Newspaper of the students of the University of Surrey

Issue 56 Wednesday 27th February 2013

Check out the Section Editors #MyEmbarrassingMoments and get involved on Twitter
NEWS Two band members killed at G Live when a metal door falls while preparing for a concert... Page 4 UNION Union chair Charlie Eastaugh gives a behind the scenes look at Surrey Decides... Page 6 FEATURES Were you spotted for University of Surreys street style? Turn to Page 11 to find out! SCIENCE & TECH Are you an avid app fan? Have a peek at Science & Techs new App Corner... Page 16 DANCE & THEATRE Tiffany Stoneman provides insight into stewarding for the BBC... Page 18 MUSIC Foals fans should read the review on their latest album Holy Fire ... Page 29 SPORT Win tickets to Surrey Heat! Just answer the simple question on the back page ... Page 36

Next week is International Festival Week! See the centrespread tional nterna I l for more information on the ationa Intern l ationa fantastic upcoming activities Intern

SURREY DECIDED
Election results:

andy smith

Festiva

Festiva

Festiva

The newly elected Sabbs, minus Tom Windibank (VP Welfare), from left to right James Lovell (VP Sports and Recreation), Maz Hussien (VP Societies), Em Bollon (President) and Priya Jhand (VP Education)

President - Em Bollon VP Education - Priya Jhand VP Welfare - Tom Windibank VP Societies and Individual Development - Maz Hussien VP Sports and Recreation - James Lovell Union Chair - Hannah Waterhouse Events and Trading Officer - Peter Smeed Communications Officer - Alex Smith Ethics and Environment Officer - Ian Kugler Community Officer - Kieran Smith Equality and Diversity Officer - Taku Parvin Postgraduate Development Officer Chris Dighton International Development Officer Calvin Jor Editor in Chief - Andy Smith RAG Chair - Dannah Dionisio

Results are in from Union elections with 3,233 Em Bollon, current VP Societies, wins the role votes cast this year of President
By Rachel Thomason, News Editor

urrey students have voted for their next team to run the Students Union next year with an increased voting turnout to the previous year. In total, 3,233 students voted

in this years elections with a total of 2,733 votes cast for the role of President. Nominations closed on Monday 11th February with 32 candidates being put forward for the fifteen positions. The following week saw the candidates launch their campaigns

to secure your votes with banners and flyers appearing all around the university. Question Time ran for three consecutive evenings in Chancellors from Sunday 17th February to Tuesday 19th February which allowed students to question candidates on

why they should have your vote. Across the three days, StagTVs live streaming of the event was watched by over 2,000 people who tuned in to the broadcasts. Voting finally opened on Continued on page 3...

EDITORIAL

The Stag |

27th February 2013

editor@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Editor | Alexandra Wilks editor@thestagsurrey.co.uk Editor-in-Chief | Abbie Stone ussu.editor@surrey.ac.uk Deputy Editor (Design) | Hannah Roberts-Owen design@thestagsurrey.co.uk Design Team | Paul Richmond, Ankur Banerjee, Tina Morman Deputy Editor (Marketing) | Becky Richmond marketing@thestagsurrey.co.uk Marketing Team | Emily Gill, Natasha Cruz-Millheim and Georgie Wood News Editor | Rachel Thomason news@thestagsurrey.co.uk News Team | James Brown, Kathryn Braid, Sophie Vickery, Shaneezah Ally, Emily Hough and Rachel Thomason Opinion & Analysis Editor | Justine Crossan Opinion & Analysis Team | Sam West, Yasmin Joseph, Bea Marques, Priscilla McGregor-Kerr Features Editor | Ellis Taylor features@thestagsurrey.co.uk Features Team | Sarah-Jane Gregori, Lasika Jayamaha, Lily Pearson, Ankur Banerjee, Nicole Vassell, Jas Smith, Katy Sawyer Science and Technology Editor | Alex Smith sciencetech@thestagsurrey.co.uk Science and Technology Team | Siobhan Harris, Fahmid Chowdhury, Ankur Banerjee, Mike Colling Societies Editor | Shalini Thondrayen societies@thestagsurrey.co.uk Societies Team | Ben Johnson, Lauren Parker, Annie Driscoll Dance and Theatre Editor | Tiffany Stoneman dancetheatre@thestagsurrey.co.uk Dance and Theatre Team | Denise Bennett Film Editor | Candice Ritchie film@thestagsurrey.co.uk Film Team | Beth Goss, Ankur Banerjee, Becky Richmond Music Editor | Becky Worley music@thestagsurrey.co.uk Music Team | Elliot Tyers, Joe Trueman, Jhora Sangha, Dan Davison Literature Editor | Emily Smart literature@thestagsurrey.co.uk Literature Team | Sophie Vickery, Ankur Banerjee, Alexandra Wilks, Joseph Harrison, Shiri Shah Sport Editor | Anna Giles sport@thestagsurrey.co.uk Sport Team | Connor McLoughlin, Jordan Brackenbury, Tom Hopkins, Adam Lodowski, Katy Iliffe Copy Editors | Sophie Vickery, Emma Fleming, Hannah Wann, Tina Morman, Tessa Morgan copyteam@thestagsurrey.co.uk Webmaster | Andrew Smith webmaster@thestagsurrey.co.uk Webeditor | Samantha Murray webeditor@thestagsurrey.co.uk Photo Editor | Tessa Morgan photos@thestagsurrey.co.uk Campus Marketing | Charlie Taylor campusmarketing@thestagsurrey.co.uk

My most embarassing moment is really quite awful.... Basically, when I was 17 I went out drinking with my friends. I was rather inebriated and I was being carried over a bridge near my house by a boy I had a serious eye on. He was tickling me, and I hate being tickled. Essentially, my bladder exploded. I pissed myself. On him. He dropped me to the floor, appalled. He was in my Theatre Studies class at college, and the next day I rocked up at college, hungover with a coffee in hand. My teacher asked me if I needed the toilet... I looked at her blankly. And then everyone burst out laughing. For the rest of college I was known as the girl who pissed herself on Rupert W. So, Rupert, I am eternally sorry for covering you in my golden shower.

At the tender age of 14, when even blowing your nose in public is embarrassing, something terrible happened to me. Id just like to point out that it was the god-awful fashion statement of 12-inch-wide flared jeans that was the cause of the disaster (and is possibly the most embarrassing element of this whole story). Mum had asked me to buy some milk or stamps or cotton wool or something equally as unnecessary while she waited in the car, and asked me to be quick so she didnt get a parking ticket. So I ran off, as a good daughter should. Unfortunately, half way up the busy high street, in front of a large cafe whose walls consist mainly of glass, my trendy flares decided to catch on the front of my equally trendy trainers, and I nosedived onto the pavement. Mortified, I hastily got up while a crowd gathered, and off I ran again, desperate to get back to the car and have a little humiliated cry to myself.

So a couple of years ago I had to have a colonoscopy, sorry too much information already. Anyway, I had to be sedated for the procedure, so Im laying on this bed and Ive been sedated so I start to feel really woozy, at which point I start shouting at the nurse asking her if I have a nice colon, Is it nice? Is it the best colon youve ever seen? Im very proud of my colon! She nicely assured me it was a nice colon. But, my friends, it gets worse, I go to the Tesco afterwards to pick up my prescription but Im still pretty woozy, so my sister pushes me in a wheelchair, every time we turn a corner I make ridiculously loud car noises! Im pretending were a race car going around this shop. Safe to say at the time I wasnt embarrassed but when my family told me afterwards I was pretty mortified! Lesson of the story, dont go to public places when sedated!

Letter from the Editor

urreyDecides was fun, frenetic and a real rollercoaster of emotions! I hope you enjoyed the live tweeting from Mission Control (Youngs Kitchen) from The Stag. StagTV stole the show though, with their amazing coverage of the event. GU2 also provided insightful and frankly hilarious commentary on all three nights. It was great to have all of us working together and having fun. Best of luck to the new team, you have all worked very hard and deserve this success! Commiserations to those that were pipped at the post, you also worked

The Stag is an editorially independent newspaper and is published by the University of Surrey Students Union. The views expressed in the paper are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the educational team, the Students Union or the University of Surrey. Trinity Mirror (South) 8 Tessa Road, Reading RG1 8NS The Stag reserves the right to edit all submissions and the right to decide which articles are published.

hard but maybe its just not your time this year. As for any bitchy comments, you know what, thats democracy. And if you dont like it, go in live in ----- (I cant say that or Ill get sued.) But in all seriousness, Surrey Decided, majority wins, get over it. We never did find out who the elusive Susan was, but who knows? Maybe shell surface next year. Her presence (whether you loved or hated her) certainly made the elections that bit more enjoyable. If youre reading this Susan, thank you for giving me a good laugh. Although, her predictions did turn out to be wrong in most cases. Thats the fun of the elections, you never can tell wholl win! And, as requested in the Poll weve all supplied our most embarrassing moments. Why dont you tweet yours to @TheStagSurrey, #MyEmbarrassingMoment...

News Editor: Rachel Thomason | Copy Editor: Tina Morman

The Stag |

27th February 2013

NEWS

Students have voted for their new Sabbatical team

Continued from page 1... Thursday 21st February and closed the following day on Friday 22nd February with the results being announced the same evening. Due to technical issues, voting had to be extended until 7.40pm with the election results announced in Chancellors from 9.20pm. Charlie Eastaugh, current Union Chair, presented the results to an animated audience at Chancellors. He said of the election results: I am sure the new Sabb team will do a great job, at what is an interesting time for the Union. The five full time Sabbatical positions were announced with VP Sports and Recreation revealed first. James Lovell took the position with 918 votes and VP Societies and Individual Development went to Maz Hussien with 1,004 votes. Tom Windibank won VP Welfare and Priya Jhand was voted VP Education. Finally, to complete the five full time positions the third and final round, by 1,365 to 1,090 votes the next President is Em Bollon who told StagTV: Thank you to everyone that voted, well done to all the other candidates and everyone who won a position, Its been an absolutely amazing period of time and Im really excited about finishing off the role of VP Societies for the rest of the year. Current President, Dave Halls, spoke to StagTV: Massive congratulations to every single

Thank you to everyone that voted, well done to all the other candidates and everyone who won a position.
candidate. Those who didnt win put in so much effort and they deserve to be applauded too, they should be really proud of their efforts, Its never easy going for the elections and obviously, a massive well done to those who did win. Youll have a great year. Enjoy it because it goes incredibly fast but youll all do great! Congratulations everyone.

Probably my most embarrassing moment was when I was chosen to waitress for a really important and posh dinner. Not only did I start off the evening by reading cumin on the specials board as come-in, but I then proceeded to pour a bowl of olives over a poor gentleman which landed all in his lap. Only concerned with the growing anger on his face, I didnt even think twice when I grabbed a nearby napkin and started dabbing at his lap. Yes, right where you think. As the table went quiet, I suddenly realised the colossal mistake I had made and backed away apologising profusely. Needless to say, I didnt fancy waitressing much after that. But I guess Im just lucky he didnt press charges!

County Councillor holds surgeries to hear your concerns about the local community
By Kathryn Braid, News Team

County Councillor Fiona White is holding surgeries to allow students to raise concerns with local issues.

ocal County Councillor Fiona White is visiting the university campus monthly to hear your views on local issues. The Councillor will be available at a surgery once a month on a Thursday in order to discuss with students what they would like improved in their areas such as potholes in roads, street lighting, anti-social behaviour, graffiti and any other issues that might be present in the local community. The surgery was previously held before Christmas and more recently on 7th February. Fiona was at the Union market from 10 am to 1:30 pm answering student

queries and providing her contact details along with those of fellow Councillors Steve Freeman and Tony Philips. Fiona has been a Councillor for eight years but it was only recently that the university and surrounding area were transferred to her division. Fionas County Council division also includes Park Barn. Students should look out for the next Union Presidents email update email for information on Fionas next visit. These surgeries provide an important opportunity for students to voice their concerns and to be heard in their local community. Dont miss out on an opportunity to improve safety in your area.

Refreshers Fayre 2013

By Sophie Vickery, News Team

niversity of Surrey Students Union hosted a fun-filled afternoon as the universitys clubs and societies filled Rubix with colourful stalls on Friday 15th February for Refreshers Fayre. A total of 80 societies attended the event to offer students the opportunity to try something new as semester two commences. The union also used the event to promote the latest trips and activities, events planner and election information. Many students were keen to sign up to societies which would fill their free-time with fun and develop their skills to improve

employment prospects. Meanwhile, students enjoyed collecting lots of freebies from pens and key rings, to chocolate and vouchers. The event was also attended by national corporations such as Nandos, Access Self Storage and GBK, while the universities businesses also offered students exclusive offers for Heart&Soul and Surrey Sports Park. Refreshers Fayre was also very beneficial for the many societies. Gemma Quayle, positioned on the Do>More stall, valued the opportunity to re-iterate how students can get involved with volunteering both and off campus. She said: Since the Volunteer

Co-ordinator at the Union has now left, it was also important for us to inform students that individual volunteering opportunities are still very much available. She added: It formed the perfect end to a big week for Do>More as we were able to shout about our efforts for National Students Volunteering Week, and show how volunteering not only develops important skills for the future, but is loads of fun too. Those running in this years elections also seized the opportunity to promote themselves to students by spreading details of their campaigns and sporting promotional t-shirts and posters.

NEWS

The Stag |

27th February 2013

news@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Spotted: University of Surrey Library Facebook page due to shut down

By Shaneezah Ally, News Team

he Spotted: University of Surrey Library page on Facebook is due to shut down after a Surrey Police officer has claimed that some of its content could be considered inappropriate. The Spotted page was set up at the beginning of January and racked up an impressive 3,149 likes. The page was aimed at creating harmless humour for students around the university. If students had seen something funny or something you couldnt help but share then students could message the page privately. It was a chance for students to share

hilarious stories for all to enjoy. However, Surrey police officer for the University of Surrey, PC Emily Band, suggested that some of the comments were offensive. In response to one of the latest posts, PC Band claimed that some of the comments on this site could constitute an offence such as harassment or hate crime. Although the police support the rights to freedom of speech, she continued, they want to ensure that students are aware that offensive comments would not be tolerated. PC Band under the University of Surrey Beat page, urged students to Please think about your future and how

a comment you make could affect this. Also take a moment to think about the effect these comments could have on the people you are targeting. Emily Band also asked if the post could be left up to protect students from getting into trouble. Although the page states that all posts have no link with the University itself, it was confirmed shortly afterwards that the Spotted page would be shut down which sparked a variety of conflicting opinions among students.

Two band members killed at G Live event

By James Brown, News Team

Go Green for 2013

By Emily Hough, News Team

rom the 11th to the 15th February, Surreys Go Green society held a week of activities to show the benefits of becoming greener and highlight the importance for both the University and students to make such improvements. The week included a range of activities, including a talk on urban sanitation in Africa delivered by the universitys own Dr. Steve Pedley, as well as Dr Moores discussion on the importance of nutrition. The week also consisted of tasty cake sales, a Channies Challenge and viewing of Wall-e for ValenTins day. On Friday, the society hosted a full day of events including a fashion show with clothes made from recyclable materials. Together with Waste not Wednesday, the event exhibited the potential for materials which are often found simply discarded in the bin. The week was a massive success for the society and has been congratulated by many; Surrey student,

Nicole Constantinou, posted: Well done Go Green Society! Amazing effort this week. The society also attracted support from the Going Greener campaign in their petition for the university to use 5 of every students tuition fees to create a sustainability fund.

revor Grills, a singer for the sea shanty group Fishermans Friends, has died after being trapped under a metal door at the G Live theatre venue in Guildford on 9th February. Mr Grills, 54, suffered severe head injuries from the steel door which had collapsed in the loading bay where the group was preparing for a concert. The Cornish based groups tour manager Paul McMullen suffered horrific leg injuries and was killed at the scene. Mr Grills, husband and father of three, was taken to St Georges Hospital in Tooting but died two days later. The group issued a statement saying: Trevor was a much-loved and valued friend to all of us and was an integral part of the Port Isaac community. G Live also issued a statement commenting: Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends and community of Port Isaac. The group, made up of fishermen, tradesmen shopkeepers,

a potter and a farmer, were due to perform that night as part of a tour. Appearing in Port Isaac, members of the group thanked its fans for their support, with hundreds of tributes having been posted on the bands Facebook page. Mr Grills sang tenor with the Fishermans Friends whose sea shanties became a pop success. The ten-strong group had been singing together for 15 years in Port Isaac, Cornwall, where the majority grew up before they were signed by Universal Records to a 1 million recording contract in 2010. Their debut album, Port Isaacs Fishermans Friends, made the Top 10 and the group have appeared at the Glastonbury Festival, the Cambridge Folk Festival, the Royal Albert Hall and the Royal Festival Hall. In 2011, the group was awarded The Good Tradition Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards for keeping folk music alive and bringing it to new audiences. Surrey Police are currently investigating the accident with assistance of the Health and Safety Executive.

yellow book

UNION

The Stag |

27th February 2013

editor@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Sabbaticals Say...
NUS National Conference 2013
Dave Halls
Union President

Culture & charisma

Festival! International Festival is our week-long celebration of culture on campus; a week full of colour and charisma. Try your hand at sushi-making in Youngs Kitchen, participate in our International Summit and meet some weird and wonderful animals at the International Exhibition. This is not just any festival. This is International Festival. Please see the middle-page spread for more information, and some beautifully written paragraphs, from your fellow students, in a variety of languages!

o elections to the Union Executive for 2013/14 are over, the new teams elected, and what a team its going to be. Thank you to everyone who took part, whether as a candidate, supporter or a voter. You have played your part in continuing your Students Union to be as representative of Surrey students as it can possibly be. But thats not the last piece of democracy thatll take place in the Students Union this year. Its now time to elect your NUS Delegates for the 2013 NUS National Conference! National Conference is the annual gathering of all NUS member unions to debate and decide what national policy of the UK student movement should be

for the next year, as well as electing the NUS National Executive for the coming year. NUS takes on the national campaigns for things that matter to students nationwide, with a further-reaching resource and capabilities beyond that of individual students unions. Earlier this year, in our largest referendum turnout ever, Surrey students overwhelmingly voted in to re-affirm our position within the national body. This years conference, then, is Surreys chance to have our voice heard on a national scale, in the company of colleagues from across the country. Each Union is allowed a certain number of delegates depending on the institution size, and Surrey is entitled to five delegates to represent your views to the rest of the country on the 8th-10th April 2013, in Sheffield. Any Surrey student can put themselves forward to be these

representatives; with four places up for grabs (one place is always reserved for the President of the Union). Last year, Surreys motion to mandate the NUS to lobby for greater student loan weightings for universities on the periphery of London was the only motion passed without amendments. Unlike many other unions, Surrey doesnt participate in block voting; each delegate is free to make their own mind up as to what we should support, and which candidates to vote for. As such, these are three days when you really can have a massive input as to the direction of the national student movement, and its a great experience to be had.
Watch out on www.ussu.co.uk and www.facebook.com/surreyunion for more information about the NUS Delegation elections, coming very, very soon!

Union Vice-President Societies & Individual Development

Em Bollon

urrey resides equidistant from Southampton, home to one of our major ports, and London, our vibrant capital city. And in the county town of Surrey lies our University. Our home. Here at the University of Surrey, over 100 nationalities are represented; from French to Nepalese; from Greek to Japanese. Its time to celebrate the diversity we posses within our united student community. Its time for International

On Surrey Decides, behind the scenes from the host

By Charlie Eastaugh, Union Chair

NSS: Rate your University and earn a few quid

Sam Ratzer

Union Vice-President Education

he University, whether you feel it or not, embraces student feedback on a daily basis, through various means all collected data and comments are taken on board and acted on at a departmental level or University wide. The latest opportunity for you to engage in is this years NSS (National Student Survey) campaign, of which we are now

three weeks into. The NSS is a 23 question survey for final year students that gives them chance to reflect on their academic studies, and is the 3 rd largest survey conducted in the UK, after the Census and the Further Education equivalent. For something that can take as little as 3 minutes to complete, the power of the NSS cannot be overstated, as it not only forms part of departmental action plans looking at how subjects aim to improve each year, but also the results from the NSS are a

composite part of national league tables ranking Universities relative to one another. If as a final year student you havent taken the opportunity to fill it out yet, take a few minutes today, tomorrow or this weekend to play a big part in Surreys future; letting the world know of what you love about the learning experience here, as well as informing the University constructively of improvements that your department are overdue making. Theres a 3.50 campus voucher waiting for you too.

More on the International Festival from Maria!

Maria Sklriou
International Officer

t is the time of the year that the international festival comes, a great celebration of international cultural exchange bringing the

globe on campus. Promoting culture diversity awareness, enhance the muliticultural environment of campus and open a window to new cultural horizons is what defines the international festival. The festival has a wide range of events such as International Exhibition, Home

Away from Home, International summit and the International gala, which gives an opportunity of getting an insight to new cultures and of discovering different ways of thinking. Lets celebrate culture on campus!

This is the first time since September 2009 Bakita Masala Kasadha hasnt submitted a Stag article! Get well soon Bakita. The Stag loves you very much!

hree evenings, fifteen positions, thirty- one candidates, hundreds of tweets and thousands of online viewers. The massive interest in Question Time demonstrated that 'student apathy' is at best an over-expanded excuse for poor engagement and at worst a myth. With total viewing figures at over twenty-five hundred, half of which came from oncampus computers, plus over a hundred involved in person on the night, Surrey students showed last week that the elections did matter to them in some way. Whether you cared about the winners, or more to the point even voted, what this level of interest proved is that the Students' Union (beyond the doors of Rubix) remains at the centre of University life at Surrey. Perhaps enticed by the #SurreyDecides aficionados or just the catchy (or not so) campaign videos, Twitter came alight for one week with an overabundance of search results under that tag. As Union Chair I had the privilege of co-hosting Question Time with Alan Sutherland, an experience which is difficult to explain in such a short article. Sitting under glaring lights courtesy of stage crew and the

StagTV cameras, with The Stag, GU2 and Mike Frazer's pundits commenting on our every move, it was daunting to say the least. But that was just my ordeal. I can only admire and applaud the candidates for their candour in submitting to the trial-byordeal that is Question Time. With no knowledge of how they were being received by the viewers, how many retweets RON had collected during their answers or whether Susan approved, the candidates were left at the whim of two underrested hosts. So why do people choose to go through this process? Six of the fifteen positions are paid, so perhaps that is understandable, but the remainder are not. Whether as a CV-booster, to 'make a difference' or just to enjoy a new experience, only those who put themselves forward will ever really understand why. What can be said with certainty is that there will always be candidates for these elections and there will always be a large proportion of Surrey students willing to listen to what they have to say. I just had the fortune of asking the questions and annoucing the results.

Opinion & Analysis Editor: Justine Crossan | Copy Editor: Emma Fleming

The Stag |

27th February 2013

OPINION & ANALYSIS

Opinion & Analysis

My most embarrassing moment happened this year when I was on my way home from the Living Room after a night out with a group of friends heading to an after party. Even though we were only going to Guildford Park Avenue (which is a two minute walk from the car park) I decided to take a short cut, by jumping onto a lampost and garage rooftop. I followed my more agile friend but my shoes were too fat to fit on the lampost ledge and I dropped off it. Without realising anything had happened, I was about to try again when my friend started crying and pointing at my knee, as I looked down I could see my KNEECAP and the cartilage showing, I had literally sliced my leg open and the skin had separated in a V shape about an inch deep. MADNESS. I had to get picked up by an ambulance ASAP and get stitches & missed the party, PEAK!

A View from The Shard Modern day

Bea Marques

ith its short-lived fame of being the tallest building in Europe, the Shard is an up and coming tourist attraction of London. Its magnificence has not gone unnoticed with a large amount of tickets selling out in advance, making it virtually impossible to make a spontaneous decision to visit one of Londons most outstanding buildings. That is, unless you have 100 per person lying around your bag, so that you can gain immediate access. Putting aside the fact that with the cost of two (advanced booked) adult tickets you could dine at a reputable restaurant in Central London or book a flight to one of Europes capitals, the Shard is still worth the 24.95 per person even

if just once in your life. The experience of the Shard starts from the moment you enter the ground floor. As you step into entrance, a screen displays eye-catching images of some of Londons attraction, creating a sense of excitement as you dwell more into the sights that you are shortly going to be observing. Taken by the momentum, you are hurdled to airport like scanners, ensuring maximum security of the visitors. After quickly recomposing yourself, a picture is taken (which, you have the option of purchasing at the end for the cost of 22) and you quickly join another queue where you are directed to the lift. To reach the viewing gallery, the visitors have one more requirement: a two-part lift

journey taking a minute, followed by climbing stairs to reach the viewing gallery, level 69. On arrival, you are welcomed by a suave atmosphere ensued by the classical music that accompanies you through your visit. Reaching the viewing gallery is followed by a draw-dropping reaction. Never has London looked so beautiful - especially if you go in the evening: the bright lights of the city contrast with the dark sky creating a euphoric moment. You can spend as long as you want in the viewing gallery, with the option to go to level 72, where you can feel the bitter cold February weather brushing your face. The choice is yours. The Shard might be a costly London attraction, but it is certainly worth the money. Not only do you have a full 360 view of the capital city but every aspect has been thought out: from the music playing to the interior design. The Shard, then, provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the city and to visit one of the U.Ks most modern landmarks, making it also a perfect date-spot!

romance
e live in a fast-paced, changing world where we are increasingly dependent on technology. Almost all of us own smartphones, tablets and laptops which results in a change in nature in the way we interact with each other, for instance, in the area of romance. It was found that around 40% of women reported that their partners were rarely or never romantic. Call me old fashioned, but should letters be replaced by texts; walks in the park replaced by a Skype chat; poetry replaced with copied song lyrics; or even a meal out replaced by watching movies on your laptop using LOVEFILM. The generations which did engage in these romantic activities tended to remain in stable relationships for longer periods of time. Some may argue that this change is to do with other factors such as new laws concerning allowances for divorce. Nevertheless, it is a strong possibility that the change in the pace and style

Priscilla McGregor-Kerr
of relationships may also be a contributing issue. Due to the growth in feminism, some men have taken the view that the decrease in chivalry is just a step towards complete equality. However, this should not result in a lack of politeness or thoughtfulness, not just from males but also females. As both sexes are generally involved in employment and domestic duties etc then equality should also be expressed in romance and chivalry. This may not be buying him a bouquet of flowers but maybe getting tickets to a big game or making his favourite food. Modern day romance may not achieve the extents of Shakespearean poetry, but a degree of thought and chivalry can go a long way.

Peter Castleton

OPINION & ANALYSIS

The Stag |

27th February 2013

opinion@thestagsurrey.co.uk

The wrong brand of Lightning strikes Feminism the Vatican twice

R
ecently, BBC Panorama explored a very contentious issue in The Great Abortion Divide. It was revealed that here in the UK, 200,000 women each year have an abortion, 98% of which are for mental health reasons. However, do we really live in a society where every woman is on the edge of mental collapse? No we do not. There is a consensus that this 98% is predominantly made up of women pretending to be on the verge of a mental breakdown, and doctors pretending to believe it. This goes against the Abortion Act 1967, with the original intention being to prevent backstreet and self-induced abortions in England, Scotland and Wales. Without much debate, it can be agreed that we now live in a society where abortion is free for all. Within the 24 week (5 and a half month) time limit, have you ever heard of a woman being denied an abortion because she is too mentally well? Of the 98%, there may be some who are genuinely on the verge of mental collapse, but most are perfectly healthy individuals. This doesnt mean that they are outright liars. Perhaps they are under the illusion that it is impossible to raise a child. Under the illusion that they cannot handle it. Under the illusion that if they do, they will end up in a mental institution. Perhaps this illusion comes from the modern feminist movement. For years and years, feminism has emphasised the rights of

Sam West

women in society. There has been a special emphasis on the career prospects of women, which is vital in a developing society. However, instead of advocating the idea that women can do anything, modern feminism today promotes the complete opposite. Women are now being told that they have to choose between a family and a career, with it being impossible to do both. This couldnt be further from the truth. In fact, women can do both. Saying they are incapable is nothing but downgrading and patronising. After all, it is women who are applauded for their multitasking skills. In regards to this great talent, why are modern feminists always the last ones to give a standing ovation? It is modern feminism which has led to the rise of abortions. When many women fall pregnant, they think, I cant do this. My life is over. Instead, women are entirely capable of doing it. It would be hard work, but nothing is beyond impossible. At the end of the day, it is a womans right to choose how to live her life. While some choose to be mothers and others choose to have a job, it is still entirely possible to do both. Women should be embraced for their capabilities, rather than being told they are riddled with incompetence.

earing of the popes resignation I have a lot of respect for his decision. As he is getting on in life, 85 to be precise, he has decided its time for a more youthful, able candidate takes his place. However, some may see this as something which takes away from the spiritual component of religion, makes his position appear so much more like a job and not a way of life and spiritual path. Some Catholics may see this as a betrayal of his divine mission that he has left his flock without a shepherd (ha!) Personally I think this was a brave move as he has been the first pope for almost six centuries to resign. Some people have suggested his resignation is due to his loss in faith, but I think he is considering what is best for the church and its followers and strength of mind and body is necessary to carry out such a demanding role. Speculation also began over the increasing pressure over the Vaticans decades long protection

Yasmin Joseph
of priests committing child abuse, the growing scandal over Vatican banking and finances, and intense infighting between the conservative and progressive wings of the Catholic Church. The flood of allegations, lawsuits and official reports into clerical abuse, which reached a peak in 2009 and 2010, may be the defining episode of his pontificate. Maybe he felt he could no longer represent that kind of institution while it was under so much scrutiny? One crazy event was that there was footage of lightning striking the Vatican later on in the evening of the Popes resignation; could this have been edited footage to spark conspiracy theorists or religious radicals or this could be viewed as an actual act of God?

Filippo Monteforte

10 FEATURES

The Stag |

27th February 2013

features@thestagsurrey.co.uk

A students guide to housing

By Sarah-Jane Gregori, Features Team

Features

ousing Awareness Week has just passed, so I hope a good number of you made great use of the information on offer. However for those of you who werent listening, or are simply a little bit behind on whats happening on campus these days (this is usually me), here are a few of my tips from experience. On choosing housemates: By second or third year, I bet you feel you have a pretty good idea of who your true friends are. This is even better if you have friends that you feel share the same values as you in terms of cleaning, sharing and your place on the sliding scale of money vs. comfort. But once living together, you might find youre not so similar after all. People have different ideas of what is clean or how often cleaning should be done. If problems do arise, try to solve them face to face rather than leaving irritable notes! If you dont feel comfortable being honest with the friend in question, then question whether you are going to be comfortable being housemates. This doesnt mean however that this questions a good friendship! On finding a house: Find out what is important to you in terms of location to university and shops, ease of access to transport, the price and

the amount of space. Be prepared to make compromises with your housemates. Then you can start looking for a house that will suit everyone. Try to not get distracted by the current tenants belongings look out for evidence of mould or damp, whether the house has adequate locks for security and the temperature of the house how and will it keep you warm in winter? Ask what furniture and appliances will stay in the house when the current tenants move out and what you might want to supply yourself with once you are moving in. Check whether any bills are included in the rent; water bills usually are. On landlords: If you have trouble communicating or negotiating with a landlord, the Student Advice Centre is really helpful source for answering queries and giving you a clear idea of the usual procedures. They might also know a bit about the landlord to inform you on what they are like. Meanwhile, its been fun browsing through the estate agent brochures that come through the door, imagining what I might do with that 3m+ house in Godalming or Haslemere. I wish you the best of luck on your housing adventure!

If anyone has ever been the Mediterranean biome at the Eden Project, you will know it is quite quiet. My body seemed to think it was the perfect place to start hiccupping very very loudly. Im talking to the level that people were turning around saying ooh, do they have exotic birds in here?. I even had a delightful elderly couple laughing at me whilst suggesting hiccup cures they had heard on the radio. It was a very cringe-worthy 10 minutes.

What on earth is A.L.L?

By Phil James, Library and Learning Centre

ecently, I was asked to discover who the A.L.L.s are and what they do. Reluctant to do any real work, I decided to just ask friends at the bar on what they knew about these mysterious people. Hearing that there are eight of them, and A.L.L. stands for Academic Liaison Librarian, left me none the wiser. So the next day, I set out to meet them myself. With the scrutiny of Leveson thankfully behind us, I decided to rely on traditional journalistic techniques of trickery and deception to discover the truth, but after finally finding them in the Library (Level 2), I was disappointed to find them welcoming and keen to respond to queries. I had hoped to practise my good cop/bad cop routine, where I play the bad cop whos so bad, the good cop wont work with him anymore, but they were frustratingly eager to answer all my questions. I didnt even have to threaten them with a sip of my disgusting vending machine coffee to learn their secrets; it

tasted so foul that I scowled and shook my head while they talked anyway. RIP: Reference in peace The A.L.L.s are skilled professionals, trained to support your studies, and provide subjectspecific support and guidance for learning, teaching and research. They are approachable experts who can guide you through the maze of accessing and using the Librarys e-resources, and even teach you to use the Internet effectively, though they did refuse to do my online shopping for me. Perhaps you may have more luck, but I think thats probably pushing it. They also told me they offer Information Literacy training. I didnt have the guts to ask what that meant, and if youre similarly shy about publicly admitting your ignorance, why not arrange a oneto-one appointment with your A.L.L.? It could be the ideal way to find out how to use that damn database that every other person on your course already seems to understand. Or if like me, you find any kind of human contact to be vaguely

unpleasant, contact them by phone or email instead. Guardian angels Each subject taught at the University of Surrey is looked after by one of the A.L.L.s. They regularly attend meetings in your Faculty and Department to find out what you need from the library. Theyre even happier to talk to you to find out what you think about the resources the library provides. They were unfazed by either my shocking ignorance or remarkable lack of common sense. In the face of all this disturbingly helpful friendliness, I was forced to conclude that the A.L.L.s are like guardian angels: whether you know it or not, you have one and theyre on your side. The big difference is, theyre not invisible and they wont stand on your right shoulder, despite persistent requests. Trust me on that one. Want to know which one is yours? Find details for Catherine, Ellie, Evi, Gill, Karen, Jean, Miriam and Ruth at http://www.surrey. ac.uk/library/subject/alls/

Life in halls - Semester one complete

By Jas Smith, Features Team

googlestreetview

he biggest question I think that any Fresher will ask is: What is it like to live in halls? For most freshers, it is more than likely this will be their first time they have been away from their parents, but it is also more

than likely that it will be their first time moving in with complete strangers. Its now been four months that I have been living in halls and I can honestly say it has been a positive experience. In September when I first moved in, I had absolutely no idea what to expect. I think I was most worried about my flatmates was

I going to like them? Would they like me? I moved in with 13 other people, and thats a lot of people to meet in one go on your moving in weekend. However, I could not have asked for better housemates, and once I got used to how life worked in halls, they became a surrogate family, complete with laughter, tears, and

pranks galore. It takes a while to adjust and get to know people, and to respect their space, but once youre through the first few disorientating nights, it can only get better. Adding a personal touch to your room really helps to make it feel a little bit more like home. Moving in can give someone mixed feelings. For most, it is the first time they will have ultimate freedom away from their parents. However, there is the worry of

paying rent and feeding yourself. I found that once I learnt how to budget, life became easier and there is always support available from the Court Life Mentoring Team. So what is it really like to live in halls? Its one of the most terrifying things I have ever done, but crazy. Its fun, and its exciting, and I wouldnt change the experience for the world.

Features Editor: Ellis Taylor | Copy Editor: Tessa Morgan

The Stag |

27th February 2013

FEATURES

11

International Womens day is approaching

By Lasika Jayamaha, Features Team

nternational Womens Day was first celebrated in the early 1900s as the fight against inequality and oppression which led to active campaigns for change. 1908 saw 15,000 women march across the streets of New York demanding shorter working hours, better pay and the right to vote. However, during the second International Conference for Working Women held in 1910 in Copenhagen, Leader of the 'Women's Office' for the Social Democratic Party in Germany Clara Zetkin proposed the idea of an International Womens Day that was received with unanimous approval from participants. Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland celebrated the first Womens Day on the 19th March

1911 with more than a million women and men rallying for rights of women like the right to vote and to be treated equally in the workplace and be able to hold public office. Thereafter, Russian women celebrated International Womens Day at the end of February for the first time in 1913. Subsequently, 8th March was chosen as International Womens Day following some discussion and has remained so, as it stands today. Throughout the decades that followed, the symbolism of International Womens Day as a celebration and recognition of women has grown from strength to strength since the birth of the socialist movement. This day is celebrated by many developed and developing countries alike

and is sometimes a holiday in Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, China (for women only), Cuba, Georgia, Guinea-Bissau, Eritrea, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Madagascar (for women only), Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Nepal (for women only), Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam and Zambia. However, the truth is that women are still not paid equal to their male counterparts or represented equally in businesses or politics as one would have hoped. However, womens education and health have increased and so as women we should be proud of what we have achieved and continue to strive to the challenges before us.

Street style: Out and about on campus

By Lily Pearson, Features Team Robert Levinson, Media Studies, Level 2 The bomber jacket was a ubiquitous presence upon the catwalks of Spring/Summer 2013. Robert's elementary choice is ideal for transcending seasons, and layered over a staple denim shirt and paired with trainers completes the faultless casual look.

CAREERS
By John Watkins, Director of Careers Service

Tara Kitchingham, Literature, Level 2

English

Clowance Lawton, Literature, Level 2

English

Tara poises the monochromatic hues of her speckled polo neck and leggings against dashes of camel and tan. The double-breasted jacket brings a dimensionality that refuses to let the on-trend monotint go unnoticed.

Here we can see a mastered execution of the oversize trend. Through her cocoon-shaped coat, shopper-size bag and bug-eyed sunglasses, Clowance has skilled the art of the Winter-Spring transition. A faux fur stole keeps the chill off.

his week was no ordinary week. A trip to Buckingham Palace was a first (well to the inside anyway.) The trip was to represent the University of Surrey and hear all about The Duke of Yorks continued focus on promoting entrepreneurship. His Royal Highness has been working across a wide range of fronts to support initiatives that give better access to capital for entrepreneurs whilst the government recently launched a pilot scheme to make it easier for young people with business ideas to achieve their ambitions. The Start-Up Loans programme seeks to provide affordable loans and business training to young people who have a viable business plan. This scheme is aimed at 18-30 year olds who are living in England and looking for finance to start a business. The average loan size is expected to be around 2,500; this being provided by the government. James Caan is chairman of the body that has been established to oversee the allocation of the loans. Further information about Start-Up Loans is available at: http://www. startuploans.co.uk/ The Duke of York believes

that the scheme provides a great opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs in the startup scene. However, there have been some difficulties in making potential entrepreneurs aware of the scheme which is disappointing because StartUp Loans offer an attainable and viable funding option for entrepreneurs at the seed stage a time when it can be difficult to access more traditional capital. Start-Up Loans are launching The Student Ambassador Programme; a pilot designed to promote Start-Up Loans amongst university communities. His Royal Highness believes that promoting the scheme amongst students in the university network will hopefully present an alternative career pathway to graduating. The launch event at Buckingham Palace earlier this week was designed to raise the profile of the scheme amongst the university network and Im delighted to be able to begin the promotion via The Stag. For this, and all careers enquiries please come to the Philip Marchant Building, or visit: www.surrey.ac.uk/careers w w w.facebook.com/ surreycareers

internationalwomensdaywebsite

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The Stag |

27th February 2013

features@thestagsurrey.co.uk

On the road with Ankur

By Ankur Banerjee, Features Team

Who wears the trousers? YOU should

By Ellis Taylor, Features Editor

y knowledge of Vietnam I believe much alike to public perception came from Hollywood films about the Vietnam War, until I went there. In Vietnam they call that period of time the American War because they believe the US brought that war to their land. The war memorial in Saigon is an eyeopening look into the atrocities of war, especially the American usage of chemical warfare that has left generations of Vietnamese crippled. Its the story that never gets told. Parts of the story from the Vietnamese perspective are, admittedly, communist propaganda, but it is worth hearing about. High on the list of any visit to Ho Chi Minh City formerly known as Saigon is the Cu Chi Tunnel memorial that preserves the tunnels Viet Cong resistance soldiers fought from. Operated by the local government, it can only be accessed accompanied by authorised guides; in our case, a farmer who was drafted into the resistance. The experience is akin to a visiting a zoo where tourists are herded from one exhibit to another showing how the Vietnamese built booby traps, how they lived, where they had to give birth in, and fought from tunnels barely wide enough for a human to crawl through. Tourists can crawl through an actual reconstructed tunnel. Its an incredibly claustrophobic and frightening experience to crawl the whole stretch of around half a kilometre with no lights and barely enough space to crawl lying flat on your belly. As horrified I was to hear those stories, I could not bring myself to let go of the opportunity to fire off rounds from an AK-47 rifle and an M-60 machine gun. I was ashamed to find myself elated afterwards, with adrenaline rushing through my system at

having lived out something out of a video game fantasy. Travelling by boat up the Mekong River Delta, stopping every now and then to cycle through paddy fields on a bicycle to visit villages, throws up strange customs, such as wine made with dead snakes bottled inside. Ho Chi Minh is not stuck in the past though. On the surface, it is a busy metropolis full of expat bars, but stray slightly off the beaten path and you might be invited to join a family for dinner on makeshift dining tables that spring up on pavements every evening with a locally brewed beer like bia hoi to wash down pho noodles. Pho is a staple dish, and you can even go to a restaurant where Bill Clinton ate and order the same menu of dishes he did. Perhaps the best foods though are the French baguettes served from round-the-clock roadside carts. South Vietnam was a French colony before unification and these baguettes can be served with bacon (and chocolate, if you want!). Whats Hot: Ha Long Bay (up north, closer to Hanoi), a place of thousands of misty islands that look like oddly-shaped rock formations. There is an odd sense of calm that pervades the atmosphere there, as you travel around on rickety boats flitting from island to island. If I had to pick one place in all my travels as the one place thats the best, it would be this. Whats Not: It is likely that whilst walking down streets late at night in big cities, say after a night out, that you will be accosted by people on scooters or motorcycles trying to pimp out prostitutes. Often, its the young girls own mothers who are driving around trying to pimp them out. The depths of poverty a family has to be in to be reduced to doing that is unimaginably sad.

o you know what the time is? It is trouser time, my friend. Jeans, skirts, dresses, shorts are so 2012 and now cigarette and tapered trousers (preferably printed) are ready to become the core of your outfit. A piece that is a little frightening at first, but once you try a pair you wont want to take them off, trust me. The printed trouser is one that, in theory, should not work on anyone who does not possess a model like physique, so thankfully for us regular folk, it defies the written laws of fashion and it looks blimmin awesome if styled correctly. Its all a matter of fit and pairing. If youve got some

curves then go for a small print with a dark colour palette. Slim legs can be a bit bolder in colour choice, and a big print can help add shape if thats what youre after. Short legs? Make sure the bottoms just touch the ankle; this is a crisp and sharp trouser look so no ankle crinkles! Anything slightly cropped will make legs even shorter, so only try that length if youre tall. Shoe wise, elegant and plain is the way to go, theres enough going on in the leg department without throwing in some crazy shoes. So youve picked out the perfect pair (definitely try them on before buying; this is not a pick up and go buy), the shoes are sorted, but what about the rest?

We have two options here. Either you go for all out androgyny and pair the new love in your life with a classic, block coloured shirt, or you keep it casual with a basic t-shirt in a colour that complements. Grey is an easy to wear shade that will work with most prints, but try to think outside the box and match with a bolder colour, such as a vivid green or pink. Try everything and anything, but be wary of print clashing, it is a tough cookie to crack. You are now ready to go out into the world of shopping and indulge in your first pair of printed cigarette trousers. Go forth and enjoy, theyre pretty darn fabulous.

Diary of an Erasmus student

By Nicole Vassell, Features Team

ne of the best things about studying abroad is the countless opportunities that are thrown at you. For example, I'm writing this while sat on a highspeed train from Amsterdam to Berlin and I won't make it back to Heidelberg for another two-anda-half weeks. Since the academic year in Germany is structured differently to the UK, lectures and classes stop from February to April. Hence, lots of students take at least a few weeks of this time to fill a rucksack with jumpers, socks and teabags and haul it around Europe. Though I used to chuckle seeing exhausted young'uns stumbling all over train carriages with people-sized bags on their back, I'm now one of them. My backpack is called Bartholomew. I didn't know this before, but it is much easier than I expected to get around Europe by train. Three friends and I bought a pass that gives us 22 days to travel between thirty countries for around 200. Up until the start

of this year, the most I'd seen of Europe was a family holiday to Barcelona. By the end of this trip alone, I will have ticked six new countries off of my list. For someone who's never been further north in the UK than Birmingham, this is a huge deal! Though I've always wanted to travel, it probably would have taken me years, if ever, to make an investment with time and money. But the thing with being in a network of hundreds studying outside of their home country is that you're very likely to be around others who are willing to take advantage of the bundles of free time and being in mainland Europe. Plus, many universities cater for international students wanting to explore their new country by running affordable, regular excursions to various cities. So to conclude, if you're a wannabe traveller who always finds an excuse to watch TV rather than to go out and enjoy the world, going on a year abroad is the first step to getting your passport some action.

Scoot-scoot! Motorcycles and scooters are ubiquitous in Vietnam.

Features Editor: Ellis Taylor | Copy Editor: Tessa Morgan

The Stag |

27th February 2013

FEATURES

13

Is there a-neigh-thing to worry about?

By Katy Sawyer, Features Team

he recent horsemeat controversy has plagued the food markets with dishonesty and confusion. Traces of equine DNA was found in beef burgers after subsidiaries of the ABP Food Group supplied it to supermarkets across the country. Over ten million burgers have been removed from supermarket shelves and the deep hole of food fraud keeps growing. Shortly after this, Findus beef lasagne was found to contain up to 100% horsemeat. Since then ready meal after ready meal has been removed from shelves and the EU ordered a random DNA testing of processed meat. The FSA has subsequently stated that no new products are involved in the gross contamination. People have been outraged over the last few months, but is this really an issue to sweat over?

It seems that this is more than just a small factory mistake; producers have been knowingly passing off horsemeat as beef and thus ignoring food regulations. We will never know the extent of people affected by the food fraud and we have clearly been unknowingly eating horsemeat for years, so does it really matter? Members of the general public clearly dont like being lied to, and people have lost faith in retailers. This brings back the aged old argument of whether cheap food can really mean quality. Some may argue that this is a consequence of over consumption of processed food. We have been fed the line that value meals full of processed meat could form part of a balanced diet, however with hospital and school dinners being affected by the scandal the consensus view seems to be changing. This may pave the way for the return of

Mike

independent butchers to the high street. Ultimately, there are no health risks from eating horsemeat and it is even considered a delicacy in many countries. However there have been some health concerns over the presence of bute (Phenylbutazone) in horsemeat. It has been found that it could be dangerous to humans when consumed in large amounts. The chemical is used to treat pain and fever in animals and although there is a very low risk to the public, any animal that is given the drug is not meant to be slaughtered for consumption. In a small number of cases bute can cause aplastic anaemia; a blood disorder. With the full facts now coming to light, I know Ill think twice before buying processed meals and meat in general!

14 FEATURES

The Stag |

27th February 2013

features@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Games
Answers in the next edition of The Stag. Send correct answers to letters@thestagsurrey.co.uk to get a mention in the paper.

Issue 55 Solutions Wordsearch Sudoku

3 4 2 9 1 6 8 5 7 2 3 4 8 7 9 1 6 5 8 6 9 5 4 1 7 3 2 7 1 5 6 3 2 9 4 8 5 2 6 1 8 4 3 7 9 4 7 8 3 9 5 2 1 6 1 9 3 2 6 7 5 8 4
D L E L L O F E B R U A R Y A G O T R P E D U B C U D R E I Y M U O I Q U U M B I G H T N N O V A F A J C E E N Y V H E J T A D W D K A C A O J A Y W L I K R H C E R E J M U L K S T V L A I H A E J R I I E A E A A I G L O V E E W N D N E M E T N E L C O R B K A A T U E U I K I Y O U S A H T B I O S W O E O E L I A D G I N N B T

9 8 7 4 5 3 6 2 1

6 5 1 7 2 8 4 9 3

S N D E R A S M U S O O E D E

T P I U A T W E G D N O S J R

Y I N A C E G R S L S C F L U

S P R I N G K U O P N C H S R

MOTIVATION ERASMUS VALENTINES CHOCOLATE

LOVE ROAD RAGE FEBRUARY LINKEDIN

CAREERS NOMINATIONS NEW SEMESTER SPRING

5 2 1 9 2 3 1 6 9

2 6 5 1

4 5 9 2 7 5 3 5 2 1 5 7 4 3 4 9 8

A H U E Y E A F H E A X L U T

G L I B R A R Y I A D C A I U

H L E M B A R R A S S I N G O

T W O N E I E G U N J Z H Z F

J O P Y N T U H M M E T E O R

D M Q T U H P A R L L Y E X E

Y E T R O K E L E C T I O N S

S N H A S L C L S E O P R M A

T S A V I D M S U T H O J A P

O F S E L Y K O E P O E L E T

P V T L O B U T R O U S E R S

I H E H A J E I A E S R Y U U

A V I E T N A M D Y I U U I R

N I U O A U L O E J N F P Q I

G J E P S T Y L E M G N O R L

LIBRARY HALLS HOUSING VIETNAM

DYSTOPIAN EMBARRASSING TROUSERS WOMEN

STYLE ELECTIONS TRAVEL METEOR

Sci/Tech Editor: Alex Smith | Copy Editor: Sophie Vickery

The Stag |

27th February 2013

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

15

The sky is falling...

Science & Technology

Alex Alishevskikh

As we prepared for the sub-lunar passing of comet DA14, we were taken by surprise and hit by a meteor. Central Russia was hit hardest with window shattered by the booms. The search for any fragments continues. By Alex Smith, Science & Tech Editor tearing doors completely from their frames. The collateral from the sonic booms alone caused more than 1,100 casualties the highest number recorded of any meteor in human history (previously 1 dog was killed by one in Egypt) and hospitalized 50 people. The damage is expected to have cost 1 billion roubles (33 million), although no meteorites have been confirmed to have made it to the ground (as of writing). The meteor, which shattered into fireballs that spanned the sky, was heavily recorded on drivers dashboard-cameras. On film, you can see the terror of the apocalyptic-style event as the sky glows red, people begin to panic and offices are almost swept away by the force of the shockwaves. Its no wonder some people, including the Russian Lib-Dem leader, claimed it was a US weapons test and not the wrath of the universe. There was also talk of this meteor-strike being caused by the arrival of asteroid, 2012 DA14, which just missed the Earth 10 hours later by only 17,200 miles (0.1 lunar distances), although such talk was later dismissed by scientists, including those from ESA, who found the asteroid and meteor arrived perpendicularly to each other, not from the same direction. DA14, the size of an Olympic swimming pool, had been first been identified as on-approach in early 2012. By the time it got to Valentines Day, we were fixated on its near-arrival and completely oblivious to the Russian Meteor which came from the direction of the sun. In true Deep Impact style following the events, people were wondering why no one tried to shoot down either of the giant space rocks. Although, scientists were quick to point out how little an effect it may have had on the rock or on preventing the booms. However, two US physicists have come up with a novel idea of how to attempt to stop the arrival of any incoming debris; by building an orbital platform that could harness solar power and channel the energy to a high-powered array of phased lasers, the scientists believe they could evaporate or deflect potential threats. DE-STAR, Directed Energy of Solar Targeted Asteroids and Exploration, could be built in various sizes, although the size of the array would ultimately determine how big a target could be dealt with. Alternatively, they believe it could be used to propel spacecraft at high speeds, but without funding this project is unlikely to get off the ground.

or heavens sake, please dont think Im trying to scaremonger and get you all to panic-buy, because a curious thing (or two) really did happen two weeks ago. On the 15th February over the Ural Mountains in Russia a 10 ton meteor, previously undetected, was spotted across the sky, travelling at least 33,000 mph and effectively exploded at about 20 miles above the ground. The series of sonic booms created (heard 2 minutes and 30 seconds later), damaged 4000 buildings; shattering windows across 200,000 square miles and

Im gonna be honest - I dont have many moments I find embarrassing, but when I do theyre probably the best in the world (and under the influence, sadly...). This years highlight comes from new years at a house in London. It involved me, a bottle of the worlds leading brand of whiskey, an unintended amount of straight consumption, and then the collapse of social boundaries. Lets just say you should never try to do up a ladys bra in public, decently, through a t-shirt. Also you should never reject bread a sweet German lass tries to feed you and compare this force-feeding to a certain tyrannical oppression. And finally, when passed out under dining table chairs, dont randomly shout Terry Wogan in your sleep - Or just dont drink... Yeah, that...

16 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

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sciencetech@thestagsurrey.co.uk

App Corner

Angry Birds - Star Wars

By Alex Smith, Science & Tech Editor

Roll up, roll up! The latest installment of Angry Birds is definitely one you shouldnt miss. As with previous versions, you still find yourself on a crusade against little green piggies, but this time (dressed as Stormtroopers), you find yourself following the story of Star Wars (episodes 4 through 6). Just like the original, new birds are introduced as you progress, but this time you bump into birds like Old Ben who can use the force to propel pigs and blocks, or the Han Solo bird that gets three blaster shots as it flies across the length and breadth of your smartphone. Clearly endorsed by Lucas Arts, this game has a lot of detailed content to keep you busy (outside lectures, of course), and although its as repetitive as the traditional Angry Birds, it still brings a great experience to the franchise.
Rovio Entertainment Ltd.

Of Mice and Men

By Siobhan Harris, Science & Tech Team

Survival of a species
By Siobhan Harris, Science & Tech Team

link between the quality of maternal care in the first two years of a young elephants life and long-term consequences, such as reduced growth and delayed maturity, has been suggested by researchers at the University of Stirling. Published in the journal Biology Letters, Professor Phyllis Lee and colleagues suggested that the first two years of an elephants life can affect their survival over 40 years. This has been found in the case of inexperienced mothers giving birth too young, or without the social guidance of a knowledgeable matriarch. Professor Lee said that inexperienced mothers often provided inappropriate care. While female elephants can give birth as young as 10, males do not reach sexual maturity until aged 25-30 years. However, despite their ability to give birth so young, the babies

of the young mothers are unlikely to survive. Firstly, they are still too physically small to provide the resources the calf needs and secondly, those that actually survive are at a disadvantage for the rest of their lives, especially the sons which grow up to be shorter-than-average adults. As a result of their reduced growth, they will also experience a delay coming into their reproductive state known as the musth. This refers to a period when male bull elephants temporal glands become swollen and they become aggressive and sexually active. The age of sexual maturation for males is due to a need for them to be strong and big enough before they can reproduce. If their growth rate is hindered by a poor upbringing, their reproductive success may be significantly reduced or even nonexistent. According to Professor Lee, not only is there increasing worry over

the species survival due to cases of maternal inexperience, there is also the impact of unpredictable environmental changes and human-induced mortality. Inevitably, there are higher mortality rates for both sexes as a result of maternal inexperience, however hope is not lost for the vulnerable offspring as Professor Lee has observed an exception to the rule. In cases where the calf and its mother have a tight social bond with another experienced mother or the matriarch of the group, their survival rate is automatically increased - much like us humans! While attention to this issue is only just being brought to the forefront, it is still the larger environmental and humaninduced pressures that have the potential to change the dynamics of elephant populations and jeopardise the long-term future of the species.

illions upon millions of pounds is being spent worldwide curing mice of illnesses but are they really the best test-subjects for humans, or are we making a huge mistake in distributing mice-tailored medicines to humans with potentially fatal illnesses? The implications could be enormous; both financially and for the sake of human survival. An underlying concern about the strength of genetic similarities between human and lab mice has existed for a long time, and now a study consisting of nearly 40 researchers from various institutions across the U.S. has emphasised exactly why mice are a wrong substitute for humans in finding a cure for some of the most serious (and fatal) diseases. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, these scientists have reported that mice have different molecular responses to trauma than humans do. They therefore believe more attention and money should be put towards studying disease in humans themselves rather than on mice. The studys co-author Ronald Tompkins says that too often, researchers make a discovery in mice and assume that humans will react in the same way. Other scientists strongly disagree, arguing that if this research becomes enough of a hot topic for policy makers to make changes, then biomedical research will decline rapidly. Without the mouse, progress is going to be slowed to a standstill, says mouse geneticist, Derry Roopenian. In this new study, the researchers looked at gene activity in the blood of 167 people with sepsis (an overreaction of the immune system against trauma potentially fatal), then

compared the results with gene activity in the blood of mice with similar injuries. What they found was fundamental; barely 50% of mouse genes changed activity in the same way that humans did. A gene activated by trauma in mice was suppressed in the human body, meaning a drug founded on this mice-based research could be catastrophic if used on humans. These results indicate that humans and mice react differently to traumas that often land people in Intensive Care Units, meaning serious consideration is needed as they need to be giving the correct treatment to humans, not treatments tailored to mice. No consideration of the genetic differences between mice and humans is currently being taken seriously, says another co-author Whenzhong Xiao. Roopenian counters Xiaos point by saying no one expects the two species to match exactly, but the differences between them might actually inform research, not hinder it. However, Tompkins believes basic research on mice should continue, but its relevance to human disease is still risky, describing it as a leap of faith. In some cases, extensive research proves mice are still a good model for humans. The evidence shown in this study already highlights the need for closer consideration and the implications of using cures for mice on humans. Whether there is a better substitute than the lab mouse is still uncertain. It might even be that scientists need to evaluate molecular models more closely when choosing test subjects. Anyway, the conclusions of this study are making news worldwide, but will anything change? Plus, will scientists ever be able to find a suitable replacement? Watch this space

f you have a keen eye for interesting news stories from the world of science and technology and want to get involved in writing as part of a proactive, enthusiastic team, then today is your lucky day. Get in touch at sciencetech@thestagsurrey.co.uk and you could have your news stories printed in The Stag!

Patrick Breen

Interested in science journalism?

Eeek... Testing medicines on lab mice neglects the genetic differences between us.

Sci/Tech Editor: Alex Smith | Copy Editor: Sophie Vickery

The Stag |

27th February 2013

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

17

The new Microsoft Office 2013 is a sign of things to come

By Ankur Banerjee, Science & Tech Team

Technology round-up
By Fahmid Chowdhury, Science & Tech Team
Dress which turns clear when youre turned on

very few years, Microsoft release a new version of apps for editing documents as part of their Office suite and this January, they launched a new version called Office 2013. Unless you are a using it on a tablet, Office 2013 (which introduces user interface optimisations for touch devices) does not introduce many new features that will be of use to many, other than the fact that it now supports editing PDF documents. This is the perennial problem with Microsofts update to Office: the basic workflow for many users has not changed much, to the point that most are still happy using Office 2003. Each new version typically introduces a revamped user interface, which feels like putting a slightly-different coloured lipstick on a pig and selling it. To be fair to Office 2013 though, the new-look, inspired by the Metro design language, feels cleaner and more sophisticated than previous versions. Microsoft has typically been known to not care too much about making welldesigned software in the industry, and Office 2013 is a huge step in changing that. In fact, the new design looks downright gorgeous and its new typing interface, where words and the cursor glide smoothly while typing, feel much more inviting when writing a document. However, what really sets Office 2013 apart is that it is part

ows this for being transparent on a date; a Dutch-based fashion designer has created a high tech dressline that turns transparent when you urm get excited. This uses LED and wireless technology amongst other things to make it happen. Another spin off is a suit which turns transparent when men lie. Wow...

Playstation 4 prototype surfaces

Microsoft Office 2013 with its new, tablet-oriented, Metro design - bringing the package in-line with Microsofts Windows 8. of the global software revolution; instead of selling users a software outright, companies are trying to sell subscriptions. Rather than spending hundreds of pounds to download the software, or getting it on DVD, Microsoft is also offering a subscription to using Office in buckets of years. Stop paying your subscription, and all the user is left with is a stripped-down version of the software that can only be used for the most basic tasks. Another significant change in Office 2013 is that it now comes with deep integration with Microsofts cloud storage service SkyDrive similar to Dropbox. The push towards using SkyDrive is done quite subliminally, as the default save location that Office 2013 offers is now SkyDrive. The intention is to get the user hooked and as their cloud storage needs to grow, they will then upgrade to paid subscription plans with more storage. The benefits the software industry touts for this push towards software-as-a-service is that it allows users to easily access their bought software across multiple devices, but the underlying reason is more practical; with falling PC sales, a trend that has been going on for the past five years, software makers are finding their revenues suffering, and a move to a model where people pay for subscriptions ensures lock-in and continuing revenues. And it isnt just Microsoft, everyone from Google (with Google Docs / Drive) to Adobe (with its Creative Cloud version of Creative Suite apps) are pushing towards this future, so that their profits are not dependent on whether a new version of the software finds enough buyers. While the software-as-a-service model has become popular in niche use cases and in the business-tobusiness market, Microsofts Office 2013 will be the bellwether that tests whether consumers would be equally keen on the benefits of subscribing to software as opposed to buying them.

o all the gamers (like myself) out there; the Playstation 4 seems to be a reality. A prototype has been seen online of the controller. It is quite a while since Sony released the Playstation 3, but this year should bring us Playstation 4. The controller looks like a big upgrade on the current controller with it seemingly integrating a touchpad, earphone slot and more trigger like R2 and L2 buttons.

2013: The year of the transparent smartphone

Quality AND quantity: AMH predicts IVF success

By Siobhan Harris, Science & Tech Team

wedish researchers have found that women with a high blood concentration of Anti-Mllerian Hormone stand a better chance of conceiving and giving birth after in virtro fertilization treatment. AMH is known in animal studies to indicate egg quantity in the ovaries, but now it is suggested to correlate with the health of the eggs too. Women with higher levels of AMH are two and a half times more likely to have a pregnancy and live birth compared with

women of a similar age who have low levels of the hormone. AMH, which is produced by the ovaries, can be a predictor of successful IVF cycles says Thomas Brodin of the Uppsala University in Sweden. It is the first study to demonstrate that AMH levels are directly connected to birth and pregnancy rates, regardless of the number of eggs retrieved. He says, For women who are struggling to get pregnant, a high AMH level should be very reassuring. Previously, research has only shown AMH to be an indicator of the number of eggs remaining in womans ovaries.

Now these researchers believe that the higher the level of AMH, the greater the quality of the eggs there is remaining to support a pregnancy. The study tracked 892 women in Sweden who underwent IVF cycles between 2008 and 2011. AMH levels were measured prior to IVF treatment and the study showed that women with above 2.94ng/ ml had the highest birth rates and that IVF success rates dropped substantially as AMH levels declined. Furthermore, the study also gave women polycystic ovaries new

hope as these are associated with infertility and irregular ovulation. However, the study found that these women in fact had high AMH levels and were therefore likely to be successful candidates for IVF. The researchers concluded that high AMH levels are associated with successful IVF treatment because the hormone levels reveal important information about the quality as well as the quantity of eggs left in the ovaries. The findings will be reported by Brodin and colleagues in next months Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism.

ith Samsung already having shown off their bendable screens at a tech conference, Polytron Technologies is trying to make the dream where one can use a smartphone which is, in essence, transparent. It has started making prototypes of a dual touchscreen which, when switched on, conducts electricity to create text, icons, etc. Polytrons general manager hopes that by the end of this year, such phones may be unveiled by a phone maker. Anyone remember Ironmans phone?

Supercomputer to simulate the human brain

supercomputer has been developed to try and simulate the human brain. As we know (or dont know), the human brain is an intriguing mystery to scientists. It is hoped that with new supercomputer mapping and simulation more will be understood of our brains, yet it will take 10 years to map out the brain completely by computer.

International F
T International Festival. , . , . , ( ) .

George Mavrantonis

Treasurer of the Hellenic Society

The Hellenic and Cypriot Societies are proud participants of this year's International Festival. Our Union gives us this unique opportunity to mingle and in this way learn and share in a casual and friendly manner, the different cultures that are part of our University life. The essence of Greek history, culture and civilisation is not about a much badlyadvertised recession - let's not forget that financial crises throughout the centuries have struck-and-left dozens of leading nations of the world. Did you know for example, that Greek is one of the oldest languages spoken today by 14 million people and that most English words that

start with 'ph', 'ps', 'pneu', 'pho', 'cha', 'chem', 'pan', 'phil' and 'mono' are of Greek origin? Did you know that Greece has more archaeological museums than any other nation and it was first to create a municipal garbage disposal in 500 BC? Furthermore, did you know that when Cyprus became a province of the Roman Empire in 45 AD, it was the first country to be governed by a Christian and that 140 Cypriot flora species cannot be found anywhere else? Did you know that according to Interpol, the low crime rate in Cyprus makes it one of the safest places in the world?

Vice Pre

Dular

Chair of the Societies Executive

Kang Shen Ooi

Culture plays in an important role in maintaining the identity of a society or community of people. It not only involves languages, but songs and dances, festivals as well as beliefs. It has been passed on from generation to generation and dates back as long as a few thousand years. It is the culture that brings us together, strengthen the bonds between us and make us who we are today. To be able to be part of a culture and spread it to the world so that its beauty can be seen by others is something everyone should do. iFestival provides the platform where students of different cultural background can promote their cultures and be proud of it. Making sure that a culture is passed down from one generation to another is not the work of you and me, is the work of all of us. So lets work together to promote as well as preserve our culture so that the younger generation is able to enjoy it as much as we do.

President of VietSoc

Alissa Pham

Festival Week
Monday

Festiva

International

In

International Exhibition, 6pm-9pm, Rubix

esident Sri Lankan Society

ree Jayamaha

Tuesday
The International Festival has always been a highlight on campus for me as it celebrates the diversity of culture on campus and you learn a lot about different countries, their traditions and food. Last year was the first time the Sri Lankan Society was involved in the event and received great reviews and feedback. This year we hope to make it even better, so look out for our spicy food and traditional dancing at the iExhibition and iGala!

Chancellors Challenge: International Edition, 8pm, Chancellors

Wednesday

Sushi Making Sessions 1:30pm-3:30pm, The Living Room International Football Tournament, 12pm-5pm, 3G Pitch Spanish Society Film Night Pans Labyrinth, 6pm-8pm, location TBC

Mt th gii ni m mi sc mu u sng ng hn, cnh vt th sc nt hn, b bin th p mt n ngon mc, lch s y sc hp dn, mi v th tuyt diu cn nhp sng th nhanh nhn hi h, trch t trang Lonely Planet trong mt bi vit v Vit Nam. Tht vy, vi hng ngn im du lch bao gm c vn ha, thin nhin, khm ph mo him, th cng v ca nhc truyn thng, nhng cng vin quc gia mang tm c th gii, nhng ngi lng c c th gii a vo danh sch bo tn, nhng di sn thin nhin th gii cng vi b dy lch s tri di trn mnh t hnh ch S, Vit Nam l mt im n v cng quyn r vi nhng ai yu thch khm ph v v p ng. Hy n vi Ngy Hi Quc T c thng thc Mt thong Vit Nam. a world where the colours are more vivid, where the landscapes are bolder, the coastline more dramatic, where the history is more compelling, where the tastes are more divine, where life is lived in the fast lane, said Lonely Planet site, in an article about Vietnam. Truly so, having thousands of attractions including its cultural aspects, nature and adventure, crafts and traditional music, world- recognised national parks and globally-preserved ancient villages, World Heritage Sites and its enriched history along the S-shaped land, Vietnam is an extremely charming destination for those who desire discovery and Oriental beauties. Come to International Festival and enjoy A Glimpse of Vietnam.

Home Away From Home Workshop, 5pm-7pm, The Living Room

Thursday Friday

Tastes of the World with Baking Society & Culinary Society all day, Rubix Farmers market International Summit, 6pm-8pm, LTE

International Gala, 7pm-11pm

Inter-Uni Dance Competition hosted by the Nepalese Society, 2pm-7pm, University Hall
For more information email Em Bollon, VP Societies & ID at ussu.societies@surrey.ac.uk

Saturday

20 DANCE & THEATRE

The Stag |

27th February 2013

dancetheatre@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Sleeping Beauty
M
atthew Bournes Sleeping Beauty is an eagerly-awaited contemporary reworking of the much-loved classical ballet. Bourne was virtually deified for his sensational Swan Lake (1995), particularly remembered for its powerful male swans and the exciting, original choreography. It remains a worldwide success; the production included a parodic scene to deliberately ridicule the conventions of classical ballet. It is ironic then that Bournes choreography for Sleeping Beauty, though pleasant enough, is unoriginal to the point of modern clich; the productions vivacity lies instead in its wonderful staging and clever plot-update. Bourne exploits the current passion for the vampiric with a clever, gothic twist on the original

Dance & Theatre

story. Opening in Victorian England, the royal baby is attended to by mischievous fairies including Ardor, Feral and Tantrum, whose gifts enable her to grow into a wild-child teen Princess. She frequently outwits her parents and romps behind the bushes with Leo, the handsome palace gardener. Leos love-rival is Caradoc, son of the evil witch Carabosse, who has cursed the royal family. Gardenerprince-Leo acquires supernatural longevity in the gothic vampirebitten tradition and, with Caradoc, survives the 100 years sleep spell. As usual, Bourne beefs up the male roles, giving us Count Lilac in place of the Lilac Fairy, whilst Caradoc - the dangerous and powerful second love interest - is a new part completely. The staging is fabulous. A naughty puppet baby-princess runs rings around all the adults, provoking belly laughs from the audience. The opulent, black-gold set of marble, drapes and a huge window provide a classy, clean backdrop for the drama, avoiding the fussiness of set which is often associated with classical ballet. Later, a huge moon silhouettes slender trees amongst which the dancers weave and leap. A sexy S&M-themed nightclub is a sinister, erotic setting for the climactic resolution of the Aurora-LeoCaradoc conflict. The costumes are heavenly, particularly those of the fairies - all shredded dark chiffon. It is clear that most of the production budget went on the staging, leaving nothing for the music. The use of pre-recording for such a high profile dance event suggests a cynical assumption of an unsophisticated audience. Tchaikovskys score is the pinnacle of the classical composition for ballet and Bournes status is such that he could employ an orchestra, rather than muzak-flat tapes. The quality of dance performance throughout is excellent but the dancers are never given truly inspired material. Bourne references classical choreography at the start, and glosses Swan Lakes Dance of the Little Swans charmingly. Unfortunately, this highlights that the subsequent modern choreography is unoriginal to the point of banal, and has been seen many times before on TV shows such as the US version of So You Think You Can Dance. Quality contemporary ballet - such as that choreographed by Russell Maliphant for Sylvie Guillem - moves audiences to tears. But, despite the sublimity of Tchaikovskys composition, Mathew Bournes Sleeping Beauty, whilst highly stylish, slick and entertaining, ultimately fails to enrapture.

By Denise Bennett, Dance & Theatre Team

Glimpsing the future

By Tiffany Stoneman, Dance & Theatre Editor

Simon Annand

niversity is a place for opportunities. It is not just a way of gaining academic skills and earning that degree that employers seem so desperate for; it also provides you with the time and contacts to get out there and try different things. In the theatre and dance worlds, connections are vital and it really is more about who you know; if you can leave uni with a book of names and numbers, youre putting yourself in good stead for the future. One such opportunity presented itself to me last month. Our department received an email from BBC Bristol, asking for stewards for the filming of Flog It! at Guildford Cathedral. Id just finished a similar opportunity as a steward for RHS Garden Wisley, and as the BBC boasted it being a full paid day, I thought I might as well give it a shot. Not only would it look good on my CV but it would provide incredible insight into the workings of the BBC as a film company, and the way in which such film crews work on a day to day basis. So, I applied, peppering my cover letter with subtle compliments and

skilfully (if I say so myself) steering all my experience to benefit their criteria. A week later, I had a phone interview, which Id not anticipated, but all seemed to go well and everyone appeared friendly. Shortly after, I got confirmation that several of my course mates and I had been successful in gaining a place as a steward for the day. It would be a 8:30am till 7pm day, on your feet, but it was paid, at the BBC and during the last week of January when we had nothing else to do. It was an early start, and we nervously awaited people whose names we knew but faces we didnt. There was no reason to be so apprehensive. Adam and Charlotte, the runners in charge of us, were incredibly friendly, immediately reassuring us and making us feel comfortable. Rather swiftly we had a tour of the venue, put on our branded polo shirts and met the crew (at least 20-odd people of varying importance). Then it was out into the cold to chat to the already growing crowd of eager public. Heres the important thing to realise working for television is not glamorous. My first job was meant to be indoors but I was asked to help handle the queue; luckily,

just as my hands were turning blue, a cameraman offered me his coat as he was heading inside. The majority of the day was spent on my feet, making sure the public sat in the right places, chatting to them, finding out where theyd come from and what theyd brought and generally maintaining a cheery and helpful disposition. Following lunch, my next job was on the directors table. That was the really interesting part. I got to see them filming the various items, viewed the shots from the monitors and I got a real sense of the detail and technicality behind the 30-minute shows. In this role I was a runner, carrying the antiques to and from the wrapping room and being on hand to help out the crew whenever they needed. Surprisingly, I only made one cup of tea the entire day! Which I deem a grand success. The biggest challenge of the day was maintaining energy levels; there was a lot to do and a lot to think about, but it consisted of many hours standing, answering the same questions and having the same smile. But as I said before, the crew were fantastic and supportive; you never felt like you were searching for something to do, and

initiative was praised. It was an insightful day of just how complex such orchestrations are in our 9hours of filming time we saw over 800 people with their antiques and recorded enough footage for 5 episodes. The BBC is a huge organisation and I was working for just one show in just one branch of the corporation. But whenever I was asked about my plans for the future, I explained my degree, my interest in journalism and my hopes of broadcast experience for people interested in stage work, learning about the screen is just as important as it is an ever-growing medium that has much worth.

My biggest piece of advice to those of you interested in a vocational career whether it be in the media or the arts is to take up every single opportunity that you possibly can. Every day you spend working for someone new is another name you have for the future, another line to your CV and another chance for you to impress someone. Its about the experience, so when you do finally get that job, you wont be walking into it blind. Instead, youll have an understanding of industry, professionalism, and above all... how to make that perfect cuppa.

Matthew Fang

Dance/Theatre Editor: Tiffany Stoneman | Copy Editor: Hannah Wann

The Stag |

27th February 2013

DANCE & THEATRE

21

Watch This Space: Arts at Surrey

s you can see, MTSocs FAME! is almost here. Get yourself ready for a dazzling set, incredible musicality, and a well known story of love and the arts. What: FAME When: 27th February - 2nd March Where: Main Hall Cost: 5 (10 full)

usicals not your thing? Then how about a classic novel reimagined onstage in a spectacular production by Rachel Wagstaff (adapt.) and Alastair Whatley (dir.). What: Birdsong When: 25th February - 2nd March Where: Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Cost: from 15

f you missed BalletBoyz at GLive this week, never fear! Theyre coming to London soon as part of their The Talent Tour. Keep an eye out in the next issue of The Stag for a review of their show too. What: BalletBoyz: The Talent 2013 When: 8th-13th March Where: Sadlers Wells, London Cost: from 12

Bits O The Bard

An honest tale speeds best being plainly told
- Queen Elizabeth Richard III, Act 4 Scene 4

22 FILM

The Stag |

27th February 2013

film@thestagsurrey.co.uk

The Lucky One Friends

By Candice Ritchie, Film Editor

Film

uring the last decade, Nicholas Sparks has had the same number of film adaptations as JK Rowling. Ever since A Walk to Remember, and the infamous The Notebook, every adaptation tagged with his name has brought high expectations in the romance genre and, needless to say, satisfaction. So, when I heard that The Lucky One was yet another film adaptation of Sparks novels, I knew instantly that I would like it and instantly that I would cry. Whilst serving in Iraq, US Marine Logan Thibault (Zac Efron) finds a photograph of an unknown young woman, which he deems to be the good luck charm that keeps him alive. Spotting clues in the photo which suggest she is from Louisiana, he heads there after finishing his tour in the futile hope of finding her. Here he finds Beth Green (Taylor Schilling) and, being too anxious to reveal his reason for coming, she assumes that

he has seen the advertisement for a helper in the dog kennels. Soon, Logans presence at the kennels becomes perpetual, and he begins to build a close relationship with both Beth and her son, Ben. But Beths exhusband is not going to make things easy; neither is the secret of the photograph. Many have begun to slate adaptations based on the novels of Sparks for their similarity in plot the repeated loss of a loved one, and the same relationship dynamics. They even go as far as to suggest that the films dont live up to the books; perhaps thats why I enjoyed it I havent read the original. But the general consensus is that these adaptations are cheesy, predictable and repetitive. My answer; arent all romance films? Not one of these films has failed to make me cry, but thats why I love them theyre tearjerkers, and thats what they set out to be. Wouldnt it be more controversial if the book was melancholy but the film

contained nothing but content? It was clear in this film that Zac Efron has grown up. Long gone are the days of Troy Bolton and his baby face in High School Musical, or the man who could act a teenager in 17 Again. With rugged facial hair and a bigger build, Efrons aesthetics are finally manly. He doesnt quite match up to the previous male protagonists of Sparks adaptations; however he has a long way to go before he can rival Tatum and Gosling. I felt that Efrons acting was also a grade higher than previous works; perhaps because he plays a more serious character than his typical high-school role. He was much more connected to Logan, and I often found myself pining for the distance between him and Beth to close. Overall, its nothing new, but if youre expecting innovation when you begin a romance film in todays society, youll have a long wait. Accept it for what it is a good old chick-flick, with a few tears.

With Kids

By Becky Richmond, Marketing Editor

o I stumbled over this movie whilst trying to find a nice, lovey-dovey romantic film so I could swoon over the main male character, and oh boy, this film did not disappoint. Absolutely hilarious, I laughed so hard at some points (baby diarrhoea, need I say more?) and my heart wept at others. Adam Scott is so insanely gorgeous and loveable; you will instantly fall in love with him. Megan Fox was, as I always find her, extremely annoying. Token hot girl, who snowboards and plays Xbox, we get it, youre gorgeous and cool - bleugh. But, it sort of adds to the film; Im not sure if youre meant to dislike her character so you root for Adam Scotts and Jennifer Westfeldts characters to get together, but it definitely has that effect. Westfeldt also did a

wonderful job at writing and starring in the film. Probably one of the best Rom-Coms Ive seen in a long time, and trust me, Ive seen a lot of RomComs... The film essentially features around three couples who all have kids, but through three different situations One couple is happily married with two children. Another discover that marriage and children arent all theyre cracked up to be and finally, theres Jason and Julie who are best friends from college and decide to have a baby together so they can fulfil that aspect of life without disappointing marriage; but, it doesnt quite work out that way. Its such a wonderful film, and I do urge you to watch it, maybe in the come down from Valentines Day you can still feel the love! Plus, just an added bonus, the baby Jason and Julie have is super-super adorable.

Film Editor: Candice Ritchie | Copy Editor: Sophie Vickery

The Stag |

27th February 2013

FILM

23

By Ankur Banerjee, Film Team

Zero Dark Thirty

Z
ero Dark Thirty is a curious film that tries to walk a fine line between being a documentary and an action film. Much has been written about the controversial nature of the film for its depiction of torture techniques. Setting that aside and judging the film based purely on its artistic merit, I found it coming up short. The first half of the film is a major drag; the plot progresses slowly and I found myself disinterested in the machinations that it went through in representing the backstory of how Osama bin Laden was tracked down. Despite devoting a lot of screen time, the film hardly spends any time on meaningful character development or in making any kind of cogent political arguments. Dan (Jason Clarke), the only slightly-interesting character, is taken out of rotation early on and the rest is spent on making Maya (Jessica Chastain) appear spunky by dropping expletives in a meeting with top CIA brass. Mark Strongs acting talent is wasted by giving him a bit role in the film. The pace picks up with the last quarter of the film devoted to the actual military operation - Operation Neptune Spear - which took down Osama bin Laden. It is here that Kathryn Bigelows direction works its magic in portraying the tension of the soldiers modestly; similarly to the iconically-understated manner in which she portrayed the sniper ambush in The Hurt Locker. The dialogue in one particular scene where a Black Hawk helicopter crashes at bin Ladens house is sure to remind viewers of Black Hawk Down. I was glad that the focus was kept on the teams in battle rather than relying of the crutch of cutting back to situation rooms far away with satellite imagery to explain the battlefield narrative as many war

films tend to do. Zero Dark Thirty feels like a film where Bigelow is relying on the goodwill of The Hurt Locker to score points with critics and the audience. I couldnt help comparing Zero Dark Thirty to other genre films such as Syriana and Body of Lies that do a better job (in my opinion) of character development while keeping the pace consistently snappy. In a word: disappointed.

Interested in films?
Whether you prefer Cannes, Hollywood or just your local Odeon, we are looking for you! Get involved and become part of The Stag, just by reviewing releases new, old or obscure. Get in touch through film@thestagsurrey.co.uk.

The Butterfly Keith Lemon: The Film Effect (2004)

By Beth Goss, Film Team

m usually very fussy when it comes to my choice of movie, meaning I dont take movie recommendations lightly (I understand the irony in this statement). So it was with great trepidation that I bought, yes bought, a copy of The Butterfly Effect (2004) and settled down to watch. And for once my scepticism was misguided! This Sci-Fi/ Thriller kept me entertained until the very end- of which there is technically two, by the way. The true ending was considered too controversial for every day watchers, meaning that a second air plane ending was also filmed. Now doesnt that make you want to watch The Butterfly Effect? I mean, how many

movies have to be forced to refilm their final sequence? Ill give you a quick overview of the plot here. The Butterfly Effect follows the life of a young man, played by Ashton Kutcher, who has a habit of blocking out harmful memories throughout his life. As he grows up and enters college, he finds a way to remember these lost memories and, inadvertently, alter his life. Now let me just say that this movie is not for the faint hearted. Some pretty serious subjects are brought up during the course of the moviesuicide being a prevalent thread. Though there are a couple of light-hearted scenes dotted about, The Butterfly Effect remains a serious thriller film.

By Candice Ritchie, Film Editor

any films that stem from TV series seem to work; think The Inbetweeners, The Muppets, or The A Team. Even those that are based on TV characters, such as the infamous Ali G or comedy legend Mr Bean, appear to create success. But Keith Lemon: The Film is an exception. Full to the brim with cameo appearances and over-thetop comedy, it doesnt come much cheesier than this.

The plot follows Keith Lemon (Leigh Francis) as he attempts to make his new invention, the securipole, a success. After failing to attract any attention at the Invention Convention in London, and accidentally ordering over a million units, Keith is in great debt to Evil Steve. As a get out plan, he decides to market the new mobile phone given to him as a gift, which becomes an overnight sensation known as the Keith Lemon Phone. However, Keiths success is short-

lived when the phone is found to have a technical fault, causing ones mouth to drop and giving them a speech impediment. While writing a synopsis of the plot, I realised how ridiculous it sounds. It is as though Leigh Francis and Paul Angunawela paired up to create anything that would fill eighty-five minutes. Angunawelas direction is awful everything seems thrown together, and the script is all over the place. The film certainly lacks the comedy value it sets out to achieve. It was clear from watching the trailer that all things cheesy were going to aggregate, but after finding Francis character funny on Celebrity Juice; I was expecting to find him at least amusing in the film. The only thing I can say about the endless cameos is that they were aggravating and pointless. They were simply there to be there, did nothing for the plot, and made the film seem like a directory of celebrities. To name a few: Tinchy Stryder, Holly Willoughby, Fearne Cotton, Billy Ocean, Jedward, Paddy McGuiness, Ronan Keating, Gary Barlow, Mel C, Emma Bunton, David Hasselhoff; the list goes on. I need not mention Kelly Brook, whose acting is as awful as ever. The only person that stood out for me and probably because hes one of the only true actors in the film was Verne Troyer. All I can say is Im glad I didnt pay for this film - thank god for DVD rental services. It truly is the worst film of 2012.

Lit Editor: Emily Smart | Copy Editor: Sophie Vickery

The Stag |

27th February 2013

LITERATURE

25

Literature
Celebrate International Womens Day with a good book
By Shiri Shah, Literature Team

ith International Womens Day quickly approaching, it is time to start re-reading those classic literary texts that represent womens identity, power and control. The day has been observed since 1908; a time of great expansion and turbulence in the industrialized world that saw booming population growth and the rise of radical ideologies. Great unrest and critical debate was occurring among women which and by 1963 Betty Friedan had produced her feminist text The Feminine Mystique, inspiring women to make an independent change. The days of the domesticated housewife are long in the past and there could not be a better time to celebrate International Womens Day. This year there will be

many events to commemorate the day, each based around the theme of gaining momentum and looking towards a more sustainable change. An inspiring event revealed on the website describes the chance for schoolchildren from Gloucestershire to enter a competition to name their heroine. This could be by drawing, painting or writing, and gives children the chance to really think about what, and who, inspires them. They can then question why they find such figures inspiring and the competition also encourages creativity. Meanwhile, you can experience the power of the movement right here on campus as Professor Marie BreenSmyth will be giving an inaugural lecture entitled When the past is present: the Casualty, the Body, the Politics. Or you could just get your nose into some really good feminist

fiction. This is fiction where feminism is the primary theme, and they are mainly stories about people challenging and overcoming sexism, gender roles and discrimination. Some of the best writers are women and feminists, for example we have Margaret Atwood, Sylvia Plath and the Bronte sisters. I would recommend The Handmaids Tale by Margaret Atwood, The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath and Orlando by Virginia Woolf. However, if you fancy embracing literature with a more international flavour, you could try Alice Walkers The Color Purple, Coming of Age in Mississippi by Anne Moody and Salt Eaters by Toni Cade Bambara. Happy reading and International Womens Day! We can all appreciate how far women have come in the fight for equality and how much work is left to be accomplished.

Surrey New Writers Festival

By Emily Smart, Literature Editor

Happy 200th Birthday Mr Darcy

iterature readers of The Stag, it is time to start purchasing your tickets for the upcoming Surrey New Writers Festival. This annual festival, affiliated with the creative writing programme here at the University of Surrey, will take place on Friday 15th and Saturday 16th March, and is available to both students and the public. This year, the festival will focus on celebrating Guildfords historical connection with the well known writer of Alice in Wonderland, Lewis Carroll. Alongside this, it is also providing numerous events that are of great interest to former, current and potential Surrey students. The events range from a drop-in writing surgery with our very own Paul Vlitos for those budding creative writers in need of that extra push, to a chance to

find out more about the world of poetry and publication with David Ashford and Stephen Mooney. Or, if you are looking for something a little bit more lighthearted, why not attend the humour and writing panel with Tim Miles or grab a spot of lunch with author Liam Bell. These are four of over twenty different events occurring during the two day festival which promises to be something not to miss out on. Tickets are just 3 for students and some of the events are even free, so what is stopping you? If you do attend, be sure to let The Stag know what you thought of it! If you are interested in finding out a little more about the festival or wish to purchase a ticket, all details can be found on http://www.surrey.ac.uk/ arts/literature/events/surrey_new_ writers_festival_2013.htm

By Sophie Vickery, Literature Team Austen described her novel, Pride and Prejudice, as my own darling child from London and what a darling book it was; engaging readers of all ages and remaining an imperative and popular part of todays literature. The novels success has been explained following its incorporation of theme which has been relevant across history from love and marriage, to money and power within family settings. It really is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife and there is no doubt that societys prejudice and personal motives play a role in our everyday lives. But it is Austens astute perception and satirical humour which brings the characters

alive as Mr. Darcy has become a household name and despite being 200 years old, there are few modern women who would decline a date at Pemberly. Meanwhile, the story itself inspired the popular BBC TV series, a 2005 film starring Keira Knightly and even a Bollywood version; Bride and Prejudice. Not forgetting the Bridgette Jones adaptations of course! Colin Firth certainly owes the majority of his success to Austens work. Even in the First World War the novel was given to soldiers sent home to recover from shell shock. Austens novel has marked cultures throughout history and is commonly incorporated in education syllabuses, showing that this is not simply a love story, but a true masterpiece of witty and complex intuition which refuses to retire from our bookshelves anytime soon.

LargeWide

I would have to say that my most embarrassing moment since being at university came on my 19th birthday. DJ Tim Westwood announced to the whole of Rubix that I was available whilst obliviously and happily dancing in the middle of the dance floor, alone.

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literature@thestagsurrey.co.uk

The Teenage Dystopian Revolution

By Alexandra Wilks, Editor

ost-apocalyptic dystopian narratives are literally taking over our book shelves. But these narratives are not marketed at adults, but teenagers. A few years ago, vampire books were the big sellers. After Stephanie Meyers ridiculous success with the Twilight saga, vampire books erupted across the Young Adult section of every bookshop. All books had a white, black or red cover and numerous authors enjoyed some success with weak re-hashings of Twilight, Rachel Caines Morganville Vampires series Im looking at you. However, since the release of Suzanne Collins The Hunger Games trilogy (which is one of the best books Ive ever read), dystopian fiction is taking over the average teenagers bookshelves. Collins deserves all the praise she gets, The Hunger Games is gripping, innovative and wonderfully original. Plus, the film by far exceeds the epic cringe fest that is the Twilight films. And I like Twilight.

The post-apocalyptic explosion is really exciting, but why are teens engaging with these stark, dark and often terrifying narratives? Being a teenager you often feel completely alone, surrounded by adults who are boring and chronically out of touch, big world events pass you by and often you dont really understand them. Post-apocalyptic narratives feed directly into these feelings. Adults are jumping on board too, both my parents have read The Hunger Games, and Ive seen many, many copies floating around on the tube during rush hour. The financial crash of 2009 has shaken our Western world. It still seems a shock that banks, those trusted and often feared structures, could get it so horribly wrong. With the High Street dying around us, and more and more people rejecting the commercialisation of just about everything, the latest obsession with post-apocalyptic fiction seems oddly apt. Here are three young adult books you should read if you think end-of-the-world narratives might be the thing for you:

Fancy an easy read to get you started? 1) The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. The book that started off the whole phenomenon. Set in the fictional Panem (which bares subtle similarities to North America), the trilogy is centred around a corrupt Capitol which requests that 2 under 18s from the surrounding districts take part in the deadly Hunger Games. The Hunger Games is televised for the enjoyment of the Capitol, and the purpose is for one victor to kill off all other contestants. 2) The Hunt by Andrew Fukuda. The human race has been almost entirely eradicated and eaten by the new people, blood thirsty, vampiric like beings who cannot stand sunlight, and have little or no emotions. The narrator, 17 year old Gene, is one of the only humans (known as hepers) left. 3) Delirium series by Lauren Oliver Love is a disease and a cure has been found. Humans are fixed so they cannot fall in love. Lena is about to be fixed when she meets Alex. Fancy something a bit more grown up? 1) The Road by Cormac McCarthy Set in a post-apocalyptic North America, The Road is the harrowing tale of a Father and Sons doomed journey across blasted landscapes. 2) Super Sad True Love Story by Gary Shteyngart A clever, hilarious, and thoroughly original novel about love, morality and the breakdown of North America. Ambitious, bold and brilliant. 3) The Handmaids Tale by Margaret Atwood Widely regarded as a classic (and deservedly so), Atwoods tale is set in a dystopian society in which relations between men and women are strictly controlled. A fantastic science fiction tale, with an interesting moral message.

The fault in The Fault In Our Stars

By Ankur Banerjee, Literature Team ohn Greens latest novel, The Fault In Our Stars, does everything right on paper; its plot has universal appeal and has garnered much critical acclaim to boot. The book was destined to become a bestseller. The story is of a 16 year old girl, Hazel Grace Lancaster, who suffers from cancer and meets a guy called Augutus Gus Waters through her cancer support group. She falls in love with him, and the story tells the machinations of this romance throughout the months they spend together. A major subplot revolves around an alcoholic author called Peter van Houten who lives in Amsterdam Hazels favourite author whom the two end up meeting in a quest to find the ending to his (only) novel. To say that I was massively disappointed with this book would be an understatement. I expected it to be similar to Jodi Picoults My Sisters Keeper a book that moved me to tears with its story but in the end I found The Fault In Our Stars to be lacking in pizazz. The plot is only slightly more original than a story that you might read on the back of a box of breakfast cereal. Every clich that you can think of (and then some more) is thrown into the mix, to the point that every single page is utterly predictable. If it was supported by proper character

development, the novel would still be salvageable, but alas this is something it fails to do so. Its easy to forget how much of the buzz around John Greens books stems from legions of adoring fans who flooded the Web with positive reviews. For those who are unaware of his background, John Green is a major Internet celebrity; he converts to four-sevenths of a real-life celebrity at current exchange rates for pioneering the concept of vlogging (video blogging). With just about a million subscribers on YouTube and 300 million views on his videos, Greens fans are a highlyeffective PR juggernaut that many publishing executives can only wish for. Lest someone accuse me of being biased against John Green, I immensely enjoyed one of his previous novels Paper Towns. I used to avoid the whole young adult novel genre like the scourge until Paper Towns showed me that a genuinely witty novel aimed at younger readers that did not have flying wizards or law-andorder leprechauns could be written. The genre as a whole has progressed so far in terms of being insightful yet relevant to the younger generation. Unfortunately, The Fault In Our Stars signifies everything that I see wrong in dumbing down books to appeal to young readers.

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The Stag |

27th February 2013

literature@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Review of Money by Martin Amis

By Joseph Harrison, Literature Team

uch is John Selfs vision for when he finally goes to California to get the body re-think hes promised himself; just as soon as he really gets in on the money that is. John Self is the protagonist and narrator of the novel Money: a Suicide Note, by Martin Amis. He is a successful director of commercials, but uses his wealth to fuel his endless appetite for pornography, prostitutes, junk food and alcohol. When the film producer Fielding Goodney invites him to work with

marks an important mile stone in his literary career. It is significantly longer than his earlier novels (being virtually twice the size) and was in his own words the novel where he stopped trying to behave. Whilst he was writing, he invested most of his energies into the voice of John Self and admits to having been worried that he hadnt pulled it off. However, it has come to be critically acclaimed for its use of language during characterisation and it is a novel brimming

Alexandra Wilks discusses sick lit and racist language in childrens fiction

I can see me now ... I move confidently among the technicians, the ideas men and creative consultants, the engineers and fine-tuners. Someone shows me the rough of my new ears and nostrils.
him on a pornographic film in New York, the novels tragic-comical story is set in motion. Self is in a relationship with a stripper called Selina Street, but they both know and accept that it is a money-sex relationship and he suspects her of having an affair. A Frank the phone haunts the story, watching John without his knowing and phoning him up late at night to condemn the excesses of his behaviour. Fielding Goodney is a sharply dressed gogetter in his mid-twenties, with dazzling teeth and a seemingly endless supply of money. As the novel progresses, Selfs grand plans to get the perfect body (even complete with new ears) seem more and more absurd and darkly comical in how they jar with the reality of his lonely, hedonistic and morbidly obese character. Just how absurd, becomes clear towards the novels end, but I wont spoil that for you. Money (published 1984) is Amiss fifth novel and it with Amis trademark darkly entertaining satire and word play. Self is an apt surname for the lonely, self-destructive protagonist, and the key talents for Goodneys porno have names like Spunk Davis, of course. Admittedly, its a rather long book, and could be about half the length without any real sacrifice to plot. However, I would definitely recommend it following its engaging examination of the relationship between money and culture, not to mention its narrative style. Amis rich prose draws you in to the obscene, hilarious and at times nauseating world of John Self and the novels conclusion will likely surprise you as much as it does John. Self-obsessed and at times violent, hes certainly not a loveable guy, but his vulnerability means that you cant really hate him either.

Racy Reads winner announced

By Sophie Vickery, Literature Team

orraine Kellys breakfast show has announced the winner for her Racy Reads competition. The programme is looking for the next erotic romance to hit the shelves this year with the help of an expert panel of judges. Romantic best-seller Jackie Collins, author Victoria Fox and actor William Roache were impressed with the lustful entries and after much deliberation selected Anouska Knight as the winner with her novel Cake. The novel combines naughtiness with cake and Knight reveals that there is one particularly steamy scene which involves cake decorating. The novel also bequeaths a gripping story of conflicted characters struggling to reconcile with tragedies which have occurred in their pasts and the judges commended the novels expansion beyond just sex scenes. Humour also finds its way into the novel and the judging panel were entertained with the descriptions of a cake involving a stiletto heel stuck into a testicle. The competitions impressive prize will publish the novel this summer, while Knight will be flown to Los Angeles to meet Jackie Collins. Knight said she was overwhelmed with the prize and thanks Jackies advice to write about what you know, saying and I may not know much, but I know cakes. Knight had to close her cake shop last summer and found writing as an outlet. She says winning has given her the confidence to say you know what girls Im not going to come out for a glass of wine tonight because Im writing a chapter.

The judges also praised the novels addictive element; the competition only allowed entries of 1000 words, yet within this limited space Knight offered a unique writing style to truly grip the reader. Meanwhile, Collins and her fellow panel suggested women are better at writing sex scenes than men since they incorporate emotional elements and set the scene in a much more patient manner. Here is a sneak preview of the winning novel: We were locked into each other, the slick covering of sweat we had each bestowed upon the other the only relief in what would otherwise be a crushing frenzy of need. I didnt care. I wanted it to reign down on me like an insatiable creature, to devour me, to gobble us both up and force us harder into one another until the lines between our writhing bodies were no more.

eenage and childrens fiction has been hitting the headlines hard of late. With columnists furiously arguing over whether racist language is appropriate in Childrens books or whether teenagers and young adults should be allowed to read sick lit. Sick lit refers to books aimed at teenagers about fellow teenagers with terminal illnesses. The Daily Mails Tanith Carey described these novels as mawkish and exploitative. The racist language debate is altogether more nuanced, with children complaining about the use of the word nigger in certain books. All the arguments stemming from the words on a page take us back to the age old question, How much should we protect our children?. As a child I read voraciously, devouring almost every novel that I could. I read things that disturbed me (Roald Dahls Tales of the Unexpected, for one), things that made me cry (Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman) and things that opened my eyes to the world

around me (The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini). I honestly think without these formative experiences I would never had ended up studying English Literature at University. It is through reading that I have learnt so much about the world around me. Death is a part of life, and reading about terminal illness in a book is a brilliant way for teenagers to begin to think about these more dark facts. Racist language, however, is more difficult. One could argue that if it upsets children, then it should not be in childrens books. However, give me one child who loves Biff and Chip. Children are not separate entities, and like adults they want to be challenged, they dont want to read happy, boring, clich stories. One wonders how much of all this fuss is coming from complaining children and how much are over-protective parents appalled by the modern edgy childrens story. In the end, perhaps certain columnists and indeed parents would do well to remember if a book offends you, simply close it and move on.

The Stags own Twitter fiction

In the last issue, Becky Richmond wrote the additional piece to the Twitter story. Here is a reminder Or am I? I dont know. Ive never known. Im very off topic! I dont know if Im chasing something or running. Ive somehow deceived myself... Alex Smith, Science & Tech Editor will now continue the story...

But I dont blame myself. Instead I just run away

Lorraine Kelly on her morning show discussing racy reads

from judgement. Escaping the clutches of old, veering towards a forest of new beginnings.

Sean

Music Editor: Becky Worley | Copy Editor: Hannah Wann

The Stag |

27th February 2013

MUSIC

29

Music

The Foals - Holy Fire

When I was asked to write up one of my most embarrassing moments, only one thought stuck in my mind. I could have gone down the funny but slightly flattering route; however this would just not be truthful. I have discovered recently that I am in fact lactose intolerant, a slightly boring and annoying allergy to dairy. This is perhaps in part due to the crippling fear of cows which I hold deep inside me: Satans two horned, evil-eyed, chasing you down creatures. One evening, on a cliff-top stroll on holiday, a thick fog began to roll in around me and my boyfriend. By the time we were headed back down we could only see a metre in front ourselves. It was then I began to get painful stabbing sensations in my stomach with every step. I tried to act normal until black spots appeared in front of my eyes and I had to abruptly lie down. Hey whats wrong? I dont feel too good. Get away from me before Im sick on you. (I am a charmer) I proceeded to writhe around on the floor in agony with visions of cows appearing from the fog like some twisted nightmare. After what seemed like hours I was walked back down the hill to dash into the nearest public toilets. Now Ive been with my boyfriend a long time, but I still know a passion killer when I see one, and emerging from the loo with mud and grass all up my back after ejecting my stomach contents was one of them.

Album Review:

By Elliot Tyers, Music Team

Bastille - Pompeii Single Release

By Becky Worley, Music Editor

astille are a relatively new band from South London, only forming in 2010 and being signed in 2011. They are currently supporting Two Door Cinema Club on their tour, and that is a good comparison to begin with. They share the same catchy indie-pop sound, which has really caught on as a genre. Their single Flaws first bought my attention to the band, with its fairly simplistic style and the vocals featuring heavily, with male harmonies in the background. This is echoed in their new single Pompeii, which was released on the 24th of February. It begins with these male harmonies to create an atmospheric beginning then moves into a simple electronic beat and

vocals. This stripped back style is then added to with a military drum beat and the male harmonies then build in the chorus. The verses stay stripped back and again move into a crescendo chorus and ending. The lyrics themselves are catchy, and even after the first listening you find yourself bopping along and singing away, and it is clear the vocals and lyrics are the centrepiece of the song while the beat, harmonies and simple electronic tune serve as a background. Dan Smith, the lead vocalist, is definitely the prominent member or the band, also being the only one to feature in the video for this song. With a new album out on the 4th of March, maybe this is another London based indie-pop group to look out for.

oals for me have always been one of those bands that Ive wanted to love but found it difficult to do so. Since their debut album Antidotes, Ive thought of myself as a fan, mostly for the fact that they seemed to be doing something different to everyone else; tracks like Cassius skitter schizophrenically across start-stop guitar lines whereas the stadium rock championed by the likes of Kings of Leon was hitting its most formulaic best. This eccentricity was something that struck me as a bit hit-and-miss; some of the lyrics came across as purposefully vague and obscure, some of the track constructions came across as deliberately difficult to listen to. All of it was very impressive and intelligent, but the main problem was that it was trying to impress with said intelligence. Im always hesitant about using the term album track in a disparaging way as I tend to think that, just because a track isnt as commercially viable or as different to the bands usual sound, it shouldnt dismissed on those grounds. That said, follow-up album Total Life Forever could best be said to be made up, for the most part, with album tracks. One of the few bright points on that album was Spanish Sahara the 6-minute track is a slow building, chilling track that managed to touch on an emotional core that is somewhat lacking from many of other Foals tracks. Its that emotional evolution that stretches into their third album Holy Fire, something that I think is for the better. That said, fans hoping for more of the same when it comes to Foals may be in for a somewhat unpleasant surprise. The first proper track on the album, Inhaler, casts aside the intellectualism of the past two albums for something thats much more muscular and raw. It builds slowly across the first couple minutes into a crescendo of well-produced stabs of guitar and bass lines that doesnt let up in

intensity until the final minute, which features some trademark Foals guitar licks. The message is a pretty simple one: Were bigger than before, stupider than before and better than before. That punch in the gut sound is something that carries on throughout the album, giving the entire album a sense of fun which is lacking in the Foals past efforts. Other benefits of this albums progression is that we get to see the full vocal talent of Yannis Philippakis, especially on the fantastic track Late Night, and a much more intense level of production to previous albums. However, this more violent approach to producing tracks doesnt mean a total change in direction; tracks like My Number still have that very Foals-ish sound of scattering complex guitars, showing that they havent totally given up on their old sound. For all of the highs about this album, it isnt all positive; I sadly have to use the term album track again to refer to songs such as Out of the Woods and Stepson which dont really do anything except beef up the time length of the album. Another complaint is that a lot of the elements of this album that were lacking in Foals back catalogue; a bigger sound, more muscular production and so on could suggest that this is a somewhat cynical move to push Foals up to the status of a headliner act. Although that isnt something that Id complain about seeing, it doesnt really ring true with the fact that, for me, Foals were always a band who tried not to walk the beaten path. Despite this, Holy Fire is still a quality album. Its maybe not one that hardcore Foals fans will appreciate but is something that could definitely push Foals into the big time.

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27th February 2013

music@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Old Dogs, New Tricks

Neil Young & Crazy Horse: Americana and Psychedelic Pill
By Dan Davison, Music Team

Why I love... Why I love... Warpaint The Smiths

By Alexandra Wilks, Editor

s some of you may recall from last year, I ran a regular series which focussed on the albums released later in life by long-established icons. After a considerable hiatus, I am pleased to announce that Old Dogs, New Tricks is back. For this issue, the spotlight is upon one individual who has certainly made his name as a longrunner in the music industry. That individual is Neil Young. Known for his distinctive, guitar-driven sound on such enduring solo works as Harvest (1972) - as well as his group efforts with Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young - in the past year the Canadian legend has joined forces with his former band Crazy Horse to bring us two new albums: Americana and Psychedelic Pill (2012). Released in June 2012, Americana largely consists of traditional folk songs, reinterpreted in a hard rock style. In several respects, this concept is commendable: many of these traditional songs have a sombre or darkly humorous edge, which is often lost upon modern audiences. For instance, despite its frequent inclusion in childrens books, how many are aware that the folk ballad Clementine ends with the narrator forgetting his deceased love after a kiss from her younger sister? Such forgotten aspects are brought to the forefront in Americana by the ominous pounding of drums and the metallic edge of electric guitars.

Nonetheless, for all of the albums conceptual brilliance, it frequently encounters issues of execution. Whilst the bands characteristic stomp is often in-keeping with the foreboding atmosphere clearly intended for the songs, at other times it becomes outright cacophonous. This is especially problematic when combined with Youngs often weak and unsupported vocals. Although this does not detract too substantially from the albums shorter moments of bleak humour

- such as the traditional piece Gallows Pole (previously given the hard rock treatment by Led Zeppelin in 1970) - it can prove grating after extended listens. Nevertheless, Americanas faults are largely redeemed by the other side of its coin, Psychedelic Pill. Released in October 2012, Psychedelic Pill is to a great extent the product of the bands jam sessions during the recording of Americana. This is especially evident from its marathon-length tracks, such as the 27-minute opener Driftin Back, which progresses from gentle, folkinspired strumming to the psychedelic lick of electric guitars in a manner evocative of Youngs older material. Other appreciable moments are brought by the lyrics to Twisted Road, where Young recounts the inspiration invoked by his Sixties contemporaries: First time I heard Like A Rolling Stone/ I felt that magic and took it home. Meanwhile, in Walk Like a Giant has a continuous unrelenting grind of guitars, punctuated with catchy whistles and blistering solos. In summary, neither Americana nor Psychedelic Pill will bring any new converts to Neil Youngs following. However, if all you need is a healthy dose of undiluted rock n roll, this pair of albums can deliver it directly.

have spent much of my life feeling like a complete outsider. Ive always been a socially awkward loner. Social interaction makes me sweaty. Modern music doesnt really address these intense feelings of social desperation for me; I am not a firework and although I am without a doubt insecure I do not turn heads when I walk through the door. The Smiths, however, is the perfect music for anyone whos ever felt like a complete and total loser. Morrisseys desolate whining, Please, please, please let me get what I want this time could have been an inner monologue in my own sad little brain. Even Johnny Marrs riffs, which are slightly off with the lyrics, add to that intense feeling of being different and not fitting in. The Smiths arent just depressing losers though. Their lyrics are sharp and incredibly funny, as well as, at turns, political: England is mine and owes me a living. Plus, theres a strange uncomfortable nature to almost everything Morrissey ever penned; If a double decker crashes into us, to die by your side, is such a heavenly way to die. The first time I heard the dulcet and beautiful tones of The Smiths I was thirteen years old. There Is A Light That Never

Goes Out was playing in a shop, I cant remember which one, and it caught me off guard. Previously, my musical diet had consisted of Now...CDs and whatever was playing on Capital FM. It sounds incredibly odd, but Ive already disclosed how odd I am, so I ran up to the shop assistant and practically shouted, What is this music? The Smiths, they replied. I then sprinted to HMV (RIP) and bought The Queen is Dead. I would estimate in the last eight years that Ive listened to this album over 1000 times. I Know Its Over (my favourite song on this album) is the most played song on my IPod, with over 500 plays. This song encapsulates every emotion Ive ever felt; I know its over, and it never really began, but in my heart it was so real. If youve ever fallen asleep with your laptop on your bed beside you, and woken up to its warm glow, thinking for one deliriously delicious moment that there was a real living loving person in your bed, then The Smiths are the band for you. Intense loneliness, over inflated sense of self worth, coupled with accurate self hatred, causing inner conflict? The Smiths. A desperate need for human interaction, but a complete ambivalence towards almost everyone in your life? The Smiths. Basically, a loser with an ego? The Smiths, every single time.

Music Editor: Becky Worley | Copy Editor: Hannah Wann

The Stag |

27th February 2013

MUSIC

31

2 new releases to look out for:

By Jhora Sangha, Music Team

James Blake - Retrograde

Retrograde is the first single off James Blakes new album Overgrown and it does not disappoint. James Blake delivers his very own unique twist on electronic music with ghost-like vocals over warm synths. This is trademark stuff from the singer, who provides a truly refreshing futuristic sound, which cannot be compared to any other artists work.

Alternative pop: contradiction or innovation?

By Joe Trueman, Music Team

Overgrown is expected to hit stores on April 8, and we cant wait.

Justin Timberlake - Suit and Tie

ustin Timberlake is back with his debut song Suit and Tie, which features none other than Jay-Z and production by Timbaland. Its a classic signature sound from JT who has also revealed the song will be on his forthcoming album The 20/20 Experience. The video for the song is worth checking out too; its full of cigars, glasses of scotch and some random girl splashing around in a puddle. What more could you want?

The 20/20 Experience will be released on March 19th

Tegan and Sara - Heartthrob

he recent wave of solo female pop artists with socalled indie credibility have opened discussion on where the boundaries between mainstream and alternative music lay or if they need lie anywhere. Im referring to artists like Sky Ferreira, Charli XCX, and Grimes - although grouping them together is not to imply that theyre indistinguishable. Theyve been grouped together by music critics precisely because theyre unconventional theyre inspired by people like Britney and Mariah, but they also seek to subvert typical pop aesthetics and sounds, gaining attention from alternative music enthusiasts. Its become difficult to differentiate between top 40 and alternative. Bands like Haim, who the BBC recently hailed as the Sound of 2013, purport an indie aesthetic despite major label backing and money being thrown at them. Even Solange, Beyoncs sister, exemplifies these blurred boundaries. She has as many links to the mainstream realm as she does to indie circles her 2012 release from Chris Taylor of Grizzly Bears independent label was critically acclaimed. The label indie doesnt mean much, especially when what is supposedly individual becomes

precisely what the mainstream desires. An alleged problem that comes with associating major-label backed artists like Sky Ferreira and Charli XCX to an independent act such as Grimes (according to critics such as Grimes tourmate Elite Gymnastics) is that youre equating acts that work with producers and songwriters with artists who write, produce, and perform everything themselves. But writing a song doesnt necessarily mean youre the best person to sing it. Some covers are better than the original, and some songs you hear and just think: lets face it, this would be better sung by Beyonc. Perhaps the problem isnt artistic credibility, but money. Music is an industry, and major label artists drowning in money are better positioned to appropriate DIY underground trends (as has been accused of Charli and Sky) and profit by appearing unique, while indie label artists inspired by the mainstream arent praised for it - Grimes claims to lose followers every time she tweets about her love of Justin Biebers music. Its not only more difficult for an independent artist to find success without a team of publicists, but also to gain respectability when they flirt with the mainstream. Music critics generally remain

unwilling to view mainstream pop and alternative music on equal levels of respectability. This isnt just because of money its all part of a public mentality. People strive to create and listen to unique music despite the fact new bands and artists cant be described without referring to the fact they sound like something that has come before. Its about time both alternative pretension and mainstream assimilation are abandoned. Music should, as far as possible, be looked at unpretentiously and objectively. Does major-label backing lessen the quality of good music? Of course not. Does a DIY background enhance an artists credibility? Not necessarily. While it is respectable for an artist to produce something incredible independently if an album is poor, its poor. The musical directions that these alternative pop acts are exploring should really be enjoyed, not scrutinised. Its certainly more exciting to see popstars providing something experimental and fresh than for the mainstream to continue churning out singer-songwriters like Ed Sheeran, Adele and Emeli Sande - who somehow derive most of their support from their supposed authenticity and credibility.

By Alexandra Wilks, Editor ve long loved Tegan and Sara, the lesbian sister duo act, whose catchy hooks are coupled with genius lyrics. Their album Heartthrob was one I eagerly awaited. But Ive been left a little disappointed. The catchy riffs are still there, but Heartthrob is too poppy for me. I have nothing against pop, but the thing that really worked about Tegan and Saras earlier works was their folky rocky sound coupled with the kind of tunes that would make the most ardent pop artist jealous. The trouble is Tegan and Sara have taken those stuck in your head pop chords and layered over voices that sound more auto-tuned than ever before, the folk rock stuff is all but lost.

The real problem with this album is, its not a great pop album. Its an OK pop album. Easy to listen to, but easily forgotten. Tegan and Sara are not Katy Perry or Ellie Goulding, they arent really that talented as popstars. Tegan and Sara are brilliant lyricists but its all kind of lost over an electro beat. If you like your pop a little angsty, youll probably like this album. But if you like Tegan and Saras earlier releases, you may feel slightly betrayed by this album, which clearly is seeking a different type of fan. Stand out tracks Now Im All Messed Up and How Come You Dont Want Me are a good ones, with echoes of the old Tegan and Sara. Avoid Love They Say its a very poor mans Taylor Swift.

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societies@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Societies
After being asked to write a short article on one of my most embarrassing moments, I found myself flashing back to so many, but there was one that stood out the most from the rest. Im hoping some of you guys can somehow relate. If you dont: then I guess things like this only really happen to me. Let me set the scene. It was in Year 1, during moving out weekend. For some, this was a sad day. Moving out of your first home away from home. All the good times and growing up, all happened in this very place. But for me, I clearly hadnt learnt anything that year. After drinking copious amounts of alcohol the night before, I woke up the next morning still drunk and wanting food. Of course, everyone had eaten/chucked away most of their food that week so my only option was to rummage through the freezer. Sometimes I wish I hadnt now. I made whatever I could find (partially burning it) and returned back to my room to pack. An hour later, the girls decided we should meet up at the spot outside Stag Hill reception to give back our keys. My friend Amelia came first and sat with me while we waited for the others. There were lots of students moving out with their parents following them with luggage and boxes. Before I knew it, I was barfing all of the freezer food I had just eaten, in front of all those people, in broad daylight. I couldnt control myself. I was so embarrassed, and I think I made Amelia wish she wasnt sitting next to such a mess. She was shocked as I was, and ineptly said Oh, Panini pie.

Think you could handle WhiteOut II?

By Ben Johnson

ampus is packed with societies and clubs. They offer experiences often considered invaluable in keeping students sane during their degrees. Surrey Snowsports are very proud being a large part of this culture. Its been a transitional year for the club as a whole, with a huge leap in to focussing on developing new talent and love for the sport as well as some major cosmetic changes to the club branding. The members have responded well to the risky upheaval of what was a very rooted culture and this has been reflected no more so than in our socials. Yes, I realise that many reading this will have thought it was a midyear review of our society, but that was just a front to lure in the more intellectual amongst you. As a Social Sec of one of the largest clubs on campus, I feared the day that I would have to run my first infamous WhiteOut! bar crawl. Now those of you that have been here a while know how fondly our members regard this event. Its a two-part extravaganza that takes

place once each semester and it is not something to be messed up. Th a n k f u l l y, through the hard work of the committee, WhiteOut! was biblical and were not ones to exaggerate. Honestly, ask anyone who went. We like to think that the club has been more accessible to members than ever this year and that this stretched across lessons, training, competitions and socials. Those of you that know me will know that I love to waffle and this is no different, but rather than waffle Ill leave you all with one final paragraph. To the members of my club, I say thank you. Without you we are merely eight students spending far too many hours in a union office, playing pretend, and thats just weird. To all of those who attended our events, I say fair play. You are

a bunch of nutters and I love every second of the carnage you cause. To all of those reading who arent members, I say get involved. Theres still time to get a taste this year and be ready for the next. So there it is, a little bit of background in to why were so big, so loud and so much better than you (in joke between members, dont be offended). WhiteOut! 2 is on Thursday 14th March. You know what to do. #WhiteOut2

Valentine's fun & games for the boobs

By Lauren Parker

n Wednesday 13th February, Roots Bar was the place to be for CoppaFeel!s Valentines pre-drinks! With slippery nipple shots and the chance to pink your drink, Roots Bar staff stepped up to the boobie challenge, and so did the guests! Flirty fun included hula hooping and remote-control car racing, as well as team games and chocolate finger licking (cheeky!). For those not involved there were some tasty cupcakes

in exchange for donations for CoppaFeel!. At the end of the night our winners, Tom Ryan White and Spencer Hastings, were crowned Valentine King and Queen... they even have the crown to prove it! Watch out for more boob news and info about our Boob Ball Tournament which will take place at the start of May. And dont forget to text SURREY to 70500 for your FREE monthly reminder to check those boobs!

P.S. Could you be our next Boob Team Leader? Or part of the boob team next year? To find out more, visit www.uniboobteam.com or like our facebook page (www.facebook.com/ CoppaFeelUniS) for further details.

Valentine King and Queen; Tom Ryan White and Spencer Hastings.

Societies Editor: Shalini Thondrayen | Copy Editor: Hannah Wann

The Stag |

27th February 2013

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PenSoc: Re-Freshers Fayre

Hannah speaking up that she doesnt love Raymond.

Marriage is a wasteful institution

Sending a big thank you to everyone that participated to make Surrey Student PENs Refreshers Fayre a great day! The Surrey PEN society aims to make people here at the University of Surrey aware that free speech is not something easily attained, and shouldnt be taken for granted. In fact, we are highly privileged here in the UK with the ability to speak our minds; this is not the case in many countries across the globe. PEN works to support and campaign for political prisoners condemned for their words and to raise awareness of such issues that simply cannot go ignored. At the Refreshers Fayre, we asked you to confess things you would perhaps otherwise feel less inclined to say. The answers we received were enlightening to say the least, ranging from the classic, I actually really like One Direction- definitely keep that one to yourself next time - to claims that marriage is a wasteful institution. Dont forget to tag yourself on our Facebook page! If you appreciate the capacity to speak liberally and remain unpunished for your words, you are the right person to take part in the action and the events of Surrey PEN. It perhaps should be brought to your attention too that free wine receptions are a common thing for us free speakers. Get involved!
By Annie Driscoll

Imi confessing her love for the Hairy Bikers.

I confess I want to do the Harlem Shake

Chris Dighton confessing his guilty pleasure, hashing that tag.

Dave Halls being cheeky.

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27th February 2013

sport@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Sport
The most embarrassing thing thats happened to me recently was at the first Zumba class Ive ever been to. I thought I was on time, but walked into Studio A at SSP to be greeted with rows upon rows of women already dancing around to very loud music, mirroring every move of the pretty, slim, blonde (hair untied why?) woman at the front. Straight away I was overwhelmed. I scuttled to the back, naturally, and tried to keep up. I cant dance. At all. My sister is on a dance course at a Performing Arts school and is hoping to dance as a career, so youd think I must have SOME degree of dance ability or rhythm. Apparently this is not the case, I was basically laughing out loud to myself as I made up my own moves throughout the entire class. At ANY opportunity to turn in the wrong direction, I did, bashing into everyone around me. After a little while, however, I realised my biggest mistake of all. When the pretty, hair-swishing lady at the front had been making a cowgirl-style, lasso movement with her arm, all yee-haaa like, I was mirroring her, and doing my best cowgirl impression, relieved to have found one move I could do without injuring my surrounding Zumba-goers. As it turns out, this lasso-like move was actually Zumba code for turn around not do a cowgirl impression like I had been doing. The fact that the other thirty women in the room had been spinning around was something I didnt notice until a solid twenty minutes into the session.

Beckham making the right moves?

By Connor McLoughlin, Sports Team

Yahoo Pressebilder

he end of the transfer window saw David Beckham as the highest profile mover despite no money being transferred. This is obviously due to the fact he left LA Galaxy and was unattached to a club. Much has been made of Beckhams move, including only a six month contract and choosing to commute to Paris from London. However, the signing makes sense for everyone except Beckham on the pitch. On the surface everyone is seen to be winning with this move for Beckham. Paris St Germain win because they get a player who brings a lot of commercial weight, who will shift shirts and make the club a lot of money. Beckham also brings publicity to the club from the international media which may lead to the club being seen as more viable option by the best players in the world. Beckham comes out of it looking great, particularly as he will be giving his wages to charity. Whilst this seems to be a great act of kindness, which I am not trying to take away from, it is also unsurprising. In France, footballers are taxed at 75% of their salary which is usually paid by the club on

top of what their wages are agreed at. Beckham will be paid in some respect, whether this is a share in the club or a cut of the commercial money that he brings in. However, on the pitch there wont be much chance for Beckham to actually play for multiple reasons. Firstly, he doesnt really fit the system that PSG adhere to. The only reason the move makes sense is that the French club can offer Beckham a genuine chance of trophies, with PSG capable of winning competitions on multiple fronts. This may actually be one of the most deciding factors in why Beckham chose the French capital. Whenever he has finished his time at a club, whether it be Manchester United, Real Madrid or LA Galaxy, Beckham has played his final games and ended them with winning a trophy. This is a reflection of the brand Beckham represents and is something that is extremely important in the image he is trying to portray. Underlining the business of Beckham over the last decade and a half sees that nothing has mattered but that of his image.

Sport Editor: Anna Giles | Copy Editor: Emma Fleming

The Stag |

27th February 2013

SPORT

35

University of Surrey Boat Club

Bronzed Boys at BUCS

By Tom Hopkins, USBC

he weekend of the 16th and 17th of February saw the University of Surrey Boat Clubs Mens Four Rupert Graham, Ashley Epps, Rob Sherry and Jon Rains, coxed by Anna Yong seize a decisive result at BUCS Head that left Durham feeling more sore than Peter Griffiths mystery girl after Valentines Day. With weather prompting a last minute change in venue to Peterborough, questions were raised how would they get there? Where would they stay? Fortunately, after a quick phone call and parental bank transfer, Rob Sherry was able to provide a Cadillac for means of transportation, as well as lend some monetary assistance towards their accommodation. Although Ashley Epps hopes of staying somewhere that was also home to Peterboroughs lovely ladies of the night, the humble B&B hosted a room for four in which the evening was said to have been more intimate and even more intense than Mens Captain, Nathan ORiellys right hand. But Sunday morning was soon upon them. The sun shone brightly, a shimmering glow surrounding Jon Rains as

they glided towards the starting line. When coming to a stop, a gentle breeze whipped past, gently lapping at Rupert Grahams firmly erect nipples as they keenly waited the order to go. Over a distance of 4.5km, they battled with pain, rage, high levels of flatulence and Rob Sherrys unique ability to dismantle his rigger with 100m to go. Yet still, they made it, and had only the nervous wait for the final results. The news soon rolled in they had won Bronze! The phone networks went wild, with loved ones and teammates all ringing in to congratulate the boys on their triumph. It has been said that even coach Ben Lewis had to take a moment to sit down whilst shedding a tear at the joyous news of a truly astounding moment in USBC history. This result will certainly help to continue the ongoing trend of the Boat Clubs prominence amongst other universities, with the club now looking to make their mark at the BUCS Regatta in May for some monumental wins. For furher information about the University of Surrey Boat Club, like the club on facebook, email: ussu.boat@surrey.ac.uk, or visit www.sureyboatclub.co.uk

2012 - the year of the fallen sporting heroes?

By Connor McLoughlin, Sports Team

t the end of last week news broke that shook South Africa, an immensely proud and successful sporting nation, to their bones. Olympic and Paralympic superstar Oscar Pistorius is in the process of being charged with murder of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. This was after she was found shot dead in his home in Pretoria with gunshot wounds to the head and arm, in the home of the man colloquially known as The Blade Runner for his prosthetic blades he runs in. In terms of Paralympians, Pistorius is the most famous in history. He won a legal battle to compete against able-bodied athletes in 2008 and led the way last year to became the first

amputee sprinter ever at the 2012 Olympics. In 2012, Pistorius was perceived as the finest in history by the British after the success of the Olympics, but this will now forever taint Pistorius and may taint the year of 2013 as the year of the fallen hero. His feats as an athlete will be easily forgotten whether he is found guilty in the end or not. This is after the start of January where Lance Armstrong revealed he cheated throughout his career as a cyclist, which whether you like it or not, has and will continue to negatively impact his charity Livestrong despite their phenomenal fundraising of over five hundred million dollars over the years. This could be the year of the fallen hero; a year which opened

with these two tragedies for sport. Pistorius and Armstrong were both more than sportsmen; they were creators of hope. Armstrong, as a cancer survivor gave hope to all who thought there was no chance of coming back. Whilst Pistorius was the embodiment of all there was to love about Paralympic sport; showing immense competitiveness and battling against all odds. Both of these men were, at least until 2012, supposed to be transcendent in their sports. They were the shining lights that were supposed to be remembered long after they finished their time in their respective fields. They were heroes. Now, they will be remembered for all the wrong reasons.

Nadals back
By Jordan Brackenbury, Sports Team

inally there has been some good news for all the Rafael Nadal fans out there, hes back on the circuit. Last week, after nearly 8 months away from the circuit, former world No. 1 Rafael Nadal made his return to professional tennis. He did not, however, come back with a bang. The Spanish No. 5 chose to test the water at a series of small clay-court events- his favourite surface- in Chile and Brazil in the lead up to the French Open, where he has conquered 7 times. Nadal has been taking time out since his shock 2nd-round loss to world no. 100 Lukas Rosol at Wimbledon in June, after which he revealed that his troublesome left knee tendonitis had returned. He then pulled out of the 2012 Olympics, the US Open and the Australian Open, which lead to his steady slide down the ATP

rankings, to be replaced as number 4 by his countryman David Ferrer. The 11-time Grand Slam winners return has not been as smooth as he had hoped, with a loss in the final of the Chile Open, his first tournament back, to the world number 73 Horacio Zeballos- the Argentines first title. Zeballos has joined the likes of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in becoming one of the few players to ever beat Nadal on clay at an ATP event. More encouraging, however, was Nadals result at the Brazil Open, the week after his loss in Chile. He beat David Nalbandian 6-3 6-3 in the final to claim his first title since his injury became apparent. With a further clay tournament scheduled in for February 25th in Acapulco, Mexico, Nadal should be able to gain some more vital experience before the all-important French Open in Maysometimes it just takes a while to get back into the swing of things.
David Ian Roberts

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sport@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Interview with Surrey Heat coach

By Adam Lodowski, Sports Team

dam Lodowski caught up with the Surrey Heat coach, Creon Raftopolous. A: Ive been hearing good things about Surrey Heat. How do you feel about the teams performance this season? C: The season is almost six months long. Its important to remember that its a marathon not a sprint. We started really well by winning almost every home game before Christmas. However, injuries are causing issues at the moment. Were currently sitting in the top four on the leaderboard which is a great achievement. A: Sounds like its going well. How does a normal days coaching break down for you? C: It tends to be a really long day. I start in the morning by checking up on the guys who have strength and conditioning before spending the rest of the morning in various meetings about our community projects. In the afternoons I like to get stuck in and coach some school and junior teams to find the rising stars. In the evenings its straight off to coach the professional team. Sometimes it can be a 16 hour day, from 7am -11pm. On top of that,

in my spare time I watch videos from our games, and our rivals games, to see what we can improve. Generally its 6-8 hours preparation for every single game but I love my job. When you find something youre passionate about it doesnt seem like work. A: So whats your favourite part of being a coach? C: Its almost impossible to pick one but theres nothing better than being in a team environment. Seeing people improve and better themselves is a great experience - whether theyre a beginner, just learning to shoot or a professional improving their strength. I love it all! A: Theres more to Surrey Heat than just the premier league basketball team then? C: Oh yes. We run community projects for disadvantaged children around Surrey and we also have youth and school teams. If you have a passion for basketball, whether its coaching or playing, theres almost certainly some way you can get involved. A: Whats a Surrey Heat game like? Is it accessible if you havent been before and dont understand the rules? C: Definitely! Games are really

easy to get the hang of and the atmosphere at our home games at Surrey Sports Park is so much fun. Our home games involve a full programme of entertainment from the fast-paced basketball, street dancing during time out breaks and plenty of spectator participation. The only way to really understand what a game is like is just to come down and experience it for yourself! A: Does it make a difference having a large home crowd then? C: The secret to success is having fans in the crowd. They give us a massive morale boost but it also works the other way. If there arent enough supporters in the crowd it can be very disheartening for the players. We love seeing fans screaming and cheering whenever we have the ball! A: Thank you for you taking the time to talk to me Creon and I wish you the best of luck for your game this weekend. Dates for Surrey Heat home games in March/April are: 3 March vs. Phoenix 16 March vs. Leicester Riders 31 March vs. London Lions 7 April vs. Plymouth Raiders

University of Surrey Netball

Fantastic season for Surrey netball

By Katy Iliffe, Netball Club President

Win tickets to Surrey Heat!

Come and experience the excitement of a home game for yourself. Win a pair of tickets to Surrey Heats home game against Leicester Riders at Surrey Sports Park on Saturday 16 March at 7pm. Simply answer the following question:

How long does it take Creon to prepare for each Surrey Heat game? A) 1-2 hours B) 2-4 hours C) 6-8 hours

Send your answer to sports@thestagsurrey.co.uk by Friday 22nd March For further information about Surrey Heat or to buy tickets, visit www.surreyheat.com

etball has had a fantastic season so far this year. Wednesday 13th February just proved how hard the teams have been working; securing four wins also resulted in capturing the top of all four BUCS leagues. With a newly created 4th team this year, they have stormed into action, defeating Westminster (previously top of the league) with a score of 36-8. The 3rds defended top place position against Reading scoring 40 goals to Readings 33, whilst the 2nds fought hard to claim the top spot in their league in

a highly contested match against Chichester, triumphing with a score of 36-26. The 1st team who had a contentious match playing Brunel in phase 1 fought hard to win 60-32, continuing their unbeaten season. With excellent commitment and a possibility for all four teams to be promoted (making Team Surrey history), it is no wonder that all the girls are going out for the final few weeks worth of matches fighting for that top position in the leagues. I am extremely proud of everyones efforts over the past months. Now, as Tamsin Greenway says: Lets go play.