Lifestyle
How To Smash Your First Year at Uni
Wednesday, 3 May 2017
Oh hi May, you crept up on us fast...
So as my first year of uni is coming to an end, (I know, where did that time go?) I thought I would write a few tips I’ve learnt on this mad journey. For those of you who don’t know, I’m studying a Journalism and Media Communication degree, and I absolutely love it. My degree is so varied, often having lectures relating to the realms of politics, history and law - no two days are ever the same!
So as my first year of uni is coming to an end, (I know, where did that time go?) I thought I would write a few tips I’ve learnt on this mad journey. For those of you who don’t know, I’m studying a Journalism and Media Communication degree, and I absolutely love it. My degree is so varied, often having lectures relating to the realms of politics, history and law - no two days are ever the same!
With this being my second time at university, I figured I could give some credible tips for finally surfing first year…
1. Get involved!
If I could have given myself one piece of advice, the first time around at uni, I would have told myself to get involved. University can be a scary, and lonely place but getting involved with societies, sports teams and volunteering can create great friendships, and important experience. I’ve had a recent love for cheerleading, and joined my university cheer team - and I’m so glad I did. I’ve made the best friends, kept fit and bloody loved winning a National champ title.
For those of you who are less sporty, there will be plenty of societies to join from cocktail making to Marxist society - there will be something for you. Take the plunge, and challenge yourself.
2. Don’t be complacent
For those of you who will be studying a degree where first year doesn’t count overall, this ones for you. After speaking to lots of different people from various courses, a lot give the same advice: ‘Enjoy first year, it doesn’t count!’. Although this is true, please enjoy first year - but don’t leave your work to the last minute, with minimal efforts. First year is a stepping stone to the second year, and the quicker you pick up good studying habits, the better it will be for you for the rest of your degree.
3. Ask for help
Moving away from home to a new place can be incredibly daunting, but everyone around you is in the same boat. Universities are equipped with staff who are trained to help students settle in to university life. If you fin yourself struggle, reach out to the student support services at your university. I recently received a few counselling sessions from the wellbeing team, and found this incredibly beneficial for my mental health. Sometimes, just talking to an impartial being who isn’t a friend or family member can make you feel so comforted. You’re not alone, and even if you are struggling, please do not be scared to ask for help!
4. Try something new
Similarly to getting involved, university is all about trying something new. It’s the time to discover things about yourself, your likes and dislikes. University offers you endless experiences and opportunities. For me, I’ve taken a TEFL (teaching english as a foreign language) course alongside my degree. The course was heavily subsidised, and the university paid for most of it. This course enables me to teach English all over the world - opening avenues that I never considered even considered before university!
5. Self care
Freshers flu is not a myth. Freshers ‘fifteen’ is also not a myth. Looking after yourself is incredibly important through first year. It’s probably your first time being away from home, and you’re coming to terms with cooking for yourself. Make sure to learn a few standard ‘healthy’ recipes to cook, because soon those takeaways and Dominos will take a toll on your body. Also, taking some time aside of all the night’s out to chill and pamper yourself is important. Paint your nails, watch some netflix and just have some ‘me’ time.
These are a few things I’ve tried this year and I can honestly say this year has been amazing. My mental health has improved dramatically, I feel great about myself and I’m looking forward to working over the summer - to survive second year!
Let me know if you have any questions about university, I’d be happy to help!
Thanks for reading gals!
Why ‘Millennials’ Need to Care About Politics | #BloggersWhoVote
Wednesday, 26 April 2017
Disclaimer: Now, this is in no way a preachy post telling you who to vote for, but more encouraging you to actually vote - it’s actually really simple (although hints of my allegiance will be fed throughout, lol obvs). If you’re also not registered yet, please follow this link to ensure you’re able to vote. If you’re a university student, you can also register to your term time address and vote as part of that constituency. Now, less of the formalities, let’s get gritty.
* * * * *
Politics. I know, I hear you gal and I let out a great big moan too - not the welcomed type either. Have you ever wondered why throughout school we are taught absolutely zilch about politics, and yet we’re expected to make a vote about a system we’re completely clueless about? Yeah, me too.
In case you’re not aware, Theresa May has called a ‘snap’ general election on 8th June 2017 - and I want to encourage you to vote. Voting allows you to air your views, and is your right in the UK. Anyone who follows me on Twitter will know I love a good political debate - even if I haven't got a clue about what I’m saying. Debating is good for the soul. Thinking is good for the soul.
* * * * *
Be the change you want to see in the world - use your voice!
Fed up of the inequalities in the UK? Fed up of £9000 a year (and rising) tuition fees? Then vote - it gives you a voice! When the parties announce their manifestos, read them. These are key on seeing whether any of the points raised strike a chord with you. I don’t know about you, but I’m sick of the injustice and the demonization of the poor in this country. The media are a bugger for it too, I know, I’m a media student. I've seen so many people highlight the 'you should vote for yourself' card, and whilst I agree with this statement, I don't think it's entirely fair. I'm voting for the poor, the disabled, those who have had their NHS (which they rely on) destroyed.
I come from a working-class background, and I'll never forget the struggles my mum has had to go through in her life. She worked, and still does, every hour god sends to provide for her family. If it wasn't for the struggles we went through in early life, then I wouldn't be half the person I am today. I empathise with those living on the breadline, unsure where there next meal is coming from.
I’ll vote for a democracy that strives to redistribute the wealth in this country, and not allow for large, transatlantic companies to get out of paying their tax. I’m a student with two part time jobs - I still pay tax, so why shouldn’t they?
We, as the ‘next generation’ or millennials are the next generation to put our mark on this world - let's make it a positive one. We get it. We get a bad wrap as millennials. Even the word makes me queasy. We're deemed lazy. We're spoilt. We've had it too good. We've heard it all, and we know that's not the case.
We're so engaged in the wider world, and more than ever social media has made it easier for us to be connected to world issues. We may be called lazy, but we're compassionate and aware. From my Facebook list alone, I've had friends actively sharing political based content - educating and opening a discussion with their friends. Politics should be for everyone, it should be accessible and not elitist.
TIPS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE CLUELESS ON POLITICS: A NON-PATRONISING GUIDE FROM A COMPLETE NOVICE:
1. Follow journalists on Twitter - their job is to hold people to account, and they know their shit!
Personally, I love following Owen Jones. His passion and politics speaks to me - but there are plenty out there who are making this election accessible to all. Abi Wilkinson is another great source. Remember, a journalists job is to hold MPs to account, to unveil the truth and work for the public good.
Side note: please be wary of media sources, as some newspapers/publishing platforms are owned and managed by people who will try and influence the vote. Be wary, do your research. Just be critical with the media you're consuming,
2. Keep your eye on the political party websites for the shortcoming manifestos.
This is pretty self explanatory, but keep up to date with their websites for the Conservatives, Lib-Dem, Labour (and all the others in-between). They will post their key messages for you to read to decide on who you'll vote for.
3. Email your local MP, and find out what they've been doing!
People forget we're voting for our own MP's and see the vote based on the leaders of the parties. What we must remember is that yes, we're voting for a party but also our local MP. Head to TheyWorkForYou this will show you a simple breakdown on the issues your MP has voted on. Your MP should also have a contact page on their own private websites - quiz them, ask what they've been doing, what they want to do for your in the future, be as open and honest as you want. It's their job to respond.
Here's a breakdown of a table that I found on Twitter, that shows who voted on key issues:
Whether you believe Brexit is good or bad. Whether you hate Jeremy Corbyn, but side with Labour. Or whether you even think the Conservatives are not actively destroying the NHS (side note: I'm obviously not still voting for the tories) just vote, people died for your right to vote.
Social media and the internet makes it incredibly easy for us to find the information on the competing parties, let's change this lazy attitude we stamped with. Let's become educated, let's open a dialogue. Hell, let's make politics cool to talk about.
Because you may not be interested in politics, but politics is certainly interested in you. Politics defines and shapes the wider society around you.
Thanks for reading pals, let's open a discussion - I'd love to know your thoughts.
Love,
Facebook | Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram
21 things I’ve learnt at 21
Saturday, 4 February 2017
So I've been a terrible blogger because this post has been saved in my drafts, for like, ever.
My 21st birthday was in October, and I had the most dreamy week on holiday with my number 1 a.k.a Leon. We went all-inclusive to the Labranda Alyssa Suite hotel in Lanzarote, and I couldn't recommend it enough, especially for a sunny, relaxing break.
I did a post when I turned 20, entitled something incredibly similar but I feel going through my first year of my twenties I've learnt a whole lotta other shit.
So, here goes, 21 things I've learnt at 21:
1. Success isn’t measure by money but love and trust
2. People can be pricks
3. University isn’t for everyone
4. You determine your own future
5. I’ll never master a winged liner
6. Shaving is overrated
7. The number on the scales doesn’t mean shit
8. In general, numbers don’t mean shit
9. Loyalty is rare today, when you find it, hold it tight
10. Sleep is always the answer, but only in 15-minute power naps
11. You can always count on your Mum
12. Netflix is always going to be a great investment, especially over food
13. Read more
14. Stop taking everything at face value
15. Heels were created by a man, of course they’re never going to be practical
16. It’s okay to not have a massive friendship group
17. Concealer is your best friend
18. You are more productive on 6 hours sleep, than 9 hours
19. It’s okay to like your own company
20. A fresh fake tan will make you happier than chocolate ever can
21. Just keep doing you.
I think it's important to reflect on your person growth, sometimes we're too hard on ourselves and I'm all to aware of being my own worst critic. I've definitely learnt some important lessons since moving out of home, and starting university again - maybe not any financial tips though. (So hit a girl up if you're a boss at budgeting).
Can you relate to any of these? or have you learnt some tough lessons this year - let me know in the comments, I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Why We Need to Talk About Feminism
Friday, 3 February 2017
If you guys follow me on Twitter you will see that I put a poll on to ask how comfortable people felt calling themselves feminists. Recently, I attended a Women in Leadership conference at my university and it really got me thinking about how I feel about feminism.
It's important to open up the conversation. Everyone can be a feminist, and proud.
I wrote a post way, way back about how feminism shouldn’t be a dirty word and I still stand by what I said, although my outlook has slightly changed.
One thing that struck me in the conference was the historical stigma that surrounds the term ‘feminist’. A lot of the women that attended felt that the connotations were normally negative, and felt they wouldn't be taken seriously if they defined themselves as a feminist.
Personally, I have no issue in identifying myself as a feminist (gosh I feel like I've said that word a million times). For me, feminism is simply believing in the equality of the sexes, it’s an all-inclusive feminism rather than for small demographic who have typically ‘radical’ views.
Alike my favourite feminist, writer and all-round boss Chimimanda Ngozie Adichie, my feminism comes from the belief of the social, political and economical equality of the sexes.
We need to open these conversations, not just with our fellow sassy female friends but the wider community. I recently had a real good natter with a male friend of mine (shoutout to Aaron if you're reading) and it was really promising and encouraging that he engaged in the conversation with me about feminism.
Personally, I think it’s important that we take ownership on the term feminism, during these turbulent times. I believe that we can mould and adapt feminism into what we want it to look like. Feminism for me, is empowering other women. I think as women we are too hard on not only ourselves, but other women too. We need to stop that.
I’d like to live in a world, where if a women is doing something you think is cool and inspiring - tell them, let them know. Compliment each other. Build each other up. It’s important more now than ever to spread love and kindness to one another.
I believe we have evolved from the original concept of feminism - which is often misconstrued by not only women but men too. Standing for feminism is saying “hey, I believe I should be paid as much as my male counter part because I’m as awesome as him!”. We need to let feminism grow with us, and the society we live in.
I'm a feminist because in 2017 there should be no gender pay gap.
I'm a feminist because I shouldn't be forced to wear certain clothes to my workplace.
I'm a feminist because in 2017, I shouldn't be hearing misogynist rhetoric coming from the leader of the free world.
It’s gonna be tough guys. The next four years more than ever, but don’t lose hope.
However, if you are after an educated chuckle, I recently discovered the podcast hosted by comedian Deborah Frances-White called The Guilty Feminist, and I fricking love it. If you shy away from the world, and feel like you can’t define yourself as a feminist then give this a listen. It’s funny, yet insightful and empowering. Let’s be proud to stand up and say “yes I’m a female, and I love it.” They cover all kinds of topics in a light-hearted way, which is nice as conversations surrounding equality can be a little dry.
The world is going through scary times, so love and be loved. Share happiness. Share the light. Be kind. Be mindful.
Thanks for reading pals, I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Love,
January Favourites
Saturday, 28 January 2017
January for me has been a complete post-Christmas lull.
I literally don’t know how people suddenly become motivated to change their lifestyle, go to the gym every day and just drink green smoothies. For starters, nobody tells you about how much Christmas food is left over. I mean, someone’s gotta eat all the Celebrations, and that gal is me.
I’ve softly pushed myself back into my gym routine, heading to my favourite gym classes but I’ve definitely not gone mad. I find getting back into the gym really hard, so I’m not going to push myself hard and scare myself away from it.
Anyway, rambling over, here’s my January Favourites.
Peppermint Tea
So for a few months now, I’ve been struggling with some digestive problems and after reading up a few posts on the internet I decided to give peppermint tea a go. I literally have just picked my up from Lidl, because it was super cheap. I’ve never really been a flavoured tea kinda gal, I’m more of a super strong builder’s brew hun. But I’m in love with this tea, it’s so refreshing and it’s totally helped me feel a little bit better.
Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Foundation
When Leon asked me what I wanted for Christmas I sent him a list as long as my arm (with the expectation that he would completely ignore it and do his own thang.) There was one present on their which I was so amazed to see when I opened it on Christmas Day - the Rainforest of the Sea Collection that was on crazy offer on QVC. the collection came with the foundation, the dual ended brush, the palette which has 9 shadows and a blush, and Clay eyeliner, the Lights, Camera, Lashes mascara and a make-up bag for less than £50. Insane.
I’m obsessed with this foundation because it’s super lightweight, and really easy to build. I’d say it’s more of medium coverage, but definitely buildable. I’m so happy with this foundation, since I have quite sensitive skin and foundations often break me out. However, this one is like a match made in heaven. I bloody lav it. Fanks Leon.
Tresemme Kertain Smooth Hair Mask
I'm always look for a product to help my dry hair. After getting my hair to it's grey colour, my hair has took a battering. I'm alway keen to find a new hair mask to repair my hairs strength, but haven't ever found something that works miracles. I've tried the Bleach London Reincarnation Mask, which is great but I feel like it only makes me hair smooth and manageable for a day, and then it starts to get dry.
But, this Tresemme mask bloody works and it's on offer super cheap at Superdrug! (I even prefer it over soaking my hair in coconut oil). Definitely pick this lil' angel face up if you're in the market for a new hair mask .
Pinterest
Whenever I need some inspiration there’s one app I always turn to - Pinterest. Need some motivation? Pinterest. An easy, yummy recipe? Pinterest. A bad ass quote to cheer you up on a raining Monday morning? Pinterest. In case you’d like to follow me, I’ll leave a link to mine here. But honestly, the month I’ve been using this so much. It’s helped to inspire me with getting my finances in order too. I spent a whole afternoon making pretty spreadsheets, in an attempt to plan how imma get out of this damn overdraft. Stupid student life.
Zoeva 104 Buffer Brush
I always swore I was a beauty blender gal, and to be honest, I lied. This brush has actually changed my make-up game. I always struggled with making my foundation flawless and dreamy like them big time Beauty gurus, but it was always a myth of how they achieved it. However, this bad boy as come into my life and changed it for the better. Goodbye streaking foundation, and hello flawless skin. Tah Zoeva, you baes.
I absolutely love Louis Theroux, I mean who doesn't? But as inspiring broadcast journalist, with an interest in investigative journalism, he is the bae of all baes. Me and Leon were scrolling through Amazon Prime a few weeks ago, and to my surprise there was My Scientology (which I haven't ever seen, I know.) For anyone who has seen this movie, please can you clarify what the bloody thing is though? I'm actually so confused that a 'religion' like that actually exists. Definitely worth a watch if you're looking to be confused/intrigued/in stitches.
Thanks for reading pals!
Love,
Facebook | Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
