Freshers' week is, for the Freshers, fairly hectic. Indeed, for the staff at the University it is fairly problematic, what with nubile young things bouncing onto campus not knowing much and generally being rather gormless. For 'returners' however, Freshers' week should be an easy time: sit back and finish off that essay you've had over the summer, say hi to some old mates and, if there's time, check out the talent on offer in the new draft. Not for me however- I'm thanking the Philosophy department for timetabling my classes from late Tuesday onward giving a small amount of recovery time from what has been a rather disabling week. Not that I can really complain, it was pretty much of my own choosing. I am you see, a member of our lovely Students' Union Executive Committee, placed there as one half of the Societies Officership. This means two things... Firstly I have been picked upon as a committee member to lend a hand in many ways to the inner workings of Freshers' Week, making sure that the kids have a good time as it were. Secondly, the Societies Officer is required to run the Freshers' fair, a joyful bazaar of stalls and fun showcasing all our Societies and allowing large corporations the opportunity to give away such useful gifts as popcorn machines and disco lights. Now, in fairness I have worked harder in my life, but coupled with the other goings on of the week (you know, registering for your course, moving into your house, eating, sleeping etc) it was fairly punishing. The down point was probably the 3pm-8pm set up on the Friday followed by planning at a computer screen 'til 2am, then rising at around 5am on the Saturday to set up and work solidly through the event which finished at 4pm. After that I thought it would be a laugh to tidy up, then stage manage an event on campus (Access All Areas band stage for those in the know) and get to bed around 3am. I hope it was enjoyed by someone, otherwise I'd feel sad... It was fun however, and I did get to introduce every single Fresher to the joys of the Okapi and the Tapir in a powerpoint presentation that perked me up no end. You had to be there, but honestly, it was devilishly entertaining. Got to think about the Philosophy of Art now. Always the way... Robbie Dale
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