G-You March/April Issue

It’s Our Last Issue...

Contents P.4. From The Board -Flora Mackeddie P.5. Photography Winner P.6. Features - SHARK WEEK P.7. Features - Glasgow Hacks P.8. Lifestyle - Healthy is the New Sexy P.9. Lifestyle - Go With the FROW P.10. Politics - Student Election Success P.11. Politics - Electionwatch 2015 & History Repeating P.12. Culture - A First Year’s Culture P.13. Culture - Best of the Small Bunch & Big Hero 6 P.14. Column - Erasmust P.15. Column - Two Unions or Just One? P.16. Societies -GU Eurovision Society P.17. Opinion - Beer Bar Chat P.18. GUSA Update

Our Contributors Cal Davies Taggy Elliott Moray Fraser Flora Mackeddie Huw Clarke Harriet Johnston Annabeth Wilson Alice Cockburn Owen Martin Matei Botez

Romain Ricchi Hannah Burgess Ellen Andrew Kathryn Stevenson Emma Keys Frin Hayden Anna Ireland Olivia Collison-Owen Lucy Keown

A Word From The Editor The year is drawing to a close, and this is the last issue of the lovely G-You until Freshers’ Week 2015 - never fear however, because we’re going online in a big way. Check out our Facebook for the link to our website, where we’ll be blogging, reviewing films, gossiping and moaning about the horrendousness of exams (FINALS AAAHHHH), which should tide you over until it’s time for the new year.

This year has been massive not only for Glasgow but particularly for the University, from divesting from fossil fuels to SWaG’s talk with Nicola Sturgeon. Now, as Spring seems to be slowly creeping up on us - HALLELUJAH - we’re summing up the year in the best way possible.

Student election analysis, opinions on the validity of GU’s two student unions, and perhaps randomly, info on Shark Week THE BEST TIME OF THE YEAR all awaits you this issue. Also make sure you check out Juice Garden, with our cheeky review on page 8. It’s just quite lovely, all in all. Until next year!

Lucy Keown Editor-In-Chief GUU Convener Of Libraries

The Editorial Team Editor-In-Chief:

Lucy Keown Features Editor:

Harriet Johnston Politics Editor:

Kathryn Stevenson Lifestyle Editor:

Annabeth Wilson

Column Editor:

Hannah Burgess Design and Cover Editor

Rachel Bean Layout and Photography Editor:

Romain Ricchi

We welcome new talent in the form of writers, photographers, designers and more to contribute to G-You. Every week we hold an Open Meeting on Mondays at 5pm in the Bridie Library of GUU - make sure to come along and introduce yourself, getting involved has never been easier!

If you’d like to contribute to the magazine in any way (editorially, writing or photography) e-mail: libraries@guu.co.uk The opinions expressed in this publication do not represent those of Glasgow University Union.

Find us online:

gyoumagazine.wordpress.com issuu.com/guuimagazine

G-Your Board

From the Board

Flora Mackeddie

HELLOOOOO TO ALL YOU LOVELY READERS! I’m Flora and I am incredibly excited to be able to say I am now (waaaah) the Assistant Honorary Secretary of Glasgow University Union. That sounds like a very long and official name, and even I’m not 100% sure what Secretary I’m Assisting in Honour of, but one thing I do know for certain is our newly elected Board of Management is one unstoppable group of people that I could not be happier to be working with over the next year, to take Glasgow University Union through its biggest and most exciting year yet. During 2015/2016, Glasgow University Union is going to go through some MASSIVE changes to benefit the whole student body, with the opening of the brand new extension not only bringing a new nightclub onto campus, but a range of new bars and

throughout the year, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled for posters around the building and on our Facebook where we’ll keep you all posted when application forms are out.

If a committee maybe isn’t your thing, but you’re yearning to have more fun during your time at University, then boy oh boy do we have just the thing for you come this September….

WE WANT YOU

to come join the yellow army of

GUU Freshers’ Helpers, to help rally both new and returning students into seeing why Glasgow University Union is in the forefront of the student experience of Glasgow University.

From moving bewildered Freshers into student halls, chanting to your hearts content at the Freshers’ Address and and pardyyyying away at all the nights we’ll be putting on come Autumn 2015, being a Fresher’s Helper will provide you with 10 days

café’s right here

of

within the doors of the Union.

These

range

reasons

keep

a

Facebook,

Twitter

and

around

the

building as our

discounts

application forms

within our services

will be available

events, will

at

checking

our

give you benefits

but

time

uni. Make sure to

GUU will not only

and

you’ll

other

of

member of the

and

and

mayhem

quite like at any

why

becoming

madness

never experience

changes

will bring a whole new

complete

in

give

the

next

couple of weeks!

you a sense of belonging in the biggest and best student Union in the UK. Want to get more involved in the leading student body on campus? We don’t blame you. There has never been a more exciting time to take your Union membership that one step further and join a GUU committee, where your input really can make a huge difference to what happens within Glasgow University Union. Our four standing committees of

As for just now, this is (boooooo) the last edition of the G-You until we’ll be seeing all your lovely faces fresh from Summer come September, and I hope that this little insight into why getting more involved in YOUR Union will completely alter and enhance your experience of being a student at Glasgow University. See you in the yellow t-shirts…. #wereallydohavemorefun

Debates, Games, Libraries and Entertainments, organise weekly and one off events for our members ranging from Open Mic to Beer Pong, Comedy Nights to Speaker Training, the Beer Bar Quiz to this very magazine you are reading, to name but a few of the fab events on offer here within Glasgow University Union. Our Committees are on the lookout for new committee members at different points

4

Flora Mackeddie GUU Assistant Honorary Secretary 2015/2016

Photography Winner!

Romain Ricchi

Memories The dictionary gives simple definitions likes ‘something remembered from the past’. I believe there is more than ‘something’.

We all remember simple events and facts but, for me, a memory is essentially a thought which brings back the feelings of the remembered instant.

This photo,

‘Foggy Memoriez’

photography competition on the theme ‘Memories’.

by

Angus Blair,

is the winner of our

I can almost imagine this place. The place is clear, well remembered, however the surrounding are blurred in the fog.

Memories are sometimes unclear! We know it was a good moment but don’t really remember why.

Good photo shot at the right moment; also showing that it’s not the most glamorous places which create a good photograph.

5

G-Your Features

SHARK WEEK

Owen Martin

In the summer of 2008, my parents answered all my prayers by

1. You are more likely to get killed by a dog than a shark. So

booking a holiday for me and my sister to go to Disney World

technically your lovely pet pug could maul you before a shark

in Florida. When we arrived in Orlando, one of the first things I

does. Coconuts, traffic lights, champagne corks, ladders,

saw was not Micky Mouse or Donald Duck, but a billboard in

icicles, vending machines and lighting are also bigger killers

the baggage reclaim for “Shark Week”. From that point on,

per year than sharks.

all anyone seemed to be talking about - whether it was on

2. The Bull Shark can survive in both freshwater and seawater.

the radio, TV and even in the news - was Shark Week. A whole

That means it can swim up rivers (scary thought) and has been

week dedicated to shark documentaries on the Discovery

found in the past in both the Mississippi and the Amazon. It

Channel seemed, to me, completely bizarre and not worth

is one of the “big three” killers (the other two being Great

all the insane amount of hype it was getting everywhere we

White and Tiger Sharks) and is believed to be the only shark

went. Considering New Smyrna

that has attacked humans

Beach in Florida is the shark

intentionally.

attack capital of the World,

3. The head of a crocodile,

with more incidents per square

polar bear remains, poisonous

mile than on any other beach, I

sea snakes, a human arm and

assumed that Florida locals held

Barbie dolls have all been

some kind of resonance with it

found

and people were genuinely just

sharks. They are badass.

interested in the whole science

4.

behind

shark

around chunks of seaweed to

attacks. But then when I heard

play a shark version of football.

celebrities

sharks and

and

5.

personalities

in

the

Porbeagle

Sharks

stomachs sharks

cannot

of toss

swim

from all over the world going crazy for it, I couldn’t get my

backwards. If you were to pull a shark by the tail, it would

head around it.

die within minutes because the flow of water into the gills is disrupted and the shark would drown (oh the irony).

So then I decided to watch one of the documentaries.

6. Goblin sharks have a specialised jaw that protrudes out its

And another. And another. And I literally couldn’t stop.

body when it attacks prey. They are also terrifying to look at.

The programmes were not only informative, but they were

7. Every once in a while, a female shark can reproduce

genuinely gripping and exciting and, most of all, absolutely

without any contact from a male. This act is known as

mind blowing. Sure I had seen shark films in the past like Jaws

parthenogenesis.

and Deep Blue Sea, but the science and reality behind it

8. Sharks freak out at the smell of shark blood. Research has

was something I had never really considered. The plain and

indicated that sharks will quickly flea and continue to actively

simple truth is that sharks are unbelievably cool. They are

avoid an area when they smell the chemical released by

arguably one of the most feared and mysterious animals on

dead and dying sharks. It’s as if they know they are top of the

the planet, seen by many as a danger that lurks beneath.

food chain or something.

Lions, elephants, crocodiles and buffalo all kill more humans

9. A lengthy study completed in 2013 found that pregnant

per year than sharks, but for some reason sharks still remain

sharks return to the place where they were born to give

the ultimate, and most fascinating, predators on earth.

birth to their young. They’re pretty intelligent after all. Also,

Maybe it’s because even today with modern science and

depending on the species, a shark can be born three

technology, so little is actually known about them and their

different ways; live birth, hatching from an egg, and an egg-

behaviour, and in recent years more than an astonishing 40

and-live-birth combination.

new species have been discovered.

10. The total number of shark fatalities recorded since the year 1580 is 548. On average, sharks kill between 10-12 people a

So why watch Shark Week? Even if you don’t give a crap

year. Humans kill 11,417 sharks per hour. Not very sound, are

about sharks I promise you you will be on the edge of your

we?

seat. You’ll also be very surprised at how mesmerising it is watching sharks swim, eat and breed. If I still haven’t

As I said before, absolutely mind blowing. Now make sure you

convinced you here are 10 facts I learnt that are sure to

tune into Shark Week this year when it all kicks off on July 5th.

fascinate you enough to want to watch it:

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Glasgow Hacks

Kathryn Stevenson

Graduation is approaching and a part from feeling extremely

vendetta for the first year who huffing and puffing on Level

withered from nearly four year of excessive boozing, there is

8 last week. 1) You’re a first year- why are you even at the

a slight smell of smugness in the air as we don our robes and

library? 2) You’re a first year- how did you even figure out

head for the skies. However for those of you still struggling

how to get up here? My first year in the library, I spent the first

through your university career, don’t panic, we’re here to

couple of months wandering around short loan collection,

impart our wisdom to you as a final farewell gift.

just trying to figure out why the books weren’t in alphabetical order. Resulting in a severe dependency on Spark Notes-

Never pay full price for a meal during the week

Fingers crossed for the 2.1.

Glasgow is bursting with two for ones, buy one get one frees and Groupon deals galore. Anything else is daylight robbery.

Or you can use the fact the meal is half price to justify purchasing that over-priced bottle of wine. You win some, you lose some.

Be nice to the Library Level 3 Café ladies They have great chat and give free stamps to those who find favour. It also passes the time quite nicely- that awkward lingering part when you’re still tumbling over milk and sugar.

That’s the part when the ladies like to gush about weekends away, driving tests and husbands who come from Dungannon (hats off to anyone who gets that reference).

Never rush away from a gig at O2 ABC Take a stroll on down to the Nice n Sleazy’s where bands enjoy an after gig pint. Only the brave need apply as you actually have to approach the band and say something cheesy, like ‘great set tonight guys’. However if you can conquer this small obstacle, (or reach it as I found in the case of Hoizer - the man is 6 ft 5) a night of entertainment awaits.

Learn to like rugby

I’ve spent many a night offending the lead singer of Kodaline,

At least pretend to. Having to live in a house filled with girls,

coercing one part of the Hudson Taylor duo into Irish dancing

my Dad quickly discovered that rugby managed to dull the

and charming the bass player from Naked and Famous into

constant chat of make-up, revolving boyfriends and newly

buying me another white Russian. All of whom, I now consider

discovered hormones. So we became quite acquainted

friends for life.

with the sport growing up. For those who haven’t, you should because if you haven’t noticed already, the six nations is a

The love/hate relationship you have with the Beer Bar

season in itself at University. You may not understand why

Like the queues on St Paddy’s day, I know we’re all dreading

there is so much touching or why they keep running into each

it but we’ll stand there anyway and await that glorious Irish

other but it will be a vital part of your university life.

pint of fun. Or having to endure other people’s bad taste of music on the jukebox- apologises for the Ja Rule. The place

So we can’t promise that you’ll get a first or come out with an

you’ll have some of the best nights at Uni and the place

array of valuable extra criterial activities but we can ensure

you’ll make some of your worst decisions at Uni. But with the

that you’ll have the best/cheapest time of your life. Glasgow

cheapest pint of Tennents in the world, you know that deep

is an amazing city to spend your university years in, so get

down love will always prevail.

make sure you enjoy it. Spend too much money on bad house wine. Spend too much time in the beer bar thinking

The Laws of the Library

you’re the next Annie Mac on the jukebox. And spend too

The higher you go, the more intense it will be. If you’re planning

much time snooping around Sauchiehall Street chasing rock

a quick drop in then I advise no higher than Level 6, and even

stars. You’ll end up spending many late nights in the library

at that, you’re pushing it. There is a right of passage when it

but you’ll have so many “do you remember that time…”

comes to what year groups can sit where. I had a personal

moments that it’ll make it all worth it.

7

G-Your Lifestyle

Healthy is the New Sexy Emma Keys & Frin Hayden

We’ve all noticed the health obsessed, cleanse crazy hashtags bombarding our Instagram feed, updating us

all just how great they feel on a #juicecleanse because after all #youarewhatyoueat. Having recently opened so close to the university, The Juice Garden seems to be quite the hype in this social media frenzy, with big names such as Frankie Boyle and David Connor being snapped there.

from an energiser to a 12oz cancer deterrent. After careful consideration, we went for the recommended hangover cure “soup”er salad and BIG GYM set to work as a respiratory aid, provide oxygen to cells and high in electrolytes, all for just £3.85. We both ordered a sandwich as well and were given advice on the sauce that would best compliment it.

The smoothies were nice but a few gulps it became obvious we’d really thrown ourselves in at the deep end opting for the green juices as there was no disguising the blended combination of spinach, carrots and celery. In hindsight I’d recommend easing yourself in slowly to the botanical experience by starting of with something sweet and fruity.

Although the order got a bit confused the sandwiches were great, they came on rye bread and were a good size, averaging at about £5 each. We would both highly recommend the Popeye Chicken. It was also a nice addition that you could customise your sandwich with one of their three sauces.

Overall

the

prices

were

pretty

reasonable, although faring slightly more than

your

average

sandwich and juice we feel this is justified for a healthy, fresh, guilt free meal - and of course the hundreds

The Juice Garden was created to provide a healthy alternative

of

to the vast number of fast food outlets in big cities. Offering

guaranteed

Instagram

100% freshly extracted fruit, rye bread and a grass floor, what

now

better place to start...it’s just sooo west end darling.

we

likes all

-

know

This month myself and Frin Hayden donned our shiniest Nike trainers as we struggled past Greggs to the botanical juice bar on Byres Road. The interior maintained the clean, fresh theme continued throughout the menu, with a glass front, white walls and a grass floor in the seated area. Although it is quite small, the friendly and relaxed atmosphere provides the perfect place to come to catch up with friends over lunch.

When we arrived we were talked through the wide range of juices available on the menu, which are categorised into green and red juices, botanical smoothies and healthy & beauty juices. Under each juice the menu also includes a short list of the beneficial effects of the juice, ranging

8

#healthyisthenewsexy.

Emma’s Choices: Soup’er Salad Juice & B’root Sandwich beetroot, creamy hummus, finely grated carrot, beetroot ketchup Frin’s Choice’s: Big Gym Juice & Popeye Chicken Sandwich chicken, avocado and spinach , nut based pesto 233 Byres Road, G12 8UD Take-out and delivery options available also.

Go With The FROW

Annabeth Wilson

Everyone gets asked the big question at some point-

what’s the dream? Whilst for many of us, putting a label on your dream may seem impossible and probably terrifying, some have achieved

such things. Some, like Glasgow

School of Art student Jane Maguire, who didn’t only label her dream, but labelled it with high fashion style and couture.

Jane Maguire spent her summer in NEW YORK interning for the globally renown fashion super house that is

Marchesa.

I found out about her experiences with one of the biggest names in fashion and what she had to say about her bite at the Big Apple.

What were the ups and downs of your internship?

My overall New York internship experience was the most incredible experience I’ve had to date. I spent the entire summer in the city, working for such an inspirational fashion company and attending fashion week was basically a dream come true. I gained new design skills, learnt substantially in my studied subject as well as meeting some amazing people.

Intern life can be hard, with long hours and challenging tasks but it was most definitely worth it!

Were you paid?

I was unpaid, but was given cool fabrics including embroidered silks, a dress, embellished accessorizes and I was always provided with fancy snacks and cupcakes! :) What was New York like?

New York was amazing! It was my first time experience ever in the city and it made such a big impression on me! It has such an exciting atmosphere, the people are so vibrant and friendly. New York has some great places to explore, my personal favourites being Moma PS1, Gushonen and the Highline, great spots that are a must see if you ever visit the Big Apple!

The design studio I was working at was based in Manhattan so I enjoyed walking the Highline every morning to work. I lived in Williamsburg Brooklyn, a neighborhood known for its hipster hangouts and summer rooftop parties. It was nice to escape from the crazy buzz of Manhattan every evening. I lived in an artist loft, a great space with 2 other Americans working in the music and film industries. The loft had a rooftop that captured the Manhattan skyline!

How did you get involved/ hear about it?

I had always followed the brand Marchesa and have always longed of an internship with them. There internship contact is on their website which I emailed with my C.V and Portfolio and things just sort of led from there.

What would an average day at Marchesa consist of?

My average day would involve getting up at 9am, taking the subway into Manhattan and walking to work for a 10am start. Once at work , I would be given different tasks , varying day to day on what I had to do. It usually involved embroidery design, drawing, painting accessories, draping, fabric manipulations, lace placements, dyeing fabrics and trims, and sourcing fabric sample form the New York garment district. I would usually finish at around 6.30pm.

What did you get up to in your free time?

The food in New York is amazing so I seemed to eat out all the time, as you can find some really cheap places with great cuisine! As well as this, in the evenings I would take a bike ride over the Williamsburg Bridge or go for run, as the long warm nights were great for keeping active. The weekends I had off, so I tended to get up to much more then. There are so many places to visit in New York, its crazy! I’m a museum lover so often I found myself taking time discovering cool galleries, making drawings and taking pictures- everything in New York provided me inspiration for my work! I explored Williamsburg a lot with their flea markets and bargain vintage shops, all along side a free outdoor public pool. This was a must , as the summers in New York can be unbearably hot, with the pool being a great spot for a cool down!

Would you recommend interning to others?

Interning is such an important thing to do, you learn so much about yourself and your interests. I met so many different types of people and contacts that have now become close friends. Marchesa was a great start and has influenced so much of my final year at The Glasgow School Of Art. The techniques I learned with Marchesa I’m now using in my final fashion graduate collection. I think travel and interning are a brilliant combination, as I found new places and landscapes as inspiration for my creative design process. I feel I got a really good work and life balance with my internship in New York, unlike my previous year’s internship I completed in London where it was extremely long hours and didn’t get to enjoy the city. Although unpaid at Marchesa, I feel the skills I learnt whilst there are invaluable to me in my career.

If you are interested in interning anywhere, I would advise to seek experience in a company or organization you’re truly enthused by. This stood by me in my experience because I absolutely adored everything I worked on every single day, which made it feel like I wasn’t working at all!

Interviewee: Jane Maguire Words by Annabeth Wilson.

9

G-Your Politics

Student Election Success Kathryn Stevenson

As the dregs of the election

leaflets gather in the gutter and facebook proganda lingers awkwardly, it can only mean one thing- post student election blues.

However for those whose vigorous campaigning paid off, we ask- how do you win a student election? And who better to ask than our very own freshly elected GUU President Rory Slater. Rory is in his 4th year studying aerospace engineering.

We caught up with Rory on his first day on the job to find out more about our new President and discover what it takes to win a student election.

Can you tell us three unusual things about yourself?

Oh, ok so I play the accordion in a ceilidh band, my dad was born in Kenya, and… let’s see, I’m a natural blonde?

How did you first get involved in the union?

I applied to be on PR team, well actually I applied to be on PR team… By accident. I thought PR TEAM meant you wanted to become a fresher helper. I got onto the team so I became a fresher helper anyway.

But I almost messed that up too. I missed the post on Facebook telling us it started on the Thursday, I thought it started on the Friday. I got a phone call when I was in the middle of Ikea with my mum wondering where the I was!

How many elections have you run in?

Two- I ran for PSM, but unopposed for Honorary Secretary ast year and now this one. Which is a good thing, it gives you a lot more value but also, you feel you have to do a good job now. It made you challenge everything you thought about. I was surprised to feel the same nerves putting up my facebook page when running for PSM as GUU President. There is this horrible moment of doubt, what if people don’t like me? Literally. But you’re slowly reassured as the likes start to roll in. But it is stranger when you realise that it’s just two of you, PSM is such a big group. It’s interesting to think about as it is very similar feelings.

How was election day?

On the day, I was pretty relaxed. Apart from the Hustings, that was horrible. Apparently it didn’t go horrendous but it felt horrendous. I had a mental block all after trying to write my speech. On the day, I enjoyed the actual face to face campaigning, going up to people and talking to them. I just went really big at lamp-posting things on the day, I mean huge. I was up at 7am so it’s a long day.

Probably why I caught a glimpse of you sleeping in beer bar on election night?

Well, (laughter) yes- People kept telling me I wasn’t celebrating enough but then all at once… I was celebrating too much. I rang the bell… twice!

10

How did it feel when you were told the count?

My initial reaction was concern for Holly, and I didn’t want to celebrate too much. But she was so supportive right from that moment that it made it easier. She’s been very positive since.

Was it strange to run in an election against your colleague and friend?

It was very weird. There’s two of us, we both think we’d be good, we both think the other person would be good. So the only way to decide is to let the people decide and that’ll be the answer. I thought it was the difference of 100 votes so I running around for half an hour before I heard that it was only 30! Quickly brought me back down to earth again.

Competing for a job against your friend that you know you’ll both be great at is difficult but we both ultimately want the best for the union. Holly had brilliant ideas for the union and I look forward to implementing some of them.

How do you approach a situation like that?

We were discussing and I the one who almost persuaded her to do it, which was obviously really bad for me but actually really good for the Union and good for us both. We agreed that as long as we were happy with whoever got it. We tried to keep it as friendly an election as possible- we even voted for each other.

The GUU President is the only non- sabbatical position of University of Glasgow’s student bodies. Does that make a difference?

There’s no separation between the President and the rest of the board.

I’m not trying to be too critical of other student bodies but I can see that the sabbatical position would put pressure on the president, it’s their 9 to 5 job, they’re expected to be doing more. It creates a natural separation on board but we’re on in the same boat. Everyone puts the work in. I like it that way. We’re so much closer because we’re all in it together. Yes the executive have a lot to do but we’re all still at University so no one is like divided by £15,000 a year.

How is the first day on the job?

We’ve been spring cleaning- cleared out bins bags of rubbish from the executive office. Owen left a dusky cupboard or two.

Actually found some gems in within the rough; the presidents cup, and a miniature model of the union! I’ve been doing lots of reading up on the new extension. There is still a lot to be done. The university is optimistic, the general manager is optimistic, and I’m optimistic so we’re hoping to be ready for Freshers' Week 2015!

Interviewee: Rory Slater Words by Kathryn Stevenson

Electionwatch 2015

Huw Clarke

It’s election

less than two months until the next general , and it looks like Britain will be getting not the government it needs, but the government it deserves. We are offered the tantalizing choice between five more years of an unpopular and occasionally amateurish incumbent, or a minority government supported by a nationalist party that supports the dissolution of the very country it is legislating.

Adding the constitutional challenges facing the union and it is difficult to envy any party that takes office. A new truly federal parliament may be the solution to the demands of the SNP. As Britain drifts further into isolationism and politics resembles a series of daily twitter outrages, it is difficult to see what the future holds for the British people.

The most contentious issue so far in the election campaign has not been the economy or pensions, but the wiliness of political leaders to appear on national television. In a move motivated by pure electioneering David Cameron has refused to appear in any political debates. One would have thought that anonymous Blair-like husk Cameron would come off favorably compared to total weirdo Ed Milliband.

However anything that gives the Labour leader a platform is probably beneficial rather than having to contend with the

right-wing media blackout. Instead we are being offered a sure-fire ratings winning, one-on-one interview between Cameron and an as yet unnamed interviewer (Graham Norton plz) The possibility of Britain catapulting out of the European Union looms ever closer, and few people seem to be willing to oppose our exit. Opinion polls for the first time now advocate an exit. Add to this the rise of left-wing, anti-austerity parties in Greece and Spain; and the situation looks increasingly toxic.

Pretty much all economic advice advocates the continued unity of Europe. A breakup would be disastrous and send the continent spiraling back into recession.

Britain’s constitutional structure is not the only thing facing collapse, its parliament buildings are looking pretty shaky too. The Houses of Westminster are need of a £3 billion repair programme. Apparently the mother of parliaments suffers from water damage and is home to several foxes (no I’m not talking about Tristram Hunt). Such expensive repairs would be unpopular in an era of austerity. Also parliament would have been housed elsewhere for the duration. Current solutions included packing MPS off into the provinces (possibly the North) to fend for themselves.

History Repeating?

Alice Cockburn As we are halfway through the decade it seems only right

anti-EU, anti-immigration and homophobic stance has held

to take a look back and see what we can learn from history.

seats in the European Union since 1999 and whose number of

Doing so shows us a rather worrying reoccurrence when it

seats in Westminster are steadily growing. An organisation of

comes to politics; there is an increasing trend towards right

note at the moment given the recent protests in Germany is

wing political and authoritarian governance across Europe.

the Patriotic European s against the Islamisation of the West

This mirrors the 1920s and 30s when Europe was in crisis following

(or Pegida) which is a populist, anti-immigration group. Its

World War I and people were growing increasingly desperate.

popularity is spreading from Germany to Sweden, Austria

In that period we saw the growth of right wing movements in

and Switzerland. The group have already met with opposition

countries across Europe, most notably Germany and Italy, but

from Chancellor Angela Merkel and organisations like the

also Hungary, Poland and Portugal. In the United Kingdom we

Cologne Cathedral, but it has also met support from political

resisted this move to the right with our inflexible class structure

parties such as the Alternative Fur Deutschland (AfD) who

which facilitated the maintenance of democracy. In the Cold

are gaining ground on Merkels conservative alliance. The

War period, with its proximity to the Second World War, right

National Front in France is also gaining in popularity, and

wing politics became taboo - the actions of Hitler, Franco

the party of power in Hungary, Jobbik, have been making

and Stalin made sure of that. Now that taboo has faded

serious moves, including constitutional changes, towards the

into the past. Immigration and the crisis the European Union

right. Unsurprisingly, Putin’s Russia has been a rallying point

(EU) finds itself in are breeding more conservative feelings.

for some of the organisations. With his promotion of ethnic

Founded on traditional left wing policies; the formation of a

nations rather than nation states and anti-immigration stance

social welfare state with high taxation and minimal spending

he is a powerful kindred spirit. History is showing us that this

on defence, the prolonged economic crisis and transferral

is not the first time this has happened, it is unlikely to result

of power away from individual countries and into the EU is

in another war, but it is contributing to a disunity in Europe

breeding hostility. The UK Independence Party, despite their

which is unlikely to bring strength.

11

G-Your Culture

A First Year’s Culture

Taggy Elliott

You’ll make a Glaswegian out of me yet…

When I moved to Glasgow back in September, I’m sorry to admit that I knew next to nothing about its amazing and eclectic culture. Now, at the end of my first year here, I’ve compiled a list of my favourite things about Glasgow and the

for students. Classic (read: infamous) nights out include Viper, Firewater (how can you say no to 89p mixer Thursdays?), The Garage and Nice’n’Sleazy, but I have to say that my most memorable night out this year has been Itchy Feet, a oneoff night held in the Art School in February. Itchy Feet events have been sweeping the United Kingdom, bringing with

things I’ve experienced and learned from living here so far:

them a brilliantly alternative night out. With music ranging

The Burrell Collection

all night. The drinks were pretty reasonably priced too, which

I went to see this collection, located in Pollock Country Park on Southside, with my parents when they visited and honestly the range of art is astounding. With works ranging from Chinese antiques, Islamic classical art, gothic art, impressionist paintings and even a selection of stained glass, it’s truly amazing. I cannot recommend the Burrell Collection highly enough, but if you need more convincing the park surrounding it has highland cows. Surely it’s worth making the trip for an oh-so-original Snapchat selfie of you and a

from rock’n’roll to ska to reggae, I literally didn’t stop dancing is always a winner, so look out for Itchy Feet the next time it hits Glasgow! I’m itching to go (sorry)...!

Loch Lomond I’ve not really been outside of Glasgow since I moved here as I wanted to adjust to student life and learn my way around the city before I ventured outside it. However, parents visiting is a pretty good excuse to get cultured and see stuff that isn’t very accessible without a car. Thus, Loch Lomond is the

highland cow? How much more cultured can you get?

Paolo Nutini

second place on my list that I have visited as a result of me wanting to show my parents that I do more during the day than binge-watch Netflix (I don’t think they were fooled).

Let’s make this clear- I am jumping on the bandwagon with my love of this gorgeous man, born and raised in our very own Paisley! I’ve always been a fan but it wasn’t until I moved here that I found out that not only is he from Glasgow, his family also owns a fish and chip shop. Cool, right? If you fancy listening to his Celtic lilt, I’m going to shamelessly plug his music and completely recommend giving his second album, Sunny Side Up, a listen. It’s one of my all-time favourites and

I digress. Loch Lomond is stunning, with a landscape that I feel encapsulates the beauty of Scotland’s countryside. As a fresher I’ve been so focused on coping with the changes in my life to take the time to visit places like this, but I’m so glad that I went. I totally recommend leaving the comfort of the Beer Bar and visiting this loch, as difficult as that may be; it’s an ideal afternoon out with your parents, trust me.

you won’t regret it.

I’m literally just scratching the surface with what makes

Itchy Feet

much, but I can’t wait to explore it more during my time at

Glasgow is home to some pretty fantastic clubs, especially

12

Glasgow such a cultural city and why I’ve come to love it so university.

Best of the Small Bunch

Anna Ireland

Scottish Music Festivals

If the prospect of a bleak summer filled with rain and the looming cloud of resits fills you with dread then fear no more - happiness awaits in the form of cheap alcohol, great music and even better scenery. What greater way to explore the best that Scotland has to offer than by visiting some of its best musical extravaganzas? Whether your taste is rock or electropop, let us give you the lowdown…

Eden Festival, Raehills Meadow, Moffat (11th – 14th June) With an impressively varied line-up for its size, Eden this year sees Grand Master Flash, Mungo’s Hi Fi and Queen R&B herself, Ms. Dynamite grace its stage and, at £79 for the weekend, it’s a win-win. With an appearance from Mr Motivator thrown in and Monster Ceilidh band, this is perfect for Scottish festival novices.

Kelburn Garden Party Festival, Kelburn (Fri 3rd – Sun 5th Jul) With 4 stages set in the grounds of Kelburn Castle, you can party till the small hours in a woodland grove at what is known for being a musically diverse, wacky and often wild event.

With weekend tickets for £93.50, this is perfect to squeeze into the 9-5 week, featuring a huge mix of genres. 2014’s line-up included the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, Red Snapper and Dolphin Boy.

Tiree Music Festival, Tiree (17th-19th July) Voted ‘Best Small Festival in Scotland’ at the Scottish Event Awards 2012/13, it boasts folk and traditional music from around Scotland, and is only a ferry-ride from Oban away. Its music is of the more obscure variety, but its fantastic scenery and whisky drinking opportunities make it a gem.

Wickerman Festival, East Kirkcarswell (Friday 24th – Saturday 25th July) Wickerman is known for merging crowd pleasers (previous headliners have included Primal Scream and Chic) with up and coming Scottish acts, with stages dedicated to punk, folk and dance. At £110 for a weekend ticket and featuring the ceremonial burning of the Wickerman at the end of the weekend, there’s flames and great music. What more could you want?

Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival, Inverness (6th – 8th August) This northern festival is getting bigger by the year. With incredible food and drink offerings as well as a healthy mix of mainstream and traditional Scottish music, this festival manages to be the life and soul of both the party and the family. Featuring plenty of surprises each year, including ceilidhs and roller discos, it offers a magic weekend in the highlands and boasts Kaiser Chiefs and the Proclaimers as 2015 headliners. Weekend tickets from £105.

Big Hero 6 Entertaining, action-packed and often touching, Big Hero 6 is the animation masterpiece you never saw

coming. Based on a little-known Marvel comic book, The Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature has become one of the most popular animated movies of 2014, and for good reason: it provides a very imaginative view of the future thanks to its sci-fi thematic, while at the same time delivering old-school fun for all ages.

Set in the fictional city of San Fransokyo, the plot revolves around 14-year-old Hiro Hamada, a robotics genius, who, after his brother dies in a fire accident, teams up with his friends and an inflatable health robot named Baymax in order to uncover a criminal conspiracy and save the city from destruction. The movie is briskly paced and filled with chases and battles which are likely to keep you on the edge of your seat; however, the plot is occasionally too conventional, even formulaic, with nothing which we haven’t seen in many other animations to date, meaning that a lot of times you can guess what will happen to the protagonists.

Speaking of which, the main characters, all of them teenagers, are generally well constructed and provide a good dose of humour to the story. Especially Hiro’s evolution and emotional struggles throughout the film are incredibly

Matei Botez

realistic and, therefore, relatable, even if his motivations for becoming a hero are not entirely original. The one character that truly steals the show is Baymax: built by Hiro’s brother, Tadashi, as a health assistant, he undergoes a hilarious transformation in order to become capable of fighting evil.

The adorable and huggable Baymax is often the source of the best moments in the film: from the laugh-out-loud scenes to the more sentimental ones, he proves to be an emotional support for Hiro, teaching him important lessons of kindness, forgiveness and staying true to oneself.

Possibly the best part of the movie is its stunning animation, a trademark of Disney Studios. The hybrid city of San Francisco and Tokyo is magnificently imagined, from the trolleys to the traditional Japanese houses. Equally amazing is the depiction of the character’s costumes and superpowers, and the scene when Baymax flies over Golden Gate Bridge with Hiro easily transports you into this fantasy world.

Big Hero 6 is another triumph for Disney Animation Studios. A balanced mix of action and emotion, the movie uses charm and likeability to overcome the shortcomings of its plot.

Considering it’s not even a Pixar production, its achievements are all the more incredible, making it a must-see for all fans of animations and feel-good movies.

13

G-Your Columns

Erasmust

When I applied to study abroad I almost forgot about that fact that I would have to actually physically pack my bags and move to the other side of the world.

But here I am, just over a year after I received my nomination from Seoniad at RIO and I am sitting in my student halls bedroom at The University of Western Australia (UWA) in Perth, Australia.

At the beginning it was like being a fresher all over again, attending activity fayres and being swept along in the enthusiasm of all the different types of student helper, not to mention being forced to take your student card photo ID when you are not really feeling your brightest.

However, that “fresher” novelty quickly wore off as I again realised that I am a third year, not a first year, and the catch of a 2nd semester only study abroad means that all my third year honours courses are crammed into twelve fun filled weeks.

I sound like I am complaining, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

In the past week and a half alone I have been surfing, I’ve been to Future Music festival, where I was within reaching distance of Drake, and I have been to Little Creatures Brewery for beer tasting in Fremantle and snorkelled off the edge of Rottnest Island.

This weekend I am taking a trip down to the wineries and beaches at Margaret River. Oh and in between classes and afternoons off I go to Cottesloe beach (No.7 in Aus according to TripAdvisor) just to relax. My life is insane and this is only really the beginning.

I miss home and Glasgow of course but it is very strange the things you miss. Naturally I miss my family and

14 14

Ellen Andrew

friends, nights out to Viper and the Beer Bar and I get huge amounts of FOMO when I see Snapchat stories because it is usually around the time I am getting up and going to class. But bizarrely I actually miss things like the library, Byres Road Tesco and UK drinks prices the most. Not because these are things I am particularly fond of, but the norm is just comforting sometimes. The library here is only three floors, just not enough altitude really when I would consider myself a regular of level 7. The local store is just not Tesco in any shape or form and if I tell you a “cheap” single vodka out here sets you back minimum £4.60 on a weekday, well I think

that says it all.

Getting used to a new life, a new country and being so far from home is hard but if I blink I will miss it. So please excuse my excessive use of instagram for the next five months because I plan to ‘gram absolutely everything I see.

Should GU Have Two Unions?

YES - Owen

NO - Moray

Last year when I got elected

Glasgow University is justifiably

President I spent a lot of

proud of its history, that of two

time

convince

student unions, harmoniously

my friends from home that

(for the most part) competing

being involved with the

to

Union wasn’t a bizarre or

students the kind of memories

socially awkward thing to

and events that set us apart

do. Most of them go to

as the best campus in Britain.

Universities down south, and

And we all love the QMU – you

it’s so obvious when talking

can’t beat a bit of Cheesy/

trying

to

bring

generations

of

Magic every now and then,

to them that no matter how much I try to explain it, they just don’t really “get it”. In most cases, they have a ‘student

even if their policy on straws continues to baffle.

association’ which is essentially the SRC, GUSA and a union

However, as we totter further and further into the ultra-instant,

thrown together under one roof. Unsurprisingly, it doesn’t

everything-all-the-time age of the 21st century, a bewildering

usually work - there’s so much packed into one establishment

array of choices confronts students at every turn. A glut of

and the SRC side of things usually takes priority.

world-class clubs is joined by the plethora of swanky eating

Having two unions doesn’t mean we split these services

joints constantly springing up around the West End, turning

between us in such a way that one takes the weekly club

heads and stomachs wherever we go. The brutal truth of this

night and the other takes debating events, it means we

is that the existence of our two unions is in need of a rethink.

both offer these services and offer them at an extremely

The Unions are stretched to breaking point: we just aren’t

high standard because we are constantly competing with

able to offer our members everything we would like to with

one another to try and be the best. But it’s not the amount

the money that we have. This turns people away who would

of events or facilities on offer that makes the two Union

rather spend the few pennies they have managed to scrape

structure such an attraction, it’s the fact that you have the

together on any of the hundreds of other events taking place

choice to go to one or the other, or both. The people, the

weekly across the city, leaving us with less and less money

space and the way the events are run are very different and

to bring back to our members. This cycle has been slowly

therefore create a unique atmosphere, and although both

eating away at the funds of all four student bodies since you

unions try really hard to cater for everyone, people seem to

first picked up a mobile phone.

be drawn to one over the other based on their own feelings,

All in all, the situation is less than fun.

preferences and interests. This loyalty can develop to the

The solution, as painful as it may sound, is this: A concentration

extent that students volunteer their own free time to be a

of the resources currently spread thinly over two unions

Freshers’ Helper, committee member or even run the place

would dramatically improve both the extent and quality

by going for a Board position.

of the services we could offer. If both unions can bring you

It really annoys me when people say “oh you must really hate

such brilliant events even with the little resources we have,

the QMU if you’re on GUU Board”, because this couldn’t be

imagine what one union could provide with the mounds

further from the truth. I’ve had great times in the QMU and

of extra finance on offer. We could concentrate all our

have experienced how fantastic the events it offers are, but

efforts on you, the members, instead of being forced by

for whatever reason in my Freshers’ Week and the months

circumstance to watch our bank balance at every step.

and years that followed I was drawn to GUU: the people, the

This would draw wandering students back once more to the

events, the committees, the Board Members, the staff and

union in numbers seldom seen since the advent of the no-so-

essentially the atmosphere.

social-media age.

I promise you that two unions really are better than one

And if you thought Hot Dub was incredible, imagine what

and as the only University in the UK which such a structure,

we could create with double the dolla.

Glasgow students really are the luckiest out there; and

This university and its two unions have had an incredible and

there’s nothing better than seeing those that know this fully

illustrious past. But we need to look to the future. And we

embrace it by getting so involved with the one they have

need to look at having one union.

formed an undying love for.

-Owen Martin

- Moray Fraser

15

G-Your Societies

GU Eurovision Society

Cal Davies

Glasgow’s newest and c h e e s i e s t society!

Now,

aren’t just for the Euro-Experts! And we hope to see everyone at our launch party on Monday 23rd March, 7pm onwards in

imagine

the

fun, camp and cheesy activities of the Eurovision society

so

far

as

a

gorgeous dress, a staple

We welcome everyone at GU Eurovision Society; we

let

of

many

a

Eurovision

performance. Now, let us rip off that dress in a dramatic costume change, and reveal a stunning mini-skirt, another

Jim’s Bar at the QMU.

standard of a classic mid-00s performance.

Eurovision was set up almost 60 years ago, with the idea of

Eurovision Society is more than silliness; we also aim to put on

bringing nations together, and that’s what this society aims to do, bring all corners of the University of Glasgow community together- from the fanatics to the casual observers, the people that love the show and the people that pretend to hate it. And yes, we are

a number of interesting talks! We already have a Eurovision celebrity coming to give a session on how Eurovision has helped shape national identities and the images of nations, as well as the competition itself. Eurovision is full of mathematics and politics- probably explains why it was founded by a mathematics and politics

aware how cheesy all

student- and we want

that sounds, but that is

to make sure we are

precisely what we are

bringing the more serious

aiming for, as we know

elements

it would make Conchita

the Glasgow Campus.

We are a society that

Let’s end on one pun-

loves to have fun - the

tastic note: "Can you FEEL

launch party will consist a

Euro-Quiz,

YOUR HEART BEAT, that's

Euro-

because we would love

Drinks, a Euro-Party but

to SHARE THE MOMENT

most of all a whole load

with you, the moment GU

of Euro-Fun! We should

Eurovision

stress that the launch party is for everyone, with questions for fanatics like “Where in the running order did the Netherlands sing last year in the final?” to things like “Which song do you reckon did better?” And of course when the Euro-Music starts, we will all be as bad at dancing as one another!

We hope to have a wide range of events in the near future.

Watching old Eurovisions (2012 and 2007 being favourites of mine!) along with national selections will probably make up a big part of what we do. We are also keen to get involved with other clubs and societies as well, along with the unions, as other than the fantastic music Eurovision also ties in well with Politics, LGBTQ+ issues and clubbing quite nicely! We will of course also be screening the big night (along with the other two smaller, but still big evenings)! We are 100% certain these are the activities that will make you Euphoric.

16

Europe’s

favourite experience to

proud.

of

of

came

along

and made your day. So let us LIGHT YOUR FIRE, and #JOINUS as we begin BUILDING BRIDGES between all corners of this campus, because after all WE ARE ONE." (That’s every Eurovision slogan for the past six years for the non-fanatics out there)!

Hope to see you all at our events soon, and in the meantime find us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/GUEurovision) or drop us an email (gueurovision@gmail.com) and happy Eurovision.

Oh, and since writing this we have been invited to host a radio show on Wednesday 18th from 4-8pm, come hear all of the 2015 entries and get your pre-polo tunes!

Caelum (Cal) Davies GU Eurovision Society President

Beer Bar Chat When

Hannah Burgess & Harriet Johnston

you want to get honest answers to pressing questions from the students of Glasgow Uni there is only one place to go: our beloved Beer Bar. This month we wanted to know all about the most embarrassing holiday stories you've ever heard, and got some very awkward answers...

1) Kathryn, 4th Year, Politics "I know of a girl who shat herself behind the bar on a pub tour in Malia.'

2) Ciaran, 3rd Year, Sports Science "I've got a pal who was in Amsterdam and spent a lot of money on a prostitue only to find out that it was a bloke!"

3)Annabeth, 4th Year, Zoology "I was Scuba diving in Tobago and swan up to a big school of fish. All of a sudden my instructor started pointing at me, I didn't know why so pointed back. Turns out he was trying to tell me my bikini top was on the bottom of the reef!"

4) Hannah, 3rd Year, History "I know a girl who spewed in a Greek family's front porch only to be seen by the father, sheepishly apologise and make a run for it."

5) Maddox, 5th Year, Medic "After getting hammered at a full moon party in Thailand my friend woke up the next morning with two elephant tattoos on his shoulders."

6) Bethany, 2nd Year, Theology "I know a girl who was trying to take a photo with a monkey in Malaysia. It wasn't so cute when it started attacking her!"

7) Lewis, 3rd Year, Politics "A guy I know was being molested by a prostitue on holiday. In trying to escape he managed to break his ankle!"

17

GLASGOW UNIVERSITY SPORTS ASSOCIATION #BUCSWednesday goes Black & Gold!

On March 4th, Glasgow was in the spotlight as BUCS’ university in focus for their #BUCSWednesday coverage. All of the Glasgow teams rose to the challenge and recorded some fantastic results, cheered on by our mascot Gus. Highlights include the Women’s tennis team’s 12-0 win over St Andrews 2s, a 47-17 win for the Men’s Rugby 1st XV against Edinburgh Napier, a 10-3 victory over Aberdeen for Men’s Lacrosse, and a 17-0 win over Dundee for Women’s Rugby.

GUSA ELECTIONS

This year we introduced online voting, which was a huge success with 1458 students casting their vote for the 2015/16 Council.

Congratulations to the successful candidates: President: Caitlin Kelly Vice-President: Brogan Sinclair Secretary: Charlotte Howard Alumni Convenor: Lexa Sawyer Club Sport Convenor: Alex Mas Finance Convenor: Ruari Thomson Fundraising Convenor: Emma Stephen Health & Fitness Convenor: Claire Minto Publicity Convenor: Maria Sasso Recreation Convenor: Sagar Ghelani Travel Convenor: Michal Orzeg-Wydra Welfare Convenor: Isabella Heath

GLASGOW TAXIS CUP

Wednesday 18th March Come along and support our teams as the University of Glasgow fights to win the cup for the fifth year in a row! Keep an eye on the GUSA Facebook page for the full schedule of events. #BlackAndGold