Stationery overload

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As you know, I love being organised. To-do lists are something I write for short-term and long-term plans, I get serious when it comes to colour co-ordinating my stationery and I carry my diary with me wherever I go.

I'm trying to stock up on stationery for September but should really stop soon - my shelves are full and bags are bursting with bargain pieces and essentials. The trends this year; marble, pastel pink, rose gold and bold prints have made there way into my stationery hauls - not helping my spending!

Here's my must-have stationery essentials and my favourite stationery retailers:

Diary

As I said, I carry my diary everywhere with me. I love having it on hand to check dates, assignments, appointments and to write down anything that comes up. I use my phone for everyday to-do lists, reminders and to write important things down on but a diary keeps everything scheduled. My diary for this year is from Next but I'll be grabbing both an academic one and yearly one for next year - I'll be keeping my eye out.

Notebooks

I have such a thing for notebooks at the moment. I use them for uni and have messy notebooks, as well as more organised ones for writing up final notes and marking important information. I need plenty of notebooks for next year; for uni, school, assignments and general notes for the specific school I will be working out. I've picked up some beautiful notebooks from Home Bargains and more expensive ones from Paperchase, perfect for organising everything.

Planner

A planner is a more detailed way of keeping all of my notes in one place. Like a diary, but bigger and better. I schedule all of my blog posts in my planner, keep on track of every day by time and write down goals for each month. I keep my planner at home, updating it most dates and find it the easiest way to organise my life! You can get some beautiful marble print planners from Etsy or for a motivating organiser, try The Happiness Planner.

Pens

You can't have a notebook, planner or diary without a pen and I love coming across the prettiest pens. Cath Kidston, The Range and Etsy have the best pens and I've picked up pastel ones, ditsy print ones, pom pom pens - you name it! I was super surprised when I came across a range of pens in Home Bargains for 39p with black ink. I've got at least 10 - I can't be running out. Cute pens are always a favourite in the classroom but I'm not letting the children near these ones!

Etsy

   

Paperchase

   

Nouvelle

                                        

Cath Kidston

   

Why it's ok to dream big

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Do you sometimes question why you have ambitions and goals? I know I do. The idea that wanting to be proud of having a good job and stable income is something that is seen as a taboo subject - it's not moral, it's materialistic.

We are often told that money doesn't buy happiness, something that I completely agree with. Health, family, education and memories are the most important things to me and I wouldn't swap any of those for all of the money in the world.

But why can't I aim to have more? I'm aiming high and working seriously hard in order to get the grades I need to follow the career that I've always dreamed of. I see nothing wrong with that. I have a clear idea of where I want to be in 2, 5 and 10 years and for me, that's how I motivate myself. I would like to buy a house, travel to countries I've never been to, become a primary school teacher and be able to treat myself every so often.

There's just one problem - I don't like to talk about it because people think I'm being materialistic.

If you know me, you'll know that I'm the first person in my family to go to university and I've worked since I was 16, saving every bit of disposable income I have to be able to support myself through university and hopefully, in the future. The stigma of materialism needs to change. I don't buy designer pieces, get money from my parents or waste money on extravagant purchases and I enjoy saving for my future, something I am very lucky to be able to do.

"Working hard is the key."

Having goals is what motivates me to work hard, have a good career plan and save money. Money is the motivator - there, I said it. Older generations seem to believe that we are handed things on a plate; jobs, university places, houses, money, but it's really not the case.

Ambitions and realistic goals are positive and allow you to be able to pace yourself, in order to reach where you want to be with organisation and dedication. Working hard is the key and if that means sleepness nights, 4am alarms and closing myself away from the world for a little while, that's what it's going to be. If I didn't have plans for the future, I may treat money a little differently but at the moment, the future is my priority.

"It is what it is."

Delve into your ambitions, believe in yourself and as Anthony Joshua said in his recent victory speech: "I'm a little bit emotional, because I know I've got doubters that think that I can't do this and do that, but I dig deep. It is what it is."

‪It Was All A Dream #TBT ‬

A post shared by Anthony Joshua (@anthony_joshua) on May 4, 2017 at 9:03am PDT

The 5 summer trends you need to know about

Sleeves

Statement sleeves are back. This was my favourite trend last year and 2017 has just made the statement bigger and better! From puff sleeves, bardot design sleeves, ruffle detail, layered fabric, wide sleeves - you name it, it's in. The variety of sleeves on trend make any basic top a statement and it's definitely a trend I'll be following this year.

  

Gingham

Gingham is the latest trend for S/S 2017 and whether you like a statement print or subtle checks, there's a gingham print for everyone. Subtle print, coloured gingham, gingham accessories or gingham detail allow even the most hesitant of people a chance to rock one of this year's top trends. Another 90's statement that's rolling back around...

  

Ruffles

Yes I know, we've already discussed sleeves but ruffles are a trend that are all over everything! Ruffled sleeves are a favourite trend, killing two birds with one stone, but ruffled tops, skirts, dresses and ruffled detailing on tailored pieces are all over the high-street and high-end rails. A lot of material is better for the spring and those cooler summer days but simple ruffled tees would look perfect with a denim skirt and classic flapbag for that ideal summer look.

  

Embellishment

One of my favourite trends this summer is embellishment. Just that little bit of extra detail adds a touch of glam to any outfit. Embellishment on trainers, denim, tops and accessories are just some of the way to pick up this trend and it's definitely one for a holiday or festival! My favourite way to add embellishment on holiday is through accessories; this River Island bag is giving me life at the moment! And for a festival - embellished mesh tops are perfect.

  

Slogans

The easiest trend of the year. If you're like me and love throwing on a basic tee or sweater for uni, day's off or just running to the supermarket, this is the trend for you. Funny slogans, song lyrics, cute emojis or calligraphy styled text are just some of the slogan detailing you can grab on the high street. My personal faves are the emoji tees at Forever 21, just like the one below.

  

The future of education

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As technological advances have adapted over the last few years and more ways of learning are constantly being developed, I've been reflecting on the progression of education and what the future of education may look like. As a soon-to-be teacher in training, the discussion about the future of teaching and education is something that interests me and is important to my future studies, due to it affecting how my teaching will adapt and change with any development.

Thank you. Children are 27% of the world's people but 100% of the future. We need them to make sense of the world. https://t.co/5cvGziYZgX

— Nicky Cox MBE (@FirstNewsEditor) January 17, 2017

TECHNOLOGY

Technology advances are consistently changing and adapting to the needs of the user, something which is reflected in classrooms worldwide. Studies from Open Colleges AU showed that 81% of U.S teachers think tablets can enrich classroom learning and I believe the future of classrooms will see the introduction of iPads, tablets or computerised devices as a basic classroom stimulus in all schools.

Using technology in the classroom. Image from Flickr.

Virtual reality, apps and interactive screens are platforms that will aim to create learning experiences for children both in their home and school environments, something that is unavoidable and will enhance the learning experience for students. Another technological advance is the idea of accessing classrooms on home computers, a change that will help all schools and pupil's, especially with homework, assignments and if a pupil were to miss a day at school. I hope to see technology making its way into schools, in a way that is fully beneficial for pupil's and look forward to analysing the benefits of technology within the classroom.

EXPERIENCE

There has been much speculation recently surrounding the opinion of un-paid internships and whether working for free should be considered as appropriate. I personally believe that the idea of work experience and internships is great and allows students to practice their skills while learning more about the industry and meeting professionals.

"Get them involved with new experiences, ideas and surroundings"

Although internships and work experience are opportunities for students once they get to secondary school and higher education, I believe that experience should be taught from a young age. 'Take your children to work day" is a fun technique that some schools use to get their students interested in the work place and for younger students, spending time outside, on school trips and at forest schools allows their thoughts to flow and get them involved with new experiences, ideas and surroundings. Experience is something that I believe schools will encourage and will help their students to develop key skills.

PERSONALISED LEARNING

As teaching styles change and adapt to emerging technology and new curriculum, the way in which students learn will also begin to change. Personalised learning and individual learning plans are concepts that have always been considered within the classroom; above average students challenged with harder tasks and students who experience difficultly within a subject receiving one-on-one learning. Although this approach is something that has always been used, modern technology such as interactive games and virtual reality classrooms will result in positive, personalised experiences for students and ensure more understanding to the teacher of their students needs.

Primary school classroom display. Image from Flickr.

MENTORING

Peer mentoring and schemes such as Thrive have developed in schools over the last few years, acknowledging that individual support can be given to students and ensuring they are able to access their learning, as well as helping with emotional gaps in their development.

"Mentoring is an effective method for encouraging positivity, role-modelling and confidence"

I believe that in the future, all schools will introduce the approach of mentoring as an option for those students that need it. Encouraging positivity, role-modelling and confidence from a young age is something that is important to many schools and reflects in students' work, enthusiasm and throughout their relationships with other children and adults. Mentoring is just one method that can be used, but I believe, it is one of the most effective.

20 summer pieces for under £20

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I always find that I end up buying more clothes in the summer. Whether it's wanting to show off my outfit, choosing pretty pieces that will be worn regularly or purchasing for a summer holiday, buying summer items always seems so much more fun and easy!

In winter, it's all about layering. Buying thick jumpers, big coats and monochrome colours is so boring and the idea that you don't really see what you wear is something that makes the thought of summer shopping so much more appealing.

So, as summer is just around the corner, I've been looking at the latest arrivals and trends ready for my summer haul. I don't want to spend a fortune as I know that I'll just end up seeing more and more that I will want to buy. From gingham to ruffles, bardot sleeves to embellishment, here's 20 summer pieces I've found that include all of the latest trends, and are less than £20! The dream.

Top £20⎜Pretty Little Thing
Dress £15.99⎜Mango
Skirt £19.60⎜Miss Selfridge
Top £20⎜MissPap
Bags £13⎜Primark 

Dress £17.99⎜New Look
Heels £20⎜Missguided
Bikini £18⎜BooHoo
Top £15⎜River Island
Kimono £15⎜Forever 21



Bralet £18⎜MissPap
Playsuit £19.99⎜New Look
Blouse £19.99⎜H&M
Sunglasses £19.99⎜Mango
Crop Top £18⎜ASOS



Shorts £17.99⎜Zara
Dress £5⎜Everything5Pounds
Wedges £19.99⎜H&M
Top £19.99⎜New Look
Culottes £5⎜Everything5Pounds

What I'd do differently... looking back at university

I'm nearly at the end of my undergraduate degree, to be precise, I only have 46 days left! It's flying by.

Over the past couple of months, I have really started to get on top of my work load, more than I ever did in first or second year. I don't know if it's because the work is ten times more stressful or I am really aiming for a good grade but I'm definitely more organised and more determined than ever to finish university with pride and a great sense of accomplishment.

I have had such a good three years at the University of Gloucestershire and although I won't be taking up journalism as a full-time career, I hope to still be writing my blog and occasional pieces once I'm fully immersed into teaching. The course has been brilliant and has helped me develop a whole array of skills that I may not have from any other; interviewing, confidence in presenting, social media presence as well as improving my writing.

Although I have thoroughly enjoyed the course and the university, there are a few things that if I could go back, I would probably change. For anyone thinking of going to university or just finishing your first year, you might find these tips beneficial or just enjoy reading about my experiences.

The first thing I would probably suggest I'd have done differently is that I would have participated in more work experience. In my first year, I did one week's work experience at a local newspaper, which was brilliant as it gave me more confidence but looking back, I should have definitely done more. This year as part of a module, I have completed 16 days work experience at three different companies where I have learned so much from industry professionals; picking up tips and techniques, learning new things, meeting new people and just giving it a go. If I'd have been consistent in maybe taking just three or so weeks a year and dedicating them to work experience, I'd have learned more or gained better placements. You learn so much from working in the industry and experience is vital in any role, especially when you begin to look for a career or a post-graduate job.

"You can do it."

If I could go back to that first week at university, the one thing I would tell myself is 'you can do it'. Gosh, I wish I knew. In first year and second year, there were times where I sat and thought "I'm never going to get a 2:1," "this is so difficult" and "am I ever going to make it to the end?" but I shouldn't have worried so much. You can do it and you will do it and looking back, maybe I was just being tough on myself.

Getting your name out there is so important and I wish I knew that three years ago. I know it may be more relevant to my degree but creating a 'professional' Twitter or Facebook page can get you a long way and is sometimes the best way to meet new people. I've picked up job opportunities, interviews and freelance work as well as met some amazing people, just via social media platforms. Obviously work experience is another key way to get your name out there but whether it's to initially find that work experience, gain you freelance opportunities or if industry professionals could refer you on to another employer, it's all worth it.

"You're the only person who can create your future."

I've always been pretty good with assignments, probably because I love being super organised and having a plan for everything. But you can never start an assignment too early. In my final year, I've been juggling work placements, a dissertation, creating a professional portfolio and varies other assignments and it's seriously stressing me out. I try to start a plan for an assignment as soon as the module guide is posted; A word document outlining the essay, a reminder to book out filming equipment, ringing people for interviews or just writing a countdown to the due date. It all helps. Assignments are so important and no one ever looks back and regrets working hard for their achievements. At the end of the day, you're the only person who can create your future.

After all of that and I'm sorry if I've stressed anyone out (it's not all that bad!)... just chill. Why shouldn't you still enjoy yourself, have fun and do what you want? I quit my job at the start of my third year and it's probably the best decision I made. Yes, I concentrate on university work five days a week but I can also enjoy myself at the weekends, say yes to evenings out and slob out in front of the TV on a Sunday. University is hard work but trust me when I say, if you put in the effort it shows. But enjoy yourself, it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, just make sure it's all worth it.

3 months today until I finish uni... I can't believe how quickly it's gone and how much I've achieved✨ #journalism @uniofglos pic.twitter.com/Vr1pynPNhI

— Amie Rhone (@amie_journalist) February 26, 2017

Summer style: The Wedding Guest

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I love attending weddings in the summer. From the venue to decor, drinks to flowers, the intricacy of a wedding is something that is so unique to the couple and what makes attending so special.

The only problem I always find myself coming across is what to wear. Finding a dress that's not too expensive but suitable for the occasion seems to take numerous shopping trips, plenty of internet scouring and Instagram stalking.

I can never seem to find the right dress and always re-wear my dresses as I don't have much money to buy a new outfit for every occasion. However, after a few quick internet searches, I have found some absolute beauties that would be perfect for any wedding guest to wear this summer.

1. ASOS

This ASOS dress is absolutely stunning. The pastel palette is elegant and floral print is perfect for this year's summer trend. Although it's a mid-length pleated dress that some people might class as unflattering or old-fashioned, the delicate straps and neckline, along with the open back completely change the look of this dress. Partner with some barely-there heels to create a classy look.

2. Reiss

A plain dress doesn't have to be boring, shown by Reiss through lace and floral prints. The short sleeves are perfect for any wedding, especially if you're worried about the weather, and the beautiful cut-out detail on the back instantly changes the shape of the dress when put on. It's a beautiful design and perfect for any summer event, especially in this gorgeous pastel pink colour.

3. Zara

This Zara dress is an absolute steal and put together nicely, can look a lot more expensive than it actually is. The simple, bodycon style is perfect for those who want to flaunt their accessories, shoes or bag and the frill detail on the bardot sleeve adds just a little extra for those who want to cover their chest. This dress comes in lots of colours but the red is definitely the most eye-catching for an event.

4. Topshop

I adore the subtle print of this one-shouldered Topshop dress. The jacquard detailing and pastel tone combine with a structured, cocktail shape to create a dress that can be worn again and again. The dress is a little shorter than most but definitely not unsuitable for a family wedding. Simple accessories will bring this outfit together nicely for an expensive looking high-street alternative.

5. Oh My Love London

Statement sleeves are everywhere at the moment and most probably one of my favourite 2017 trends. This bardot, bodycon number from Oh My Love London is completely focusing on the statement sleeves, leaving the rest of the dress simple yet pretty in a light grey shade. Add some show-stopping earrings or bold heels for that extra touch.

6. French Connection

Lace is everything and one things for sure, it will never go out of fashion. Although this French Connection number comes with a more high-end price tag, the luxury of the material and feel will mean that you'll keep coming back to this dress. White is sometimes seen as inappropriate for a wedding but put together with the right accessories, the silver detailing and lace intricacy of this dress will be the main focus.

The power of using and understanding social media

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As you know, I recently wrote a post on why I use social media and it got me thinking. Social media is something that we simply cannot escape from, from updating Snapchat stories to re-tweeting celebrities, Instagram stalking to enhancing our profiles on LinkedIn, it's become an everyday activity.

A recent survey by UM's Wave indicated that 85% of social media users actively spend time managing their profiles online and compared to 2010, people are 40% less likely to see social networks as a place for fun and entertainment and are 30% more likely to see them as platforms on which to promote themselves.

I may not be the most social media savvy, but being a millennial and growing up with the use of social media platforms and emerging technology definitely has its positives. Here are my three top tips on how to utilise social media:

Use your own voice

When writing online, don't pretend to be someone you're not. Whether it's writing simple status updates to long blog posts or instant messaging, make sure it's written in a way that promotes your best self. Use similar language to what you'd use in everyday life while talking to family or friends and be genuine in how you come across. You don't want to find yourself meeting someone for the first time and realise that your online persona is completely different to what you're actually like.

Keep on top of it

When running online accounts to use professionally, make sure you keep on top of it. For example, try to tweet at least 4 times a day to show that you're involving yourself in discussion and current affairs. Re-tweeting people in the same industry or users who you look up to will help your activity as well as engaging in conversation, through instant messaging or commenting on someone's tweet, image or announcement. You'll be amazed how many people notice engagement on your feed, just by a simple re-tweet or comment.

Remember all social media platforms

When starting up social media accounts, most people will focus on Twitter, Instagram and a Facebook page. They're easy to use, have a large following and you can find relatable posts with just a one-word search. However, I've found that even using LinkedIn as another source has provided me with professional engagement and helped me gain contacts in the industry. Potential employers can access your account and posting solely professional content can increase your employability. Using social media platforms that are relevant to your business or brand is so important - for example, using Pinterest if you're an interior enthusiast, SoundCloud if you're a musician or The Dots if you want to exhibit projects you've been a part of.

I spoke to Rhiannon Birch who co-founded Cheshire Cat Marketing with Darren Finder. Her top tips for social media can be adapted to suit any business or personal account:

"While sending out the occasional routine tweet is ok, try to aim for quality over quantity. Interact with users or perhaps post on particular trends, even if they're outside of your usual business subjects... don't be afraid to be spontaneous."

"Don't forget to interact with people"

"Prioritising saves time and energy and allows you or your team to get on with answering questions. Don't forget to interact with people on your pages as well though, customers appreciate a personal interaction and it increases loyalty."

"Scour the web for mentions of your organisations name (which also works with your name as a professional or blogger) and whichever social media channels you find yourself mentioned on, create a page! By creating your page and making yourself known though great organic content and advertising, the customers will find you and they will appreciate you creating a space for them."

Using hashtags is another great way to interact. Here's a tweet using professional interaction that got me a lot of response! Are these social media tips helpful for you?

I'm currently writing a blog post all about social media📱 What are your top social media tips?✨#journorequest @UKBloggers1

— Amie Rhone (@amie_journalist) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 take a break from it every once in a while! 💕💕

— Niffler (@allaimeewrites) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 'Just do you' Don't upload something because you think others want you too. Stay true to yourself.

— Amanda Bootes (@AmandaBootes) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 It's important to create conversations, not just plugging your own brand in every post. Promote others.

— Krissy Lloyd (@krissy_lloyd) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 Never be negative!

— Lucy Smith (@Lucyannasmith) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 don't put anything on social media that you wouldn't want your grandmother to see!

— Vic Dadson (@VicClicky) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 keep it social! Focus on making connections not sales and the results will follow.

— Rebecca Coupe (@rebeccacoupe) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @PRJournoRequest @UKBloggers1 ask questions to start a conversation.

— Jonathan Pollinger (@intranetfuture) March 23, 2017