to this staple because you’ll definitely hear this amidst the glitter and two steps. Jess: I’ve been a student for three freshers’ weeks at two different universities. All three times, I’ve been down with freshers’ flu. I can’t win. In case you’re struck with the same ill fortune, here are some chilled nu-jazz tunes for your shivery, feverish ears. They’ll also work a treat if you just want a quiet night in. Louis Cole - ‘Things’: Louis Cole’s latest album, released earlier this year, is one of my favourites for the year so far. As well as ‘Things’ being a damn good single, it’s a good sampler for the album’s more intimate tracks. It starts off with gorgeously simple melodies and bare-bones drum machines, building into a string-laden wall of reverb and just enough lingering dissonance to keep you hooked. Lovely. BadBadNotGood - ‘Confessions’: This track does make a confession of sorts: it unfolds itself, before folding right back where it began. It starts off sparse, getting gradually more syncopated and complex. Leland Whitty on sax is exquisitely stirring, shining over a dialogue of shimmering piano chords and soulful bass. It truly takes you on a journey - so, if you’re sitting at home, you could most certainly do worse.
Image: Wikimedia Commons
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The who’s who of freshers crew
Thursday 20 September 2018
During freshers there will be over 450 volunteers in and around campus with the sole purpose of making sure you have the absolute best week possible. They will all be wearing garish tshirts like some kind of colour coded cult. Check out this page to figure out who’s who and more importantly what they can help you with during the week.
Crew
You’ll see these guys and gals around all week; they’ll help you move in and they’ll take you on activities. They are full of energy and they’re dedicated to making sure you have a week to remember! Where you can find them: literally everywhere.
Chief Drivers
Supervisors
Each Supervisor looks after 15 Crew who are decked out in the Supervisor’s choice of fancy dress. Hand-picked for their knowledge, enthusiasm and reliability. Where you can find them: there’s 27 so you can’t miss them; they’re probably dancing somewhere.
Sabbs
These guys co-ordinate transport for our whole week. They’ve been around since Freshers’ Week began and they make sure our minibuses and drivers get to you on time. Where you can find them: in the Drivers’ tent in The Forum (where the big heads are).
Your 6 elected officers will be around all week meeting as many of you as possible. They will be the face of the union all year, ensuring you make the most of your time here at Newcastle. Where you can find them: at their desks in the union, giving induction talks & at the sports hall during Clubs & Societies Fair.
Film crew are here to document your Freshers’ Week. They’ll be armed with cameras and microphones both day and night so be sure to give them a wave when you see them! Where you can find them: all over - filming and photographing every aspect of your week.
This lot are vital to the week, taking you to all the exciting activities, night-time events and then home again after for free! Where you can find them: in a minibus; chauffeuring you to night-time events or day-time activities.
Film crew
Drivers
Chiefs
Freshers’ Week experts: any question you have they can answer it. They work closely with the organisers behind the scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly. Where you can find them: their hub is the ‘Info Garden’ outside the main entrance to the Students’ Union.
Organisers
These 4 have spent the whole summer planning your Freshers’ Week with everything from daytime activities to DJ sets to make sure you get the most out of your wristband. Where you can find them: frantically running around campus with their radios to their ears.
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Sunday
Starting the week as we mean to go on, we’ve gone big. From 6pm, our street food village will offer cuisine from around the world, with two huge well-known acts later on. First up, we have electronic music duo Cliq (‘Wavey’), followed by none other than Sigala (‘Lullaby’, ‘Sweet Lovin’).
Alternative event Boat Tour
Grab the chance to see the sights of Newcastle, and do it all along the river Tyne! Passing by the iconic bridges, the Sage Arena and much more, this is an experience like no other. And if that wasn’t enough, there will be a live DJ playing your favourite tunes to have a great time on board too.
Cinema Trip
Ease your way into the new city by seeing one of the latest films at the local cinema. And if you’re feeling a bit nervous about making new friends, think of this as a great talking point to break the ice!
Thursday 20 September 2018
Freshtival 2018: N Monday Tuesday
This will be your night on paper. With a special guest appearance from a huge name at Tiger Tiger, wristband holders will have exclusive access to the entirety of The Gate and all their bars, clubs and even some restaurants. Including a silent disco, live music from Jerome Price and the chance to try your hand in a casino, let’s see how much you can fit into one night.
Alternative event Formal Dinner
It’s time to get suited and booted, and attend our very own Formal Dinner. Top class food will be provided by local cuisine and a local band providing the perfect atmosphere for fine dining.
Horse Racing
Feeling lucky? Or just fancy a day out watching some high action horse racing? Located at the city’s huge Gosforth racecourse, there will be up to 7 separate races to see, with food and drink available too.
Lose yourself to the underground vibe of Newcastle, literally. With 7 bars and clubs to discover, From Bierkeller, a German themed bar, to the live music in Irish Bar Filthy’s, there’s something for everyone on this Newcastle takeover.
Alternative event Lee Nelson
He’s hosted Live at the Apollo, sold out his extended live tour Lee Nelson, Serious Joker, and had over two million people watching BBC Three’s Lee Nelson’s Well Good Show; now it’s time for him to join you with a night of qwaliteeee jokes, games and
Lane 7
Come and visit Newcastle’s most stylish bowling complex, with retro décor. Fitted with 9 lanes (contrary to the name), pool and ping pong tables, this is a great chance to have a more laid back evening and win a game or two against your new uni mates.
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Thursday 20 September 2018
Night-time events Wednesday Thursday
Welcome to the Vortex, spanning the 2 largest clubs in Newcastle, we’re going to turn how you see the world on its head. Festivals are all about colour, and Vortex is bringing a lot of it to your Freshers Week. Drain your energy into the night while lighting up the sky with glitter and C02 cannons.
By now, you are well and truly a Newcastle student. So to celebrate, we’ve gone all out for our wristband holders by hosting an exclusive outdoor festival. There will be fairground rides for the thrill-seekers, food and drink vendors galore and live music!
Alternative event Alternative event Murder Mystery Bingo Revolution
You may have an idea of what a bingo night is usually like, but this is nothing like you’ll ever have seen before. Literally revolutionising this traditional event, there will be a host comedian to keep you entertained throughout. Accompanied by some fun extras alongside the bingo, you will come away wanting more, and hopefully a prize!
Get your thinking cap on, as we test your detective skills in this live murder mystery event. Interview the suspects, look at the evidence, and work together with your pals to find out who dunnit.
freshers
Friday
You’re probably ready to detox and regain all that energy you’ve spent during the week, so here’s the chance to do just that. Kick back with our outdoor cinema, relax those muscles with free massages, or meet some weird and wonderful animals at our creatures encounter experience!
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Thursday 20 September 2018
Have fun without having a hangover
Charlotte Boulton proves that having fun at freshers doesn’t necessarily only revolve around downing pints and drinking games.
F
or some people, Freshers Week is all about the drinking games, trying a new club every night and getting their hands on three trebs for a fiver. If you’re tired of going out, fancy something different or simply don’t drink, Freshers is still for you! You don’t need to drink or head out every night to have fun, but it can be daunting thinking of alternative activities to get stuck in with. Here’s a few ideas to make the most of your arrival in Newcastle, minus the hangovers.
Check out events in the city! Not everything in Newcastle is geared towards the party culture, and we are home to some amazing events and venues
1.Go to the Clubs and Societies Fair! Held in the Sports Hall Sunday to Tuesday, 11am-4pm, this is the perfect place to check out all the opportunities student clubs and societies have to offer. You can pick up plenty of freebies and you’re sure to find a society that interests you. Plus, you can sign up and try out their taster events later in the week to keep you busy all week long! The stalls are manned by friendly faces and are a great place to meet likeminded people who could be your friends well beyond Freshers Week. 2.Take your pick of daytime activities. If you have a Freshers Week wristband, there are tons of activities offered that don’t involve drinking; from grub crawls and laser tag, to beach trips and
bowling, you can’t go wrong. Or if you’ve not got a wristband, ask around your accommodation or induction lectures for anyone that fancies exploring the city with you on the cheap. I always recommend the BALTIC gallery just on the Quayside for its free entry, amazing views from their viewing platform and the perfect gift shop to wander through.
3.Check out events in the city! Not everything in Newcastle is geared towards the party culture, and we are home to some amazing events and venues that don’t require a drop of alcohol. Get to know local cinema with the Tyneside Cinema’s season of North East creations or join one of the bus tours around the city. It might seem cheesy but getting to know your new home sooner rather than later is a great way to help you settle in! The list of cool
Most importantly, don’t fall into the fear of being the only one wanting to take Freshers easy and feel pressured to join in the drinking
things to do goes on: watch amateur theatre and comedy nights at Alphabetti Theatre, scope out student discounts at restaurants in The Gate, head on an Eldon Square shopping spree or treat yourself to a cuddle in one of the local cat cafes… Most importantly, don’t fall into the fear of being the only one wanting to take Freshers easy and feel pressured to join in the drinking. There’s no point pushing yourself to go out 6 nights in a row or drink a lot if you’re not feeling it. There’s so much more to Newcastle than Geordie Shore would have you believe, so don’t be afraid to seek it out – sober.
If you’re not drinking make the most of the daytime activities Images: NUSU
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Thursday 20 September 2018
Freshtival 2018: Daytime activites
Monday Angel of the North: 11:00, 16:15 Aquariam: 12:15 Aspers Poker Tournament: 14:00 Bathbomb making: 10:30, 15:30 Battle Archery: 12:15 Battlezone Lazer: 13:45, 14:30 Beach trip with Fish and Chips: 14:30 Beamish Wild: 14:15 Beer Goggle Football: 14:15 Body Balance: 15:30 Bouldering: 14:30 Bubble Football: 12:15, 14:15, 15:15 Cinema Trip: 13:15, 15:00 Cocktail Training: 11:30, 15:30, 17:30 Coffee Tasting: 13:30 Crazy Golf: 14:15 Discovery Museum: 14:30 Durham Trip: 14:15 Eldon Grub Crawl: 14:30, 16:30 Eldon Leisure: Ten Pin Bowling:12:00, 15:00 Escape Key: 11:30, 15:30, 17:30 Food Nation: 14:15 Go Ape: 13:15 Grub Crawl: Jesmond Grub Crawl: 15:00 Grub Crawl: The Gate: 13:00, 15:00 Hancock Museum: 12:15, 14:15 Hot Pod Yoga: 14:45 Ice Skating: 13:00 IKEA/Metrocentre: 15:30 InflateSpace: 11:15, 13:15 Jump 360: 11:15, 13:15 Kayaking and Paddleboarding: 11:15, 14:15 Meditation for stress and relaxation: 12:30, Mr Mulligans Space Golf: 11:00, 14:30, 17:30 Newcastle Castle Visit: 14:00
Indoor Activities Trips Sports and Outdoor Activities Food and Drink
Ouseburn Farm: 14:15 Paintballing:11:15, 13:15,15:15 Parkland Gold Course: Driving Range: 13:00, 14.30 Pets Corner: 14:00 Pots and Pancakes: 14:00 Quad Biking and Mud-buggying: 12:00, 14,00, 16:00 Redhouse BBQ, Beer and Brewery Tour: 15:30 Salsa Classes: 15:30, 17:00 Sausage Making: 14:00 Spot White: 12:30, 14:30, 16:30 St James Park Tour: 13:30 Stack: 15:15 Stu Brew Tour: 10:45, 14:45 Tea Tasting and Vegan Cake: 14:45 Toon Food: Antler: 12:00, 16:00 Toon Food: Fat Hippo: 13:30, 14:30 Toon Food: Holy Hobo: 14:30 Toon Food: Kafeneon: 14:30 Toon Food: Longhorns: 14:00, 16:00 Toon Food: North Terrace: 15:15 Toon Food: Purple Bear: 12:15, 15.15 Toon Food: Tapas Tasting: 14.30, 15:30, 16:30 Toon Food: Zapatista:14:00, 16:00 Town Mouse: Real Ale Tasting: 14:00 Vertigo: 14.30, 15:30 Victoria Tunnels: 14:45
Wednesday
Aerial Yoga: 12:30, 14:30 Angel of the North: 11:00, 13:30, 16:15 Aquarium: 12:45 Aspers Poker Tournament: 14:00 Bathbomb Making: 10:30, 13:30, 15:30 Battle Archery: 12:15, 13:15 Battlezone Laser: 13:00, 13:45, 14:30 BBC Tour: 12:45, 14:45 Beach Trip with Fish and Chips: 14:30, 15:30 Beamish Wild: 14:15 Beer Goggle Football: 14:15 Belong by GAME: 14:30 Body Balance: 15:30 Bouldering: 14:30 Bubble Football: 12:15, 13:15, 14:15, 15:15 Catpawcino: 13:30, 16:30 Cinema Trip: 13:15, 15:00 Cocktail Training: 11:30, 13:30, 15:30, 17:30 Coffee Tasting: 13:30 Crazy Golf: 14:15 Discovery Museum: 14:30 Dog ‘n’ Scone: 12:30, 14:30, 16:30 Durham Trip: 14:15 Eldon Grub Crawl: 14:30, 16:30 Eldon Leisure: Ten Pin Bowling: 12:00, 13:00, 15:00 Escape Key: 11:30, 13:30, 15:30, 17:30 Ghost Tour: 18:15 Go Ape: 11:15, 13:15 Grub Crawl: Jesmond Grub Crawl: 15:00 Grub Crawl: The Gate: 13:00, 15:00, 17:00 Hancock Museum: 12:15, 14:15 Hot Pod Yoga: 14:45 Ice Skating: 13:00 IKEA/Metro Centre: 15:30 InflateSpace: 10:15, 11:45, 13:15, 15:15 Jump 360: 10:15, 11:45, 13:15, 15:15 Kayaking and Paddleboarding: 11:15, 14:15 Laing Art Gallery: 15:30 Monument Tour: 12:45, 13:15, 13:45, 14:15, 14:45, 15:15 Mr Mulligans Space Golf: 11:00, 14:30, 17:30
Newcastle Castle Visit: 14:00 Ouseburn Farm: 14:15 Paintballing: 11:15, 13:15, 15:15 Parkland Golf Course: Driving Range: 13:00, 14:30 Pets Corner: 14:00 Pots and Pancakes: 14:30 Quad Biking and Mud Buggying: 12:00,14:00, 16:00 Redhouse BBQ, Beer and Brewery Tour: 15:30 Salsa Classes: 15:30, 17:00 Sausage Making: 14:00 Sightseeing Bus Tour: 12:45, 13:45, 14:45, 15:45 Spot White: 12:30, 14:30, 16:30 St James’ Park Tours: 11:00, 15:30 Stack: 15:15 Stu Brew Tour: 10:45, 13:45, 14:45 Tennis Lesson: 10:45 Toon Food: Antler: 12:00, 16:00 Toon Food: Fat Hippo: 13:30, 14:30 Toon Food: Holy Hobo: 14:30 Toon Food: Kafeneon: 14:30 Toon Food: Longhorns: 14:00, 16:00 Toon Food: North Terrace: 15:15 Toon Food: Purple Bear: 12:15, 15:15 Toon Food: Tapas Tasting: 14:30, 15:30, 16:30 Toon Food: Zapatista: 14:00, 16:00 Town Mouse: Real Ale Tasting: 14:00 Vegan Toon Food: 14:45 Vertigo: 14:30, 15:30 Victoria Tunnels: 14:45
Tuesday
Angel of the North: 11:00, 13:30, 16:15 Aquarium: 12:15 Archery: 12:30 13:30, 14:30, 15:30 Aspers Poker Tournament: 14:00 Bathbomb Making: 13:30, 15:30 Battle Archery: 12:15, 13:15 Battlezone Laser: 13:45, 14:30 BBC Tour: 12:45, 14:45 Beach Trip with Fish and Chips: 14:30 Beamish Wild: 15:15 Beer Goggle Football: 14:15 Body Balance: 15:30 Bouldering: 14:30 Bubble Football: 12:15, 13:15, 14:15, 15:15 Catpawcino: 13:30, 16:30 Cinema Trip: 13:15, 15:00 Cocktail Training: 11:30, 13:30, 15:30, 17:30 Coffee Tasting: 13:30 Crazy Golf: 14:15 Discovery Museum: 14:30 Dog ‘n’ Scone: 12:30, 14:30, 16:30 Durham Trip: 14:15 Eldon Grub Crawl: 14:30, 16:30 Eldon Leisure: Ten Pin Bowling: 12:00, 13:00, 15:00 Escape Key: 11:30 13:30 15:30, 17:30 Ghost Tour: 18:15 Go Ape: 13:15 Grub Crawl: Jesmond Grub Crawl: 15:00 Grub Crawl: The Gate: 13:00, 15:00 Hancock Museum: 12:15, 14:15 Hot Pod Yoga: 14:45 Ice Skating: 13:00 IKEA/Metro Centre: 15:30 InflateSpace: 10:15, 11:45, 13:15, 15:15 Jump 360: 10:15, 11:45, 13:15, 15:15 Kayaking and Paddleboarding: 11:15, 14:15
Laing Art Gallery:15:30 Meditation for Stress and Relaxation: 12:30 Monument Tour: 12:45, 13:15, 13:45, 14:15, 14:45, 15:15 Mr Mulligans Space Golf: 11:00, 14:30, 17:30 Newcastle Castle Visit: 14:00 Ouseburn Farm: 14:15 Paintballing: 11:15, 13:15, 15:15 Parkland Golf Course: Driving Range: 13:00, 14:30 Pets Corner: 14:00 Pots and Pancakes: 14:30 Quad Biking and Mud Buggying: 12:00, 14:00, 16:00 Redhouse BBQ, Beer and Brewery Tour: 15:30 Salsa Classes: 15:30, 17:00 Sausage Making: 14:00 Spot White: 12:30, 14:30, 16:30 Spot White: Poole Tournament: 17:30 St James’ Park Tour: 13:00 Stack: 15:15 Stu Brew Tour: 10:45, 13:45, 14:45 Sunderland Dog Races: 12:00 Tennis Lesson: 12:45, 13:45, 15:45 Toon Food: Antler: 12:00, 16:00 Toon Food: Fat Hippo: 13:30, 14:30, 15:30 Toon Food: Holy Hobo: 14:30 Toon Food: Kafeneon: 14:30 Toon Food: Longhorns: 14:00, 16:00 Toon Food: North Terrace: 15:15 Toon Food: Purple Bear: 12:15, 15:15 Toon Food: Tapas Tasting: 14:30, 15:30, 16:30 Toon Food: Zapatista: 14:00, 16:00 Town Mouse: Real Ale Tasting: 14:00 Vegan Toon Food 14:45 Vertigo 14:30 15:30 Victoria Tunnels: 14:45
Angel of the North: 11:00,13:30, 16:15 Aquarium: 12:45 Archery: 11:30, 12:00, 12:30, 13:00 Aspers Poker Tournament: 14:00 Baltic Tour: 12:00, 14:00, 15:30 Bathbomb Making: 15:30, 13:30, 10:30 Battle Archery: 12:15, 13:15 Battlezone Laser: 13:00, 13:45,14:30 Beach Trips and Fish and Chips: 14:30 Beamish Wild: 14:15 Beer Goggle Football: 14:15 Belong by GAME: 14:30 Body Balance: 15:30 Bouldering: 14:30 Bubble Football: 12:15, 13:15, 14:15, 15:15 Catpawcino: 13:30, 16:30 Cinema Trip: 13:15, 15:00 Cocktail Training: 11:30, 13:30, 15:30, 17:30 Coffee Tasting: 13:30 Crazy Golf: 14:15 Discovery Museum: 14:30 Dog ‘n’ Scone: 12:30, 14:30, 16:30 Durham Trip: 14:15 Eldon Grub Crawl: 14:30, 16:30 Eldon Leisure: Ten Pin Bowling: 12:00, 13:00, 15:00 Escape Key: 11:30, 13:30, 15:30, 17:30 IKEA/Metro Centre: 15:30 Go Ape: 11:15, 13:15 Grub Crawl: The Gate: 13:00, 15:00 Hancock Museum: 12:15, 14:15 Hot Pod Yoga: 14:45 Ice Skating: 13:00 InflateSpace: 11:15, 13:15 Jump 360: 11:15, 13:15 Kayaking and Paddleboarding: 11:15, 14:15 Laing Art Gallery: 15:30 Meditation for Stress and Relaxation: 12:30 Mr Mulligan’s Space Golf: 11:00, 14:30, 17:30 Newcastle Castle Visit: 14:00 Ouseburn Farm: 14:15 Paintballing: 11:15, 13:15, 15:15 Parkland Golf Course: Driving Range: 13:00,
14:30 Pets Corner: 14:00 Pots and Pancakes: 14:30 Quad Biking and Mud Buggying: 12:00, 14:00, 16:00 Redhouse BBQ, Beer and Brewery Tour: 15:30 Salsa Classes: 15:30, 17:00 Sausage Making: 14:00 Spot White: 12:30, 14:30, 16:30 Spot White: Poole Tournament: 17:30 St James’ Park: 11:00, 15:30 Stack: 15:15 Stu Brew Tour: 10:45, 13:45, 14:45 Tea Tasting and Vegan Cake: 14:45 Toon Food: Antler: 12:00, 16:00 Toon Food: Fat Hippo: 13:30, 14:30, 15:30 Toon Food: Holy Hobo: 14:30 Toon Food: Kafeneon: 14:30 Toon Food: Longhorns: 14:00, 16:00 Toon Food: North Terrace: 15:15 Toon Food: Purple Bear: 12:15, 15:15 Toon Food: Tapas Tasting: 14:30, 15:30, 16:30 Toon Food: Zapatista: 14:00, 16:00 Town Mouse: Real Ale Tasting: 14:00 Vertigo: 14:30, 15:30
Thursday
Sign up to activities in the stretch tent outside the Students Union
All activities are repeated in the afternoon so that whatever your timetable is during the week you can make it to whichever activity you want.
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Thursday 20 September 2018
NUSU Interviews: Welfare and Equality Officer NUSU’s resident self-care king Jack Green talks condoms, dogs and all things welfare in an interview with Louise Hall Would you like to state your name for the record? No comment.
[laughs]I see, it’s going to have to be bad cop tactics on this one. So, how have the first few months as Welfare officer been?
I’ve been working with nightline to maximize their budget this year allowing them to offer instant messaging from 8pm to 8am this year so that’s been a big win
Terrible. No it’s been good. It’s been interesting getting up to speed with all the projects going on at the union and university and I’m really looking forward to students starting soon. And what’s been your biggest achievement so far in the role? There’s a lot of background work that goes on over the summer to put things in place for the next year. So I’ve been working with nightline to maximize their budget this year allowing them to offer instant messaging from 8pm to 8am this year rather than 8pm till 12am so that’s been a big win. So casting your mind back before you were elected welfare officer, you ran a Greatest Showman themed campaign, where did the inspiration for that come from? I actually bought the costume for RAG week as we did circus master and lions for our RAG crew. It was lucky that the film became popular after because it meant I could wear the costume and jump on the hype so I could produce a cracking video that people would respond to. What are your top tips for self-care and welfare during fresher’s week?
Just make sure you reach out and get all the support you can as soon as you can
Any first years coming to Newcastle, just make sure you reach out and get all the support you can as soon as you can. It takes some time to go through the process and get it put in place so make
A vote for Jack Green is a vote for Puppy Days Image: NUSU
sure that if you’re entitled to, or require, support that you let the uni know as soon as possible. Make sure you get all the support you can because to make sure that you’ve got everything in place for more demanding times of the year like exams. You have a reputation around the union for being somewhat of a condom connoisseur, how many in total have you actually bought in the run up to freshers? That is a good question. So I recently purchased 5000 on behalf of the fresher’s week organizers, one for every fresher’s bag. Just as a nod to fresher’s to remember their sexual heath. A countless amount have been bought from my budget really, I want to make sure there’s enough sexual health provision for everyone at uni. Can you describe yourself in 3 words love island style? Fun, ambitious, friendly. Who is your least favourite sabbatical officer? All of them, I don’t think any of them have any redeeming features.
Soho is a cracking night out but my favourite club in the whole of Newcastle is Rustys. It’s right next to digital and has cracking music, drag queen dj’s, how can you not love it
Although you’re Welfare officer this year, you are known to love a good night out as president of RAG last year, what is your recommendation for the best night out in Newcastle? Soho is a cracking night out but my favourite club in the whole of Newcastle is Rustys. It’s right next to digital and has cracking music, drag queen dj’s, how can you not love it. What can we expect to see from you this year? You should see my face about this year doing outreach, I hope to go and speak to students about what changes they want to see at the university. My role is to gather views on wellbeing and equality and take them to the university and make change. So hopefully I can make some great positive change in regards to mental health provision and many other things.
Get bang for your buck by budgeting your uni life Steven Ross discusses how to make sure you’re not left with an empty bank balance when the thrill of freshers wears off
S
o, you’ve made it to university, all your hard wok has paid off and you can’t wait to be a fresher. However, some time between reading your acceptance email and moving into your student digs you probably realised that you have no idea how to make your student loan last an entire year. That’s a years’ worth of fabric softener, nights out and coffees, not to mention rent. So how does one budget effectively? Well, like this: Step 1: Know your worth. Make sure that you have an idea of how much money you will have access to in the coming year. You need to know the size of your loan (and bursary if you have one), any savings you have and if your parents will be giving you any money through the year. If you know all this, you have a total budget to work with. Step 2: Factor in the rent. Unless you go on an insane drinking bender to Amsterdam in your first term, then rent will be by far your biggest expendi-
ture, and it comes out of your account automatically. There’s no way around this one, you have to
Unless you go on an insane drinking bender to Amsterdam in your first term, then rent will be by far your biggest expenditure
pay it. Step 3: Break it down. Split the money you have left across the year, giving yourself a set budget for each month or week. It may seem surprisingly gen-
erous or depressingly small but, the following tips will help you stick to it. Step 4: Exploit freshers fair. This is a great opportunity to grab as much free stuff as possible; Dominoes often give fresher’s a free Pizza. The Christian Union may do a free barbecue lunch too. Keep your eye out for all the freebies and vouchers that you can get. Step 5: Buy in bulk. At some point you are going to have to start paying for food. When that sad day comes, bulk buy foods that are long lasting and filling, I’m talking about massive bags of pasta, rice, noodles, big boxes of crisps. Step 6: Buy cheap. Grainger market is the place to be for cheap food, stock up on meat and source a week’s worth of fruit and veg for a few quid. It’s also worth heading to the reduced section of supermarkets to find decent meals and sometimes booze, at a much lower cost.
Step 7: Keep scrimping. By this point deal hunting will be part of your DNA. However, you can
Bulk buy foods that are long lasting and filling, I’m talking about massive bags of pasta, rice, noodles, big boxes of crisps
keep saving using apps like UniDays, your student card and other loyalty cards, as well as a student railcard.
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Caring about Thursday 20 September 2018
consent Kelly South investigates why sexual consent is an important issue that should be at the forefront of every freshers mind
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ewcastle University added controversial, compulsory respect lectures last year for incoming students. This was delivered induction subject talks during freshers’ week. While some students and staff have spoken against these, it is evident that sexual assault is widespread on campuses. Charlotte Boulton, the Marginalised Genders Officer for 2018-19 said “the topic of consent during Freshers’ Week is crucial. Consent is vital for everybody to understand and practice.” Charlotte stressed that a focus on consent should continue throughout the academic year, as all students have the right to only engage in sexual acts without coercion or manipulation. It Happens Here and the Feminist Society are two groups at Newcastle outspoken about the importance of effective consent education, the eradication of rape culture which enables sexual violence, and most importantly that survivors of sexual abuse require access to resources ranging from counselling to prosecution advice. Georgia Corbett, President of It Happens Here, wants students to feel empowered to discuss their views on consent and know that there are peer support groups available during term time. Every instance of sexual assault has potential ramifications on victim’s wellbeing, education, and adjustment to university. When consent is violated during freshers’ week - whether this happens during a pub crawl, in a club, or occurs during lectures
- students can fear that Newcastle, or the university itself is a fundamentally unsafe environment. This year’s team of freshers’ week organisers are committed to ensuring that every student has a safe beginning to this new stage of their lives. One of the freshers’ week organisers, Sam Midwood, told The Courier that “In planning Freshers Week, we have taken all the steps possible to help educate new students about consent, with information in the lanyard as well as training all the Freshers Crew volunteers on the topic.” It shouldn’t be overlooked that many students are living independently from relatives for the first time in their lives: suddenly responsible for their own budgeting, cleaning, and cooking in addition to finding how to motivate themselves to spend their days in the Robbo writing essays - even when the cheering emanating from St James or the smells wafting from Grainger Market are impossibly tempting distractions. Women (particularly women of colour), disabled students, and LGBT students are all aware they have to consider the frequency of sexual assault when planning nights out in the Toon due to the fact many survivors experience victim blaming. The least Newcastle University can do is emphasise the importance of consent in all areas – every single student must learn that consent has to be freely given, when people are sober, and consent can be renegotiated or withdrawn at any time.
Dealing with drinking at uni Rebecca Johnson gives her top tips on how to drink safely and make the most of freshers week fun at the same time
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ongratulations getting into Newcastle Uni! The hard graft has paid off and you’ve got a place at a fantastic university. What better way to kick off your time at Newcastle then getting involved in the activities our fantastic Freshers Week organisers have to offer. It’ll come as no surprise that university students like a drink. Of course there’s nothing wrong with having a wee drink but it’s important to keep in mind how to drink safely to ensure a safe and fun time at Freshers 1. Plan to get home safe For most of you freshers this will be your first time in Newcastle, and it probably won’t feel as familiar as your hometown. Therefore it’s especially important before you start downing the vodka cokes to know how you’re going to get back to your accommodation. Whether you’re walking back with your new flatmates or hopping in a taxi, it’s important to have a safe route home. Remember, throughout Fresher’s Week there will be Fresher’s Crew dotted around the city to help make sure you get back safely. 2. Know your limits with alcohol When you’re at a pre’s with your new found mates, it’s important to be aware of your limits. If you know that you start to feel a little light headed after half a pint of lager and lime, it’s not the best idea to neck four vodka trebs consecutively. Don’t not drink, just be conscious of how much tolerance you have for alcohol. Additionally, it’s not a great idea to mix drinks. If you’re playing Ring of Fire and end up with a dirty drink consisting of a concoction of vodka, gin, beer and wine, it might be best to turn that down- which brings us on nicely to the next point... 3. Don’t be peer pressured Nobody is expecting you to drink more than you can handle or to drink at all if you don’t want to. If you feel like you don’t want that next drink (or any drink) - don’t! It’s entirely your decision as to what you have and don’t let anyone else tell you otherwise. You know what you can and can’t handle in terms of drinking.
4. Watch your drinks Always keep an eye on your drinks when you’re out and about. Although unlikely to happen, there’s still a possibility that drinks can be spiked. Just bear in mind that if you get a drink don’t leave it unattended and maybe cover the top of it with your hand as you dance manically to Come on Eileen. Fresher’s Week is all about having fun and making new pals as you start your university life. Of course enjoy as many of the opportunities of offer at Fresher’s, but keep in mind how to stay safe whilst drinking.
freshers
Big Chat: Volunteering in the Student Advice Centre Get great experience for your CV and help fellow students: the life of a volunteer in NUSU’s Student Advice Centre
Last years Student Adivce Centre Volunteers Image: NUSU Hi, would you like to introduce yourself? I’m Iona, I’ve just finished my master’s degree in international marketing and I’ve been at the Student Advice Centre for two years now. Would you be able to give an overview of what your role here at the Students’ Union is? My role as a volunteer changes each time I’m in. Sometimes it will be reception work, booking appointments, and taking phone calls from students. I also work on the marketing side, hosting stalls around certain themes like academic appeal season, housing week, loads of different things really. I’m currently the lead volunteer here, so within that I help to manage the team of volunteers that we have, organising socials with everyone in the office as well. So, every day is different really. And what made you want to get involved with this role? I thought it would be really good from a CV perspective because it covers so many different roles. You get admin skills, a lot of communication skills, teamwork, and there’s been a lot of opportunities for get into marketing, for example with the Courier and making videos for the Facebook page. You mentioned the social side of it. Would you say it’s like a kind of alternative society? Yeah definitely. The good thing about it is that it’s quite a small team so you get to everyone really well and you also get to know other people that work in the building because you work quite closely together. You just all end up becoming really good friends and going out for socials, nights out, different things like that. It’s a really friendly place to work. So do you think you would recommend signing up to be a volunteer to someone just starting university or people in second and third year? I’d recommend it to anyone really. It’s a really
good way to get to know the uni from a different perspective, and it’s a good way to help boost your CV because you only need to do a minimum of 3 hours a week. It’s really flexible around your exams because the team know that students have a lot of responsibilities and pressures. It’s a really flexible way to boost your CV. Why do you think your role as a volunteer in the advice centre is important? Alongside the advisors themselves what do you think you can bring to the team? Within the role it really helps to support them. They’re so busy giving advice to students and they don’t always get the time to run stalls at the companies fair or during housing week, so we can take that pressure off. We can also get the word out to students that we’re here to support them. It’s really just helping to do the smaller jobs that sometimes get forgotten. How did you get involved? I started as a summer volunteer about two years ago now. I saw it advertised on the NUSU website. I just applied through that and had an interview, and then I got the opportunity and there’s a really good training session that gets you comfortable with the role and you meet everyone else in the team as well. What do you think you’ve gained in the last three years being a student volunteer? I’ve gained quite a lot of skills, communication is a big one because you’re interacting with so many different students: international students, first years who are sometimes a bit more nervous, students doing PHDs. You’re interacting with such a wide variety of people that you really learn how to communicate, manage understanding, and also teamwork because you have to work really well with everyone else in the office. Applications to volunteer open on 22nd October
Do you need help or advice?
Student Advice Centre:
Free, confidential, independent and impartial service available to all current students. Separate from the University, the SAC offers a sympathetic listening ear, information, advice, assistance and representation on a wide range of student issues. Although we mainly advise on academic areas such as personal extenuating circumstances (PEC) and disciplinary issues, we can also provide support on personal queries, which are handled with complete discretion. student-advice-centre@newcastle.ac.uk // 0191 239 3979 // Ground Floor of Newcastle University Students Union
Welfare Officer:
Struggling with your workload or just need an understanding ear to talk to? My office is on the ground floor of NUSU Newcastle, behind reception in the Representation & Democracy office. I run an open-door policy, inviting any students to come in regarding any issues or just for a friendly chat! I’m often out on meetings so feel free to email me and schedule in an appointment. welfare.union@newcastle.ac.uk // Ground Floor of Newcastle University Students Union
Nightline: Drinking is often assumed to be an integral part of uni life Image: Wikimedia Commons
Nightline is our confidential and anonymous support service run by students for the benefit of students. Lines are open from 8pm – 8am every night during term time. Need someone to talk to about any issues or upsets, from missed deadlines to mental health struggles? Nightline is a safe place to talk about all your troubles or just a friendly ear to listen. www.nusu.co.uk/nightline// 0191 261 2905
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the courier
Thursday 20 September 2018
Get magical at Disney with Give It A Go
Give it a Go is an activities service run by the student union that offers discounted opportunities to give different and exciting things a try. Read a blog from one of last years participants in the Give it a Go Disney Trip to get a first hand insight into what its all about
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etting on a coach at 4 in the morning isn’t my idea of fun; neither is staying on that coach for 13 hours… but we were off to Disneyland, so who was I to complain! After a ridiculously long coach journey, and a ferry ride that involved preventing some group
“We were desperate to get into the Disney Village and soak up the atmosphere”
members from getting on completely the wrong bus after thinking they’d seen our coach driver (It definitely wasn’t Colin!), we finally arrived at our hotel. Dumping our bags we were desperate to get into the Disney Village and soak up the atmosphere. Looking in some of the shops, it was unbelievable how much Disney merchandise you could get. From glittery Minnie Mouse high tops, to humongous mugs emblazoned with different Disney characters, or the classic Mouse Ears – These shops were an adult’s paradise let alone a child’s! After getting kitted out with Mouse ears, we headed back to the hotel to get some sleep for what were going to be crazily busy days, Eating all the croissants and pain au chocolats we could, we set ourselves up for the day, eagerly
heading into Disney Village, excited to experience both the Disney Park and Studios. Walking into the park was magical and just like something straight from a film set. All the flowerbeds were perfectly manicured, the shop fronts like something from old school America, and of course right at the end of Main Street was the iconic magic castle. We all took a minute to take some perfectly Instagrammable pictures in the glorious sunshine, before excitedly heading off to enjoy some rides. Taking the advice of those who’d researched the different queue times, the tactical decision was made to go to the most popular rides before the park got too busy. Though Hyperspace Mountain and the Pirates of the Caribbean ride were both temporarily closed, we got to enjoy Thunder Mountain, Star Wars 3D and an Indiana Jones rollercoaster to name a few. After lunch there was an insanely uplifting parade including pirates and princesses. The song may have been stuck in our heads for the rest of the day, but it really put a smile on our faces. The best parade however the evening one, where floats carrying the Disney characters from the Princesses to Woody from Toy Story proceeded past us. Specifically arriving early to get the best seats in the house – front row, facing the magic castle – we got to see all the floats and brightly coloured characters dancing between them in their full glory. My only question is; how do I get to be in the car of
honour? Our second day was spent in the Disney studios enduring rides like the Tower of Terror!! To calm our nerves after some terrifying rides like the Rocking Rollercoaster and RC Racer, we decided to take a tram ride and experience the Studio Tour. Looking as the cars and sets used in different films was really interesting; but no one was prepared for the special effects section when a lorry set on fire, and the tram was nearly emerged in gallons of water (it was all intentional!). By far the highlight of the whole trip, however, was watching the evening light display and fireworks. After getting emotional at the blue planet presentation, it was time for the main event! With songs from the Lion King to Frozen it was every Disney fan’s paradise. It was incredible watching Mickey Mouse’s projection jump up and down the magic castle in the darkness, and then watch some of the best loved movies come to life, all whilst water fountains danced in the foreground. The SU light shows will always pale in comparison now! Setting off on our long journey back to Newcastle (and therefore reality!), reflecting over what we’d done the past few days was astonishing. We’d been to Disney with SU – something many of my friends were jealous of - met Disney princesses, faced our fears on rollercoasters, but most of all made new friends. Give It A Go, pulled out all the stops; I only hope they put it on again next year!
Newcastle Students vistied the Disney Castle during their visit Image: Unsplash: Cody Board
Go Volunteer Want to give something back or get someexperience for your CV? Go Volunteer is the place to be this year
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niversity isn’t just about lectures, grades or cramming for exams. It’s the perfect time to meet people from different cultures, try things you’ve never tried and polish up your employability skills in prep for the big, bad world. Go Volunteer are here to help you with all that with over 100 projects for you to get involved in. Whether you’re after a one-off volunteering experience or fancy something longer term, we’ll have a project to suit you.
The majority of our projects are student-led, which means there’s lots of opportunity to gain leadership skills for your CV.
This year, we’ve got lots of exciting projects for you to get stuck into around your studies. Stu Brew is Europe’s first studentrun microbrewery, and a social enterprise run by students. Volunteers are responsible for everything from recipe design, brewing, sales and label design, to sustainable waste management, marketing and business management. I.T. on the Move is a project that sees volunteers teaching older people how to perform basic tasks on the internet, like order their shopping or message family on Facebook. For the art-lovers amongst us, volunteers deliver one hour workshops in local primary schools in our Art into Schools project, giving children an opportunity to express their creativity and develop their art skills. Lessons are de-
signed around a famous artist and their art technique; such as Van Gogh and large brush strokes and Georges Seurat and pointillism. As well as our own projects such as the above, we work alongside a whole host of charities – both big and small – to make our community a better place. We work with The Albert Kennedy Trust, supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) young people aged 16-25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. We’re also spreading the girl power message with our female volunteer’s work with The Angelou Centre, who support Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and Refugee (BAMER) women across the North East region through social and creative activities. Whether you’re into coding, crime-prevention, theatre, music or art – we’ll be able to put you in touch with a project you’ll love. If you’re an independent thinker and fancy yourself as a bit of an innovator, you can also apply for one of our £1000 grants to develop a charity-based volunteering idea. Want to dive into virtual reality? We can make that happen. Want to try something outside of the box? We’ll support your idea. The majority of our projects are student-led, which means there’s lots of opportunity to gain leadership skills and put ‘project leader’ on your CV. We also offer Employability Workshops a few times a year, sharing our secrets and helping you enhance your understanding and practical application of the key skills employers are looking for. Check out nusu.co.uk/govolunteer for all our volunteering opportunities and follow our social media on @nusugovolunteer to get the first pick of all our newest opportunities.
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Thursday 20 September 2018
NUSU Interviews: Activities Officer
Sophie Mcdermott tells the Courier about what she plans to acomplish this year as the Activities Officer of the Students Union Hello! How are you feeling this morning? I’m feeling pretty good for this Friday morning actually. The suns out and I’m feeling pretty productive.
Great. So to start I just want to ask how the first few months as Activities officer have been? Absolutely incredible. Without a doubt a steep learning curve, but everything I expected and ten times more. It’s been really good fun organizing the freshers fair and putting into place my new inclusive society scheme. Its nice to feel like I’m leaving my mark on this year already.
“It’s been really good fun organizing the freshers fair and putting into place my new inclusive society scheme. Its nice to feel like I’m leaving my mark on this year already.” What has been your biggest achievement so far? Definitely inclusive society because that’s something completely original that I’ve created that will be available to all societies in September. So casting your mind back to before you started, where did your inspiration for your incredibles themed campaign come from? So if you’re at university right now I assume you’re of the generation that absolutely loved the incredibles when you were younger, so when I decided I was going to run at the end of my second year and the teaser trailer for the incredibles 2 came out and I realized it would be a great theme that I could have a lot of fun with. Was there like a lightbulb moment when you decided to run in the elections? I knew at the end of second year that I wanted to run for one of the roles, but when I got back in September and got elected onto the societies executive committee and after sitting on a few of these committee meetings realized that the role of activities officer was definitely for me.
Sophie was on the Societies Executive Committee in her second year Image: NUSU
So if you could go back and give yourself one piece
of advice as a fresher what would it be? Sign up for at least one club and at least one society, preferably two. Because at the end of the day these were always here I found my friends and managed to get myself out there a bit more. Who’s your least favorite sabbatical officer? Raff, because I should be president [laughs] joking, joking. Actually I think, hmm, probably Jack, because it seems like he spends his days ordering condoms and not much else. Totally a joke I know he does a lot. What would be your top 3 society recommendations? So, if I was going to pick three I probably couldn’t name them specifically but I’d definitely pick: one that was a volunteering society, because you get so much out of it, one that was course based, because you can find great support networks for your course, and probably one that was a bit crazy and different, to do something that you never thought you’d have done before. Something absolutely out there. Speaking of out there, what do you think is the strangest society that NUSU hosts? [pauses] that’s actually really hard. One society that really surprises people is the bee society and
“I knew at the end of second year that I wanted to run for one of the roles”
you have to be like no we actually do keep bees on the roof of the students union. They tend to think they just watch bee movie on repeat. Can you describe yourself in three words love island style? Hmm. None of the mean ones. Probably, bubbly, chatty and babe obviously. And what can we see from you in the upcoming year? Well hopefully all societies will sign up for my inclusive society scheme. But also from me you’ll be seeing the celebrating success society awards, the pride of Newcastle awards and grad ball. I promise I don’t just do awards though there will be freshers fair and refreshers fair to look out for.
Want to get involved in a society at Newcastle? NUSU has over 160 societies, check out nusu.ncl.ac.uk to see a full list of everything to get involved with , from Pole Dancing Society to Bee Society... Or try out one of the taster sessions listed below for a ‘try before you buy’ experience of a society membership Swing Dance 14:30-15:15 Pointe What: Fun FREE Swing Dance taster session - no experience or partner required! Learn an exciting partner dance and meet new people! When: Wednesday 3rd October, 19:30-20:30 Where: St. James URC Church Hall, Northumberland Rd, NE1 8JF
Dance
What: Come along to our free taster classes at the end of freshers week. There is NO commitment and NO sign up necessary, just the opportunity to see what we have to offer! All abilities welcome! When: Saturday 29th September 11:00-11:45 BodyCon and Limbering 11:45-12:30 Beginners Street 12:30-13:15 Advanced Street 13:15-14:00 Beginners Contemporary 14:00-14:45 Intermediate Contemporary 14:45-15:30 Advanced Contemporary 15:30-16:15 Beginners Jazz 16:15-17:00 Intermediate Jazz 17:00-17:45 Advanced Jazz Sunday 30th September 10:00-10:45 BodyCon and Limbering 10:45-11:30 Beginners Tap 11:30-12:15 Intermediate Tap 12:15-13:00 Advanced Tap 13:00-13:45 Lyrical 13:45-14:30 Musical Theatre
15:15-16:00 Beginners Ballet 16:00-16:45 Intermediate Ballet 16:45-17:30 Advanced Ballet Where: Top Floor of the Sports Centre
Wind Band
What: First rehearsal, you are required to bring their own instrument along (percussionists are an exception). When: Tuesday 2nd October, 17:00-18:30 Where: King’s Hall, Armstrong Building
Pole Dance
What: Try out a session with the Pole Dance society When: Wednesday 3rd October, 2:30-3:30 and 3:30-4:30 and Thursday 4th October, 5:30-6:30. Where:
Pilates
What: The session will involve introducing the different facets of Pilates, including stretching, balance, and muscle composition movements. The sessions are for anyone at any exercise level. The instructor will offer alternative moves for those with any kind of injury. It will be an exciting and hardworking class that will hopefully entice people to continue with Pilates. When: Friday 5th October, 18:00-19:00 Where: TBC
Get up and go with one of NUSUs’ societies Image: NUSU
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freshers
Make sure your voice is heard with NSR
Harry Parsons NSR Station Manager
I won’t be the first person to say it but saying “I’ve got a podcast” is basically 2018’s equivalent of saying “I’m in a band”. Well a radio show is basically
NSR is an award winning Studen Radio run by students for Students
like that but a whole lot better. Pretty much every 60 minutes during term time, between the hours of 9am and midnight, a different set of students, some on their own, some in a gaggle of about 20 of them, squeeze their way into the NSR studio and take control. They choose the music, they choose what to talk about, they choose the sport to talk about, the comedy to make, the artist to mock, the band to celebrate the song to shout about or the problem to try and solve. They do that and let the students of Newcastle University listen in. NSR, Newcastle Student Radio, is an award winning radio station run by students, for students. Our station has no boundaries, no real limits and since we were first on air all the way back in 1997, we have run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Manned entirely by students, our shows range from specialist music to comedy to nonsense to sport to news. Last year we showcased over 40 hours of live sport coverage, held and moderated 6 election debates, showcased the best of some classical music concerts, interviewed a ridiculous number of bands like Wolf Alice, Scouting For Girls, The Wombats and countless others. We’ve held live sessions with more bands than you could shake a stick at, facilitated DJ sets across the city, provided extensive exclusive live commentary of Newcastle’s very own Fight Night, started a News Show where we pushed investigative journalism and put out hours and hours of radio every single day from beginners
Thursday 20 September 2018
who after not too long became pros. With a an eclectic mix of music, entertainment, sport and news programmes it is students that determine what NSR looks and sounds like when providing the essential service to the university. With flagship breakfast, lunchtime and drivetime shows providing continuity throughout your hectic weeks, the station is dedicated to providing the best content, and opportunities, to students. With dedicated Heads of Music, Entertainment, News , Sport, Tech, Production and Marketing all needing a team of people around them to keep the station running, just come and give us a go and you’ll find something that you can probably get away with plopping on your CV and also have a cracking time while you do it. We are going to be outside the Student Union all week long playing some truly dreadful music (at the request of those pesky Freshers Week Organisers, I should add), come, say hi and give us a go. If you don’t like us after a week you can tell us to sod off. Oh, and not that it matters but, like all other areas of student media, we’re not a University society so we are completely 100% free to join.
Strikes at Newcastles Monument in the last academic year Image: Saffron-Kershaw Mee
NSR’s studio where you can broadcast your own show Image: Louise Hall
NSR’s host live coverage of sporting events and fixtures Image: NSR
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freshers
Thursday 20 September 2018
Get involved with Student Media Write wrongs on campus with The Courier Louise Hall Deputy Editor
Some of last years fronf page stories Image: Louise Hall
The Courier is in fact the lovely student newspaper your are reading right this secont. When we’re not in jazzy freshers week mode we are a 13 section 40 page weekly independent publication that any student at Newcastle University can write for. Even more excitingly, this year is out 70th anniversary. We’ve been around a hell of a long time at Newcastle so if you’re looking to develop your skills as a journalist or just have a burning desire to write about the things you love (or hate), the Courier is the place to be. Whether you want to write a comment piece on the state of politics, hold your univesity to account with some investigative journalism or review your favourite music, films and tv, the Courier has a space for everyones voice to be heard. We have a brand spanking new office this year and our team of 50 sub-editors work hard every week to make sure that you’re writing looks fabulous in print. You don’t just have to be a writer to get involved in our publication however, as we’re always looking for photographers and illustrators tohelp make our newspaper great. Getting involved with the Courier is a great opportunity to develop industy standard skills, meet new people, and even have a bit of fun. If you expect us to put our money where our mouth is you only have to consider the fact that we are an award winning newspaper, having been awarded the Guardian named us on of the best student newspapers in the country 3 times over, and we won special mention for design at last years SPA’s.
We also boast a whole host of impressive alumni, in the last few years alone we’ve had writers and editors move onto the Guardian, ITV News, The Sunday Times, the Mirror, Sky Sports News and the Daily Express. Believe it or not, at part of the Courier you can make a change to your campus. Over the years we’ve broken many important and influental stories that hold the University to account in the decisions they make on their students behalf. In the last year alone we covered contentious topics such as the university’s attempted summer closures and limited opening times of their Muslim prayer space and an investigation into what the university is doing to combat the rising levels of sexual harrassment across university campuses. Our Life and Style and Culture sections often offer a more lighthearted insight into student life at Newcastle. From beauty to gaming and everything inbetween, there’s always something to read in those downtime hours between lectures. You can pick up the Courier at our many distribution spots on campus including: the Armstrong Building, The Robinson Library and Outside the Students Union. You don’t need any experience to write for our paper, and if you want to know more about how to get involved please come visit us in the clubs and soceties freshers fair from the 23rd-25th of September in the Sports Centre to talk our editors and find out when our next writers meeting wil be. Alternatively email me, your Editor of the Courier at editor.union@ncl.ac.uk. You can also find our section groups on facebook under the titles ‘The Courier [section] writers 2018/19’.
Broadcast the next big thing with NUTV Many of NUTV’s live broadcasting events Images: NUTV
Haaris Qureshi NUTV Station Manager NUTV is NUSU Media’s high-action and fast paced television branch. Founded in 2007, the youngest of the three branches has certainly taken leaps and bounds in progress, committing itself to producing both on-demand and live broadcasts throughout the academic year. NUTV aims to be a platform to allow as many students as possible, regardless of their academic or personal background, the chance to experience the world of TV production. We produce content covering current affairs, entertainment, music, student talent and lifestyle, sports, and more! Have an idea for a brand new show? Come and make that show a reality, as we’re
always looking for new show concepts! NUTV’s flagship shows have included Bigg Market Banter, where we send out hosts to investigate the antics students get up to on nights out; Coffee House Sessions and Student Sessions, showcasing
NUTV’s flagship shows have included Bigg Market Banter and Coffee House Sessions
music talent from both the local student body and more established bands; a selection of entertainment videos where we sit down students in front of a camera and task them a variety of challenges; and current affair videos, bringing the news across campus to you!
We also provide a service in covering student activities, from society events to sporting fixtures, Students’ Council and Student Elections, and the variety of campaigns. This year NUTV has its eyes set on new standards of production, with a grant allowing us to invest into a series of new broadcasting kit, and plans in place to expand our NUTV’s content, with opportunities available for crew, both experienced and old, to produce and direct content. We will also be working closer with the University in helping to provide content to the wider student body, so content you have developed, filmed or even presented could be making the rounds across campus! NUTV also aims to help bridge connections into the industry for anyone looking to pursue a media career. We are a NaSTA affiliated station, allow-
ing us access to the workshops and industry trips the Association runs throughout the year, including the annual conference in Easter and the highly sought NaSTA Awards! We also have local connec-
We are a NaSTA affiliated station, allowing us access to workshops and industry trips
tions with the Royal Television Society and individuals who have worked with local and national TV broadcasting studios. Whether you want to present in front of camera, direct and produce from behind the scenes, flex your editing muscles, or write and develop ideas, check out NUTV.
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Thursday 20 September 2018
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freshers representation and democracy
Student Council: have your say Represent your mates at uni
O
ur Student Council is the highest student representative body in your Students’ Union and is something that you can all get involved in. Student Council exists to ensure students have a say in how their Union is run and what policies are adopted. The Council discusses the campaigns we run, the events we support, hear what your elected officers are up to, and scrutinises the work we are doing every day for our students. Student Council also decides on what major issues may need representing to the University, or nationally within the student movement. But none of this works without students. This really is your chance to have your say Student Council is your chance to make a difference to students’ lives. Through Council students make changes to your Union, your campus and your community. Getting involved is really simple – just turn up. Any student is welcome at Council - to ask questions of their elected Officers, to hear about what the SU are doing or to debate the hot issues of the day.
There are six meetings a year and none are scheduled to last any more than an hour and a half. So there is really no excuse not to come along, there is always free pizza. Want to be more involved? Get voting! 8 of the Councils seats are open for any interested students who would like to be involved all year/ For students who prefer a more casual approach there are 20 casual places available for every meeting (email gocouncil.union@ncl.ac.uk to book your place). Stand for election (don’t worry, it isn’t overly complicated or formal, just a show of hands) and get to work in shaping the direction which the Union moves in over the next year. For more information, and ways to get involved go to the Your Voice tab on the NUSU website. This really is your chance to have your say, so come along and find out more. Council dates for the 18/19 Academic Year: Thursday 18 October 2018, Thursday 15 November 2018, Thursday 6 December 2018, Thursday 14 February 2019, Thursday 14 March 2019, Thursday 16 May 2019
Any student can submit a council motion Image: NUSU
NUSU Interviews: Education Officer
Louise Hall Editor
How have the first few months as Education Officer been? Yeah I’ve absolutely loved it. When I first came into the job I was sort of thrown into every single committee, the university seems to want to have everyone come and meet me. After that it’s been good getting to work on my manifesto across the summer, getting plans in place for what sort of changes I’d like to make at the university. Speaking of which, what do you think has been your biggest achievement so far in the first few months? I’ve worked with the Activities Officer on putting out some advice for societies to see how they can get more involved in being the student voice within their school. Getting them potentially involved in student/staff committees and using them as another platform to get the student opinion across the school and hopefully make some pretty cool changes. I was also involved in a workshop for recap technology, so how we use lecture capture going forward, and that was a really positive meeting. We had some great people in that meeting, looking into future ways we can use video capture to get some new cool teaching methods. It should be really exciting if we can get some of those in place at the university. Education Officer is known as one of the more serious sab roles. What do you think are some of the most fun aspects of your job to counteract stereotypical belief? Yeah, my job seems to be a lot of the university side and I get less of that union side which some of the other sabs get so they are sometimes seen as the more fun ones. Well I really enjoy the job so it’s hard to put on paper what’s fun about it. I mean, there was one afternoon where I just happened to be upstairs with the freshers’ week organisers and Stu Brew were filming a video and they needed some people to come downstairs and drink some pints and be in the shot so that was a pretty cool perk of the job. Getting to hear about being a governor of the
A
t NUSU we facilitate many different opportunities for students to represent and fight fo their own interests within its governing bodies. There are many diffrerent types of student rep positions that any student at the university can apply for including: hall reps, school reps and course reps. Working in partnership with Newcastle Univer-
Course Reps are students elected by you to represent the academic interests of the students on their course
sity we support over 1,200 Academic Reps. Your Academic Reps are here to represent your academic interests and work with the University staff to create positive change for our students. Hall reps are integral to keeping the Union and University up to date on what is happening in your halls of residence. In the first two months of the academic year, NUSU will be looking for volunteers from all University managed halls of residence to register to become Hall Reps. The purpose of the Hall Rep role is to attend Hall Exec meetings. These Hall Exec meetings will be chaired by the NUSU president, Raff Marioni and will also attended by staff from the University’s Accommodation Services, plus all the Hall Reps. At the Hall Exec meetings the Hall Reps will work with the Accommodation Services’ staff to make sure all students in halls get the best student living experience possible. Not only will becoming a Hall Rep look great on your CV, you will have the opportunity to meet
loads of students from your halls and across the Uni, plus there will also be chances to develop your skills and have your say on how the Students’ Union should be run. So if you want to become a Hall Rep, register your interest now at www.nusu.co.uk/hallrep, or get in contact with the Representation and Democracy office in the Union. Course Reps are students elected by you to represent the academic interests of the students on their course or programme. It is a voluntary role that can make a huge difference to your University experience as they provide an official link between students and staff. They attend Student-Staff Committee (SSC) meetings where they pass on your views to the staff and hopefully help find solutions to the issues that have arisen. The School Rep role is based around attending and representing the views of you School’s students at the senior faculty meeting for student experience. You also get to work closely with your Head of School and other School Reps from across the University. On average the role takes less than one hour a week. Community reps also work outside of the university in the aresa in which students live to make sure they are represented appropriatley. They are assigned to a designated area where there is a high number of Newcastle University students living. There are 6 areas in which you can become a Community Rep. The aim of this volunteer role is to ensure that the student voice is heard in your local area. They also work alongside the City Council and local residents to enrich the local community and the student involvement within it. If you want to volunteer to get involved in one of these representative roles visit https://www.nusu. co.uk/yourvoice/reps/ for more information.
university as a student was really interesting, seeing what sort of power we have and how we can really influence some positive change here.
Great. And, casting your mind back before the job, was it something you always knew you wanted to run for or was there like a lightbulb moment where you decided to run in the election? How did you decide you were going to go for it? I lived at home in first year so I never ever saw myself getting involved in this, but in my third year I had a few friends who were campaigning in the elections and I was quite involved in their campaigns. From then I saw it as more of a realistic thing, like maybe after that one thing. By the end of my third year I knew it was something I was really interested in because I started to see some of those friends who were successful going into the job and I always knew that education seemed more like my kind of thing. I was interested in making changes to the way students’ views were represented, it seemed really exciting to me to be involved in that sort of policy change. So, from about the summer before the elections I knew I was wanting to run in it and it was all I could basically think about for about 7 months. Okay, cool. And where did your Mission Impossible campaign theme come from? What was the inspiration? So, one of my original ideas was going for Robbie Williams ‘let me educate you’ but I can’t sing so that would have been really cringey. I was talking to Luke Allison who was Welfare Officer three years ago and he did ‘Wolf of Welfare’ and he got elected. He said doing a film is a really good way of getting elected because it’s sort of in people’s minds. I loved the Mission Impossible series and I knew there was a new one coming out this year and that’s basically where the whole idea came from. Yeah cool. Who’s your least favourite sabbatical officer? Jack Green. I’ve never ever liked the guy.He hates parties and he tries to go round Jesmond and shut down all the parties because he’s the fun police. So as Education Officer, what do you think has been the most interesting council motion in the
Jonny helps to lobby the university for students Image: NUSU last three years? Or the most tense? I’ve only gone to council in the last year so, I’ve read through all the old motions but it’s hard to get an idea of how contentious they are when you haven’t been to them. But, I’d say easily the most interesting council I’ve been to was one where we had to decide whether or not to support the strikes and some people got quite passionate in that. Describe yourself in three words ‘Love Island’ style. Not very witty. Finally, what can we expect to see from you this year? I’m really big on what you get from your fees with education, so what you’ll see is me trying to lobby on affordability and trying to make sure the cost of your education is kept down as much as it can be. If
there’s any extra costs that crop up I’ll be campaigning to try and change that. I’ll also be looking into the exam experience and trying to make sure that it’s as stress free as possible for students and ease off the tension for them. I really want to get out there and try and engage as many students as possible. I want to make sure people know who I am so that they can come to me with any issues. I think the key thing for me, and I didn’t always know this when I was a student, is that your voice really does matter. It is just a case of coming to say things, coming to council with your ideas, knowing that you can make change and knowing the platforms that are available to you. When I was a student I would complain about things and think it would never get changed but maybe if I’d gone to see my Education Officer or put forward a motion at council I could’ve made things better.
the courier
Thursday 20 September 2018
25
freshers
Student stats you need to know Zone A metro ticket single £1.80 £2.20 pint of Carlsberg in The Hancock
*with a valid student card
25 min walk from West Jes Metro to Campus
Metro zone A day-saver £3 Red Raw at The Stand £3 on Wednesday
Free Cheeseburger at Mcdonalds
Greggs meal deal for £3 £2 pint of diesel in Luthers *with any value or wrap meal *with a valid student card
Budget Taxi from campus to Soho Rooms: £4.40 *at 11.30 on a Saturday night
Two trebels and a jagerbomb for 6.90 in Soho
Over 160 Socieites at NUSU 220 takeaways in Newcastle’s town centre
Newcastle 4th out of 117 for nightlife
*according to World University Rankings
£10 tickets to St James matches with Give It A Go
Hangover breakfast £2.29 at spoons *may be subject to change
*with student deals voucher booklet
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26
sport
Thursday 20 September 2018
NUSU Interviews: Athletic Union
2018/19 Athletic Union officer Maggie Elstob discusses campaigns, plans for healthy eating awareness and next years Stan Cal Hello Maggie how are you this morning? Good thanks.
Great, well lets get started. How have you found the first few months as Athletic Union officer? I’ve found it good; it’s a lot of organizing and planning, getting ready for students to come back. We’ve got some big plans ahead for the next year. So I’ve been doing lots of bits and pieces of sorting events and things out getting ready for the chaos of September.
“My least favourite part was obviously wandering around campus in the freezing cold”
Maggie has been heavily involved in sport at Newcastle since first year Image: NUSU
New kids on the block: Korfball season preview
Chris Baker
Newcastle’s newest AU club is embarking on its second year as it continues to make waves across campus but the big question facing them is, can they continue the korfball crescendo? Last year, the club enjoyed early success by finishing runners-up at the BUCS National Plate narrowly losing the final to a far more experience Sheffield Hallam side on penalties. This was followed up by winning the inaugural Stan Calvert korfball fixture before rounding the season off by being nominated for the AU Contribution to Inclusivity award. However, over the summer a number of their squad have left including star man Wilbert den Hoed and now need a strong recruitment campaign to continue on their fine start as a club. The Nighthawks main aim for the season will surely be to convert their early promise into continued success and establish themselves as a real force in the korfball world. BUCS is the main route to doing so and they will hope to go one better and win the National Plate or even better still qualify for the next tier of the competition. Led by Captain Lottie Rhodes, the team will need to fill the whole of their main korf scorer but the added experience they now have should stand them in good stead. Rhodes also believes that strengthening their squad will be key, “if the club as a whole is strong then the team is strong”. When speaking to Rhodes we also asked what she enjoyed most about the sport, “the tournaments are great fun. Everyone is so friendly and up for a laugh which is why I’ve enjoyed playing
so much. You create a whole network of friends across the country at tournaments.” These tournaments also provide a good opportunity for the club to flex its muscles as the Scottish Korfball Association (SKA) Cup is just one of the renowned competitions they attend. Off the pitch the club has also seen changes with them now training and playing at the Sports Centre and an introduction of a first team session in addition to their usual Sunday 4-6pm slot. This however will not affect the relaxed and friendly feel of the club as Baker, the club’s coaching co-ordinator explained “by introducing this new session we can advance the club whilst remaining true to our belief that our sport should be and is for everyone. This way we keep Sunday’s fun and welcoming to anyone who wants to try it out.” In terms of the regional league, NEKL, the club had a rocky season last time out not winning a single match all year. The signs would suggest this could be quickly about to change though with a significantly weakened Northumbria side following a cut in funding and hopefully a lot of new arrivals. This coupled with the prospect of promotion makes this season even more intriguing. Given this club only started a year ago it is clear to see that this passionate squad are determined to compete at the higher echelons of the game. If you would like to get involved the club welcomes all abilities and experience levels, simply turn up Sunday 4-6pm and give it a go! Alternatively, they are holding taster sessions during fresher’s week on Thursday 27th 4-6pm and Saturday 29th 11am-1pm.
Talking of these big plans, what has been your biggest achievement so far in the job? Ticking off one of my manifesto points to get a partnership between the union and goodgym, a charity that combines exercise with doing good deeds. So you would run somewhere and do good things for charities and then run back. We’ve got a plan to do a big takeover with them in October to do lots of volunteering on site. So this is something students can get involved with start from September? It will be yeah, the charity itself is already up and running and I and some of
the sabb’s have already been getting involved. But from September we’re really going to try making a monthly event for students to get involved with.
You mentioned some of the sabb’s had been running with you, out of everyone on the team who has the least athletic prowess? I think probably me. [laughs] Jack was really good he actually surprised me. The first week that he came we did a time trial and he was incredibly fast in fact I think he came third. I think Raff thought he was the least athletic but he did really well as well so I think it has to be me. [laughs] well that bodes well for next year. Yeah it does [laughs] Flashing back to before you started the job, what was your most and least favorite part of campaign week? My most favorite part was obviously getting the job. That Friday night was probably one of the best moments of my life after such a huge build up that was a really big moment. But I also really enjoyed going on the nights out because I found that although I was campaigning I was still having a good time. My least favorite part was probably wandering around campus when it was freezing cold and there was no-body around pinning up posters and seeing them just fly away in the wind or have fallen off the walls and been trampled on. Speaking of posters, where did your inspiration for your ‘she’s got her eye on
the ball’ dodge ball campaign come? So I knew I wanted to do something that was true to myself, I’m not really a gimmicky taking the mick out of myself kind of person so I wanted to do something that showed that I was interested in lots of sports and if elected would invest a lot of time in the role without doing that. The dodge ball idea, I’m not really sure where it came from; I think one of my friends suggested the slogan and the theme just came together. Great, well lets move on to some more fun questions. I’ll start with a controversial one. Who is your least favorite sabbatical officer on the team? [laughs] Sophie always does such a
“We’ve got a plan for a massive takeover with GoodGym in October”
good job and she’s always so efficient and I never feel like I’m doing as good a job as her, so I guess that’s least favorite but in a complimentary way. If you could back and give one piece of advice to a bright eyed bushy tailed Maggie starting at freshers what do you think it would be? I would probably join more activities. I’ve been part of netball since my first year and that probably did take up a lot of time, but there is probably more things that I would have like to have done that while I was in first year
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27
sport
Thursday 20 September 2018
n officer Your new local team
lvert with Editor Louise Hall
I probably would have had more time to get involved with. Can you describe yourself in three words love island style? Loyal, reliable and outgoing. What has been your proudest sporting moment while at Newcastle? Crossing the finish line at the great north run is up there. I would also say beating Northumbria in our Stan Calvert match in the final second, that was pretty exciting. Speaking of Stan Calvert what are the plans this year will the tournament be going ahead? Given the fact that Northumbria have had a bit of a shake up with their sporting system things are still a bit up in the air. The ball is in their court at the moment, pardon the pun.. I’m aware that it’s not been as good as it should be for the past couple of years, so it’s currently under review to check that clubs are still getting what they want out of it. If it’s going to take place it will be in December but watch this space. So to round off, whats one thing you would tell anyone starting as a fresher that they absolutely cannot miss out on during fresher’s week? Go on as many of the activities as you can even if you’re hungover. And what can we expect to see from you this year as AU officer? Hopefully a friendly face, lots of fun campaigns and activities getting people involved in healthy eating and expanding the opportunities for those who want to play sport more socially.
Tom Hardwick Sports Editor
One problem that can affect both freshers and returning students alike is hometown sport withdrawal. That journey up to Newcastle for the start of the semester, whatever your favoured sport might be, often means leaving a beloved club behind. A weekend devoid of the chance to see your favourite team might be a dull prospect, but Newcastle and
That journey up to Newcastle for university often means leaving a beloved club behind
the surrounding areas are filled with a plethora of sporting options. An attempt to list all of these different teams may well be enough to fill an entire addition of The Courier, but the following is a rather more succinct list of the best places for any students in Newcastle to get their sporting fix. Newcastle United: A trip to Newcastle United is something special for any football fans. The behemoth structure of St James’ Park impressively dominates the Newcastle skyline, and the sight of fifty thousand fans making the pilgrimage up to the stadium is something to behold. Newcastle fans are renowned for being some of the most passionate in the country and it is rare that they disappoint, continually generating one of the most intense atmospheres in English football. The issue with Newcastle having such fervent fans is that tickets can be hard to come by, and the university have sadly opted to stop offering tickets to students and staff, with a decision regarding whether to sell tickets again being scheduled for November 2018. However, tickets are still available through give it a go, an
activities society run by the students union. A trip to St James’ Park offers a chance to witness Premier League football in an imposing, atmospheric stadium, something that any football fans at Newcastle University should make time to experience. Gateshead FC: For a footballing option that is more compatible with a student budget, look no further than Gateshead FC. The Gateshead International Stadium has its own stop on the metro, which can be reached in mere minutes from the centre of Newcastle. Student tickets can be purchased on the turnstiles for just £5, meaning that the combined cost of a ticket, metro travel and food at the ground is just over £10. Gateshead may have average attendances of less than one thousand people, but those fans do generate vocal support for their team. Furthermore, although the club lacks the allure of the Premier League, the National League offers a much higher standard of football than many expect, and at a fraction of the cost. While Gateshead might not be the first team that comes to mind when thinking of football in the North-East, they are an inexpensive and entertaining option for satisfying any hunger for live football during term time. Newcastle Falcons: Newcastle is also lucky to be home to a Premiership Rugby Union outfit, Newcastle Falcons. The Falcons have been playing in the top flight since 2013 and earned an impressive 4th place finish in the 2017-18 season, cementing themselves as one of the best teams in the country. Their home ground, Kingston Park, is easily accessed by using the metro system, making a trip to watch Newcastle Falcons as convenient as it is enjoyable. The Falcons are well supported, with crowds that regularly reach seven thousand, but tickets are readily available from as little as £10 for students. Whether Newcastle Falcons can build upon the successes of the previous season remains to be seen, but the chance to see The Falcons pit themselves
against some of the best rugby teams in the country is one that should not be missed. Newcastle Eagles: Although basketball fans might find themselves more inclined to follow the NBA, the British Basketball League does contain some talented sides, with Newcastle Eagles being one such team. The Eagles have been one of the most successful basketball teams in England in recent years, and since 2005 they have achieved three ‘clean sweeps’, winning all four trophies that they competed for. The Sport Central building located on the Northumbria University campus is the home of The Eagles, meaning that the team can be added to the list of strong Newcastle sporting sides that can be reached with the utmost ease. Basketball teams in England may not be able to replicate their American counterparts in terms of scale and glamour, but a trip to see Newcastle Eagles play is a chance to get close to the action at one of the very best basketball teams that the country has to offer. Whilst the aforementioned teams are perhaps some of the more high-profile members of the sporting community in the local area, there are plenty of smaller teams that cover an even greater variety of sports. There are Newcastle Diamonds, the speedway team who are situated in Byker, as well as Whitley Warriors, a local ice hockey team who play at the ice rink in Whitley Bay, which can be accessed using the metro. Newcastle Thunder are a rugby league side who share Kingston Park with the Newcastle Falcons, and the Northumberland Vikings are an option for any NFL fans, playing their games at Druid Park, which is situated in the shadow of Newcastle Airport. Whatever your sporting preference may be, there is almost certainly a club in Newcastle and the surrounding area for you to visit. Leaving behind your treasured team may at first seem a daunting prospect, but the next year at Newcastle University might be made all the more enjoyable if you choose to offer your support to any of these brilliant local teams.
E
arn Your Stripes is an accreditation scheme which provides support and recognition to encourage Athletic Union clubs to become more inclusive and continually develop, the more criteria you meet the more funding you’ll receive. If you believe your club already meets some of our criteria apply now to receive recognition and funding for your club! If you would like to work towards some of our criteria please get in contact with us. Why should AU clubs be involved? Extra support from the Inclusive Newcastle programme which can guide the club to being more inclusive Potential increase of club membership as students are aware they are catered for and they are entering an environment that discourages harassment and discrimination. Opportunity to be involved in NUSU programmes and run their sport through programmes to increase membership. Opportunity to be involved in NUSU and national campaigns Recognition of inclusive work, in addition to a ‘stripe’ the club can be nominated for awards such as Pride of Newcastle. Financial support to help inclusive work Visit: https://www.nusu.co.uk/getinvolved/sport/inclusive/eys/ to see if your club meets the citeria, and if not what you can do to ensure it does.
Get active without breaking the bank Rebecca Johnson talks about the best ways to get involved with sport on limited student funds
Newcastle University offers a range of sports to try out without the need for a university sports membership. Having a sports membership allows you to compete against other universities and be part of a club, but there are also chances to play sport recreationally whilst still getting the chance to meet new people
The principle aim of the programme is that any person of any ability can play the sports available through the scheme
Team Korfball ready for a new season at Newcastle Image: Newcastle Korfball Club
and have fun. There’s a range of sports societies to join at Newcastle at a low cost. Campus Leagues Newcastle University runs a variety of sports under the Campus Leagues programme. Campus Leagues does not require a university sports membership. The principle aim of the programme is that any person of any ability can play the sports available through the scheme. Although the initiative is recreational and designed to have fun, that doesn’t mean to say that it’s not competitive! Campus Leagues has a mixture of team
and individual sports to participate in. The provisional programme of sports available for the 2018/19 academic year include: football, badminton, touch rugby, indoor cricket, basketball, dodgeball and squash. Prices differ for each specific sport, for example, there’s a £30 entry fee per team for 5-a-side football. For more information visit the Campus Leagues page on the NUSU website or email the following: activitiesmanager.union@newcastle. ac.uk inclusive.union@ncl.ac.uk Dance Societies The University boasts a massively diverse range of dance societies to get involved with. The Newcastle Dance Society requires at least a silver sports membership to participate. However, Newcastle University offers a variety of clubs that are devoted to a specific form of dance. If you fancy getting your dancing shoes on and trying something new, the following dance societies do not require a university sports membership and are open to people of all abilities: Irish Dance, Latin and Ballroom Dancing, Pole Dancing, Salsa, and Swing Dance. For further information visit their stalls at Fresher’s Fair or visit the Societies page on the NUSU website to find out a bit more about each dance society. Make sure to visit Fresher’s Fair to see
the full range of sports Newcastle University has to offer, both with and without the need for a sports membership. Access Bursaries And if there is a club your absolutely dying to join that costs a bit more money, the student union offer over 100 sport participation bursaries that first year students can apply for during term time. As long as you meet one of the 6 eligibility criteria, you could receive £200 cash to go towards club and society fee’s, making that £60 for sports centre access half less daunting.
As long as you meet one of the 6 eligibility criteria, you could receive £200 cash to go towards club and society fee’s
You can use the bursary towards anything to supplement your participation in sport or societies from buying your kit to a pint with the team after a successful match.
Playing sport can often be a costly hobby Image: Flickr: Bank of England
sport the courier
Thursday 20 September Issue 1372 Free @Courier_Sport courier.sport@ncl.ac.uk thecourieronline.co.uk/sport
Be part of the brand new Team Newcastle: Club trials Sport
Time
Place
Date
5.30-7.30pm 5.30- 7.30pm 12-2pm
Longbenton Sports Ground Rifle Range/ Sports Centre
26th September 2nd October 4th October
Athletics and Cross Country
3-5pm 6pm
Gateshead Stadium Sports Centre
3rd October 5th October
Badminton
3-6pm
Sports Centre
28th/29th/30th September
Basketball
29th September
1-3pm
Sports Centre
Boxing
26th/28th September
3-5pm/5-7pm
Sports Centre
Caving
25th September
8pm onwards
The Strawberry Pub
Clay Pigeon Shooting
3rd/10th October
Dodgeball
28th/30th September
1-3pm/6-8pm
Sports Centre
Fencing
25th September/ 2nd October
7-9pm
The Fencing Centre, Monument Metro at 6.20pm
Football (Women’s)
29th/30th September
11am-1pm
Longbenton Sports Ground
Futsal
27th/28th September
Archery
Gateshead Leisure Centre
Golf
Team Newcastle will debut its new Cantebury kit this year Image: Jordan Carr
Inside Sport today >>>
KORFBALL PREVIEW
Chris Baker discusses whats in store for the club this year Page 26
Parklings Golf Club Driving Range
Hockey (Men’s)
26th/28th September
12-3pm
Longbenton Sports Ground
Hockey (Women’s)
26th/28th September
3-6pm
Longbenton Sports Ground
Judo
1/4th October
8-10pm/7.30-9pm
Sports Centre
Karate
26th/28th/30th \ September/ 1st October
7-9pm/7-9pm /1-3pm/7-8.30pm
Sports Centre
Korfball
27th/29th September
4-6pm/11am-1pm
Sports Centre
Lacrosse (Men’s)
29th/30th September
1-2pm/1-2pm and 2-3pm
Longbenton Sports Ground
Lacrosse (Women’)
26th/27th September
5-7pm
Longbenton Sports Ground
Mountainerring
26th/29th/30th/ 1st/2nd
Various
Meet outside the Students’ Union
Netball
26th/27th September
2-5pm
Sports Centre
Rugby (Men’s)
27th September
Rugby (Women’s)
7th October
12.2.30pm
Heaton Sports Ground
Rugby League
28th September
Squash
26th/30th September
1-5pm
Eldon Leisure Centre
Swimming
30th September
9-11am
RGS Pool, Jesmond
Table Tennis
26th/30th September
6-8pm/ 10am-1pm
Sports Centre
Tennis
29th/30th September
1-5pm
Northumberland Club
Ultimate Frisbee
26th/27th/28th September
1.30pm
Meet at Students’ Union
Volleyball
28th September
6-10pm
Water Polo
30th September
Northumbria Sports Central pool
*may be subject to change
AU INTERVIEW
Editor Louise Hall interviews your 18/19 AU Officer Page 26
YOUR LOCAL TEAM
Who should you be supporting in the Toon? Page 27