the gist issue 5, february 2010

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_Issue 04_Vol 5

2 The Gist www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist The Gist 3 www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

9 House HuntingSound advice on when to start your house hunt, we dispel some common housing myths!

9 Past Exec Officers: where are they now?A look at some of the past Executive Officers and how being an Exec Officer helped them get where they are now.

12 Top Tips for ExamsMike Gladstone, Education Officer talks through his top exam tips!

13 Next Term EventsWe look at dates for your diary next term.

14 LUU Vs. MozzasThe Supermarket Challenge: who is cheaper?

4-5 NewsHeadlines include ‘Rate your Union’ and more.

10-11 Exam EssentialsThis month’s spread looks at exam essentials!

23 Ask Maddie... Madeleine, our Welfare Officer, answers your questions and queries about life at university.

_Issue 04 _Vol 5

Designed & produced by Leeds University Union. To contribute to

the Gist please email: [email protected].

15-22 The ListThe ultimate guide to what’s on in your union; this month’s list covers events up until the end of January 2010, so make sure you get involved!

What’s On Listings:

_Issue 04_Vol 5

Wow... term one at its end already. That was fast. Before you wind down completely, the gist is here to offer you some essential tips to help you enjoy the festive period and prepare for the New Year. If you’re worried about January’s exams, fancy putting yourself forward to run the Union/takeover student politics nationally, or want to find yourself the perfect house for next year, read on. 11th December is Christmas Day at LUU, so ho ho ho-pe to see you there. Have a fun break and see you in January.

Mike GladstoneEducation Officer

Features:

Every Month:

ONLINEGet extended news stories and the latest news online. Visit www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist.


News.Get up to date: www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

ONLINEGet extended news stories and the latest news online. Visit www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist.

Christmas Opening TimesThe Union building will be closing at 5.00pm on Wednesday 23rd December and will be closed for the Christmas period. It will be open again from Monday 4th January from 8.30am.

Chip and PinYou can now pay by card in LUU bars! Whether you’re paying for food or drink, enjoying a quiet afternoon in the Old Bar or getting warmed up for Fruity on a Friday night, there’s now no need to queue separately to get cash before paying at the bar. We’ve rolled out new chip and pin terminals in the Old Bar, Terrace and Wicked Cafe, so making a payment is now easier than ever!

Tunnel Club Returns!Remember the Tunnel Club? Well, for one night only, it is coming back to LUU, relaunching a special FREE night in Mine. So why not come and finish your Christmas parties here! Tuesday 8th December, 10.30pm to 3.00am, Mine, Union Building.

News in Brief:

‘Calling all students at Leeds – this is your chance to Rate your Union.’ This is the last year of the Union Plan 2006 to 2010; and we need to evaluate how we did on trying to ‘be the most effective students’ union in the country’. To do this we need your help. Visit www.leedsuniversityunion.org.

uk to complete the ‘Rate your Union’ survey – it takes approximately three minutes to complete! There’s plenty of prizes up for grabs too! Plus the first 50 students to complete the survey will receive a £5 voucher to spend on lunch, drinks, books or tickets in the Union, so hurry, hurry. Thank you in advance!Leeds University Union.

Give it a Go in the New Year.We’ve got over 280 clubs and societies, and you can join any time of year. Give It A Go is a great way to take the first step to getting involved. Look out for the Give It A Go programme from Monday 25th January or go to www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/GIAG.

Friday 11th December is the last day of term, but it also means there’s only two weeks to go until Christmas Day!

Embracing the festive spirit, the annual LUU Christmas fair will be taking place all day both inside and outside the Union building.

There’ll be plenty to get you in the Christmas mood including live Reindeer, a snow machine and a guest appearance from Santa himself.

Get ready to see your union like you’ve never seen it before! There’ll be live music provided by the Salvation Army band, not to mention Christmas hits old and new courtesy of our very own LSRfm.com.

It’s going to be a great chance to get in the Christmas mood with dozens of stalls offering Christmas gifts ranging from handmade cards and crafts to boutique jewellery and accessories.

There’ll be plenty to get you in the Christmas mood!There’ll be no turtle doves unfortunately, but our ‘Twelve days of Christmas’ bar offers will help things go with a swing – glass of mulled wine anyone?The Terrace barbecue will be providing the food, and what better way is there to mark the nearing of the big day than a traditional carol concert? Both students and staff are welcome!

From Monday 30th November to Friday 11th December enjoy a new offer each day in the Old Bar & Terrace:

Day 1: Mulled Wine & Mince Pie £2.50Day 2: Mint Hot Chocolate £2.00Day 3: Mulled Spiced Apple £2.50Day 4: Snowball £2.80Day 5: 4 Apple Sourz Shots for £5.00Day 6:Winter Pimm’s £2.80Day 7:Pint of Kronenbourg £2.20Day 8: Baileys Coffee £3Day 9: White Russian £2.80Day 10: Bottle of VK £1.50Day 11: Bottle of Jack Rabbit Wine £6.50Day 12: Selected Pints for £1.75

Days of Christmas

Friday 11th December

Leeds University Unions

LIVE Raindeer outside the Union building


HOUSEHUNTING?DON’T RUSH.Ignore the housing myths – DON’T RUSH to sign for a house.Refusing to return deposits, failing to carry out essential repairs, generally offering poor service – all things that have earned some Leeds landlords a bad reputation in recent years.

Not all landlords are like this and you can avoid these bad experiences, you just need to choose carefully.We recommend using the Unipol website to start your search www.unipol.com/leeds. You can easily filter results to find exactly what you’re looking for and browse the results from the comfort of your sofa – with no pressure at all!

Unipol is a charity that aims to uphold standards in student housing. Their list

clearly shows which landlords have signed up to their code of standards, so you know straight away if a property meets a set of minimum requirements. Find out more about the code and what it offers www.unipol.com/leeds/cos/.

The Unipol property list isn’t released until Saturday 16th January, so there’s no need to start looking before this date. Exam time can be stressful enough without searching for a house at the same time.

There’s plenty to think about before you start viewing houses too. Think carefully about who you’re going to live with: choice of housemates is just as important as choice of house! Do bear in mind that if you sign a joint contract

you may have to share liability for another person’s rent if they pull out.

House Hunting TalksIf you’re in Halls of Residence don’t miss the House Hunting Talks, which offer advice you can trust. See page 22 in the List to find out when your talk is. There are also talks for anyone else who will be house hunting on Tuesday 1st December in Rupert Beckett Lecture Theatre, Michael Sadler Building, from 6.45pm to 7.45pm. Everyone is welcome.

Remember, before you sign, get your contract checked by the Student Advice Centre, it’s FREE and will save you problems later on.

The Common Housing Myths:

Myth #1 If you don’t start early you won’t find a houseDespite what you might hear to the contrary, there’s no shortage of housing in Leeds. In fact, there are 4,000 surplus beds!

Myth #2The best houses get snapped up straight awayThe Unipol housing list isn’t released until 16th January – start looking before this date and you could miss out on hundreds of the best properties. Even after this date, with such a variety of student housing available and such a range of tastes, there’s no need to rush.

Myth #3Smart Office = Good LandlordDon’t be sucked in by gimmicks, pay attention to the things that matter. You aren’t going to be living in the letting agency office, so don’t let it influence your decision! Instead, focus on the quality of the house and get your contract checked by the Student Advice Centre.

16.01WAIT till

at least this

date!


If you want to stand for the Student Executive or NUS Elections nominations close Monday 25th January.

The Student Executive are a six-strong team of sabbatical officers that represent the 30,000 members of Leeds University Union. They make big decisions in an organisation with a multi-million pound turnover. Nominations for the role are now open - but closing soon. “...being able to walk into a room of strangers and walk out with contacts in hand: networking is a crucial skill.” Archie Sample

Go to www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/stand/ to find more information about the role, details about the current Student Executive, and the views of former officers on how the position helped shape their future.

Any current student can stand, in any year of their degree. Find out more today.

Archie Sample, Sports Officer 2006/07

What are you doing now?I am currently a tea trader. I buy, sell and taste tea. I have just been to Assam, Vietnam and Darjeeling to make contacts, see the manufacture process and also to keep the producers on their toes! How did being an exec officer help you get there?The main thing was that it taught me to work with people from all sorts of backgrounds, religions and countries. As you can imagine the tea trade is a very small field of work and if you do not get on with someone the business will suffer more than usual. You have to please many clients at once without stepping on anyone toes, it can be a juggling act at times. I learnt how to do this when working as Sports Officer. I had to make sure that all the teams were giving an equal measure of support according to their needs without putting one above another. Another skill it taught me was being

able to walk into a room of strangers and walk out with contacts in hand: networking is a crucial skill. Doing this as well as having other commitments prepared me for what I am doing today.

Chris Johnson, Finance and Commercial Services Officer 2006/07

What are you doing now?I’m Coordinator of the local pressure group: Leeds TIDAL, which works to coordinate, support and grow the global justice movement in Leeds.

How did being an exec officer help you get there?It taught me everything I know! From seeing first hand how an organisation is effectively managed, to leading strategic projects and honing my campaigning skills, it was an incredible experience that gave me the skills necessary to run a small charity.

James Johnson, Finance and Commercial Services Officer, 2004/05

What are you doing now?I work in TV as a director- mainly on documentaries for BBC / Channel 4 etc...

How did being an exec officer help you get there?It helped me learn to deal with a range of people: mediate between students representing a broad spectrum of political and social views and backgrounds- this was pretty good training for working in factual TV. It was also a good opportunity to become more socially aware and active and represent issues I felt were important, and this is also my motivation for working in documentaries. It was a good bridge between student life and the real world, forcing me to learn to work as part of a team, sometimes under pressure, and tackle a wide spectrum of issues from dodgy landlords to the price of beer in the student bars.

Past Exec Officers: Where are they now?

The arrival of the festive period means there’s a lot to look forward to. Catching up with family and friends is a good excuse for a few drinks – but it can be easy to overdo it.

remember Unit 14:21.Unit 14:21 tells you how much alcohol it is safe to consume in one week: that’s 14 units for women and 21 units for men.Going over your limit doesn’t just mean you’re at increased risk of alcohol related disease: drinking too much can make you do things you regret. That could involve you acting like an idiot in front of your grandparents, or it could mean engaging in unsafe sex – more than half of all cases of STIs are blamed on alcohol.

At Christmas you also need to remain as vigilant as ever about the risk of drink spiking: don’t leave drinks unattended, don’t pick up a drink that isn’t yours, and don’t accept drinks off other people.Keep track of your units at

unitcheck.co.uk, and stay safe this Christmas.

TipsKnow your units Most alcoholic drinks have their unit content clearly marked on the side (a number inside a bottle outline).

Keep an eye on your weekly unitsJust because you don’t wake up with a hangover each morning doesn’t mean you aren’t drinking too much.

Have a day off from drinking Don’t get into a routine of drinking every day over Christmas; give your liver a chance to recover.

Mix it upAlternating alcoholic and soft drinks will help you pace yourself over a long night, keep you hydrated and prevent the hangover from hell the next morning.

Don’t bingeConsuming all your units in one night can put your safety at risk.

Nominations

CLOSE: 25th

January


Visit Essentials on Level -1 in the Union building to stack

up on all the stationery you need to revise and use

for your exams! In Essentials, you’ll also find some tasty

revision snacks and a good range of energy drinks to

keep you going throughout the exam period.

Stack up on Stationery

from Leeds University Union

Stay Revitalised!

Snack Well!

De-Stess. Relax, don’t worry yourself too much! Make a good revision plan and seek a helping hand if you feel yourself getting tense.

Don’t Stress!

£2.99

Drinks from£1.20

Pads from£1.20

From£1.65

Calculatorsfrom

£4.00

Pens from

20p

Cards from

£1.30

* While stocks last. Items subject to availability. Prices subject to change.

12 The Gist The Gist 13 www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

EXAM DOs:

1. Plan your revision and avoid

last minute cramming.

Remember to include breaks and build

in time to relax and have fun in between

work. Check the library opening times at

www.leeds.ac.uk/library/hours/

2. Check your timetable to make

sure your going to the right place

at the right time.

Go to: www.leeds.ac.uk/ssc/exams/ or

view your personal timetable via the Portal.

Be aware of last minute changes to rooms

that can sometimes occur.

3. Check past papers.

These are available from www.leeds.

ac.uk/ssc/exampapers/.

4. Look after yourself when

revising. Get enough sleep and avoid fizzy drinks

and too much caffeine or energy drinks.

Instead, eat a balanced diet including fruit

and veggieterribles!

5. Believe in yourself.

Exams are a part of university life but

markers know you’re under pressure. Try to

relax, have faith that you will succeed and

be positive on your outlook and approach

to work. You will perform better if you feel

better.

Top tips for your exams from LUU’s Education Guru, Mike ‘the exam-man’ Gladstone!

EXAM DON’Ts:1. Be afraid to seek help. Email your tutor to make an appointment before the exams, visit Skills@Library for exam tips - skills.library.leeds.ac.uk/topic_exams_and_assessment.php - and remember Leeds University Union’s Student Advice Centre can help you work out your options if things don’t go as well as you’d hoped – log on to www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/helpandadvice/ or visit in person on the first floor of the Union building. Make sure to speak to your department if you think you’ll require extra time in exams.

2. Put yourself or allow others to put you under too much pressure. You can only do your best.

3. Panic.Being nervous is fine: nerves can give you energy, but try not to let feelings of anxiety take over.

4. Dwell on the past. After the exam move on. Thinking about where you might have gone wrong isn’t going to help you. Start revising for your next exam or celebrate finishing instead! 5. Forget to collect your feedback. This will help you improve for next time. Make an appointment to discuss it with your tutor.

SKINT SaleFrom Saturday 12th December to Sunday 31st JanuaryLook out for the pink ‘SKINT’ brand around the Union building for some great offers in the union bars, venues and shops!

Green WeekFrom Monday 1st FebruaryGreen Week is a week dedicated to ‘Green’ issues with events and debates to get involved with. From Green Week 2010, the Union is mandated (November Referendum 2008) to ban the sale of bottled water in our union shops.

International Cultural FestivalFrom Monday 8th FebruaryA week’s worth of celebrations bringing the world to your doorstep. Film, performance and lots of culture!

Recruitment FairMonday 15th FebruaryLooking for part-time work? Look no further, LUU will be recruiting for bar and retail staff. Get to the recruitment fair & pick up info and an application pack.

VOTE in the Exec & NUS Elections Monday 15th to 23rd February 2010The nominations may still be rolling in at the minute, but in February it’ll be time to cast your votes in LUU’s biggest election of the year.

RAG Week From Monday 8th FebruaryForget the sponsored silences of your youth, charity fundraising is bigger, better and much more exciting at uni. Expect a packed programme of events with plenty of opportunities to get involved.

LGBT History MonthThroughout FebruaryFebruary is LGBT History month, here to celebrate the lives and achievements of the LGBT community. There are events planned throughout the month, checkout the February issue of the Gist for a full list of events.

Referendum 2Motions open: Week commencing Monday 1st FebruaryThe second referendum of

the year will be here at the end of April. If you want to propose a motion you can do so at the beginning of February, see www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/referendum/ for more information.

Valentine’s DaySunday 14th FebruaryDon’t forget to get your Valentine’s Day gifts and cards from CATS in the Union building.

Body BeautifulWeek commencing 1st MarchAwareness week dedicated to body image.

SummerballTickets go on sale: Wednesday 17th MarchFriday 4th JuneThe biggest event of the year happens on Friday 4th June marking the end of the academic year. Exams are over, some of you will be graduating, and 9,000 students will be getting together at Lotherton Hall for the biggest Summer Ball in the country!

What’s OnTerm 2

LOOK OUT FOR...


Wednesday 2nd DecemberVice-Chancellors Question & Answer Time (Q&A)Ever wondered why things are why they are at the University? This is your opportunity to ask the Vice Chancellor ANYTHING you want!From 5.00pm, ConferenceHall, Union Building, FREE

Your monthly rundown to what’s on in your union. Listings split by categories below!

Bars & Nightlife

Music, Film & Performance

General InterestSociety & Club ListingsGive it a GoListings

Information & Support

Democracy &Campaigns

OUR PICK:

CATEGORIES:CHRISTMAS DAY @ LUU!Friday 11th Decemberacross Leeds University Union.Join us for Christmas day across the Union building! Celebrate the last day of term and come to the Union building for real Christmas fun! Meet LIVE

raindeer, Santa Claus, enjoy christmas carols, the Salvation Army Band and much more! There will be a Christmas Market in the Riley Smith Hall where you can get unique Christmas gifts, food and refreshments! Everyone welcome, come

OUR PICK:

Ever wondered how the prices in your Union compare to a national supermarket? Last month we decided to investigate!

We filled two trolleys with the same list of student favourites – one bought from Morrisons, one from Essentials – and asked you to guess which would be cheapest.

And the winner?The Morrisons trolley came to a total of £28.58, narrowly beaten by the Essentials trolley at £28.48 - not bad!

You might think that an independent union shop couldn’t compete with a national giant; however we team up with all other students’ unions. when it’s time to restock the shelves, we’re able to guarantee great prices.

“13p of every pound spent in LUU gets reinvested in

services for students – everything from clubs and societies to the Student Advice Centre.”

Not only was the Essentials trolley cheaper, it hadother benefits too. That’s because 13p of every pound spent in LUU gets reinvested in services for students – everything from clubs and societies to the Student Advice Centre. We are not for profit, just for students.

Our SBM shopping list consisted of 27 items from well known brands such as ‘Heinz Baked Beans’, ‘Pringles’, ‘Uncle Bens Rice’ ‘Pot Noodle’ and more. Price comparison correct on 27th October 2009.

What did we do with all the food? We gave it away in a prize draw to one lucky student. The winner, Lydia Boden (3rd year Politics, above), said:

“I really didn’t expect to win! My cupboards are getting bare so it’s great timing - thank you!”

Winner of the food:

£28.58Morrisons Basket:

Our Student Brand Managers Investigate:

LUUVs.Morrisons

£28.48The LUU Trolley:

THE WINNER:

LOOK OUT FOR...

LIVE

RAINDEER,

SANTA &

MORE!


Tuesday 1st December

Dance Like Your Dad DJ Sam promises you a night you will not forget with an eclectic mix of ‘50s-’60s pop, Garage, Beat, Surf, Motown, Soul and other.9.00pm to 1.00amTerrace, Union BuildingFREE

Carnaval’s 5th BirthdayThe Brazilian Society’s monthly night of Brazilian and Latin music.10.00pm to 3.00amThe Faversham£3.50 for Brazilian, SLAPSOC, ERASOC and Italian members/ £4.50 non-members

Thursday 3rd December

Shoop!Motown and funky soul.10.30pm to 3.00amMine, Union BuildingFREE

Friday 4th December

Freshly SqueezedThe biggest warm-up to the biggest student night in the country. 9.00pm to 1.30amTerrace, Union BuildingFREE

Fruity Christmas Party!Leeds’ best and longest-running student nights.10.30pm to 3.30amStylus, Pulse & Mine, Union Building£4 adv. / £5 on the door

Saturday 5th December

Fruity: I love the ‘00sLeeds’ best and longest-

running student nights.10.30pm to 3.30amStylus, Pulse & Mine, Union BuildingFREE until 11.30pm/£3 thereafter

Tuesday 8th December

Tunnel ClubSee ‘Don’t Miss’10.30pm to 3.00amMine, Union BuildingFREE

Thursday 10th December

Headphone Disco Xmas Party - A Silent Night!10.30pm to 3.30amStylus & Pulse, Union Building£5.75 adv.


Geneous: People in Action Charity Band NightCharity Band night to raise money for People in Action.7.00pm to 1.00amJoseph’s Well, Leeds


FruityLeeds’ best and longest-running student night.10.30pm to 3.30amStylus, Pulse & Mine, Union Building£4 adv./£5 on the door


The Mars Volta7.00pm to 11.00pmThe Refectory£21.50 adv.

Little Boots supported by Ellie Goulding

7.00pm to 10.00pmStylus, Union Building£11.50 adv.

Brighton BeachSixties style and music with a modern twist.11.00pm to 3.00amStylus & Pulse, Union Building£5 adv.


The Wendy HouseTwo rooms of alternative, ‘80s, Goth and hard dance.9.00pm to 2.30amStylus & Pulse, Union Building£5 adv.

Thursday 31st December

Metropolis & Wax:On New Year’s Eve PartyA huge party across all of LUU’s club spaces!10.00pm to 6.00amStylus, Pulse, Mine & Terrace, Union Building£21.50 adv.

Friday 8th January


FruityLeeds’ best and longest-running student night.10.30pm to 3.30amStylus, Pulse & Mine, Union Building£4 adv./ £5 on the door

Saturday 9th January

Brighton BeachSixties style and music with a modern twist.11.00pm to 3.00amStylus & Pulse, Union Building£5 adv.

Friday 15th January


FruityLeeds’ best and longest-running student night.10.30pm to 3.30amStylus, Pulse & Mine, Union Building£4 adv. /£5 on the door


The Wendy HouseTwo rooms of alternative, ‘80s, Goth and hard dance9.00pm to 2.30amStylus & Pulse, Union Building£5 adv.

Central BeatzDubstep and Drum n Bass.10.00pm to 4.00amMine, Union BuildingFREE

Thursday 21st January

Shoop!Motown and funky soul.

10.30pm to 3.00amMine, Union BuildingFREE

Friday 22nd January


FruityLeeds’ best and longest-running student night.10.30pm to 3.30amStylus, Pulse & Mine, Union Building£4 adv. / £5 on the door

Thursday 28th January

Top GunThink power ballads, soft rock, ‘80s & ‘90s pop.

10.30pm to 3.00amMine, Union BuildingFREE


Wax:On House and electro.10.30pm to 5.00amStylus, Pulse & Mine, Union Building£TBC adv.

Bars & Nightlife.

GET TICKETSFor the latest club and gig listings and to buy tickets online visit: www.leedstickets.com.

Metropolis & Wax:On New Year’s Eve Party!Thursday 31st DecemberAfter munching your way through all the Christmas turkey and watching the final episode of Only Fools and Horses for the millionth time, New Years Eve is just round the corner.

Once again two of dance musics heavyweights come together for a musical mash-up fusing together every genre of electronica from drum and bass to warbling fidget beats. This is by far one of the biggest line-ups we have had to date; representing Metropolis we have some of the baddest acts in business including Andy C, Rusko, TC, Commix, Steppa & Prophecy. Wax:On’s acts come in the form of Annie Mac, Jesse Rose, Doorly, Matt Walsh, People Get Real & Eskimo Twins. Definately a New Years you won’t be forgetting in a hurry!

Our New Years event has sold out for the last 2 years running so get those tickets early to avoid disappointment. Limited edition earlybirds on sale now for £20 + Booking Fee. For further information, please visit www.waxonuk.com10.00pm to 6.00am, Stylus, Pulse, Mine & Terrace, Union Building, £21.50 adv.

ONE TO WATCH:

_Issue 05_Vol 5

I’M FREE

EVERY

MONTH!Pick me up from: around the Union Building, LUU Helpdesk, Halls & in LUU boards around campus.

OUT29.01.10INSIDE: Previews of Green Week,

International Cultural Festival, Summerball 2010, Executive Elections,

The LIST and more...

THE NEXT ISSUE...

The RETURN of the Tunnel ClubTuesday 8th DecemberIt’s back! The sleeping giant has awoken from its 18 month hibernation for a one-off end of term party to end all parties. Do believe the hype The Tunnel Club will blow you away with its irreverent mix of cliché inducing Indie, Electro and New Wave Sound. The Tunnel Club is the best of the old and new scene and everything in-between. Ask around and follow the clouds. Entry is a free gift from us to you, well it is Christmas...Drinks offers include: Jager Bombs £2, Havana & Coke £1.75, Morgans Spiced & Coke £1.75,Bottle of Bulmers £1.50, Bottle of Fosters £1.502 Cocktails for £6. 10.30pm to 3.00am, Mine, Union Building, FREE

DON’T MISS:

Crowds at the Tunnel Club

Andy C


Wednesday 2nd December

Classics at the Cottage Screening: Meet Me in St Louis8.00pm to 11.00pm Cottage Road Cinema, Hyde Park£4 students, children, senior citizens / £5 adults / £5.50 Pullman seats


Carol ConcertBrought to you by Christian Union.6.30pm to 8.00pmThe Refectory

Thursday 3rd to Saturday 5th December

Misión al pueblo desiertoPresented by: The Department of Spanish, Portuguese & Latin American Studies. A contemporary exploration of the

Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) by one of the most important Spanish playwrights of the twentieth century, Antonio Buero Vallejo. Alec Clegg Studio, [email protected] to 10.30pm£4.50 concessions / £5.50 full

Monday 7th December

Film Showing: Perfect BlueAnime film showing.

7.00pm to 9.30pmClothworkers South Lecture Theatre 2 (3.04), Manmade Fibres Building

Wednesday 9th to Saturday 12th December

Who Killed: Romeo & JulietEastern and Western theatrical traditions bring a contemporary twist to this classic tale. See ‘Our Pick’.7.30pm to 10.30pm

Stage One, Stage@Leeds£7 concessions / £9 full


The Mars VoltaSee ‘Don’t Miss’7.00pm to 11.00pmThe Refectory£21.50 adv.

Little Boots supported by Ellie GouldingAs a musician Little Boots sings as well as plays the keyboard, piano, stylophone and

a Japanese electronic instrument, called Tenori-on. 7.00pm to 10.00pmStylus, Union Building£11.50 adv.

Monday 6th January

Classics at the Cottage Screening: High Society8.00pm to 11.00pm Cottage Road Cinema, Hyde Park£4 students, children, senior citizens / £5 adults / £5.50 Pullman seats


World Aids DayWorld AIDS Day is a day when people from around the world come together within a single effort to raise awareness about HIV and to express global solidarity with people living with HIV.

Mature Students’ Drop-inSee ‘Our Pick’.12.30pm to 1.30pmCommon Room (12.19), Marjorie & Arnold Ziff Building


Carol ConcertBrought to you by Christian Union.6.30pm to 8.00pmThe Refectory


Leeds 5km Tree-Athlon Gather your mates together and get ready for this unique fundraising event where simply by taking part you will contribute to the planting of thousands more trees and to making Leeds a better, greener city.

10.00am to 3.00pmStarting from Temple Newsam, Leeds£10 registration fee


A Discipline of the MindExhibition begins Tuesday 8th December to 27th February 2010 All DayStanley & Audrey Burton Gallery


International Human Rights DayEvery human has rights! Take part in the volunteering opportunities around campus. Contact [email protected].


LUU Christmas DayLUU will be celebrating the festivities with a Christmas market, food, gifts and a special visit from Santa himself!All DayIn and around the Union building

The Mars VoltaSaturday 12th DecemberThe Mars Volta debuted with the EP Tremulant in 2002, showcasing elements of hardcore, progressive rock and free jazz. Still, as much of their reputation was built on the strength of their live show, their highly energetic performances resulted in a wave of word-of-mouth hype that elevated the band to near-mythic proportions because so little of their recorded material was available to the public. The Mars Volta had recently returned from an European tour supporting the Red Hot Chili Peppers, where they introduced brand-new tracks from the full-length De-Loused in the Comatorium, which was released via Universal the following June.

The band returned in early 2005 with their second full-length, the ambitious song cycle Frances the Mute. (They also issued the live set Scab Dates later that year.) The album also featured an expanded role for the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ John Frusciante. Less than a year later, in late 2007, the new single “Wax Simulacra” paved the way for the fourth Mars Volta album, The Bedlam in Goliath, which debuted at number three on the American albums chart. Less than two years later, the band had prepared their follow-up, titled Octahedron, that became their debut for Warner Bros. Rodriguez-Lopez has also recorded multiple times, producing more than a half-dozen albums within the span of as many years.7.00pm to 11.00pm, The Refectory, £21.50 adv.

DON’T MISS:

Who Killed Romeo and JulietWednesday 9th to Saturday 12th DecemberEastern and Western theatrical traditions bring a contemporary twist to this classic tale. In an exciting collaboration with the University of Leeds, award-winning Chinese director Professor Lu Ang adapts a traditional British text; using puppetry, music and dance to create a dynamic and moving retelling of one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays.7.30pm to 10.30pm, Stage One, Stage@Leeds£7 concessions / £9 full

OUR PICK:

Mature Students’ Drop-inEvery first Tuesday of the MonthThis is a regular mature students’ drop-in taking place on the first Tuesday of every month during term time. Students are invited to bring their own lunch. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be supplied.12.30pm to 1.30pm, Common Room (12.19), Marjorie & Arnold Ziff Building

LUU Christmas Day & Market!Friday 11th DecemberLUU will be celebrating the festivities with a Christmas market, food, gifts and a special visit from Santa himself!All Day, In and around the Union building

OUR PICK:General Interest.

Music, Performance & Film.

Little Boots


Tuesday 1st December to Friday 4th December

Leeds Uni Christian: ‘Escape to Freedom’ Free cafe all day, talks each day 12.00 noon to 1.00pm with a free lunch and events every evening.12.00 noon to 1.00pm

Persian ClassesGet to know more about Iran and learn the Persian language. All levels of ability are welcome!6.30pm to 8.00pmBaines Wing SR 1.14, Parkinson Building

Carnaval’s 5th BirthdayThe Brazilian Society’s monthly night of Brazilian and Latin music.10.00pm to 3.00am

The Faversham£3.50 for Brazilian, SLAPSOC, ERASOC and Italian members / £4.50 non-members


Meditation SessionJoin the Buddhist Meditation Society for their weekly meditation session. Beginners welcome. 2.00pm to 4.00pm Meeting Room 3, ARC


Carol ConcertBrought to you by Christian Union.6.30pm to 8.00pmThe RefectorySaturday 5th December

Buddhist Meditation Society Day Retreat 10.00am to 4.00pmFWBO Leeds Buddhist Centre, Leeds

Monday 7th December

Capoeira Dance Classes 5.00pm to 8.00pmInformation Point, Union Building

Tajweed Classes for SistersOpen to anyone interested in seeking knowledge with the goal to recite the holy Quran in the correct manner.6.30pm to 8.00pmSeminar Room SR 1.24, Business School

Film Showing: Perfect BlueAnime film showing.7.00pm to 9.30pmClothworkers South Lecture Theatre 2 (3.04), Manmade Fibres Building


Persian ClassesGet to know more about Iran and learn the Persian language. All levels of ability are welcome!


Hanukkah

Skint Sales BeginGreat discounts and offers in the Union building. Sale continues till Sunday 31st January.All DayShops and Bars, Union Building


Al-HijiraIslamic New Year

Wednesday 23rd December

Union Building Closes for Christmas Holidays

The building will close at 5.00pm.


Christmas Day

Sunday 27th December

AshuraAn Islamic celebration, Ashura is the day when God saved Prophet Moses from Pharaoh.

Friday 1st January

New Years Day

Monday 4th January

Union Building Re-Opens8.30am

World Braille DayLouis Braille’s Birth Date: 4 January 1809. An annual opportunity for blindness organisations to promote braille literacy, showcase their work and raise public awareness of blindness issues.

Tuesday 5th January

Mature Students’ Drop-in12.30pm to 1.30pmCommon Room (12.19), Marjorie & Arnold Ziff Building

Monday 25th January

Burns NightA celebration of the life and poetry of the poet Robert Burns.

Wednesday 27th January

National Holocaust Memorial DayHolocaust Memorial Day (HMD) is about commemorating and continuing to learn from the events of the Holocaust. HMD is marked each year on 27 January – the anniversary of the date of the liberation of Nazi death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau.

6.30pm to 8.00pmBaines Wing SR 1.14, Parkinson Building

Pirate Party See ‘Our Pick’.7.30pm to 11.00pmMine, Union Building£3 fancy dress/ £4 non-fancy dress/ £5 for ninjas

Wednesday 9th December

Meditation SessionJoin the Buddhist Meditation Society for their weekly meditation session. Beginners welcome. 2.00pm to 4.00pm Meeting Room 3, ARC


‘Jesus: For life or just for Christmas?’A short talk from a Christian perspective. Lunch provided.12.00noon to 1.00pmRiley Smith Hall, Union Building

Monday 14th December

Capoeira Dance Classes 5.00pm to 8.00pmInformation Point, Union Building

Monday 25th January

End of Exams CeilidhCelebrate the end of exams in style with a fun Ceilidh.8.00pm to 11.00pmMine, Union Building£3 for members/ £5 for non-members

Add your listings!Your club captain or society president can add your events to these listings, contact your Development Co-ordinator for more information.


Give it a Go Tai Chi Gung Breathing techniques to increase energy, reduce stress, improve concentration and feel great!7.00pm to 9.00pm Meeting Room 2, ARC


Give it a Go JudoTry ‘the gentle way’!8.00pm to 10.00pmSports Hall 3, Sports Centre

Friday 4th December

Give it a Go Reflexology Using acupressure points to stimulate the energy around the body, this deeply relaxing foot massage can be used to heal many complaints from poor immunity to muscle and joint problems.5.00pm to 7.00pm Resource Lounge, ARC£3


Give it a Go Trip to LiverpoolCome and see the capital of culture!8.30am to 6.00pmMeet at the Parkinson Building steps£16 (please book)

GIAG Anime Soc 11.00am to 6.00pmConference Hall, ARC

Sunday 6th December

Give it a Go Christmas Card MakingAll materials provided.3.00pm to 5.00pmMeeting Room 4, ARC£2

Carol ConcertThursday 3rd DecemberGet into the Christmas spirit by coming along to this event, brought to you by the Christian Union Society.6.30pm to 8.00pm, The Refectory

OUR PICK:

Give it a Go Trip to LiverpoolSaturday 5th DecemberTake a day out to visit one of Britain’s most popular cities. Famed for its docks, complicated past and the homeland of the Beatles, Liverpool is a thriving city. Visit the Beatles Museum, enjoy the shopping or peruse the Tate Gallery. There is something for everyone in this city.8.30am to 6.00pm, Meet at the Parkinson Building steps, £16 (please book in advance at the LUU Helpdesk)

DON’T MISS:

Clubs & Societies.

Give it a Go (at a glance)

LOOK OUT FOR...

25.01.10



House Hunting Talks: Leodis Common Room, Leodis Halls6.30pm to 7.30pm

House Hunting Talks: Clarence Dock

Bar, Clarence Dock Halls6.30pm to 7.30pm

House Hunting TalksRupert Beckett Lecture Theatre, Michael Sadler Building 6.45pm to 7.45pm


House Hunting Talks: James Baillie Common Room, James Baillie Halls6.30pm to 7.30pm

House Hunting Talks: Devonshire JCR, Devonshire Halls7.00pm to 8.00pm

Thursday 3rd DecemberAlcoholics Anonymous Meeting12.30pm to 1.30pmMeeting Room 8, Union Building

House Hunting Talks: Oxley HallsOxley Common Room 6.00pm to 7.00pm

House Hunting Talks: Opal 3 Common Room, Opal 3 Halls6.30pm to 7.30pm

House Hunting Talks: Concept Place/Tannery For students of these halls.Conference Room, ARC6.30pm to 7.30pm

Friday 4th December

House Hunting Talks 12.00 noon to 2.00pmPulse, Union Building


Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting12.30pm to 1.30pmMeeting Room 8, Union Building


Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting12.30pm to 1.30pmMeeting Room 8, Union Building


Referendum voting CLOSES4.00pmOnline and ballot boxes


Referendum voting COUNT1.30pm to 3.00pmTerrace, Union Building


Vice-Chancellors Q&AFrom 5.00pm, ConferenceHall, ARC, FREE

Friday 4th December

Changing LUU Democracy: Workshop 15.00pm to 7.00pm Information Point, Union Building

Monday 7th DecemberChanging LUU Democracy: Workshop 25.00pm to 7.00pmGame On, Union Building

Monday 25th January

Union Council Meeting6.00pm to 9.00pmConference Hall, ARC

Thursday 28th January

Exec & NUS Election: Nominations CLOSE12.00 noon

There are a number of ways to find a

good landlord, one of the easiest ways

it to use a member of Unipol code of

standards. This is a voluntary code that

involves the landlord making promises that

are additional to the standards required

by law. If a landlord has signed up to this

code it’s a good sign that they want to do

things right. You can get more information

on the Code and see who signed up at

www.unipol.org.uk/leeds.

When you do find a property and landlord

you’re happy with, don’t forget to get your

contract checked. The Student Advice

Centre offer a free contract checking

service for students, which will ensure your

contract is legal and fair, and they can tell

you about their previous experience of the

landlord.

Lastly, do make sure you keep up your side

of the bargain. You may incur charges for

late payment of rent, and you can only

expect to have your deposit returned in

full if you treat the property with respect

and leave it clean and tidy.

Information & Support.

House Hunting TalksStudent Advice Centre advisers will be on hand to give you all the information you need to make the right choice when you start looking for housing next year, letting you know who the good landlords are and what to avoid in your search. There will also be 2nd and 3rd year students telling you about their experiences of house hunting and giving you some tips.See individual dates for locations and times.

DON’T MISS:

Democracy & Campaigns.

Exec Elections: Nominations CLOSEThursday 28th JanuaryNominate yourself in the Student Executive Elections and you could be representing over 30,000 people in an organisation with a multi-million pound turnover! There are six positions available; find our more about these roles and submit your nomination at www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/elections. Submit your nomination before 12.00 noon on this date.

DON’T MISS:

Nominations

CLOSE

Thurs 25th

January

DON’T RUSH into

signing for a house!

Ask Maddie...Please send your problems to [email protected]. All our questions are kept anonymous unless you state otherwise. Not all questions can be printed I’m afraid but we will try to answer as many as we can.

Your Welfare OfficerMaddie Harris-Smith

It’s important to think carefully about who you live with, and it’s good you’re not rushing into things – it’s a lot easier to sign a contract than it is to get out of one!You do have other options, and it shouldn’t be too hard to find alternative housemates. The Unipol student to student notice board is a great place to find other people to live with; many of the people using this service will be in exactly the same situation you are! www.unipolnetletleeds.co.uk/noticeboard/

Dear Maddie,

Help! I’m in Halls and my housemates

have started talking about finding a house.

The problem is I’m not sure I want to live

with them – we don’t have a huge amount

in common and I’m worried that a second

year together might not go too well. If I

don’t live with them do I have any other

options?Send by email

Dear Maddie,I’ve heard a lot of stories about bad landlords, even seeing stories about some Leeds landlords in the national press! How can I make sure I don’t get ripped off?Send by email

Don’t worry, there’s plenty of information available to get you up to speed

when it comes to housing. The best thing you can do is attend one of our

house hunting talks (see the List, page 22) which will tell you everything you

need to know, and you can hear about the experiences of students that

have been through it all themselves. Don’t rush into anything, and wait until

the Unipol housing list is released on January 16th before you start viewing

houses.Pick up a copy of LUU’s guide to house hunting (free from the Union

foyer) or go to www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/helpandadvice/housing/ for

more information.

Dear Maddie,Everyone is talking about housing but I don’t what I need to do! It was scary enough finding Halls to live in… What do I need to know?Send by email

24 The Gist www.leedsuniversityunion.org.uk/thegist

New Leeds HiQ centre opens on 1st December 2009Enjoy our comfortable waiting area with wi-fi access and free tea or coffee while we take care of your car.

Driving home for Christmas?Leeds University students are invited to call in for a FREE tyre safety check and claim their free selection box.*

We don’t just do tyres you know - ask us about MOTS, servicing, exhausts, brakes and batteries. Have a brew while you wait.

HiQ Leeds147 Gelderd Road Leeds LS12 6BR

0113 203 5949*Students must show a valid NUS card and have a tyre safety check completed before claiming a free selection box. Offer only available during December 2009 and January 2010.

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The LeedsWall

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the gist issue 5, february 2010

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