Sport - Imperial College London

Transcription

STAY CALM, YOUNG FRESHER
FRESHERS’ HANDBOOK 2009/10
imperialcollegeunion.org
Photo: FJ Gaylor
Job Opportunities at the Union
Contents
4
Leaving the nest....
You’re a big kid now! Lucky you. Here’s some preparation hints and tips.
13
Union on campus
Find out what the Union is, what it does, and where it exists on campus.
18
College life
What to expect from life on Imperial’s campuses.
23
Faculty Unions
Which Faculty Union do you belong to?
Come along and see us for the
casual staff recruitment day
Thursday 1 October.
See our website for more details
There are plenty of opportunities for part time
work in the Union. With different pay rates and
shifts available at all times of the day, there
is sure to be a position that fits in with your
studies.
Check online at imperialcollegeunion.org/jobs
to see more information on what is available.
25
Being part of the Union
How to get involved with the Union, and get that warm & fuzzy feeling
DJ’s
Entertainments team
Bar Staff
Stewarding Team
Catering Staff
Shop Staff
Student Activities Staff
Minibus Staff
Halls Reps
Ticket Agents
Reception/Admin Staff
30
inside.
The Big Smoke
The ins and outs of London living. Some suggestions, tips and hints.
34
Welfare
Deputy Presidents (Education and Welfare) with some reassuring words.
37
Clubs & Societies A-Z Listings
We have the most Clubs & Societies at any UK Uni. Take your pick.
imperialcollegeunion.org/jobs
Louis Hector Berlioz: “Time is a great teacher, but unfortunately it kills all its pupils.”
3
Freshers’ Handbook 2009
Welcome!
Hi, I’m Ashley Brown, this year’s President of
Imperial College Union.
Congratulations on getting into Imperial
College, and a very warm welcome from us
all here at Imperial College Union. During the
course of your degree you’ll have some of
the most entertaining years of your life, and
hopefully get some work done too!
If you didn’t know already, I’ll explain to you
what the Union is, introduce the team that’ll be
running the Union, what they can do for you and
how to get involved.
Here’s Danny,
t
the Deputy Presiden
s)
(Finances & Service
Here’s Dan, the Felix
Editor
Th
That
at’s
’s Je
Jenn
nny,
y,
th
thee D
Dep
eput
utyy Pr
Pres
esid
iden
entt
(C
(Clu
lubs
bs &
& So
Soci
ciet
etie
ies)
s)
Introducing
John,the
Deputy
President
(Welfare)
What is Imperial College Union?
We are the Students’
Union at Imperial College
and our primary function is
to support, represent and
distract you during your
time here.
A team of elected sabbatical officers takes
care of the day-to-day running of the Union,
supported by part-time student volunteers and
full-time staff.
The most obvious things you’ll see are
the facilities in Beit Quad, home to our bars,
catering, entertainments, Advice Centre,
Student Activities Centre and offices. We’re
more than just a building though, with over 300
Clubs & Societies providing the widest range of
sporting, recreational and social activities in the
country. Jenny Wilson, the Deputy President
(Clubs & Societies), has overall responsibility
for these Clubs and will have more to say
about them later.
In the building, you can socialise in our
bars and eateries. Daniel Hill, the Deputy
President (Finance & Services), has
responsibility for these and we’ll be sure to
let you know what’s on when.
4
Helping you up when you’re down
As with all things, your time here will have its
ups and downs. We hope you’ll never need it,
but if things go wrong we’re here to help. The
Advice Centre, found on the Mezzanine floor of
our building in Beit, can provide impartial advice
and support with any problems
you might face, including
housing issues and exam
appeals. John James,
the Deputy President
(Welfare), is also on hand
to deal with any welfare
issues, as well as running
campaigns throughout the year.
Getting involved
ty
That’s Jon, the Depu
)
ion
at
uc
President (Ed
Making your voice heard
Some of our most important work takes place on
College committees. Our student reps are there
to make sure your voice is heard at all levels of
the College – at department level, through your
year and departmental reps; at faculty level,
through the Faculty Unions;
and at College level, via the
sabbatical team.
As a fresher you’ll have
the opportunity to elect your year
reps soon after the start of term.
They should be your main contact
Dean Martin: “You’re not drunk if you can lie on the floor without holding on.”
That’s me,
Ashley!
for any course-related problems,
as they can talk to your department
directly. Your departmental rep will
already be in place, and they are the next
port of call.
Each faculty (Engineering, Natural Sciences
and Medicine) has a Faculty Union to look after
education, welfare and social activities across
their departments. You’ll find that they have
strange names due to their interesting history.
See which one you belong to later in this
handbook.
Ultimately, the representation network is
supported by Jon Silver, the Deputy President
(Education).
The most important thing you can do is get
involved. Who wants to work all day?
Get involved in the events during Freshers’
week and enjoy yourself: it’s the best time to
meet new people who you’ll spend the next
three or four years with. Get involved with
Imperial College Union: you can work
for us, drink with us, eat with us,
volunteer with us, join a Club, run
a Club, raise money for charity and
several hundred other things.
Lastly, enjoy your Freshers’ Week
and year! The whole sabbatical team
will be on hand during your first week to help
you out, or just have chat about the University
experience at Imperial. Now I hand over to Dan
(Felix Editor) for the rest of the handbook.....
Ashley Brown
Imperial College Union President
[email protected]
020 7594 8060 (ext: 58061)
Richard Nixon: “When the President does it, that means it is not legal.”
5
Leaving the nest
Making the most of it
Your life really begins here because it’s your
turn to be a Fresher, and damn you, I’m bloody
jealous.... but I’ll bitterly congratulate you on
getting here anyway. Congratulations. That’s all
you’re going to get.
As mother reluctantly pushes you out of the
nest for the first time, University probably seems
a daunting prospect, especially when you’ve
decided to try your hand at one of the world’s
best. You think you’re clever, oh yes, you do.
Not that I’m promising to solve all your
problems and allay all your fears with this one
Handbook, but this humble collection of pages
is definitely here to guide you through the
smokescreen that is starting University. With a
quick glance through this, you’ll be prepared for
both the fun and the tough times, or at least I
hope so.
From personal experience, being a Fresher
was one big exploration that resulted in endless
nights of pasta bakes and lager (not together,
I’m not a weirdo), but make the most of your
1
6
Starting the Engines....
newfound independence, I say.
Most people at Imperial are generally
successful in their own right, and that will
probably include you. A successful Imperial
student is one that finds a balance between the
weights of student life; friends, leisure and work.
In many ways, the three intertwine with each
other, and hence why finding that balance can
lead to happy-happy times.
Though you’re ultimately here to study, you’ve
got multiple years to spread it over. Your Fresher
year will set up your remaining years at Imperial,
so make it a good one. Actively spend time
socialising; meeting and making new friends.
This will come naturally through living in Halls,
but it’s not the only way. You can join the 300+
Clubs & Societies where you can incorporate
your interests with meeting like-minded people.
Do this with the copious amounts of time you’ll
find yourself with as Fresher. It’s what I did with
Felix, Imperial’s student newspaper, and I’ve
somehow ended up taking a year out to be its
Editor-in-Chief.
Through all this friend-finding fun though, just
make sure you’re on top of your work in your
first year. Don’t neglect your work, but neither
go at it like a monkey to bananas. Yes, there’ll
be evenings you wish you went to Bumhole
University to do a degree in Nothingology, but
if you get a steady flow of work going, these
evenings will be rare and far between.
In the great clichéd words of everyone and
their pet iguanas: work hard, play hard.
I’m now going to saunter back down to the
Felix office-cum-dungeon. It’s in the West Wing
of Beit Quad. That probably means nothing to
you right now, but once you’re here, come find
us in it. We have a surprise for you.
Freedom!
You’ve pissed the summer
away, and before your hazy
consciousness knows it,
October has rolled around.
All your mates have probably
buggered off one-by-one, leaving you with
nothing to do except wander the corridors of
your local nursing home.
Hence, October is a good time for both you
and Nana Doris. You get to go to University, and
Doris can finally take a shower in peace.
Mummy and Daddy know nothing of your
disgusting OAP-debauchery, and still see you
as that sweet and innocent (albeit whining and
slimy) baby you were the day you were born.
Like a good pair of shoes however, they can’t
hold onto you forever.
Breaking free from the ‘rents has never been
so liberating. You can,
if you wish, actually
storm out the
house in adolescent
rage, and this time
follow up your
threat never to
return. Well, until
you realise you
need them and
their car to
drive you and your unnecessary
assortment of belongings down
to London.
The worst thing is, of
course, they’ll agree to be your
personalised removal firm, but
your payment is in the form of the
journey-long guilt. Who’s the winner
now?
To pre-empt this bitterly-skewed situation,
you’ll pack your parents car so fully, your Dad will
just constantly moan he “can’t reach the bloody
gearstick with all this sh*te in here”. He loves you
really.
What to pack in the car?
As fun as it may be watching your parents’
disbelief at having to drive a fully-inflated lifesize dolphin that your better-half won at the
fairground for you, you may soon find
that a few others things
would have been infinitely
more useful to you at your
time at University.
So overleaf is my rough
guide to what you
definitely should, and
probably shouldn’t
bring. Take heed,
young Fresher!
Dan Wan
Handbook and Felix Editor
[email protected]
020 7594 8072 (ext: 48072)
7
Dan Wan: “This handbook could kill a man. Pint?”
Andy Dufrene: “Get busy livin’, or get busy dyin’.”
Everything but the kitchen sink
BRING!
Bedding and pillows
Bring bedding, most likely for single bed.
It won’t be provided for you, and your own
bedding from home may serve as comfort
when you finally feel homesick and retire to
bed weeping into the smell of your mother on
your pillows.
Sharp objects and things that get hot
I mean cutlery and crockery, rather than
machetes and your belly in the sun. Your
kitchen will not come equipped with these
things, just the appliances. Bring at least two
sets of cutlery, plates and bowls. Things get
lost in shared kitchens, but also if you’re trying
to woo the opposite sex with your culinary
skills you’ll look like a cheap bastard if you lay
out disposable cutlery from the Library Cafe.
PC or Laptop
No computer equals a lot of time spent in the
library, and no one like library-hermits. You
probably won’t need to be carrying a laptop
around campus, because there is one in every
corner of every room. A laptop is probably
more useful when you need to take work back
when your parents finally force you back home
because they miss you/want to make sure
you’re wasting your life away.
Network cable
Here’s something you might not have thought
about. A network cable will not be provided
with your room in Halls, so make sure you
bring one. It’s literally the wire of life. University
won’t the same with many private hours of
facebook, youtube and porn. If you forget, you
can grab one in a multitude of colours from the
Union shop on the Sherfield Walkway.
8
What about....?
y advice from Bob
Some
witvv§ hand
LEAVE!
Car
Unless you’re Mister Money-Bags, an £8
Congestion Charge to drive around London
in your 15 year old Fiesta is not worth it. The
Congestion Charge is here to stay, but so will
be 24 hour public transport. Move along a fiddle
of pages to see our guide on the semi-delights
of London public transport.
Mini-fridge & kettle
I know you want to attract all the cool kids to
your room with gallons upon gallons of booze
but seriously, mini-fridges are just not allowed.
Use a kettle in your room and you risk setting
off the fire alarms; security guards and wardens
won’t find it as funny as you will. Especially
when it’s four in the morning.
Here’s Bob. Don’t do what Bob did and fail first year 13
times. I don’t know why he hasn’t been chucked out on
his arse yet, but nevertheless, his expertise in being
a Fresher means he’s my on-hand advisor. Through
his 13 years as a Fresher he’s experienced the
Unimaginable highs and dire lows. He’ll pass some
of his wisdom over to you throughout the Handbook.
I can personally guarantee some of it will be useful.
The rest may just be drunken babble. See for
yourself.
1
Iron and ironing Board
Two words: they’re provided for! Oh, that’s
three.
Television
It’s your choice, but watching the television
in your common room/kitchen and football
matches in the bar are what we call being
sociable. Plus, there’s also having the extra
burden of paying an individual TV license.
If you can’t do without your evening-fix of
Chucklevision, there’s BBC iPlayer, ITV and
Channel 4 online catch up services. You
(probably) won’t miss a thing.
Furniture
Your room in halls should have everything you
need to store all your crap away. Though, if you
do have a wardrobe at home the size of Africa,
the best bet might be an extra clothing rail,
rather than an entire wardrobe.
Dan Wan: “Or, alternatively, you could just ignore me and bring the inflatable dolphin.”
2
Set up a
student bank
account as early
as possible
otherwise,
once get here you
may find yourself waiting amongst
everyone else trying to do the same.
Some accounts give free railcards
or money for signing up. Also make
sure you check out where the
nearest branch to Imperial is.
Bring a Driver’s
Licence or Passport for
ID purposes when you’re on a night
out. Some Clubs and bars will ask
for ID even if you look over 18. Most
Clubs in London will accept foreign
Passports, but sadly not designer
stubble.
3
4
5
I’m ce
r
tainly
handy
.....
Set up student insurance for those
precious items like iPods, laptops,
phones or cameras. Try Endsleigh,
Tesco and the Post Office. You
never know what
might happen.
Computers can’t
fly. I found out the
hard way.
Bring some passport
- sized photos, even
though College will
ask you to upload
one before you
come. Don’t make
it stupid. Regret
sets in after a
few weeks.....
Make a scrapbook/
collage from old
photos of family and
friends. It may stave
off the homesickness
until the weekend.
W.C. Fields: “A man’s got to believe in something. I believe I’ll have another drink.”
9
There’s no place like Halls
Gone are the youthful days of being shouted
down from your room for dinner. Gone are the
days when tidying your room was essential for
being fed! OK, my point being: you’re living
independently now.
Some of you have have lived alone before, but
for the ones who haven’t, Halls will be a great
medium between home and your own house.
Well, here’s my two pennies on it all. Living in
halls can be the busiest year of your life. You’ll be
busy doing nothing or avoiding sustained work,
separated by impromptu midnight excursions to
Sainsbury’s in your pyjamas.
You’ll be living with people in very close
quarters for an entire year, so try not to piss
everyone off. Not everyone likes the stray and
rabid animals you’ve dragged back from Hyde
Park.
The kitchen will be the room of great
contention or community. If you haven’t learnt
how to cook, you may want to start now.
Eating out in London every night will start
to have its effects; both on belly and pocket.
However, not only will you be a fat, poor student,
you’ll run the risk of being a loner too. If you
never use your kitchen in halls, you’ll probably
miss out on a lot of banter between members
on your floor and end up sobbing into your pillow
each night. Maybe.
Many a late night will be spent in your
kitchens, either doing something stupid/
awesome like fencing with baguettes from your
shared meal, or something a bit more heartwarming/lame like discovering a new best friend
through a deep conversation.
The best thing though? They’re cleaned every
morning so you’ll never
live in squalor.
My Fresher Experience
ar Biochemist
Fiona O’Connell, 2nd Ye
So, I’d just left all my friends from school at home to come to Imperial. Like most, I
didn’t know anyone yet. Pretty scary. Thinking back on it, I was petrified, but here I am,
two years later with the best friends I could ever ask for.
Imperial is such a diverse place where you can be as anonymous or notorious as
you want. It all starts as soon as you move in. My advice to you is to go to as many
hall events as you possible can in the first few weeks. They’re a perfect opportunity
to talk to people and so that you get to know the people you’re living with really well.
They’re also really good fun!
Spend time with your floor/corridor, in the first few weeks especially, if nothing
else it might stop people stealing your food. I’m pretty sure I spent more time sitting
in my kitchen than I did in my room which paid off because I’m now living with the
six people I usually sat messing about with. The friends you make at Imperial will
never replace your old friends but you will meet amazing people from all different
backgrounds. Plus, if you run out of questions to ask, remember, at Imperial there’s
one thing we all have in common- the inner geek.
You’ll definitely know what I mean when you’re here!
10
George Best: “I spent a lot of money on booze, birds and fast cars. The rest I just squandered.”
ps e
Re-ap
ng the
ardens and
Starti
gines...
Ward
theSub-w
ngens,
Starti
Though Mum and Dad won’t be about anymore,
each Hall has a wardening team that will live
amongst you. Maybe I’ve made it sound like
they’re prison-guards that patrol the corridors
at night with a loaded shotgun, but they’re not.
They’re just more experienced residents of the
halls that are there to organise social events and
help you out when you do something idiotic like
lock yourself out of your own room at 4am.
They’ll become your friends hopefully, and
then when they insist on finally going to bed,
you can goad them for being old and boring all
you like.
Your Warden is the top dog, and will have
around three personal slaves, otherwise
known as sub-wardens. They’ll all generally be
Postgraduate students, and will hopefully be
experienced and sensible enough to guide you
through the nittygritty bits of firsttime independent
living.
Each floor
will then have
Hall Seniors,
sometimes
known as Re-apps. These
are 2nd to 4th year students that have reapplied
to live in Halls, and are given a basic level of
responsibility within the Hall. You probably won’t
even realise who’s a Senior and who isn’t in your
first few days, and that’s probably a good thing.
They secretely just want to be Fresher again and
will rave it up all over again. Follow their advice,
hopefully they’ll know what they’re doing. If not,
ad lib.
“for lovin’, follow this advice”
Bob:
witvv§
1
2
3
Make sure your door is open when
you’re in and unpacking – other
students can see you exist – it’s a
great way to get chatting!
Bring a tin of sweets, chocolate
and biscuits – it’s a nice welcome
for when new people come into your
room and you’ll literally be the sugar
daddy of your floor.
Cushions – for your bed and people
to sit and stay in your room for a chat.
Also avoids the ‘should I sit on
your bed?’ dilemma and
subsequent awkward
standing.
4
I’m ba
ck, b*t
ches!
Musical
instruments
can be brought, but bloody
hell, don’t play them in your
room! College has practice
rooms. Use them.
Mayron Pearson: “Behind every successful man there is a surprised woman.”
11
The Union on campus
Freshers’ Week!
stick.ng the engines...
It’s like fun on a week-longStarti
I’m pretty sure you’re itching to dive straight
into Freshers’ Week, and itching you should be.
It’s a whole week dedicated to you lot, and the
Union aren’t the only ones offering days and
nights of great entertainment. There’ll also be
College and your Hall organising events for you.
There’ll be so much going on, but here’s the
Union’s main events for the week.
Check your full entertainments leaflet included
in the mail-out for full line-ups and details.
You may have some lectures during the
week too, but they’ll probably just be a few
introductory ones. You won’t fail the year if you
don’t go to them, but you probably should....
The Mingle
On the weekend you move in, the first event
held by the Union is the The Mingle. There’ll be
all kinds of debauchery as everyone tries to get
to know each other. My advice is to practice
small talk. There’s nothing worse than running
out of things to say and having to resort to
making awkward remarks about the person’s
moles.
You’ll be sick of having to state your name,
where you’re from, what course you’re doing,
and what A Levels you did. Those four questions
will be the standard ice breaker.
You’ll probably talk to so many people, you’ll
probably have to spend a solid three hours the
next day accepting Facebook friend requests.
12
Your Union!
Freshers’ Fair
Here’s something a little more tamer, but
possibly just as exciting. Freshers’ Fair is
something common to many British Universities.
Imperial’s takes place all over campus, with each
of the 300 Cubs & Societies filling a stall. So
you’ll find something.
You won’t be able to possibly visit every single
stall, so flick to the Clubs and Societies section
of this handbook and good ol’ Deputy President
(Clubs & Societies), Jenny Wilson, will explain
all. The Clubs and Societies are all categorised
and prettily colour-coded. Have a gander and
target the Societies you definitely want to visit
come Freshers’ Fair.
Freshers’ Ball
Here’s the crowing event of Freshers’ Week.
It’ll be a black tie mash-up, so if you have a
tuxedo, bring it. You’ll be needing it later in the
year on many occasions anyway.
Again, held in Beit Quad, it’s another chance to
mix it up with your peers for the next year.
There’ll be entertainment including live music,
so have a drink, have a dance, and remember
that you’ll most likely only have one Freshers’
Week.
Come the morning after, you’ll be a fully
fledged Fresher. Aw.
Firstly, a very warm welcome to
Imperial College Union.
Secondly, I must introduce myself:
I am the Deputy President
(Finance & Services) for the
year ahead. I have been
elected by the student body
to look after all the money,
trading and services of the
Union. So that means if
your Club or Society needs
financial help, or if you have
any praise/comments/criticism
regarding the Union’s
bars, catering and
retail outlets and our
events, then I’m the
person to talk to.
Each year the College gives us
around £1.25 million, and a large
part of my job is allocating and
ensuring that this money is
spent
correctly.
Having that large sum of money is quite nice,
but it’s not nearly enough to run the entire
Union, so we run additional services to turn over
around £5.5 million a year. As we are a charity,
we’re a “not-for-profit” organisation which
means that there is an enormous money-goround where any profit we make is ploughed
back in to enhancing services to our members.
The services are run by the students for the
students and include a minibus fleet, various
forms of entertainment, bars, catering and retail
outlets which tread a fine line between
being value for money and cover the
running costs of the Union.
I also spend a lot of time
helping Clubs and Societies
spend their money as well as
helping them organise events
and tours.
Finally, I fully recommend
you to get involved in the
Union, a successful student
Union relies on student
participation - so make the
most of it. Enjoy your time
here, you’ll be surprised
how quickly it goes.
Danny Hill
Deputy President (Finances & Services)
[email protected]
020 7594 8060 (ext: 58062)
13
Jovan Nedic: “I’m a fine figure of a man.....but that figure’s based on a lumbering elephant”
Oscar Wilde: “Women are meant to be loved, not understood.”
Providing you with a service.......
Eat/drink/buy all the tasty/useful things in life
The Union is the perfect place to head
for lunch or a drink after lectures;
sprawled out on the grass in the Quad
during the summer, or huddled in the
warmth of one of the cosy bars during
the winter.
The Union building houses all of
our bars and catering outlets on the
ground floor. They cater to a wide
range of tastes and preferences for
both food and drink.
There’s also the Union Shop and newsagent
along the Sherfield Walkway, in which you can
buy all sorts to help you survive the days at
College.
We constantly aim to be the best
priced bars in the area and the quality of
our food and drinks regularly competes
with other outlets on campus, but is
never beaten on price! We provide
you with everything you need so that being a
student is easy.
The Union Bar
The Union bar is more of a traditionally themed
pub; it’s wooden-panelled and everything.
It’s renowned on campus and locally for its
selection of real ales and guest beers.
The bar is home to many of the Union’s most
antiquated and valued trophies and plaques. It
also houses one of Europe’s largest collections
of pewter tankards, each engraved with the
names of some of College’s most prestigious,
infamous and talented students of present and
past. Maybe your name will join them one day.
The Union Bar is normally quiet and
intimate, except for infamous match days
da Vinci’s is the perfect place to head for lunch
or after lectures for a lively drink with a group of
friends. The bar is open with plenty of seating
and is the first port of call for revellers on
Wednesday and Friday nights.
da Vinci’s also plays host to our weekly quiz
nights on Tuesday and houses several screens,
showing you all the major sporting events in
air-conditioned (or heated during the winter)
comfort with drink in hand and friends nearby.
Football, Rugby, Cricket, Snooker, Tennis, Motor
Racing; if we can show it you can request it!
We’ll even put big screens up on the lawn for
major sporting events, say if England reach the
World Cup final (hah!).
The room is also home to our main catering
outlet, supplying hot and cold food during lunch
and in the evenings. During the Summer term
we also do barbeques throughout the late night
openings.
Many pubs boast of a beer garden, the Union
boasts something a bit more. We have the Beit
lawn and seating.
Evenings are buzzing as people take some
time out, and spend time somewhere familiar
with friends.
The Union Shop and Newsagent
when the Union’s sports teams pour into the
establishment.
Our sports Clubs carry pride and tradition and
for them there is no better place to celebrate
and sing!
dB’s
dB’s is home to Club nights, live music,
and many social nights run by the Clubs and
Societies of Imperial. Big acts such as Colin
Murray (Radio 1) and Scratch Perverts grace
our decks, as well the local talent on campus
giving us the best in Cheese, R&B, Drum n
Bass, Dance and Rock. dB’s is open late every
Wednesday and Friday night.
14
da Vinci’s
The Union also runs a shop and a newsagent,
which can be found on the main walkway next
to the JUnior Common Room.
Both outlets stock a wide variety of goods
at competitive prices, and because they’re
controlled by the Union, every penny you spend
will be reinvested into services, Societies and
staff that will directly benefit you over the
coming years.
The Union Shop is the place to get all your
stationary and study products, from pens to
printer cartridges. There’s also a massive range
of Imperial College London merchandise and
memorabilia such as hoodies, scarves, T-shirts,
teddy bears and folders.
News+ is our newsagent and confectionery
shop situated opposite the Union Shop. It’s
the only place on campus where you can buy a
wide range of national newspapers at exclusive
student prices (up to two thirds lower than the
standard cover price). They also stock a range
of magazines which carry a similar special price
reduction.
In case you have a sweet tooth, there’s plenty
of chocolate, sweets and soft drinks. In true
Woolworths-style, there’s also pic’n’mix.
15
Steve McQueen: “Racing is life. Anything before or after is just waiting.”
Peanut: “You got 69%?!? Ohh, think you’ll find that’s 9% too much work.”
Imperial College Union Shop
Entertainment at the Union
The Sports Night held on a Wednesday promises
to be the best night of the week at the Union.
This is a must if you’re part of a sports Club. The
Union themes the night with various toys for
oversized children to play with and there’s plenty
of drink promos on – pints from just £1.50!
And new for this year, the eagerly awaited
Comedy Night on Thursdays in dB’s showcasing
some of London’s top emerging stand-up
talent. This Ents night is sure to be massive and
will include an open-mic challenge for all the
potential comics out there.
Throughout term time a number of Bar
Nights are held in the Union Bar and dB’s by
the Faculty Unions and the Athletics Clubs
Committee. These
nights are always a hit and offer
all you can drink for around £5!
When the weather’s good, look out
for chill-out tunes, shisha and a nice relaxed
atmosphere in the Beit Quad.
The highlight of the year is the Imperial
College Summer Ball,in late June. Last years
headliners included Athlete, Pendulum and
Noel Fielding. With great acts and DJs, superb
live bands, a formal dinner, fireworks, a funfair,
light shows and more; the Summer Ball is the
not-to-miss event of Imperial’s calendar. Check
out imperialcollegeunion.org/ents for
mroe information.
The Union structure
16
in meetings, the most
important ones being
the Union Council, Executive and Trustee Board.
The Union Council determines policy for the
whole Union and is responsible for setting out
all of the rules and regulations for the Union.
Some 50 members sit on council and anyone
can present a paper. The Union Executive
Committee is responsible for managing the
day to day affairs of the Union. It acts as the
management board of the organisation. The
Exec is formed of the eight most senior
officers in the Union and four other
officers appointed by the council.
The Trustee Board acts as the
highest Union body which intervenes
when Council and Exec cannot
form a decision on something
themselves. It is made up of
important Union people and
external governors, but
anyone can attend.
Charles Murdoch: “Pint?”
Situated on the Sherfield Walkway, the Union Shop sells all the
stationery and products you will need whilst studying at Imperial
as well as an extensive product range of Imperial College London
clothing and memorabilia.
Also just opposite is our Newsagent - stocking many newspapers
and magazines as well as confectionery and drinks.
Visit our online store for College memorabilia at
www.imperialshop.co.uk.
imperialshop.co.uk
Photos: FJ Gaylor
The Union is run by democratically elected
students, called Sabbatical Officers (Sabbs).
This year’s President and Deputy Presidents are
Ashley, Jenny, John, Jon and myself, Danny. Flick
back to the first page if you can’t remember who
we are! We’re supported in our work by a team
of full time staff who are there to represent the
views of the students at college, sit on various
committees and control the Union resources. At
the helm is the President who is supported by
four Deputy Presidents, and collectively they
make the most important decisions.
The Felix Editor, this year Dan, and
Medics’ President, Anil, are also
sabbatical officers, but they hold
a degree of independence from
the Union. The Sabbatical
Officers are employed for
13 months with elections
held in the Spring term.
Most decisions made
by the Sabbs are done
College life
Lifework.....
Col
ingethe
Doleg
ng the engines...
Startifor.....
Oh yeh, that’s what I was here
Once you’re in full swing, you’ll have both your
social life and course work to
deal with. It’s no secret that
you’re going to have to work
your cotton socks off to do
well at Imperial. You probably
knew that as you applied. Well,
I could go on like Uncle Ted after
one glass of sherry too many, but to
cut the soulful advice short; it’ll all be worth
it at the end.
Lectures will start as early as your first
week, and you really want to be going to all
the introductory lectures to get a hook
onto your subject. I mean, you’ll be
studying it for at least three years,
and a good start on it is vital.
Even though you’re at
University to study, we’ll all
try and make your life seem
a little less like Hell when the
workloads do pile up. There’s plenty
around campus to do, and well, it’s all
explained in this handbook.
home
ng the engines...
Starti
Welcome to your academic
You’ll soon become attached to your
department in a weird Stockholm Syndrome
way: the building, the staff and their
associated quirks.
You’ll be quickly led to your new academic
home on campus in the first week, and
by the second, you’ll be another
regular customer of the
common room
vending machine.
For example, Biologists
will have the Sir Alexander
Fleming Building, or
affectionately know as
‘the SAF’ to live in. Lectures,
labs, breaks, lunch and even
homework can take place here.
Aero students get the semi-delights
of the Roderic Hill Building, and
Physicists the dark, dingy corridors of the
Blackett Laboratory. If you’re a Medic, you’ll
more than likely bounce between the South
Kensingtons, St.Mary’s and Charing Cross
campuses.
You’re more than likely to meet your
18
Professors in the first week, who will run and
teach the courses. Contrary to belief, they’re
not all old and grey (though most are).
You’ll be allocated a Personal Tutor. They’ll be
a member of staff that will keep track of your
doings in the Department. They’re available
for advice or just a quick
chat about things.
Actual personal problems,
they’re generally less wellequipped to deal with,
and you should seek
help elsewhere.
If you have an
Academic Tutor, they’ll be
in your face (via email…)
if you’re failing everything
under the sun. They’ll also hold
tutorial sessions with you and
go over some work from the course. When
they eventually force you up front to the
whiteboard, don’t do what I did on my first
time and start doodling cartoon fishes over his
diagrams. They don’t appreciate it as much as
your hyperactive imagination does.
Badger (7 times Varsity loser): “Pain heals. Chicks dig scars. Glory... lasts forever.”
work
y es...
donke
thethe
engin
Doing
Starting
Contact time will vary from course to course,
but on average, you should expect about
twenty hours a week of teaching. You are
expected to do coursework and ‘extra reading’
outside of these hours though. If you think like
me, you’ll consider Facebook as ‘extra reading’
in your first year.
It is pretty standard to have at least one
lecture a day. Most students will have labs,
but the term ‘labs’ can vary enormously. The
classic ideal of white coats and test tubes are
accompanied by computer-based labs, as well
as workshop-style practical for Engineers. If
you’re a Medic, I’ve heard you get to grope
rubber dolls for an hour each week, ‘practicing
mouth-to-mouth’. Hey, it’s just what I’ve heard!
Everyone has tutorials but again, these vary
in structure and focus, so if you want specific
information, contact your departments.
brain
es...hurts.
engin
Huh?
ng theMy
StartiWha?
You’ll be making the above grunts very
regularly once you’re here at Imperial. Even if
you’re just thinking them, it’s guaranteed about
90% of the lecture theatre will be thinking
exactly the same. Like you, they’re holding
back on looking like an idiot and putting their
hands up to ask a question.
You’ll probably have been top of your class at
school, but those days will become nostalgic
quite quickly! Even if you don’t get ‘stuff’ at
first, you will eventually. I spent my entire
first term in a confused daze. Things click at
University. If they don’t, its probably because
you haven’t been to a lecture since your first
week.
Exams are a similar story. Hopefully, both
your tutors and yourself will prepare for new
exam technique required at this level of
education. You’ll probably be surprised at how
much you’ve managed to soak up with that
spongy brain of yours and subsequently spew
onto the exam paper in some sort of coherent
order. However, it is almost guaranteed once
you’re out of the exam room, you’ll convince
yourself you’ve failed miserably.
Your results will generally be better than you
expect. Exams aren’t meant to be easy. They’re
meant to push the best, and hence nearly
everyone will find them
challenging. Just bear in
mind, that feeling like
you’ve failed is not
the same as actually
failing.
It’s all well me saying
all of this however. It’s
just something you’ll
have to experience for
yourself. Your brain will
hurt, your fingers will
ache, but as I said, it’ll
all be worth it!
Godspeed young
Fresher!
Benny Hill: “Just because nobody complains doesn’t mean all parachutes are perfect.”
19
Chow down on campus!
Student Hub
The College’s Student Hub provides a ‘one
stop shop’ service for student enquiries so you
don’t have to wander around campus to find the
answers to your questions. These are just some
of the types of queries they can help you with:
• Accommodation
• Finance and Tuition Fees
• Exams
• Student Funding and Bursaries
• Student Records
• Admissions
• International Office and UROP Office
They are located on Level 3 of the Sherfield
Building but if you can’t manage to see
them face to face, visit www.imperial.ac.uk/
studenthub or you can e-mail them at student.
[email protected].
My Imperial
‘My Imperial’ is a gateway to web based
services, to support and enhance your student
experience and life at Imperial. You can
personalise this portal to access your favourite
websites, links and applications. Access ‘My
Imperial’ portal via any of the following methods:
• www.imperial.ac.uk/myimperial
• Links on Imperial web pages
• Icon on your Imperial computer desktop
The benefits of using ‘My Imperial’ include:
• One site - Access to a wide portfolio of
online services from a single gateway
• Improved access - ‘Single Sign-On’ feature
which means you only login once for many
College services such as finance and registry
• Personalisation – make it relevant to you
• Time saving -Reduced
time queuing for services
Material Scientist
Matt Allinson, 2nd Year
Coming to Imperial was one of the most intimidating things I have ever done. Would I
be able to keep up with all the geniuses? Would I fit in? Would I be able to live without
laundry and home cooking? Approaching my 3rd year in Materials Science, I can tell
you the answers in that order are barely, hell yeah and just about. Finally, would I
change it? Not on your life.
The wisdom I can impart on you is the moment after your parents give you that
final tearful goodbye and you realise that all the good shelves in the fridge have been
taken leaving you with the janky one at the bottom with all the off-milk on it, get on
setting yourself up with as many diversions as you can possibly get. Being DJ and
now committee member of ICradio has been the most fun, educational and enriching
experience of my two years here. Don’t do any work in your first year, just get the bare
minimum of your coursework in on time and fake a disease for exams so you can resit
any you fail at full credit (if you fail, there’s always Materials)*. Transform and Roll out.
*Editor’s note: don’t actually do this......
20
Chow down on campus!
Apart from the Union, here’s the other fine
establishments you can dine in. So here’s a
quick run-down. Do a spot of café-hopping,
and experience the culinary delights of
College catering for yourself. Satisfaction not
necessarily guaranteed.
Main Dining Hall
Near the library in the Sherfield Building, this is
a new development for 2009.
Previous incarnations have been acceptable
at best, but this new “International Food Court”
is still open to judges, and that probably means
you.
JUnior Common Room
The wondrous common room of choice. There
are four outlets ready to sell you things to
quieten that rumbling tummy. These outlets
don’t have any names, apparently, so we’ll just
go with what my mates and I call them. “JCR
Shop” sells a selection of sandwiches, drinks,
crisps, sweets, baguettes and some hot stuff,
like pasties and sausage rolls. You can get a
pretty quick meal on the go from here, but for
something a little tastier, head for the “baguette
place next to the shop”. Baguettes here are little
more pricey t in the shop, but it’s a Subway
style service, and its bloody worth it. There’s
also soup and baked potatoes.
Then across the other
side of the room, there’s
the “smoothie and
coffee place”, with
an added selection of
muffins and croissants.
It’s a bit sh*te, and all
the smoothies
manage to taste like
vinegar. Well, luckily for you, there’s an even
worse “fast food place” next to it. You can get
burger, chicken and chips, for around the same
price as a McDonald’s meal, but about half the
taste, and three times the grease. But, if that’s
your sort of thing, go for it, son.
Library Cafe
Now we’re getting serious.
Baked potatoes with
chilli, cheese, tuna or
baked beans, or a cheeky
combination of all. The staff
may unconditionally hate you (except the chirpy
Italian fella) but bear with them, and you’ll get
some decent food to sit down with. They also
serve hot wraps and cakes, and a daily set
meal. The taste of library café food will soon
become synonymous with revision.
SAF Cafe
The hangout for Medics and Biologists. Avoid if
you dislike them. They’re not great. It’s standard
college catering, but they do serve the tastiest
portion of potato wedges and paninis on
campus.
Eastside
At the time of writing, it is currently still a
construction site. However, I’ve been promised
it will be a gastro-pub style affair. It may even
have a touch of class. That’d be a first. Very nice,
very nice.
21
Anonymous: “Marriage is a three ring circus: engagement ring, wedding ring, and suffering.”
Lily Tomlin: “Man invented language to satisfy his deep need to complain.”
Around and about
Ethos Sports Centre
Starting the engines...
Ethos is the College’s state of the art sports
centre located on the corner of Princes Gardens
next to Garden Halls. It boasts a plethora of
facilities, including a climbing wall, sports hall
and squash courts which anyone can book and
have a go. The sports hall is capable of hosting a
range of sports, including basketball, badminton,
netball and indoor football. The Energia Gym
and the swimming pool are free to all students,
all you need is your ID card when you get to
reception. A quick word of warning, as these are
both free, they can get quite crowded at peak
times; generally lunchtimes and 4-6 pm. As well
as the Energia Gym, there is the Energia Studio
St. Mary’s Campus
Situated right next to Paddington Station, St
Mary’s Hospital is the first of three Medic
campuses that you can find out about in this
Handbook. There are eight in total across
London that medics may have to venture to.
If you want a bite to eat, there are are a
number of places close to the hospital. Pread
Street is home to a plethora of fast food
restaurants, coffee shops and sandwich bars.
For something cheap and easy that goes almost
all night baby, you’ll be after Sainsbury’s where
you can chomp into a tasty sarnie. There’s a
Marks & Spencer’s Simply Food store if you
prefer something a bit more upmarket. For those
of you who enjoy a tipple, the Royal Exchange
is a cosy local pub which is particularly popular
with the rugby team. Another boozer is the
Fountains Abbey opposite the hospital’s main
entrance.
St Mary’s Hospital itself offers a range of
facilities for you to enjoy . There is a common
room in the basement, a swimming pool and a
student run gym.
22
The Faculty Unions
Where do you belong?
Imperial has three Faculty Unions, and you’re
definitely in one of them. Which one you’re in
depends on what degree you do. They’re like
school ‘houses’, but bigger, better and have a
much richer historial rooting.
Generally, you’ll be a Scientist, Engineer or a
where there are on going classes in all sorts of
fitness regimes on offer.
Ethos also has some more relaxing options
available for you too, including a sauna, steam
room and spa, as well as massage capsules.
For the sports players there is a sports injury
treatment room with a sports massage.
Charing Cross Campus
Here’s where the stupid games begin. Some
bright spark, I assume a medic, decided that it
would be hilarious to situate the Charing Cross
campus in, get this... Wait for it... Hammersmith!
Superb! Oh, ok, perhaps that’s not entirely true.
No, what in fact happened was the some tool
decided to name the hospital in Hammersmith,
‘Charing Cross Hospital’. You following at the
back there? Good.
You’ll find the best places to eat nearby are The
Whole Hog where you can get a tasty sandwich.
Pub grub can be bought from The Puzzle and the
Old Suffolk Punch on Fulham Palace Road.
The Medics’ version of the Union bars is The
Reynolds Bar which is open every night of the
week, full of rugby players out on the lash. It is
open to non-Medics too. In the area there are
also two Wetherspoons. We all love a ‘spoons.
Charing Cross Sports Centre is home to the
local gym and offers a membership discount to
students. The fee includes use of the pool, gym
and squash courts. Though, Ethos is still free and
offers all of the above and more.
Issac Asimov: “Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent.”
Medic.
The President of each Faculty Union will
provide you with with further information below.
Being part of an FU is something to be
brilliantly proud of, especially when competing in
inter-faculty competitions.
ICSMSU: The Medics
Imperial College School of Medicine’s Student
Union (ICSMSU) looks after all undergraduate
medics, graduate entrant medics, biomedical
scientists and pharmacologists and my job is
to represent all of these students at a College,
national and international level. I take a
Sabbatical year out of medicine to do this.
You can think of ICSMSU as your “one stop
shop” for everything and anything you will
need as a student at ICSM. We have a team of
15 Union Officers, each with their own niche
– their job is to make sure you have the best
years of your life at medical school.
ICSMSU has three Academic Officers who
represent you to the Faculty of Medicine
(i.e. the lecturers…) and actually sit in their
meetings! If there’s anything we don’t like
about any of the courses; WE have the power to
change it.
The majority of you will be here for six years;
the course is tough and life outside medicine
carries on. We look after all your welfare needs;
be they financial, work-related, accommodation
issues (yep… we hate estate agents too!) family
bereavements, health problems etc. We work
with your personal tutors to make certain that we
are doing the best we can to help you.
“Medics” have a global reputation for having
unrivalled levels of fun. ICSMSU lives up to this!
Our Freshers’ Fortnight kicks off with the
infamous ROADSHOW (all will be revealed…)
and is followed by nightly epic events from The
Drs & Nurses Pub Crawl to a boat party on the
Thames, comedy night, karaoke night ending
with the Freshers’ Ball etc. We also hold
3 other black-tie balls a year at Christmas,
Valentines and the biggest event of the year,
the Summer Ball.
The Reynolds is our own bar at our main
medical campus over at Charing Cross
hospital (which is in Hammersmith…
nowhere near Charing Cross). There is
always something going on; fancy dress
bops, rave nights, acoustic sessions, sports
nights, bands nights and is open for cheeky
one every day from 5pm.
We also have our own ICSMSU RAG
(Raising and Giving) which raises in excess
of £60 000 for local charities and there are
events throughout the year which you can
get involved with.
The ICSMSU office is in the Sir Alexander
Fleming Building. The door is always open.
Anil Chopra
ICSMSU President
[email protected]
“Women will never be as successful as men because they have no wives to advise them.”
23
Being part of the Union
RCSU: The Scientists
Royal College of Science Union (RCSU) is an
institution steeped in history and one to which
you now all belong simply on the basis that you
have chosen to study the purest of subjects.
Whether a biologist, chemist, physicist,
mathematician, biochemist or on the JMC
course, you are automatically a member of our
Union and it is the RCSU team’s intention to
help make the transition into University life as
comfortable as possible.
First and foremost, we are here for you,
the student, to help you face the trials and
tribulations of the academic year and to make
the experience an enjoyable one.
University can be hard, we are all students
after all, on board the same roller-coaster. The
RCSU is here, whether by organising a night of
alcohol-fuelled carnage to calm the nerves or
by setting up our welfare clinics. Maybe you
feel inclined to join one of our growing sports
teams or enter an essay into the prolific
Science Challenge competition.
For you, the journey begins in Freshers’
Week, when you will learning the ropes.
The RCSU team will be here every step of
the way. Do not hesitate to get in touch
and remember to be proud that you are a
a scientist! We hope to make you proud of
being a member of the RCSU.
Katya-yani Vyas
RCSU President
[email protected]
CGCU: The Engineers
City & Guilds College Union (CGCU) is a
student led organisation here to represent all
the engineering students at Imperial College.
We’re an age old institution, dating back to
the late 1800’s with the Students Union of the
City and Guilds of London Institute, a forerunner
to Imperial College.
First and foremost the Union exists to
represent your academic and welfare needs to
the College. However, we are also here to make
sure you have fun, get chance to let your hair
down and to meet other like-minded people.
Watch out for our full list of events in Spanner,
our handy Freshers’ Guide. Make sure you get
your tickets early for our Masquerade Ball on 23
October as, with a star studded line-up. Come
24
and meet us at Freshers’ Fair to pick up your
free bag of goodies and look forward to a
host of events over the coming year. There
is bound to be something for everyone!
We’re also here to help you out when things
get tough; we can put you on the right track
for hardship funds when the money gets
tight. We also aim to build good industry
contacts for careers advice and internship
opportunities.
Don’t be afraid to get stuck right in!
Kirsty Patterson
CGCU President
[email protected]
John Madden: “The road to Easy Street goes through the sewer.”
Despite only offering science, engineering,
medicine and business courses, the great
thing about Imperial is that it recognises that
there may in fact be more to life than being
academically great in those areas. Don’t get
me wrong, strive for it, but do so with the
knowledge that there are loads of ways to get
involved in other aspects of University life. Below
is your brief guide on what is out there and how
to go about doing it!
Education
If you don’t want to stray too far from your
studies then you might want to get involved in
the education side of representation. You could
stand to be a year rep. Normally elected in one
of your first lectures, essentially the role is to
attend the staff-student forums discussing
key issues that arise from your peers and your
course and working with your department to
come up with mutually beneficial solutions.
Higher up and later on, you could also stand to
be your departmental rep or even the academic
affairs officer for your Faculty Union. The top
dog in this structure is the Deputy President
(Education) Sabbatical officer, elected in the
main cross campus elections.
Halls
If you want to get involved in your hall for the
time that you’re there, you could be a floor/
house rep and attend the regular meetings
which try to address the matters which arise at
your front door.
Welfare Officers
If you’re one of those people who enjoy
looking out for your peers then we have some
opportunities to be involved in our welfare
structure. Each Faculty Union has a welfare
officer who is there to listen to their peers on
topics as diverse as exam stress to disciplinary
issues, and try to provide helpful solutions as
well as knowing who else is here to help.
If its raising awareness that you want to
do, there are some Union positions such as
the Equal Opportunities officer or Welfare
campaigns officer whose job it is to help
organise and choose the week long crosscampus campaigns that we have.
Casual staff
The Union has a number of positions for casual
staff and in addition to helping supplement
your cash flow, these are a good opportunity
to meet a whole bunch of people you wouldn’t
necessarily come across. These paid jobs
are flexible so that you can fit them around
your academic work/social life. They come
in many forms depending on what it is you’d
like to do from shop work to bar staff. There
is a recruitment day on 1 October or you can
visit imperialcollegeunion.org/jobs for more
information.
Student media
Perhaps you want to share something with
the entire campus? Student media is a great
opportunity to get your views out there and
bring up those matters that affect everyone.
Here at Imperial we’ve got most media covered,
from TV to newspapers, news websites
to radio. Felix is currently the best student
newspaper of the year, as judged by the
Guardian. In the past couple of years Felix has
even expanded to produce specialist magazines
on arts, gaming and coffee table science.
Faculty Unions produce their own publications
too. Find them at Freshers’ Fair or get in touch
at any point in the year- its never too late!
Billy Connolly: “Marriage is a wonderful invention... then again, so is a bicycle repair kit.”
25
Raising and Giving (RAG)
Ever wanted to bungee jump, skydive, break a
world record, hitchhike to Hong Kong, pie the
Rector, wreak havoc in London, get on the news
and raise buckets of cash for charity? Then you
want to be part of RAG!
The “Raising and Giving” Society is a
charitable branch of the Union, dedicated to
organising and running events to raise money
for worthy causes. We are all volunteers, and
therefore rely on the dedication and passion
of our members. It is a Unique University
experience which combines a massive range of
fun events with the warm, fuzzy feeling you get
when doing selfless, worthwhile deeds.
This year RAG dash returns! The point is to
get to a set destination with only a very small
budget i.e. by hitchhiking, blagging or by sweettalking some blond Swedish chicks into taking
your team on their cruise ship! It’s going to be
an exceptional experience and probably one of
the more adventurous ways of collecting for
charity!
Now, RAG has the potential to be even
BIGGER than last year, but only with your
help! If you have any suggestions about wacky
ways to raise money, increase awareness on a
particular subject, contact us!
Every student is already a member of RAG,
but if you want to be involved, you can join the
committee and help organise and run events,
or even just help spread the word. We’ll be
at Freshers’ Fair, come over, even if it is just
for a quick chat or a free t-shirt. Anyone and
everyone is welcome to join and you can always
reach us by email. I guarantee that we offer
something that will float your boat!
Alex Dahinten
RAG Chair 2009/2010
[email protected]
Union.ic .ac.uk/rag
26
Anonymous: “Borrow money from pessimists - they don’t expect it back.”
Community Action Group (CAG)
The Community Action Group is your tunnel
outside of College walls into the wider world,
and this world really is your Oyster card –
there’s a lot we have to offer (from visits to
schools to a weekly soup kitchen). We work
with the Volunteer Centre and the Students’
Union to provide opportunities for you to join
projects branching out into the community – the
community of South Kensington, London, or
England and the wider world.
Or, if you think you’re hard enough, you can
start your own projects, which we will help you
to fund and organise.
As well as showing you a really great time,
and opening your eyes to parts of London you
wouldn’t otherwise see, these projects also
prove a great opportunity to build your role as
a young leader. This is a great springboard into
whatever road in life you choose to take, in the
business world, in industry, in the public sector,
or even going forth in life with philanthropic
gloves and socks on (read: looks great on your
CV, if you’re into that).
Two of our long-running projects are the Soup
Run and the Foodworks project. Both of these
projects run on a Sunday evening, and provide a
relaxed atmosphere for you to wind down after
a heavy weekend, and make a difference while
you’re at it.
Joseph Freer
CAG Chair 2009/2010
[email protected]
Union.ic .ac.uk/c ag
Dan
Jovan Nedic, a better Editor than
(for now), PhD Aeronautics
Seeing as my Freshers’ Week was some five years ago, I’m quite
impressed I still remember bits of it, but my attitude then is the same
as it is today... get stuck in! A friend of mine once told me; “You can only
ever be really good at any two things at Imperial; sport,work or socialising” The key to
a successful time at Imperial is finding the right balance of the three, but take it from
an old hand, the only way of getting it is to get stuck in to everything University has
to offer. Straight from the off I got involved with the Hall activities, I joined the rugby
Club (even gave Hockey a go recently, but wasn’t as good!) and I interacted with my
course mates. As a result I met a lot of people, both older and younger than myself,
whom I am still in contact with today and who have all, in their own way, helped me
get to where I am today, including becoming Felix Editor last year. SO GET STUCK
IN! Don’t stay in your room and become a recluse, otherwise you will miss out on
the opportunity of a lifetime. I did it and so can you!
George Gobel: “I’ve never been drunk, but often I’ve been overserved.”
27
The Big Smoke
If you hadn’t noticed already by Imperial’s
full name, you’ll be in London for
University. Some say London is the best
city in the world, but I wouldn’t know. I
haven’t seen daylight in 19 years.
If you already live in London, you can
stop reading now, and start skimming the
well-renowned self-help guide “10 Ways to
Leave Mummy’s Teat”.
To say London is a big place would be a
horrible understatement. Hence, we’re not
going to turn this section into a travelbook,
but in this section, here’s few of the many
things you can do in London.
Amongst all the difficult tourists, you’ll find
many attractions and sights
you may
LARRNDAARN
or may not have seen/been to before. If you
haven’t, you’ll just be another difficult tourist.
Well, thanks for making getting to lectures that
bit more dreadful.
Once you’ve found some people you
mildly trust, head out into the crowds, and
see whatever you want to see. You’ll never
discover all of London in even a dozen outings,
but that’s the beauty of this city. There’s
always somewhere new to discover further
afield; each discovery as delightful as the last.
If London’s a completely new experience for
you, there’ll be plenty of leaflets and brochures
about. Your hall will most likely organise an
open top bus tour around the city in Freshers’
Week. Just hope typical London weather
doesn’t reign/rain (haha, geddit?), otherwise
you’ll be a soggy squib of a Fresher that no-one
will want to come near.
TOWN!
First time in London and stuck with what to
do?! Here are a few ideas to get you started,
but you’ll be sure to plenty more during your
time here at Imperial. London is a vibrant city
with plenty to see or do, with many things free,
you’ll never be bored!
Away from science......
The art of haggling.....
London offers plenty of markets with
interesting produce and unusual items
– even if you don’t buy anything, its fun
just to have a wander – choose between
Portabello, Camden, Spitalfields, and Brick
Lane Markets.
If you like art and culture visit the wide
selection of museums and galleries
around London – The Tate (Modern and
Britain), The National Gallery, V & A, The
Haywood Gallery and many more.........
28
Laurence J. Peter: “If two wrongs don’t make a right, try three.”
Street magic!
Have a walk around
Covent Garden. You
can get there easily
on the Picadilly Line.
The Piazza attracts a
whole range of street
artists. Take your
pick from the human
statues, string quartets
or magicians
Outdoor thea
trics!
(sometimes)
t
u
o
’s
n
u
s
e
Th
Lounge in the Parks.
Spending a day in the
park is free wherever
you go. London has
some great parks
and when the sun
comes out (which
hasn’t been too often),
Londoners flock
outside.
Hyde Park is literally
a stone throw away
from College. Pimms in
the park, anyone?
If you like theatre or just want to experience
something cheap and fun, Shakespeare’s
Globe tickets start at £5. It’s in Bankside,
Southwark and in good weather this outdoor
theatre is a great place to watch some old
classics, like The Tempest of Romeo and Juliet.
O, Where are thou?
Pick up a Chance card...
Board games can
be fun but why
not try the real
thing!? Organise a
Monopoly pub crawl. That’s 26 pubs, in
order. Don’t expect
to collect £200 if you
pass though.....
..
htseeing..
In-line sig
Get yourself down
to Roller Stroll –
explore London on
wheels! Get your
skates on every
Sunday at 2pm and
lasts 6-8 miles.
There’s a different
route each week
too.
Sophie McLachlan: “BRAP! Wot you lookin’ at?”
29
Getting from A to B
Transport in London is a double, no,
triple, no, quadruple, oh…. let’s just say a
multiple-edged sword. There’s plenty of
options available, even into the small hours
of the morning, so you should never really
find yourself stranded. It’s all generally
very reliable too, but you might want to get
accustomed to what I like to call odour-dearmpit before you get here.
But, each mode of transport does have its
own associated dangers, so take care and
don’t be a tool and leave yourself exposed.
30
Bob: “Three squids for an Oyster”
Not like that, you perve. I meant your valuables,
and to muggings and pickpockets. What were
you thinking of exposing?
Anyway, here’s a guide to getting around in
London and some friendly pointers. It may be
obvious to some.
Tube
It’s old, it’s dark, it’s noisy, but
you’ll soon learn to love it. The
tube networks sprawls across
and beyond London. Imperial’s
nearest station, South Kensington is on the
Piccadilly, Circle and District lines. The tube is
generally quite safe to travel in; there aren’t too
many nutters let on. A single fare on sn Oyster
card is £1.60, but can be anything up to about
£4 if you decide to venture into the suburban
zones (I’d advise not to, there’s literally nothing
there). The tube only runs until about midnight
however.
Cycling
Not many drivers in London
like cyclists. So beware. You
need to be really careful
navigating yourself through
London traffic. A lack of
concentration might result in little
detour to A&E, if you know what I mean.
The other matter of cycling is that of city-wide
theft. College has its own bike stores, which are
card-access secure, so happy days; bike-wise.
Leave your bike, even chained up, in a remotely
busy area however, and it’s more than likely to
be gone by the time you get back.
Buses
The monster red things. The
Number 14 goes straight from
South Kensington to either
Fulham or Central London.
The 14, like many buses, is a
24 hour service. I’m not going to lie
and say buses are perfectly safe. Depending
where you are and what time of day it is, you
might sit down next to plenty of people you wish
you hadn’t.
The great thing about buses is its cost; its only
£1 per journey to go anywhere.
Walking
Oh, so you’ve finally
decided to get
some exercise,
fatty? Walking about London can be a little hit
and miss. You get to explore this great city at
a pace where you can have a good stare are
people’s oddities, but it does take ages. You’re
never more than a few minutes away from a
Tube station. As a Londoner, you’ll soon perfect
the art form of crossing roads when you really
shouldn’t. You’ll literally run into some close
encounters with cars, buses and rickshaws.
Chloe McKeon: “Men in their twenties need not apply”
Essential to cheap drunken (and probably
sober) travel is the Oyster Card. An Oyster
Card has an electronic chip in it, which
allows it to be topped up with money (like
a Pay-as-you-go phone), and swipe through
entry points of the Tube, buses, DLR and
trams. It avoids counting change. It’s only
£3, but you can apply for a Student Oyster
online for a little more, which will get you
Taxi
Definitely the warmest and quickest mode of
transport back home after a sweaty night out,
albeit pricey. Central to South Ken should cost
you around £20-30.
If a black cab has its orange light on, it means
you can hail it down. Booking taxis is always
the safer option then being ushered into an
unmarked car by an old man
on the street offering his
wife and children to
get you home that
night. It’s more
than likely his wife
witvv§
I me
ant
thre
e qu
id...
various discounts on travel. Do this well in
advance before you get to London. Do it!
and children aren’t involved.
If you’re really stuck, there is a Cabwise
service set up by TfL where you can text in
and get three local licensed taxi companies’
numbers. Save the number, above, in your phone
now before you forget.
Take a black cab or
book a taxi. Nothing else.
ar Mathemetician
Jamie Sanders, 3rd Ye
Everyone starts unloading their cars, both scared and excited. Then you start meeting people
and go on your first night out as a student. Everyone gets ridiculously drunk, makes a tit out of
themselves and generally has a great night! If you manage to find people with enough stamina
to still be going out by Friday, then you will have spent a lot of money......but pick up your cigar
and smoke it.
The next day you wake up with a hangover, maybe a fat girl or two, but also a good group of
friends. Then it’s back out the next night to do it all again. Make a beer bong, forget about work
and have a good time!
Cat Stevens: “I enjoy life. I think I’ll enjoy death even more.”
31
Raving it up!
A deadly cycle.......
So the Freshers’ Week is over and
by Xen
people you can’t remember meeting
ia Snet
kov, 3rd
from the Mingle are trying to talk to
Year Bi
you. What now?! Well luckily for you,
ochem
ist
you’ve chosen to go to University in one
of the most vibrant, happening cities in
the world. So, how are you going to spend
all of that beautiful student loan for the
rest of year? it’s burning a hole in your bank
account, so here are a few ideas…
You’ve had a doss of a day, introduction to something or rather, but its time to paint
the town red with your fellow London students. One of the most popular nights
around is Vodka Island’s student night at Tiger Tiger Piccadilly. Jump on the 9 or 10
from SK and you’re there, queuing to get in among other eager freshers from all
around London. It’ll set you back £4 entry, but has cheap enough drinks and the
standard student r’n’b/dance/cheese blaring out. For the more classy alternative
check out tropical themed Mahiki Mondays on Dover St, it may be classier than Tiger
Tiger, but expect a just as good a night, albeit setting you back a few more squid. £7 entry before 11
but reduced drinks prices, so come along to get down with the rah set.
Wake up/oversleep whatever, but don’t even think about staying in to recover tonight.
If you enjoyed Tiger Tiger or can’t quite remember it, then just think of Zoo Bar
Leicester Sq as its slightly more inappropriate sleazy cousin. However if you had
enough of last night then Roxy off Tottenham Court road will satisfy your inner
indie kid and the wallet with free entry before 10:30. If you’re in a bump and grind
sort of mood (isn’t everyone sometimes?) Ministry of Sound provides the RnB and
Garage soundtrack to your night. Found in Elephant & Castle, be careful, preplan your way home. It’s
not the easiest route back home, and well, it’s not the most idyllic of areas.
Don’t rest your weary heads for too long, Wednesday is undisputedly the best night
at the Union, with regular ACC sports nights, where sports teams come for cheap
booze after training and matches. There’s plenty of banter to be had! Its free entry
and ends at 1ish, but is the night over yet? Hell to the no, of course not. Where to
go now? The answer my friends, is right around the corner in a small dark bar/Club
called Opal. It’s free entry on Wednesdays and it’s popular with Imperial students
spilling out from the Union.
I can’t think of a single night that personifies a Student Night more accurately than Cheapskates at
Candybox on Greek St. It’s dark lighting, mirrored walls, and dingy carpet aren’t exactly alluring, but
with 80p shots and £1 beers, it may as well be heaven. It attracts students from all around London
and fills up very quickly, so get there early for maximum carnage.
32
Henry Youngman: “My kid is a born doctor. Nobody can read anything he writes.”
Once again, if Tiger Tiger was your thing, Mystic Disco at On Anon is a must on a
Thursday night. With 3 floors of bars and music it’s a typical student affair, but do
check out the electro/house room on the top floor; once the pop gets too much
that is. Feeling classier? Ghost INC bar/Club found in the basement of the
Gainsborough Hotel in South Ken, brings a little bit of pretentious trendy EastLondon chic to stuffy West London.
Alternatively get your glad rags on, glow sticks out (waheyy) and head out to Club Neon @ Heaven,
UCL’s popular Club night. Its £6 entry but buy tickets online to avoid the queues.
FABRIC. One of London’s infamous super Clubs is renowned for its incredible drum
and bass DJs, and is a hot spot for students and tourists alike. With the likes of Andy
C and DJ Hype on the decks, get there early to avoid the massive queues, and
prepare to shell out £12 for entry. A couple of buses from Farringdon will usually
pack you off home, but it’s generally easier to wait for the tubes to reopen at 5:30.
If your looking for something a little closer to home with the chance to meet other
London freshers (*cough* i.e. girls) check out Phase (KCL Union) or Crush (LSE Union), in Charing
Cross for cheap drinks, cheesy music and packed dance floors.
By today, I will appreciate that
tiredness will kick in. Tonight,
you can kick back relax and chill
with your homies. London is
generally an expensive place
to be on the weekends, so for us
students they tend to be quiet. Feeling up for the
challenge? Check out Dirty Martini’s in Covent
Garden for gorgeous cocktails and company.
Eat a bit, sleep a lot, recover
a lot, and possibly catch up
with some coursework that
was due in last week.....
any one up for Tiger Tiger
tomorrow?
ologist
Dan Wan, 2nd Year Bi
After moping about the house for three months, I think my parents were quite glad to get rid of
me. Arriving at Southside halls, there were no tearful goodbyes. My introduction to my floormates was not all that much better however. After mingling at The Mingle, the opening event, it
became apparent I wasn’t adapting to independent life; my floormates met me for the first time
whilst I was drunkenly sitting in our kitchen bin. At the very least, I made an impression.
Other highlights of the first few days was the constant and repeated derision of my
hometown as I answered the obligatory question “Where are you from?” There is nothing
wrong with the wonderful town of Watford, I might add. My hall events were good fun too; and
now I think about it, most of them involved dressing up in drag. That’s a little worrying, actually.
Abraham Lincoln: “If I were two-faced, would I be wearing this one?”
33
Welfare
Working together for you!
For many of you, University will be your first
taste of freedom. It’ll be a time of ups and
perhaps a few downs. Regardless of what
you’re going through, the Union will always be
on hand to offer guidance and point you in the
right direction.
My job as Deputy President (Welfare) is
to make sure that if you do experience any
difficulties that the support structure is there to
help you on any issue. This remit is very broad
and includes such areas as accommodation,
finance issues, family or relationship difficulties,
addictions, feeling blue and cultural integrationin fact anything that affects your ability to make
the most out of your time at University.
My colleague, Jon, the Deputy President
(Education) deals with any academic issues that
may be affecting students. Problems of both
welfare and educational nature cause and affect
each other, this is when we work together.
Our door is always open and the kettle is
always on, so feel free to drop in for a chat no
matter what the scale or topic of the matter is!
Alternatively, we are always on the end of an
email. which you can find below
As well as advising and helping students
on an individual basis I will also be running
awareness campaigns throughout the year.
These aim to raise understanding of issues that
affect you as students and debunking some
of the common myths and misunderstandings
surrounding them. I also represent the whole
student body through a number of College
welfare-related committees I sit on, letting the
high-level members of College staff know your
views to bring about positive change. It also
allows me to feed back to all of you what the
College are up to and what changes they are
making to support you.
When you get to College remember to look
out for our new welfare guide. You don’t have
to read it from cover to cover, but keep it on
your shelf as a reference in case things do go a
bit wrong. Simply look up the sections that are
relevant to you so you’ll always know who can
help you out. This information is supplemented
by advice pages on the Union website which
will be updated throughout the year.
In any case come to my office in the Union
building and I can always point you in the right
direction.
John James
Deputy President (Welfare)
[email protected]
020 7594 8060 (ext: 58064)
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
SEE THE UniON’S OFFICIAL WELFARE HANDBOOK
34
Noel Coward: “I like long walks, especially when they are taken by people who annoy me.”
Making your degree work
Out of the many things the Union does,
Academic Representation is one of the most
important. Making your degree course work
for you is integral to making sure you have
an enjoyable academic experience whilst at
Imperial. If there’s anything not quite right, we’d
like to find out why and support you in making
improvements.
To support us in doing this we have a whole
network of student representatives at Faculty,
Departmental and Year level. Their job is to
listen to their fellow students and pass their
comments and concerns on to the right people
so that they can do something about it. When
you arrive, you’ll have the opportunity to stand
as a Year Rep. This role is ideally suited to good
commUnicators who have a strong interest in
supporting students and the College to ensure
you get the most out of your education.
As the Deputy President (Education) I’m in
charge of this academic representation: I train
the reps, make sure they have the support to do
their job effectively and take on the bigger issues
myself. I’m also around for when College staff
need the views of students. I sit on a number
of College meetings, making sure the student
perceptive is taken into account. Sometimes
they need to know what I or the students as
a whole think about new projects or particular
issues too. When I need a bit of input from my
colleagues, the President and my three fellow
Deputy Presidents are always here for me to
discuss things with. Sometimes I need to ask
the whole student body for their opinion.
The quality of your education is in your hands,
and the College is very receptive to your views.
So when you have something to say about your
course, tell your Year Rep straight away. They
have the contacts to pass on your issues.
There are other opportunities to raise your
views through the College’s internal survey,
SOLE, which I would strongly recommend
you complete at the end of each term. Issues
raised here are discussed at Staff-Student
Liaison Committees and often results in positive
changes for students.
However, if you run into a problem and would
prefer to talk to someone else about what to
do, you can always ask me anything in complete
confidence and privacy. Academic wellbeing and
pastoral welfare are very closely linked. When
there’s a problem with one, often a problem
with the other follows. The Deputy President
(Welfare) John James and I work together to
keep students content and studying well. We
share an office and, thank goodness, similar
tastes in music.
To find out more about the Representation
Network and, more specifically, who represents
you visit our website at:
imperialcollegeunion.org/representation.
Jonathan Silver
Deputy President (Education)
dpeduc [email protected]
020 7594 8060 (ext: 58064)
Mark Twain: “Of all the things I’ve lost, I miss my mind the most.”
35
Clubs and Societies
Over 300 to choose from!
CLUBS
& SO C I E T I ES
A-Z
2009-10
Hello and welcome to Imperial College and
more specifically Imperial
College Union- the part of
the College that is here for the students
and run by the students. This part of the
handbook is to let you know more about
the Clubs & Societies which relieve the
student population from being all work and
no play, and also to make your time here so
much more than just studying.
With around 300 Clubs & Societies, we’ve
tried to entice you by putting them all in
here.
Hopefully you’ll see a few that you’d like to
get involved with. One of the best things is that
whatever you want to have a go at, we cater
to all levels, right from Olympian to absolute
beginner. So there is nothing to stop you. By the
end of your degree you could be a graduate as
well as a qualified diver for example.
Having always been student led, the variety of
activities that we are able to offer is a reflection
of how dynamic the students here are. From
Drama to Debating, Football to Fashion and
Mountaineering to Malaysian we cover a
tremendous range.
Our biggest event of the year is Freshers’ Fair
on Tuesday 6th October when we transform
the campus into a bustling bazaar of stalls from
every Society, grouped by common themes in
different areas. This is always a fun day whatever
the weather, and a map to help you find your
way around will be in felix (our prize winning
student newspaper) which you can find in your
arrival packs.
Freshers’ Fair is a great opportunity to have
a wander around and chat with the current
members of Clubs & Societies to see if it’s your
cup of tea. Additionally, there should be plenty
of freebies to stock up on and the opportunity to
put your name down on mailing lists so that you
can hear when and where the Clubs & Societies
do their activities.
If there is something you already know that
you want to join, or you fall in love with it after
a session or two the next step is to become a
member which can be totally free, or may cost
money depending on the activity. It can be done
online at www.imperialcollegeunion.org/Clubsand-Societies, which also contains lots more
useful information.
My job, as Deputy President of Clubs &
Societies, in all of this is to make
sure that the Clubs and Societies run
smoothly and that the Union supports
them in any way we can. Right from
storage to our fleet of 12 minibuses
to help you get out and about. If you
have any questions about our Clubs
and Societies, feel free to get in
contact!
Jenny Wilson
Deputy President (Clubs & Societies)
[email protected]
020 7594 1763 (ext: 41763)
Clubs & Societies 2009/10
37
Joining a Club or Society
This is the site’s main menu. The Clubs &
Societies section is where you can read about all
the news, events and activities that our Clubs &
Societies are up to. You can also quickly join any
Club or Society by using the drop down menu on
the right.
Memberships
Why join one?
There are a number of good reasons to join one
or more of the 300 Clubs & Societies we have at
Imperial.
Firstly, Clubs & Societies are a great way to
meet people with similar interests and ethics.
Clubs & Societies provide a way for people
with similar interests to get together. The
huge number of Clubs & Societies we have
guarantees that your interests will be catered
for, whether they are sports, outdoor pursuits, or
social activities.
Secondly, the Clubs & Societies provide a
great way to sample new things for minimal
cost – important when you’re living off a
student loan. The Union heavily subsides Club
& Society activities so the array of activites
are much gentler on the wallet. Thirdly, Clubs
& Societies at the College are a great way to
gain experience, whether through training with
talented individuals, or simply learning to run an
organisation or write a budget. These skills will
stand you in good stead in the future, both in
your personal and professional life.
And lastly, one of the most valuable aspects
of our hundreds of Clubs & Societies is that
you can try something you may never have
considered before, and it may become your
favourite hobby. You wouldn’t have the same
opportunity anywhere else!
38
on.org
unies
legeieti
and
lcolSoc
eria
Clu
impbs
Imperial College Union’s website
imperialcollegeunion.org offers you the
opportunity to look at all our Clubs & Societies
online, find out more about them and most
importantly join them. By now you should have
received correspondence from Imperial College
London and already have your College login. If
not, you can do this easily online. You need to go
to www.imperial.ac.uk/ict/activateaccount.
Here you will need to read and accept the
terms and conditions, then enter:
• your full name as given to the College in your
application form
• your date of birth as requested
• your College Identifier (CID), which is on all
official correspondence about your place at
Imperial College.
Once you have done this, your College
username and password will be activated. Keep
note of these and don’t forget them.
You will now be able to log in to the Union’s
website imperialcollegeunion.org. Simply log in
using your College login details and fill in a quick
form about yourself.
The Union website is the place to see all
the latest news, events and meetings that are
happening in your Union. It is also the place to
go to purchase all your event tickets and most
importantly where you can join any Club or
Society.
If you click on Clubs & Societies in the main
menu, then select A – Z you can see a list of all
our Clubs & Societies. Select the one you are
interested in, then from their sub-menu select
Shop. You will see a membership product for
that Club or Society. Click on that and select
Checkout.
Here you will be taken through a typical online
shopping process. Once this is done, you will
automatically become a member of that Club or
Society!
imperialcollegeunion.org/clubslist
Here is where you need to click to
login with your College username
and password. Once you have
logged in you can click here to
see a list of the Clubs & Societies
you are a member of and click
on them to go straight to their
webpages.
You can see all the upcoming events
happening at the Union here. Many of these
will be our Entertainment nights which you
can buy tickets to.
39
Arts and Entertainment
Alternative Music
What is alternative? Anything. The weird and
the obscure, the danceable and the frankly
unlistenable, all musical genres are welcome
here. This Society is a group for music lovers,
those who want to discover interesting and
new music, and meet other people who are
also fanatically obsessed with discovering new
bands.
We have a huge wealth of knowledge about
the London music scene, about the cool obscure
nightClubs, the latest upcoming bands, the
venues in which to see them, and the side
street record stores nobody knows about.
And we of course welcome new people who
might know somewhere brilliant we’ve never
been to before. Along with our regular gig
and Club night outings, we host large events
throughout the calendar such as band nights at
the Union, and DIY Disco, a Club night where
the attendees bring all the music.
On top of this there is the music swapping
event Mixtape Madness, which is the best
opportunity you will get to sample a huge variety
of different music. So come along and meet us.
Thomas Jennings
[email protected]
Arts & Photo (ICSMSU)
“Flair, creativity, inspiration and interpretation.”
These are words commonly used to describe
both art and science.
ICSMart is a Society for people who want
both art and science to be part of their time at
Imperial College.
The Society aims to provide: the opportunity
to attend art classes and work alongside people
with similar interests under the guidance of
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our Art Tutor, an art workshop on Wednesday
afternoons to drop in to and work on personal
projects, varied weekend workshops to
experiment with different techniques, a medium
through which to exhibit their own work various
projects to become involved with, including
painting installations for hospitals art therapy and
many more art-orientated social events.
If you would like to add a bit more art to your
life, art enthusiasts of any level of experience are
encouraged to participate in any aspect of the
Society that suits them.
ICSMart welcomes all - from budding artists
to those simply interested in escaping the
pressures of medicine for a few hours.
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that the cities have to offer. ArtSoc is definitely
the best way to meet your fellow culture
vultures!
Xue Wang
[email protected]
Chiu Lee
[email protected]
Choir
Chamber Music
Want to sing in the Royal Albert Hall? Imperial
College Choir is non-auditioned with over 120
members of all abilities. Everyone is welcome so
come and have a go even if you’ve never sung in
a choir before.
In addition to our termly concerts, we sing
in the College Graduation Ceremony in the
Royal Albert Hall. We have a varied repertoire,
including traditional works such as Handels
Messiah, as well as more modern pieces such
as Orffs Carmina Burana. If you prefer smaller
works we also run an auditioned Chamber Choir
that performs at various events throughout the
year, including a Spring Concert and the College
Carol Service. IC Choir is a very social Society,
we go to the pub after every rehearsal, run
termly socials and hold a Patrons’ Dinner. We
also go on fantastic international tours and have
recently been to Berlin (2009) and Croatia (2007)
with Sinfonietta and Big Band.
Soumen Sen
dicsmar [email protected]
Artsoc
Plays, musicals, comedy performances,
concerts and other cultural events - a chance to
absorb the rich arts culture in London! Don’t let
the price stop you from immersing yourself in
this rich culture. For just a £5.00 membership,
ArtSoc will solve your problem! Here at
ArtSoc, we aim to enrich you culturally without
impoverishing you financially.
The ArtSoc committee finds the best student
and group discounts rates so that you can buy
tickets for a huge variety of performances at
low prices you won’t be able to find anywhere
else.
We also organise day trips during the London
festivals, giving you the opportunity to enjoy
performances, art and fashion from other world
cultures and arrange visits abroad.
Also, check out our annual ArtSoc
International Tour which promises to be
affordable for students on a tight budget
without missing out on all the best attractions
out music that interests them from our great
repertoire in the library.
Chamber Music Society aims to help
musicians of similar standards and musical
interests to form ensembles together. We are
very informal and no audition, minimum level or
previous experience in playing chamber music
is required at all! Once we have helped you to
form a group you can practice together in the
Blyth Music Centre whenever you like.
Each term we hold highly subsidised
masterclasses with professional teachers,
and hold concerts for musicians to perform
pieces they have been rehearsing together
throughout the term. We also hold one or more
sight reading sessions for ensembles to try
Patrick Wood
[email protected]
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Drama (ICSMSU)
Cinema
Exclusive to Imperial students: your very own
cinema! This is one of London’s larger cinemas
- with a 33 ft screen, 7-channel Dolby Digital EX
surround sound and seating for more than 200
- and it is located conveniently on the second
floor of the Union. “Imperial College Cinema”
will bring box office hits to you only weeks after
the nationwide opening... for a vastly reduced
price. Opportunities are available for students
behind the scenes, too. Even better, this is
a great opportunity for socialising with other
students in the bar afterwards - be sure to find
us at Freshers’ Fair to find out more about our
welcome party!
Sean Sweeney
[email protected]
Classical Guitar
GuitarSoc, otherwise known as the Classic &
Flamenco Guitar Society, has been recently
restarted and aims to encourage and promote
guitar music, making it accessible and fun for
everyone. We hold regular live events to allow
our members opportunities to perform. The most
common of these are our informal concerts. We
all organise internal guitar tuition, where more
experienced guitarists have a chance to teach
less experienced ones which are subsidised
by the Society. We have also set up a guitar
ensemble. We also hold masterclasses regularly.
All guitarists are welcome to join and share their
insight into the world of guitar - we can learn
from each other.
John Selby
[email protected]
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Medics’ drama is a Society for those who want
to get involved in putting on plays and having a
great time in the process.
Although we welcome serious actors and
actresses with experience, the majority of our
members haven’t done much performing or
backstage work for a few years. Throughout
the year we enjoy organising theatre trips and
socials which really helps to establish a sense of
the Society as group.
We also hope to set up a handful of useful
workshops ranging from general acting to script
writing. The Medics put on three plays a year
including an Autumn Play and the Freshers’
Plays. The latter are a night of three short plays
in front of a big audience put on predominantly
by the freshers. Look out for auditions in the
coming weeks. Then, it all comes to a conclusion
in the week long Main Play in the Union Concert
Hall in the spring, and is an outstanding way to
meet people throughout the years.
The only regret people ever have is not getting
involved sooner. So come along to the auditions,
Freshers’ Fair or one of the numerous socials
and theatre trips lined up and say hello!
Eleanor Winstanley
[email protected]
DramSoc
Imperial College Dramatic Society (more
commonly known as DramSoc) has something
for everyone whether it be acting, directing, play
production, make-up, set building, lighting or
sound.
We put on at least three major plays every
year, as well as a light-hearted summer
production, for audiences both within and
outside of Imperial College. Previous years have
seen performances of Brian Friel’s ‘Translations’,
Bertolt Brecht’s ‘Galileo’, Terry Pratchett’s ‘Mort’,
‘Les Liaisons Dangereuses’ and ‘A Midsummer
Night’s Dream’. We’re always looking for new
ideas and enthusiastic people to get involved you don’t need to have superstar looks or be an
Olivier award winner to act or help put on a play!
So keep an eye open for posters and emails
about Freshers’ workshops, auditions for the
main term play, as well as the Freshers play that
we put on especially for you guys in the first few
weeks of term.
Dramsoc are known to have one of the best
technical departments around. The crew or
‘techies’ in the Society fix and maintain all our
own equipment and provide lighting and sound
for other Society and Union events ranging from
small parties to the Summer Ball!
Kirsten Farebrother
[email protected]
FilmSoc
Craving new cinematic experiences? Want to
explore the movies that made history or get a
peek of films from other countries? Then join
us at the FilmSoc! The £5 membership fee
gives you access to all our weekly screenings
in College. One evening a week, settle down
to watch a range of gems - classics of early
cinema (All About Eve), French new wave
(Le Weekend), comedy (Kind Hearts and
Coronets), documentaries (Koyannisqatsi),
modern independent (Fargo, Twin Peaks), and
world cinema (Lagaan, Akira). We also organise
subsidised trips to film festivals.
Last year we went to the London Film Festival
and the Latin American Film Festival, and more
exciting events will happen this year. Our annual
Short Film Festival also provides a showcase for
Imperial film-makers. Last year it was judged
by Oli Harbottle, former Raindance Film Festival
Producer and the prize was a 2 day lo-to-no
budget film-making course!
Melissa Loh
[email protected]
Gospel Choir
Gospel Choir is relatively new at Imperial - this
will be it’s 3rd full year and judging by the growth
of the past 2 it’s going to be massive!
We look forward to the events, practice,
socials and good feeling that comes with
singing in an easy going, fun choir. We had 2
very successful events of our own last year, at
Christmas and Easter.
We have sung in other Society events and
have been getting invitations to sing elsewhere.
No previous experience required, and we don’t
hold auditions. You’ll need heart and desire, and
if you come along you’ll find a diverse collection
of backgrounds and some awesome songs.
Everyone is there to enjoy themselves - it’s
one of our main aims! So if you fancy - come
along. You’ve nothing to lose and a great group
to gain. Hope to see you soon!
Waaka Moni-nwinia
[email protected]
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The Jazz and Rock Society is here for all of
Imperial’s musicians, bands and budding
rockstars, as well as those of you who simply
enjoy live music. We run a well-equipped
practice room in Beit’s West Wing basement,
which is available exclusively for our members,
kitted out with drums, guitar and bass amps,
keyboard and a PA system. It’s also incredibly
cheap to use! We also hold regular gig and jam
nights open to anyone with all of our equipment
available to use, giving both an excellent chance
to meet likeminded musicians as well as a great
chance to play live, not forgetting of course the
opportunity of seeing some great live bands. We
love going to gigs too, so if you’re looking for
someone to go with, or just a recommendation
of a band to go and see, we might just have a
solution for you.
Look out for us organising a few nights out to
gigs and such throughout the year as well.
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main choir form the backbone of the Society,
with weekly rehearsals culminating in high
standard concerts at various local churches,
prisons, and mental institutions. (Well, to be
honest, it’s mostly churches.) In addition, there
are various smaller ensembles, such as the highquality Chamber Choir and our sixteen piece
Jazz Band. We also have two music rooms with
equipment for bands to rehearse. Musicians
of all standards are welcome, Medics and nonmedics, and, with the exception of chamber
choir, there is no need to audition.
Jazz Big Band
Jazz and Rock
Ian Hill
[email protected]
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The big band is one of the most active musical
Societies at Imperial College, performing
throughout the academic year at a variety of
venues. Our constantly expanding repertoire
includes arrangements made famous by the
likes of Gordon Goodwin, Buddy Rich and Frank
Sinatra.
This year the band travelled to Cardiff to take
part in the National Concert Band Festival, where
we were awarded a Gold Award, the highest
possible award.
Over the past couple of years we have played
gigs with the Royal College of Music Big Band
and the University of Bristol Big Band, which
have been highly enjoyable both musically and
socially. This summer we are on our annual
tour and will be visiting Berlin. We are also
performing in the Brecon Jazz Festival, and
conducting workshops there for local school
children. The band has a very active social life
revolving around rehearsals, performances and
going to see jazz gigs around London.
Marc Hinken
[email protected]
Leonardo
The Leonardo Fine Arts Society provides
Imperial with an outlet for students and staff
alike to practice art in a welcoming and ever
growing environment. We hold weekly art
sessions run by our tutor (qualified at the Royal
College of Art) with activities ranging from life
drawing to clay sculpture with all equipment and
materials provided. All skill levels are welcome,
so whether you’re an experienced artist who
wants to keep in touch with your creative talent
or complete novice who just wants to have a go,
Rupert Levy
[email protected]
there is always something for you.
We hold two exhibitions a year, and give all
members the opportunity to exhibit work at
Imperial’s Blyth Gallery, often collaborating
with the likes of PhotoSoc. LeoSoc frequently
organises trips to see exhibitions, and has
recently held talks by guest artists to much
acclaim. First session is free! So come along, be
creative, meet new people and fully satisfy any
artistic tendencies!
Samuel Whitcomb
[email protected]
Music (ICSMSU)
Despite playing absolutely no part in the musical
careers of literally hundreds of worthy musicians
(such as Beethoven, Frank Sinatra and Britney
Spears), the ICSM Music Society constantly
produces top notch performers and entertainers.
Current members, under almost no duress at all,
describe Music Society as “the best thing ever,
even better than sliced bread.” The orchestra and
Music Technology
Music Technology Unites all the music
producers, DJs, sound engineers and recording
musicians at Imperial. Whether you’re a
superstar DJ or a newbie, into Ska-core or
Clownstep, signed or fiddling with Garageband,
there’s a lot for you to get involved with. We
run regular workshops and tutorials covering
different production techniques and styles.
These culminate in remix competitions plus
the opportunity to have your art played on
our very own podcast. We run one-to-one DJ
masterclasses exclusively for our members
upon request.
More experienced DJs are invited to join our
DJ agency so we can put you at the heart of
Imperial’s events. From Hall parties to Guilds
Balls and even the Union if you’ve got the
talent! Furthermore, you can nab a spot on our
primetime Friday Music Tech Sessions radio
show on ICradio. Join!
Ruskin Constant
[email protected]
Clubs and Societies 2009-10
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Musical Theatre Tour
Musical Theatre
Small, dashingly handsome Society seeks
outgoing, enthusiastic individuals with keen
interest in role play and dressing up. Must be
prepared for an exciting on-stage mix of acting,
singing and dancing.
No prior experience needed but GSOH
recommended. Previous shows include ‘Grease’,
‘Little Shop of Horrors’, ‘Batboy’ and ‘A Funny
Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum.’
Keen to be directed or choreographed however
roles are available for all interests and desires
from chorus to lead to even costume designer!
Available now for two special events: a Charity
Revue (a collection of famous songs and scenes)
performed for two evenings at the end of the
Autumn term and the Spring Show, a five night
production of a well-known musical.
Will meet Sundays, Tuesdays and the
occasional Monday, after College. Also organises
numerous socials if rehearsals weren’t already
fun enough. Drinking optional, laughter
mandatory.
Michael Willmot
[email protected]
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Sister Society to Musical Theatre, we take our
musical productions off campus to the lovely
seaside town of Budleigh Salterton, Devon.
There we play to audiences of up to 250 for
ten performances over two weeks of the
summer holiday. Rehearsals start in earnest
in the summer term with auditions before the
Easter break.
Previous productions include ‘Anything
Goes’, ‘West Side Story’ and ‘Sweet Charity.’t
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the
stage, everyone is welcome to get involved
including band members, technical crew and
even front-of-house staff.
If you fancy it then look out for our
introductory meeting towards the end of
the spring term and if you’re keen for some
musical theatre action in the meantime then
come along to the Musical Theatre Society’s
introductory meeting during Freshers’ Week.
If you want to get involved or anymore
information then e-mail us or come see us at
Freshers’ Fair..
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Opera (ICSMSU)
The Light Opera Society is one of the longest
running Societies at Imperial. A Society steeped
in traditions old and new, we manage every year
to produce an incredibly professional musical,
performed over 5 nights during the infamous
Opera Week - guaranteed to be the best week of
your life! Past productions include ‘Oklahoma!’,
‘Fame’ and ‘Guys and Doll’ - all starring our
talented singers, dancers, musicians and actors
with sets and costumes designed and created
by our Backstage and Wardrobe teams.
We also manage to be a very social Society
with our annual Black Tie dinner, theatre trip, and
not to mention “Tour” (a crazy weekend away fancy dress required!) and many post-rehearsal
parties which are renowned within the medical
school!
Additionally, we put on a 24hr Opera, which
involves everyone learning their lines and
dances, the set being built and the costumes
made all within 24 hours, with all the proceeds
going to charity.
So if you want to be on stage or maybe a vital
member behind the scenes, join our talented,
fun loving and good looking members for an
amazing year. Don’t worry if you haven’t done
anything like this before, we love Opera virgins!
Symphony no.6. We rehearse every Monday
at 6, followed by a trip to a local drinking
establishment. We have a highly deserved
reputation as being a very sociable orchestra,
with socials organised throughout the year,
and our weekend away in November is a great
ice-breaker for new players, as well as a chance
for a drink or ten! This does not detract from
our playing however, and we put on fantastic
performances twice a year in the Great Hall,
with some distinguished young soloists. We
are also one of the most travelled musical
Societies, touring yearly to locations such as
Prague, Croatia, Romania, and most recently
Berlin. Plans for this year are looking exciting
already! Sinfonietta is a friendly Society, always
on the lookout for new players, and no audition
is required for strings. So if you’d like to be part
of one of the most enjoyable and rewarding
Societies at Imperial, come and find us at
Freshers’ Fair!
Hannah Fletcher
[email protected]
Orchestra - Symphony
Alexander Magnussen
[email protected]
Orchestra - Sinfonietta
Robert Felstead
[email protected]
Sinfonietta is a full symphony orchestra, led by
acclaimed conductor Daniel Capps, now in its
14th year. We play a wide variety of enjoyable
and challenging repertoire to a high standard.
Last years concerts included performances
of Sibelius’ Symphony no.2 and Tchaikovsky
Winners of the coveted title ‘Orchestra of
the Year 2008’ in the inaugural Symphony
Competition, sponsored by the Royal
Philharmonic Orchestra, and described by
47
one of the jury (RPO Principal Bassoon Daniel
Jamieson) as ‘sounding like a professional
orchestra’ ICSO is rightly regarded as one of the
best University orchestras in the UK.
The orchestra was formed in 1948 and
continues to flourish under acclaimed
professional conductor Richard Dickins. ICSO
boasts around ninety players and regularly
performs both on and off campus in venues as
diverse as The Lighthouse, Cadogan Hall, The
Dragon School, and St Mary’s, Dorchester.
A memorable highlight of the past academic
year saw the orchestra returning to the
prestigious Cadogan Hall to perform Walton’s
Belshazzar’s Feast with IC Choir and Elgar’s Cello
Concerto with soloist Raphael Walfisch.
ICSO has recently been invited to perform
at the 2010 Johannesburg International Mozart
Festival in South Africa, creating an exciting tour
opportunity in January-February of 2010. We
hope you will want to be part of the College’s
flagship orchestra!
William Cowley
[email protected]
Percussion
IC Percussion Club is a new, dynamic and
exciting Society that is open to anyone, of any
musical ability. If you have never learned to play
drums before don’t worry, because most of us
haven’t either. Trash percussion is the main focus
of the Club: we use dustbins, broom sticks,
hands and feet, plastic tubs, empty milk bottles,
tin trays, woks, water dispenser bottles and
whatever is lying around to make our routines.
You’ll be surprised at how quickly something
can be put together: in the regular 2 hour
session a routine will be developed, improved
and delivered, and that’s a new routine every
week! We run two sessions a week, one more
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String Ensemble
casual, the second for those who already have
experience. Come to both and share your ideas.
Nathan March
[email protected]
Rocksoc
Rocksoc is the Society for anyone with an
interest in some variety of rock or metal music.
Our members’ tastes range from hard rock to
industrial, goth to punk and thrash to bizarre folk
metal bands that when not regaling the crowd
at the Underworld or the Barfly with epic tales
of wenches and mead, spend most of their lives
roaming the forests of Scandinavia.
We are constantly attending gigs by a wide
array of bands so Rocksoc is a very easy way to
find people going to see similar bands as you.
We also frequently attend many of London’s rock
Clubs and are always looking for new unsigned
bands to go and see. Rocksoc allows people
with a wide range of interests to meet others
who share a taste in awesome music. It is also
a great way to discover new and exciting bands,
as we are forever trading music and opinions.
Rachael Bartholomew
[email protected]
Wind Band
ICSE is now entering its fifth riotously successful
year as an ensemble. We perform concerts
every term in the local area, as well as taking
part in events ranging from lunchtime busking,
ArtsFest and film recordings.
Last year, we continued to broaden our
repertoire with string classics from Arensky
to Warlock, as well as performing concertos
featuring talented musicians from within
Imperial. This year, the fun continues with
repertoire such as Elgar’s Introduction & Allegro
for Strings and Corelli’s Christmas Concerto
planned to start the year off in style. Our
reputation for wild partying will always make the
end of the week worth looking forward to!
As the College’s only ensemble for string
players we offer a very different experience
to the symphony orchestras. Rehearsals are
relaxed and friendly, and finish early in the
evening leaving the rest of the night yours to
enjoy. If you’re interested in making yourself
heard as a string player, why don’t you join us?
Friday evenings from 6pm, in the Great Hall.
Nikita Gandhi
[email protected]
Imperial College Winds is a full scale Wind Band
incorporating woodwind, brass and percussion.
We are a non-audition group who meet on
a weekly basis to rehearse in a relaxed and
friendly atmosphere.
Including concertos, symphonies, folk songs
and film scores, our repertoire is extremely
varied and will offer a challenge to every
musician irrespective of previous experience.
As well as holding a concert in College at
the end of each term, this year we had the
great opportunity to play with the Coldstream
Guards. This included workshops during the
day followed by an evening concert and will
hopefully become an annual event. We also love
busking and performing in the finale concert as
part of ArtsFest. Musicians of all abilities are
welcome to join the band and current members
range from beginners and returning players to
seasoned orchestral musicians. We rehearse on
Tuesday evenings and then go for a drink in a
local bar, letting off steam and having a natter
Regular socials are organised throughout the
year, including going out for meals and having
picnics. So if you want to play a variety of music
without pressure, have fun and make new
friends, come and join in.
Anna Platoni
[email protected]
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Departmental
Departmental
Bio Engineering
Aeronautics
If you find yourself studying in the Aeronautics
department, you are automatically a member
of the Imperial Aeronautical Society. AeroSoc
exists to provide an outlet for aero engineers to
pursue their aeronautical interests outside the
lecture theatre and to get to know the people
they will be spending the next few years of
their life with on a more social basis! In the past
we have organised visits to industries such as
Rolls Royce, General Electric and Airbus. We
have also hosted bar nights, dinners, racing
and football tournaments. We hope that you’ll
use AeroSoc to find out more about the world
of aeronautics, opening doors for when you
graduate and to have a bit of fun whilst working
hard for your degree.
Jakub Ernt
[email protected]
Whether you are interested in Asian and
Oceanian medical affairs or just keen to
establish an international network of friends,
AMSA-IC provides the opportunities for
all medical students to participate, be it
representing AMSA-UK in our annual medical
and cultural conference around Asia or just
socialising with a happy friendly bunch. Our
past events have included designing research
projects, delegation to Seoul and Tokyo,
informal OSCE tutorials, exotic exchange
programmes and dinner socials. Come join us
and open doors for the future!
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Jingzhi An
[email protected]
Biochemistry
Asian Medical Students
Christopher Yu
[email protected]
Since its founding, the Bio Engineering Society
has grown from strength to strength and has
emerged as one of the most cohesive and
vibrant departmental Societies around. The
Society organises a range of social events
throughout the academic year to provide
fun and well-deserved opportunities for
hardworking bioengineers to take a break from
their books. What’s more, we are the reigning
City & Guilds Union Football Champions three
years running! Do come down to our stand at
the Freshers’ Fair to find out more about what
we’ve got in store for you.
If you are on the Biochemistry or Biotechnology
course you are automatically a member of the
IC BiochemSoc.
Your Society is one of the newest academic
Societies at Imperial College. Our aim is to
integrate people from all years of Biochemistry
or Biotechnology including your lecturers
(yes, they do have lives too) to build a strong
departmental network.
We organise loads of fun events during the
year to take the edge off studying. Additionally,
by providing opportunities to explore the
exciting world of Biochemistry we hope to help
you with future career decisions. The most
important thing is to have fun while working to
graduate, and we can help with that.
Stacey Hickling
[email protected]
Throughout the year, we organize fun
events to suit all interests (such as the Annual
Christmas dinner, nights out in town, summer
barbeques!) BioMed Soc also aims to improve
the life science department network, so that
you will be in the driving seat for your future.
Since there are so few of us, never hesitate
to come straight to us and tell us your thoughts
on what you would like to see happen next! Buy
your BioMed mum or dad a drink and they’ll
give you tips and tricks for the year!
Keep your eyes and mailboxes open for
upcoming events! Enjoy.
Biology
You’ll be pleased to know as a biologist, not
only are you on the best course at Imperial,
but you are automatically a member of BioSoc,
a departmental Society run especially for
biologists. We run a freshers-buddy scheme
where you are partnered off with someone
from the years above who can be your ‘go-toguy’ in times of need, or just for a quick chat.
During Freshers week, and throughout the year
we organise various events, from pub-crawls
to paintballing and frisbee in Hyde Park, along
with academic and careers events for you
to meet and socialise with your fellow plant/
protozoa/cell/fluffy animal loving biologists, and
get a chance to let your hair down. After all its
not all about hard work, take a break and enjoy
yourself with your fellow biologists at Imperial.
Lindsay Wallace
[email protected]
Biomed Soc
If you are studying Biomedical Science, you
are automatically in BioMed Soc. Biomedical
Science is a close knit group that is dedicated
to integrating students from all years and
backgrounds.
Yein Nam
[email protected]
Chemical Engineering
Chem Eng Soc exists to look after the interests
of the chemical engineering students here at
Imperial College (although everyone else is free
to join us).
The freshers’ cocktail party and the ChemEng
revue are undoubtedly the most successful,
providing the perfect start and end to the year.
We also take place in a national sports
competition against other chemical engineering
departments and we have won five times in the
last seven years.
We place a strong emphasis on the career
development of its students – regular
presentations are organised with top employers
from a range of different industries, giving you
the chance to find out a little more about what
they do.
The free lunch provided afterwards is also
always a help to a student budget!
Sherif Salam
[email protected]
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Clubs
Clubsand
& Societies
Societies2009/10
2009-10
Departmental
Departmental
Chemistry
Chemistry is the oldest department in the
college, and as a Chemist you’re automatically
a member of the historical and great ChemSoc.
Join us for the mysterious masquerade
Chemistry Freshers’ Ball, our annual Pub Crawl,
Christmas Quiz Night, Roller-Disco Night,
Summer Cocktail Party and end of year BBQ.
Add new termly (free!) bar night at the Union,
Club nights, and your Chemistry Mum and Dad
(buddies from older year groups) to guide you,
and we guarantee you an education in more
than just chemistry.
In addition to a heavily subsidised social
calendar, the annual departmental hoodie and
sporting events (traditionally a tug-o-war with
CivEng), ChemSoc also organises guest lectures
on both current research and novel light-hearted
aspects of chemistry, as well as what you can
do with your degree beyond college walls!
We work closely with the RCSU and Chem
Dep. Rep, Royal Society of Chemistry, major
corporations and other University chemistry
departments - offering trips, networking
opportunities and careers information. Watch
out for our regular newsletters, the ChemSoc
website and your year reps!
Colleen Mcgregor
[email protected]
Joseph Rumer
[email protected]
Christian Medical Fellowship
Imperial’s Christian Medical Fellowship (CMF)
offers support, encouragement and fellowship
to equip the Christian medic. Everyone is
welcome to join.
Come along to our exciting events over
freshers fortnight where you can meet the
seniors and fellow Christian freshers. Settling
52
in at University can be difficult so our ‘brothers
and sisters’ scheme, which pairs freshers with
older years, helps to smooth that transition,
offering support and guidance in both faith and
University.
Regular prayer meets and socials such as film
nights and picnics give us a great opportunity
to meet, building friendships and faith. Charity
work helps us to serve others selflessly and
courses such as Confident Christianity teach
us how to share our faith with others, be it our
friends or patients. Events addressing ethical
issues e.g. euthanasia and abortion give an
insight into the challenges we may face as
Christian medics. We look forward to meeting
you at freshers fair!
CivSoc
CivSoc is the Society for students in the
department of Civil and Environmental
Engineering, all of whom are automatically
members free of charge.
We are one of the most active departmental
Societies in the college, organising a wide
variety of events throughout the year to cater
for the diverse needs and interests of our
students. The annual international tour, the
highlight of CivSoc’s calendar, gives students
the chance to explore contemporary and
traditional engineering practice outside the
UK as well as sampling the social and cultural
delights of some of Europe’s best loved cities.
Destinations in recent years have included
Budapest, Barcelona, Berlin and Athens.
Throughout the year, regular social events,
pub-crawls and parties are complemented by
site visits and professional lectures.
The Society’s departmental magazine, Livic,
is published monthly.
company presentations and skills workshops.
Last year’s events were great successes,
especially the Counter-strike Tournament we
organised in February which was attended by
more than 60 participants. We hope that events
this year will also be great successes and that
you’ll be part of them.
David Lawrence
[email protected]
De La Beche
Thomas Edgar
[email protected]
Computing
To all Computing students out there, welcome
to DoCSoc. DoCSoc is here to provide a range
of activities to the constantly busy Imperial
College Computing students.
We run computer games competitions with
loads of prizes from our generous sponsors and
future employment related activities such as
The DLB Society is a long standing Society
founded in 1914. The Society is named after Sir
Henry De La Beche, the founder of the Royal
School of Mines.
The Society boasts a large array of members
including many leading geologists and anyone
from the college who wishes to get involved.
We welcome members with all geological
abilities and promote the chance to learn under
a relaxed and social environment.
During the coming year we will host a variety
of events. You will have the chance to join us on
fieldtrips, mixing stunning geology with social
53
Departmental
Departmental
beers.
Come along to talks, meals and our Annual
Symposium. We uphold a strong reputation
with mining and oil companies and they
continue to sponsor the majority of our events.
If you have the desire to learn more about
things from dinosaurs to volcanoes then the
DLB is certainly for you!
Sang-eun Kim
[email protected]
Electrical Engineering
As a student in the Electrical and Electronic
Engineering Department you’ll automatically
become a member of EESoc.
We are one of the most active departmental
Societies with lots of activities to take part in
throughout the year.
After being welcomed to the department
in Freshers week, you can look forward to a
range of exciting events including the black-tie
Christmas dinner (held last year in the Marriot
Hotel Kensington) and the departments very
own talent show, the EERevue.
You’ll also have the chance to take part in
the Superstars sports league where teams of
students from our department compete against
each other in a variety of sports.
Well also host our very own industry fair
especially for you lucky EEE and ISE students.
This could help you get a summer placement
and hopefully secure a job for the future when
you finally graduate!
We look forward to meeting you at the
Freshers’ Fair in October and hope you enjoy
your time here!
Krnual Kumpavat
[email protected]
54
EMSA
Welcome to European Medical Students
Association (EMSA) Imperial. EMSA is a fun
and lively Society where you’ll make friends
with medics from all years, not only at Imperial,
but from medical schools all over Europe.
With both social and educational projects,
there’s something for everyone, whether
you want to learn emergency medicine in
the wilderness on an expedition weekend
with EMSA expedition or experience life as
a medical student in European cities such as
Heidelberg, Turkey or Berlin on the Twinning
Project. Sign up as a teddy bear doctor at Teddy
Bear Hospital, where you’ll treat the poorly
teddy bears of primary school children visiting
the hospital and at the same time brush-up
on your commUnication skills. We can tgive
you the chance to learn about the discoveries
and research of the future first hand from the
scientists and doctors themselves. Come and
talk to us at Freshers’ Fair or drop us an email to
find out more about the many different events
we hold. There’s also the chance to apply
for a position on the committee, the perfect
opportunity to get involved in a vibrant and
growing Society!
Anish Raithatha
[email protected]
Engineers Without Borders
Engineers Without Borders Imperial is one of
many Societies nationwide which make up
EWB-UK, a student-run charity seeking to
promote the use of appropriate and sustainable
engineering particularly in the developing
world and prepare its members for a future in
international development.
Last year’s events included practical
workshops, seminars and tips from experienced
engineers, but we are best known for our
overseas projects and training courses.
Whether you are an engineer or not, if you
are interested in working in the development
sector, using your skills to help address the
issues faced by the world’s poorest, EWB is
a great place to start building up your skills
and awareness and will undoubtedly prove
invaluable when applying for jobs. Please come
along to the launch event to find out more.
to future careers in this field. So if you’re
interested in how the world works and have
ever wondered just what maths is actually
good for, the Geophysics Society may be able
to answer you.
Samuel Taylor
[email protected]
GradMed
Amaur y Fastenakels
[email protected]
Geophys
The Geophysics Society aims to introduce
students to the geophysical world.
Geophysics is a discipline that integrates
maths and physics into the understanding of
many things, from the inner workings of our
planet to the earthquakes and volcanoes on
its surface. No special geoscience skills are
required!
Throughout the year we will hold a number
of events, including seminars from leading
professional geophysicists, fieldtrips to see
geophysical methods in action and even
the occasional social outing. As we build up
our reputation with geophysical exploration
companies we will also provide a valuable link
Graduate Medics Society is the new Society
representing all Imperial College graduate
medical students. This includes those on
the four and five-year courses, as well as
incoming students from the Oxbridge preclinical
programme. It is our hope to integrate all
graduates in ICSM and to organise many exciting
events specifically for us.
This past year we ran a very successful band
night in Reynold’s Bar (with which you will soon
become all too familiar), a trip to see the new
Bond film and a loosely organised (yet highly
involved) snow day extravaganza! Other events
have included comedy nights, dinners and an
55
www.imperialcollegeunion.org/Clubs-and-Societies
Clubs and Societies 2009-10
Departmental
Departmental
End of Term BBQ! Not only do we have twice
the number of students this year, we have
something even more thrilling - funding!
We also intend on organising a weekend
lifesaving skills trip to Imperial’s mountain hut
in North Wales. For those wishing to escape
the hustle and bustle of London, this will be
a fantastic opportunity to engage in some fun
outdoor activities, in addition to learning some
basic rescue skills. A day trip to Alton Towers,
Grad-tailored career talks and the very first Grad
Med formal are just a few more of our ideas.
Most importantly however, we want to represent
you and take your opinions on board.
As we’re but a fledgling Society, we would
love to find new members looking to get
involved with the committee. Feel free to e-mail
us or come check out our stand at the Freshers’
Fair. We look forward to meeting you next year!
Daniel Hughes
gradmet.Societ [email protected]
Imperial College Students for the Exploration
and Development of Space (or simply ICSEDS),
is a Club aimed at promoting the understanding
and awareness of space and space exploration
among Imperial’s student body.
We are an affiliate of a nation-wide network
of independent student space projects,
Universities, and public and private space
sector organisations, collectively involved in
encouraging student participation in space.
Previously a branch of the Student Space
Exploration and Technology Initiative (SSETI),
the Club has been involved in an array of actual
space missions, notably ESEO: a satellite
designed, built and (to be) tested by teams of
University students across Europe, now being
managed by the European Space Agency. Our
Mathematics
MathSoc is the departmental Society for
mathematics, and students of the department
are automatically members but anyone else is
welcome to join also.
We organise many events throughout the year,
both social and academic, such as the Freshers’
party, dinners and legendary bar nights, as well
as inviting globally reknown companies for
presentations or trading games on campus.
We are a Society that tries to provide another
side to maths and University life and we have
lots of new events planned this year that we
hope you will enjoy.
close ties with SSETI continue and this year
marked the launch of our latest venture, Project
‘Mars-On-Earth’, which intends to contribute to
the space community’s campaign to send Man
to Mars.
In short, ICSEDS is an active, dynamic and
social Club. To find out what ICSEDS has planned
in the coming year, chat to us at Freshers’ Fair or
drop us an email at the address below.
Lakshana Huddar
[email protected]
Joint Maths & Computing
ICSEDS
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Lord Mayor’s Show
The Joint Maths & Computing (JMC) Society
organises events for students of Mathematics &
Computing Science. These range from theatre
trips and end of term dinners to technology
talks and our very successful Careers and
Courses event in which students share their
experiences of internships and courses. If you
are a JMC student then you will automatically
be a member. We will look after you in your first
few weeks, months, years making your time at
Imperial on the JMC degree all that it can be.
Remember to sign up for your Parent and come
and see us at the Freshers’ Fair!
Oliver Rogers
[email protected]
The Lord Mayor’s Show is an annual parade
through the streets of London held in early
November and watched by half a million people
who line the route and many more live on the
BBC.
Each year the City & Guilds College Union
enters a float, built and manned by willing
volunteers from the engineering faculty.
Previous themes have included a suspension
bridge, a model of the Queen’s Tower and just
last year a scale replica of the aircraft which
made the first powered flight in the UK.
If you want to see pictures of last year’s float
then go to www.cgcu-lms.co.uk Interested? To
get involved just email [email protected] and you
could be parading through the city of London
with thousands of spectators cheering you on.
It’s the chance of a lifetime and a thoroughly
enjoyable day out.
Raisah Aziz
[email protected]
Chandni Nakum
[email protected]
57
Departmental
Departmental
Matsoc
MatSoc represents the social side of the
Materials department. Our aim is to provide
light refreshment from any work you may be
doing with social gatherings!
This year we anticipate waging war, once
more, on our sister Society, De La Beche in
order to maintain our fabulous paintballing
winning streak (which will be coming back by
popular demand).
We will also organise other events including
various outings, dinners (“The Pizza Hut
Challenge”) and the infamous New Year Party.
MatSoc also aims to provide the platform from
which help and advice for future career paths
can be gained.
There will be opportunities this year to chat
informally to several companies, with essential
nibbles, regarding life outside the department
sphere, whenever that may be.
Richard Simons
[email protected]
The good news is that if you study Mechanical
Engineering, you’re already a member of this
increasingly popular Society.
But I hear what you’re asking – what exactly
does MechSoc do? Well, our main priority is to
ensure that you’re all happy bunnies throughout
the year. There will be times when you’re
stressed (we do MechEng – get used to it!) but
hopefully we will be able to bring some light
entertainment and merry times to brighten up
your days.
We’ve had some very successful events
this year, such as our Christmas party held at
Hammersmith Palais, free bar nights, football
in getting involved. All medical students are
automatically members of MedEd, so do look
out for us!
Hannah Lawrence
[email protected]
MedSIN
Ruth Archibald
[email protected]
Mechanical Engineering
58
tournaments, movie nights and professional
talks.
The great news is that we’ve got plenty of
new ideas up our sleeves. Curious? Want to
know more?
Medical Education
As The Medical Education Society (MedEd),
we are a group that encourages teaching and
sharing of resources amongst medical students
at Imperial College.
We organise widely attended revision
sessions, mock examinations and a very popular
tutoring scheme.
Our events are all led by current students or
doctors who graduated from ICSM. The majority
of our events focus on aspects of clinical
teaching, but also include a number of careers
and specialist interest evenings.
The Tropical Medicine Society is part of MedEd
- do get in touch with us if you’re interested
Medsin is part of a global network which
enables students to address global health
inequalities and have lots of fun in the process.
Through our campaigns, covering issues such
as HIV/AIDS and access to clean water and
sanitation, we raise awareness and lobby for
change. Come along to our Global Health Forum
to discover more about health issues from some
of the most distinguished people in their field
and to debate some of the most controversial
humanitarian issues of the moment.
We run a wide range of hands-on projects
throughout the year which you can get involved
in. Learn sign language, teach CPR or sex
education to children, or volunteer within the
community. We arrange topical film screenings,
excursions to events of interest and even the
occasional pub quiz! Come along to meet
passionate, like-minded people - share ideas,
campaign, volunteer or maybe even start your
own project!
Deeksha Dhar
[email protected]
lasting friendships. Medicine is scary without
support and that is what we are here for. We
are mostly known for our weekly tutorials to
get you through your first year of Imperial
Medicine but also host events ranging from
a-laugh-a-minute welcome dinner for Freshers
to regular talks and events aiming to fulfill all
needs, whether gastronomical, educational or
spiritual. We are here for YOU. Such awesome
love must be shared however and so we
also branch into the wider community, with a
workshop course for potential medical students
lost in the sea of UCAS, and a Science Fair for
local schoolchildren. But even that is just some
of what we have planned to help with the nitty
gritty so you can enjoy the finer things Uni has to
offer, like our events.
Najia Sultan
[email protected]
Pharmacology (ICSMSU)
Muslim Medics
Our name isn’t our criteria you need not be
a Muslim nor a Medic to be part of the MM
family or to benefit from our service. What
you should have is a thirst for knowledge and
Pharmacology is ICSM’s new BSc degree
course. You’re going to be studying at one of the
world’s best Universities, taught by the leading
academics in medical science.
As the year progresses, we’ll set up a
Pharmacology DepSoc. A DepSoc is made up
of a president, treasurer and secretary. It’ll be
59
Departmental
Departmental
responsible for organising events for members
of the course, taking care of your social and
academic interests, and is definitely something
you should consider getting involved in!
And what about when you’re not studying?
Every student on the Pharmacology course
is a member of ICSM Student Union, and
as such you have a wide variety of Clubs &
Societies which you can join. Have you always
wanted to try a new sport but haven’t had the
opportunity? ICSM offers a Club or Society for
most interests, from sports to drama and even a
wildly successful darts Club started by last year’s
freshers... Take a look through your Freshers’
Fortnight guide to get a glimpse of what you’ll be
thrown in to!
I look forward to seeing you in October. I’ll be
your education officer for the coming year, if
you have any questions whatsoever, feel free to
email me.
programme and networking events with
graduate-seeking companies.
So if you think that you have a good idea or a
better way of running an event then find us at
Freshers’ Fair for more information.
Sarah Hancox
[email protected]
Surgical (ICSMSU)
Arrow Lee
[email protected]
RAG (ICSMSU)
Natalie Kernan
[email protected]
So, you want to cut stuff up? This is your
chance to join in with all the events organised
by one of the most exciting Societies at
Imperial. ICSM Surgical Society was set up
to provide members with the opportunity to
gather practical skills, experience and training
not otherwise on offer at Imperial or any
other medical school in the country. This year
we will run: anatomy classes, suturing and
basic surgical skills training, a national trauma
conference, orthopaedic and plastic workshops
and a careers fair.
Physoc
Physoc is a Society for physicists at Imperial,
and aims to hold events and gatherings
throughout the year that allows its members to
network with members of the department and
many external companies and Universities
The Society is one of the largest in the
country and has over 800 members, including
undergraduates and postgraduates.
Physoc arranges guest lectures throughout
the year, on current research as well as more
light-hearted subjects such as The Physics of
Chocolate- look out for posters around Blackett.
In addition, trips are organised to conferences
and research centres, as well as BBQs, a
Freshers Cocktail Party, the Annual InterUniversity Physics Quiz, the Outreach teaching
60
Zeco
Ever wanted to bungee jump, skydive, break a
world record, hitchhike to Hong Kong, wreak
havoc in London, get on the news and raise
buckets of cash for charity?
Then you want to be part of RAG. The Raising
and Giving Society is a charitable branch of the
Union, dedicated to organising and running
events to raise money for worthy causes.
If a student wishes to run a charitable event,
raise any awareness or simply pie the Rector
then RAG is on hand to help make sure you raise
money for charity and get away with it.
Joseph George
[email protected]
The Zoological and Ecological (Zeco) Society
is a group of like-minded people who have
come together to raise awareness and protect
our natural systems as well as gain hands-on
experience of the natural world.
Conservation of both species and ecosystems
is at the core of our Society and we seek to
integrate learning, discussion, campaigning
for causes and fun! Highlights of the last year
include a trip to a wolf sanctuary, fundraisers
and various social gatherings including a
Christmas pub crawl.
Plans for next year include a nature
photography competition and exhibition, a short
course on bat surveying, a field trip to the seal
sanctuary on the south coast and a seminar
programme comprised of speakers on a wide
variety of topics.
If you are an animal lover addicted to nature
programmes who wants to make a difference
then this Society is for you! People from all
disciplines are welcome to join.
Zeco
[email protected]
61
Faith
Faith
Ahlul Bayt
The Ahlul Bayt Society strives to use University
platforms to create dialogue and exchange
of ideas freely and objectively. The aim is to
provide its members and the wider community
with a framework for understanding Islam
and its philosophy which encompasses every
aspect of our lives from sociology, politics
and economics, to ecology, psychology and
spirituality. We aim to propagate the light of
Islam, the Holy Qur’an, the Prophet of Islam and
his progeny.
Our events range from talks by renowned
speakers on Unique topics to informal
discussion circles and social gatherings marking
auspicious occasions.
In the past, events we have held include:
Jesus in Islam and Christianity, Science &
Religion, ‘Atlas of Creation’, ‘Hidden Holocaust’
and ‘Islamic Economics’ as well as activities
such as calligraphy lessons, Arabic and sports.
Farid Froghi
[email protected]
May Jones
[email protected]
Ahmadiyya Muslim Students
Tayyib Hayat
[email protected]
Baha’i
The Baha’i Faith is an independent world
religion, whose purpose is to Unite all the people
and races of the world. Baha’i communities
around the globe have been working to break
down the barriers of prejudice between peoples.
At the heart of our belief is the conviction that
62
humanity is a single people with a common
destiny. In the words of Baha’u’llah, the Founder
of our Faith, “The earth is but one country, and
mankind its city. “ Baha’u’llah taught that there
is one God Who progressively reveals His Will to
humanity.
Each of the great religions brought by the
Messengers of God represents a successive
stage in the spiritual development of civilization.
Baha’u’llah, the most recent Messenger in this
line, has brought teachings that address the
moral and spiritual challenges of the modern
world.
Find out more at www.bahai.org. We run
weekly devotional sessions, which create an
uplifting atmosphere for spiritual reflection
as well as Study Circles, where we study
quotations from the Baha’i Writings in a relaxed
environment. We also organise talks about
various themes related to the Baha’i Faith. This
offers a stage for conversation about a great
many topics of interest to people from any
background.
Buddhist
What is happiness and peace to you? Buddhism
is a way of living or a path to a happy and
successful life. Everyone could benefit from it in
a substantial yet Unique way. Imperial College
Buddhist Society (ICBS) serves as a foundation
for anyone who is interested in Buddhism.
Our activities vary from Dharma talks
to meditations, discussions and personal
development workshops. Imperial College
Buddhist Society offers a free collection of
Buddhist books and media distribution.
For the appreciation of Buddha’s teachings
in a more interactive way we organise events
like social dinners, movie nights, temple visits
and meditation retreats. We also regularly
undertake voluntary work in orphanages and
old peoples’ homes. ICBS is affiliated with
ULUBUDA (University of London Union Buddhist
Association) which offers a great opportunity
to meet more friends from other colleges in
London.
As the Buddha saying goes, ‘Know well what
leads you forward and what hold you back,
and choose the path that leads to wisdom’. We
welcome everybody to join us in the discovery
of the pathway to wisdom in life!
the world and from churches all over London, the
Christian Union is a group of people United by
our Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ.
We meet together each week to pray, sing,
encourage one-another in small groups and
hear the Bible explained by speakers from many
different backgrounds. We also run lunch bars,
internationals’ groups, one-off talks, pub quizzes,
a week-end away and much more where anyone
is welcome to come and honestly discuss who
they think Jesus really is. Whether you’re a
Christian or just interested, it’ll be great to meet
you at Freshers’ Fair.
Nathan Sherwood
[email protected]
Tian Lim
buddhis [email protected]
Christian Student Action
Catholic
CathSoc welcomes all people and provides
an opportunity for them to experience a close
Catholic community. Each week we celebrate
a short mass followed by a buffet lunch. Join
our Journey Group where we share how our
journeys through University are enriched by our
faith and discuss what it means to be Catholic
in today’s world. Other activities include day
trips to religious sites, rosary and meditation
sessions. There are opportunities to attend
retreats and pilgrimages. So if you are looking
for a Christian group of friendly, happy and
family-like people, look no further.
Nicholas Church
[email protected]
Christian Union
The Christian Union is a group who desire to live
for Jesus and make Him known. From all over
[email protected]
Every Nation Christian
The philosophies of the classroom today will
become the policies of government tomorrow;
this is something we believe as Every Nation
Christian Society. We believe we students will
lead the world in the future and that knowing
God is the best guarantee of doing a good job
when we get there. We run weekly discussion
groups on different topics: current issues facing
Africa how involved is God in our everyday
lives, Know God already, understand him better
and we plan to set up more groups. Though
a Christian Society, the groups are open to
anyone.
We also run the Energy Crew, handing out
energy drinks and water to tired students during
exam time. The Society is the student arm of
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Faith
Faith
Every Nation Church London, and we run two
Sunday services within a 10-minute bus journey
of Imperial, with the evening (student friendly)
service described as Church for people who
don’t like church. Come along, hope to see you
soon.
Jonathon Wright
[email protected]
Hindu Society
Imperial College Hindu Society aims to
promote, practice and protect our Hindu dharma
whilst promoting Unity amongst Hindu youth.
We provide our members with ways to keep
in touch with their faith and make new friends.
This year marks our 10th anniversary and we
have so much planned to celebrate. We start off
the year with our welcome dinner; join in with
the fun and games alongside a delicious Indian
buffet, in case you’re missing home-cooked
food. Next up is our biggest event, the Ujaali
Diwali Garba attracting hundreds of students.
A night filled with performances, Garba and
Dandiya is one of the highlights of every
freshers year.
We hold regular spiritual discussion groups,
prayers, pujas and aartis. We end with our
Sanskriti dinner where we look back at all the
fun weve had all year. Being affiliated with the
NHSF, we take part in the national initiatives
such as the annual sports competition and
Sewa week, which is jam-packed full of
fundraising for our charities. Our events always
promise to be entertaining, spontaneous and
unforgettable, welcoming Hindus and nonHindus alike.
Minesh Parmar
[email protected]
64
Islamic
Meet one of the largest and most diverse
Societies at Imperial. With members from all
across the globe, meeting several times a day,
you are never without a sense of community
and brother/sisterhood in the Islamic Society.
The ISoc provides a plethora of regular events
and services for everyone, including educational
talks by world-renowned scholars, dinners,
weekend trips and sporting events. Let us help
you fulfil your intellectual, spiritual, social and
physical needs and achieve your potential.
The Prayer Room is the heart of Muslims
on campus, where you can come and pray all
5 daily established prayers in congregation.
Instead of wandering around campus you
can come and relax in the PR whenever you
have a break, want to eat something, or just
feel like socialising. Friday prayers are also
organised for both men and women. Come and
surround yourself with people that will help you
worship The Most Merciful, better and become
righteous, upright members of your Society.
Islamic Society
[email protected]
Jain Society
The newly formed Jain Society aims to help
gain a better understanding of Jain philosophy
and its application in modern day life. What
is Jainism? Jainism is one of the oldest
religions in the world. Its guiding principles
for life are right belief, right knowledge & right
conduct. The five great vows are non-violence
(ahimsa), truthfullness (satya), non-possession
(aparigraha), non-stealing (asteya) & chastity
(brahmacharya). If this makes you ask questions
& seek answers then come and find us at the
Freshers’ Fair to sign up & look out for our
introductory session. We’ve got lots of events
planned for this year including our anual Diwali
Dinner and Dance, stimulating talks, discussions
& trips to temples.
Sonia Savla
[email protected]
Jewish
We aim to provide a home for Imperial’s Jewish
students. We try to cater for everyone through
a mix of social and educational events. On the
social side, we arrange various outings such
as trips to the cinema and theatre, ice-cream
nights and BBQs. On the educational front, we
bring in speakers, including Rabbis, journalists
and academics, to discuss matters of Jewish
ethics, history and politics, or sometimes just
a general Q&A session. But our most popular
event is definitely the Shabbaton, when we
spend Shabbat in each other’s company
either in town or in North London, and enjoy a
scrumptious traditional Friday night meal.
IC JSoc is also in constant contact with other
Jewish Societies and organisations, so you’ll
find out about all the exciting events happening
for Jewish students around London. The best
thing about getting involved with the Jewish
Society is that you will meet some great
people, not only from Imperial but from other
Universities too.
Victoria White
[email protected]
Krishna Consciousness
Ever tried meditation? If not, ever wanted to?
Ever thought about the deeper questions in life?
Enjoy eating all you can of the most scrumptious
vegetarian food around? If you answered yes
to any of those questions then you are reading
the right blurb. We are open to one and all.
With a range of activities including weekly
interactive events discussing spirituality and the
deeper aspects of the world around us, mantra
meditation with live music, free vegetarian
food, trips away to the beautiful Hertfordshire
countryside and an annual trip to Asia during the
summer, this is a Society you cannot fail to sign
up to.
[email protected]
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.
We aim to promote the teachings of Sikhi
whilst making your time at University more
enjoyable! Sikh Society offers a friendly social
support network, providing a great opportunity
to meet new and interesting people from a
wide variety of courses and backgrounds. We
hold weekly simran sessions, whereby we
have a regular place to worship and discuss
religious topics. Occasionally we invite learned
speakers to these sessions, allowing us to gain
more knowledge and better understanding of
Sikhism.
There are also many social events, such as
dinners and bowling, as well as volunteering
opportunities and the opportunity to meet
students from other Sikh Societies, including
at Collaborations, which is a fantastic annual
dinner held here at Imperial. Everyone is
welcome to join the Society irrespective of
religious background.
Amritpal Singh
[email protected]
65
Indoor
Indoor
Backgammon
The Backgammon Club is a relaxed, friendly
Club where members can meet to play a few
games once a week. We have more boards
now than ever, with experienced players ready
to teach and play those of all levels. Even if you
have never played backgammon before, you will
be more than welcome.
We play match games amongst members.
Chouette is a multi player version of the game
and is proving to be hugely popular because of
its social nature. Chouette also promotes the
philosophy of learning from others and bodes
well for the Club’s ethos.
We hold an internal league and tournament for
members throughout the year, with prizes given
out at the end.
This involves members of all levels meeting
both in our weekly meetings and during the
week. We also visit a backgammon Club in
Camden, which is enormous fun and members
can see professionals play. Our friendly Club is
ready and waiting to welcome you both to the
Club and to Imperial College.
Christopher Hong
[email protected]
Balloon Twisting
Lets face it balloon twisting isn’t rocket science:
its easy, its fun, and it’s unconventional. We
all started with a simple dog, some of us got
hooked, and here we are today.
It’s like playing the piano - everybody doesn’t
have to be Tchaikovsky to enjoy playing
chopsticks. And playing a little bit of piano makes
you appreciate the great masters even more.
Likewise, engaging in a little part of balloon
twisting allows us to comprehend how balloons
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don’t burst upon a momentous twist, and at the
end of the day, how balloon twisting is actually
an art.
Our Society was recently established, and
that makes us a young and vibrant Society,
boasting a diverse mixture of imperial students
from all walks of life. We meet on a weekly
basis where we learn from free balloon lessons,
supplemented by detailed tutorials for the
sculptures taught every week.
What makes being part of balloon twisting so
rewarding? The very fact that we can use our
skills to give back to Society by way of fundraising or bringing joy to the less fortunate.
Aaron Tang
[email protected]
Did you ever wonder how Shakira pulls off those
moves? Do your hips lie? Have you always
wanted to learn the ancient Art of the East?
We bring you vibrant dancing, cultural
music and heritage and a fantastically toning,
cardiovascular workout! Build impressive
confidence and skill,while making new friends
with regular Club socials, dinners and parties!
ICU Belly Dancing Club provides the perfect
opportunity to come and try something new this
year. Be it starting our exciting and unbeatable
value Belly Dancing courses with professionally
qualified instructors (catering for both basic
beginners and the more advanced), enjoying
intensive exotic-themed dance workshops,
performing lively dance routines at charity
events, fashion shows and other Imperial
College dance shows, or just dancing the night
away at our Bops and Haflas, there is something
for everyone!
Get that belly dancing and whirling body
together with veil, shimmies and seductive flair.
Join ICU Belly Dancing Club for a whole year of
awesome fun and glamorous dancing. Come
and find our stall at the Freshers’ Fair. Shakira!
Shakira!
India Weidle
[email protected]
Chess
Imperial Chess Club is a vibrant Society that
caters for players of all abilities. Whether
you’re new to the game and looking to improve
your skills, or an old hand in search of some
competition, Chess Club is the place to go.
As well as weekly Club nights we also hold
regular blitz tournaments and have teams
representing Imperial in the ULU and Middlesex
Leagues. Many of our regular players graduated
last year so our team captains are very much
on the lookout for new talent. Joining the chess
Club will also give you the Unique opportunity to
take on Imperial’s resident Grandmaster in the
annual Mestel Challenge. Other events taking
place this year are the Freshers’ tournament, the
InterUniversity rapidplay championships and the
Valentine Cup where we go head to head against
Oxford. Chess Club is very active at the moment
so now is a great time to be involved in it.
Thomas Fuller
[email protected]
Dance
Whether you are an ‘only after twelve pints of
lager’ or a dance star wannabe, we have the
right classes for you. Learn to salsa, samba,
swing and sway.
We teach Latin American, Ballroom and Salsa
from beginners’ lessons right up to competition
classes with steps from top professional
coaches. We provide partners, discounts,
termly black tie events, and fortnightly socials
to show off. There are an equal amount of both
gentlemen and the fairer sex (a rarity at this
college) and six hours of dancing every night
in thirteen different styles. No dance shoes,
special equipment or partner is required to
take part. Join us now, and let us show you
the glamour, power, camaraderie and thrill of
dance!
Qian Liu
67
Indoor
Indoor
Dance - Funkology
Funkology is a hip-hop dance company founded
by students for students. We hold a firm belief
in promoting the College’s hiphop community.
Now grooving into its 7th year, Funkology has
numerous levels at which students can join and
train towards.
From our beginners level, Funkadelic, through
Funkamediate, to our main performing and
competing troupe, Funkology.
We’ve won numerous competitions but
ultimately, we’re just about inspiring others with
this dance form and adding to our ever growing
family. We do this by performing at shows and
competitions across the country as well as
teaching classes several times a week.
Many of our core members continue to be
involved with professional dance projects in
the UK and internationally. Most people do not
realise that there is much history and technique
behind hip hop dance. We train members of
Funkology with passion and determination to
grow and develop in this dance style, holding
classes in many styles, from breakdance and
streetdance to house and dance
improvisation techniques and classical Indian
dance - members associated with the Royal
Academy of Dance and English National
Ballet have also taken regular ballet classes.
Dance Company provides an opportunity for
everyone to perform in annual events, such as
ArtsFest and International Night, as well as in
competitions.
Last year, we had a strong showing in the
competitions hosted by University of Edinburgh,
Loughborough University and Kings College
London- we hope to hold our reign in the coming
year!
We also run a Schools Tour through Imperial
Volunteering Centre, which involves running
workshops in London schools for children of
various ages in the summer. Here, everyone is
encouraged to try their hand at performing and
teaching!
The first week of dancing is completely free,
so come along and try out the various styles.
Wei Cheah
[email protected]
Darts (Medics)
Tian Wang
[email protected]
David Smith
[email protected]
If you want to take a break from the much
renowned exciting lectures of Imperial College,
or if you are a fashion fan, then join us.
Ling Li
[email protected]
Fitness
IC Fitness is one of the newest and most
exciting Societies to get involved with at
Imperial College. The purpose of IC Fitness is to
promote the health and fitness of our students
by organising a number of fun sporting events,
while at the same time raising money for
charity. What could be better?
A few of the most popular events from last
year include a 5-a-side Football Tournament,
a Basketball Tournament and a Pro Evolution
Soccer Tournament. We know you guys will be
itching to earn the bragging rights for being the
PRO champ at IC!
We also run a childrens health and fitness day
within local primary schools, to promote healthy
eating and exercise. If you require any details,
we will be promoting IC Fitness at the Freshers’
Fair.
Fashion
Dance Company
Dance Company offers classes in ballet, tap
and contemporary dance in a brand new dance
studio.
EVERYONE is welcome to come along!
Whether you’re a complete novice or more
advanced, we cater for different technical levels.
Each year we aim to organise workshops and
classes run by professional guest teachers.
Previous workshops have included contemporary
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for the 09-10 campaign. If you’ve ever watched
darts on TV, you’ll know that the focus is on
anything but the triple twenty. Home matches
invariably draw enthusiastic support from the
Reynolds faithful, away matches usually bring
disapproving looks as our players fling arrows
into the walls, ceiling, nearby electrical fittings
and occasionally innocent bystanders. ICSMDC
plays mostly around West London. However,
our recent Oxford Tour was a massive success
as we showcased our complete lack of sporting
talent to the locals.
We will doubtless be taking our show on the
road again next year. Darts welcomes everybody
- boys and girls of Imperial are greeted with open
arms and legs. Anybody who has actually seen a
darts board before would be especially welcome.
You don’t have to commit to every event, you’re
welcome to come for a couple of matches and
see what all the fuss is about. Darts takes place
outside of the usual Wednesday slot, so even
if you’re passionately committed to something
less fun or actually good at sports, you’ll still
have time for a weekly shafting courtesy of
ICSMDC.
Coming off the back of a truly Hiddink-esque
debut season, Darts is returning at full strength
Have you ever dreamed of designing your own
clothes? Have you ever imagined modelling on
the stage? “Of course (not)!”, I hear you cry.
If you have a burning desire to do something
creative, then don’t flick to the next page. We
run classes on beauty, fashion design and
making clothes. Last year, we successfully held
a short fashion show during which we sold
design pieces made by the members, so yes,
you can even make money! We also contributed
garments for the annual East Meets West show.
Prashant Patel
[email protected]
69
Indoor
Indoor
Gaming
Parkour and Free Running
If you’ve come to study at Imperial, then you’re
probably a gamer even if you just don’t know
it yet! Whether you’re a hardcore WoW junkie
or just like to pass time with Flash games, it
doesn’t matter. At the Imperial College Gaming
Club, you’ll find like-minded individuals with
whom you’ll be able to play alongside or
against over a variety of games and consoles.
Halo? Counterstrike? Smash Brothers? We’ve
got them all and that’s not the end of it!
Tournaments (with free cake!) are held over the
year so you can nurture those team tactics and
stoke rivalries.
Okay, the cake may be a lie, but there are
prizes involved although nothing beats pure
bragging rights and the sweet smell of victory!
Join us, or get pwned!!11!11!one!11!
Andrew Lim
[email protected]
Iain Purves
[email protected]
Juggling
Sex, drugs and rock ‘n roll are not often
associated with knitting, and yet that is pretty
much what this Club provides. From our book
of sexy lingerie patterns to the euphoric release
of endorphins which comes with the production
of your very own knitted garments.
From the rocky roads to the swiss rolls of our
baked goods policy, we’re a friendly, laid back
bunch of people that meet in the Union Bar for
a drink (or five) and a knit. Whether you’re a
knitting virgin or a crochet Casanova, we’ve got
a niche for you!
Henry Bennie
[email protected]
Pilates is not just for women! It’s a sport that
can be done by anyone of any fitness level.
Not only does it increase the strength of
your inner core muscles and help balance
and stability, it also helps ease some of those
aches and pains caused by under or over-use
of muscles. If Pilates is practised regularly a
number of benefits can be reaped including
increased lung capacity, blood circulation,
flexibility as well as improved mental
coordination. Pilates teaches control of the body
and that capacity spills over into other areas of
one’s life.
Alice Moran
[email protected]
Poker
The Poker Society offers you a fantastic
opportunity to mingle, have some fun, play
poker at the highest level, but overall to just
have a great time. The Society is entering its
seventh year now, with each year passing
bringing more and more success.
Last year, we organised numerous poker
events including free-to-enter tournaments with
staggering amounts of money up for grabs.
We are here to introduce you to this wonderful
game of skill and bravado (with just a bit of
luck). We will be hosting poker tutorials during
the first few weeks of term, given by poker
pros. Afterwards there will be a big Freshers’
tournament to practice your newly acquired
skills.
KnitSock
The Juggling Society provides the opportunity
for beginners to learn how to juggle just
about anything that takes their fancy. More
experienced people can develop their existing
bizarre manipulation skills and share tricks with
others. You can learn to juggle whilst eating
apples, juggle knives, fire, balls, rings, Clubs,
and more (although not all at the same time!)
We also have a large collection of other toys
including staffs, poi, Unicycles, devilsticks,
diabolos and time machines. Many people do
not realise how easy it is to juggle, with most
learning in just one evening!
We meet every Tuesday night at the Union
outside in the Quad if the weather is good
enough. On top of the weekly meetings are
70
public events, drinks in the pub, and an annual
varsity match between Oxford, Cambridge and
Imperial. I assure you that once you start you will
be addicted!
Parkour and Free Running, it’s that thing where
you see those ‘crazy’ people leaping across
buildings or running away from James Bond.
And you know it looks amazing. Well there’s
some good news! You don’t actually have to
be crazy to do it and it’s actually a lot of fun
and easy to learn. Whether you’re a seasoned
traceur or a complete novice then come along
to IC Parkour and Free Running, Britain’s original
University Parkour Society. You will receive full
training and instruction in a safe and controlled
environment. There are regular training sessions
indoors, conditioning sessions (for those who
really want to get the most out of their bodies),
organised city trips, socials and much more. So
come along and try it out. We have a bunch of
friendly and dedicated members. You’re even
welcome to come along and try some Parkour
out at Freshers’ Fair. We’ll have a scaffold set,
vault and crash mats. Hope to see you there!
Pilates
Alexander Ford
[email protected]
Adam Labi
[email protected]
71
Indoor
Indoor
Synchronized Swimming
Before you scroll down to read about the next
Club, just wait. Are you flexible? Are you rubbish
at swimming? Do you secretly think that there’s
a shark lurking in the deep (a.k.a “dark”) end
of the pool? Would you rather stick pins in your
eyes than attempt front crawl? If the answer
is yes to any of the above, then synchronised
swimming might just be for you. The Club offers
anyone of all abilities, the chance to improve (or
learn) great technique in the water while having
fun. Once your confidence in the pool has
improved, you’ll learn some simple routines to
do in the water. We have a great coach who was
a member of the Greek national team and all our
members are friendly and willing to help each
other. All levels are welcome!
Marie-eugenie Joanny
[email protected]
Table Football
Come and join the Imperial College Table
Football Club! The Club was only setup in 2003
and we have been awarded a Grant from the
Harlington Trust Fund to acquire two brilliant
Garlando G5000 tables.
Altogether, the Club now owns three tables
and we have our own room to play in the
basement of the Union building. The room will
be open during Freshers’ Fair. So if you think
you’re a pro at the art of table football then try
out your skills and see how they measure up
with other like-minded individuals. Even if you’re
just a novice or have never played table football
before it’s still a great way to meet new friends
or just kick back and relax.
Dian Lim
[email protected]
Ten Pin Bowling
The Ten Pin Bowling Club is all about the social
aspects of the game, so don’t think you need
to be a pro to come and play! In fact beginners
are encouraged to come along. Each week
we ferry ourselves to a bowling alley for three
no-pressure games and then it’s back to the
Union to have a laugh. Aside from that we have
a famed Xmas and Easter Bowl, and each year
a few lucky representatives (everyone) go to
Nottingham for the BUCS tournament and a
great night out. We also enter the BUCS Cup,
which serves as a decent couple of day trips.
So if you’re ever stuck for something to do on a
Wednesday afternoon but don’t fancy anything
too strenuous, come bowling!
Mark Johannesen
[email protected]
War Games
Imperial College War Games engages in three
main activities: roleplaying, wargaming and
board games. For the most part we play on
Wednesdays and Sundays. The majority of our
members are roleplayers and we are familiar
with many systems. The ones we tend to use
72
vary from one year to the next, some of the
more popular ones being D&D, L5R, Unknown
Armies and WFRP. Wargaming generally takes
the form of Warhammer, 40k, Epic Armageddon
and similar games.
We have plenty of scenery for members to
use as well as some gaming boards. We own
hundreds of board games, including Settlers
of Catan, Shadows Over Camelot and Arkham
Horror and acquire more every year. We tend to
play board games in the evening when people
want to relax.
Joseph Britton
[email protected]
Yoga
Imperial College Yoga Club provides regular
affordable yoga classes to all students and staff.
Over the past few years, the style of yoga
taught by our teachers has been Sathyananda
yoga, which is characterised by its focus on
body awareness, breathing and relaxation. This
is particularly good for reducing stress and
improving your concentration in lectures. Exactly
what you need!
But yoga has many other benefits too. It
improves the flow of energy in your body,
releasing and clearing any blockages. The list
of health benefits is long, examples would be
strengthening the immune system, helping
to balance things like hormones and blood
pressure, and even alleviating various chronic
health issues or injuries.
With continued practice, yogis can develop
great flexibility, fitness and an overall sense of
well-being. Just come along, try it and love it!
Anna Reeves
[email protected]
Yoga (Charing Cross)
Why do yoga? The short answer is that yoga
makes you feel better. Practicing the postures,
breathing exercises and meditation makes you
healthier in body, mind and spirit. Yoga lets you
tune in, chill out, shape up -- all at the same time.
ICSM Yoga Club brings affordable yoga to all by
keeping the cost of classes low and providing all
equipment.
The style we use is Vinyasa Flow: a
fluid practice of alignment and strength,
synchronising movement with breath. Expect
movement, not just stretching, Vinyasa is diverse
and will make you sweat! The class includes
breathing techniques (pranayama), physical
postures (asanas) and a deep relaxation. You
will strengthen and tone your body, learn how
to focus your mind, and relax so that you can
better deal with all of life’s stresses. ICSM Yoga
hold termly socials so all the yogis can get to
know one another better and relax! We cater
for all abilities, so whether you are a complete
beginner or are looking to continue your yoga
practice, visit us at the Freshers’ Fair or contact
us via email for class times and prices. Come
and give ‘The Crow’ a go!
Francesca Harris
[email protected]
73
International
International
ABACUS
Now entering its second decade since being
founded, IC ABACUS continues to promote the
Chinese way of life within the British Society,
creating an amicable bond between the two
cultures. We aim to try our utmost to keep you,
our beloved members, entertained throughout
the year by providing amazing events namely
parties in Clubs, a boat party, a karaoke party
and more parties! These are often held in
conjunction with other London ABACUS
Societies thus providing a great social network
to meet students from other London Unis.
This year, we plan to introduce more diverse
events which are more Imperial orientated in
order to create a tighter community and give
you guys a platform to meet other Imperial
students not just on your course and halls.
Furthermore, we also have two active sports
teams competing in leagues, namely football
and basketball. Oh, by the way, members also
get discounts at various Chinese restaurants!
Join!
major attraction in the Imperial events calendar,
following tremendous growth over the years. The
last Afrogala, “The beginning” marked the 10th
year anniversary of the show and once again left
our audience stunned at the excellent standard
of music, drama and dance.
There is something for everyone so get
involved! The year is full of other social events
such as The Big Chill, Chop Chop, and Meet
‘N’ Greet. We also recognise the importance
of having career talks and workshops from
our prestigious sponsors giving our members
an insight into what employers look for in
applicants. With the African Caribbean Society
bigger than ever, it promises to be a fantastic
year so don’t miss out. We look forward to
seeing you at Freshers’ Fair!
Ebitimi Alaibe
[email protected]
Arabic Society
The Arabic Society is one of the fastest
growing and most vibrant Societies, with a
truly multicultural feel. Whilst we endeavour
to provide a sense of community for those
looking to meet others from Arabic backgrounds
in college, the Society also provides the
Chloe Man
[email protected]
Afro-Caribbean
The African Caribbean Society aims to enhance
awareness of both African and Caribbean
cultures by organizing events which showcase
the different elements of our heritage.
We welcome everyone into our ACS family
regardless of whether you are keen to celebrate
African and Caribbean cultures, meet new
people, try new things (food especially) or
simply be a part of an active, fun-filled Society
at Imperial. Our signature event is the annual
Afrogala which has established itself as a
74
opportunity for non-Arabs to learn about and
experience the exciting and Unique Arabic
culture.
Whether it is sampling exquisite Arabic food
at our dinners, enjoying the music at our many
parties, or even learning the language through
some of our specialised classes, the Society has
something for everyone. So, if you are of Arabic
origin or are just interested in learning more
about Arabic culture, food, the people and their
way of life then Arabic Society is the one for you.
Hossam Osman
[email protected]
Armenian
The Imperial College Armenian Society was
set up to help students meet each other, share
their stories and get involved with the London
Armenian community.
It also aims to share the rich and Unique
Armenian culture with students through various
activities throughout the year. We plan to set up
both social and informative events and generally
hope to have a good time.
We welcome Armenians and non-Armenians
alike, so even if you are only just a little bit
interested, we will be happy to talk to you and
answer your questions at the Freshers’ Fair. We
look forward to seeing you there!
Alec Aslanyan
[email protected]
Bangladeshi
Bangladeshi Society
[email protected]
Bruneian
The Imperial College Union Bruneian Society
aims to promote the small, independent country
that is Brunei Darussalam, rich in its culture and
diversity. We are a young and active Society
whose activities have included National Day
and other less formal dinners and theatre
visits. Brunei Night is the key event for our
Society, in which members (regardless of their
nationality) put their heads and hearts together
to create a musical and dramatic masterpiece
enjoyed by performers and audience alike. More
importantly, it is an opportunity to make new
friends and strengthen existing friendships.
What’s next? Our Society has student discount
cards valid at selected restaurants in locations
such as Chinatown and Bayswater. Our aim is to
make everyone feel welcome, no matter where
you come from. We will ensure that you will
have no regrets joining the Bruneian Society.
Vanessa Teo
[email protected]
Canadian
This Society is for all Canadians at Imperial,
and those students who want to hang out with
Canadians. Society events include paintballing,
Pancake breakfasts and Bar Nights watching
Ice Hockey at the Maple Leaf pub. We will be
continually compiling a database of Canadian
Society members for the purposes of travel
contacts within Canada, so if you’re interested
in Canada or are a Canadian who needs
contacts, this is the place to be!
Canadian Society
[email protected]
75
International
International
Chinese
Erasmus
Being one of the largest Chinese Societies
in the UK with hundreds of active members,
Imperial College Chinese Society aims to
promote and integrate Chinese culture within
the student community and to serve as the
stepping stone for Unifying all the Chinese
students studying abroad. This year, on top of
the social events that we have organised in the
past such as the Freshers’ Disco, Variety Show,
Inter-University sports events and dinners, we
also plan to organise investment banking talks
and leadership workshops to enhance the job
prospect of our members. We are also planning
trips to amusement parks and activities such
as paintballing, boat trips and karting to further
enrich the members’ University experience.
Eric Tam
[email protected]
Chinese Students & Scholars Association
secrets... Join our traditional dance group for
free and perform in the International Night
Show. Party with us at events organised by us or
in collaboration with other London Universities.
Playing card games and backgammon at our
annual event, Kafeneio, or participate in sports
events. Refine yourselves with planned outings
to theatres. And last, but not least, travel with us
in Europe! Last years destination was Portugal,
and in previous years we have visited other
popular European destinations. The Cypriot
Society is a Society which does it all! Hope to
see you all in October at Freshers’ Fair or at any
of the events we will be hosting all year round!
Everyone is welcome!
Lefteris Kyriacou
[email protected]
Yang Lu
[email protected]
Going on an exchange? Visiting Imperial on
an exchange? ERASMUS is the Club for you!
As well as organising weekly pub nights and
huge parties the Erasmus committee will help
you get to know each other, London, and the
whole of Britain! Last year events included
a Christmas boat party, an end of year party,
Chinatown and Brick Lane meals, trips to
Oxford and Brighton and an adventure to see
the fireworks on Clapham Common.
Nora Tandberg
[email protected]
French
Whether you are genuinely French, not so fluent
in the language or simply interested in French
culture, look no further as French Society is
the Society for you. The Society brings you
memorable parties with other French Societies
from UCL, Kings and LSE at Boujis. The last
party of the year in collaboration with Moet &
Chandon and Belvedere Vodka closed last year in
style at Mahiki. Other events feature French film
showings, a philosophy Cafe in cooperation with
the Lyce and many others. This year, we have
also planned a weekend trip to France to fully
appreciate the full glory of the country’s culture.
Victor Dillard
[email protected]
German
The German Society is the social hub for
all those interested in German culture and
language. We organise pub nights, German film
outings, exhibitions, political lectures as well as
dinners with our sister Societies at Cambridge,
Oxford and LSE. So whether you’re a native
speaker or not, there are a lot of reasons to join:
The German Society provides an opportunity
for you to meet culturally interested people,
to have discussions and experience German
culture with friends in a relaxed atmosphere.
Marie- Von Srbik
[email protected]
Czecho-Slovak
Cypriot
The Cypriot Society is all about sharing the
culture of Cyprus and our inimitable way
of having fun! With us you will gain new
experiences and make new friends. The Cypriot
Society has a very high turnover of members
each year (over 150) because we organize a
variety of special events. Cyprus is a country
with rich history, Unique culture and with the
Mediterranean spirit lighting it all up! We aim to
promote our culture by sharing our little Cypriot
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This group is here not only for all Czechs and
Slovaks at Imperial College, but for all the
students interested in the region and the former
Czechoslovakia’s culture. We regularly get
together and enjoy the good food, drinks, culture
and mentality of the faraway land. Our Society
organises events not just for our own members,
but anyone else who is interested.
Martin Pavlovsky
[email protected]
Hellenic
The Hellenic Society of Imperial College offers
you a great opportunity to enjoy Greek culture in
London. By joining our Society you will quickly
learn that ‘no one parties harder than a Greek’.
We are looking forward to meeting you at the
Freshers’ Fair and answer any of your questions.
Panagiotis-alexandros Maroudas
[email protected]
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International
International
Indonesian
Indian
Indian Society is a large flourishing multicultural
Society, always endeavouring to promote
and encourage an awareness of the various
magnificent aspects of Indian Culture, to both
Indians and non-Indians alike. We are best
known for our annual charity variety show
East Meets West (EMW), one of the largest
productions organised by an ICU Society, which
showcases the talents of Imperial students.
Previously held at the prestigious Shaftesbury
Theatre, London Palladium and last year at
Theatre Royal, EMW always proves to be an
outstanding and successful show raising great
funds for charity. In encouraging a wide social
community, we have extended the family-like
network across the years with our successful
pairing scheme ‘Uncles & Aunties’. In addition,
our diverse calendar shows that there is
something for everyone! Our most popular
events includes the Clubbing night ‘Fire & Spice’
which always promises a fun warm welcome
to the freshers, closely followed by a thriving
India Week with numerous activities to promote
cultural awareness. On a more regular basis,
we show Hindi films, hold comedy nights,
Bollywood dance classes and organise sporting
events including cricket matches.
Amish Acharya
[email protected]
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The Imperial College Indonesian Society is filled
with fun, laughter and adventure. We work
very closely with the LSE Indonesian-Bruneian
Society and PPI London, an Indonesian student
organization approved by the Indonesian
Embassy.
We also work alongside many other Societies
from all over London. We have our very own
Clubbing events, our yearly charity event,
Indonesian Night, our monthly dinners and many
more.
Most importantly, you will get to know other
members very well, and with our Unity and
togetherness, we ensure you that you will have
a blast. We sincerely welcome everyone.
Franzeska Sutadji
[email protected]
International Tamil
International Tamil Society (ITS) is one of
Imperial’s most thriving and illustrious Societies.
From our award-winning sports teams, to our
annual Society dinner to our infamous Clubbing
event Twist, ITS offers a plethora of activities.
Every year, we take to a famous London venue
for our student variety show: Mega Maalai
which is one of the most successful shows of
its kind. Consisting of dance acts, comedy and
music, Mega Maalai allows us to celebrate Tamil
culture, to exhibit the many talents of Imperial
students and always proves to be unforgettable!
The Society prides itself on its commitment to
raising money for worthy causes.
Last year we raised a substantial amount for
Tamil Aid, Tamil Health Organisation and Save
the Children, and this year we look to do the
same. In particular, we will be raising money
and increasing awareness towards the plight of
the victims of the civil war in Sri Lanka. Finally
don’t be put off if you’re not Tamil. The ITS family
welcomes everyone and we really mean it.
Anusan Sugumaar
[email protected]
Iranian
We are the oldest Iranian University Society in
Britain. Our aim is to promote and encourage an
awareness of various aspects of Iranian culture.
We welcome all students interested in Persian
heritage and meeting fellow Iranians. The Iranian
Society is well known for its annual Norooz
party, as well as a spectrum of events covering
most aspects of Iranian culture. Events include:
the Yalda night party, Sizdah Be Dar picnic,
dinners at Persian restaurants, Eftari during the
month of Ramadan as well as visits to galleries
and Iranian film festivals.
Arta Babaee
[email protected]
Iraqi
Shakoo makoo yooni?! If you did (or even didn’t)
understand what that meant, then IraqiSoc is
where you would want to be! If you’re unusually
partial to Timen-Bamia and Chai then this is the
Society for you.
Our timeline of events is sure to satisfy any
interest you have with Iraq, but if you’re not
interested in Iraqi culture, history, science and
politics you can still enjoy the numerous socials
we have to celebrate Iraqiness! After appearing
on two TV stations and liaising with some of
the biggest Iraqi organisations in the country,
IraqiSoc has reached a stage where it can only
improve.
Were hoping to expand our catalogue of
events and cement ourselves as the most active
Iraqi Society in London, and even in the UK! Last
year we held the hugely successful Iraqi Cultural
Exhibition as well as a series of talks about Iraqi
science, medicine and history. We also had fun
with paintball and bowling trips. Looking forward
to seeing you in Freshers’ Fair. Enjoy the rest of
the summer!
Mohammed Abdul- latif
[email protected]
Irish
The Irish Society aims to provide a social
network for Irish students and those interested
in Ireland, its vibrant arts and rich cultural
history. Many events (outside of the obligatory
St. Patrick’s day celebrations) will be organised
throughout the year to promote Irish culture,
including social gatherings at pubs and
restaurants, outings to experience traditional
Irish music and dance, and theatre productions
by Irish playwrights. Whether you’re interested
in meeting some fellow countrymen, or simply
wish to expand your cultural horizons, you’ll find
the friendliness of the Irish Society second to
none.
Connor Kettle
[email protected]
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International
International
Italian
The Italian Society endeavours to join Italians,
people who speak Italian or those who love
Italy and are studying at Imperial. Parties,
dinners, sports matches and cultural events will
be organised throughout the year. By joining the
Italian Society you will have the opportunity of
meeting other Italians living in London, or learn
more about Italian culture. Come visit our stand
at Freshers’ Fair for a full list of events!
where a few of our enthusiastic members form
a group to do a short performance on stage.
We are a part of University of London Japan
Society (ULJS) with representatives in the ULJS
committee. ULJS hosts many events including
the massive twice-a-year Clubbing event,
Japan Night, something to look forwards to in
December and March.
We are also invited to many events organised by
Japanese Societies from other Universities.
even get recruited!
Our main objective is to make sure that
students mingle and have fun during their time
at Imperial College. Within ICKS, we have
various activities such as football, basketball,
indoor football, Christian and study groups. We
organize interesting events such as a Freshers’
welcoming party, social trips, parties and
barbeques.
ski trip and several theatre trips and Malaysian
festival dinners throughout the year to bring
members together and have some fun!
We invite all students (not only Malaysians!)
to join us and be a part of the wonderful and
diverse culture of Malaysia.
Sho Tsujimura
[email protected]
Lionel Richard
[email protected]
Kenyan
Japanese
Imperial College Japanese Society brings
together absolutely anyone interested in Japan
or Japanese Culture.
We organise free Japanese lessons for all
levels from those who only see squiggly lines
to anyone who knows the whole 85,000 (or
more) Kanji Characters. There are also many
events throughout the year including Japanese
film nights and restaurant trips. The Society
also has a football team who plays in friendlies
against other Societies from Imperial or London
Universities and also in 5-a-side tournaments.
Another big event is the International Night
The Imperial College Kenyan Society welcomes
anyone and aims to bring together, share as
well as promote the Kenyan Heritage amongst
fellow Kenyans or anyone with an interest
in this Great Nation. We have a close-knit
community where you will be able to make long
lasting friends and to ensure your University
experience is one to remember.
Kenyan Society
[email protected]
Korean
ICKS is a Society for Imperial College students
and anyone is welcome to join!
.ICKS is a member of University of London
Korean Society (ULKS) and we co-operate with
Korean Societies of other colleges in London
and also non-London colleges.
Big South Korean firms, such as Samsung,
LG, and Hyundai, have a great relationship
with ICKS and we have opportunities to attend
conferences and career fairs for information or
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Ahmad Ahmad Pauzi
[email protected]
Woo-myung Jung
[email protected]
Mexican
Malaysian
The Imperial College Malaysian Society plays a
crucial role in bringing Malaysians together and
introducing the Malaysian identity and culture
to the international community. The Society
maintains a high co-operation between other
overseas student Clubs within and outside of
Imperial College. Many of the Society’s events
have received excellent reception and support
from international organisations.
Our Society has strong links with the
Malaysian Tourism Office, which organises
traditional music and dance classes such as
Zapin and Endang. Malaysian Society is proud
to be the organiser of one of Imperial College’s
annual flagship overseas students’ events: The
Malaysian Night - showcased in the Spring Term.
In early 2009, 1200 tickets sold out within a few
days! In addition, we also have pasar malam,
Not just for Mexican students but for everyone
at Imperial interested in Mexico and Mexican
culture. The aim of the Mexican Society is to
create and develop links between members
and organize social gatherings and cultural
events. Some of the highlights this year will be
the Mexican Culture Day, A Taste of Mexican
Cuisine and a series of Mexican movie nights.
The Society is also an active member of
the Mexican Students Society in the United
Kingdom (MexSoc UK) so you can also expect
to have news of events around the UK. No
matter if it’s for the food and drink, the culture,
the language or the great parties, you won’t
regret joining the Mexican Society!
Mexican Society
[email protected]
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International
International
Pakistan
Polish
Salaams everyone! Welcome to Imperial
College Paksoc - one of Imperial’s most
dynamic student Societies! Previous winners of
the prestigious President’s Award, we are now
one of the biggest student Societies at Imperial.
We aim to provide exciting events throughout
the year, striving to give all our members the
opportunity to share Pakistani culture and
socialise. Our wide range of vibrant events from
the infamous India vs Pakistan cricket match to
the outstanding charity show Shaam, are not
to be missed! We come together with Paksocs
from all over the country to provide exhibitions
celebrating the very best of Pakistani art,
music, poetry and culture. As if all this fun isn’t
enough, our infamous political debates on hot
issues concerning Pakistan ensures that your
voices are heard. Whether you’re a home or
international student, we are here to help you.
It’s a great way to meet new people and get
involved and an opportunity you will not want to
miss. So get involved!
The Society aims to serve as a social hub and
meeting forum for Imperial College students
and staff of Polish origin and anybody with
an interest in Poland. We would like to raise
awareness of Poland and Polish culture among
a wider audience by organising a range of
events. Last year we had a few parties with
traditional Polish food and drinks, Polish film
screenings and trips to attend Poland-related
cultural events.
Additionally, we had fun playing paintball
and enjoyed the trip to Imperial War Museum.
Two years ago, Polish Society organised a
historical event about the Polish pilots in the
RAF during World War Two, which was a huge
success. This time we are planning to organise
an exhibition commemorating transition to
democracy in Poland in the 1980s. Find us at
the Freshers’ Fair! We look forward to seeing
you at one our events. The forthcoming year
promises to be even more exciting.
Tadeusz Kocman
[email protected]
Punjabi
Jahanzaib Khwaja
[email protected]
Palestinian
Palestinian
[email protected]
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Our main aim is to promote awareness,
education and preservation of Punjabi culture
whilst making it Universally accessible to all
students of all backgrounds. Throughout the
year, PunjabiSoc organises various events
including our highly successful and renowned
“Groundshaker” Clubbing nights, held in
reputable venues around the West End featuring
mainstream Bhangra artists. Believe it or not,
Punjabi’s do participate in other activities
besides partying! We also run regular events
such as day-trips, ice-skating, film nights and
even free weekly Dhol and Punjabi language
lessons. PunjabiSoc also organises one of the
country’s biggest student charity shows, The
Bhangra Showdown. TBS represents our culture
on a nationally recognised scale- essentially it
is a talent show with University students from
across the country competing. It has been
hosted at prestigious venues such as the Indig02
as well as our sell out night at Sadlers Wells
made us the biggest Imperial show of last year.
Ultimately, our Society’s goal is to celebrate the
vibrancy and beauty of Punjabi culture whilst
raising money for those who have not been
blessed with the opportunities we have.
Gurnaaz Kahlon
[email protected]
Russian Speaking
The Russian Speaking Society is here for you.
We aim to create a sense of community among
Russian speaking students as well as those
who wish to learn Russian at IC and throughout
London.
Our activities are split into two distinct areas social and industrial - although they sometimes
overlap. Socially, we regularly organise gettogethers for Russian sporting events like the
men’s Ice Hockey World Cup or major football
matches and concerts.
Last year alone we have went to see Mumiy
Troll, Bi-2 and Splin. These and other events like
paintballing and nights out in London are often
organised in tandem with other Universities.
On the industrial side, we strive to create
opportunities for all our members by keeping in
contact with major players in the Russian and
European markets.
In the past we have helped organise
recruitment events hosted by Eastern European
branches of Deloitte, Deutsche Bank, Goldman
Sachs and many others. On the whole, whether
you want to get together and support our teams,
get ahead in business or just reminisce about
home, the Russian Speaking Society is for you.
Evgenij Klenin
[email protected]
Scandinavian
Contrary to public belief, Scandinavia is not
all about blonde, blue-eyed ABBA-worshiping
people living in symbiosis with polar
bears. Although this is partially true, not all
Scandinavians have blue eyes!
The Scandinavian Society aims to act
as a meeting-point both for Scandinavians
at Imperial College, anyone interested in
Scandinavian culture/values, or just anyone
wanting to take part in any of our amazing
events. Over the year, we aim to arrange
dinners, lecture nights, charity fundraising
events, and ‘cultural’ events. And of course,
we are always open to suggestions from our
members.
Another important aim of ours is to establish
a dialogue between our members and the
Scandinavian industrial/financial/professional
presence in the UK. We achieve this by inviting
influential Scandinavians living/acting in the
UK to hold lectures and ‘motivational’ talks to
our members. This will further provide a basis
for building a strong network, both within and
outside Imperial, during your time here as a
student.
If you have any questions about the Society
and its motives, or would just like to have a chat
with us, please drop by at Freshers’ Fair!
Carl Axelsson
[email protected]
83
International
International
Sri-Lankan
Singapore
The truth behind Singapore noodles? Where is
Singapore? Let the Imperial College Singapore
Society answer these questions and allow us
to take you through a year of fun filled activities
like skiing in the French Alps or going on
bargain-filled shopping trips. Singapore is all
about FOOD! Satisfy your gastronomic cravings
for Asian cuisine with our fantastic discounts
at restaurants and join us on eating trips for a
taste of both Western and Eastern Cuisines.
Singapore, well known for her multi-racial
culture and diversity. So join us, and you will
get to meet not just Singaporeans but also like
minded friends who enjoy good food and good
fun!
Charles Lim
Spanish
One of the best things about this Society is
that it’s a great way to meet people that have
an interest in Spanish culture. Our members
include Spanish and non-Spanish speakers, so
don’t worry if the only Spanish word you know
is “Hola”.
If you become a member of the Spanish
Society, you’ll have the advantage of getting
cheaper tickets for events organised by us.
Our events include dinner outings to Spanish
restaurants around London to try the wonderful
food.
The Society will give you a fantastic chance to
get to know more about Spain.
Spanish Society
[email protected]
84
Ayubowan! Welcome to the Sri Lankan
Society, one of the most prestigious and
successful Societies at Imperial (if we do say so
ourselves!).
We were founded ten years ago with the aim
of introducing Imperial to our vibrant culture and
giving Sri Lankans in the University, overseas
or British, a chance to meet on another. Our
flagship event is Sapphire, an annual dinner
dance, which attracted 1000 people last year,
with The Gypsies (the most popular band
in Sri Lankan history! Fact.), providing the
entertainment and raising almost £3000 for
charities in Sri Lanka.
The Society has grown tremendously during
the last decade and we’re looking for this year’s
freshers to make it even bigger than before.
So freshers, if you see a fat brown man
in a Sri Lanka cricket top asking you to join
our Society, it’s probably me. Find us at the
Freshers’ Fair where you’ll get to meet the
whole committee and ask any questions you
have. It’ll be easy, just follow the massive
Sri Lankan flag, baila blasting out, and vast
amounts of samosas and patties to shamelessly
bribe you with. We look forward to seeing you
all there!
West Indian
Taiwan
The Imperial College Taiwanese Society serves
the purpose of introducing and promoting
Taiwanese culture in the multi-cultural
environment of Imperial College. We also
provide a place for all Taiwanese students to
get together, socialise and make friends, as
well as organise various activities, ranging from
basketball sessions to theatre trips, dinners and
group outings.
Rodger Lo
[email protected]
Thai
The Thai Society is established to promote our
Unique culture to the international community
as well as Uniting Thai students. Each year,
we organise a variety of activities such as the
annual festivals at the Thai temple, dining,
theatre trips and weekly sporting events. Our
main annual event is the Thai Night a highly
anticipated cultural show where audience
members can enjoy a taste of Thai food and
stage performances including the famous Thai
boxing, traditional music, dances and games.
Our members will also benefit from a wide
range of discounts in many oriental restaurants
and supermarkets in London.
The West Indian Society serves to bring
together fellow islanders as well as students
interested in the Caribbean way of life. We
strive to promote our Unique culture throughout
College.
While on our divine beaches sipping on ‘not
less than 75% alcohol’ rum is an integral part
of our culture, there is much more. There is the
music that extends beyond the legendary Bob
Marley, the delicious food such as flying fish,
the exotic language and the diverse beauty of
the West Indian people. During this year, we
have many events planned on the horizon. There
are the monthly Caribbean fetes, West Indian
restaurant dinners, as well as weekly football
‘sweats’ and our Caribbean Soca party to be held
on campus!
So if you hail from one of the exotic Caribbean
islands, have West Indian heritage, are enticed
by our Unique traditions or if you simply want an
opportunity to try unusual food and drink then
we welcome you to join the Imperial College
West Indian Society!
Nuttika Diroksakayavitoon
[email protected]
Turkish
Sivakanthan Sivalingam
[email protected]
Turkish Society
[email protected]
Pierre Morris
[email protected]
85
Martial Arts
Martial Arts
Capoeira folk music and embrace a new culture come and join us!
Aikido is a self defense martial art which
focuses on harmonising with your opponents
rather than going into conflict with them.
One develops mind and body coordination,
improved flexibility, increased concentration
and learns the ability to stay calm in stressful
situations. The Club hopes to help develop the
individual’s commUnication skills and attain
a higher self-esteem and confidence. We
believe these qualities will help greatly with
your performance in college too. Our practice
also involves breathing exercises which help to
relax and control nerves before a crucial exam.
People of all ages and abilities can successfully
practice Aikido. You do not require great
strength or fitness. We practice on Mondays
and Wednesdays in the Sherman Lounge at
St. Mary’s Leisure Centre near Paddington.
This Society is also affiliated with Banju Hatten
Aikido and Aikido Yuishinkai.
Thomas Holme
[email protected]
Capoeira
Capoeira is a martial art developed by African
slaves in Brazil during the 16th century. In
Capoeira, two capoeiristas partake in a game
of body-dialogue, exchanging movements of
attack and defence in ritualised combat to the
rhythm of the berimbau. Capoeira is a very
fluid and dynamic art, combining elements
of self-defence and acrobatics. Capoeira is a
complete experience providing a powerful and
sensational work out. It is an excellent cardiovascular practice allowing one to keep fit while
having fun. Everyone can participate irrespective
of skill or fitness. So if you want to learn how to
do flying kicks and spinning cartwheels, learn
86
trainers are encouraged. Classes are run in a
fun, friendly and semi-formal manner that allows
fast progression through the grades. However,
the best way to get an idea is to come along to
one of our training sessions and try it out for
yourself!
Shailendra Rathore
[email protected]
Jiu Jitsu (Aiuchi)
Sarita Lee
[email protected]
Filipino Martial Arts
Practitioners of FMA are noted for their
ability to fight with weapons or empty hands
interchangeably. Weapons are treated as an
extension of the hand and weapon training is
considered to promote proficiency in emptyhand techniques. The weapons vary in design,
size, weight, materials and usage, and include
bamboo rattan sticks, dummy knives and
projectiles. The art has been popularized by Dan.
Inosanto in films such as Game of Death, also
starring Bruce Lee.
The system taught integrates intelligence,
cunning and awareness with technical depth
and range. The classes often focus upon street
situations and students will master practical
defences to common armed and unarmed
attacks.
In some classes we practice free sparring
and with our suitable safety equipment students
can hone their techniques in free flow one-onone and multiple opponent combat. The classes
are open to absolutely everyone, from total
beginners to advanced students, and cross-
Aiuchi Jiu Jitsu wants you! Jiu Jitsu is a
Japanese martial art based on the concept of
movement, fluidity and balance.
It uses a wide variety of techniques including
throws, locks and strikes to defend against
unarmed and armed attackers. It is used by
the police and armed forces all over the world.
Aiuchi Jiu Jitsu is not about strength but about
technique and the self confidence that comes
with getting to know your body and abilities
better.
If you want to try something new, fun,
physically and mentally demanding and have
never dared to try martial arts before come
along!
There is no better feeling than seeing a guy
twice your size flying through the air and then
realizing that it was you who made him do that.
If you are a beginner or have tried martial arts
before you are all welcome!
Our social calendar is pretty busy and
includes a France training camp, an end of
season ball, barbeques and poker nightt, pub
crawls and a theme park trip. And of course
the trip to the pub after the session! So keep
Monday, Thursday or Saturday evening free.
Nora Schorscher
[email protected]
Judo
Judo, “The Gentle Way”, is a martial art and an
Olympic sport. With full-contact sparring being
a major training element, Judo is a physically
demanding sport that gives you plenty of
opportunity to improve your fitness through
a combination of throws, pins, arm locks and
strangles.
Training caters to adults at all levels of
experience and newcomers are welcome
throughout the year. As a beginner, you start by
learning how to fall safely before moving on to
basic techniques. Within a few months you can
start going to competitions and work your way
through the grades to black belt!
We train twice a week at Ethos and the
Imperial College Judo Club is one of the most
successful Judo Clubs in the country. We won
a bronze medal in the team competitions at the
British Student Championship for the second
year running in 2008/09.
Edouard Desclaux
[email protected]
87
Martial Arts
Martial Arts
Ju-Jitsu
Kendo
Jitsu is a defensive martial art that employs
throws, locks and strikes for practical unarmed
defence. Novices learn how to deal with
punches, grabs and bottle attacks as well
as how to fall correctly. Higher grades get to
deal with weapons, defence against multiple
attackers and ground fighting. There are regular
courses for all Clubs in London, taught by some
of the best instructors, and regular gradings.
Two national competitions for all levels are
held each year and involve all the Clubs getting
together for a weekend.
Ju-Jitsu Society
[email protected]
Kendo is a sport is based on the art of Japanese
swordsmanship. This ancient martial art was
passed down through centuries of civil strife
between the ruling Samurai classes of medieval
Japan. Kendo players wear tough body armour
and use bamboo swords in lieu of the steel
blades used in ancient times. Imperial College
Kendo Club is now in its 11th year and has
had a long and glorious history. The Club is
very friendly and as a member, you will get
the chance to attend various social events and
compete in exciting Kendo tournaments (as if
wearing armour and wielding a sword wasn’t
exciting enough). Get a first-hand impression of
Kendo by coming along to one of our practice
sessions!
Karate Shotokan
Kung Fu
Kickboxing
Over the course of its long and impressive
history, Muay Thai Kickboxing has evolved
and become one of the most dynamic and
beautiful sports around today. Focusing on
contact Kickboxing styles that utilise the
knees, elbows, shins and fists, Muay Thai
is an extremely efficient and effective form
of combat. Whether you want to become a
fighter, increase your self-confidence, get fit or
improve your physique Thai Kickboxing is the
sport for you. The beauty is that Kickboxing
can be practiced by anyone - big or small, male
or female, stocky or skinny. All you need is
determination, an open mind and we’ll supply
the rest. The committee consists of a small
number of fanatics who train in a safe, friendly
atmosphere and organise events both in and
out of training.
The IC Kung Fu Club practices the Wu Shu
Kwan style, a westernised form of classical
Chinese martial arts, similar to western
Kickboxing.
The training provides a solid base of physical
fitness and conditioning, coupled with an
effective fighting ability. The classes are
structured in the same way each week and
include cardiovascular exercise, stretching,
basic techniques, forms and sparring practice.
When free sparring you will be paired with
a senior belt, who will help you to progress
quickly and safely from zero fighting ability to
full contact sparring.
The Club also encourages a lively social
atmosphere outside of training. If you are
interested, just turn up in loose clothing classes are open to everyone from beginner
to black belt and we’ll even give you the first
lesson free!
Trying to work out which martial art is for
you? Maybe you want to learn an effective
form of self defence or just want to improve
your fitness. Starting Karate will give you the
opportunity to do just that.
Our Club caters for anyone who just wants
to try something different, meet new people
and have some fun! We welcome everyone
from complete beginners to experienced black
belts, so come along to any session (for free)
to see what we do. Shotokan is the most
popular style of Karate in the world. If you join
us you’ll quickly find your fitness, flexibility and
self confidence improving. We offer a friendly
training environment with top quality teaching
from one of the highest ranked instructors in
the country.
Megumi Yoshida
[email protected]
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Rachel Soon
[email protected]
Moazzam Ullah
[email protected]
Christine Robson
[email protected]
89
Martial Arts
Martial Arts
system, and as a competitive sport.
ICUTKD is affiliated with the British United
Taekwondo Federation, which is primarily based
on International Taekwondo Federation (ITF)/
Traditional Taekwondo.
We also warmly welcome students from
the World Taekwondo federation (WTF). Our
instructor is a 4th Dan Black belt, who has
trained Taekwondo for 13 years.
In addition, he participated in World
Championship and other National championships
achieving numerous gold medals and trophies.
Shaolin Kung-Fu
Shaolin Kung Fu - Sung Chuan is one of
Imperial’s longest running Clubs. The instructor
is the most senior in the system and is a
5th degree black belt with over 25 years of
experience. It is a broad-based Chinese style
incorporating all elements of true martial arts for
self-defence and health. Lessons are mixed and
cater for all levels typically consisting of form
and technique work, pad work, and optional
sparring. Progressing students can expect to
learn forms based on animal movements and
weapons. Visit our stand at Freshers’ Fair and
we’ll tell you everything there is to know about
Shaolin Kung-Fu and Sung Chuan. We hope to
see you soon.
Khareen Singh
[email protected]
Taekwondo
Shorinji Kempo is a modern Japanese martial
art, where striking and throwing techniques are
blended together seamlessly with meaningful
and practical philosophy. Shorinji Kempo teaches
self-confidence, cooperation and mutual respect.
You will learn hard methods (striking and
kicking) and soft methods (releasing and
throwing), and eventually combine the two into a
beautiful and dynamic system of martial practice.
Philosophy underpins the training and is
essential for both mental and physical growth.
Shorinji Kempo is designed to effectively subdue
any attacker with minimal damage by using his
momentum and acupressure points on the body.
As Shorinji Kempo is non-competitive, the
aim of practice is for everyone to benefit, grow
stronger and learn the art of self defence.
Come check us out at Freshers’ Fair!
Taekwondo is a modern Korean martial art,
characterized by fast, high, jumping, spinning
kicks.
Taekwondo breaks down to “Tae” meaning to
kick with the foot, “Kwon” meaning to punch or
strike with the hand, and “Do” meaning art or
way.
It is an all-around program that offers selfdefence training, physical exercise, and artistic
expression; all taught by an experienced
professional instructor.
Taekwondo evolved through the centuries as
a way to improve the health, physical fitness,
and defensive capabilities of the people who
practiced it.
Countries around the world practice
Taekwondo as a martial art, a self-defence
Dominic Heining
[email protected]
Wushu
Wing Chun
Sergey Badikov
[email protected]
Shorinji Kempo
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George Royde
[email protected]
directed towards an opponent’s weak points
and specifically their “Centre Line”. Classes are
taught by qualified professionals with many
years of experience. Sifu Andrew Sofos, who
leads the classes, has pursued the Wing Chun
system all his life and has dedicated himself to
studying and teaching this martial art deadly art.
Sessions take place on campus at a small cost,
so why not give this martial art a try?
Wing Chun Kung Fu is a Chinese martial art
developed by Ng Mui, a Buddhist Nun who
specialised in close quarter combat. The system
she developed relies on speed, skill and wit
rather than strength and size to overcome
an opponent. This makes it ideal for men and
women of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels.
Wing Chun’s leg techniques are directed
below the waist, making them both practical
and simple to execute. Arm techniques are
Wushu is a blanket term covering all Chinese
martial arts. Our aim is to teach and to practice
Chinese martial arts as they are taught in
China. We emphasise the basics common to
all Chinese martial arts, and we mainly teach
modern Wushu and Taiji. We also hold Shaolin
seminars every month. Our classes are open
to people of all levels. Wushu is a great way
to increase your fitness and flexibility and
overall health. We also organise trips to London
gymnastic centres, dinners and film nights
showing Kung Fu films and our own films.
Sorami Hisamoto
[email protected]
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Media
Media
IC Radio
felix
felix is the weekly student newspaper of
Imperial College and brings the news and
issues relevant to you, as students of Imperial
College. You’ll see thousands of copies just
about everywhere on campus come Fridays,
when it’s distributed on campus.
Each issue features sections from music,
arts and film to gaming and puzzles. The latest
matches from sports teams are covered in the
thriving Sports section.
We’re not showing off, but we’ve just won
the Guardian Student Media Newspaper of the
Year award, which feels pretty good.
The felix office is nearly open 24/7, and is a
place of laughter and great banter for everyone
involved. We’re open to everyone from Fresher
to PhD. The Editor-in-Chief is a full-time student
sabbatical but all the section editorials and
content is provided by the students.
So, if you’ve found yourself with some
information you think we need to know about,
or you fancy yourself as a reporter or critic, drop
us an email. Like everyone else, we’ll be at
Freshers’ Fair. Why not go one step further and
come join the Editorial team? You’ll love it.
Dan Wan
[email protected]
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IC Radio is one of the oldest and coolest
student stations in the country. Broadcasting
and streaming in crystal quality from icradio.
com, we are a welcoming community of DJs,
presenters, music lovers and Nandos eaters.
Anything goes on-air: Metal, House, Dubstep,
Pop, Science, Banter and Pretentious Scottish
Indie Shows, whereas off-air we have an avid
team of music followers of all kinds.
We have all the best musical equipment from
state of the art CDJs to reel-to-reel cassette
players and of course our beloved ALICE
broadcast desk (to know her is to love her). We
have a professional recording studio that allows
us to broadcast live-lounge style, as well as
produce high quality recordings. We are always
looking for people to help in the studio with any
level of experience!
If you have a love for web-design,
Photoshop, network engineering or any of the
above then not only would you love us, but
we’d love you! If you like free tickets to gigs,
interviewing celebs and hanging out with a
group of creative and like-minded music lovers,
then come see us at the Freshers’ Fair.
Daniel Fowler
[email protected]
Photographic
Do you own a camera? Confused about all the
technical jargon that goes along with using it?
Or do you just want to explore your creative
side via your camera. PhotoSoc is here to guide
you regardless of your level of expertise or the
size of your wallets.
Our Society has a mix of keen film and
digital photographers, all here to help you with
everything from panning to Photoshop and even
your Polaroid. You’ll also have the opportunity to
learn how to develop and print film in our very
own dedicated darkroom.
We run regular trips to take photographs
and visit exhibitions around London, as well
as organize workshops with the professionals.
And our annual PhotoSoc exhibition held in the
Blyth Gallery is your chance to have your work
exhibited gallery style. So come along, join in
on the fun and share your photographs with us!t
we’d love you!
Jonathan Kim
[email protected]
Live! News Website
Live! (http://live.cgcu.net) is an award-winning
student news website, which covers stories
varying from news about Imperial College and
the Union to the latest education news. We also
cover a wide range of other events throughout
the year, such as ArtsFest and the Science
Challenge.
Currently, Live! is mainly run by engineers
from the City & Guilds College Union, however
all Imperial Students are free to join in and write
articles. We’re always looking to expand, and
encourage suggestions from students. There’s
no need to join Live!, as anyone can submit an
article for publication. We’re especially looking
for photographers, journalists, sports and culture
editors, student bloggers, people to present
and produce our video content (with the help of
stoic tv) and of course, skilled web developers.
If you’re interested in taking part, email live@
cgcu.net.
Visit http://live.cgcu.net today, whether you
want to help make the news or simply read it!
Lawrence Weetman
[email protected]
STOIC TV
stoic tv is Imperial’s award-winning student
television station. We are at the hub of the
College’s student media and produce a
range of programming including reportage,
documentaries, live on-campus broadcasts,
comedy, live music coverage and any new
ideas brought to the table. You can watch us in
the JUnior Common Room, online at stoictv.
com, or via podcast.
If you think you can be the next face of
Imperial’s student media, we’ll give you the
chance to produce and present your own or an
existing show. The Jeremy Paxman inside you
can be unleashed on stoic tv’s weekly news
broadcast.
Behind the camera, stoictv has its own
studios in Beit, where our team of directors,
producers, editors and cameramen can help
you master the skill of your choice. Techies are
also welcome to plug, bodge and code away to
make our broadcast network bigger and better.
Come have a chat with us at the Freshers’ Fair,
we might even let you touch a camera.
Peter Evans & James Greenhalgh
[email protected]
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1
Outdoor
Outdoor
Assassins Guild
Mr Bateman? He froze. Mr Bateman?
The music began a crescendo. He took a deep
breath, straightened his tie, and turned slowly to
face his assassin. You’ve made some powerful
enemies Mr Bateman. He tried to speak but
found he had no voice.
He tried to get up - maybe he could still run! but no, he found he had no strength to move.
The Assassins Guild stages a game once a
term. The game is simple enough, every player
is given another players details and has to track
them down and kill them.
The main weapons are water pistols but every
player gets to invent one of their very own. In
the last game we had shurikens, poison frogs, a
blow pipe and the deadly poisoned anal beads
so let your imagination run wild!
Membership is free and the amount of effort
you put in is up to you so there is no excuse not
to give it a try.
Imperial College Wye Campus for overnight
observations of the Total Lunar Eclipse and the
Leonids Meteorite Shower. On top of all of
this, you’ll get a chance to meet people with a
common passion, learn about astronomy and
space exploration and of course, have fun. Find
us at our stall at Freshers’ Fair to join and get to
know more about Astrosoc.
Amnah Khan
[email protected]
Canoe
Whether you’re a complete beginner or a
hardcore river guru, Canoe Club is the place to
be. The most active and best-equipped student
kayak Club in London, we run regular weekend
whitewater river and surf trips to various parts
of England and Wales. These are great value,
costing around £30 for transport, gear, food and
drink.
Annual longer trips include Scotland and the
Alps, with one-off extreme summer expeditions
previously including Norway and India. The best
place to start is the Ethos swimming pool on
Tuesday evenings where you can improve your
rather than sweating on an indoor climbing wall.
All equipment and training is provided by the
Club and trips are run as cheaply as possible.
Caving is a complete break from lectures and
London life, getting you thoroughly wet, dirty,
exhausted and just about ready for another
Monday morning. Try it, you might just love it.
Alexander Herriot t
[email protected]
Exploration
Imperial College Caving Club is a relaxed, easygoing Club dedicated to caving, canyoning and
urban exploration. Over the last few years alone
we have discovered caves in Slovenia, Morocco
and Cuba.
No prior experience is necessary. You’ll find
yourself picking up new skills and getting fit
extremely quickly all by practising in a cave,
AstroSoc
94
Tom Haywood
[email protected]
Caving
Ruth Ball
[email protected]
There is more to Astronomy than just fancy
pictures and big telescopes. Whether you are
an experienced observer or only have a passing
interest, Imperial’s Astronomical Society,
AstroSoc, is the ideal place to meet like-minded
people!
We are a growing Society which organises
a wide range of events, from informal “star
parties”, in which you can use our 8” Schmidt
Cassegrain Telescope, to regular talks from
top astronomers and occasional visits to
observatories and museums.
Last year Astrosoc went several times to the
skills, learn new tricks, have a few relaxed games
of canoe polo and then go to the Union bars.
We’re a sociable, friendly Club, accumulating
many members, including many from other
London Universities.
So, whether it’s running huge waterfalls,
perfecting the latest freestyle moves or a gentle
ride with some great company, you’ll find Canoe
Club a perfect place to develop your paddling and
social life.
ExploSoc inspires and encourages you to set
up and run your own expeditions. It provides
a forum for ideas and advice, and is linked to
the Imperial College Exploration Committee
which considers expedition proposals made
by Imperial College students. Approval and
financial support from the Committee is a great
starting point for expeditions, and ensures an
improved chance of success.
The Society arranges for well-known
speakers to come to Imperial to give lectures on
their own expeditions, projects or exploration
experiences. A range of inspiring lectures taking
place across London are also publicised to
members, including lectures on base-jumping,
trad-climbing, paragliding and mountaineering.
Recent Imperial College expeditions have been
big-wall new routing in Morocco, high-altitude
mountaineering in Pakistan, engineering project
reconnaissance in Bolivia, and new-routing in
Greenland.
If these inspire you, or you have another
project you want to get off the ground, come
to our stall at Freshers Fair to sign up to the
mailing list.
Hal Watts
[email protected]
95
Outdoor
Outdoor
Fellwanderers
Fellwanderers is all about enjoying the good
things in life. It’s about going to beautiful places,
with friendly people, and getting some fresh
air, exercise and, hopefully, some exhilarating
views! Personally I think there’s nothing better
to do on a weekend than to get away from
London, climb a few hills and relax with your
friends in the pub afterwards.
We are the walking Club of Imperial organising
weekend trips and Sunday walks throughout the
year to the most stunning places in the UK.
Weekend trips include Snowdonia, the Lake
District, Peak District, and Dartmoor. Sunday
walks are pleasant and relaxing, just wandering
in the countryside close to London. During
holidays we venture further both in the UK
and Europe. Recent trips have included the
Scottish Highlands, trekking in the Alps and
Norway. The Club has an active social side. We
meet weekly for free lunches in the Union to
discuss future trips and catch up with friends.
Other socials include free drinks at barnights,
eating out, paintballing, extreme Frisbee and
Feuerzangenbowle. Join us if you want to relax
and be yourself in the company of friendly, like
minded people.
Alexander Kendall
[email protected]
96
travelling that you enjoy, see us by the Queen’s
Lawn at Freshers’ Fair or drop us an email.
Gliding
Gliding is quite possibly the best, cheapest and
most fun way to get into the air. It is a sport
which provides the opportunity to fly for hours
at a time, thousands of feet above the ground
and perform aerobatic manoeuvres - all without
the need for an engine.
Imperial College Gliding Club is the oldest
University gliding Club and caters for the
beginner pilot to the competition flyer. We have
three gliders ranging from a two seater training
glider to high performance cross country single
seaters. We fly at Lasham Airfield during term,
the largest gliding airfield in the country, and
organise tours in the UK and further afield
during the holidays. Most recently we have
been to Scotland and Germany. We don’t just
visit a place and gawp at the scenery, we gawp
from 5,000 feet. We’ll be at Freshers’ Fair
next to the glider. Come for trial flight and do
something a little different.
Michiel Blokzijl
[email protected]
Rikki Norris
[email protected]
Motor (RSM)
everyone a chance to display their racing skills.
We are also currently restoring a Classic mini
to be entered for trackdays/navigation rallies in
the near future. Many past members have gone
on to top roles in motorsport, including F1.
Whether you’re a novice or a keen racer
C&G Motor Club caters for all. No previous
mechanical knowledge is needed we just ask
that you turn up with enthusiasm.
Jeffrey Salmond
[email protected]
Motor (RCS)
Motor (C&G)
C&G Motor Club aims to provide a range of
motor related activities at rock bottom prices.
From Karting through to Formula 1 and Rallying
we get you involved at all levels.
Maintaining a fleet of 8 karts (30-80+mph) we
organise regular track days, teaching you driving
techniques and kart maintenance.
We also enter two teams into the British
Universities Karting Championship (BUKC)
competing against fellow Universities around
the UK, in what may be the most exiting league
of racing you will ever encounter. Our activities
are massively subsidised by the Club, allowing
Petrol, Grease, Whisky, Beer, Gin. Three of
these we put in our fire engine, three we put in
ourselves!
RCS Motor is the Club charged with the care
of Jezebel, a 1916 Dennis Fire Engine which has
been at Imperial since 1955. You don’t need to
be mechanically minded to help us look after
Jez, we do lots of other things too. The old girl
has been good to us recently, so we have a
great vehicle for trips out - we can often be seen
parked outside pubs throughout West London.
Our year starts with pub crawls and sightseeing
tours - we might even give you a lift to the first
night at the Union! Whether it’s greasing and
oiling, drinking and exploring or camping and
The Royal School of Mines Motor Club have
the enviable job of maintaining and running
‘Clementine’, a 1926 Morris T-type one-ton
truck. Clem used to belong to the Courage
brewery estate and is therefore a fitting mascot
for the students of the Royal School of Mines
who are very fond of the more than occaisional
tipple. Clem attracts students across all
faculties and is a great way of learning more
about traditional engineering, honing your
driving skills (on a three speed crash gear box)
and generally getting heads turning in the City.
There is no better way to spend Wednesday
evenings than dashing across the park for the
best fish and chips in town before heading out
on one of our legendary pub crawls. Clem also
spends most of the Summer touring southern
England at vintage vehicle and steam rallies so
don’t forget your tents!
Wrettham Ladbrooke-chartres
[email protected]
97
Outdoor
Outdoor
Mountaineering
Ever climbed? Been climbing for ages? Tried it
once before? Who cares! Being a member of
the Mountaineering Club is about having fun
climbing, whatever your level. We provide the
equipment and an awesome social atmosphere
to allow people to pursue their interest in
climbing, so if you’ve never climbed before,
now’s the time to try.
The Club meets every Wednesday to go
climbing at top quality indoor walls in London,
and run weekend trips to the best crag climbing
areas in the UK every two weeks during term
time.
We run social nights throughout the year, and
head abroad during the Easter and Summer
vacations for some serious tours to places that
have included Corsica, France, Croatia, Italy
and Spain. Sign up at the Freshers’ Fair and we
looking forward to climbing with you soon.
Thomas Coyne
[email protected]
Mountaineering (Medics)
Can you imagine yourself hanging onto a sheer
cliff by your fingertips, 100 feet off the ground
with the waves breaking beneath you and your
friends cheering you on (/hurling abuse) from
above..?
Whether you’re a computer scientist or the
next House MD, a complete rock virgin or Alain
‘’Spider-Man’’ Robert, we have something for
you! We meet twice a week at London’s top
indoor climbing walls (where we’ll happily let you
use our brand new kit!), and regularly venture
from the big city to some of the UK’s most
exciting climbing areas - including epic weekends
away to the depths of Wales, Devon and France!
98
When we’re not climbing, we’re livin’ it up - with
loads of socials lined up throughout your year
to keep you from going crazy with all the ‘hard
work’ you’ll be doing!
Come find us at the Freshers’ Fair, where we’ll
happily answer all your questions, and keep and
eye out for our Freshers’ Weekend away in the
first few weeks- it’ll be unnecessarily cheap and
you’ll come back with incredible memories of
climbing and of the evening happenings back
in the College’s ‘luxury’ hut in deepest, darkest
Snowdonia..
Hejie He
[email protected]
Outdoor
mountain areas in England and Wales, in addition
to a weekly indoor climbing meet.
Over vacations we organise longer tours
giving you the chance to go snow/ice climbing
in Scotland (Winter), rock climbing in places
like Spain and Croatia (Easter) and high altitude
mountaineering in the Alps (Summer). When you
add to this an active social calendar, including
our Bar Nights, meals out, film festivals you
have one of the most exciting Clubs at Imperial!
Come along to our stall Freshers’ Fair to find out
more and get involved!
perfectly good aircraft 2.5 miles high, grinning at
each other as you perform acrobatics and try to
outdo each other at a vertical speed of 160mph?
When you factor in the sun beating down on
your neck as you come in to land you’ll realise
that this is not just a sport, it’s the only sport.
Angus Turnbull
Racing
This is the Club that encompasses Imperial
College’s Formula Student racing team.
Formula Student is an international event in
which engineering students from the world’s
top technical colleges compete in the design
and manufacture of a small single seat racing
car.
The Club principally consists of third and
fourth year Mechanical Engineering students
who build the car as part of their major projects,
however, the Club is open to anyone with an
enthusiasm for engineering atnd formula racing.
There are also opportunities for first
and second years to get involved with the
manufacture of components, fundraising and
even having a drive!
Philip Leadbeater
[email protected]
Parachute
If you like the idea of getting out of town and
into the mountains then you’ll love the Outdoor
Club. We are the only Club at Imperial to offer
such a wide range of activities from hill walking
and scrambling, climbing and mountaineering to
mountain biking and canoeing!
Our friendly, experienced members are always
on hand to keep you safe and introduce you
to new outdoor activities. So whether you’re a
complete beginner or a hardened mountaineer
you’ll be welcome in our Club. During term
times we organise trips every other weekend to
Imperial College Parachuting & Skydiving is here
to get you falling to earth in the quickest time
possible.
Our home drop zone (DZ) is Weston on the
Green, near Oxford, and during the summer
months we aim to take a minibus there every
weekend.
This is one of the most exciting sports you can
do whilst at Imperial and we believe that the old
adage is true: “Our sport ate yours for breakfast.
“So do you think you have what it takes for
you and your mates to jump together from a
Matthew Taylor
[email protected]
99
Outdoor
Outdoor
Radio-Controlled Model
Radio-Controlled Model is a new Club that
started in December 2008. We aim to develop
members knowledge in building, controlling
and maintaining radio-controlled models (RC
models), and provide resources members
need to pursue their interest in RC models.
These aims are achieved by providing regular
workshop sessions and racing trips for our
members. In the past academic year, we have
held racing events with 1/10 electric cars around
the campus. Previous workshops have included
the building of our Tamiya TT01 Club car.
This year, we are getting a second Club car
for more members to enjoy the excitement of
RC building and racing. We are also expecting to
hold our first on-campus RC racing competition.
In addition, indoor helicopter flying is another
RC activity we are anticipating to expand into
this year.
If you are interested in RC models, joining us
will give you a Unique opportunity to access the
RC world. If you are already an RC enthusiast,
why not join us and share your RC passion with
friends. If you play other than RC cars or indoor
helicopters, we very much welcome any new
elements that will help diversify our wonderful
Club.
Railway
Imperial College was founded to supply the
engineers to build the Empire, principally
through railways.
The Railway Society continues this by
fostering close links with the movers and
shakers of the modern railway and transport
industry, both operational and engineering.
Through a regular series of talks and lectures
from the heads of the UK transport industry we
remain abreast of the key issues affecting the
transport networks we rely on. As a member of
the Railway Society you will also be able to visit
working depots around the country, test-drive
modern trains on simulators and get hands-on
work experience of building a working railway
with our regular track-laying weekends to the
Welsh Highlands.
There is no other Society able to offer such
front-line access to the industry, which will be
invaluable to anyone thinking of a future career
in the field.
The Society doesn’t forget the past, with
many events looking back at the proud history
of railways, through visits to heritage sites
around the country. So if you want an insight
into the vibrant and growing transport industry,
or perhaps you have a love of engineering and
trains, then the Railway Society is for you.
aqua Club! We meet every Monday evening for
training at St Mary’s pool and always in a nearby
pub afterwards (you’d be surprised how many
there are!) for a drink, (or two). It is a great way
of meeting people across the entire medical
school (not just students!).
We have trips to many sites particularly on
the south coast including Plymouth, Portland,
Horsea Island, Swanage, Stoney Cove and have
had trips to Gozo and the Red Sea. Many people
think diving is expensive but we offer free kit
hire, cheap membership and free training unlike
most University diving Clubs. So whatever your
age or ability come and see us at Freshers’ Fair
or check out our website.
We offer free try-dives so just let us know
which Monday evening you can come to at the
start of term and we’ll make sure you can have
a go!
SCUBA Diving (Underwater Club)
Ever wondered what it’s like inside a fish tank?
Learn to dive with Imperial College Underwater
Club (ICUC) and find out! Be weightless without
going into space and see the wonderful aquatic
life.
Whether its your first time or thousandth
dive, no matter what your experience, there’s
something for everyone. We go diving every
weekend in the UK as well as taking longer trips
abroad to sunnier climates.
Spend a week in the Red Sea swimming
around spectacular coral reefs with dolphins or
explore the striking remains of some of Britain’s
ship wrecks.
Recent Club trips have included California,
Sweden, Borneo, Gozo and Mexico! It’s not
all diving though. You’ll find us in the bar every
Tuesday night and on Wednesday nights in the
pool learning new skills, getting a bit of practice
in or playing octopush (underwater Hockey!).
So come and find us at Freshers’ Fair and join
one of the UK’s best student dive Clubs!
Christopher Arrell
[email protected]
SCUBA Diving (Medics)
Ruifeng Chen
[email protected]
100
Are you a budding Jacques Cousteau or even
James Bond? Want to learn to dive for your
elective or a holiday or have done it before and
want to improve? Or do you just fancy having
a go at SCUBA diving? Then join ICSM Sub-
Michelle Gatter
[email protected]
Dominic Andradi-Brown
[email protected]
101
Outdoor
Outdoor
Skate Society
Street Magic
Street Magic Society is a Society set up by
professional working magicians, allowing
anyone from beginner to expert to learn and
develop their skills in performing magic. We
cover all types of magic including close-up
with cards and coins, to stage magic with fire
and saws. We even hold talks with famous
magicians. Everyone is welcome, regardless of
skill.
Whether you are a professional speed skater or
you just want to try out Hockey for the first time
SkateSoc is the place for you.
Skate Society is a group of friendly, likeminded skaters here to help you stop looking
like Bambi on wheels or to improve the skills
you already have. We hold weekly lessons with
numerous experienced skaters who are there
to lend a hand or mess around with in a game
of street Hockey. These Wednesday afternoon
meet-ups can entail anything from learning
to stop, to slalom or play Hockey and speed
skating.
SkateSoc also has indoor inline Hockey
practice sessions on a regular basis and is
always looking for new players whether
you’re a seasoned veteran or wobbly fresher.
We organise a few matches against other
Universities throughout the year. In addition
to all this we also take part in skating activities
including cross London skates, night skates and
will enter more challenging events like the skate
marathon. If this sounds good to you, then join
us! We have a few Club skates so you don’t
need to have your own ones at first!
Street Magic
[email protected]
The Surf Club is a great choice for those wanting
to escape the stress of London, head to the
beach and spend the weekend riding waves with
some like minded people.
We are a relaxed and growing Club who
have lots to offer every standard of surfer, from
rentals and tuition for beginners to advanced
lessons for those who want to progress further!
One weekend every month we descend on
famous surfing resorts around the UK with
the promise of great waves, a great nightlife,
Thomas Utley
[email protected]
engineering at its most primitive and even an
engine illiterate person can quickly understand
the workings of the car. Everybody is welcome!
Email us or come and meet us at the Freshers’
Fair.
David Hankin
[email protected]
Wakeboarding
Boanerges, or Bo’ as he is affectionately known,
serves as the City & Guilds College Union’s
official motorised mascot. Built in 1902, he was
purchased by Guilds students in 1933 and has
remained with the college ever since. Bo’ is
one of the most exercised veteran cars still on
the road, each year participating in the famous
London to Brighton run (this year on Sunday 1st
November).
Members of Team Bo’ are eager to take him
out whenever possible. As a result, considerable
maintenance takes place on most Wednesday
afternoons in Bo’ garage, usually followed by
a well-earned visit to the pub. Members have
the opportunity to appreciate British automotive
If you like adrenalin and want to blow those
cobwebs out of your ear lobes that will soon
develop from spending days and days hunched
up in front of your textbooks then come and
try wakeboarding. We guarantee a good time
on and off the water! We are growing a tClub
with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where
we all just want to have fun! Every Wednesday
we go to JB ski for the afternoon to ride their
cable, boats and hit their kickers and sliders.
You get to meet loads of people from other
Universities as well as learn from and ride
with professionals. You don’t have to be good
or know how to do it to join us! Come see us
at the Freshers’ Fair where we will tell you all
about our upcoming beach party. You won’t be
able to miss us!
Jonathan Watkins
[email protected]
Nishanth Sundar
[email protected]
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and plenty of surfing time. We also organise
various socials throughout the year, and hope to
organise a summer tour!
So whether you’d like to try surfing, want to
continue riding or just cross off a few more surf
spots on the list, come and have a chat with us
at the Freshers’ Fair!
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Amnesty International
The Amnesty International Society at Imperial
campaigns for the promotion of human
rights. It works in collaboration with Amnesty
International, based in London, which is an
organization bringing ordinary people from
all around the world to stand up for people
wherever justice, fairness, freedom and truth
are denied. The Society at Imperial publicises
current AIUK campaigns on campus with
talks, fliers, stalls and attending peaceful
demonstrations in the hope of raising
awareness of human rights violations around
the world and at home. Current campaigns
include “Control for Arms”, Barack Obamas
first 100 days and the new “Demand Dignity”
campaign.
Last years highlights include a Christmas Card
Campaign with Leo Soc, Debating with the
Model UN Society and on campus campaigning
where over 300 signatures were collected in
support of the closure of Guantanamo Bay.
As a break from the usual serious business,
members enjoy Christmas and Easter socials.
On the whole, the direction the Club takes is
largely up to the members.
Ruth Patchett
amnest [email protected]
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Anime
At AnimeSoc we cater for all tastes - whether
you’ve never watched anime or read manga,
or if you have a bigger collection than we do,
we’ll have something for you. We have three
screenings a week (Mondays, Wednesdays
and Fridays) where we show recent series and
OVAs as well as the odd classic that we feel
everyone deserves the chance to see! Anime
is available in any genre you can imagine, and
every year we make an effort to select shows
from each one so that our members can vote for
the ones they want to see.
Our manga library grows by the year and
contains over 200 volumes. Members can let
us know what they would like to see in it as our
collection grows even larger.
Lastly, we don’t just watch and read, we are
a very social Society with numerous subsidised
events throughout the year, such as restaurant
trips, bowling, arcading, and trips to anime and
manga conventions (mainly in the London area).
Charlotte Mattey
Atheist And Agnostic
Book
Our Society exists to represent and support
those who have no belief in the supernatural
and wish to promote secular ideas and values.
We can do this through the excitement and
enthusiasm of new members.
Coming to University can be a difficult time
and being at a science institution, you may
begin to question or have questioned religion
and faith.
We aim to provide a social and intellectual
support network for you where we encourage
freethinking and inquisition.
We do not conscribe to any particular doctrine
or philosophy but aim to help you develop your
own philosophy through a range of lectures,
talks and discussions.
The social aspect of the Society revolves
around these talks and we invite anyone of any
faith to come along and be inquisitive.
When was the last time you read a book for
pleasure? When did you last go on the tube and
wish you had something better to do than just
read the adverts? Whether you’re a book worm
or barely literate, Book Club is the place for you!
Every month, we select a book which members
can buy at a massively discounted price.
At the end of the month we hold lively group
discussions where you can share your thoughts
and opinions with fellow readers, whilst sipping
on free Starbucks coffee and biscuits. From
thrillers and classics to new releases and bestsellers, Imperial College Book Club caters for
everyone!
As a recently formed Society we are always
growing and keen for members to get stuck
in. Join IC Book Club and make some great
new friends... and if you feel you have enough
friends then why not catch some ‘me’ time and
simply chill out with a good book.
Ben Schneider
[email protected]
Be Heartful Friends
Be Heartful Friends is a student based
fundraising Society concerned with raising
money for the British Heart Foundation.
The mission of the British Heart Foundation is
to play a leading role in the fight against disease
of the heart and circulation so that it is no
longer a major cause of disability and premature
death. We hope we can play our part in making
this happen.
Come and find us at the Freshers’ Fair.
Be Heartful Friends
[email protected]
Naima Jetha
[email protected]
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beyond Cheddar, come along - we’ll prove there
is!
Bright Futures
Bright Futures’ main aim is to help students
develop the key skills demanded by top
recruiters. Many of our goals are achieved by
inviting important and influential sponsoring
groups from industries around the UK to
Imperial College.
These events give students the opportunity to
gain an in depth understanding of the industry
or business above and beyond a standard
corporate careers presentation. This year,
we sent teams to several national challenges
and achieved first place in the IBM/CitiGroup
Universities Business Challenge. We organised
more than ten careers presentations and
popular workshops. We also sponsored several
charitable and alternative Societies.
The basic motto of Bright Futures is that
when students are in need of career advice then
they can turn to us. Just remember that we are
students here to help other students succeed.
Feel free to send us an email for further
information.
Bright Futures Society
[email protected]
Cascade
Cascade aims to address contemporary ethical
issues facing young people in Society today.
Through a series of engaging seminars and
workshops we aim to explore and establish an
ethical foundation to help young people with the
challenges of day to day life.
The Society provides an opportunity for
students to share their thoughts and experiences
and also to meet with experts from various fields
and backgrounds.
It also provides you with the opportunity to
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Alexander Herriot t
[email protected]
Chocolate
meet new and exciting people at Imperial! We
look forward to meeting you at Freshers Fair!
Afsoon Sepahzad
[email protected]
Cheese
Every Thursday lunchtime, Cheese Soc meet in
the Union Bar for a sociable lunch of cheese and
crackers.
It is a great opportunity to meet people from
other years and departments who have a whole
range of interests - whilst trying a variety of
cheeses from well known Stiltons, Bries and
Wendsleydales, to more exciting cheeses like
the spicy Mexicana, creamy Camembert and
flavoursome goats’ cheeses.
Once you become a Cheese Soc member,
every Thursday cheese tasting session is
absolutely free. In addition to the Thursday
meetings Cheese Soc run a variety of other
events including fondue and raclette evenings,
pub crawls and the legendary Cheesefest,
allowing you to explore the cultural and historical
background of cheese eating.
Finally, in the summer term we go on Tour
to visit a cheese factory to see how cheese is
made. So, if you feel there may be something
Have you ever dreamed of becoming a
chocolate connoisseur? Did you know you that
it is possible to taste mushrooms in chocolate?
Do you wish to learn more about this wonderful
treat? Or do you simply enjoy good chocolate?
ChocSoc will introduce you to chocolate in a
way you have never known!
For the hard-core chocaholics, there will be
regular tastings, where we show you how to
taste chocolate. It’s amazing how chocolate has
all sorts of complexities and levels of flavour!
You’ll find Unique attributes for each chocolate
you taste, from flavour notes to texture to
finish, as though each one has a distinctive
personality. And for those who just want to
relax, there are chocolate themed socials where
you can chill out with friends and enjoy proper
chocolate! Throughout the year, we will also
organize trips and chocolate-making classes.
We aim to promote good quality chocolate,
not the cheap stuff! Cadbury lovers be warnedwe may soon change your mind!
coffee the way it should be: not burnt, smooth,
silky and heavenly. Coffee Soc is here to
promote awareness and appreciation of coffee.
We will hold regular coffee tasting sessions
using beans from around the world, such as
Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, Brazilian Santos and
Jamaican Blue Mountain. However, we’re not
just about drinking coffee!
We aim to teach you the delicate art of making
coffee during our barista training sessions taught
by a professional, during which you will learn to
pull the perfect espresso, the skills of steaming
milk and producing freehand latte art. A trip to a
roastery will allow you to experience commercial
coffee production choosing, roasting, blending
and packaging of beans.
Additionally, talks with coffee experts will give
you an insight into coffee farming, tasting and
commercial production.
Join us, just to enjoy a good cup or to
understand the beauty of coffee. You will
experience the best coffees of your life, made
by yourself and gain a wealth of knowledge and
appreciation for the little brown bean.
Wing Tai
[email protected]
Coffee
On the 8th day, God created coffee and all of
mankind became caffeinated.
In 2009, Coffee Soc was created, and now
all of Imperial-kind can experience the perfect
Annabelle Jayaraman
[email protected]
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Society sends teams all over the nation as well
as internationally to compete against other
Universities. We also hire national debaters to
coach us on a fortnightly basis. This year, we will
be organizing our 3rd Annual Imperial College
Inter-varsity tournament in November that will
be participated by debaters from all across the
country. Weekly meetings move to the Union
bar and competitions mix rigorous thought with
a dedication to social events (Pub debates are
particularly fun)! We can’t wait to get going, and
it’s really exciting to be welcoming a new intake
of debaters.
Conservative
Now is a fascinating time to be involved in
politics. Who the Prime Minister is when you
read this I do not know. What I do know is
that if you want to learn about Politics and get
involved with the Conservatives there is no
better way to do it than on the campaign trail,
especially that of a general election.
That’s not to say the Society is only for the
die-hard supporter or solely about campaigning,
in fact that is just a small part. If you want to
learn more about British politics the Society
allows you to do that with talks and debates
featuring MPS, MEPs, political commentators
and of course yourselves!
It is a chance to get a front row seat on the
political world. We will start the autumn with
a tour of Parliament, (tickets are limited, so
get your name down early) as well as a drinks
reception with our local MPs. Social events
will also abound and we regularly attend
events at the other London Universities-UCL
Conservative Societies’ Port and Policy and
annual Pimms party are highly recommended!
Conser vative Society
[email protected]
Simon Weber
[email protected]
Consultancy
Debating
The Imperial College Consultancy Society (ICCS)
is the major Society for students interested
in consultancy careers. ICCS is collaborating
with many consulting firms. Our aim is to
provide our members with everything they
need to land their dream job. We host regular
events with many top consultancy firms. These
events are aimed at providing our members
with information about job opportunities in
consulting as well as offering a platform to
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network and learn about the distinguished
cultures amongst consultancy firms. ICCS also
provides educational resources on consulting
and organises the Case Study Club, where our
members can learn to do well in case study
interviews. Furthermore, ICCS aims to host
speeches for our members by distinguished
figures from business, so that there is
something interesting for everybody. If you are
interested or want to find out more, you can
come to our stall at the Freshers’ Fair or send us
an email.
The Imperial College Debating Society is a very
Unique platform for students to practice their
skills of presentation as well as engagement
with an audience. At our weekly meetings,
we debate on many different subjects, from
medical ethics and current politics to economics
and energy policy. We are the only outlet that
allows for students to engage in formal and
intelligent debates against each other as well
as against students of other Universities. The
Yu Chong
[email protected]
Debating (ICSMSU)
“It is better to debate a question without settling
it than to settle a question without debating it!”
Joseph Joubert, French Philosopher.
The Medical Debating Society is an interactive
institution, led by its members. Everyone, medic
or not, is welcome to come and let off steam
and defend the issues they hold dear.
We hold a diverse range of events that
address issues within the medical profession,
from light hearted motions to those that cause
unrivalled controversy and division! In addition
to conventional consultant led debates we also
hold “Question Time” style events, involving a
panel who will respond to questions from the
floor and we have world renowned speakers
address our members on all manner of topics.
Medicine will teach you how your mouth works
and in our Public Speaking Workshops we’ll
teach you how to use it!
Suitable for the seasoned debater or illiterate
buffoon, our coaches will help you hone your
presentation skills, which will be invaluable for
your career in medicine, engineering or science.
So join the Medical Debating Society today and
you could be arguing tomorrow!
Jaimie Henry
[email protected]
e.quinox
e.quinox is a non-profit, humanitarian project
that hopes to bring cost-effective renewable
energy to developing countries. e.quinox aims
to develop and implement a cost-effective offgrid stand alone photovoltaic system to power
rural villages in the developing world.
We consider electric power a fundamental
element to ensure an acceptable quality of
life. The introduction of electric power to small
communities in developing countries will have
many benefits: improving health, education and
the general quality of life.
We realise that building a centralised
electric network in this context will not be
socio-economically feasible, but we believe
smaller, economically viable and technologically
appropriate solutions may be the answer.
e.quinox is a students’ initiative started at
Imperial that aims to bridge the gap between
the classroom and the real world, by bringing
cost-effective renewable energy solutions to
developing countries.
The organisation is led by a team of Imperial
College electrical engineering students, but
also consists of several other academics and
personnel within the University, Rwanda
and around the world. All of its constituents
believe it to be their responsibility to design
and implement innovative systems, to run
appliances benefiting schools, hospitals and
social communities.
Mohammad Hamayun
[email protected]
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Environmental
ESoc’s activities over the past few years have
ranged from trips away to cider breweries,
organic farms, and Cornwall to visits to
beaches, caves, and the Eden Project. We
also hold BBQ’s by the pond in our section
of the ‘secret garden’, which is maintained
by members. The past four years have also
seen the successful ‘Green Week’ organised
by the Society, with the support of the Union,
researchers, professors and other organisations.
Last year Esoc was finally successful in getting
college to pass an environmental policy.
ESoc was established by students who were
concerned about the environment in the context
of social, cultural, political and economic issues.
We provide the opportunity for like-minded
people to come together!
the year the Society holds Fairtrade themed
social events providing many opportunities to
sample Fairtrade produce and meet with other
individuals interested in better prices, working
conditions and sustainability in the developing
world.
Be prepared for Fairtrade chocolate parties
and cocktail nights! There might even be a world
record attempt along the way! The Society is
also responsible for holding an event packed
Fairtrade Fortnight in the spring term. Last year
this included film showings, a cheese and wine
night and talks from visitors involved with the
Fairtrade Foundation. Believe in a better deal for
developing countries? Want to be involved in
fun and friendly social events? If so this is the
Society for you!
Eliza Selley
[email protected]
Finance
Reuben Gibbons
[email protected]
Fairtrade
Fairtrade Society is a student led campaigning
group which aims to spread awareness and
understanding of Fairtrade. Our official roles are
to promote availability of Fairtrade certificated
products on campus. As well as this, throughout
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The Imperial College Finance Society (ICFS)
is the premier Society for students looking
for city careers. With over 150 members, we
are the largest careers focused Society on
campus. Our aim is to provide members with a
wealth of resources and opportunities to help
individuals achieve their professional ambitions.
ICFS is sponsored by many top-tier city firms
in the Accounting, Banking and Consultancy
(ABC) sectors. Established in 1999, ICFS is
experienced in holding regular informative
events with leading investment banks and
city firms, giving members an opportunity to
network and learn from the professionals.
Over the years, ICFS has fostered a vibrant,
interactive community with future employers/
colleagues, peers/alumni and students at some
of the best institutions around the world. Our
reputation precedes us amongst ABC graduate
recruiters: participating in our events could
transfer your application from the ‘maybe’ to the
‘yes’ pile. The sooner you get involved the better,
so for all you first and second years, make sure
you understand what you’re applying for and get
an edge on the competition.
Craig Young
[email protected]
Friends of Medicins Sans Frontiers
Medecins Sans Fronteres is an international
humanitarian aid organisation that provides
emergency medical assistance to populations in
danger in more than 80 countries. The Imperial
Friends of MSF is a support group of MSF. We
welcome all students from all faculties. Our
main aim is to fundraise and raise awareness of
MSF and its activities. You will have a chance
to be an integral part of a specific team and be
able to actively contribute. As a member you
will have priority at all our events, ranging from
speaker nights and film showings to debates. as
well as access to our termly newsletters!
children of all ages playing sports, making things,
learning languages/cultures and generally having
a laid back, fun and rewarding experience.
Evenings and weekends are yours to enjoy,
whilst many choose to use the trip as a base
for travelling around this fascinating region. Trips
take place in groups of 3 or 4 and between June
and September. Where you go, when you go and
who you go with is entirely your choice! An ICAB
trip is a Unique opportunity to help others whilst
taking the chance to explore a different part of
the world and its culture. Check out trip reports
from previous groups and other information at
www.icab.org.uk, and look out for our stall at
Freshers’ Fair! So go on, do something different
this Summer!
Deep Shah
[email protected]
Kelly Ameneshoa
[email protected]
Imperial Entrepreneurs
IC Aid to the Balkans
Want to do something different this Summer?
Imperial College Aid to the Balkans (ICAB) is
a student-run charity organisation, and each
year we send volunteers like you to spend 2
memorable weeks helping out youth centres
and orphanages across Bulgaria and Bosnia.
Locations vary from the city to the countryside
and the coast, with every centre offering a
different experience. Spend your days with
Imperial Entrepreneurs is the launchpad for
the next generation of disruptive technology
entrepreneurs at Imperial College London. If
you are interested in getting involved come and
find us at the Freshers’ Fair and make sure you
attend our introductory event.
Niccolo Corsini
[email protected]
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Imperial Queers (LGBT)
We are the Union’s Society for lesbian, gay,
bisexual and transgender students.
IQ aims to provide a friendly, welcoming and
safe environment in which you can socialise with
other LGBT students and take part in the Club’s
activities: film nights, our bar night in Soho, day
trips across London and beyond are just some
of the wide range of activities we provide and
we are always open to new suggestions. The
Society is also here to provide a friendly ear
for all people who might be questioning their
sexuality and to provide guidance and support
for people coming out. A Women’s Officer is part
of the committee to ensure that there is friendly
female support in the often male-dominated
world of Imperial. The Society is involved with
other Universities’ LGBT Societies and attends
their events so that it’s easy to make friends
with a wide range of students across London.
New members are always welcome, so if you
want to know more then you can contact us by
e-mail or come and say hi at the Freshers’ Fair.
Innovation
Innovation Society is committed to provide an
environment in which members can interact
with each other and with scholars from other
institutes, in order to establish contacts as well
as to provide an informative and useful insight
into the real world. We are honoured to maintain
a cooperative relationship with Imperial Business
School and well-known companies such as Pfizer
and Inbev.
In this academic year, Innovation Society is
holding a series of events including Innovation
Challenge, Creative Photo Contest and
Innovation Exhibition. In these events, our
members can learn from experts in different
industries and broaden their horizons. These
events are also great opportunities to develop
their commUnication, team working and creative
thinking skills.
Innovation Society
[email protected]
Interact
Christopher Darby
[email protected]
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IC Interact is a student led volunteering
Society offering a variety of one off projects. We
are aimed at students who feel like they want to
volunteer but who can’t commit to something
major....WE NEED YOU!
This is going to be a fun and sociable Society...
We want to offer many different projects
throughout the year working in both the local
community and further afield. This year we
have worked with the elderly, the young,
environmental projects and many others. You
pick what you want to do; its all flexible. We
also run numerous social events ensuring that
everyone has a good time. What we are looking
for are people who want to get involved and be
Law
active and be part of our team; its rewarding and
satisfying and you will make a difference to the
community. We need enthusiastic people who
want to meet new people and make new friends
and learn new skills. So what’s your passion? If
it’s volunteering, get in touch!
Jason Aw
[email protected]
Angela Chow
[email protected]
Libertarian
Labour
The Society for students and staff at Imperial
College who believe in Labour values. The
Labour Party is a democratic socialist party,
and we are an open Society aiming to provide a
forum to discuss and debate Labour ideas and
policy. IC Lab-Soc will be hosting an exciting
mix of guest speakers, MPs and ministers over
the course of the year, giving you a chance to
question members of the Government of this
country. The Society is a great way to meet
like-minded individuals at Imperial and across
London in conjunction with London Young
Labour, and there will be plenty of opportunities
for socialising!
Nicholas Brown
[email protected]
Do you want to be a lawyer, or are you just
interested in law? Although Law is not offered
as a course at Imperial, The Law Society is here
to offer information, advice or practical sessions
for those of you thinking of converting to law.
We organise information and recruitment events
with major international law firms and leading
law schools so you can find out about careers
in law.
For those of you who are interested in law
but not set on a law career, we will be holding
general talks and trips for you as well.
The Libertarian Society is dedicated to
promoting the ideas of liberty and private
property to Imperial College students through
discourse and events. Libertarianism is a
political orientation orthogonal to the traditional
left-right spectrum, agreeing, in general, with
the personal freedom espoused by the left, and
economic freedom by the right. We are closely
affiliated with Libertarian groups from other
London Universities, and London think-tanks
interested in free market economics and civil
liberties, such as the Institute for Economic
Affairs (IEA). We often join their events,
providing our members with the opportunity
to mingle with like-minded individuals at other
Universities and to get involved with institutions
like the IEA.
Libertarian Society
[email protected]
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Meat Appreciation
LINKS
Want to save some lives before you graduate?
How about combining that with some of the
best entertainment that London has to offer?
By joining IC LINKS, the Imperial College
student division of St John Ambulance, you
can! Through LINKS you can obtain first aid
qualifications and get out on amazing duties
around London, and the UK. You can qualify
to use defibrillators, medical gases, radios
and even work up to crewing an ambulance.
The brilliant duties include Chelsea, Arsenal
and Spurs football games, Twickenham rugby,
Wimbledon tennis, Lords and the Oval cricket
games, Hyde Park concerts, West End theatres
and massive London events such as the
Marathon and Notting Hill Carnival - all for free!
There are loads of other opportunities available,
including teaching first aid to school children,
becoming a first aid trainer and assessor and
managing treatment centres.
Charlotte Askew
[email protected]
Christopher Hutchinson
[email protected]
Linux Users
Medical Humanities
We are a Society to support and promote the
GNU/Linux computer operating system. Linux
is a free alternative to operating systems like
Microsoft Windows. We have an active mailing
list, and weekly meetings for Linux users to ask
questions and discuss anything vaguely related
to Linux/Unix.
We also hold events to help new users install
and set up Linux according to their needs.
Graham Markall
[email protected]
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MeatSoc is a simple Society, whose main aim
is to further the eating and appreciation of meat
and all meat-based food products. We hold
regular trips to restaurants around London to
sample all kinds of meat, and have a strong
social component. So, if you enjoy meat or
would just like to learn more about it, come
along and talk to us at Freshers’ Fair!
The Medical Humanities Society is informally
known as ‘The Purple Coat Club’ and in addition
to literature, it encompasses visual arts,
media, poetry and film all in the context of the
medical profession. We meet regularly to hold
discussions that are centred on the portrayal
of medicine in popular culture. Membership is
FREE and open to all.
Medical Humanities
[email protected]
Model United Nations
Model United Nations (MUN) is a forum for
Imperial students to engage in debates on
international issues.
We run weekly simulations of many UN
committees such as the Security Council
and the General Assembly. Topics include
Conflicts, World Trade, Human Rights and
Climate Change. MUN provides a platform
for you to gain new knowledge on world
issues and express your opinions. During
our weekly simulations, members take on
the role of diplomats and employ a variety
of commUnication and critical thinking skills
to defend and advance the policies of the
country they represent. We also attend MUN
conferences all around the world including
New York and the Netherlands to name a few.
These are great opportunities to see the world
and meet other people. This year we are also
starting our new publication A Global Village.
Students will be able to contribute articles. In
essence, MUN is a social Society, organising
frequent recreational events and participating in
the wider global MUN community. Visit our stall
at the Freshers’ Fair and try our quiz, there will
be fun prizes!
Sameer Bahal
[email protected]
PASS
Public Awareness and Social Service Society
(PASS) was set up just over a year ago. We
aim to promote awareness of public affairs
and foster a sense of civil recognition with
a pan-Asian focus. We have invited a few
prominent speakers to talk about a range of
topics, and held a charity concert to raise money
for our annual summer trip to a rural province
in Southern China to teach elementary school
children English.
At the beginning of every term we publish
our own Chinese newspaper, with contributions
from students worldwide.
This year we aim to continue with these
fun and informative events, including the
concert to be held this term. Furthermore, we
are introducing discussion seminars held at a
regular basis where students are encouraged to
voice their opinions over a controversial topic.
Everyone is welcome to join these discussions
and perform in the concert.
Keith Hariman
[email protected]
Political Philosophy
The PPS is one of the most prominent
and active student organisations regarding
politics in London, exists to stimulate and
nurture discussion and debate on all political,
philosophical, ideological and cultural issues
worldwide.
To these aims, numerous meetings and
events are organised where guest speakers are
invited to exchange dialogue with members.
The PPS has a prestigious array of past
speakers, ranging from Prime Ministers to
Professors and everything in between. Hosting
these individuals goes towards aiding our longterm objective: to increase general awareness
and knowledge of world affairs through events
and seminars and to hopefully - with well
balanced debate and discussion - do its part to
eliminate ignorance and encourage tolerance.
Ndubuisi Kejeh
[email protected]
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Social
Social
Pugwash
Student Pugwash at Imperial organises talks
and events to investigate the ethical and
social implications of progress in science
and technology. We also organise the Ethical
Careers Exhibition, an independent careers
fair and series of talks focusing on smaller and
ethically-minded companies. It would be great
to see you there! Look out for posters around
college and sign up to our mailing list to be kept
up to date.
The international Pugwash Conferences on
Science and World Affairs, founded by Joseph
Rotblat, and Bertrand Russell in 1957, every
year bring together leading scientists from
around the world to work towards nuclear
disarmament and reducing security threats.
Leading scientists who have supported the
movement include Albert Einstein, Michael
Atiyah and Martin Rees.
Pugwash Society
Real Ale (RSM)
RSM Real Ale (or, amongst the veterans, “Ale
Sock”) is THE Society for the discerning beer
drinker. With the thousands of pubs and bars
around London, it can be a real challenge to
find one offering a well-kept variety of real beer.
Fortunately, we know where they are, and we
want to take you to them. We also want to take
you to the numerous beer festivals held annually
around London.
Every year, we also offer our members a free
brewery tour and bar nights, where we have a
barrel of something nice put on in the Union, just
for our members. And if you’re normally a lager
drinker, don’t be put off - we believe there’s at
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least one real ale out there that will match your
tastes, and we can help you find it. So whether
you’re a seasoned stout drinker or just curiously
tasting your first bitters, come and join us for a
pint. Cheers!
David Stewar t
[email protected]
The Save The Children Society organises
events such as live music concerts, parties
around London, talks and shows to promote
global health issues such as child poverty, Third
World education, and health care in developing
countries.
The Society aims to encourage charitable
and altruistic work and supports students
with their own fundraising, whether through
sporting achievements or their own events.
Save The Children is fortunate to have access
to extremely talented celebrities which endorse
their projects and we aim to get musicians and
actors involved in our concerts and shows, or
as guest speakers.
We also run a project in local schools to
teach primary school children about the lives of
children in other countries. Events are tailored
specially for students of all backgrounds and all
University faculties. Therefore get involved and
become a member!
Thomas Ward
[email protected]
Science Fiction
Imperial College Science Fiction and Fantasy
Society (ICSF) is dedicated to giving fantasy
and science fiction fans a place to read, watch,
discuss and generally enjoy the genres together,
as well as chatting about almost anything else
we can think of!
We run our own library, open weekday
lunchtimes and plenty of other times besides,
and we lend all our 8,000+ books, 1,500 DVDs
and videos, and nearly 500 graphic novels out
to our members. And, chances are, if we don’t
have it, we’ll get it for you...
But that’s certainly not all! We organise regular
video showings as well as many social events
outside our beloved library: several bar nights
per term, cinema outings to see new films
and book crawls around London’s best SF&F
booksellers. In February we run Picocon, our
annual convention showcasing guest authors,
book sales, special events and games. Plus, at
the end of the year we make a trip to Hay-onWye, a small town in Wales with the greatest
density of second hand bookshops per person
in the entire UK. Whether you come along for
the books, the films, the bar nights or our varied
events, ICSF has something to suit almost any
taste.
Alexander Savell
SIFE
SIFE Imperial offers the exciting opportunity
for students to work closely with corporate
organisations to develop and get involved in
meaningful projects that make a difference in
the community.
Our current projects range from working with
school children and single mothers in England,
to helping students in Tanzania. Every year we
present the projects to over 200 judges in a
national SIFE competition, competing with 30
other Universities.
This is the perfect opportunity to develop key
business skills, meet amazing new people whilst
also making a difference in the community
through hands-on activities.
Ying Ho
[email protected]
Socialist Worker
The Socialist Worker Student Society believes
another world is both possible and necessary.
We believe that the activity of millions can
transform Society and we fight against the
oppression present under capitalism, to
achieve a world where people are placed
before profit. Here at Imperial the SWSS
group organises many debates, film showings
and cultural events around how the people
of the world can Unite to move Society
forward in positive directions. The most
important role SWSS plays is in active ongoing
campaigns and we have built strong links with
students organising against War, racism and
environmental destruction. We also regularly
take part in events outside College - everything
from conferences to mass demonstrations.
SWSS welcomes interested people from all
backgrounds and political opinions and holds
regular and informal meetings and paper sales.
Socialist Worker
[email protected]
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Social
Social
_Software
Tea
Software dominates our lives increasingly
every year we increase our reliance on those
lines of code. It may seem particularly difficult
to become involved in this technological
revolution, yet _SOFTWARE Club will help to
show how much you can achieve. Our Society
aims to both teach enthusiastic beginners and
to provide a great opportunity for the more
skilled to pursue interesting projects with other
like-minded people. In the coming year, there
will be an emphasis on projects with several
contributors to each project. Already planned
are a financial simulation project as well as a
gaming project. So whether you wish to pursue
that special interest or simply wish to learn,
_SOFTWARE aims to satisfy your needs.
Elena-andreea Babiuc
[email protected]
Marc Morgan
[email protected]
Stop the War
UniCEF
We sim to educate Imperial’s student body
through debate, film, music and cultural events:
not only about the occupation of Iraq but also
of Afghanistan, Palestine and the increasingly
threatening rhetoric directed towards Iran. We
are an active campaigning Society and have
been involved in building numerous national
demonstrations against war and racism.
Though we are a fully independent organisation
and at liberty to pursue our own agenda, we
often work closely with the national Stop the
War Coalition, which has played a central
role in building a truly vibrant mass anti-war
movement.
Stop the War Society
[email protected]
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We love tea. From traditional British blends
to more exotic varieties like Darjeeling and
Oolong, the Society is committed to increasing
students’ pleasure of the World’s favourite
drink. We provide regular times and places
for students to take time out from their busy
schedules to take tea breaks together, and also
host large scale tea tasting events. So whether
you’re a tea fanatic or have only ever drunk
Tetley, will you come join us for a cuppa?
Our Society aims to raise awareness of global
social issues surrounding less fortunate children
around the world. The previous academic year
has been a milestone for ICU UniCEF in terms
of both member recruitment and campus-wide
fund-raising events hosted. We are a very
active social Society and UniCEF now plays an
important role in many students’ campus life.
We welcome students who are outgoing, active
and would like to do something to improve
the future of this world. By registering with
our Society, you are entering a community
of energetic people with strong volunteering
beliefs.
Alankar Lodha
[email protected]
VegSoc
How does the thought of good free food
sound? What if we spiced it up with an active
social life? Catch? Of course there is! It’s
hinted in the name, if there is anything that
Veg Soc takes seriously - it’s our greens. That
and making sure our meetings fill its members’
stomachs. Please don’t think all we do is eat
Brussel sprouts and cabbage - we love to go
on adventures of the palate: from fragrant
curries to succulent fresh fruit to appeasing
our sweet teeth. You’ll be surprised what
you can do without even touching the milk or
eggs. However the Society is definitely not
just for the Veg-prefixes, we wholeheartedly
welcome and respect all diets and get along like
strawberries and cream. Although we tend to
harp on about food we do love a night out we
shake it like a Tuscan olive grower at harvest
time with live bands and Club nights we also
have equipment for borrowing because we
encourage culinary experimentation. So if you
are interested in free delicious food and fun
measure for measure come along.
Deep Shah
[email protected]
Wine and Fine Drinks
We are a Society devoted to the appreciation of
all fine drinks. What is a fine drink? We mainly
specialise in wine and whisky, though cocktail
nights are also organised, and we are willing
to organise a night for any drink people are
interested in, for example rum or cider. And
don’t worry, we are not complete alcohol snobs.
If you just want to drink something that doesn’t
taste like horse piss, and you don’t want people
being rowdy and throwing up right next to you,
this Society is right for you. Join us to drink in
a relaxed and pleasant social atmosphere, with
a variety of delicious drinks made available to
you. And if that doesn’t sell it for you, we also
organise trips to Scotland and France.
Wine and fine Drinks Society
[email protected]
Women in SET
We are the IC Women in Science, Engineering
and Technology Society - the only Society
at the College exclusively geared towards
academically, socially supporting and enhancing
the female student community. We organise
events for women studying or interested in
SET. Our annual events include: a symposium
for students interested in research and
academia, with prominent women scientists
on the panel networking evenings with various
speakers from industry, covering all science
and engineering disciplines workshops focusing
on CV’s and job applications as well as softer
skills- to help students in their pursuit of a
SET career. An important goal of our Society
is to raise awareness about SET opportunities
among girls at school. Once a year we host an
open day for schools- the activities we organise
during the day include tours of departments,
lab demonstrations, hands-on experiments and
much more. We receive a lot of support to run
the open days from IC student volunteers and
members of our Society. If you are interested
find us at the Freshers’ Fair where we can tell
you about more about the Society and about
the highly acclaimed ‘100 Women 100 Visions’
event that we hosted.
Aiman Alam Nazki
[email protected]
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Sport
Sport
American Football
Though it is still a young Club, the American
football Society has come on leaps and bounds
since we kicked off 2 years ago. This year for
the first time, the Imperial Immortals will be
competing in the British University League.
Whether you’re a football fanatic or a
complete footballing amateur, we’re fully
equipped and this is now the Club to join.
We train twice a week at Imperial’s Harlington
Sports Ground, with classroom sessions to
prepare for upcoming matches and for new
players to learn the basics.
We believe in dedication and a strong
commitment to training, but also in building
team spirit. We have fun off the field as well
as on. Many of our players meet on Sundays to
watch NFL games throughout the season and
we can often be found at the Union on sports
nights and ACC bar nights.
If you’re interested in playing, supporting or
joining our cheerleading squad, come find us at
Freshers’ Fair!
Geoffrey Chow
[email protected]
Robin Baumgarten
[email protected]
Athletics (ICSMSU)
Archery
The Archery Club caters for all abilities, from
beginners to experienced archers. We have a
dedicated training programme for beginners
with all equipment and coaching included in the
membership fee.
We are always on the lookout for experienced
archers to supplement our senior team. The
Club has an excellent competitive record at
regional and national events, and provides
numerous opportunities for archers to compete
at their own level throughout the year. Both
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our beginners and seniors alike have won their
respective categories in the local University
league in recent years and have consistently
medaled at the national student competition.
If competition isn’t for you, the Club is very
friendly and socially active with a variety of
events organised throughout the year. If you are
interested in trying archery, please come along
to our free ‘have-a-go’ session. This will be held
on Wednesday 7th October, meeting outside
Beit Hall at 12:30pm. Come and experience the
way of the bow and arrow!
Olympics! We have won the UH Shield for the
sixth season running, keeping up our proud
reputation for having the largest shield in the
Imperial College Cabinet!
Athletics is mainly a summer sport allowing
you to easily get involved with other Clubs
throughout the year.
The Club is a great way of meeting new
people from all areas of the Medical school in
both competitive and sociable environments.
With a history of success and promise of great
fun.We hope to see you at the Freshers’ Fair to
answer any of your questions!
ICSM Athletics is an extremely friendly Club
catering for students of ALL standards. Do you
fancy weekly training and competitive meets?
Would you like to maintain or improve your
fitness? Or would you just like to get involved
with the occasional event? If so, the Athletics
Club is for you!
Throughout the year we participate in five
events including trips to the BUCS Indoor and
Outdoor Championships, our varsity fixture
The Sir Roger Bannister Trophy and the United
Hospitals and University of London Athletics
Meet, an event which predates the modern
Ajay Mohite
[email protected]
Badminton
Badminton is a sport for everyone. Anyone can
pick up a racket and play a fun game within
minutes.
At Imperial College Badminton Club, we cater
for everyone. We have regular Club sessions two
or three times a week in Ethos, a place where
you can meet new people and enjoy some great
badminton.
Those with a more competitive edge can take
part in the Club tournaments or try out for the
teams. We have two men’s teams, a women’s
team and a mixed team. They all regularly
compete in the BUCS and ULU Leagues.
Catherine Downs
[email protected]
Badminton (ICSMSU)
We have over 70 fantastic members and the
chance to compete internationally in a massive
carnage-filled badminton tournament!
ICSM Badminton combines the best of both
worlds, providing expert coaching for three
highly competitive teams (men’s, women’s and
mixed)- as well as social sessions for beginners
and improvers to have fun and get involved.
Feeling competitive? Our mixed and women’s
teams consistently average in the top leagues
of BUCS and ULU with our current men’s team
achieving promotion and providing enough
talent for a superb second squad.
Team captains will hold tryouts for
experienced regional players at the beginning
of the academic year. However, even if you’ve
never picked up a racquet before (shuttlewhat?)
and just fancy a chance to try a new sport and
make some friends, or want a bit of a workout,
we have an evening for you!
We usually train at Wilson House (Paddington)
or Ethos and are open to both medics and nonmedics alike.
If you have any questions, queries or just
want a chat, we’ll be at Freshers’ Fair.
We also have an awesome social calendar
with monumentous sports-night drinking circles
to keep you busy throughout the year. So
what’s stopping you?
Naveen Setty
[email protected]
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Sport
Sport
Baseball
Imperial College Baseball Club extends a
warm welcome to both Freshers and existing
students. Whether you’re interested or have
never heard of baseball before, whether you can
hit a home run or not, join us!
The Club will be running training sessions
every week for all abilities. We will be
fielding a team to compete in the British
University Baseball Association. There will be
a tournament at the end of October, league
games between January and June and an
Easter tournament - chances for all to play in
competitive games. If you are unsure or want
to find out more, come along to our stall at
Freshers’ Fair.
teams looking to win, so if you think you have
what it takes to play hoops, come down for
tryouts.
We have two sessions per week in the
brand new sports hall, as well as experienced
coaches for both teams. Our women’s team
is recruiting as well, and experience doesn’t
matter at all.
Richard Bargh
[email protected]
Basketball (ICSMSU)
The ICSM Basketball Club has really taken off
this year with highly competitive teams, brand
new kit as well as equipment. If you’re looking
for a fun team sport, come give basketball a
try. For those with a competitive streak both
the men’s and the women’s teams entered into
ULU Cup competitions this year.
Look out for plenty of events hosted by
the ICSM Basketball Club including a 3-on-3
streetball tournament.
We will also be having outdoor practices
throughout the summer. Look out for us at
Freshers’ Fair.
Sunjit Raja
[email protected]
Gary Lam
[email protected]
Boat
Basketball
Interested in being part of a pioneering effort to
make a name for sport at Imperial?
The IC Basketball Club is recruiting
experienced players interested in playing some
serious competitive ball. We’ve got two men’s
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Imperial College Boat Club has won every major
rowing event in the country including many
wins at Henley Royal Regatta, the National
Championships and various international
regattas. Over its 90-year history, the Club
has also produced several world and Olympic
champions, including our current Head Coach
Steve Trapmore (Olympic Gold, Sydney 2000).
The boathouse on Putney Embankment
houses 80 racing boats, a state-of-the-art gym,
Clubroom, physiotherapy room, workshop and
changing rooms.
Training starts in October, beginning in an
indoor tank and moving quickly to the river
once basic skills are mastered. Both men’s
and women’s squads are currently thriving,
and welcome all abilities and commitments.
ICBC provides a great opportunity to train and
race on the stretch of river used for the Boat
Race, so come on down experienced or novice,
big or small, all are welcome. Rowing taster
sessions for all will be held during the first few
weeks of term. Sign up soon and don’t miss our
legendary Freshers’ Toga Party!
Leo Carrington
[email protected]
Boat (ICSMSU)
The Medics’ Boat Club is one of the largest
Clubs at Imperial. We have over 100 members,
most of whom knew nothing at all about rowing
before joining up, and you certainly don’t have
to give up your life to training (unless you want
to!).
There are dedicated boy’s and girl’s novice
captains whose sole purpose in life is to teach
you to row and get you involved in the many
social events. Alternatively, if you have more
experience you can go straight into our senior
squads. Either way, we will make your first year
at Uni one which you will remember forever.
We race in nationwide ARA races, as well
as events arranged especially for the London
medical schools, including time trials, regattas
and the highlight of the year - bumps, in which
crews start line astern and everyone tries to hit
the boat in front.
Off the water, the Club has an unrivalled
schedule of social events, including an annual
foreign tour (no rowing involved!) and numerous
dinners.
Each year our freshers revitalise our Club
with their own character and enthusiasm in
return becoming part of our many traditions and
Unique culture.
Bethan Warwick
[email protected]
Boxing
New to Imperial this year, the amateur boxing
Club will focus on boxing skills sessions in a
specialised boxing gym and fitness sessions
carried out on the Imperial campus. We hope
to have lively social events throughout the year
and organise trips outside of London for other
events such as matches and training days.
Everyone is welcome to Club; people new to the
sport and experienced boxers alike, as well as
both men and women. If you are interested in
the Club and would like to join or you have any
questions please come by at Freshers’ Fair, we
look forward to seeing you!
Ronald Uzande
[email protected]
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Sport
Sport
Cricket (ICSMSU)
Cricket
Imperial College Cricket Club can boast one
of the best cricket setups in London. We are
currently the reigning champions of the ULU
Cup and if that isn’t enough, both of our men’s
XI’s have been very successful in the BUCS
national leagues, and our women’s XI are
amongst the best 16 in the country. We have
2 men’s teams and one women’s team, with
abilities ranging from novice right through to
county players. We hold indoor net sessions at
Lords and the Oval weekly during the Autumn
and Spring terms catering for players of all
abilities. In the summer term, we compete in
the BUCS and ULU leagues and so the summer
is jam-packed with cricket! We also competed
in the BUCS national indoor competition in the
winter. In recent years, we have toured Thailand
and Wales, and we toured Sri Lanka this
summer and tested ourselves against some of
the country’s finest! Whether you’re a serious
player looking for some stiff competition, a
beginner looking to improve your game, or
you’re just looking for an excuse to have a few
drinks, the Cricket Club has something to offer
you!
Veena Surendrakumar
[email protected]
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The Imperial Medicals Cricket Club retains a
strong tradition of attracting the best sportsmen
that the med school has to offer, as well as
one or two mates who come along for the
banter! We aim to balance a high standard
of competition with the need to have some
awesome times during the stressful summer
term. We train in the indoor nets at Ethos from
December and play at Teddington. This season
we organised a pre-season tour with a blend of
20/20 cricket in Birmingham and Warwick where
fantastic times were had by all. In 2007/08 we
toured Barbados and plans are being made for a
re-visit in 2010.
If you fancy playing the gentlemen’s game
and want to get involved, come and see us
at Freshers’ Fair or send us an email for more
information.
Sameer Patel
[email protected]
Croquet
A combination of chess and snooker, played on
grass and favoured by national ‘celebrities’ such
as John Prescott, croquet combines accuracy,
strength and tactics in an outdoor setting, and
is perfect for all ages and backgrounds. Forget
‘violent’ games, bashing balls into undergrowth,
munching on cucumber sandwiches and
drinking tea in your local vicar’s back garden;
the modern game is enjoyable and intriguing,
requiring a scientist’s precision and a surgeon’s
touch - the perfect sport for an Imperial
student!
IC CroqSoc caters for players of all ability,
from total beginners to croquet masters.
We meet on the Queen’s Lawn during good
weather for practice – don’t worry if you’re not
a world beater yet – give it several weeks and
a few glasses of Pimms, and you’ll be ‘tripling’
with ease!
Christian Carter
[email protected]
Cross Country & Athletics
Whether you are an aspiring athlete who wants
to stay fit and in shape or just someone who
wants some regular exercise and heap loads
of fun, you are welcome to come to our free
training sessions.
Plenty of competitions are held throughout
the academic year, catering for many distances
and is open for runners of all abilities.
Other than the invaluable opportunity of visting
different places in Britain, we also host our very
own Hyde Park relays which are considered to
be some of the best international student races
in Europe.
We are one of Imperial’s biggest and most
successful Clubs, and for the first time, we
have sent out 3 teams of runners to compete
in the BUCS Cross-country championships,
independent of the ULU League.
We are also rich in traditional, including the
infamous pizza eating competition, the South
Ken Tunnel Race and going abroad in the
Summer for some serious “training”.
James Teuten
[email protected]
Cycling
Join London’s premier (only) University cycling
Club! We cater for all riders, whether you do
road racing, commuting, BMX, cross country,
downhill, street, or any other kind of cycling.
In previous years we have run trips to PORC,
Aston Hill, Coed-y- Brenin, Innerleithen,
Cwmcarn and Morzine, to mention but a few.
If you don’t know where these places are, join
the Club and find out. Or if there’s somewhere
else you’d like to go, let us know and we’ll
organise it.
With the backing of the Union, Club members
can enjoy heavily subsidised trips and race
entries. You’re also insured to ride and receive
discounts at bike shops if you join. Above
all, you get to join a dedicated community of
friendly riders of all abilities, who are always
willing to lend a hand.
David Topham
[email protected]
Dodgeball
Established only last year IC Dodgeball has had
a phenomenal inaugural year achieving over 30
members from a small committee with limited
funds.
This year holds huge promise including
weekly dodgeball training sessions, extra
sessions for those who break through to the
first team, along with professional training and
UK Dodgeball Association registered events.
Our aims are to bring this long-overdue sport
over to Imperial and to have fun in the process.
The first year has been hugely successful
and enjoyable at the same time: the sport
lends itself social interaction whilst also
developing speed, accuracy and a competitive
environment.
Christopher Jones
[email protected]
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Sport
Sport
Fencing
Do you feel like stabbing your friends? Want
to experience pleasures of the fleche? Then
why not try fencing? Fencing is a sport which
will improve your overall fitness, building your
agility and stamina. As one of the oldest and
largest Clubs at Imperial, we welcome all levels
of ability in all three weapons (foil, epee and
sabre). For beginners, University is a great place
to start fencing, there are lots of other people
to learn with. As a beginner you’ll get topclass coaching and even a chance to compete
against other beginners in London. Despite
our many competitive achievements, we are a
very relaxed and friendly Club, with many social
events throughout the year. For experienced
fencers, we’re among the most successful
Clubs at Imperial - winning Gold, Silver and
Bronze at the BUCS individual championships,
and several international medals.
Our five BUCS teams are consistently highly
ranked in their leagues, with our first teams
both winning their respective leagues this year.
So whether you’ve never fenced before or
you’re a master of the sport, come and try it for
free. All you need is a T-Shirt, tracksuit trousers
and trainers.
Emily Bottle
[email protected]
Floorball
Floorball is an indoor sport commonly played in
the Scandinavian countries and the US, with its
influence fast spreading to the rest of Europe.
It is similar to Hockey, but provides far more
flexibility in its dynamic game-play. The stick is
made of light carbon composite material and
a hollow plastic ball is used, hence injuries are
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rare in this sport. You do not need any previous
experience to play this sport well - it is really
easy to pick up!
As long as you are a sporty person, and have
the willingness to learn, this sport is a great
choice for you! Interested?
Benjamin Loh
[email protected]
Football - Mens
The Imperial College Football Club is one of the
biggest sports Clubs at Imperial, incorporating
7 teams with standards ranging from nearlymade-it-professionals to those who just want to
enjoy the beautiful game.
Our 1st XI play at the highest standard out
of any of the Imperial related football Clubs,
and are the flagship of Imperial College
Football. The Club is strong in BUCS and
ULU competitions, regularly challenging for
silverware and this success comes in part from
input from our various QPR coaches who bring
a level of expertise few Clubs can match.
With over 100 members, social and sporting
events always provide fun and entertainment
during University life. Despite being 7 teams
the atmosphere is very much of “One Club”.
Events throughout the year, such as revered
pub crawls, annual dinners and regular bar
nights help keep the Club as strong off the
field as it is on. To cap off every season there
is the reputable Club tour, a visit to a choice
foreign destination to spread our Unique style
of fun and football. The Football Club is a must
for anyone with a love of the game or simply
looking for a superior social life at Imperial.
Edmund Lobb
[email protected]
Football - Mens (RCS)
ICSM Football Club is one of the largest active
Clubs within the medical school, with four
teams playing twice a week throughout the
season. There is a team to suit everyone, with
a strong, competitive 1st XI playing in the
Premier League of ULU, regularly performing
well in the UH competition against the other
London medschools, or the more relaxed 4th
XI, where the emphasis is on enjoyment and
participation, coupled with attaining good
results. Each year we compete in the National
Medical Schools football tournament (NAMS), in
which we have enjoyed recent success. Aside
from playing, the Club is very socially active,
and the teams meet every Wednesday at the
infamous Sports Night in the Reynolds bar. The
annual Ladies Night and Christmas Dinner are
key highlights in the calendar, and throughout
the year the Club enjoy various social functions
with the netball girls. We have two tours a year
a domestic mid-season tour with the netballers,
and the legendary international preseason
football/bowling tour where past destinations
have included Turin, MUnich and Ljubljana. So,
whatever your ability, you’ll be made to feel
more than welcome at ICSM FC- find us at the
Freshers’ Fair!
Adem Uner
[email protected]
The RCS Football Club is the first choice for all
scientists who love playing football.
The Club caters for all levels, whether you
just want to play for fun or compete with other
Clubs in London. We train once a week in Hyde
Park and usually we will go for drinks at a pub
after training.
Andreas Esau
Football - Mens (RSM)
The RSM football team like to think of
themselves as one of the more social sports
Societies at Imperial.
We compete in the same University of
London Leagues as most of the other teams
at Imperial and take the game just as seriously
but also think that the social element is
important with regular team gatherings planned
throughout the season.
In addition, the chance to take part in the
famous Bottle Match is something that all
RSM teams get to look forward to as it’s an
atmosphere fitting for the second oldest varsity
match in the world.
With training sessions once a week and
games Saturday and Wednesday most weeks
there is always the need for depth in the squad
and with several players leaving us this year
there is no reason not to give us a go.
All are welcome, and you’ll get the chance to
impress at the trial sessions at the start of the
year.
Matthew Wilks
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Sport
Sport
The Women’s Football Club is an excellent way
to meet girlies who share the same passion for
mud, fun and footie.
We compete in the University of London (ULU)
and British Universities and Colleges (BUCS)
league including the ULU Cup competition.
There’s no shortage of matches for us to show
off our dribbling skill.
We train every Monday evening at the Sports
Grounds at Harlington with a qualified coach,
and have matches on Wednesday afternoons
and Sunday mornings or afternoons against
other University women’s teams. Training with
professional women’s teams has also been
organised.
Football is great fun and good exercise but if
this alone is not convincing enough, the promise
of many social gatherings may well change
your minds. We have regular Wednesday night
fun as well as more organised events such
as the Christmas Dinner, Annual Dinner and
various pub-crawls all organised with the Men’s
Football Club (all seven teams!!!).
We are also a very travelled bunch. Past tours
have taken us to Oxford, Bristol and further still
to Croatia, South Africa and most recently Sicily.
a large grass pitch with the object being to
score as many points in the oppositions end
by (nearly) any means necessary! The games
are fast paced and full of fun, providing the
ideal opportunity to try something completely
new at University. ICGAC consists of a Men’s
Gaelic Football team and a Men’s Hurling team
competing in both a Championship and League.
The Club also includes a Camogie (Ladies
Hurling) team and a Ladies’ Gaelic Football
team. ICGAC has a great social side too,
being regulars at the Union for our post-match
analysis, hard hitters at ACC bar nights (you’ll
soon be familiar with these), infamous St.
Patricks day celebrations and more upcoming
tours for this year!! To see the sports in action
check out YouTube or our Facebook group! Sln
go fill (See you soon)!
Sarah Hill
[email protected]
Gymnastics
Stephanie Macdonald-Taylor
[email protected]
Edward O Hare
[email protected]
Gaelic Sports
ICGAC is one of the newest and fastest growing
Clubs at Imperial. We play the national sports
of Ireland; Gaelic Football and Hurling. Being
Irish or having played before is not required with
members ranging from English to South African,
and players ranging from complete beginners
to All Star players!! The games are played on
128
faithfully and well.
Our Club is one of the few remaining bastions
of civilization in a fast-moving world, where
opportunities to sample fresh air in green
fields, followed by a refreshing glass of kummel
with your best chums, are too few and too far
between. One of the great secrets in Imperial’s
sporting repertoire counts international heroes
Sir Alexander Fleming and J.P.R. Williams MBE
amongst its more famous alumni. We offer
membership to a limited number at Denham,
one of North London’s finest courses. For
competitive golfers, we compete in the BUCS
league, whilst a great number of social matches
and soirees exist for the medical students
against doctors from around the country with
prestigious prizes to be won. We also offer
driving range tuition to those keen to learn
the great game. So put on your plus fours,
swing your mashie-niblick, and pay us a visit at
Freshers’ Fair. But remember: If you drink, don’t
drive. Don’t even putt.
Golf
Golf is the infallible test. The man who can go
into a patch of rough alone, with the knowledge
that only God is watching him, and play his ball
where it lies, is the man who will serve you
Handball
Imperial College Handball Club is a recently
founded Club, that has more and more to offer
each year.
Haven’t heard of Handball? Handball is an
indoor team sport where two teams of seven
players (six players and a goalkeeper) pass and
bounce a ball trying to throw it into the goal of
the opposing team. It is fast, tactical and lots
of fun, so don’t miss out. It was voted “Best
Sport” in the Olympic Games 2000 in Sydney
and is growing every year in Britain giving teams
and players a lot of opportunities on and off the
court.
After coming 5th in the England University
Championships and successfully competing
in an international tournament in Lyon, we are
planning to join the Development League and
participate in more national and international
competitions this year including the European
University Championships. We offer weekly
training sessions and regular games and
welcome players (men and women) of ALL
levels and sporting backgrounds.
Of course the social side will not be neglected
either, so don’t miss out on good sports and
loads of fun!
Something you always wanted to try, yet you
never had the chance? Well now you do! The
Imperial Gymnastics and Trampolining Club
caters for all levels and all people. We even
have martial artists and dancers in the Club as
it’s not only excessively fun but a great way to
get in shape. And don’t think you are too old
there are 50 year olds in gymnastics. We’ll have
you somersaulting in no time. Look out for us at
Freshers’ Fair.
Harry Hassard
gymnas [email protected]
Stefan Bauer
[email protected]
129
Sport
Sport
Hockey
Hockey (RCSU)
With five men’s teams, two ladies squads and
a mixed side, Imperial College Hockey Club can
justifiably claim to cater for every standard of
player at the University, from those who have
never held a stick, right through to national level
players. ICHC is also one of the most successful
London college Hockey Clubs in recent years,
with a string of ULU League and Cup titles,
not to mention a BUCS Cup final spot and the
Men’s 1st XI gaining promotion to BUCS 1A in
2008-2009! As well as regular matches and
training sessions on our top of the range pitch,
we also offer a wide selection of social events
throughout the year. From team curry nights
and weekend tours, to black-tie dinners and
Club wide events, the social side of Hockey
is an extremely important part of life in ICHC.
Our annual Summer tour combines mixed
Hockey with a great social life with previous
destinations including Ghana, Cyprus and our
recent epic tour to India in July 2009.
Jessica Poore
[email protected]
130
The RCS Hockey Club welcomes all, whatever
their ability or experience who are interested
in an occasional game of mixed Hockey in
superb RCS company. This year we have got
lots of events planned including several mixed
tournaments and friendly matches, as well the
first RCS-HC annual tour. Some of our players
also play for ICHC so don’t think that you can’t
play for both. Alternatively, if you don’t want
to play sport seriously at Uni, but still want to
enjoy the occasional exercise, meet new people
and have all the social benefits of being in a
sports team, then we are definitely the Club for
you.
RCSU Hockey
[email protected]
Hockey (RSM)
The RSM Hockey Club welcomes players of
any level who are looking for fun on and off the
Hockey pitch, without the hard work associated
with other Clubs.
Every match is entertaining and we have
the best social events at Imperial. If you enjoy
playing Hockey without drills and laps then this
is the Club for you.
Both the Men’s and Women’s teams play in
the University of London League and the Cup,
and friendly mixed Hockey matches take place
on weekends with local teams. Hockey training
is once a week and throughout the year other
fun tournaments are held where we play local
Universities as well as the other IC teams.
Join RSM Hockey and you also have the
opportunity to play in the great Bottle Match,
the 2nd oldest varsity match in the world. This
year saw CSM take both Hockey cups back to
Camborne so we are more determined than
even to win them next year. And you don’t
have to be from the RSM to play, we welcome
any department (our mixed Hockey captain is a
Physicist!) If you’re looking for a fun traditional
Club then RSM Hockey is for you.
Mark Porter
Hockey Mens (ICSMSU)
The Men’s Hockey Club was established in
Paddington 1909 when the great Mr. Hockley,
consultant cardiothoracic surgeon at St Mary’s
emerged from his burning house with only his
walking stick and a pint.
Since that moment the Hockey Club has
grown from strength to strength. Boasting three
full competitive sides who compete with the
best in London. With over 50 members the
Club is firmly set as one of the ‘big four’ winter
sports in the medical school.
Whether you’re a Hockey god or you just
want to improve your stick skills, the Club will
provide you with a great platform to become
quickly established into sporting life at medical
school. Our mixed tour to Oxford in October is a
great way for Freshers to get to know everyone
in the Men’s and Women’s Clubs.
A recent addition to the Hockey diary
includes a pre-season tour in September, so
please get in touch if you’re interested. Exciting
times lie ahead for you, the perfect blend of
brilliant Hockey with a serious dash of booze
with no rules except one...red trousers!
Our policy of RED TROW or NO TROW
stands us out in any crowd.
Sameer Patel
[email protected]
Hockey Womens (ICSMSU)
Calling all girls (medics and non-medics alike).
If you’re looking for a good time, then ICSM
Women’s Hockey is for you. The season opens
with a mixed Hockey tour to Oxford, where
little Hockey is played but a lot of fun is had!
With Club bonding complete the season really
begins... Whether you have never picked up a
Hockey stick in your life, or you are a Hockey
olympian, there’s a place for you in one of our 3
teams.
Everyone gets to play every Wednesday
and there’s a more relaxed Saturday side
and the occasional mixed fun Hockey match
also. Off the pitch we celebrate our wins and
commiserate our losses (these are very few of
course!) with regular fancy dress clad sports
nights at the Reynolds Bar.
Then as the Hockey season comes to an end
and summer approaches, we always find ways
to keep ourselves entertained with light-hearted
(at least from the Hockey perspective) Hockey
festivals, as well as our International Tour!
ICSMSU Women’s Hockey can offer you
as much or as little sport as you like but it
guarantees plenty of FUN and it’s an amazing
way to make friends.
Lauren Chalmers
[email protected]
131
Sport
Sport
Indoor Hockey
Ice Hockey
Ice Hockey is a fast and exciting sport, requiring
skill, agility and lots of teamwork. If you’ve tried
field Hockey but it wasn’t exciting enough for
you, or you simply fancy the thrill of playing
the fastest game on earth, come along and
join the team. The Imperial Devils have two
teams playing in Divisions 2 and 3 of the British
Universities Southern Leagues. If you’ve already
got experience playing Ice Hockey then you
can come along to our higher level sessions,
where training looks to improve teamwork,
skill and general game-play. Last year our first
team came home with second place in both
the league and the National championship. We
also run a second team for players new to the
sport. Don’t worry if you’ve never even been
near an ice rink before, as we teach you how to
skate, before moving on to stick handling and
puck control. You don’t even need your own kit,
as we have lots of loan equipment available for
beginners to use.
A friendly, sociable Club open to boys and girls
of any standard, from any department. Indoor
Hockey meets for weekly Sunday training
at Ethos and has matches monthly. Indoor
Hockey is a 6-a side game - no rollerblades or
ice skates! Players develop skills to take to the
outdoor pitch and with a healthy mix of medic
and non-medic members it’s a perfect way to
get to know your outdoor rivals! Our girl’s team
play in the Middlesex Women’s Indoor Hockey
League, Division Two.
Last season they beat local Clubs to finish
second. They also won a place in the quarter
finals of the Middlesex Indoor Knock Out Cup,
only losing out to the winners of the league
above, so fingers crossed for next year! To
encourage the men’s side of the Club we
hope to start a men’s indoor league with
other Universities for the forthcoming season.
There is a lack of competitive Indoor Hockey
in London with only national premiership
teams actively playing. We anticipate there will
be great interest from members of Imperial
College as well as other Universities to play
competitive indoor matches, not just friendlies.
Nicholas Jones
[email protected]
Lacrosse
Richard Collins
[email protected]
132
The award winning Imperial Lacrosse Club was
started as a mixed team just messing around in
the park.
Since then, the Club has gone from strength
to strength and we now have 3 fantastic
teams. The women’s team regularly compete
on Wednesdays in the BUCS League and take
part in Club tournaments. Our highly successful
mixed team (who won the ULU League & Cup
last year) play every other Sunday. The newly
formed men’s team have fully established
themselves in the South East, competing also
in the BUCS league.
We have regular training sessions in the
weekends and Wednesday afternoons when
matches aren’t played.
We cater for all abilities, from people who
have never picked up a stick to those who have
been playing for years. We are a very chilled
out, sociable Club with regular post-match
drinks, socials at the Reynolds Bar on sports
nights! So come along and have a go... you’ll be
hooked before long!
Akira Fukutomi
[email protected]
Netball
Imperial Netball Club has three competitive
teams and a fourth more social team. All
standards are therefore welcome, including
beginners.
The Club have weekly coached training
sessions located just a 10 minute walk from
the South Kensington campus and there’s the
opportunity to play up to twice a week in the
ULU and BUCS leagues against other local
Universities. Our home games take place at
Imperial’s Ethos Sports Centre. The Club also
loves to socialise as much as possible from bar
nights and dinners to tour. Please come and join
our fun, lively girls as IC Netball is a great way to
make friends and keep fit!
Nicole Evans
[email protected]
Netball (ICSMSU)
ICSM Netball is a large and successful Club
within the University, awarded Medic’s Team of
the Year last season and awards for individual
outstanding contributions to the Club.
We have four teams with members from
across all six Medical School years ensuring
there is a team to suit all abilities from those
who just want to play socially to a more
competitive approach.
All our teams have been hugely successful
this season, with our first team competing in
the top division in the South East. We train
weekly with a professional coach who whips us
into shape helping us to develop our skills and
improve our fitness. Aside from our sporting
prowess we pride ourselves on being a very
sociable and fresher friendly Club. We meet
every Wednesday night at the Reynolds Bar in
Charing Cross Hospital to celebrate our wins
and commiserate our losses.
We have a very busy social calendar
with various events throughout the year.
Highlights include trips to watch the netballing
internationals, the annual Sports Dinner awards
and tour with the ICSM Football Boys.
If you want a Club with great team spirit and
amazing social events join ICSM Netball!
Sarah Tranter
[email protected]
133
Sport
Orienteering
Riding & Polo
Do you like fresh air, getting fit and intellectual
exercise? If so, Orienteering is the sport for
you. It involves using a map and (sometimes) a
compass to find checkpoints (orange and white
flags).
You can run or walk and compete as
individuals or pairs. Imperial’s Orienteering Club
(IOC) caters for all levels of orienteer, from the
absolute beginner to the elite. We compete in
day and night events at district, regional and
national level, about 5 times a term, as well as
holding several training sessions throughout the
year.
Last spring we went on tour with 5 other UK
Universities to the international Spring Cup race
in Denmark. The trip was great fun from start to
finish and everyone enjoying competing against
thousands of orienteers from all of Europe. We
are a friendly Club and enjoy socials, particularly
after events. So if you would like to escape
the city occasionally and we have piqued your
curiosity, please check out our website and
come and see us at the Freshers’ Fair!
If you thought moving to London meant you
would have to leave horses behind, think again!
We offer subsidised riding lessons and polo
training sessions for riders of all abilities, from
complete beginners who have never ridden
before up to Adv Med/CSI**/CIC* level. Our
training covers Dressage, Showjumping, Cross
Country (in the summer) and Polo all with
fantastic instructors who enjoy teaching us as
much as we like to ride.
As well as weekly training, we also organise
events throughout the year popular with all
our riders. This year we are already planning
Christmas Pony Games, mounted Easter Egg
Hunts, trips to equestrian events like Badminton
Horse Trials and plenty of socials too! For the
competition-orientated we have two riding
teams competing in the BUCS Leagues and
two polo teams competing at the SUPA
University Nationals.
Jessica Zard
[email protected]
Rifle & Pistol
Bryn Monnery
[email protected]
134
Sport
Sport
The Rifle and Pistol Club is one of the oldest
Clubs in the Union. Its role is pure and simple
- to encourage all types of shooting as a sport
or hobby. We cater for all types of shooting
disciplines, from target rifle and clay pigeon
shooting to air pistol and gallery rifle.
We shoot all indoor disciplines at a range in
central London, go clay pigeon shooting and
visit the national shooting centre at Bisley.
We enter many competitions in all disciplines,
including the BUCS Clay Pigeon Championships
and many team and individual competitions.
Don’t worry if you have never even held a gun
before - we provide all the training required for
you to become a competent shot. The social
side of the Club is also very important so come
along, have a go, and become a true marksman!
Edward Poore
[email protected]
team having additional midweek sessions. Most
fixtures are played on a Wednesday afternoon.
Like any good Rugby Club the social side is
very important. Every Wednesday sees the
congregation of all four teams in the Union for
post match drinks. Highlights of the year include
the Christmas and Annual Dinners as well as
the annual Varsity Match against the Medics
Rugby Club in front of 1500 people at Richmond
Rugby Club. And if that isn’t enough for you, at
the end of the season the Club is going on tour
to Barbados! Just one question left really: Who
is Silvia?
Timothy Burr
[email protected]
Rugby - Mens (C&G)
Rugby - Mens
ICURFC run four teams in the BUCS leagues
and a Saturday side playing in the London
Divisions. As a Club we cater for those of all
abilities, whether you have aspirations to play
at a high level or you’re more interested in
the social side. The Club employs two main
coaches, Richard Birkett from London Wasps
and Brimah Kebbie, a Widnes rugby league
star in his day. We train as a Club on Monday
evenings and Saturday mornings, with the 1st
The City & Guilds Rugby Club provides all the
engineers at Imperial a chance to express their
flair and talent on a wide range of opponents.
As a result of the dazzling and sometimes
unbelievable plays the C&G boys pull off in
games, the Club has become affectionately
known as The Glamour Team.
We have a number of games, the biggest
being the Sparkes Cup at the end of the year
where we play the Royal School of Mines and
the Royal College of Science. Two years ago,
the Glamour Boys went on a successful tour
to Dublin, and this year we are planning to
tour Paris. The summer C&G 7s tournament
is an awesome way to end the year. Every
department can enter a team to fight for the
prestigious trophy.
There’s no training, it is purely a pitch up
and play team and all are encouraged to come
along! Now then glamour poses boys!
Andrew Macfadyen
[email protected]
135
Sport
Sport
Rugby - Mens (ICSMSU)
Whether it is top class competitive Rugby or
the occasional run out with your mates, Imperial
Medicals Rugby Club should be your choice
for Rugby at Imperial. We currently have three
teams that compete in BUCS, with our 1st XV
in the Premiership. We also have two sides
that play in regional national leagues at the
weekend, giving non-Medics and postgraduates
the opportunity to play for us.
IMRFC also offers the chance for players
wanting to perform at a higher level, with
some of our top players representing England
Universities and England Students. However, all
standards of Rugby are catered for at IMRFC,
and new players are always warmly welcomed
with a number of Rugby Scholarships and
awards on offer for our fresher intake. We have
a great team spirit in the Club, and whilst having
fun on the pitch, we also have fun off the pitch.
The Club is the heart beat of Sports Nights in
the Reynolds and many other social events
whilst also supporting all other teams in the
Medical School. Our Club loves to tour, and with
2 annual tours there is plenty of opportunity!
Rugby - Mens (RCS)
The RCS Rugby Club provides a relaxing
atmosphere to play and enjoy Rugby, whatever
your sporting or social ability. With some
excellent fixtures, both on and off the pitch,
the RCS Rugby Club offers some fantastic
opportunities, for any standard. These include
a day tour to Oxford and playing one of the
colleges for the inter-faculty Sparkes Cup. There
is also the occasional raucous bar night.
The RCS XV also provides a creative outlet
for some of the most talented players at
Imperial. With some excellent displays of
‘champagne’ Rugby, picking up tips and tricks
is never difficult. The incoming team captain,
Frog Johnstone, is keen to host an educational
seminar ‘My Sidestep: How I made the 10
jersey mine’ and our resident Bear is excited
about the prospect of passing on his invaluable
dieting tips. So, whatever your level, come by
our stall at Freshers’ Fair.
Alex Johnstone
[email protected]
Rugby - Mens (RSM)
James Tibbott
[email protected]
136
Rugby, the game played by the RSM’s finest.
The Club is renowned in IC for its sublime social
life, lionheart spirit and hard hitting games!
Practice is casual, taking place once a week
from October, with a few matches a term to
keep the side in action. This is all in preparation
for the “Bottle Match” that is held every spring
this annual varsity match against the Camborne
School of Mines. It is world renowned and
over 107 years old. It the second oldest varsity
match still being played. We have triumphed for
the last two years and are seeking new players
who have the guts to travel to Cornwall and
bring home the Bottle this year. We need new
blood to keep the RSM spirit going, the social
side is amongst the best and we welcome all
abilities.
See you at Freshers’ Fair or just pop into the
RSM Union Office - we welcome all players,
even if you’re not a miner!
Adam Foley
[email protected]
Rugby - Womens
Easy to pick up and play and no previous
experience necessary, Women’s Rugby is a fast
growing sport.
ICU Women’s Rugby Football Club
(ICUWRFC), aka ‘The Virgins’ welcomes all
abilities and levels of fitness. Although some
measure of Snakey B is usually involved, we
have many non-drinking members and the
camaraderie extends further than the bar.
We frequently enjoy other team activities
such as going for dinner, the cinema, or
watching rugby. In 2008/09 we went to Madrid
on Tour, where team bonding, good food and
wine were enjoyed. We have close links with
many other University Rugby Clubs, extending
socialising beyond Imperial; this year we had a
‘mini- tour’ to Southampton, played some rugby
and stayed with their team.
Our successes last season, included winning
the UH Cup and many wins in our 7’s and 10’s
games. ‘The Virgins’ are the friendliest groups
of girls you could ever meet so if you’re up
for trying your hand at Rugby, socialising and
generally having a laugh, ICUWRFC’s the place
for you!
Bryonnie Biddell
[email protected]
Calling all budding Ben Ainslies! Come and join
ICSC! We are Imperial’s premier dinghy sailing
Club, and offer sailing to all, no matter whether
you are a budding racing whiz-kid, or a complete
novice. We sail from the Welsh Harp Reservoir
in Wembley, and have recently joined up with
the BTYC Club there, allowing us to use their
very swanky, brand-new Clubhouse. We sail
on Wednesday afternoons (mainly for those
who wish to team race), and hold beginner’s
sessions on Saturday mornings. The Club
operates alongside the University of London
team, who have another 12 Fireflies on top of
our fleet of 6 (we are in fact the only London
University to have its own, proper, sailing Club:
Go us!). We are able to fleet race with BTYC
on Saturday mornings too, using their Club
GP14s. This year, we aim to get a good teamracing squad together, in order to try our hand
on the lively circuit, heading toward the BUCS
championships in Easter. Why not come along
and try out your sea-legs?
Gavin Macaulay
[email protected]
137
Sport
Sport
Snooker
The top floor of the Union Building is home to
four full-size excellent-quality snooker tables.
Members can play at any time between 9am
and 11pm every day: all equipment is provided
and it costs nothing to play snooker once you
have paid your membership fee of just £20 for
the whole year!
We organise many competitions with
cash prizes on offer, including our Freshers’
Tournament, one-frame Pot Black knockouts
and our biggest event, the Internal League,
catering for players of all abilities.
We also hold regular American Pool sessions
at the local Rileys and weekly Club nights for
members to socialise and have fun. Whether
you have never picked up a cue before or you
are looking to develop your skills, our friendly
and knowledgeable committee and team
members will be more than happy to get you
started or improve your game.
There is also the opportunity to play for one of
our snooker, 9-ball pool and British 8-ball pool
teams at a national level and our best players
travel to Leeds for the season-ending BUCS
Snooker Championships.
You can find lots of information about
the Club, our events and how to join on our
website: www.Union.ic.ac.uk/snooker.
Yik Lowe
[email protected]
Dillan Ganesh
Squash (ICSMSU)
Victor Loi
[email protected]
Snowsports
The biggest Snowsports Club in London and
one of the largest Clubs at Imperial, we aim
to cater for all of your snowports needs. We
offer beginners’ lessons, race training and
freestyle sessions every week for skiers and
snowboarders alike.
For those who want to practise their skills
or just scratch that itch for the white stuff we
also run frequent trips to the real snow slopes
at Hemel or Milton Keynes. So what about the
Apres-Ski I hear you ask? This year promises
to be our best yet with regular bar nights and
a special event before our Christmas trip in
January. We offer an extremely competitive
package of about £300 for return transport, six
nights three-star accommodation and lift pass,
as well as a packed social programme.
Racing is also an important part of the Club.
Throughout the season we attend many
competitions, in all disciplines and at all levels,
both in the UK and in Europe. So if you want to
give it a try, are a seasoned pro come or just
interested in the Snowsports scene then come
find us at Freshers’ Fair!
138
New to this year will be the member’s Club
night which will give members the chance to
meet and play against different people of similar
standard.
So whether you’re the next Peter Nichol,
an enthusiastic county player, a beginner or it
you’ve never picked up a squash racket in your
life, the squash Club is definitely the Club to
join.
Social Golf (RSM)
Jamie Perrelet
[email protected]
Squash
The Imperial College Squash Club is a great
example of how to combine the competitive
elements of a dynamic sport with the fun and
games that we all enjoy at the end of the day.
Based around the Ethos centre in South Ken,
membership gives you access to squash court
absolutely free throughout the year.
For those wishing to play competitively, the
Club has four Men’s teams and one Women’s
team which compete in the ULU and BUCS
leagues whilst those with a more relaxed
approach can join the members league. This
runs throughout the year with prizes up for
grabs for the winner and runners-up.
Squash is a fast-paced energetic racket sport
enjoyed by players for more than 130 years,
and now played by more than 15 million people
in over 150 countries. With a quick 30 minute
game burning up to 500 calories it’s not only a
great way to socialise and compete, but also a
superb way to get ripped/sexyhot.
Medical school squash has a long and proud
tradition at the amalgamated medical schools
which make up ICSM.
We practice every Sunday and Wednesday
at the Charing Cross Sports Club and whatever
your standard you’ll be assured a good game.
Some might say that the best thing about
squash is the drink in the bar afterwards.
We take these wise words extremely
seriously, creating a lively social scene within
the Club. Our membership comprises of all
sorts of people of all sorts of standards from
across the medical school.
And for those of you who are put off by kit
requirements, fear not! We have a large supply
of brand new shoes and rackets for use by our
members.
Charles Cleland
[email protected]
139
Sport
Sport
Swim & Water Polo
Imperial College Swim & Water Polo Club caters
for all levels of swimmer and water polo player,
from social participants to national-level athletes
and beyond.
Our training takes place at the Ethos pool
conveniently located here on the South
Kensington campus. Each discipline benefits
from three fully coached training sessions
each week, preparing for local and national
competition as well as working off some of
those bar night pints.
For the competitive swimmer we attend the
BUCS Long and Short Course Championships
and the BUCS Team Championships, as well as
local galas against our rivals from other London
Universities. Water polo players, both novice
and experienced, are welcome. Our mixed
water polo team competes in the University
of London League, and Men’s and Women’s
teams enter BUCS and the national UPolo
league, in which our Women’s team made the
final in their debut year in 2008/09. ICSWP train
hard, play hard, and party harder, with a lively
social calendar complementing our hard work in
the water.
We welcome new members - to find out
more, email us at the address below or come
and find us at Freshers’ Fair.
Centre. We have teams in the Central London
League and the BUCS Championships where
we have had tremendous success with our
men’s team winning the BUCS Cup last year.
If you want to improve your game, there are
numerous experienced players who will be
more than happy to give you some tips. So,
dust off that old bat of yours and prepare for
the ride of your life! If we cannot offer you the
championship, we can at least offer you our
friendship.
Vishal Mehta
[email protected]
Tennis
This year the tennis Club is planning a weekend
trip to France and a summer tour to Croatia
where we will play on clay courts and relax on
the beach! We have an expanding social side
- whether you are a beginner or regular team
player we will be having casino nights, cocktail
nights, end-of-term dinners, themed Clubbing
nights etc. As a Club we have access to tickets
Joseph Gandy
[email protected]
Table Tennis
Our Club is, to date, the largest University Table
Tennis Club in London and caters for players of
all standards. We have 2 sessions each week so
you will be able to find a time to play that suits
you.
Practice sessions are held in Ethos Sports
140
to see legends play at the Royal Albert Hall and
the best 8 players in the world battle it out at
the O2 arena. We also sometimes get tickets
for Wimbledon.
However, if you are a serious player, this
year we will be supporting players to play at
tournaments around the country and we want
to build on our success of “Team of the Year”
after coming top of the felix Sports League
Table. The men’s 1st team is in Division 1, the
2nd team in Division 2 and the women’s team
is in Division 1. We train at the prestigious
Queen’s Club and have coaching at Hyde Park
every week. For the first time we will also be
holding an end of year tournament for both
team players and social players.
Robert Bush
[email protected]
Tennis (ICSMSU)
Strawberries and cream? Pimms? Doesn’t it
sound appealing? Then come and sign up for
the Medics’ Tennis Society! Of course we do
play some tennis too, aside from the socials in
the Reynolds Bar!
Tennis takes place every summer term. It is
the ideal break from revision, and a great way
to spend an afternoon. Apart from these social
and relaxed sessions in Bishops Park, matches
are organised against other London medical
schools. No matter what level you consider
yourself, whether an absolute beginner, an up
and coming Sharapova or a budding Murray, the
tennis Society welcomes all!
So what are you waiting for? Come and see at
the Freshers’ Fair!
Anna Kropiwnicka
[email protected]
Ultimate Frisbee
Ultimate Frisbee is often referred to as a mix of
American Football and Netball but with a disc.
It is a non-contact sport in which the disc is
passed between players (who can’t move while
holding it) whilst points are scored by catching
the disc in the pitch endzones. It is an incredibly
active sport, with barely a moment when you’re
not moving. It is one of the most mixed sports
around, with women fully integrated into teams
and playing an invaluable part in the game. The
women’s game itself is highly developed, with
many opportunities to compete at high levels.
We regularly send teams to tournaments around
the country (and Europe), with a tournament
in the first term especially for freshers. Due to
the spirit of the game and its (mixed) players,
Ultimate can’t help but be a sociable sport.
There are constant socials, with parties, dancing
and eating accompanying the obligatory postpractice drinking.
All are welcome to play and practice, including
complete beginners. The majority of the team
had never played before coming to Imperial, and
we qualify regularly for national championships,
which is testament to the continuing strength of
the team.
Michael Foster
[email protected]
141
Sport
Sport
Volleyball
“Volleyball?” I hear you say, “Isn’t that just
two teams on either side of a net hitting a ball
back and forth, sometimes ridiculously hard?”
Well, yes, but IC Volleyball is more than that.
For competitive players, we enter a Men’s and
a Women’s team to BUCS - currently in the top
division. For social players we enter a Mixed
team to ULU competitions. For all, we have
regular training sessions under the supervision
of qualified coaches. This includes both skills
training and a fitness programme in the Ethos
Sports Centre.
Whether or not you have played volleyball
before, our Club caters for all. It’s about
improving your skills as an individual and as
a team, playing hard and partying hard. We
organise regular social nights and liaise with the
Erasmus Society. We take part in international
tournaments where possible - this year we
plan to go on tour to Italy (Genoa) and/or Spain
(Valencia). As soon as the weather allows it,
we play in nearby Kensington Gardens, and we
arrange regular beach volley events in Brighton.
Ashley Black
[email protected]
mostly play in ULU League matches, with the
odd fun friendly every now and again including
the exciting annual students vs consultants
match! For our more serious players, there is
also the opportunity to compete in BUCS.
John Livesey
[email protected]
Weights & Fitness (Medics)
ICSMSU Weights & Fitness Club is a must for
anyone with a passion for exercise and fitness.
Originally part of St Marys’ Medical School,
we run a large hi-spec FIA registered gym at St
Mary’s Hospital, this year celebrating its 22nd
birthday.
The gym boasts the largest free-weights
section in Imperial, making us perfect if you’re
serious about getting bigger. If you just want
to get fit, our brand-new extensive cardio and
resistance sections are perfect if you’re in
Wilson House or on attachment at St Mary’s.
We work closely with many of the other
Medic sports Clubs, running many events
throughout the year, offering advice and
supporting our varsity teams. We’re always
looking for people to get involved with helping
Water Polo (Medics)
Notoriously known as the drinking team with
a water polo problem! We are a light hearted
fun-loving bunch of people who like to get
wet and play with balls! Training occurs twice
a week (Mondays at Charing Cross Pool and
Wednesdays at St Mary’s Pool) and we meet
regularly for team socials, including the weekly
sports night at the Reynolds. There is also our
annual tour to somewhere fun, where there is
no risk of us bumping into anyone we know! We
142
run the gym or leading our school fitness
schemes. Come meet us at the Freshers’ Fair,
the Medic Freshers’ Sports Day, drop into the
gym or email us for more information. Happy
lifting!
Osayuki Nehikhare
[email protected]
SWA events, affordable Club holidays to sunny
locations, beginners teaching, south coast
sailing and plenty of partying!
Antony Demaus
[email protected]
Yacht
Windsurfing
IC Windsurfing is a rapidly growing Club and
is now the biggest Windsurf Club in London
as well as being one of the most active Clubs
in the Student Windsurf Association (SWA).
We have a highly enthusiastic team, whose
goal is to make sure the Club continues to
be one of the friendliest and active Clubs at
Imperial. The Club offers tuition with qualified
coaches for beginner and intermediate sailors
and is a perfect environment for advanced
sailors to progress in. Whether you’ve never
stepped on a board before, fancy racing, or are
a wavesailing/freestyling guru, IC Windsurfing
has something to offer. We have loads of kit for
everyone, including top of the range beginners
kit and brand new race kit. Our year involves
The Yacht Club has an excellent reputation for
offering quality sailing to its members. We
consist of people whose skills range from those
who have never sailed before to our racing
team. Most sailing is done during weekends
on the south coast of the UK. In addition week
long cruises to locations such as the Channel
Islands, the west coast of Scotland and the
Scilly Isles are also run. No prior knowledge is
required as all trips have a qualified Yachtmaster
and mate aboard. In addition there are many
opportunities to take discounted Practical and
Theory Royal Yachting Association courses.
The free tuition, Club owned equipment
and discounted rates makes this potentially
expensive sport available to all students and
staff within Imperial College.
Mark Collinson
[email protected]
143
Index
A
ABACUS
Aeronautics
Afro-Caribbean
Ahlul Bayt
Ahmadiyya Muslim
Students
Aikido
Alternative Music
American Football
Amnesty International
Anime
Arabic
Archery
Armenian
Arts & Photo (ICSMSU)
ArtSoc
Asian Medical Students
Assassins’ Guild
AstroSoc
Atheist and Agnostic
Athletics (Medics)
B
Backgammon
Badminton
Badminton (ICSMSU)
Balloon Twisting
Baha’i
Bangladeshi
Baseball
Basketball
Basketball (ICSMSU)
Be Heartful Friends
Belly Dancing
BioEngineering
BioChemistry
Biology
BioMedSoc
Boat
Boat (ICSMU)
Book
Boxing
Bright Futures
Bruneian
Buddhist
C
Canadian
Canoe
Capoeira
Cascade
Catholic
Caving
Chamber Music
144
74
50
74
62
62
86
40
120
104
104
74
120
75
40
40
50
94
94
105
120
66
121
121
66
62
75
122
122
122
105
66
50
50
51
51
122
123
105
123
106
75
62
75
94
86
106
63
95
41
Cheese
106
Chemical Engineering
51
Chemistry
52
Chess
67
Chinese
76
Chinese Students
& Scholars
76
Chocolate
107
Choir
41
Christian Medical
Fellowship
52
63
Christian Union
63
Cinema
42
CivSoc
52
Classical Guitar
42
Coffee
107
Community Action Group 27
Computing
53
Conservative
108
Consultancy
108
Cricket
124
Cricket (ICSMSU)
124
Croquet
124
Cross Country & Athletics 125
Cycling
125
Cypriot
76
Czecho-Slovak
76
D
Dance
Dance – Funkology
Dance Company
Darts (ICSMSU)
De La Beche
Debating
Debating (ICSMSU)
Dodgeball
Drama (ICSMSU)
DramSoc
67
68
68
68
53
108
109
125
42
42
E
E.quinox
109
Electrical Engineering
54
EMSA
54
Engineers Without Borders 55
Environmental
110
Erasmus
77
Every Nation Christian
63
Exploration
95
F
Fairtrade
Fashion
Felix
110
69
92
Fellwanderers
Fencing
Filipino Martial Arts
FilmSoc
Finance
Fitness
Floorball
Football Men’s
Football Men’s (ICSMSU)
Football (RCS)
Football (RSM)
Football Women’s
French
Friends of MSF
G
Gaelic Sports
Gaming
Geophys
German
Gliding
Golf
Gospel Choir
GradMed (ICSMSU)
Gymnastics
H
Handball
Hellenic
Hindu
Hockey
Hockey (RCS)
Hockey (RSM)
Hockey Men’s (ICSMSU)
Hockey Women’s
(ICSMSU) I
Ice Hockey
ICSEDS
Imperial College Aid
to the Balkans
Imperial Entrepreneurs
Imperial Queers (LGBT)
Indian
Indonesian
Indoor Hockey
Innovation
Interact International Tamil
Iranian
Iraqi
Irish
Islamic
Italian
96
126
86
43
110
69
126
126
127
127
127
128
77
111
128
70
55
77
96
128
43
55
129
129
77
64
130
130
130
131
131
132
56
111
111
112
78
78
132
112
112
78
79
79
79
64
80
J
Jain
Japanese
Jazz & Rock
Jazz Big Band
Jewish
Jiu Jitsu (Aiuchi)
Joint Maths & Computing
Judo
Juggling
Ju-Jitsu
64
80
44
44
65
87
56
87
70
88
Karate Shotokan
Kendo
Kenyan
Kickboxing
KnitSock
Korean
Kung Fu
88
88
80
89
70
80
65
89
K
L
Labour
Lacrosse
Law
Leonardo
Libertarian
LINKS
Linux Users
Live! News Website
Lord Mayor’s Show
M
113
132
113
44
113
114
114
93
57
Malaysian
81
Mathematics
57
MatSoc
58
Meat Appreciation
114
Mechanical Engineering
58
Medical Education
58
Medical Humanities
114
MedSin
59
Mexican
81
Model United Nations
115
Motor (City & Guilds)
96
Motor
(Royal College of Science) 97
Motor
(Royal School of Mines)
97
Mountaineering
98
Mountaineering (ICSMSU) 98
Music (ICSMSU)
45
Music Technology
45
Musical Theatre
46
Musical Theatre Tour
Muslim Medics
N
Netball
Netball (ICSMSU)
O
Opera (ICSMSU)
Orchestra – Sinfonietta
Orchestra - Symphony
Orienteering
Outdoor
P
Pakistan
Palestinian
Parachute
Parkour & Free Running
PASS
Percucssion
Pharmacology
Photographic
PhySoc
Pilates
Poker
Polish
Political Philosophy
Pugwash
Power Kiting
Pugwash
Punjabi
R
Racing
Radio
Radio-Controlled Model
Railway
100
RAG
RAG (ICSMSU)
Real Ale (Royal School
of Mines)
Riding & Polo
Rifle & Pistol
RockSoc
Rugby Men’s
Rugby Men’s
(City & Guilds)
Rugby Men’s (ICSMSU)
Rugby (Royal College
of Science)
Rugby (Royal School
of Mines)
Rugby Women’s
Russian Speaking
46
59
133
133
47
47
47
134
98
82
82
99
71
115
48
59
93
60
71
71
82
115
94
80
116
82
99
92
100
26
60
116
134
134
48
135
135
136
136
136
137
83
S
Sailing
Save The Children
Scandinavian
Science Fiction
SCUBA Diving
(Underwater Club)
SCUBA Diving (ICSMSU)
Shaolin Kung Fu
Shorinji Kempo
SIFE
Sikh
Singapore
Skate
Snooker
Snowsports
Social Golf (Royal
School of Mines)
Socialist Worker
Software
Spanish
Squash
Squash (ICSMSU)
Sri-Lankan
STOIC TV
Stop the War
Street Magic
String Ensemble
Surf
Surgical
Swim & Water Polo
Synchronised Swimming
T
Table Football
Table Tennis
Taekwondo
Taiwan
Tea
Team Bo’
Ten Pin Bowling
Tennis
Tennis (ICSMSU)
Thai
Turkish
U
Ultimate Frisbee
UniCEF
V
VegSoc
Volleyball
137
116
83
116
101
100
90
90
117
65
84
102
138
138
139
117
118
84
139
139
84
93
118
102
49
102
61
140
72
72
140
90
85
118
103
72
140
141
85
85
141
118
119
142
145
What’s on at the Union
W
Windsurfing
Wakeboarding
War Games
Waterpolo (ICSMSU)
Weights and Fitness
(ICSMSU)
West Indian
Wind Band
103
72
142
Y
Yacht
143
Z
Zeco
61
143
142
85
49
.....and finally!
Imperial College Union Freshers’ Handbook 2009-10 (including the Clubs &
Societies A-Z 2009-10):
Designed and edited by Dan Wan
Gratefully assistant edited by Jovan Nedic
Quotes lovingly compiled by Charlie Murdoch
Clubs & Societies compiled by Phil Power & Ally Cott
Proofed by Rikki Norris, Kris Rajamanikam, Rebecca Coxhead, Angie Kwan, Phil
Power, Rebecca Coxhead, Olle Akesson, Ally Cott and Mary Harrington.
Unrivaled
atmosphere
and our bars and
nightclub
Contributions by Rachael Ward, Ashley Brown, Jenny Wilson, John James, Jon
Silver and Danny Hill, Xenia Snetkov, Fiona O’Connell, Victoria Masding, Matt
Allinson and Jamie Sanders.
Thanks to all the C&S members, FU Presidents, RAG and CAG Chairs for their
entries.
Special thanks to Alex McKee for his invaluable expertise, to Rachael Ward for
photography and last minute adjustments, to Jenny Wilson for being the only
Sabb to get their entry in on time, to Tomo Roberts for inspiration, to Mary
Harrington for making the chair Dan sat on, to Sophie McLachlan, Chloe McKeon
and Xenia Snetkov for batting away Dan’s ever-present boredom in the office. Oh,
and to Jonathan from Spotify.
Cover image courtesy of Barter Books - home of the original WWII poster www.
barterbooks.co.uk
Produced for and on behalf of Imperial College Union Media Group, Beit Quad,
Prince Consort Road, London SW7 2BB
Printed by Indigo Press Ltd, Cambridge Road, Southampton, SO14 6TB. 023 8023
1196
Hot and cold well
priced meals at
breakfast, lunch
time and in the
evening
Wide range of
entertainments
at least 3 nights a
week
Promo nights twice
a week in our bars.
Look out for pints of
lager for under £2
Copyright © Imperial College Union 2009
146
Make sure you visit
to see what is going on in
Freshers’ Week and to
purchase your tickets
Imperial College Union
Beit Quadrangle
Prince Consort Road
London SW7 2BB
Tel: 020 7594 8060
Fax: 020 7594 8065
Email: [email protected]

Sport - Imperial College London

Transcription

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