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ISSUE 711 11 SEP 2020 exepose.com @Exepose

THE UNIVERSITY OF EXETER’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER SINCE 1987

Zooming Into freshers

Image Backgrounds (top-bottom): Nikola Jovanovic, Unsplash; WikiCommons; dynamicwang,

COMMENT

Online learning: the future of higher education? PAGe 7

Images: Pexels, flickr

ARTS + LIT

How does fiction shape our expectations of university life? Image: kqpho, Unsplash

PAGE 16

EXEPOSÉ

Devonshire House, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4PZ

Editors Print: Kamila Bell & Bryony Gooch Online: Madeleine Baker & Ria Kalsi Deputy: Richard Ainslie & Pete Syme editors@exepose.com News Editors Print: Emily Im & Chloe Pumares Online: Elen Johnson & Ella Shadwell news@exepose.com Comment Editors Print: Isaac Bettridge & Cassia Grace Online: Gaia Neiman & Jennifer Medlicott comment@exepose.com Beyond Exeter Editor Print: Sumiah Elbortoukaly Features Editors Print: Bethany Collins & Joe Newell Online: Simon Eidesvik & Becca Wells Foreign Correspondents Co-ordinator:s: Ross Chatwell & Catherine Lloyd features@exepose.com Lifestyle Editors Print: Ceri Jackson & Georgia Shepherd Online: Freya Insoll & Elinor Jones lifestyle@exepose.com Arts + Lit Editors Print: Will Evans & Amelia Gregory Online: Lucy Aylmer & Anna Wilmot artsandlit@exepose.com Music Editors Print: Bridie Adams & Ollie Leader de Saxe Online: Tom Bosher & Holly Lamb music@exepose.com Screen Editors Print: Olivia Garrett & Francesca Sylph Online: Olivia Gomez & Jim Norman screen@exepose.com Science Editors Online: Isabel Murray & Vincent Plant sciandtech@exepose.com Sport Editors Print: Joel Edwards & Nick Powell Online: Harry Scott-Munro sport@exepose.com Chief Photographer photography@exepose.com Copy Editors Danni Darrah, David Fallshaw, Emily Mason Proofers Kamila Bell, Bryony Gooch, Pete Syme, Richard Ainslie, Danni Darrah, David Fallshaw, Emily Mason, Blood, Sweat & Tears

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Editorial

FTER a long summer of social distancing and sunbathing, here we are back in this little city called Exeter. Whether you're new in town or a seasoned student, you might be more apprehensive than exhilarated for this year to come. Moving to university is a big step at the best of times without the backdrop of a global pandemic! But it is okay to feel that way and you are not alone. This year may be unconventional, but that won't stop you from making your mark on campus. We are sure that you - whoever you are - will end this year with a number of unforgettable stories. Speaking of stories, we have another edition of Exeposé for you to kick-off the new academic year with. So, let's get started. On News (page 3) we have detailed the deal reached by trade unions and the university to mitigate staff cuts. Or check out our investigation on (page 4) to discover the amount forked out by the University for biscuits (yes, the things you dunk in your tea). Comment discusses the future of higher education in these trying times and the various difficulties of dealing with landlords (page 7). What do you Fresh think? (By the way, get used to being called Fresh – in fact, accepting it will do you even better). Screen have got you covered with getting to know the film societies Exeter University has to offer with their brilliant interview (page 24). Also, check out their Editors' pick to see what you make of their favourite films, all are up for debate. Wanting to get in some well deserved casual reading in before you are bogged down by academic journals? Arts + Lit

have got you coverd with the best book shops in Exeter (page 16). We are sure you are just as fascinated as us by all things dolphin. No? Well you should be! Check out Science to find out how these magical creatures are using shells to help them hunt (page 29). Join us in Music to discuss the best live music venues in Exeter (page 20). We might not be able to rock out together just yet, but we can positively manifest great nights out for the future. Over in Features, an important investigation is had with regard to the systemic racism present within Russell Group universities (page 10). Concerned about the wider impacts of COVID-19? Well, Sport disscusses how this might affect the future of Women's sport (page 32). I am sure your appetite has grown after reading this extensive introduction. Never fear, check out Lifestyle for the best banana pancakes recipe you ever did see (page 14). All in all, there is a huge range to sink your teeth into. Exeposé always has and always will welcome new writers, proofers and general members. We are a student group that requires you to have absolutely no prior experience, just a passion for all things journalism. We welcome everyone. All you will need is curiosity and a drive for giving things a go. Joining a society, Exeposé or otherwise is always a great way to get involved. Here at Exeposé we want to wish you a great new year and we hope to see you at our Freshers' events! Kamila & Bryony

MONDAY Virtual Welcome to Exeposé - Meet the Senior Editors (11:00-12:00) TUESDAY Virtual News article Writing Workshop - With News Editors (13:00-14:00) Virtual Listening Party - With Music Editors (15:00-16:00) WEDNESDAY Virtual Q&A with Sport Editors (14:00-15:00) THURSDAY Virtual Book Club with Arts+Lit Editors (11:00-12:00) Virtual Features Writing Workshop - With Features Editors (15:00-16:00) FRIDAY Virtual Film Festival (Exeposé + XTV Collab) (14:00-15:00) SUNDAY XMedia Virtual Pub Quiz (19:30-21:00)

Worldwide university news Vietnamese universities Australia's University Morocco calls for Pakistani students receive $422 million fees increase by 113% New Global University arrested for protesting

HE World Bank has approved $422 million to improve Vietnam’s three national universities and turn the Mekong Delta into a climate-resilient city. The University of Da Nang, Vietnam National University-Hanoi and Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City will receive $295 million to boost their research and teaching capacity, therefore shifting their infrastructure from "overcrowded and obsolete" to "modern, integrated and digital ready," according to the World Bank. The money will also enable the universities to enhance their equipment and the transfer of knowledge so they can become regionally competitive institutions. The remaining $127 million of funding has been allocated to Vinh Long for urban development. Flood control systems will be built and wastewater collection will be improved as well as key transport links.

EW students in Australia may pay fees double their current amount to study particular courses. Law and commerce courses will be 28 per cent more expensive while the humanities will face cost increases of 113 per cent. Meanwhile, in demand degrees like teaching, nursing, mathematics and science will be up to 62 per cent less expensive. Australia’s Education Minister, Dan Tehan, announced this new policy on 19 June in response to an increased demand for places at universities. The policy is expected to provide 40,000 new places for students without increasing government spending. Tehan predicts that 60 per cent of students will see a reduction or no change to their university costs.

R Jamal Eddine Benhayoun, from VER 80 students were arrested by Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Pakistani police forces for protesthas suggested a new concept for higher ing against online classes and fees. More education called the New Global Uni- than 300 students gathered in Quetta versity (NGU) which offers all-inclusive city to chant slogans against the Higher distance-learning. The idea emerged fol- Education Commission and demand an lowing the Ministry of Education's ban end to full fees and online classes. Acon in-person activities due to COVID-19. cording to Muzammil Khan, convenor The NGU reconstructs the traditional im- of the Students Action Committee, 95 age of prestigious buildings, facilities, and per cent of students do not have access competitive admission requireto computers and the interments with its open-access net for online learning. establishment that is Many protesters beenriched by its dilieve charging the verse community of full fee for online staff and students. education is unAt its heart, and as justifiable and a global network extor tionate. for the exchange The arrested stuand production of dents were later knowledge, the New released after public Global University propressure and condemmotes universal peace and nation. Stories by, Georgia Shepherd, Will Evans, human conviviality. Images (LtoR): Rexness, Pikist Emma Blackmore and Lucy Alymer

11 SEPT 2020 | EXEPOSÉ

NEWS

Trade unions reach deal with University to mitigate staff cuts

How Exeter’s clubs have been coping with COVID-19 Pete Syme Deputy Editor

IGHTLIFE has been one of the biggest casualties of the pandemic, resulting in a dwindling social scene, and precarity for business-owners and workers. With nightclubs at the back of the re-opening queue, Exeposé spoke to some of the city’s hotspots about their experiences. Move, the home of underground dance music in Exeter, has kept business going by adapting their entrance into the ‘Move Quay-osk’, serving alcohol, shakes, dirty fries and snacks. They told us how they “have been working tirelessly behind the scenes booking some of the best DJs that could headline most festivals covering house, techno and DnB”, starting with a takeover by Souped Up Records planned for 3 October. Move added: “we are very excited to reopen as soon as the government says we can do so and look forward to welcoming everyone back.” Cavern, a shrine for all fans of indie music, has not been as fortunate, surviving the summer only thanks to crowdfunding

with the Music Venues Trust. The venue has some student nights “pencilled in for September/October” but everything still depends on government regulations. Closer to home, the Guild-run Lemon Grove will not be open for the start of term, as they “are bound by both the Government and University guidance.” Alternatively, they have been getting the RAM pub COVID-secure, and working alongside the University to open all their outlets safely. A Students’ Guild spokesperson added: “we’ll be providing a variety of online digital events and smaller in-person events, subject to guidance changes, through our societies, student groups and in our spaces for Freshers’ ‘20.” Whilst a Culture Recovery Fund has been announced to help businesses financially recover, there is still uncertainty as to when nightclubs will be able to open. Michael Kill, CEO of Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) said: “This is a positive step forward, but we must maintain pressure on government to gain clarity on the roadmap for businesses that are still unable to open, and fight for further support to ensure they survive this crisis.”

Georgia Shepherd Lifestyle Editor

RADE unions UCU, Unison and Unite have reached a deal with the University to mitigate staff cuts in light of challenging financial circumstances related to COVID-19. The agreement will freeze pay increases for staff in bands Grade F and above, where salaries start at £35,000, with a view to reassess the decision in 2021. Staff on Grades B to E who were eligible for a pay increase in August have had their increments preserved. Those in the Vice-Chancellors Executive Group have accepted a reduction in the pay they would normally receive in 2019/20, amounting to savings of

£266,000. This is set to continue into 2020/21. As part of a strategy to prevent redundancies, the University will allow colleagues to voluntarily reduce their working hours for a fixed period in Term One. The University has not said how many staff they hope will volunteer a pay cut. Registrar Mike Shore-Nye declared in a Project Restart meeting that the University has invoked Phases One and Two of their financial plan to deal with the effects of the pandemic. The steps focused on non-pay savings, including cost suppression and postponing new capital investment. This has saved the University approximately £2 million and protected over 50 jobs. Speaking with Exeposé, Deputy Registrar Linda Peka described the measures as “painful for staff ” but explained that they “have got to control costs to be able to invest

where we know it matters most.” In a statement on their website, the Exeter UCU branch said they have “accepted the Collective Agreement after a consultative e-ballot of its membership. This decision means that many members of staff will be making significant financial and professional sacrifices over the coming academic year.”

This decision means that many members of staff will be making significant financial sacrifices

Exeter UCU

As such, Exeter UCU notes “the huge responsibility now placed on the University’s senior management to uphold all the undertakings made in this agreement, and to also honour the spirit with which it has been accepted.” Former Vice-Chancellor Sir Steve Smith stated that the University will assess these savings in the January 2021 budget review when the financial picture is clearer, particularly in relation to how many international students have enrolled in the University.

Racially motivated hate crimes Gender bias, a problem as big as the gender pay gap in Devon and Cornwall almost double since 2015 Chloe Pumares News Editor

Emily Im News Editor

TATISTICS from Devon and Cornwall Police reveal that the number of racially motivated hate crimes reported in 2019 has doubled since 2015. 1115 racially motivated hate crimes were recorded in 2019 while in 2015, there were 614 reports. If hate incidents are included in the 2019 total, the number goes up to 1280. In Exeter, hate crime reports between January and June have risen over the last five years. According to data obtained via a Freedom of Information (FoI) request, 54 racially motivated hate crimes were recorded in 2016 yet in 2020, the figure increases to 73. Hate crime reports peaked in March this year with 19 cases but dropped to five in May. They surged again in June as 16 reports were made. Devon and Cornwall Police recorded 21 hate crimes against Chinese people in the first three months of 2020. The previous year saw a total of 11 reports and in 2015, just five went on record. At least six racially motivated attacks between February and March were against Asian people in Exeter. All of

them were linked to coronavirus and at least three of the victims were students. One of these occurred on 4 March when a 19 year-old Chinese man was approached on Castle Street by four white men. He was told to “go back to your own country – you must have coronavirus” before he was punched, kicked, spat at and threatened with a knife. The police have appealed for witnesses but no suspects have been identified in any of the six cases. Investigating Officer, Sergeant Emma Storey-Barrett, said “targeted verbal and physical abuse is not to be tolerated and we are incredibly disappointed by the actions of the few in our community which are totally unjustifiable.” Police notified the University’s wellbeing and Estate Patrol team following the reports. On 6 March, the University sent an email to students reminding everyone to show “respect, kindness and compassion for all.” In November 2019 the Police Hate Crime Unit investigated neo-Nazi posts made on the Facebook page ExeHonestly, which shutdown as a result. In December, a University Law lecturer reported a hate crime to the police after the vandalism of his anti-racism poster.

RECENT report published on the University’s news site looks at the effect of gender bias in the workplace. The report released for 2019/20 recorded that the statutory gender pay gap has increased since 2018 with women now earning 81 pence to every pound a man earns, compared to the previous 84 pence. Yet recent research suggests that the gender pay gap is not the only issue women may face. A new study published on 24 June, conducted by the University of Exeter in association with Skidmore College and the British Veterinary Association, focused on gender bias in the workplace. Gender bias can be defined as unconscious or implicit bias and usually describes the preferential treatment men receive compared to women. This new research suggests that gender bias is a pressing issue, as “even with equal numbers [of men and women] you can have unequal treatment.” The first study found that managers’ ratings of potential employees’ competence was affected by gender, tending to see females as less competent and so were less likely to urge them to further their career.

Those who no longer thought gender bias was an issue tended to perpetuate it, managers who thought this gave male employees a higher salary (eight per cent higher). Those who recognised it as a problem tended to recommend more equal pay. “The resulting evaluations were systematically biased among those who thought gender bias was no longer an issue” said co-author Professor Michelle Ryan. Lead author Dr Christopher Begeny suggested “It is important to have ‘guardrails’ that help prevent discrimination, including by removing names from job applications, which can signal the applicant’s gender, and ensuring standard questions in interviews.”

It is important to have ‘guardrails’ that help prevent discrimination

Dr Christopher Begeny

More research into gender bias in other industries, including higher education, have been conducted. The London School of Economics examined the inequality faced by women in academia, they receive less funding for proposals, less recognition of their teaching and experience bias which effects their salaries. Also published was a list showing the female authorship of all UK uni-

Image: Aaron Loose

versities from 2014-2017, no university had higher than 50 per cent. Exeter was placed towards the lower end of the list, just above Oxford in the rankings, with about 33 per cent. A spokesperson for the University of Exeter said: “The University of Exeter has a longstanding commitment to promoting equality, diversity and inclusivity, and we have made good progress to create an environment where women are supported, encouraged and inspired throughout their careers [...] the proportion of female Professors has increased from 13.9 per cent in 2009/10 to 29.4 per cent today. “Our gender equality initiatives have been recognised by the Athena SWAN accreditation for the institution and for all our Science, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine disciplines. The University regularly conducts an equal pay review to ensure that we are equating pay for work of equal value, which have shown no significant differences between the average pay of men and women in each of the grades B to H, and Professor Bands 1, 2 and 3. We have begun to identify further measures to aid our understanding and improve our position, through a Working Group led by our Provost and which is informed and supported by researchers and staff within the University who have expertise in this field.”

11 SEPT 2020 | EXEPOSÉ

NEWS

University spending £467 a month on “hospitality biscuits” Pete Syme Deputy Editor

FREEDOM of Information request has revealed that the University of Exeter spent £4,205 on “hospitality biscuits” for events in the period from July 2019 to March 2020. Sir Steve Smith, Vice Chancellor 2002-2020, had been the subject of many biscuit-related memes after a

2016 Exeposé investigation found that almost £6,000 had been spent on the confectionery across a 12-month period. Whilst it would appear that the expenditure has since been reduced significantly, the monthly average has only fallen from £482 to £467. A wider period of comparison was unavailable since the University does not currently hold any data prior to July of last year. Whilst the precise number is not

recorded, with a pack of McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives costing £1.60, this would suggest an output of roughly 300 packs a month, or 4,672 biscuits. Across a nine-month period, this totals over 42,000.

With Tesco selling a variety pack of 70 for £1, the total amount could be as much as 294,000.

Alternatively, with Tesco selling a variety pack of 70 for £1, the total amount of biscuits could be as much as 294,000. A spokesperson from the University of Exeter said: "The University hold and hosts thousands of meetings, events and functions - involving staff, students and visitors - across all of its campus every year. Occasionally, and where appropriate, some small offer of light refreshments may be provided."

Image: Aghilms, pixabay

“This remote working world is new for all of us” An interview with Linda Peka Georgia Shepherd & Bryony Gooch

Lifestyle Editor and Editor

HEAD of what is predicted to be an unpredictable year, Exeposé spoke to Deputy Registrar and Chief College Operations Officer Linda Peka on what to expect for the coming year.

É: How does the University plan on catering to the vast array of teaching methods that students experience, so all students get regular face-toface teaching time? There’s been a lot of thought put into design principles, and these principles have equality, diversity and inclusion considerations. Project Enhance is a blended delivery model, for what is a very uncertain year. We know where we are with COVID at the moment, so we can provide for high quality on campus delivery. But risk levels could go different ways, hence our enhanced and blended model so we can adapt. Our planned live face-to-face will be available online, so students around the world are able to access it. There will be recordings available, so there’s an opportunity to make sure that each individual department can adapt. Each course will offer a mix of live teaching both on campus and online, digital resources such as videos, podcasts and interactive content, personal teaching support plus engagement with fellow students from around the world. We call this a blended learning approach which will enhance our educational provision. É: Will the University be more lenient to students handing in work on the basis that everything is remote and not all students will have access to strong, working Wi-Fi? Where we have come across the odd issue so far, the education teams have been really flexible and supportive. I’m

not sure precisely how it works as that’s not my area, but we fully understand the difficulties that students are faced with, this remote working world is new for all of us.

We fully understand the difficulties that students are faced with.

Additionally, temporary changes were made to our mitigation policy during the 2019/20 academic year in order to help students to better manage the disruption from COVID-19. One change was to not ask students for evidence to support mitigation applications. It has been decided to continue this in Term One for 2020/21, with the provision that this is reviewed in December 2020 to ascertain whether the further extension of this approach is justified. This will depend on the progress of the pandemic and the impact on the student experience. Students will also be able to withdraw mitigation requests up to three days after examinations, that is, if they think they were actually able to perform to the best of their ability. É: How is the University investing in wellbeing services in preparation for a year that some might predict to be volatile and isolating? So last year the University and Students’ Guild did a full wellbeing review, using our NHS partners, that led to an investment of a further million pounds in wellbeing A number of posts have been agreed to, including posts with a specific remit to deliver talking therapies. We are also investing additional resources in helping distressed students in crisis. We are prioritising support for students out-of-hours and are currently recruiting for four new outof-hours welfare consultants and three new residence consultants. This

will enhance the halls experience and ensure professional support is available out-of-hours. In the autumn we are recruiting a further psychological therapies position, a mental health advisor and a further education support advisor. But these are challenging financial times, although the University has been under careful financial stewardship and all of the investment in wellbeing is secure.

One of my reflections on COVID-19 is “boy, oh boy, does it exploit inequalities.”

One of the first steps we took was to ensure that our wellbeing will work in a remote way, and it’s one of the examples of our good practice. All of that is solid. And we hope in the Autumn Term to be offering some face-to-face sessions. É: Furthermore, with this move online, how does Equality Diversity Inclusivity (EDI) aim to mitigate against cyber harassment and cyber crime online? A subject very dear to my heart, I have to say. We have been working on this agenda for a very long time, and one of the reflections I think about when I think about COVID now is “boy, oh boy, does it exploit inequalities.” It’s really the most pernicious sort of disease in that respect. So where there were inequalities anyway, COVID exacerbates them and hones in on them. So the EDI team has been working very closely on the new guidance on online learning, online harms, good practice online in terms of your social media presence etc… But it is a problem, I really think it’s a problem, and maybe, you know, maybe it’s my generation. But just the instant nature of this is quite staggering to me and

how we can plough in and you know make things so much worse. So in answer to your question we are working with the Guild and Students’ Union, we have got some further guidance, the EDI team are all over it. We have got a report and support tool which is also now rolling out to our colleagues on the Penryn site… We now have one single report tool where people can report in and tell us where they are experiencing harassment. And there are specific questions around online. I think it’s going into our second or third year of operating this tool, and it’s becoming really useful to hone in on where some of those problems are and put those interventions in place. É: Will more action be taken to provide consequence to those perpetrating these actions? Typically in the past where people have had these issues, perpetrators have not received any consequence. Will there be a way of providing victims with resolution? I think this has been quite difficult. For example some of this really bad behaviour online has come via anonymous online platforms, of which some have been hosted overseas. They have been certainly beyond the University’s reach and even the police’s reach. And I think that has

added to that sense that we have not always been able to get to the perpetrators, and we have not always been able to make that count in terms of consequences.

We are learning all the time about how we can look after people and make sure there are consequences

However, I am really heartened by our approach here. We saw some very bad behaviour online recently from some of our students relating to racism. That came through our complaints process and that’s been dealt with through our students’ cases process thoroughly, quickly and effectively. So we are learning all the time, in this environment about how we can look after people and most importantly make sure there are consequences. You are right. We haven’t always been able to get at it, but you have got the assurance that when we can we are.

Image: University of Exeter

11 SEPT 2020| EXEPOSÉ

Comment

COMMENT EDITORS:

Isaac Bettridge Cassia Grace

Fresher’s initiations - a legacy

Katie Fox Contributor

RESHER’S week is a whirlwind for any new student. Whether you’re excited to start your course, meet new people or to experience the notorious university nightlife, there can be a lot of pressure for new arrivals to figure out who they’re going to be at uni from the getgo. The first part of term is spent getting to know the people you live with, the people on your course, as well making friends in any societies and clubs you join. Maybe you played hockey at school and are looking to carry it on, or you want to try something completely new like DJ-ing or slacklining. Exeter University has over 300 Guild-affiliated societies and the AU boasts around 50

sports clubs, so the options can seem overwhelming. The reputation of the socials can be a deciding factor in which societies or clubs you choose to join. Socials are a great way of getting to know different people at University but can seem quite daunting to start with. In the past, sports clubs held initiations, which were normally the first major socials of the academic year, where there might be drinking or non-drinking challenges, designed to let you get to know people in the club. In the past, for some sports clubs, initiations seemed to be a time-honoured tradition, where new students were heavily encouraged to participate in humiliating challenges. Sports clubs are student run groups, which means that students who only took part in introductory socials a year ago find themselves taking full control over, and responsibility for, anything that happens in the course of the event. Any discussion of university initiations conjures to mind scenes from the movies of unrestrained hedonism and rampant alcohol consumption, but the intensity of

the ‘welcome’ could largely depend on the club. From wearing a nappy around town to drinking urine spiked pints, the very idea can be intimidating. Some clubs may decide to welcome its new members with a friendly pub quiz whereas another may decide the best way to get new members used to university life is to have them tackle silly challenges around town accompanied through pitstops of alcohol consumption.

There’s lots of pressure for new arrivals to figure out who they want to be

The form the night takes is entirely down to the members of the club, particularly the social secretary in charge of organising events. This means that the discussion around how appropriate and how safe these events are must occur within the student body, as it is us and us alone who are responsible for it, with the AU and University not allowing initiations of any kind. A spokesperson for the University of Exeter said: “The University operates strict codes of conduct that clearly prohibit initiation type activities and/ or peer pressure to drink excessively

at events, and neither condone nor tolerate this type of behaviour. All clubs and societies have signed a code of conduct in which they have agreed to behave responsibly in this regard; if the heads of clubs/societies are found to be in breach of the code, disciplinary proceedings will be instituted.” Initiations are not inclusive to those who don’t or can’t drink, and are very obviously dangerous for those who do. In 2006, a student died of alcohol poisoning at the University of Exeter after an initiation for the golf club. Students might feel left out or alienated if they make a sensible choice to avoid this type of event, and those that do attend due to a desire to fit in are risking their health and dignity. So it is a loselose for everyone. With this being said, it is once again important to note any such “initiations” or “challenges” are strictly prohibited. Fortunately, the University and AU have banned initiation within all societies and clubs, therefore it does not necessarily mean you yourself will experience them. Speaking out against them if they do occur is part of social responsibility and can help ensure with cooperation from students and committees that they do not occur underground. Image: jarmoluk, Pixabay

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COVID-19 and nightlife

Aakruthi Karri Contributor

S lockdown is slowly coming to an end and the restrictions are slowly being removed, many students are wondering about the future of nightclubs, long an integral part of university life. A prospective student’s involvement with Exeter nightlife can begin even before they arrive. A quick Google search of the nightlife in Exeter will bring up the range of nightclubs that this city has to offer. For many, clubs and nightlife are a treasured part of the student experience, which they hope will return ASAP, but the government has not indicated what the future of such venues will be. A possibility would be to open clubs and enforce

the wearing of masks, but considering the setting it might not be practical and would be highly unpopular. In terms of social distancing, it is simple to determine that efforts to maintain the government’s advised measures when intoxicated is near impossible, which was hardly something that needed to be ‘confirmed’ anyway. However, the greater issue is that social distancing defeats the entire purpose of a nightclub. It seems likely that such venues will not be able to open again until either the UK becomes COVID-free or a vaccine is developed, both of which seem far off. Nightclubs in Exeter should not be re-opened until it can be fully ensured that students will be able to attend these venues safely and there is a minimal risk of contracting COVID-19 within one of these settings. In my opinion, this is the

smartest action to take, as even though the students themselves may not be particularly at risk, it lessens the likelihood, that when an asymptomatic student goes home for the weekend, reading week or end of term, they might spread the virus to their elderly parent or grandparents. Which in turn could affect the R-rates of other regions.

Social distancing defeats the entire purpose of a nightclub On the other hand, with societies no longer able to hold their clubbing-based socials or by actively discouraging students from taking part in such activities there could be an increase in the number of house parties. Such an increase could cause

tensions with residents and local communities. Although these might be much smaller gatherings, they might be quite dangerous: their fun might be a cost of the peace, mental health and happiness of others, which is quite unpleasant. It could leave a detrimental impact on the lives of others and create a negative impression of students among the local community. Overall, it is evident the future of nightlife at university is uncertain, with there not appearing to be an easy solution in these unprecedented times. It is possible there will have to be stricter oversight of student groups to ensure that socials based around drinking adhere to the government’s guidance on social distancing. This will hopefully guarantee students are aware of how socials should be taking place with the active practicing of COVID-19 safety measures.

The Guild president’s welcome

Image: Students Guild

Sunday Blake Guild President

IRSTLY, I’d like to welcome all our new and returning students to Exeter. It’s an absolute pleasure to have our community together for the start of the year! Freshers this year is very different to what we are used to however, we are confident that we’re going to have a great start to the year together. I hope you enjoy getting involved with the wide range of activities and opportunities that are planned for you over Freshers and over the next few months. There’s so much more to get stuck into and to discover! Don’t forget to head over to exeterguild. com/freshers to find out more about what’s on, about us and more. As your Guild President for 2020/21, I’m committed to representing the width of our student population. Back in February I had a vision of Exeter as a more inclusive place where everyone can achieve their potential, and I am so grateful that thousands of students saw that vision and voted it through. I’m committed to achieving this in my time as your Guild President, and I look forward to working with each and every one of you. As we move into the start of the year, we’re all going to be making adjustments to what we’re used to and possibly what we expected, but I’m confident we’re going to have a fantastic year together! Make sure you’re looking after your mental health and wellbeing as much as possible, particularly as we focus even more online. Don’t forget, we have an independent advice service which is available if you face any issues during your time at university, and the University’s Wellbeing Services offer a range of mental health support. Let’s do this year together! Student’s Guild President

11 SEPT 2020 | EXEPOSÉ

COMMENT

Landlords: a rule of terror? Cassia Grace Comment Editor

HEN the time comes to pack our boxes, wave goodbye to Mum and Dad, and head off to start the thrilling life of a university student, most of us will find ourselves excited by the prospect that we no longer have to “bow down to the man” (and by the man I mean Mum). Independence! Freedom! An end to that tyranny you suffered as a child! What many don’t realise is that an overbearing mother pales in comparison to the danger of an unhelpful landlord. As students we crave independence and this leads us to make some very unfortunate decisions. Like a group of exceptionally naïve moths, we become caught in the flame that is the October race for housing and all caution goes out the window. Forced to search for accommodation with people who you barely know; finding a nice, well maintained, reasonably priced house becomes a rather daunting task. Many people will take houses based on the understanding that any

issues can be fixed by the landlord. Alas, this is often not the case. I spoke to one person who described how stressful dealing with a difficult landlord can be and the impact that this had on their mental health. They spoke of the poor condition of the house when they moved in, with leaks and rotting wood and appliances such as the fridge and boiler quickly broke. In such situations, we all find ourselves dependent on our landlords to fix things. It’s kind of in their job description.

Landlords have been ripping people off since the beginning of time Sadly, many landlords do not give a rat’s ass about the people they are renting to. Instead, “show me the money” is their mantra. In this case, the group in question eventually had their communications limited, minimising their ability to get issues fixed and forcing them to live in very poor conditions. Clearly not the home they envisioned when they signed the contract. The impact of the pandemic has

caused further strife between landlords and renters. Students such as the one I spoke to found that “there was no break clause… and it was difficult to negotiate properly any financial compromise.” This was the case for thousands of students across the country.

We all find ourselves dependent on our landlords In the middle of a pandemic, being back home with Mum suddenly becomes a lot more appealing than it was when you defiantly packed your boxes six months ago; I think we can all agree that the last few months could certainly fall into the category of ‘exceptional circumstance.’ Yet many landlords used it as yet another cash grab, with many students finding themselves unable to end their contracts and instead forced to pay for

a house they were not living in. Will the scourge of bad landlords go away any time soon? Let’s face it, no. Landlords have been ripping people off since the beginning of time. However, the University’s new Guild President, Sunday Blake, has promised to meet the issue head on. In her campaign she called for “a collaborative effort with the Law Clinic,” that would help all students to understand their legal rights as tenants and would help tackle any

unfair contracts or problematic landlords as part of their pro bono work. Although this coming year is shaping up to be, what’s the word? Um, unique. I have no doubt that the housing process will remain just as stressful as ever and that such new services will be very much in demand. I’d like to end with a positive message to all the freshers: housing really isn’t anything to worry about. Unfortunately, I’d be lying.

Image: Picserver.org

University: a new normal? Bethany Collins Features Editor

HE University previously announced in May that lectures in September will be “delivered online or developed into guided online resources supported by face-to-face teaching.” With ongoing uncertainty, the blended learning approach announced by the University remains subject to government advice and possible further outbreaks of the virus. Given the unprecedented nature of the situation we

Image: Wikimedia Commons

find ourselves in, the only certainty we can take from the University’s regular updates is that the 2020-21 academic year will look like no other.

How feasible is it to ask students to wear face coverings?

Blended learning remains controversial, with students raising concerns over academic performance and paying for an experience they won’t be receiving. Whilst this may be mitigated in September, with access to

the University facilities and students living on or near campus, there is still a debate surrounding the cost of these online provisions and whether they will work. A recent petition, that gained over 330,000 signatures, called for a refund of tuition fees. This highlighted the concerns of students over the variable quality of online teaching across universities, no access to campus facilities and the lack of university-wide guidance of what adequate teaching looks like. Questions remain surrounding the level of cost for tuition, how teaching will look at each university and if online learning is of a high enough quality so as not to affect academic performance. As well as a student’s academic life looking vastly different to that of last year, keeping campuses safe is a top priority and as such, university buildings and general university life is going to differ greatly from the pre-lockdown environment we are all used to. Signage, one-way systems, reduced building capacity and face coverings are all po-

tential adjustments that we may see on top of the blended learning approach. Government guidelines are being updated constantly, but the current advice with regards to face coverings is that they should be worn indoors to reduce the risk of transmission. As such, the University has recommended for staff and students to wear face coverings in line with official guidance.

Keeping campuses safe is a top priority

But is this enough? Students are renowned for spreading what has affectionately been coined “Freshers’ Flu”, attributed to increased social interactions and potentially weakened immune systems due to lack of sleep and high alcohol consumption. Whilst plans are in place for virtual Freshers’ events, it will be hard to keep students from mixing with others when they have come to Exeter for a social life as well as academics. Will students have to say goodbye to the social life side of the university experience for the upcoming term? One approach, termed a “protective bub-

ble”, attempts to mitigate this by suggesting students should be placed in halls with people on their course and creating tutorial or seminar groups out of these bubbles to reduce the risk of too many different people mixing. But how feasible is it to ask students to wear face coverings and keep apart from other students? The social aspect of university is what many students look forward to the most and it seems unrealistic to be able to keep students in so-called protective bubbles like in primary schools. Students mingle, meet new people, party and have sex. Whilst it would be easier to maintain social distancing and a bubbled approach in a campus environment, I would suggest it is nearly impossible to keep people in their accommodation and away from other students. Perhaps a fully online approach would be the way forward to prevent people from mixing in too great a number. Or perhaps restrictions will have eased further by this point and our worries will be in the past. All I do know for sure is that I cannot wait for a pint of Devon Red and a bowl of curly fries from The Ram.

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FEATURES EDITORS: Bethany Collins Joe Newell

Editors’ picks

Features Editors discuss two news stories from 2019 that warrant greater attention

N 6 October last year, US troops withdrew from north-eastern Syria. Triumphant as the playground conkers champion, President Trump confirmed that the move signalled victory over the Islamic State terrorist organisation. But to Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the withdrawal was the green light for a military incursion into Rojava, the Kurdish enclave in neighbouring Syria. Citing security concerns, Turkish military forces conducted ground operations and aerial strikes on border towns aimed at expelling the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Force (SDF), thereby securing a “safe zone” on Turkish borders. For such a seemingly benign agenda, the operation was code-named ‘Peace Spring’. In fact, witness testimonies, video footage and medical reports gathered by Amnesty International indicate that Turkish militia were guilty of “war crimes and ethnic cleansings” against the local Kurdish population. A ceasefire deal reached

N the fourth anniversary of the Pulse nightclub shootings, the Trump administration amended the Affordable Care Act (ACA) provision for equal protection irrespective of gender identity. Alteration to Section 1557 eradicates protection from discrimination for transgender individuals accessing healthcare. Under Obama’s administration, the ACA legislated that healthcare providers must treat

IMAGES: (top to bottom) pxfuel, Flickr

“No friends but the mountains”

on 22 October codified Turkey’s control over its newly annexed territory, but violence persisted with intermittent shelling and drone attacks against Kurd communities in Iraq and Syria. However brutal, the annexation deserves recognition 11 months on precisely because it is unremarkable, in what commentators call a history of “hypocrisy and betrayal.” For their role in fighting Ottoman forces in the First World War, Kurds were promised a homeland in the Middle East. Of course, a territorial compromise did not prove to be popular with fledgling nations in the region, most notably Turkey. The Allies conceded, and Kurdistan did not materialise. From then, and throughout the 20th century, a salvo of repressive measures was let loose in the Republic of Turkey. Kurdish cultural idiosyncrasies like traditional

dress and folklore were banned, whilst the replacement of ‘Kurd’ and its inflections ‘Kurdish’ and ‘Kurdistan’ with ‘Mountain Turks’ eschewed any notion of a distinct identity.

transgender patients, irrespective of their beliefs. The updated legislation returns to the previous government “interpretation of sex discrimination according to the plain meaning of the word ‘sex’ as male or female and as determined by biology.” A victory for Trump’s socially conservative supporters, it allows for healthcare providers in receipt of federal funding to withhold or withdraw medical care from transgender patients. 61 per cent of white, evangelical Christians claim society has ‘gone too far’ in accepting people’s g e n d e r identities and 81 per cent of that same group voted for Trump in 2016. The relationship between r e l i g i o u s organisations

and the transgender community has long been one of hostility and intolerance, with six in ten Christians believing gender is determined at birth. Religious freedom has been cited as a cause of the amendment and provides a get-out-clause for those who disagree on the grounds of their personal beliefs. The reversal has also been defended based on protecting personal, ethical judgement. Dr Jeff Barrows of the Christian Medical Association stated “health professionals know they must base medical decisions on biology and science, not ideology.” He added he wanted to return to “science and away from politics and ideology, back to the protection of professional medical judgement and the freedom to adhere to long-observed ethical and moral standards.” Ironically, it is arguable that a removal of gender identity from Section 1557 does in fact steer healthcare in the direction of the politics and ideology that Barrows hopes to avoid.

Shortly after their language was officially outlawed in Turkey, Kurds in the Persian Gulf served as useful

proxies during the Iran-Iraq war. Arms flowed like electricity from Tehran and Baghdad to Kurdish communities either side of the border, jump-starting a revolt for self-governance against Saddam Hussein. For their dissidence, IraqiKurds were subjected to a campaign of systemic brutality, which included the use of retrograde chemical weapons like mustard gas, in what has been posthumously named the 1988 Anfal Genocide. In Iran, the strategic benefactor of the uprising, long-standing tensions with the Kurdish population were not placated. Kurds in modern-day Iran contend with a government that censors their journalism and wields a state “security force” against their protest. It is against this backdrop that Trump withdrew from Syria last year. The SDF, comprised mostly of the Kurdish YPG (People’s

Protection Unit), was integral in the international effort against ISIS, for instance in the operation to recapture Raqqa, its de facto capital, in 2017. Applauded internationally as brothers-in-arms, Kurds in Rojava were swiftly, and perhaps knowingly, abandoned. Indeed, the New York Times published an internal memo soon after in which a senior US diplomat alleged that not enough was done to prevent Turkey’s invasion. The solution, if such a term can sincerely be applied, may be to blow on the spark of Kurdish selfdetermination and help to negotiate their statehood. How this might be achieved diplomatically is uncertain. Nonetheless, to look back at the events of October 2019 is to glimpse the last century of Kurdish history, a century marked by opportunism and oppression; it is crucial that this history is acknowledged. To outsiders, the Kurdish maxim “no friends but the mountains” should leave little to the imagination.

Critics of the amendment are fearful that people who are reluctant to access healthcare because of their gender identity will avoid potentially life-saving treatment. In the context of coronavirus as an example, organisations opposing the ruling worry that health professionals will refuse testing and treatment of transgender people. Those suffering from the virus, who are part of an already vulnerable community, may be put at further and unnecessary risk.

refusal of care. Section 1557 will only lead to this increasing. There are also concerns of other health disparities among transgender individuals, such as higher rates of mental health issues, HIV/AIDS and tobacco or other drug usage. There is also a higher risk of cancer in some patients because they have either felt unable to access healthcare or faced barriers in doing so. However, there is hope for the transgender community in America. The HRC are seeking to bring a lawsuit against the administration to reverse the rollback and reinstate the previous ACA guidelines. If the case makes it as far as the Supreme Court, the HRC will rely on the 14th Amendment of the Constitution to revoke the decision. The justices then face a conflict between their conservative majority and the amendment’s right to equal protection under the law. Should it get that far, constitutional precedent could be set and history made. Bethany Collins, Features Editor

Unequal protection under the law

26.7 per cent of transgender respondents faced refusal of care Prior to the amendment, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) reported that 70 per cent of transgender and gender-nonconforming people had experienced healthcare discrimination at some point in their lives. A further 26.7 per cent of transgender respondents faced

Joe Newell, Features Editor

11 SEPT 2020 | EXEPOSÉ

FEATURES

Closing the gap

Alina McGregor explores whether affirmative action is the answer to the postgraduate pay gap

HERE are two well-known gaps among graduate pay that have been recorded for a number of years. Most commonly discussed is the gender pay gap, and, according to European Commission estimates, women make up 48 per cent of graduates but hold only 24 per cent of senior academic roles, falling to 15 per cent in STEM subjects. Furthermore, the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) has found a similar gap exists for BAME graduates, with only half of Black university graduates employed full-time compared to 60 per cent of white graduates. It also found that three per cent of white graduates, six per cent of Black graduates and seven per cent of Asian graduates were unemployed 15 months after finishing their undergraduate degree. According to further statistics from HESA, men begin to earn on average ten per cent more than women only 15 months after leaving university. This remained the same even among those with comparable qualifications. So what are these gaps we are talking about? The pay gap is often

misunderstood. According to the UK Government, it is an equality measure that shows the difference in average earnings between men and women (and the same term is used to compare BAME and white students). It does not show differences in pay for comparable jobs. Therefore, this term does not assume that people are getting paid differently for doing the same job as this has been illegal for 45 years.

Women make up to 48 per cent of graduates yet hold 24 per cent of senior academic roles So why is this the case? In terms of the gender pay gap, the UK government suggests the following reasons: many women choose out of their own volition to occupy lower paying jobs, while men disproportionately occupy jobs in higher paying sectors; women are also more likely to work part-time meaning they earn less. This can be for multiple reasons, such as motherhood. An attested trend shows that women also progress the career ladder slower

than men. This can be attributed to factors including prejudice, unconscious bias, motherhood and being expected to be their children's primary care giver. Nevertheless, the UK gender pay gap is at its lowest level ever at just over 18 per cent. Our government has (among many other policies) extended the right to request flexible working to all employees and has introduced shared parental leave. In terms of the BAME pay gap, a similar pattern emerges. Likewise, reasons for the BAME pay gap include prejudice, lack of role models, being more likely to work part time and unconscious bias. A government report titled ‘Identifying and Removing Barriers to Talented BAME Staff Progression in the Civil Service’ suggests building a "critical mass" of talented BAME role models at senior levels; diversity objectives in the job descriptions of staff with line management responsibilities; and to challenge and

a d d r e s s unconscious bias and discrimination to change culture. But professors in the UK, for example, are still disproportionately white (91.2 per cent) compared to the number of graduates, so there is still more to be done. Noticeably, none of these actions are affirmative action, which is defined as the practice or policy of favouring individuals belonging to groups known to have been discriminated against previously, otherwise known as positive discrimination. This is because it is illegal in the UK according to the 2010 Equality

Act and is labelled as discrimination. However, in the Netherlands, the Eindhoven University of Technology have announced that they will only hire women across all academic positions until it reaches its target of 30 per cent women professors in all departments in five years. Recruitment can only hire a man after six months of the vacancy advertised with no suitable women available. In the past year, their female staff percentage has gone from 15 per cent to 25 per cent. This is an extremely drastic measure and would be illegal in the UK. In fact, the University has been taken to the Netherlands Institute for Human Rights over discrimination. So, come July when the ruling will be made, this strategy will become future precedent. While we are used to outreach campaigns, targeted recruitment, employee and management development and employee support programs for BAME groups and women, the question remains; is this enough considering the statistics? And how far is too far? Image: Kat Yukawa

Anti-racism and the Russell Group E Deputy Editor Pete Syme investigates systemic racism in Russell Group universities

XETER is a notoriously white university, with efforts for increased diversity consistently eclipsed by annual incidents of racism and bigotry, with eight recorded over the last four years. Ranked 111th out of the UK’s 115 universities for social inclusion by The Times, there is evidently privilege aplenty on our campuses. With the Unlearn Collective’s open letter and the wider BLM movement, we are witnessing a prevalent call for universities to be distinctly anti-racist; to take an active stand in improving the experiences of their BAME students by ensuring zero tolerance for racism. The 24 Russell Group universities are often proclaimed to be the country’s elite: responsible for 68 per cent of the country’s research deemed to have an ‘outstanding impact’, its graduates are more likely to take up top positions in business and government. In his 1969 work The State in Capitalist Society, Ralph Miliband (father of Labour’s feuding brothers) offers a vital analysis of the importance of higher education to the establishment. Of course, society has changed somewhat over the last

half-century, but Miliband predicted the significance of institutional discrepancies, as represented today by the Russell Group: “Some institutions enjoy a much higher prestige than others and are much more likely to provide recruits for the command posts of society.” If Russell Group universities are overwhelmingly white and middleclass, then so will the country’s institutions. And, equally, if higher education is anti-racist, we can expect these values to become embedded in the establishment. It is unlikely that the upper and middle classes will lose their dominion over the establishment’s executive positions any time soon, but their university experiences will affect their views and thus the nature of the whole country. Some advances are being made, with The Guardian reporting that in last year’s cohort, one-fifth of Oxford undergraduates were from BAME backgrounds – a rise of almost five per cent in five years. However, 12 of its colleges had accepted just five or fewer Black students between 2017 and 2019. At Cambridge, we have seen

the launch of the Stormzy scholarship to cover the cost of tuition fees and a maintenance grant for two Black students, with the eponymous rapper revealing that Oxford had turned down the chance to host the scholarship. A spokesperson for the University explained it was unclear what the proposal was at the time and would welcome the opportunity in the future.

Image: Benjamin Evans

It is not just by accepting more BAME, and specifically more Black students, that universities can advance racial equality. A 2019 report on British higher education by the Equality and Human Rights Commission found

that 24 per cent of BAME students had experienced racial harassment at university, and not just from other students but also from staff. In its current state, the EHRC said there is a “strong perception that universities too often place their reputation above the safeguarding and welfare of their students and staff.” The report concludes that “there needs to be leadership to help embed a culture where racial harassment is not tolerated” pointing to the need for confident discussions about racial inequalities, and zero tolerance for any incidents. To enact this call for a constructive discourse about racism, universities must acknowledge how they have benefitted from imperialism, and begin decolonising their institutions. Most prominently, we have seen calls for Oriel College, Oxford to take down the statue of Cecil Rhodes; a white supremacist who amassed his wealth in South Africa’s diamond trade whilst disenfranchising the native population. However, it is not just Oxbridge which has benefitted from colonialism. On our Streatham Campus, Reed Hall

was built by an East India Company merchant; Northcote House is named for an early champion of the University who was Secretary of State for India; and Lopes Hall is named for a man whose family wealth comes from sugar plantations in 18th century Jamaica.

Their money and power is stained with the blood of colonialism

If we are not open about this, we are whitewashing history by celebrating these men as “generous benefactors” instead of acknowledging that their money and power is stained with the blood of colonialism. We must accurately depict this history to create an anti-racist culture, where imperialism is not celebrated, but condemned. Exeter may have the country’s only statue of a living Black woman in former chancellor Floella Benjamin, but when it is overlooked by a monument to an imperial minister, a man who built up a personal collection of stolen Ethiopian artefacts, can the University sincerely claim to be anti-racist?

Beyond Exeter

BEYOND EXETER 11

International Freshers: Advice on starting at Exeter

Bryony Gooch Editor

XEPOSÉ spoke to some recent graduates and postgraduates about their experiences as International students in Exeter, with advice for any freshers in the same position. From homesickness and impostor syndrome to making new friends and being proud of your culture, these accounts are extremely insightful for international and domestic students alike.

I definitely felt pressure to integrate as an international student Anna, Czechia, Philosophy and History: I definitely felt homesickness and a sense of alienation when I came to Exeter. It’s partly because I already felt quite alienated from my culture having grown up in international environments, so I never had a clear cut Czech upbringing. But I still strongly identify as Czech though. One thing that actually really helped was befriending other Slavic people at university because there are a lot of commonalities in our cultures. So sometimes we got together and cook Slavic foods. I also felt incredibly l u c k y because there was a Czech café on Sidwell Street. So whenever I felt homesick I’d go down there for a cake and if that didn’t help, I’d read a lot in Czech or listen to a lot of old Czech music from the sixties. I definitely felt pressure to integrate as an international student. Especially as someone coming from a Slavic culture because our approach to daily life and communication is quite different to the UK. You definitely feel a pressure to stand out because you are foreign. In some cases you do need visa

sponsorship – luckily I don’t, but there is that pressure to outshine locals. Don’t dumb down your cultural identity. It’s a very important part of who you are. And if there are people who expect you to dumb it down and integrate full - as an immigrant you will never fully integrate. It’s not as if people won’t welcome you, it’s more that you will always feel that impostor syndrome which sucks, but a big part of combatting that is being proud of your immigrant status – don’t be ashamed of it. Also, keep in touch with your culture. I wasn’t in my first year here and it really affected my mental health. It doesn’t seem it, but things like that are very important. Find other international students too – I know there is a big issue in Exeter where a lot of international students don’t really “mix in” with the UK community. Unfortunately a lot of that is due to alienation the UK students and community have caused themselves. But having a few international friends, people who might speak your language, helps to have a piece of home in my experience. Neha, Malaysia, English: There was definitely a bit of homesickness because it was the first time I was properly away from home. What I did was throw myself into Freshers week, I went out nearly every day and also focused on doing a lot of reading a n d meeting people for my course. I had it a bit weird I’d say, as a third culture kid. I’m Indian but had never grown up around Indian friends etc., and the majority of my childhood friends were European. I spent most of my first term with Erasmus students and it was a lot like being home. But I do think there was a pressure to integrate either as a home student doing “British things” or an international student hanging out with people from your own country. I took it

EXEPOSÉ | 1 1 SEPT 2020

EDITOR:

Sumiah Elbortoukaly

on coming “from nowhere” Jacob Evans Contributor

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at my own pace really. Definitely stand up for yourself. Depending on where you’re from, there’s definitely varying axes of discrimination or marginalization to be faced here: and it’s not part of the experience you “sign up for” coming to the UK. Anne, Spain, English and Drama: When I first came to Exeter, I didn’t really feel very homesick. I’ve never been a person that feels very homesick. I did feel an alienation from everything else but I think that because I was trying to figure out this new place and find all the cool cafés and find things that were exciting - everything still felt quite exciting. I think my biggest barrier was definitely the language. It’s really shocking because it was a bit of a surprise to know how back home my English was pretty much perfect but here, it seems that nothing you can do will ever grant you the respect of those who speak the language at a native level. I was made to feel bad and a bit shamed for my belief in the possibility of Catalan independence because I think from the point of view of someone who lives in the UK it’s very easy to make remarks about things you don’t know too much about. But I coped with that by making friends. And now I can happily say everyone I’m friends with respects me in all senses of the word. I think my advice would be remember that it is not your responsibility to educate others on why your country matters, or why you matter as an international, or why your culture is interesting. It is not your duty to show others why you are worthy of being here. You will find people who

recognise that without you having to do the work for them, and I wish I’d had that in my heart through all my years as an undergraduate. Sira, Lebanon, Maths: In second year, I started getting involved with Middle Eastern society which was the best thing I did. It was so amazing to have such a vibrant community of people who shared a similar culture to you and there are just wonderful people. It was like a small family – it was great.

I’d never seen The Inbetweeners, or Gavin and Stacey Obviously English wasn’t the language I spoke growing up so a lot of the shows, the music - most things really – weren’t things I’d heard of. I’d never seen The Inbetweeners, or Gavin and Stacey, I’d never watched Star Trek. So everyone was very much like “oh my God let’s get Sira to see all these things.” Everyone would make references – like the “ooh, friend!” from The Inbetweeners, but I would have no idea what it meant so I started running along with the joke without really knowing what it meant. My advice would be to find your people. Find the people you click with. It doesn’t have to be the people from the same nationality and culture, just surrounding yourself with people you actually like to hang out with and if they are not from the same culture, introduce them to your culture. My housemate now knows Arabic phrases and it’s nice! I make Lebanese cakes from time to time and she loves them. Find your people.

HERE was a call for International students to detail the struggles of settling in at university in a completely different country, and, naturally, as someone from Wales I deemed myself to meet the criteria. I obviously don’t, but going from the middle of nowhere to Exeter is rather different. No-one lives within a mile of me, so turning up at this leading global university was quite the change – especially if you had the misfortune of attending a basic state school in a field. There are things you never really thought about; road noise at night, street lamps and Deliveroo. Conversely, I find the absence of these simple things has made the whole experience even better. Walking 15 minutes to a friend’s house is a chore to some, but to me it was as if we lived in the same building.

It’s essential for your personal development and cultural intelligence I find myself making an active effort to make up for the lack of diversity I had growing up. Participating in the Global Leadership Course in Barcelona, Grand Challenges and a year abroad all stemmed from a desire to immerse myself in new experiences. A year abroad was the best decision I’ve made, but simple things like saying yes to invites and joining societies all provide platforms to immerse oneself. Your flatmates, coursemates and teammates will all be different to the homogeny of your home. Embrace the fact that you come from nowhere. The meagre and limited experiences we have had could lead to becoming overwhelmed, reclusive or shy, but instead it is exciting, educational and enthralling. Seek out opportunities to meet as many people from as many backgrounds as possible. Before you know it, you’ll have friends from every continent and stories to tell your friends back home they could only imagine. University can be seriously scary, but it allows you to meet people like yourself, and others who are the polar opposite. This is all essential for your personal development and cultural intelligence your eyes are opened to a wider world; a better world.

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LIFESTYLE EDITORS Georgia Shepherd Ceri Jackson

ARTS + LIT EDITORS Amelia Gregory William Evans

MUSIC EDITORS Bridie Adams Ollie Leader de Saxe

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Memoirs of

BANANA PANCAKES

Freshen Up Your

ANCY something slightly more exciting than a bowl of cereal that doesn’t take an age to prepare? Then this is the one for you. Banana pancakes are super easy and simply delicious. This two-ingredient recipe never fails; it is the perfect introduction to student cooking. NIVERSITY bedrooms are notoriously All you need is a banana (ideally near cold and soulless. Spending time at the end of it’s prime) and an egg. the beginning of the year to put your Mix them together with a fork, or potato own stamp on your new room will certainly masher if you have one. If you think the mixgo a long way to settle any feelings of hometure is still a bit runny, then feel free to add sickness. Here are five simple and affordable a tablespoon of plain flour to thicken it up. ways to make your room feel more like a home. Grab a frying pan and drizzle in oil (or a few Firstly, and perhaps most obviously, put sprays of frylight), and scoop the mixup photographs. Being surrounded ture onto the pan in around by pictures of your loved ones, four pancake shapes. memories of holidays Fry the pancakes on and music festivals, or a low-medium heat, just some pictures of and be sure to keep messy Freshers’ nights flipping them until will give your room they turn golden brown. that personal twist. Serve with a drizFreePrints is a great app Image: Nikldn, Unsplash zle of honey, or as they are. which prints images from your Georgia Shepherd, Lifestyle Editor phone quickly and affordably. Hang up fairy lights- would it be a uni room without them? In fact, investing a little into lighting like a bedside PRACTICALLY lived off this recipe in my first lamp will help create a relaxing ambiyear as it is really easy to make. You’ll need ence, perfect for when you’re hungover a one jar of tikka masala sauce, one can of or needing a break from coursework. drained chickpeas, a handful of spinach, one Get lots of cushions and throws. Soft furred onion, two peppers (red, yellow or orange) nishings will further help to create a cosy and plain or basmati rice. and homey environment; Dunelm and TK Start off by chopping onions and peppers, and Maxx stock great quality pieces at low prices. drain your chickpeas. Then, in a saucepan, add Plants are a fantastic way to bring some coloil, peppers and onions and sauté until the our and, literally, life to your room. Supermarpeppers and onions soften. Following this, add kets usually have a great selection and the chickpeas to the pan and brown slightly. Wilko is always an affordable option. Add the sauce and let it bubble slightly for Finally, storage boxes are an efaround 10 -15 minutes. If it looks like it's drying fective way to store your belongout, cover to keep the moisture in. Whilst this ings and keep your bedroom is happening, wash your rice and boil it for the clutter-free. IKEA have a great stated time on the packet (usually 15-20 minselection of boxes and baskets utes). Rice can sometimes be difficult to get in a range of dethe hang of, especially portion-wise, so this is signs, colours kind of trial and error. If you are having sides, and materials get these prepared whilst the curry and rice is to help keep cooking. Drain your rice, and serve with the your room organcurry. I usually freeze the rest of the portions, ised, yet aesthetiwhich is super handy when you have late days cally pleasing. at uni or simply cannot be bothered to cook. Ceri Jackson, Lifestyle Editor Alice Tait

Room

CHICKPEA CURRY

NTERING as a fresher into my first English seminar, I did not know what to expect and was at first intimidated by my peers who seemed articulate and well-read when I had barely managed to roll out of bed, pant up Forum Hill, feverishly sip a coffee and find the correct room in Amory’s labyrinth of corridors. However, my feelings of impostor syndrome could not have been further from the truth – I quickly realised that everyone else was thinking the same thing. This was especially true during a seminar where I looked down my row and there was line of laptops, all searching for the assigned reading… it happens to the best of us.

Anna Taylor Image: Anna Taylor

REMEMBER I was super anxious about meeting my flatmates; it was the first time in around seven years where I would properly be meeting an entirely new group of people. It just so happened that everyone in my flat was moving in the day before me which did not do much to help my anxiety – I was filled with worries: “what if they have already made friends and I’ll just forever be the girl that turned up late?“ Which, in hindsight, was a pretty silly outlook. As a flat we made a group chat as soon as we found out where we were living, and I remember the day I moved in, I received messages saying they were excited to meet me. When I eventually arrived, they all came out of their rooms to say “hey!“ There was no need to feel anxious and turning up late made no difference to my relationships with my flatmates. That evening we all went out (I must say drinking with a group of complete strangers is a tad odd), and the rest is history, as they say. I find it funny to think back on how anxious I was, especially now I am going into my third year of living with people.

Ceri Jackson, Lifestyle Editor Image: Ceri Jackson

DEVON RAPE CRISIS Helpline: 01392 204 174 Email: support@devonrapecrisis.org.uk REED MEWS WELLBEING CENTRE Phone: 01392 724381 Email: wellbeing@exeter.ac.uk Website: http://www.exeter.ac.uk/wellbeing/contact/

Image: Charles Deluvio

EXETER SEXUAL HEALTH CLINIC Phone: 01392 276892 Unit 4 Sidwell Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 6NN EXETER NIGHTLINE SERVICE Email: listening@exeter.nightline.ac.uk

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EDITORS: Ceri Jackson and Georgia Shepherd

11 SEPT 2020 |

f a FRESHER Exeposé Lifestyle writers give you their best fresher tips

WAS pretty lucky with my first year flat, we jumped in at the deep end and it was like we had known each other forever. We decided that to mark the end of Freshers’, we would do a group cooking session to round off what had been a pretty crazy week. Following seven days of going out and drinking, staying in for the night to cook and watch movies sounded delightful. What came first was the big debate. Trying to find one recipe, with reasonable cost, that suited eight different sets of taste buds, was a challenge to put it lightly. Luckily, we stumbled upon a student cookbook, which soon became our holy grail for the next year, pricing all recipes at £1 per person. And after a week of spending on club entries and club drinks, a cheap but hearty meal was something we all needed. The decision was made; we would cook the butternut squash and parmesan risotto. Overall, the process of group cooking, the sharing of prep and cleaning up is a very wholesome experience and something I would highly recommend doing throughout your time at uni. Kamila Bell, Editor

Image: Kamila Bell

NE of the highlights of Freshers' Week for me was English Society’s bookshop and café tour social. We all met on campus and walked into town as a group, where committee members showed us where to find the best bookshops and cafes. This social was where I met a few of my closest friends from my course and got to properly walk around Exeter for the first time. The tour ended at Boston Tea Party where we got to have a drink and chat to other freshers. BTP later became a favourite coffee shop for me and my friends, and I owe that mostly to English Soc’s Freshers' event! On getting home from the tour, I remember texting my boyfriend from home saying, "everyone’s so nice!” I felt really reassured that I would make lots of friends on my course as there were clearly a lot of like-minded and friendly people at the event. It was the best society event I went to in Freshers' Week, and one of the best English Society events I went to in my first year!

Bridie Adams, Music Editor

Image: charl.ottetakesphotos

BEING YOU IN FRESHERS

RESHERS' Week is often made to seem like the most exciting part of starting university; a seven day bender before you hear the word ‘deadline’. The idea of reinventing yourself might also cross your mind, whether it's a complete transformation or a new and improved version of your school persona. But you should ask yourself wheth-

er that will be the most comfortable you. One thing I realised as I made my debut on Exeter’s campus was that I didn’t know anyone. Making friends is essential for general comfort at university, so you want to find genuine people, who like you as you are, who you can relate to and who will step up to looking after you through the dreaded freshers’

Exeter's Most instagram-able areas

HETHER you chose Exeter on your sunny, so try early morning or evening strolls. UCAS form because of the studentFurther afield, Devon boasts stunning to-tree ratio or because the South coastline accessible from Exeter, whether West was far enough away from home, Exeter, you are after the surfing hotspot of Bantham, and Devon generally, is a place where getting open water swimming in Exmouth or seaside out-and-about in the fresh air is an easy cure for scenery in Sidmouth. Salcombe is a beautiful hangovers and library boredom. Being a closetown in South Devon with numerous small knit city, Exeter may not have the most thrivcoves to discover, gorgeous walks through the ing nightlife or the greatest shopping scene, countryside and a laid-back atmosphere probut when it comes to getting daily exercise, viding a well-needed break from uni life if you within the city and surrounding area, we are are lucky enough to grab a lift from a friend overwhelmed with coastline and countryside. or join one of the many excursions that socieHere are some of the best places in Devon to ties make duing term time. If you want history check out during your alongside your daily extime at the University ercise, then walking the of Exeter, amidst the coastline from Torcross TP Wednesdays and to Hallsands, small seminar preparation. fishing villages with A welcome lockcharming character and down discovery of stories, can provide an mine, Mincinglake Valeducational side if you ley Park is a stunning so desire. As far as counmeadowland only 30 tryside is concerned, minutes’ walk from the Devon is blessed with city centre. Overlookthe best, including Darting Exeter, it boasts moor National Park. If some of the best views you do not make the you will find near the trip to Dartmoor at University, as well as some stage in your deunmatched peacefulgree (access permitting ness. With many difof course) you are missferent routes round ing out on arguably the the park, it is popular county’s greatest asset, Image: Red Morley with students, dog walkers and people having where walking, climbing, canoeing and swimpicnics, as it is a nice escape from the busyness ming are just some of the ways to stay active. of town. If you are a keen cyclist, walker or runDuring the pandemic, exercise has proven ner, taking the canal route from Exeter Quay to to be an essential part of our daily routines, Double Locks, where you can grab a pint, is a whether this is through home yoga practices, go-to as the scenery is stunning and the tranJoe Wicks or using cans as weights in your front quillity a distraction from essays. As it is a firm room. Why not keep moving in the great outfavourite for daily exercise, avoiding the crowds doors? Devon has enough to inspire you. to maintain social distancing is necessary when Elinor Jones, Online Lifestyle Editor

flu - and that can feel like a mammoth task. One for which being you is vital. It will give you the best chance of finding those people. It’s also important to note that university is filled to the brim with all kinds of people. Not everyone will like you, and you won’t warm to every student you meet, but there is certainly someone for everyone. Similarly, people can

change. Remember that you don’t have to be lifelong companions with the first person you sit next to in lectures, or your flatmates for that matter. Finding friends is about matching up with people who are just as individual as you. To express this more concretely, my flat’s group chat was called "weird not rare." Ella Lee

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Exeter’s best bookshops Rose Poulton explores Exeter’s bookshops and shares her thoughts on the best places to buy

NY fresher who loves to read, look no further for the perfect guide on where to get your books. The first bookshop you’ll come across is definitely Blackwell’s; overpriced but it’s got everything you need for your course. I applied for a job there once and was annoyingly rejected (yes, I am still a little salty about it).

very decent price, if you don’t mind pre-loved books. One of the best in town is the Oxfam book shop and it’s nice to know that your money is going to a good cause.

Required reading

WHERE TO FIND THEM:

Image: Harry Mitchell

Speaking of second-hand books, the place to buy these in Exeter is definitely Book-Cycle. The walk is a little way from campus but is well worth it and has the latest good reads, the other day I even picked up a copy of Normal People. The building is a gorgeous old-fashioned Tudor house and the best part is that you decide how much you pay for each book. I hope this article helps anyone looking for a g o o d book or a cosy place to sit and read.

THE BEST PART IS THAT YOU DECIDE HOW MUCH YOU PAY FOR EACH BOOK. Next up, we have Waterstones; would this even be a bookshop review without it? There are even two in Exeter, although the one near John Lewis is a lot nicer. It also has a café. I remember my first trip there when my friend and I sipped hot apple juice while discussing what to buy. Waterstones definitely gets my approval, the shop is so aesthetically pleasing it could be the setting for its own book. It is still on the pricey side however, so I’m going to go ahead and offer some more student friendly alternatives. I got a lot of my books for my course from charity shops, they often have the classics at a

THE SHOP IS SO AESTHETICALLY PLEASING

Blackwell’s: Great Hall Foyer University of Exeter, Stocker Rd, Exeter EX4 4PY Open: Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm Waterstones (near John Lewis): 252 High St, Exeter EX4 3PZ Open: Monday - Saturday: 9am - 6pm Sunday: 10:30am - 4:30pm Waterstones (near Exeter Cathedral): 48-49 High St, Exeter EX4 3DJ Open: Monday - Friday: 9am - 5:30pm Saturday: 9am - 6pm Sunday: 10:30am - 4:30pm Oxfam: 98 South St, Exeter EX1 1EN Open: Monday-Friday: 9am - 5:30pm Saturday: 9am - 5pm Sunday: 11am - 3pm Book Cycle: 7 West St, Exeter EX1 1BB Open: Monday-Saturday: 11:30am - 6pm Sunday: 12:30am - 5:30pm

Hannah Rae discusses how fiction can shape expectations of university life

UCH of my understanding of university life before coming to Exeter came from two sources: older friends’ Instagram feeds, portraying a life consumed by clubbing in fancy dress and flat-Sunday-roasts and Hollywood films. As a Brit, the latter depicted a lifestyle I knew would never represent my own – one of frat parties, competitive a cappella groups and fake IDs.

UNIVERSITY PROVIDES THE ABILITY TO CHOOSE WHO YOU WANT TO SURROUND YOURSELF WITH Reading Normal People in the summer before first-year offered something different. Knowing that it reflected other aspects of normal life with a sense of reality and relatability that feels rare meant that I took Sally Rooney’s

portrait of university life more seriously. This was a world that felt believable and recognisable, and it didn’t glorify the university experience as my previous sources had done. What I found to be especially true-to-life, was Rooney’s representation of Marianne and Connell’s shifting social positions at university. University provides the ability to choose who you want to surround yourself with, and for many it is the first time they experience this freedom. I noticed that whilst some people who felt disconnected from peers at school thrive with the fresh start that university offers, others – used to their close home friendships – initially struggle with having to make new friends

on their own. This is beautifully reflected in the book, in which a kind of ‘role reversal’ occurs, and previously popular Connell finds himself isolated whilst Marianne blossoms socially. Reading about Connell’s initial loneliness and issues with mental illness created additional anxiety for me as someone equally lacking-in-confidence. It solidified in my mind the idea that I wouldn’t make any friends, and when my Freshers’ week didn’t live up to expectations, it seemed like my fears were being realised. However, I eventually found my feet, and ended up developing closer friendships than I imagined, as, in fairness, Connell does in the book. Rooney’s representation of imperfect ro-

mances through characters like Gareth was also one I saw reflected in reality in first year, as my friends began to work out what did and didn’t work through their flawed relationships.

IT SOLIDIFIED IN MY MIND THAT I WOULDN’T MAKE ANY FRIENDS

Likewise, the central position of love in the novel does resemble the great importance placed on intimate relationships this year. However, the will-they-won’t-they love of soulmates between Marianne and Connell, around which the book is based, felt unachievable even when I first read the novel. I admit that I fear the expectation of a partner as emotionally intelligent and charming as Connell may be the area in which Normal People continues to falls short in corresponding to real university life. Image: Amelia Gregory

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EDITORS: Amelia Gregory and William Evans

A skewed class system

Max Shepherd argues that the current university marking system is unfair for creative subjectes

HAT is the harder degree, BSc or BA? This age-old argument amongst undergraduates is one that I am sure many readers have taken part in at one time or another. The concern of BA courses with subjective topics like the arts is noted by BSc students who claim you cannot wing BSc assessments. You either know the function of RNA Polymerase III in eukaryotic gene regulation or you do not. On the other hand, BA students often argue that the creativity and depth of understanding required in their assessments is more difficult than a parrotlike recollection of facts. To conduct a Marxist analysis of policing in the UK, for example, one must have a firm grasp of Marxist theory, police practices in the UK and be able to construct a coherent and original argument.

relative difficulty but instead in their suitability for being marked on the same numerical scale out of 100. Despite being assessed in different ways and requiring completely different skills there is inexplicably a one size fits all system when it comes to handing out firsts, seconds and thirds. This seems grossly unfair when 100 per cent is near impossible to achieve in the humanities but a more realistic goal for some ambitious STEM students.

THERE IS INEXPLICABLY A ONE SIZE FITS ALL SYSTEM WHEN IT COMES TO HANDING OUT FIRSTS Pitting the difficulty of different courses against each other will always lead to a deadend. The key difference between the two types of degree for this discussion lies not in their

To boot, university staff and assessors have diverse opinions on the relevance of numerical marks. On results day last year Dr Mark Steven, a University of Exeter English professor, tweeted “numerical assessment is ideological theatre and no indicator of your ability, intellect, or imagination.” Though undoubtedly a nice sentiment, this is little consolation to students who may have missed out on postgraduate jobs due to insufficient grades. Furthermore, I feel you would be hard pressed to find a STEM subject professor (or postgraduate employer) who would agree with this view in relation to their discipline. Ultimately, in my view, BSc and BA degrees are different and should therefore be graded differently. The arts and humanities are inherently subjective and

encourage their students to embrace the muddled greyness of our world. STEM subjects assume what they teach to be objective fact, and demand that undergraduates learn the rules and laws that will help them successfully distinguish white from black and choose the correct option for the given question. Clearly, the binary nature of the knowledge taught in STEM subjects is suited to standardised numerical marking. Whereas the marking of BA assessments can often seem inconsistent, confusing and based largely on the personal opinion of the marker.

TO STILL BE MARKING BSC’S AND BA’S ON THE SAME SCALE SEEMS AT BEST MISGUIDED To still be marking BSc’s and BA’s on the same scale seems at best misguided and at worst lazy. I do not claim to have the solution. But given the expertise and salaries of university administrators – which are paid for by our tuition fees alongside lecturer salaries - I feel they should be able to come up with some better alternatives to the current system.

Keeping the arts alive

11 SEPT 2020 |

Image: Tingey Injury Law Firm

Harry Edmundson equips incoming students with advice to maintain a passion for reading at university

NIVERSITY is a head-first dive that starts with Fresher’s Week, featuring over 200 societies, events every night, and then an academic onslaught of lectures and essays, perhaps even a job or yet more contact hours. To stay afloat in our courses, our relationship with the arts can suffer as our priorities shift towards course texts and attempts at lecture attendance.

READING FOR PLEASURE CAN BE A CONSTANT IN AN ENVIRONMENT WHICH IS ANYTHING BUT Maintaining a healthy relationship with the arts is as equally important as your relationships with friends and the academic work you will undertake. Reading for pleasure can be a constant in an environment which is anything but. The effect of this familiarity on your own mental health helps reduce stress and feelings of loneliness. It is a mindful antidote amidst the chaos of long hours of studying and socialising. So, to incoming Freshers and returnees who pushed reading for pleasure aside like a distant family member, here is what you can do:

One Small Step… The mini mountains of reading you’ll be required to analyse will make any form of reading seem nauseating. However, if you choose a single piece of literature to read and then challenge yourself to read for just 30 minutes - only 1/48th of your day - you would have to truly try to fail. You’ll form a healthy routine that induces calm and inspiration all because your ego refuses to be beaten by such a small task. Embrace the Earphones. Listening to audiobooks counts as reading – they continue the oral tradition of storytelling and make it a more accessible art form than ever. Walking to and from a lecture may take anywhere from 20 minutes on-campus, and more if further afield. Through your earphones you monopolise minutes and keep the arts close-by. Live, Laugh, Library. Apps such as Libby allow library card holders to access e-books and audiobooks on mobile devices with complete ease. The Exeter Central Library will allow you to access literature whilst on a budget, and in whatever form you need. You do not need the budget of a worker to read for fun at uni.

Returning to a Fresh Start By Abbie Walker I am pulled in both directions. Upwards by excitement Yet down by unease, As I move up the Hill. I rise through the flustered throngs Of unknown faces, Pausing on the climb, Approached by opportunity.

At university, students can expect to delve into a richly stimulating curriculum of high literature and complex theory but there is no shame in taking a break from academia to read the books that simply bring you joy. The benefits of staying close to literature, and the arts at large, is clear. The tricks to maintain the relationship require some habitual rewiring but, with a few small changes, reading for pleasure at university is entirely possible. You won’t just stay afloat, you will swim and your mind will thank you for it. Image: Derek Harper / Ash at Exeter central library

Identity swells in crowds of clustered tables, Drawing the eye in a fluttering frenzy, Back and forth amid Swim, stroll, and sail. Ideas buzz through the air Like electricity, Colliding from stand to stand Sparking new arrivals. New beginnings bud, Like flowers bloom on autumn leaves, Coming to rest in a well-known place, But starting afresh at a new-found pace.

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Adventures in Exeter's live scene Elinor Jones, Online Lifestyle Editor, takes a look into Exeter's best music venues

AVING grown up in Devon and as a regular visitor to Exeter, compared to most freshers testing the waters of the music scene of this city, I had experienced some of what it had to offer. To help those less fortunate souls, who aren't well versed in the musical delights they can encounter during their time at the University of Exeter, I aim to provide a guiding light for nights to remember. Whether you are keeping an eye on your favourite bands or you want to stumble into a bar to find a couple singing covers, live music is easy to find in Exeter, with the University itself playing host to a wide range of genres from classical to rock at its venues.

cent years has shown its usual multi-purpose feel can provide magical musical moments with drinks at student prices. The Great Hall, used for graduation, exams and Freshers’ Ball, is a music venue on a grander scale, with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra amongst the bill this year. Whilst its sound quality is not as fine-tuned as more specialised venues, whether you are moshing to Frank Turner or in awe of Michael Kiwan-

uka, having such a big venue for artists at our university is a plus. Located on Gandy Street, which has recently been disputed as J.K. Rowling’s inspiration for Diagon Alley, the Exeter Phoenix is an arts venue that seems to cater for every taste, hosting gigs, film screenings, workshops and club nights. Supporting a lot of local artists, the Phoenix is a great place to catch folk and punk bands or catch artists before they play

MANY SMALL PUBS AND BARS HOST LIVE MUSIC REGULARLY

LIVE MUSIC IS EASY TO FIND IN EXETER Affectionately known as the Lemmy by students old and new, the Lemon Grove, which is part of the University’s Students' Guild, has hosted the likes of Chase and Status, Supergrass, The Automatic and the Wu Tang Clan. The Lemmy hosts both club nights and my Muay Thai training sessions! So, seeing Amber Run and Laura Marling perform spine-tingling atmospheric sets there in re-

bigger stages. Nearby is the infamous Exeter Cavern, known on the indie scene and for up-andcoming artists; it is earthy, rugged and loud, everything you want in a sweaty gig. Surprising talent is high on the set list here, as its ethos is to support those who would otherwise not play centre stage. At the Quayside, Move has gone through a range of reputations in my time at Exeter, hosting some wellknown DJs, rappers and MCs whilst also winning the award for the warmest club in the world.

You cannot go far down the High Street without hearing an acoustic guitar or a jazz night as many small pubs and bars host live music regularly, with Artigiano's, the Old Firehouse and Bierkeller being particular favourites to get you up and dancing. If you want to stumble across a new artist or see big bands perform, Exeter may be small, but it packs a punch. Images (L-R): Bryan Ledgard, Alison Day, Sven Volkens

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High society

OOKING back on the hazy blur that was first year, it’s not an overstatement to say that my fondest memories probably came from the shambolic socials of Indie Society. From a neon paint night (where I managed to turn a designer jacket into something Elton John would think was too much), to a quarantine Kahoot which quickly descended into a vigorous debate about Russian post-punk, Exeter’s only society dedicated to alternative music has something for everyone. Free from the sort of gatekeeping prats that give indie music a bad name, it’s hard to imagine anywhere more welcoming than this eclectic bunch of oddballs and misfits. Whether you’re looking to find a group to go to gigs with, or just want to meet someone who cries to The Queen Is Dead as much as you do, I can’t think of a better way to spend a fiver. And with a discount card for Cavern, arguably Exeter’s greatest club, there’s really no excuse. I'll see you in the mosh pit! Oliver Leader De Saxe, Music Editor

Exeposé Music Writers discuss their favourite music societies.

UDITIONS and group practice sessions are scary – I’m socially awkward and have zero confidence in my musical ability. Naturally, I was too anxious to join most of the music societies. But Campus Bands is a weird one. You can go alone and talk to no one, but still enjoy their events. The society is also genreless and doesn't set requirements to your music abilities. You want to form a band and make some noise in Exeter? Campus Bands can hook you up with gig opportunities, from on campus to all the venues in town. It also has socials for you to find bandmates and get things started. Want to play but don’t want to make commitments to a band? Campus Bands have their own practice room with some of the sharpest amps, as well as regular jam sessions for you to play with others without forming a group. Just want to be a listener and cheer along? Discounted tickets for most live events in town. Every music nerd can find something that they love about the Campus Bands. Yudy Wu

ONTEMPORARY Choir is Exeter’s unauditioned popular music choir. The ethos of “we don’t care what you sound like, we just want to hear it” attracts over 200 members who give sold out concerts every year. They won the Guild’s Best New Society award in 2019, followed by Best Society in 2020. I sat down with President Tom JoshiCale to get the full scoop on what makes the choir so brilliant. “Anyone is welcome in choir” he explains. The beauty of a contemporary music choir is that so many different styles of music can be covered. The choir members are also encouraged to suggest their favourite songs for the choir to sing in their weekly rehearsals and termly concerts. “We believe Contemporary Choir is so popular because we do so much more than sing!” Tom tells me. He finishes by calling for anyone interested to “come along to our taster events during Freshers” to see why everyone loves them so much. Katie Jones

PRESSIONFM is Exeter’s University student radio station. In an interview with Vixi Mann, XpressionFM’s Programme Controller, we discussed why you should get involved as a fresher. Our conversation began by paying homage to the music team at XpressionFM, the biggest content team at the station. In mentioning the B playlist, a list of up & coming artists, Vixi reminisced on how her music taste has evolved from her days as a fresher because of XpressionFM. There are many roles at the station like presenting or producing. These skills are highlighted in events like '24 Hours Live', which Vixi adamantly said was her "favourite music event of the year." This was followed by Poltimore Festival, a student-run charity event whose volunteer committee has a big XpressionFM presence. Rounding off our interview, Vixi stated that "being part of XpressionFM was extremely rewarding." Lola Schoer

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EDITORS: Bridie Adams and Oliver Leader de Saxe

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The show goes on

11 SEP 2020

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Richard Ainslie, Deputy Editor, gives his survival guide for the post-COVID live music wasteland

HERE'S a scene in Blackadder Goes Forth where the General Sir Anthony Cecil Hogmanay Melchett enters the war room to examine the battlefield. Peering over the map he says: "God it’s a barren, featureless desert out there, isn’t it?" Before Captain Darling helpfully reminds him: "It’s the other side Sir," and turns the map over. If you looked out over Exeter’s music scene at the moment, you might think you see the same – a dark wasteland where all you can see is a little sign that says "CANCELLED FOR COVID!" dancing over the bodies of Exeter’s music venues and nightclubs, as they slowly haemorrhage money. But flip the map over, and look closer, and Exeter is alive, and vibrant, with music.

listening to ‘Mr Brown’ by Bob Marley and the Wailers, ‘Dr Lee PhD’ by the Beastie Boys and the Heart of the Congos album by The Congos. He is now living history; having forged the whole reggae genre back in the '70s and '80s, he continues to produce today and find new ways to tack into the wind, while

EXETER IS ALIVE AND VIBRANT WITH MUSIC The Exeter Phoenix has lived up to its name, as it rises again from the ashes of a silent summer with a huge roster of artists and musicians. And it wouldn’t be Phoenix if they weren’t playing host to the orchestral rendition of Dr Dre’s 2001 album. These cats slink through town at least once a year to play their brass, wind and string symphony of gangster rap classics, and they always will. If nuclear war struck Britain, all that would remain in Exeter would be cockroaches, tardigrades, the big John Lewis (middle-class fallout shelter anyone?) and the Phoenix orchestra tooting their clarinets to 'Nothin’ But a G Thang'. You have to see them at least once while studying at Exeter. It’s a rite of passage, like cuddling the forum hill cat, or going to the Sidwell sexual health clinic. If you miss them though, don’t worry, they’ll no doubt still be here in 80 years, slowly fossilising. On 9 October, Exeter is seriously delivering, like a postman who has had some bad news. Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry is playing at Phoenix. For you who don’t recognise the name, Lee Perry is the most celebrated reggae producer of, well, ever. If I can offer you a taster menu of his best, try

his early accomplishments gain eternal life in Wikipedia pages and ‘all time’ lists. There aren’t many stars which fall to earth and land in Exeter like this one.

THERE AREN'T MANY STARS WHICH FALL TO EARTH AND LAND IN EXETER LIKE THIS ONE

But if four months of online shopping, joblessness and subscriptions to illicit streaming services have cleaned out your wallet, there’s plenty to do for free. Now would be a perfect time to start attending open mic nights at pubs; The Old Firehouse, The Ship Inn and The Bowling Green are all running them. It's a great opportunity to discover some new watering holes around town too. If you haven't heard of Henry's Bar, I wouldn't blame you, in fact I would praise you for your taste and high standards. But when it comes to live music, Henry's bar know how students like it. It's close quarters stuff; you sit right next to the band, and they play at a volume that could give you an instant brain haemorrhage. It's the musical equivalent of the Battle of the Somme. It might be just what the Chancellor ordered – Rishi wants you out there spending your last remaining pennies on twofor-one Stella as Sunak possible (I’m not apologising for that one). Yes, you’d probably find better singing at a deaf cat carol concert, but its free, fun, and everyone tries their hardest, so get down there and get drunk. Image: © pitpony.photography / CC-BY-SA-3.0

Ultra Mono - Idles - 25th September

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Exeter screen societies

Screen Editors Francesca Sylph and Olivia Garrett interview the heads of four Exeter screen societies

XEPOSÉ Screen got in touch with the presidents of four of Exeter’s screen-based societies. We asked them about their societies, their own experiences and how they were planning to process in the new year. Olivia Garrett: Harry Potter has a famously divisive fandom, book vs film, Snape vs James. Do these splits have any effect on the society? Callum Dinnett: We don’t have too many major disagreements or at the very least it never becomes a big thing. The entire idea is to be welcoming to anyone at any level in the fandom regardless of their opinions on the series. If they haven’t read the books but have watched the films, or vice versa then that’s fine. OG: And of course, after JK Rowling’s recent comments the fandom is being even more divided, has this had any effect on you? CD: Apart from giving the entire committee a communal headache? We’ve made a statement about her comments and in general we just always want to be as welcoming as possible and try to focus on the stories and not necessarily the writer. OG: You’ve also just started up a His Dark Materials society. What were the challenges of setting up this new society and have you got any fun new socials planned? CD: The idea first came up in October when the series was first premiering. I’ve been a fan of the books for years and looking at social media I saw that there were a lot of people who were interested, so it started off as discussions with friends and became a full-blown society. OG: And finally, I know it’s taboo, but what do you think of the Golden Compass?

CD: Oh dear! Well It’s been a way to get people into the series so I can’t complain about it too much, but it’s not a good adaptation of the books, and it cuts off a significant section of the story!

Olivia Garrett Print Editor

“Oh! It’s blessed are the meek! I’m glad they’re getting something, they had a hell of a time...” Monty Python’s Life of Brian (1979)

Francesca Sylph: Film Society is brand-new this year! What made you want to set it up? Dan Thomas: When I came to Exeter, I was sure that there would be a Film Society, but I found out it had been left dormant that year with no one to run it. I was lucky enough to meet some of the people who ran it the year before, and after they explained how it all worked, me and a very talented group of people were able to start it up again. FS: This academic year is filled with uncertainty. Societies are having to adapt to a new normal. Have you got any ideas for online or socially-distant socials? DT: While we’re hoping things will improve, we’ve got to prepare for the worst and make the most of it. We’re considering socially-distanced cinema events and online watch parties, but if things improve, we’ll be able to hold more ambitious socials. FS: If you were only allowed to watch one film for the rest of your life, what would you choose? Quick, go! DT: Spider-Man 2, easy. It is objectively the best film of all time and I will die on that hill. If anyone has any other contenders, I’d love to hear about them. FS: What are your biggest hopes for Film Society? DT: I’ve got some very big ideas that I can’t share quite yet, but one project in particular may be one of the biggest ever society events at Exeter, so stay tuned for that. In more general terms, I’m just hoping that both casual film-goers and film enthusiasts will be able to have a great time at our socials and meet like-minded people.

Olivia Garrett: Sci-fi and fantasy are two all-encompassing genres and with so many fandoms fitting under that big umbrella, do you find it difficult to meet all your members’ needs? Jonathon Smith: There is some pressure to fit in everyone’s preferences, in Freshers’ Week last year we found ourselves asking everyone: ‘why are you in sci-fi society? What are you interested in?’ And using their responses. I usually try and make an effort to include all the subjects I can, especially in the quizzes and discussions. OG: Is there one particular fandom that pops up more than any other? JS: Star Wars usually comes up a lot, because there’s not a society specifically for that. Also War Hammer popped up quite a bit last year to the point that we banned the topic! OG: If the society suddenly broke out into a sci-fi vs fantasy war which side would you be on? JS: I prefer science fiction myself but it’s pretty close to 50/50. I really love Alien, and Terminator 2, but it depends. The society in general is probably more leant towards scifi because of the cinema visits we organise throughout the year. But then if books ever come up we can have great fantasy-based conversations, for instance Brandon Sanderson is quite popular amongst the group.

Francesca Sylph: Campus Cinema may s t ru g g l e as a result of COVID. How do you plan to move forward? G o k u l Thasan: Campus Cinema is committed to providing a safe environment for everyone. We hope that everything is back to normal soon, but we do have plans to tackle the situation if needed. Selling all tickets online will be the first safety measure and we could cut ticket sales in half. FS: What is your favourite film that you have seen at Campus Cinema? GT: I’ve enjoyed loads of movies at Campus Cinema: Spider-Verse, Ralph Breaks the Internet, Endgame and many more. However, Knives Out is the one movie that took me by surprise. FS: I really loved the interactive screening of Cats last year. Do you have any plans to do something like this again? GT: Campus Cinema has the tradition of screening The Room every single year. In my opinion, it is one of the best interactive screening experiences ever. People can yell cues, act out scenes and on top of that, we can throw spoons at the screen! What more you can ask for? FS: I know you have been on the committee for all years of your degree. How has Campus Cinema defined your University experience?

OG: What are your plans going ahead? JS: We’re hoping that our quizzes can go ahead as planned and the way the things are opening we may be able to see some form of a pub crawl. We’ve also looked at trying to run some of the board game nights online such as Coup or Secret Hitler, except with a sci-fi twist!

GT: Back in 2018, when I first moved to Exeter, I got homesick and felt a bit lonely. After accidentally discovering CC, I went to the freshers film and then I attended every single screening, and after a couple of weeks, I joined the committee. It really is like a family.

Images top to bottom: Exeter Film Society, Exeter Sci-fi and Fantasy Society, Exeter Campus Cinema, Exeter Harry Potter and Quidditch Society

MEET THE EDITORS Olivia Gomez Online Editor

“There should be no boundaries to human endeavour. We are all different... While there’s life there’s hope” The Theory of Everything (2014)

Francesca sYLPH

Jim Norman Online Editor

“Do you think God lives in Heaven because he, too lives in fear of what he’s created here on Earth?” Spy Kids 2 (2002)

Print Editor

“Oh my God, he just ordered a giant glass of milk” “...That’s a vanilla milkshake” Ghost World (2001)

exhibit

screen

EDITORS: Olivia Garrett and Francesca Sylph

Growing pains

A selection of Exeposé Screen Writers discuss their favourite coming-of-age films

HERE comes a time in every young person’s life when they realise the adults THE Breakfast around them are just as clueless as they club are. The Breakfast Club is the film responsible for awakening this epiphany within me. Following five students’ Saturday detention, the film depicts how a brain, an athlete, a basket case, a princess and a criminal overcome their differences to band together against the common enemy: the idiocy and cruelty of their parents and teachers. While its overt themes explore finding and defining identities in the midst of the pressures of high school, this culminates in each character ultimately defying their adult authority figures and accepting their own non-conformity. I love The Breakfast Club for its iconic and unmistakably ‘80s scenes (the infamous running through the school halls, the dancing in the library, that ending fist-punch). But what makes it such an important coming of age film is its commitment to striking a balance between light-hearted comedic moments and darker interludes filled with teenage angst. To top this all off, it has an ending that leaves audiences wondering, come Monday, will they walk on by or continue to disobey the rules? Issy Murray, Online Science Editor

11 SEPT 2020

E may assume that it is Bodevan’s Captain story and his attempts as a young adult to connect with an unfamiliar fantastic world that forms the crux of the film’s engagement with the coming-of-age narrative. The thrill of Captain Fantastic, however, is that it’s not restricted to any one individual. It’s a tale about adapting, reacting and finding compromise in one’s ideologies – as achingly sad as it is life-affirming, and wistful as it is hopeful. The coming-of-age arc is less about the passing of years and more about the passing of a specific time, place and circumstance. The combination of loss, grief and social awakening is enough to form cracks in the family unit, but it is up to them, and them alone, to put the pieces back together again, even when they’ve changed shape in the process. It’s about moving forward and learning to embrace the present: a sentiment that transcends age, as integral to a child as it is to an adult. Captain Fantastic serves as a wonderful reminder that although we all come from different backgrounds, have different wants and dreams and experiences, it is exactly those differences that make our voices unique, make them important, and make them worth listening to. Tabby Burnett

HE other films LUELESS has been RAW that my fellow Clueless one of my favourwriters have writite films throughten on are all wonderful choices, yet they depict the act out my teenage years. John Hughes set the standard for of coming-of-age in a secondary school setting. The fact is, coming-of-age in the ‘80s, with Clueless following in the even at university, many of us are still coming of age, and Raw footsteps of films like The Breakfast Club. It’s one of the most Image: IMDB recognises that instantly. University is a time to redefine yourself iconic chick flicks ever made and is entertaining from start to fin(and perhaps even study along the way). The other thing Raw does slightish. The film follows the life of protagonist Cher Horowitz, a high school ly differently is that it does this through the eyes of a character discovering girl with lots of friends and unlimited access to daddy’s credit card. As she she’s a cannibal. You probably read the word “cannibal” and are now thinkdecides to make over new girl Tai, she finds herself losing some of her being that I’m a maniac for even suggesting this, but Raw is a deeply univerloved attention from others and realises how ‘clueless’ she really is. She desal tale for students. As we leave home, the world changes. Rules that we velops from a popularity-obsessed cool girl to being more grounded and once held dear (like the rule that you can’t eat potato smiley faces past the mature. She finds both love and a more adult outlook. Clueless is also an age of eight) are discarded, and while I don’t recommend consumption of excellent time capsule of ‘90s fashion. We see everything from the skater human flesh (again, unless in potato facsimile), Justine’s fear of her discovboy to the party girl, and I really would still wear 90 per cent of Cher’s outfits ery represents that universal desire to be seen as normal. We all want to decades later. If you love fashion, it’s definitely worth a watch. For a funny be accepted. But normality is a hoax. Learn to embrace the weird parts of and heart-warming coming-of-age-film, I will always recommend Clueless. yourself that you discover here. Just don’t eat dismembered fingers, please. Bridie Adams, Music Editor Henry Jordan

Black Filmmaker Spotlight: Michaela Coel

ICHAELA Ewuraba Boakye-Collinson, known professionally as Michaela Coel, is a British actress, screenwriter, director and producer. She is also a singer, songwriter, poet and playwright. In other words, she is an absolute professional and creative powerhouse. Michaela is best known for creating and starring in the E4 comedy series Chewing Gum, which follows 24-year old Tracey Gordon as she attempts to lose her virginity while being guided by her two idols: Beyoncé and Jesus. Coel took home two BAFTAs for Chewing Gum, including Best Female Performance in a Comedy Programme. More recently, Michaela has received critical acclaim for the BBC One/HBO comedy-drama series I May Destroy You which she created, wrote, produced, co-directed and starred in (again: powerhouse). Based on her own experience of sexual assault, I May Destroy You follows Arabella, a Twitter-famous-millennial-turned-novelist who is forced to rebuild her life after her drink is spiked. With the help of her friends Terry (Weruche Opia) and Kwame (Paapa Essiedu), Arabella gradually pieces together what happened that night while attempting to navigate her own trauma. Michela Coel has an unparalleled ability to balance both the comedy and tragedy found in the ‘grey areas’ of millennial dating and modern sex. Harrowing and hilarious, I May Destroy You is only the beginning of what I assume will be a long and successful career. Francesca Sylph, Screen Editor

Image: IMDB

study break

| 11 SEPT 2020

exhibit

STUDY BREAK CROSSWORD

SUDOKU

Across Curved line (3) Paved area outside a house (5) Alcoholic drink (3) Farm vehicle (7) Equipped (with information, say) (5) Thin fog (4) Australian marsupial (8) (Transport) pass (6) Grid - e.g. rill (anagram) (6) Felon (8) Revise (a text) (4) Futuristic fiction genre (3-2) Not certain (7) Definite article (3) Equine animal (5) Proverb - witnessed (3)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 12 13 15 17 20 21 22

Unthinking - mechanical (9) Category (5) Way - road (4) Strand (of cotton, say) (6) Citrus fruit-producing building grey roan (anagram) (8) Naval commander (7) Conclusion (3) Depose (9) Satanic - diabolical (8) Art of cooking - is in cue (anagram) (7) Spotted South American big cat (6) Gown (5) Be sore (4) Group - gel (3)

ANSWERS

Marlon Brando 2. Six 3. JP

4.Crispy

5. Cowick Street

1 3 6 8 9 10 11 14 16 18 19 22 23 24 25 26

Trivia corner- Freshers’ Edition

Trivia: 1. 28 days

Down

1. according to health guidelines, How Long will an egg stay fresh after being laid? 2. for How many seasons did the fresh prince of bel air run? 3. What character does jack whitehall play in the sitcom fresh meat? 4. Everyone wants food to be fresh, but which adjective sells food better than any other? 5. On which street in exeter would you find fresh market? 6. Who Co-starred with Matthew broderick in the 1990 film ‘The Freshman’?

20 Dress, 21 Ache, 22 Set. Admiral, 7 End, 12 Overthrow, 13 Devilish, 15 Cuisine, 17 Jaguar, Down: 1 Automatic, 2 Class, 3 Path, 4 Thread, 5 Orangery, 6 Unclear, 24 The, 25 Horse, 26 Saw. Kangaroo, 14 Ticket, 16 Grille, 18 Criminal, 19 Edit, 22 Sci-fi, 23 Across: 1 Arc, 3 Patio, 6 Ale, 8 Tractor, 9 Armed, 10 Mist, 11

Science

11 SEPT 2020 | EXEPOSÉ

SCIENCE EDITORS: ISABEL MURRAY VINCENT PLANT

Research is key

Exeposé Science Writers delve into the variety of Exeter’s scientific research

Dialysis services in COVID-19

T can be a challenge to reorganise our lives to cope with the new conditions. However, there is hope that this is possible even on larger scales. The University of Exeter, working together with Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust, is helping to reshuffle dialysis services across the south of England. The study is centred around 650 people being treated at the Wessex Kidney Centre. The University’s Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (IDSAI), together with the NHS Trust and the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), used computer models to establish how to minimise disruption and rearrange services. Findings suggested that between 40 per cent and 60 per cent of total travel time could be cut if two to four COVID-positive patients travelled together, enabling ambulances to deal with greater numbers of emergencies as a result. The paper cautioned that rural patients should be temporarily relocated closer to treatment facilities. At the time of writing the paper is still only available for preview, meaning it cannot yet be used to guide medical advice. The paper assumed a high level of COVID-19 infection, with 80 per cent of patients infected over three months and 15 per cent mortality rates. However, the service

was shown to be able to cope in these models if the workload was shifted to the central hospitals. For example, the model stipulated that COVID-positive dialysis patients who are usually treated in the Wessex area should be moved to Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, with Basingstoke Hospital being able to deal with overflow. Overall, there should be enough capacity in the south of England to separate COVID-positive and COVID-negative patients, although they may need to be moved quickly. The authors mentioned some limitations to their model, such as that patients were assumed to be reallocated instantly. However, the study demonstrates that the effect on patients can be minimised and that the dialysis services should be able to cope even in dire situations - a hopeful message indeed. Vincent P l a n t , Online Science Editor

for Colombian ecosystems

BC Science Focus released an article in July identifying antibiotic resistance as one of five ways humanity may become extinct. Itis true that while penicillin’s discovery in 1928 was lifesaving, in recent years scientists have been becoming increasingly wary of the impact of over-prescription of antibiotics, along with its other frequent uses such as in the meat industry. This somewhat overzealous use of antibiotics has led to bacterial strains developing antibiotic resistance, mutating into dangerous ‘superbugs’ that can’t be combatted by the available antibiotic medicines, meaning once easily treated infections have the potential to turn deadly. University of Exeter scientists are making advances in this field with a new technique that forecasts which drugs will best tackle bacteria in the hopes of

minimizing indiscriminate antibiotic prescriptions. Their method involves observing the uptake of fluorescence in antibiotics by bacteria. The brighter a bacterium glows under a special type of microscope, the more antibiotic has been able to penetrate the bacteria, and hence the more effective it is likely to be in treating the infection. So far, the team has focused on the antibiotic ofloxacin which glows under UV light, but they aim to continue by introducing fluorescence into other antibiotics, so they too can be used in the study. Dr Jehangir Cama, an industry research fellow at the Living Systems Institute, explained plans to use “more advanced microscopy techniques, to see where exactly the antibiotics go when they enter the bacteria,” and further research is being funded by QUEX, a collaboration with Australia’s University of Queensland. Dr Stefano Pagliara, a biophysicist at the forefront of this research has voiced excitement about “the potential for this technique to make a meaningful reduction in prescribing, helping to fight the global threat of antibiotic resistance.” This bodes well given that an estimated ten million are predicted to die a year from infection by 2050 if this problem goes unsolved. Isabel Murray, Online Science Editor

Raising money TAFF and postgraduate students at the University of Exeter are involved in a campaign to raise money for communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in Columbia’s Serrania de las Quinchas natural park. Historical inequalities and past conflict mean that communities in Serrania de las Quinchas are already more impoverished than communities living in the Colombian High Andes. Now the pandemic and lockdown have made it difficult for local people to buy food, as well as face masks and antibacterial gel. Many of the villagers live within the last relicts of Colombia’s tropical humid forests. These forests are a global biodiversity hotspot and contain species that are found nowhere else in the world. The forests also trap and store large amounts of carbon. This prevents it from being released as carbon dioxide into the atmosphere where it heats up the planet and contributes to climate change.

Aims to reduce antibiotic resistance

Researchers are concerned that the COVID-19 pandemic might harm not only the local villagers but also the forests in which they live. People might be forced to take precious wood species from the forest to buy food, or join drug traffickers who cut down the forest so they can illegally grow coca. To help protect the livelihoods of Colombian villagers and the forests where they live, the research team have started a crowdfunding campaign to buy food, face masks and antibacterial gel. Researchers at the University of Exeter, the University of Bristol and in Colombia hope that their campaign will not only provide economic help but also contribute to the health and survival of the forests where people live. Christopher Mantelow

N June 2019, the government signed a legally binding target of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, the first agreement of its type in a major economy. So, just over a year after the agreement was signed, it is worthwhile assessing what we have achieved and where work is still needed. In these circumstances, net-zero means balancing the greenhouse gases produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere. To begin with the positives, greenhouse gas emissions have been decreasing, following a pattern from before the net-zero agreement was signed. In addition, £800 million has been pledged for carbon capture and storage, a process of reducing the emissions of carbon dioxide potentially catching up to 90 per cent of the carbon dioxide released by electricity generation and industrial processes, and there are plans in place to phase out diesel and petrol cars by 2035. In addition, there have been

On the path to net-zero plans put in place to double the current £5.8 billion international climate finance funding to £11.6 billion. The UK will also be the host of the next round of UN climate talks, currently planned for November 2021. So, what else needs to be done? The statutory adviser to the government, the Committee on Climate Change, has suggested that some points to improve include moving forward the previously mentioned phaseout date of 2035 to 2032, giving incentives to kickstart innovative low-carbon technologies and interestingly, making use of the development of practical solutions to working from home following lockdown, reducing transport and related emissions, especially looking at the fact that air particulate pollution has dropped across the UK. In conclusion, whilst there have been steps made towards net-zero, it is a tiny fraction of what needs to be done, and it is our responsibility to push for change, whether by the government, businesses or individuals. Callum Dinnett Image: Aider Barrios on Unsplash

EXEPOSÉ | 11 SEPT 2020

SCIENCE

We built this city

Elinor Jones, Online Lifestyle Editor, examines how diseases thrive on the expansion of urban living

S lockdown eases, the sudden influx of visitors to rural areas is a cause for concern for public health and local authorities in the management of coronavirus. However, densely populated cities across the world have been the areas hardest hit during the pandemic, shining a light on the complexities of containing the spread of a virus amidst confined accommodation, busy high streets and on public transport. The coronavirus pandemic has demonstrated the need for better urban planning, in order to prevent cramming, in the hopes of fitting as many homes into the smallest area possible, and the need for more stringent hygiene procedures in public places, such as on the daily commute and in our schools. The virus’ hold over cities and towns is not a modern, 21st century phenomenon brought on only by increased international travel and fast transport. History has repeated itself time and again in the exponential spread of infec-

tious diseases through urban areas, from measles to the Black Death, with such illnesses potentially arriving in human populations earlier than once thought; evident during the emergence of modern-day cities.

Densely populated cities across the world have been areas hardest hit during the pandemic Crossing over from cattle to humans in 500 BC, 1500 years earlier than previously estimated, measles is thought to have become prevalent once cities first started to emerge; needing a dense enough population to wreak havoc upon. Although in recent decades vaccination drives have almost eradicated it from circulation, measles is still one of the world’s most infectious diseases affecting humans, causing

acute respiratory illness, a rash and malaise as a result of a single-stranded RNA virus, which sequencing has shown to be much older than initially thought. Transmitted through contaminated droplets, confined spaces and stagnant air may become highly infected with measles, meaning it is likely that the emergence of crowded cities and towns provided a breeding ground for the infection. It is estimated that the virus needs between a quarter of a million and half a million people within an area to maintain it in circulation. Even before the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, cities played a major role in the epidemiology of infectious diseases. A considerable factor in the spread of the Black Death in the 14th century was the mass movement from rural areas to urban areas, meaning towns became bustling, housing became crowded, and virus levels within the population prevailed. John Snow discovered the link between cholera and con-

taminated water when deaths from the disease rapidly increased in the mid-19th century due to overpopulated areas accessing a limited water supply. In 2020, some urban areas have had to enter a second lockdown with new restrictions placed on residents where COVID-19 cases have spiked (such as local authority housing in Melbourne, Australia) despite most of the country enjoying the freedom of few coronavirus cases.

There is a need for a deeper understanding of the impacts of modern city life New evidence from genetic studies of the history of measles, as well as current anecdotal information and case numbers from coronavirus, show the need for deeper understanding of the

impacts of modern city life. Comprehension of how people live, work and move in and out of our cities and towns is essential in order to control infectious diseases and prevent another historic pandemic. Over the next 30 years, urban populations are set to expand to a level where almost all of the world lives in cities and towns, where currently half of inhabitants do. Infectious diseases such as lower respiratory tract infections, diarrhoea and HIV/AIDS are a major concern for lower income countries, whilst chronic illnesses like heart disease, obesity and stroke are increasing in prevalence in higher income countries. Whether diseases are spread through close contact and poor quality of housing and sanitation or through lifestyle changes that result due to living in urban areas, careful consideration of the health needs of city populations is crucial to prevent ill health in the future. Images (top to bottom): Unsplash; KTEditor, Pixabay

Moving with porpoise

Bryony Gooch, Editor, details new discoveries in dolphin behaviours

F you were not aware of just how intelligent dolphins are, here is another example of their braininess. Scientists have observed that dolphins inhabiting Shark Bay have learned an unusual hunting strategy called “shelling.” Dolphins trap fish inside the empty shells of giant snails, bringing the shells to the surface to shake them out into their open mouths. This is the second-known instance of dolphins using tools to help streamline their foraging. In 1997, bottlenose dolphins were found wearing marine sponges over their beaks for protection when foraging for fish along the sea floor. Additionally, this technique not only proves that dolphins have an elevated method of hunting, but that they learn from their peers. Sonja Wild, who conducted the research for her doctorate at the University of Leeds, expressed her surprise as “dolphins and other toothed whales tend

to follow a 'do-as-mother-does' strategy for learning foraging behaviour." The researchers, having observed the quick nature of this shelling technique, used a social network analysis to discover how the strategy came to be learned. This involved looking into social network, environmental factors, and genetic relationships and drew a conclusion that rather than this skill being passed on generation-to-generation, it has more socially learned roots. Therefore, this approach to survival could be considered a cultural behaviour.

The effect of the high temperatures on the ecosystem killed off many gastropods It is believed that this shelling technique, which began to receive attention ten years ago from scientists,

has become more frequent since the marine heat wave off Western Australia in 2011. The effect of the high temperatures on the ecosystem killed off many gastropods. Wild commented that they thought the dolphins took advantage of "the die-off." Indeed, it was in the next season that the use of the technique increased, making it possible to understand how young adult dolphins learned to 'shell'. This evidences the marine mammals' ability to adapt to environmental changes. Considering the effects of climate change, it is interesting to observe dolphins reacting to the changes in their ecosystem to survive in exacerbated circumstances. This new discovery of learned behaviour adds to a growing comparison between dolphins – cetaceans more generally in fact – and great apes. Michael Krutzen, of the University of Zurich, pointed out that both are “long-lived, large-

brained mammals with high capacities for innovation and cultural transmission of behaviours.” This adds to a large body of evidence of dolphins' intelligence. Already, their behaviour has shown them to be quick learners and talented mim-

ics, but they also develop self-awareness; problem-solving skills such as innovation and teaching ability; and a degree of emotional intelligence; displaying such emotions as grief, joy and playfulness. Images (top to bottom): Paige Page, Pooya - both Unsplash

SPORT

11 SEPT 2020 | EXEPOSÉ

Back...but not up and running

Sport Editor Nick Powell discusses COVID-19's overwhelming impact on university sport

OR so many of us, the return of our studies after six months away is a very welcome one. Things are not going to be entirely normal, but the main reason we attend university – to read, research and write about those subjects which we are passionate about – will be completely possible, if a little challenging. It will, however, be another four months before such a critical part of many of our fellow students’ university experiences is able to return. That being the chance to play sport, alongside or against the people we go to university with the overwhelming majority of both British University and College Sport (BUCS) and Exeter Intramural competitions being delayed to January 2021 at the earliest.

For Taylor uncertainty has been "one of the biggest challenges" And that really is the earliest. One of the few certainties is that there is much more uncertainty on the way. For Cameron Taylor, outgoing Athletic Union (AU) President (pictured above right), uncertainty has been “one of the biggest challenges. When will we see the return of all sports? What will sport look like in a postCOVID era? We just don’t know.” “NGBs (National Governing Bodies) are only now laying out a road map of when sport will return and what it will look like. But this is very early stages…for stuff like rugby and the more close contact sports [a return

Image: Rory Selvey

to play] is going to be more of a challenge.” Another certainty is that there will be no prospect of the previous season being completed. Taylor conceded he was “gutted” both for the sides closing in on major BUCS success last season, such as Women’s Lacrosse, Men’s Cricket and Rugby and Mixed Golf, and for the fact that the “seismic” shift from a packed end of season calendar to no students being around meant he was unable to “wrap up…and deliver on those key AU events” which would have rounded off and earned him deserved recognition for so much of the hard work he had done in the role. Taylor had hoped he could continue some of that work this upcoming year, but was beaten by a razor-thin margin by Ben Hart, who is likely to feel radically different about the role he is inheriting than on the day he was elected. One indvidual who will have a similar feeling is George Warne, one of the two incoming football Club Captains.

Obviously the circumstances are not as we imagined when we were chosen GEORGE WARNE, EUAFC CAPTAIN

New sporting committees will be inheriting incredibly uncertain situations on the back of no committee training, and will have some of the very best aspects of their roles curtailed whilst having huge challenges regarding recruitment among other things. Warne admitted "Obviously the circumstances are not as we imagined

when we stood and were chosen...of particular concern is the future [of the club] beyond this year." Spare a thought for Chris Hillman too, outgoing Lacrosse Tour Secretary and incoming Social Secretary. Having arranged a tour for 2020, which was "a lot of work" and unsurprisingly cancelled, he now faces a year where, for the first time in living memory, the ritual of piling into Timepiece after a packed social won't be able to happen. Hillman felt it was "massive shame" the Women's 1st team didn't get the chance to win a historic BUCS Gold after their final against Durham in March was cancelled, and for the recruitment, there is "stress on the men's side" with socials and face-toface conversations so key to getting men in particular to play the game. Nevertheless, he feels a "challenging" year will not be overly difficult. "There are so many tough aspects, and we've got a tough year ahead, but I'm willing to take it on and see what happens. "Our venue for next year have said we can have multiple evenings in the first few weeks of term," and they have worked together to come up with plans to make sure they are able to keep the critical social side ticking over. "Say for example if venues are limited to a certain capacity, you could have one set of people one night, and another for another night."

94 per cent of universities have reported increases in the use of counselling The determination to make things work is matched by the enthusiastic Warne, who is full of ideas ranging from NHS fundraisers, where footballers ran a combined 4000km at the start of lockdown, to bringing in "buddy systems" to help freshers settle in and interact with club members, whilst limiting the number of people they interact with to ensure social distancing. "[I'm] very proud of my committee" he added, "we have lads working overtime with stash, social media and general secs working overtime. Lots of our members should begin to be appreciative of the immense effort a small section of students, like themselves, do merely for the enjoyment of others." And Taylor remains relatively positive as well, "[The AU] are as

Image: Neha Shaji

prepared as they can be, and as prepared as other institutions...we're all in the same boat together, and it's about working together to try and make sport happen and deliver the best sporting experiences we can do." There are many at the University who don’t play sport, and for those of you who may have stumbled upon this page inadvertently, or Freshers who wanted the full Exeposé experience with little intention to engage in university sport, it can be difficult to understand why sport which is completely amateur (save for some scholarships and expenses paid to certain top athletes), is worth making such a fuss about. Perhaps the main reason would be the mental health benefits. Mental health issues are becoming more and more of a problem at universities with a 500 per cent increase in students suffering from mental health issues between 2006 and 2016. 94 per cent of higher education institutions have reported increases in the use of their counselling services in recent years. University age is one ripe for the development of mental health issues, and potential homesickness, social anxiety and the intensity of having to fit in, as well as do a degree, can be a major burden.

Image: pxhere

An anonymous sport writer wrote one of the most thoughtful and important pieces I have had the fortune to read on these pages during my time

at Exeter when I was in the early stages of first year back in October 2018. Their last words of the article read: “A regular escape into the sporting domain provides an often much-needed break from reality.” They credited the chance to throw themselves into sport for helping them fight their “ongoing battle with mental health” described as “the hardest thing I’ve ever had to come to terms with, let alone deal with.”

The team aspect allows people to make friends, which is increasingly difficult It was a brilliant reminder of the positive effect sport can have, and had a profound effect on me. As a severe Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) sufferer myself, this is something I can relate to hugely. Releasing endorphins while surrounded by teammates brings with it a sense of joy that is so satisfying and calming, win or lose. Virtually all sports at the University have some kind of team aspect to them and even individual sports are ultimately played in teams, with each player receiving a point, for example. The team aspect allows people to make friends, which is becoming increasingly difficult for every new group of Freshers with the comfort of being able to hide behind one’s phone easier and easier. Indeed the absence of sport is just one of a number of reasons making friends will be more difficult during COVID-19 social distancing. Sport will return to Exeter, and committees will be supported to be able to keep their clubs alive, but the lack of on-the-field action will serve as a reminder that this pandemic is far from over.

SPORT

Go Grecian lightning

Sport Editor Joel Edwards previews the season ahead for Exeter City, hoping sparks will fly to send the Grecians up

N what has been a season different to anything any of us have ever experienced, one thing has remained the same: Exeter City have fallen at the final hurdle and remained in League Two. Like a Pixar film, their season has reeled the fans in and inevitably left us in tears. However, more like Cars 2 than Coco, these tears are tinged with disappointment as fans question what could have been. In unprecedented times, adjusted points were used to determine the final standings in the world’s greatest league: League Two. With the division halted with nine games to play, and Exeter three points behind not only the automatic promotion threshold but also fierce rivals Plymouth, to finish in the play-offs was a definite anticlimax and frankly a disappointment. Matt Taylor had coaxed some very strong results and dazzling play out of the Grecians throughout the 19/20 season, worthy of automatic promotion and a coveted spot in the world’s second greatest league: League One. However, the St James’s Park faithful were left watching their team lose

a third play-off final in four years, an unfortunate record that all associated with the club will be hoping has come to an end. However, as heartbreaking as this unwanted record is, it does show that the team has been achieving consistently high league finishes, inspiring some hope for the season to come.

Taylor has coaxed some dazzling play out of the Grecians A large chunk of this success is down to the academy. Exeter City have produced several fine players who have gone on to play in the Premier League (the world’s third greatest league) such as Ethan Ampadu and George Friend, as well as Ollie Watkins, this season’s top scorer in the Championship. 11 of the current 23 man squad are academy graduates. Will this be the year Matt Jay or Archie Collins break into double figures in the scoring charts? Will Jack Sparkes get another run in the first team following his return from injury?

Which other graduates will be thrust into the first team, grab their chance and set League Two alight? This season, as always, promises further excitement from the academy graduates of Exeter City. Over £7 million of transfer sales in the last five years have allowed the Grecians to splash cash on the budget galácticos that form the rest of the squad. Ryan Bowman, an iconic triangular haircut away from Ronaldo, finished as Exeter’s top scorer in 2020 with 14 goals. Nicky Law, who has gone one step further and emulated Zidane’s bald head, dominated the middle of the park as City’s chief creative force, finishing the season with a very respectable seven goals and seven assists. Undoubtedly, this season’s star player, honoured with Player of the Season, was Randall Williams. The David Beckham of the budget galácticos, Williams played his part with 19 goal contributions including 14 assists; a joint league high. If Exeter can hold on to these star players, they will be a force to be reckoned with next season. A number of the old guard have

moved on following defeat in the playoff final. Home grown hero Dean Moxey, fan favourite Craig Woodman and third-top scorer this season Lee Martin have all said their goodbyes, and replacing these departures will be key to the success of the Grecians this season.

Williams, the David Beckham of the budget galácticos

Exeter’s position come May 2021 will be affected not only by any further outbreaks, but also the squad. If the academy has pumped the first team squad full of more gems and the creative core remain in the South West, this season could bring many spoils. Matt Taylor has built a good footballing foundation and league finishes of 9th in 2019 and 5th in 2020 suggest the only way is up, and there is much to be excited about in red and white.

It is uncertain when fans will be allowed back inside the superior St James's Park, but as soon as the go ahead is given and you feel safe to do so, I cannot recommend going to support the mighty Grecians enough! Academy prospects and star players are not the only thing to look out for - student deals make going to support your local club both a great social experience and crucialy affordable.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Exeter remain Chiefs

Editor Bryony Gooch discusses a potential rebranding for the Chiefs before the start of the season

OLLOWING a lengthy campaign and debate within the Exeter rugby community, the Exeter Chiefs responded to scrutiny for their club branding. A campaign group called Exeter Chiefs For Change petitioned the Union rugby club asking them to remove their club branding, which uses Native American imagery, stating: “There is no place in a predominantly white British environment for appropriation of Indigenous Peoples‘ imagery that has no relation whatsoever to the history of the club, or the city.” The petition, started by supporters of the club, currently has almost 5,000 signatories. The club's statement discussed an internal review, in which it engaged with “its sponsors and key partners to seek their views – and they have also listened to the response of our supporters, the wider rugby community and certain sections from the Native American community, all of whom have provided us with detailed observations in letters, emails, social content and videos.” From this they concluded that “the use of the Chiefs logo was in fact highly respectful,” as was their “current branding.” However, they acknowledged that their mascot, Big Chief, “could be regarded as disrespectful” and they will not be using it anymore. The Exeter-based rugby club have been officially known as the Chiefs since

Image: Owain Evans

1999, although the board stated that “the name Chiefs dated back into the early 1900s and had a long history with people in the Devon area.”

The petition currently has almost 5,000 signatories

That being said, the petition itself noted “the club doesn’t even need to change its name - Exeter Chiefs could refer to the Celtic Chiefs who inhabited the city and contributed to its rich and diverse history. It is the imagery that must change.”

The debate of the Chiefs’ branding comes on the heels of this summer’s Black Lives Matter protests in which wider discussions of racism and cultural insensitivities have entered the mainstream discussion. But cultural misappropriation has been a regularly occurring debate over the past few years. At Coachella, festivalgoers wearing indigenous headdresses, kimonos or dashikis have been criticised for cultural misappropriation. The discussion of the Chiefs primarily relates to the commercial use of Native American imagery including the sales of indigenous headdresses and the club’s Tomahawk Chop chant.

The indigenous headdress itself holds a significance within Indigenous culture as it used to indicate a figure’s importance within a tribe. Meanwhile, BT Sport weighed in by announcing they will be axing the Tomahawk Chop fake fan-noise at Premiership rugby matches. Some have argued that the Chiefs’ branding does not intend to offend, merely functioning as a way for supporters to identify with the club and cheer their team on. Or they have suggested that it could be compared to that of the London Irish, a club founded by student exiles in the 1800s, or the Saracens, so named in relation to Saladin the Kurdish leader of the military campaign against the 12th century crusaders. The Saracens’ own mascot is Sarrie the Camel – although there is more indication the 12th century Saracens rode horses, and that this merely plays on Middle Eastern stereotypes. While the Exeter Chiefs seem satisfied with their decision to drop ‘Big Chief ’, the Chiefs For Change campaign were notably disappointed. They responded in their own statement that “Exeter’s refusal to fully listen to these please is tone deaf and sticks two fingers up not only to them but to all minorities.” Either way, there is an indication that this debate will continue within the Club, and that it might very well extend across the rest of the league.

Club profile: • • • • • • • • •

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Founded: 1871 League: Premiership Rugby Highest finish: winners (2016/17) Stadium: Sandy Park Capacity: 12, 921 Captain: Jack Yeandle Director of Rugby: Rob Baxter Chairman: Tony Rowe OBE 2018/19 placement: runners-up (first in the league season, lost in the final vs Saracens) Recent finishes: runners-up in 2015/16 and 2017/18 Highest European Champions Cup finish: quarter-finals (2015/16) Relegations: 1 (1994/95) Recent honours: RFU Championship winners 2009/10, LV Cup champions 2013/14, Aviva Premiership champions 2016/17, Anglo-Welsh Cup champions 2017/18 The Chiefs are the only side to win the top four tiers of English rugby Notable EURFC alumni: Henry Slade, Sam Skinner, Jack Maunder, Sam Maunder, Richard Capstick, Tom Lawday.

Images: Mary Youlden & 1966666 (both Pixabay)

Sport

11 SEP 2020 | EXEPOSÉ

SPORT EDITORS: Nick Powell Joel Edwards

Emerging from Covid

Nick Powell, Print Sport Editor, delves into the future of women’s sport

Images (clockwise): Stepro, Wikicommons; Ashley Dace; flickr

Nick Powell Sport Editor

HE last three years have been quite extraordinary for women’s sport. England’s national teams have matched their male counterparts by winning the Cricket World Cup, reaching a Rugby World Cup Final and a Football World Cup semi-final. In Netball, England claimed Gold in the Commonwealth Games, and 2019 saw the continued rise of Dina Asher-Smith; a star sprinter who was tipped for great things in the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. Whilst no-one can underestimate the disappointment and problems that will arise for Asher-Smith with the games being delayed by a year, she will ultimately receive the funding and support

she needs to make it to the games, and that is a great thing. But for many of the aforementioned team sports, the COVID-19 crisis has caused a major bump in the road. In an interview with The Guardian, women’s Sport Trust co-founder Tammy Parlour said: “we have to acknowledge there is a very real threat to women’s sport, especially as under pressure people often revert to the old ways of doing things.” Those old ways saw women treated and duly paid as amateurs, and this prevented the standard improving, and not attracting fans as a result. This vicious cycle was then reversed when investment enabled more fans, better paid players, better facilities and, therefore, a constantly improving quality of sport. Women’s sport was finally on the road

to sustained success both in the UK and across the world. Now, however, COVID-19 presents a huge threat. Women’s sport events were the first to be delayed or cancelled, with the top leagues of rugby, football and cricket all halted early - in the case of the latter, not going ahead at all - and little talk of what shape their return has taken. This summer of sport has been completely lacking in any matches, series or events including women. Test cricket is back, the Premier League concluded, rugby’s Premiership is concluding and PGA Tour Golf made a swift return; however, from mid-March to the time of publication, sport has not seen a more male-dominated six month period in the 21st century. Of course, men’s sport still

attracts a large amount of money, but the speed at which women’s sport was “neglected,” in the words of heptahlon icon Denise Lewis, was alarming.

Sport has not seen a more male-dominated six month period in the 21st century Of course, it is not all doom and gloom. Most top leagues of women’s sport are starting back in September and whilst the COVID-19 break has been long, it has in no way been long enough to kill off the wave of enthusiasm that has caused a great increase in participation of young girls in sport, and the interest among ticket-paying adults. The

86,000 that watched the Women’s T20 World Cup at the Melbourne Cricket Ground perfectly displays the optimism many have for a successful return. It will need every single bit of enthusiasm to keep things ticking over; with sponsorship in all sport set to crash - the Women’s Premier Rugby have already lost their sponsorship deal with Tyrell’s - much of the money to fund women’s sport will have to be made through ticket sales. The rise of women’s professional sport does mean that grassroots, youth and university sport are unlikely to see such an imbalance, and would likely be criticised if they did, but this is a critical period at all levels to ensure that women’s sport remains on the upward trajectory of recent years.

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