Journalism lecturer gets a taste of India for prospective students

Sue Featherstone, Principle lecturer in Journalism at Sheffield Hallam University, tells us all about her first trip to Mumbai, India and did it really spice up her.

P. What was the purpose of your trip?
S. Well the main reason for my trip was to meet some prospective students in Delhi.

P. Why did you go and meet the students?
S. I didn’t realise this until I went but Sheffield Hallam University attracts more students from the Indian subcontinent than any other university. They have about 500 students which is an awful lot of people, and one of the ways in which students apply to come to Hallam is through an agency in India. So regularly people from he university go out there and interview the students to make sure if there suitable, because there’s a discrepancy between the students and their understanding of what were looking for. For instance we had a student who wanted to do a marketing course but he didn’t have the two year management work experience, which you really need to have. So therefore we were able to counsel him and suggested that he followed an alternative course.

P. what can you tell us about India as it was your first trip there?
S. It’s amazing and interesting as I was listening to a piece on the radio this morning about Disraeli who was the British prime minister in the 19th Century and he wrote a novel in which he talks about England being split into two nations and that neither of the nations ever meet or know anything about each other. The nations he talks about are poor and wealthy and this struck me as it’s so true of India. As there are two different worlds, where I would describe a normal everyday doings and then you see the poor poverty areas and this is a binding memory of that culture.
The people are so nice and such good fun. I did a lecture with some students at an all female University in Delhi, and the students were so lovely and bubbly. They knew awful lot about the subject and contributed well as it was the first time they had met me, it felt like I built a relationship with them just as I do with all my students back here. I found these women to be confident and it was such fun working with them.

P. What would you have done differently if you had the chance to it all over again? S. Well as it was a heavy working trip and I only got one afternoon off for a few hours that’s when I was able to do any shopping. So this woman called Sudha who works for the Delhi office, she took me to this outside market. I saw the traditional Indian suits called salwar kameez, I was really tempted to buy one but I didn’t have enough money on me to buy the suit or some earrings for my daughters. At the end I brought some earrings for them but the eldest doesn’t like the pair I chose for her so now I have a pair of earrings. But I really regret the fact I didn’t buy the Indian suit, so the next time I do go if I get the chance I will definitely buy at least two or three suits.

P. How did the Indian culture differ from the British culture?
S. I think the biggest cultural difference is the driving, the roads are absolutely chaotic. It reminds me of that big square in France where the drivers would just hurdle in there, and that’s what it's exactly like in India. The drivers don’t even look in their wing mirrors they just use their horns all the time. Where we have three lanes for traffic they have six lanes, it's crazy.
Over there everyone uses scooters to get around and it was fascinating to see because you would see a woman sitting behind but like side ways and she would have one hand on the mans shoulder and a bag shopping and sometimes you would see a child sitting on her lap.

P. Did you enjoy the taste of the Indian curries?
S. I have to confess to only having one Indian curry the whole time I was there, the reason being because the very first day I was there and when I got to the Delhi office they insisted on buying me lunch. So they got some food from a take out and it looked really nice and tasty, but the first thing I saw was a long black strand of hair and I said to myself “come on this is India just get on with it”. The rest of the time I was eating something from the buffet and the hotel makes UK and American style breakfast. I didn’t experiment at all which is sad really but then again I am not really into curries as I find them too spicy so wasn’t missing much on the food side.

P. Are the tuition fees for post graduates more expensive for international students than the UK students?
S. Yes there very expensive I think it's double the price of what post graduates pay here. But I was talking to this man who was on the plane with me to Delhi, he said that the competition in India because the size of the population is just immense. That you have to fight for everything which proberly reflects on the way they drive, fighting for a space to get their car in. He mentioned that’s why students go abroad to study for better education as it is difficult to get into good schools and it’s all because of the size of the population. However I would love to go back.

P. Did you pick up on any Hindi whilst you were there?
S. Not really, one of the things I notice is that there really respectable, there was this Indian reporter who worked for the English language newspaper and he kept calling me ma'am. He would say “what did you think of this ma'am?” I thought I’m not old enough to be ma'am but I did think it was sweet of him.

Famous head chef revamps struggling local restaurant

Hidden away on the corner of Arundel Street right near Sheffield Hallam University, a small tapas restaurant failed to impress the customer’s and their taste buds. This all changed when Gordon Ramsay took a trip to visit the restaurant and bar at the time called ‘Runaway Girl’. Ramsay whipped this less appealing tapas restaurant into shape, by giving it a whole new menu serving traditional English cuisines and a new name now called ‘Silversmiths’.

The 3am Girls headed off to find out how the new and improved restaurant was doing and if it had been all worth it. Also to find out the juicy gossip about Gordon Ramsay, is he really a stubborn and arrogant head chef as they all say he is?

Click here to find out what the chefs had to say.

Image acquired from:http://sheffieldblog.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/silversmiths.jpg

Mums are like a bunch of roses

Its that time of the year where we show our mothers just how much you appreciate them. By spoiling them with their favourite bunch of pink roses and beautiful Gerberas.

Mums are like a bunch of roses, there sweet, pretty, elegant, beautiful and just like a rose can make you smile, a mother’s smile can last a lifetime.

A mother’s favourite flower is considered to be pink roses which signify elegance and gentility they are seen as more light hearted and sweetness of thought. The gerberas which look like a daisy are also a popular flower and can come in many colours, whereas the pink gerbera represents ‘beauty’ and ‘innocence’.

Not many people know the history behind Mother’s Day and why we celebrate this one special day, 22nd March. However many other countries celebrate Mother’s Day on a different day such as, Belgium, Finland, Turkey, Australia and Italy celebrate it on the second Sunday of May, whilst other countries the celebration can last up to two days.

Mother’s Day started in Britain in the 17th Century where historians believe that this holiday was celebrated during the time of the 40 day period of lent. Which is known as “Mothering Sunday” honoured the mother’s of England. The honourable name “mother church” is the spiritual power and also where they were baptized.

As most of the year churchgoers would worship at their nearest parish church, known as “daughter church’s.”

It was seen as important for the daughters to return home to their "mother" church once a year.

Mothering Sunday is in during the Lent period of easter and therefore many people took this opportunity to take a break from fasting and gathered around to have a family feast.

In the United States, Mother's Day was loosely inspired by the British day and was first suggested after the American Civil War.

Today Mothers day is celebrated the same way as the old days by spoiling them with flowers, cards and gifts to show a token for our love for them.

Image from URl at: http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn241/futurepasadenamom/pink-roses_fs.jpg

Confessions of a Shopaholic: A must see for all serial spenders

As a hapless and hopeless fashion victim with serious issues in the spending department, I thought all my dreams had come true upon hearing about the new chick flick Confessions of a Shopaholic.

Set in New York, the film is a take on the novel by Sophie Kinsella and centres around Rebecca Bloomwood (Isla Fisher), a young journalist with a big heart but an out of control shopping habit. Although her dream is to work for acclaimed fashion magazine, Alette, Rebecca unintentionally ends up writing for a financial publication located in the same office block in order to make ends meet.

Despite being thousands of dollars in debt, Rebecca’s new job involves advising readers about sensible spending and surprisingly she’s pretty good at it. But little does love interest, Luke Brandon (played by Hugh Dancy), the charming editor of the magazine know about Rebecca’s dark debt secret. That is until she has to choose between the trust of her relationships and the trust of her store cards.


With laugh out loud moments and a devilishly stylish backdrop of designer stores and the streets of New York, this film does not fail to excite even the most frugal shoppers.
In some scenes, viewers will recognise themselves in Rebecca Bloomwood, which is a credit to Fisher as she manages to portray the character convincingly with an endearing performance that is relatable. Although Fisher hasn’t lent herself to many roles like this one in the past, the actress sparkles with a realism that is rarely captured by Hollywood actors, and makes dangerous spenders in denial question whether material goods are worth all they seem. This highlights the success of Director P.J. Hogan's casting which is spot on.

Amid the doom and gloom of the current credit crisis around the globe, this light hearted comedy brings a refreshing take on what could have been a misplaced, badly timed plot about depressing debt. Yes, the storyline is probably extremely predictable for most, but you can’t help but love this fluffy fairytale. And with bags, shoes and dresses galore, what more could any female ask from a movie?

Film information

Rating:

* * * * *
Cast: Isla Fisher, Hugh Dancy, Joan Cusack, Krysten Ritter and Kristin Scott Thomas
Director: P.J. Hogan
Writer: Tracey Jackson and Tim Firth
Release date: 20 February 2009

Image aquired from: http://www.fash-eccentric.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/isla-fisher-shopaholic.jpg

The truth about Paul Scriven: the Lib Dem leader who might just make you beans on toast

With promises of a greener Sheffield, less crime and fairer opportunities in the city, local Liberal Democrat and council leader Paul Scriven certainly has his work cut out for him.

The politician talks to Lorna Dockerill and reveals what makes his blood boil, floats his boat and of course what brought him to the forefront of politics…

What first attracted you to the city of Sheffield, more specifically Hunters Bar?
My job. I needed to be somewhere central for the motorway network; oh and of course my partner lived here.
I have lived here for just over 11 years all the time in Hunters Bar. It has a buzz and a charm with Eccy Road just on the doorstep and there is a great mix of students and permanent residents.

When you left school at 16 with no qualifications what was your dream?
My ambition was to become a footballer but I had neither the skill nor the talent. However later in life I did become a referee.

Why did you decide to get into politics?
I had seen many social injustices growing up on a council estate in Huddersfield. I realised that I could either sit down and complain about them, or get involved and try to fight for a more just and fair society. I am so glad I did the latter.

What do regard as the biggest achievement in your life?
Without a doubt I would say getting my degree. I was told that people like me didn't go into higher education. Like many others I did, and came out with a degree from Manchester Metropolitan university, which has opened my life up to so many different opportunities.

You love to travel, but where in the world is your favourite place to be?
I do love to travel and it really is hard to pick out one place, as each has its own charm and the people are so great in so many countries. If you were to really, really push me I would say New Zealand. It has charm, some of the most stunning scenery in the world and the people are so open and friendly.

What business do you own in the tourism industry?
My company is not really operating at present as I don't have time to spend on it, because being the Leader of the Council takes up far too much time. However, it was a small company that arranged bespoke tours to South East Asia.

What is your all time favourite food?
Erm, knowing my battle with my weight far too many foods attract me. However, if push comes to shove a very simple dish of beans on wholemeal toast dusted with black pepper and a cup of good old tea! You can take the Boy out of Huddersfield, but you can't take Huddersfield out of the Boy.

What keeps you awake at night?
My partner snoring.

Who is your idol?
I tend not to have one idol but it would be a mixture of someone with the leadership of Nelson Mandela, the compassion of Ghandi and the social justice of Lloyd George.

What would you want on your tombstone?
Avanti...Avanti...Avanti... It means forward in Italian.

What really makes your blood boil?
People dropping litter, or even worse throwing things out of their car.

And finally, how would you advise young people to go about politics in this day and age?
Change is going to happen so I would urge young people to get involved and help shape their future. It doesn't matter if it is a campaign, march, writing a letter lobbying, or joining a political party or society. Roll up your sleeves and get involved.
Sitting back and letting others shape your future may seem easy, but in long run it might just not be what you want.

To find out more about Paul log onto: http://www.paulscriven.org.uk/index.html

Paul Scriven
Fact File

Age: 43
Home town: Huddersfield
Councillor information:
Paul has been councillor of the Broomhill ward in Sheffield for nine years and Leader of the Liberal Democrats in the city for seven.
Career: After obtaining his degree from Manchester metropolitan University, Paul began working for the NHS and trained at Warwick Business School. He became the youngest hospital manager in the UK when he ran a specialist hospital in the East midlands. Paul was named one of the Top Business people in Yorkshire under 42 for his Tourism business.
Campaigns: Paul has campaigned for environment protection, for local older people to have more financial security and against labour's Post Office closures and student top up fees.

Liberal Democrats deliver lowest council tax in history of Sheffield

The council announced today that the Liberal Democrats have delivered the lowest council tax in the history of Sheffield.

Councillor Simon Clement- Jones boasted that a 1.95% increase in council tax is lower than any other city in the UK. He said: “We want to put money back into the pockets of the taxpaying people in Sheffield.”

Council also aims to protect local parks, tackle deprivation of certain areas, improve recycling and to increase security within the city.

Councillor Paul Scriven said: “It doesn’t matter if you live in Broomhill or Burngreave, under this council you will receive a fair and equal opportunity.”

Plans to reduce Sheffield’s carbon emissions are also set to be put in place for 2009/2010, in order to contribute towards the battle against climate change. Council aims to provide free insulation for homes, advice for how people can reduce energy bills and climate change funds for the local communities in Sheffield.

Funds of £50k are to be put towards the refurbishment of King Edwards swimming pool and 250k is to be carried forward to 2009/10 for additional funding for Positive Activities for Young People (PAYP).

It was also confirmed that the popular 101 anti-social behaviour hotline number would continue to be available, regardless of previous threats from lack of funding.

Despite the positive outcome, councillors wasted no time in criticising the opposition. Referring to Labour party members, Councillor Paul Scriven said: “They have lost touch with the public, which is why they lost.”

He added: “It is quite clear locally, that labour are still not listening and have still not learnt.” Councillor Andrew Sangar also referred to Labours approach to saving money as “flimsy”.
Labour representatives responded by criticising the council for “not doing what they’re manifestos promised”.

Councillor Jan Wilson of the Labour Party said: “You will find in the long run that you can’t please everyone all of the time.”

In response to the Lib Dem’s achievements so far, Councillor Steve Jones of the Labour Party said: “Let’s see what you are able to achieve over the next few months, as things get tougher.”

Image taken from Google Image

Laura Newton

Uproar as protesters slam new plans for station barriers

Around 200 residents turned out to protest against plans to install ticket barriers at Sheffield train station.

The protest took place in Barkers Pool at around 3:45pm and moved down through the station. It was led by the Campaign group Residents Against Station closure and gave the people of Sheffield a chance to come forward and have their say on the plans to install barriers.

The station provides residents a safe and well lit route from the city centre to the Park Hill and Norfolk Park areas. The barriers would block access to this route which is used by Sheffielders daily.

East Midlands Trains want to install the barriers in order to make sure all passengers are carrying tickets; they say that the barriers would prevent people fare dodging.

Councillor Paul Scriven, continued: “Although we support the principle of checking tickets, we are totally opposed to gating at the station. Already over 2,000 people have expressed their views via an online feedback form on the Council’s website. An amazing 95% of people have told us that they are against installing barriers. Surely East Midland Trains has to sit up and listen to that?”

The installment plans would mean that Sheffield station would follow the same procedures as other stations such as Leeds, which also uses barriers as a form of tracking tickets.

Local resident, Catherine Walsh (45) from Walkley said: “I feel strongly about this issue. Sheffield have put a lot of money into transport and East Midlands Trains can’t give the exact figures of how much money they’re losing when they say that people are not paying their fares deliberately, which is why the barriers are being put in place. I think the real reason for this is that there are not enough people at the kiosks in the train station or on the trains checking tickets.”

If the barriers were to be put in place, residents would be forced to use an alternative route which is regarded as unsafe and dangerous.

Catherine Walsh added: “I am disabled and so is my partner, and disabled people do have issues when it comes to using the station such as difficulty reading boards. We both use public transport a lot and these barriers on the footbridge will affect us and the rest of the public using the station.”

Sheffield Council has been receiving feedback from residents and station users since last August. All feedback received via the Council’s website has been forwarded to East Midland Trains to feed into its consultation.

Councillor Scriven said: “It is vital that everyone’s views are represented and that East Midlands Trains listens to Sheffield residents. There is still time to have your say. We have set up a feedback form that you can access via the home page of the Council’s website. Just go online, fill in your details and we will ensure that everyone’s comments are heard.”

Anyone who wishes to have their say on the issue of gating the Sheffield Station footbridge should fill out the online form at http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/, all information will be forwarded to East Midlands Trains. Rail users and residents can contact East Midlands Trains direct by emailing getintouch@eastmidlandstrains.co.uk

Hallam Union Elections 2009

Who will be the lucky winners to turn Sheffield Hallam Union a better place for students. The results have been announced of the next Hallam president’s of 2009.

All 16 candidates want to express their opinions and make their voices to be heard, about what should be done to improve this friendly social union aka 'The Hubs'.

These fun filled candidates all believe that every student has a right to make their time at Hallam the best it can be. Where they all promises to deliver just that.

David Roy Carr the organiser of Hallam elections announced the winners for each executive place.

As many would know that all sports students are entitled to have every Wednesdays off. Nikki Parkinson winner for Sports Executive, promises to push forward the ‘free Wednesdays’.

Nikki said: "All students should be entitled to have Wednesday's off or one day off during the week, because they can get involved in with the sports activities.”

The winner for Education Executive is Ben Heaton, “thank you very much for all those that voted for me.”

The winner for Equal opportunity Executive is Dan Pine who wants the rights to equal opportunities within the university and wider community. Also to hold campaigns and policies to ensure fair access to all Union activities.

The winner for Welfare Executive is Matthew Bond, campaigns for FREE EDUCATION at Hallam and for the representation of welfare for other committees such as; Disabled students, black & ethnic minorities and anti-fascism.

The winner for Hallam volunteering Executive is Kate Healey make volunteering accessible for everyone, focusing on recruitment, ensuring there is something for every individual at Hallam Volunteering. Making the voice to celebrate all of Hallam’s Volunteering achievements, she will also improve communications between the union and university to continually improve Hallam’s Volunteering as a whole.

The winner for Academic Affairs Executive is Sam Brown ensuring the library has more key course books, actively seek feedback from students throughout the year to help improve the sports. He will ensure students have access to the best possible careers advice after graduating.

The winner for Finance and Conservative Executive is Tom Woltho wants to promote and maintain a great entertainments and commercial programme within the Union. He will work to ensure the union remains the best placed to continue providing services to students throughout the coming years.

The winner for Media Executive is Tom Wilson who wants to push student to become more involved with SHU-Life magazine, SHU-radio and for them to use SHU-space as a form of a communication tool, that provides information about events, campaigns and societies.

The winner for Sports Executive is Samantha Gill, currently the sports executive and wants to keep hold of her place. Samantha has a passion for sports and believes it has made a difference this year and will in the next year. She believes to achieve positive change.

The winner for Union Executive is Danni Beckett who promises to support all student activities such as sport, societies and media. She is willing to help shape the Union for the better and the campaign to continue against top-up fees.

The new executive will take office from 1st July 2009.