Newspaper of the students of the University of Surrey

Issue 70 Monday 24th March 2014

EASTER COMPETITION!
See page 2 for details
NEWS Red Bull Night Master The Stag gives a review of the long-awaited event... Page 3 UNION Recent successes Find out what the Union have really been up to in the past few months... Page 6 FEATURES Spring fashion How to keep on trend as we move into warmer weather... Page 10 OPINION & ANALYSIS Tribute Sam West pays respects to two political figures ... Page 7 SCIENCE & TECH Species Transformations Whats the future for DNA replications? Page 14 MUSIC Newton Faulkner A review of the ACM alumnis concert at GLive... Page 22 SOCIETIES Jailbreak How far could YOU get in one weekend with no money? Page 30
By Nicole Vassell, Editor

Win Chocolate Easter Eggs in The Stags

Have you ever been caught out by unexpected questions in an interview? The Stag gives some examples Page 10

VERMIN INFESTED STUDENT HOMES

Research reveals some uncomfortable statistics about the condition of student housing

Does your house look anything like this? Pictured: a student bedroom in Macedonia reported to be uncomfortably cold in their homes. Overall, three-quarters of students say that they have problems with the condition of their homes. Seeing as over half of the students had to pay more than 500 when signing the property contract and 37% of these getting into debt in order to reach these costs, this comes as particularly disappointing news. Low standards of housing are often thought of as an ordinary aspect of university life: earlier this month, a story ran on The Independents online site exposing the horrific conditions of university-provided accommodation in Macedonia. Though there have not been reports of standards this horrific in the UK, students nonetheless should feel comfortable in their rented accommodation without having to fall into financial issues. NUS Vice President for Welfare, Colum McGuire comments on these findings: It is both disgusting and unacceptable that students should live in vermin infested housing in this day and age. Our research has raised alarming health and safety issues and we are calling for more effective enforcement of standards to ensure students homes are fit for study. The full report can be found at http://www.nus.org.uk/ homesfitforstudy

early a quarter of students living in private accommodation are also sharing their homes with vermin. Out of 2,870 respondents, an NUS study has discovered that 24% of student housing in the UK has an infestation of slugs, mice or other creatures. In the Homes Fit For Study report released on Wednesday 19th March, 61% of homes were also reported to have condensation, damp or mould in their house, while more than half

Inside:

The Jezabels!

Varsity!

Easter Eggs!

nyrrmi

EDITORIAL

The Stag | 9th December 2013

editor@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Editor|Nicole Vassell editor@thestagsurrey.co.uk Editor-in-Chief| Andy Smith ussu.editor@surrey.ac.uk Deputy Editor (Head of Design) | Paul A Richmond design@thestagsurrey.co.uk Design Team | Siobhan Harris, Sophia Field, Monti Fernandez, Sam Jewiss, Josie Pullen, Hannah Kaine Deputy Editor (Marketing) | Matilda Tasker marketing@thestagsurrey.co.uk News Editor | Shunayna Vaghela news@thestagsurrey.co.uk News Team | Matilda Tasker, Rachel Lowe, Sarah Kendall, Hannah Roberts, Alex Tromp Opinion & Analysis Editor | Sam West opinion@thestagsurrey.co.uk Opinion & Analysis Team | Ibrahim Sarwar, Katie Sands Features Editor | Rebekkah Hughes features@thestagsurrey.co.uk Features Team | Tilly Tasker, Jas Smith, Petra-Maria Ilieva Science and Technology Editor | Siobhan Harris sciencetech@thestagsurrey.co.uk Science and Technology Team | Noah Mesfin, James Lake, Melissa Raske, Ben Hartfield, Fahmid Chowdhury Societies Editor | Alice Wilkinson societies@thestagsurrey.co.uk Societies Team | Daniel Ashworth, Michael Heyes, Anees Khan, Liz Legge, Rka Blazsek Dance and Theatre Editor | Ambar Parker Monroe dancetheatre@thestagsurrey.co.uk Dance and Theatre Team | Film Editor | Sophia Field film@thestagsurrey.co.uk Film Team | Ankur Banerjee, Francesca Lampidonti Music Editor | Candice Ritchie music@thestagsurrey.co.uk Music Team | Leo Blanchard, James Campbell Literature Editor | Shiri Shah literature@thestagsurrey.co.uk Literature Team | Lauren Boland, Leo Blanchard, Emma Hawken Sport Editor | Santiago Avils Sport@thestagsurrey.co.uk Sport Team | Dan Askew, Harry Metters, Sheldon Ford, Jauren Whatley Web Master | Alistair Walker webmaster@thestagsurrey.co.uk

ts Easter! And to celebrate, The Stag is giving ten of our readers an chocolate egg hooray for sweets! To enter the competition, all you have to do is find and count the hidden Easter eggs all over the paper. Once you have the number, send an email with the title I WANT AN EASTER EGG to easter@thestagsurrey.co.uk by noon on 1st April, and the lucky ten will be notified by email to collect their egg. Happy hunting

The Stag Easter Egg Hunt

COMPETITION

NUS as a Living Wage Employer

By Shunayna Vaghela, News Editor

he National Union of Students (NUS) has become an accredited Living Wage Employer. The Living Wage Foundation accreditation scheme was introduced in 2011, by a coalition of employers and campaigners led by Citizens UK. There are now over 600 accredited employers in the UK. Accreditation provides a recognised benchmark for responsible pay, where Living Wage employers agree to pay all staff, including contractors & subcontractors, no less than the Living Wage. An independent study of the business benefits of implementing a Living Wage policy in London found that more than 80% of employers believe that the Living Wage

had enhanced the quality of the work of their staff, while absenteeism had fallen by approximately 25%. Toni Pearce, NUS President said; Poverty pay simply has no place in the 21st century. Modern employers understand that and Im proud to be able to say that our organisation is one of those employers. We believe that the education sector should be exemplar employers, which is why its imperative that we lead by example and continue our campaigning in colleges and universities, where there are handsome salaries paid to vice-chancellors and principals. The current Living Wage of 7.65 for the UK and 8.80 for London is an independent calculation that strives to reflect the genuine cost of living, rewarding a hard days work with a fair days pay.

O
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 editorial team, the Students Union or the University of Surrey. Trinity Mirror (South) St. Albans Road, Watford WD24 7RG The Stag reserves the right to edit all submissions and the right to decide which articles are published.

Letter from the Editor

up for when we return in May one hint: its sure to be pretty darn sexy If youd like to be a part of The Stag committee next year (of course you do!), mark Monday 12th May, 6pm in 05AC03 in your diary thats the date of our AGM, in which the 2014-2015 team will be elected. Once again, why is time moving so fast?! I JUST became Editor, and before I know it, Ill be back at home watching Jeremy Kyle in my pyjamas yay for Summer time. Have a great Easter break everyone rest up, study hard and party harder!

kay, so where is this semester going? Already weve come to the final issue of The Stag this side of the spring break, and to send you off, we are giving away ten Easter Eggs to our faithful readers. Free food always tastes the best but free chocolate? How on earth could you resist? See above to find out how to get your hands on one. Apart from sugary joys this issue, we have a round-up of the Red Bull Night Master event, a look at the Big Bang revelations and a very timely analysis of a well-known biblical mantra. Weve got some very exciting things lined

News Editor: Shunayna Vaghela

The Stag|24th March 2014

NEWS

Red Bull Night Master

By Matilda Tasker, Deputy Editor and Head of Marketing

, like many others, felt a little Surrey pride when Red Bull Night Master announced that the University of Surrey students Jordan Fletcher and Aidan LindseyWood had won the competition and were bringing the Alps to Stag Hill Rumors of real snow, live music and all the Red Bull you could shake a stick at was enough for the limited number of tickets to sell out almost instantly, (200 Apres Party tickets disappeared within 60 seconds! Wow) and the ticket site buckled under the huge demand. Hunger Games-esq. style of ticket obtaining aside, time went by and finally it was the night we had all been waiting for! Throughout the day I watched with anticipation as a huge cobalt-blue marquee, proudly displaying the big Red Bull logo was erected on the patio outside of Chancellors bar and then it was show time! Lights, music, action; the party kicked off at 6pm as the sun went down and upon arrival, everything was a little bit too much to take in at first- a huge 20ft high makeshift ski jump, ramp and box had been erected in the far corner of the Chancellors/ Union car park that was covered with real snow (that looked suspiciously slushy by the time I arrived); standing opposite this was a DJ set on top of a pimped out modified Land Rover, which rightfully drew a few wows from observers; and lastly, the perimeter was kitted out with murals of Alpine huts with crisscrossed skis dotted about the place. How cute. My golden All Access Areas wristband added to the wonderful feeling that something BIG was going to happen tonight. Under the Red Bull marquee was a bar, but at 3.50 a vodka and RB it slightly left me thinking twice but as more and more people filtered into the event, everyone relaxed and it was great to see some old faces mixed in with the new. Everyone was kitted out in their brightest, funkiest ski garb and goggles, it harked back to the aprs ski parties I loved so much during the annual university ski trip to the Alps. And then the action started. Standing at the very top of the big ski jump was a bloke on skis, who proceeded to launch himself off the top, side down the ramp, hit the box, do a little spin and then land at the end. And that was it.

To be honest though, that was enough. In the tiny amount of space provided, they had constructed this amazing jump AND provided a box to parkour off, seeing a skier/snowboarder perform a 360 (to non skiers/boarders/skateboarders- a 180/360 is the term used to describe a maneuver where you spin in the air or along a rail or box) that was about as good as it was going to get. Or so I thought. As the evening went on, the Red Bull flowed freely, the music was loud and the mood was great, the tricks in the mini ski-park suddenly jumped up a notch. After many catcalls of do a flip! Do a flip!, Surrey alumni, Alex McFarlane caved and performed a backflip off the jump. The crowd went wild. And it would have been hoots all round and Mr. McFarlane hadnt landed on his face whoops. Cue mangled chin and a pending black eye, but chipper as ever, when asked Was that fun?, Alex responded with a big yeah! What a champ. After about 40-odd crashes, I sort of lost count... I came to sad conclusion that just because the skiers and snowboarders always look so amazing on camera, quite often it conceals the truth that sometimes the awesome trick is followed by a crash and a very sore bum. But we were a sympathetic crowd and every crash or land was met with respective oohs and aahs! Health and safety concerns aside, the music got louder, the free-stylers got more daring and soon everyone was dancing along and singing at the tops of their voices. For such a drastically limited number of tickets, we certainly made a crazy crowd! But alas, the hour was getting late (and someone stole my pen) and soon it was be time to head into Rubix for part deux- The Apres Party! Overall, the Red Bull Night Master main event was incredible. Brilliant to see some raw skiing and snowboarding talent bought to us, as well as fantastic live music and my cup runneth over with Red Bull. When Aidan LindsayWood and Jordan Fletcher said they wanted to bring the Alps to Stag Hill, they did just that. No Folie Douce bar is complete without a saxophone man either, and a hundred crazy students doing their thing. 9.5/10, its an absolute outrage we cant get this kind of entertainment all the time! Everybody, from event organizers, competitors and crazy drunken dancers, give yourself a BIG pat on the back!

Jamie Walker

Jamie Walker

Jamie Walker

NEWS

The Stag|24th March 2014

news@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Your money. Your chance to spend it!

Rachael Lowe - Alumni and Development Office

LIFE AFTER SURREY

few weeks ago I visited Surrey Sports Park to take some photographs of the trampoline society for a project we are running in the alumni and development office, which we have lovingly named youve bounced. The aim of it is to send our alumni a youve bounced postcard if their emails bounce to encourage them to get back in touch. Hence the trampoline bouncing link! This got me thinking, as mentioned in my earlier columns, about the Annual Fund. It was in fact the Annual Fund that paid for the trampoline societys newest trampolines, and it could also help students with their own projects. You may already be aware that the Annual Fund is now open for grant applications. In a nutshell this means its your (students) opportunity to put in a bid for some money to spend where you think money needs spending. This doesnt mean you can go on a shopping spree! Its not money to be spent in that way. Its all about supporting student welfare, improving the teaching and learning environment, providing new equipment to clubs and societies as

well as developing campus and extra-curricular facilities to help enhance the student experience at Surrey. This year the Annual Fund has 150,000 in funding to distribute. It is open to all areas of the University, both academic and administrative, and all students, including the Students Union and any of its clubs and societies. Projects have to meet certain criteria; all the information can be found here www.surrey. ac.uk/annualfundgrants You may have hosted or attended an event in the upgraded University Hall, benefited from the improved study areas in the library, enjoyed your lunch on a sunny day on the additional seating around the lake, amongst a host of other things, well, this is all courtesy of the Annual Fund. If you have a project or an initiative that you think could profit from a grant, put forward your business case by visiting www.surrey.ac.uk/ annualfundgrants or contact Linda Grossmann, Annual Fund officer l.grossmann@surrey.ac.uk - for further information. The deadline for applications is Monday 7 April. Please note students cannot apply for a hardship grant via the Annual Fund. For further information on the alumni network Forever Surrey please visit: www.surrey.ac.uk/alumni

CAREERS COLUMN
By Sarah Kendall, Hannah Roberts, Alex Tromp Careers Ambassadors

o we now only have 2 weeks of teaching left before the 4 week Spring/ Easter break time is flying by so quickly! Even though university lectures may be suspended over the Easter break, the Careers Service is open Monday Friday 9-5pm for the majority of it. We are closed Thursday 17th April Wednesday 23rd April inclusive. Why not take advantage and get your Careers needs covered in this quieter period? For those about to end your freshers year, this is your time to get a head start on your professional training year. Think about developing your employability skills over the summer and updating your CV to reflect who you are now at the end of your first year at university. Before the Easter break begins, we still have a wide variety of events booked in which we hope will be of interest to you. Below is a taster of what to expect in the next two weeks; Mon 24th March -18:00, LTA Backpack to Briefcase with Enterprise Rent-A-Car Tues 25th March - 18:00, LTA Assessment Centre Workshop (for Engineering, Technology and Science Students), led by Astrium Fri 28th May 10:00 16:00, Careers Service CV Checks with BAE Systems Tue 1st April 18:00, LTE International work experience - Presentation by BUNAC and STA To sign up; http://www.surrey.ac.uk/careers/whatson/index.htm We hope you all have a lovely Easter break and come back refreshed for the last few weeks of the second semester!

Team Surrey trampolining society enjoying their new trampolines, whilst declaring you have bounced.

Old woman fights back

By Shunayna Vaghela, News Editor

Surrey Search and Rescue Awarded 5,000

Shunayna Vaghela, News Editor

pair of thieves that preyed on elderly and vulnerable victims have been sentenced to jail after an 88- year-old woman fought back. The judge ruled Ramona Borcoi, 37, was to be sentenced to four years in prison at Guildford Crown Court on Monday 10th March following guilty pleas to seven charges of theft, three of fraud and one charge of attempted robbery. Accomplice Laurent Dadaci, 41, was sentenced to four and half years in prison after admitting six charges of theft and one of attempted robbery. The pair used distraction techniques to steal bank cards and cash from several victims across Surrey, including the former Mayor. They were finally caught after failing in their attempt to mug pensioner Edith Milligan in August last year. Prosecutor Chris Prior said Mrs Milligan, using her walking frame to assist her, had been walking

alone when she was approached by Borcoi. Under the pretense asking for directions to the station, allegedly Borcoi suddenly grabbed the victims necklace and attempted to rip it off, but Mrs Milligan took hold of her assailants arm and a struggle ensued. By this stage passers-by were alerted, forcing Borcoi to abandon the attempt and flee, leaving her handbag at the scene. Dadaci also drove off. Mrs Milligan, was taken to hospital with a fractured wrist, lacerations and bruises. Police used the contents of Borcois handbag, as well as photos of Dadacis car taken by witnesses, to identify the offenders and arrest them. Sentencing the defendants, Judge Christopher Crichlow stated: You deliberately targeted elderly and vulnerable people, and you chose Edith Milligan as a victim because of her perceived frailty, but she bravely fought back against you.

he flooding relief efforts of Surrey Search & Rescue have seen the charity awarded 5,000 from Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Unite, the non-profit foundation of the Virgin Group. Founder Seamus Kearns was one of the numerous volunteers who spent an entire week wading through contaminated floodwater to rescue people during last month's flooding. Mr Kearns, 28, is one of a group who decided to set up Surrey Search & Rescue in 2010. He said: "We saw that Surrey had no dedicated search team - it is like mountain rescue but in the lowlands. We worked with Surrey Police to set up a team so our main role is searching for missing people. Our teams are trained to search

rivers so those skills were used with the flooding. We were mainly used for the initial emergency response. The first days it was mainly getting people out of their homes. Then it was getting medication, getting water out to people and getting supplies." The efforts of Surrey Search & Rescue were recognised nationally as Mr Kearns was named one of five 'flood heroes' by ITV's Daybreak. Furthermore, Mr Kearns and the other 'flood heroes' will attend a special reception with Prime Minister David Cameron at Downing Street. Mr Kearns is optimistic about the good press, and stated; "Hopefully it can also raise awareness of who we are and hopefully there are some more recruits out there. We are nothing without our volunteers."

UNION

The Stag|24th March 2014

editor@thestagsurrey.co.uk

A Year of Success at the Union

Every member of the sabb team got to live a day on campus either working for students, or being with students in lectures. We were able to really understand some of your issues, with things like teaching room facilities, timetables, feedback, etc

Everything the Union does is for the benefit of its members, it is the reason we exist. Below are a few of our successes from the last few months sports clubs, and sports projects. This will connect graduates with current teams for the first 1,2,3, go!
time and we hope will revolutionise the support our alumni can give.

Accommodation charter
University accommodation is such a big part of the Student Experience, that is why we believe student deserve to know what they are getting, to believe they are getting value for money and not being taken for granted. We are working on agreeing an accommodation charter with the University now and will have it agreed by the end of the year. Watch this space!

Launch of online tickets

For years our members have hated queuing in all weathers outside the Union shop for the chance to buy an event ticket, and this semester we finally launched our tickets online. This is only the first phase, we are continuing to listen to feedback and sabbs are on the front door at Rubix scanning tickets to hear that feedback at first hand. There are more exciting developments coming soon!

3570 club and society members

Again, another record breaking achievement this year, that over 3500 surrey students are taking advantage of the wide array of Sports Clubs and Societies run by student volunteers within the Students Union. The improved training and dedicated support available has helped our clubs and societies build on their membership each year adding more to your student experience

Welfare support review launched

Following our pressure, a University wide review of welfare support has been launched and we are full members and contributors of this review and we will be representing the many views that were expressed over the election period about welfare on campus. We have also represented your views in the Residential Support Review and argued strongly that this is an area that needs reforming. This has been listened to, and expect to hear more soon!

PGR Course Rep assembly & Course Rep assembly

Finally, we have been able to give research problems the attention they deserve in our new PGR rep assembly which gives postgraduate researchers the opportunity to discuss the problems specific to them. Our course rep assemblies this year have seen Deputy VC Prof

Surrey Decides!
What an incredible election, and where to start? A diverse range of candidates and winners, representing all parts of our student community, an amazing online experience helping distance students take part, Surrey students having the opportunity to meet Toni Pearce, NUS president directly, and for her to hear what you are talking about. With such a huge turnout, it gives all our student officers the authority to speak on behalf of Surrey students next year.

42 societies taking part in STARS Grading

the Societies Training & Activities Reward Scheme, is in place this year leading on from the work of previous years to help societies develop. We have 42 taking part this year, and this means they are all showing a commitment to making your experience as a society member better.

Nicholls & NUS VP Rachel Wenstone hear your views directly on assessment and feedback. Prof Nicholls has already acted on the points you raised, making your learning experience the best it can be. We have also secured agreement from the four faculty deans that they will attend rep assembly to hear what you have to say.

.and much more

This is just a selection of the ways your involvement in the Union has helped us to make a positive impact to your experience at Surrey. There is more happening behind the scenes and if you want to get more involved then AGM season is a few weeks away where the committee leaders for all Sports and Societies 2014/15 will be elected. Watch http://www.ussu.co.uk/ ClubsSocieties for details

Surrey's Got Talent

You have told us in the past that we dont do enough to encourage home-grown talent here on campus. This year Surreys Got Talent filled University hall and showcased the best that we as students have to offer

Challenging the University on appeals

Hopefully only a few students will ever have to make an appeal, or face a disciplinary, but we have pushed very hard on making this process quicker, fairer and easier to understand. The impact on a delayed appeal can mean the difference between graduating with your cohort or not, or even worse, having your leave to remain removed while your appeal is heard. We have taken your experiences and used them to gain improvements in the University panel system.

Sport success
With our Team Surrey partner Surrey Sports Park, we have helped our amazing sports clubs on course to an incredible top 40 BUCS finish. To sustain this success, Team Surrey clubs (and of course Union clubs) are always going to need greater support; to this end we are so excited to be working with Forever Surrey in launching a new direct donation scheme for

Opinion & Analysis Editor: Sam West

The Stag|24th March 2014

OPINION & ANALYSIS

A Tribute To Two Great Men Let the World Live As One

Siobhan Harris

Opinion & Analysis

Sam West Opinion Editor

Yeweeeee

nly three days apart in mid-March, the political landscape suffered a massive loss of two great men. The first was East End born and bred trade union leader, Bob Crow, who died of a heart attack on the 11th of March. Although highly controversial and loathed by many, he undoubtedly did a terrific job at representing those he claimed to represent; transport workers and some sections of the working class. Despite his high salary as leader of the RMT, he lived in a council house and was adamant that it would remain that way for the rest of his life. He was probably also one of the last leftleaning political figures who actually and genuinely cared about the working class. And unlike the current left-wing elite, he recognised the threat of an over powerful EU and the worries of mass immigration; issues that affect the working classes more than the chattering classes. He wasnt afraid to speak his mind, holding onto what he saw as right. He fought particularly hard for trade unionism and old socialism, giving a voice to

those who still held those grounded beliefs. The second loss was that of the former Labour MP and veteran political left-wing campaigner, Tony Benn, who died from serious illness on the 14th of March. Above anything else, he was a man of deep philosophy and true conviction. Whether his socialist politics can be agreed with or not, his views were well thought through and held political validity. It was his core convictions which gained him respect from both the left and right. These core convictions and principles cannot be said to be present in many politicians today. He lived his life dedicated to his country, serving as an MP for over 50 years, and even renouncing his hereditary peerage in 1963 in order to continue as one. He was responsible for many things we should know of, including the postcode system, BBC Radio 1, and aspects of Concorde. He was a great speaker, both as a parliamentarian and post-parliamentarian, speaking at anti-war meetings and various other meetings in later years. While I am not a socialist and disagree with them on most issues, these were great men in great ways. They fought for what they believed in and stood up for who they represented to the best of their ability. They had core values and true principles; something that wont be forgotten and something that will be missed.

Male, female, black, white, wife, husband, doctor, teacher, left-wing, right-wing, atheist, theist. Every term we use to label others or ourselves, I believe, is a devastating oversight. Your profession, gender or beliefs might define you to a limited extent, but not in the grand scheme of things - each one of us is a human being. There are descriptions that have been seen almost everywhere throughout recent history, such as Obama: first black president, Thatcher: first female prime minister, Gay marriage made legal. While these are fantastic sentiments that represent a breaking down of the long-held human cultural tradition to discriminate and define against each other, they also bring up a poignant fact: were still doing it wrong. We should rightly celebrate these triumphs in the name of human rights, but we should remember just that: they are human rights. Having been raised a Catholic, I was taught to believe things I am ashamed to say I once followed, oblivious to the point this article is making. Perhaps the best thing that came out of this was the Catholic High School I attended. We were taught to fundraise for those suffering in thirdworld countries, and I guess thats really what started me thinking this. We live in the twenty-first century, and some of us live in a democratic state, so it really is just a matter of enforcing this point into education and the media. Attitudes wont change unless peoples minds are opened to this concept. The vision I have for the future is for barriers to be continuously broken down, until they reach the point where gender, religion, politics, race and sexual orientation no longer have to define us. Human should define us in the end. Because in the end, its our name that we should want to be remembered, and what we did with our lives which may well

be our profession, our beliefs, and our achievements. Let it be for all the right reasons. In the name of human rights, lets not get caught up in the mainstream - lets remember why we began to care about these issues: because of inequality. And inequality calls for a balance. So lets remember each one of us is one of a kind: the human kind. In the words of The Beatles legend John Lennon:

Imagine there's no heaven It's easy if you try No hell below us Above us only sky Imagine all the people Living for today... Imagine there's no countries It isn't hard to do Nothing to kill or die for And no religion too Imagine all the people Living life in peace... You may say I'm a dreamer But I'm not the only one I hope someday you'll join us And the world will be as one Imagine no possessions I wonder if you can No need for greed or hunger A brotherhood of man Imagine all the people Sharing all the world... You may say I'm a dreamer But I'm not the only one I hope someday you'll join us And the world will live as one

Chris Boland

(right) The Workers Party of Ireland

OPINION & ANALYSIS

The Stag|24th March 2014

opinion@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Guilt-tea: Tetley Tea Condemned For Lack Of Human Rights

Katie Sands

Easter: Do To Others As You Would Have Them Do To You

arning: this article may put you off your cuppa. Tea is intrinsically part of British culture, often associated with a quintessential English nature. Yet, in reality, the tea plant has always been imported from areas such as the Assam region of India, stemming from the trade industry of the British Empire. The biggest tea brands in the UK are currently Tetley and PG Tips, who together account for nearly 50% of the market. The popularity of tea still remains in our culture, with approximately 165 million cups being consumed in the UK each day. Looking away from what tea means as a consumer, tea production is one of the biggest industrial activities in India, providing the plant to fill a nation of tea drinkers stomachs. A report released by the Human Rights Institute at Columbia Law School on the 12th February has revealed aspects of the industry that the average teadrinker would probably rather not know. The report visited 17 of 24 plantations over the course of two years, and unveiled the terrible working conditions that Indian workers are faced with to provide our cuppa. The report stated that workers are paid less than two pounds a day, live near cesspools in cramped living conditions, and often spray industrial pesticides with little or no protective clothing. The report also revealed the retained cultural stigma of the Indian class system and its effect on workers. Senior plantation managers told researchers not to listen to their employees because they had low IQs and were like cattle. The workers on the Assam plantation come from two marginalised class groups in Indian culture; the Adivasis (indigenous people) and Dalits (the untouchable caste). The report consequently reveals issues not only with the horrible squalor of the plantation workers, but also with their treatment as social inferiors. This type

of caste discrimination is officially illegal in India; however the report evidences its retention in Indian society today. I cant help but make the obvious comparison between this report and the use of African slaves on American plantations in the 18th century. Its sad to think that as a readership this report isnt quite as shocking as it should be. The reality of the situation is that we already know the facts, but dont act upon our ethical instincts. Just like how Primark continues to grow strong on the sweat and blood of abused factory workers, Tetley is equally getting away with such murder. The complacency of the British public allows this treatment to go on unnoticed, when we are the population with the power to improve the quality of life for so many people. A few days after this report was released, Tetley joined with other large tea manufacturers to offer a 15-year plan to boost sustainability of the plantations and to better support the working communities. Whilst it is amiable to see the company respond to this report, to let fifteen years go by with workers in these conditions and with these wages, it seems highly inadequate. The abuse of plantation workers makes me wonder if this problem is our responsibility as consumers. APPL officials have told the investigators that these labour issues on plantations are not restricted to Tetley tea, but reveal the stark truths of the tea plantation industry as a whole in India. The problem of this human rights issue is so epidemic its impossible to even decide what brands are worth boycotting. What UK residents can do however, as a small act of support, is sign the petition to force Tetley to take responsibility for their actions (go to sumofus.org to fight for people over profits). A company primarily caters for its customers, and as consumers we have the ability to push Tetley into action and help these workers regain their human rights. As a student, I feel I can justify being careful with my money and hunting down the bargains, but this report does remind us of the supply and demand that has been created by our Western needs for cheaper goods. I definitely feel, excuse the bad pun, guilt-tea.

Sam West Opinion Editor

moral principle, then we would be living in a much better world. It is a principle of empathy, selflessness and love; something needed in a world of selfishness, greed and hate. Yet if we do the opposite of love at times, does that automatically make us hypocrites? Of course not! We are all imperfect and none of us will ever be perfect. We all do wrong at times, which is a part of human nature. What is of utmost importance is that we try our best to treat others well, even if we do fail at times. Jesus died on the cross for these imperfections, knowing that we as humans will never be perfect. The most important factor is recognising this sacrifice and living our lives by his most basic teachings; the teachings of love and that we should do to others as we would have them do to us.

Sean MacEntree

aster will be coming up in April; one of the most important dates and celebrations in the calendar, appreciated and recognised by billions worldwide. Easter reflects on the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Yet there is also a reflection on his life in general, mainly his miracles and teachings. Easter can therefore mean many different things to many different people. Countless quotes of Jesus can be cited to illustrate his overall message; predominantly messages of love, peace, kindness, hope, and so on. One particular quote comes from Luke 6:31, where Jesus proclaimed Do to others as you would have them do to you. It may be a small quote, but it means so very much. It is a message that we should all live by or at least try to live by. If all we lived our lives by this

elycefeliz

Opinion & Analysis Editor: Sam West

The Stag|24th March 2014

OPINION & ANALYSIS

Life: The Hope To Be Exceptionally Ordinary

L
can have exceptional lives. I have realised that I dont have to be the amazing musician or the genius inventor in order to achieve my Ibrahim Sarwar dreams. All I really have to do is work hard. And by that I dont mean more than usual or more than those around me. What it means is that I must work harder ife is an interesting concept. We live our lives trying than I could even conceive possible at this moment in to figure it out. What it means. What it will be. But time. I have to take my current perception of what is why must we question every aspect of life? Personally, achievable and eviscerate it. I cant let anything stand I think it is because of our desire to be great, to achieve in my way. For me this train of thought began simply by our hopes and dreams. The idea of becoming that future self that we envision is sometimes too much to reading an article. It was written by a woman who bear thinking about. This is because of the general fear was a promising artist. In the article she states that of failure that is instilled within us throughout life. I she gave up her dream of being an artist for a job as genuinely feel that to be average or standard is what we an accountant or banker, essentially more mundane (in her opinion), that would make her less happy, but more are pushed towards as we grow up. Undeniably, those that are talented are celebrated financially stable. The quote that my father continuously repeats to and lauded, but I recently re-evaluated who those people actually were. They were the smartest in their me whenever I begin to talk about my next great yet classes, the best in their schools, but where are they unrealistic extracurricular venture is one from that now? The answer is staring us in our faces; they are article. It said I gave up my dream to put bread and here and they are us. They are students at university, butter on my table. He announces it with a wry smile which now means I am surrounded by those exceptional and a look that I can only associate with the experiences children, which in turn highlights the fact that we are of a life that has seen its fair amount of hardships. As much as I want to disregard my dads comments and not exceptional. As much as I would love to believe that I was or fall blindly into my next fantastic idea, I know that he truthfully am extraordinary, most likely I am a dime understands the traps of this life. In our desire to be a dozen. This doesnt faze me as much as I thought it exceptional, we often lose ourselves and find that we would though, as I know that any person in this world are nothing more than ordinary.

earthkath

10 FEATURES

The Stag|24th March 2014

features@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Im Sorry, What?!
The Interview Questions You Didnt Anticipate, and the Ones You Kinda Did
By Rebekkah Hughes, Features Editor o, I (relatively) recently had an interview, and I was particularly struck by one of the questions I was asked: Can you tell me one thing that has made you exceptionally happy in the last week? I can tell you now, I was not expecting it. Luckily I had something interesting to say on the spot, but I cant begin to imagine how mortified I would have been if say, Id done nothing of much interest and I had just spent the week going to lectures, eating and sleeping. (I should probably mention that my life does involve a little bit more than just lectures, eating and sleeping, I was just exaggerating for dramatic effect, yknow?) From the unexpected, to the frightening and downright uncomfortable, interviews can set the nerves running in the best of us. So, I did a bit of research and I decided to compile a collection of the weird and not-so-wonderful interview questions out there waiting to be asked:

Features

Put a little spring in your step!

Cheap and cheerful guide to spring 2014
By Tilly Tasker, Features Team

do love spring, I do. And along with a new trend comes a new feeling to OWN IT ALLLLL!!! New floral jacket (almost identical to the one I bought last year?) gotta get me that. Strappy, heeled sandals costing a budget-

breaking 65? Theyre all the rage right now, so why not?! But new season fashion neednt sap up your entire hardearned student loan. Yes, we love the new sparkly stuff, but theres no harm in up-cycling the old stuff from last year!

Three trends to re-wear this year

1. Pastels
One of those trends that have been notoriously hard to pair with unusual skin tones, it looks like the pastel trend is here to stay! Keep hold of your jumpers, shirts and bright coloured jeans and up cycle them with a cool boxy white t-shirt or camisole. (Jumper: boohoo.com 20.00/18.00 with NUS)

2. Grunge
Your old checkered shirt you bought for the tartan theme of winter 2013-14 is now your new layering staple. Wear a shirt over a maxi dress, tie it round your wait, et voila! (Shirt: Topshop 30.00/27.00 with NUS)

1. Tell me about a time you felt you were right, but you were forced to back down.
When I read this, my brain has the instant sarcastic response of Im always right, but I doubt this would bode well in an interview

bark

This is definitely one of the worst: I often think I couldnt bear to choose a favourite, but the point is you should probably choose one (regardless of whether it is your fave or not) just to show you have an opinion.

2. Whats your favourite book/food/ drink/film/actor, and why?

6. What was the last gift you gave?

Are you interesting? Can you think outside the box? Do you actually have friends?

The last time I got frustrated was this morning when I left my teabag in too long and my tea just wasnt the same I understand this is incredibly traumatic, but nevertheless something with a little more depth might be more appropriate.

3. Whens the last time you got frustrated?

Its more about skills and characteristics than just being interesting. I recommend not mentioning anything about cats though Essentially cats just eat and sleep, and thats not exactly a great model.

7. If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?

Another year, another way to try and keep the flowery trends fresh. Midnight Floral, Bohemian and Cameo Rose are all just the high-streets fancy ways of saying so umm, we ordered too much of this flowery fabric last year so lets re-create more stuff! As Miranda Priestly would say: Florals for spring? How original And she had a point. Hang on to your flowery stuff until further notice girls! (Dress: boohoo.com 20.00/18.00 with NUS)

3. Flowery Madness

It depends on who has the misconception but this is definitely a question that requires a tactical answer. Remember its a misconception, not a flaw.

4. What is one misconception that people could have about you? 5. If you could sing one song to audition for the X Factor or The Voice, what would you sing and why?

8. Explain to me the first five actions you would take in the job role if you were successful in this job application.

Three perfectly guilt-free buys to keep you bang-on trend.

Dress: ASOS 22.00

Pretty self-explanatory, but its all about strategy and decision-making and how these relate specifically to your potential job role.

These questions are great! Its like being asked if you were a biscuit, what would you be. Obviously its each to their own, but take the opportunity to be interesting and quirky!

You would find: food? I wouldnt be too specific i.e. Garlic and Herb Marinated King Prawns, but also dont reveal all your poor eating habits. There is a definite need to strike a balance.

9. If I were to look in your fridge right now, what would I find?

Kimono: New Look 22.99

10. Can you do this job?

Promptly say yes and why, and should I just sign the contract now? Jumper: ASOS 25.00

Features Editor: Rebekkah Hughes

The Stag|24th March 2014

FEATURES

11

The Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon

by Rebekkah Hughes, Features Editor

Know Thyself
By Petra-Maria Ilieva, Features Team

will very happily admit that I am not a huge fan of Kevin Bacon. I genuinely feel that the EE adverts in which he appears are the absolute worst. So, obviously it came as a disappointment to realise that A) people do actually like Kevin Bacon and B) The Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon exists. For those of you who dont know what The Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon is, in a nutshell, its a play on the six degrees of separation. The six degrees of separation is a concept that any two people in the world are linked by six or fewer acquaintances, and its now been applied to Mr. Bacon. Basically, any celebrity can be linked to Kevin Bacon in six steps or less, or apparently so according to the games creators who invented the game back in 1994. Buzzfeed drew my attention to the whole shebang when reflecting on Bacons response to it all as well as the fact that were not twenty years on from its initial creation. In those two decades a

website, a board game, a book and an app have emerged as well as a charity, started by Bacon himself. Launched back in 2007, SixDegrees.org was designed with the six degrees concept in mind, with networking and the connections between celebrities and charities being the main idea. After I enlightened myself on The Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon, I ventured on to the website oracleofbacon.org to challenge myself and see if I could find a celebrity who wasnt linked back to Mr. Bacon in six steps or less. The answer was, no, I couldnt. And its actually rather frustrating. I dont want to accept that Kevin Bacon is the centre of the universe, but I may have to admit some form of defeat. It is almost nigh on impossible to find someone with more than six steps! So, I challenge you to have a go, and probably fail, but at least share a little in my irritation. Alternatively, you could download the app and refuse to give up until you find one, and when you do, let me know.

Pugs not Drugs

By Jas Smith, Features Team

ave you ever wondered why so many psychologists and personal trainers insist on knowing oneself? Its amazing how since the very beginning of civilization people have been suggesting to get a better knowledge of ourselves if we want to develop. The phrase Know thyself is one of the Delphic maxims, an Ancient Greek aphorism ( ). No one questions the wisdom of Ancient philosophers such as Plato and Socrates. Later on used by Ralph Waldo Emerson, Samuel T. Coleridge and many more, the popularity of the maxim spread so widely that everyone hears it at least once in their life. Every individual is interesting and everyone has special characteristics. Some people might wonder why they should be interested in their own personality, fearing that it might seem selfish. In fact, the greatest secret of this advice is that by knowing yourself, you gain the ability and willingness to know and appreciate other people. You become more open to explore the world and more capable to understand the differences between us. This knowledge is power; which gives you better control over your perceptions and emotions; over the impressions you make. But dont we know ourselves already, after 20+ years of life? Probably not. There are some individuals with a clear knowledge of their innate motivation and beliefs. I know people who seem to be quite aware of themselves and the world around us. They are few, but their number tends to grow. If you feel like you definitely know yourself, congratulations! It will be highly valued by others and will help you in the workplace. For the rest of us, who still feel like having a lot to learn and discover the world is such a wide place, lets start from ourselves. We need to think about our strengths and

weaknesses in order to get a better understanding of our abilities and virtues. We shouldnt forget that there is always room for improvement. Exploring and learning about the world and our own personalities can last throughout our lifetime. If we want to be successful and have good friends, we need to know what we can offer. Respectively, having all of this in mind, we can anticipate other peoples reactions toward us. Through enhancing our self-awareness we can develop and grow as enlightened citizens of the world!

o Ive decided to tackle a controversial subject this week: pugs. If you put pugs in a jar, you would get the equivalent of Marmite. Some people love them and some people hate them. Some people think they are adorable little waddling balls of fur, and some people think they are, well, pug ugly. I have to say that I reside in the Pug Appreciation Society, or PugSoc (which should totally be a society) nevertheless here are some facts about our furry friends who divide the nation. 1) Adorably, in Germany, pugs are called mops! 2) Pugs are often described in Latin as multum in parvo which means a lot of dog in a small space. 3) Pugs originated from China in 400 BC and are considered as Holy dogs as they were the favourite of Tibetan Monks. 4) A group of pugs is called a grumble. I think I just died. 5) It is believed that the pugs name comes from the Latin word for fist as their face resembles a human fist. Personally I dont see this resemblance, but each to their own. 6) Pugs are big eaters and if not watched they will over eat and become chubby. This is why some pugs look like little adorable barrels. 7) Pugs are known to snore. This is because they sleep for the majority of the day! Are pugs students? 8) Pugs love human attention. They hunt you down, they will find you and they will kill you. With face licks.

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And snuggles. 9) Pugs are social dogs. They love other pugs and other dogs. They can often be found down the pub on a Friday night. 10) Finally, pugs can sing. If you dont believe me, check out Pug Sings Batman on YouTube. You wont be disappointed. So there you have it! Go team Pug!

atlantic_lost

RelaxingMusic

12 FEATURES

The Stag|24th March 2014

features@thestagsurrey.co.uk

The Centre for Wellbeings Mind Apples Event

By Margaret Dunne, Nurse Advisor Centre for Wellbeing

20 FEBRUARY 2014

ast month the Centre for Wellbeing hosted a Mind Apples event to mark University Mental Health and Wellbeing Day. A Mind Apple is a day-to-day activity that is good for your mind. We are all familiar with the 5 a day concept of eating fruit and veg to help maintain our physical health, but what do we do routinely

to help us maintain a healthy state of mind? Mind apples work by making people conscious of the sorts of things they already do to look after their minds. Its not about telling people what they should do, but more about asking the question to encourage us all into conversations about the health of our minds and help people realise they can positively influence their own mental wellbeing. Some facts:

Mental health refers to how we think, feel or behave. 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem at some time in their lives. This might be linked to stress, depression, life events, loneliness, isolation, anxiety, a specific disorder or a number of other issues. There is frequently more than one factor involved. Most people whom have mental health problems will recover. People who get help sooner get better more quickly. Many people in public life have been open about their mental illness such as Stephen Fry, Ruby Wax, Alistair Campbell, Lady Gaga, and Frankie Sandford. The Mental Health Foundation suggests 10 ways to look after your mental health (see right).

VP Welfare, Tom Windibank, hangs mind-apples on campus.

e were joined in the lecture theatre foyer by representatives from the Samaritans and First Steps, our local NHS agency for information, advice and support on emotional health and wellbeing. We had planned to hang the completed mind apples on a tree outside (Estates and Facilities had kindly cleared and prepared the area for us) but as the weather was unpredictable we brought part of a tree that had come down in the storms indoors instead. We also brought an outreach branch to GSA for their contributions. We had a very enthusiastic response from students passing by to and from lectures. After initial puzzlement about why we had a tree indoors everyone embraced the idea, completed the apples and delighted in hanging them up. It was great to see people thinking about what they do for their minds and sharing ideas. Some people struggled to think of anything while others could have completed more than one apple with all the things they regularly do to keep their mind happy and healthy. Hopefully, those that struggled were inspired by what others had written and will benefit from the ideas. We had 99 responses in total. The most popular activities that Surrey students engage in to look after their mental health are: sleeping, exercise, laughing, spending time with friends & family, eating, being creative, playing/listening to music, and watching TV/films. Other activities included: cleaning, shopping, stroking dogs/cats, baking/cooking, hot bath, social media, doing something different each day, cuddles/hugs, yoga/ meditation/praying. Interestingly, only 2 people wrote alcohol. Comparing these responses with the MHF suggestions it seems that Surrey students (well, about a hundred of you anyway) have some very good habits for looking after their mental health. Lots of positive thoughts and activities are going on many of which cost little or nothing. If you are concerned about your emotional or mental health you can contact the Centre for Wellbeing for some advice and support, or one of the other agencies listed below. More information and advice is available at: www.mindapples.org www.first.steps-surrey.nhs.uk www.mind.org www.surrey.ac.uk/ currentstudents/health/ www.mentalhealth.org.uk

Features Editor: Rebekkah Hughes

The Stag|24th March 2014

FEATURES

13

Lemon Cake With Buttercream Icing

Bake this mixture in a pre-heated oven for around 35 minutes, or until the cake has left the sides of the tin slightly and is springy to the touch. Leave the cake to cool in the tin. For the buttercream, cream the butter and add the icing sugar in stages. You can add some condensed milk to give a slightly sweeter finish to the butter cream, or alternatively add some milk for the opposite effect and to thin the mixture. Add vanilla essence until satisfied with the flavour. For the lemon icing, measure out your icing sugar and add the lemon juice. Mix well until the icing has a runny consistency. You can always double this mixture for more icing if youd like! I tend to, but thats because I think it adds that little bit extra to the sponge. Construct your cake with the buttercream in the middle and drizzle and spread the lemon glac icing over the top. The icing will initially be sticky, but it will eventually harden. Normally though, it stays a little tacky. Last but definitely not least, serve! Its lovely and simple, and its also nice to have something not chocolate or plain enjoy your cake!

have some very keen food critics in my house. I think theyre keen because they want free cake, but I like to think that they give me true criticism and when they say something is good, they mean it but I suppose making a cake and having it gone within two days is praise enough! Although running out of cake is rather disappointing: picture an empty plate with a few crumbs to speak for themselves. Its all rather bleak. However, the resolution is to just make more cake. My most recent baking session resulted in an Iced Lemon Cake with Vanilla Buttercream, which Im going to share with you. This cake recipe is courtesy of Mrs. Mary Berry of The Great British Bake Off, with a standard recipe for the buttercream. You need to have the oven at 180c or 160c for a fan-assisted oven, and have your tins greased and lined ready to go. I made this is two round tins, like a Victoria sponge, so I could add the buttercream in the middle. In a large bowl cream the butter, and stir in the sugar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time along with the milk. Stir in the lemon rind, and once you have a fully combined mixture, add and combine the baking powder and self-raising flour to the mixture in stages.

Ingredients:
225g (8oz) softened butter 225g (8oz) caster sugar 275g (10oz) self-raising flour 2 level tsp baking powder 4 large eggs 4 tbsp milk grated rind of 2 lemons

For the Icing 3 tbsp lemon juice 225g (8oz) sifted icing sugar For the Buttercream 55g (2oz) softened butter 200g (7oz) icing sugar Vanilla essence to taste 1 tbsp of condensed milk to sweeten (optional) 2 tbsp of milk to thin (optional)

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14 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

The Stag|24th March 2014

sciencetech@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Breakthrough: Echoes of the Big Bang

By Siobhan Harris, Science & Technology Editor

Science & Technology

after the universes birth where gravitational waves are emitted, has been found. Astronomers looking at the cosmic microwave background (CMB), whose newest map was published last year, have picked up gravitational ripples that were echoed in those first crucial seconds of the Big Bang. This evidence has been verified after days of speculation. The Harvard scientists who detected the ripples that were to begin the space-time continuum are among hundreds of astrophysicists searching for primordial gravitational waves since they were predicted by Albert Einsteins theory of general relativity in 1916. The gravitational waves were found using a specialised telescope based in the South Pole called BICEP (Background Imaging of Cosmic Extragalactic Polarization). The location for their search is due to the South Pole being the clearest place on Earth for stargazing. They were able to detect the waves because the light emitted after the Big Bang (cosmic radiation) swirls. The ripple that has been found begun during the period known as inflation where particles expanded and formed after the universe had burst into life. The theory for what happened after is to do with gravitational waves; the key to finding the early echoes of the Big Bang. Proud project leader Jamie Bock has said, The implications for this detection stagger the mind. We are measuring a signal that comes from the dawn of time.

ver since I can remember, Ive been one of the people on the edge of my seat eyes and ears at the ready waiting for the latest evidence in support of the Big Bang theory. Or, should we say, the mysterious unknown. Its the key to understanding how our universe came to be. Over the years evidence has been building. Just two years ago the Higgs boson particle joined as the last piece in the puzzle making up the Standard Model. The course of the universes history is being shaped before our eyes. 13.8 billion years later we still dont have all the answers surrounding its birth. That is rapidly changing thanks to modern-day space technology. The first direct evidence for inflation, which is the period

The Future of Species Transformations

By Noah Mesfin, Science & Technology Team

n California, 2010, Dr Craig Venter stunned the world. He and his team of scientists announced the creation of synthetic life: the first living self-replicating organism on the planet. Remarkably, the organisms DNA was put together with just a computer and four bottles of chemicals. The

breakthrough came when a whole set of DNA (known as a genome) was successfully moved out from one bacterium and into another, transforming it completely in the process. On that feat of biological engineering, Venter had this to say: If I were to select a single study,

The NASA Ames Research Center are also gettting in on the action.

paper, or experimental result that has influenced my understanding of life more than any other, I would without doubt choose one above all others Genome Transplantation. Imagine being stripped of your DNA and replacing it with someone elses, in barely a moments notice everything about your physical and chemical make-up becomes unrecognisable. Thats what happened to the bacteria M.capricolum. Its genome was replaced with that of its distant relative, M.mycoides they share DNA homology of around 76%. Considering humans share roughly 97% of their DNA with chimpanzees, thats a non-trivial difference in genes. Bacteria are part of the living kingdom just as we are; it therefore seems intuitive that protective measures would be in place to protect ones identity (think antiviral software on your computer), and some are restriction enzymes, for example, chop up any DNA thats deemed foreign. This protection was easily circumvented by what biologists call DNA methylation and nothing else stood in the way. This was transformation in every sense of the word. Its proof of

concept that DNA is like high-tech software that can assemble its own hardware. The software being combinations of DNA sequences using its four different letters (A,C,T,G e.g. AATCCGGAT) and the hardware being the tiny machinery (proteins) in cells that interprets this sequence of letters and uses it to build complex living cells as we know them. If we look at on-going research in this field, how technological applications could look in the future is astonishing. Once genome transplantation is perfected and we have a cell that can take up not only a distant relatives genome but any DNA its given, you combine that with advances in DNA printing and biological teleportation becomes not just an experiment in the lab but a worldwide reality. Thats Venters current vision. Having what he calls a Digital Biological Converter (a small desktop box) attached to your computer that can literally download a DNA sequence, print it out and transplant it into a bacterium that acts as a tiny manufacturing plant to produce what its programmed to. We are talking about being able to download and make insulin or the

latest flu vaccine for example, right in your home. NASA is also getting in on the action. They envision sending a DNA sequencer to Mars, beaming any DNA sequence they find back to Earth and recapitulating the Martian DNA into the organism here on Earth, sidestepping the problem of not having a rover that can return to Earth once it has taken off. This area of making designer organisms is known as synthetic biology - a young field but a fast moving one. David Cameron has made it one of his top priorities for scientific research and our very own University of Surrey has hired their own synthetic biologist from California this year. The University already has a well-established systems biology team, which is a sister field to synthetic biology. Innovation has never moved faster, and its never been more important for society to keep in step with scientific advances, so the ethical, societal and practical problems can be discussed timely and in an open fashion.

Alexander van Dijk

dacidreneke

Sci/Tech Editor: Siobhan Harris

The Stag|24th March 2014

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

15

The Start of the Great Reclamation of Sci-Fi Technology

By Ben Hartfield, Science & Technology Team

lysium, Avatar, The Matrix, even Iron Man? Writers and artists love to create ideas, machines and predictions of what Earth in the future has to offer, and most of them are way off (see A Clockwork Orange!). However, a few hit the mark surprisingly close; exoskeletons are now hot property with a large number of specialised companies popping up around the world. One particular specimen developed by the Perceptual Robotics Company in Pisa, Italy, is quite impressive. It has been dubbed the Body Extender and it can lift 50kg in each arm and multiply the force you exert by a factor of 10. It is described as the most complex wearable robot ever built. In an army tan colour, its a rather bulky strapon (oo-er) machine with a lot of exposed hydraulics, coupled with the double pronged claws reminiscent of Sir Killalot that give it a very futuristic look. The machine has 22 degrees of freedom, which is close on the flexibility of a human hand. These movements are all powered with

an electric motor in modular components, meaning the skeleton can be rebuilt to suit the application or size of controller. Creators have listed potential applications of this model as rescuing earthquake victims or assembling complex products like aircraft due to its great flexibility. There are several other variants all aimed at different uses: Israeli company Argo Medical Technologies have developed the ReWalk device to help people with leg disabilities walk with crutches; Lockheed Martin have created the Hulc lightweight, bone-like structure which is aimed at assisting soldiers carry up to 90kg in the field; and Japanese Cyberdyne has a hybrid assistive limb (Hal) system with its white plastic exterior complemented by blue LED rings that would see it right at home in any video game. However, there is for any developing technology a limit; namely, batteries. Thankfully much work is being done to get batteries smaller and lighter whilst holding as much power as possible because of their use in phones and laptops. These

Strengthened
By James Lake, Science & Technology Team

UK Cyber Defences
head of the JCRU, Lieutenant Colonel Michael White, believes this can only be a good thing given the very real prospect of full-scale cyber war. Speaking on the BBCs Newsnight programme, he said that deploying an army to face the battle head-on is a sensible move. There is some concern, however, with regard to the type of personnel being recruited for the unit. Of those in the country who have the level of computing expertise required, some are likely to be convicted hackers. This presented an issue for White which he addressed on Newsnight. His response was somewhat unexpected: If they can get through the security process then why not? he said. His view is that emphasis should be placed on the capabilities of the individual rather than their personality traits. The very idea of a convicted hacker working for the government, when generally hackers tend to be rather anti-establishment, is what makes some people uneasy. One such person is Ross Brewer, vice-president of security vendor LogRhythm. Brewer, unsurprised by the governments move to strengthen the countrys military cyber power, says The government needs to tread carefully if looking to employ convicted criminals and ensure no blurring of the lines of morality.

Second HIV Baby Remains VirusFree After Rapid Treatment

First Mississipi baby declared functionally cured, now California baby virus-free after recieving rapid treatment straight after birth.
By Melissa Raske, Science & Technology Team remained in remission since then. In March 2013 the Mississippi baby was declared functionally cured, functionally being used because if the virus was still present in the body, it was in such low levels that it was not detectable by standard clinical tests. One of the reasons people that have had HIV for some time cannot be cured is because the virus develops dormant reservoirs in which the virus is resistant to drug therapy, however once treatment is stopped the virus can re-emerge and cause illness. One of the theories presented by researchers explaining why the Mississippi baby is remaining in remission is that the rapid treatment after birth destroyed the virus before it was able to establish these reservoirs. This suggests that the treatment will not be applicable to adults with the disease but could be vital for babies born to HIV-positive mothers that do not receive the treatment aimed at preventing the transmission of the virus to their baby during their pregnancy. Clinical trials are expected to start soon to determine whether or not this treatment could be effective on a broad scale. If the results are positive, the treatment could help to prevent the worlds 250,000 babies born annually with the virus from having to undergo a lifetime of illness and expensive treatments.

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he UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has bolstered its cyber forces with the conception of the Joint Cyber Reserve Unit (JCRU). This is a team of hundreds of reservists whose primary role will be to help defend the UK against large-scale cyber-attacks. According to UK Defence Secretary Phillip Hammond, the JCRU will also have the ability to proactively strike foreign forces or other threats in cyberspace. The unit which is effectively the cyber equivalent of the Territorial Army will be formed of three classes of recruits: suitably experienced military staff already leading in the UK armed forces; current and former reservists with the necessary skills; and most interestingly, civilians with no previous military experience that have a firm technical knowledge. This is an exciting opportunity for experts to put their skills to good use for the nation, protecting our vital computer systems and capabilities, says Hammond. He believes that this is a vital step towards full-spectrum military cyber capability for the UK. The news has been wellreceived on many fronts, with the acknowledgement that the government is upping its game in doing whatever it takes to keep our cyber defences intact. The new

second baby diagnosed with HIV, the virus which leads to AIDS if untreated, may have been cured of the infection after treatment was administered just hours after birth. The baby girl born in California about 9 months ago was born to a mother who had not been given antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy. Four hours after birth, treatment was started with three drugs: AZT, 3TC and Nevirapine. Eleven days after birth the virus was no longer detectable in the blood and it has remained that way in the months since. Although it is impossible to tell if the girl is truly in remission because she is still being treated, the tests so far look promising. Further research would need to be done to determine if the baby is HIV free, however as Dr Deborah Persaud, a virologist at John Hopkins Medical Centre, said at a conference presenting the second the case: "This has to be done in a clinical trial setting, because really the only way we can prove that we've accomplished remission in these cases is by taking them off treatment, and that's not without risks." The first case was a baby born in Mississippi in the autumn of 2010 and was given treatment shortly after birth. Interestingly, after 18 months this baby stopped receiving treatment when her mother stopped administering it and has

crazyengineers

exoskeletons will need an awful lot of juice in order to use them over longer periods of time so the evolution of these machines is directly correlated to that of batteries. Exoskeletons are quite common in nature; from ants, spiders and crickets to tortoises and turtles, each of these possess both internal and external skeletons. These provide support for the body but crucially protection from predators; the skeleton making the penetrating of vital organs with teeth and claws much harder. There is a quote from Rich Walker: Safety will be vital for on the body robotics. There is a new ISO standard covering this, but we havent yet seen what happens when an exoskeleton goes wrong. A fair observation but he finishes pessimistically. I believe that this equipment will have countless uses; from military, to construction, to medical care, and we will be one step away from claiming a true future technology.

16 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

The Stag|24th March 2014

sciencetech@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Twenty-five Years of Internet: How it Began

Fahmid reminds us of the world before the launch of the Internet, and how it began
By Fahmid Chowdhury, Science & Technology Team

Top in Tech
By Fahmid Chowdhury, Science & Technology Team
UK Tops European Broadband List

macgateway

ending mail? Remember to pay for the stamp. Booking a holiday? Have a long talk with the travel agent about your needs, desires and how on earth to move around at your destination. Want to get your opinion heard? Call in to your radio station. These are some of the ways people used to tackle various issues 25 years ago. Then came something that completely changed the way we behave, interact and go about our daily lives: the World Wide Web. It was Sir Tim Berners-Lee who created a proposal whilst working at CERN (Yes, that big physics lab in Switzerland) that describes a pool of information that could evolve and grow within the organisation. It was initially meant to improve communication between the thousands of scientists working at CERN and the aim was to create a universal linked information system. It was however not received with much enthusiasm, with his boss writing vague but exciting on the cover. This did not stop Sir Tim though; he went on to write HTML, HTTP and the first ever web browser. By 1993, CERN allowed scientists to use this innovation which was then followed by millions of people ever since. It is truly amazing as to how this vague but exciting proposal has changed our lives. Firstly, it has created an ease of passing information such as emails and instant messaging. Billion-dollar companies have also been formed with the sole premise of using the Internet to undertake various tasks. Amazon, Facebook and Twitter are a few that most of us use daily. Furthermore it has sparked revolutions and promoted the use of free speech in various nations, alongside improving and creating imaginative technology which people of the past could never have imagined. These are just a few ways in which the Internet has changed our lives. Without it, the world would be a much different place. It truly boggles the mind when a moment of thought is given as to how this one single proposal changed the world forever.

The twelfth of March marked its birthday and it is natural that this milestone should be recognised. However, one should also notice that there is still work to do and that the next 25 years have some important milestones to achieve. Approximately every 3 out of 5 people on the planet do not have access to the web. For the Internet to be truly for all, it must be shaped by all and be accessible to all. These are not my words; these are the words of Sir Tim. He also mentions that it should empower us to achieve our dignity, rights and potential as humans. The Internet is something that was not much to begin with, but now it can make us all truly amazing in various ways.

ccording to research by Ofcom, Britain now has the fastest internet in Europe. About 73% of the population has a connection speed of 30mbps or above available to them, up from 60% last year.

Schools to Receive CyberSecurity Training

he UK government has announced plans for schools to teach the fundamentals of cyber security to children so that the country can be amongst those prepared to handle future threats. Teachers will be trained to deliver this new aspect of the curriculum.

GM Foods Controversy: To Grow or Not To Grow?

By Siobhan Harris, Science & Technology Editor

Microsoft Offer Free Windows Phone OS

daniel pink

will never forget being asked recently what my stance is on GM foods. Perhaps if Id been more aware of the situation Id have given a more articulate answer than just Im not sure maybe we should wait. It seems Id hit a key note there, one that I now know resonates throughout Europe. Anyway, it has my attention now, and heres why. It seems that the topic is full of contradictions; here, there and everywhere conflicting statements are appearing from those who are considering producing genetically modified (GM) foods here in the UK. Ultimately, production and manufacture is down to the strict regulations of the EU parliament in Brussels. Europe currently grows only a few GM plants itself for research, such as the oddlooking purple tomatoes that appeared last year, but most of its imported animal feed is GM, for instance being imported from Canada. As commonly done, example is led by the US whose scientists provided the evidence to support that GM foods are safe. The new technology appears promising to UK Prime Minister David Camerons scientific advisors who have been urging him to follow the USs lead. However, since the US agricultural giants had a hard time selling off their GM produce, Britains supermarket

chains are reluctant to follow suit. Alas, Cameron has commissioned a new report on GM crops asking for more UK field trials and fewer EU restrictions. The Council for Science and Technology (CST) calls for public good varieties to be grown and tested in the UK. It defends the cause by saying each GM crop should be assessed individually, as

pharmaceuticals are. The environment secretary Owen Paterson has declared his support for increasing UK research into GM produce, saying it offers the most wonderful opportunities to improve human health. The purple tomatoes previously mentioned are a prime example of a

GM crop full of antioxidants which would be of vital use for public health if consensus deems theyre safe. Professor Cathie Martin, a co-creator of the tomatoes, said NGOs complain that GM only benefits multinational companies but thats because theyre the only ones who can afford it. We cant afford to trial crops for the public good. However, opponents to the cause including the environmental group Friends of the Earth are not convinced. They say GM will not make food more affordable or sustainable: GM crops have been hugely over-hyped. Despite decades of research they have failed to deliver the benefits they have promised and have been an expensive distraction from real solutions to the challenges we face. Theres also the perspective of the executive director of the Food Ethics Council, Dan Crossley, who says: In a resource-constrained world where a billion people go to bed hungry and a billion are obese, we must also tackle the scandal of food waste, as well as the issue of what we eat. The controversy is likely to continue, and with the EUs strict regulations it is unlikely that well be seeing GM foods stocked in our supermarkets any time soon unless Cameron and the team of scientists leading the new report can persuade otherwise.

icrosoft, creators of the Windows Phone OS, are going give a couple of Indian phone makers their OS for free, foregoing their usual licence fee. It does this with the aim of increasing Windows Phone adoption in the country.

Lego Robot to Attempt to Beat Rubiks Cube Record

Lego robot powered by an ARM chip will attempt to beat the world record for solving a Rubiks cube of 5.27 seconds. This ARM processor is similar to that found in the Samsung Galaxy S4.

Vodafone Comes Last in UK Mobile Test

n one of the most comprehensive tests of mobile networks, Vodafone has come last with EE coming first. There were 100 parameters including reliability, voice, data and text services.

Sci/Tech Editor: Siobhan Harris

The Stag|24th March 2014

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

17

Surrey Diagnostic Test in GP Surgeries by 2015

By Melissa Raske, Science & Technology Team

simple new test to detect prostate and bladder cancers developed by researchers at the University of Surrey will be brought to market after a licence agreement between the University and Randox was announced early in March. The test, which focuses on the detection of the EN2 protein in a urine sample, was developed in a three-year study which was published in the journal Clinical

Cancer Research in 2011. The EN2 test is quicker and simpler to conduct than the PSA test currently being used for prostate cancer, which was developed 30 years ago. The EN2 test is also able to detect a greater percentage of prostate cancer cases and picks up fewer false positives than the PSA test. Clinical trials conducted in the US and Europe confirmed the efficacy of the test which could hopefully be available for use in GP surgeries by 2015. The original

research, which could help in the earlier detection of prostate cancer which kills more than 10,000 men in the UK annually, was originally jointly funded by the University and the Prostate Project charity based in Surrey. Professor of Medical Oncology at the University, Hardev Pandha, spoke about the test saying, Unlike in previous tests that require invasive procedures to produce a trigger, our studies show that the EN2 test immediately shows up and that levels of the protein

correlate strongly with how far the disease has spread. This may then help a doctor assess whether the disease may be safely and actively monitored or whether it has spread more widely and requires treatment. Key materials will be supplied by the University of Surrey to Randox and they will then manufacture and market the product. The founder and managing director of Randox Laboratories, Dr Peter Fitzgerald, discussed the licence agreement: With prostate

and bladder cancers being among the top ten common causes of cancer death, accurate diagnosis is incredibly important to inform the type of treatment. We are therefore delighted to be working with the University of Surrey to develop and commercialise and EN2 biomarker.

20 MUSIC

The Stag|24th March 2014

music@thestagsurrey.co.uk

An Interview with The Jezabels

By James Campbell, Music Team

Music

Hi guys - Its great to see that your UK tour is now in full swing. First of all, lets begin with a bit of context. How did the band meet? Haley: Heather and I went to primary school together and remained staunch friends during high school. We had a group; I think we might have even started to call ourselves the Jezabels back then, although we didnt take the music we were writing very seriously. Afterwards, we went to Sydney University and met the guys. We had our first show in 2007 as a proper band, which we managed to pull off without a hitch, luckily! Heather: We were all still studying at University but realised there was some real potential in what we were doing and so once the band started picking up, we finished our degrees gradually and dedicated more time to writing and playing music together. As an emerging group, situated on the north coast of Australia, were you influenced by the local contemporary music scene around you? Was indie the most prominent genre? Haley: Its funny but I think thats why we have specifically referred to ourselves as an indie band, as that was the music that everybody listened to and found cool. Ironically, we felt we werent directly involved but still influenced in the same vein. Heather: Yeah, a lot of bands that became popular in places like Sydney at the time were really cool and fashionable, such as bands like Los Valentinos and Ghostwood, local Australian groups that are now no longer together. I think we managed to make the grade when these groups couldnt. Rumour has it that you have coined your particular style of indie music, intensindie Heather: (Laughs) It was meant to be an absolute joke! Unfortunately, we are still trying to live down the pretentious associations which the media have labelled us with: I guess it means whatever you want it to mean, especially as we dont think our

For the The Brink, you were working alongside a completely different production team: do you think this has had a big impact on how the album was conceived overall? Haley: Oh most definitely. We working with Dan Grech-Marguerat, who had a big say in the sounds which were utilised and the soundscapes that we wanted to create throughout the album. I think he brought us out of our comfort zones and pushed our limitations, which has been great. By being able to write songs as an artist, a producer can paint it in many colours, which makes a huge difference to the way an album is perceived by fans and media critics alike. When dealing with the nitty gritty of song writing, who comes up with the lyrics and music? Is it a collective effort? Heather: Its everyone but a confused process (laughs). It can stem from a beat, from piano chords or even just a simple guitar riff or a melody plucked out of nowhere. Eventually, lyrics are added on top mostly the melody is what comes first and then the lyrics follow suit. What have your lyrics been mostly inspired by, especially in The Brink? Haley: For me, considering our repertoire to date, I feel that I am constantly battling against cynicism: I still need to be inspired by different things and make a real effort to not feel cynical or put this across in the music. I am always hopeful and if we release anything in the near future, I would really want to keep that idea of optimism going. What do you find more exciting: writing in the studio or being on the road?

Heather: For me, personally, I love the writing component, thats definitely what I get off on! Haley: Yeah, writing can be a real challenge yet rewarding whereas touring is where you reap the rewards of what youve done. There can be a lot of self doubt during the writing process, so being able to tour and perform it live, helps you understand whats good and whats not. Touring can be really physically taxing, but definitely worth it. So far, how do you think the 2014 tour has been received in the UK and in London in particular? Heather: Overall, British audiences are different from London audiences: London is like a completely different country and crowds are often a lot more enthusiastic outside of the capital. Haley: Theres a lot of criticism in London and it takes its toll on your ego, with criticism after criticism. Mostly though, audiences have been really responsive to our shows so far so good (winks). It feels now a lot more like how Australia did a couple of years ago: we can meet people after the shows who genuinely want to talk to us. Its still early days in the UK but I think theres promise, a sort of solid foundation. Heather: Critics can be really standoffish here though, but thats fine because its their job, right? Now for the juicy bit: have there been any shocking on-tour scandals? Any horror stories or wild after-parties? Haley: Haha, if only! I wish we could say there were plenty of crazy after parties even, but we dont tend to party that hard these days! We play it safe. You perform, you then get bundled into the tour bus and you sleep. And repeat. Heather: Weve taken up yoga though (both exchange glances, chuckling). I guess were pretty nerdy underneath it all! We just

dont have the stamina to drink every night like we used to and its much better to find respite and a form of relaxation to keep your strength up during a tour. What do you feel has been your greatest musical accomplishment to date? Haley: Having been in the band for seven years solid is quite an achievement. We can definitely perceive a longevity in the group, whether we pursue particular side projects or not. Its pretty amazing to get to a seven year mark and still enjoy writing music and spending time together nonstop. What will the future hold for The Jezabels? Heather: Its quite hard to predict, especially after coming from writing a whole years worth of music. Haley: Yeah, but Im sure we will be making a third albums worth of material, at least; we now have the ability to do what we love so we have no intention to give it all up without a fight. Thats the spirit. Finally, what advice would you have for any fledgling musician pursuing a career in music? How should they take on the current industry? Haley: Well, forget the idea of instant rock stardom! (laughs). Theres so much poetic beauty associated with making a living off music. Its not about making money its about making music for the right reasons. If I could suggest two things, I would say it always pays to be nice to people and you most definitely are going to have to work hard to get where you want! The Jezabels new album, The Brink is now available to download via ITunes and Amazon. For current tour dates, check out their official website: http://thejezabels. com/

Kris Kesiak Photography

midst the scattered twinklings of handheld mobiles and poised flash cameras, a sudden eruption of rapturous bellows from gleeful audience members ricochets around the intimate walls of Shepherds Bush O2 Empire on Wednesday 5th March, as the lights dim and The Jezabels take to the stage, much to the delight of a clamouring London audience. A few hours before, I caught up with keyboardist Heather Shannon and leading front woman Haley Mary backstage to find out just whats so special about this UK tour, their new album release, The Brink and their guilty pleasure for yoga

sound is that intense. Haley: We think well have the last laugh though (grins).

How do you think your sound has developed since your debut album, Prisoner on your latest release, The Brink? How have the musical and thematic elements changed? Haley: Some would say we have taken a retrogressive step back to what we were doing on our EPs, with more of an emphasis on poppier sounding music than anything darker or deeper, like whats featured on Prisoner. I think The Brink is definitely more optimistic sounding, but more concise. Heather: Its slightly less indulgent than what we have produced in the past. This second album is more honest and open, more of a personal journey for us. I dont want to suggest that our earlier music is more contrived than what we are doing now but our songs now sound more like songs being sung. Haley: Exactly, nothing is being hidden in the production this time around.

22 MUSIC

The Stag|24th March 2014

music@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Newton Faulkner GLive review

By Sophia Field, Film Editor

ewton Faulkner returned to Guildford on the 6th March to perform a sold out concert at GLive. As arguably one of ACMs most successful former students, the crowds were visibly excited to have Newton back on home soil. He played songs from all four of his albums, rousing the audience with classic renditions of Dream Catch Me and Teardrop, right up to songs from his latest release, Studio Zoo, including Where to Start and Indecisive. This twenty-three day tour is in support of Studio Zoo, which was released in August last year. The creation of this album was captured via webcam and offered his audience a unique opportunity to watch the albums formation over a five week period, twenty-four hours a day. This innovative idea clearly worked, as Studio Zoo has become his fourth consecutive top 10 album. With his iconic long red dreadlocks, Newton Faulkner has become unmistakable on the stage. For those who havent seen him play live, he leaves every audience member slack-jawed in awe at his breathtakingly unique musical and vocal ability. Constantly pushing the boundaries and developing innovative ways to perform, he even re-tunes his guitar as part of a song, sings into the pick-ups and of course, uses the body of his guitar as percussion. But what is so enchanting about Newton Faulkner is his ability to become a full band,

using just his own body. His coordination is unrivaled, as he manages to sing and play complicated guitar, whilst also playing a kick drum with his right foot, and triggering piano notes with his left. That said, for the first time in years, he also brought other musicians to the stage including a cellist and another guitarist (his brilliant support act, Sam Brooks). Whilst he is great alone, the addition of these instrumentalists made for some spine-tingling moments; not forgetting the enchanting harmonies provided by the backing singers, including Newtons brother, Toby. If you thought his music was enjoyable in recorded form, you have to see this man perform live. With each tour, Newton treats his fans to a new cover, which are usually very interesting and ambitious. These have previously included Bohemian Rhapsody (youll want to YouTube that!), and Superstition, and this years cover of Justin Timberlakes Like I Love You didnt disappoint either. He also delighted the audience with a performance of I Need Something, a classic and perhaps one of his most-loved hits, which was written on the steps of Guildfords very own Electric Theatre. Seeing Newton Faulkner live is an uplifting experience. Not only is his music magical, but he also seems like a genuinely charming guy, joking and laughing with the audience. Lets hope he doesn't leave it too long before he returns to Guildford again.

Rick Ross Mastermind

By Leo Blanchard, Music Team

GOGO Visual

ast year was probably the shakiest year in Rosss career to date, plagued by controversy over his date rape lyric in Rockos U.O.E.N.O and being dropped from his sponsorship deal with Reebok because of it. That would probably make you think hed be doing all he could to avoid controversy, and in many ways he did do that on this album, with a few exceptions. Interviews with the rapper have made it abundantly clear that hes not one for music politics and would rather focus on music and the wealth it affords him, putting last years controversies behind him. So its no surprise that 2013 saw no full-length releases from the Florida-based rapper, probably because he was recovering from his disappointing LP God Forgives, I Dont and the nauseatingly-bad mixtape that followed it up, The Black Bar Mitzvah. Instead, he focused on features and hyping up Mastermind with a series of promotional singles, including the listenable No Games and the decadent and explosive music video that accompanied it. Ross was never one for rapping about lifes more profound matters, but listening through his last fulllength, God Forgives, I Dont, felt nauseating merely due to how limited his subject matter was: Maybachs, money and coke-pedalling. You definitely wont find reflections on Congressional politics or thoughts about the Ukraine uprising in Mastermind, but what you will find is enough diversity to keep you on your toes or at least your feet. The album opens with an acknowledgment of the genre itself - If you love hiphop bust them shots - and as simple as this is, its refreshing to hear Ross even mention something that isnt about himself. Lighter moments like these provide comic relief just when the seriousness of Rosss persona has been going on a bit too long, case in point: A sweet potato pie, oh me, oh my/Showing no remorse watching the others cry. You cant help but laugh. With this in mind, few listeners wouldnt cringe when they hear Trayvon Martin, never missing my target in BLK & WHT; the reference feels uncomfortable, unwarranted

and surprising for a rapper who should be avoiding controversy at all cost. But even Rosss harshest critics would find it hard to deny that his beat selections are on point, signalling a satisfying return to the form we saw on Rich Forever back in 2012. As lacklustre and slow to start as it is, the Mike WiLL-produced lead single War Ready sounds more like Young Chops signature drill style than a guy who spent most of last year producing for Miley Cyrus. The Weeknds contribution to In Vein is the codeine mellow to the coke-fuelled excitability of the preceding tracks, bringing out a smoother and more intimate side of Ross that unfortunately invokes more frustration than enjoyment. This frustration is only exacerbated by the albums seemingly inevitable inclusion of unnecessarily long skits, which only enhance the listening experience when they reach the cusp of selfparody. Rosss greatest virtue on Mastermind is his flow, and anyone familiar with his music knows that this has been the case in most of his musical output. Itll never get the same exposure as a single, but Supreme is undoubtedly the albums centrepiece; his delivery sounding unmistakably at home on top of the lush instrumentation of brass and soulful vocals characteristic of Southern hip-hop. Fans of Tha Carter III will get similar feelings of reassurance from Lil Waynes contribution to Thug Cry which sees a rare return to form from a rapper whose obsession with cunnilingus wore thin several years ago. The massive anticipation and prolonged build-up surrounding Mastermind has made it hard to avoid singing the praises of it, simply because it isnt the disappointment it could have so easily been. It may lack hits with the same infectious catchiness of Hustlin or B.M.F., but ultimately, the Maybach Music rapper has put together a set of tracks that is of consistently good quality and with very little filler. Rick Rosss lyrics have a tendency to come across as hyperbolic and selfaggrandising, but if that ruined your enjoyment then youd be missing the point.

Music Editor: Candice Ritchie

The Stag|24th March 2014

MUSIC

23

Sense the Music Review

By Leo Blanchard, Music Team

f you werent looking for it, theres a slim chance youd stumble upon the music venue at the rear of the Star Inn; a pub that manages to feel traditional in the age of Spoons 2 for 12 cocktail pitchers. But somewhere as unmistakably Guildford as this, made a fitting home for Sense the Music, a night of live music put on by a selection of local talent on the 9th April. Madd Elizabeth, Kingdom and Cultural Other made up of a mix of ACM and University of Surrey students all played their own varieties of guitar-driven music to a crowd of eager music fans. Madd Elizabeth were the first act, setting the pace of the night with a groove easy to fall into - think The Killers with Jack Whites vocals on top. As they ploughed through a decent range of original songs you couldnt help but feel the front man was carrying the rest of the band a bit, as they largely remained static throughout the set, but the music felt on point nonetheless. While it can be difficult not to compare every modern rock band with a piano to Muse, their influence could definitely be heard in the music of Kingdom, whose melodic sound was distinctly reminiscent of the band. The instrumentation felt a bit crowded at times, but their penultimate song was much slower than the others, giving it an atmospheric feel and allowing the piano to add depth instead of being drowned out by the other instrumentation. This also gave a bit of a hint of the sound to come from the headlining act.

You cant help but pay attention to Cultural Others lyrics when listening to them; if anything, its because the sparseness of their music draws you to them straight away. Thats not necessarily to say that their instrumentation is forgettable or even bad, the temptation to cram all possible instrumentation into tracks is something that seems to be resisted by few. Cultural Others ability to create music as calm as they do, does a good job emphasising the intensity of their periods of heaviness, characterised by rumbling bass which worked well in the mix live. The band took a short break to elaborate on their name, explaining that it was because one of them is Polish, one of them is Italian and one of them is British. The drummer was quick to remark It sounds like when you say Cultural Other it would be anything but British. True. The 1942 classic B&W film Casablanca was projected on a screen behind the stage throughout the night; I thought this was a nice touch that really enhanced the entertainment visually and served as a great contrast against the musics heavier moments. Sense the Music was a testament to the dedication of local artists, to promote the Guildford music scene through organising and performing at intimate venues like the Star Inn. All three bands showed potential, but more importantly they displayed the kind of enthusiasm that makes for genuinely enjoyable live entertainment. Definitely make sure to check out any of these bands if you have the opportunity. Search for Cultural Other on Facebook and Soundcloud. Cultral Other

24 LITERATURE

The Stag|24th March 2014

literature@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Literature
Is Indias illiteracy rate a justification for the West to represent them through fiction?

Review: Monica Ali, Brick Lane

By Lauren Boland, Literature team

M
sunilgarg

By Shiri Shah, Literature Editor

ndia has an illiteracy rate higher that 50%, yet the mythology the west had imposed unto it during the colonial era remains, with the leftovers of exoticism and mystery. There are probably more books written about India by white men than Indian individuals. So why then, are issues of representation and problematic notions put forward when the likes of Salman Rushdie and Monica Ali attempt to break off a fragment of the essence of India to present to the Western audience? It could perhaps be because these authors have lived a comfortable and privileged life in the west, so much so that their attempts at authentic accounts are nothing but superficial. Does the colour of ones skin and their South Asian name give them the right to represent the traumatised minority, especially if that minority wont even read the accounts? Why then, does the British audience need the entertaining magical realism of Salman Rushdies Midnights Children, and Monica Alis Brick Lane? Surely India has many intellectuals living and breathing in the country to give more honest accounts? This could be a simple

question of selling stories, a result of capitalist survival for a writer in England. Because of Indias traumatic and blood stained history, in contemporary terms, imposed onto it by Western colonisation, writing a pseudo-accurate account of monumental events in India during the partition, I would say that employing magical realism is somewhat tasteless. Using a western technique that sugar coats the deaths, injustice, and inhumanity of India in the 1940s that was because of Western enforcements, undermines what Rushdie probably feels very strongly about. As an Oxford educated man with Kashmiri roots, of course there would be reason to speak about the horrors your family and people from your motherland have faced. But to attempt to squash it all into one book with language sometimes too rich to comprehend, with a representative of one or two farfetched characters, was not one of his smartest decisions. All of that aside, Rushdie and Ali are talented writers that engage the audience in a captivating narrative. Midnights Children and Brick Lane are now highly esteemed films.

onica Alis first novel, Brick Lane, tells the enthralling story of young Nazneen, only eighteen years old, as shes sent off to England from her home town in Bangladesh to marry a man through an arranged marriage. This realist novel portrays hard hitting realities many immigrants face when entering into a new culture and way of life, yet has a comical touch, making it an enjoyable read. Beginning in the Mymensingh District in East Pakistan, we get a brief introduction into Nazneens childhood and her fateful birth. However, the novel quickly switches to East Londons Tower Hamlets where she is to live with new husband, Chanu. She soon finds herself a mother with two feisty daughters who are determined not to move back to their parents original village, a tense decision Nazneen has to make nearing the end of the novel. Shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize, Brick Lane explores ideas of freedom and community

as Nazneen struggles in her new surroundings, knowing only two English phrases, thank you and sorry. She soon befriends her immigrant neighbours who offer her advice and support as she embarks on her quest to find her way in London. In her passionless marriage with Chanu, we read of repeated gruesome scenes where she cuts off the corns from his feet. But, lust is soon found with the introduction of Karim, a fierce young Muslim with strong political views. He shows Nazneen that there is more to life and that its worth fighting for, as she abandons her role as a good Bengali wife and embarks on an impassioned affair. This explosion of physical attraction and self-fulfilment leads to a heart-warming conclusion in which Nazneen immerses herself in the freedom of London. The success of this novel was only the beginning for the story of Nazneen, as it was shortly produced into an award winning film in 2007. Described by The Observer as a gripping story, I would urge anyone to embark on Nazneens journey with her.

Literature Editor: Shiri Shah

The Stag|24th March 2014

LITERATURE

25

George Orwells literature still impacts us today

By Leo Blanchard, Literature team

Spring in Literature

he recent revelations over the extent of the NSAs operations have caused a lot of people to think about the surveillance were all under. This is particularly the case for us Brits, who are under the constant watchful eye of roughly 4.2 million CCTV cameras - more per person than anywhere else in the world. Discussion about the right to privacy almost always ends up mentioning George Orwell, whose satire made him an important figure in literary and political history. The word Orwellian itself has come to describe threats to individual freedoms, originating from the society in his novel 'Nineteen Eighty-Four. Admittedly, this is an unfortunate legacy for a man who spent his life warning others about threats to individual liberty. In fact, George Orwell is responsible for the existence of many phrases that continue to exist

in our collective vocabulary, even after his death over 60 years ago. Many of them come from newspeak, a fictional language created by Orwell for the dystopian society of Nineteen Eighty-Four, responsible for words such as doublethink and Big Brother. If you read Nineteen EightyFour, youll probably find a lot of parallels between the society it describes and the one we live in today. For example, much like the never-ending war thats used to justify the absolute control over Airstrip Ones inhabitants, the War on Terror has arguably been used as a justification for continuous reductions in our civil liberties. Thankfully, the world of Orwells Nineteen Eighty-Four is still a great deal different from the one we currently live in today - we still have democracy and protection of freedom of speech. Still, its hard not to be reminded of prolefeed when absentmindedly watching The X Factor as you shovel Ben & Jerrys in your face.

By Emma Hawken, literature team

pring is finally starting to arrive with the warm(ish!) weather, the plethora of daffodils popping up all over campus and the excitement at how close the Easter break is only a few more weeks! The season of spring has been the subject and inspiration of many different poems, novels, and plays. When this time of year rolls round again and March the first flashes up on my calendar, I always get a flashback to when I was in school and learning William Wordsworths I wandered lonely as a cloud. Just to recap, or for those that havent come across Wordsworths affectionately named Daffodil poem, it describes an experience of someone walking around, a bit down-in-the-dumps, and then unexpectedly coming across some golden daffodils which are tossing their heads in sprightly dance. This flourish of flowers and emersion within nature reawakens the happiness within the poet and makes him smile again. Granted, this poem isnt complex, full of allusions, or about to spark any epiphany-like truths, but it does show how even the smallest, seemingly insignificant details in everyday life can be just the thing to change your mood or make you stop and think. Im not sure that each time I walk past the daffodils on my way home from lectures that my heart with pleasure fills or that I would ever be someone who dances with the daffodils (not in my right mind anyway!). However, if I imagine Wordsworth pirouetting among the flowers it might lighten the moment and make me smile along with him.

I wandered lonely as a cloud That floats on high oer vales and hills, When all at once I saw a crowd, A host, of golden daffodils; Beside the lake, beneath the trees, Fluttering and dancing in the breeze. Continuous as the stars that shine And twinkle on the Milky Way, They stretched in never-ending line Along the margin of a bay: Ten thousand saw I at a glance, Tossing their heads in sprightly dance. The waves beside them danced; but they Out-did the sparkling waves in glee: A poet could not but be gay, In such a jocund company: I gazedand gazedbut little thought What wealth the show to me had brought: For oft, when on my couch I lie In vacant or in pensive mood, They flash upon that inward eye Which is the bliss of solitude; And then my heart with pleasure fills, And dances with the daffodils.

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film@thestagsurrey.co.uk

The Lego Movie

By Ankur Banerjee, Film Team

Film

oing in to watch The Lego Movie I was sceptical of whether it would actually be good, or just a merchandising ploy to turn toys into a movie gone too far - like the 2012 critical flop Battleship. I generally tend to dislike animated films because I often find them simplistic in terms of themes, with changeable characters (toys, cars, sea life), created with one eye focused on the merchandising rights. Despite this context, The Lego Movie was a pleasant surprise. Directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller use their tried technique of making smart contemporary pop culture references from their previous effort 21 Jump Street and tell it through charming, retro-style animation, afforded by using Lego characters. I was very impressed by the clever casting, picking actors who are big in internet pop culture: Chris Pratt from Parks and Recreations, Will Arnett from Arrested Development, Alison Brie from Community, Charlie Day from It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia and Elizabeth Banks from The Hunger Games trilogy. If that top billing of voice actors with niche and rabid fan bases online doesn't get you interested, there's also Morgan Freeman, Will Ferrell, and Liam

Neeson among top Hollywood actors - each, again, being favourites of the internet crowd. This self-aware casting is what elevates the dialogue in The Lego Movie from just jokes on paper, to in-joke pop culture references, adding another dimension to the film. Although, these will likely be the jokes that only older viewers will recognise and appreciate. The retro animation style captures the fascination kids have with Lego toys and is sure to make anyone who enjoyed playing with them in childhood reminisce. It's overall a very cheerful and uplifting film, but the scenes showing father-son bonding moved me to tears, because of the troubled relationship that I have with my own family. Besides that, there are also undercurrents of commentary about capitalist culture and mental health issues; perhaps that was me projecting my own views on to the film, but much in the way of Lego pieces, the film's plot gives you the canvas to interpret scenes in your own way.

IMDb Top 100 Do You Agree?

cant be the only one who runs to IMDb for support when choosing a film to watch. In an attempt to avoid wasting hours of my life watching terrible movies, checking out the rating it has received by our trusted peers and critics is essential in finding out the score. But do we all agree with these ratings?

#51 Django Unchained (2012) IMDb rates 8.5

ne of the newest movies to hit the IMBD top 100 is Django Unchained. Directed by Quentin Tarantino, who is famous for his non-linear plotlines and dark violence (Pulp Fiction, Reservoir Dogs), it was no surprise that his most recent venture was also a great success. With a stellar cast of Leonardo DiCaprio, Jamie Foxx and Christoph Waltz and an incredible soundtrack, Django Unchained was potentially the best movie of 2012. Tarantino tackles the dark subject matter of slavery and portrays it in a gritty and in-your-face way, making some scenes difficult to watch. The stand out performance for me was Leonardo Dicaprio as the cruel and callous owner of Candyland, one of the biggest plantations in Mississippi. He is intensely terrifying and intimidating, and in the scene where he rants at his guests over the dinner table, he is rumoured to have really smashed a glass into his hand, but continued to act regardless. So the blood in that scene is real! Django Unchained pushes the boundaries of what is acceptable in cinema. With its profuse violence, and often dark humor, we often have to step back and think about what we are laughing at, but this acts as a tool to give the film even more impact. For fans of any of Tarantinos previous work, this is a must watch.

By Sophia Field, Film Editor

Interested in film?

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

Film Editor: Sophia Field

The Stag|24th March 2014

FILM

27

300: Rise of an Empire

By Francesca Lampidoniti, Film Team

The Grand Budapest Hotel

By Ankur Banerjee, Film Team

he cinematic fiction has always drawn rich material from antiquity, giving the general public spectacles with super-smart, brave women and unbeatable super-heroes, who fight in epic battles and always come out on top. These are the characters that carry us away from reality and take us to our filmic dream world. 300: Rise of an Empire falls into this description perfectly, bringing added value in the form of rich effects and threedimensional images, making the film even more immersive for the viewer. Following Zack Snyders 2007 production of 300, Israeli director, Noam Murro takes the reins for follow up film, 300: Rise of an Empire. Murro presents a new version of the myth of 300, basing his work on the graphic novel by Frank Miller, as Snyder did for 300. The movie follows the heroes through a stunning set of images depicting the confrontation between the Greeks and Persians in the naval battles of Artemisium and Salamis (480 BC). Varied and wide shots, as well as sudden camera movements enhance the unflinching courage and sacrifice of the Greeks in battles to protect their homeland and their families from the enemy. The film also exhibits the aggression, thirst for conquest and vengeance of the Persians. The representatives of the

two main opponents are the narrators, Themistocles and Artemisia. Sullivan Stapleton enters the role of Themistocles, the politician and commander who lured the Persians in the straits of Salamis, leading several ships in the disaster. Stapleton deservedly brings to life this mythical figure, emphasizing his intelligence and the bravery that made him distinguishable. He is a visual model of the morally, intellectually and physically developed citizen, an ideal for the Athenian state. On the antipode is Eva Green, who is transformed into the cruel and cunning Artemisia, an expert in the art of war. Her rage for revenge and her bravery, as seen in Greens interpretation, is summed up by Xerxes, as he declares in battle that My men became women and my women, men. However, the desire and attraction that Artemisia feels for Themistocles and their relationship is purely cinematic fiction or a creation by Frank Miller to make the narrative more spicy. The film 300: The Rise of Empire is both brutal and violent, with successive scenes that demonstrate extreme bravery in the face of adversity. If you are a fan of the original 300 movie, you will love this one.

s a self-confessed Wes Anderson fan, I had been looking forward to the release of The Grand Budapest Hotel for a long time. What I wasn't expecting - when I caught it at the Odeon in Guildford on premire weekend - was to find a completely packed theatre. Somehow, I never thought Guildford would be a place full of Wes Anderson fans! Let me take a step back here. If you've never heard of Wes Anderson, he is known for such films as The Darjeeling Limited, The Royal Tenenbaums, The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou - and, my personal favourite - Moonrise Kingdom. His films are critically renowned for their unique visual style, deadpan dialogue, and ensemble casts (often) featuring Bill Murray, Adrien Brody, Jason Schwartzman, Jeff Goldblum, Owen Wilson, Edward Norton and Willem Dafoe. What sets Anderson apart is his ability to dive into deep, emotional topics of life and represent them in a visually striking fashion. The Grand Budapest Hotel, unlike many of his previous films, is loosely inspired by the real-life events of Stefan Zweig - a famous German writer. The story is set during World War II, with Ralph Fiennes leading the cast as M. Gustave, the manager of The Grand

Budapest Hotel. Gustave is a womaniser who loves pleasuring his elderly women guests, and through that, ends up being bequeathed a famous painting. It's a story of murder, prison break, and troubled families - far more bloody and gory than Anderson's previous work, but perhaps fitting with the theme of the times during WWII. The plot is decidedly less quirky and employs less of the tracking shots between different locations that Anderson is so famous for. Little-known actor Tony Revolori as the lobby boy Zero plays the foil and protg to Fiennes' character with aplomb. Fiennes himself is assuredly funny even in bleak situations; he slips so perfectly into the character of a British hotel manager. The Grand Budapest Hotel is a genuinely well-crafted film which I would recommend without hesitation to fans of indie cinema and / or Wes Anderson. I'm not sure whether the average punter would enjoy it though, because the film is not accessible in the same sense that Moonrise Kingdom was.

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film@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Top 3: Series with a female lead T

Television Corner

By Daniel Mller, Film Team

ry to consider all the series that you follow, or have ever followed. How many of them have female leads? If you actually started counting, you would find that most of the content we consume relies on men in the central role and it is quite a challenge to find female role models, even in todays television. The famous Bechdel test, which originally applies to movies, is used to monitor the female presence in Hollywood Blockbusters. It has only three simple rules: #1 Are there two or more female characters in the film? #2 Do these female characters have names? #3 Do these female characters talk to each other about anything else than men? Obviously Sex and the City failed the criteria, but how about all the films you saw during this years award season? The Bechdel test is not asking for much, still results can be surprising. That said, television shows have played a great part in emancipating women from the late 50s onwards. In the early 20th century in American television, women were only present in the role of the more or less perfect wife, but with the start of womens liberation, this tendency has changed a great deal. Moreover some sitcoms could have been the flagships of womens equal representation in Western societies. If you are interested in this topic, definitely watch the first episode of Americas primetime. Until then here are the 3 best series with a female lead:

Weeds
It is hardly deniable that Jenji Kohan, the creator of Weeds, is a true agent provocateur, but we must forgive, as her comedy/drama could not be more entertaining. In Weeds, Nancy the soon to be ex-soccer mom from the suburbs (played by Mary-Louise Parker) decides to nourish her two children after her husbands death by selling nicklebags to the local community. Through eight seasons Nancy becomes a version of Breaking Bads Heisenberg, but in an adorable and caring mother kind of way. Through these years she does make questionable decisions and she sometimes fails as a mother, as a warlord or as a mistress, but thats what makes the plot and Nancys character genius. The last seasons might seem like a bit far-fetched, but Nancy is surely one of the greatest heroines of todays television.

Nurse Jackie
Nurse Jackie is not your ordinary medical drama. This show is a about a middle aged women, who helps people for a living, but does not care about the norms of society. She is seeking her own truth in a rather special way whilst being a wife, a mother, a heavy user, and often deceptive. Somehow following the show from episode to episode you cannot help but wonder if you have ever met a better person before. Jackie Peyton is a very strong character and the show would probably not worth a penny if Nurse Jackie was played by anybody other than Edie Falco, but in case you wanted to know what kind of different roles a real-life woman has to perform daily, without being schizophrenic, you should watch the pilot at least.

The Goodwife
The pilots first scene is nearly as powerful as the one of Californication. In the first seconds of the series we see a high-profile politician who has to resign, because of the recent scandal he went through. We all know the script: The man steps up to the stand and sincerely apologises for his misjudgement, and praises his country, while his supporting wife stands by his side, speechless and humiliated. After all this we would suppose that we will follow the story of the Bill Clinton counterpart, but in this instant he gets slapped in the face and we pick up the story of the wife six month later, who is attempting to reintegrate into a law-firm after not seeing a courtroom for thirteen years. This story has a lot of potential and although I believe the series eventually goes into the wrong direction, if we are talking female leads, Alicias character is one that cannot be overlooked.

Dance/Theatre Editor: Ambar Parker Monroe

The Stag|24th March 2014

DANCE & THEATRE

29

PYGMALION
A
LISTAIR MCGOWAN reprises his West End role as Henry Higgins in a new production of Bernard Shaws Pygmalion, which comes to Guildfords Yvonne Arnaud Theatre from Monday to Saturday, April 7 to 12. The aristocratic and egocentric Professor of Phonetics Henry Higgins makes a bet with his friend, the amiable Colonel Pickering, that he can transform the manners and speech of Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle and pass her off as a lady in society. Packed with a host of larger than life characters including Alfred Doolittle and lovelorn Freddy Eynsford-Hill, Pygmalion remains one of the most popular of Bernard Shaws plays and is perhaps best known as the inspiration for the musical My Fair Lady. BAFTA Award-winning Alistair McGowan stars as Henry Higgins, a role he played at the Garrick Theatre in 2011. Regarded as one of the most talented people working in entertainment today, he is a writer, impressionist and comic and has established himself as a formidable actor in recent years, receiving critical acclaim for several West End appearances including Little Shop of Horrors, for which he received an Olivier Award nomination. Rula Lenska joins Alistair to play Mrs Higgins and Jamie Foreman will play Alfred Doolittle. Rula is

Dance & Theatre

Monday 7 Saturday 12 April
a one of our leading stage and television actors with appearances in several major TV series including her role as Claudia Colby in Coronation Street. Jamie Foreman has over thirty film credits to his name including Layer Cake and Polanskis Oliver Twist. His television credits include the long-running role of Derek Branning in Eastenders and Pygmalion marks his return to the stage. Rising star Rachel Barry will play Eliza. Rachel was most recently seen in the West End in Michael Grandages acclaimed production of A Midsummer Nights Dream. Tony Award-winning David Grindley directs. A classic British drama, this ever-entertaining theatrical tour de force is full of Shaws trademark wit, style and provocative insights, as well as a beguiling and enduring humour. Tickets for Pygmalion are on sale now! You can book yours by calling the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Box Office on (01483) 44 00 00 or by visiting the website at www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

A weekend of collaboration
horeographers and composers weekend only happens for one weekend annually but the works created, along with the relationships forged between collaborating artists, stick in your mind for a long time afterwards. This is the second time I have participated in this weekend; the first time was as an impressionable dancer in my first year who would have never had the courage to take on the challenge of choreographing an 8 minute piece in 9 hours, the second time as a final year choreographer who took on the challenge. Some students come with set ideas of what it is they want to work on, others come as a blank canvas but all end up creating a piece that is full of thought and interest, and ultimately, engaging to watch. Maybe it is the liberation from assessment criteria and the usual university hours, but my experience of choreographers and composers weekend is that students are encouraged to take risks with their work, spurred on by a new environment and strangers that they have never worked with before. The atmosphere of the weekend is one of curiosity and experiments: What happens if I try this? How will you respond? Together dancers and musicians are given a studio space and a day and a half to create a piece in collaboration which is then performed with a post-performance discussion on the Sunday evening. In the 3 years that I have attended this performance I have seen theatrical mime, motiontracking visuals, minimalist solos, movement that mimics instruments, musicians dancing, live instruments and computergenerated sounds. And having now attempted to initiate my own creative process during this weekend I can comment on the striking sense of achievement felt at how quickly ideas can collectively come together and influence each other in a short space of time.

Femature

Alistair McGowan Stars as HenryHiggins Alsongside Rula Lenska and Jamie Foreman

emature dance company explores notions of fear, vulnerability and desire, creating a journey of self discovery. We encourage people to forget taboos, to understand that the body is an exceptional tool, and that although we all differ; mechanically we are built the same. There are comical elements to our movement, with an underlying story, which has helped the development of Femature dance in the past year. As a company we have grown and embraced what is most feared to talk about, enabling our very own journeys of discovery.

The aim is to perform in the area within the next few months with possibilities to expand, showcasing what we have achieved so far. With help from a few musicians we have original movement and music material for a very entertaining show. There is nothing more important than the acceptance of oneself. You are here for a reason, you need to love that. For more information or to get in touch please visit our website and Facebook page.

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societies@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Societies
Jailbreak: From Guildford to Cologne
By Daniel Ashworth, Michael Heyes & Anees Khan, Jailbreak participants

Enactus

his years jailbreak was run by Enactus. Groups of students are charged with the task of getting as far away from the university campus in Guildford as possible in a limited space of time, without spending any of our own money on travel. This is the story of Daniel Ashworth, Michael Heyes and Anees Khan. We got some early help from a lady in a local shop, Guildford Cobblers, What-nots & Eagle Radio. Where presenter Simon Rose kindly gave us a radio shout out and appealed for help, not something we thought would happen! Almost immediately after this, a kind hearted stranger saw our signs and offered to give us a lift to the A3 junction towards London. Once dropped here, we retreated back towards a lay by and began another sign waving session to attract help. This led to a lift to Woking train station from a very nice man who after a quick selfie with us, revealed he was still hung-over, and we were his first ever hitchhikers! A long conversation with National Express (other coach companies are available) led to nought even with a very willing and helpful driver. Whilst at the train station, we talked with taxi drivers and station attendants who gave good advice and encouragement, but unfortunately were unable to lend us a hand. We then moved to the train station car park exit where further waving of the signs hitched us a lift with a very kind couple who took us to West Byfleet station. Whilst looking into trains at West Byfleet station, we encountered some Eagle Radio listeners who recognised us from Simon Rose shout out earlier in the day and donated what they could. Thank you to them and those who helped us whilst we ate lunch. Refreshed after our brief lunch stop, we attempted to catch the eye of one of the many drivers passing by in the traffic as this tactic hadn't failed us yet. This fruitless search happily ended, and you must believe us on this, when one of our parents who was independently on his way to London for a meeting, was able to pick us up and dropped us at Morden tube station.

Now in London, we decided to venture into the tube station and asked for help from the gate attendant. This proved to be very beneficial as he enthusiastically let us through into the tube system. This man was one of the many tube attendants who looked the other way at the gates so thank you to all that helped us out. From Morden, we travelled towards Heathrow airport using the advice of the attendant who told us to get off one stop before, at Hounslow West. We then walked about 4 miles in an attempt to walk to the airport. Eventually, with very tired legs, we decided to ask at a passing business car park for a lift on a shuttle to the terminal. This again turned out well as apparently you can't in fact reach the airport on foot. Once inside terminal one, we ran into another Jailbreak team who were busy talking to Aer Lingus. Unfortunately, they were unable to get any help, and advised us they had been asking for hours with no success from any of the airlines. We decided we would try any way and were offered help from TAM Airlines who said with the money we had raised, we could get a one way ticket to Brazil! The catch however, was that return tickets were 1000 each. On the Heathrow Express back to Paddington, which we had unwittingly boarded not knowing the individual ticket price is at least 21 we contemplated our next move. Charitably given the ride for free by the ticket lady, we set off on the tube towards Victoria. At Victoria, we headed to the coach station and drummed up extra funds for a coach ticket to as far away as possible. Everything we could do done, and no sway from the coach companies, we purchased an overnight journey to Cologne, Germany. An uncomfortable and interrupted night through France, Belgium and Germany meant at 0900 German time, we were as far as our resources could get us. Thanks to all the help and encouragement we received, we had arrived 350 miles from our starting point, and are eligible to collect the entire 450 that was pledge before and during the event. This money will be split between Sports Relief and Enactus Surrey to share.

Societies Editor: Alice Wilkinson

The Stag|24th March 2014

SOCIETIES

31

The Battle for the Gospel Choir of the Year Award

By Alice Wilkinson, Societies Editor

Gospel Choir

Lit Soc

niversity of Surrey Gospel Choir has been selected as one of the eight finalists in the annual University Gospel Choir of the Year competition (UGCY) 2014. These national finals will be held on the 5th April in London at the Old Carlton Cinema, Islington. This will the fourth annual University Gospel Choir of the Year competition which promises to be an uplifting evening with entertainment from the UKs Universities top vocalists and brilliantly talented young singers. The finalists for 2014 include Veracity Gospel Choir from London City University, Coventry Gospel Rhythms from Coventry University, Revival Gospel Choir from the University of Nottingham, Portsmouth University Gospel Choir, Royal Holloway

Gospel Choir, 2012 and 2013 UGDY winners Manchester Harmony Gospel Choir and last but (hopefully) not least The University of Surrey Gospel Choir. Judging the competition is resident host, and MOBO-Award winning Rachel Kerr. Why not show your support for the University of Surrey while enjoying an event that guarantees to leave you feeling uplifted and inspired? If you would like to watch University of Surrey Gospel Choir battle it out against seven other UK Universities for the title of University Gospel Choir of the Year 2014, tickets are 15 and available online now at www.ugcy.co.uk. Tickets will be available on the door. The event is taking place on Saturday 5th April at 7.30pm at the Old Carlton Cinema, Islington.

One World

32 SOCIETIES

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societies@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Chemical Engineering Soc

he University of Surrey Chemical Engineering department took great pride in participating in the Frank Morton Sports Day this year at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, on February 11th. Over fifty ChemEng students travelled by coach the night before to ensure they arrived bright and early at Braehead Arena in Glasgow on Tuesday morning. For many of the students, this was the first time they had ever been to Scotland! The day itself consisted of a careers fair with a welcome breakfast of Scottish oats followed by over thirteen sports competitions and a bar crawl in the evening. Twenty three of the UKs Chemical Engineering Universities were present, and competition for the trophy was fierce. Surrey showed great strength in all areas of sport, and qualified for quarter finals in six of its eight sports teams including Touch Rugby, Football and Basketball. A winner amongst all participants was Sam Ilelaboye, a second year student, who demonstrated exceptional skill on the obstacle course and rodeo bull (for which he came first and second place respectively),

winning Surrey points. Additionally, Sam was asked to come onto the stage during the awards ceremony and receive a special prize of sweets, drinks and snacks which was more than welcome after a long day of sport and eight and a half hours on the coach. Following the successes of the day the students were free to roam around Glasgow for a couple of hours before the big Bar Crawl. For many this meant sleep, food and relaxation, for others this meant getting ahead on the alcohol consumption and seeing what Glasgow had to offer! Surrey students had the opportunity to re-group before witnessing an impressive closing ceremony consisting of comedy and bagpipes, before setting off on the crawl to see Glasgow one last time All of our attendants said that despite the savage hangovers, tired limbs long coach journeys, Frank Morton was an event neither to be missed nor to be regretted!

ScraphEEp
By Liz Legge, EARS Secretary

EARS

Ideas Empowered
By Rka Blazsek, Societies Team

TEDxSurreyUniversity

n 7th February 2014 Electronic and Amateur Radio Society (EARS) held a ScraphEEp event for many staff and students at the University. We had a very successful day, with a large number of people taking part and more coming to watch. The event was the second ScraphEEp challenge, following a previous one last year. You may have seen the Scrapheap challenge on TV, our one was similar. Last year the challenge was to get a bouncy ball to the other side of a polystyrene wall. Which led to contraptions that melted and sawed through the wall. This year the challenge was to create a Robot to travel from start to nish across an obstacle course. Obstacles included a tunnel, seesaw, slanted bridge and a

house robot. The house robot had a weapon and would chase the contestants robot if they chose the shorter route. Black tape was on the course to allow the robots to create a line following robot. Each group successfully created a robot from scrap, some worked better than others but each had their own unique way of attempting the challenge. The winners built a remote controlled contraption, allowing them to complete the whole course. The winning team were Infra-red Ninjas and to the right their robot is shown completing the course. We plan to run the ScraphEEp challenge again next year and carry on the success. EARS would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all those who helped in any way towards making the day as successful as it was.

tag Hill Campus saw a beautiful spring day on March 15th with clear blue sky, sunshine and ducks toddling through the park. Also, it was the very first TEDx event on campus, which marks a milestone in the history of the university: Surrey has joined the movement devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading that goes beyond the borders of countries. TEDx is everywhere and it brings the little mosaic pieces that make up our world together. The School of Management, where the event was held, was host to former a TV presenter, finance experts and professors in environmental technology and economics. The attendees heard tear-jerking stories of blind people learning how to take photographs, teenage boys in prison who wanted to pursue a career in telecommunications, finance or taking care of children, and a group of people in Zimbabwe who went from being victims to self-conscious citizens by

raising their voices against the ruling regime. There were 11 speeches altogether: 11 points of view on life, 11 approaches to making a difference in the world, 11 ideas that became actions. Surrey students had the opportunity to be inspired in a way they hadnt before, and the framework provided by TEDx guidelines made this possible. As part of the team bringing TEDx to campus, I saw the difficulties arising during the planning process. It was all worth it and I have strong faith in TEDxSurrey. I believe it will continue to motivate students to take the initiative and make some kind of change in the world in the years to come. If you missed the event, visit the official website tedxsurrey.com to watch the talks. If you have any questions or comments, find us on Facebook (TEDxSurrey) and share them with us. Wed love to hear your thoughts, which will most certainly help in strengthening this movement.

34 SPORT

The Stag|24th March 2014

sport@thestagsurrey.co.uk

Djokovic vs Federer
Stanislas Wawrinka (3) also lost their respective third-round matches. Overall, Roger Federer has seen his fortunes take a turn for the best having reached 5 semi-finals and 2 finals in 2014, claiming the Dubai Open in the process. Djokovic has just won his first title of the year and will be hungry to add Miami to his tally and reclaim his spot at number one. Nadal will look to win his first Sony Open in preparation for Roland Garros in May, where the King of Clay will attempt to cement his position as the greatest player on the surface, by becoming the first man to win the French Open no less than nine times. Defending Sony champion and Olympic gold medallist Andy Murray will be rearing to reach his pre-injury level of tennis. In a generation of Tennis blessed with countless prodigies, this is one of the most exciting times in mens tennis in a long while. The Indian Wells tournament has showed that the worlds elite are indeed human.

Surrey Womens Rugby

his past Monday, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic fought a thrilling final in California at the 2014 Indian Wells tournament with the Djokovic coming out on top, taking the game 3-6, 6-3 7-6. The Serbian came back strongly after losing a seemingly one-sided first set, displaying much of his famed mental strength. Novak upped his game by firing in 3 aces and 11 winners to take the second decisive set. The third set was a nail-biter which went down to the wire, Djokovic held his nerves to win the final set in the tie-breaker 7-3. Overall, in all ATP competitions, the head-to-head tally now sits at 16-17 in the Swiss favour. The first shock exit of the tournament was that of number one seed. Rafael Nadal was eliminated by Ukrainian rising star Dolgopolov (whom he beat on clay at the Rio Open late February) in the second round. Dolgopolov went on to face Federer in the semi-finals, losing in straight sets in little over an hour. Following Nadals lead, Andy Murray (5) and

An incredible journey
By Lauren Whatley, Sports Team

m sure those of us in final year look back on first year with a degree of envy, yet we must also consider how far we have come since then. Coming to university, many of us join sports and societies, and I for one have had the pleasure of watching my sport grow; not just in terms of performance, but also in the experience the club can offer. The Rugby Club, which includes both the men and women, enjoys a great social scene and a strong work ethic to rival it. In the days of my first year, the

men and women seldom socialised and the women barely had a competitive team. However, the club now enjoys weekly socials, epic tours and a close working relationship with Roots, where we come together and enjoy the club atmosphere. This is of course before we even consider the amazing progress made in terms of performances on the womens side, including reaching the semi-finals of the Cup and beating sportsuniversity Brunel: 37-12. So I ask you to consider how your sports/ societies have changed and how you could help along the way.

Sport Editor: Santiago Avils

The Stag|24th March 2014

SPORT

35

Rock Climbing Rocks!

By Sheldon Ford, Mountaineering Club Chairman

Surrey Rock Climbing

he University of Surrey Mountaineering Club has enjoyed some success in the recent BUCS Climbing Championships. Two teams of three travelled up to Sheffield on the 22nd February to take part in the annual competition which sees competitors gather from Universities and Colleges across the UK. It is held at the Climbing Works, regarded as the worlds best indoor bouldering wall, near the beautiful Peak District. Bouldering is a form of rock climbing performed without the use of harnesses or ropes. The only equipment generally used is a specialised pair of climbing shoes, chalk in order to keep hands dry and a safety mat to prevent injury, should the climber fall. Climbing competitions are based on a climbers ability to ascend a route without failing. If they reach the top of a route on their first attempt, they are awarded 10 points. Fewer points are awarded on any successive attempts. The University of Surreys own Thomas Foschini boasted an impressive 3rd place in the Mens Individual with 231

points. After proceeding to the finals, the Italian Stallion managed to get further than his rivals on the specially set route which is meant to break all but the toughest of boulderers. His high score resulted in the Surrey Mens Team taking 6th place overall with 623 points. First and second place were achieved by Sheffield Hallam and Sheffield University respectively. This achievement is further augmented by Surrey Sports Parks lack of appropriate training equipment. Most climbing centres will make use of a fingerboard or campus board, tools used to increase the strength of ones fingers. The club have also recently competed in LUBE: the London University Bouldering Event. It is held over four stages at different venues around London. Although we did not place, it served as a great introduction to competitive climbing for some our newer members. If youve ever fancied yourself as being the next Shauna Coxsey or climbed trees in your youth, then we urge you to come along and try your hand at rock climbing. We meet every Wednesday, from 3-5pm at Surrey Sports Park, after which we all head out for drinks and a chat. We aim

to organise fortnightly weekend trips to climbing hotspots around the country as well as our annual trips. Join us and well teach you everything you need to know to climb all by yourself at Surrey Sports Park; youre

already paying for it! For further information please find us on Facebook, or contact: m00056@surrey. ac.uk

UniS Football Club Makes History!

Surrey 2nd & 3rd XI reach further than ever before
By Harry Metters, Sports Team

Surrey Football Club

he last few weeks have been fantastic for the University of Surrey Football Club. Firstly both the 2nd and 3rd XI made it through to the semi-finals of the South Eastern Conference Cup. Never before had two of our sides made it this far in competitions and it is a fantastic achievement by all involved. Unfortunately on Wednesday, both teams did not make it through to the final as the 2nd XI lost to Brunel 1st, and the 3s were knocked out by Anglia Ruskin. The 2nds made it through to the semi-final with a 3-1 win against New Buckinghamshire 3s. Despite going 1-0 down, the side bounced back and scored 3 goals through Jamie Burnett, Jubril & Emeka. The game showed character and a high work rate came from the team as a whole. The following week, the 2s built on this momentum in the BUCS league with an impressive 2-1 victory over the topof-the-league opposition, who incidentally happened to be New Buckinghamshires 2nd XI. Andy Best played an exceptional game, scoring both of the goals on this occasion. Brunel overall has some of the strongest sides throughout the BUCS leagues, even decimating Surreys first team 7-1 earlier on in the season. Despite this, the side came in full spirit, upholding tradition by wearing

unusual hats on route to the game. The side went out matching the opposition and prevented them from having a single shot on target in the first half. The second half again was tight but Andy Best swung the game in Surreys favour by scoring a precise header into the bottom corner from a Tom Chambers cross. The goal brought the realisation to the players that they could potentially be playing in a cup final at home, in the Surrey Sports Park. With this, and players starting to tire after having to chase down possession, Brunel started to dictate play. Brunel then equalised with 10 minutes to go with a scrappy goal. Surrey went into extra time with their commitment and belief still intact however their energy levels were not. Brunel dominated the extra time and scored 4 goals in this short period to leave the final score at 5-1. Everyone involved should be extremely proud of what they achieved in the cup run and to match a side like Brunel 1st XI for 90 minutes! The 3rd XI won their cup quarter-final last week after thumping Sussex 4-0. Dan Chada, Aldoori (2) & Adam Rawling were the goal scorers as they smashed their way through into the semis. The semi-final against Anglia Ruskin started well as they scored in the first

2nd XI preparing for the big day with the tradition of wearing unusual hats to semi-finals! minute. However the so-called Anglia Ruskin 4s seemed to be playing many players from higher teams and looked an extremely talented outfit. The 3s played well and fought valiantly throughout the game and with 20 minutes to go, the score was 2-2. However with not long to go, the opposition scored with a fantastic effort, knocking Surrey out of the competition.

36 SPORT

The Stag|24th March 2014

sport@thestagsurrey.co.uk

7 Am, 1 C, New York City, 13.1 Miles

By Santiago Aviles, Sport Editor

Mo Farah Set for Marathon Debut

he would have to run at a faster pace than those ahead as the elite never drop pace at these distances. On the west side of Manhattan is where Mo caught up to the stragglers of the original pack, but it was clear the extra exertion was taking its toll as his face was an image of pain. Despite this he fought on and continued to close the gap between himself and the two Kenyans; Sambu was now tantalisingly close but Mutai remained far on the horizon. The thrilling final kilometre saw Mo utilise his speed, gained from his experience on the track, to overtake the first Kenyan; his pace was remarkable and for a moment it seemed he would indeed be able to contest Mutai for first place. Alas the former NY marathon winner proved indomitable, crossing the finish line with a beaming smile. Farah subsequently crossed the line 18 seconds later, his body collapsing under the stress off performing at such a high intensity. Over the past year Farah has ditched training in Portland, USA, instead undergoing high altitude training in Kenya; the fair weather, mountainous terrain and hypoxic environment adding intensity to his training. The Olympic and IAAF double gold

Sport

he mens New York half-marathon started at a relatively slow pace, it was clear from the onset that a new course record would not be set; the current one standing at 59:24, set by the legendary Ethiopian Haile Gebrselassi. Mo Farah started the race hidden amongst the mass of professionals and stayed there for the first quarter of the race. As the favourites started to make a noticeable gap between themselves and the mass, Farah emerged fresh-faced and established his position amongst the elite. A warm Mo then stripped, ridding himself of a heavy jumper and hat, responding to the new pace set by the Kenyan leader Geoffrey Mutai. It was around the half-hour mark that tragedy befell the British athlete. On a downhill gradient, a stray leg clipped Mos trailing foot, sending him hurtling towards the hard concrete. Shaken from the hard fall, it took Mo several minutes to regain his momentum, however by that point, a large distance lay between him and a medal winning position. The ensuing half hour produced a fine spectacle and a strong testament to the power of will. In order for Farah to catch up,

medallist now turns his sights to the London Marathon on the 13th of April, aiming to break the current British record of 2:07:13, set by Steve Jones nineteen years ago in Chicago.

The unwavering support of the home British spectators will surely aid our champion in surpassing his goals.

Surrey second best Touchers

By Dan Askew, Sport Team

n Saturday 15th 13 students selected from USRFC and Thursday night 6 oclock PlaySport touch sessions came second in Englands first University Touch tournament in Bath. The team was drawn against Loughborough for their first match of the group stages which started positively with Captain Dan Askew scoring immediately from tap off. From here, however, began an up-hill struggle with the squads inexperience in defence allowing Loughborough back into the game ending with a score line of 6-6. The second game was against the hosts, Bath 1sts. Their England touch centre taught Surrey a lesson in the importance of the basics forcing Mark Grimshore to make a finger-tip try saving touch. Surrey re-grouped with the aid of touch pros Zan Hudson and Lucy Fentimans defensive organisation, but even with this and Luke hes a fair bit lighter than me Rusts striking runs they came up just short losing 6-5. The last game of the group stages needed

a score difference larger than 7 for the stags to get through to the cup and the pressure caused them to deliver! Joe Smith put in a great performance dancing his way over the line 5 times in one game and Dan Patten left players sprawling at his feet. A sensational team effort put Manni Cort in the corner to ensure Surrey a massive 15-1 win. Having finished above Loughborough in the group stages Surrey faced Bath 2s in the Semi Final. The team showed development with a well organised defence and fast effective attack through precision passes from James where did you find that hat Dale and the safe hands of Dane Stickings, comfortably winning 5-3. The final was now set between Surrey and the Hosts Bath 1s. An intense game got underway as both teams threw everything into the fight for the title. The experienced cool head of Adam Smith combined with the unmatchable work rate of Alex Nixon forced the game into extra time. Will Muncer scored the only extra time try for Surrey but this was not enough as Bath stole the final in a last gasp finish.

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