freshers 2014: your digital copy
DESCRIPTION
If you can't find any of our print issues around campus, then that means you are too late as we've ran out! Fret not, here is the digital copy to SHUlife's Freshers Issue, giving you all the same goodness! This issue covers all your freshers topics through our different sections.TRANSCRIPT
Your officers - freshers stories- sheffield bands- Freshers fashion - NORTH KOREA & more...also INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
Y O U R F R E S H E R S I S S U E
FREEFRESHERS ISSUE 2014
ED’S
LETT
ER
Hello and welcome to the Freshers 2014 edition of SHUlife - the student magazine of Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union. SHUlife is a lifestyle magazine that covers a wide area of topics and issues. Aimed at students aged 18-25 representing over 37,000 students, SHUlife is a voice for any Sheffield Hallam student that wants to be heard.
This edition is especially for freshers and will give you an insight into the life of a SHU student!
#HALLAMTILLIDIE
Catherine, Holly & JohnSHUlife Editors-in-Chief 2014/15
meet the team
CatherineChristy
EDITORs-in-chiefs
music editors
film & Technology editor
food editor
lifestyle & culture editors
fashion editors
sports editors
Contact us at:
SHUlifeHallam Union, The HubsPaternoster RowSheffieldS1 2QQ
The views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent the views of Sheffield Hallam University or Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union.
RECYLCE ME02
WE’RE ONLINE:And when you are done with the mag, log onto www.shulife.co.uk. There we regularly update you with all of your favourite topics.
You can also check out our Facebook page- Facebook.com/SHUlfe and follow us on Twitter - @SHUlife.
SHULIFEOCTOBER 2014 Holly
EvansJohn
Cartwright
KatieHetherington
Charlotte Callingham
Liam Kent
Damon Traverse
Sian Hodkin
Amy Donohoe
EthanHuntington
EmilyMatthews
NEWS EDITORSKarishmaRavalia
NicolaGrummett
Josh Powlesland
LouiseGebhard
With thanks to:Alex Ferguson, Joshua Barlow, Melissa Penny, Ciretta Paone-Hoyland, Roseanne May Cross, Hannah Wootten, Eleanor Ingleby, Clarissa Allford and Joseph MalamLogo: Ewen SimpsonDesign By: Catherine Christy
contents
PAGE 4Meet YOUR officers
PAGE 8Music
PAGE 10Watch your mental health
PAGE 11Dealing withFreshers Flu
PAGE 12Film
PAGE 14Society Features:HVA & Music Societies
PAGE 21SHU Advice Centre
PAGE 22Hallam News
PAGE 28Agony Aunt
PAGE 29Freshers Stories
PAGE 30Things to do in Sheffield
PAGE 34Hallam student’s tripto North Korea
PAGE 18Food
PAGE 32Sports
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16
PAGE 16Fashion
PAGE 24Lifestyle & Culture
4 28
Would you like towrite for shulife?
we would be happyto have you!
drop us an [email protected]
#hallamtillidie
4
unio
n
For more articles visit: www.shulife.co.uk
Getting to know your student officers!
As a student of Sheffi eld Hallam, you are represented by fi ve full-time student offi cers whose role is to oversee the running of Sheffi eld Hallam Students’ Union and represent you on a range of issues that affect you.
So what do you need to know about them? Well, SHUlife has decided to dig deep and get to know who each of them are, what they are planning on doing this year and get them to tell you about why you should get involved in the Students’ Union.
Emily was education offi cer and deputy president at the Students’ Union before being elected aspresident in the May 2014 elections. In her new role, she has various responsibilities but one of her main aims is to make sure that students are equally and fairly represented on a local and national level.
“I am the fi gurehead of the Students’ Union, leading my team to represent students at Sheffi eld Hallam. I liaise with the university executives and local politicians and this year get to take a lead on sustainability as well! There are loads of work around the General Election to come this year; I’m really keen to understand why voting is so unacceptable for students. When around 48% of the Sheffi eld electorate is students... we have a big say in what happens!”
A fun fact about Emily is that she is still studying at Hallam as she still has one year left of her English Literature degree before graduating in 2016
During her time as a student, Emily has loved getting involved in volunteering and societies. “I was a course rep, volunteered in a local soup-kitchen style organisation; I was president of a society, member of other societies and a faculty rep that sat on the Union Council! I loved being a part of a society as I got to meet so many people from all over the world and share a passion with them. They have so many interesting stories to tell when you get to know them. It’s just a case of taking the time to ask them!”
“Students should get involved in the Students’ Union because it’s so much fun! Developing skills and increasing your employability is obviously a high priority at the moment but it’s also a great chance to meet new people, try new things and have new experiences. I tried dancing in my fi rst week with two left feet and then was president of the same society in my second year!”
emily connorpresident
SOPHIE AMOSACTIVITIES OFFICER
president at the Students’ Union before being elected aspresident in the May 2014 elections. In her new role, she has various responsibilities but one of her main aims is to make sure that students are equally and fairly represented on a local and national level.
“I am the fi gurehead of the Students’ Union, leading my team to represent students at Sheffi eld Hallam. I liaise with the university executives and local politicians and this year get to take a lead on sustainability as well! There are loads of work around the General Election to come this year; I’m really keen to understand why voting is so unacceptable for students. When around 48% of the Sheffi eld electorate is students... we have a big say in what happens!”
emily connor
i tried dancing in my fi rst week with two left feet and then was president of the
same society in mysecond year!
union
5www.shulife.co.uk
Following re-election in May, Events Management graduate Sophie is beginning her second term as activities offi cer at the Students’ Union! In her role, she oversees societies, volunteering, SHU Media and RAG.
As she represents students in so many areas, Sophie has some big plans for the upcoming year. “My plans for the students are so varied, so I will just mention one for each area. Starting with societies, I plan to work out a programme of training for committees to be able to deliver the best they can to their members. Next is volunteering and the feedback I’ve had is that students want more one-offopportunities to volunteer as there isn’t too much time for commitment. For SHUMedia, I would like more students at Hallam to be able to read the amazing magazine and have the chance to get involved with it and for SHURadio, my aim is to help them grow into aregular broadcasting programme. Finally for RAG, I want more students involved so we can run more events and widen the participation.”
It would be safe to say that Sophie is an activities geek and during her time at Hallam, she loved getting stuck in! “I was a committee member of the trampolining club, I was part of SHU Snow, I took part in the events committee and I did lots of volunteering relating to my degree and then took part in a RAG fl ash mob to promote the organisation and what it does. To top it all off, I was Union Council chair which is the highest decision body in the union for students!”
So why should you get involved? “The Students’ Union has so many fun and exciting activities to get involved in. It’s about sharing interests with groups of people you may not ever have met throughout your time at Uni unless you were a part of it!”
SOPHIE AMOSACTIVITIES OFFICER
Following re-election in May, Events Management graduate Sophie is beginning her second term as activities offi cer at the Students’ Union! In her role, she oversees societies, volunteering, SHU Media and RAG.
As she represents students in so many areas, As she represents students in so many areas, Sophie has some big plans for the upcoming year. “My plans for the students are so varied, so I will just mention one for each area. Starting with societies, I plan to work out a programme of training for committees to be able to deliver the best they can to their members. Next is volunteering and the feedback I’ve had is that
It’s about sharing interests with groups of people you
may not ever have metthroughout your time at Uni
unless you were a partof it!
unio
nMaths graduate Kieran is a new addition to the team this year and is eagerly awaiting the upcoming year and what it will bring. “I cover everything education based, whether that’s a problem with your course or an issue with your timetable. Lots of things planned for the year, a lot of my work will be around trying to make feedback fairer for our students and I’ll be working closely with the course and faculty reps throughout the year. I’ll also be working to educate our students about the upcoming General Election in May 2015.”
As someone who loves to get involved, Kieran was chairman of the men’s rugby union team, sat on the sports committee, was a course rep for three years and was also involved with the Union Council and he urges new students to see what’s on offer. “We have some great opportunities for you down at the Students’ Union, whether you’re after something to pass the time or you’re after something to boost your CV we have something to offer everybody so come down and see what you’d like to get involved with!”
“Moving to Sheffi eld was one of the best choices I’ve made and getting involved with all the things I did really make my time at Hallam worthwhile, topped off with being elected as your education offi cer! What more could I ask for? Hallam Til’ I Die!”
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n
What more could I ask for? Hallam Til’ I Die!
Following the referendum last year which made offi cer roles more inclusive, Melissa’s title means that she gets to represent more students at Sheffi eld Hallam and is responsible for Team Sheffi eld Hallam, BUCS, sports clubs and development, healthy and active lifestyle programmes and community partnerships.
“I would like to encourage fi nal years to get involved; when I was doing assessment centres and interviews for grad schemes; my extra-curricular activities were always the talking point. It is also a myth that you can’t do well in fi nal year and do it all. I did lacrosse, a part-time job, ran in the election and got a fi rst in my International Hospitality Business Management with Conference and Events degree! I wish you all the best of luck and smash it!”
“I was a course rep in my fi rst year, vice-captain of lacrosse and on the sports committee in my second year and was an equal opportunities offi cer in my fourth year! My most memorable moment of all of this was winning Varsity with lacrosse in my second year.”
We’ve already mentioned the new Hallam Nation every Wednesday night and if you want to know how great they are, let Melissa be the one to tell you! “I love Wednesday nights, I used to live for them!”
I love Wednesday nights, I used to live for them!
6 www.shulife.co.uk
KIERAN PEARSONEDUCATIONOFFICER
MELISsA PENNYSPORTS & PHYSICALACTIVITY OFFICER
unionMaths graduate Kieran is a new addition to the team this year and is eagerly awaiting the upcoming year and what it will bring. “I cover everything education based, whether that’s a problem with your course or an issue with your timetable. Lots of things planned for the year, a lot of my work will be around trying to make feedback fairer for our students and I’ll be working closely with the course and faculty reps throughout the year. I’ll also be working to educate our students about the upcoming General Election in May 2015.”
As someone who loves to get involved, Kieran was chairman of the men’s rugby union team, sat on the sports committee, was a course rep for three years and was also involved with the Union Council and he urges new students to see what’s on offer. “We have some great opportunities for you down at the Students’ Union, whether you’re after something to pass the time or you’re after something to boost your CV we have something to offer everybody so come down and see what you’d like to get involved with!”
“Moving to Sheffi eld was one of the best choices I’ve made and getting involved with all the things I did really make my time at Hallam worthwhile, topped off with being elected as your education offi cer! What more could I ask for? Hallam Til’ I Die!”
Following the referendum last year which made offi cer roles more inclusive, Melissa’s title means that she gets to represent more students at Sheffi eld Hallam and is responsible for Team Sheffi eld Hallam, BUCS, sports clubs and development, healthy and active lifestyle programmes and community partnerships.
“I would like to encourage fi nal years to get involved; when I was doing assessment centres and interviews for grad schemes; my extra-curricular activities were always the talking point. It is also a myth that you can’t do well in fi nal year and do it all. I did lacrosse, a part-time job, ran in the election and got a fi rst in my International Hospitality Business Management with Conference and Events degree! I wish you all the best of luck and smash it!”
“I was a course rep in my fi rst year, vice-captain of lacrosse and on the sports committee in my second year and was an equal opportunities offi cer in my fourth year! My most memorable moment of all of this was winning Varsity with lacrosse in my second year.”
We’ve already mentioned the new Hallam Nation every Wednesday night and if you want to know how great they are, let Melissa be the one to tell you! “I love Wednesday nights, I used to live for them!”
Just like Emily and Sophie, this is Emmet’s second term as an offi cer in the Students’ Union and he is really keen to build on schemes and initiatives that he set up last year that have a positive impact on students.
“My role is responsible for representing rights and interests of students regarding their wellbeing on campus and in the local community so that’s things like housing, health, fi nance and representation. So I ensure that students are able to stay happy, healthy, and safe and secure whilst at Uni.”
“I’m looking forward to getting stuck in with housing, getting students more clued up about their rights. I’m excited to get students talking more openly about mental health and where to get support. The General Election is just around the corner and I want lots of students realising how important their vote is. The offi cers are going to be up at Collegiate a lot more this year, now that we have more space on campus”
Whilst studying, Emmet was involved in a lot of volunteering both inside and outside of the Students’ Union. “I was a course rep for Sports and Community Development and a community rep, I also did volunteering outside of the union but being a community rep is defi nitely what got me here today. I also had a 6-a-side team which was good fun; we won a few cups in our time.”
We asked each offi cer if they had any embarrassing fresher’s stories that they’d like to share and all of them declined, except for Emmet whose story can act as a valuable lesson to all of you (fi rst year or fi nal year)!
“I wasted £30 buying drinks for people who I thought were my neighbours at my halls only to fi nd out they weren’t.”
Oh dear, Emmet! Remember everyone; only buy drinks for people you know and trust!
I wasted £30 buying drinks for people who I thought were my neighbours at my halls only to fi nd out they weren’t.
your student officers(continued)
7www.shulife.co.uk
emMET CLEAVERWELFARE &COMMUNITYOFFICER
8
mus
ic
Whether it’s The Arctic Monkeys, Pulp’s front man Jarvis Cocker, Bring me the Horizon or Reverend & the Makers who started in Sheffield and grew into the artists they are today. When it comes to Sheffield, the music scene is one that is continuing to grow.
Not only has this wonderful city produced such artists it’s also thriving with budding artists who are more than willing to share their talent. Upcoming artists include Polkadodge, a indie-pop band that has even played at Tramlines festival and are set to release a EP in early 2015- so be on the look out.
The Barristers are an indie rock band who are making their mark in Sheffield. They are known for their formal outfits and epic music. Two members are even from Sheffield Hallam.
Local bands are never a let down. Somewhat Unprepared is a rock band with original songs and a natural flare for music. They are a true talent whose performances will blow you away. Whilst the Sherlocks’ are a band full of boyish charm and talent. The indie rock bands produce songs of pure brilliance.
And for those who prefer the mellow and unique tunes of reggae, Jungle Lion is the band for you. A band like no other, they are one full of fun, laughter and happiness. It’s very hard to dislike this band. Musical talent from jazz to drums allows this band to be on another level.
Sheffield’s music scene is one full of energy, raw talent and success. Our advice from the music section? Be on the look out for local artists because it’s highly likely in a few weeks, months or years time those bands will be ones everyone’s heard of. It seems Sheffield has something in the water for budding musicians because they certainly maintain the musical reputation that the city has built and reinforced...Steel City once more living up to its solid status.
If Sheffield is known for one thing it’s the city’s ability to produce legendary performers who can spew out hit after hit. For those who aren’t familiar with the steel city’s music scene (really?!), Our music editor, Katie Hetherington gives you the low down ...
For more articles visit: www.shulife.co.uk
SHEFFIELD’S MUSIC SCENE
Polkadodge
The SherlocksSomewhat Unprepared
The Barristers
The Arctic Monkeys
Are you a performing musicianor in a band? Want to get featured inSHUlife? Get in touch by droppingan email to [email protected]
9
Local bands are never a let down. Somewhat Unprepared is a rock band with original songs and a natural fl are for music. They are a true talent whose performances will blow you away. Whilst the Sherlocks’ are a band full of boyish charm and talent. The indie rock bands produce songs of pure brilliance.
And for those who prefer the mellow and unique tunes of reggae, Jungle Lion is the band for you. A band like no other, they are one full of fun, laughter and happiness. It’s very hard to dislike this band. Musical talent from jazz to drums allows this band to be on another level.
Sheffi eld’s music scene is one full of energy, raw talent and success. Our advice from the music section? Be on the look out for local artists because it’s highly likely in a few weeks, months or years time those bands will be ones everyone’s heard of. It seems Sheffi eld has something in the water for budding musicians because they certainly maintain the musical reputation that the city has built and reinforced...Steel City once more living up to its solid status.
Hi I’m Katie and I’m one half of the Music Editors team. We think you should get involved with our section because music is a passion that we all share. We want your ideas and we want to hear about the music and the artists that inspire you. In return, we can try to get press passes and interviews with artists at local Sheffi eld ven-ues. So if you enjoy music and want to contribute to our section, come sign up at the Freshers fair and get
love music? write for shulife!
MUSIC
Polkadodge
Are you a performing musicianor in a band? Want to get featured inSHUlife? Get in touch by droppingan email to [email protected]
Hey I’m Charlotte, the other half of the Music Editors team. We want you to write in and tell us what mu-sic you are listening to. If you play an instrument, let us know how you’re getting on.
Also, write about the gigs you have been to. We’re open to any ideas you have as all content will be published, so come sign up at the Freshers Fair.
Hi I’m Katie and I’m one half of Hey I’m Charlotte, the other half of
SHEFFIELD’S MUSIC VENUESBY Katie Hetherington
It’s undoubtedly true that Sheffi eld’s nightlife is one of the best and certainly leaves you with lasting memories. But what clubs actually play decent music in Sheffi eld? Well, here’s a select list of great clubs and pubs that play decent and lively music.
Starting with West Street Live, located on West Street, this venue hosts an array of live performances from the best of Sheffi eld’s rising talent. It’s a fun evening and a change of atmosphere from the clubbing environment.
Next up is Corporation. It’s cheap, dirty and anyone who goes usually owns a pair of corp shoes but if you can handle that you’re in for a good night of partying. Corp has three fl oors with different rooms that cater for music taste whether that’s chart, dub step, heavy metal or a personal favourite of golden classics from the likes of Wham and Stevie Wonder.
Soul and funk night at Leadmill is a valued night from Hallamers. It’s a quirky and usual night that can be enjoyed by all. Select nights such as these are usually a fun change from generic clubs but your still able to let your hair down and dance into the early hours.
And fi nally there’s Plug, known again for its cheap and cheerfulness Plug is a known venue in Sheffi eld for hosting gigs. It’s a venue with many fl oors of various music genres.
Of course Sheffi eld has many more brilliant venues that play superb music, it all just de-pends on your taste. The clubs above just give you a general idea on Sheffi eld’s vast music scene. But maybe these aren’t for you, there are plenty of pubs with karaoke and open mic nights including the Royal Standard, Graduate and the Globe all in the centre of town. And if you really want to try something new you can even venture to the Irish pub just off West Street for a bit of Irish band including fl ute, cello and Irish fi ddle...whatever your taste.
Enjoy searching and unearthing Sheffi eld’s top places to go for music.
If you have any additions- weird or wonderful, favourite places to go or venues you think have been missed then tweet us at @SHULifemusic and tell us!
PLUG
O2 ACADEMY SHEFFIELD
Follow us at:@shulifemusicfor sheffield musicnews
For more articles visit: www.shulife.co.uk
HEAL
TH FE
ATUR
E
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Watching your mental health – With 1 in 4 suffering a mental health issue it could easily be you.
In 2013, The National Union of Students (NUS) found that 74% of their research group of 1200 students experienced mental distress once a month or more, 20% considered themselves to have a mental health issue and 13% experienced suicidal thoughts.
During your time at University, there are many things you have to do: make sure your work is in on time, balance both work and play and on top of that find the time to eat a decent meal.
There are many factors that can affect you mentally when you come to university including; stress such as financial wor-ries, pressure to succeed and living way from home and support networks.
However, with 1 in 4 people suffering a mental health issue at one time or another, looking after your mental health should be high on your list of things to do.
Sheffield Hallam is believed to have over 37000 students - that’s around 9250students who could possibly suffer a mental health issue.
This year 1200 Sheffield Hallam students registered for the university’s wellbeing centre - a 14% increase from the year before.
Ursula Klingel, Head of Wellbeing said; “Ask someone how they are feeling and let them know you are there to listen.”
“Try and ensure you have a healthy lifestyle - sleep well, eat well, don’t drink or smoke too much and be careful about drug usage.”
WATCHING YOURMENTAL HEALTH…By Joshua Barlow
The most commonly sought service at SHU Wellbeing is individual counselling sessions which were accessed by over 500 students in the previous year.
The centre offers many other services including 1-1, group work and self-help as well as running campaigns to raise awareness of mental health issues throughout the year.
In October, the service will get one of the Vice Chancellors to sign the Time to Change pledge for the university and then in February there is University Mental Health and Wellbeing day.
Keep an eye out for other people too. You may not ex-perience any distress yourself, but with mental health issues being so common, someone close to you could very well be part of the 1 in 4.
Look out for changes in be-haviours; Warning signs might be someone who was once very active and outgoing, is now reclusive and doesn’t want to get out bed; any signs
of self-harming like excessive drinking/drug taking as well as signs of physical self harm such as cutting, burning etc.
Another indication that some-one could be suffering mental distress is excessive stress, anxiety and panic attacks along with changes to a person’s eating patterns e.g. not eating and weight loss, excessive or compulsive eating, and being sick after food.
If you feel like yourself or some-one you know might need help, remember that there are vari-ous services that are available; University counselling, GP or university health services, voluntary sector services in community settings, helplines or online support such as Samaritans.
Paula Lavis, the Coordinator and Policy Lead for the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Coalition has been running a project with the Paul Hamlyn Foundation; “The aim was to develop local projects which work with young people aged 16-25, to think about how mental health services should be delivered.” (www.right-here.org.uk)
Useful contacts:SHU Wellbeing: 0114 225 2136
Hallam Headspace:[email protected]
Nightline: 0114 222 8788
Samaritans: 08457 90 90 90
For more articles visit: www.shulife.co.uk
With 1 in 4 suffering a mental health issue it could easily be you
HEALTH feature
11
WATCHING YOURMENTAL HEALTH…By Joshua Barlow
As you meet many new people in these first, precious days at university it is easy to get caught up by their infectious personalities and their ability to forget how many drinks they’ve actually bought you but beware, their personalities may not be the only thing that’s infectious. Our Edior Holly Evans tells you all about it...
Some of you may be aware of a common student illness called “freshers’ flu” which is basically a severe cold or flu that is brought on by:- meeting new people who may be already infected- sleep deprivation from all of those wild nights out- eating a lot of naughty junk food- excessive amounts of alcohol
If you’ve been away over the summer and came back feeling like this then chances are, you know what’s com-ing.
For those of you who aren’t so aware then don’t panic because SHUlife are here to tell you exactly what you need to do in the event that your frivolous new adventures catch up with you and you begin to feel poorly.
First of all, recognise your symptoms. If you’re suffering from a fever, high temperature, a dry cough, sore throat, sneezing, headaches etc., then the chances are that it is cold or flu and it is recommended by medical professionals that you take painkillers such as aspirin or paracetamol in order to relieve the symptoms you are suffering from and get plenty of rest in order to get better. If you’re unsure about this or noticing any other symptoms such as a stiff neck or a rash then go and see your GP as soon as possi-ble as it could be something a bit more serious.
If it is “freshers’ flu” then here are some tips from our editors as to how you can make yourself feel better:
- Drink green tea as it is full of lots of goodness that will soothe your system and help bring you back to normality.- A warm honey and lemon drink helps to reduce any swelling in the throat and allows you to relax.- Watch a box set that you love in order to distract yourself from feeling groggy and if it’s something like Friends then you’re bound to get better in no time as laughter is supposed to be the best medi-cine!- Have some comfort food that reminds you of home but do it in moderation as too much of the naughty stuff can make you feel a lot worse.
In the event that you do get this awful student illness then we wish you a speedy recovery but if you feel that it is something more medically serious then seek medical attention immediately. Some useful numbers are listed below.
Sheffield Hallam student doctors: 0114 225 2134NHS Direct: 111Severe medical emergency: 999
FRESHER’S FLU:
How do we get it
and how do we cure it?
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FILM freshers film previews
Following on from one of the most blockbuster packed summers in recent years, the next few months take a break from the franchises and offer up some exciting new movies across all genres. Eleanor Ingleby takes a look at some of the most promising films set to be released this semester which you might want to check out between all the working and drinking!
Let’s be CopsThis comedy features New Girl’s Jake John-son and Damon Wayans Jr who dress as po-lice officers for a costume party and become “neighbourhood sensations” when they’re accidentally mistaken for real cops.
The film follows the duo’s story as they end up getting involved in real investigations with mobsters and criminals and they have to decide what the right thing to do actually is.
Released - 27th August
A Walk Among the TombstonesLiam Neeson’s latest action thriller sees him play a private investigator hired by a drug kingpin to find out who kidnapped and murdered his wife. Based on the 1992 novel by Lawrence Block, Block himself has revealed that Neeson was top of his list to play the main character of Matt Scudder, and has said that “My book’s in good hands”.
Release date- 18th September
The Maze RunnerTeen Wolf ’s Dylan O’Brien, Skins’ Kaya Scodelario and Game of Thrones’ Thomas Brodie-Sangster star in this sci-fi thriller in which a group of kidnapped teenagers have to learn to survive in an enclosed environment, the only way to escape being to find their way out of the maze. With many obstacles including the “Grievers”, this film is definitely for fans of young adult book to film ad-aptations such as The Hunger Games and Harry Potter.
Release date- 10th October
This Is Where I Leave YouFour grown siblings are forced to return to their child-hood home and live together for a week, following the wish of their recently deceased father. With an all-star cast featuring Jason Bateman, Mean Girls’ Tina Fey, Adam Driver and Rose Byrne, this film shows the sib-lings deal with their respective lives and helps them to confront their past, ensuring plenty of laughs.
Release date- 24th October
FILM
13For fi lm reviews visit our website: www.shulife.co.uk
freshers film previews
ODEONA common chain throughout the UK, you’ll fi nd the Sheffi eld Odeon to be exactly what you expect. Located between the O2 Arena and the Adsett’s Centre, Odeon is easy to fi nd. You’ll fi nd most of the fi lms you’re looking for there in both 2D and 3D screenings, and the inner city location means it’s close to multiple bars and places to eat afterwards.
Prices (With Student Card):
• Bargain Tuesdays (all day) - £5.00• Saver (Mon/Wed/Thurs, before 5pm) - £5.55• Peak (All other times) - £6.55Address: Odeon Sheffi eld, Arundel Gate, Shef-fi eld, S1 1DL
CINEWORLD (VALLEY CENTERTAINMENT)Arguably the most immersive cinematic experi-ence in Sheffi eld, CIneworld is part of an enter-tainment complex including multiple restaurants and other leisure facilities. It’s the only local cinema with an IMAX screen, so defi nitely worth making the effort to travel the extra distance for the latest blockbusters.
Prices (With Student Card):• Bargain Tuesdays (all day) - £6.00• Saver (Mon/Wed/Thurs/Fri, before 5pm) - £6.00• Peak (All other times) - £6.80
Address: Cineworld Sheffi eld, Valley Centertain-ment, Broughton Lane, Sheffi eld, S9 2EP
SHOWROOM CINEMAThe Showroom Cinema is close to both the train station and the Owen building, so it’s easy to get to. Being an independent cinema, the fi lms on show are quite often lesser known pieces which you wouldn’t see at a cinema chain. It does still get in some of the larger pictures however, and often hosts festivals – there is a horror festival approaching with both premieres and classics being shown, as well as director Q+A’s. The price is good too!Prices (With Student Card):• All tickets - £4.50Address: Showroom Cinema, 15 Paternoster Row, Sheffi eld, S1 2BX VUE (MEADOWHALL)Situated in the Meadowhall shopping centre, the Vue cinema is the furthest from the main city centre, but makes up for the inconvenience by location – it’s surrounded by loads of places to eat and dozens of shops, making it a great ad-dition to a trip out. The location does mean it’s a little more expensive however, so on top of travel costs it does make a considerable difference.Prices (With Student Card):• Off Peak (Mon-Fri, before 5pm) - £6.40• Peak (All other times) - £7.05Address: Vue Sheffi eld, Meadowhall Centre, Sheffi eld, S9 1EP
You want to see that new fi lm, (maybe one you saw in our Upcoming Movies feature!) but don’t know where in Sheffi eld the cinemas are, and what they’re best at. Film Editor Josh Powlesland gives a brief introduction to each of the four major cinemas in the Sheffi eld area, as well as addresses and ticket pricing so that you can decide which cinema best suits you!
Sheffield cinema top tips
12 Visit our website: www.shulife.co.uk
Josh Powlesland interviews Hallam Visual Arts Society (HVA) President Sean McGeough for SHUlife Magazine.
SHUlife: Hi Sean, thanks for speaking with us. Let’s start with the obvious - what exactly is HVA?
Sean: Hallam Visual Arts is a society dedicated to students that have an interest in all things visual arts related, and is ideal for anyone wanting to join a fun new society at Sheffield Hallam. At HVA we read, play and watch media ranging across a number of different Visual Arts including (but not limited to) movies, comics, anime, video games, manga and tv shows.
SHUlife: So what sort of events does HVA run for its members, and how often does it meet?
Sean: We aim to hold meetings twice every week in order to give members more of a chance to get together with people with similar interests. We like to discuss the latest news in media, as well as watch new releases (both on TV and in the cinema) and play the latest games across all systems. The plan is to have meetings both on a mid week evening and at the weekend, in order to try and offer something to fit everyone’s different schedules. The mid week meeting is usually more simple, where we get together, hang out, chat and play games/watch things on a projector screen either at the union or in a room in the Owen building. The weekend meetups are normally more ambitious and include bowling, trips to Meadowhall and meals at different restaurants in Sheffield, and occasionally we plan some special events, including a planned trip to London ComiCon 2015.
SHUlife: Sounds like a wide variety of things to do! What would you say was the best thing about the HVA?
Sean: Definitely the enthusiasm, and the wide range of activities available. I’m really excited to build on what Connor Nicholson did as president for the society last year because everyone gets on really well and introduces each other to things in media they might not have necessarily found otherwise. I’d bet that anyone that joins the society this year will find a pre-existing member with exactly the same interests. It’s great to be a part of a group that really enjoys hanging out together, to the extent where most meetings end with us going off to a pub to continue the conversation!
SHUlife: If anyone reading this is interested in HVA, where should they look for more information?
Well, we’re going to be at the Activities fair between 2 and 6pm on the 23rd of September and everyone’s welcome to come along and say hi. If they miss that then they can either join our group on Facebook at ‘Hallam Visual Arts Society’, or if they’d prefer and have any questions then they should feel free to contact us at [email protected].
Want your society to befeatured?Drop us a messageat:[email protected]
SOCI
ETY
FEAT
URE
Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union is full of musical
societies, here our Music Editor, Charlotte Callingham,
lists a select few that you can get involved with!
14
15www.shulife.co.ukVisit our website: www.shulife.co.uk
SOCIETY FEATURE
some of hallam’s music societiesSheffield Hallam Students’ Union is full of musical
societies, here our Music Editor, Charlotte Callingham,
lists a select few that you can get involved with!
SHU Band is a group of musicians who play various styles of music, from film soundtracks, musical theatre, popular music and classical music as a small concert band. As well as rehearsing once a week the group meets up for socials during the year and music related trips such as trips to musical theatres. They welcome anyone who plays an instrument be it woodwind, brass or percussion. There are no auditions, so you can join even if haven’t played in a band or even picked up your instrument in years. Email: [email protected]: SHU Band 2014/15Twitter: @SHU_Band
If you’re a fan of Drum and Bass then this is the group for you. They celebrate the sounds of a night out by organising trips to different Drum and Bass events around the UK. So you’ll have your pick of some of the biggest events at a discounted price. You will meet new people who all share your love of Drum and Bass. Email: [email protected]: SHU Drum & Bass Society
If your Ipod is full of Guns ‘n’ Roses, Black Sabbath and ACDC and you love all things Rock and Roll then the Rock Society is for you. The group meets every two weeks at The Dove and Rainbow to discuss all things rock. The group also organises trips to see rock bands playing in Sheffield, whether they are local or on their UK tour. Email: [email protected]: Sheffield Hallam Rock SocietyTwitter: @HallamRockSoc Hallam Harmonies is the uni’s Glee club, so if you love singing, dancing and listening to music this is the perfect society for you. The acapella group aims to be South Yorkshire’s biggest and best choir, providing new members with all the training and practice they need so the group is perfect for beginners who haven’t sang in a choir before. The group performs songs from many different musical genres as well as original songs, so if you’re a budding songwriter you can also contact them.Email: [email protected]: Hallam HarmoniesTwitter: @HallamHarmonies
By Charlotte Callingham
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£23Clinique
Men’s Anti Fatigue Eye Gel www.boots.com
After a long night out, you want to get to that fi rst lecture looking fresh. This GQ award winning under eye serum rolls
under your eyes and reduces puffi ness while it cools and refreshes the skin while removing
the appearance of dark spots.
£39Hollister
Sol Cal Cologne www.hollisterco.com
Ever walked past Hollister and wanted to smell as good as the
people look in there? This fragrance give off a
masculine, clean,fresh scent and is the iconic smell of the store.
£2.50DAX
Short and Neatwww.boots.com
A man’s hairstyle is a statement about them and to style your hair regard-
less of the time, the best product for it is DAX Short and Neat. It gives your
hair a healthy and shiny look and it can be used to spike or sculpt you hair. If
you are not up for styling it, it still keeps your hair looking smart and tidy.
£3.99 Kiehl
Facial Fuelwww.houseoffraser.co.uk
This is the perfect solution to
hungover skin in the market. The facial fuel
re-awakens and uplifts dull and fatigued skin making your skin look and feel
healthier. The moisturizer contains vitamins and caffeine in a non-oily formula to give it a controlled shine.
FASH
ION
16
people look in there? This fragrance
masculine, clean,fresh scent and is
£15Clinique
Face Soapwww.houseoffraser.co.uk
This soap leaves your skin feeling fresh and preps the skin for a
comfortable shave. It removes all dirt, especially UV paint! Available in
four different skin types.
MEN’S GROOMINGMUST HAVES(Unfortunately you still won’t end up looking like Leo)
Savills Male Grooming on Devonshire Street is one of the top barber shops in Sheffi eld. The mastermind behind it all is Sheffi eld lad Jon Davies who has been mastering hair-dressing for 26 years. He has opened two barbershops, the fi rst was in Chapel Walk in 2009 and due to the great success he opened a second shop on Devonshire Street in 2010.The well trained barbers look straight out of the 1940’s, not to mention the store to match. The vintage barbershop chairs, enamelled sinks with the stained glass lighting gives you the ultimate Godfather-esque haircut experi-ence.The award-winning walk-in service in-cludes a consultation and you can show them a picture of your preferred haircut. Try James Dean. Opt for a hot cut throat shave as well or 20s stash for Movember.
Prices start at £18.00 for students for a hair-cut.
A VINTAGE HAIRCUT EXPERIENCE FOR THE HALLAM GENTLEMAN
The designer slogan tee fashion label, House of Hol-land, has released their new false nails collaboration with Elegant inspired by Henry Holland’s London Fashion Week Collection.
There are 18 collections to choose from, one favour-ite is called Sweet Tooth which are nails designed to look just like Ice cream in cones. The Tweed collection looks amazing with lots of funky colours in the iconic
HOUSE OF HOLLAND NAILS FOR YOUR FRESHERS NIGHTS
FASHION
17
£2.50DAX
Short and Neatwww.boots.com
A man’s hairstyle is a statement about them and to style your hair regard-
less of the time, the best product for it is DAX Short and Neat. It gives your
hair a healthy and shiny look and it can be used to spike or sculpt you hair. If
you are not up for styling it, it still keeps your hair looking smart and tidy.
£3.99 Kiehl
Facial Fuelwww.houseoffraser.co.uk
This is the perfect solution to
hungover skin in the market. The facial fuel
re-awakens and uplifts dull and fatigued skin making your skin look and feel
healthier. The moisturizer contains vitamins and caffeine in a non-oily formula to give it a controlled shine.
For more articles visit: www.shulife.co.uk
If you love Lipsy and The Kardashians, well it’s time for the 5th collection of the Lipsy x Kardashian’s collaboration. Kim Kardashian, GQ’sWoman Of The Year has recently been spotted in London supporting her new line by wearing it out and about in the city.
The most iconic item of the new Autumn/Winter range is a stunning monochrome jumpsuit which she wore leaving Radio 1 after being interviewed by Nick Grimshaw. This Jumpsuit is perfect for the up and coming party season and will be a great replacement for the little black dress.
Also, in the collection is a monochrome V neck fi gure hugging peplum dress which looks sublime. Peplum is always a good look with Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Aniston and Kate Middleton all opting for a peplum dress. If you cannot wait for the new collection to be released and want Kim’s look, Lipsyalready stock a black and white block peplum dress called Scuba peplum dress at £60.
The 5th Kardashian Kollection will be released on 29th October in both online at www.lipsy.com and in most Lipsy stores.
Lipsy blockpeplum, £60
Savills Male Grooming on Devonshire Street is one of the top barber shops in Sheffi eld. The mastermind behind it all is Sheffi eld lad Jon Davies who has been mastering hair-dressing for 26 years. He has opened two barbershops, the fi rst was in Chapel Walk in 2009 and due to the great success he opened a second shop on Devonshire Street in 2010.The well trained barbers look straight out of the 1940’s, not to mention the store to match. The vintage barbershop chairs, enamelled sinks with the stained glass lighting gives you the ultimate Godfather-esque haircut experi-ence.The award-winning walk-in service in-cludes a consultation and you can show them a picture of your preferred haircut. Try James Dean. Opt for a hot cut throat shave as well or 20s stash for Movember.
Prices start at £18.00 for students for a hair-cut.
A VINTAGE HAIRCUT EXPERIENCE FOR THE HALLAM GENTLEMAN
The designer slogan tee fashion label, House of Hol-land, has released their new false nails collaboration with Elegant inspired by Henry Holland’s London Fashion Week Collection.
There are 18 collections to choose from, one favour-ite is called Sweet Tooth which are nails designed to look just like Ice cream in cones. The Tweed collection looks amazing with lots of funky colours in the iconic
tweed pattern. The best part of the nails is that some of the nails are glow in the dark under UV light - so we can see them glow while you are partying on fresher’s week.
There are 24 nails in each pack, with ten different nail sizes. Reasonably priced at £7.99 to £8.99 from Boots (Currently on a Buy One get One Half Price offer)
All fashion articles by: Ethan Huntington
Love fashion and beauty?Join the upcoming new SHU Fashion Society!
Plans include a fashion showin collaboration with SHUlife Fashion.Interested?
Drop an email to:[email protected]
HOUSE OF HOLLAND NAILS FOR YOUR FRESHERS NIGHTS
FOOD
18
indepedent vs chain restaurants bY LOUISE GEBHARD
SHEFFIELD is notorious for its thriving independent restaurants, but are the upcoming students aware of this or will they still be tempted to dine at the big names when dining out is on the cards.
In my opinion, independent cafes and restaurants offer a much more personal service and better quality food than any chain restaurant has, not to mention chain restaurants often serving ‘artificial’ food that is overpriced and overrated.
It may be for convenience that you choose to eat out at the likes of Nandos, but at the end of the day (this may be a shock to you), it is just chicken.
Yes, I can see why the majority of people would want to dine at a chain restaurant; knowing what to expect from what to order to how much it will cost, however, when it comes down to it - is this the real reason people are choosing chains over local gems, or is it due to the consumerism of these big names and avoiding the independent restaurants because they see it as taking a risk with what they might offer.
If you’re feeling adventurous or like me and see eating out as more of a lifestyle than a necessity, you might want to check out my pick of the top five independent restaurants in Sheffield.
I know we’re students, but we can all make excuses for it - we need to get to know our flat-mates better or treat ourselves after a stressful exam or assignment, right?
The next page will reveal you to SHUlife’s Top 5 independent restaurants you have to try this semester...
FOOD
19
indepedent vs chain restaurants bY LOUISE GEBHARD
SHULIFE’STOP5INDEPENDENTRESTAURANTS
Bungalows and Bears, Division Street
Deal: 2 for 1 Burgers on Tuesdays
Recommended: Ruby Jean’s Burger
A quirky and unique interior refurbished from an old fire station, as well as great food offering events such as live music and quiz nights. With a menu that turns the simple concept of burgers and choco-late into something special using inventive flavours. Friendly staff and although some may say the choice is limited, the majority of us would choose quality over quantity.
The Wick at Both Ends, West Street
Deal: Happy hour 3-7pm
Recommended: Glazed Beetroot Salad
A delightful and restaurant inspired by British cuisine, sourced from local Sheffield ingredients, The Wick supplies serves seasonal delicaciesin a comfortable environment, leaving you satisfied without question.
The Graze Inn, Ecclesall Road
Deal: Two Courses £12 Three Courses £15Recommended: Crispy duck flatbread and key lime pie
A chic restaurant with an excellent standard of pres
entation with the food. Overall, they offer delicious food and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere - particularly an ideal choice for family visits. The Common Room, Division Street
Deal: 20% off food, drinks & pool for students
Recommended: Large Mac & Cheese
An authentic American sports bar and diner thatserves BBQ style food. If you’re wanting real student vibe you won’t be disappointed.
The Great Gatsby, Division Street
Deal: £4 Happy hour cocktails
Recommended: Chipotle Chicken Burrito and Cheese Fries
A popular eclectic snug in the heart of Sheffield serving tasty Mexican inspired food and mouth watering cocktails. With a laid back atmosphere playing live music by up and coming bands. Not to mention local band Arctic Monkeys have been spotted there, so you could be hanging out with
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For more food reviews, visit www.shulife.co.uk
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FOOD
The thought of doing anything new or out of the ordinary can be incredibly daunting. Not only is money a concern, but like many other students, I will more than likely be expected to eat well using nothing but a two ring hob, a microwave, and the delightful edition of an angry flatmate waiting for me to “get a move on” so they can cook their dinner too. With this in mind, I want to see how easy it is to create cheap dishes that require less than 20 minutes to prepare and require minimal skill and effort.
staying healthy on a student budget: Clarissa allford Shows you how to cook up a storm with limited skills and equipment
Jack monroe’s masala curry (v)
Ingredients:1 onion1 carrot1 potato1 garlic clove1 carton chopped tomatoes1/2 pot natural yoghurt1 vegetable stock cubeFistful of parsley and coriander (optional)Shake of garam masala (note: don’t go to the main spice aisle for this! it works out far cheaper if you buy a bag of it in the world foods section)
Method:1) Peel and chop the onion, and peel and finely slice the garlic, and place in a large sauté pan on a low heat with a splash of oil.2) Chop the potato, carrot and onion (I dice mine into half inch cubes) and add to the pot, stirring. 3) Chop the herbs and throw in, with a liberal sprinkle of garam masala.4) Add 200ml vegetable stock, the carton of chopped tomatoes and 250g of natural yoghurt, stir through, and leave to simmer on a low heat.5) Simmer gently for about forty minutes, checking and adding stock or water if it starts to dry out.Serve with plain boiled rice.
Serves: 4-6As tasty as pasta can be, I can’t help but think that it’s what a lot of students rely on. If you’re looking for a pasta-free recipe, I’d try Jack Monroe’s Vegetable Masala Curry. Although Jack claims this recipe serves 4-6 people for around 30p each, it was published to her website in March 2013. Another problem is that she recommends simmering it for 40 minutes which isn’t ideal if you’re planning on cooking for 1 or 2. If you’re going to cook this, and I hope you do, it’s probably worth cooking it for everyone in your flat. That way, everyone can chip in and your flatmates won’t be too annoyed when you’re standing over the hob for prolonged periods of time!
Aubergine Pasta Sauce (v)
Serves: 4
Price per portion: 80p (ish)
This dish was created by mistake. I went into my local supermarket to buy the ingredients for an ordinary bolognese and, upon realising how expensive it is to buy meat, picked up an aubergine instead. It’s prob-ably worth noting that aubergines can be expensive and can easily be substituted for 100g of red lentils. If you do use lentils, make sure to wash them thoroughly beforehand. If you do want to use mince instead of, or alongside, the aubergine, you can buy it from budget supermar-kets for around £2.00 for 500g. It’s probably worth noting, however, that it will add significantly to the price of the meal.
Ingredients and Method:200g spaghetti (20p for 500g)40g tomato purée (37p for 200g)1 onion (59p for 1kg or about 8 onions)1 stick of celery (59p for 8)Stock cube (39p for 12) Vegetable oil (99p for 1 litre)Aubergine (45p for 1)
1) Peel and chop the onion, chop the aubergine and celery, and add to a large pan. 2) Fry them together in a small amount of vegetable oil for 5 minutes or until they’re completely softened. 3) Add the tomato puree and the stock cube, stirring well.4) Add half a mug of water and turn the hob down to a low heat whilst the pasta cooks in salted water or until the sauce is thickened.5) Drain the pasta and add to the sauce.6) Serve hot, or wait for it to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
Are you a foodie and haverecipes to share with us? Send them over with pictures to:[email protected]
help is at handBy Holly Evans
21
Ingredients and Method:200g spaghetti (20p for 500g)40g tomato purée (37p for 200g)1 onion (59p for 1kg or about 8 onions)1 stick of celery (59p for 8)Stock cube (39p for 12) Vegetable oil (99p for 1 litre)Aubergine (45p for 1)
1) Peel and chop the onion, chop the aubergine and celery, and add to a large pan. 2) Fry them together in a small amount of vegetable oil for 5 minutes or until they’re completely softened. 3) Add the tomato puree and the stock cube, stirring well.4) Add half a mug of water and turn the hob down to a low heat whilst the pasta cooks in salted water or until the sauce is thickened.5) Drain the pasta and add to the sauce.6) Serve hot, or wait for it to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
Coming to University can be a daunting experience and some of you may find things a bit more difficult than expected but don’t worry, help is at hand and there are a range of services that can provide you with the help you need.
The Student Advice and Information Service provide information, advice and guidance on a wide range of issues related to student life.
They told SHUlife: “You can talk to our friendly staff about course related issues, meeting specialist advisers, help with personal issues, financial hardship, support for disabled students, social integration activities, visa and immigration advice and more.
We have strong links with other support services, so if we don’t know the answer, we’ll find out or put you in touch with someone who does.
Specialist teams within the Student Services Centres also provide short drop-in sessions for further advice on some of the topics mentioned.
To find out more call in to your nearest Student Services Centre at Level 5 Owen Building or Heart of the Campus. You can also follow us on twitter @SHUhelp and subscribe to our blog!”
In addition to this, Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union also has its own advice centre that is there to offer you free and inde-pendent support on a range of academic, financial, housing and wellbeing issues that you may face. The centre can be found in The HUBS on City Campus.
help is at handBy Holly Evans
new
s
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H A L L A M N E W S : kEEPING YOU up to date
Two groups of students from Hallam have returned back from a successful volunteering project in Cambodia this Summer after raising over £54,000 to support the charity behind the projects, The Futuresense Foundation.
Their projects involved teaching underprivileged children in a Child Action Development centre (CAD) and building an allotment for monks.
In Buddhist countries like Cambodia, monks are not allowed to do manual labour and only live by donations. Sometimes, they can run out of essentials like food for days or even weeks. By building them an allotment with vegetables, the monks will now be able to sustain themselves without depending solely on donations. The Hallam teams also built a flight of stairs leading into the pagoda’s pond so that the monks would be able to safely reach the pond for their baths.
The classes were held in English and the children were taught a wide range of subjects including Geography, Maths, History, Science, Social Et-iquette and Art. The children were extremely enthusiastic in their activities and engaged in games such as “What’s the time Mr Wolf?”, “Pig in the middle”, and of course the worldwide favour-ite game of football. The girls were also delighted to learn how to make loom bracelets. One of the everyday routines included dancing to the Super-man song.
The children were so attached to their teachers, they gave them flowers, drawings and held their hands everyday. Likewise, it was very emotional for the Hallam teachers.The Hallam volunteers noticed that the children had a broken bench which was unsafe for them. So as a surprise to the children, they built a brand new bench and painted their names on it.
During the weekends, the Hallam teams spent their time absorbing the Khmer culture and history. They started off with the magnificent Angkor temples in Siem Reap. In Battambang, their weekends were spent from fun bamboo train rides to holding baby crocodiles to deeply saddening trips to the Killing fields and caves.
It is fair to say these students have achieved so much in three weeks and have come from a very fruitful learning experience.
Well done to the following team members:Michelle Clark, Rebecca Swain, Catherine Chris, Ethan Huntington, Nicky Ward, Rimi Uppal, Olivia Good, Shannon Wheeler, Renece Willis, Joseph Malam, Tom Baldwin, Emily Yeates,Jessica Silvers, Molly Brazendale, Jade Waugh, Evie SnellHollie Baxter, Holly Davies, Katie Winearls, Sam Schofield, Joanna Mayle, Lucy Clarke, Helen Bateman, Saskia Joyles, Hannah Brown & Bronley Hector
Hallam students return from a fruitful experience in Cambodia By Catherine Christy
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newsHallamnation moves to Crystal Nightclub
H A L L A M N E W S : kEEPING YOU up to date
Hallamnation, Sheffield Hallam’s prime Wednesday night out has found a new home. After being announced that Embrace would close its door earlier this year, the new go-to club is Crystal.
Embrace hosted Hallamnation for many years but the nightclub had to close as part of a plan to build a new Retail Quarter.
Hallam Union announced the new Hallamnation venue as Crystal Bar on Carver Street. The bar which is also part of Carver Street’s Thursday Block Party has teamed up with VOODOO events to bring Sheffield Students what promises to be some big nights.
What is unknown by many people is that Crystal has 4 floors and is looking to be the best Hallamnation venue.
Melissa Penny, Sheffield Hallam Students' Union Sports and Physical Activity Officer said: “I'm really happy we chose Crystal to host Hallamnation, with its four floors and variety of music it has something to suit every student. I'm also really excited about the partnership between Sheffield Hallam Students' Union, Hallam Nation and Voodoo Events. I think it's going to be an all year round sell out party… so get your tickets early!”
It promises fancy dress, celebrity guests, theme nights and more. With the first Hallamnation fastapproaching and tickets on sale, buying early is recommended.
We at SHUlife can’t wait to see what Crystal brings.
By Karishma Ravalia
For more Hallam news, visit our website at www.shulife.co.ukand follow us on Twitter at @SHUlife
Have you got news to share?Let us know! Send us an email at:[email protected]
LIFES
TYLE
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You may not actually spend a lot of time in University...
This is especially true if you have more of a subjective course like English, you’ll only have a few lectures a week (three tops for English Literature) and you’ll be wondering “where on earth is my money going then?”
University is all about independ-ent learning, your lecturers can help you as much as possible but usually you have to get in touch with them first; but they’re more than happy to help you if they think you’re struggling.
Oh and you’re rarely told how soon your deadlines are either, you’ll have to find them online.
Library fines will get you, your friends and maybe even your family...
I’m not even kidding, those sly library workers will sneak up on you and fine you whenever they can (I’m joking, they’re actually really nice people) but somehow the fines almost always creep up on you, especially if you take out the dreaded 2 day loan books without realising!
Printing fees? Don’t get us startedI recommend putting a huge lump sum at the start of the year like ten to fifteen pounds so you can
ensure you never run out.
Alternatively, buy your own printer and just charge flatmates a few pence per sheet or so and then you’ll have access at home and might even make some new friends.
I can’t promise that they’re actu-ally friends with you and not just your printer though!
Cheese and bacon are so expensive
Yep, if you want a nice breakfast to cure your hangover after a huge night out, you better expect to take a massive dip into your loan to pay for the bacon.
For half decent bacon you’re looking to pay between £3-£4 for a pack, the same goes for
cheese. Now you know why your Mum always moaned at you for eating blocks of cheese!
On the topic of food, your flatmates may eat yoursIt stays loyal for the first few weeks; everybody eats their own food and shares out the food bill.
Then you notice your cornflakes are considerably lighter now and your block of cheese is looking alarmingly slim.
Confront the food thieves just to see if they’re okay with money and budgeting because they may be struggling to make ends meet. That will put a stop to any-more food theft (we hope)
Skip Starbucks, take a flask
All great coffee and tea enthu-siasts around University know the deal when it comes to their beverages.
If you’re spending a long day in lectures and seminars, take a flask. It will save you a lot of mon-ey and you could even take soup instead.
You thought you had it all sorted, your essentials were packed and you had enough money to cover the cost of going out AND eating every day, then you saw just how expensive cheese was and proceeded to have an existential crisis in the middle of the supermarket. Don’t worry, SHUlife are on hand! Here are our tips on everyday things that universities don’t mention at their open days!
SETTLING INTO UNIVERSITY: WHAT THEY DON’T TELL YOU
UNIVERSIT Y VS WORK
SHOULD YOU GET A PART-TIME JOB?
Fancy yourself as a bit of a feature writer. Why not write for us?
We welcome all ideas & publish all work.
That’s your work experience sorted!
Email us at:
By Sian Hodkin
& culture
25
UNIVERSIT Y VS WORK
SHOULD YOU GET A PART-TIME JOB?
So you have university work, balancing any volunteering or extra work you’re doing, seeing your family once a month or so, AND finding time to keep your so-cial life alive. Part time job too you say? Are you crazy?The good news is it can be done and plenty of students manage to balance work and play. Roseanne May Cross gives us her experience of having a part time job.
During my first year of university, I didn’t have a part time job while in Sheffield, I ended up re-tak-ing my first year and managed to secure myself a job quite early on in the academic year. I worked in a pub which meant working both day and night shifts, the majority of people who I worked with also attended university and therefore the management were really great about us working around learning.
From my own experience, I personally think that working in a pub/bar or nightclub is a really great job to have while a student for several reasons:
Employees: Generally pubs and bars employ students or people of similar age; this is therefore a great place to meet new people
Flexible hours: If you’re working in a nightclub, you’re never going to have any clashes with lectures or seminars. Similarly in a bar/pub if theemployees are mainly made up of students they understand that you can only do certain shifts
The social side: I personally found working in a bar really social and I got to know people very quickly, and everyone had a close friendship.
For many students the money they receive from their student loan doesn’t cover everything they need or want. Having an extra income that you’ve actually worked hard for is great, it might mean that you can buy that top you want or treat yourself more often. I also found that as I was working for my money I was more careful about what I spent it on.
The downside of having a part time job is that you will rarely have a weekend off. For first years this can be especially hard if you want to go home over the weekend. I recommend asking for a week-end night off in the middle of the month; for some businesses these weekends are quieter due to it not being payday weekend, or try and go home during the week.
You will of course have fewer nights off to go out if you’re working somewhere that primarily opens after-hours. You can always go out after work and remember you will not be working every single night. The alternative is to look for a job in retail; Meadowhall is Sheffield’s biggest shopping com-plex and has plenty of opportunities.
Overall I really enjoyed the year I worked while studying, I met loads of new people and earned some extra cash; plus I honestly looked forward to going into work every shift!
& culture
“Having an extra income that you’ve actually
worked hard for is great.”
LIFES
TYLE GET A GRIP ON YOUR FINANCES
26
Relationships and university may not sound like they go hand in hand, they can be tough at the best of times never mind when you’re a hundred or so miles apart! Long distance relationships can defi nitely survive though, with or without Skype! Ciretta Paone-Hoyland explains the realities of long distance relationships.
There are a few things in life that are bittersweet: getting to the end of a book, fi nishing school and starting university when you’re in a relationship. Of course there are loads of things to look forward to as a fresher, but if you’re leaving someone behind that you care about it’s bound to put a dampener on the experience. Beyond the obvious of downloading Skype and being open and honest with one another, is there anything you can do to keep sane when you’re all those miles apart?
Being in a relationship myself, the hardest thing about starting university is knowing there’s going to be days without him. Of course I’m eager to meet people, make new friends, live independently and study a subject that I’m passionate about - but that reminder that he’s not going to be there all the time creeps up on me when I’m thinking positively about moving.
The most important thing to do when in a long distance relationship is to have a life outside of him/her. If someone becomes everything for you then you can’t function properly unless they’re around. Remember that couples share their lives with each other, not one life between them!
That niggling feeling of missing someone can be a positive thing because it means anticipating their arrival. You care for someone so much that you think about them even when they’re not there. When things happen throughout the day you wonder how this other person would react before you even react yourself.
You have all that money and absolutely no idea what to do with it or how to keep hold of it. The next thing you know you’re re-using tea bags and cuddling up to parents for money. Hannah Wootten explains how and why you should keep control of your budget.
University is probably the fi rst time you will ever be in 100% control of your money and deciding what you are going to do with it. Spending your funds wisely can be a tricky thing for a student to do, especially when all of a sudden you have this large sum of money - commonly referred to as a student loan- burning a hole in your pocket. However, with a little budgeting and self-control you can make sure you still have enough money to have fun whilst not having to live on cold baked beans for the next three years of your life...unless that’s what you prefer!
FIRSTLY, you need to decide how much you have to spend each month. By adding up your student loan, grants and any money you may be receiving to help support you, you can easily determine your monthly budget by dividing the total sum by the nine months you will be at university each year.
CALCULATE how much of that money is going to be spent on essentials. These are things which you need to make sure you always have money for and they should always be covered before you start spending money on things considered as treats. These include your rent for your halls of accommodation or privately rented house, food, any bills you may have to pay and travel. By working out how much money you require for these necessities, you then know how much money you have left over to splurge - of course, saving a little for a rainy day is always a good idea too! You can also put your Microsoft Excel skills to good use by creating monthly expenses documents to keep track!
IF you fi nd you have no money left after you’ve paid for your essentials or don’t have enough money to cover everything in the fi rst place you may decide to get a part time job. This is handy if you fi nd you have some spare hours in between lectures and reading time and require some extra funds in the bank. Similarly, you could also look out for special discounts and offers you can receive for being a university student to help you with your spending.
& culture
27
L O N G D I S TA N C E R E L AT I O N S H I P S W H I L E I N U N I V E R S I T Y
Relationships and university may not sound like they go hand in hand, they can be tough at the best of times never mind when you’re a hundred or so miles apart! Long distance relationships can defi nitely survive though, with or without Skype! Ciretta Paone-Hoyland explains the realities of long distance relationships.
There are a few things in life that are bittersweet: getting to the end of a book, fi nishing school and starting university when you’re in a relationship. Of course there are loads of things to look forward to as a fresher, but if you’re leaving someone behind that you care about it’s bound to put a dampener on the experience. Beyond the obvious of downloading Skype and being open and honest with one another, is there anything you can do to keep sane when you’re all those miles apart?
Being in a relationship myself, the hardest thing about starting university is knowing there’s going to be days without him. Of course I’m eager to meet people, make new friends, live independently and study a subject that I’m passionate about - but that reminder that he’s not going to be there all the time creeps up on me when I’m thinking positively about moving.
The most important thing to do when in a long distance relationship is to have a life outside of him/her. If someone becomes everything for you then you can’t function properly unless they’re around. Remember that couples share their lives with each other, not one life between them!
That niggling feeling of missing someone can be a positive thing because it means anticipating their arrival. You care for someone so much that you think about them even when they’re not there. When things happen throughout the day you wonder how this other person would react before you even react yourself.
It isn’t a part of you that’s missing that stops you being you,
it’s a part that when added together makes something completely new and exciting.
Throw yourself in to this new chapter of your life and your relationship is bound to reap some benefi ts. “Ab-sence makes the heart grow fonder” is a phrase we have all heard before, right? Lacking in something only increases your desire for it and time apart will make the time you spend together all the more intoxicating. Little things like going for a walk or snuggling up to watch a fi lm become 10x more special if they’re not happening every day.
The more you do and think and see means the more you and your partner have to talk about when you’re to-gether. All this shows him/her that you’re not completely miserable without them - which of course is the last thing they’d want on top of you not being around.
Despite the romanticism of Romeo & Juliet there IS a life beyond love and dramatics. The best relationships are the ones where there’s just as much room for you.
AGONYUNT
You don’t have to drink 24/7 to be a fresher. Fact.““Does everyone go out every night on freshers? I prefer staying in with people, drinking and playing cards.”.”
Aunties Advice: Not everyone goes out on freshers and don’t be pressured to go out if it’s something you don’t want to do. Instead, try to organise nights in with your friends. A lot of the pubs in Sheffi eld do pub quizzes which are great fun. You should also look into societies as many organise nights that doesn’t involve going out and drinking but still involve you in student life.
The North is the friendliest place on earth “So I’m from the south and I don’t know the north that well, so what’s the best thing to do?”
Aunties Advice: First things fi rst, don’t worry. There are lots of people that will help you through your fi rst year. The freshers reps will help you navigate around the cities and fi nd the best places in Sheffi eld. Not to mention, you will make friends who you can navigate around the city. Don’t worry before you know it, Sheffi eld will be your second home.
No matter how big your loan is, you’re not made of money to blow, even if Iggy Azelia insists.“Is it wise having an overdraft?
Aunties Advice: It’s very easy to dip into an overdraft for a night out or a new outfi t. And do you really want to have the added pressure of paying back an overdraft as well as a loan? Maybe wait until you can budget before you consider an overdraft and if you do get one ensure you use it wisely.
To those who live at home.“I’m living at home and worried I’ll miss out on the uni lifestyle, what should I do?”
Aunties Advice: Living at home isn’t a disadvantage, you will still be able to experience uni lifestyle. Get involved with societies as you will meet more people and they often run socials which are a lot of fun. Also, get to know those on your course, don’t be shy in approaching people and organising a course night out as they are always good fun.
Hell’s Kitchen“I’m not a great cook and don’t fancy living off pot noodles for the entirety of uni, do you have any suggestions?”
Aunties Advice: Get a student cook book, which can be cheaply found in supermarkets. Arrange for all of your fl atmates to cook a meal together. If all else fails Sheffi eld is home to pubs with cheap but great food.
Remember that your Students’ Union Offi cers are there to represent you and your views. If you have a problem with your course or studies, the Education Offi cer will be able to help you if you cannot resolve the matter. Similarly, the Welfare and Community Offi cer will support you
if there are any problems regarding your health or wellbeing while you study here in Sheffi eld.28
feat
ure
The North is the friendliest
“So I’m from the south and I don’t know the north that well, so what’s the best thing to
Aunties Advice: First things fi rst, don’t worry. There are lots of people that will help you through your fi rst year. The freshers reps will help you navigate around the cities and fi nd the best places in Sheffi eld. Not to mention, you will make friends who you can navigate around the city. Don’t worry before you know it, Sheffi eld will be your second
isn’t a disadvantage, you will still be able to experience uni lifestyle. Get involved with societies as you will meet more people and they often run socials which are a lot of fun. Also, get to know those on your course, don’t be shy in approaching people and organising a course night out as they are always good fun.
Hell’s Kitchen“I’m not a great cook and don’t fancy living off pot noodles for the entirety of uni, do you have any suggestions?”
Aunties Advice: Get a student cook book, which can be cheaply found in supermarkets. Arrange for all of your fl atmates to cook a meal together. If all else fails Sheffi eld is home to pubs with cheap but great food.
Our in-house agony aunt is back again after her
summer breakto get you through uni life...
Have a problem you are itching to share and want
some wisdom from SHUlife’s agony aunt?
Have no fear, drop us an email at
29Remember that your Students’ Union Officers are there to represent you and your views. If you have a problem with your course or studies, the Education Officer will be able to help you if you cannot resolve the matter. Similarly, the Welfare and Community Officer will support you
if there are any problems regarding your health or wellbeing while you study here in Sheffield.www.shulife.co.uk
featureO U RF R E S H E R SS T O R I E S
For most girls cramming everything into a small clutch bag is a difficult task as I learnt:
“I may have got a little too drunk one night and waking up the next morning I found my ID to feel sticky and have foot prints on it. Asking my friend what had happened I found out I’d nearly lost my ID and that someone had to go looking around the club for it. Look after your things.”
After a night out, getting home can be one of the most challenging things. Josh Powlesland, Film and Technology Editor learned a good lesson:
“I was out and ended up separated from my flatmates. It got to 3am and I still hadn’t found them, so I decided to walk back to my flat by myself. I got rather lost, and stopped for directions from some uni of students who sent me 40 minutes in the wrong direction. Be sure you know where you’re going, and preferably don’t walk home alone!”
One of your Sports Editors Damon Traverse found out the importance of correct directions when you’re drunk:
“I had no money and couldn’t see a cash point so decided to walk home, I got to a big roundabout and rang my flatmate and he told me to go straight on. However he thought I was at a different round-about. This round about led to Rotherham so as instructed I carried on walking, bearing in mind I was very drunk. I got to the welcome to Rotherham sign and decided to turn back, eventually after 4 hours I managed to get home.”
Freshers week means alcohol, however, drinking too much can definitely be a bad thing as one of our Editors-in-chief, Holly Evans found out:“I’m not a big drinker but I thought I could keep up with my flatmates and decided to drink quicker than necessary which resulted in my barfing all over a friends’ kitchen and being put to bed before going out. Drink responsibly guys.”
Freshers Week is the best week to let your hair down, get to know people and just have a great time. Whether good or bad, one to be forgotten or a lesson learnt, everyone has at least one Freshers Week story they remember. So, here are a few from your SHUlife Editors.
By Karishma Ravalia
30
Let’s face it, as much as you say you’re going to spend 6 out of 7 days working you probably won’t (Until it gets to deadline time) and before you know it you will have certain weeks where you don’t have to do anything and you’ll be a bit lost. We’re not sure where those weeks come from either and because of the shock of a relaxed week we tend to burrow into our homes and ‘relax’ aka watch re-runs of Orange is the New Black on Netflix, afterwards we always curse ourselves for not making use out of this free time!
So, there’s a reason you packed up and moved to the greatest city in the UK to study and that was probably because you thought it looked like a city where there was great food and so much to do; well you were right. It’s easy to get bogged down by using your free time as drinking time but as much as we love wine it’s time to put down the bottle and get out and about.
One thing living in Sheffield will teach you is “I really shouldn’t have eaten all that pizza last night”. Sheffield is mostly hill and with each step your thighs will be screaming at you. It’s ten times worse in the winter when you have to fight against the cold and the only way you can prevent a case of screaming thighs is to keep fit. Sounds boring I know but you’ll thank us for it later.
THINGS TO DO IN SHEFFIELDBy Sian Hodkin
“Sheffield is mostly hill and with each step your thighs will be screaming at you.”
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ure
SHULIFE’SACTIVITY OF THE MONTH
31For more articles visit: www.shulife.co.uk
Let’s face it, as much as you say you’re going to spend 6 out of 7 days working you probably won’t (Until it gets to deadline time) and before you know it you will have certain weeks where you don’t have to do anything and you’ll be a bit lost. We’re not sure where those weeks come from either and because of the shock of a relaxed week we tend to burrow into our homes and ‘relax’ aka watch re-runs of Orange is the New Black on Netflix, afterwards we always curse ourselves for not making use out of this free time!
So, there’s a reason you packed up and moved to the greatest city in the UK to study and that was probably because you thought it looked like a city where there was great food and so much to do; well you were right. It’s easy to get bogged down by using your free time as drinking time but as much as we love wine it’s time to put down the bottle and get out and about.
One thing living in Sheffield will teach you is “I really shouldn’t have eaten all that pizza last night”. Sheffield is mostly hill and with each step your thighs will be screaming at you. It’s ten times worse in the winter when you have to fight against the cold and the only way you can prevent a case of screaming thighs is to keep fit. Sounds boring I know but you’ll thank us for it later.
A way to keep fit is to go climbing; now slow down there Bear Grylls, you can’t just stroll up any mountains just yet. There are a few climbing walls around Sheffield including Awesome Walls- just a little out of the city centre but if there’s one thing you can find in Sheffield it’s that you can get pretty much anywhere via bus. Awesome Walls offers everything from individual coaching sessions to leading sessions if you’re at the height of your climbing game. Just pay a visit to their website where you’ll also find a few vouchers and deals available too.
Remember going to the seaside, grabbing a donut and then finding a mini golf course and insisting on playing it? Mini Golf is always fun (unless you have any sore losers) and luckily for you the Centretainment Complex across from the Motorpoint Arena has a great indoor mini golf course called Paradise Island. There’s a choice of two courses and they have everything to fit the “stranded on an island” atmosphere! Prices are only £6 for a student for one course and afterwards you can always go along and eat at one of the restaurants that are just across the car park!
On the same complex is Laser Quest; we can’t think of anything better than getting a group of mates together, shoot each other with fake lasers and then head out for a night out around Sheffield. Alternatively it could be a great ice breaker; get your new flatmates together and organise a game of laser quest to show them your great leadership and organisational skills but that you should also never be trusted with a gun- so no one will be using your tea bags! The games are also cheap as chips so it won’t break the bank!
If competitive sports aren’t for you then maybe a trip to one of Sheffield’s theatres will be down your street. There’s the Crucible and the Lyceum that host shows and plays all the time and the infamous Sheffield City Hall that regularly holds concerts and comedians. The fact that the theatres are absolutely gorgeous isn’t their only redeeming feature; tickets are great value and usually never go above £20, £30 at a push!
Although it’s known as Steel City, Sheffield has tons of greenery and wildlife and you can find it at Graves Park; it’s Sheffield’s biggest park and also has a farmyard full of sheep, cows, chickens and everything else you’d expect to see in a farmyard! If you fancy going for a picnic you can always take in the scenery sat on Graves Park.
Yes we know your time off is supposed to be just that, time off from study and anything intellectual. However, it would be a crime if you don’t pay at least one visit to Sheffield’s museums and art galleries. Even if you’re not really into your history or art it’s a good way to spend the afternoon. Weston Park Museum, Graves Gallery and the Millennium Gallery are all part of the same branch and are all completely free to enter. There are loads of things to see and do and they regularly hold exhibitions and events so it’s well worth a visit.
If you’re an avid film goer; then you know there’s nothing worse than extortionate cinema prices for tickets and snacks. Showcase Cinema is right across from Hallam near the train station and is one of the cheapest cinemas around. It’s great value for money and although it doesn’t look like a cinema from the outside, you’ll be surprised at what they can fit into that space!
There’s plenty to do in and around the city if you find yourself a little too bored of Netflix. Stop moping around the flat and get out there!
feature
SPOR
T
32
As well as the fantastic sporting opportunities there are for you here at Hallam, Sheffi eld as a city is full of sporting heritage and is home to some of the biggest teams and athletes in the UK which makes it a great place to come and watch some of the big-gest fi xtures of the year.
We’ll start off with football and Sheffi eld Wednesday, who are based at Hillsborough Stadium in the north of the City and play in the Sky Bet Championship. As one of the biggest teams in the country, they have a terrifi c following that make the atmosphere at home games incredible.
There is also Sheffi eld United who are based right in the city centre at Bramall Lane and play their football in Sky Bet League One. United are one of the most entertaining teams to watch in English foot-ball and there is always a lot of excitement on and off the pitch – so it’s worth keeping an eye on them over the course of the season!
Yorkshire is a county that has a great love of rugby league and Sheffi eld is home to The Eagles who are steeped in history. Following a turbulent decade, they are fl ying high in the Kingstone Press Championship following back-to-back titles and Northern Rail Cup fi nalists. They are based at Owlerton Stadium in Hillsborough, just a short tram ride away from the city centre.
Sheffi eld Sharks are Sheffi eld’s British Basketball League team who play the English Institute of Sheffi eld in Attercliffe and have been a title-winning side three times, making them one of the most successful in the country.
It’s not just on the fi eld and court where Sheffi eld is represented; the city is also home to some of the country’s most dynamic ice hockey teams. The Sheffi eld Steelers are the strongest team and play their home matches at the Motorpoint Arena and are a member of Elite Ice Hockey League, which is the highest in the UK. There is also the Sheffi eld Steeldogs, Sheffi eld Senators, Sheffi eld Spartans and Sheffi eld Shadows who play out of Ice Sheffi eld.
Sheffi eld is also home to Sheffi eld City Swimming Club, who had swimmers compete in this summer’s Commonwealth Games including medallists Becky Turner and Ellie Faulkner, who are also Hallam students.
One of the city’s most famous exports is heptath-lete Jessica Ennis who hails from Highfi eld and is a household name following her gold medal at the London 2012 Olympic Games. Hallamshire Tennis Club is the training base of Jonny Marray, who famously won the Wimbledon men’s doubles title in 2012 and boxer Kell Brook is also a native of the city and is current IBF welterweight champion.
sport in the steel city
33
SPORT
For more articles visit: www.shulife.co.uk
the pride starts hereFirstly, I want to say a warm welcome to anyone who is joining us this year; I look forward to meeting you all this coming year. Secondly, I want to take this time to shout about one of our biggest success stories of last year.
I’m so proud that Hallam has had so many success stories and so much recognition this last year. Not just international recognition, but also that of both national and regional. It doesn’t go unnoticed that we are slowly climbing the charts as an institute, and when attending conferences in my role, our partnerships are the envy of many Sports Officers around the country.
This being said, the contribution of ten of our athletes at the Commonwealth games is an absolute credit to both the athlete and the reputation of Team Sheffield Hallam. In an interview with BBC Radio Sheffield, I was informed that at the time if Sheffield Hallam University was a country we would of ranked 16th in the Commonwealth Games.
Even though perhaps as a country we didn’t end up ranked 16th we still would’ve beaten many of countries such as Northern Ireland and Pakistan, which is incredi-ble!
The athletes that performed did extremely well to initially get into the Commonwealth Games, let alone for them to walk away with a total of 6 medals. All of the athletes have practised dual career management, and have acted as role models for so many; probably without being aware they are doing so.
Balancing higher education and being an international athlete is surely one thing I never encountered, but is also something I’m sure is one of the most difficult as-pects of the athlete’s life. This is nothing but commenda-ble to each individual and the teams behind them.
The support from the Performance Athlete Support pro-gramme (PASP) team is incredible here at Hallam and without these guys it wouldn’t be possible to nurture such athletes.
If this is your first time reading a SHUlife article, a HUGE WELCOME to you, and remember...The Pride Starts Here.
With Hallam students doing us proud at the Commonwealth Games, Our Sports & physical activity officer, Melissa Penny, tells you why you should be proud too
Sports & physicalactivity officer,melissa penny
North Korea is one of the most secretive and isolated countries on Earth. A quarter of the population suffers from malnourishment, more than 200,000 citizens are incarcerated in concentration camps, and the country is run by tyrannical dictator Kim Jong-un, whose bizarre regime announced in 2012 the discovery of a unicorn lair. Sounds like the perfect destination for a summer holiday, right?! To most people the answer is no - and so only around 2000 foreigners visit the country each year. However, as a Politics student I was keen to see first hand just how unusual North Korean society is, and so in July I flew from Beijing to Pyongyang for a 5-day private tour of the country.
The flight itself was the most nerve-wracking part of the experience. I knew that once I arrived in Pyongyang I’d be under close supervision, but in order to get there I had to fly with Air Koryo, the state-owned airline that is consistently ranked the worst in the world. Until recently the airline was even banned in the EU over safety concerns! Despite this, the flight was no worse than any budget airline I’d travelled with before, and there was even entertainment provided in the form of an hour-long documentary on the successes of the North Korean national football team.
After touching down at Pyongyang airport and passing through passport control (where my phone and camera were checked, and then double checked), I met with my guides, Hwang and Pak, and my chauffeur. It was evening at this point so I was driven to have food at a local restaurant, stopping on the way to take photographs at the Arch of Triumph (it’s bigger than the one in Paris, so my guides boasted). Although malnutrition and starvation are serious issues for a large number of ordinary North Korean citizens, there was no shortage of food available for me at mealtimes. It honestly felt quite obscene knowing that many people in the country were going hungry, and yet at each meal time I’d been presented with a whole table full of dishes. Regardless, all of the food was delicious, and I particularly enjoyed the various types of kimchi, the Korean national dish.
My accommodation was the Yangakkdo Hotel, located on an island in the middle of the Taedong river - a location chosen to ensure guests don’t try to escape, I’m sure! After spending the previous few weeks in backpacker hostels, the hotel felt exceptionally luxurious - there was a swimming pool, a massage parlour, a casino, a billiard room, several restaurants and shops and even a bowling alley! It was a fantastic place to meet people from all around the world (I can remember meeting 12 nationalities).
The next few days were spent touring the country. It was an intensive itinerary - I visited the DMZ (and stepped foot into South Korea), the Tomb of King Kongmin, the Kangso sparkling water factory (which was about as exciting as it sounds), Chonsam-ri co-operative farm, and the West Sea barrage. On the final day I had a tour of the capital, Pyongyang, visiting the the Pyongyang Metro (the deepest subway system in the world at 100m below ground), the Mansudae Grand Monument to President Kim il-Sung and General Kim Jong-il (where I was “advised” to buy a €10 bouquet of flowers to lay at the feet of the statues), the Tower of Juche Idea, the Workers’ Party Foundation monument, and the Victorious War Museum (where I explored the USS Pueblo spy ship - the only US ship still in enemy hands). I was fortunate enough to visit the country during the Victory Day national holiday, meaning I was able to take part in the traditional mass dance. Hundreds if not thousands of people take part in the dance - quite a spectacle to watch and a lot of fun to participate in! After this we headed to the centre of Kim il-Sung square to watch an impressive Victory Day fireworks display. After visiting each location, as soon as I got back into the car my guide was on her phone to check the people at the next location were ready - it all felt rather like The Truman Show.
The fact that my guides both spoke excellent English made it easy to forget just how little they know about the outside world. The TV in my hotel room received BBC World News, and so each morning they were interested to hear about what was happening in the world. While I was there the main story was the continuing Israel-Gaza conflict and I was surprised to hear that they already knew a lot about the situation, and it was clear that they could empathise and relate to the plight of the Palestinians. My guides were also very interested in my politics studies and I found it incredible that they had no idea what an election is. By the end of the trip, Pak was insistent that one day I become the British ambassador to North Korea!
There were some ethical issues I had to consider before booking my trip to North Korea - the money I paid goes towards a regime responsible for terrible civil and human rights violations. However, I do think it’s beneficial for Westerners to visit the country. For every foreigner that visits, there’s a chance to impart some knowledge to the guides. For example, my guides were interested in my story about elections. For all I know this was the first time they had heard about an alternative system of government - and it’s possible that they’ll go home and repeat the story to friends and family. The tour has also made me consider the role of government in my own country. While North Korea is certainly the closest embodiment of Nineteen Eighty-Four, we should be careful that we don’t follow suit, with endless wars and constant surveillance.
AN ENGLISHMAN IN north korea
A North Korean soldier and I at the DMZ
Victory Day mass dance - that’s me in the red T-shirt!
Reunification Monument - both North and South Korea want to reunify, but each wish to do so on their own terms
At the Mansudae Grand Monument with my guides Pak and Hwang
2nd year Hallam student, Joseph Malam, tells us about his daring solo trip to North Korea!
North Korea is one of the most secretive and isolated countries on Earth. A quarter of the population suffers from malnourishment, more than 200,000 citizens are incarcerated in concentration camps, and the country is run by tyrannical dictator Kim Jong-un, whose bizarre regime announced in 2012 the discovery of a unicorn lair. Sounds like the perfect destination for a summer holiday, right?! To most people the answer is no - and so only around 2000 foreigners visit the country each year. However, as a Politics student I was keen to see first hand just how unusual North Korean society is, and so in July I flew from Beijing to Pyongyang for a 5-day private tour of the country.
The flight itself was the most nerve-wracking part of the experience. I knew that once I arrived in Pyongyang I’d be under close supervision, but in order to get there I had to fly with Air Koryo, the state-owned airline that is consistently ranked the worst in the world. Until recently the airline was even banned in the EU over safety concerns! Despite this, the flight was no worse than any budget airline I’d travelled with before, and there was even entertainment provided in the form of an hour-long documentary on the successes of the North Korean national football team.
After touching down at Pyongyang airport and passing through passport control (where my phone and camera were checked, and then double checked), I met with my guides, Hwang and Pak, and my chauffeur. It was evening at this point so I was driven to have food at a local restaurant, stopping on the way to take photographs at the Arch of Triumph (it’s bigger than the one in Paris, so my guides boasted). Although malnutrition and starvation are serious issues for a large number of ordinary North Korean citizens, there was no shortage of food available for me at mealtimes. It honestly felt quite obscene knowing that many people in the country were going hungry, and yet at each meal time I’d been presented with a whole table full of dishes. Regardless, all of the food was delicious, and I particularly enjoyed the various types of kimchi, the Korean national dish.
My accommodation was the Yangakkdo Hotel, located on an island in the middle of the Taedong river - a location chosen to ensure guests don’t try to escape, I’m sure! After spending the previous few weeks in backpacker hostels, the hotel felt exceptionally luxurious - there was a swimming pool, a massage parlour, a casino, a billiard room, several restaurants and shops and even a bowling alley! It was a fantastic place to meet people from all around the world (I can remember meeting 12 nationalities).
The next few days were spent touring the country. It was an intensive itinerary - I visited the DMZ (and stepped foot into South Korea), the Tomb of King Kongmin, the Kangso sparkling water factory (which was about as exciting as it sounds), Chonsam-ri co-operative farm, and the West Sea barrage. On the final day I had a tour of the capital, Pyongyang, visiting the the Pyongyang Metro (the deepest subway system in the world at 100m below ground), the Mansudae Grand Monument to President Kim il-Sung and General Kim Jong-il (where I was “advised” to buy a €10 bouquet of flowers to lay at the feet of the statues), the Tower of Juche Idea, the Workers’ Party Foundation monument, and the Victorious War Museum (where I explored the USS Pueblo spy ship - the only US ship still in enemy hands). I was fortunate enough to visit the country during the Victory Day national holiday, meaning I was able to take part in the traditional mass dance. Hundreds if not thousands of people take part in the dance - quite a spectacle to watch and a lot of fun to participate in! After this we headed to the centre of Kim il-Sung square to watch an impressive Victory Day fireworks display. After visiting each location, as soon as I got back into the car my guide was on her phone to check the people at the next location were ready - it all felt rather like The Truman Show.
The fact that my guides both spoke excellent English made it easy to forget just how little they know about the outside world. The TV in my hotel room received BBC World News, and so each morning they were interested to hear about what was happening in the world. While I was there the main story was the continuing Israel-Gaza conflict and I was surprised to hear that they already knew a lot about the situation, and it was clear that they could empathise and relate to the plight of the Palestinians. My guides were also very interested in my politics studies and I found it incredible that they had no idea what an election is. By the end of the trip, Pak was insistent that one day I become the British ambassador to North Korea!
There were some ethical issues I had to consider before booking my trip to North Korea - the money I paid goes towards a regime responsible for terrible civil and human rights violations. However, I do think it’s beneficial for Westerners to visit the country. For every foreigner that visits, there’s a chance to impart some knowledge to the guides. For example, my guides were interested in my story about elections. For all I know this was the first time they had heard about an alternative system of government - and it’s possible that they’ll go home and repeat the story to friends and family. The tour has also made me consider the role of government in my own country. While North Korea is certainly the closest embodiment of Nineteen Eighty-Four, we should be careful that we don’t follow suit, with endless wars and constant surveillance.
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Pyongyang Metro - the deepest in the world at 100m below ground
At the Mansudae Grand Monument with my guides Pak and Hwang
Tower of Juche Idea - a monument to the state ideology
Workers’ Party Foundation monument - hammer, sickle and paintbrush
Trying outNorth Korean Cuisine
Monuments to leaders
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2nd year Hallam student, Joseph Malam, tells us about his daring solo trip to North Korea!
“The fact that my guides both spoke excellent English made it easyto forget just how little they know about the outside world.”
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