Issue 747- 15 September 2023

Image: Jamie Speka

Image: Charlie Gershinson

Image: Charlie Theodosius

Editors

Print: Anabel Costa-Ferreira & Livvy Mason-Myhill

Online: Jamie Speka & Amelie Thompson

Print Deputies: Harry Craig, Charlie Gershinson and Joshua Smith

Online Deputies: Ewan Edwards & Megan Haynes editors@exepose.com

Executives

Finance: Willow Cracknell

Social Media: Charlotte Randall

News Editors

Print: Rosie Batsford & Oliver Lamb

Online: Shagnick Bhattacharya & Anna Kane news@exepose.com

Features Editors

Print: Henry Parker & Benedict Thompson

Online: Callum Martin features@exepose.com

International Editors

Print: Josie Sharp

Online: Agata Koralewska

Comment Editors

Print: Lisette Reed & Charlotte Zeyssolff

Online: Charlie Oldroyd & Amy Rushton comment@exepose.com

Satire Editor

Print: Livvy Mason-Myhill

Lifestyle Editors

Print: Lucy Rawlings & Amberly Wright

Online: Emily Roughton & Zoe Sperry lifestyle@exepose.com

Arts + Lit Editors

Print: Maddie Conlan & Lauren Walsh

Online: Gracie Moore & Violet Berney artsandlit@exepose.com

Music Editors

Print: Jake Avery & Scarlett Cracknell music@exepose.com

Screen Editors

Print: Annabelle Law & Madison Sohngen

Online: Jess Cadogan screen@exepose.com

Tech Editor

Print: Ewan Gregory

Science Editors

Print: Eloise Shewring

Online: Orla Watson sciandtech@exepose.com

Sport Editors

Print: Oliver Rickwood & Joseph Terry

Online: Mikhail Shklover & Ceri Vaughan-Jones sport@exepose.com

As we begin a fresh academic year we welcome a new influx of students (potential writers). We are extremely excited for these new students to get involved with Exeposé, and to have the opportunity to investigate, report and write on a range of topics. With 12 sections to choose from and no prior experience needed, why not write for the UK's best student publication (as awarded by SPA 2023)? Check out page 3 to find out how to join our society and how to write for us, as well as upcoming events for the week.

In News this week, we focus on student reactions to the newly rebranded 'Welcome Week' (page 4). We also look at the University's upcoming project supporting the decarbonisation of the fashion and textile industry (page 5).

In Comment, writers debate their past experience of Freshers' Week (page 13) whilst Satire ranges from fresher's struggle to not call home as well as bidding farewell to the original Exeposé office (page 14).

Lifestyle looks at Exeter's hidden gems and shares some memorable freshers' stories (page 17). Music reviews a variety of concert experiences this summer (page 21) and our new page Exetera Exetera... includes student stars as well as an insight to the archives (page 27) . Sport covers the Wimbledon finals (page 30) as well as looking into student experiences of

intramural sport at the university (page 31). With the recent refurbishment of Devonshire House, we have now relocated to a new office (in the corridor opposite Starbucks). We wish everyone the best of luck for the upcoming year and hope everyone has a fantastic Welcome Week!

Livvy and Anabel

SATIRE

Obituary: The original Exeposé office

PAGE 14

TECH

How will AI impact the future of journalism?

PAGE 16

A hitchhiker's guide to the rugby galaxy in Exeter

PAGE 32

Proofers: Livvy Mason-Myhill, Anabel Costa-Ferreira, Harry Craig, Charlie Gershinson and Joshua Smith.

University news home and abroad

Australian universities criticised for abandoning consent campaign

UNIVERSITIES Australia (UA) has received flack after abandoning an anti-sexual violence campaign. The decision has been controversial, as not only had the body been granted $1.5 million, but has replaced the campaign with a ‘Respect at Uni’ week and a 46-page “good practice guide”.

On 27th July, UA, comprising 39 universities, were questioned by the Senate in their consent laws inquiry, having twice de clined to appear.

Journalist

Democrats push to end legacy admissions in US universities

850,000 graduates made needless loan repayments worth over £100m

Government to cap enrolment on "low-value" degrees

MORE than £100 million worth of student loan repayments were made in 2021-2022 by 850,000 individuals below the repayment threshold.

issuu.com/exeposeexeter @exepose

@exepose

Kristine Ziwica claimed that the reason why the campaign didn't go through was that a small group of vice-chancellors deemed the campaign “explicit”.

UA reject this claim, instead saying that they thought the campaign would not have enough “cut-through” to change the behaviour of young people.

The proposal and campaign were planned in collaboration with students themselves with the aid of expert opinion.

IN a bid to end legacy admissions in universities in the United States, two congressional Democrats have introduced the Fair College Admissions for Students Act. Legacy admissions are when applicants who are the relative of an alumnus receive special consideration. At Harvard, for example, the acceptance rate for legacy students is around 33 per cent, compared to the general acceptance rate of just six per cent. The process is also said to put BAME applicants at a disadvantage, with the Department of Education currently investigating the claim that 70 per cent of Harvard legacy applicants are white. The proposed legislation comes a month after the Supreme Court ruled against affirmative action.

Senator Jeff Merkley and Representative Jamaal Bowman have introduced the bill, which has gained support from nearly 50 Democrats from the House and Senate.

R

The National Union of Students has branded the error “deeply concerning” and are urging all those affected to seek a refund and to check regularly that the money being taken by the Student Loans Company is as they would expect.

Deductions are taken by the SLC either weekly or month ly from gradu ates’ salaries. The SLC has issued a statement establishing that the vast majority of the errors occurred when income fluctuated throughout the year.

ISHI Sunak has stated his intention to limit the number of students able to enrol on programmes deemed “low-value”. The restrictions are intended to affect “rip-off” courses that have high dropout rates or a low proportion of students able to secure a professional job, start a business or continue studying at the end of the degree program.Additionally, the regulations seek to reduce the cost of classroombased foundation-year courses by £3490. The government has yet to announce which degree courses would be affected by the new measures, but education minister Robert Halfon claims it “is absolutely not the case” that the policy is an attack on the arts and humanities.

By Anna Kane, Maddy Hellard,

Image: Wikimedia Commons, Jebulon

Image: Wikimedia Commons, JJ Harrison

Exepos é Online

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How to write for us!

What’s on this week?

Exeposé have a range of exciting events planned out during Welcome Week to get you involved! If you have any questions please feel free to pop into the Exeposé office, send us a message on our Instagram @exepose or email us editors@exepose.com.

We will be at the Welcome Week fair on Monday 18th September in the Forum Expo Room 2. You'll also be able to find us in the Exeposé office all of next week, so just knock on our door if you have any questions.

Tuesday 19th September

— Cocktail Club Welcome Week social, starting at 19:30. Join Exeposé at Cocktail Club for our first social of the year! This is one you won't want to miss so come along and meet us!

Marsh Barton station opens

Harry Craig Deputy Editor

This is the most frequent query we receive! You must obtain a membership first (which you can do by scanning this QR code!).

After you join, we post our 'content calls' to our members' Facebook group (search for 'Exeposé Members 2023-24'). These content calls include the many pieces that our section editors would like to have published each week both for print and online. There are 12 sections to write for in Exeposé, giving you plenty of variety to choose from. Also, we're

quite receptive to pitches from writers! After that, whenever a content call appears in your feed and a piece you'd like to write catches your attention, simply leave a comment underneath and write your article. Then once you've written your article, email it to the relevant editor prior to the deadline (this information will be on the content call) and you're all set.

We can't wait to publish your brilliant articles!

Livvy Mason-Myhill, Editorin-Chief

If you are already eager to write for us, we have our print content calls for our next issue out this week on our Facebook members' page. If you would like to find out more about writing articles or just want more information, just let us know by either coming to talk to us at the Welcome Week fair, in the Exeposé office or by popping us a message on our social media accounts!

This week we have organised some exciting socials for you to meet our committee members as well as get to know other budding journalists.

Friday 22nd September — XMedia Welcome Week social, starting 20:00. Join us for our first XMedia social! Come along to the pres at 19:00 at the Imperial and then join us at Castle Street for the social. This is a themed social so if you are interested in Exeposé, please come dressed in something green.

Also, in the upcoming weeks, keep an eye on our social media accounts for our future events and workshops we will be hosting.

Myself and the other editors will be in the Exeposé office or out and about around campus all week handing out newspapers so please don't hesitate to stop by and chat to us!

Livvy Mason-Myhill, Editorin-Chief

Just Stop Oil disrupts graduation ceremony

Jamie Speka and Charlie Gershinson Online Editor-in-Chief and Deputy Editor

AGRADUATION

ceremony at the University of Exeter saw disruption from an eco-protest by Just Stop Oil (JSO) activists before being stopped by University of Exeter security and later arrested by police.

JSO member Edred “Eddie”

Whittingham, who had just received his BA in Politics, Philosophy and Economics on the 17th July, attempted to spread orange paint across the forecourt outside the Great Hall. As seen in a post by JSO on X (formerly Twitter), this happened while photos were being taken of the graduating class. Before he could complete spraying the orange pain, however, Whittingham was stopped by members of security. Security also stopped Kostja Junglas, a PhD student at the University of Oxford who was seen trying to take out a JSO bib before being hauled away by security.

Once taken away by security, both Whittingham and Junglas were arrested by the Devon and

Cornwall Police and transported to Exeter Magistrates Court. Whittingham denied two counts of criminal damage up to £221 but did accept having breached his bail conditions, which denied him access to a device which could spray paint.

Whittingham denied two counts of criminal damage up to £221

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police told DevonLive: "Police were called to Exeter University [on] Monday 17th July, following reports of a male spraying paint on a pavement, believed to be part of a protest. Officers arrived at the scene and arrested a male on suspicion of assault and criminal damage. A woman was arrested on suspicion of Breach of Bail relating to a separate incident."

Whittingham — who became known for his eco-activism after protesting the final of the World Snooker Championships at the Crucible in Sheffield in April this year — said before the protest: "My name’s Eddie, I’m 25 years old and I’m about

to disrupt my own graduation ceremony. Exactly three months ago, I disrupted the snooker world championship. I’m taking these actions because our government has failed young people like me. “Universities, rather than preparing young people for this inevitable disruption, are instead upholding a status quo that is going to kill millions, if not billions of people. That’s why I’m calling on students everywhere to join us in resistance against this criminal government.”

against the partnership on campus.

Student Guild President, Emma de Saram, told Exeposé about the incident: “When young people risk their freedom and futures by taking climate action, we have to ask why? Why did Eddie disrupt his graduation? It is because they have all lost faith in our governments and institutions who are actively issuing new oil and gas licenses.”

The Guild have further highlighted that there are many different ways for students to make a difference and "if anyone is interested in getting involved with climate activism but doesn't know where to start, do get in touch with voice@exeterguild.com."

AFTER almost seven years of delays, Exeter’s long-awaited Marsh Barton railway station finally opened to the public on 4th July. The new station is located between Exeter St Thomas and Starcross on Great Western Railway’s Riviera Line, between the Exeter Ship Canal and Marsh Barton Industrial Estate.

The station forms part of the Devon Metro proposal, intended to connect Exeter and the surrounding areas through a comprehensive public transport network. The £16-million project was initially earmarked to open in December 2016, but construction work did not actually begin until early 2021. The official opening was then subject to repeated delays following completion of the station at the start of this year, before the official opening in July by Transport Secretary Mark Harper.

The station is expected to prove particularly useful for Exeter’s students. It is located just a 10-minute walk along the canal from student favourite pub Double Locks, and a similar distance from The Climbing Hangar. It also facilitates access to Marsh Barton Industrial Estate, one of the country’s largest trading estates.

Services operate hourly in each direction at the station, running between Paignton and Exmouth via Exeter St David’s, with additional trains at peak times.

Whittingham was motivated by the perceived lack of action by the national government against climate change as well as a controversial partnership between the University and oil giant Shell. The research partnership has been opposed by students in recent months, most notably from the Shell Out campaign group which has conducted numerous protests

The University, meanwhile, is not specifically commenting on the protest but has said: “We respect the right to protest, providing it is carried out safely, respectfully and within the law.” Just Stop Oil has continued its presence in Exeter over the summer, including a slow march through the city centre in August, while the Shell Out campaign has promised more action on campus in the coming months in an “autumn of action.”

Universities... are instead upholding a status quo that is going to kill millions if not billions of people

Image: Jamie Speka

Image: Livvy Mason-Myhill

Students react negatively to Fresher’s Week rebrand

Harry Craig and Joshua Smith Deputy Editors

EXETER students have reacted overwhelmingly negatively to the rebrand of Freshers Week, according to a survey conducted by Exeposé.

In June, the Students’ Guild announced an overhaul of the traditional first week of the new academic year, designed to welcome new and returning students. This has included a renaming to become ‘Welcome Week’, significant alterations to the Freshers Fair, and an extension of the Welcome Period to cover six weeks.

In advance of the new academic year, however, these changes have been greeted with apathy or even hostility from students. 95 per cent of respondents stated that they would continue to use the term ‘Freshers Week’ in spite of the official rebrand, with one student viewing the term as “an integral part of going to university” and multiple respondents viewing the change as “pointless” and “unnecessary”. The Guild responded by telling Exeposé that “Freshers [Week] has been renamed to Welcome to ensure the language we use is relevant and inclusive to all students and they feel they

can be involved no matter what year of study or when they arrive.”

The second major change made to Freshers Week concerns the Freshers Fair, traditionally held across one or two days during the first week of term to allow societies and other groups to exhibit to new students. This has now been extended to cover six themed days, including “Arts, Culture and Music Day” and “Academic and Employability Day”. The Guild stated in June that this was in response to feedback that found the previous format “too overwhelming”, “too hard to engage with societies due to the volume of people, noise and space” and “that many missed the opportunity to attend as they hadn't arrived yet”.

Despite this, Exeposé found that most (51 per cent) respondents were unaware of the changes to the Freshers Fair. Those that were aware were mostly opposed, feeling that it would reduce the footfall at the Fair and prevent societies from recruiting new members. One society committee member told Exeposé that they “rely on visibility during Freshers to gain members… and in limiting our time to self-promote, we are concerned that we are critically limiting our chances of success for the next academic year.” This

was reflected in the responses to Exeposé’ s survey, with just over five per cent of respondents intended to attend all six days of the Fair and over half (53 per cent) intending to attend the traditional one to two days. Many societies have reacted similarly to the extension of the Welcome Period from one to six weeks. The aforementioned committee member stated that “this can only cause us problems” as “we cannot feasibly create free trials for our taught classes for six weeks due to external costs”, and another respondent stating that it was “unfair to make societies keep up with constantly doing socials or workshops for 6 weeks straight and that it would “take up a lot of a society’s time and energy.” The Guild responded by reaffirming

their support for societies, stating that they have “been working with societies to shape our approach to Welcome 2023” and that “[the] Activities Team are available to assist society committees with anything they may need”.

Despite generating some opposition from societies, this change has been received somewhat more enthusiastically by students. One student told Exeposé that it would “reduce pressure to attend so many events in a single week” and another stated it “makes students feel more comfortable in taking longer to settle in." However, concerns remain over the lack of student awareness about this change, with 61 per cent of respondents unaware that the Welcome Period had been extended beyond a week.

The Exonian to become part of ‘Music Quarter’

Harry Craig Deputy Editor

EXETER students have returned to discover that The Exonian, a sports bar located on Fore Street and a popular establishment among students, has closed permanently. The Exonian replaced the former Walkabout bar located at the same site in 2017, and had become a common venue for student drinking and society socials.

This included the Motorsports Society, which held its F1 watch-along socials and other events at the venue. Society President Immy Cousins paid tribute to the venue, saying it “provided an open and welcoming space for the society… which didn’t feel overly commercialised” and had “student friendly bar prices.”

Students’ Guild society

Anabel Costa-Ferreira Editor-in-Chief

ANGEL Society, a new society associated with the Facebook community of Urban Angels, has recently been welcomed to register as a Students' Guild society. As a branch from the Urban Angels online community,

Angel Society seeks to create a safe space for all women/non-binary/ gender fluid students to share safety concerns as well as open integral discussions surrounding safety whilst at university.

Annabelle Joseph (Media and Communications rep for Angel Society), shared their hopes for the upcoming year to build a “community that can educate and enforce a recognition for women’s safety across campus and within society and sports socials.” Also noting that they will highlight “conversations about relationships, friendships, wellness and womanhood”.

Looking to get as many students involved (both current and new) they will be participating in Welcome Week, with a stall at the fair and a range of socials. Angel Society will also be running a sober social titled 'Hot girl walk' which for new students takes away the pressure of having to navigate a new city by yourself.

Looking toward the remainder of the academic year,

they hope to run a mixture of drinking and sober socials as well as educational gatherings. In particular, they are promoting the Reclaim the Night march that will be going ahead in November as well as events during Women’s History Month. They also hope to collaborate “with sports teams, both men's and women's... focusing on bystander training and respect for women on campus and in the city.” While their focus is primarily on safety concerns, their aim remains also to “create a space that allows women to be vulnerable with one another and to make new friends”. To get more involved, they frequently resort to their social media accounts and say they are “always welcoming new suggestions!”.

They hope to run a mixture of drinking and sober socials as well as educational gatherings

In response to this news, a spokesperson for the Student’s

Guild told Exeposé that “student safety is a priority and we have introduced a new officer to our team (Student Living Officer) to help focus on more aspects of university life which includes student safety on and off campus.” Additionally, Mia Robillard-Day (Communities and Equality officer) stated that while “Gender safety is a complex issue that cannot be fixed with any singular intervention. Groups like the Angel society play a key part in working towards student safety” and that the Guild look forward to “collaborate with the Angel society this year to improve gender safety in the Exeter student experience.”.

To encourage a much needed support system across all societies, the Guild continues to remind students that “if you spot a gap in our society offerings, we encourage you to get in touch with our Activities Team to discuss how we can support you to start your own society”.

Nonetheless, the site will be given a new lease of life after being purchased by a consortium that aims to promote musical education in the south west and turn Exeter into a regional music hub. This is primarily through the establishment of The Music Depot, a relaunch of the recently closed Music Room shop that was located on Sidwell Street until April. Simon Tremlett, part of The Music Depot’s management team, expressed his hope that this will turn the site into “a creative hub… supported by Yamaha and other major brands.”

Tremlett also told Devon Live that the trust aimed to establish Fore Street as a ‘Music Quarter’ in working with other music retailers in the area. He explained that “outside of Central London, music is no longer well served by modern retail, and we hope to help address this.” This also includes the creation of a new musical education charity for young people, which will also be located in the former bar.

“Student safety is a priority”: Angel Society welcomed to register as a

Image: David Smith, Geograph

Image: Harry Craig, Google Forms

University of Exeter awarded £1.6m to fund project supporting the decarbonisation of the fashion and textile industry

Livvy Mason-Myhill Editor-in-Chief

ON the 14th August, the University of Exeter secured £1.6m in funding for a new project, led by Professor Tamara Galloway, that intends to support efforts in the decarbonisation of the fashion and textile industry. The Future Fibres Network+ (FFN+), a research initiative under the direction of Professor Galloway, will integrate environmental sciences into the core of the fashion and textile industries. The study will receive support from Professor Fiona Charnley, Doctors Ruth Cherrington and Ceri Lewis, all from the University of Exeter.

The fashion and textile industries will be able to incorporate more sustainable and ethical practices thanks to a £6 million UK investment that UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) also announced on the 14th August.

More than 500,000 jobs are supported by the fashion and textile sector, which is estimated to be worth £21 billion to the UK economy. However, the sector is responsible for 20 per cent of the world's wastewater and eight per cent of its greenhouse gas emissions. More energy is used by the fashion industry than by shipping and aviation combined. The true impact on the environment is not entirely recognised because of the industry's complexity and scope.

Researchers from the University of the Arts London, University of Leeds, University of Huddersfield, and University of Plymouth will work in collaboration with the University

of Exeter to develop the critical mass of transdisciplinary expertise and methodologies required to make systematic, circular, and sustainable principles the rule.

Combating the present siloed disciplinary approach, which increases the complexity of the environmental challenge, is one of the FFN+ project's main goals.

Because it operates across established networks of expertise encompassing environment, design, STEM, and humanities capacities across academic, industrial, public, and private organisations, communities, and networks, the FFN+ consortium is well positioned to address this challenge.

Professor Galloway told Exeposé that “it’s surprising considering how much attention is being focused on sustainable fashion that designers generally know very little about how to protect the environment, and vice versa, environmental scientists don’t often get to find out much about the fashion industry. Unless we can rectify this, we won’t be able to monopolise on the positive enthusiasm of the industry to change.”

Answering Exeposé ’s queries surrounding how the project will embed environmental sciences at the heart of the fashion and textiles industry, Professor Galloway responded: “the network aims to bring together people from all sorts of backgrounds relevant to the fashion and textiles industry, designers, environmental scientists, climate scientists, experts in the circular economy and in analysing material flows and social scientists specialising in behaviour.” Professor Galloway further explained that these experts from a variety of different

fields alongside herself, are aiming to provide a broad range of events, including seminars, research exchanges and training sessions. The project additionally focuses on the movements of materials being mapped out, from product creation to disposal, in order to determine which sites are most damaging. She then went on to highlight:

“It’s shocking to discover that we throw away 10 tonnes of textile waste every second with hundreds of millions of intact items of clothing reaching landfill each day. Over a third have never been worn. Satisfying this high demand leads to overuse of natural resources, whilst the manufacturing process can use toxic dyes, bleaches and generate contaminating fibres. After they are thrown away, each item of clothing is a complex mixture of pollutants, slowly leaching out chemicals, dyes and microfibres into the environment. The whole process is hugely carbon intensive.”

When Exeposé asked how the FFN+ project that she is leading will achieve the project’s key objective of countering the current siloed disciplinary approach that exacerbates the complexity of the environmental challenge, Professor Galloway stated that the aim is to create improved textiles that either have a longer lifespan and shed fewer fibres or are made to safely decompose in the environment. She continued by underlining that important growth areas are the need for additional non-toxic dyes and processing chemicals, as well as recycling, reusing, and repurposing (such as renting clothing rather than purchasing it). Another important goal of the project is to use less energy throughout the entire process, from creating and discarding products locally to using smart materials that use less energy to make or require less washing. Most importantly, perhaps, is that the FFN+ project is collaborating with psychologists to learn more about what inspires individuals

to change and what obstacles prevent them from doing so, “a fantastic biodegradable clothing is useless if no one will wear it.”

Professor Galloway implied that one of the main methods that the project will transform the fashion industry and bring about a new, low carbon future will be through adopting a systematic approach." She went on to express that you must comprehend every component of the ‘system’ of clothing and textiles, as well as how they work together and “one thing to avoid is to introduce changes that are more harmful than the thing they are replacing, so understanding the different positive and negative tipping point of the system is crucial.”

Sharing her attitudes towards the fast-fashion industry, Professor Galloway described how one may contend that a fundamental aspect of being human is enjoying our appearance and the persona we project to others. However, she went on the explain that the majority of us never consider where the garments came from, how creating them affected the environment, and most importantly, where they will end up after we are done wearing them. Professor Galloway also shared how upon her visit to Buckingham Palace to receive her OBE, her outfit was entirely bought from the British Heart Foundation, channelling her idea that “if we can change these things, then we can still enjoy the clothes we wear without wrecking the environment”.

Exeposé asked how the project will utilise experts from other departments and fields to aid its success, to which Professor Galloway answered: “Our core

team work in ecotoxicology, that means the study of pollution and how it damages living things and the environment. We’ll be working closely with colleagues in the Circular Economy Hub of the Business school and with colleagues from Psychology." She continued saying that the project will collaborate closely with design teams, life cycle analysts, and textile production experts from the University of Leeds and the University of the Arts in London, as well as with University of Plymouth researchers who specialise in examining the social aspects of the fashion business. With that in mind, Professor Galloway disclosed that “collectively, we’re confident we can help the fashion and textiles industry to work towards its net zero targets.” Professor Galloway emphasized the importance of designing textiles and garments with sustainability in mind from the start, including creating smarter fabrics and adopting more circular supply chains. The ultimate goal is to reduce pollution, enhance sustainability, and change perceptions and attitudes within the industry. This initiative aligns with UKRI's efforts to promote sustainability within the fashion and textile industry, recognizing its significant impact on the environment. Three research teams have received a combined £6 million in funding from the Natural Environment Research Council, the Arts and Humanities Research Council, and Innovate UK. The NetworkPlus investment is a significant component of UKRI's £15 million Circular Fashion Programme.

Images: Artificial Photography, Wikimedia Commons, Pierre Terre, Wikimedia Commons

Solar array on wildlife site to be built at the University of Exeter

Charlie Gershinson Deputy Editor

THE University of Exeter has been granted permission to install solar panels in Duryard Valley Park to help supply power to the University.

The panels will be installed on the land which, although owned by the University, is a publicly accessible area and had been designated a site of natural conservation and a country wildlife park. It is expected that the solar array, with a peak of 1.07 megawatts, will supply three per cent of

the University’s power demand.

Joanna Chamberlain, the University's director of sustainability, said: “we are in a climate crisis and the proposed PV array at Duryard would provide an opportunity to make significant strides towards carbon net zero”.

While the scheme was supported by Exeter City council officers, it proved controversial within the council’s planning committee as it passed by a slim margin of six votes to four. Criticising the plan, Conservative councillor Anna Jobson said: “one would have thought that until every inch of roof space that could have solar panels put on it, has solar

panels put on it, then there is no identifiable need for a greenfield sit, which is in conflict with our local plan, to be developed”. Liberal Democrat councillor Michael Mitchell, who represents Duryard and St James, pointed specifically to the lack of solar panels on the roof of East Park. The plan also received 14 rejections from residents with concerns that the solar array would harm the character of the valley and upset wildlife. While council officers saw that the solar panels will conflict with the council’s existing local plan for development, they gave heavy weight to the “benefits

of the scheme in terms of renewable energy generation” and concluded that: “the benefits […] outweigh the visual and landscape

harm” and “the proposal is therefore considered to be in conformity with the development plan taken as a whole.”

Image: Lewis Clarke, Wikimedia Commons

Features

FEATURES

EDITORS: Benedict Arthur Thompson and Henry Parker

The Conservative Party’s election prospects — too far gone?

Anna Kane, Online News Editor, considers whether Sunak has steadied the sinking ship

RISHI Sunak’s January speech, in which he outlined his five pledges, as well as his February cabinet re-shuffle, seemed to be striving towards the reparation of the Conservative Party’s ever-dwindling image. Despite this, improvements thus far have been relatively unremarkable, and it appears the damage done by Johnson and Truss remains far from repaired.

Sunak’s reshuffle in February was a chance for him to establish authority within the Conservative Party. This was important to set him apart from his two predecessors, who ultimately failed in their roles due to a lack of internal support.

Boldly, Sunak not only re-assigned ministerial positions but created new governmental departments. He broke up the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to create three independent departments: a department for energy supply and net zero, a department for sci -

ence, innovation, and technology, and a department for business and trade.

His sacking of Party Chairman Nadhim Zahawi amid his tax affair scandal was a wise PR move, and his replacement, former Trade Minister Greg Hands, seems to have been a solid, uncontroversial replacement.

Despite this, the changes had little impact as Politico ’s current polling tracker reveals that the Westminster voting intention stands highly in favour of the Labour Party, who have a 45 per cent share compared to the Conservative 27 per cent as of 7th September. The Conservatives have only gained three per cent since Sunak assumed office on 25th October.

Given the cost-of-living crisis, it was unsurprising that Sunak’s pledges were principally concerned with the economy. The pledges were as follows:

1) Halve inflation this year.

2) Grow the economy and create better paid jobs.

3) Reduce national debt.

4) Cut NHS waiting lists.

5) Pass new laws to stop small boats, detaining and removing immigrants swiftly.

Seven months on, successes on any of these fronts are not obvious.

In terms of pledge one, inflation has dropped from 10.1 per cent in January, to 7.9 per cent in June, which is significant progress. However, New Statesman reporters Harry ClarkeEzzidio and Katharine Swindells point out that due to “falling wholesale gas and oil prices,” inflation for 2023 was expected to drop anyway. Pledge two ultimately depends upon the success of pledge one, but Sunak’s response to nationwide strikes has been interesting and has marked a diversion from Johnson and Truss’ responses to strike action.

On 13th July, Sunak announced his offer of pay rises of around six per cent amidst the teachers’ and doctors’ strikes. This was accepted by the

teachers’ unions, meaning a huge sector are now economically active again.

As to pledge three, the national debt is the highest it has been in 62 years as of June.

Regarding pledge four, NHS waiting lists remain lengthy and the doctors’ unions were not impressed with Sunak’s offer, given they wanted a 35 per cent pay rise.

Pledge five has arguably had the worst outcome of the pledges, as the New Statesman reports that 97 per cent of last year’s asylum seekers still await a decision, leaving thousands unemployed. Sunak’s plan to deport immigrants to Rwanda was rejected in court on 29th June and his ideas seems to be shrouded in uncertainty.

If Sunak’s decisions regarding the climate are perceived as hypocrisy, this may lead to his downfall. Despite establishing a department for energy supply and net zero, he announced on 31st July that government would be granting over 100 licences to oil

companies to drill in the North Sea. Comedian Stewart Lee’s description of Sunak’s grants as “naked contempt for the international court of civilised opinion” is a view bound to resonate. While Sunak has made attempts at implementing change, whether he has steadied the ship for the Conservatives is contentious — at least his term has exceeded 49 days.

The Labour Party’s election prospects — theirs to win?

Harry Craig, Deputy Editor, questions if Starmer lacks ambition

BEFORE New Labour’s 1997 election landslide, former Home Secretary Roy Jenkins described Tony Blair as being “like a man carrying a priceless Ming vase across a highly polished floor.” This has given rise to the so-called “Ming vase strategy”, in which a party with a sizeable poll lead will play it safe and avoid doing anything that could risk losing that lead.

This, perhaps, is the best analogy for Labour’s current electoral dilemma. Amidst the chaos of Boris Johnson’s dying days and Liz Truss’ brief premiership last year, Labour surged to a 2030 point lead in the opinion polls, which has mostly held steady since Rishi Sunak came to power. Aware that this is more a result of Tory weakness rather than an endorsement of his own strengths, Labour leader Keir Starmer has become increasingly cautious in the lead-up to next year’s election, to avoid anything jeopardising what looks like a surefire Labour victory.

Charlie Gershinson, Deputy Editor, on Labour’s cautious approach

benefit cap. Aside from attracting criticism from the Labour left, this has left many voters feeling that Labour are not offering anything considerably different to the Conservatives. However, Starmer has held steady on this strategy, aiming to avoid Labour being portrayed as reckless on spending, especially as the economic situation looks to dominate the next election.

To an extent, this ap pears to have paid off.

As a result of the abysmal economic outlook, Labour’s Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves has ditched almost all of the Party’s spending pledges. In recent months, this has included Uturns on abolishing tuition fees, the £28bn green investment plan, and scrapping the two-child

In a by-election in Selby and Ainsty in July, Labour overturned a Tory majority of 20,000 to win the seat in the party’s second-biggest by-election swing ever, in a seat that has never before elected a Labour MP. Labour can also be buoyed by the Lib Dem resur gence against the Tories in south ern England, as well as Labour’s own resurgence in Scotland. Their poll lead has held steady at around 20 points, but Labour still can’t shake off the feeling that this is not a result of their own strengths. Starmer will hope the Ming vase doesn’t shatter before the next election — and is doing everything possible to play it safe.

AFTER continuous unforced errors by the Conservative government, the Labour Party are being seen as the government-in-waiting by default. To attempt a stunning turnaround, which would see Labour come from its worst electoral result since 1935 to become the party of government for the first time in 13 years, Starmer correctly realises the tightrope he must walk to secure a Labour government.

Starmer is often compared to former Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair, who brought Labour from a similar purgatory of opposition to a landslide majority in 1997. Starmer’s supporters see him as a similarly competent administrator able to save the country from Conservative misrule while his critics dismiss him as a turgid figure unwilling to bring about true change.

While it is too early to say if either of these interpretations are correct, Starmer is

not wrong to err on the side of caution. To refer to Blair once again, his 1997 campaign is remembered not for a sprawling, radical manifesto but instead for a five-point pledge card full of unremarkable promises like reducing classroom sizes and cutting NHS waiting lists. Then-Shadow Chancellor Gordon Brown — meanwhile — promised to retain Conservative spending promises when Labour would come to government, a fiscally conservative policy similar to Labour’s new business-friendly sheen under current Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

It is impossible to say if this strategy will lead to a Labour government, but it is a strategy which places Labour in the best position of winning back the voting coalition of 1997 and making Keir Starmer the next Prime Minister. With a steady polling lead over the Conservatives of around 15-20 points for almost a year, Starmer will surely want to keep the focus not on Labour but on the flailing government for as long as possible. This seems to be working right now but let us hope that Starmer’s program for government is more ambitious than his program for opposition.

Image: Rwendland, Wikimedia Commons

Labour leader Keir Starmer has become increasingly cautious

Starmer is not wrong to err on the side of caution

Image: Simon Dawson, Flickr

How politicians respond to climate change

Henry Parker, Features Editor, on the politics of energy production and the rapidly changing climate

YOU can get a sense of people’s increasingly worried attitudes surrounding the current state of our climate by simply looking at how the temperature of the conversations has somewhat changed. “Maybe we will live to see the negative impact we’ve had on the environment in our lifetimes, but it won’t be until far off in the future, right?”

This summer, with its unprecedented peaks in average air and ocean temperature, has made people more worried than ever that a line has been crossed. These problems are now far too present, and it is clear that the politicians in charge have not done the work to try and save us from this pathway to catastrophe.

than those policy prescriptions. It is because of this that the British public’s overwhelming view is that these organisations do more harm than good, and also that it just makes people actively hostile to any climate action at all. According to YouGov, in this summer alone, Just Stop Oil’s unfavourability has risen to 64 per cent, which is four times the rate of those who view the campaign group favourably.

First, we need to catch up on the current state of the world, just to get a small sense of where we are right now. The hottest day on record, with an average air temperature on 6th July of 17.08 degrees Celsius; the hottest June on record, over 1.4C above the pre-industrial average; never before seen heatwaves in the North Atlantic, leading to the highest ocean surface temperature in 40 years; a new low for the amount of Antarctic sea ice, “10 per cent lower than the previous low, which is huge,” according to Dr Caroline Holmes at the British Antarctic Survey. All of this happened this summer, in 2023.

In the UK, talks about the fight against a deteriorating climate has centred entirely around various eco-protest groups like Climate Rebellion, Insulate Britain, and the current star, Just Stop Oil. Although these organisations have titles that very much speak for themselves, the discussions have mostly been over the various tactics they employ, like blocking roads or throwing orange paint or confetti to gain attention, rather

This doesn’t paint the full picture though, as on the whole UK adults are still worried about the climate, and polling suggests that they do not view the Conservative Party as a party that has the preservation of our ecosystems as a priority of theirs. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government has a net zero agenda, intended to be reached by 2050, but the Conservatives have nonetheless come under regular criticism over their approaches to UK energy production. Just last year Sunak had to reinstate a fracking ban, after much outcry and a complete collapse of the old administration, that they had overturned after initially promising to ban the drilling practice. Now Mr Sunak is having a fossil fuel fight of his own, after approving new licenses to extract oil and gas from the North Sea.

Sunak’s argument for the new oil licenses is that Britain has become too energy dependent, and instead should become more selfreliant, producing our own resources, even if it is at the cost of some environmental damage. So, whilst there are ostensibly green policies in the Conservative Party platform, theoretically reducing the negative impact of importing energy by having it homegrown, it is notably absent from their list of priorities.

Labour is generally viewed as having a greater interest in climate protection, having ‘Making Britain a clean energy superpower’ as one of their ‘five mission for a better Britain’, but that doesn’t mean there is any less mixed messaging surrounding their platform. In the confines of

the culture war, Labour is simultaneously the political wing of the Just Stop Oil campaign, according to Suella Braverman’s letter to Keir Starmer, as well as being a party that is too caught up in the oil lobby to be a part of any real change, as some of Stamer’s more left-wing critics would suggest.

But there is something of a gap between Labour and the Conservatives on their climate policies, and it may be a crucial part of the next general election, especially in the way that it relates to energy security and the costof-living crisis. Labour similarly wishes to gain greater energy independence, but will do it instead through their £28 billion green investment plan (it is important to note that as of now, that plan has been delayed and would not happen in the first few years of their parliamentary term

if the party is to be elected into power, and shadow energy secretary Ed Miliband has expressed that they have not abandoned the plan).

Interestingly, both parties frame their policies and projects as ones of change and independence, something that has risen from the energy squeeze that came as a part of the fallout from the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The UK as a whole is now seen as having a diminished role on the global stage in the fight against climate change, as is suggested by the annual report by the Climate Change Committee (CCC) that was released at the end of June. This appeared alongside concerns that the government is going to fail to make its agreed £11.6 billion financial contributions, in order to help impoverished countries fight climate change, pledged at COP26 in Glasgow in 2021. Of course, a government spokesperson disputed these leaks, claiming that they are still committed to the pledge.

The UK as a whole is now seen as having a diminished role on the global stage in the fight against climate change

Now that we are heading towards COP28, in the United Arab Emirates, an outright petrostate, at the end of this year, it is not a sunny picture of the future that is being painted. Is this going to be the time when the stars align, and the public finally begin to feel that the global community has united together to save the future? Or will this just be viewed as an attempt at ‘greenwashing’? Where some climate goals are set, but overall, the major companies whose pollutants that are largely responsible for the current plight seem to face far too little scrutiny.

For now, in the UK, the most important thing that can be done is to keep the politicians to their promises. Tackling climate change has to be an important enough issue for the voting public, meaning that not one party will wish to lose any votes over it and then risk losing in future elections.

Image: Gary Bembridge, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Glen Fergus, Wikimedia Commons

International

Murdered journalist in Mexico

Anabel Costa-Ferreira, Editor-in-Chief, dicusses this tragic death and explains how it is not an isolated incident

ALTHOUGH not typically thought of as a dangerous career, the work of a journalist to expose and highlight injustice often puts them at great risk. This year, Mexico has already seen several cases with La Journada (a leading daily newspaper in Mexico City), saying at least four others have been murdered, in addition to the killing of Luis Martín Sánchez Íñiguez. A correspondent for La Journada, Luis is reported to have gone missing on the 5th July, the following day after the disappearance of Osiris (both a teacher and former reporter) and a third individual Jonathan (who is reported to have since been found in good health). Due to the na-

ture of their career history, the cases were quickly assumed to have tragic outcomes. On the 9th July, the body of 59-year-old Luis was found in El Ahuacate (Near Tepic.) Following the discovery of his body, authorities also reported two notes attached to the victim’s chest, yet what these messages contained remains unknown to the public.

Authorities also reported two notes attached to the victim’s chest

This case has triggered international anger as organisations (such as the Mexican Commission for the Defense

Parisian protests

and Promotion of Human Rights and Americas branch of the Committee to Protect Journalists) demand answers and more importantly seek justice. As in this region of the world, news stories and investigations often cover cartels and corruption, killings are rarely fully investigated as the risk is deemed too great. Returning to the data by ACLED, between 2021 and 2022 a 12 per cent increase in cases targeting journalists led to a total recorded figure of 518 events. We should not only hold the utmost respect for the constant risk these individuals take to report the truth but support that this should be reflected by law. To protect the truth, we need to protect the journalists behind it.

Josie Sharp, International Editor, discusses events and reasons for the civil unrest in France

THIS summer, rioters having been running rampant through the streets of France to protest against racism and police violence. These civil disturbances began on the 27th June, after a police officer shot Algerian teenager Nahel Merzouk in the Parisian suburb Nanterre. The riots were originally protests, outside of the Police Department Headquarters, yet they unfortunately devolved into violence where teenagers set fire to cars, demonstrated aggression towards the police, and vandalized bus stops, as well as shops.

Rioters have been running rampant through the streets of France

Civil unrest is not a new concept to France, where protests against police brutality have been ongoing for many years, notable examples being the 2005 French riots and the Gilets Jaunes protests in 2018. However, this string of protests and riots seem to be a result of various factors. In 2018, a new law was passed through the Assemblée Nationale which concerned the use of firearms when completing traffic stops. The revision allows police officers to shoot at a vehicle, passengers and drivers that attempt to evade these traffic stops. Merzouk is the

19th person to die as a result of this new law. Additionally, racial profiling by police officers has been one of the main factors for the escalation of these protests into riots. French citizens can no longer stand idly by whilst immigrants and French citizens face unfair prejudice from police officers, due to their lack of ‘français-de-souche’ (stereotypically European) appearance. Their level of frustration was made abundantly clear to President Emmanuel Macron, as the attendees managed to cause €650 million worth of damage to buildings and vehicles from the 27th June to the 15th July.

At least 3000 citizens have been arrested for participating in protests, but also several police officers have been placed in custody. One particular police officer in Marseille has been placed in pre-trial detention for the beating of a young man. This has been an unpopular decision by a judge and has been largely disputed within the police force, believing this to be a form of betrayal from the system. The injuries that the policeman left on the 22-year-old man were so severe that he was placed in a coma where the doctors then had to remove a section of his skull.

During August, unrest continued in France and the youth of France continued to fight for fair treatment of all of its citizens and against the blatant racism and violence from the French police force.

Europe on fire

Amberly Wright, Lifestyle Editor, pleads for action

WHEN I started writing this article, climate change was at the forefront of the news. According to NASA, June 2023 saw the hottest temperatures that the month has ever seen, with the IPCC’s (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) yearly report stating that the surface temperature of the earth has risen an extra 1.1C than initially predicted in the last decade, with a further 1.5C increase being predicted if the pattern of warming continues. However, this news isn’t surprising, and we’ve been aware of the pressure to make changes to prevent further warming, with many of us using public transport, eating less meat, and buying second-hand items to combat the changes.

While writing my second draft, Europe hit the headlines, as Greece became covered in smoke due to wildfires. Corfu was evacuated, with thousands of holidaymakers having to delay their holiday to the popular Greek islands. Although,

Greece isn’t the only country suffering because of the world’s fossil fuel emissions; Italy, Croatia and many Spanish islands have been hit by high temperatures, setting cities alight. In mid-July, a vast portion of southern Europe and northern Africa were classified as high-risk for fires.

Greece became covered in smoke due to wildfires

The decisions we make about our lifestyle are detrimental to the state of the earth, and the effects of climate change are no longer far away. The ice caps melting used to be one of the few effects of our actions but are not the sole issue anymore — Britain’s warming is closer than ever, and it can only be so long before changes become irreversible.

Death of a French fashion icon

Livvy Mason-Myhill, Editor-in-Chief, discusses the impact of Jane Birkin after her death

JANE Birkin, who recently passed away on the 16th July, is an enduring fashion legend whose influence has left an indelible effect on the fashion world. Her name is synonymous with ageless elegance and easy style. She not only became a well-known actress and singer but also a symbol of sleek refinement and a source of inspiration for designers and fashion fans all over the world.

The fashion business has been forever changed by the influence of Jane Birkin, whose name is interchangeable with elegance and carefree flair. When Birkin rose to prominence in the swinging London scene in the 1960s, she made her debut in the fashion industry. Her particular

hippie-yet-chic appearance, which was understated and rapidly attracted adoration. Birkin, who personified the ‘je ne sais quoi’ aesthetic by effortlessly fusing casual and class, became a distinct and real style icon. However, Birkin’s life changed dramatically in the 1970s where she solidified her reputation as a fashion icon with her chance meeting with Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight, resulting in the development of the infamous Birkin bag. After being introduced in 1984, the Birkin bag gained notoriety as a mark of exclusivity and luxury, gracing the arms of both celebrities and style mavens. Additionally, a younger generation of shoppers has taken notice of Birkin’s commitment to ethical and sustainable fashion practices, when she asked for her name to be taken off the Birkin Croco bags due to her animal rights activism. Her devotion to fashion is a constant inspiration for designers and fashion aficionados and her legacy will continue for many years to come

Image: Keith Dannemiller, Knight Foundation

Her name is synonymous with ageless elegance and easy style

Comment

COMMENT EDITORS

Lisette Reed and Charlotte Zeyssolff

Marking boycotts — the downfall of university degrees?

Anabel Costa-Ferreira, Editor-In-Chief, discusses what’s stopping students from calling it quits on higher education

AS I am sure many students can relate, ‘Progress pass pending’ became a phrase we were all too familiar with this summer. Due to the ongoing marking and assessment boycott (MAB), students were missing (and are still missing) exam results and many final-year students even graduated without knowing their degree mark, and for some this left them with an unknown classification.

Whilst as students we care about the wellbeing and treatment of our lecturers, it becomes increasingly hard to justify the impact this also has on students, especially when industrial action continues for as long as it has this year. Following the anxious years of COVID learning, it is important to remember students have also struggled, and the impact of this boycott has felt very much the same. During this academic year, UCU (University & Colleges Union) strikes in the first term only lasted a few days, and for many, seemed like a bonus

day off. Whilst the learning missed remained minimal, by the second term, strikes and missed learning seemed a monthly occurrence.

Newspaper headlines read “UCU announces ‘unprecedented’ 18 days of strikes” and I for one could see the increasing concerns from friends and peers about just how much learning we were missing and why we were continuing to be charged such extortionate tuition fees.

As we all know, these unresolved demands resulted in the follow through of a marking boycott. As a reminder, the UCU’s industrial action seeks mainly to fix the lack of secure contracts (ending involuntary zerohour contracts) and provide a pay rise in line with the cost-of-living crisis.

When the 28th June finally arrived, many Exeter students (myself included) received a halffilled transcript with a message underneath detailing that they would be contacted again on the 10th July.

And for many, 10th July became 1st August, followed by 15th August,

and so on. Back in December, Exeposé heard from several students supporting the strikes who agreed that ‘it is no wonder our lecturers are asking for their livelihoods to be protected.’ Yet with seemingly little progress nine months later, this support is likely to have waivered due to the boycott’s abrupt impact. Even though current students have some support in place, such as the university’s alleged promise to waive fees for years repeated as a result of strikes, the support for graduates seems absent in comparison.

support is likely to have waivered due to the boycott’s abrupt impact

Many employers require a particular degree class, which students awaiting their results are simply unable to confirm. In response to this, the Guild has published an open letter to employers in order ‘to highlight the situation and the fact that whilst you may not have your

degree... this should not stop you moving onto the next stage in your journey.’ Similarly, some (now third year) students started an open letter addressed to the university, making the incredibly valid point that some ‘may receive their results back in time... creating an uneven playing field’ and ultimately summarising that ‘months of hard work preparing for exams/coursework have reduced our academic efforts to mockery.’

In conversation with a lecturer who chose not to participate in the industrial action, one lecturer responded, “I joined the strike earlier this year because I strongly support the fight to improve pay and working conditions in higher education.

However, after a great deal of thought I chose not to join the MAB: not to mark the work that students had produced after a great deal of effort and stress, not to give them a meaningful result in exams, was a step too far for me, particularly given the disruption of the past few years. This said, I totally respect those who felt that our employers’ intransigence gave them no alternative.” Whilst the university’s website answers many possible questions, the answers we want remain uncertain. Though it seems all we can do is be patient, it remains a stressful period, so I would urge those feeling overwhelmed to look at the academic support available.

Are Freshers’ club ticket packages worth it?

Anna Kane, Online News Editor, assesses the value of expensive ticket bundles for your first week of night-outs

GONE are the days of buying tickets on the door as club culture has become dependent on online ticket presales. As Exeter students will know all too well, certain club nights sell out extremely fast — Wednesday nights out at Timepiece must be planned weeks in advance so as not

to miss the online tickets which sell out in minutes. Some organisers have already released club packages. The question is, are these packages really worth the cost?

On FIXR, one such package is called ‘Exeter University Freshers Week 2023’. In its description it explains the seller’s aim, saying,

‘we keep our event prices fair — you can expect to pay between £3 and £6 per night’. The description also says, ‘Tickets from £5.00’. It’s only when you click on the Buy Tickets icon that you discover that ‘from’ is the operative word.

You are redirected to a page that offers Standard and Deluxe Freshers Week wristbands. You discover that the only thing advertised for £5 (plus a £1 booking fee) is an ‘Original Sin T-Shirt’ — not quite a club ticket.

The cheapest offer on the Standard Wristband, £15 + a £1.50 booking fee, has sold out at time of writing. The fourth release tickets cost £35 + a £3.50 booking fee. The Early Bird Deluxe ticket, again sold out, cost £50,

and the third release wristbands cost £70 + a £7 booking fee.

Now let’s break down what’s on offer for these eye-watering expenses. For the Standard Wristband, the clubs you are given access to are Move, Bomba (both at the Quay), Phoenix, a TBA club, and Monkey Suit (more of a cocktail bar than a club). You are also given exclusive discounts to ‘events throughout the year’, the details of which are not specified. The Deluxe ticket includes all this plus entry to Yonder Festival, free entry to an unspecified club until Christmas, and ‘In the Mix Tuesdays’ at Bomba.

Exeter’s most popular clubs are Timepiece, Fever, and Unit 1 — none of which seem to be included in this ticket package. Many firstyear prospective students are also yet to have confirmed places at Exeter,

or to have established a group of friends with whom to go to these club nights. Students are better off discovering the clubs they like and then buying individual tickets to them closer to the time. Unless you have a particular fondness for clubbing at the Quay, I would not invest in this particular clubbing ticket package.

Image: Gül Işık, Pexels

Image: NEOSIAM 2021, Pexels

Image: Mark Angelo Sampan, Pexels

Freshers’ Week: overrated or a bit of fun?

Comment writers debate their past experiences of Welcome Week (formerly known as Freshers’ Week)

Freshers’ Week — a highly anticipated, exciting week?

FRESHERS’ week, for me and many others, was an exciting, highly anticipated time to settle into university life, make new friends, explore the university and, not to deliberately quote High School Musical, was the start of something new.

Your first week is a chance to start over and be who you really are at university, rather than having to worry about fitting in at school or college where the popularity hierarchy reigns over you. There’s a group for everyone at university, whether within a university society, your course or your accommodation — this is an entire week dedicated to ensuring that you settle in comfortably, aided by a series of events throughout the week.

An

Yes, it is a daunting time, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a bad thing. When I moved from home to uni, I will admit I was terrified — I’m not a particularly extroverted person, and my social battery can easily run out. I was also worried about socialising with my flatmates — eight strangers who had all been put in a flat together, knowing nothing about each other. Thankfully, the introduction lectures in Freshers’ Week enabled me to meet some of my closest friends. We began making plans to go to the Freshers Fair together, as well as

Freshers events of societies we were interested in and clubbing nights. The friends I made during this week are people I’m still best friends with to day — we have a little house together, decorated with fairy lights, flowers and an infinite tower of English and Film textbooks. We play Mario Kart on a tiny TV we found on eBay, cook dinner together and go to our very own sunset spot afterwards. If it wasn’t for Freshers week, we probably wouldn’t have had that.

Of course, the environment your Freshers’ Week is in has a lot of bearing on how it goes, but hopefully everything will go to plan for this year’s Freshers!

Lisette Reed, Comment Editor

Freshers’ Week — an overwhelming, anxiety-inducing week?

FRESHERS’ Week can be extremely intimidating, especially for those who are new to university life and feel pressure to make sure they have the best Freshers’ Week possible. Freshers’ Week (or Welcome Week as it will now be called) is usually not all that it’s made up to be. My personal experience of Freshers’ Week was extremely underwhelming.

My main aim was to try to talk to as many people as possible by going out clubbing every night, making friends throughout the week and getting along with my flatmates. Unfortunately for me and many others who likely shared the same experience, this is definitely not the reality. I found Freshers’ Week to be one of the most exhausting weeks of my life, both mentally and socially.

In the end, my social anxiety made me even more awkward than I already am, making it challenging for me to properly connect with people. Additionally, I found it exhausting attempting to go out every night during Freshers’ Week and ended up not having the best evenings as I just wasn’t in the mood to go out. I would definitely recommend only going out a couple of times during Freshers’ Week or even just doing

some social activities in your accommodation to help you meet people.

I also found it rather difficult to bond with my flatmates during Freshers’ Week. When arriving at university, you expect that you will become best friends with your flatmates instantly, but this certainly isn’t always the case. I found instead that I gained most of my friends throughout the year, rather than solely in Freshers’ Week, finding friends in my course, from my accommodation (alongside other accommodations), and of course from Exeposé Although I view my experiences of Freshers’ Week in a negative light, this doesn’t mean you should. In my opinion, it is rather overhyped but I’m glad I went through it, as it’s a key university experience.

Livvy Mason-Myhill, Editor-in-Chief

Should Freshers join societies immediately?

Emily Sara Rizzo discusses whether Freshers should join societies in this first week or wait

THE start of a new academic year is both an exciting and scary prospect, especially to the university’s new arrivals, whose student life begins with what is possibly one of the most intense weeks of their lives: Freshers’ Week. Among housing concerns, academic anxieties and the horrifying process of socialising with strangers, joining societies seems to only add stress to the mix. Or maybe it’s the one thing that students are most looking forward to? Societies are, after all, one of the easiest ways to meet people with similar interests or hobbies, and can be a welcome refuge from the madness of your first

week at uni. But where to start and how to choose among the hundreds of societies on offer? The best way of surveying the situation is to go along to the Freshers Fair, but even if you don’t manage to get yourself there, the thousands of leaflets that are handed out around campus should give you plenty of information too.

The general suggestion you’ll hear from everyone is to pick three societies to investigate: one to do with your subject area, one with a sport of choice, and one with a hobby or fun activity. Of course, joining three different societies could already be tugging on your purse strings, and that’s with -

out mentioning all the international societies, volunteering groups and smaller clubs that may interest some.

Of

Luckily, many of these will offer free introductory events so you can better decide where your loyalties lie, and how attached you are to your money and time, because you can be sure that by the end of the first term you will realise just how precious these are. So, take your time in choosing, but

don’t hesitate to get a membership if you find something that particularly strikes your fancy, because a group of new-found friends (which could also include older students with endless advice for university survival) could be what you rely on during these first few months. Although, if you do happen to be unsure, it’s good to remember that you can buy a membership for only one term, letting you re-evaluate your priorities by January, hopefully just in time for society stashes!

There is no doubt that everyone will find something that suits them; a little family of like-minded friends with whom they can spend time out-

side of the academic world, and that will probably guide them through their uni years. My suggestion to all Freshers this year is to try out as much as possible, don’t be afraid to experiment and explore all that is on offer, and go looking for your niche in the wide sea of societies, because we can guarantee that there is something out there for everyone. So, whether it’s sporty or science-y, political or practical, work-oriented or even just a bit wacky, hundreds of societies await new recruits all year round, arms wide open and readily welcoming.

entire week created to ensure that you settle in comfortably

I found it exhausting attempting to go out every night

Image: Lisette Reed

Image: Lisette Reed

course, joining three different societies could already be tugging on your purse strings

Satire

Clueless freshers stampede to Unit 1

WE’VE all been there. Hurriedly and cluelessly rushing to FIXR to purchase a coveted Cheesy Tuesday ticket three weeks in advance of attending. Filled with the naïvety and excitement of a baby deer, as Freshers we would chug cups and cups of particularly rancid-tasting vodka lemonade while ‘Mr. Brightside’ throbbed through our heads and our mates necked on with some suspiciously sharky third years. This year, the rush to FIXR will undoubtedly be increased tenfold and we can watch from the sidelines as Freshers slowly start migrating towards the sweet taste of venoms at Timepiece — an effect comparable only to the Pied Piper of Hamelin. But we cannot interfere because it’s a canon event and for at least two weeks, Timepiece will be Fresher-free, ‘Come on Eileen’ mosh pit-free and, best of all, Old Timers won’t feel like you’re a sardine, rammed into a can with thousands of others.

Gracie Moore, Online Arts and Lit Editor

Guild pioneers new 42-day week

AS the University of Exeter’s inaugural 42-day Welcome Week gets underway, the Oxford English Dictionary has been updated to define a week as a period of 42 days, rather than the traditional seven. Welcome Week, which was unveiled by the Students’ Guild last term, supersedes the longstanding institution of Freshers’ Week. The Guild’s novel understanding of what a week is has raised eyebrows among the few students paying attention. However, one second-year said, “I’m giving them the benefit of the doubt. Maybe on the planet the Guild lives on, a week really is 42 Earth days.”

Another student wondered whether reading week could similarly become a 42-day period. The student’s friend confessed that the length of reading week “makes no difference to me, because either way I’ll end up leaving my work until the last day and a half.”

Oliver Lamb, News Editor

Obituary: the original Exeposé office

ABRIT’S hatred for both hot and cold weather is a talent, and you can always rely on “it’s a bit chilly this morning” as an ice breaker for any awkward conversation. Undeniably, we love talking about weather, so we should all be thrilled at the recent announcement from the Met Office — the UK’s weather is set to align with Australia’s, so we can all look forward to playing a fun drinking game ‘take a shot every time [insert elderly relative] complains they’re too hot’ at Christmas dinner this year. What better way to use the skills you’ve learned in Timepiece this year? The fun doesn’t stop in the summer months either. Put away the surfboard and dig out the skis just in time for a snowy July!

Amberly Wright, Lifestyle Editor

Anabel Costa-Ferreira and Livvy Mason-Myhill Editors-in-Chief

THE original Exeposé office has recently passed away due to Devonshire House’s recent refurbishments. The Exeposé office, or the Media Suite as it was more formally known, was a space where the average university student would walk past, glaring into its glass doors, admiring the perfectly positioned posters, the bin filled with empty coffee cups, and an editor passed out on the stained sofa after a hard day of reporting (or recovering from a raging hangover). The office has witnessed many generations of

sleep deprived Exeposé editors that are highly caffeinated, frantically editing the paper that they treasure dearly.

From the somewhat temperamental computers (Livvy always having dibs on the computer in the corner), the questionably stained carpet (which no one ever knew how the stain appeared), the fancy dress box (filled with wigs, a single Primark heel and unclaimed stash) to the random sheets of paper messily dotted all across the office (with scribbles dating back to the early 2010s), it’s fair to say that the original Exeposé office was violently iconic.

Most of our favourite memories have been in the original Exeposé office. Livvy’s include: working until

share their

Jake Avery Music Editor

SCENES of mass hysteria have unfolded throughout the many halls of residency on Streatham campus.

Freshers have been found with their phones bound to their hands, each partaking in ultra-marathon length phone calls with their parents back home. Witnesses have referred to the widespread paranoia as being an epidemic, and an abundance of research dedicated

to the mysterious disaster has conjured a scientific name: ‘Missmy Parentsai Loadsis’. Scientists have declared that the elusive diagnosis in many freshers also leads to other obscure phenomena. Freshers seem to be incapable of carrying out any action without the advice and authority of their parents on the phone. “What we’re witnessing here is the process of zombification. Freshers infected with the Missmy Parentsai spore cannot do anything but abide by the wishes and advice of their hosts — their parents,” stated re -

three in the morning to proofread the paper while becoming mildly hallucinatory, watching snow fall outside the office windows in the winter, getting the chance to contribute to fascinating and informative News articles and, of course, getting to know the most amazing editors over the past two years who have gone on to achieve extraordinary things (*Livvy the Exeposé veteran tries not to cry*). Anabel’s include: any proofing session with a slice of warm Comida pizza (where she would say the vegan one looks okay but refuse to try it), packing the office to find early 90s Exeposé content (that would probably get us cancelled if we published it now), and the prosecco

celebration in which we proofed pages (and text messages) whilst eating some delicious pink cupcakes. While we write this our Exeposé boxes are somewhere in the University. We must remember that what really makes an office are the people within it, and whilst our original office has tragically passed, the newspaper itself lives on. Whilst mourning the loss of our beloved original Exeposé office, we look forward to decorating our new office which will be located near Starbucks, perfect for us editors who have a crippling caffeine addiction. We aim to make our new office as legendary as the last and ensure that the newspaper maintains its famous reputation.

in coping without

their parents

nowned Mycologist Jenny Norris.

Examined test subjects were put through an array of tasks as the demand for clinical trials soared; many were asked to put on bedding, cook scrambled eggs on toast, and activate a standard washing machine. Infected subjects were found to be capable of none — that is, until their parents advised them on how to do so.

Whilst the spore has reduced the capabilities of much of Exeter’s student population to that of the average field mouse, there have been some positive trends. Baked beans manufacturers in the south-west have reported an all-time high demand for their produce, and local hired cleaning businesses have seen profits boom. There appears to be only one cure that will kill the symptoms, arguably the hardest challenge freshers will have to overcome: learning to do it yourself…

Image: Livvy Mason-Myhill

Freshers

struggle

constantly calling

Freshers seem to be incapable of carrying out any action

Climate changed too much for Brits

lifestyle

Embracing Exeter

Henry Parker, Features Editor, sheds light on how he embraced the student lifestyle through Exeposé

EXETER is a fine place; it will take some effort not to like it here. But you can live in the same city for 20 years and not see all of it, so don’t expect to swallow the whole of Exeter in only a few years. Same goes for the university — it isn’t a small campus. You can hang out in Devonshire House, the Sanctuary, or the Forum Library, and just because you choose one over the others it doesn’t mean you’ve wasted your years by not seeing it all. You can’t do everything anyway. Truth be told, you don’t really have to do anything. Some folks will attend every taster this Welcome Week, and own jerseys from ten different societies by the end of the month. I did the complete opposite and barely left my room for the entirety of my first year, leaving only for seminars and lectures — and to be honest, I had a good year.

I always reminded myself that there is no reason to feel bad, or to feel guilty, over missing out on the ‘authentic university experience’. Your life is yours to live, don’t let other people live it for you. That means if there is something you would like to do, don’t just experience it vicariously through others, take the chance and go for it yourself. Conversely, if it isn’t for you, then it isn’t for you.

Handling homesickness

Maddie Conlan, Arts and Lit Editor, discusses her advice on handling a new chapter of life away from home

I don’t wish to play both sides the whole time, but I think it is also important to keep in mind two things: I can only impart what I know, and you’re probably not going to be in Exeter for only one term. By which I mean that you can do both — take many opportunities, then take only a couple, or vice versa.

In my second year, and after I had made a few more friends and become a little more confident, I joined Exeposé sometime during term two. Now that I’m an editor, I could feel foolish for not joining earlier, when I certainly could have, but there is no need for that.

D on’t dwell in the regret of missed chances, just take the next one when it comes your way. But do know this: you are far more ready than you realise. We are all making it up as we go along anyway, so just embrace that, have fun with it, and we’ll do it all together!

Staying safe on nights out

Rosie Batsford, News Editor, shares her tips on staying safe when hitting Exeter's nightlife

WHETHER you’re returning to university or coming to Exeter as a Fresher, nights out can be a significant source of anxiety. However, this shouldn’t stop you from going out; maintaining social activity is part of a healthy work/ life balance. Learning how to feel comfortable managing this balance can be challenging, but here are some tips on maximising your safety without withdrawing from the party.

Popular among many students, Exeter Student Nightline operates from 8pm-8am during term time and is available to call, email or message. This service is run by students, for students, and takes all types of calls. If you’re feeling nervous, having a friendly voice on the phone can be comforting while you walk to or from events.

If you’re new to the city, walking buses can be a great way to find your way around (and find all the best shortcuts around Exeter!) while meeting other students. Societies run these throughout first term and occasionally into second term, taking you from on

campus to wherever the social is taking place.

Physical resources can provide extra safety and assurance on a night out; spiking test kits, bottle protectors, and personal attack alarms are available in on-campus accommodation receptions, Forum reception, on-campus food and shopping outlets and Sports Park reception. Many clubs, bars and restaurants have similar resources available — keep an eye out for the Best Bar None logo, or ask a staff member if in doubt! Similarly, free Bystander training is available (bookable via the ‘events’ tab on Handshake), providing skills on how to safely be an active bystander.

M any more resources are available; Urban Angels (founded by an Exeter student!) is a great Facebook community to keep an eye on, frequently sharing advice, events and support surrounding safety on nights out specific to Exeter. I hope these tips are helpful; wishing you all a fun and safe year !

AS someone whose friends and family frequently describe as being ‘allergic’ to change, homesickness is something I have had to learn to deal with. Going to university is without a doubt one of the most frightening and exciting changes we face in our younger years, and while it is an incredible experience, university doesn’t come without its own anxieties and fears. Even going into my final year, where I feel settled living with friends that I love, I feel homesick at the idea of leaving my family and the safety blanket of my home behind. The age-old advice of joining a society does help alleviate the homesickness. If you’re doing something you love or even learning to love something new, it will take your mind off the aching feeling of missing your home. By keeping yourself busy and making memories, the homesickness won’t feel as all-consuming and you’ll have the bonus of making new friends.

One of the best things I did during my tumultuous Freshers’ Week was make my room feel like my own. While not everyone is in the position to bring mountains of nick-knacks

like I did (to the extent I almost didn’t fit in the car), having parts of your personality in your room is always a good talking point when getting to know your new flatmates.

If you have the urge to call home, make sure you do. Your family and friends are probably missing you as much as you’re missing them. Going cold turkey from talking to family and friends is probably going to make the ache worse. Make sure you toe the fine line of letting go slowly and soon you’ll be wandering the streets of Exeter with the confidence of a local!

Livvy Mason-Myhill, Editor-in-Chief, reveals some creative and relaxing ways to enjoy a night in

THERE are times when you yearn for or really need a wholesome night in. There are still ways to have a good time while staying cosy indoors if you'd rather not go clubbing. Hosting a relaxing night in can be an excellent way to connect with friends in today's world of hectic schedules and fast-paced life.

A great example of an engaging activity to do with friends would be to unleash your creativity and host a painting night where everyone can channel their inner artist. Set up a calm painting station by gathering painting equipment like canvas, brushes, and acrylic paints. Pick a straightforward yet enjoyable subject or let each person paint whatever inspires them. Even individuals who profess not to be artists may surprise themselves with their artistic ability thanks to this exercise, which promotes self-expres -

sion. Showcase everyone's creations at the conclusion of the evening and treasure the memories that the art has helped to build. Following the recent TikTok trends, you could be even more daring and paint wine glasses or use candlewax to paint candles. You could also host a mocktail-making night for a unique and entertaining take on classic beverages. With a selection of fresh fruits, herbs, juices, and sparkling water, set up a mocktail bar. Encourage your guests to combine ingredients to make their own unique mocktails. To add some humour, give each concoction unusual name tags. What's the best part? Everyone gets to be their own mixologist, trying out various flavours and concoctions while abstaining from alcohol and indulging in a pleasurable guilt-free evening. Movie nights are a classic night in activity. By hosting a themed movie night, you can turn your living room into a cosy home theatre. Choose a genre or series that everyone will appreciate or give them free reign to pick their own films. Add themed décor, movie-related snacks and warm blankets to unwind in a homemade cinema. Make the most of spending nights in by enjoying fun times with friends, or even by completing some of these wholesome activities by yourself.

YOUR LIFE IS YOUR LIFE TO LIVE, DON'T LET OTHERS LIVE IT FOR YOU

Image: WHub,Jonathan Maloney and Inga Beckmann

Image:: Pixabay

Image:: Pixabay

Exeter's hidden gems

Lucy Fraser takes us through her favourite Exeter spots for both the perfect day and night out

ONE of the most exciting things about Exeter is its versatile location, combining the liveliness of a city with easy access to the coast and more rural areas. However, as a student, it’s easy to limit yourself to visiting the same places whilst overlooking hidden gems that might be right on your doorstep.

If you fancy venturing further than the usual high street cafés and restaurants, Exeter Quay is home to plenty of independent businesses. There are shops full of handmade gifts and unique homeware, as well as great options for food and drink, such as Mango’s and Sunday’s. These both have a cosy atmosphere during the winter and outdoor seating in the summer alongside the River Exe.

zas are loved by students. With a short walk along the Quay, you’ll find the ship canal and Double Locks pub, with a beer garden perfect for grabbing a drink with friends. You can hire canoes, kayaks and paddleboards if you’re feeling adventurous. There are several parks and scenic areas for walking, cycling and relaxing around this area too.

events, so is worth a trip. The Monkey Suit is another popular bar among students, and even Artigiano’s, a popular café during the day, turns into a wine bar at night. For live music fans, Cavern is known for its indie club nights and gigs from both local and touring artists. If a break from an evening at Wetherspoons is what you’re after, The Old Firehouse

is a favourite, especially as they offer student discounts. Their square pizzas are definitely a Fresher’s bucket list item. However, just a stone's throw away from campus, The Imperial has its own appeal, especially during the summer evenings, where students span the garden, neighbouring the historic orangery.

I f the Quay is a little too far out for you, and you’re a big coffee fan, the city centre has no shortage of cafés either. The Undergrad, The Tasting Room and Tiny Tasting Room offer great coffee and are perfect spots for brunch. Also based at the Quay, On The Waterfront is a pub and restaurant situated in a former 19th-century dock warehouse. They serve locally-sourced food and their piz

Though Exmouth is the first beach that comes to mind when most people think of Exeter, Dawlish Warren is a short train journey away and has a neighbouring nature reserve. It’s been named a blue flag beach, as its cleanliness standards are perfect for bathing and swimming. Another nearby town worth visiting is Totnes, home to lots of alternative and Bohemian shops, a pottery painting café, and a variety of charity shops for our thrifty folk. It’s a great place for plant-based lovers too, with vegan cafés and restaurants stretching the high street. When it comes to nightlife, there are a surprising number of bars and pubs tucked away in smaller streets, just waiting for you to enjoy their craft beers and cocktails. The Bootlegger, a 1920s-inspired underground bar, is slightly pricier than your average Exeter hotspot, but it often hosts live music

Funny Freshers stories

Lifestyle writers take a trip down memory lane and share some Freshers Week antics

ALTHOUGH I have a fair share of embarrassing stories about myself, I decided that wouldn’t be fitting as a Deputy Editor. Instead, it seems wiser to embarrass one of my friends by taking a stroll down memory lane to my very first year at Exeter.

Soon after arriving in Exeter, I formed a group of friends with some people from my flat and the flat next door (although, like almost every fresher friend group, it wouldn’t last…). Nonetheless, towards the end of

Freshers Week, I decided to bring these newfound friends along to a birthday party I had been invited to by a former schoolmate. Unfortunately, our excessive pre-drinking rather overshadowed the tone of the party, which was decidedly more subdued than the drunken state in which the majority of our group arrived. One individual had a particular liking for Fireball. Sadly, this made him really quite sick, and he decided the kitchen window was the best place to go. We left (or perhaps were kicked out) after just one hour. It’s probably around two years too late, but apologies to anyone in Trust House who ended up with cinnamonscented whisky on their windows in 2021…

Harry Craig, Deputy Editor

IN Freshers Week of 2021, I was a new student. I met great people, had fun discovering what Exeter nightlife entailed, and everything was going well!

Being a Fresher, I convinced my flatmate one night that the way back to our halls from town was up the Birks Grange hill. This was also the night I learned why it’s called ‘Cardiac Hill’. Gasping for breath, about halway up my flatmate stopped in her tracks ‘Cat!’, she exclaimed, and there sat my future nemesis: the campus kitty.

I decided it must also be tired of trekking up the hill and wanted us to carry it to the summit. I should’ve considered that unlike us, it was not returning from a night out at Fever. Seconds after picking it up, it

turned on me, sinking its claws into my face! One with a bloodied face, the other in confused hysterics, we were like a scene in a naff horror film.

I DECIDED IT MUST ALSO BE TIRED OF TREKKING UP THE HILL AND WANTED US TO CARRY IT

I spent the following morning in the NHS walkin-centre, where I waited an hour to be told that my war scars were ‘superficial’. Sure enough, the judgement I endured in there was more scarring than the cat’s efforts. My advice to Freshers — avoid the campus cat! He’s called Napoleon for a reason.

Anna Kane, Online News Editor

IT SEEMS WISER TO EMBARRASS ONE OF MY FRIENDS BY TAKING A STROLL DOWN MEMORY LANE

Image: flickr.com, Alison Day

Image: Anabel Costa-Ferreira

Image: Wikimedia Commons Image: Wikimedia Commons Image: wallpaperflare.com

IF THE QUAY IS A LITTLE TOO FAR OUT FOR YOU... THE CITY CENTRE HAS NO SHORTAGE OF CAFES EITHER

AS A STUDENT IT IS EASY TO LIMIT YOURSELF TO VISITING THE SAME PLACES WHILE OVERLOOKING HIDDEN GEMS

arts + lit Price of university books

Lisette Reed, Comment Editor, discusses the best way to access your assigned reading

WHILST every subject at the University requires students to buy textbooks to accompany their studies in providing factual information, theories or even practice tests, it is fair to say that the University’s expectation that students should buy their own textbooks, and not have them automatically provided, is outrageous. Especially in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis. The assumption that students have the funds, accessibility and need for towers of textbooks they’ll most likely only read once in a singular seminar and never speak of again, is naïve and narrow-minded. I can assure you, as an English student, that I never want to read The Odyssey again, let alone have to see the £15 specifically translated version of it on my bookshelf, which I had to buy for

my first ever module and haven’t touched since. You would think that a Russell Group university, with an estimated income of £501.6 million as of 2021, would be able to provide books to students to borrow for the length of a module. Tuition fees already cost £9250 a year and, with that in mind, why don’t any of those funds go towards textbooks for the University to loan to students, replacing tatty old ones or providing for new, upcoming modules?

WHY DON’T ANY OF THOSE FUNDS GO TOWARDS TEXTBOOKS

Now, of course, with this argument comes the constant mention of the University Library.

If students don’t want to pay for books, why don’t they just borrow from Forum Library or Exeter Library? Although these libraries do have countless aisles of various books, when it comes to module-assigned books, there only ever seems to be three copies of one textbook at the University or the copies are so niche, a public library wouldn’t provide it. Additionally, Kortext, an online version of the University Library, is sometimes difficult to access. Consequently, many students are left reading their textbooks via suspiciously free PDF versions. As they read each page, one question goes through their mind — have I just downloaded a virus? The PDFs feel too good to be true; free and accessible on any device. This can’t be real! It is with this in mind why so many

Theatre favourites

students end up opting for the likes of book bundles from Blackwell’s — you’re not going to download a virus, instead you’ll easily reach the hundred-pound mark when buying materials for all your modules. But at least you’ll have the correct books and be able to understand what your lecturers are speaking about. It seems that the best options for students are to yield to the greedy spirit of any bookshop, buy books second-hand or hope the maintentance loan goes up enough to make up the difference.

Manon Martini takes us on a whistle stop tour of her West End must-sees

LITERATURE was my first love — but a close runner-up has always been theatre. My mother always made a point of taking me to musicals and productions in the name of that all-important cultural capital. Now at the age of 21, I am somewhat of a theatre fanatic — if it’s on the West End, I’m seeing it. Here are my top theatre must-watches for the upcoming year: Heathers the Musical: Both times I’ve seen

Heathers, the singing and acting has been immaculate — impossibly squeaky clean. Set in 1989 Ohio, Heathers is a quintessentially teenage show. During the interval, I heard one audience member refer to it as ‘High School Musical on crack’ and quite frankly I’d have to agree. The glitzy, glamorous, all-singing, all-dancing set of Heathers is completely unsuitable for its dark plot line of suicide, sexual violence and terrorism — yet somehow it works. It’s the dredges of the teenage existence through the lens of obnoxious Americanism and I absolutely love it.

A Little Life: This is indisputably the best show I’ve ever seen and I was honoured to be able to watch it. Based on the book of the same title by Hanya Yanagihara, the play faced lots of controversy for its relentless showcasing of trauma.

Most of the actors in the play are on stage for the majority, if not all of the bladder-busting three-plus hour run time. During this time, when they’re not centre stage, the actors cook real food, paint real paintings and lounge around the set. This serves to highlight the normality of the characters featured in such a horrific story.

James Norton’s acting is unmatched and I absolutely loved his portrayal of Jude. His ability to slide his posture, voice and acting style from adult Jude to child Jude in seconds was outstanding. The raw nakedness

Genre spotlight: dark academia

Arts + Lit writers recommend books to put us back in the mood for academia and — god

THE dark academia aesthetic had been growing in popularity for several years when it exploded during the COVID-19 pandemic and suddenly it seemed to be everywhere. Romanticising historical traditions surrounding higher education, it seemed to encourage people to continue learning and engaging with their education despite schools being closed. To this end, dark academia encouraged learning for the sake of learning, rather than just to be tested.

You might not think, then, that Susanna Clarke’s fantasy novel Piranesi would fall easily into this aesthetic, particularly as it leans towards classic literature. However, there are many similar concepts that can tie this book to the dark academia aesthetic.

Piranesi follows the titular character as he navigates the world in which he is isolated, comprised of endless hallways and chambers called ‘the House’. While this is not the typical school setting you might see

in other dark academia recommendations, the images constructed by Clarke for the novel are drawn from the work of Giovannie Battista Piranesi. He is most famous for his etchings of 18th century Rome, but Clarke’s inspiration comes from his ‘Carceri d’invenzione’ or ‘Imaginary Prisons’ depicting a similar structure of endless hallways and chambers.

It is the combination of history, the mystery of certain characters relating to the protagonist’s identity, and the innate desire of Piranesi to learn and to study the world and the people surrounding him that makes this book a great fit for the dark academia aesthetic.

Kerry Myers

WITH the change of season from summer to autumn comes the great genre shift of the year. Readers put down their sunglasses and romcoms and grab their blankets and welcome dark academia with open arms. One of my favourite books

None Shall Sleep by Ellie Marney is a genre staple that is criminally underrated.

Set in the Behavioural Analysis Unit in Quantico, Virginia, None Shall Sleep follows two teenagers in the 80s with ties to known serial killers. When the two are contacted by the FBI to work on an active case, one of the students becomes the liaison between the FBI and an incarcerated killer who may hold the key to solving the recent murders.

I read this book in one addictive sitting

of his acting served to remove me from my own ego, reminding me of the suffering that takes place outside of my small world.

The ‘Theatre-in-the-round’ style stage perhaps served to reflect the audience back unto themselves. To see themselves watching the suffering of another and do nothing. This was a vastly uncomfortable yet necessary experience for me.

Mamma Mia the Musical: Finally, and at a sharp 90-degree angle to A Little Life — Mamma Mia is a feel-good show based on the songs of ABBA. The storyline is strange and I still can’t decipher whether it’s a statement on feminism or just a Grecian fever dream — but we all love it! The only downside to this show is that you’re not allowed to sing along to the tunes!

forbid — studying

and the cover was glued to my hand from start to finish. As someone who loved Criminal Minds , this was the perfect read. The in-depth analysis of what makes a person become a murderer makes None Shall Sleep a thought-provoking and genuinely scary read. The exploration of violence and morality is not for the faint of heart and will keep you constantly rethinking your own theories on who the serial killer is.

While dark academia is synonymous with murders, mountains, and the works of Donna Tart, Marney plays with the conventions of the genre while creating a chilling thriller that desperately leaves the reader wanting more. The sequel Some Shall Break was released in early June, meaning there is no better time than the present to dive into this dark and twisted world.

Maddie Conlan, Arts and Lit Editor

Image: Wallpaperflare.com

Image: Laura Bittner, Wikimedia Commons

THE PLAY FACED LOTS OF CONTROVERSY FOR ITS RELENTLESS SHOWCASING OF TRAUMA

The battle of the bookstores

Arts + Lit writers promote their favourite Exeter bookshops

BOOKBAG is a small independent bookshop nestled in McCoys Arcade, just off Fore Street. The shop opened in December 2020 and offers a range of fiction and non-fiction writing for all age groups and is best known for carrying books from a diverse collection of authors.

The shop is a lively hub for book lovers and creatives in Exeter; If you enjoy learning about the story behind the book, Bookbag regularly hosts author events, which makes an excellent evening activity. If you want to develop your writing skills, there are many opportunities throughout the year to attend workshops in a friendly environment. If you want to soak up the literary talent in the area, keep an eye out for their poetry and creative writing reading events, which you are welcome to enter!

with frequent book launches and signings. There is truly something for everyone. While there is no seating in the shop, there are many fantastic independent cafés nearby (I usually opt for Sacred Grounds, located just next door!), making this an idyllic Sunday afternoon outing. With all this on offer, you may yearn for Bookbag when you’re away from the city — but don’t fear, they have an extensive collection of books and merchandise (including tote bags!) on their website and the option to purchase a monthly book subscription — the perfect pickme-up or gift for a fellow book lover.

EXETER as a city of literature is not short of great bookshops to explore.

Yet, amongst the selection, there is an underrated champion: the small, vibrant bookshop called Bookcycle. Housed in a stunning old building on West Street, this is a volunteer-run charity bookshop whose proceeds go towards empowering children across the world with free educational resources. This communitybased initiative is at the heart of the charity, alongside their catchy motto, “choose what to pay for up to three books a day”.

both old and new, stumble upon obscure authors, and find battered antique editions that tell stories through their imperfections.

BROWSING THEIR COLLECTION IS ALWAYS CAPTIVATING

If you like to be the first to get your hands on a book, this is the place to be,

Rosie Batford, News Editor

This combination immediately deserves Bookcycle the first place in the competition for the best bookshop in Exeter. Any book lover knows that books can be addictive and expensive (we’ve all had a book-buyingban at some point), but since Bookcycle is donation-driven you get to choose your budget whilst also contributing to charity efforts at the same time. Knowing that you get to enjoy books without worrying about their commercial footprint or breaking the bank is an obvious win-win. Browsing their collection is always captivating as you discover books

New Beginnings and Moving On

Henry Parker, Features Editor, writes about embracing change

Just sound through speakers. The same sounds we heard, in the same ears we have, but it all sounds so different now. I thought that it could have all stayed like it was, but these ears must be new ones now, as now I find we can hardly even hear each other.

So often now I was just like a new face to him. No recognition or light in his eyes. I sometimes wonder if he stared at a portrait of me in a gallery, he would even know who he was looking at. Like I was a stranger in a bar, like someone you hadn’t known for so long, who hadn’t loved you all this time. But here we were, caught in split paths, like frayed string forever unwinding, thinning out, tearing apart.

here, just ticking away with no knowledge of the moments that each tick recorded. I knew it was all over now, but those hands kept on ticking, and I was still right here.

Events will continue falling in front of each other, time after time, with no clear start or finish. A new beginning doesn’t fall on my lap, and it isn’t served to me on paper. A new beginning isn’t just being ejected into the next phase of life, being pushed from moment to moment. It means moving on. You may have forgotten me, but I now choose to forget you. It is drawing a line in the sand that says: where I go now, I do not know, but I go on. Everything ends so that we can begin again. We can only move forwards .

So, whilst you may be drawn to the colourful bookshelves and the promise of coffee in Exeter Waterstones, I would urge you to wander away from the High Street to discover Exeter’s hidden bookshop gem. By supporting the education of children, planting trees, and just being beautifully unique, Bookcycle, the little hidden bookshop, offers an affordable and ethically triumphant space to escape.

Jasmine Aldridge

What’s On!

DAYLIGHT had nearly left already, and I was still sorting through some of our things. My things. Personal possessions. Personal effects? It was mostly just things, none of it had much meaning. Nothing here was worth much, so there wasn’t a point in attaching myself to any of it, especially not now that I didn’t need to anymore.

One box was full of some of the old music that we shared. Only now it wouldn’t sing to me like it did before, becoming simply windblown through brass tubes, and wire string plucked by taught horsehair.

LIKE I WAS A STRANGER IN A BAR, LIKE SOMEONE YOU HADN’T KNOWN FOR SO LONG

There was another box, one full of tin trinkets and timepieces, though none of this ever really belonged to me anyway. Basically, a box of bad gifts. Most of the watches were clearly untouched; he never wore any of them. They were just as new in my hands as well. They’d come from me and been given to you, yet here they were. A particularly glossy one rested in my palm, its seconds had been ticking all this time, counting down till it reached

Lauren Walsh,

Arts + Lit Editor, recomends Northcott shows

FRANKENSTEIN (26-30 Sep)

Written and directed by Séan Aydon, based on the gothic novel by Mary Shelley about monstrosity and the dangers of science and hubris.

GEOFF NORCOTT: BASIC BLOKE (7 Oct)

Comedy show from the star of the British comedy TV circuit.

THE BEST OF QUEEN: THE BREAK FREE TOUR (18 Oct)

Queen tribute band, Majesty, performs the greatest hits of the beloved British rock band.

MACBETH (17 Nov)

Shakespeare’s Scottish tragedy about power, prophecy, and murder, set in a post-World War 3, near-future wasteland.

BEYOND THE BARRICADE (18 Nov)

Perfect for fans of musical theatre, Beyond the Barricade is a concert by past Les Misérables performers with the best songs from Broadway and the West End.

DICK WHITTINGTON (30 Nov-7 Jan)

Family pantomime for the Christmas season following this classic tale of rags to riches.

NATIVITY! THE MUSICAL (1-9 Dec)

A musical adaptation of the feel-good Christmas movie, Nativity!, at the Barnfield Theatre.

Image: 2Happy, Stockvault

Image: Harry Mitchell, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Karl and Ali, Geograph

MUSIC

Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour: a pop culture phenomenon

Livvy Mason-Myhill, Editor-in-Chief, discusses the challenges UK Fans faced in securing tickets to see the global icon

TAYLOR Swift, a global superstar, music phenomenon, and "the music industry," is known all too well for her number-one hits, electrifying live performances, and deep fan connections. Excitement peaked among Swift's devoted UK fan base when her eagerly awaited ‘The Eras Tour’ was announced. However, the battle to get tickets for the tour turned into a stressful experience for many, highlighting the difficulties experienced by fans when attempting to secure their places at such an in-demand concert.

The Eras Tour is expected to be an unforgettable journey through Taylor Swift's remarkable

career, encompassing each of her various musical eras from the country-pop beginnings of Fearless to the brave pop anthems of 1989 and the unabashed vulnerability of folklore and evermore Every show is expected to be a breath-taking spectacle that demonstrates Swift's growth as an artist and her unstoppable presence on stage.

Swifties from across the UK prepared themselves for the impending ticket rush as word of the tour spreads. Taylor's shows have previously sold out in a matter of minutes, so fans knew it wouldn't be simple to get tickets. Ticketmaster and AXS even made fans register for the general sale of concert tickets because the demand for tickets was so high.

Many fans, myself included, were fortunate enough to have received a presale code for The Eras Tour, meaning that we had the opportunity to get tickets for it a week before the general sale tickets came out. Those fans who were the lucky ones received a presale code after pre-saving Swift’s Midnights album which came out in October 2022. This meant that those who received this presale code had the best opportunities to obtain tickets. However, even with the presale code, many struggled to get tickets, with many people becoming stuck in the queue for tickets for over two hours. For the general sale, people were emailed by Ticketmaster and AXS whether they would re-

Music writers share the tunes that help them settle back in Settling in & moving on up

MOVING away from home comforts to university can be a daunting experience for many, regardless of whether it's your first time or last. Music can be a really useful tool in navigating this transition, which has below been proved by music writers who have shared songs that have helped them.

'Moving out (Anthony's Song)' by Billy Joel

"Mama if that's moving up then I'm moving out"

This was one of the song's I was blasting in anticipation of moving to Exeter for university. Eventually, my mum was screaming the lyrics with me.

Sarah Gould

'Changes' by David Bowie

"So the days float through my eyes/ But still the days seem the same"

Even though the changes occuring when you move away from home feel monumental and at time overwhelming, this song is a reminder to treat every day as it comes, to be in the present and to find the similarities alongside the differences.

Willow Cracknell, Finance Executive

'Peace of Mind' by Boston

"Can't you see there'll come a day when it won't matter"

This song is a great reminder to just live in the moment!

Jake Avery, Music Editor

'Moving on up' by M People

ceive a unique access code and a link to the sale to attempt to get tickets. Unfortunately, the majority of fans were placed on the waitlist for tickets, meaning they had very little to no chance of getting them. Additionally, many of the UK dates sold out within minutes of the sales beginning, or leaving fans with the only option of buying the It’s Been a Long Time Coming VIP package, which was the most expensive package at £662.40 per ticket. The prices of the VIP packages which ranged from £195 to £662.40 as well as the pricings for seated and standing tickets which ranged from £58.65 to nearly £200 has concerned many swifties who cannot afford these prices.

Alongside this, the high demand, coupled with the inevitable presence of ticket bots and scalpers, exacerbated the situation. Automated software called "ticket bots" swiftly grabbed the tickets, leaving the real fans without any. Many of these tickets would eventually turn up on resale sites at outrageous prices, infuriating the fan base and adding to their dissatisfaction. Many disappointed fans were left feeling defeated by the ticketing process and disappointed at the idea of missing an experience they had eagerly anticipated for years, even though some fortunate fans were able to purchase tickets during the initial sale.

Following the ticketing frenzy, the UK swiftie

community experienced a wave of frustration and disappointment. Fans flooded social media sites with sincere words expressing their love for Swift, their intense want to see the event, and the sorrow of not being able to get tickets. In the middle of the dissatisfaction, requests for reform and more equitable ticketing procedures started to surface. Fans argued for policies that put true fans ahead of money-driven scalpers in order to battle ticket bots and resellers and urged more strict controls.

It's not surprising that tickets were in high demand for Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour because it's a remarkable celebration of her musical career with her performing over 44 of her songs from her discography in a three-hour concert. The difficulties UK fans faced, however, illustrate the problems with the current ticketing environment. Together, concert promoters and performers must put procedures in place that puts fans first and frustrate scalpers and ticket bots. In the end, the affection for Taylor Swift and her music will bind fans all over the world, creating a community that will continue to support their favourite artist and eagerly anticipate her victorious comeback. I’m glad to say that I survived the great war, and I am going to see Taylor Swift in concert with my friendship bracelets at the ready and prepared to lose my voice at the end of the night.

Upcoming live events

Scarlett Cracknell, Music Editor, shares some live events

THE GREAT HALL, UNIVERSITY OF EXETER

 26/09 — Lovejoy 

A sold-out event, but definitely worth trying to find resale tickets to see this Brightonbased indie rock band. If you do get to see a concert at this venue, you can graudate saying you did exams and saw your favourite artists in the same place!

CAVERN, QUEEN STREET

 26/09 — Golden Hours 

A band with rock songs that are at times dance-worthy and at others dark. A more intimate venue with separated bar and stage area so that you can sit and get air if needs be.

 29/09 — Naked Lungs 

'Good Times' by Jungle

"Morning dew, vaporised / Rays of sun, blinding my eyes / I feel alive, good times"

The groovy neo-funk style has good summer vibes.

Joseph Terry, Sports Editor

"Moving on up / Nothing can stop me"

This is a real pick-me-up, empowering song. definitely would have been listened to during my first time using the dreaded Circuit Laundry app.

Scarlett Cracknell, Music Editor

A four-piece post-punk band based in Ireland that mix heavy instruments with melodic hooks.

THE OLD FIREHOUSE, NEW NORTH ROAD

 22/09 — The Reggaskas 

An eight-piece band that plays original music with an unique reggae-ska vibe. Food and drink served at this venue, the perfect place for enjoying music in a more chilledout environment.

Image: Ronald Woan, Wikimedia Commons

Images: Wikimedia Commons

Festivals for free

Scarlett Cracknell, Music Editor, discusses the benefits of working at music festivals

BEING an avid festival goer and concert enjoyer, the student lifestyle (and budget that comes with it) is something I really struggled with when wanting to organise my summers. The endless group chat messages from my friends suggesting multiple festivals were

killing me when I could barely afford to attend one of them, especially in this cost-of-living crisis. And that’s when it hit me — what if I could get paid to attend these festivals? This is how I found hap. Hap generally offers 12-hour days at £10.50 an hour working on a bar at a festival or concert with free lunch offered and (usually) bars that are right next to the main stage. Before any of you find the easy excuse of “I have never worked a bar before”, like many of my friends did, they require no previous experience and in fact, the job is pretty easy. Customers at the festivals are easygoing and are ultimately there to have a good time, so you can

happily enjoy the music with them. When I worked this summer, I was lucky enough that my friend recognised the person we served as Ryan Potter, lead singer of The Hunna, who had a guest artist pass! So not only is the job easy, it means you can meet more people and potentially stars! Last summer, my first time working for hap, I was able to secure work for All Points East on the days where Gorillaz (who brought out Tame Impala) and the Chemical Brothers were headlining. This summer I was able to see Bruce Springsteen and Lana del Rey at Hyde Park. Despite having to work, I was able to still see and hear some of my favourite artists due to the bars being so well-located. Arriving early to set up the bars also meant that I was able to hear and see Gorillaz and Lana del

Live Reviews

Harry Craig, Deputy Editor, reviews Coldplay at Principality Stadium

ON the 6th June, Coldplay performed to Cardiff’s Principality Stadium as part of their industry-defining 'Music of the Spheres' World Tour, which looks set to break all touring records as it continues into 2024. Before the tour, there were concerns that the band’s environmental commitments that have cut their carbon emissions by fifty per cent may detract from the magic of a Coldplay show, but Cardiff proved that this has not been the case, as Coldplay made a convincing argument to be the greatest live act of all time.

The entire set was a riot of colour and emotion. Over their career, Coldplay have amassed an incredible array of hits, all of which were on full display, from breakthrough hit ‘Yellow’ to K-pop-infused collab with BTS, ‘My Universe’.

Material from the band’s latest album, 'Music of the Spheres', was cleverly worked into the set — the crowd were evidently gobsmacked by “angry gay mental anthem”, ‘People of the Pride’, during which Chris effervescently waved a pride flag. They would be even more surprised, however, by the alien dance party during ‘The Lightclub’, and the appearance of puppet band The Weirdos for closing song ‘Biutyful’.

For a provincial lad from Devon, Chris Martin knows how to work a crowd. So many small features enhanced the concert, notably Chris’ involvement of the crowd during ‘Paradise’, and urging us all to “get down low” before jumping up during ‘Adventure of a Lifetime’. He also sprinkled the set with references to Wales, including name-dropping band Super

Furry Animals during ‘Yellow’ and even getting a choir to sing the Welsh National Anthem.

However, even when the tsunami of colour was dimmed down mid-show for the C-stage, the band still had a remarkable live presence. Indeed, this proved to be a highlight of the show, recreating a more intimate feeling reminiscent of their early days that featured fan favourite ‘Green Eyes’. Chris then invited rock music legend and Wales’ own Kelly Jones, frontman of Stereophonics, to the stage for a moving rendition of ‘Dakota’.

The peak of the night, however, came during the band’s EDM-influenced, Avicii-produced ‘A Sky Full of Stars’. This has

Rey rehearse which felt like a private show. Sadly I have not been able to take advantage of this myself yet, but I know that hap also offers work at Reading & Leeds, Truck, Boardmasters, Boomtown and other festivals around the UK where you are able to get staff camping alongside work. As a friend group, you could get to see your favourite artists whilst being paid and given access to nicer toilet facilities. As a student, hap has been the perfect way for me to earn some extra money over the summer months so I can see artists I like and enjoy the music scene here in Exeter. So, without wanting to sound too much like a walking talking advertisement, if you are strapped for cash but still want to enjoy working with people your age and hear music you love, find opportunities through hap.

become a modern-day classic, and Chris gave it the full spotlight, asking the crowd to put away their phones for one song. This transformed the next four minutes into the greatest live music moment I have ever witnessed — you could feel the ground shaking, and the Xylobands came to life like never before. There are no superlatives that can adequately capture the experience of a Coldplay show. Cardiff proved that Coldplay’s live shows truly are the greatest spectacle in music.

Anabel Costa-Ferreira, Editor-in-Chief, reviews Arctic Monkeys at Emirates Stadium

TURNING the clock back to September 2022, the inevitable Ticketmaster panic began as the presale for next year’s tour began. As London has three consecutive days the odds were in my favour and like most fans once I reached the front of that dreaded queue, I bought what I could, celebrated, then proceeded to forget as the night seemed such an age away. A well-chosen venue of the Emirates Stadium (Arsenal’s home ground), the day finally arrived, and alongside roughly 50,000 others I had the privilege to attend night 1.

As the band took the stage, it is safe to say Alex Turner is incredibly self-aware of his adoring fans, made evident by his smoul-

THE French industrial metal behemoths Gojira brought the thunder to Cardiff on their 'Fortitude' tour. Crowd members were dealt shockwaves as their signature industrial thrash rained down, the Duplantier brothers and company working as a unit of immense force.

Joe Duplantier commanding the crowd effectively and with immense

dering gaze and dramatic hair flips. Opening with ‘Brianstorm’ the crowd's energy rose instantly, and this atmosphere sim ply continued as the setlist unfolded. While all songs were performed brilliantly, a special mention would have to go to ‘Crying Lightning', 'Do I Wanna Know?’ and 'Arabella' (not only because it is the closest I will get to my name being in a song).

And, while like most rock

concerts, the focus was on the music and not the aesthetics, the huge mirrorball and lights really drew the stage together. After playing their classic ‘Mardy Bum,’ the ninety minutes were drawing to a close, yet the anticipated encore was there to amaze with three more hits. The audience were electric as we quickly lost our voices to ‘R U Mine,’ slightly laughing as the timing changes made us sound incapable of

singing along (in fairness it gives some variety in playing the same songs for a decade).

Closing the night, they played ‘I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor,’ a perfect decision and a definite crowd pleaser. While the tour happened due to their new album ‘The Car,’ it is interesting to note that this concert seemed more like a tour for the AM album. Although many leave a concert wishing they had heard a certain song, I felt beyond lucky to have heard my top three within the first half. A carefully curated setlist and an understanding of what the fans want, I could not recommend this band enough, and I would not hesitate to see them again live.

Jake Avery, Music Editor, reviews Gojira at Cardiff International Arena

vigor was as inevitable as the tide returning to the sea. His resolute, iron grip on the signature industrial riffage that Gojira are synonymous with made for a night of excellent atmosphere, heaving melodies, and vocals that terrify you as much as they amuse you.

Escalating the brutality of each track was the excellent sound production on the night; every chord

pummeled the arena in a sweep, establishing a wall of aggression that offered no slack in its hold on volume and density. Harnessing this scope is crucial for any metal performance, but it's especially integral to Gojira’s industrial style. It’s no surprise that a band with a track titled ‘The Heaviest Matter of the Universe’ would need to deliver not only on the technical aspects of the performance, but on the crushing, inescapably enormous sway that each track bears.

Gojira reaffirmed their status as heavyweights in the industrial metal arena by brandishing crushing tracks such as ‘Backbone’, but also proved their ability to chart more experimental waters with ‘Another World’ and ‘New Found’. Their harshness, melodic mastery and provocative environmental activism result in Gojira being a captivating beast to watch run rampant on stage.

Images: Scarlett Cracknell, Harry Craig, Anabel Costa-Ferreira, Jake Avery

screen

And you’re watching... Disney Channel!

Anabel Costa-Ferreira, Editor-in-Chief, discusses the nostalgia of Disney Channel movies

AN immeasurable sense of nostalgia finds itself in the word Disney, its characters and films it represents. Often, movies we loved growing up remain stuck on our watchlist, sometimes for reasons we cannot seem to pinpoint. There is undeniably a sense of comfort in rewatching a show or a film, but I would argue that this is particularly cogent for childhood movies. While in adulthood some novelties may be lost in watching, it is almost as if you are transported to the first time you saw it. In fact, many producers who create films for children often anticipate a parent watching alongside them. Therefore, there tend to be many references that go over our heads until we watch them at an older age.

Working through what I would list as the Disney classics, I would have to start with High School Musical. First released in September 2006, the movie explores a growing relationship between the new girl Gabriella Montez and basketball jock Troy Bolton, as their shared interest in the school musical threatens to break the status quo. This film not only sends an important message to children to stay true to their interests, but to not feel like they must limit themselves to one. Now while

being talented at everything is an unrealistic hope to take from this movie, it does encourage trying something outside of your comfort zone, all whilst staying obligated to your studies. Like many others, I became hooked on these movies and watched the second sequel and final third movie, which were released in the next two consecutive years. While this film most certainly gave unrealistic expectations of what high (secondary) school would be like, the memorable soundtrack and memories of watching with my sister will forever keep this movie on my watchlist.

On the way to its twenty-five year anniversary at the end of this year, The Parent Trap is a classic childhood movie, with a storyline that keeps me rewatching it even at

the start of my twenties. Without spoiling the entirety of the plot, this movie explores the reunion of tween twins Hallie and Annie, who were separated at birth and find themselves at the same American summer camp. Perhaps it’s the overly romanticised idea of a summer camp filled with friendships, pranks, and an iconic scene of poker, but it has remained a film I rarely grow tired of watching. When starting to list themes this movie covers; it is endless, from family to romance and revenge — likely why it became so popular as there were elements for all. When I watch it now, more than anything, it is for the picturesque scenery of London in the 90s. And like many childhood movies, we witness the classic evil stepmother trope, as the infamous Meredith Blake (portrayed convincingly by Elaine Hendrix) becomes subject to the twins’ tricks. Nowadays the film’s restrictions may be stricter as it is not advised for those under 12, due to Hallie tasting wine and the lingering temptation for you and your friends to pierce each other’s ears at school.

Again, set in an American high school (surprise, surprise) where teenager Mia finds out she is part of the royal family and in line for the Genovian throne. The classic scenes of this movie range from her iconic home with a firefighter pole, to sleepover mattress surfing, and of course the classic makeover transformation that even spent some time as a TikTok trend. Alongside an emotional 2000s soundtrack, this film will always be worth the watch.

Now, like many modern audiences, while we could sit and unpick Disney’s flaws, we must remember that nobody’s perfect, not even Disney itself.

Another classic to highlight would be the 2001 movie The Princess Diaries, famously starring Julie Andrews and Anne Hathaway.

Asteroid City

Amelie Thompson, Online Editor-in-Chief, reviews Wes Anderson’s Asteroid City

KNOWN for his highly-stylised films, Wes Anderson has amassed a dedicated fanbase who are drawn to the unique aesthetics, idiosyncratic characters, and witty dialogues that have become synonymous with his works. The eleventh instalment of Anderson’s work, Asteroid City, is a meta-narrative, centred around the creation, production and performance of the 1950s retro-futuristic style play, ‘Asteroid City’. In this film, Anderson-isms are taken arguably to the furthest extent, ultimately creating a film that is excellent aesthetically, but lacks in some areas of sto ry development and delivery.

Portrayed in anthology style, similar to Ander son’s French Dispatch, there are three plots that underpin Asteroid City, separated between colour, for the telling of the titular play; and blackand-white shots for the ‘reality’ of the play’s process. Put simply, the film combines sci-fi and romcom, as the play centres around the children and their par ents going to a hamlet marked by a meteorite crater for a ‘Junior Stargazer’ competition.

A key feature of the film is its all-star cast, and I do not believe that any of these performances were bad, but I do think that perhaps there were too many characters involved to allow cohesion or full attachment to the story/ characters. Particularly, the relationship between Augie and his father-in-law, Stanley, seemed underdeveloped. Some of the experimental scenes, such as the stop motion animation of the alien, were dynamic and added intriguing surrealism. However, the scene in which the ‘actors’ chant “You can’t wake up…” to me seemed like an attempt to add a further conceptual layer, yet as it is only explored in one scene, it feels out of place.

However, the story does not completely fall flat. There are genuinely humorous parts, with Steve Carrell as the attentive motel manager, selling real estate from a vending machine; and the unpredictable reactions of the group of schoolchildren to the extra-terrestrial activity. Jason Schwartzmann as Augie Steenbeck and the actor Jones Hall, provides emotion, from his navigation of telling his children

about the fate of their mother, to the deepening relationship with the glamourous yet troubled movie star Midge Campbell, played by Scarlett Johansson. There was varied reception of Margot Robbie’s cameo as the actress intended to play Augie’s deceased wife, yet I believe it was a poignant addition, and added meaningful depth to the film overall, making the play’s production subplot more significant.

One facet of the Wes Anderson style that hindered rather than ameliorated Asteroid City was the rapid and monotonous delivery of lines. This made characters seem emotionless at times, and actually makes the

film less accessible as the dialogue is impenetrable and can be difficult to understand.

Yet, undeniably to me, the most impressive feature of the film is its production design. Anderson merges the real landscape of the film’s location with intricate buildings, murals and miniatures made from scratch to maximise his bold stylistic decisions, for a grand visual impact. As these production elements were made from the ground-up, Anderson was able to curate a wonderful setting, perpetuating a neo-Western feel.

As Wes Anderson, in my opinion, has a stellar collection of works, Asteroid City has difficult competition. In areas, it is veering towards becoming almost-parodical of the classic Anderson style, and I hope that this does not continue in future films. Yet, when it comes to films, I have to say that I am quite simple with what pleases me: the creation of a world; to sit in the cinema and feel as if I am immersed in a different setting. Though it is not his best film, through the meticulous standard of detail maintained by Wes Anderson, particularly in the production design, I was effectively transported to a new realm, which I would want to watch again.

...THE PICTURESQUE SCENERY OF LONDON IN THE 90S

...ANDERSON WAS ABLE TO CURATE A WONDERFUL SETTING, PERPECTUATING A NEO-WESTERN FEEL

THERE IS UNDENIABLY A SENSE OF COMFORT IN REWATCHING...

Image: Mireille Ampilhac, Wikimedia Commons

Image: The Walt Disney Company, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Martin Kraft, Wikipedia

Image: Steve Jurvetson, Wikimedia Commons

EDITORS: Annabelle Law and Madison Sohngen

Chalamet and the Chocolate Factory

Lisette Reed, Comment Editor, analyses the trailer for the upcoming Wonka film

THE most recent release of the new Wonka film trailer depicts potentially the most playful, goofy portrayal of Willy Wonka there has ever been — and definitely the most child-friendly. This new, refreshing take on such an iconic character allows audiences to see a more innocent and kind variation of Wonka and not the quite frankly creepy, child-kidnapping one we’re most accustomed to.

Of course, Gene Wilder was a remarkable Wonka, and paved the way for Wonkas to come, but he was most definitely the scariest, with the nightmare-fueled tunnel scene from 1971’s Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and let’s not even get started on Johnny Depp’s version with the same levels of nightmare fuel, just with better graphics. Arguably, the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory franchise is a selection of slasher films, with a similar premise to Saw but with children and sweets involved. So will the

newest Wonka film be another slasher, where Wonka traps and turns other sweet vendors into chocolate or blue to be the most successful, or will it actually be a child-appropriate film?

The film’s director Paul King will no doubt make this film an exciting experience for all ages, just as he has done with other directing projects, including the entire Paddington film franchise. Although, with the Paddington film series receiving so much at tention and so many amazing reviews, it brings in the question of whether Wonka will live up to its sister films, and their reputations. Regardless of this, I believe it’s fair to say that Wonka will become a Christmas classic, just like Paddington and countless other films. Though it is due to be released at Christmas time, the trailer shows little to no hints that

Barbie

IDON’T much care for hyperboles. “They won’t fear it until they understand it, and they won’t understand it until they’ve used it.” They muddle meaning most of the time and obfuscate a more precise evaluation of a piece of art or media. When I’m told this film is going to be the most important film ever, about the most important man to have ever lived, you can forgive me for being a little sceptical.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m pretty much a Christopher Nolan fanboy, I even loved Tenet, so I was primed to like it and agree with the lavish praise, but I still thought that it was getting a little sycophantic. I was concerned that the film might get a bit too caught up in its own pretension, and subsequently fall flat on its face if it couldn’t invite the audience into the stakes emotionally.

This film snatched my heart and broke it in two, I cannot remember the last time I left a cinema so emotionally devastated. Yes, it is very good.

Every person on this earth lives in their own little world, with its own sight, sound, and perception of how things are and how things can be. Ever fascinated by physics, Nolan brings us into the world of one particularly brilliant mind through the astonishing performance of Cillian Murphy. In his haunting blue eyes, we see a world of light and magic, of possibility and power. Emily Blunt is also great, as is Florence Pugh, Benny Safdie and especially Robert Downey Jr. as the rival Lewis Strauss, but this film belongs to Murphy and Oppenheimer.

The brake neck pace of the editing, propelled forwards by Ludwig Göransson’s inspired and

the film is set at Christmas — there’s snow, and that’s about it. However, because of its themes and the icon of Willy Wonka living through various generations, each family member will have something to look forward to. Now comes the most unexpected cast member — Hugh Grant. Although we have seen him in more light-hearted, comedic roles in the last few years, such as Phoenix Buchanan in Paddington 2, I don’t think anyone would have anticipated the Oompa Loompa to be played by one of Britain’s heartthrobs. When I first mentioned to my mum that Hugh Grant was in it, she responded with her usual “oh I loved him in Four Weddings and a Funeral , he’s gorgeous”. And then I told her that he was playing the Oompa Loompa and I have never seen someone with such a be -

vs. Oppenheimer

trayed look on their face, which later erupted into hysterical laughing once she saw his little dance from the trailer. Overall, I think it does have something for everyone — mums across the world can see the man they were once head-over-heels for painted orange and wearing a green wig — iconic!

The real star of the show is Timothée Chalamet, an actor picked for the role because the director saw old high school performances of his on YouTube. The choice of Chalamet is genuinely the most accurate decision I don’t know what it is about this actor but something about him just exudes Willy Wonka. Additionally, given his status as man-of-the-moment and success as a young actor in Hollywood, there is no one more era-appropriate to play Wonka. It is about time that we see Timothée Chalamet play a happy, innocent character, rather than one who is just going through it all.

Screen writers review the wildly popular Barbie and Oppenheimer movies

terrifying score, brings you right from his early life, through the Trinity detonation, up to the political trials of Oppenheimer and Strauss, but the film isn’t about any of those things. It’s about the consequences of such a mighty and prideful mind, the good and inevitably the bad.

When a single life ends, someone’s entire world has just ended. When Oppenheimer ends and the credits roll, you feel that maybe the whole world just has. I can’t spoil it any more than that, and I really couldn’t even if I tried. You won’t understand it until you have seen it, and once you have seen it, only then will you be able to feel it. It might not have much on Barbie, but I can’t recommend it enough.

Henry Parker, Features Editor

BOTH Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer and Greta Gerwig’s Barbie were released on the highly anticipated day of the 21st July, dubbed as ‘Barbenheimer’. ‘Barbenheimer’ was undoubtedly an exciting day as the cinemas were completely packed full of viewers ready for two masterpieces. After watching Barbie first and then Oppenheimer, both films can be appreciated and praised for different reasons.

Oppenheimer has been dubbed as a biopic of Robert J. Oppenheimer, a man more notably known as the “father of the atomic bomb”, played brilliantly by Cillian Murphy. Oppenheimer is a complex historical drama that takes place across multiple timelines. It combines judicial drama, love liaisons, laboratory epiphanies, and personality cults in a lecture hall. Each of the various timelines, from the interrogation room to Los Almos, helped piece together Oppenheimer’s story, both as a scientist and as a person who discovers that his invention that causes mass destruction which will forever change the world. The Observer’s description of the timelines as “a knotty mess of a structure” aptly captures how the timelines enhanced the story of the film, and in my opinion, Nolan manages to make it work.

The set’s innovative tendency to tremble under pressure is equally creative. Oppenheimer’s world is genuinely shaken by the shockwaves of the triggered reaction. One of my favourite moments of the film was during the Trinity test at Los Almos, in which they test the bomb. The cinematography of that moment and the anticipation of the bomb going off accompanied with the silence before the sound of the explosion were gripping and intense. But overall, the film is a brilliant accomplishment. Given Nolan’s propensity for using IMAX 70mm film, the picture’s level of detail could cause you to drown. Scenes of frantic chalkboard scrawling, the standard cinematic symbol for scientific brilliance, abound. The abstract moments, however, are more captivating since they provide the impression that we are penetrating the centre of the atom. In the next screen, Gerwig’s Barbie was everything I wanted it to be and more. It made me laugh, it made me happy, and it made me cry. Margot Robbie’s performance as Barbie was impeccable alongside the hilarious Ryan Gosling who played Ken. The most important part of the film was the messages surrounding gender, particularly on the treatment of women in the real world that Barbie must visit. Yet, upon returning to Barbieland, Barbie finds that it has been taken over by the Kens who have infiltrated Barbieland with their patriarchy and toxic

masculinity. This is encompassed by their treatment of the other Barbies, the dreamhouses becoming ‘mojo dojo casa houses’ and Ken’s strange obsession with horses.

The most potent and inspiring scene was Gloria’s monologue, played by America Ferrera. It was one of the most relatable speeches that every girl and woman could connect with. It certainly followed Gerwig’s vision for the film and that people have “to be so extraordinary all the time, and it’s almost like that’s how you earn your right to be somewhere. I feel I want to give people a sense of ‘you are okay, and you have value just as you are’”. The film follows how women must continually have to try and hold themselves to unattainable ideals as we constantly must keep progressing to stay afloat within a society that is dominated by men.

The ending of the film for me was the one of the most beautiful scenes, with a montage of real girlhood and womanhood. Barbie was able to become human by herself and it was her choice. Through experiencing the montage, Barbie was able to feel the pain of being human for only a short period of time. The sadness, fear, pain, insecurity, happiness, joy, all of it. She felt the lowest feelings a human can feel, and yet, she still wants to live that life in the real world. She would rather feel sadness than not feel anything at all. That’s truly the core of being human, accepting things and feeling everything. She doesn’t know how to feel, but someday she might, serving as a painful reminder for women to keep going, and keep trying.

I found both films to be absolutely brilliant. However, I did find myself majorly swaying in favour of Gerwig’s Barbie. I’m not sure whether it’s the catchy song ‘I’m Just Ken’ or the beautiful messages on womanhood and the empowerment of women but I am already planning my next trip to the cinema to rewatch Barbie, which I have done once already.

Livvy Mason-Myhill, Editor-in-Chief

Image Maximilian Bühn, Wikimedia Commons

TECH

Spotify's AI DJ: is it worth the listen?

Harry Craig, Deputy Editor, sees whether Spotify's new AI DJ really can revolutionise our listening habits

IN May, Spotify finally released its longawaited AI DJ function in the UK, promising a “personalised AI guide that knows you and your music taste so well that it can choose what to play for you.” My initial thoughts on this were somewhat split. On the one hand, as someone who consumes a lot of music, I was looking forward to a new way of discovering music and not having to worry about controlling what I was listening to. On the other hand, I was sceptical as to whether this could really offer anything significantly different to Spotify’s existing playlists, such as ‘On Repeat’ and ‘Time Capsule’. Either way, I was excited to try it out.

My AI DJ, Xavier, starts with a chirpy intro. We start on very familiar ground, and Xavier endears himself, choosing to kick off with the music I “keep coming back to.” It was therefore unsurprising, but welcome, that we began with my favourite song, Coldplay’s ‘Charlie Brown.’ Thus followed a run of some of my fa vourite songs and artists — Xavier opting for a safe route to draw me in at first.

It seems he knows that I’m writing this up for a review, as the DJ churned out all of

my favourites, from The Killers to Florence + The Machine. This was, of course, much appreciated, but I could have achieved broadly the same by putting on a playlist. Some of these were broadly themed — Xavier promises a few songs from The 1975, followed by a look back at some of my top songs from 2022, and then some “positive vibes.” This was great for a casual listening session, but I found it all a bit too safe — I wanted Xavier to help me to discover something new.

Eventually I get what I asked for, although I’m not sure this particularly delivers on the idea of the AI DJ “knowing… my music taste well.” Xavier played me some “Kpop that fits around my tastes.”

My ventures into this genre begin and end with Coldplay’s collab with BTS, so I am confused as to why Xavier chooses to play this for me and skip this section.

As much as I wanted to discover something new, I also wanted this to fit within my music taste, as per Spotify’s mission statement — which thankfully the next set of music does. Xavier has cleverly detected I’ve been listening to Stereophonics’ ‘Dakota’ a lot recently, and

provided me with some of their songs that I may not have heard before. Similarly, Xavier’s promise of some rock generated a Foo Fighters deep cut that I thoroughly enjoy. After a safe start and bizarre K-pop interlude, the DJ started to get into a strong rhythm of my favourites mixed with new or lesser-played songs that fit within my musical interests.

However, at times it still felt like the AI DJ’s understanding of my lis tening habits is somewhat surface level. Multiple times I was told that I will be played some songs from artists I’m very familiar with, only to be greeted by tracks by artists I have only occasionally listened to. Moreover, although the thematic concept is nice, in which Xavier introduces me to a run of five or so songs with a similar mood or genre, it felt a bit too simple.

THE AI DJ'S UNDERSTANDING OF MY LISTENING HABITS IS SOMEWHAT SURFACE LEVEL

These seemed to be taken from Spotify’s playlists generated based on users’ music tastes, such as 'Late Night Mix' or 'Summer Upbeat Mix.' These playlists are a great addition to Spotify, allowing me to dip into songs curated around my mood and listening habits. However, when applied to the AI DJ these themes are chosen seemingly at random, going from “soul crushing” to “happy and uplifting.” Like most listeners, my listening sessions don’t swing wildly between genres and moods, instead settling for a particular vibe, which the AI DJ hasn’t yet mastered. Put simply — I wouldn’t want to go to the AI DJ in the aftermath of a breakup, for fear of being greeted by “feel good happy tunes.” It would benefit from an additional layer of complexity, whereby users can input prompts for the DJ to follow.

My overall conclusions on Spotify’s AI DJ are therefore as mixed as before I used it. It’s a novelty initially, and can be a nice addition when I’m not sure what I want to play. However, its uses are limited by the user’s inability to dictate the kind of music they are looking for at that specific time. Those of us always tasked with controlling the music at predrinks can be relieved — our jobs shan’t be one of those taken over by AI, at least for now.

Apple threatens to remove services from the UK

Charlie Gershinson, Deputy Editor, explores government concerns over data security

EVERYDAY software services such as FaceTime and iMessage could be removed by Apple soon if the UK government moves forward on its update to the Investigatory Powers Act 2016.

Apple have stated that the proposed changes would pose a “serious and direct threat” to the security of user’s data which would leave it no choice but to withdraw their services and security measures rather than adhere to the proposed plans in a nine-page submission. The original 2016 act — dubbed the ‘snooper’s charter’ when it was first proposed — was designed to allow for the “general and indiscriminate collection of data” as communication companies were required to keep hold of data for up to a year. After being challenged in court, the European Court of Justice ruled the act illegal and forced the government to amend the act to one with much less overreach.

Much of the debate over this and similar bills concerns encryption which allows only the users engaged in an online conversation to see it while outsiders cannot. Encryption is used in popular social media applications like WhatsApp and Signal. While many are in favour of encryption’s benefits to the privacy of its users, the government instead sees it as an aid for criminals, while the bill would pro tect the public from crimi nal activity and threats. In a statement by the government, the amendments are meant to keep the original Investigatory Powers Act fit for purpose after technological innovations over the past several years. The government’s landmark Online Safety Act would also affect encryption and the collection of data by allowing independent researchers to access data and private messages to monitor harmful activ-

ity. Such measures are supported by children’s safety charities and the Molly Rose Foundation, founded by the family of Molly Rose, who took her own life at the age of 14 after viewing content concerning self-harm and suicide on social media.

There are three major amendments which Apple finds most egregious. One would see Apple compelled to share security updates with the Home Office for approval in advance of their release. If the updates are not approved, they would be disabled immediately. The third amendment would see the Home Office be able to force non-UK companies to comply with security changes designed by the government. Apple has said that it will not make changes to its software updates purely for the sake of one country which would then weaken the product for all global users and that the changes as a whole “constitute a serious and direct threat

to data security and information privacy”.

The Home Office, meanwhile, has defended the Act by saying that it includes “strong independent oversight” to regulate how these powers would be used. Sky News has reported, for example, that since the original amended Act was implemented in 2018, the government has never asked WhatsApp owner Meta for communication data. The government has added: "we keep all legislation under review to ensure it is as strong as it can be and this consultation is part of that process — no decisions have yet been made". Cyber-security expert Prof. Alan Woodward of Surrey University told the BBC that Apple and other technology companies would likely carry through with their threat saying: "there is a degree of arrogance and ignorance from the government if they believe some of the larger tech companies will comply with the new requirements without a major fight."

The amendments are currently undergoing a consultation process for several weeks before they go through the legislative process. Meanwhile, the Online Safety Bill is being debated in the House of Lords at the time of writing.

WOULD LEAVE IT NO CHOICE BUT TO WITHDRAW THEIR SERVICES AND SECURITY MEASURES

Image: pxfuel.com

Image: pxfuel.com

Image: Oast House Archive, geograph.org.uk

How will AI impact the future of journalism?

Helena Hughes explores the implications of AI in the world of journalism

DESPITE insistence AI won’t replace journalists, Google has looked into the capacity for artificial intelligence to produce news articles.

The software referred to internally at Google as “Genesis” is pitched as a modernising of the journalism sphere, presenting the opportunity to generate headlines, pitches and article segments. With other areas of the media industry, such as photography and social media, already being affected by AI it is a hardly surprising expansion into journalism, however the questions around integrity and interference remain both essential and prominent.

pitch found the ideas unsettling, given the suggested capabilities of the technology.

Press have already stated intention to partner with ChatGPT creator, Sam Altman, to explore AI’s potential. Sky News has also indicated interest in AI and is currently in an experimentation stage for technology that includes functionality for writing and pitching news stories, which also has so far produced “mixed results.”

University interest in AI journalistic capacity is also present, with London School of Economics establishing a dedicated department. AI looks locked in on the newsrooms, but only time will tell just how far the technology is able to go, but it does leave the question of how far it should go.

Google insists that the technology could be used to enhance “work and productivity” in a newsroom and is “quite simply . . . not intended to, and cannot, replace the essential role journalists have.”

However, the New York Times reported that many of the publishers present at the Google

Although it has not received a great deal of broader media coverage, there have been a variety of instances in which AI has been used to generate articles, but the usage has largely been detected from the news corporations due to the high margin of “embarrassing errors,” as in the case of CNET or in The Irish Times , where it was revealed a public opinion column around women’s use of fake tan was, at least in part, generated by AI and not public opinion at all. This potential for AI to falsify information to influence public opinion is naturally extremely problematic and risks branching into political and social issues with devastating impact.

Looking to the future, with usage already occurring in the journalism industry it is unlikely that AI will remain uninvolved in newsmedia, particularly considering Associated

Image: pxfuel

the prospects and fears of artificial intelligence Interest in AI boosts the tech sector

Vautier

BY now most of us are familiar with the term artificial intelligence (AI), new platforms such as ChatGPT have made ‘generative’ AI software accessible to the average internet user. But what do these fast-developing platforms mean for the world of technology? The popularity and wide application of AI technologies were predicted in a study conducted by West and Allen in 2018, published by Brookings. Within this study, they explain how "It is a wide-ranging tool that enables people to rethink how we integrate information, analyse data, and use the resulting insights to improve decision making." Five years later, AI can be found in several industries, and ‘generative’ AIs are even trending across social media, such as TikTok and Snapchat.

Meta by 64 per cent, Netflix by 51 per cent and Apple by 27 per cent" ( The Guardian ). These dissatisfying statistics were partly due to over-expansion during COVID, problems in the global economy and political unrest.

However, thanks to exciting developments, shares in companies investing in AI technologies "have more than doubled in value." The rush of interest in these technologies has helped to increase US tech stocks by a total of

£3.2tn. Some of these companies, seen as ‘AI Winners', have doubled in value as traders and investors predict massive growth in the area.

However, with this growth in AI technologies also comes the fear of job automation and unemployment across the world. Currently, the U.S. tech industry employs 12.2 million people and people fear that, as more jobs are replaced by AI technologies, we will see a huge dip in employment rates. This unrest has been expedited by Amazon's job cut of 18,000 employees earlier this year. While this fear of human displacement is understandable in a new and developing industry, professionals reassure us that this will not be the case. According to the World Economic Forum (WEF), automation and AI could displace 85 million jobs globally by 2025, but they could also create 97 million new jobs.

Recent surges in interest in these AI developments have had a significant effect on the US tech stock market, with many companies seeing a positive upturn after a disappointing start to 2023. Back in January, many technology corporations were receiving negative press and financial failings, "Tesla’s share price fell by 65 per cent, Mark Zuckerberg’s

This is just the beginning of exploring the world of AI, as it is deployed in analytical and statistical use cases, creating accurate forecasts in many industries. We can safely say that the development of AI will be revolutionary, changing the way the world views technology.

Isobel

discusses

REFERRED TO INTERNALLY AT GOOGLE...GENESIS IS PITCHED AS A MODERNISING OF THE JOURNALISM SPHERE

MANY OF THE PUBLISHERS PRESENT AT THE GOOGLE PITCH FOUND THE IDEAS UNSETTLING, GIVEN THE SUGGESTED CAPABILITIES

WITH THIS GROWTH IN AI TECHNOLOGIES ALSO COMES THE FEAR OF JOB AUTOMATION AND UNEMPLOYMENT ACROSS THE WORLD

FIVE YEARS LATER, AI CAN BE FOUND IN SEVERAL INDUSTRIES, AND 'GENERATIVE AI'S ARE EVEN TRENDING ACROSS SOCIAL MEDIA

Exetera Exetera...

 Student stars 

ASK

NAPOLEON: advice column

Question 1: How long does it usually take to find a group of friends that you like?

THE time it takes to make friends at university can vary widely from person to person. Some students might form strong connections within the first few weeks of university, while others might take an entire term or longer to build meaningful friendships. It often depends on individual factors such as personality, social skills, interests, and the opportunities for social interaction on campus. Being open, proactive, and involved in clubs or societies that align with your interests can expedite the process, helping you to find people who also share your interests. Remember, building genuine friendships is more important than the speed at which they develop, so don’t worry if it takes you a long time to find your crowd.

Question 2: What are the best places to find information as a student?

WHEN starting university (or even just moving onto the next year) it becomes so easy to feel overwhelmed by the amount of information you need to know. While hearing what you have missed from friends or housemates help, it is completely normal to worry you are missing things, so here are some suggestions that may help. If you are a student, download the iExeter app on your phone — and yes, it is available on a laptop too but keeping it on your mobile is so incredibly handy for timetable information and quick links to student systems. I would also suggest following the University as well as any course/society related accounts on social media as often reminders and suggestions are posted as well as events. If you have questions about readings lists or a module in general, going on the Exeter intranet allows you to search specific module codes to learn all the details. Finally, while reading all emails can make you as tired as our beloved campus cat (pictured above), do try and skim read what you can — sometimes they can be incredibly helpful.

EDITORS:

Anabel Costa-Ferreira

Livvy Mason-Myhill

Joshua Smith

CAPRICORN (22 DEC — 19 JAN)

September brings a period of expansion and increased romantic and financial opportunities for Capricorn.

AQUARIUS (20 JAN — 18 FEB)

Expect a time of observation and relationship growth, prompting important insights regarding close partnerships.

PISCES(19 FEB — 20 MAR)

September highlights relationships and personal growth for Pisces. Focus on your private life encourages introspection.

ARIES (21 MAR — 19 APR)

Aries will find their work, routines, and health in the spotlight, with a focus on invigorating project details and plans.

TAURUS (20 APR — 20 MAY)

Look forward to a focus on self-expression and enjoyment, particularly in areas related to creativity, and romance.

GEMINI (21 MAY — 20 JUNE)

Gemini’s focus will be on family and home matters, while also balancing it with a playful and creative theme.

CANCER (21 JUN — 22 JUL)

Cancer’s emphasis is on learning, communication, and daily life, with opportunities for mental stimulation and productivity.

LEO (23 JUL — 22 AUG)

Leo’s focus is on achieving tangible results and strengthening their life, with patience needed.

VIRGO (23 AUG — 22 SEP)

Virgo begins the month with a position of personal power. Yet, bring some self-reflection into play.

LIBRA (23 SEP — 22 OCT)

Libra finds a balance between outer demands and inner reflection. Increased self-confidence and decisiveness.

SCORPIO (23 OCT — 21 NOV)

Expect potential payoffs in career, networking, and friendships, fostering innovative work methods and control.

SAGITTARIUS (22 NOV — 21 DEC)

Sagittarius is motivated by ambition, commitment to success and structure.

Recipe: The most versatile thing in your repertoire — the puff pastry pie

MOST students don’t have time to cook, or they do, but would much rather spend that time on other, more exciting things. Well, dear students, I present to you the solution to your troubles: the puff pastry pie. Both easy and versatile, it will fulfil all your pre-TP stomach lining desires, and be pretty tasty, too. Before you say anything, no, you don’t have to make the pastry, shop bought is more than fine.

Step 1:

Heat the oven to 180 degrees and line a baking tray with baking paper.

Step 2: Making sure it’s not too cold to

roll out (I usually let it sit for 10 minutes after taking it out of the fridge), unravel the puff pastry straight onto the baking sheet. With a knife, score a border of about 1-2cm around the edges of the pastry sheet, making sure not to cut it all the way through. Beat an egg, and lightly brush the pastry boundary all the way round, then prick the inside of the boundary with a fork. Place in the oven for 10 minutes, or until the egg brushed boundary has puffed up and is slightly golden.

Step 3:

While the pastry is pre-baking in the oven, make the topping. In a

medium sized bowl, mix together ¾ of a pot, or 200g, of ricotta/mascarpone, the zest of half a lemon, two tablespoons or 50g of parmesan/gran padano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The other toppings are up to you; you can use pretty much any quick cooking vegetables, such as courgettes, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, mushrooms, or peppers, or pre-cooked ones, such as aubergines, sweet potatoes, and fennel, and even fruit, such as pears and figs. Whatever you use, make sure they are sliced thinly, and if quick cooking vegetables, dashed with a bit of olive oil before being placed on the pie.

Step 4: Get the puff pastry out of the oven, making sure the base isn’t soggy. Cover the inside boundary in an even layer of the mascarpone/ricotta mix then place the vegetables/fruit in an even layer on top of this. Feel free to add an extra dash of olive oil/parmesan on top of the pie before baking.

Step 5: Place in the oven for 20 minutes, or until the toppings are cooked through and the pastry is golden and crispy around the edges. Once out of the oven, let it sit for five minutes, then enjoy!

Exeposé archives: Looking back to the 1990 refurbishment of Devonshire House

OVER the summer of 1990 the Guild executive created a five year development plan that aimed “to improve the facilities available to students in the long term” — much like the recent refurbishment over the holidays.

At this time proposed changes were made not only for Devonshire House but Cornwall House and St. Lukes also. While noted changes to the Ewe bar may sound unfamiliar to us current students, mentions of

the Ram are not left amiss. As hopes to introduce a coffee bar and set breakfast menu were detailed alongside a budget of £11,000. At this time (and much like now) the student population was on the rise and with an estimated 7500 students there was a need for “more social space to accommodate them.” As a result, they hoped The Ram would eventually be doubled in size — and given the outdoor space we have access to now it is fair to say that this was achieved. The

article also detailed introducing childcare facilities, which again exist now through Owlets (daycare by Old Lafrowda).

Alternative changes to Devonshire House also included a welfare room to prioritise wellbeing — similarly, the current plan will create a central location for services such as the advice team.

The changes also looked to extend the print shop (where Exeposé used to be printed) to become an Aca-

demic Resources Center, alongside hiring a new member of staff to assist with typing and dissertation preparation.

The Guild wished “to hear further the opinions and ideas of students who will be directly affected by the changes”, much like the focus groups of students consulted in the process of recent changes. While this article is over 30 years old, the prioirty to keep students intersts at heart certainly remains unchanged.

Image: OpenClipart, SVG

Images: Anabel Costa-Ferreira

CROSSWORD study break | 15 se P 2023

STUDY BREAK

Across

1 Taxi (3)

3 Sepalous (anagram) — embracing of a cause (8)

7 Fertile desert spot (5)

8 Hog dodo (anagram) — state of divinity (7)

10 American dance — ugh! By nun? (anagram) (5,3)

11 Showy plant (4)

13 Deny — rubbish (6)

15 Simple and unsophisticated (2-4)

18 Piece of stiff paper (4)

19 Announce — trumpet (8)

2 Buffalo (US) (5)

3 Writer (8)

4 Go on a binge (3,3)

5 Loose — release (4)

6 Worry intensely (informal) (7)

9 24 hours (3)

12 General ideas (8)

14 Eternally (7)

16 German city (7)

17 Oily substance (6)

18 Tin (3)

20 Concur (with) (5)

21 Apartment (4)

Espousal, 7 Oasis, 8 Godhood, 10 Bunny hug,

The Ram

3.

TRIVIA CORNER

1. What has Freshers Week been renamed as?

2. What is the name of the campus cat?

3. Where can you get the famous curly fries on campus?

4. What building on campus has recently been refurbished?

5. What is the Exeter rugby team called?

3

Across: 1

Trivia: 1. Welcome Week 2.

Science

SCIENCE EDITORS: Eloise Shewring

Livvy Mason-Myhill

Coronavirus was in the air, everywhere we look around

Livvy Mason-Myhill, Editor-in-Chief, explains how a new device can detect the coronavirus in the air in minutes

SCIENTISTS have a device for you if you've ever thought it would be fantastic to go into a room and know whether the virus that causes Covid-19 is present. A device slightly larger than a toaster that was developed by researchers may quickly identify the airborne SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.

air to concentrate viral particles at detectable quantities when sampling airborne viruses. The amount of air sucked in during earlier attempts ranged from two to eight litres per minute. Each minute, its detector draws in 1,000 litres of air.

oxidise, or lose electrons, as electricity flows through the nanobody and them. SARS-CoV-2 is in the air when an additional device connected to the electrode detects the oxidation as a voltage shift.

As little as seven to 35 virus particles per litre of air can be detected in just five minutes, according to research published on the 10th July in Nature Communications. According to Rajan Chakrabarty, an aerosol scientist at Washington University in St. Louis, that is roughly as sensitive as PCR nasal swab tests. He said that his team worked "nonstop" for three years to develop the detector.

It can be difficult to gather enough

According to Chakrabarty, "we create an artificial cyclone inside of the sampler" by rapidly swirling fluids in order to catch the virus. The cyclone's wall traps and concentrates viruses for investigation. A HEPA filter linked to the gadget removes any viruses from the air that weren't caught in the liquid. The liquid is pumped to a biosensor five minutes after it has been collected.

The llama nanobody, a specialised immune system protein created by llamas and their relatives that fights infections much like antibodies do but is smaller and maybe more durable than human antibodies, is connected to an electrode to form the biosensor. Any coronavirus that is in motion is caught by the nanobody's spike protein. Tyrosine amino acids in the spike protein

The researchers delivered the detector to two persons with Covid-19 illnesses' apartments to conduct tests on it. "The device was detecting even the trace amounts of virus being shed by the patients," Chakrabarty explained. No virus was detected in air samples taken from an empty, well-ventilated conference room.

There are still some obstacles to get beyond. For instance, the gadget makes about the same amount of noise as a hoover or a ringing phone. According to Marr, that's probably too loud to use consistently in a classroom or office, but if used for 10 minutes, it might be acceptable.

Chakrabarty plans to eventually include llama nanobodies that can also detect other respiratory viruses, such as influenza or respiratory syncytial virus.

Aspertame: poison or probably harmless?

WINSTON Churchill’s oftrepeated phrase: “Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it” may not seem to have much relation to the field of science but if it applies to one thing, it is to the various health claims surrounding the artificial sweetener aspartame. Most recently, concerning the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) new claim over aspartame being a potential carcinogen. For those who can’t quite find time

to read the ingredient list on the back of every can and food item, aspartame is a low-calorie artificial sweetener used in a variety of food and drink such as soft drinks, dairy products and sugar-free desserts. This is done by combining two amino acids — aspartic acid and phenylalanine — rather than the two carbohydrates of glucose and fructose found in table sugar.

Since its approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States in 1981 and 1983

for dry goods and carbonated soft drinks respectively, a series of sources — most of which were made entirely without proof — has put the safety of aspartame under scrutiny in the decades since. While most of these have been nothing more than unsubstantiated internet speculation, the 2006 study by the Ramazzini Institute in Italy which suggested the possibility that aspartame caused leukaemia and lymphoma in rats caused widespread concern and seemed to ground those previous fears into reality.

The Ramazzini study, however, was immediately denounced by the FDA and the European Food Safety Administration (EFSA) in addition to the previous years of unscrupulous scientific research by those and other governmental bodies as well as the scientific journal in Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology which found that: “After 30 plus years of rigorous scientific research, it is time to put questions of aspartame safety to rest.” After one of the longest and most comprehensive re-evaluations in EFSA’s history in 2013, aspartame was once again found to be safe. Considering this

long history of aspartame affirmation, why is the WHO once again putting the safety of aspartame in doubt?

In summer, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the cancer research arm of the WHO, announced that a report would place aspartame under the category of being “possibly carcinogenic to humans,” This once again aroused fears over the effects of aspartame on humans which had been raised and rebuffed many times before, being widely reported in international media. Upon further examination, the headline’s implications become considerably less serious.

The IARC has two further categories for carcinogenic products: “probably carcinogenic to humans” and “carcinogenic to humans”, both of which are more serious than the category assigned to aspartame. Other products which the IARC have also reported to be “possibly carcinogenic” include aloe vera leaf extract, Asian pickled vegetables and talc-based body powder. This also means that aspartame is deemed less carcinogenic than products like anabolic steroids, processed meat and alcoholic beverages.

Another complication in the IARC’s headline analysis is that it does not clarify the quantity of aspartame is needed to be a risk to humans. Experts have since said that aspartame poses no risk to humans in “limited” quantities which amounts to less than 9-14 soft drinks per day for a person whose weight is 70 kilograms. Dr. Francesco Branca, director of the WHO’s department of nutrition and food safety has said: “We’re not advising consumers to stop consuming [aspartame] altogether. We’re just advising a bit of moderation.”

In short, will this latest chapter in the winding history between aspartame and national and transnational regulatory bodies have any truly significant effects? While there will surely be further studies and reviews in the near future, early indications show that the immediate reaction to aspartame as a potential carcinogen were likely overblown with little cause to worry.

Aspertame poses no risk to humans in "limited" quantities

Image: NIAID, Flickr

Charlie Gershinson, Deputy Editor, explores the scientific debate surrounding the low-calorie artificial sweetner

A device... may quickly identify the airborne SARS-coV-2 coronavirus

Image: aliisaalkunen, Flickr

The ‘El Niño’ phenomenon — record high temperature

Gracie Moore, Online Arts and Lit Editor, describes how the phenomenon and climate change are behind the unprecedented heatwaves

THE last few weeks have seen global temperatures smash previous records as climate change and the meteorological phenomenon “El Niño” compound.

El Niño is an irrregularly occurring

series of climatic changes affecting the Pacific region mainly but generally causes a reversal in the weather pattern that is expected in the region at that specific time of year. The conditions are usually severe, often causing extreme heat

and drought or excessive floods. During neutral conditions, the trade winds blow westward toward Indonesia and trigger colder water to upwell near South America. This brings generally warmer ocean temperatures. Combine this with -

idly rising temperatures and it begins to heavily impact the livelihood of populations and ecosystems around the world.

On the 3rd July, the planet suffered as the average global temperature reached 17.01 degrees celsius, the highest ever recorded. It had surpassed the previous record of 16.92, recorded in August 2016. By the end of the week commencing July 3, the record had been smashed three times over again. One concern is that the time between records being broken is shortening so it appears the rising temperatures are happening exponentially.

Climate scientist. Thomas Di Liberto of the U.S National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in Washington D.C. has said that most of this extreme heat occurring at the moment can be traced back to the state of our oceans as “the global ocean has just been so, so warm.” The seas, as well as the planet itself, have been warming for decades and the most recent decade has seen the seas’ hottest temperatures since as far back as the 1800s.

Marine heat waves are largely to blame for this issue as they are persistent periods of abnormally warm tempera-

Marine heat waves are largely to blame for this issue

tures, causing the average surface temperature of the world’s oceans to climb to 21.1 degrees celsius (as of April.) These waves currently affect around 40 per cent of the world’s oceans and are becoming more common. There is currently a 13 per cent chance that 2023 will take the title for being the hottest year on record and nearly a 90 per cent chance that it will be among the top five. Scientists are also concerned that there is a high likelihood that El Niño will push global warming more than 1.5 degrees celsius above preindustrial levels for the first time and that this will cross a benchmark that is irreversible. It can include changes such as the Amazon Rainforest transformation and widespread melting of the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets.

Jennifer Francis of the Woodwell Climate Research Centre in Falmouth has eerily said: “We’ve really never had this set of circumstances before” and that we are now entering unchartered territory.

How Kenya is helping its neighbours develop geothermal energy

Harry Craig, Deputy Editor, shares how East Africa has become a geothermal energy hotspot

KENYA’S geographic position along the Great Rift Valley, where tectonic forces are pulling the African continent apart, gives the country huge potential for generating geothermal energy. It has invested heavily in this sector since its first geothermal well was drilled in the 1950s, and consequently Kenya was the seventh-biggest producer of geothermal power in 2022. The country continues to expand its geothermal production, targeting an increase from 944 megawatts in 2022 to 2,500 megawatts by 2025.

This has been immensely beneficial to Kenya’s climate goals — geothermal accounts for 47 per cent of the country’s energy mix. It is also arguably the most sustainable source of renewable energy, as unlike wind and solar, it does not generate any carbon dioxide, and is also more reliable, since it does not depend on specific weather conditions. Importantly, it also aids socio-economic development; with 600 million Africans (43 per cent of the continent) lacking access to electricity, cheap, reliable renewable energy sources are invaluable.

However, Kenya’s neighbours have been slow to follow suit in investing in geothermal energy, despite enjoying the same advantages of being located along the Great Rift Valley. Ethiopia, for example, lags far behind Kenya, with a capacity of just 7.5 megawatts, despite estimates that it could produce up to 10,000 megawatts. Alongside these two East African economic powerhouses, Djibouti, Tanzania, Uganda and Somalia could all also benefit from the geothermal potential

Kenya’s neighbours have been slow to follow suit in investing in geothermal energy

of the Great Rift Valley, but currently have no installed geothermal capacity. With Kenya becoming regional leaders in geothermal power, they have begun to use their expertise to help neighbouring countries to de-

velop their own geothermal resources. The Kenya Electric Generating Company (KenGen) has already drilled multiple wells in Ethiopia and Djibouti and conducted surface studies to identify potential geothermal resources in Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zambia and Comoros. This has become a global project, as KenGen and Kenya’s Geothermal Development Company have partnered with Iceland’s GRÓ Geo-

thermal Training Programme to train East African students, energy professionals and government officials on geothermal resource exploration and development. This will culminate in the establishment of Kenya’s Geothermal Centre of Excellence within the next few years, intended to train professionals from across East Africa. Although training and expertise is improving in the region, financing remains a considerable barrier to develop-

ing geothermal infrastructure. Upfront costs remain high — in Kenya, a single geothermal well can cost S$6 million to drill, and a further $300 million to build a 165-megawatt power plant. However, operating costs are minimal, and the investment pays off in the medium — to long-term — analysis by the Dalberg Global Development Advisors suggested it would take 13 years for a renewable-heavy future to break even financially with a fossil fuel-focused energy mix. There is thus a strong economic argument for investment in geothermal energy, even before considering the benefits in fighting the climate crisis, although the initial cost remains a deterrent for investment in the global south.

Kenya’s geothermal revolution offers a template for the rest of the East African region — and indeed Africa as a whole. The impacts of climate change will hit places like Kenya hardest, despite their contribution to global carbon emissions being negligible, and Africans need their states to continue to develop economically, without worsening the climate crisis. This makes clean energy a necessity, and with enormous geothermal potential across the continent, particularly in the Rift Valley, there is hope that Kenyan expertise can begin to unlock that potential and fuel Africa’s sustainable development.

Financing remains a considerable barrier to develping geothermal infrastructure

Historic triumphs at the Wimbledon finals

Livvy Mason-Myhill, Editor-in-Chief, looks back at two pulsating Wimbledon finals that suggest a bright future for tennis

THE 2023 women's and men's singles finals at Wimbledon were spectacles to remember, as two extraordinary players cemented their names in tennis history with outstanding victories. Both Markéta Vondroušová and Carlos Alcaraz won sensational victories that resonated far beyond the perimeter of the renowned Wimbledon Centre Court.

Markéta Vondroušová's journey to the Wimbledon women's singles title was particularly noteworthy. The 24-yearold Czech player defeated tough opponents throughout the competition with her graceful delicacy and forceful style, which culminated in an exciting final. The memorable journey of Markéta Vondroušová is a symbol of resilience.

In the title match, Vondroušová faced seasoned opponent Ons Jabeur, demonstrating steely nerves, remaining calm and focused throughout difficult rallies. Her exceptional shotmaking skills and strategic acumen helped her to outmanoeuvre her rival and control the match's pace. She won her first Grand Slam title with a remarkable straight-set triumph in an incredible display of tenacity and talent.

The victory of Vondroušová is hugely significant for women's tennis and is an example to players all around the world. Her accomplishment shows that perseverance, persistence, and self-

belief can overcome obstacles and open doors for unexpected success, considering how little attention she received prior to the tournament. Young aspiring athletes, particularly girls, should use Vondroušová as a source of inspiration because she is proof that, with hard work and perseverance, anyone can succeed on the biggest stage.

Furthermore, Vondroušová's Wimbledon triumph upsets the current trend in women's tennis, which has seen dominant players win. Her performance highlights the increasing level of competition in the women's game, as up-and-coming players are taking on established stars

and changing the face of the sport. The victory also serves as further proof of tennis's universal appeal, as Vondroušová joins a distinguished list of Czech players who have made their mark on prominent grass courts, like Petra Kvitová and Martina Navratilova.

emerging, ready to embrace the opportunities provided to them as Djokovic's supremacy declines. A new generation of athletes will find themselves motivated by Alcaraz's victory, since they can now see that they can compete against and beat the best in the field.

On the other side of the net, the men's singles final saw a seismic upset when emerging talent Carlos Alcaraz came against the formidable Novak Djokovic, who was attempting to secure the alltime Grand Slam record. The remarkable run of Alcaraz at Wimbledon 2023 won

over admirers all around the world. The 20-year-old showed raw talent, strong strokes, and a steadfast will that belied his youth. A Wimbledon star is on the rise.

Both players gave it everything in the men's singles final, which was a masterpiece in high-stakes tennis. Djokovic, renowned for his capacity to thrive under duress, was put under a tremendous amount of pressure by Alcaraz's ferocious serves and precise shot selection. Alcaraz's poise and mental toughness proved to be crucial as the match went into five arduous sets, and he ultimately prevailed, shocking the world with his successful performance.

The triumph of Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon suggests that men's tennis may be experiencing a change in leadership. A new generation of players is

Here lie the Ashes of Bazball?

Furthermore, Alcaraz's triumph embodies the spirit of sports, a field in which patience, talent, and hard work can produce unthinkable achievement. His tale serves as a potent reminder that life, like tennis, is unpredictable and that even individuals who are viewed as underdogs may defy odds and triumph.

The 2023 Wimbledon finals were a celebration of the art and mystery of the game. With their spectacular victories, Markéta Vondroušová and Carlos Alcaraz grasped the opportunity and inscribed their names in tennis history. They inspired future athletes, broke down barriers, and ushered in a new era of tennis where talent and tenacity triumphs against all odds. Their victories have a far-reaching impact beyond the championships. The next chapter in the ever-evolving story of this enduring and adored sport will be eagerly anticipated by tennis fans throughout the world.

Oliver Lamb, News Editor, analyses criticism of England after a disappointing Ashes series

SESSION three, day two, Lord’s. Ben Duckett, on 98, faces Josh Hazlewood. The ball is short; Duckett pulls, but sends a top edge to David Warner at fine leg. He is the second of four batsmen in that innings to fall into Australia’s obvious short-ball trap. Later, the BBC’s Jonathan Agnew asks Duckett whether the England team regret what many saw as recklessness. Duckett rubbishes the notion.

Speaking to The Guardian about the Agnew interview, Duckett said: “I couldn’t believe the inter view with Aggers, how he couldn’t understand it. The only reason I got to 98 was the pull shot — if I’d put it away I’d have got 20.”

England went on to go 2-0 down in the series, and although they made it 2-2, Australia, as holders, retained the Ashes.

Aggression with the bat isn’t all

there is to Bazball — the name given to the England men’s new approach to Test cricket — but it’s the headline feature: no Test team in history has come close to scoring as quickly. The DuckettAgnew disagreement is a microcosm of the debate around it. While acknowledging the 13 wins from 18, sceptics insist that England repeatedly give up strong positions through excessive aggression.

In the third innings of the first Test, England led by 136 in good batting conditions, three wickets down and with plenty of time left.

Joe Root and Harry Brook gave their wickets away, and Australia squeaked a chase of 281. Then at Lord’s came that collapse against the short ball. There’s no point arguing that these were failures of execution, rather than a flaw in Bazball itself. Aggressive batting in Test cricket is a high-wire act; failures of ex-

ecution are inevitable, but you can fail with any strategy. What matters is that playing aggressively puts England in those strong positions in the first place. It is easily forgotten that of the 17 Tests preceding the Bazball transformation, England won one and lost 11. They were trying to play traditional Test cricket with batsmen who had neither the techniques nor the discipline to do so.

Across 25 days of sport, a thousand factors go into success or failure. Particularly important in this case was fielding, England might have won those first two Tests had they not dropped so many chances. Let’s spare a token word for Australia, who began this series as newly crowned world Test champions. A draw against them is no disgrace.

It is, in fact, more than most expected 18 months ago. Just as Duckett appeared to throw away a century at Lord’s, England seem to have (Baz)ballsed up a series that was close to being theirs. In reality, this Ashes has vindicated an approach that was never claimed to be a cheat code for Test cricket, but a way to extract the best from England’s players.

England can still execute Bazball better, and did so later in the series. Most spectacularly, in the fourth Test, England made 592 at 5.5 an over, only for rain to deny them a probable victory. In the end, they can probably claim to have won the series on points.

Up-and-coming players are... changing the face of the sport

A new generation... will find themselves motivated by Alcaraz's victory

Image: Daniel Cooper, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Jack Rohan, Wikimedia Commons

They were trying to play traditional Test cricket with batsmen who had neither the techniques nor the discipine to do so

Image: Ben Sutherland, Flickr

Image: Yorkspotter, Wikimedia Commons

First trip to St James Park?

Mikhail Shklover, Online Sports Editor, helps out any new Grecians for their first visit

to SJP

It's still a man's world

Amberly Wright, Lifestyle Editor, discusses her experiences as a woman in sport

ST James Park, Exeter City’s fortress in the heart of Devon’s capital city, is a place worth a visit for every University of Exeter student not indifferent to the beautiful game! Exeter City Football Club welcomes fans for another year of drama and fierce League One rivalry, hoping to continue the positive tradition of sellouts at the park. The ground that has seen the pain of play-off defeats, the euphoria of promotion and endless clouds of ruby red offers a lot more than 90 minutes of League-One football! Here is a small guide for your first visit to St James Park in the new academic year, and I hope this would be the first of many.

The home ground of the Grecians is located right next to the eponymous train station, in close proximity to the city centre, and a maximum twenty-minute

walk from campus — all towards a great spectacle at St James Park.While planning a trip to a home game and picking a stand to attend, every student should have one place in mind, and only one place — the iconic ‘Big Bank’! Of course, as the campaign progresses some of you may be lucky to lay claim to a hospitality ticket, concede yourself to a plastic seat in the Adam Stansfield Stand, or make a decision to attend the away end to support a team from back home and your faithful team.

But overall the largest stand of all, accommodating several thousand people, is the best place to go!

For the hardy souls, get to the ground when gates open an hour early to snatch a spot in the beating heart (or drum) of the stand — the largest standing terrace in

the EFL.The atmosphere at the Big Bank, and at SJP (all of us call it SJP by the way) is like no other. A pint, a pie and a group of mates is by itself a good addition to an entertaining fixture, but St James Park goes beyond that, and entertains regardless. Before your day’s entertainment at the Park (another nickname for the ground, yes I know), warm up your vocal chords! No home game is complete without the slightly drunk, and out of tune symphony of a seemingly endless number of songs. You’ll learn these lyrics in no time — from giving your heart to Sam Nombe for Christmas, to building roman walls to keep Plymouth Argyle (our bitter rivals) out of town. The most poignant of all, a celebration of Adam Stansfield, or as we call him Stanno — taken too soon, however celebrated every game as we sing a song for him, and take him along to the Big Bank with us. Whatever happens do not pitch invade. Unless the unthinkable unfolds as it did on the hallowed turf in April 2021, and you see a miraculous promotion to the championship — Unlikely however.

The life and times of an

IN September, I started my first year and had just gotten out of a rough patch with my mental health. Further more, I was recovering from a meniscus tear. However due to my competitive edge and love for the sport, I wanted to play hockey without any pressure! I have played for five years for my home club, and wanted to continue this passion pressurefree, so I joined intramural hockey. For freshers, teams are split into accommodations, so I played for East Park — I made some close friends on that team. The confidence intramural hockey gave me allowed me to join the EULHC development squad, hoping of play -

THROUGHOUT my first year at Exeter as a psychology and sports science student, it became prevalent to me that sport is still not as progressive and inclusive as it claims to be.

Simple observations in my lectures showed me that psychology is a discipline dominated by women, and my sport science lectures appeared to be full of men. I started the year playing intramural hockey in a mixed-gender team, however our team was still male-heavy. Though everyone on the team was welcoming, I couldn’t help but feel out of place, especially when playing completely male secondand third-year teams.

At the beginning of term two, I trialled for the EULHC development team, and got in, and it was only then that I felt truly at home. I could finally play hockey without feeling at a supposed athletic and anatomical disadvantage.

At this time, I also joined the university gym with one of my flatmates. The first few sessions were awful, and

we didn’t even venture from the resistance machines for about a month. Gym anxiety is a real thing and eventually I discovered a love for lifting weights! For as long as I remember, I have felt bad about my size. I am just above five foot tall and have quite a slim and athletic figure, and I have never felt strong. But suddenly, the fact I could squat my boyfriend’s body weight, and could even do more than a few press-ups healed insecurities I had carried for so long — insecurities I’d particularly held during my eating and body confidence struggles. I participated in the ‘This Girl Can’ week and tried my hand at boxing. To be stood in a room with strong women and learning to do a sport that is overpowered by men was inspiring. But the motives of the women in the room varied. Some wanted to gain strength and skill for their own personal benefit, but there were some in the room who felt they were too weak — due to society, or past events that led them to want to learn to defend themselves. That isn’t right. A campaign meant to empower women had become a week of ‘trying to be as good as men at their sport’. I have no doubt that the University did everything they could to accommodate women and create equal opportunities, but maybe it’s the subconscious actions of men that need to change.

intramural sports player

Sport writers share their experiences of playing intramural sport at Exeter

ing BUCS sport in my second year.

During term two, we found ourselves faced with Lafrowda and we coined the match as the local derby! Fortunately, East Park won (much to our neighbour’s disappointment) but nothing was taken to heart, and a few drinks were enjoyed at The Ram afterwards to celebrate our victory!

Intramural is a great opportunity to try out new sports, or to play the sport you love without having too much on your plate! Matches are on Sundays — so not to interfere with studies and other AU sports.

Amberly Wright, Lifestyle Editor

WHILE the sporting scene at Exeter and many other Russell Group universities can seem competitive and daunting, there is a more social and relaxed way to get involved! Though the existence of intramu-

ral sports remained unknown to me until the start of second-year, I would strongly encourage any incoming students to try it.

Typically, intramural sports teams are formed through an existing society, however they can also be made of friend groups or flatmates. In other words, if you can make a team, you can play.

This mentality towards sport is really what encouraged me to sign up to intramural netball last academic year. It is not based on ability or experience, but instead focuses on meeting new people and simply having fun beyond academia.

After some persuasion at a freshers’

week event, I decided to join the XMedia netball team alongside many other committee members. Despite some initial nervousness of whether my secondary school netball skills would suffice, soon Sunday netball became a routine I not only enjoyed but looked forward to! One of my favourite memories was surprisingly the week our opponents didn’t show up, as instead of cancelling our game, we decided to play a 5-a-side match involving very few followed rules but many fits of laughter to balance! Looking back, I would be lying if I said we never got overly competitive, but it all remained a bit of light-hearted fun. While my netball ‘talents’ remain debatable, I can confidently say joining this team was without a doubt one of the best decisions I made all year.

Anabel Costa-Ferreira, Editor-in-Chief

...worth a visit for every student not indifferent to the beautiful game

Image: Ze Gooner, Wikimedia Commons

Image: nets_medianetball, Instagram

Image: Pierre Terre, Wikimedia Commons

Image: Ross Huggett, Flickr

Image: ignacioserapio0, Pixabay

Image: Peter Hughes, Flickr

Sport

Chiefs, trains and ties: Welcome to rugby country!

A hitchhiker’s guide to the rugby galaxy in Exeter

Joseph Terry Sport Editor

FRESHERS this term will learn something that all sports fans on campus already know, or should know. Say it quietly to the football fans, but Exeter is rugby country… the football fans will learn it quick enough! That said, and now that I’ve only got rugby fans reading, here’s a guide to the endless rugby culture here in Exeter!

Having come from somewhere with no professional rugby clubs nearby, I know how the culture shift to the land of the Chiefs can be daunting, so let me make it slightly less intimidating!

Firstly, catch a train to Digby and Sowton to get to the game, regular service every 20 minutes from St Davids and Central stations — no better way to get to the game and back than surrounded by fans (who have consumed varying amounts of cider)! Also, the bridge from the station to the ground does feel like it’s bouncing beneath you, you’ll know it when you feel thousands marching in sync — trust me, you’ll get used to it!

Another thing that I have to say, and something I learned the hard way, is that somehow Sandy Park has its own microclimate — a bitterly cold one in the winter months! If you were going to take one pair of gloves, pick up another one even if you think it’s useless. Likewise wear an extra sweater. The cold just sits in the

stadium, as you watch along, creeping towards numb feet and hands. Take my word for it, or else freeze at your own peril!

So, you’ve sorted the transport and the attire — which stand do you plant yourself, however? Standing in the East Terrace you’re packed in the hubbub of regulars, shoulder-to-shoulder, whereas in the North Terrace, the drone of plastic advert boards being beaten will ring in your ears. Saying that, even if I think standing is better, I can understand the benefits of the West Terrace — namely the proximity to the bar!

Finally, if you look just hard enough on a matchday, give the Exeposé and XpressionFM teams a wave in the press box! Our match coverage continues through bleak winters or relatively warm springs, putting in the hours for your pleasure.

Sandy Park became my second home on the weekends last year, and there is no better place to be in my opinion!

One of the things that has struck me about the Chiefs, and something that’s unique to Exeter, is the close link between EURFC/EUWRFC and the Chiefs — and the bizarre phenomenon of seeing your friends playing when you head down to Sandy Park. Normally players for a rugby club are seen as stars you’ll never see, but here you see them walking around campus!

ARGUABLY one of the largest and most popular sports club in Exeter

— EURFC boasts incredible recent success, a record for producing international talent, and a large social presence across the University. Rugby is ingrained in the culture here at Exeter, and even if you are not a big fan of the game it is likely that you will find your self cheering on a mate down at Duckes Meadow or heading to Sandy Park to watch the first team in the Varsity match — a highlight of Exeter’s sport ing and social calendar!

Competition is EURFC’s specialty. The club has nine BUCS men’s teams and two women’s alongside Saturday teams for the men and women, both of which have achieved great success in recent years. The men’s teams have remained a dominant force in University rugby, with the 1st XV achieving numerous National Championship titles and being

promoted to National League 2, last season being their first time competing at this level. Having won backto-back National Championships in 2018 and 2019, EURFC Women returned to the top-flight after a very impressive unbeaten 2021/22 season.

The quality of the EURFC men’s rugby was on full display and epitomised in their BUCS Super Rugby success earlier this year. Dubbed “the greatest game of rugby BUCS has ever seen,” Exeter pulled it back from behind in extra time to win the 13-try contest 4844, and the victory tasted even sweeter over closest rivals Loughborough!

Besides cup finals such as these, the biggest game of the year for the men’s and women’s teams is undoubtedly the Varsity match. Thousands of students flock down to Sandy Park for this showcase match, enjoying a few drinks, chanting along with the club members in the stands, and (usually) celebrating an Exeter win in Timepiece later that evening!

EURFC and Exeter Chiefs have shared a fantastic partnership for many years now, ensuring the talent

of top-quality players can be realised and nurtured, taking them all the way to the top. In recent years, Christ Tshiunza made his Wales debut only weeks after his first appearance for the University, whilst Dafydd Jenkins has featured in the Premiership and the Champions Cup for the Chiefs. Despite these levels of elite performance rugby, EURFC ensures that all levels are represented, with Social and Flair teams allowing for anyone to get involved, no matter their ability — with the Wednesday Social followed by a Timepiece appearance a staple of every player’s week!

The man behind the amazing successes of the club, Director of Rugby Keith Fleming, has announced his retirement from his role ahead of this upcoming season, after more than 15 years in the role. In this time the club has established itself as the most formidable University side in the country, and his tenure has guided more than 50 individuals to play elite-level rugby for professional clubs across the country. EURFC is most certainly in a very good place entering this upcoming season thanks to his work.

We wish Keith all the best in his retirement and the best of luck to EURFC on their upcoming season, and we hope to see many of you supporting the club as we cover them this year!

Twitter: @Exepose Instagram: @exepose Facebook: Exeposé

SPORT EDITORS: Joseph Terry Oliver Rickwood Harry Craig

Image: Kieran Moore

Oliver Rickwood Sport Editor

Image: Lewis Clarke, Geograph

Image: Derek Harper, Geograph