Category Archives: Blog

Match with Local Members Online

Online Dating for Singles Near You

Local Singles Dating

Online dating has become the go-to choice for singles looking to connect. The beauty of platforms designed for local singles is the convenience of finding potential partners right within your area. It opens up a treasure chest of opportunities to meet people who might just tick all the boxes you’ve been dreaming of. Creating a strong dating profile is crucial in this digital matchmaking arena. A captivating profile grabs attention, which is something everyone seeking a partner aims for. This is your chance to shine and show off the unique aspects of yourself that make you stand out.

Using high-quality pictures and an engaging bio is key in portraying who you are and what you’re looking for. Great visuals are like a flashy billboard in the dating world: they catch the eye and spark interest. Additionally, the essence of building genuine connections cannot be understated. By expressing your interests genuinely and highlighting what you seek in a relationship, you’re setting yourself up for success.

Don’t shy away from letting your true self come through—this vulnerability can be your strongest asset. As you create your dating profile, remember to focus on what matters. Making connections with local singles online isn’t just about swiping right; it’s about engaging, sharing experiences, and hopefully, building something meaningful. Remember, if you’re ready to take the plunge, you can always head over to https://www.cupiddates.com to sign up and find a date in your area. Embrace the modern world of dating and go for it!

Creating a Winning Profile

Crafting a winning profile is essential for those looking to make a splash in the online dating scene. The first impression is everything, and that impression begins with your profile. Think of it as your personal marketing tool—if it’s not appealing, chances are potential partners will scroll past without a second thought. A profile loaded with engaging content and quality images can significantly enhance your chances of finding the right partner.

When you create your dating profile, quality pictures are non-negotiable. Show off your personality through images that reflect who you are. Natural, candid shots often resonate better than stiff photos because they showcase authenticity. Alongside your images, a well-written description focusing on your interests and what you’re looking for can be the hook that draws someone in. Make sure to highlight the aspects of your life that are exciting and relatable.

Another key aspect is to keep your profile updated. As you grow and change, so should your profile. Regularly enhancing your dating profile with new photos or updated descriptions ensures that it accurately represents you. The goal is to create an inviting experience for those browsing through potential matches. By directly engaging with your audience through a standout profile, you’re actively building genuine connections. Creating a curated profile not only helps attract the right people but also facilitates conversations that can lead to meaningful relationships.

Remember that participating in online dating is a commitment, and your profile is the first step in that journey. Embrace the chance to present your best self and connect with others who are equally eager for a genuine relationship.

Communicating with Singles

Once you’ve crafted an engaging profile and caught the eye of potential matches, the next step is communication. Knowing how to initiate conversations can make all the difference in your online dating experience. It’s not just about sending a generic “Hey!” to every person you find attractive, but rather about sparking a dialogue that builds connections.

When reaching out to someone, personalize your message based on their profile. Reference shared interests or something specific they mentioned. This shows that you took the time to read their profile, which can significantly increase your chances of receiving a response. As you chat, aim to keep the conversation flowing by asking open-ended questions. This method encourages your match to share more about themselves and keeps the dialogue engaging.

Effective communication strategies play a vital role in navigating online dating. Be genuine and transparent about your intentions. If you feel a connection, expressing interest can pave the way for deeper conversations and even potential dates. Furthermore, don’t underestimate the importance of being a good listener. Paying attention to what your match shares not only fosters mutual respect but also aids in establishing a strong rapport.

Remember, meeting singles is as much about sharing your own experiences as it is about embracing those of others. By balancing conversation and listening, you’ll create an environment conducive to forming lasting relationships. Communication is the bridge that connects two individuals, and with the right approach, you can successfully transform online chats into real-life connections.

Dating Safety Tips

Online dating can be thrilling, but safety should always top your priority list. With so many singles eager to make connections, it’s essential to remember that not everyone has the best intentions. Implementing safety measures ensures that your experience is both enjoyable and secure as you explore relationship opportunities.

First off, always protect your personal information. While it’s tempting to share details about your life with someone who seems interesting, be cautious. Avoid disclosing sensitive information such as your full name, home address, or financial details until you fully trust the person. Trust takes time to build, and strategizing your interactions can help prevent potential risks.

Another pivotal aspect of online dating trust and safety is meeting in public places for your first few dates. Opt for locations where there’s plenty of foot traffic, and ensure a friend or family member knows your plans. Communicating your whereabouts adds an additional layer of security. If possible, consider virtual dates before meeting in person. This allows you to get a sense of compatibility and gauge your comfort level without the pressure of a face-to-face meeting.

Keeping your instincts in check is crucial. If something feels off during conversations or meetings, don’t ignore those feelings. Trust your gut reactions when it comes to connecting with new people. By being proactive about safety and fostering healthy protocols, you’ll experience the joy of online dating while protecting yourself from potential pitfalls.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to report users who engage in suspicious or inappropriate behavior. Most platforms have measures in place to address such issues. After all, the goal is to match with local singles online and create meaningful connections, all while ensuring the experience is safe and positive.

OkCupid Review – Pros and Cons

OkCupid Review: What to Expect from this Dating App

Overview of OkCupid

OkCupid is a dating app that’s taken the online dating scene by storm. Launched in 2004, it quickly established itself as a reliable platform for singles looking to find compatible partners based on a series of well-crafted questions. The basic premise is simple: the more questions you answer, the better your matches will be. This innovative approach to dating not only enhances the user experience but also sets a high standard in the competitive realm of dating apps.

User impressions of this app are largely positive, with many appreciating its user-friendly design and the comprehensive nature of its matchmaking process. After all, what can be better than having potential matches served right on your screen, tailored to your preferences? This platform has made it easier than ever to connect with individuals who match your interests, values, and lifestyle.

One element that really stands out in OkCupid is its compatibility rating system. By evaluating user responses to quirky and insightful questions, the app establishes a connection score that guides users in their search for companionship. This allows for a more personalized and meaningful dating experience, ultimately leading to better matches.

Furthermore, the app’s layout is both intuitive and engaging. Users can navigate through profiles effortlessly, allowing for a smooth exploration of potential matches. If you’re looking for a dating platform that places importance on compatibility and user engagement, OkCupid might just be the right choice for you.

For those interested in expanding their online dating horizons, this service offers plenty of resources and insights. You may find helpful links like cupid dates. This can guide you toward making more informed choices in your dating journey!

App Layout and User Experience

The layout of the OkCupid app is designed with the user in mind. At first glance, it’s visually appealing and easy to navigate, making it a user-friendly dating app. From setting up your profile to browsing potential matches, the interface is sleek and efficient. Most users report that account setup is straightforward and quick, allowing them to get into the dating scene without unnecessary delays.

During the account setup, OkCupid prompts users with a series of personal questions that help refine their preferences and give insight into their personalities. These questions vary from lighthearted to more profound, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of who you’re looking for in a potential match. The more questions you answer, the more accurate your compatibility rating becomes, making it a thoughtful feature that many appreciate.

As you dive deeper into the app, you’ll notice its penchant for customization. Users can adjust their preferences and even define what they’re looking for in a partner. This level of personalization boosts user involvement and ensures that the matches they see align with their dating goals. Plus, you can check profiles that reflect your preferences closely, which enhances the overall match quality.

An intriguing aspect of the app layout is the presence of various swiping features. Users can like or pass on profiles in a fun, game-like manner, which is especially appealing for younger adults looking for casual dating experiences. This simplicity in action makes OkCupid stand out among other options, as it combines dating app feedback with a practical approach.

Overall, the user experience on OkCupid is an engaging one, which emphasizes ease of use and personalization. Navigating through matches, answering questions, and exploring preferences has never felt so seamless. The app captures many of the elements necessary for a successful dating experience, setting itself apart in the crowded landscape of online dating.

Features and Compatibility Ratings

One of the standout features of the OkCupid app is its comprehensive compatibility rating system. Unlike many dating platforms that rely solely on superficial factors, OkCupid digs deeper by using a series of well-thought-out questions that users complete upon joining. These questions touch on various subjects, from lifestyle choices to personal beliefs, helping the app generate a detailed compatibility score between users.

The system promotes genuine interactions, which is vital in the world of online dating where first impressions can often be misleading. With the help of these ratings, users can understand how well their responses align with those of potential matches. This approach enhances the online dating experience, fostering meaningful connections based on shared values and interests.

OkCupid also offers a range of features that distinguish it from other dating apps. For instance, the ability to answer “questions” from other users allows users to see how they differ or align in terms of opinions and preferences. This creates an opportunity for engaging conversations right off the bat, making ice-breaking simpler and more enjoyable.

Moreover, the app is continually updating its features to maintain user interest and engagement. Users can participate in various prompts and answer questions that are not only thought-provoking but also relate directly to their dating preferences. This is fundamental for keeping the platform fresh and user-friendly, ultimately leading to more successful matches.

Additionally, the community aspect cannot be overlooked. OkCupid provides users with insights into their activity and metrics, helping them gauge how well they fit within the broader dating pool. Seeing real-time updates on compatibility scores and match suggestions amplifies the anticipation and excitement of meeting someone new.

In summary, the features and compatibility ratings of OkCupid contribute significantly to its success as a dating platform. Users can appreciate its thoughtfulness and the depth it brings to the dating experience. By focusing on the nuances of personal preferences and compatibility, this app has firmly established itself as a favorite among those serious about finding meaningful romantic connections.

Overall Impressions and Final Score

After navigating through the OkCupid app, it’s clear that this platform has carved out a niche for itself in the crowded world of online dating. The overall impression is that OkCupid balances serious relationship building with the casual attitude many young adults seek. By fostering a personalized experience through in-depth questions, users often feel more connected to their matches before even making contact.

One pro that’s hard to ignore is the adaptability of the app. Users can quickly adjust their preferences and requirements based on changing dating goals, which is a significant advantage in the fast-paced realm of modern dating. Plus, the responsive design of the app ensures it remains accessible on various devices, thus enhancing usability.

However, like any service, OkCupid has its drawbacks. Some users report feeling overwhelmed by the number of questions and the depth of information required to make the compatibility ratings meaningful. While this may seem like a great approach to matchmaking, it can occasionally lead to analysis paralysis for those seeking quick connections.

In terms of score, OkCupid stands strong among its peers. If I were to assign a rating, I would give it a solid 8.5 out of 10. This score reflects the effectiveness of its features, the depth of customization, and the overall positive user experience. The app’s focus on compatibility and personal preferences is commendable, and it shines in how it appeals to those seeking genuine relationships.

In conclusion, OkCupid certainly deserves consideration for anyone looking to delve into the online dating scene, especially if you’re interested in meaningful connections based on compatibility. Whether you’re after a serious relationship or a simpler dating experience, this app has proven to be a reliable player in the online dating arena.

Meet Married Women for Passionate Encounters

Meet Married Women for Passionate Connections

Meet Married Women: The Excitement Without Commitment

Are you tired of the same old dating patterns? Looking for a little excitement? Meet married women who are seeking the thrill and passion that often gets lost in routine relationships. Engaging with married women can be a liberating experience, allowing you to dive into passionate encounters without the weight of commitment that often comes with traditional dating. Many married women are on the lookout for discreet connections that offer fun and excitement amidst their already busy lives.

Utilizing a married dating site can help you find married women near you who share your interests and desires. The landscape of married dating has transformed into an enticing option for those wanting to connect without the strings attached. Whether you’re seeking flirty chats or sensual encounters, this type of dating opens a fresh avenue to explore what life has to offer.

When you connect with local married women, you find opportunities to engage in enjoyable dating experiences. These relationships can lead to thrilling moments that satisfy your desires without altering anyone’s existing commitments. There’s a certain thrill that comes from adopting a ‘no-strings’ attitude, allowing both parties to foster connections based on excitement, not obligation.

Exploring these married relationships requires a clear understanding of boundaries and discretion, ensuring that both parties can enjoy their encounters without any emotional fallout. Getting to know married women can be refreshing; they often approach dating with a mature perspective and a zest for life that adds an extra spark to your connections.

By jumping into this dating scene, you’re not merely searching for married women dating; rather, you’re opening the door to passionate experiences. So, if you’re ready to shake things up and embrace the thrill of meeting married women, fruitful link. Get ready for an exciting chapter in your dating life!

Finding Married Women Online: The Digital Search

In today’s fast-paced world, finding married women online has never been easier. With a multitude of platforms catering specifically to those seeking passionate encounters, navigating the realm of married dating can be both exciting and efficient. Want to chat with local married women? Look no further than dedicated services like CupidDates to streamline your search. These platforms offer a user-friendly experience, allowing you to connect with interested individuals right from the comfort of your home.

The first step in this journey is to set up an appealing profile. Being clear about your intentions can help attract more married women looking for discreet relationships. Make sure to showcase your personality through engaging pictures and intriguing descriptions. This is your chance to create a strong first impression that invites married women into your dating world.

Once your profile is live, it’s time to delve into the exploration. Search for profiles that resonate with your interests, and don’t hesitate to initiate conversations. When you chat with married women, focus on engaging topics that spark genuine interests. Avoid generic lines; instead, be straightforward. This directness can lead to deeper connections.

Utilizing features like advanced filters can also help narrow down your search for married women who fit your criteria. Whether you are looking for casual chats or something more heated, efficient tools can save you time and enhance your experience. Connection becomes seamless when you clearly define what you seek.

Remember, the key is to make each interaction count. Establish a rapport that makes your chats more enjoyable and fulfilling. Recognizing that both you and the married women you’re speaking with want a stress-free and enjoyable experience, you can create an atmosphere of mutual respect and excitement. Dive into the online world and let the adventures unfold as you find your matches!

The Advantages of Married Dating: Why It’s Worth Exploring

Engaging in married dating opens a treasure trove of advantages that are often overlooked by traditional dating enthusiasts. One significant benefit lies in the emotional satisfaction that stems from these encounters. When you connect with married women, you explore relationships that can fulfill your desires without the heavy emotional baggage that often accompanies serious commitments. Married women often understand what they want and can provide experiences that are both thrilling and fulfilling.

Another upside is the level of maturity that comes with dating married women. These individuals typically have life experiences that enrich their interactions, enabling them to engage in conversations that are profound and meaningful. Their understanding of relationships often leads to connections that are less about drama and more about shared enjoyment and mutual respect.

The thrill of enjoying passionate encounters with married women adds an exciting dimension to dating. Each meeting can lead to moments that are exhilarating, filled with chemistry and tension that can keep you coming back for more. This type of dating also promotes fun experiences where both partners can be their true selves without the societal pressures of standard dating norms.

Moreover, these relationships tend to emphasize quality over quantity, which is refreshing for anyone who has navigated the often exhausting dating scene. When you find yourself seeking relationships with married women, you’re likely to enjoy more intimate and personal experiences, focusing on what truly matters: connection.

Ultimately, the allure of married dating lies in its distinct ability to provide both excitement and emotional fulfillment. As you explore relationships with married women, you’re entering a world where passion thrives, and connections flourish. Don’t hesitate to venture into the realms of married dating; the potential for happiness and adventure awaits you. Whether you seek excitement in your life or desire connections that bring joy, married dating could just be the answer you’ve been searching for.

ENGLANDÔÇÖs TOUR OF SRI LANKA – 1ST TEST REVIEW

By Pranav Kanade

Having beaten Sri Lanka 3-1 in the ODI series, England approached the Test series full of confidence. Side-lined by an ankle injury, Jonny Bairstow was replaced by Ben Foakes, for what would be his maiden Test cap. Following the retirement of Alistair Cook, Rory Burns was also given a maiden test cap and tasked with opening the batting and was called straight into action by the skipper Joe Root, who won the toss and elected to bat.

EnglandÔÇÖs first innings started poorly, with Lakmal picking up two wickets in the 3rd over of the match, sending Burns and Moeen Ali back to the pavilion. Keaton Jennings and Joe Root tried to rebuild the innings but were dismissed before reaching half-centuries, and the wicket of Ben Stokes brought debutant Foakes to the crease at 103-5. Despite a few shaky overs, Foakes grew in confidence and reached his first ever test century on his debut. 50+ partnerships with Buttler, Curran and Rashid helped Foakes take England to 342, before being dismissed.

Sri LankaÔÇÖs poor batting form continued as they collapsed to 40-4 after only 16 overs. Thanks to an 8-wicket haul by EnglandÔÇÖs spinners Rashid, Ali and Leach, and despite a solo Angelo MatthewsÔÇÖ knock of 52, Sri Lanka were bundled out for 203. EnglandÔÇÖs second innings began much better than their first, with Burns and Jennings taking England to 60 for no loss. However, a trio of wickets in short succession by the Sri Lankan spinners rocked the English to 74-3, but a brilliant knock of 146* from Jennings and 62 from Ben Stokes helped England recover to 319-6 before declaring and setting the Sri Lankans 461 runs to win.

Unfortunately for Sri Lanka, EnglandÔÇÖs bowlers picked up where they left off, with the three spinners claiming another 8 wickets. Unlike the Sri Lankan first innings, all the established batsmen got themselves settled at the crease, but poor shots and decision making meant they couldnÔÇÖt capitalise and extend their thirties into hundreds. As a result, they were bowled out for 250, meaning England won the test by 211 runs. Having picked up 8 wickets in this match alone, Moeen Ali was a clear contender for Man of the Match, but FoakesÔÇÖ debut century when England were in a hole in the first innings was deemed to be more of a match winning performance.

The first test match in EnglandÔÇÖs tour of Sri Lanka ended in a comprehensive victory for the visitors, albeit thanks to some poor batting by the hosts. With two more tests to be played, the Sri Lankans have plenty of time to turn it around, but it would seem England would have to play extremely badly to throw away the 1-0 lead.

 

Bad Sounds Review

Review by Andrew Locke Scobie

With a distinct sound, crowd engagement like no other and theatrics that create a feel much like that of Bowie or other cult musicians, Bad Sounds are beginning to cement themselves as a firm jewel in the crown of up and coming UK Indie Music. Recently they performed in their home town of Bristol and Benny Wu and I were lucky enough to experience this instalment of their ÔÇÿGet Better MovementÔÇÖ.

The stage opened with two very talented warm up acts: Dylan Cartlidge and Indoor Pets and once both of their sets had finished, we were left eagerly awaiting the main show. Bad Sounds set opened with a very minimalist sketch of a lone light bulb flashing on stage accompanied by a voice booming through the speakers explaining how we would leave the gig as ÔÇÿgood peopleÔÇÖ and it was their aim to help us ÔÇÿget betterÔÇÖ. This was very in keeping with the general essence and charm of their debut album ÔÇ£Get BetterÔÇÖ and so the show started.

Opening with such a well-loved song like ÔÇÿWagesÔÇÖ was the perfect choice as the crowd cheered and danced throughout, when it comes to this band, the audience atmosphere seems just as important as the set they are playing. Dressed in their classic ÔÇÿGet BetterÔÇÖ overalls the band continued reeling off hit after hit from their album with songs such as ÔÇÿEvil PowersÔÇÖ and ÔÇÿCouldnÔÇÖt Give It AwayÔÇÖ among others. We were then treated with a short interval with another get better speech as well as a costume change for the band, this time losing the overalls and donning clothes from an array of their music videos.

The fans screamed as Bad Sounds treated the second half playing one of their older hits ÔÇÿMeat on My BonesÔÇÖ. They continued with an incredible set eventually ending with the perfect final song ÔÇÿNo LuckÔÇÖ and, as the front runner brothers Ewan and Callum wrestled around on-stage, confetti and balloons covered the crowd and the show came to a triumphant close. This might have been the best gig IÔÇÖve ever been to and anyone that cares at all about this band would be greatly missing out if they did not see them live.

The Clinic: Midterm Blues

This week on The Clinic, Michael and Steph talked about their experiences with midterm blues and how to navigate the swamp of deadlines, letting agents, student finance issues, freshers flu and housemates from hell!

Here are 10 top tips on getting past this hump in the term and making it through to Christmas!

1. Stay organised! Plan to have your work done a week before the deadlines, or failing that keep a dairy so at least you know when your deadlines are coming up.

2. Get plenty of sleep! Make time for sleep, even if you’re super busy! It will be your strongest weapon to fight off freshers flu, and keep your brain energised.

3. DonÔÇÖt rush into a new house, look at all your housing options thoroughly, talk to your parents about what your budget for a house is and work out how you will manage bills.

4. Get to know your future housemates well before agreeing to live with them: As easy as it is to decide to live with your first year flat mates, explore your options and decide if their annoying habits are something you can live with for another year!

5. Budget yourself. This time of year, everyone’s student finance begins to run a little low! There are plenty of apps out there to help you manage your spending, or just writing down what your spending in a diary will help you keep track on where your money is going.

6. When looking around houses, make sure you get a good look. Things like phone signal, how cold the house is, whether boiler is making funny or if the shower is clean are important to look at when investigating which house is for you.

7. Ask around about letting agents. Look at reviews online and on Facebook about different letting agents. There are plenty around in Cardiff so you’ll be spoilt for choice. Students are usually which letting agents ripped them off, so don’t be afraid to ask! Also when looking around houses, if you can, ask the people currently living there what they think of the house and the landlord.

8. DRINK WATER! Not only will this help your hangovers, but it is also great brain food and keeps you awake! It helps concentration, and boosts your immune system so will help tackle that pesky freshers flu.

9. Make meetings with your personal tutor. If you are having any issues with your course or even are just struggling to keep on top of your deadlines, don’t be afraid to talk to them! They are there to help you with anything you are finding hard at uni.

10. Look out for your friends. If you think someone may be struggling, be that with homesickness, workload, mental health or anything there is a lot you can help!! Just being a good friend, cooking them the occasional meal when they are busy or making yourself available when they need a talk. There is a lot we can do to help each other when away from our families.

“Ladies, We Need To Talk”

Gemma and Steph talked about the pressures girls face on nights out at Uni.

Freshers is often the first time that many girls go clubbing, and the first time they experience men giving them unwanted sexual attention. Our advice is to be there for each other – if you see a girl who is in a situation she doesn’t want to be in, go up and talk to her. If she needs to be removed from the situation, you can suggest going to the toilet together or maybe going to get a drink. When away from the guy, you can then ask her if she is okay and what she wants to do next.

The girls also talked about the pressures girls face to lose their virginity in first year, and how many girls feel they need to in order to fit in with their housemates. Don’t rush into anything you feel uncomfortable about, or think you will regret in the future! If your housemates are your true friends, they will accept you for who you are and include you in things whether you like to get with guys on nights out or not!

Read Gemma’s blog here:
Ladies, We Need To Talk

Chill Tune of the Week:

Atlas Hands – Benjamin Francis Leftwich

Check out the rest of the playlist.
We heard from George about his experience as a homesick Master’s student.

Listen to some of his advice here!

Catch The Clinic every Friday 2-4pm on Xpress Radio.

WE ARE LIVE!

After 8 weeks of hard work and preparation we are FINALLY on air and in the words of our station manager Meg Sharma, weve released all the bees from the studio the buzz is gone!. So yes, not only are we back but we are sounding better than ever.

Firstly, wed like to say a massive thank you! To the people who contributed to the new desk, to all the team that have worked harder than ever this week and of course to all the new members who wanted to join the Xpress family

This year is XpressÔÇÖ 22nd birthday and we are throwing the best party yet. We have a full schedule of 81 shows, covering a range of speech, entertainment and music of all different genres! WeÔÇÖve had over 100 new members joining our team and for the first time EVER we have a welsh language show on every day of the week. It is fair to say weÔÇÖre off to a good start.

BUT, it doesnt end there! We have so much more planned. Not only are we bringing back The Specialist Takeover cheers and our renowned Xpresstival even bigger cheers weve got so many new ideas up our sleeves that have never been done before

So watch this space to see what we have planned, get involved on the Facebook page and most importantly TUNE IN!

Xpress’ Top Ten Freshers Tips!

Welcome to Cardiff, Freshers!! All of us at Xpress hope you have a brilliant first year, and want to offer some words of wisdom that we wish we had known in order to help us survive!

– Unpack ASAP! If you leave it too late it is almost guaranteed that youÔÇÖll spend the entirety of first year living out of your suitcase. A well decorated room also creates a much more homely atmosphere for you.

– Make a budget for each week! So many people spend all of their money early on in the year and then rely on cheap pasta and beans for the rest of the termÔǪ Also NO, you donÔÇÖt need to do another random amazon order.

– Embrace Lidl, itÔÇÖs the cheapest place to buy food and youÔÇÖll save yourself a fortune.

– Attend the fresherÔÇÖs fairs and other fresherÔÇÖs events. YouÔÇÖll be more informed with what the university has to other and you can also get free stuff!

– Your degree isnÔÇÖt isolated to just your daily lectures and seminars. Step out of your comfort zone and join a society (preferably Xpress). YouÔÇÖll meet some incredible people and youÔÇÖll find extra-curricular opportunities that will help you in the future after university.

– Stay organised and donÔÇÖt leave your work until the last minute! Although an all-nighter with your housemates in the ASSL is quite funÔǪ your body will be a lot better if you avoid this!

– Spend some time trying to find a way of taking notes that works for you. It might seem like a bore right now but youÔÇÖll love yourself when it comes to exam season!

– Explore the city! ThereÔÇÖs so much to do in Cardiff. Parks, museums, live music venues (Womanby Street), clubs, pubs, shopping, cinemasÔǪ the list goes on!

– DonÔÇÖt be afraid to ADULT! Sign up to the doctorÔÇÖs surgery and make an appointment when youÔÇÖre not feeling well. Everyone hates talking on the phone but your guardian/s canÔÇÖt do it for you now and fresherÔÇÖs flu will find you at some point!

– DonÔÇÖt be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Whether you need academic or emotional support, the university provides a huge amount of assistance through the personal tutor system, student mentors and Student Advice.

Have a great year!!

REVIEW: ‘Closer’


Reviewed by Agathe Dijoud

Cardiff Uni’s drama society Act One played ‘Closer’ by Patrick Marber last week, and it was a really great experience! A dozen scenes take us on the decade-long love journey of a quartet. Anna (Miriam Hopkins), Alice (Michaela Minkin), Dan (Alec Cook) and Larry (Luke Merchant) experience love, marriage and heartbreak with each other, with nothing ever feeling fully right, and with their personal backgrounds always catching up.

I don’t know if the comedians study drama, but all four are really talented, and got the audience into the play easily, making us forget the stage set hardly changes in between scenes. The set was by the way pretty well done, with the bed in the middle of four walls filled with pictures of people. There were details reminding us of all four characters in each scene. A really inventive and funny moment in the play is the online conversation between Dan and Larry, projected on the wall behind them.

Special shout-out to whoever made the screen actually look like the late 1990’s; it got us even more into the context of the play! I would recommend everyone to check out Act One’s plays, because there are probably other talented comedians, directors and else in the society!

REVIEW: ‘Posh’

Reviewed by James Evans

The last Act One production I watched was A Midsummer NightÔÇÖs Dream. Considering I had seen several adaptations of the Shakespearean play I was slightly concerned about being bored, but Act One did not disappoint with a unique and exceptional take on the classic love story. Fast forward two years and theyÔÇÖve taken on the challenge of Laura WadeÔÇÖs satirical play about the obnoxious and frankly brutal ten members of the infamous Riot Club.

ItÔÇÖs a play about the arrogant nature of a group of entitled individuals that believe they have the right to special treatment and are willing to fight to reassert themselves. The comedy is played off their ridiculous egos and snobbery and whilst itÔÇÖs not a particularly complex comedy, itÔÇÖs impossible not to find yourself laughing most of the way through. Posh is a play that makes you think and gets you talking afterwards. At the end of the first act you find yourself arguing with the potential facts that people of this class actually believed the opinions voiced by the characters in the play. It becomes all too apparent the evil undertones that run through this play, when youÔÇÖre laughing at the ridicule of the victims and supporting the barbarity of the villains. Posh makes you feel sorry for a group of Toffs that beat up a landlord and ransack his property, and as the last scene reveals, are also going to get away with it.

The cast were fantastic, arguably perfect at relaying the message of the play. Every character was distinctive in their role and drew you into the chaos that was unfolding. The ten members of the Riot Club were especially entertaining with their varied and hilarious outbursts of snobbery, their brilliant performances quickly made you fall into the trap of loving them. The comedy was punchy and comedic timing was faultless. There were a few moments of dialogue that were lost due to the background noise of other actors, but it didnÔÇÖt do much to detract from the overall performance. Special mention has to go to Jack Kelly (Alistair Ryle) for his fierce and gripping monologue that marked the tipping point in the play and also Jake OÔÇÖNeill (Guy Bellingfield) who was hilarious throughout. Benjamin Southgate (Harry Villiers) and Chris Brunskill (Dimitri Mitropoulos) were also a pleasure to watch. Even someone irreverent to politics would be able to understand the message of the play and this is all thanks to a brilliant cast and director.

The lighting, set and sound all worked to further the production and were appropriate for the play. I particularly enjoyed the use of lighting and sound during small segments that acted as scene changes. The music and sound effects were especially effective with pinpoint execution from the team during certain scenes. The choice to have a mixed gender cast was interesting but didnÔÇÖt really do anything to further the message of the play.

Act OneÔÇÖs production of Posh was extremely fun and surprisingly thought provoking to watch. There were a couple of breaks in the pace, but the cast and crew led you effectively to a climatic finale that was shocking and didnÔÇÖt disappoint. I canÔÇÖt wait to see what Act One does next.