Issue 55 - September 2016

M AG DA L E N Free Student Magazine

ISSUE 55

Discovering Yourself in the City of Discovery

How To Make A Zombie

Making the most of

‘What we do know is that

your time in Scotland’s

zombies are real’

sunniest city

Visit us in The Hive on Level 4 of DUSA The Union 11am-3pm Mon-Wed & Fri, 12pm-6pm Thursdays www.dusa.co.uk

ISSUE 55 Editor’s Letter

Editors

Well, the time has finally arrived, my friends. Abandon your shorts, stop using your

Editor in Chief

textbook as a door-stop, and say goodbye to your summer romances, because the

Rebecca Baird

looming beast of University has arrived. And it is my great honour to introduce you to this year’s first issue of the Magdalen! Most of you reading this are returning

Deputy Editors

students – welcome back! On behalf of everyone here at the Magdalen, I wish you a

Heather Gordon

year of plentiful coffee and good decisions. After all, you veterans of higher education

Patrick O’Donnell

(VOHEs, it’ll catch on!) don’t have the luxury of “my grades don’t count” to sail by on –

David White

time to get moving! (Check out this issue’s Community Section for some creative ways to build up your C.V. in time to face the big bad, world.)

Art & Entertainment Editors Lamya Sadiq

However, there are some of you, dear readers, who are in a very fortunate position – and you are the freshers of 2016. Newbies, whether you’re just out of school, changing

Community Editor

careers or broadening your academic skill set, you all have one glorious thing in

Alastair Letch

common: time. The next four years are stretching out in front of you like that beautiful

Hannah Perrie

silvery Tay, and you have the time to explore university life freely. The best advice I can give you is to think of your time the way a short jockey thinks of a step-ladder; it may

Current Affairs Editor

seem like a luxury, but it’s giving you a very necessary leg up. Life gets faster from

Calum Wilson

here, in the best way – so take a moment now to get on the horse. Get comfortable.

And prepare to race through four years of immense personal growth, achievement

Design Editor

and (most importantly) fun. There’s something for everyone – honestly! So take a look

Corrie Gorman

at our Societies feature inside for just some of the hundreds of opportunities that this Lifestyle Editor

campus has to offer.

Toni McKinney Now that I’ve given you some optimistic (and relevant) thoughts on how amazing university can be, let me hit you with some harsh reality: it’s also really, really hard.

Opinion Editor

You’re going to be tested academically on a different level to anything you’ve faced

Nicole Harrison

before; you’ll have endless culinary disasters; and you’ll be navigating through a minefield of bizarre social and romantic interactions – and all of it on a student budget.

Science Editor

But have no fear! Our Opinion, Lifestyle, Design and Tech sections have advice on

James Russell

how to cope, from dealing with unruly flatmates to the very Art of Stress. So, whether you’re sitting in the library for the umpteenth hour, already getting started on your

Technology Editor

dissertation thesis, or you’re just trying to find the building for your very first class, I

Mila Georgieva

wish you all the best for the year ahead. You’ve got this.

Hugh Stevenson

Rebecca Baird Editor-in-Chief

“From the day we arrive on the planet, and blinking, step into the sun, there’s more to see than can ever be seen; more to do than can ever be done…”

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ISSUE 55 Creative Director’s Letter

Design Team

Well that Summer went far too quickly, didn’t it? Welcome back to students continuing

Creative Director

uni and a huge welcome to Freshers, congratulations for getting into Dundee! It’s

Monica Dunne

going to be great, I promise.

Asst. Creative Directors Like this issue’s cover suggests, Dundee has far more to it than meets the eye. Our

Laura Gelston

Union is consistently voted the best, there’s so many societies and clubs to choose

Ali Elliott

from, and the facilities on campus are incredible. Your first year will be completely unique, you’ll meet loads of new people, stay in touch with friends from school or

Designers

college, and learn a whole lot too. It’s really important to have a social life as well as

Rachel Alexander

academic. Though I doubt that will be a difficult for most of you.

Zoe Broughton Sandra Campbell

If you’re staying in halls, make the very most of it. The quality of the flats are

Amy Collier

consistently amazing and they’re mostly right in the middle of campus, ideal for

Alice Farquhar

getting involved with everything. It’s a bit of a lottery with flatmates, you could find

Ali Elliott

friends for life, you might not. But whichever way it goes, you’ll be fine, enjoy the

Laura Gelston

experience, and remember, a pan is a perfectly acceptable utensil to eat out of.

Fabio Maragno Dawn Neely

A lot of the societies are featured in this month’s maagazine, to give you as much

Eilidh Reid

choice as possible, but be sure to go to Fresher’s Fairs and tasters and demonstrations;

Andrew Simpson

they usually have free Domino’s, and who doesn’t love that? There are so many to choose from so take your time, and remember it doesn’t have to be one or the other -

Cover Designer

the more, the better!

Amy Collier

The courses you’ve chosen to pursue will probably challenge you. There’s exams, and assessments, and crits so yeah, it can be a lot of work. But it’ll be worth it. And, hopefully, it’ll be the most fun you’ve ever had.

I truly hope this year is brilliant for you. Time really does fly.

This month’s cover was done by Amy Collier, not throwing away her shot.

Monica Dunne Creative Director

Contributors List

Gavin Aitken, Eleanor Booty, Lucy Caster, Guy Clark, Catrin Evans, Christopher Fleming, Hannah George, Mila Georgieva, Katie Gilmour, Meritxell Grau, Alastair Letch, Lauren McIntyre, Toni Mckinney, Patrick O’Donnell, Finlay Page, Hannah Perrie, James Russell, Hugh Stevenson, Carolina Santos Torres, Temi W., David White, Calum Wilson

CONTENTS Creative Writing

Design

04

35

What’s Your Top Five?

36 - 37

Fashion Revolution

Dreams

Current Affairs 06 - 07

The Nightmare of Trump

38

Tea Green

09 - 10

Punished For Their Periods

39

The Art of Stress

11

Desperate To Survive

Arts & Entertainment 40 - 41

Lifestyle

Opera: Embracing You Inner Snob

13 - 15

Discovering Yourself in the City of Discovery

42 - 43

The Disney-fication of Our Childhoods

16

Get On Your Bike 45

18 - 19

Discover Art

Turkey Stir Fry

Science Community 21 - 22

No I in Team

24 - 25

Turnip The Volume

26

LIP Theatre

28 - 33

Societies

46 - 47

How To Make a Zombie

48 - 49

DURYA Annual Symposium

Tech 50 - 51

Your Laptop is Your Friend

52 - 54

Computing Degree Show

Opinion

JOIN US!

56 - 57

Is Freshers That Great?

58 - 59

Have I Gone Too Far?

Email magdalen@dusamedia.com or go to dusamedia.com/magdalen for more information.

Creative Writing

DREAMS Meritxell Grau As your fingers run through her hair, you take off. Your eyes shut, your mind free and the silky tingle between your fingers becomes a memory.

You are not in the world anymore. Her presence takes you somewhere else, further away from reality, yet so close to the ground. There are no more wonders or fears. No need to ask yourself “what if” because it doesn’t matter anymore.

Where you are now is better than where anaesthetics would ever take you.

Like a drug, you breathe in her essence to stay there longer, to realise that never before you felt like this.

Your fingers are still rushing down her mane of rebel hair. But the feeling is still lovely. It is not tangled and you just keep brushing it, until you are brave enough to break the silence; or you have finally found the right words.

You are flying, travelling across what seems like paradise, and damn it is great. You no longer remember why you were crying in that dark corner of the room. You can’t think of the last time you got into a fight or raised your voice because she lets you go. That way you allow yourself to go further, reach what you have always been too scared to touch. You believe you have found happiness.

Your fingers at the end of her hair. You start again. The air feels cold on your tips until you sink them inside the waterfall of blonde hair. It looks like the sun has spilled its light on her. You start again, slower, feeling how the hairs move apart from each other as you go down.

There is nothing better than feeling the same way she feels when she is around you. It looks like you finally have had the chance to understand that is not only about everyone else but yourself first.

You turn around. Your hand, cold again. Your fingers feel empty because nothing is wrapping them anymore and as you open your eyes, you find yourself in the darkness of your room, lying down in an empty bed and wondering why such sweet dreams can feel so vivid on your skin.

04

Nominate a local charity for DUSA to support this year Find out more and nominate at www.dusa.co.uk/rag Nominations close 15th September

Current Affairs

From Blessing To Bane: The perpetual nightmare of Trump to the Republican Party

T

wo years ago if you had predicted that business-

before has such a divisive nominee come so far. A feat

man and reality TV star Donald Trump would

that has taken Republicans by surprise and dealt them

achieve the nomination from one of the two

an uncertain future.

major political parties in the US, then you would have probably been met with laughter. However, with the

This has caused fear to echo through the Republican

recent results of the Indiana Primary leaning unquestion-

establishment, as their ambitions to install a candidate

ably in his corner, that laughter will have now turned into

in the White House appears increasingly improbable. As

concern. After months of campaigning his two remain-

the viability of his candidacy against more established

ing rivals, Ted Cruz and John Kasich, have suspended

politicians who appeal to larger demographics and have

their campaigns indefinitely. These men represented the

not alienated large parts of the electorate, such as Hilary

last bastion of resistance from the tide of Trump. Now

Clinton, has been called into question. Trump is a thorn

Republicans must contend with the reality of a candidate

in the side of the Republicans and as well as dividing

who has continually been referred to as ‘unelectable’,

a nation he has divided a party, with many prominent

even by the majority of those in his party, being the

republicans refusing to endorse him.

nominee. Marking not only his attainment of the nomination but his ascension into American political infamy.

In the face of seemingly insurmountable support from the Republican voter base, his overwhelming success in the primaries has cleared him a path to the presidential election. This is not the first time that Trump has

“...has alienated him from possible support, while damaging the reputation of the party in the process...”

pursued his political aspirations but it is the first time that he has been met with success. He has had many

Trump has presided over an unprecedented wave of

flirtations with the idea of political office. In 2000 and

attacks directed at him from inside his own party, which

2012 he publicly pondered the prospect of running for

do not portray a party of unity but rather a party of di-

the presidency but ultimately resolved to fund other

visions. Nowhere is this division more evident than in his

Republican candidacies. Money that they were all too

endorsements. Usually when a candidate from any party

eager to accept, while entertaining any possible visions`

is the nominee for the presidency they enjoy significant

he had about his future. Sceptical of it ever coming to

support, but in the case of Trump he has created so

fruition. But his elevation from donor to candidate has

many enemies with his behaviour that internal support is

surpassed all odds and redefined a political landscape,

far from significant. Some of the most influential mem-

where never supported the Republican nominees for the

bers of the party have refused to put their support

06

Current Affairs

last 5 elec George H behind him. George H W Bush, who has announced his intention not to endorse him. This has been a similar trend with his son, George W Bush, and the 2012 candidate, Mitt Romney, who expressed dismay at the ‘bullying, the greed, the showing off, the misogyny’ of his campaign.

Trump, although likely unintentionally, has thrown the Republicans into not just an internal crisis but an external one as well. Here he has shown the true ugly side of the Republican voters who continue to support and defend him in the midst of continued national controversy regarding his polices and language. He has seized an entire party and thrown it into disarray, as they struggle to formulate their next step with few Republican governors and senators choosing to support him and the rest flat out refusing to. As the presumptive nominee he is the representative of the party on a national level, which makes his gaffes not only a problem for his own campaign but for the party as a whole.

The tirade of abuse directed at other candidates has alienated him from possible support, while damaging the reputation of the party in the process.

The general debate is bound to be amongst the most heated in American history, as the Democratic nominee, must contend with a man who has caused worldwide condemnation for his extreme views on immigration.

Views that have painted the Republicans to be a party of xenophobia, which will no doubt hurt future campaigns.

The prospect of his succession to the presidency will likely generate intense resistance, as the ramifications of such a success will cause irreparable change to America and the wider world. America’s once internationally renowned democratic system risks freefalling into a reality TV show, with the future of the world being the prize.

Calumn Wilson

07

WHAT CAN YOU MAKE HAPPEN?

SRC

Student Representative Council Est. 1900

Nominate yourself now or ďŹ nd out more at: www.dusa.co.uk/elections Nominations open 15th August - 15th September

Current Affairs

PUNISHED FOR THEIR PERIODS MERELY ABOLISHING THE TAMPON TAX ISN’T ENOUGH

*Although the term “woman” has been used in this article, the proposal applies equally to everyone who undergoes a menstrual cylcle.

Following in Canada’s footsteps, Britain is likely to finally

of gender, race, creed or any other factor – to look after

abolish the tampon tax following the EU’s decision to

their body for free. By not providing free tampons, the

allow member states to scrap the taxation of menstrual

NHS is being discriminative as it is not catering for all of

hygiene products.

the needs of women. Condoms are provided on the NHS (and justifiably so), but surely when the NHS subsidises

Perhaps the day when the undoubtedly essential tampon

an elective aspect of health, it is contradictory not to

will no longer be taxed as a “luxury item” is close. But

subsidise an unavoidable biological process.

should we be content with this, or should society move to eliminate the cost of tampons altogether?

Often proponents for the status quo argue that food is essential to health, yet is not provided on the NHS

The average amount spent on tampons in a month is

– this argument is flawed: food is required by all, so

£13. The removal of the 5% tax (the previous tax rate in

both genders have equal burdens to aquire their own.

the UK for tampons) would save the user just 65 pence

However, it is the privilege of men that they need not

per month. Companies would also be likely to increase

endure unavoidable monthly bleeding – and a burden on

their prices accordingly, mitigating this small benefit.

women who have to pay more for their bodies. Men and

Therefore, despite the abolition of the archaic tampon

women both pay for their food, yet women are charged

tax, anyone who menstruates is still being unfairly

extra for their (somewhat crueller) biology.

charged for their natural processes.

Others say that tampons aren’t environmentally friendly, A fairer proposition would be for the government to

so should not be government funded since there are

provide tampons, free of charge, on the NHS.

greener alternatives such as the reusable menstrual

The purpose of the NHS is to allow everyone – regardless

cup. Currently only 6% of women use menstrual cups.

09

Current Affarirs

‘WOMEN ARE CHARGED FOR THEIR (SOMEWHAT CRUELLER) BIOLOGY.’ These alternatives are far more likely to gain popularity if

generosity (and not 100% effectivness) of charities.

advocated and offered for free by the NHS. Companies,

Whilst the removal of the tampon tax is a step in the

being driven by profit, make more money by selling

right direction, the benefits are tiny compared to

replacement tampons. Conversely, the government

the potential benefits of providing feminine hygiene

will be motivated to reduce costs spent on sanitation

products free of charge. If the tax ends up not being

products and to diminish the UK’s environmental

removed, then providing tampons free on the NHS will

footprint. It is therefore in their interest to promote

provide a way around the tax.

these green alternatives. Even if the government defied all sense and provided traditional non-biodegradable

In the name of gender equality, the environment and

tampons, the impact of this on the environment would

the protection of the homeless, , vulnerable and wealthy

be minute compared to the large decrease in the

women alike, women should not have to pay a premium

suffering of women who cannot afford tampons.

to look after their bodies. It is time to stop charging women £6,084 for the freight that is menstruation.

Tampons (including alternatives) cost an average of £13

Instead, in an act congruent with progressive societal

for a months supply and women menstruate from an

views, free sanitary products should be provided for all

average of 12 to 51 years old. This results in the average

in order to reduce gender inequality.

woman spending £6,084 on tampons in a lifetime, a cost which men are not burdened with. InIn a society striving

Christopher Fleming

for equality between the sexes, this should not be acceptable. As if the pay gap wasn’t large enough, the price of tampons further contributes to women being less wealthy than men on average.

Supplying tampons on the NHS would also help financially underpriveledged women by allowing them free access to essential sanitation. This would particularly help homeless individuals, who often barely have enough money for food and so cannot afford the “luxury” of menstrual hygiene, to live far more comfortably. These women currently have to choose between their stomachs and their menstrual health, their hunger and their hygiene – a choice that nobody should have to make. The inability to afford female hygiene products is an often overlooked problem (to the layperson at least) of homeless women.

It should be the responsibility of the government to resolve the issue of women paying for their uterus. We should all contribute to the accesscibility of tampons through our taxes, rather than placing the burden on the

10

£

Current Affairs

DESPERATE TO SURVIVE

Despite not dominating the news headlines as of late, the

but to flee in order to survive. This has led to many taking

refugee crisis is still as critical as ever. Millions of displaced

extreme risks in pursuit of a safer life in Europe. Exploit-

refugees are arriving in Europe in pursuit of sanctuary and

ed by human traffickers, many have had little choice but

to escape persecution. The biggest obstacle by far is the

to cross the Mediterranean on ‘ill-equipped’ boats. More

Mediterranean which has continued to see a massive influx

than 1,300 refugees have been reported dead or missing

of people perilously attempting to cross it in order to seek

because of this crossing in 2016 already and this number

asylum in Europe. Europe is ‘facing the biggest refugee

is only likely to rise as the fighting continues in their home

crisis since the second world war’ and the situation is not

countries. In April 2016 at least 300 migrants were killed

improving. There was just over 1 million illegal crossings

when their boat capsized. Instances of boats capsizing

into Europe by sea in 2015, compared to just over 280,000

have sadly become all too common and as long as there

from both land and sea combined in the previous year.

is conflict and poverty, people will endeavour to make the crossing. The reputation of this crossing is so notoriously

The top countries for the origins of migrants are in the

perilous that the Mediterranean has been described by the

midst of intense conflicts. Syria is the main source with

president of Doctors Without Borders as a ‘mass grave’.

350,000 people applying for asylum in the EU in 2015 alone. This crisis has been primarily spurred by the

If current trends continue then 2016 is set to see an influx

frighteningly fast and violent rise of Islamic State, who are

of migrants even greater than 2015. This will put an ex-

known for their brutality. Syria is then followed by Iraq and

treme amount of pressure on the resources of European

Afghanistan, both of which are states in conflict. This has

countries and without a unified response the crisis is only

led to more than 150,000 asylum requests by migrants

set to get worse and claim more innocent fatalities.

from Afghanistan and 100,000 by those from Iraq.

Life expectancy is so low that people have few alternatives

By Calumn Wilson

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TAKE YOUR FIRST STEPS INTO JOURNALISM AND BROADCASTING

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Lifestyle

Being a fresh new face at university can be extremely overwhelming. Moving away from; home, your family and your friends can be tough for all, but the best thing will be the opportunities to meet so many new people whilst at university. The hardest part is having the courage to say hello. Some of us are shy (which is completely normal and expected) and some of us aren’t. If you can pluck up the courage to knock on a door in halls and introduce yourself, this will be the start of your journey into an adventurous time at uni. Just think, the more people you introduce yourself to, the more people you have to go to Skint with!

13

Lifestyle

Your time at university will change and mould you for the better. The entire experience of university goes through many peaks and the odd trough, but throughout it all, students find new passions through their experiences, chosen courses and other extra curricular activities that redefine them. The vast range of modules that students can choose from is fantastic as you can choose something that is out-with your main degree subject, so take advantage of this. If you find that your main degree subject is taking a backbench and you have found what you really want to do, seek out an advisor and see what options there are. Never think that once you have chosen your degree that you cannot change, you can – after all, you should be happy and doing what you love.

Sounds geeky? There are so many things that you can involve yourself with at university but one of the cool things you can do is nominate yourself for the SRC or other committees. This is the Student Representative Council which is composed of a number of students representing the entire student body. Perhaps you will notice that over the exam period the library turns 24 hours and that Wednesday afternoons are free for any sporting activities – these are just a couple of the many motions that the council has worked hard to pass! There are 19 positions up for grabs so if you are interested in representing your fellow friends and students, head to dusa.co.uk and gather information on what to do.

If the SRC doesn’t seem like your idea of fun, or you think it is too much responsibility, you can always become a class rep. For each class you are in there are two people to represent it. Anyone can come to you with any queries that they may have and you can bring them forward to upcoming meetings, where you will have the School President and members of staff there in regards to your module or class. Being a class rep myself, it is an amazing experience, allowing you to be the voice of your entire class, represent everyone and speak up when needs be.

14

Lifestyle

One of the biggest regrets that many students have is that they did not join any societies, or join very little of them. Being one of those students myself, I cannot stress how important these societies will actually become.

Whether you want to do something academic, arty, charitable, sporty or just social, there is something out there for everyone. To date, there are over 140 societies that you can get involved with which include: Amnesty International, OpSoc (operatic society), Ski/Snowboarding and Yoga but be sure to pick up a Societies booklet at the Fresher’s Fayre or around campus. Fear not, if there isn’t something that is not suited to you, you can always create a new society that you feel may interest people.

There is no limit on how many societies you can join so go ahead and delve into a variety of things you have never tried before.

There are numerous charities all over Dundee that are great to be involved with and there are so many things you can help out with, such as helping elderly people with their shopping, working with disabled children, teens and adults and even working with animals. Not only will you be helping people and giving back but you will feel so rewarded while doing it. I would recommend charity work to any person on this planet, so give it a go and feel how rewarding it is.

The key thing you must strive to achieve is to take advantage of the huge volume of opportunities you have and the many forms that they may come in. Just don’t forget that the learning is paramount and helps shape what you can become as person but, most importantly, the way you involve yourself in all the opportunities you have before you will define your character and the person you want to be.

Toni McKinney

15

Lifestyle

Get on Your Bike!

Toni McKinney

Cycling in Dundee is on the rise, there has been a small but noticeable increase of cyclists pedalling around the city. Each of us know how important it is to keep fit and healthy but sometimes it can take a backbench when you are involved in other things such as work, societies and even coursework. Cycling may be the answer to a potentially healthy and stress free year at university!

1. Buying a bike can be expensive however, on campus

7. Students need brain power, by taking up cycling the

there is Second Cycles and EBS that sell ex-hire bikes that

increased blood flow and oxygen intake can lead to an

are virtually brand new within a student friendly budget.

amplified type of brain power, just what you need for the gruelling coursework for the semester.

2. Do you live in the West Park Halls and find it boring to walk to campus? Reduce that 30-minute walk to a

8. Another benefit is that cycling does your mind the

10-minute cycle and benefit from the small amount of

power of good. Throughout university you will have

exercise to and from campus.

stressful times. If you reach this point, go for a quick cycle along Dundee’s beautiful Riverside or across the Tay

3. Around campus, there are places to lock your bikes up

Bridge and clear your mind - increased endorphin and

while you are in lectures, tutorials and even the library.

dopamine levels in your body will make you feel great and hopefully stress free!

4. Strong defined legs are on the cards with each cycle you make! You are using in the region of 8 – 10 muscles in

9. If you want a wider span of the city’s routes, there is a

your legs such as your gluteus maximus (your bum) to your

cycle map on dundeetravelinfo.com that can give you an

rectus femoris.

idea of what is around and where it is safe to travel.

5. By cycling for at least 20-40 minutes a day, it can reduce

10. Our new Rector, Mark Beaumont, is a long distance

your risk of heart disease!

cyclist with thousands of miles under his belt. If that doesn’t inspire you to get on a bike I don’t know what will!

6. There are so many scenic routes around Dundee and surrounding areas i.e. Camperdown Park, Dudhope Park,

Whether you are wearing a bright pink Barbie helmet

Riverside Nature Park.

or a plain black one, make sure that it fits properly and remember that safety comes first by wearing it each time you get on your bike!

16

Visit us in The Hive on Level 4 of DUSA The Union 11am-3pm Mon-Wed & Fri, 12pm-6pm Thursdays www.dusa.co.uk

Lifestyle

Gavin Aitken

Cooking Corner TURKEY STIR FRY SERVES 2-3 MEDIUM SIZED PORTIONS

Eating is an integral part of our daily life. Cooking after a long day of classes can seem like a chore, but it is important with the busy lives that most of us students lead, that we eat a well-balanced diet. It is important that our bodies get nourishment from the food we consume to allow us to work and study to the best of our ability. This recipe is quick and simple, and most importantly tasty. People say that enjoying a meal begins with how it looks and the popping orange of the carrot against the dark mixed greens makes this dish more than pleasant on the eyes, and it tastes just as good as it looks!

Ingredients 1 large carrot thinly sliced

broccoli head

2 large Pak Choi bottom chopped off

450g thinly sliced turkey breast (approximately a five pack of turkey breast steaks)

50g of baby corns quartered (approximately 20)

A jar of hoisin sauce 125g of mange tout (approximately 2 generous handfuls) The florets of approximately 1/3 of a

18

1 tbsp. of vegetable oil

Science

Method 1. Heat the vegetable oil on a high heat in a large wok, once very hot add the turkey and cook for 8 minutes stirring occasionally. Remove a large slice of turkey and cut to check that it is cooked through. It should be completely white.

2. Once cooked add in a liberal quantity of hoisin sauce (roughly 2-3tbsp) cook for a 2-3 minutes on high. This will caramelise the sugar in the sauce on the turkey.

3. Add in a little water just a splash, 2 tbsp. would be more than generous 4. Now onto the vegetables! Add the carrots and cook for 1 minute, after the minute add the sweetcorn and cook for a further 2 minutes, then add in the florets of broccoli cooking for another 2 minutes, then the mange tout for 1 minute then finally the Pak Choi cooking for 3 minutes. Whilst adding in the vegetables you should be regularly stirring them to allow them all to cook evenly.

It is important to put the hardier of vegetables in first so they soften.

5. Finally, whilst still on the heat add a further 3 tbsp. of hoisin sauce and stir it in until thoroughly mixed through.

6. Now plate up and enjoy!

19

WHAT CAN YOU MAKE HAPPEN?

SRC

Student Representative Council Est. 1900

Nominate yourself now or ďŹ nd out more at: www.dusa.co.uk/elections Nominations open 15th August - 15th September

Community

THERE IS NO I IN

TEAM BUT THERE IS A U IN

VOLUNTEER Alastair Letch and Hannah Perrie Fancy making a difference in society whilst

sports and arts groups) and over 4000

expanding your CV? It’s never too early

grant making trusts/ funding organisa-

in your degree to be thinking of ways to

tions. The third sector has developed mas-

gain experience and useful skills. One of

sively over the last decade within Scotland;

the most enjoyable and rewarding ways to

to the extent that 8/10 households have

do this is by volunteering. In tandem with

used a charity, for example in the form of

gaining life experience, volunteering pro-

a community centre, night line, or church;

vides a platform to understand and con-

9/10 have supported a charity, in compari-

nect with a variety of people from different

son to the 8/10 UK average and the per-

backgrounds who rely upon the charity or

centage of people volunteering in Scotland

organisation.

is almost double that of the rest of the UK. Alongside participating in the vital work

Charities‌ they aren’t that important,

the third sector carries out in communities,

right? Wrong! In Scotland, there are

you will be gaining experience that can

23,700 registered charities, over 20,000

make a real difference in how you develop,

grassroots community groups (including

whether personally or professionally.

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Community

Volunteering has become increasingly valued by employers in recent times. Local entrepreneur, Stephen Page of ‘Something Special Flowers’ stated that “potential employees with volunteering experience have an edge because of the initiative shown in putting themselves forward to help others, and they are more likely to work well as part of a team.” Volunteering enriches both your character and your CV – both of which are hugely beneficial to students!

If you have an interest in Youth Work and gender

An organisation that is dedicated to enabling children to

equality, then LGBT Youth Scotland’s ‘Allsorts’ group is

reach their full potential is the Family Support team of

a great option for you. The group meets on a Tuesday

Barnardos. If you intend to pursue a career in teaching or

to explore many of the social issues that affect young

social work, experience with Barnardos could significant-

adults within the LGBT community in Scotland along

ly further your abilities and understanding in these areas

with having a good laugh. By being a part of LGBT

whilst enriching the lives of vulnerable children. You can

Youth Scotland, not only would you be able to connect

volunteer within Barnardos as a befriender or within

to other groups across Scotland, you would also be

their holiday play schemes - you pick what fits your

able to take on training providing an insight into many

schedule and what’s best suited to what you want to

important issues regarding Youth Work. If you are

gain from it. It couldn’t be simpler! Search their current

interested, you can complete a volunteer form on their

volunteering opportunities at www.barnardos.org.uk/

website, www.lgbtyouth.org.uk

get_involved

Perhaps you wish to gain experience working with

If you are considering volunteering in Dundee, there

children to aid your future career plans – like a PGDE

are plenty of organisations there to support the local

qualification? Well, volunteering with Girlguiding

communities in a variety of ways. A first port of call for

Scotland or Scouts Scotland is a fantastic way to gain

many who are interested- though perhaps less acquaint-

regular experience, whilst not taking too much time

ed with Dundee would be the Volunteer Centre on 10

out of your coursework and social life. Volunteering

Constitution Rd. The centre is connected to a range of

can open doors to different opportunities. For instance,

community initiates, organisations and projects that are

my volunteering within a Girlguiding unit has led me to

local to Dundee and connected to Tayside. Whatever

becoming involved in their Marketing team! I’m not a

your interest is, the centre has many options for you.

marketing student, but this experience has given me an

You can go along with a CV and a letter explaining your

insight into something I would not have otherwise done

interests, or you can get in contact via their website

and I am now considering marketing as a possible ca-

www.volunteerdundee.org.uk

reer path. You never know where your volunteering role will take you. Girlguiding Dundee are always looking for unit helpers and if this opportunity has captivated your attention, please email info@girlguidingdundee.org.uk for more information.

Alongside these organisations, there are many fantastic opportunities out there in Dundee. As the majority of us will have access to search engines; a quick google search could lead you to the place that will change your life. If we student editors have convinced you to volunteer (or volunteering was something you already wanted to do) then we wish you all the best in the opportunities that come your way.

22

Nominate a local charity for DUSA to support this year Find out more and nominate at www.dusa.co.uk/rag Nominations close 15th September

Community

LET’S TURNIP THE VOLUME ON STUDENT EATING The new student is constantly plagued with one thought “what do I eat!”

You will be glad to hear that the era of the pot noodle is behind us and a much more ethical and dare I say it... tasty option has presented itself.

Let’s first consider the things we want from our food as students: 1) Convenience – (I’m hungry NOW!) 2) Price – (Beer + clothes = money) 3) Tastiness – (Pizza > potato)

S

o taking all those equally valid points into

Organic farms produce food of an increased natural

consideration, we arrive at the pinnacle of student

quality, nutritional value and with greater overall health

sustenance – a Free Domino’s pizza (good thing it’s

benefits. It is little known that some supermarkets cap

Freshers!). Unfortunately, underlying factors such as

the sugar content of their locally grown fruit in order to

obesity, economic unsustainability and boredom render

increase its shelf life. The attitude towards reducing the

this option obsolete. I think it’s time to re-think what we

quality and taste of food in order to make more profit

want from our food.

is preposterous and is common practice in almost all conventional food production. Organic production has a

Fresh meat and vegetables, primarily organic, are now

focus on producing food as it is meant to be eaten, full

more freely available than ever before. Through local

of taste and nutritional value.

green grocers and some supermarkets, this new trend has brought about the rise of budget organic shopping.

I was originally a sceptic; hearing that organic food

I know it’s a difficult concept to grasp at first but bear

was healthier just wasn’t enough for me. It wasn’t

with me. Turning away from your cupboard staple of

until I gained a deeper understanding to what organic

beans doesn’t have to be a great challenge. In fact, by

meant that my perception, and actions, changed. The

changing to a more organic diet you can cook meals for

great food perception of our age comes down to the

convenience, keep your costs lower than the average

fact that if it doesn’t kill us or make us vomit, it’s great

student and produce the tastiest dishes around.

to have for dinner. Many academic researchers, some

24

Community

even at this university, tell us that the chemicals used

results in an increase in labour, cost and effort. This

in the production of our food don’t completely leave

increase is reflected in the cost of the produce. I think

the food before we eat it. Instead the chemicals remain

it is safe to say that a small increase in price is worth

undigested and find their way into the tissues and fat

the ability to taste food as it should be and to support

cells of our body. As these chemicals accumulate they

your local community farms. Oh! And of course save

begin to result in a long shopping list of symptoms and

yourself from the villainous talons of chemical ingestion.

conditions. When we eat a BLT sandwich these days we

By eating more vegetables and making large batches

are really eating a BLA (Bacon, Lettuce and Antibiotics).

for the days ahead you can significantly reduce your

The animals being groomed to become said bacon are

total food bill and have a healthier wholesome diet (your

given copious amounts of antibiotics to keep them

mum would be proud).

from dying in the deplorable confinement that they are refined to. This cacophony of chemicals then ultimately

So let’s recap. Organics allow us to eat tasty, well-

takes up residence in our bodies and work to build our

balanced food, when we want, for a low cost and with an

tolerance to medicines. The medicine that we need to

unparalleled increase to our overall bodily health. If you,

cure ourselves of the infections that we get due to the

like me, now see the benefit of home grown organics,

lack of good bacteria we have in our body because of

you can get your weekly supply from companies such as

the invasion of the antibiotics we have ingested. The

Falkland Kitchen Farm and Meadowsweet Organics. They

health benefits of eating organically are undisputed, they

supply local green grocers such as Frasers Fruit and Veg

contain naturally occurring antioxidants, a beneficial

on Perth Road and Clementine’s of Broughty Ferry. Even

boost of nutrients and most importantly are void of

better still the two companies can deliver straight to

any of the nasty chemicals that afflict us through non-

your door for FREE!

organics.

Finlay Page Another perception of organics is that it’s expensive. In the sense of fairness, organic produce does tend to be of

Find out more about Finlay and the sustainable world of

a higher price and for understandable reasons. Growing

agriculture at www.finlaypage.co.uk.

without chemicals, and with deeper environmental care,

25

Community

LIP THEATRE As I took my seat in the audience for LIP Theatre's first

‘Undertaking’. The performances also come with a

performance of ‘The Crucible,’ I was incredibly excited

variety of opportunities, including acting, backstage

to see what the cast had achieved in just five weeks.

production, directing and writing. Throughout my

Having helped out backstage, I was fully aware of the

two years at University, LIP has been a huge part of

momentous effort everyone had put in to bring this

my life and has supported me in my endeavours. It

challenging show to life and, from the first moments to

has given me the confidence to do what I love and

the last, I was completely captivated. I've always had a

try out new things. In LIP all ideas are valid, from the

fascination for live performances, the way an actor can

tried and tested to the completely off the wall.

take on the mind, words and actions of a whole other person right there in front of you. But let me tell you, it's

This year’s wackiest show was the Lip Sync Battle.

a whole different story when these actors are people you

Sitting there in the audience, watching a stirring

know. Watching my friends transform into these charac-

rendition of ‘On My Own,’ the emotional perform-

ters that exert such immense fear and rage was almost

er clutching lovingly to a life-sized doll of his best

miraculous. The feeling I got was around 50% pride, 40%

friend, my mind was torn between wondering how

sheer admiration and 10% that feeling you get when you

my life got to this point and why I wasn't up there

see your dad on TV. “I know them!” I thought. “Look at

myself.

all these incredible people I know!”

The song came to a close and the crowd went wild.

I was pretty chuffed for myself honestly. This has been

LIP's ability to take the ridiculous and turn it into

the best year for LIP so far with a total of 10 shows.

something ridiculously good will always surprise. I

Amongst these, was a fantastic portrayal of ‘The Im-

don’t doubt that this roll we're on is only just getting

portance of Being Earnest,’ along with Shakespeare’s

started.

Twelfth Night and even plays written by our own members, including our sketch show and Rob Currie's

26

Catrin Evans- a member of LIP

WHAT CAN YOU MAKE HAPPEN?

SRC

Student Representative Council Est. 1900

Nominate yourself now or ďŹ nd out more at: www.dusa.co.uk/elections Nominations open 15th August - 15th September

Community

LIFE CREW Ahoy, do you want to write interesting and engaging content for DUSA? Don’t know what to write about? Well, we are here to inspire! ‘Seas’ the day and join the Life Crew, where as part of a team you will go out into the community and explore a variety of opportunities that you can write about.

If this idea floats your boat and you have succumbed to pier pressure, then send an email to the Community Editors.

Contact Community Co-Editor Hannah Perrie: h.k.perrie@dundee.ac.uk

THE ART & DESIGN SOCIETY DISCOVER - CREATE - COMMUNICATE We are a brand new, exciting group for artists, designers and anyone with a creative flair.

Our aim is to create a safe and chilled environment for likeminded students who wish to learn something new, such as photoshop, candle making or indesign. Our primary function is a “skill swap”: in return you can pass your expertise on something to someone else. With weekly workshops on practical and digital subjects and trips to galleries, museums and anywhere artsy, you are sure to be inspired. We also offer opportunities for artists and designers to enter prestigious creative competitions to boost your CV and enable you to gain valuable professional experience.

Contact us on Facebook: Art and Design Society

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Community

STUDY ABROAD SOCIETY The Study Abroad Society aims to increase awareness of the university’s study abroad opportunities and create a support network for students taking part in an exchange.

Our main goals are to encourage students from Dundee University to study abroad and to provide a support system for incoming and outgoing exchange students.

Going to live in a foreign country, knowing nobody can be a very daunting prospect.

However, being part a network of students in the same boat as you, or who have been there before, makes the transition much easier. Anyone is welcome to join!

THE SPE

(SOCIETY OF PETROLEUM ENGINEERS) The SPE (Society of Petroleum Engineers) UoD accommodates all students who are willing to gain a better understanding of the oil and gas industry. With links to Texas and Aberdeen, the society can provide a connection to the industry. There are various events, run from Aberdeen to London.

The membership of the SPE is acknowledged internationally and will come with a membership card; leading to benefits such as Newspaper or journal articles, scholarship opportunities, research funding, experiences and more. The SPE UoD helps the students in terms of knowledge and developing their confidence in meeting new people from professional backgrounds. Knowledge, networking, friends, personality improvement are what we offer to students. To get more information, please check the SPE website at http://www.spe.org/ or contact us by email t.b.sumarno@dundee.ac.uk / p.mcmanus@dundee.ac.uk

POLISH SOCIETY Have you ever wondered what pierogi tastes like? Or what’s the importance of keeping empty jars at home and last but not least, what’s the best vodka in the world? Well, we might have the answers to those troublesome questions! The Polish Society is much more than a place for Polish people to meet each other; we welcome members of all nations who are interested in Polish culture and language. Our events always involve great company, delicious food, lots of fun and all things Polish!

29

Community

THE UOD MOOTING SOCIETY Mooting is essentially a legal debate in a courtroom setting where two students compete against each other to present arguments on specific points of law before a judge. The Society welcomes and trains both seasoned mooters and newcomers.

The Society sends teams to compete in competitions throughout the UK. Last year the Mooting Society launched a new Scotland-wide mooting competition in which universities from all over Scotland came to Dundee to compete in an inter-varsity style mooting competition. The Mooting Society is very social; with various events throughout the year, which provides an ideal opportunity for the society to socialise and get to know each other. Other events include pub crawls and race nights.

Contact the society: Email: law-mooting@dundee.ac.uk Or follow the society on social media Facebook: University of Dundee Mooting Society Twitter: @dundeeunimooting Instagram: @dundeeunimooting

DUNDEE UNI LAW SOCIETY Dundee University Law Society (DULS) is a society run by students for students. Despite the society being aimed at law students, all students are welcomed.

The annual Law Ball is the highlight of the year. Students gather and are whisked away for the weekend to a top class hotel out-with their city. At night, ball gowns, tuxedos and kilts are donned.

Starting with a glamorous champagne reception, a traditional yet extremely lively ceilidh ensues.

However, DULS is much more than just the Law Ball. It is also the committee's key aim to help the Society's members to find and secure career opportunities as early in their legal careers as possible.

Past visits to law based organisations have included: the Scottish Parliament, the Faculty of Advocates and even Perth Prison. The society brings law to life.

If you are interested, do get in contact via our Facebook page: Dundee University Law Society

30

Community

HISPANIC SOCIETY Do you want to expand your knowledge of other cultures and languages? Would you like to meet students from other parts of the world to exchange ideas, have casual conversation and learn from them? Do you like to shake it to salsa, bachata and other latin music? Then this is the society for you! The Hispanic Society offers a range of activities and events to suit all; everyone is welcome!

GESS

GEOGRAPHY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE SOCIETY The Geography and Environmental Science Society (GESS) is the place to go for all things geographical! GESS welcomes everyone; so come along to our fabulous socialising events, such as our pub orienteering, pub quizzes and the annual ball! Or try our academic events (such as careers talks) where you are sure to meet new friends and have an amazing time!

Becoming a member of GESS and getting involved in our fantastic activities is a great way to socialise and get immersed in new experiences. Find us at the Fresher’s Fayre or at our Legendary Beach Party event during Fresher’s week!

Want to know more? Drop us an email (gess@dundee.ac.uk) or join our Facebook group (Geography and Environmental Science Society - University of Dundee)

31

Community

MODEL UNITED NATIONS SOCIETY The Dundee Model United Nations Society is dedicated to simulating the United Nations within the university. Meeting weekly for debates on a wide range of topics, members have the opportunity to represent the views of their countries as they work with others to find a common ground and create global consensus. The society is a great way to expand your knowledge of global politics and meet new people - we even offer training sessions for new members on debating rules so don’t be shy to join! We also throw fabulous social events throughout the year and offer fantastic opportunities to attend both Scottish and global conferences, to meet new people and further your skills.

Find us on Facebook at Dundee Model United Nations Society.

DUCS DUNDEE UNI COMPUTING SOCIETY Dundee University Computing Society (DUCS) is a place for those interested in computing to socialise and attend a range of social and educational events throughout the year, most notably: The Annual Ball, Hackathons, Arduino / Robot Wars, and Tech Meetups… Alongside collaborating with other campus societies, and taking part in big events further afield in other cities around Scotland.

Based in the city that gave us jute, jam, journalism, and GTA, we are well-connected with local companies that bring us closer to the different fields and disciplines computing have to offer.

You can “Like” us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/DundeeCS, or join the conversation further in our Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/DundeeComputingSociety.

You can also get in touch via email: DUCS@Dundee.ac.uk.

32

Community

DANII’S HOUSE Welcome to Dannii’s House! We’re a non-profit organisation currently under construction, with aims to bring LGBT+ youth out of homelessness and unsafe living conditions. We provide our residents with links to safe housing associations, health services and support to live under their preferred name/pronouns.

At the same time, we run a café; offering volunteering experience to both residents and the local community alongside hosting workshops. We aspire to create a safe space for any LGBT+ person whilst hosting social events such as art exhibitions or poetry slams.

To keep up to date on the developments in Dannii’s House or if you want to get involved,check out our social media!

Twitter: @DanniisHouse Instagram: danniishouse Tumblr: danniishouse.tumblr.com

Dannii’s House is created in loving memory of Danielle Robins

33

WHAT CAN YOU MAKE HAPPEN?

SRC

Student Representative Council Est. 1900

Nominate yourself now or ďŹ nd out more at: www.dusa.co.uk/elections Nominations open 15th August - 15th September

Design

WHAT’S YOUR TOP 5?

A DJCAD SURVIVAL GUIDE 1. The canteen, which is located in the centre of DJCAD, will be your first port of call for anything that can be going wrong throughout your time at university. A valid ex-cuse for running away from the studio to spend most of your SAAS money as you load up on food from both the hot food counter and the shop! Mac n’ Cheese Mondays will be the only thing to get you out of bed on a Monday. You may not get much work done as you count the minutes until 12, when it’s finally acceptable to chill in the canteen with your friends and enjoy this hearty meal.

2. The DJCAD Library situated on Level 4 will be your first stop when hit with a brief containing words you never knew existed.

Feel free to roam the aisles of books and stretch out at the computers during the beginning of the semester, enjoying the space and lack of students, as you won’t be able to fight through students as they surface from their studios during deadline time.

From rushing around getting work printed or taking out/returning books which have never been opened, this can be a stressful, dangerous area, not to be entered unless essential.

3. The Art Shop is found beside the canteen on Level 3 where you will find your new BFF’s in the form of the staff members that run the shop. Open 8.30am-4pm, Monday- Friday, the Art Shop will be an easy place to simply run away from your studio and spend even more of your SAAS money. Trust me, you will be poor! All these sketch-books and scalpels and glue and masking tape that will get you through the year all add up!

4. The Union which is just a small walk from the DJCAD buildings will save your life in more ways than one. Go during the day for a quick lunch and a bevvy and take some much needed time away from your studio. Or like most stressed out and fun loving students, head out to the Union at night for a casual drink, tuneless sing-song, or more commonly… a shameful dance off.

5. Toilets, found on pretty much every level will be your sanctuary. When you just need to run away from your responsibilities, simply walk past the walls of accomplished student’s work and you’re sure to find a loo. All these toilets come in handy when you just need a quiet time to breathe before you reach a stress level of 2007 Britney Spears.

Guy Clark

35

Design

IT’S TIME FOR A FASHION REVOLUTION. It’s time for a Fashion Revolution Fashion Revolution is a global organisation and movement, which aims to bring transparency and equality to the current fast fashion industry. The campaign began in 2013 after the world witnessed the largest ever garment-factory disaster in history when the Rana Plaza building in Bangladesh collapsed, killing 1134 and injuring a further 2500.

Fashion Revolution aims to raise awareness of current human and environmental impacts as well as campaigning for sustainable fashion alternatives, in the hope that a more informed population will voice a call for change in production values and ethics.

The fashion industry has recently undergone mass reinvention. With an annual turnover of $3 trillion and one in six people across the globe working within the field, the new fast fashion business model is rapidly changing

36

Design

how we consider clothing. Clothing is quickly becoming

With the sheer volume of product produced it is no

a disposable commodity, with the longevity of items

surprise that fashion is now the second most polluting

being challenged and the values of how garments are

industry in the world second only to oil.

created, disregarded. Through persuasive advertising, convincing us that materialistic purchasing will increase

Globalised production has led to outsourcing labour

our quality of life, people are buying more without

in the fashion supply chain. There are now 40 million

thinking of the consequence this is having on our world

garment workers worldwide, most in developing

and those living in it.

countries and signed to voluntary codes of conduct which do not ensure workers rights. In Bangladesh 85%

With more than 80 billion new garments purchased

of workers are female and receive an average wage of

each year, there has been an incredible stress placed on

$3 a day. Poor working conditions, such as shortcuts in

our natural resources. An intensification in agriculture

safety measures have led to countless cases of industrial

has caused an astounding increase in genetically-

disasters such as the 2013 Rana Plaza collapse.

modified cotton crops and chemical pesticides. Textile manufacture requires a staggering amount of water,

Fashion Revolution believe it’s time to change the way

taking 2720 litres to create one t-shirt, the same volume

we think about fashion. Clothes should be loved and the

that one person drinks in three years. Textile waste

people and planet who make them should be respected.

is at an all time high with the US throwing away 11

To find out more search fashionrevolution.org or join

million tonnes annually, as well as 90% of charity shop

the #whomademyclothes campaign on Twitter and

donations being shipped to developing countries where

Instagram.

it is ultimately taken to landfill, emitting harmful gases.

LUCY CASTER

37

Design

EXHIBITION SPACE TEA GREEN

Nestled in the heart of Dundee, Tea Green Concept

two weeks the exhibition is running. After completion,

Atelier aims to showcase and sell the work of

MacFadyen’s Oor Wullie will join the Oor Wullie Bucket

independent Scottish creatives. The event is part

Trail which aims to have decorated Oor Wullie statues

of Dundee’s Ignite festival, celebrating culture and

planted around the streets of Dundee. The statues are

creativity in the city. Over the years Dundee has grown

to be decorated by locals and later auctioned off for

rapidly as a city of creativity which makes it a very

charity.

exciting city to study in. The boutique and exhibition is situated in one of Dundee’s famous mills, The Old Flour

The stairs are adorned with prints created by local

Mill which sets the scene for a rustic, ‘make-do and

businesses and studio holders. The bottom floor of the

mend’ feel. The building’s industrial interior gives visitors

mill is a pop up boutique selling handmade goods. The

a flashback of old Dundee which is a nice comparison

items on sale range from jewellery to lingerie to wooden

to the contemporary artwork on display. The building

bowls to knitted scarfs. The jewellery items for sale are

alone attracts intrigued locals who remise and tell stories

placed under handmade copper and glass terrariums

about days gone by.

adding to the industrial feel but still keeping the store looking very well presented, showcasing the very best

The mill is split into two sections. The top floor, split

of Scottish craft. The layout of the place really brings

into two chambers, showcases sketchbooks hung from

a community feel to the pop up creation, including

the ceilings created by second and third year Duncan

both the public, local students, artists and designers. It

of Jordanstone students while the other showcases an

is a very good platform for creatives to promote their

interactive exhibition where visitors can create dens

work and gain clientele. It also allows for both students

from cardboard boxes. Also situated on the top floor, is

and graduates to form local connections and create

a blank statue of Oor Wullie. The statue of the famous

discussion about local art events. It gives students the

character was given to the creator of Tea Green, Joanne

confidence to display their work which is always a plus.

MacFadyen who plans to doodle on statue during the Hannah George

38

Design

THE ART OF STRESS A FIRST YEAR REFLECTION There is a stereotype around student life being about

normal especially with deadlines but the important thing

long lazy days when actually an increasing number expe-

is knowing the difference between good stress and bad

rience anxiety and stress way beyond the process of

stress. Good stress can be motivational and gives you

leaving home. Over the recent years there has been an

a burst of energy to produce a lot more work. However

increase number of us struggling to cope with university

bad stress is where you're likely to feel overwhelmed,

life, causing an increase in demand for counselling. Chair

unwell and start having issues with mental health like

of Universities UK’s mental well-being group, Ruth Caleb,

anxiety.

has stated the call for counselling services has had an annual rise of around 10%. There can be a pressure

The mental health society aims to reduce the stigma

for new students to create a balancing act between

surrounding mental health illness and fundraise for local

having a good social life and reaching your academic

organisations which you can volunteer at. Whether its

potential. On the social side, there will be plenty of

just for a bit of a social life boost or to help you in open-

opportunities to meet new people (skint is a must) with

ing up about issues such as stress, joining this society

lots of different interests and in no time you will have a

was helpful in discussing these issues with people who

university family of friends you can share those ‘Two for

felt the same. There is also a counselling service through

Tuesdays’with. Academically, the General Foundation

the university which is done through appointments if you

art course provides that safety net for you to flex your

feel you need to talk to someone on a more profession-

creative muscles and find what you like and don’t like

al level. Of course university is about your studies but

without stressing too much about grades.

having a social life is important and time away from you're work is beneficial. Having a life which is not fully

However this can be hard to do as everyone still wants

dedicated to your course is what makes deadline stress a

to look like they can survive and succeed in the first year

lot more bearable.

after flying the nest. The General Foundation course is filled with short briefs and therefore short deadlines. This can cause a lot of stress as the outcomes require high

Lauren Mcintyre

quality in quick time. Feeling stressed can be perfectly

39

Arts & Entertainment

OPERA:

EMBRACING YOUR INNER SNOB

Opera is not something usually associated with younger

I felt a bit peckish on my way to the opera and in order

people. The stereotypical image of a frequenter of the

to suitably embarrass my companion, who stood in high

opera is a rich 70 year old with a strong English accent;

heels and a blue floor length dress which she described

so to contrast this, I (an 18 year old student) went to a

as making her feel “like a princess”, I thought the best

production of Bizet’s Carmen at the Caird Hall, with my

place to go was McDonalds; needless to say, we received

flatmate Cathy. Not your normal student night out and

some brilliant questioning glances. After that we went to

a little pricier than Skint - but as something that has

find our seats, and as we passed down the aisle to our

always been on my bucket list it was well worth it.

aisle seats we were greeted by some lovely compliments

It was a long anticipated event in my calendar; first a

exchanged between couples about our now seemingly

month away; then a week, and finally the day arrived.

exuberant attire. We didn’t care that we were slightly

Life had changed a lot in the time from booking the

overdressed, we were at the opera - it’s one of the

tickets and not all were good changes, but the opera

few times it is correct to be dressed like nobility! To

gave me that ‘something’ on the horizon to look forward

further enhance our level of snobbery, or to increase our

to; a chance to dress up and feel and look far more of a

embracement of the cultural experience depending on

high-flyer than I actually am…which I think is the essence

how you look at it, we had front row seats.

of snobbery, but who doesn’t like the opportunity to stick on their glad rags?

We took our seats and waited for the opera to begin. At first, there was just the drone of musicians warming up

As I was getting changed into my black suit and bow tie

their instruments - then out came the conductor. He was

I felt a sense of nervousness and excitement; nervous

exactly as you would picture a proper conductor, wild

about whether it would live up to the expectation and

long hair with a small bald patch on top and in a tailcoat.

excited about seeing my first opera. As Cathy and I

He awoke the orchestra with his actions using such gusto

prepared to leave we stood for the token selfie in our

in his conducting that it was hard not to imagine a small

corridor - there was no chance we were going to let

child imitating conducting. The moment the orchestra

that level of high-class, sophisticated snobbery go

began to play I felt a warmth and excitement run

undocumented.

throughout my body in a feeling that is hard to describe

40

Arts & Entertainment

as anything other than raw joy. A huge grin appeared on my face, I could feel the tightness in my cheeks. I turned to Cathy who was clearly feeling the same thing. I have to say I’ve never felt anything quite like it, what may have seemed to be a chance to embrace sophistication became something truly wondrous.

As the opera began I watched in utter amazement as I became enveloped in the production, within which every element was refined to the most miniscule detail. Wherever you lay your eye on stage you were greeted by a new sigh: from the background peasants’ own wordless stories of flirting, romance, family, and matriarchy, to the main characters tragic and breathtaking performances – everything was a sensory treat.

Although watching an opera sang in French, set in Spain and performed in Scotland with an Irish lead may not be to everyone’s tastes (and perhaps especially not to all students’ tastes) it was a truly amazing experience that I feel everyone should try; after all who doesn’t want to let out a little of that inner snob? Even my flatmate loved the dressing up, front row snobbery - and she’s a socialist.

‘It was a truly amazing experience that I feel everyone should try”

David White

41

Arts & Entertainment

THE

-FICATION

OF OUR CHILDHOODS

42

Arts & Entertainment

In the pop culture landscape, the House of Mouse

tale for Disney. The cynic in me cannot help conjure

has as great a tight a hold over the general masses as

up ludicrous conspiracy theories; Disney fulfilling the

House Greyjoy has over the Iron Islands in Game of

role of the malevolent corporation that we know it is,

Thrones. Once upon a time, the Walt Disney Company

led by moustache twirling Bond villains who exercise

was preoccupied with fairy-tales and folklore. However,

mind control of the public through subliminal messages.

ambitions have been extended to a galaxy far, far away

And that may very well be true - but if so, mind

and knights in shining armour have been replaced by

control has never been this good. Pixar films regularly

misfits in spandex.

receive critical acclaim from the Academy and most critics. Star Wars: The Force Awakens rejuvenated the

It began with Pixar. CGI fantastical character pieces

franchise after the fallout from the subpar prequels,

that toe the line between the humorous and the

and had the highest grossing opening weekend for

existential, bridging the gap between generations.

a film. Marvel studios created the first cohesive and

Disney realised their audience was broadening. The

successful cinematic universe for its characters (sorry

only way to get bigger was to think bigger. With the

X-Men), a practice most massive studios are attempting

company’s acquisition of George Lucas’s Lucasfilm, in

to duplicate. Success aside however, it is difficult to

2012, Star Wars and Indiana Jones joined the family.

shake the feeling that the characters of our childhood

Mickey replaced Chewbacca as Harrison Ford’s No. 2

have been hijacked to become a share in a corporate

and Disney’s declaration of world domination was made

conglomerate. Does the soullessness of business deals

apparent. With the addition of Marvel studios to the

hurt the intrinsic sentimental value of these properties?

brand, Captain America and Thor have replaced Aladdin

It may, but I am glad to say that for me, it hasn’t yet.

and Cinderella as company mascots and the takeover is complete. Film franchises of old have been obtained,

Patrick O’Donnell

and the comic book has become the modern day fairy

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Arts & Enterainment

DISCOVER ART: A GUIDE TO THE UNESCO CITY OF DESIGN The “art community” is often seen as a bit of an abstract whirlwind of stark, white galleries, champagne and designer stubble; but the artistic community in Dundee is actually right on the university’s doorstep, and easy to participate in as a student on a budget. Dundee has two galleries -and they are both free of charge! There’s the McManus with a whole room of traditional oil paintings, and there’s the DCA with its own art based cinema and ever-changing contemporary exhibitions. So how can you experience Dundee’s artistic culture?

Learn about Dundee Talk to people The McManus is a great place to start if you want to

Don’t be afraid to ask the gallery staff about exhibi-

learn about the history of the city you’re in. With a

tions or specific pieces; they will be more than happy

model of the old centre of town and huge stained glass

to share their knowledge with you, as everything has a

windows from some of the old buildings, it’s easy to

story behind it. Alternatively read the plaques next to

immerse yourself in Dundee’s fascinating past. On the

each piece, as some may be able to shed some light

other hand, a more modern perspective of the city

on what you’re looking at. It may also be useful to take

can be found at the DCA, as it often collaborates with

a picture of the plaques so you can look up some of

international artists – some of which are making their

the items later, as sometimes you’re not allowed to

UK debut.

take a picture of the actual piece. It may even be worth asking your tutors about the history of Dundee or its art community, as they may be able to offer valuable

Get Inspired

information on events throughout the year. Remember, these people are here to help you, and everyone loves getting to talk about what they’re passionate about!

Visiting an art gallery can be a rewarding experience, as it not only encourages you to think critically,

Eleanor Booty

it inspires people to collaborate and work with the surrounding community. Art often challenges the way we think about things and tackle problems, so by visiting a gallery it might help you think outside the box when it comes to your studies.

These are just some of the ways you can get involved with the vibrant art community here in Dundee, so please go and immerse yourself in what this brilliant little city has to offer you - you won’t be disappointed.

45

Science

HOW TO MAKE A ZOMBIE

James Russell

Z

ombies are everywhere. “The Walking Dead”,

and the establishment of Haiti as the first independent

“iZombie”, “Pride, Prejudice and Zombies”, “left

black state who were free to practice their faith. The

4 Dead” etc. It would appear we cannot get

Maroons would later form the Bizangos, acting as a

enough of zombies and similarly to previous cultural

spiritual force patrolling the Haitian populous through

love affairs with monsters and horrors this could

the powers of Vodou.

represent a shared fear. Like the popularity of alien invasion films during American Macarthyism and the

Depending whom you ask in the Vodou faith, the

rise of slasher films in times of the Zodiac Killer and

Zombie has different definitions and properties. In

other violent criminals, zombies represent something.

most folklore it is the living dead who have been

Whether it is our fear of disease and decay or our over-

brought back through sorcery, but to Max Beauvoir;

whelming primal need to consume and reproduce we

the Supreme Vodoun Chief and Head of the Bizangos,

don’t know. What we do know is that zombies are real.

it is a spiritual matter in which the Bokour removes the desire to do bad things from those who have been

To understand the biology of the zombie you must first

deemed criminal. In Vodou it is sacrosanct to take a

understand its origin and history.

life so zombification is a method of punishment that doesn’t offend the gods. Narcisse had been brought

The first medically verifiable case of a zombie was

before one of these tribunals and deemed guilty on of

presented by Dr Lamarque Douyon and pertained to a

an unforgivable crime and transformed into a zombie

man called Clairvius Narcisse who returned home to his

to punish him and protect the people he may have

family eighteen years after they buried him. His medical

victimized.

records showed he was pronounced dead by two western trained medics. Narcisse had fallen victim to a

Stories of a potion that possesses this ability to convert

group known as the Bizangos, a secret society of vodou

one into a zombie were reported as early as 1938 by

sorcerers, or Bokour.

Zora Neale Hurston, but she believed no person would dare divulge the ingredients and this remained true

The Bizangos find their origin in the 1790s when Haiti

until Wade Davis, a Harvard ethno-botanist, infiltrated

was still under rule by the white slave masters. Fearing

the Vodou community with assistance from Beauvoir.

Vodou the masters banned any practice of the faith.

He uncovered and collected a sample of the zombie

Which caused the first slaves to rebel and escape to the

preparation, and was involved in the first biochemical

mountains where they set up their own communities;

and anthropological analysis of the powder.

people known as the Maroons. It was the Maroons who were the first to organize slave uprisings, blessing those

Its ingredients included puffer fish, tarantula, cashew

who vowed to murder the white slavers with the blood

leaves, bearded fire worm, velvet bean, cane toad,

of a sacrificial animal in a ceremony known as the Bois

jimson weed, hispaniolan boa and the bones of an

Caiman. This in part would lead to the Haitian revolution

infant. Each ingredient holds its own meaning in

46

Science

folklore but from a biochemical standpoint there are two ingredients that stand out. Puffer fish and jimson weed.

Puffer fish produces a powerful neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin that stops nerve cells from firing action potentials by binding to the cell’s membrane and blocking the passage of sodium ions. This stops nerves from communicating, temporarily rendering victims in completely paralyzed in a death like state so severe that most physicians cannot differentiate between. This is where the stories of undead zombie find its origin. In reality zombies are not people brought back from dead but under the effects of powerful toxins that simulate death.

The slow shuffling movements and impaired neurocognitive functions often associated with Zombies can be put down to the effects of the Datura Stramonium plant, also known as Jimson Weed or the “Zombie Cucumber�. This plant is a member of the infamous nightshade family and contains a range of tropane alkaloids, many of which are used in medicine as analgesics and anticholinergenics. The effects of the plant leave the victim in a delirious and suggestible state. The result of prolonged exposure would be akin to a chemical lobotomy, robbing a person of their facilities and free will. This is why the Bokour use it to punish criminals.

The Zombie is an idea that lies between the world of physical science and the metaphysics of vodou, though bastardised into our modern interpretation the zombie is real and nature holds the ingredients to create it.

47

Science

DURYA ANNUAL SYMPOSIUM

KATIE GILMOUR

The annual DUYRA symposium was held this April in the Centre for Translational and Interdisciplinary Research.

DUYRA, or Dundee University’s Young Researcher’s Association, is a student run society that organizes and facilitates undergraduate research projects in an attempt to bridge a gap between undergraduate learning and post-graduate research. This year’s symposium was a joint effort with the University of Edinburgh. The day began with a lunch where undergrads, PhD Students and speakers had the opportunity to discuss their research. Our first speaker was Professor Jim Livesey, who put a philosophical spin on science and spoke about the difference between choice and reason. After which the projects were presented by Dundee and Edinburgh undergraduate students from a range of disciplines. The second speaker of the day was world renowned Sir Philip Cohen who gave a relaxed talk about Major Drugs of the 21st Century, casually sliding in a story about having to fly to Washington on a moment’s notice to celebrate his friends winning the Nobel Prize, maybe you’ve heard of them, Edwin Krebs and Edmund Fischer. The day ended with a wine reception in the street and tour of the center’s facilities where attendees were shown one of the world largest collections of mass spectrometers, each worth as much as a Ferrari.

Arson investigation and how

Is our bone length reflective of our

extreme heat affects the analysis

race and whether or not we have

and identification of human remains

Down syndrome?

Porcine bones were used as an

We know that there is a difference

analogue for human remains. The

in long-bone length between races.

project furthered knowledge of what

Down syndrome is diagnosed early in

exactly happens on a molecular level

development by ultrasound and so in

when organic remains are destroyed

theory there should be a race specific

by fire. The future impact of this work

formulae to detect Down’s syndrome.

could lead to a greater understanding

This would reduce false positives, and

of how to gain information from

therefore decrease the number of in-

burned remains. Burning being the

dividuals undergoing unnecessary ex-

most common and effective way

pensive or invasive procedures. It was

to destroy evidence and obscure

found that the differences between

identity of victims. A project to look

bone lengths is too small a range to

for next year when they get their

be able to predict Down syndrome

hands on a kiln.

to a high enough accuracy, but the group is continuing research.

Can an Algorithm Improve Biological Image Processing in Cellular Automata?

An algorithm is being designed and implemented as an ImageJ plugin, which generates a rule set for a cellular automaton based hand segmented image data, such that the cellular automaton grows & survives and converges with areas which match the hand segmented regions, and dies, or fails to converge elsewhere.

48

Science

If I’m multilingual, can I learn another language faster than someone who is monolingual?

Multilingualism is thought to have consequences in the morphology and behaviour of the brain. When languages are learned early in life, they are processed in the same brain regions whereas if the age of acquisition is late, they are processed by different brain regions. The methodology was to compare the ability of monolinguals versus multilinguals in learning a new language. As you can probably guess, monolinguals such as myself were found to be decidedly less competent than multilinguals.

Can we replace the lab dye Ponceau S with Irn Bru? Ponceau S is a synthetic dye used for rapid and reversible staining of protein bands on membranes in Western Blots. Ponceau 4R is a colouring found in Irn Bru. There proved to be a high enough concentration of Ponceau 4R in Irn Bru to stain nitrocellulose membranes as well as Ponceau S. As such the cost of using this kind of stain could plummet from £25 per 10g (~£2.50 per litre – excluding solvent and postage costs) of powdered stain to £1 for 1l of Irn Bru. It was found that Irn Bru sugar free and Lucozade were also able to stain as sufficiently as Irn Bru. In fact, this result was so unexpected that it even made the news, not quite Nature, but the Daily Record was proud enough to run three different versions of the story. Radio Scotland also gave 5 minutes of air time to talk about the project. If you’re curious, spread some egg white, or a cheek swab, on a piece of scrap paper, drop it in a Tupperware and pour Irn Bru over it, shake it for 3-5minutes and the protein will appear bright orange (if you’re an arty sort, you can draw a picture with the egg white and it will be revealed by the Irn Bru).

49

Tech

YOUR LAPTOP IS YOUR FRIEND

T

hat folding piece of aluminium or

I’m the one supposed to be informing you?

plastic that used to sit in your room

Two of these three questions I will answer.

and not get the love that your phone

did is about to take a much more prominent

It’s a good time to be making a purchase, the

role in your life. If you neglected your laptop in

quality of product increases and price de-

the past, don’t worry, you’re going to make up

creases year on year. Not to mention student

for it over the next four years. If you consider

discounts saving you money on whatever

yourself married to your phone, that relation-

laptop you do buy. That is unless you’re

ship is about to be on the rocks when it see’s

lucky enough to have ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’

how much time you’re spending with your

granting a parting gift before you make the

laptop.

pilgrimage on to student life.

Since it will be one of the most important

If like myself (a law student) your work and lei-

relationships you have at University, ensuring

sure use of your device doesn’t extend beyond

you have a device that is capable, functional

looking at text based files, browsing, watching

and a joy to use is a must. I saw first hand how

movies (etc.) you won’t need the computing

cold-hearted and bitter relationships between

power that say a photographer, film editor or

student and laptop could lead to anger,

graphic designer will require. For you, any of

frustration then to the door of my room to ask

the mid level Windows 10 compatible devices

why their laptop was trying to ruin their life

will suffice. The Asus Zenbook UX305 is an

the night before the submission deadline.

impressive device for its £500 price tag with a 13.3-inch screen, 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB

50

So, advice and personal stories aside, what

of storage. Now you may think ‘that’s all great

laptop should you buy? How much should you

but what do those numbers mean to me?’

spend? Why am I the one asking you this when

Fair question, basically, this laptop will easily

Tech

take care of all your word processing, online

it’s young at heart. Everything from the retina

surfing, movie watching (a little bit of gaming)

display, battery life, compact design and the

and any other relative day to day tasks.

operating system is a joy to use. Now, I must admit that there are drawbacks, my model

If you fancy splashing out and getting a more

cost over £1000 in 2014 so it’s definitely and

premium device, the 2015 12-inch MacBook

investment along with the fact that the Pro is

(roughly £900) is not a powerhouse, but is

not the lightest despite its compact form. By

without doubt the most beautiful option on

no means is it unwieldy, rather, just that you’ll

the market. If the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ are

know it’s in your bag, which in all honesty may

taking care of this one for you I would definite-

be a reassurance and help you avoid a frantic

ly recommend it. Overall, for a sleek, light, little

panic thinking that your investment has gone

device, there is no more appealing a laptop

on a wander. September is often upgrade

than this.

month for many Apple devices so keep an eye on the market.

On to products for those with greater needs than the wordies like myself, for you, I recom-

Rose tinted glasses aside, I can honestly say

mend either the Dell XPS 13 or (my personal

that any of these recommendation’s will serve

device) the 13-inch MacBook Pro. The Dell

you well. You will get out of the laptop what

XPS 13 is has a beautiful design and similar

you put into it, dive in and know all there is to

internals to the aforementioned Asus Zenbook

know, you won’t regret it when closing all of

but with a few major upgrades most notably

the tabs for an assignment – exhaling heavily

the CPU and screen resolution (once more

- knowing you got everything out of it that

steering clear of the boring details). Costing

you could have. I just stress that choosing your

around £850 it is very fairly priced for the

laptop for University is like choosing a friend

product you receive and can compete with the

to work with for four years, so make sure that

most powerful laptops on the market.

you two will get along and your life will be ten times easier.

A recommendation from both the head and the heart (being the device this article is created on) is the 13-inch MacBook Pro. I have the late 2013 model, yes it’s getting old but

Hugh Stevenson

51

Tech

The Computing Degree Show 2016 Preview

This year saw a brand new wave of projects from Computing’s graduating fourth years: everything from medical journals through to entertainment apps, all the way down to productivity tools. Here’s a quick rundown of all the madness: This year was big for medically-inspired projects:

takes images from PANGU (Planet and Asteroid Natural

diabetes journals, migraine diaries, and fitness trackers -

Scene Generation Utility) servers and allows you to view

health was certainly a popular topic amongst the

them on the go. PANGU was a project developed by

graduates. One of the projects, “ICVGoggles: Wearable

the Space Technology Centre and focuses on improving

Adjustable Simulations of Impaired Vision” by Babak

the aesthetic of simulated space objects and planetary

Momen uses an Oculus Rift headset paired with

surfaces, including their moons. Aleksejs’ project

OVRVision cameras which simulate the colour spectrum

incorporates this technology and brings it to an Android

of a person suffering from colour-blindness. The aim of

application through which you can explore the cosmic

the project is to help advance the current techniques

objects, either in standard or rocket-flight simulation

used in impaired colour vision simulation, and in the

mode.

future, this technology could aid our understanding of impaired colour vision as well as begin to provide some

A few other projects took the educational route: one

means of helping those who suffer from the condition.

aided teaching young people through audio-augmented reading - combining the techniques used by visual and

Moving into the realm of complex simulation: some

auditory learners to track how people learn. One student

projects focused on terrain simulation. In collaboration

then also focused on teaching university-level computer

with the Space Technology Centre (UoD), Aleksejs

architecture by simplifying the teaching methods into

Kudrins developed “PANGU Mobile Client”. The app

an interactive format, whereby the user can engage with

52

Tech the content more freely and learn at their own pace.

Overall, a lot of projects worked around the theme of

Student-oriented projects were also very popular:

big data: tailoring an experience for each individual and

from entertainment in the form of a darts training

providing the best results. Generic criteria is out, and

app, through to the more serious: finding a student

artificial intelligence is in - a “one size fits all” model no

flat. Tamara Lennart’s “User-Centric Visualization and

longer works. There was evidence of this throughout

Exploration of Multi-Factor Relevant Results” project

the Degree Show, with games that learn from the way

aims to improve recommendation engines by allowing

you play, becoming more difficult depending on how

real-time user input and interaction. It focuses on

quickly you complete each level, and others which work

the user’s perspective and creates a system which

using constraint programming as a problem solving

is structured and easy to use. One instance of this

tool to generate results. An example of this included

implementation is based on a property website: the

first-person shooter three-dimensional games which

system curates information on each individual based

generate much of the game play and enemies using

on their interests, their property browsing history, etc.

artificial intelligence. Though AI isn’t all about gaming:

Then, by using specified indexes, you can monitor the

you can teach a computer to recognise and analyse

user’s preferences towards each index and show them

faces, as well as track your gaze and allow you to

properties based on this data. This behind-the-scenes

navigate a page using just your eyes.

work helps generate a visual representation of the most suitable options for the user, e.g. a map of properties

There were awhich can only be described as visually

they may be interested in which match the criteria they

stunning. Games with beautiful graphics which

prioritised, and updates in real time.

immersed you a virtual world for hours, as well as those

53

which you could alter to suit your theme preference: as one graduate found out, match-three games saw people demanding a dessert theme, possibly due to the rise in popularity in games like Candy Crush Saga.

With this being a brief overview of the projects on display this year, I have merely touched on the tip of the iceberg - the Degree Show this year showcased so much talent, and such a broad spectrum of ideas. Well done to all, and congratulations to all the graduates - you’ve set the bar incredibly high!

Mila Georgieva

54

WHAT CAN YOU MAKE HAPPEN?

SRC

Student Representative Council Est. 1900

Nominate yourself now or ďŹ nd out more at: www.dusa.co.uk/elections Nominations open 15th August - 15th September

Opinion

IS FRESHERS THAT GREAT?

I have just finished my Freshers year and it was definitely eventful. Some have said it was brilliant and others have said it was a bumpy ride. By breaking Freshers down into the key components of my time in Dundee, I want to demonstrate the reality of it.

1. Moving into halls. 2. You may live with someone that you will completely hate.

Before I had even started University, I was on the massive Facebook page hopelessly trying to find all of my

flatmates. When I eventually found them, taking a look

at their profile pictures then instantly made me feel like

I was going to hate them. Of course, I was wrong. When we moved into halls, it was guaranteed that everyone was going to be nervous but once we started talking to each other and got to know each other, it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. Personally I think that halls is better than living in private accommodation. Even though private is cheaper, you’ll miss out on a bunch of experiences that only halls can give you. Someone may literally decide last minute that they want to throw a party or host pre-drinks at their flat and you may have difficulties getting there because it is such short notice. Halls in first year is where it’s at.

My flat consisted of seven people, mixed gender. At one point I hated near enough all of them, bar one. Currently I dislike one and I’m not the only one who does. On one day, you can play happy families with them and the next day it is like a bomb waiting to explode. Someone may have left a pot of fish on the stove for a week and it starts to stink up the kitchen, or you can continue to play the game of ‘Let’s get the bin to the highest point before it tips over so I don’t need to take it out’. You could also all be best friends and never want to kill each other which personally, I think is impossible. Living in halls is like getting new siblings sprung on you. You all have to live together, at some points you want to slice each other’s throats, but you still love them anyway.

56

Opinion

3. Student Life

4. Make the most of it

I cannot drink vodka anymore. Why? Because I used to

I honestly have had such an amazing time during my first

drink it like it was water. Honestly, at one point I thought

year, minus the breakdowns at the end of each semester.

that my liver was going to pack in! I mean sure, there is

(It will happen.) I have met some pretty amazing people

bound to be some sort of Pres or a flat party where you

and have partied my first year away. I have also realised

get absolutely mortal before heading out (probably to

that not everyone thinks the way that I do so I have to

the union) but getting that wasted could result to trips

be open to other people’s ideas. I have gotten some

to the A&E at two in morning. Believe me, I would know.

awesome experiences and have matured. Even though

I cannot drink that much anymore, mainly because I am

some of the people I was friends with at the start of the

a lightweight, and also because I want to remember my

year are not the ones that I finished my year with, I have

nights out - but everyone is different. At the end of each

no regrets.

night out comes a top notch take away or a nice cold

Temi W

walk to the 24-hour bakery. Oh, and if you have a slow metabolism, you are probably going to gain a bit of weight - that is okay, it’s first year. When you go home for the holidays or for a weekend, you will miss being able to just get up and go for an adventure at three in the morning. I know I did.

SO...IS FRESHERS

THAT GREAT? OF COURSE IT IS.

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