MT16 Wk.8 Ed.7
Merry Christmas Pembroke! The wine is mulling, Michael Bublé is playing and the term is coming to a close. We hope that all you Freshers have enjoyed you first term at Pemb, and that Finalists have managed to find some time to unwind and enjoy the Christmas spirit. It’s hard to believe that Freshers Week was less that eight weeks ago, but Michaelmas has already come and gone and now it’s time to bid a tearful farewell. We hope this issue provides a welcome break from all those last minute deadlines and, most importantly, brings you some festive cheer. So enjoy the vac, get plenty of rest, make (and break) plenty of naively ambitious resolutions, and we’ll see you in January! Hope Santa is good to you all… Lots of love, Sophie and Lily
Contents: Seallar Bop What Pembroke’s listening to Coming Home Cartoon The Blues My International Week Being in Bejing Emma Lisney Concert Wanda’in Christ Church Pembroke Horoscope The Lost Causes Overheard in Farthings/ Pembroke Compliments Front Cover: Wanda V. Knoblesdorff Back Cover: Callum Duff
pg.3 pg.4 pg.5 pg.6-7 pg.8-9 pg.10-11 pg.11 pg.12-13 pg.14-15 pg.16-17 pg.18-19
Karl ~ Second Year
What Pembroke’s Listening To
Working - Say You Wont Let Go by James Arthur Chilling - Take That Preing - Gold Stars, Wish, or anything else 80s
Ebubechi ~ First Year Working - The Journey by Tom Misch Chilling - Solo by Frank Ocean, Junie by Solange Knowles Preing - No Problem and Good Ass Intro by Chance the Rapper
Sophie ~ Second Year
I
n need of some new tunez to add to your “work” playlist? Or maybe you’re honing your skills ready to take over as the next big name bop DJ. Or perhaps you’ve just been listening to the same three Justin Bieber songs since January (no judgement, we’ve all been there), and need a little something to freshen up your Spotify playlist. Well we’ve got you covered. Here’s a little insight into what the rest of Pembroke is listening to…
Dan ~ Second Year Working - Kerala by Bonobo Chilling - Home by Thycaline Preing - Slyd by !!!
Jos ~ Third Year Working - Otis by The Durutti Column
Working - Get Low by James Vincent Mcmorrow Chilling - Even If It’s a Lie by Matt Maltese Preing - Cruel by The Preatures
Fergus ~ Second Year Working - Dancer by Robert Hood Singing alone in my bedroom - My First My Last My Everything by Barry White
Lily ~ Second Year Working—Barbiturik Blues by Laurent Garnier Chilling — Mama Don’t Like It by Smiley Lewis Preing—Thrift Shop by Macklemore
Molly ~ First Year
Chilling - I Will Be The World by Blaenavon
Working—Fascination Street by The Cure
Preing - Alright by Janet Jackson
Chilling—Sweet Dreams by Eurythmics Preing—Freed From Desire by Gala
Coming Home: Lukeria Zharova
The Blues
Josh Southworth
Flo Pickles
Rugby League
OUWBC
Full Back
Stroke side
Best moment: having to dress up as the women’s swim team at a St Peter’s social
Best moment: winning Henley Royal Regatta for the second time
Worst moment: being knocked out when tackling someone
Worst moment: not being able to race in the 2016 boat due to injury
Gabriella Russo OU Contemporary Dance Modern, tap, jazz, contemporary Best moment: receiving the Studio of Excellence award at nationals
Rachel Hunt OU Contemporary Dance Ballet, Contemporary, Commercial, Ballroom and Latin American Best moment: performing in the West-end with the London Children’s Ballet
Laura Hindley Netball
Laurence Wroe
Centre/ Goal Defence
Football
Best moment: winning varsity match last year
Best moment: being elected captain for 16/17 season
Worst moment: 7am training
Worst moment: Not getting through the first round of
Centre Back
Catherine Mills
Nathan Wragg
Water Polo
OUUC Ultimate (Frisbee)
Any position but goal
Position: Defensive line handler (Male squad Captain)
Worst moment: being sent off in my first match
Best moments: winning Div. 2 Nationals 2016, winning Varsity 2016 and getting MVP Worst moment: losing to Portsmouth at Regionals this year
broadcast live up on the big screen, in front of everyone, we were told. Suddenly, it hit me just how big a deal this was. I felt excited, and I absolutely felt nervous, but nothing compared escribing my trip to Technos College with the feeling that all of a sudden, I was about to be introduced to hundreds of people who in one or two pages isn’t going to prove an easy task. Never in my life wanted to know what life was like in England and what music I liked and what my favourite have I experienced such varied culture, hospitality or sheer wonder as I did on Japanese food was – and I was so excited when it clicked that in return, in the next few weeks I my two-week visit to the college in June 2016. could find out anything and everything about The premise of the trip is this: students from colleges around the world assemble at Technos living in Japan and these students and their lives. It was a dizzying experience, but for all College, Tokyo, for two weeks, and together enjoy a range of activities and experiences both the right reasons. within the college and outside its walls. I could After “Pembroke College, England” was called, never completely sum up International Week in it was time for the Welcome Party – which words, but I’ll describe a few of the highlights to meant sushi, Japanese snacks and drinks, but begin painting a picture. possibly most importantly, selfies. Getting to
My International Week
D
Dom Saad
One of the standout moments of the trip was the Welcome Ceremony for the International Week students. This took place the day after we arrived. Jetlagged and disoriented, but happy, we took the bus to Technos College from our little hotel in Higashifuchu. Once at Technos, we were we were briefed on the format of the ceremony. Classes were suspended for the ceremony, we were told. We would be interviewed in English, we were told. We’d be
know the Japanese students in such a relaxed and friendly atmosphere was wonderful – and likewise with the international students, for whom the near-surreal quality of the day was very much a common factor. When we returned to the hotel, we were completely awestruck at the enthusiasm and friendliness of every student and staff member at Technos, and over the weeks that followed, we discovered that this hospitality was not simply upped for the
welcome ceremony, but instead was a recurring theme within the International Week event, and reflected a warm and friendly compassion that runs deep within the Japanese culture.
Japanese onsen – indoor and outdoor baths using spring water, naturally (very) hot and salty. Bath time in Japan is a time for relaxation, and sitting in the outdoor bath looking out over the mountains both at dawn and in the middle of the night was probably about as relaxing as it Another moment that is particularly memorable gets. This was a surprise to me on the trip – I has to be the afternoon when we tried nagashi did not expect the opportunity to try onsen, but somen. Nagashi somen translates as “flowing try it we did, and I can promise it’s as perfect as noodles”, and is appropriately named: we set you might imagine. up a large bamboo pipe elevated above the Technos courtyard, got some water running warm and friendly compassion runs down it, and dropped in little nests of noodles at the top (along with sliced vegetables) for those deep within the Japanese culture standing at the sides to catch with their chopsticks and eat as the noodles shot past in The less – ahem – ancient of the two great the flow. This slightly bizarre tradition proved Japanese institutions we tried in the Green equal parts delicious and hilarious; I came away with a full belly from the food and aching Village was karaoke. I’ll set the scene: Japanese and international students sit happily cheeks from laughing so hard at the frenzy of chopsticks splashing into the flowing water as together on the soft tatami mat floor of the spacious room, chattering excitedly. Suddenly, we all scrabbled to get a bite. Throughout the there’s a call for hush; the four Pembrokians Technos trip, we were given many opportunities to try traditional Japanese food. I standing at the front pair off around the two microphones. The crowd holds its breath. returned home satisfied that I had tried all my Naturally and spontaneously finding our voices favourites (sushi, ramen, udon, tempura) – in blissful harmony, we utter the first line of the which tasted quite a lot more authentic than song that will define one of the greatest single Wagamama – as well as plenty of other moments of the trip for us all, I’m sure: “Is this delicious (and sometimes less delicious, but always interesting) specialties, such as mochi, the real life? Is this just fantasy?” Yes, the Pembroke Quartet performing Bohemian melonpan and the infamous natto. Rhapsody mostly tunelessly was absolutely a International Week is largely comprised of trips highlight of the trip – for us at least. to sites surrounding Tokyo, to visit shrines and temples, ancient towns and mountainous areas, As I stated at the start, it’s impossible to among others. One of the absolute highlights of describe everything I saw and felt during International Week back in June. The variety of the trip was the two-day excursion we took to trips, activities, food and culture that we Midori-no-Mura, the ‘Green Village’ campus of experienced in that time is difficult to Technos, a few hours’ drive outside Tokyo in communicate. But I feel that even without the Nagano prefecture. The Green Village is wonderful schedule that the organisers of this nestled in remote wooded mountains, and features incredible views – even the drive there fantastic event so expertly put together, I would have enjoyed International Week all the same, itself is stunning. While staying at the Green Village, we enjoyed activities such as a firework for the incredible kindness, hospitality and love display, a sports day and a couple of awesome that both the Japanese and international students and faculty members showed form my BBQs on Japanese teppan grills. There were two things that are absolute musts to mention, fondest memories of the trip. During IW16, I made lifelong friendships that I will cherish; I though, both of which are firm pillars of Japanese culture – one ancient and one a little miss my new friends from all around the world. I cannot recommend the Technos College trip more modern. highly enough, and I am incredibly grateful to The more traditional of the two was the have had the opportunity to go.
“
”
Being in Bejing Islah Wallace
W
hen I tell people I love Beijing, I get a very mixed reaction. And honestly, I can completely understand. Having to take my own life into my hands when I cross the road, wearing a mask to protect myself from Beijing’s hazardous pollution levels or hearing someone having a good old spit behind me have all become part of my everyday life since arriving in the city, but for all of its flaws, Beijing is such an exciting place. I arrived during the last week of August and really was thrown straight into the deep end. For one thing, until then I had never had to find a flat or settle a rent agreement in my life, let alone completely in Chinese, and managing to struggle my way through that after only a couple of days felt like such an achievement. We live in an area in the northwest of the city, about a 25-minute walk or 10-minute cycle to Peking University, the university we’re studying at. “The Centre of
the Universe” is one of the many nicknames for the area and if you wanted to, you would never really have to leave, but with a subway station right on our doorstep, there is no excuse not to explore the city.
“hearing someone having a good old spit behind me has become part of my everyday life
”
There is so much to see in Beijing and it really is a city of contrast; one moment you could be wandering along a traditional Beijing hutong, and the next looking up at a forest of skyscrapers. The food has to be another highlight, with different cuisines from all over China flocking to the capital. If you know where to go, eating out is also very cheap so it’s easy to try out Beijing’s various food offerings without burning a massive hole in your pocket. Since coming to Beijing, baozi包子 (a steamed bun with some kind of savoury or sweet filling) have played a signficant role in my diet.
Beijing can sometimes be quite overwhelming, and sometimes taking a quick break from the city is necessary. One thing I will always remember is when we hiked for 2 days along the Great Wall, camping overnight at a nearby guesthouse. The views were spectacular and seeing a version of the Wall that had not been reconstructed for tourists, where parts of the wall were literally crumbling away, was amazing.
listening skills improving week by week. I have met so many interesting people at the university, local students as well as those from all corners of the globe with a common interest in China and learning Chinese. Beijingers also always seem to be happy to know that you are trying to learn Chinese and the surprise on their faces when you reply in Chinese and the “你的中文很好!” (“Your Chinese is very good!”) still hasn’t got old.
I have around 16 hours of classes per week, with classes in translation, literature, Classical Chinese and oral Chinese. At first, having the classes conducted entirely in Chinese was a bit of a shock to the system, but I can feel my
Living in China has become so natural to me, and although I miss Oxford a lot, I honestly think that when the year is up, you’ll have to drag me away kicking and screaming.
elegance and poise all the while. Her style was sweet and signing for the more romantic second movement, “adagio molto espressivo”, and Sydney Gagliano suitably mischievous in character for scherzo movement (scherzo meaning joke in Italian), which she obtained through lightness and energy On the 19th of November, Emma Lisney and her in her playing. The final movement had both spirit father, James Lisney, performed Beethoven’s Spring Sonata in the Sheldonian Theatre. Emma and expression; Emma and James appeared to be enjoying the performance as much as the is a second year music undergrad, and it’s no audience were. The pair worked well together secret she’s a very talented violinist as she won and brought out the conversational elements of the Oxfordshire concerto competition earlier in the movement, where the piano and violin would the year. From the very start of the first take it in turns to play the melody. Altogether it movement she brought out the different was a delightful concert to watch, and I’m sure characters of the piece with ease, switching I’m not the only one looking forward to Emma’s effortlessly between energetic virtuosic passages and more lyrical melodies, playing with future performances.
Emma Lisney Concert
Wanda V. Knobelsdorff
Pembroke Horoscopes Climbing aboard the wellness wagon will help you this week. Swap that hot chocolate for a
Our very own college mystics Anya Hutchison and Vicky Robinson have been conversing with the stars this week and have some truths to share…
green tea next time you hit up Farthings – it’ll do you a whoooole world of goooood. Feeling like you’re not living up to who you thought you were? Take some time for yourself, reflect on your actions and make some changes if you want to.
Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) Pay close attention to the people around you, because it will come in handy when there is conflict later in the week. Keep an open mind and it will help you resolve the situation more quickly. This is an epic time for romance – so get out there and put yourself on the line, you may stumble into the love of your life at Three Kings (stumble being the key word).
Capricorn (December 22-January 19) Someone important will come into your life this week, it could turn into a lifelong friendship. There’s also never been a better time to stand up for what you believe in, even if it’s just at the JCR meetings – submit that motion that’s been nagging at the back of your head, you could make a big change in our little PMB world.
Aquarius (January 20-Feburary 18) This is your time to shine – whatever you do, you will impress people. This is also the ideal time to start new projects and make your ideas reality. Help smooth over a long-standing drama by spending time with some old friends this weekend, starting with a mad1 at Bubblegum on Friday.
Pisces (February 19-March 20)
Aries (March 21-April 19) There are times in life when you just know something, and when you know, you know. Let go of the people who are holding you down – you don’t need that negative energy in your life. Under these social skies, you’ll find yourself falling in with a new and better group of people. Try a Pembroke society or sports team that will let you meet people in other years who care about the same things as you.
Taurus (April 20-May 20) The perfect panini will be waiting for you in Farthings, as will the perfect partner. Love may take a while to blossom, but keep on at it and eventually you’ll win them over. This is also a great time to brush up on your professional profile *cough* internships *cough* CV.
Leo (July 23-August 22) Confidence is in your moon – this week, when that trine with Aries and Virgo comes about, you can take your place in the spotlight. Don’t worry about having to queue for VIP in Bridge, you’ll just sweep past. Don’t let other people fool you with the same tactics they always do – good looks and good chat aren’t everything.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
Virgo (August 23-September 22)
It’s not too late in the term to try and make changes. Academics may not be going as planned, but try and really focus hard this week and you will reap the fruit of your labours. Give yourself time to explore your creative side as well, try carrying a sketchbook around with you – Oxford has some really pretty autumnal scenes you could try to capture. Maybe take a spin at Pembroke’s art classes - we’ll see you there.
Monday’s culminating full moon has a lot to reveal about your secret talents – Open Mic night is calling you. Do a quick review of your finances, that student loan seriously doesn’t last the whole term. If you’re feeling like you need to take a break, don’t worry it won’t be long till you’re back at home and safe away from all the Oxford ails.
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Libra (September 23-October 22)
Sometimes you just can’t do stuff alone. Don’t Pemb lib getting you down? feel like you’re being needy if you need to ask Try venturing out to the for help, especially when it comes to your Taylorian, you never know health. Your friends are there for you if you – someone may leave need to chat, or if you want to unwind with some you a cheeky note exercise, try out GAB Yoga on Tuesdays. Put asking you out. It those new yoga mats to good use. does happen, guys, it really does. Grab life by the handlebars and make sure you Scorpio (October 23-November 21) wear a helmet LOVE IS ON THE WAY, keep your eye out in the it’s gonna be a bumpy ol’ week. library for that special someone trying to make eye contact across the room. The new moon is in your sign on Sunday, so create a plan for the week. Friday is a great day to meet new people, Wahoo may be dead but your love life is not.
The Lost Causes Joe Mead
be used to transport yourselves. Also, there’s a truckload of challenges for you to complete while you’re doing this, with the tantalising reward of imaginary points for
H
those who do so. Win more points whilst aving awoken at 5am on the 5th of November, the bleary eyed Thomas Lambert and I schlepped onto the streets of
Oxford. Money from generous donors in hand, we made our way to the OUSU building - or at least, tried to. Truth be told, having been spurned by google maps for not the last time today, we were looking for the building in which we should have been registering for a good 20 minutes. Not a great start to Varsity Lost 2016 from the #TeamTheLostCauses. This was an event in which we would be travelling hundreds of miles throughout the day whilst challenging our ability to find
returning to your university faster than the Tab teams who will also be partaking in this event and you will get severe kudos! Good luck, have fun.” Fast forward a few hours and we found ourselves in a near-empty car park near the town of King’s Lynn, Norfolk. After the initial photos and periods of squaring off against Cambridge teams, we set off in pursuit of the now-disclosed location, Birmingham.
“we began busking with the aid of a crude sign and good
”
intentions
obscure objects - so far we’d covered a good half mile and were yet to find the
What followed was perhaps not the high
start.
point of the experience. Having walked to Castle Rising, so called as it is in fact a
Having eventually located the
castle that is situated rather high up in
aforementioned registration point in the
what is an otherwise flat county, we
OUSU building, we handed in our
prepared to start completing some
generously donated monies, and were
challenges. However, even with the forces
given a booklet in return that described just of charity behind us, we were denied exactly what it was that we would be doing. access to the site, and for the next hour I can’t remember exactly what it said, but it and a half discovered the difficulties of probably went something like this: hitchhiking as two adult males, on a “Hello participants! From here on out you
Norfolkian A road.
will be taken by coach to the middle of
Eventually and amazingly, we secured a lift
nowhere, where you’ll have varying
into King’s Lynn, where we were dismayed
success in travelling back to Oxford at no
to see that we were positively behind
cost, via an as-yet undisclosed location. It
Cambridge in both challenges and distance
is your job to scrape by on the goodwill of
covered. People swathed in light blue had
strangers in order to achieve this, as no
already had their hair dyed, nails painted,
money that is not received on the day can
been handcuffed, and had generally undergone many more curious acts than ourselves, whilst we were left floundering. It was at this point where Tom and I threw challenges to the wind, and made it our sole objective to beat the Tabs back to university - bragging rights and a hefty bunch of imaginary
points were on the table for the first team to do so. We stole (with permission) onto a bus to Peterborough, and then again onto a train to Birmingham after the thought of staying longer than half an hour in Peterborough became untenable. Having arrived in Birmingham, we legged it to the checkpoint across town, where we were informed that we were the second team to check in behind a Cambridge team. Fuelled by our progress up the leader board and the prospect of losing out to a Tab team, we legged it back to the station in order to board a train to Oxford. However, despite furious schmoozing, we couldn’t get a free trip back to Oxford. Having been put off hitchhiking for life, we decided instead to try and raise the money from
fireworks. A - rather surprised - volunteer
strangers in order to buy two train tickets back greeted us, at which point we were told that to Oxford. And thus began an interesting
we’d won the race. The sweet aroma of
process whereby we found a piano in the
imaginary points infused the air as, once again
Bullring shopping centre, and began busking
bleary eyed, we schlepped back to college.
with the aid of a crude sign and good
The battle was won but the war has not yet lukeria
intentions. Our experience was surprisingly
been decided - points are still being tallied to
positive, raising the money within a couple of
see which uni won the 2016 Varsity Lost event.
hours (To those strangers, we thank you). An
We kinda hope it was ours.
immediate rush to make the next train to Oxford followed, and hey presto, we got on. Exhausted, we ran back to the OUSU building just as people were heading towards a night of
Michaelmas Compliments and Overheard in Farthings Round Up...