My MA Notes (Board of Studies)

POSTGRADUATE HANDBOOK
- profuse apologies for lateness, printed version will be distributed after holidays.
- handbook currently available online at http://music.york.ac.uk/postgraduate
- future handbooks to contain map of department, concise list of PG entitlements.

POSTGRADUATE SPACE
- currently there are two workrooms: 118 and south-facing room in mrc. For access to mrc room, talk to Helen (hmg6) about getting your card programmed. mrc room to be publicized more.
- computers will be slightly upgraded (refurbished staff computers), though still no internet due to security and finance reasons.
- no space for a social room at this time.
- 08/09: 118 will be reassigned as a general seminar room.
- 08/09: a room in SB D-block will be reassigned for postgrads with assistantships or in the mentoring program.

ENTITLEMENTS
As postgraduate students, your entitlements may include the following (depending on your program):
- lessons stipend
- postgraduate space (118, mrc room)
- free concert tickets for Wednesday and Saturday concerts
- use of postgraduate studio space
- room booking, such as mrc conference room
- access to key box (£3 deposit for key to key box outside 107, through Helen)

SOCIAL CONCERNS
- many postgrads feeling isolated.
- request for a more thorough PG induction
- “postgrad committee” to arrange at least one social event per term for both MAs and PhDs - increase networking.
- events maybe before the BoS meetings to allow for discussion of issues

ENSEMBLES
- discussion that departmental ensembles are no longer perceived as fulfilling the needs of many of the students - no conclusion.
- idea of “registered ensembles” allowed to pre-book rehearsal space.
- would also provide a resource list of groups for composers.
- Helen and Nicky to look at system, possible implementation by Term Two.

ACCESS
- locked rooms over the weekend fault of university security. If you find a locked room, tell Helen (hmg6) so she can complain to them again.
- key box to be refilled - PLEASE always return the keys.
- for access to mrc room, talk to Helen (hmg6) about getting your card programmed. 08/09: cards to be automatically programmed before term one.

MENTORSHIPS (08/09)
- postgraduates looking for more experience and undergrads looking for more help.
- would also increase interaction between PGs and UGs.
- idea of a voluntary mentorship program, helps with experience/CVs.
- other possible roles: essay review, mock performances, practical projects, ensemble guidance.
- staff thinks it’s a great idea: will look into university policies and training options.

OVERHAUL OF MA COURSE (08/09)
- Ambrose (aef3) is heading up the overhaul of the MA course with new guidelines coming for the 08/09 year.
- any and all positive and negative feedback about the current program are encouraged, please send general suggestions to him via email.
- CONTEMPORARY STUDIES: next year the paper-only pathway option will be 10,000 words, instead of the current 7,000 words

OTHER CONCERNS
- there is currently no budget for a printer/photocopier stipend for postgrads. It is possible that a creation of a YUSU- or GSA-affiliated “postgrad music society” would result in some financial contribution.
- lockers: hallway to be cleared out, lockers to be refurbished (08/09) and system reconsidered. Possibility of yearly fees.
- request for microwave in student kitchen - approved.
- grievances about Gamelan and scheduling clashes were noted.
- department-wide student feedback meetings now extinct in favour of year-wide discussion (through email, Facebook, person, etc)
- general complaints to go to year reps, then your supervisor, then Ambrose (aef3)