April 2019

The

Boomerang April 2019

(Dis)Ability to live on campus

by Rafaella Karadsheh

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dated. At the General Assembly, Tama Schreurs put forth plans to implement small changes with big impact, inspired by commodities he observed whilst studying abroad in Australia. “People with 95% blindness could benefit from signs that give a clear indication of where they are and how to get up the stairs,” he said, as he introduced plans to paint the stairs and alter signs to be more visible.

When I asked the candidates what alternatives could be provided for individuals with a mobility disability, they unanimously suggested designating a few easily accessible rooms to temporarily host students whose injuries prevent them from accessing their rooms.

New CAR members aren’t the only ones with plans to make campus more disability friendlystudent life officer Mark Baldwin has reached out to the CAR board of 2018-2019 to collaborate and work on making buildings more accommodating as well. While the idea sounds simple enough,

it really isn’t, “It can be a problem coordinating with the management because different buildings on campus are owned by different institutions,” said one board member. Yet this complication has been averted, and a meeting with Baldwin and responsible management personnel has been set to take place in the upcoming weeks.

We pride ourselves in being diverse and accommodating, but the truth is we’re really not.

Acknowledging the issue at hand is the first step that needs to be taken before plans are formulated and action is taken. Even then, there is only so much that can happen; tearing down campus and rebuilding it to become the ideal place is out of the question, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make concrete changes. We can always change the way we interact with others; take the time to consider what small measures you can take to aid those with disabilities around you. After all, every change starts with one small step.

Illustration © Amu Endo

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he first thing I thought when I moved into my second-floor Wall unit was, I hope I don’t break my leg. While climbing up a short flight of stairs with an injured leg is not the worst thing that could happen to me, it definitely isn’t a walk in the park. Now that I (miraculously) haven’t injured myself, this worry dulled down, until my friend recently injured her knee. Now that could be manageable, except for the fact that she lived on the 4th floor in G, a building that does not have an elevator. Thankfully, she had the option of staying with another friend who lives in a building with an elevator until her knee healed.

But what would have happened if she didn’t have that possibility?

This isn’t the first time I noticed campus isn’t the most accommodating place for those with disabilities - an article interviewing a deaf student last semester provided deeper insight on the situation. Should a fire have broken out in her unit, she would remain blissfully unaware to the situation because she’d be unable to hear the fire alarm. The solution that was offered? Tell her unit mates to alert her, which is unpractical on many levels- if she was the only one in her unit at the time, what would happen? A simple, yet effective solution would be installing a fire alarm that lights up. This is only one of the many problems she faced during her time at UCU, eventually driving her to transfer to another university that is more accomodating.

We pride ourselves in being diverse and accommodating, but the truth is we’re really not.

Lately, the lack of accommodations for disabled individuals has been gaining more attention; two of this year’s newly selected Campus Affairs Representatives board (CAR) members emphasised their plans to guide campus in becoming more accessible. “It is my starting goal to set up a central support system for you and fellow students who suffer from disability or chronic illness,” Anna Korevaar wrote in her election statement.

Throughout her campaign, she discussed plans to restructure the stone path between Newton and Locke, so those with mobility issues may find it easier to migrate between the two buildings and Kromhout. Most importantly, in establishing a more concrete relationship between students and CAR, their needs may be heard and accommo-

“UCSA is a popularity contest” Does the UCSA need a facelift?

Sitting down with the chairs

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You’re so ugly when you cry

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Laughing gas on campus

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Three years in a thousand words

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The Boomerang | April 2019

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Dear Campus,

You’re so ugly when you cry

The UCSA elections have almost come to an end. A newspaper’s role during election time usually takes up one or both of the following tasks:

by Reinoud Pino 1) providing the voter with true, informative information, or 2) misdirect them using polls. The Boomerang usually only opts for the first one, ny place that has a high but agreed to experiment with the latter as well. We didn’t use tradi‘turnover rate’ such as UCU tional polls, but decided to consult a menagerie instead. You might have is bound to repeat its old seen our attempt on Facebook these past two weeks. Well, here’s what stories as original ideas. All went down. the while you’re thinking: Although the initial idea was to repeatedly capture our beloved Pip, she “this just looks like the re-run, what else wasn’t as political as we hoped and avoided us like the plague after the is on?” I’m pretty sure that somewhere CAR election. During a walk through het Zeisterbos, it was then decided in all those beautifully written that the power to predict the new ASC chair would be UCSA election statements I’ll placed in the find the words Transparency and hands (or mouth, in this case) of an Mental Health. Disclaimer: most unsuspecting deer. likely, I’m part of that cultural With success: she practice and I’m going to be was correct! For arguing something that has been the final round, argued in some way or another inspired by one for the past two decades. Still, of the comments, besides the occasional Facebook we now present: comment, I think what I want to Shona de Hond say hasn’t received a lot of attenchoosing your tion. next UCSA chair!

Of all these legends in the UCU Will she be right? canon, there is one that is the least We’ll find out on Shona has predicted that Emmie will win the challenged and most detrimental Thursday …

UCSA elections to our little campus. The award If you’re not for the best lie goes to: “I can’t convinced by say what I’m really thinking, because at Shona’s skills, then consult our annual interview with the three chair UCU you’ll be vilified for speaking your candidates on pages 6 to 8. Tired of reading about elections? Worry not! mind!” Think back to the last time you Laughing gas, disability accommodation, and Family Day are only a said something which was a little bit few examples of the topics that made it to the pages. And if you happen out there. Did you lose a friend? Does to stumble upon what looks like a (nearly) blank sheet: this is the page that was auctioned off during the Humanitarian Auction that took place everyone hate you now? Has your life March 27th. Although our bidders didn’t actually fill it, they did pay €40 ever really changed because you voiced which will go to the Rainforest Trust. your sincerely held opinion at UCU? If One more exciting update: the Boomerang now have interns! In order the answer to all these questions is no, I to properly transition the new board, we decided to open up our applithink you should really reconsider what cations early and select the new campus journalism representatives. I you can and can’t say at UCU. Don’t be would therefore like to welcome Ivan Ryan, Rafaella Karadsheh, Artöm afraid of the monster under the bed, it Obenko and Julia Silveira to the Boomerang! They’ll be working with us doesn’t exist. on the final edition of the year: the May / Blackout Edition! Keep an eye What might happen is that someone out for the sign-up link if you wish to send in any of your juicy secrets … makes fun of you or responds in a I’m looking forward to read your submissions!

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Sincerely yours, Meike Eijsberg, Editor-in-Chief

heated manner. Fair enough, these types of responses are not beneficial to the discussion and can be slightly annoying and silly. But if these are reasons not to voice your opinion, you either don’t care too much about that your sincerely held opinion, or your

sweet svensations

skin is thinner than Wilhelmina Park ice in the spring.

I’m not saying every single person at UCU will respond calmly to your opinion and take the time to explain why they do not agree. There might be individuals who won’t want to speak to you anymore. But I stress that these would be exceptions that warp our image of the whole. People that tell you “You look so dumb right now” aren’t worth your time anyway. Letting them shut you up would mean giving them an undeserved amount of power.

Because believing that the whole of UCU is like those lonely outliers, has the same conformist effect you’re afraid of. Everyone shuts up, our classes become impossibly boring and we only get a fraction of what we could have out of our education. By believing in the monster under the bed, you make it true.

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Stop believing the world is out to get you, it isn’t

At times I have called people dumb that don’t agree with me, I’ve become a little too angry about a trivial matter or decided that I didn’t feel like going against the stream with a controversial opinion. The thing is, that doesn’t mean that I couldn’t have voiced it if I was so inclined, it just means I was too lazy.

It also doesn’t mean that I would have hated someone that disagreed with me, it just means I let myself get carried away. None of it is really as dramatic as we make it out to be and most people are perfectly reasonable. Stop believing the world is out to get you, it isn’t. With this I’d like to take a bow and wish you all a nice time in the bubble.

by Sven Bosma

PLANNING A BABY No, not the human kind of baby. The fluffy, four-legged, barking kind. But first, some background. You see, I found out in late March that I got accepted to UCL in London, and thus will be moving there. I live with my girlfriend in an apartment nearby campus, and refuse to leave her behind, so she’s moving there with me. She’s graduating from her Master’s this year, and will be looking for a job in London. But for now, she’s finishing off research in Curaçao, so we do the whole long-distance FaceTime in the evening thing.

And that’s where this column starts. I answered the call, and without a “Hi honey” or anything, she told me to go into my Gmail because an invite to a presentation, like actual Powerpoint, was waiting for me. She started her pitch with “So I’ve been browsing dog shelter websites, and since we’re going to be living the life of young professionals, I thought we might get a dog?”

Of course, I immediately said “No”. It’s not that I dislike dogs, on the contrary, I love them. They’re way nicer than people. And they don’t complain. It’s just that we haven’t even found an apartment or other residence, and dogs are already on the table. I backed this up with “Remember, we’re still technically poor students and pets are expensive.”

And that was my downfall. This passionate puppy lover walked me through a 15 minute Powerpoint, via FaceTime, of the exact costs of getting

her example dog Bertie from the shelter. She had literally all the numbers in there. Items such as leash, harness (Bertie is a pitbull), food bowl, water bowl, bed, dog towels. Then stuff like food costs, per month and per annum.

Adoption costs, pet insurance, vaccines, possible needed medicine like ear drops, even a doggie passport (headshot included). All very reasonable stuff, and the numbers were convincing.

But then came the weird shit. The second half of this rose-tinted pitch was “Accessories”. I was blown away by how many human accessories have been remodeled for dogs. I’ve had dogs at home all my life, and never once needed any of this. The long list included items such as doggie raincoat, doggie brain-training toys, reflective collars and coats, doggie sweaters, doggie boots, doggie sunscreen (I know right). Finally, I was hit with the pièce de résistance, the doggie Halloween costume. It was at this point conversation broke down due to my better half’s crying over the cuteness.

All in all, the expenses were lower than what I thought they’d be. Even with the list being different from what I thought it’d be. Alice has already called herself “his mom” in the presentation. Do I think we should get a dog? Not yet. Do I think I’ll arrive home some day to be greeted by this Bertie? Quite possibly. Will I be a happy chappy? Depends on his outfit.

A University College Student Association Magazine

Transcend popularity: engage with your candidates by Jamie March When people complain about UCSA elections being a popularity contest, it’s usually not an attack against the voting system where the candidate with the most votes wins. I imagine it’s because they feel disillusioned and believe that the winner is always the one who is the most visible and social on campus.

I’m not going to get into the argument of whether or not we need “outsider” candidates, ones who are less visible on campus to reflect the opinions of a “silent majority.” That was already covered in the ASC election. Instead, I want to offer a different perspective.

At AUC their version of UCSA follows strict campaigning guidelines.

They are only allowed to promote themselves during the organized events (think candidate information market, radio show, GA). This means: no posters, no walking up to random people to ask about their opinions, no “office hours,” etc. They believe that by doing so, the elections are less of a popularity contest and instead reflect how the candidates present themselves during these events.

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By limiting the amount of interaction between candidates and the student body, the campaign becomes even more of a popularity contest.

I would argue the complete opposite. By limiting the amount of interaction between candidates and the student body, the campaign becomes even more of a popularity contest. The less information you have when voting, the more important how popular a candidate is becomes.

Imagine a hypothetical situation where people put up their election statements and you vote based on that. While we are a small campus, some people are more visible than others, and you are most likely to vote based on name recognition “oh I know person X and I’ve seen them at events, while I don’t know person Y and haven’t seen them in action, guess I’ll vote X.” Now consider our alternative. Candidates that you might not know ambush you in DH and ask what you think is the most important issue on campus. By interacting with them you get a better idea of their character and their priorities, allowing you to make the more informed choice. This is when campaigning is at its best - when there is a personal touch and candidates can’t regurgitate the speech they’ve practiced a thousand times.

Someone you would have never considered voting is given the opportunity to convince you that they might make a good candidate. An environment where this is the case is proof that UCSA elections are not a popularity contest.

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UCSA Elections are a Popularity Contest by Thomas Scassellati Sforzolini Campaigning, drive, and election statements aren’t part of the secret formula when it comes to winning a UCSA election. Just look at last year’s UCSA election: the two people who campaigned the hardest and showed the most motivation lost resoundingly. And, when it comes to election statements, most (but not all) of them are largely the same, a bit boring, vague, and repetitive, so it’s hard to base a vote solely off of one.

Anyways, what wins elections is if people think you’re more qualified than the other candidate(s). Social visibility and having a lot of friends obviously helps, and I can understand why friends will vote for their own friends because that’s what friends do, but let’s be honest, no one has that many friends that that alone will win them an election. In other words, the common notion that a frat guy or srat (yes that’s a word) girl are heavily favored in elections is a myth. What I have noticed, however, is that people will jump to conclusions on a candidate’s character, work ethic, and overall qualifications based off of what other people say about them, which is ridiculous. For example, how would you feel if someone perceived you as being, for example, disorganized and lazy without ever really getting to know you? I’m not saying that you should completely ignore the negative or maybe even positive things you hear about a candidate, but people get misunderstood all the time so do consider talking to the candidate and formatting your own opinion before taking everyone else’s word. Unfortunately, most people won’t do this. Now that does not mean that the qualified candidate doesn’t get elected, it just means that if you ever plan on running for the UCSA, make sure you leave a positive impression on your classmates, ‘cause if you don’t, word spreads around fast.

In short, as a voter, do your due diligence and give everyone a chance, no matter what other people say. Try to go to the GA or candidate market so that you can actually get to know the candidates and make an informed decision.

Even if you can’t do that, at the very least read those boring election statements and vote for the best one.

Illustration © Meike Eijsberg

Abandon defensive relativism; embrace learning

by Alberto Delgado

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ow is it possible that “all people are equal” when people have different ambitions, talents, and desires? How is it possible that “all cultures are equal” when different cultures have different norms and customs? While I acknowledge and agree that there is a sense in which they are equal, I will stick to the simple answer in this article: they are not. People and cultures differ, and it is important to focus on these differences so that way we can learn from each other. An emphasis on learning and teaching is a more fruitful way to approach our differences than the impossible relativist everyone-is-entitled-to-do- what-they-believe-is-right-for-themselves approach.

To illustrate this point, I will begin with an example. I was having a conversation with a good

friend and noticed that he rolled his eyes after I said something. When I asked why, he said “you always do the same thing, you don’t let an issue go until there’s been a conclusion. That’s not how conversations go; topics change and you have to go with the flow”. That piece of advice helped me immensely, and since then I’ve had more enjoyable and equally valuable conversations.

When looking at the bigger picture, I am concerned that the West is in this cultural period of tribal, individualistic, and defensive relativism.

It seems to suggest that we must withhold judgement on and reject judgement from others, which is tragic, because to the extent that people are not candidly offering their best advice and those receiving the little advice given are unreceptive to it, people will miss out on opportunities to change

for the better. It’s not only unhelpful, it’s isolating.

But hey, it’s not all criticism. I have also learned much from my experience here in Europe that could serve my country, Venezuela. Here people have an admirable sense of civil responsibility which leads them to organize towards the ends they desire in innovative and enthusiastic ways.

That doesn’t happen in my country, where grassroots political movements were scarce, ineffective and uninspiring even before they began to be persecuted by the State. Perhaps there is a way to raise such a civic spirit in my own county.

You see? Everyone has improvements to make and lessons to teach. People can learn from each other, and so can societies, if we just try to make it happen.

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BUBBLE

When Hope Dies, Action Begins

by Ann-Maj Savosnick on behalf of UCUACT

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e’ve all been there. We’ve all seen a documentary, heard a talk or read an article about the horrible predictions scientists have made about our planet because of climate change. Sea levels will rise and many countries, including the Netherlands, will end up underwater. We will suffer from frequent droughts and extreme weather events, making large parts of the planet inhabitable.

We’re in the sixth mass extinction of our planet with hundreds of species dying out every day! In short, the future of life itself is a stake and within a few decades, the comfortable life as we know it

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The Boomerang | April 2019

There’s this small but strong hope that all will be fine and you won’t have to do anything right now.

is predicted to change drastically.

No one feels good after consuming all this information. The predictions lead to a depressing mood. We think: ‘Things really do need to change, I want to have a future on a livable planet, I just want everything to remain the same and bee good’ (pun intended).

And while you are having these thoughts, walking over campus, you bump into your friend who asks you: ‘Hey, have you seen the new trailer for Stranger Things 3 yet? SO MANY EASTEREGGS!!!’

And, consciously or unconsciously, you welcome the distraction from your former thoughts and they are pushed into the dark back of your brain, together with the deadline for a course you don’t like and taking the trash out.

You continue with your life as before.

We’ve all been there. No one likes to feel hopeless and sad. And if thinking about climate change makes us feel like that then it makes sense why we would want to stop thinking about it. Next to not wanting to feel sad, there’s this small but strong hope that these predictions won’t come true, that all will be fine and you won’t have to change and do anything right now.

Now imagine, that after you read yet another article about how the world’s leading scientists can’t give you any reassuring words for your future and your hope sinks once more, you walk over campus and meet another friend. And after talking to your friend about your worries, they’ll respond: ‘When hope dies, action begins.’

That might be the point where you realize that the only way you’ll feel better is if you take action.

And to do that, a few people and I have founded UCU-ACT. We want to create a platform where climate conscious people can come together and work on projects that they choose. The projects will be both on and off campus ones. We hope to change the ethos at UCU to a more environmental conscious one. Everyone is going to be affected by the climate crisis and everyone is welcome to take action with UCU-ACT. We can all get there.

Does the UCSA need a facelift?

by Caleb Tetteh Meyer

Last semester, I spent my time at University of Exeter on exchange. Among many things, Exeter got me thinking about the relationship between the UCSA and student committees. I believe we can all take pride in how open and welcoming campus is. The sense of community is arguably largely fostered by the activities of the UCSA, the campus bar and the various student committees. Nonetheless, is it time we take a hard look at the current relationship between the UCSA and student committees, and whether this relationship is conducive to the kind of campus we strive to be?

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he conversation I hope to start is definitely not a new one. Since I joined the campus in the summer of 2016, there have always been discussions regarding greater campus student involvement, the role and suitability of overtly political committees and the efficient running of student committees. As such, I have been thinking and having discussions with relevant people about whether changing the way that the UCSA and student committees is funded would be a good place to start.

At present, each UCU students pays 73 EUR each academic year to the UCSA and indirectly to student committees. I propose that this method of payment be changed and instead, to have each student committee charge a membership fee. With this model, we would only have to pay the UCSA a minimum fee to maintain the website and for other administrative costs. This is a radical change that will fundamentally alter the relationship between the UCSA and student committees and even perhaps the sense of community on campus.

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social groups are truly represented, and a radical change between the UCSA and student committees may lead to better and greater representation.

It is only natural that there are issues that will need addressing if such a proposal is to have any fair chance of successful implementation.

Speaking with Megan Chalcraft, the current Treasurer of the UCSA, it was evident that even guesstimating a number for a minimum UCSA membership charge is a very difficult ask. Apart from financing student committees, the UCSA pays for insurance, bank charges, the maintenance of the website and for student lawyers. These expenses are costly and although they do not account for majority of the UCSA budget, they are nonetheless essential expenses. Moreover, there is the issue of the role and status the UCSA has played since its establishment. What happens to this role?

How will it change? These are important questions. The answers to these questions cannot be fully addressed in an editorial piece and would require greater input from the entire campus.

Perhaps the soon approaching UCSA campaign

I propose to have each student committee charge a membership fee.

Albeit radical, I would argue that such a change may well and truly address the issues I previously identified. Firstly, the personal choice in choosing which committee to join and pay directly for will create a vested financial incentive that ought to encourage greater student participation on an individual level. Of course, the workload at UCU may still present a stumbling block. However, as fee paying members, students will have a greater role in deciding the timing of events and board members will equally be incentivized to organise events that are convenient to their fee paying members.

On the issue of greater accountability and efficiency of student committees, I would argue that closer financial relations between students and committees would incentivise both parties to manage money in an efficient and transparent manner so as to encourage continued membership fee payment.

Finally, on the issue of political committees, this proposal would pave the way for such committees to be represented on campus. The current relationship between the UCSA and student’s committees does not allow for the creation of overtly political committees. A ban of such a nature stifles political activity on campus and is at odds with the liberal philosophy of UCU. For minorities and minority opinions, this ban has a significant impact on their participation in student campus life. As Saba Allabadi recounted to me, this ban has prevented her from forming a Pro-Palestinian committee on campus. For minorities like her and myself, the ban impedes critical discussions outside the class about important issues plaguing minorities. As an international campus, it is imperative that all

season will address such questions. My experience at Exeter has assured me that it is possible to still have a prominent student association even with fee-paying student committees.

Secondly, what happens with committees such as Boomerang and Scope? Ashley Nyaradzai Chizema, whom I spoke to about this issue, suggested that committees such as Boomerang and Scope must consider going green and publishing solely online.

An idea which I think could be a viable solution.

Boomerang currently publishes on the website, so the main issue with such a proposal would be one of promotion and awareness.

Finally, some argue - as one commenter on my Facebook confession did - that a change like this would lead to reduced number of events available to the student body. This may be true, but it is in the interest of every student committee that their events are well attended. Whilst this proposal may result in a different fee for members and non-members, the idea that events will not be open to the entire student body commit is not consistent with how committees operate.

The UCSA has become an ingrained part of student life on campus. It is only natural to want to keep things just the way they are. However, I believe that it is important to critically assess the role of the UCSA if our goal is a dynamic and inclusive campus life.

I would to thank Ashley Nyaradzai Chizema, Saba Allabadi and of course, UCSA team, especially Zoë de Jonge and Megan Chalcraft for being very transparent and supportive throughout this process.

A University College Student Association Magazine

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Laughing gas: clearing the air

by Sophie Martens

Legal, cheap and accessible, laughing gas has become a popular party drug among students. But what are its effects, and is it more harmful than other drugs? It is time to clear the air about this topic.

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he Trimbos Institute is a Dutch research foundation that specializes in addictions and mental health. Recently, they have conducted research into the risks of laughing gas. Laughing gas, formally known as nitrous oxide, is a scentless, sweettasting gas. It is frequently used as a propellant in the food industry, as well as sedative and painkiller in medicine. The latter trait makes the gas popular as a drug. For recreative use, the gas is usually put in a balloon from which it can be inhaled.

Inhalation causes feelings of muscle relaxation, altered bodily sensations, hallucinations, and dizziness. Its effects wear off rather quickly, that is, within several minutes after use.

However, balloons for recreational use are usually filled with 100% laughing gas, which makes the risk of use greater than when used professionally.

By inhaling the gas from such balloons, oxygen deficits can cause risk of brain damage and fainting.

According to Trimbos, around a quarter of all users experience confusion and headaches after using laughing gas. The drug becomes especially dangerous when combined with other substances, such as alcohol. In this case, there is a diminished breathing stimulus that, in turn, can cause oxygen deficits. These can then trigger a heart attack.

It must be said, however, that the risks of laughing gas are minor when used

moderately. The RIVM (Dutch Institute for Public Health) concludes that someone who uses less than 10 balloons per session or per month does not face any health risks, also not in the long term. Furthermore, Trimbos reports that there is no relationship between limited use of laughing gas and developing cancer or infertility.

This fact makes laughing gas less detrimental when compared to, for example, alcohol or tobacco.

However, there is a risk of developing addiction to laughing gas as well.

In greater quantities, laughing gas can be harmful. Frequent

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users (those who use more than 10-20 balloons within 10 days) risk developing a vitamin B12 deficiency. This is not a serious condition when diagnosed early, but it can have grave consequences such as neurological disorders and anaemia if left untreated. In sum, laughing gas is relatively harmless, but always make sure to enjoy responsibly.

Oxygen deficits can cause risk of brain damage and fainting.

Illustration © Sofie Ryan

Family Day 2019: A small but wholesome affair

by Meike Eijsberg

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hose who looked outside their window on Sunday April 14th might have been struck with some confusion: a bunch of parents, grandparents, and siblings were trodding our grounds and sitting in our classrooms. These eager and excited family members were here for UCU’s second annual family day. This event invites family of all ages to attend our little campus for a day, to experience a typical day in the life of a UCU student. Since I missed out on the fun last year, I made sure to attend this time.

The day commenced with a walk-in brunch at Jazzmans. I was pleasantly surprised by the food arrangement. Since I’m all too familiar with Dining Hall quality, my expectations weren’t very high.

Indeed, the coffee was the kind you would get when working in an office: a murky black substance. The warm bread, fresh dips, and cut-up veggies made up for it though: they were a lovely start to our day.

When brunch was finished, it was time for a campus tour. Being a UCU Ambassador myself, it was rather amusing to be on the other side of the equation for once. Our tour guide did a wonderful job and it was quite delightful for the parents to see more of campus than simply their kids’ room. Even

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the smallest nooks and crannies were shown, such as our little Boomerang office.

Shortly after, it was time to attend some sample lectures. This was probably what family members were most excited for. The question, “what do our kids actually learn?” would finally be answered!

The two professors that volunteered their free Sunday afternoon to do this, were none other than Robert Renes and our very own Dean, James

of happy-jolly parents playing board games with GameCo in downstairs Dining Hall. Needless to say: it looked successful!

We concluded our day in the BPA, where a typical UCU festival was hosted. All the usuals were present: Chris, the BarCo tap, live music, and many many fairy lights. Before the band kicked in, the organisers lovingly played some old hits from the 70s and 80s. Naturally, this led to many parents reminiscing and smiling to themselves as they entered the room.

One of the greatest parts wasn’t even the day itself, but its proceeds. All money raised would be put towards the Rosemary Orr Scholarship fund, which invites people of various economic backgrounds to study here. Attendees could donate any amount they wished, but posters were hung up to inform us exactly how costly studying at this college is: one day costs €28,48 and taking a full 7,5 ECTS course adds up to €512,50.

Although the turnout of this years’ family day might have been lower than last time, it did not take away any of its wholesomeness. Overall, the day was enlightening, entertaining, and simply enjoyable. If I were still here next year, I would definitely round up some more family members and attend again.

All money raised would be put towards the Rosemary Orr Scholarship fund, which invites people of various economic backgrounds to study here Kennedy. Both mini lectures were a good reflection of what an average class feels like and the professors certainly succeeded at captivating their audience: some parents were on the edge of their seat and eagerly participated.

Before the festival started there was a chance to partake in some of the committee workshops. My mother and I were a bit parched at this point, so we decided to have a drink in town instead. But when we came back, we stumbled upon a bunch

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The Boomerang | April 2019

UCSA ELECTIONS

Sitting down with the chairs

by Charlotte Remarque

In tonight’s election, a new board will be chosen for the UCSA. Three fiercely driven, hardworking and sometimes jarringly optimistic women are running for chair. A few weeks ago, I decided to talk to these candidates. I wanted to get to know them personally, as well as grill them on their campaign promises.

Mai Thai de Rijk THE WOMAN What were you like as a teenager?

I was the same as I am now – very enthusiastic. I was a part of many different friend groups, had a wide spectrum of interests, had the same amount of energy towards everything. I’m an extroverted person.

So no teenage awkwardness?

Not really, I guess I got lucky in that aspect!

Biggest fear?

If you asked my dad he’d say my biggest fear is failure. It’s something I’ve had to overcome during my teenage years. I was very afraid to disappoint my parents or fail to meet their expectations. Not only their expectations, but my own. Also clowns, but I’ve thankfully gotten over that; I’m a big fan of American Horror Story.

Favorite ice cream flavor?

It has to be lemon. Sweet, sour, refreshing – exactly what you need on a hot day.

THE CAMPAIGN Why do you want to be UCSA chair?

Chair to me means a lot of things, but especially working behind the scenes… Aren’t you the face of the UCSA? Yes, but chairs don’t always do the most visible work like communicating with committees.

They work on the board and for the board. But that’s what attracts me to the position. I think if you can get a board functioning, achieving goals and working well together, you’re on top of the world. You don’t even need the credit. That’s why I want to be chair.

What do you think is the chair’s most important responsibility?

The well-being of the board. The strength of the UCSA comes from within, and the chair’s job is to ensure everyone is healthy: time-wise, mentally and physically.

Every UCSA board faces criticism, and this one is no exception. What do you think about the current board? Anything they should have done differently?

The current board achieved many of the goals they set out, because they aimed for a lot of shortterm things that they could tackle immediately.

So I think they did very well. One thing I would change is communication within the board. When people do things without consulting each other, the meaning of the board is lost.

There is a line in your campaign statement about you wanting the UCSA board to be “truthful and honest.” What do you mean?

Do they have a tendency to be dishonest?

I don’t think they’re intentionally being dishonest, I just think they don’t provide the right information.

I won’t go into specifics, but if there’s rumors going around, it’s up to the UCSA to respond. Clearing the air is necessary!

Of your goals as chair, which is the most realistic? Which is the least?

The most realistic are the things I could immediately provide, like the new reimbursement system.

I practically have the whole code already. Same with updating the website - if I spend a week on it in the summer it’s easy peasy, done and over with.

Most difficult will be letting everyone be heard. I want to hear from those that are active on campus and those that aren’t. Tapping into every demographic will be difficult.

Like earlier boards, you’re gearing up to finally tackle the website. Aren’t you worried that people won’t want to use it, no matter how good you make it?

For me it’s not about ensuring that the website is actively used, it’s about ensuring that it’s accessible. If you do decide to use it, it should be there and it should be complete. Traffic flow shouldn’t be an issue, it’s about being able to find a contact or a document easily instead of filing through Facebook.

Can you spill the beans on your campaign strategy? How are you getting people to vote for you?

I’m letting people see that I have learned a lot from my first run. It shows them that I learn from my mistakes, and that there’s nothing I’m hiding. My biggest “tactic”would be showing people all the relevant experience I have working with so many student associations through the UCSRN. I know how the dynamics work. I want campus to know this. I’m also showcasing the talents of my friends through my promo video and posters.

Let’s talk about your opponents. Do you know anything about their ideas? What do you think?

Antoinet and I have acknowledged one another, but we made sure not too share too much about our actual plans - we wouldn’t want the other person to think we took one of their ideas. We don’t play any dirty games. Antoinet is a bright and energetic girl, amazing dancer, knows a lot of people on campus.

But I haven’t worked on a board with either Anotoinet or Emmie, so it’s hard to say anything about the way they work.

vant experience on the Independent Body. The only challenging thing would be that Emmie’s running from exchange. That’s the only thing that could be her downfall. So if they were the only ones running, they’d both have a good chance of winning.

Here comes the question that’s on everybody’s mind: you ran for UCSA last year and lost. Does that affect you now? What makes this year any different?

It 100% affects me. When I told people I was going to run again, they said it was a brave thing to do.

It is a big step to put myself out there again. I am scared, but it’s okay to be scared. I now know how to prepare myself, by talking to ex-UCSA members about the things that I want to do - like updating the statutes. And I know how to evaluate what I did well last year and what I didn’t do well.

What did you not do well last time?

To be very honest with myself... I think the post-it notes were too obnoxious. They were an invasion, they were bright, they were loud. Someone has to say it, and I will say it. I don’t know what I was thinking.

Everybody knows everybody here on campus. Is that going to help or hurt you?

Both. There’s people who think highly of me, there’s people I’ve worked with who know my work ethic. I’ve already heard some very kind things come back to me. But also, when something is said and it’s twisted or misinterpreted, people may be prejudiced against me. It only makes me want to portray my best and honest self even more.

This paper will come out on the day of the GA. Any predictions? What can we expect from you?

It will be so exciting. I’ll be ironing my suit, making sure I look dapper for the stage. I’ll be walking back and forth right next to the auditorium, running the speech through my head. If I win, I have a deal with my campaign team that I’ll buy them all a beer.

And if you lose?

They’ll all have to buy me a beer.

If it’s not you, then who?

If I could answer that I would... but they are both bubbly people, charismatic, they both have their own group of friends.

Emmie has some amazing rele-

“

It is a big step to put myself out there again.

I am scared, but it’s okay to be scared.

Mai Thai is running for the UCSA a second time; last year she ran for CAO and suffered a loss. You may know her from the UCSRN board, GastronomyCo and Enactus.

A University College Student Association Magazine

UCSA ELECTIONS

7

Antoinet van Berkel THE WOMAN What were you like as a teenager?

I am still a teenager! I’m eighteen. I skipped a class in elementary school and I’m a summer baby. This has formed me. Being young means you have to get along with older people, have to adapt to people who have more life experience. It has turned me into a striver. I’ve always done my best to accomplish as much as I could.

Biggest fear?

Thunder. I’m very afraid of thunder. And spiders.

Favorite ice cream flavor?

Salted caramel! I actually worked in an ice cream shop for three summers and got a free ice cream at the end of my shift, so I know my flavors.

THE CAMPAIGN Why are you running for the chair position specifically?

It comes most naturally to me. In the experience I’ve gained through work, committees, life, I’ve noticed I’m always the one keeping the overview, keeping the motivation and dedication. At the same time people come to me for support. This combination of professionalism and approachability makes a good UCSA chair.

You have a lot in your campaign statement on continuing the work of previous boards.

Do you not have any criticisms of the current board? Anything they should have done differently?

The current board did a good job. Especially Zoë’s focus on wellbeing has resulted in a supported board that has bonded well. She is an example to me. I do think this board was in a tough position, having to make drastic changes concerning the app and the website. Changes are always met with resistance, and require more micromanaging than the UCSA should aim for. This is something that the new board should watch out for.

What do you think is the chair’s most important responsibility? Are you just the face of the UCSA? Yes, you are the face and the representative of the students to outside parties. But most important to me is making sure the board functions. A happy, supported and motivated board can work towards an efficient structure. The chair has an important role in that.

“

Will Antoinet be the second Luna chair in a row? She may be young but she has lots of experience as chair of DanceCo, star of last year’s musical and chair of the Family Day Team.

“

I have no unrealistic goals.

What exactly is going wrong?

One problem is that a lot of the events we host are socially demanding. This is an amazing facet of our campus that makes many people happy, but some students don’t feel included. By giving small-scale creative and chill events a bigger platform, for example during introweek, I’d like to make campus inclusive and comfortable for all. I’d also like to create more personal and specific support through assigning buddies to first semester students.

Are other students qualified to guide first years in their mental health?

It’s a first step. More serious mental health problems should obviously be discussed with Mark Baldwin. But the UCSA is in a position to support the social aspect of mental wellbeing.

Of your goals as chair, which is the most realistic? Which is the least?

My campaign is based on continuity. We should continue the work that previous boards have done.

My additional changes are honestly all realistic and achievable within a year. There is no unrealistic one.

Well, then which of your plans are you most excited about?

I’m most excited about my scholarship event

Popular is not the right word. Being friendly and meeting people just means I have put a lot of time and effort into my fellow students. Isn’t that a quality a chair should have?

In your campaign statement, it says you would like to “tackle the difficulties of our campus.” A large part of your plan is focused on wellbeing. Do you think we have a serious mental health problem on campus?

We’ve heard this a lot in the past years. I think everyone who feels like they’re struggling should be taken seriously. New projects like the Societal Transformation Lab were set up this year which highlight the fact that it’s not solved yet.

fund - it’s also the newest idea that I have. It’s a starting budget available to anyone who would like to organize a fundraising event, of which all proceeds would go to the scholarship fund. This is my favorite because a lot of students are passionate about the scholarship fund, and the UCSA is there to facilitate a platform for the things students are passionate about.

Another one of the things you emphasize is approachability. Do you think that you’re an approachable person? By chairing DanceCo and

having the starring role in the musical, haven’t you become kind of a campus celebrity?

Being a part of things, being there at events, supporting other students, I think it has made me approachable. I’ve shown that I’m interested in my fellow students. I’ve gathered many opinions and ideas on how the campus works.

But don’t you think people who are elected into the UCSA are usually already quite popular?

Popular is not the right word. Being friendly and meeting people just means I have put a lot of time and effort into my fellow students. Isn’t that a quality a chair should have?

How are you getting people to vote for you?

I’m aiming to show campus I’m both professional and approachable. I’m going to talk to as many people as possible, post videos, listen for suggestions and advice, also if there are things they disagree with.

Is there anything controversial for them to disagree with?

I don’t think so, because I’ve really based my campaign on the issues I’ve heard discussed by the students on campus.

What sets you apart from your opponents?

Do you know anything about their ideas?

I’m running for chair out of my own enthusiasm and my own vision. So are Emmie and Mai Thai. I purposely did not ask them about their campaigns - I want to campaign from the heart. I don’t think comparing myself to anyone is productive.

If not you, then who’s going to win?

I don’t want to elaborate on that. You should vote for whoever makes you feel most comfortable on this campus.

What will you be doing on GA day?

I’m going to get some rest. After two weeks of campaigning, it’s important to give myself some space to reflect. From that I want to make a speech that reflects the past two weeks, to combine my own passion with the feedback I received. A speech that will convince everyone to vote for me, I hope.

And what happens if you lose on the 25th?

I guess first I’ll congratulate the winner. I think it’s important to be supportive of whatever the results will be. Second I might get a little drink with my friends. Then I’ll go home and finally get some sleep. I will be very tired!

8

The Boomerang | April 2019

UCSA ELECTIONS

Emmie Spape THE WOMAN What were you like as a teenager?

I was definitely way quieter than I am now. Minding my own business, dancing a lot. I’m completely Dutch, I grew up in a rural village and spent most of my time outside.

Biggest fear?

What people think of me, actually. A soft spot for me is that I hope people see me as I want them to see me. When people misjudge me, I hate that.

Do you think people have misconceptions of you?

Just in general, stereotypes can be rigid and hard to get rid of. I’m not a dramatic person, so I get annoyed when people jump to conclusions.

Favorite ice cream flavor?

Pistachio!

THE CAMPAIGN Why do you want to be chair specifically?

The task, the responsibilities and the type of person that this position required fit me best. My contribution to campus would be best in this position.

You are currently on exchange in Sydney.

Anything they do better than UCU? The University of Sydney is twice as big as the largest university in the Netherlands. A mass university creates a breathing space that allows you to better determine what you want to do. At UCU you’re often jumping on the bandwagon, which is amazing but leaves no room for reflection. The downside of a large university is anonymity. On campus we’ve created a village community that to me feels like home - you learn a lot, you learn fast.

You want to focus on “cherishing continuity.” Do you have no criticisms of the current board? Anything you would have done differently?

I don’t want to “copy” what’s already been done, I want to continue the successes of the past and get the most potential out of what is already there. My biggest point of improvement is proactive participation. In my opinion UCSA could be a bit more involved in campus, they can get caught up in an ivory tower sometimes. Often student input is lost.

The last board improved a lot through feedback forms, but there are more efficient and inclusive ways to engage all students.

Your UCSA tree metaphor has the “trunk” consisting of committees, teams, fraternities, sororities and so on. You also stress student involvement and feedback through your initiative plan and Q&YouCSA. Don’t you worry that the same people will “get involved” that have always already been involved?

They could very well be the easiest people to target, that’s just realistic. I can’t force people who don’t want to be involved to be involved, but making many input platforms available will lower that threshold, as will being more approachable. That’s the UCSA’s job. I’m planning on getting involved by attending events I usually wouldn’t go to, to meeting the people I usually wouldn’t, for example.

Is there a way to involve students that usually stay in the shadows?

Of course, there are multiple ways. For example, we could continue the creation of committee groups, which takes away the implicit idea that you

You may know Emmie as member of the Independent Body, dance teacher, and chair of EconCo. Emmie is currently in Sydney and is the first person to run for UCSA chair from exchange. That’s why I couldn’t meet with her or take her picture - we spoke via videochat on a cold Utrecht morning and a hot Sydney evening. have to be on a board to be involved.

Moreover, A part of my election statement focuses on facilitating creating community experiences that do not require being part of a committee board, such as the buddy system.

I was wondering about this “homey atmosphere” you mention in your statement - do you worry that campus is not a home to everyone right now?

What I worry about is that the more involved people - that seem to be happier on campus - seem to be unaware of those that aren’t. Campus has been very good to me, but it’s not the same for everyone. Mental health is still a big issue. What I can do to help is create a campus that is diverse and welcoming. Personally, I can look further than that active group of people and become more approachable.

What is your most immediately realistic goal? And the least?

The least would be things that won’t happen over-

“

I’m the one who signed up for this. If I have to wake up at 3AM, I’ll wake up at 3AM.

night or even in a year - like inviting student input.

That’s a cultural change that’s not entirely under my control. Most realistic is a template for committee board books. That practical stuff that falls under professionalization is easy to implement.

Why is professionalization the way to go?

Shouldn’t grass-roots student initiatives be able to thrive or fail on their own?

Professionalization gives them the freedom and space to do that. What will help a new initiative is resources to fall back on: a good CAO, information, contact details of alumni, teachers, past partners.

I noticed what a struggle it is during my time in EconCo. I think the current board is breathing down our necks by making us turn in rigid schedules and budgets, leaving no room for spontaneity.

I agree. But this is only a part of the story. Do you know the New Initiative Fund? If you had a new idea, and you were quite shy, would you just walk up to their office and ask for money? My point is that if there’s a protocol in place, and it’s clear who to contact and what the criteria are, it encourages people to start new initiatives. That’s opportunity.

That is professionalization.

Can you tell me about your campaign, how are you doing this from exchange?

When you tell people you’re running for chair from exchange, they say “You’re mad. This is never going to work.” But I’m the one who signed up for this. If

I have to wake up at 3AM, I’ll wake up at 3AM. I also have a small and very enthusiastic campaign team on campus. They’re my spokespeople when I’m not there. What I’ve noticed during the ASC campaigns is that the campaign materials are just getting better and better. I’ve never seen so many infographics, videos etcetera… so I’m also putting out written information, vlogs, graphics, and an animation video. I’m going to try to be more than just a person on a screen, but it’s going to take more time and effort than it would have on campus. I’m going to have to work hard to bridge the gap that is the Pacific Ocean.

Let’s talk about your opponents. Do you know anything about their ideas? What do you think?

That’s a very hard question. I’m very curious to see what they’ll do, actually, but won’t change the way I campaign. I don’t know about their plans, but I do think I know what their qualities are. They are both very competent. I know Antoinet better personally, she also dances and we have a lot of mutual friends.

Does that bother you? That you’re friends?

Not anymore. But when she told me she was running, I was like okay… so... haha. But no hard feelings! We had a very nice phone call actually.

If you’re not going to win, which of them is?

Ooh! That would reflect a bias. Antoinet and I run in the same circle, so I’m inclined to say her. But then I’m afraid I’m forgetting a very big part of campus. As a member of the Independent Body I counted the votes last year, and it was very close.

So you never know what’s going to happen.

This paper will come out on the day of the GA. Any predictions? What can we expect from you?

I’ll actually be on a surfing trip during the GA. If WiFi allows, I’ll be live from the beach! But if the connection fails there’s a safety net: the UCSA is pre-recording all my answers and my speech. But don’t worry, I won’t be able to prepare for the questions or edit them. It’ll be spontaneous just like the GA. And what happens if you lose?

Of course I’ll be disappointed. But I’ll come back to campus and enjoy all the things I wouldn’t have been able to enjoy if I was in UCSA. A committee maybe, or some off-campus things… It is what it is.

I’ve already learned a lot just from campaigning.

Ah, that sounds so cheesy! Yes, it sucks to lose. Of course it sucks.

A University College Student Association Magazine

Keeping it lightheart-ed

by Edward Barber

DON’T BELIEVE THE HYPE – BRITAIN WARMS TO IMMIGRATION As British politics lurches from one Brexit-related disaster to the next, the nature of political discourse in and outside of the country has been rather one dimensional. The focus has been almost exclusively on the rigmarole that is Brexit and our government’s desperate attempts to negotiate some kind of deal.

Believe it or not, Britain is still reeling from a near decade of austerity, and the disparity between the richest and the poorest is only growing. Doubly worrying is the notion that circulates domestically and internationally that Britain is somehow inexorably polarised and that we may never know unity ever again on any issue. One such issue is immigration, a topic bitterly debated during the referendum campaign, yes, but one that has since been dwarfed in public discourse by much more pressing issues.

A recent report produced by progressive Think Tank ‘British Future’, in collaboration with advocacy group ‘Hope not Hate’, entitled the ‘National Conversation on Immigration’ revealed that immigration as an issue is simply not as high a priority as it once was. In a bid to engage in conver-

“

Immigration has been dwarfed in public discourse by much more pressing issues

sation and break the Brexit monopoly on political discourse, members of the respective groups visited 60 towns and cities across the UK, travelling 16,000 miles in the process. Once dominating the discussion alongside the economy and the NHS, immigration now sits 5th on the national priority list (behind these two, plus Brexit and crime).

Sunder Katwala and Rosie Carter, two of the prominent researchers, have emphasised the sheer amount of uncertainty that there is across the UK’s numerous regions with regards to immigration and integration. People’s positions are very nuanced and are intertwined with local and personal issues. They want control, contribution and fairness in immigration policy but are simply a bit baffled as to how to express or achieve this. It is this kind of neutrality and honesty that we simply do not see on social media, which regularly uncovers the often-harmful extremes of opinion on the issue.

Vast swathes of the population are simply not as angry as the media may make them out to be. As in the virulent referendum campaign, immigration tends to become conflated with important personal matters like housing, education and health. These issues are what enrage people, and without a coherent or compassionate government to address them people become susceptible to dangerous populist rhetoric that cites immigration as the problem. This is especially the case in places where the economic landscape has seen a seismic shift: people in smaller towns like Kidderminster and Basildon, where old industry has been lost or is saturated with migrant workers, lament the lack of opportunities and look for someone to blame.

Conversely, Brexit may have even ‘warmed’ attitudes, Carter speculated, as we are all united in bewilderment at the whole process. We have also seen the emergence of the counter pressure group ‘The 3 Million’ which puts familiar faces to the numbers of the 3 million foreign EU citizens that currently live in the UK. The bottom line is conversations about immigration and integration must be had. Or else, those who feel burdened and forgotten will listen to those who speak to their fears.

Deep down, the people of the UK are restricted by a fear of discussion on this issue, not inherent hate or xenophobia.

BUBBLE

9

Running for the UCSA Twice: Decision Making and the Fear of Failure

by Mai Thai de Rijk

Running for the UCSA for the second time is a choice, a bold choice to say the least. If there’s a question I’ve heard the most over the past few months in preparation for campaigning, it’s “What if you don’t get elected, again?” To every caring and curious individual, I must say it’s a really fair question but admittedly, a very confronting one.

I

spoke with many committees, ex-UCSA members, and friends about running for UCSA again, and something I genuinely appreciate but never could escape from, was their concern to what would happen to me after elections if I were to not be elected. I’d always give an honest but generic answer of the fact that I’d be fine as I would have other back up plans regarding applying to more committees or applying to teams to still stay active in the community.

What I didn’t mention to most people was that I’m a bit scared and that I’d actually be quite devastated if I lost again. However, this fear comes from within. I am my biggest critic. I constantly question the quality of my work, the decisions I make and the words I say. No matter what I do I feel a spotlight shining on me.

How do I make sure everyone knows I

Illustration © Vivian Claes

genuinely want to work for the people of campus? I’ve realised all I can do is show everyone my passion by just doing my best.

I’ve learned from this process by preparing the materials and speaking to 50+ people to understand their perspective of campus and planning out all my thoughts.

Overall, something that has taught me a lot over the year is that failure and fear can manifest in many forms. My personal favourite form of it is empowerment. This is when one accepts the conditions, admits to things done wrong, learns from their mistakes and grows to become a better person by prioritising the right things and the right people. Not only did I then gain from my experience running the first time, but I have grown to understand what I can and will do better. I’ve taken in a lot regarding both personal and professional development, both of which I’m extremely thankful for. It’s important to remember that no one should be defined by their failures, and I’ve taken in a lot regarding both personal and professional development.

Truth be told, I’m not scared of losing the elections. I’m running against two wonderful candidates, both of whom are smart, charismatic, and care about campus. I’m simply running based on my experience, motivation, and my joy to give back to campus, and the students that make the Community what it is. I hope to share this with everyone since UCU has given opportunities I could never have imagined to do elsewhere. So if I can facilitate and give these opportunities to the current and new students, you’re damn right I will.

Recipe: Students’ Sunday Roast

by Michelle Verstraaten

Ingredients • 1 or 2 chicken breasts • 6 small potatoes • Roasting vegetables, e.g. 2 carrots & 4 beetroots • Salt & herbs, e.g. oregano or basil Directions 1. Line the (combi microwave) oven with aluminium foil and preheat to 220°C. 2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, herbs, and olive oil and bake in the oven for about 10 minutes.

3. In the meantime, chop the potatoes and vegetables into bite size chunks.

4. Flip the chicken breasts. Add the potatoes and vegetables to the roasting pan and season as well.

5. Bake for another 15 minutes or until vegetables are soft and the chicken is cooked through. Serve hot. Serves 2.

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The Boomerang | April 2019

ARTS&CULTURE

Stan’s Sad Boy Songs Top 5 spring tunes for chilling around the quad

by Stanley Ward If you all must insist on conforming to that college bro™ lifestyle the moment the sun comes out, with fake ray-bans on your face and trash playing from your portable speaker, at least make the coming summer months bearable for everyone around you and play something decent. And for all that is holy, stop blasting overplayed hits of the 60s as if you’ve personally discovered the Beatles, or I will start to daydream about suffocating you with your own beanbag chair.

5. ‘Leave It Alone’ - Amanda Shires From the Americana artists’ latest album, this piece of synth tinged countryesque pop really shouldn’t work, but it does, by virtue of sheer charm. Shire’s vocal delivery and harmonies are perfect, and complemented by Jason Isbell’s subtle guitar work helping ground the production. Full of witty lyrical phrases, ‘Leave it Alone’ is a sweet love song about longing wrapped in a spacy atmosphere of drum machines, reverbs, and synthesisers.

4. ‘Casual Party’ - Band of Horses Typically for Band of Horses, they continue to add a sweet sense melodrama to very low stakes unimportant scenarios. A song about a casual party, this mid-tempo low key rocker kicks off with a combi-

nation of blistering guitars and mellow vocals, and reflects on the general anxiety of being at a party you really do not want to be at. Sound familiar?

From the band’s 2016 release Why Are You Ok, this track, and the record as a whole was seen as a return to form by critics, and is the perfect blend of interesting yet inoffensive that no-one can complain should you play it outside at a reasonable volume.

palette of sounds since the departure of Rostam Batmanglij. The track is adorned with handclaps, jaunty guitars, and tremolo on everything - even the backing vocals, provided by Danielle Haim.

The uplifting melodies combined with this more acoustic aesthetic seem to unapologetically refer to Paul Simon’s Graceland, an aesthetic which works with Vampire Weekend, who have always been drawn to afrobeat rhythms and accompaniment since their debut album. One of the strongest 3. ‘Old Friends’ - Pinegrove singles from the run up to the album, ‘This Life’ From the band’s album Cardinal, released in 2016, sounds like sunshine, blue skis and all that good an innocent time in which there was no contro- stuff. versy surrounding the band, Old Friends is a song about calling your parents and telling your friends 1. UCU Radio you love them. Lyrically dextrous and winding, the Why even bother choosing your own music, when song slowly builds, but pulls away rhythmically as someone else can even do it for you? We have DJs much as it pushes. The full band performance is playing all of the genres, from Eddie’s Americana extraordinary, and the tasteful inclusion of banjo and folk, to Vanessa’s eclectic mix of 70s punk. and pedal steel adds a refreshing sonic variety to And of course, yours truly, spinning pure gold on this brand of soft bow indie rock. those wheels of steel. As well as our live shows, we also stream recorded shows 24/7 so there’s always 2. ‘This Life’ - Vampire Weekend something to listen to. You can find the link on the The latest single released in anticipation of the Facebook page, and if it tickles your fancy, slide band’s long awaited fourth album Father of the into one of the board members DMs and we’ll sort Bride is a joyous homage to spiritual uncertainty, you out with your own show. Shameless plug over. and continues to embrace the band’s brighter

Three years in a thousand words

by Marco Minoni

What if UCU was a big social experiment? Over my three years, I’ve heard this a few times. Joking aside, it’s more of a “put 700, somewhat lost, young adults in a square kilometer and see what happens”-kind of thing.

“H

ow will you contribute to this community?”

You probably had some ideas, but then you got accepted, and it wasn’t quite what you expected, was it? This institution really emphasises community and acceptance, as campus life is one of UCU’s pillars, and rightfully so, I would argue. Living here allows us to “grow as responsible citizens”, as UCU officially states. But I believe there is an intrinsic negative aspect to the concept of community. It’s the extent to which this community affects every single one of us. It’s the concepts of comparison, social pressure, and alienation that this place can bring up.

I have experienced every single one of these things, and I know that you probably have as well.

When you see me, you might think that I’m always happy, singing, and hugging trees. But that is my social identity, and it’s partially like that because being around people does actually make me happy.

However, I can not count the times that I have felt inadequate, awkward, or embarrassed. I can’t remember how many times, pushed by my insecurities and need for confirmation, I have found myself trying too hard, only to later ask myself why I was doing so.

Since my arrival, I’ve been striving to feel fulfilled by reaching the position I wanted to have in our community. Even when I did reach that, I still wasn’t happy. It took a few more months before I really found and understood myself. Months of

self-reflection, trying to figure out what I needed and why I cared so much about certain things. This process took me three years.

The size of this place and the presence of the community emphasize all these natural responses.

Every single interaction here feels so important in affecting how we think about ourselves, to the extent that we might start looking at ourselves from the eyes of others. Since we are always surrounded by people that are somewhat part of our social life (or not), we tend to be quite self-conscious at all times, to perceive ourselves as social objects. Well, if you are confident and have good social skills, that’s not a big deal. But if you are not so confident, this place becomes hell. And I know what I’m talking about, I was severely depressed my first year here. I had no one, and pretended to be fine, which seemed to be the way it worked here.

It was miserable.

The non-conformers may be alienated. They’re confronted with people that have characteristics they might not have, or go to gatherings they might not enjoy because let’s be honest, the visible people on campus, those who take up the most physical and virtual space tend to be the extroverted, confident, party, and performing arts type of people.

These people tend to be part of committees, fraternities, sororities, and student associations. But they’re the minority, and the funny part is that most of these people cannot always conform to the “ideal UCU student” all the time. Engaging with

the community can be extremely challenging and exhausting for them too, as they feel like they have to live up to expectations.

But for those who do not engage with the community it can be way worse. In the best case scenario, they drive off. They do their own things without getting too involved or they create their life off campus. And this is a loss for the whole community, but they have no choice as there is no platform for them to express their doubts and concerns. In the worst case scenario, they isolate themselves and therefore get isolated by the community itself. It’s not easy to find like-minded individuals if you do not conform to what is perceived to be the norm.

This article is not an attack towards UCU and its community, groups, and individuals. I hope that the people that do know me, know as well how much I love this place, its people, and its groups.

This article is just an invitation to reflect, to think about how we, as a groups or as individuals, affect each other. An invitation to maybe be a bit more vulnerable and authentic, to stop caring this much about nonsense that make us feel insecure and inadequate, to be more open and to stop normalizing the negative aspects of this place and the negative feelings they might elicit. An invitation to work on them, together.

Things are moving this year, and I hope that when the time arrives, you will be on board. If you wish, you can also be part of this. Along with a few other people (Jana Dimitrova, Gudmundur Haraldsson and Gideon Frey), I have been trying to open up a space to have conversations on wellbeing. We started a project called societal transformation lab, a worldwide movement developed at MIT to foster societal change. The end goal is to create a prototype of reality that takes everyone’s well being into consideration. If you want to be part of this, join the facebook group “Societal Transformation - UCU Community”. Hope to hear from you guys soon since you will definitely hear more and more from us.

A University College Student Association Magazine

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The Boomerang | April 2019

QUAD QUERIES e chair “If anyone could b ld you of UCSA, who wou want it to be?”

“Nelson Mandela” – Nair “Otto

von B ism – Wille arck” m

uti” la K lde hi

“Fe

at

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a” “Nikola Tesl – Tabe

“Fucking

Obama” – Julia

“Barbie” – Fenna

klin”

“Aretha Fran

– Elise

Agony aunt ers”

“Bernie Sand – Jarne

“Peter

“Elon Musk”

Kropo

– Will

em

– Lotte

tkin”

Dear Auntie, I think my dance partner is in love with me, but I don’t feel the same way about them. Also, it’s a really intimate dance, so I also don’t know if they’re just faking it for the show.

“Augustus Caesar

’” – August

THE BOOMERANG BOARD Meike Eijsberg | Editor-in-Chief Charlotte Remarque | Managing Editor Thomas Scassellati Sforzolini | Executive Editor Sven Bosma | Executive Editor Lotte Schuengel | Creative Director – Layout & Design Iris Beijer | Creative Director – Art Jamie March | PR Manager

“I think Fred Wea – Ernst

sley”

A really intimate dance you say. The kind where your chests are so close you can feel one another breathing?

The kind where your partner’s hand slips just a millimetre lower than it should and it sends a frenzy of shivers down your spine? The kind where your mouths are so close, within kissing distance, and you can smell what they had for dinner… and you like it?

Whether it’s your hips gyrating together in time to the beat, or it’s just that moment of eye contact you get when you accidentally step on your partner’s toe, dancing can be intimate. Perhaps your partner is really getting lost in the music and they are keen to put on a good show.

Perhaps their ex is in the audience and they are trying to make them as jealous as possible. Perhaps you look like their dog and every time they gaze at you it reminds them of long country walks with Mr Bobbins. It’s a pretty big leap to think they are in love with you, this campus is full of fakers after all!

Deep down, if you truly think they are in love with you, maybe try to let them down gently (an essential feature of any dance lift, you should know this). “Oh, I love doing this move with my significant other, it’s so fun isn’t it!” is a line you could try. Or, if you don’t have a significant other, “oh I love doing this move by myself in my room, I love being by myself, it’s so fun isn’t it!” Something along those lines should do the trick. But please, try to keep some sort of romance alive for the actual night or if this fails please try and make the dance as angry and hostile as possible so we are left thinking what on earth went wrong with these two. Whatever you decide, remember to put on a good show and make it the best €3.50 I’ve ever spent.

In need of advice?

We will post a link where you can anonymously submit what troubles you, so watch out for that!

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It comes out eight times a year.