A G u i d e t o y o u r u n i o n .

t h e G i s t 3 www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

Hi!The Gist

the FREE monthly magazine for all students at

Leeds university union.

C o n t e n t s

In this special edition find out everything you need to

know about being a student in Leeds.

Hello from your Exec

Page 4 to 5Welcome to Freshers’

Week

Page 6 to 11Inside your Union

Page 14 to 17The List Pull- Out

CentrefoldClubs & Societies

Page 20 to 27Creating Change

Page 28 to 31Ellen & The Escapades

Page 32 to 33Discover Leeds

Page 34 to 35

WE’RE YOUR STUDENTS’ UNIONThis guide is for anyone who wants to find out about student life in Leeds, in Freshers’ Week 2010 and beyond.

Whether you want to find out what events are happening in the first week, hear some wise words from current students, or discover our 300 clubs and societies (so you can become a journalist by day and a break dancer by night) – read on!

As a student at Leeds, you’re part of Leeds University Union, a charity with over 33,000 members (and an award or two on its mantelpiece).

We’re independent of the University and run by six elected students, who you

can meet on the next page. Together, we want to make sure you love your time at Leeds.

So we’re here for you when you want us to be, helping you to get involved, make friends and have fun. We’re partly funded by a grant from the University, but 80% of our income comes from our shops, clubs and bars.

Think of the Union as a vibrant community or an exclusive service – but above all, think of it as yours.

L E E d s U n i v E R s i t y U n i o n .

Leeds University Union is a registered charity No. 1136742 and a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales No. 7284768. Registered office: University Square, Leeds, LS2 9JT.

GOONLINE!

www

VISIT uS ONLINE TO KEEP uP TO DATE WITH EVERYTHING THAT’S HAPPENNING

IN YOuR uNION.

Visit: www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist‘Like’ Leeds university union on Facebook

Follow @leedsuniunion on Twitter

4 t h e G i s t t h e G i s t 5 www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

M e M o r i e s & A d V i C e F r o M o u r F i r s t W e e K A t u n i V e r s i t y

from

TimPaul Jack

Marcus Rachel Elliot

Tim MortimerActivities Officer

My Freshers’ Week was...a mixture of nerves and excitement that meant I wanted to make sure I didn’t miss out on anything! Along with the freebies and nights out, I ended up joining the Cross Country Club and the English Society. I also found out about the introductory meeting to RAG, the fundraising society, which led to me signing up to volunteer in Uganda the next summer.

Paul GoldCommunity Officer

My memories of Freshers’ Week are... pretty confused! Nothing can prepare you for the sensory overload of those first few weeks. Amid all the madness, a few moments really stick out: my first night out in Leeds, meeting a future housemate in the queue for electives, and optimistically signing up for a million societies. Mostly, I just remember having a lot of fun.

Jack CheyetteWelfare Officer

I wish someone had told me that... this is your chance to do something new. Ever thought about sky diving? Do it. Sailing? Try it. Want to learn a new hobby, sport, skill, art? Now is your chance. Meet new people, be who you want to be and learn something new. Above all, make the most of it. The time goes by too quickly, so don’t miss out.

Marcus CrawleyEquality & Diversity Officer

In Freshers’ Week 2010...I’m looking forward to the Freshers’ Fairs throughout the week that are going to give thousands of new people the perfect chance to get involved and make friends with people with similar interests. I’m also really looking forward to the wonderful Freshers’ Ball and the return of our infamous and incredible Fruity! I’ll see you there!

Rachel WenstoneCommunications & Internal Affairs Officer

This year, look forward to...the brand-spanking new decked-out union building. It’s a great place to relax with a coffee and salad in Terrace or on a comfy chair in the Lounge. Information on everything, from our 300 societies to job adverts to some really hard-hitting campaigns, will be available in the new foyer. Look forward to becoming part of the best students’ union in the country!

Elliot JebreelEducation Officer

We’re going to... make sure you love your time at Leeds. We’ll do this through numerous and award-winning societies, the amazing union building, and by representing your views to the University and beyond. The Exec work for you, so come and find us for a chat whenever you want!

Find out how we’ll represent you this year. Turn to page 30.

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk6 t h e G i s t t h e G i s t 7

s A t u r d A y 1 8 t h s e p t e M b e r t o s A t u r d A y 2 5 t h s e p t e M b e r

t h E b E s t w E E k o F t E R m ? d E F i n i t E L y .Freshers’ Week means meeting a lot of new people. It’ll probably begin with your housemates but, by the end of the week, will include course mates, academic staff and probably a few others too.

A packed Freshers’ Week line-up makes it really easy for everyone to make new friends.

During the day there are Welcome talks, opportunities to meet over 300 clubs and societies and lots of free stuff to get your hands on!

Events every night of the week mean plenty of ways to have a good time, and with pop, indie, drum and bass, dubstep, electro and soul all on offer, everyone’s tastes are covered. Buy your tickets in advance fromwww.leedstickets.com.

University Square, right outside the Union building, is where most of the fun is happening during Freshers’ Week. There’ll be loads going on including live performances, plenty of stalls and giveaways, all with a carnival atmosphere. There are also stalls at Halls of Residence to tell you what’s going on (you can buy

event tickets from them too – as long as they haven’t sold out!). If you

get lost just look for the helpers in red t-shirts!

E a R L y a R R i v a L sIf you‘re arriving before Freshers’ Week begins, don’t

worry! There’s still plenty going on to keep you entertained

and welcome you to Leeds. See the Freshers’ Week poster on the

centre pages for more information.

h o w c a n i m E E t n E w p E o p L E ?There are loads of chances to meet people who will stay friends with you long after

Freshers’ Week is over. At the Big Meet

(Sunday 19th September in the Lounge, Union building) you’ll be able to chat to student staff who will introduce you tolike-minded people.

The Freshers’ Fairs (Monday to Thursday during Freshers’ Week) allow you to meet a different group of clubs and societies each day. With over 300 groups to choose from, they’re the easiest way to meet new people.

h o w c a n i t R y n E w t h i n g s ?Great events during Freshers’ Week and throughout the year allow you to try new things.

On the first weekend of Freshers’ Week there’s a trip to Scarborough that will let you sample a traditional British seaside resort. Other excursions and dozens of taster sessions are held throughout the year

to allow you to try something different at any time during your degree. Look out for the ‘Give it a Go’ programme in Freshers’ Week for trips and activities throughout term 1.

Whether you want to try an extreme sport, learn a new skill, or test your footwork at

a dance class, there are hundreds of ways to try something new

through our clubs and societies. Come along to the Freshers’

Fairs to meet existing members and find out what to get involved with.

For a full list, turn to page 20 or head to the Clubs

and Societies section of www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk. Online

you can find out more about each group and also sign up! You can join at any time of the year, so don’t worry if you miss the fairs.

W e L C o M e t o

w a n t t o s E E t h E F U L L L i n E -

U p ? t U R n t o t h E c E n t R E

p a g E s

n E E d h E L p ? a s k

t h E h E L p E R s i n R E d

t - s h i R t s !

8 t h e G i s t www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

h o w c a n i g E t t h E m o s t o U t o F m y t i m E a t U n i v E R s i t y ?There’s a lot to take in at the start of the year, and you’re probably wondering how to make sure you don’t miss out on the best stuff?

Attend a Welcome Talk. Not only will you get a good idea of how to make the most of all the great things on offer to you as a student in Leeds, you’ll also hear what to do if things go wrong, find out how to get part-time work as a student, and learn how you’re represented by your union. Basically, you’ll discover what makes Leeds University Union the best students’ union in the country.

Mature and part-time students might want to take a look at the events aimed at helping them meet new people. The mature and part-time students’ lunch will introduce you to your Exec as well as other students. It’s a great opportunity to make friends and find out a bit about what your students’ union can offer you.

b E y o n d F R E s h E R s ’ w E E kThere is still so much to see and do beyond Freshers’ Week. Some of the most exciting events coming up include the Freshers’

Ball (Saturday 2nd October). The Freshers’ Ball takes over the whole union building with some great headliners (keep checking www.leedstickets.com to find out!), six arenas, over 4,000 people, a fairground, casino, DJs and more.

Varsity is another key event in the Union’s calendar. The University of Leeds take on their biggest rivals: Leeds Metropolitan University in our biggest day of sport! Over 30 union sports clubs take part with the Rugby Union finale taking place at Headingley Carnegie Stadium in front of over 7,000 people. Show your pride! Buy your tickets at www.leedstickets.com.

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10 t h e G i s t www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

You might have to put decorating your new room on hold; Freshers’ Week is jam-packed with events every night of the week.

s a t U R d a yMoving in is pretty tiring. Let your hair down after all that hard work by getting straight into the groove. On Saturday night there’s the Pent:House launch night offering house and electro, Wendy House for you goth, alternative, ‘80s and hard dance fans, and Central

Beatz if it’s drum n bass and dubstep you’re craving.

s U n d a yThe Welcome Party is a great chance to get to know the two bars and three club venues at your students’ union. On Sunday night they’ll all be open with our finest resident DJs on the decks.

m o n d a yThe Intro Party really gets things moving on Monday with amazing live acts and DJs such as Tim Westwood and Starman packing out the entire union building. Be

sure to make picking up a ticket for this event a priority when you arrive in Leeds.

t U E s d a yThere are a few options on Tuesday night with Dance

Like Your Dad spinning motown, classic pop and soul, Novak

3D Disco serving upfront electro with an added dimension, and a storming launch of a new indie

night in Mine looks guaranteed.

w E d n E s d a yThe School Disco is here on Wednesday promising to retain its position as a Freshers’ Week favourite. Is school uniform optional? That depends on whether you want to avoid detention! Hynotist Hugh Lennon returns with a hilarious, audience participation stage show including a game of Russian Roulette which will have you

on the edge of your seats (Wednesday and Thursday).

t h U R s d a yOn Thursday, the Union’s own award-winning Leeds

Student Radio willre-launch in the Terrace promising great music,

competitions and a lot of fun. The

biggest and best silent disco in the country, Headphone

Disco is taking over the Union

building, and House Party

will be packing the dance floor with your

home rave favourites from across the board.

( F R U i t y ) F R i d a yFriday in Leeds can only mean one thing: Fruity. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll never question how to celebrate the arrival of the weekend again! Chart and party anthems abound, with a helping of indie and RnB to mix things up.

s a t U R d a yFreshers’ Week has to end

eventually. There’s no better way to finish it than Wax:On & Metropolis, two of Leeds’ biggest and best club nights. Calvin Harris headlines this massive party with a DJ set. For dates, times, places and prices, see your Freshers’ Week pull-out poster in the centre pages.

You can buy tickets to events from www.leedstickets.com.

g o o d c L U b n i g h t s a R E o n o F F E R a L L y E a R R o U n dHere’s a taste of what you can expect to see.

Wax:On and Metropolis

are world leaders in house, electro, drum n bass and dubstep. Having already brought in acts like Erol Alkan, Andy C, and Marky, they’re now teaming up to form an unstoppable force to get you on the dance floor.

Is indie more to your taste?Head to Brighton Beach

for your monthly fix, where everything from the ‘60s onwards is covered. Need something more regular? Get it weekly at the new Indie Night held on

Tuesdays in the Union building.

Central

Beatz has a solid crew of residents serving up drum n bass

and dubstep over a 30k

crystal clear sound system. Get yourself to

Headphone Disco for a fun night out dancing to your favourite festival anthems at the UK’s biggest silent disco. Rock of Ages, back on the first Saturday of every month, is an all out rock and metal-fest and The Wendy House is a legendary friendly goth/ ‘80s/ alternative party.

Continued on page 12 >>>

Fancy some free tickets to the best

Freshers’ Week events?We’ve got a pair of

tickets for Intro Party, Novak 3D Disco,

School Disco,Headphone Disco,

Fruity, Wax:On, Fruity 9th Birthday and

Freshers’ Ball all up for grabs. This is worth

£140!

All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is to sign

up for the leedstickets newsletter. Email

your name to info@leedstickets.com with

the subject header ‘FRESHERS’ COMP’ before midday on

Friday 17th September.Please include your contact telephone

number so we can call to let you know you’ve won. We will pick out a name at random and

contact the winner before 5.00pm Friday 17th September to let them know their social

life for the next two weeks is sorted!

Participants must be over 18 years old. We will not use your information for any purpose other

than the leedstickets.com mailing list.

WIN!F R E s h E R s ’

w E E k t i c k E t s !

w a n t t o s E E t h E F U L L L i n E -

U p ? t U R n t o t h E c E n t R E

p a g E s

W h e r e C A n i G o t o . . .

b U y t i c k E t s

F R o m w w w . L E E d s

t i c k E t s .c o m

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk1 2 t h e G i s t t h e G i s t 13

The Union is also a great place to go for free nights out - you’ve got Poparazzi, Top

Gun, Shoop, House Party and the Tunnel

Club to choose from. Of course, if you’re not sure what’s right for you, you can never go wrong with Fruity. It has it all!

leedstickets.comh o w t o b U y t i c k E t s :Buy advance tickets from www.leedstickets.com or from CATS (in the Union building). There will be a welcome team to greet you at your halls of residence selling tickets on arrivals weekend. You can also buy tickets from the Lounge (Union building, Monday and Tuesday) and the Helpdesk (Union building, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday) of Freshers’ Week.

Be Safe in LeedsCall Amber Cars0113 2311 366The No.1 Taxi Service for Students:If you have no money or find yourself in any kind of difficulty you can pay for your taxi by providing our driver with your Leeds University Student Card. You will be asked to sign a docket and leave your student card with the driver. You can then retrieve your card from the Union building and pay your fare with us. This service is only available during the hours of darkness when no public transport is available and if travelling on your own.

8pm to 2am

FREE ENTRY

Across all five venues in your union:

Old Bar | The Terrace | Stylus | Pulse | Mine

with our resident DJs on the decks

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk1 4 t h e G i s t t h e G i s t 15

Essentials & ExtrasThese two convenience stores are open until 10.00pm and sell everything you’ll need

to get you through the week. There’s stationery, sandwiches, pick “n” mix, artsupplies and more.

Gear & Changing GearThe official shop for all your University of Leeds

clothing and giftware. Make this your first port of call to get your Leeds hoodie!

Cats: Cards & Tickets ShopOur award-winning boutique stocking cards for every occasion and a great range of gifts. It’s

also the place to go for all your union andRefectory gig and club tickets.

The Union BookshopEverything on your reading list plus more. There’s

also plenty of leisure reads as well as giftsand cards.

Inside your UnionGreat shops, bars and venues. The money spent here is used to

support great services that benefit you.

Hidden CafeA great selection of good quality food and

Fairtrade coffee tucked away in the quietest corner of the Union building we could find.

TerraceTaking its name from its spacious outdoor seating area, Terrace is open daily serving coffee, chilled

soft drinks, wines, spirits and beers as well as offering a new extensive food menu.

Old BarIt’s been a favourite since it opened in 1939,

priding itself on a fun and friendly atmosphere and lively events. The Old Bar offers a wide range of hot and cold drinks, a great value food menu

and real ale.

Award-Winning Venues: Stylus, Pulse & Mine

Three great venues give you an amazing range of nights out.

The lower ground levels of the Union building holds three award-winning venues,

used throughout the year for a range of clubs and live shows. Our three clubs

combine together to hold 1,800 ravers for some of the UK’s leading nights including the Friday student night institution Fruity, Wax:On and Metropolis. We also use the clubs separately for club nights and live

music; recent visitors to the stages and DJ booths include: Annie Mac, Ladyhawke, Miike Snow, Roni Size, Noisettes, 2Many

DJs, The XX, Flying Lotus and Hot Chip. No matter what your musical tastes are, we’ve

got something for you.

For tickets and info visit www.leedstickets.com.

16 t h e G i s t t h e G i s t 17 www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

Other Outlets These places aren’t owned by the Union, but they’ve still got a lot to offer. What’s more, we use their rent to provide you with

better services.

Vision OpticiansA full range of

spectacles and contact lenses.

B BeautifulPampering specialists

offering a wide range of treatments.

Ozone HairdressersA hairdressers offering a

professional and affordable service.

SesameLocally sourced and

wholesome foods which come from sustainable roots.

Jaldi JaldiFamous curries with a good range of dishes, both (halal)

meat and vegetable.

Proper PastyA wide range of hot food

including authentic Cornish pasties, baked potatoes and

flatbreads.

SantanderCarry out all your day to day

banking.

Other StuffIn the Union building there

are also free cash machines, water fountains, a photo booth and a post box.

Green Action Food Co-op

Vegan, organic and Fairtrade food run by Green

Action Society.

Student Services Whether your housing contract needs checking or you can’t

find room 8.206 for your tutorial starting in five minutes, we’ve got a range of services that can help.

Student Advice CentreSometimes things go wrong. If they do, it’s

good to know that there’s someone you can turn to for free confidential advice. The Student

Advice Centre offers support on money, housing, academic issues, employment, health and crime. You’ll find them on the first floor of the Union building, but also online in the Help

& Advice section ofwww.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

JoblinkJoblink is the online and

on-campus job centre for when you want part-time work or work experience during your studies. Visit

www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/joblink to see current

vacancies and sign up for regular updates.

HelpdeskAfter directions? Want to know what’s on? Need to book a meeting room? No matter what you need, the Helpdesk will always try

to help or point you in the right direction. You can also buy tickets for Give it a Go sessions,

collect NUS Extra cards and more. If you need anything at all, just ask Helpdesk!

Campaigns & Democracy Support

Your Union works to represent you in the University and in

the community. Campaigns and Democracy Support

coordinate this representation, electing your representatives and assisting campaigns. Visit them on the

first floor.

The Exec OfficeYour Student Executive work

full-time to represent you. Their office is situated on the first floor of the Union build-ing, pop in for a chat with

any of your Exec officers at any time.

t h e G i s t 19 www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk The Gist 19

We do offer pass protection against theft or loss of the Student tickets costing £5.The protection must be obtained when the ticket is purchased. Conditions apply.

For further details on all our tickets and bus times call us on0845 604 5460 or visit www.firstgroup.com

StudentTerm valid anywhere in West Yorkshire(Term tickets expiry date 18th December 2010)

Student Greenzone valid anywhere within the Leeds Greenzone(Term tickets expiry date 18th December 2010)

FirstStudentMonthly valid anywhere in West Yorkshire

FirstAllTerm valid anywhere in West Yorkshire

Easy payments – we know that paying up front for the FirstAllTerm pass can be difficult – and so everyone can get the benefit it’s available on easy payment terms. Sign up and make one payment (of £90) and 6 monthly payments through your debit or credit card (of £37) – we’ll send out a new ticket at the start of each term.

£129£99£55

£312

Save cash on Bus Travelin Leeds and West Yorkshire!

On-line at www.studentbustravel.co.uk

By phone on 0113 381 5550 By post Send a cheque payable to ‘First’ addressed toThe Marketing Dept, Donisthorpe Street, Leeds LS10 IPL.If you are buying a student ticket for the First time or have lost yourphotocard, please enclose a passport size photograph.

In Person at...First Travel Shop New Market St, Leeds, LS1 6DG(Monday to Friday 0845-1715 Saturday 0900-1530 Closed Sundays)

Leeds Visitors Centre at the Rail Station Arcade(Monday to Saturday 0900-1730 Sunday 1000-1600)

Far Headingley Post Office 86 Otley Rd, Leeds, LS6 4BA(7 days a Monday to Saturday 0600-1800, Sundays 1000-1600)

The University of Leeds Student Union BuildingMonday 20th to Friday 24th September 2010

Bodington and Oxley Halls Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th September 2010

Getting one is easy:

20 t h e G i s t t h e G i s t 21 www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

OVER

C L U B S & S O C I E T I E S

Clubs and societies at Leeds University Union are one of the things that make student life in Leeds so great...There were 302 clubs and societies at last count, but by the time you read this there’ll probably be even more. We’ve got most activities and interests covered, so you can find like-minded people, compete to add more trophies to your cabinet, or reinvent yourself by trying something completely new (or all of the above). They’ve all got their own story to tell, but every group is of the highest standard.

The sports teams compete in a nation-wide university league, while the faith and culture societies provide a hub for thousands of students from around the world. Our media societies hold awards for being the best in

the country, and we’ve got dozens of groups dedicated to helping others, in Leeds as well as around the world!The departmental societies are used by some to indulge their inner geek, while

others prefer using them to make new course friends away from

the lecture theatre.

Find something you’re

interested in...

We’ve listed the clubs and societies at the Union. There

are so many that we’ve split them up into categories. Find

the category you’re interested in and see how much is on offer. If you

can’t find what you’re looking for, then you can always set up your own group!

Visit the Clubs & Societies section on www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk for more information and to join any of the groups.

(SO THERE’S NEVER A DuLL MOMENT)

Sign up to the Union website. Join ANY TIME of the year...If you can’t make it to the Freshers’ Fairs to meet the groups face to face, you can still join a club or society at any time of the year by visiting www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk where you’ll find more information.

d a n c EBalletBelly DancingBreakdanceCapoeiraCheerleadingCircus SkillsContemporary Dance

Dancesport, (Ballroom and Latin)Irish DancingModern DanceScottish DanceStreet DanceSwingMeet the Dance Groups on Tuesday 21st and Wednesday 22nd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm at ‘The Edge’, Sports Centre 1.

d E p a R t m E n t a LAudiologyAviationBiological SciencesBiologyBiomedical SciencesBroadcast Journalism

Business SchoolCardiologyChemical EngineeringChemistryCivil EngineeringClassicsComputerCriminal JusticeCultural SocietyCutting EdgeDental StudentsDermSocEarth SciencesEast Asian ResearchEconomicsElectronicsEnergy & Enviromental EngineeringEnglishEnvironmentalFire

Full list of Clubs & Societies

m E E t t h E c L U b s & s o c i E t y

g R o U p s a t F R E s h E R s ’

F a i R s !

t h e G i s t 23 www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

FrenchGeographyGermanHistoryHistory of ArtICSItalian SocietyJoint HonoursLawMathematicalMechanical EngineeringMedicineMiddle Eastern StudiesMSRCNanoscience and NanotechnologyPerformance and Cultural Industries (PCI)PhilosophyPhysicsPOLISProduct DesignPsychiatryPsychologyPulseRadiographyRussian and SlavonicSchool of DesignSociology & Social PolicyTheology and ReligionZoologyMeet the Departmental Groups within your own university departments.

F a i t h a n d c U L t U R EAfro-CaribbeanAhlul BaytAtheistBahaiBrazilianBritish Born ChineseBruneiBuddhist MeditationCatholicChineseChristian UnionEast African

EgyptianERASMUSGhanaHellenicHindu Students ForumHong KongIndian Student AssociationIndonesianIranianIrishISKCONIslamicJapaneseJewishKazakhKoreanLibyanMalaysianMalaysian & SingaporeanMexicanNigerianOmaniPakistani StudentsPentagramPolishQatari Students SocietySaudiScandanavianSikhSingaporeanTaiwaneseTamilThai StudentsTurkishVietnameseMeet the Faith and Culture Groups on Thursday 23rd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith Hall, Union Building.

g E n E R a Li n t E R E s tAIESECAnimeArtsAssassinsBridge

Bright FuturesBritish Armed Forces Supporters Club (BAFSC)CalligraphyChange RingersChessChoc SocComics & Graphic NovelsDebatingEast Asian CinemaEnterpriseExhibitionFilmFolkFood SocGothHennaJazz & BluesLGBTLOST (Leeds Outdoor Socials

& Trips)PokerPool and SnookerPostgraduatePunkReal AleRecord LibraryRockSci Fi and FantasySign LanguageStitch & BitchTravelUnion Music LibraryVegetarianWineMeet the General Interest Groups on Monday 20th September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith Hall, Union Building.

m a R t i a L a R t sAikidoBoxerciseBoxingIaidoJiu JitsuJudoKickboxingLishiTae-Kwon-DoThai BoxingWing Chun

m E d i aFilm MakingLeeds StudentLippyLS:TVLSRMedical JournalPhotographyScribeMeet the Media Groups on Tuesday 21st September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith Hall, Union Building.

“Societies create a really

welcoming environment – kinda

like a family away from your

biological family”

Elliot Jebreel, Faith and Culture Societies Rep 2009-10

h E R E ’ s a F E w o F t h E t h i n g s

w E g o t U p t o L a s t y E a R

13,794students signed up to

a club or society in 2009-10.

4,789games of pool were played by Pool and

Snooker Society.

85,000newspapers were

printed by our Leeds Student team.

2,063glasses of wine were tasted by our Wine

Society.

450croissants were served out to students by the

French Society.

1,419hours were spent dancing by the dance groups.

24 t h e G i s t www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk24 The Gist

o U t d o o R a c t i v i t y ArcheryCanoe ClubDuke Of Edinburgh AwardGlidingHikingHorse RidingKiteMountaineeringPaintballingRifleSailing ClubScout & GuideSky DivingSnowridersSpeleology (Caving)Sub AquaSurfWakeboardingWilderness MedicineWindsurfingMeet the Outdoor Activity

Groups on Tuesday 21st and Wednesday 22nd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm at ‘The Edge’, Sports Centre 1.

p E R F o R m a n c EA-capella SingersBackstageBand SocBPM DJ & ClubbingDance BandDance ExposeFOCAMMusicMusic TheatreOne CollectiveOperaPantomimeRevelation RockStage Musicals Society

Tea LightsTheatre GroupMeet the Performance Groups on Tuesday 21st September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith Hall, Union Building.

p o L i t i c a L a n dc a m p a i g n i n gAmnesty InternationalConservative FutureFeministFocus AfricaFriends of Medicins sans FrontieresGreen ActionInternational Affairs ForumLabourLeeds Against CutsLiberal DemocratsLiberty @ Leeds

MedsinMind MattersPalestinian Solidarity GroupPeople & PlanetRevolutionSalaam ShalomSocialist StudentsSocialist Worker StudentsSPEAKStop AIDSStudents Against the WarStudents for Sensible Drug PolicyTibetUnite Against FacismUnited Nations AssociationMeet the Political and Campaigning Groups on Wednesday 22nd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith

Hall, Union Building.

s p o R t sAmerican FootballAssociation Football (m)Association Football (w)AthleticsBadmintonBaseballBasketball (m)Basketball (w)Boat ClubCricket (m)Cricket (w)Cross CountryCyclingDartsFencingFivesGolfGymnastics

“I think that it’s all about finding something you are

passionate about and getting involved with people

who are passionate about similar things...”

Margaret Murray, Political andCampaigning Rep 2009-10

Why Join?

When graduates are saying goodbye to us, time and again they tell us that not joining

a society was their biggest regret.

h E R E ’ s w h y :

Gives you the opportunity to make

friends and meet like-minded people.

It’s a chance to gain new skills and try new

things.

It looks great to future employers, especially if you get involved on

a committee.

It adds value to your university life and

gives you something different to do.

It’s really good fun!

J o i n o n L i n E !

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Give it a Go!

n o t s U R E w h a t y o U w a n t t o g E t i n v o L v E d w i t h b U t k n o w y o U d o n ’ t w a n t t o m i s s o U t ?

A lot of people know they want to do something – they just don’t know what. That’s why the Give it a Go programme of taster activity sessions is so popular, allowing you to come along and get involved without any commitment.

Want to try knitting or take a journey below ground to discover caving? You can!

Give it a Go gives you the chance to try out something new, whether it’s a skill, sport or just a general interest. It’s a great way to fill your free time and an opportunity to try something that’s both new and fun!

L o o k o U t F o R :Past sessions have included things like boxing, yoga, waterpolo, indian head massage, korfball,self-defence, mug painting, tai chi and so much more!

Past trips have taken coachloads of people all

around the

country to places including Edinburgh, Blackpool, York, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwick Castle, and Stonehenge.

The upcoming programme is guaranteed to impress.

s i g n U pLook out for the Autumn Events Guide around the Union building and simply sign up at our Helpdesk in the Union foyer or online at www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/giag.

Look out for the logo below:

t r y s o M e t h i n G n e W

Hockey (m) Hockey (w)KorfballLacrosse (m)Lacrosse (w)Motorsport SocietyNetballRackets ClubRugby LeagueRugby Union (m)Rugby Union (w)SquashSwimming & Water PoloTable TennisTen Pin BowlingTennis (m)Tennis (w)TrampolineUltimate FrisbeeVolleyballMeet the Sports Groups on Tuesday 21st and Wednesday 22nd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm at ‘The Edge’, Sports Centre 1.

v o L U n t E E R i n gActionActionbound

Bridge The GapConservation VolunteersGreen FingersGreen StreetsHeartstartHomedHyde Park 5-8sLittle London Crazy ClubLUUMS EducationMEDAID AfricaNightlineOutdoor MixRAGReachSaturday StarsShopaholicsSt John Ambulance LinksSTARTea PartyWacky WednesdaysWoodhouse Kids ClubMeet the Volunteering Groups on Wednesday 22nd September from 10.00am to 4.00pm in the Riley Smith Hall, Union Building.

How to Join

Browse

Log in to the Union website and head to the clubs and

societies section to explore the clubs and societies in the A-Z list.

Choose

Read about the society on their page

and get in touch if you have any further questions. You’ll find

their email address on the page.

Join

Click ‘Add to basket’ next to the membership you

want to purchase.You can then either go straight to your basket and pay, or

continue to add other memberships and pay for them all together.

y o U a R E n o w p a R t o F a c L U b

o R s o c i E t y !

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28 t h e G i s t www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

Creating Changeb e t t e r u n i , b e t t e r u n i o n ,

b e t t e r L e e d s

What can be changed?

It can be difficult to grasp the difference

your ideas could make.

But, if an idea is accepted, you won’t

be doing things on your own. You’ll

have 33,000 students behind you, meaning there’s a lot of scope.

b E t t E R U n i o nIn 2009, a solid

campaign by two students removed bottled water from sale in the Union’s

shop. Students were persuaded of the

merits and voted in favour of the change.

b E t t E R U n i v E R s i t y

Improved academic feedback will benefit all students next year following successful

lobbying of the University.

b E t t E R L E E d sStudents who felt

they weren’t getting value for money

from their bus service teamed up across

Leeds’ universities to start a coordinated

campaign.

B E T T E R U N I O N

B E T T E R U N I

B E T T E R L E E D S

c o m i n g t o L E E d s m E a n s J o i n i n g a c o m m U n i t y t h a t L i s t E n s a n d a c t s .

Through a strong and responsive students’ union you can help shape your own education and the world around you.

Three separate forums, made up of both elected representatives and a non-elected student panel, meet regularly throughout the year to debate the ideas that you put forward.

If agreement among the non-elected panel is reached following debate, then an idea will become

part of union policy, and will be implemented.

If there’s no consensus, the idea will go forward to a referendum that all students are invited to vote on.

The three forums are: Better Leeds, Better University, and Better Union.

b E t t E R U n i v E R s i t yIs the University delivering?Straight away you’ll see some big differences between school and university.

At the University of Leeds, the pupil-teacher system is gone, replaced by the learning and teaching partnership – meaning you’ll work together with your tutors and lecturers.

The Better University forum works to make sure this partnership is being fulfilled, ensuring you’re getting the most from your degree.

b E t t E R L E E d sWhat issues do you want to see tackled in the community?When you start your degree, it’s likely you’ll also be joining the community of Leeds.

As a student you play a big role in Leeds, making up a significant fraction of the population. It’s important to make sure that you’re not only represented fairly but also that your presence brings a positive benefit to the community.

The Better Leeds forum works to debate and act on key community issues.

b E t t E R U n i o nIs your union helping you love your time in Leeds?As your students’ union, one of our most important responsibilities is to listen to you. So it’s important that we’re kept in check too.

The Better Union forum makes sure we’re

providing you with the

service and support that you deserve, covering

everything from the things

in the Union building, to our clubs

and societies and even the democratic process itself.

m a k E i t h a p p E nAnyone can submit an idea to the forums, so if you’ve got something you want acting on, you can make it happen.

See ‘what can be changed?’ to get an idea of the sorts of things that are possible.

As well as submitting ideas, you can also attend forums as a spectator or stand to become an elected representative. Look out for the next issue of the Gist at the start of October to find out how.

a n y o n E c a n s U b m i t

i d E a s . a n y o n E c a n

c R E a t E c h a n g E

Rachel WenstoneCommunications & Internal Affairs OfficerI’ll be defending your education against cuts and working with the Student Advice Centre to get services like contract checking available around campus. I want to get engaging debates happening in the Union and also get a University Challenge team up and running!

Jack CheyetteWelfare OfficerI’ll be promoting mental and sexual health awareness through various campaigns throughout the

year, working with local night clubs to ensure they provide a safe inclusive environment for students, and looking at developing safe spaces in the local community to make the streets safer.

Marcus CrawleyEquality & Diversity Officer This year I’ll be working to make Black History Month and LGBT History Month even better than before through some really strong headline events – we’ve already got a few bookings that are really going to get people excited. I’ll also be working on ensuring minority

representation is continued and improved in our new democratic system.

Paul GoldCommunity OfficerI really want to make sure students are getting value for money on local buses. I’ll also be looking to expand the Leave Leeds Tidy project to run throughout the year, with a focus on waste reduction and recycling, and I’ll be working with the Community Reps to support them and raise their profile.

Pictured L to R: Paul, Marcus, Rachel, Tim, Elliot and Jack.

t h e G i s t 31 www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

How do I

make change?

Our process for doing things is pretty straight forward. It’s also fair.

y o U s U b m i t y o U R i d E a :

Come up with an idea

Submit your idea by the idea deadline

Argue in favour of your idea at the next

forum meeting

a d E c i s i o n i s m a d E

If 75% consensus is reached, the idea is

rejected or accepted.

If no consensus exists, the idea passes to referendum where

all students can vote on it.

If your idea is successful, it will become part of

union policy and its outcomes will be

implemented.

y o U R s t U d E n t E x E c U t i v E w o R k t o R E p R E s E n t y o U , s o i t ’ s i m p o R t a n t y o U k n o w w h a t t h E y ’ R E U p t o ! t h E y w o R k

w i t h i n t h E U n i o n a n d t h E U n i v E R s i t y , b U t a L s o R E p R E s E n t y o U L o c a L L y a n d

n a t i o n a L L y . h E R E , t h E y s E t o U t s o m E o F t h E i R a i m s F o R t h E F o R t h c o m i n g y E a R .

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Tim MortimerActivities OfficerI’ll be working to get more people involved in clubs and societies than ever before, as well as getting to know existing groups by trying out a new activity every week. I’ll also be making sure the achievements of clubs and societies are recognised and celebrated throughout the year, and supporting committees over the handover period.

Elliot JebreelEducation Officer I’ll be getting involved with a new and exciting campaign to encourage students and staff to work together more effectively. I’ll also be looking at whether the University’s promises to improve feedback are being fulfilled, and working to expand the I Love My Personal Tutor Awards to recognise the efforts of great lecturers too.

Have more fun in your Halls

Get the most out of your new home by getting involved with your Residents’ Committee. We hold elections at the start of term and if you get on board you’ll be getting involved with running events for hundreds of people.You’ll work as part of a

team to plan and run events, gaining great experience and having a lot of fun in the process. Last year there were balls, charity fundraisers, fêtes and an inter-hall sports

competition organised throughout the year.

Presidents of Residents’ Committees also have a wider impact representing residents on the Better Leeds forum, which meets twice a term. Have a say on community

issues that affect students and local residents.You can nominate yourself to stand in the elections during Freshers’ Week at www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk or find out

more about the role at your residence’s Welcome Event.

Your ExecW h A t W e W i L L b e d o i n G t h i s y e A r

32 t h e G i s t t h e G i s t 33 www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk

w h a t ’ s y o U R L a s t i n g m E m o R y o F y o U R t i m E a t U n i v E R s i t y ?

Chris: The euphoric feeling of handing in a big assignment. It used to be such a communion event. You’d have to queue

for ages to hand in your assignment to some little old lady who’d insist on stamping everything, it took forever. But the wait would be worth it as then you’d get your goal scoring celebration opportunity as you’d ran down the line of queuing friends tormenting

the others still stuck at the back. For a few seconds you’d feel on top of the world. By the second year they changed all hand-ins to online submissions. That’s when the magic died.Andy: The other day I saw this massively butch Hell’s Angels dude running

down the street, fending off the rain with a ladybird umbrella. Obviously there are other good memories, Leeds is a great city, but that tops it for me.

i F y o U h a d t o p i c k o n E g i g m E m o R y F R o m L E E d s , w h a t w o U L d i t b E ?

Chris: Seeing a secret Corinne Bailey Rae gig of gospel and soul covers with her original band. People in the audience were crying, it was so spiritually moving. Andy: Me and Jeff went to see T-Model Ford which was pretty memorable, not for him though: there were signs everywhere saying ‘don’t buy drinks for the performer’ but he’d shout “JD TIME!” after each song and people would obediently top up his pint glass. He played for hours and must have had about four pints of the stuff, not bad for an 85 year old!

i t ’ s a w a R m s U m m E R ’ s d a y i n L E E d s . w h E R E d o y o U s p E n d i t ?

Ellen: There are loads of nice parks around here...Hyde Park tends to be where all the students are and there are some cool vintage shops and cafes. If you fancy somewhere quieter with nice lakes you should visit Roundhay Park or Golden Acre. There are

loads of things to do, the best thing is just to explore. There are some really nice other little towns around Leeds too.Andy: Erm, in a bar? Some of them have beer gardens…It’s sometimes nice to go out into the dales too and visit some of the quaint towns out there. If you make it as far as Masham, visit the Black Sheep and Theakstons breweries and make it worth the while.

w h a t ’ s i t L i k E p E R F o R m i n g L i v E i n L E E d s ?

Chris: It’s a lot friendlier than some places we’ve been, there’s also so much live music in Leeds it’s ridiculous. There are your real community vibe venues, they’re my favourite places to play, and that’s where a lot of cool bands will play on their first tours. Ellen: Leeds is great for music, it’s really diverse so there are loads of different bands playing in different bars and venues. We like playing the folky acoustic kind of nights- there are quite a few good ones around.Andy: It’s always good to play to a home crowd as some of the people who come to see us have followed us since we first started, we’ve got to know a lot of promoters and sound guys too so most gigs

in Leeds are just like hanging out with your mates.

a n y t h i n g E L s E y o U w a n t t o s a y t o s t U d E n t s J U s t s t a R t i n g a t t h E U n i v E R s i t y o F L E E d s ?

Ellen: I’d say just make sure you venture out of the town centre and the obvious areas cos it’s a big place and there’s lots more to it. However, there is a ton of great live music and some really cool bars. Andy: I’d say it’s worth spending the time to get involved in the local music scene and not just go to the big selling gigs at the bigger venues. There’s loads of talent hidden just under the surface which goes unnoticed by a lot of people.Chris: Also most students miss the trick of using the city market and go for Tesco home delivery. Last thing of the day, if you’re brave enough, go haggle yourself a bargain from the locals, you’d be amazed how may ripe bananas for 10p you can get.

Find out more about Ellen and the Escapades at ellenandtheescapades.comPhotography by James Rhodes.

“ y o u ’ d b e A M A z e d A t h o W M A n y r i p e

b A n A n A s y o u C A n G e t F o r 1 0 p . ”

INTERVIEW WITH... ELLEN & THE ESCAPADES

p o p - F o L k q U i n t E t E L L E n a n d t h E E s c a p a d E s F o R m E d i n L E E d s a n d , t h i s s U m m E R , p L a y E d t h E J o h n p E E L s t a g E a t g L a s t o n b U R y a F t E R w i n n i n g t h E 2 0 1 0 E m E R g i n g t a L E n t

c o m p E t i t i o n . t h E y s p o k E t o t h E g i s t t o s h a R E a F E w U n i v E R s i t y m E m o R i E s a n d t E L L y o U w h a t t h E y L o v E a b o U t

L E E d s .

d i s C o V e r exhibitions and is situated right next to the Leeds City Art Gallery and Henry Moore Institute.

h y d E p a R k p i c t U R E h o U s EAn impressive 95 years old, and the only gas-lit cinema remaining in the UK. Fully independent, it shows a unique mix of the latest film, art house and classics.

w E s t y o R k s h i R E s c U L p t U R E p a R kRegarded as one of thefinest combinations of art and stunning scenery in thecountry, the YorkshireSculpture Park offersstunning works spread across 500 acres of open space.

w E s t y o R k s h i R E p L a y h o U s EWhether you’re afterstand-up comedy or worldclass acting you won’t be short of entertainment.

x s c a p ELeeds might not be listed

in any skiing

holiday brochures, but don’t let that stop you! Xscape, in nearby Castleford, offers indoor ski slopes and a whole lot more. Get adventurous and give it a try.

L E E d s L i v E m U s i c s c E n ELeeds has a rich live music heritage, still strong today. The Who’s ‘Live at Leeds’ album earned a blue plaque for the Refectory on campus, but the venue has hosted big names for decades.

k i R k s t a L L a b b E yAlways a great option on a sunny day, Kirkstall Abbeyoffers plenty of green, open space centered on the old ruins. But events like the Leeds Shakespeare Festival and Classical Fantasia are what really bring the Abbey ruins to life.

Start discovering things further afield through Give It a Go or visit www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist.

To get you started we’ve listed some of the top things to do and places to visit when you arrive in Leeds.

F R E E a R t g a L L E R yWalking around you’ll see art progress through time as you pass from room to room in the Leeds Art Gallery, where the last two centuries of British modern andcontemporary art are housed in one building.

L E E d s c i t y m U s E U mA great mix of information and education with six exhibitions across four floors makes the City Museum perfect for a rainy Saturday.

t R o p i c a L w o R L dA butterfly house, tropicalfish displays and a desert full of meerkats will leave you feeling a long way from city life. If the weather’s good, round things off with awander through Roundhay

Park.

s h o p s h o p s h o p !Leeds has endless boutique shops as well as its glorious high street to spend hours and thousands on!

h E a d F o R t h E h i L L sIlkley and Ilkley Moor. An ideal place for walking, hiking, or enjoying a yummy Sunday lunch, Ilkey is a picturesque Yorkshire town, easily reached by train.

h E n R y m o o R E i n s t i t U t EIt’s only a decade old but it’s already earned national and internationalrespect for unique visual arts

leeDs 5t h i n g s y o U

d i d n ’ t k n o w a b o U t L E E d s . . .

There are over 250,000 students studying across the city of

Leeds.

The city is home to 5 renowned theatres, 83 restaurants, 133

bars and pubs and 38 nightclubs.

The University of Leeds library is home to 2,780,000 books.

With 9,000 attendees, the Leeds Summer Ball is the biggest in

the UK.

Chris Moyles, Jeremy Paxman, Alex Zane, Corinne Bailey Rae

and Julian Barratt can all call Leeds their

home.

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G e t o u t A n d A b o u t i n L e e d s !

36 t h e G i s t www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk