PROMOTIONAL BLOG VIDEO!

Hi guys,

So we've made a promotional video for our blog! It's titled 'Nostalgia' and features footage of things at Macquarie University put into reverse, creating that feeling of nostalgia that you'll have in the future! It's basically trying to tell you not to waste your time at university, and have the best experience ever!

The video was created by Tim, Maya, Jeremy and Kyle using only footage from our phones, and mixed together with the song "Pea Green Bote" by Fishing. Let us know if you like it!

The Video can be found in the link below!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMvu4eX0UnE&feature=youtu.be


Note: We've had some issues with blogger trying to find our video to post, so when we correct this we'll post up the video as per norm. Thanks for your patience!

Student Accommodation

By Jeremy Thomas

I know that accommodation is a massive factor for a lot of students at MQU. But where exactly can you go? I had a look myself and found some pretty cool places.

•     Macquarie University Village - Of course the most closest and easiest for Macquarie students is acquiring accommodation at Macquarie itself!

http://www.macquarieuv.com.au/

•           Iglu – Both in Chatswood and central, this place seems fairly practical for students. Modern design with your own desk and shelves etc.

http://iglu.com.au/

•         Urban Nest – Although it’s located a little further away from the University don’t rule it out. Again it’s fairly modern with all of your study needs in mind.

http://www.urbanest.com.au/

•     Student & Backpacker Accommodation – Provides great places in Sydney if you’re looking for something that isn’t too pricey.

http://www.studentaccommodationsydney.com/

•      UniLodge – Perhaps a little to far out but still worth a mention. Modern design and a Short walk to central station.

http://www.unilodge.com.au/

I guess if you’re like me and not keen on student Accommodation, get some friends together or acquaint yourself with other individuals looking for accommodation. Renting in some cases can be cheaper and an easier option.  

Video's to watch while procrastinating.

Yes, I apologise in advance. I have put below 5 videos that  I found really funny or interesting and worth sharing! Comment with any other videos that you love and wasting precious study time!

( We acknowledge the owners of these videos. We do not own these videos and all sources are provided underneath)

1. WHAT A WAY TO SPEND THE MOST IMPORTANT DAY OF YOUR LIFE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwaJgz_CKmw

2. THIS PERSON MAKES YOU SMILE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lsp5oa571fU

3. AMAZING CREATIVITY AND ACCURACY- GANGNAM STYLE FLIPBOOK

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8D0kG4URfxs

4. YOU CAN WATCH THE ENTIRE CLIP. BEAUTIFUL SINGERS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lExW80sXsHs

5. JUST BEAUTIFUL. BRITAIN'S GOT TALENT- SHADOW DANCERS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvQBUccxBr4

Coffee @ Macquarie

By Tim Cheeseman

Before writing this post I thought 'what's the one thing that a university student needs most at university?' Education? Resources? Study areas? Friends? Of course, these things are important, but not as important as a good cup of coffee! I find myself to be a bit of a coffee enthusiast, so here are my recommendations on some good coffee places at MQU! 

Marxine's Cafe

Rating: 3/5 

 Located in the Hub, Marxine's Cafe provides cheap coffee with a pretty good taste! I'd recommend trying the Cappuccino there, it has great flavour!

Brew Bar

Rating: 4/5

Brew Bar is located in the Hub, right across from Marxine's Cafe. The coffee is a little bit more expensive, but makes up for it in taste! I strongly 

recommend a good latte during lunch! 

The Library Cafe

Rating: 4/5

The Library's Cafe makes a pretty decent brew, and is conveniently placed at the entrance to the library. I'd recommend a good Mocha there, but make sure you have a pay pass card or cash because I got stuck having to go and get money out! 

Wally's Coffee Cart

Rating: 4.5/5

Wally's Coffee Cart serves in my opinion, the best coffee at Macquarie! It's cheap and convenient if you're heading down Wally's Walk towards the Lotus Theatre or to the W buildings. I recommend getting the Vanilla Latte, it is heaven in a cup! 

FOOD OPTIONS IN CAMPUS HUB

The Macquarie University Campus Hub is also known as the 'food court'. Simply look at the photo below and you will know what I am talking about.

Image source: http://www.mq.edu.au/pubstatic/custom/files/media/photo_macquarie_
students_sitting_in_foodcourt_campus_hub_by_fj_gaylor.jpg

 For those who don't have a favourite place to eat, are probably like me every lunch time; I walk around the hub, searching and searching for something to grab my attention or until I finally make up my mind. 

So below I have listed some food stores in the food court and underneath each one I have listed 5 words or short sentences that describe it. In the comments below, feel free to share opinions and experiences.

PIE FACE:

·        Simple

·        Steak and peppercorn is my favourite

·        Cant go wrong with a pie

·        I rate the dessert a 6/10. Favourite is the big cookie

·        Reasonable price

THE GRILL:

·        Never tried it

·        Similar to Mcdonalds?

·        The hot chips seem popular

·        Convenient

·        Opinions here please!

WICKED MEXICAN:

·        Tried the mixed plate- delicious

·        Corn chips are usually warm- so good

·        Friendly staff

·        Haven’t tried the crepes- any opinions?

·        Close to the entry

DONOR WRAP:

·        Not enough meat in the kebab

·        Mixed plate looks good

·        Average price for a kebab

·        Pide’s are a 8/10

SANDWICH SHOP:

·        So much variety

·        My favourite store

·        Friendly staff

·        All sandwiches are $5 after approximately 4pm

·        Sweet chilli wrap goes very soggy after 2 hours on display

·        Caesar wrap is the best

IKU WHOLEFOODS:

·        Feels great after eaten

·        Slightly expensive

·        Must try something new every time

·        Most of the food is served cold.

By Maya El-hage

Conception Day

By Jeremy Thomas

Conception day is MQU’s own music festival! Pretty cool huh?  Every year MQU supports and organises this day for everyone to enjoy. With live bands, DJ’s, rides and many other amusements, what more could you ask for?

Having attended conception day last year, I can say there is much fun to be had. Exploring all the different stages of live bands and DJ’s was great. Going on all the rides made me feel like a little kid, especially riding the dodgem cars. Perfect day out if you’re after heaps of fun.

 

Past conception day performances have included Bag raiders, Art vs Science, Gyroscope, DJ Zanon, Grinspoon, British India, Van She and Nix. Conception day also supports many student bands who can apply to perform on the day.

Conception day is for everyone, not just university students, So I highly recommend everyone attend conception day 2013.

Check out these 6 tips I found for Conception day:

http://www.mq.edu.au/transition/6-tips-for-conception-day/

WHY IS THIS MAGAZINE ALL OVER CAMPUS?!

Written By Tim Cheeseman

As a first year student, I'm still new to the publications and projects that are at Macquarie University. One of the things I've noticed is that the magazine 'Grapeshot' is available for free everywhere you go. I decided to investigate to find out what it is! 

Grapeshot is the main Student Publication at Macquarie University, providing content on a wide range of things such as music, food, art, videos, news and written pieces. It's created by students, for students in the hope that you'll read it and enjoy it! 

The magazine is both a physical and online magazine, either placed everywhere on campus AND has regularly updated information online for your convenience! It's all about you as the students and they're always wanting to write about what you want to hear! 

On that note, Grapeshot regularly take requests on topics of what you might want to hear about, as well as take submissions from you! So if you have an idea for a post, send them an email at grapeshot@mq.edu.au to find out more or visit them in the Campus Hub on level 1 to discuss your ideas. They're always open to them! 

Check out the magazine all over campus, or visit their websites here: 

Website: http://grapeshotmq.com.au

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/GrapeshotMagazine

Twitter: @grapeshotmq

Instagram: @grapeshotmq

Written By Tim Cheeseman

Student support

By Jeremy Thomas

It is understandable that unexpected things can happen to you while studying at university. This is why student support is such a major aspect at MQU.

Imagine for a second:

 After the unlucky event of breaking both of your legs in a car accident, your partner suddenly calls and is asking for a divorce. They've now left you all alone to fend for yourself…Great! To make matters worse, your boss leaves a message on your phone….simply put, you've been fired.

I guess the above example was a bit dramatic I admit, but I’m sure you can understand that life can be a little unfortunate at times. Luckily for students at Macquarie there is support for such events.

·         Childcare services – Are you studying with kids? No biggie. There are two childcare centres located on the grounds of Macquarie. Both Banksia cottage and Gumnut cottage provide a safe and fostering environment for your kids while you’re out doing the hard yards at university.

Banksia cottage: ph. (02) 9850 7781

Gumnut cottage: ph. (02) 9850 7740

                                                

·         Counselling – If you have any particular psychological or emotional problem, this is definitely the place to go. Trained professionals can help you with any sort of problems you may have! Did I mention it’s free?

Ph. (02) 9850 7497 

·         Disability service- Having a disability, whether permanent or temporary, can be a difficult aspect to cope with at university. Luckily there are trained staff that can provide help in any sort of circumstance you may have.

Ph. (02) 9850 7497

·           Medical service- Macquarie University provides its own general practitioner service. If you have any sort of health issues this is of course the best place to be.

Ph. (02) 9812 3944

·         Security- Of course priority number is your safety! Security services operate 24/7 on campus with regular patrols, monitoring alarms and CCTV.

Ph. (02) 9850 7112

·         Welfare service- If you’re having monetary problems, renting issues, legal issues or academic progress issues then the student welfare service can help you.

 Ph. (02) 9850 7497

Published on Feb 20, 2013

Campus Wellbeing and Support

Level 2 C8A Lincoln Building, 

Macquarie University NSW 2109

Old Library Reconstruction

WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO THE OLD LIBRARY AT

 MQU?

I speak to those who have attended MQU for more than a year. I'm sure you have all walked past the old library and wondered either, what is going on in there? Or whatever will they turn it into? Well you will be glad to know that it is being converted into a MUSE or a Macquarie University Spatial Experience. The university has employed three excellent architects to design certain areas of the library. Take a look at one design below. If you want to see all three designs, visit this page:

http://staff.mq.edu.au/services_and_facilities/services_facilities_a-z/property_project_services/current_projects/c7a_redevelopment/muse-macquarie_university_spatial_experience/

After semester 2 2013, you won’t have to wonder aimlessly around the library looking for a desk, or death stare at those wasting time on the computers or even those who have fallen asleep or even better, you won’t be continuously told off for whispering to your friend…about an assignment! Tell us what you think about these designs.

The new space will provide a variety of flexible spaces that support the social learning environment and to push the boundaries of previously developed spaces. These spaces should consider areas for groups of 2, 4, 6 and 8+ students to gather to collaborate and work together or study while also providing opportunity for some more personal work spaces. These spaces should be considered the middle ground between the social and active environment of the Campus Hub (C10A) and the more formal and quiet spaces of the new Learning and Research Centre (Library) C3C.

Bennett and Trimble - Level 2 West

Community Garden

Did you know that Macquaire University has a community garden? Check out the information below! 

Also, another ‘diversity’ garden will be created near the MUSE building discussed in the previous post.

 What is it?

Students, staff and community members are welcome. Students pat a small one-time fee of $5 to cover the cost of water and receive their very own plot for planting.

The community garden teaches and promotes organic growing practices. In addition, the garden also accepts up to 120kg of food waste from the Campus Engagement kitchens each week for composting.

How does it work?

• Members receive access to the garden during daylight hours 7 days a week
• Meetings and Working Bees are held on the first Sunday of each month at 4.00PM

Where is it?

The Community Garden is now located at the northwestern corner of Culloden and Talavera Road(adjacent to the road that leads into the University Sports Fields)

For more information, visit: http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/strategy_and_initiatives/sustainability/areas_of_focus/food/community_garden/

Groups at MQU: Part 2! (electric boogaloo)

Written by Tim Cheeseman

At last! It has arrived, the moment you've all been waiting for... Groups at Macquarie part 2 (electric boogaloo). First of all, if you have never seen 'Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo', go watch it after reading this post and start pursuing your break dancing career. But for now, I'll give you some more of my handpicked groups and activities that you might enjoy!

Doctor Who Society

If you're a fan of Doctor Who like myself, this may just be the group for you! With an array of members, DOCSOC helps you to embrace your inner nerd, whether a fan of the show or not. They meet to discuss the show and science fiction related interests where it's a great way to socialise. 

Their aim is "To provide members with opportunities to discuss, share their interest and learn more about the television series. The group is open for all students, wether you are fan of the show or have an interest in science fiction, or neither!"

More information can be found here: 

Email: docsocmq@gmail.com

Quidditch Association

Quidditch is arguably (in my opinion) the greatest sport ever created. Based off the Harry Potter franchise written by J. K. Rowling, real life quidditch though not magical, is a fun game to play. People throw balls through hoops, run around on brooms and aim to catch the human golden snitch who can run wherever they like until caught. It's a great way to socialise and have a laugh! 

"The objectives of the Club are to promote the sport of Quidditch at Macquarie University as a social, fun and participatory activity, conducting regular Social Quidditch Sessions and fostering training of a formal representative Macquarie University" 

More information can be found here: 

Email: macmalaclaws@hotmail.com

AnimeMQ

If you're into anime comics, cartoons or art, AnimeMQ is the group for you! With many members, the group meets to talk and create manga, as well as share their love for the art form. 

"To spread the influence of Japanese Animation and Manga along with various influences of popular Japanese sub-culture in the University. Also to allow students and others with common interest to meet and socialise in events on and off campus."

More information can be found here: 

Email: contactus@animemq.com
Social Media: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?sid=2b06e972c66bfd9e31768152756fefc2&gid=5592824605

Website: www.animemq.com

Sport Programs: 

Macquarie University has a wide reputation in the field of sport; whether for fun, socialising or competitive. Ranging from Chess and Squash to Rugby, Netball, Soccer, Waterpolo and Basketball, Macquarie has a great variety of sporting groups and programs to satisfy your sporting needs with the MacWarrior cheering you on! 

"Whether you are looking to keep active, maintain wellbeing or play sport at a competitive level, we offer an array of sporting options available for Students, Staff and members of the local community!"

All sporting information at Macquarie can be found here: 

http://www.mq.edu.au/on_campus/sport_and_recreation/sport_programs/

Hopefully this group information helped! Feel free to hit us up for some advice on our Twitter Page or our email: discoveringmqu@gmail.com

Written Tim Cheeseman