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CONTENTSCatching up with the OfficersWe catch up with our four Elected Officers and find out what they’ve been upto this term.

Glad RagsRAG week took place and we find out what went on.

Cap and GownAn interview with one of our graduates from last year.

School RepsGetting to know your School Reps.

Christmas all wrapped upChristmas on a budget.

Society under the SpotlightThe Psychology Society.

Club on Centre StageAmerican Football

AU Sporting Update

Opulent Embellishment What’s hot on the fashion scene.

Hangover CuresThe perfect way to sort you head from the night before... or maybe not!

EMAIL US AT:[email protected]

HELLO!

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EDITORS LETTER / CONTENTS

Hi and welcome to this new and rather festive edition of The Tease.

We have a brand new team here at The Tease and we are going to be talking about the things that matter to you. So whether you want a break from studying and want to know what our Elected Officers have to say, or fancy a read from one of our lighter articles we have somthing for you.

I want to say a massive thanks to everyone that has helped pull this edition together, it’s a great team of people volunteering and making sure The Tease happens.

We are always looking for people to work with us.So if you fancy writing, designing, photography or anything else, get involved by emailing us at [email protected].

Enjoy yourself over the festive season and get all set for the next term. For now though grab a drink, put your feet up and enjoy this brand spanking new version of The Tease.

Ed.

ContributorsIain Clement – EditorRebecca Hurst – DesignerJade Regulski – WriterAmy Archer – WriterSophie Butcher – WriterAnthony Goodfellow –Writer

THE PRESIDENT JOHN PINKNEY

THE OFFICERS

THE PRESIDENT - JOHN PINKNEY

Hi, I’m 23 years old and I’m from North Shields, just along the River Tyne from Newcastle.

A bit of background info then, what did you do at Teesside Uni before you became an Officer?Before I became an Elected Officer I studied a degree in Youth Studies and Youth Work, which involved a variety of placements at many local youth clubs and youth organisations. I also worked for the Students’ Union as a member of Bar Staff for two years and a Bar Supervisor for a further two.

Since you were elected, what have you been doing and working on?I have been involved in lots of training over the summer in theSU as well as nationally to helpme develop skills for my role asnot just the President but alsoChair of the SU’s Board Of Trus-tees, member of the University’s Academic Board as well as a Student Governor of the University’s Board of Governors. I have also been developing ideas in student engagement and feedback through “SU ON TOUR” and the important role the SU can lead on in terms of advice and guidance through the “THINK : HOUSING” campaign.

What has been your greatest success so far and why?My greatest success so far has been changing the idea of student representation by pushing forward ideas that are aimed to engage with more students than any other Officer team has done in a long time. My personal achievement

is personally speaking to 308 students in University halls about making positive choices for next year’s accommodation as well as creating a better relationship between the SU and University Accommodation department.

What hasn't worked as well as you would have liked?So far my campaign in “HIDDEN COURSE FEES” has not created the level of interest or feedback that I had originally wanted. However this has been due to the work around “SU ON TOUR” and “THINK : HOUSING” to make them successful and my main aim for next term to is get students actively involved with the “HIDDEN COURSE FEES” to have a greater picture of what students are payingfor and how much at Teesside and how the University can change the information they supply to students to make them more aware of these extra costs as well as offer more support.

Can you tell me two things you like to do that people don't know about you?I really like ebaying, it’s the best place to get clothes and gifts that no one else will ever have, it’s like the world’s largest vintage shop/jumble sale and it’s a really good way of selling off some old stuff or having a clear out and still making a little bit back. I love watching films, my New Year’s resolution was to watch all the films that I missed out on or are considered to be the best or even the worse. At the moment I’ve been going through old Star Trek films and I think I’m going to then move onto the Beatles films next.

As it's coming up to Christmas, what would be your ideal Christmas movie?It has to be The Muppet Christmas Carol. It’s got Muppets and singing and Michael Caine and it’s all based on the Charles Dickens’ classic. You don’t need anything more except a selection box and a Christmas jumper.

Any last parting comments?Hope everyone has an opportunity to have a break over the festive period and of course a Happy New Year !

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THE EDUCATION OFFICERHANNAH GRAHAMEDUCATION OFFICER - HANNAH GRAHAM

Hi, I’m your student Education Officer. If you don’t already know me or what I do then, my job is to be the student voice of the Univer-sity – to represent your views and opinions direct to University staff and make change happen!

A bit of background info then, what did you do at Teesside Uni before you became an Officer?I was just finishing my degree (and stressing about my dissertation!) in Computer Science (yes, I’m a nerd!). I thoroughly enjoyed my time here as a student and ran for election to improve the standards of education for students here in the future.

Since you were elected, what have you been doing and working on?I have spent a massive amount of time planning, organising and creating plans and campaigns for students both new and old for this year. I’ve been working directly with the Library on all aspects including the refurbishment, open-ing hours, the learning café etc. In partnership with the Library, I have set up the first ‘Library User Forum’ for all student representatives to voice their opinions directly to senior Library and University staff members.

Teesside scored fantastically in this year’s National Student Survey results. The Union scored 82% whilst the University scored a mas-sive 86% for Student Satisfaction, beating the national average in every category. I have since been working with the University to improve both the University and the Union’s results for next year’s survey, particularly in improving

the University’s ‘Organisation and Management’ score, focusing on timetabling, on areas such as room numberings, class cancellations, the campus map and classroom sizes.

What has been your greatest success so far and why?Being appointed as a Student En-gagement Ambassador for the NUS. I represent Teesside on a national level on all areas of the student experience. The two areas I have chosen to pursue are, the National Student Survey and student satis-faction of the Students’ Union and ‘Student Charters’ .

What hasn't worked as well as you would have liked?The only thing that hasn’t worked quite as well yet is the launch of my Assessment Feedback campaign – ensuring you get the consistent good quality feedback you deserve for all your hard work completingICAs and exams. I haven’t had chanceto launch this yet due to lack of time, however I will be looking to launch this in the Final Term during examination and deadline periods.

Can you tell me two things you like to do that people don't know about you?I’m a DJ! I’ve played to huge crowds at the Students’ Union and many nightclubs in and around Middlesbrough. This is a great passion of mine and is my favour-ite past time. I am also actively involved in the Teesside Entrepre-neurs society! We’re a group of stu-dents that support other students in setting up their own businesses and making money!

As it's coming up to Christmas, what would be your ideal Christmas movie (give a reason)?In all honesty, I’m not really into films – I’m more of a music person! Christmas music is very hit and miss though...there’s a lot of dodgy stuff! With regards to Christmas movies...I’ve always loved the film Serendipity. New York at Christmas time is beautiful! Tweet me @han-narrr_ some films to watch over Christmas to keep me busy!

Any last parting comments?I wish you all a very awesome Christmas and an even more awe-some New Year and look forward to seeing you all back in the ‘boro next term.

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CAMPAIGNS & WELFARE OFFICER NATALIE DAVISON

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A bit of background info then, what did you do at Teesside Uni before you became an Officer?Before I became an officer here at Teesside University Students Union I was studying for my BSc (Hons) Degree in Diagnostic Radiography, which I recently graduated from. I was also very active in the Students’ Union during my time as a student. I was a Course and School Rep, I worked briefly in the bar andI was on the committee for TeessideDance for three consecutive years,two of those as chairperson. I havealso ran in two SU elections now;I ran for NUS conference Delegate back in February 2011 where I was 1st and again last march for my current position.

Since you were elected, what have you been doing and working on?Since I’ve been elected I have been super busy making sure everything I said I would do for you guys gets done. I’ve worked with the other officers on SU on Tour, Think: Housing and RAG, which are going down really well. And right now I’m working on a calendar of health and wellbeing campaigns which kicked off with sexual health month in November.

What has been your greatest success so far and why?I think my greatest success so far would have to be getting out

there and talking to students, finding out what issues they have and helping them to find ways to overcome them. That and Feel Good Friday in Freshers’ Week. Although the weather left a lot to be desired I think we created a great atmosphere in the Students’ Union and helped out a lot of students in the process.

What hasn't worked as well as you would have liked?I wish there could be more hours in the day, sometimes it’s just impossible to get everything you want to do, done.

Can you tell me two things you like to do that people don't know about you?When I was about 12 I starred on Live and Kicking as a phone guest when I played the interactive game ‘ Grabbit Rabbit’ and when I was at college I was an extra in the BBC series 55 Degrees North!

As it's coming up to Christmas, what would be your ideal Christmas movie (give a reason)?My ideal Christmas movie has to be The Snowman, simply because I’ve watched it every Christmas for as long as I can remember. I’m curious to find out what the second part of the The Snowman- The Snowman and the Snow-dog will be like though.

Any last parting comments?I hope everyone enjoys the holidays, remember to stay safe over the party season, drink responsibly and look after each other! See you all in the New year!

CAMPAIGNS AND WELFARE OFFICER - NATALIE DAVISON

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STUDENT ACTIVITIES OFFICERHANNAH PARRATT

A bit of background info then, what did you do at Teesside Uni before you became an Officer? I came to to Teesside to do nursing, but after a year I realised it was not for me and transferred to Youth Studies and Youth Work which I loved. As well as that I got really involved in the SU, been chair of badminton, AU chair and got involved with Freshers, been a rep and was on Union Council. It was those things which made my university experience.

Since you were elected, what have you been doing and working on?Since being elected and coming into office I have been incredibly busy setting up accreditation schemes for our volunteers, organising a family fitness class for students with children, trying to re-establish RAG with Natalie, organising varsities and the tours for both AU and Soc-fed. I have also been writing policies and doing loads of other stuff and working with the other Officers to make sure we are representing students to the University.

What has been your greatest success so far and why? Ohh, I am really proud that all our volunteers now have the opportunity to get accredited for all the fantastic work they do, these are nationally recognised qualifications and will look fantastic on a CV when students graduate. Also really proud of our teams who competed in varsity although we lost they all played fantastically and it

was a pleasure to watch them. And of course can’t forget how brilliant RAG week was, we raised loads of money and had over 100 volunteers involved. It was amazing!

What hasn't worked as well as you would have liked?I don’t think anything hasn’t worked, and things that haven’t started out well I have continued to work with the SU and Uni who have fantastic staff who have really tried to help me as much as they can.

Can you tell me two things you like to do that people don't know about you?Eat cheese, Brie, Camembert, Chedder.... I can not get enough of the stuff, it tastes even better when accompanied with cheesy music (S club 7, Bewitched).I still hold the title of Dirtiest Child in Wales for being a ridiculously grubby child and rolling around in mud.

As it's coming up to Christmas, what would be your ideal Christmas movie (give a reason)? I can not possibly pick one.... I love Christmas... however The Nativity is a good one, it is just so funny and a good feel good film and takes me back to my days in the nativity play when I refused to hold Josephs hand.

Any last parting comments?This term has been amazing so can’t wait for the next one and all things it holds. I hope you all have a lovely Christmas and Santa fills all your stockings.

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STUDENT ACTIVITIES OFFICER - HANNAH PARRATT

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GLAD RAGS / BY ANTHONY GOODFELLOW

Hey everyone, Well, recently we had our RAG week here at Teesside University, during which we raised loads of money for a worthwhile charity and also had a week of putting the ‘fun’ in fundraising! We had loads of activities happening all week long:

Monday was the charity pub quiz, where we had charity collection buckets doing the rounds as well as people manning buckets at the entrance to the Terrace Bar.

Tuesday was the Clubs and Societies Fair Day, when some of our wonderful clubs put on stalls, including Cheerleading and Martial Arts who set out stalls showcasing their talents, Cheerleading offered ‘lifts’ to students, and Martial Arts had their Kick-a-thon. Teesside Dance ran a tombola with some wonderful prizes on offer, and downstairs we had our talented Music society welcoming students into the SU with some amazing renditions of contemporary classics.

Thursday was ‘Get your RAG on’ day, which involved fundraising

events all over campus, with some fetching fancy dress from yours truly!

Friday was our pyjama day,when we encouraged students to come in in their PJ’s and onesies. Our amazing week of fundraising was topped off with our Dirty Disco pyjama party special.As well as all of these fantastic fundraisers, our volunteers, including members from clubs and societies took to the streets to partake in fundraising.

On the Friday night, the RAG committee went to Alnwick Gardens to get on the live Children in Need telethon for the North East. Clad in our finest onesies, we were able to get onto TV and proudly display the generosity of the students (and indeed locals) of Teesside. Overall we raised roughly £3000 for Children in Need, and on behalf of the RAG committee, we’d like to thank all the volunteers who helped, all the students who got involved and to all of you who gave money for such a good cause. So after the success of RAG week, I suppose you’ll be asking, ‘what next for RAG?’

Well, currently we are in the process of selecting our main charity for which we’ll be fundraising this year, and let me just say, they are all worthy causes and whichever we choose will be worth your money and time. There are also plans underway for RAG to do a sponsored walk next summer, proposed locations include; the Great Wall of China and Maccu Piccu. Well, that’s all for now, Happy Holidays everyone.

By Anthony Goodfellow

GLAD RAGSBY ANTHONY GOODFELLOW

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WHAT ITS LIKE TO GRADUATE/ BY AMY ARCHER

THE FIRST TERM IS COMING TO A CLOSE, AND WHETHER YOU’RE IN FIRST, SECOND OR THIRD YEAR, THE NEXT FEW MONTHS WI LL BRING A LOT OF WORK. WE ALL SAW THE PREVIOUS YEAR’S STUDENTS GRADUATE LAST MONTH, AND SO WE THOUGHT WE’D FIND OUT EXACTLY WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE SURE YOU GET THE BEST DEGREE YOU POSSIBLY CAN.

CAP AND GOWN...

Among the thousands that recently graduated was Samantha Collins, who has just received a first class BA (Hons) in Marketing and is also the recipient of the “Baines, Fill and Page Marketing Prize”. We spoke to her to find out what she thinks is the best way to success.

So how did you feel when you found out your results?When it came to checking my results online I was very nervous, I screamed at my sister because I didn’t dare check them. I was very shocked because I didn’t think I was going to get the first, I actually thought I was going to struggle for a 2:1 at the end of the year.

It’s great to hear that you did so well in your degree, but you also won an academic prize, what exactly was that for?I was talking to one of the tutors at the end of the graduation ceremony and she said she had put me forward

for the best marketing essay for my final year project, which was all about the effects of size zero models and the advertising industry on eating disorders and negative body image in the UK.

When you started university in your first year did

you ever think that you would achieve as much as you did?To be honest at the beginning of uni I didn’t think I was going to finish my degree. At the beginning of second year I felt like I didn’t have the motivation to finish my degree, but I don’t like to quit things so I thought it’s best to stick at it.

So what did you think was the biggest contributing factor in how well you did?I think being competitive. You push yourself and if you see your friends doing well it pushes you to try harder, and if all your friends are working hard it makes you work hard.

THE GRADUATE STORY OF SAM COLLINS

SAM COLLINS GRADUATING

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Do you think it’s important that in university life you have a good balance between your social life and uni work?Yes I do think it is important. Ithink in first year and second year it is good to experience student life, but in final year I had to sideline my social life and concentrate on Uni and working at my part-time job. Every now and again you do need to socialise and blow off steam and that kind of thing – relieve the stress!

Did you find it difficult having a job as well?Yes I found it really difficult. I found myself getting really really stressed out because I couldn’t spend as much time in the library as other people on my course, and I thought it was going to really effect my grade, so I had to drop my hours down in the end. Every day was a long day, it was definitely difficult.

What advice would you give to first year students who, now that they’re settled in, are wanting to do the best they can? Take as much help as you are offered from the tutors. I

wouldn’t recommend missing any lectures or seminars. Seminars for me are more valuable than lectures because that’s where you get all the notes and can ask the tutors questions and get more insight. Some people may work better at home, but I would say they should really get into the mindset of working in the library, where they’re not as distracted so easily. Take a lot of breaks when you’re working, your mind needs a break If you need to, go for a walk or something, it’ll probably help with your assignments and revision.

You said that at one point you were thinking “I’m not going to finish this degree”, what would you say to someone who was really struggling and thinking about giving up?If you’ve been to college and you’ve gone for education, you should see it all the way through, otherwise it’s a waste.

What are your plans next? Do you want to go straight into your career, or would you like to do a Masters or something like that?Right now I’m working as a marketing executive for a local

company. In the long run I would hopefully like to do a Masters. I would like to take education a little bit further, but I definitely see myself working along the lines of marketing, advertising, and that side of things.

You got a job quite quickly. Do you think that the fact that you did so well really helped in actually getting a job so fast?I think the grade was quite helpful in getting an interview, but to be honest I think it’s more interview skills and that side of things.

So do you think that university for you was more about what you’ve gained in terms of your career than what you gained in the social aspects of university life outside of your degree?I think definitely my career. Because I stayed at home I

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• Checkthatyouraccommodationisuptoscratch does it have a working fire alarm, a recent-ly serviced boiler and a gas safety certificate? Do all the windows have locks on them?

• Testyoursmokealarmweekly.

• Don’tleavecookingorcandlesunattendedand don’t be tempted to smoke in bed.

• Takeoutcontentsinsuranceincasethingsgo wrong, some insurance covers loss and dam-aged goods.

• Keepyourdoorslockedandcloseandlockyour windows if you are not at home.

• Keepvaluablesoutofsightwhennotinuse.

• Whenyougoout,especiallyatnight,tryand stick with a group and look after each other. If you have to walk home alone remember that campus security can walk you home and we al-ways have CCTV on campus, or to make yourself feel that extra bit safe, why not purchase a per-sonal alarm to carry with you?

• Onlyuseatrustedtaxicompanytogetyoufrom A to B and again try to travel in a group. • Ifyouaredrinkingalcoholtryandbalanceit out by having a soft drink or a glass of water in-between drinks and try to avoid mixing drinks if you possibly can!

Don’t accept a drink from a stranger and don’t be tempted to take drinks from large open containers such as punch bowls.

• Don’tleaveyourdrinksunattended.

• Takeyourvaluableshomewithyouoverholiday periods.

• Makesureyoushredanyletterswithper-sonal details on.

• IntheLibrary,donotleaveyourlaptoporbag unattended. Why not think about a lock for your laptop?

Crime in Middlesbrough is at an all time low but that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t be taking steps to make sure we keep ourselves and our belongings safe. Whether you are a new student or a re-turning student, check out our top tips for staying safe during your time at university.

By following out tips you’ll greatly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime, but in the very unlikely event that anything does happen, there are people here to help. Of course you must contact the police but if you are staying in halls you can also talk to your warden and here in the Students’ Union we havesomegreatprofessionalAdvisersinTheLinkreadytohelp.

SAFETY TIPS

Protect yourself, your valuables and your house:

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SCHOOL REPS

SCHOOL REPS

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SCHOOL REPS ARE EXACTLY THAT, THE PEOPLE THAT REPRESENT THE STUDENTS’ VOICE TO THE UNIVERSITY, WE FOUND OUT A BIT MORE ABOUT THEM AND WHAT THEY’VE BEEN UP TO. ALONGSIDE THE SCHOOL REPS EACH SCHOOL HAS ALSO NOW TAKEN ON TWO WELFARE REPS, TO HELP AND SUPPORT STUDENTS AND TO RAISE AWARENESS OF ANYTHING NON ACADEMIC THAT CAN HAVE AN IMPACT ON A STUDENT’S UNIVERSITY EXPERIENCE.

Andrew Findlay Lana Zgombić Liam Bell

Hanna Henriksen Seb Kazemi Acheliya Mustafa

[email protected]

[email protected]

COMPUTING REPS

SOCIAL SCIENCES & LAW REPS

ARTS & MEDIA REPSHi, Iain and Manon are your SAM School Reps. We’re the voice and representatives for all the School and make sure that we pass on the things that matter to you to the people that will listen. We have regular meetings with the hierarchy of SAM including the Assistant Dean. Every week we do a few walkarounds campus aswell as holding a Facebook surgery to make sure that we give students of SAM every opportunity to let us know about anything good or bad happening within our School.

Iain Clement Manon Goetschel

[email protected]

Hi everyone, we are the School of Computing Reps, we started off as a Team of three but are now welcoming two new Welfare Reps to join us and help us make YOUR time at Uni as amazing as possible! Over the first term we have been working on planning a massive Gaming event, which will take place in term two, to raise our profile and allow you to have a little bit of fun, try something new and get to meet us. We hope you will enjoy the event and make sure you keep an eye out for our posters around the Grieg building, which contain our contact details so you can notify us of any problems you might be experiencing! We are always around so don't be shy and feel free to approach us wherever and whenever! =)"

TeamSSLhavebeenverybusythisyearintryingtoimprovethe learning and teaching experience for their students through communication with lectures. Key this year is to push for more standardised and detailed feedback on as-sessments and exams from all lectures across modules to help with students academic development and learning.

Sagor SikdarJordan Davidson

Mike Patrick Angie Kirkham

Amy Bishop Sarah Haigh

WELFARE REPS

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Michelle Murphy Diane Longstaff Stephanie Watts

BUSINESS REPS

Jon Bird Thomas Blackham Reiss Ford

Sheri Burrows Victoria Steele Sarah Chatton

[email protected]

[email protected]@live.co.uk

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE REPSSCIENCE & ENGINEERING REPSWe are Sarah, Sheri and Vicky, School of Science and Engineering Reps and October’s Rep Team of the month. We have been holding regular drop in sessions on campus and on-line for our students, we have also dressed up as pirates for Children in Need raising £47.74. We are working with the school’s Assistant Dean to come up with a project to enhance the students experi-ence within the School of Science and Engineering.

Hi everyone, we are your School of Health and Social Care School Reps, it’s hard to miss us with our picture on the screen of every computer in Centuria! We represent all health and social care students in meetings and take your feedback forward to meetings with academic staff, the Assistant Deans of the school and to university staff such as the library staff. Please like us on Facebook by searching for 'health and social care school reps' and let us know how you're doing! Diane, Michelle, Stephanie.

The Business School Reps have been out and about helping a number of students with their problems. Having being crowned team of the month in November you can see their hard work is definately a benefit to the student. Keep an eye out for the reps in your lectures and generally around the Teesside University Business School’s open area. Any problems, we are always about!

Racheal Harman Hannah Barnwell

Ashley Mehnert Matt DowlingSaud Hassan Ryan Wetherall

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CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP/ BY AMY ARCHER

CHRISTMASALL WRAPPED UP!

SO IT’S COME TO THAT TIME OF YEAR… FRESHERS IS OVER, STUDENT LOANS ARE GONE (AND SO IS THE MAJORITY OF THAT STUDENT OVERDRAFT YOU TOLD YOURSELF WOULD ONLY BE FOR EMERGENCIES), AND WHILE YOU WAIT IN ANTICIPATION FOR THAT NEXT INSTALLMENT OF GOVERNMENT FUNDING YOU’RE FACED WITH THE MOST EXPENSIVE TIME OF YEAR… CHRISTMAS!

BUT NEVER FEAR, WE’RE HERE TO HELP WITH SOME MONEY SAVING TIPS TO GET YOU THROUGH THE PARTY SEASON!

ON A BUDGET STUDENT STYLE...

Shop aroundLet’sfaceit,ChristmasshoppingisthemoststressfulthingEVER.You’resurroundedbyhoardsof people, which makes it more than likely that at some point a) an angry mother will run over your foot with her pushchair, or b) you’ll be knocked unconscious by someone with way too many bags that feel like they may contain concrete blocks. So before you head to town, pick out the first items you see and make a run for it, try having a look online. The Internet is great for comparing prices, and you’ll be amazed at how two different shops can price pretty much the same item so differently. Even if you’ve left it until the last minute you can still find where to go to get the best bargains. Plus you can enjoy a cup of tea (or wine, or beer) while you browse to your heart’s content!

Make it CountAs much as you may want to attend every festive special event that nightclubs can lure you into, when you’re a student on a budget it’s not a possibility. But that doesn’t mean that you have to go into some form of hibernation until January when the student loan is replenished, you just need to make your nights count! One of the best ways to make the most of the party season is with a good old house party. Get your scissors out and make yourselves some paper chains and snowflake decorations (everyone loves a good paper snowflake) and get everyone to bring food and drink. With a strategically arranged Christmas playlist and some drinking games you’ll probably have a better night than you would in a nightclub scraping together 20p’s so you can have one last VK but no food for a week.

BY AMY ARCHER

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ALL WRAPPED UP!

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BY AMY ARCHER

Get CreativeWhen it comes to Christmas as a student your parents know you have no money and so they really don’t expect anything much. In fact many of you will hear them say “don’t worry about getting me anything this year.” But lets face it, on Christmas morning, when you unwrap that laptop that you so badly wanted, you’re not going to want to just give them a hug in return. But you don’t have to break the bank to give your family and friends something that they’ll appreciate. Even if your artistic ability is not top notch, there are loads of ways you can get crafty and make something great. Baked goods are always a great idea: chocolates, brownies, fudge, cookies. Just put them in a bag or a box with some ribbon and they’ll hardly know they’re home-made. If baking isn’t your strong point, how about designing a personal wall calendar on your computer (there’s always some brilliant photos on Facebook), or searching the charity shops for cheapitemssuchaspictureframesandpersonalizingthem?Lookonlinetogetsomeinspiration,because home-made gifts may not sound exciting but they can be really great – and so much cheaper!

Secret SantaGot lots of brothers and sisters? Too many friends? It can be a nightmare at Christmas, deciding who you can afford to buy for and what you can afford to spend. That old favourite “Secret Santa” is the perfect way for everyone to save money, and the beauty of it is that you can set the budget to whatever you want! This way you don’t have to feel guilty about leaving anyone out, and you’ve got an excuse to get together, have a drink and enjoy finding out who your secret Santa is.

Most importantly have a great Christmas! It’s supposed to be the best time of year, so don’t let it be the worst. Spend time with your friends and family (you never know, your parents may take pity on you and provide you with a cheeky £20), and enjoy a break from Uni work!

And remember it’s only a few more weeks until the student loans arrive!

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BY STEPH CROOKSTONSOCIETY UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT

Meet the Committee:Chair: PaulLeslieSmith-“OneofthemostchallengingbutrewardingthingsIhavedonesofaristostarta society. Talking to other people as passionate about Psychology as me is great and helping people experience more from university life is fantastic. We have only been an active group a few months now but we are going from strength to strength. We recently had a very successful trip to a conference at Nottingham Trent University, held a bake sale to raise money for the society and we have a series of very interesting lectures on some more obscure topics in Psychology. The general feedback from the members is really positive and this keeps the committee focused and driven to keep expanding and making the most out of university life.”

Secretary: Emily Abbas - “Being Secretary of the Psychology Interest Society is a great experience, as it has opened doors for myself and others to have access to subject specific opportunities for example attending conferences. The Psychology Interest Society has also widened my social network, as I have met new people and been introduced to new areas within the subject. Personally I wish this society had been made sooner, as a 3rd year student I believe this society would have been greatly beneficial throughout previous years of university.”

Treasurer: Alex Hall - “Being Treasurer of the Teesside University Psychology Interest Society has been great. I have met many new people and have seen different aspects of Psychology I have never thought about. In the short time we have been a Society, we have arranged a trip to a BPS Conference and organised a bake sale to raise money for our Treasury, at which we made over £80. Wehavemanybigplansforthefuture,rangingfromaLondontriptoguest speakers, and are excited to see how the Society will develop in the future. We hope that the Society will carry on after we leave and we will have left a good legacy to help develop knowledge about Psychology in Teesside for years to come.”

SOCIETY UNDER S[POTLIGHT/ BY STEPH CROOKSTON

Although they are only a new society they have already been making waves and making themselves known.

Their creation came from the committee’s desire to help psychology students and to promote the study of psychology to others. Whether you have studied psychology for years or just have a slight interest in the subject then this could be the society for you.

Membership is £10 and they meet every Wednesday at 1:30pm in ClarendonBuildingroomCL1.88Ifyouwanttojointhesocietyorwant to find out more then give them an email [email protected]

THE PSYCHOLOGY SOCIETY WERE SET UP AT THE END OF APRIL 2012 READY TO REACH OUT TO PEOPLE WITH AN INTEREST IN PSYCHOLOGY FOR THIS ACADEMIC YEAR.

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THE TEESSIDE COUGARS WERE ONE OF THE FOUR INAUGURAL CLUBS OF THE BRITISH COLLEGIATE AMERICAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE (BCAFL), NOW KNOW AS THE BUAFL. THE TEAM’S BEEN AT THE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1985 AND IN ITS PAST HAS WON 6 DIVISIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS, 3 CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS AND 2 NATIONAL FINALS. FINALLY AFTER MANY YEARS AMERICAN FOOTBALL HAS BECOME AN OFFICIAL BUCS SPORT AND A GB STUDENTS TEAM HAS BEEN FOUNDED, ANOTHER SIGN OF ITS GROWING POPULARITY IN THE UK.

CLUB ON CENTRE STAGEAMERICAN FOOTBALL

This year has been a tough start for the Cougars with changes to the conference and the loss of a lot of great veteran players. The new team of fresh faces are as keen as ever and looking to go into the second half of the season after the break with vigour. Several members of the team have been invited to trials for the GB team. With four games and Varsity left in the New Year it’s never too late to join and try out something new. The club trains on the Olympia astro turf Tuesdays and Thursdays 7-9pm and 12-4pm on a Sunday. Home games are also at the Olympia 1pm kick off on Sundays so be sure to stop by and check them out.

Being a growing sport in the UK new players are given full training as it’s expected students will have had very little experience of the sport prior to joining the club. As well as a large team of coaching staff the club offers equipment and kit for players. The nature of the sport leaves it open to anyone as the club is keen to impress that no matter what your build or strength, there is a position on the team for everyone.

There is a strong social aspect to the club and they see themselves as more of a family than a club. They have close ties with the Teesside Wildcats Cheerleading Club and can often be found out and about on a Wednesday night.

The club’s direction now is getting involved with as much of Uni life as possible. This term alone they have won Stall of the Day at Freshers’ Fair, worked with both Netball and Dance Society on fund-raising events as well as raised a significant amount of money for both Children in Need and Movember. The club intends to carry on this trend into the New Year with an upcoming event with The Real Ale Society as well as a club tie in with local charity Remembering Rebecca.

The club's committee is made up of:

Chris Scrace – ChairmanAdam Floyd – TreasurerJack Rogers – Secretary

If you would be interested in finding out more or joining the club you can reach their com-mittee via [email protected]

CLUB ON CENTRE STAGE

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CLUB ON CENTRE STAGEAMERICAN FOOTBALL

The week of the 17th November saw the start of the BUCS season (British and Collage university sport) which our teams where very excited to get underway.

One of the first matches played was a rivalry between Men’s Badminton 2nd team and the 3rd team. While the latter provided a good game they were unable to match the 2nd team’s 8-0 win. Andy Lambbeingastandoutmanof the match.

The second week of BUCS saw our newly promoted Netball 1st team show that they definitely belonged in their new league with a 29-24 win over Newcastle, a fantastic performance by the whole team.

Halloween Wednesday was more spectacular than scary. Men’s football 3rds in their words “absolutely annihilating” Hull 6ths including a 15-0 win, including a hat rick scored by Entwistle and an impressive 4 goals scored by Smithson. In the words of the football lads, “up the boro”.

AU SPORTING UPDATESPORTING UPDATE

THIS TERM HAS BEEN FULL OF FANTASTIC MATCHES FROM THE TEESSIDE SPORT TEAMS, SO THAT WE WERE ABLE TO PUT THE DEFEAT OF VARSITY BEHIND US.

On 14th November Men’s Football 3rds displayed their prowess showing that they truly belonged in their new league with another impressive win of 8-3 over Bishop Burton.

On 21st November a new women’s Badminton 2nd team played in their first competitive match. Even though they lost 8-0 there was some impressive rallies withJennieandLaurashowing that they will have a strong future as part of the badminton team.

The 5th December and winter has officially arrived with Men’s Rugby, Rugby LeagueandMen’sFootballallfighting the snow at Saltersgill. Unfortunately all the matches where called off half way through due to the snow but the teams kept going with an exceptionally high standard from all teams in the bitter cold and falling snow.

Netball once again showed us what they’re made of, with the first team scoring an amazing 43 -22 win over Huddersfield. Sophie Dowson was named player of the match for her contribution.

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CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP/ BY AMY ARCHER

WHAT TO WEAROPULENT EMBELLISHMENT

SNOW HAS FALLEN, THE ROADS ARE ICY, AND THE FESTIVE SEASON IS IN FULL SWING. THE CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR PARTIES ARE LOOMING AND SO IS THE DECISION OVER THE PERFECT OUTFIT.

Christmas is not the time for minimalism, and the catwalks were full of decorative prints, embellishment and baroque opulence this Autumn/Winter.

Take a look:

Prada

In perhaps the most memorable show of the season, Miuccia Prada combined retro 70’s geometric

print with androgynous trouser suits to create an alternative to work and evening wear.

Chanel:

Chanel’s icy stage was the setting for an array of jewel-inspired pieces including tiny semi-precious clutch bags and dramatic sequinned eyebrows.

Balmain:

The intricate Faberge egg was the inspiration for Balmain’s decadent collection of stunning bodycon dresses and oversize blazers.

These designer styles are beautiful, but are most likely beyond a student’s price range!

BY SOPHIE BUTCHER

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OPULENT EMBELLISHMENT

2319

BY SOPHIE BUTCHER

So here are some high street versions so you can still be on trend and make an impact this Christmas without breaking the bank:

From River Island an ornate, waist-cinching belt or statement collar would livenupaclassicLBD,making a quick new outfit.Collar £28Belt £40

Topshop have this gem-encrusted peplum top would look great dressed up with a pencil skirt!£30

Or these paisley embellished shorts are a little bit pricey, but are beautifully detailed and colourful. They’d be a great outfit teamed with a bright blouse and plenty of jewellery.£60

ASOS are worth checking out with these heels that have just the right mix of minimal and opulent, a not-too-high heel and a flattering nude colour.£45

This Alexander McQueen-style knuckleduster clutch is the perfect edgy accessory to any outfit.£40

The festive season is no time to hold back, so make sure you stand out!

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HANGOVER CURES HANGOVER CURES/ BY JADE REGULSKI

How will you be curing your Festive Hangover? ‘Tis the season to be jolly’ and of course that means for many of us the all important aspect of socialising. While the parties are coming thick and fast with barely a moment to actually relax, you may find yourself locked into the whole ‘eat, drink and be merry’ situation. With indulgence there is often a price to pay and if you’ve had one too many the night before, your head may be feeling it.

Your mouth is as dry as the desert, daylight hurts your eyes and your head feels like it’s going to explode. Sound familiar? No you’re not turning into a vampire but you have fallen victim to alcohol intoxication.

So what to do about it?

We’ve all been there but with the festive season in full swing we know many of you will be suffering with those ‘told you so’ HANGOVER symptoms on a more than frequent basis. So we decided to search the globe for radical recipes to cure your worst enemy and get you back in this season’s game!

Forget the average ‘hair-of–the-dog’ or a Bloody Mary instead consider these unconventional hangover cures… Just make sure you have a bucket to hand!

BY JADE REGULSKI

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HANGOVER CURES Tripe SoupNow who said Turkish delight is the worst recipe to come out of Turkey? Well it seems that we were wrong anyway as tripe soup has topped it. Known for both preventing and curing a massive hangover this thick soup is made with tripe or the edible stomach of livestock. To make it more edible it is cooked with garlic and cream. Not only will you feel better but smell delicious too!

Deep Fried CanariesWe all learnt about the Ancient Romans in school but we never got told how much partying they did in those Roman bath houses to create a hangover cure containing an actual canary. The small bird was deep fried in oil, salt, and pepper. Animal cruelty laws were not in place during this period, however they are now so this one comes with caution and a possible arrest.

PoutineIf you want something other than chips and gravy from the local take-out then the Canadian delicacy ‘Poutine’ or fries with cheese curds and gravy should be a winner. I wouldn’t recommend it if you prefer a softer texture

on your palette.

LemonintheArmpit?This Puerto Rican method consists of exactly what it says…giving your armpit a citrus flavour. You need to rub the lemon slice in your drinking arm before you go out on a bender! Simples.

The Pickled PlumA Japanese cure that includes sucking on sour plums until they dissolve. The idea is that the acid in the plum will break down the alcohol faster. Considering that the Japanese made Sony, Toyota and yes, Origami plum sucking seems a less developed idea but then again they did create the Haiku.

Sicilian SausageApparently, Sicilians believe that all you have to do after a

wild night of drinking is eat a dried bull’s penis. Yep, not even with any sauce to add flavour just a plain and simple sausage.

If you use one of these over the festive period or into the New

Year, hopefully one of them will work for you. Have a great time!

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