24/03/2012
06/03/2012
My beloved white waterfall jacket - so sorry about it not being the right way round, I took the photograph the portrait way round and basically, my computer won't let me copy my camera files into my My Pictures folder and rotate them, so apologies! I'll rotate it as soon as I can to prevent any potential neck injuries...
So yeah, anyway, I wore this jacket to university yesterday. The sun was shining in Salford, the air was relatively warm and the birds were singing in the trees, but they might as well have been shitting all over my jacket, as when I got to uni and gave in to the temptation of the uni shop with a prawn marie sauce sarnie, I ended up spilling it down myself, watching helplessly as the sauce trickled down the wonderfully cut fabric and into a pretty little pool of pink. Well, it didn't look pretty on my jacket.
I soon realised that fate was out to get me, as when I returned to my lecture after our break, I dropped my bottle of coke on the seat next to me and it started fizzing everywhere. I can tell you something, you'd think I'd sat on a seat of spikes - I have never jumped up so fast in all my life, all in an act to save my beautiful white jacket from a not so pretty splash of sticky brown liquid.
So fate, you succeeded with the prawn sauce, but you did not with the coke. I WILL get that stain out if it kills me and I will wear my beautiful white waterfall jacket once again. I will also learn to not be so dozey, take more care when I'm eating and not be such a 'messy pup'.
04/03/2012
Get your filthy paws off my white jacket.
Today, after finishing a nice, easy little shift at Topshop, I purchased my last two uniform pieces from the new season, at, I must say, a very, very generous price...
One of my purchases was a tailored waterfall jacket, a lovely, crisp white-ish/very pale pink colour, which I thought I'd swoop in there as soon as pos and purchase before any grubby fake tan hands could spoil all the available size tens.
And this - (the grubbiness of hands), is the problem with pale coloured jackets. I didn't really put much thought into it when I bought the jacket, it was more of a sudden, 'love at first sight' kinda' impulse. But then it dawned on me that I would HAVE to keep it as clean as possible for it to remain looking good, avoiding all who receive pleasure out of invading people's personal spaces.
So if you see me walking with my arms painfully close to my sides and I'm wearing the jacket, you'll know exactly why.
And so my wonderful love affair with the white jacket commences...
One of my purchases was a tailored waterfall jacket, a lovely, crisp white-ish/very pale pink colour, which I thought I'd swoop in there as soon as pos and purchase before any grubby fake tan hands could spoil all the available size tens.
And this - (the grubbiness of hands), is the problem with pale coloured jackets. I didn't really put much thought into it when I bought the jacket, it was more of a sudden, 'love at first sight' kinda' impulse. But then it dawned on me that I would HAVE to keep it as clean as possible for it to remain looking good, avoiding all who receive pleasure out of invading people's personal spaces.
So if you see me walking with my arms painfully close to my sides and I'm wearing the jacket, you'll know exactly why.
And so my wonderful love affair with the white jacket commences...
03/03/2012
A Facebook/Twitter Tiff.
I've been using Twitter a lot, lately. More so than Facebook - the usual social networking site I sit on on a regular basis, scrolling down the so-called 'news feed', reading updated status after status on pointless things I really could not give a monkeys about. Of course, I too (on occassion), have fallen guilty of revealing to the world that I'd 'just made a cracking cuppa', or I had 'just cleaned our extremely grotty kitchen - domestic, goddess of a flatmate' - taken directly from my facebook page. Even though the latter of the two is a little more interesting, it's got to be said that noone cares if I've just made a cup of tea - I mean, why would they?
So why do we feel the need to tell all of our two thousand and odd 'friends' - (another debate), on subjects they probably really don't care about?
And why, even with people posting statuses' like this, do we still continue to scroll down that news feed, reading and reading until we eventually lose interest?
This is a question I don't know the answer to myself, as I'm guilty of it too - I'm on Facebook as I'm writing this...
Somebody posted the other day (not mentioning any names and a little re-wording is required), that they'd just been to Saltburn, had tea with the fam and were now getting on with cleaning the whole house.
Hmm...interesting subject, please do tell me more!
I often wonder whether Facebook's 'what's on your mind' question, was created with the intention that people would have something interesting to say, something creative and engaging they'd like to share with the world and create discussions and debates by commenting on each others' statuses. This does happen, I do see some really interesting things people talk about on Facebook, but when people are writing 'I'm bored', I strongly question the point of it.
Personally, I prefer Twitter at the moment. I don't use it as a platform to tell the world I've just had a ham sandwich or that I've just done the laundry, but as a platform used to directly engage with the media industry - something I hope to be useful to me in the near future in terms of employment. I use it to retweet and post news, fashion and any other type of interesting debate or event going on in the world and through that, I get so much more enjoyment than scrolling down the page and seeing 'Rate me and I'll rate ya back..twice'.
At the moment, I think Twitter's a great platform to use, whether you're trying to get yourself noticed by employers or using it professionally or as a personal, recreational platform. I just hope the pointless rambles and rants will continue to keep Facebook flowing and not disrupting the traffic of Twitter.
So why do we feel the need to tell all of our two thousand and odd 'friends' - (another debate), on subjects they probably really don't care about?
And why, even with people posting statuses' like this, do we still continue to scroll down that news feed, reading and reading until we eventually lose interest?
This is a question I don't know the answer to myself, as I'm guilty of it too - I'm on Facebook as I'm writing this...
Somebody posted the other day (not mentioning any names and a little re-wording is required), that they'd just been to Saltburn, had tea with the fam and were now getting on with cleaning the whole house.
Hmm...interesting subject, please do tell me more!
I often wonder whether Facebook's 'what's on your mind' question, was created with the intention that people would have something interesting to say, something creative and engaging they'd like to share with the world and create discussions and debates by commenting on each others' statuses. This does happen, I do see some really interesting things people talk about on Facebook, but when people are writing 'I'm bored', I strongly question the point of it.
Personally, I prefer Twitter at the moment. I don't use it as a platform to tell the world I've just had a ham sandwich or that I've just done the laundry, but as a platform used to directly engage with the media industry - something I hope to be useful to me in the near future in terms of employment. I use it to retweet and post news, fashion and any other type of interesting debate or event going on in the world and through that, I get so much more enjoyment than scrolling down the page and seeing 'Rate me and I'll rate ya back..twice'.
At the moment, I think Twitter's a great platform to use, whether you're trying to get yourself noticed by employers or using it professionally or as a personal, recreational platform. I just hope the pointless rambles and rants will continue to keep Facebook flowing and not disrupting the traffic of Twitter.
01/03/2012
Never lose hope!
Considering the title of this post, I could be deemed a bit of a hypocrit, because at the moment, I've been feeling a little less motivated and optimistic than usual about the future.
Normally, I'm as happy as can be, pushing myself to do things out of my comfort zone and striving to reach that end goal of succeeding in obtaining a job in the media industry. But lately, I've been working a lot at Topshop (my part-time job whilst at University), and I've not had a hell of a lot of energy left to do the things I really want to be doing in order to reach my goal.
That was earlier today though (or yesterday, really!), as it's now half past one in a Friday morning and I really should be getting to bed as I'm going in early to learn more about how to use Avid (oh the dedication!), before my TV lecture at ten. But one thing I've realised from yesterday, is that I really do need to stop worrying about not being able to do everything and apply for everything at once, there is so much time ahead of me and I'm still, really, in the early stages of learning about the journalism industry.
So don't beat yourself up about not being able to do anything and everything to do with journalism like I did!
I'm young, I'm still learning and I will continue to learn along the way.
Normally, I'm as happy as can be, pushing myself to do things out of my comfort zone and striving to reach that end goal of succeeding in obtaining a job in the media industry. But lately, I've been working a lot at Topshop (my part-time job whilst at University), and I've not had a hell of a lot of energy left to do the things I really want to be doing in order to reach my goal.
That was earlier today though (or yesterday, really!), as it's now half past one in a Friday morning and I really should be getting to bed as I'm going in early to learn more about how to use Avid (oh the dedication!), before my TV lecture at ten. But one thing I've realised from yesterday, is that I really do need to stop worrying about not being able to do everything and apply for everything at once, there is so much time ahead of me and I'm still, really, in the early stages of learning about the journalism industry.
So don't beat yourself up about not being able to do anything and everything to do with journalism like I did!
I'm young, I'm still learning and I will continue to learn along the way.
28/02/2012
BBC Meet and Greet Staff Session
At the beginning of January, I was met with the opportunity to take part in work experience at BBC Radio 5live, as a member of the meet and greet staff. I, among other journalism students at Salford University, received an email about this opportunity and after much frantic deliberation about whether I'd be good enough, I just thought, you know what - I have absolutely nothing to lose!
So I went away and began writing a 200 word response on what I think I could potentially bring to BBC Radio 5live and a few snippets about what I've done in the past - work experience related and tried to show my personality in the most succint, but best way that I could. Then the next stop, was to attach my CV and application and BOOM! hit the send button...
After I did that, I sat and swivelled around in my chair, starting at the screen, wondering who would receive that email, what they would think and of course, if I could be good enough for the opportunity.
I've got to admit, although I virtually forgot about the opportunity, now and again, especially at night when I tend to lay there and kill myself with opportunities I haven't yet taken part in (which I'm sure you'll either totally relate to or think I'm a mad woman), the thought that I could potentially get the opportunity would always be tiptoeing around in my mind.
When I received the email that said 10 students had been shortlisted from Salford University, (this was across a national platform and many universities put their students forward), and I was one of them, the only feeling I can describe it as is shock, excitement and a little anxiety, anticipating the unknown...
I believe I can write well, I'm a generally confident and bubbly person and I do work hard for where I want to be, but in the wacky, worldwind of journalism work experience opportunities and placements, where competition is at an all-time high, boiling to the brim with bubbly and creative individuals, I genuienly believed I didn't stand a chance.
Although I didn't actually get the opportunity to go down to the BBC for the session, after not being shortlisted to the second round, the fact that I was shortlisted in the first place out of many that applied, was enough to prove to me that I can get myself noticed and heard, no matter how hard it seems to be able to do that today.
If anything, being knocked back from an opportunity like this has only made me more determined to succeed, and has made me a stronger individual.
So if you ever feel disheartened by knock backs and rejections, just remember, it happens to us all and you're not the only one. Yes, journalism is a competitive industry, but it's also full of determined, hard-working individuals who have done a hell of a lot to be where they are today, including experiencing their fair share of knock backs, which I find incredibly inspiring.
Knowing this, keeps my ambition to work in the media alive and hopefully, one day, I will get there.
So I went away and began writing a 200 word response on what I think I could potentially bring to BBC Radio 5live and a few snippets about what I've done in the past - work experience related and tried to show my personality in the most succint, but best way that I could. Then the next stop, was to attach my CV and application and BOOM! hit the send button...
After I did that, I sat and swivelled around in my chair, starting at the screen, wondering who would receive that email, what they would think and of course, if I could be good enough for the opportunity.
I've got to admit, although I virtually forgot about the opportunity, now and again, especially at night when I tend to lay there and kill myself with opportunities I haven't yet taken part in (which I'm sure you'll either totally relate to or think I'm a mad woman), the thought that I could potentially get the opportunity would always be tiptoeing around in my mind.
When I received the email that said 10 students had been shortlisted from Salford University, (this was across a national platform and many universities put their students forward), and I was one of them, the only feeling I can describe it as is shock, excitement and a little anxiety, anticipating the unknown...
I believe I can write well, I'm a generally confident and bubbly person and I do work hard for where I want to be, but in the wacky, worldwind of journalism work experience opportunities and placements, where competition is at an all-time high, boiling to the brim with bubbly and creative individuals, I genuienly believed I didn't stand a chance.
Although I didn't actually get the opportunity to go down to the BBC for the session, after not being shortlisted to the second round, the fact that I was shortlisted in the first place out of many that applied, was enough to prove to me that I can get myself noticed and heard, no matter how hard it seems to be able to do that today.
If anything, being knocked back from an opportunity like this has only made me more determined to succeed, and has made me a stronger individual.
So if you ever feel disheartened by knock backs and rejections, just remember, it happens to us all and you're not the only one. Yes, journalism is a competitive industry, but it's also full of determined, hard-working individuals who have done a hell of a lot to be where they are today, including experiencing their fair share of knock backs, which I find incredibly inspiring.
Knowing this, keeps my ambition to work in the media alive and hopefully, one day, I will get there.
19/02/2012
An example of my fashion writing.
First up in the firing line for our top 5 is this simply stunning LBD a.k.a ‘little black dress’ from Warehouse. Always a classic, the LBD, renowned for its ability to slim and skim over any problem areas, has been revamped, with a touch of fringing around the shoulder and bust area to give a subtle hint of the inner rock chick within you, whilst the sexy, stud-like diamante detail jazzes the dress up. For accessories, stick to a shimmering, metallic silver that will bring out the detail in the dress – a cute pair of sparkly, silver sandals would glam it up for a night out on the tiles or a slick pair of black patent, peep toe courts smarten the look up for a more formal occasion.
Next up we have this more casual, cool embroided cream fringed kaftan from TOPSHOP. This edgy, little number is perfect for all you festival felines out there with its fringed hem – the sexy, swinging tassels at the bottom of the dress playfully expose just enough, so it can be worn as a dress, however, if you’re tall, I’d advise you to team it with a cool pair of denim hot pants to save you revealing more than you’d planned! The kaftan will also look great over the top of a bikini on holiday; all you need now is a golden beach, a sweet pair of sunnies’ and a mojito on the rocks. Enjoy!
Here we have a sizzling, sexy, strapless dress by Lipsy, in this season’s hottest shade of tangerine orange. The figure-hugging fabric will accentuate some serious curves, whilst the diamante stud detail of the dress will rock it up and the fiery fringed detail will be sure to make you a force not to be reckoned with. For accessories, it’s all about letting the dress do the talking, as it’s a bold shade already – some simple, gold jewellery is all you need and a pair of nude heels to top it all off. However, if you consider your tan an accessory, opt for a subtle, sun-kissed shade and make sure the tangerine stays put on the dress, not the girl!
This all-over fringed flapper dress by Karen Millen is simply stunning, with its slick, thin straps and low back, it’s the perfect LBD for a special occasion, or even a night out on the tiles. The fringed, almost feather-like detail is sure to make you the hottest bird in town – teamed with a rocking tan and patent black heels, you’ll be turning more than a few heads. Priced at £190, there is a risk you may break the bank – but being this beautiful, I think it’s worth it
Next up we have this more casual, cool embroided cream fringed kaftan from TOPSHOP. This edgy, little number is perfect for all you festival felines out there with its fringed hem – the sexy, swinging tassels at the bottom of the dress playfully expose just enough, so it can be worn as a dress, however, if you’re tall, I’d advise you to team it with a cool pair of denim hot pants to save you revealing more than you’d planned! The kaftan will also look great over the top of a bikini on holiday; all you need now is a golden beach, a sweet pair of sunnies’ and a mojito on the rocks. Enjoy!
Here we have a sizzling, sexy, strapless dress by Lipsy, in this season’s hottest shade of tangerine orange. The figure-hugging fabric will accentuate some serious curves, whilst the diamante stud detail of the dress will rock it up and the fiery fringed detail will be sure to make you a force not to be reckoned with. For accessories, it’s all about letting the dress do the talking, as it’s a bold shade already – some simple, gold jewellery is all you need and a pair of nude heels to top it all off. However, if you consider your tan an accessory, opt for a subtle, sun-kissed shade and make sure the tangerine stays put on the dress, not the girl!
This all-over fringed flapper dress by Karen Millen is simply stunning, with its slick, thin straps and low back, it’s the perfect LBD for a special occasion, or even a night out on the tiles. The fringed, almost feather-like detail is sure to make you the hottest bird in town – teamed with a rocking tan and patent black heels, you’ll be turning more than a few heads. Priced at £190, there is a risk you may break the bank – but being this beautiful, I think it’s worth it
Last, but certainly not least, we have this sexy flapper dress by Jovonna London for yogoego.com, which comes in a cool shade of cream. This little number is every inch the party dress, with its fringing detail which will shimmy and sway as you dance, making you centre of attention on the floor. Not only does it look good, it’s also comfortable, with the main body of the dress being 100% silk, it will simply glide over your skin – ensuring you can rock out your moves all night long.
Taken from my piece on the top 5 fringed dresses of last Summer - http://www.offersboutique.co.uk/fashion/dresses/top-5-fringed-dresses.html
The move to Manchester
Middlesbrough to Manchester - reminds me of a certain train journey I take every 3-4 weeks or so.
But that's how it's been, since September 18th 2011, I have been on my journey into journalism - a train ride into the unknown.
Half way into my first year as a journalism student at The University of Salford, Manchester, I've been thrown into the snake pit, (not really, more like being sent out to get stories, working towards a deadline), but I've managed to scramble out, not feeling like a corpse - but feeling more alive than ever.
And that's what I've learnt about myself, and why I want to become a journalist, whether it is in print media, digital and online or television - something I've yet to discover.
Even after a long, hard day of rejection, if you have that drive and passion to still make it as a journalist, then, I believe, you know it's the job for you.
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