What university taught me

3 years of hard work, late nights, breakdowns, midnight snacking, midday drinking and deadlines. Remind you of anything? Yep, I've finally completed uni!

University has been the biggest challenge of my life so far, but the most fun and exciting three years I could have ever imagined. Studying journalism was the first challenge that I was faced with and like every university student, I questioned whether it was the right thing for me. Which, of course it was. I've learnt so much about the industry and found my love for writing, tried new things like working in PR and created my blog, which I now use as my escape and enjoy writing so much.

"I should be proud of what I achieve."

University taught me to give everything a go. On a course that is so practical, there is no other option other than to just get out there and do it. Interviewing people in the street, phoning people regarding a story, presenting on the TV and being an editor of a newsroom are just some of the tasks I've been faced with, but that's where I've learnt most. My confidence has improved so much and I now struggle less with meeting new people, am more confident in interviews and making initial conversation.

It also taught me that it's ok to be average. I used to hate the idea of failing, especially when it comes to exams and assignments but being at university made me realise that as long as I put 110% into everything, I should be proud of what I achieve. Journalism is a difficult course to achieve 1st's on every assignment and that's okay. Some of the work has been extremely difficult and left me having breakdown after breakdown but at the end of the day, I know that I've worked my butt off on every single assignment, which is something I should be proud of.

Saving money is easier than you think. These last three years, I've managed to save so much money which I am very proud of. Yes, I live at home. No, I don't care. I have been just as independent at home as I would have been living at university; I manage my time, cook my own food, wash all my clothes and save a ton of money while I'm at it. I managed to save enough money to buy a new car while I was studying, as well as saved enough to help me put a deposit on a house sooner than I would have before. Oh, and I've been on some amazing holidays, to festivals, had lots of nights out and bought a lot more takeout food than I'd be happy to admit to.

"I wouldn't have had it any other way."

University has made me realise what I really want. Journalism has been an amazing course and I'm so glad I chose to study it, especially at the University of Gloucestershire. However, by living at home, I managed to get two months work experience at a local first school, where I realised that teaching is what I want to do. Through the help of my lecturers, family and friends, I decided to apply for a number of postgraduate PGCE courses, and from this September, I will be taking the next step in a career that I know I'll be so happy with.

Uni has been amazing. I've made friends for life, thrown myself in to the course, enjoyed weeks of journalism work experience and finally realised what it is I want to do. Yes, I decided to live at home during my three years and no, I'm not necessarily focusing my career on the subject I have studied but for me, I wouldn't have had it any other way.

My birthday wish list

Image from Pexels

It's nearly my 21st birthday and although I haven't actually made a birthday list or asked anyway for anything this year, what's a birthday without a blog post birthday wish list?!

So, this list has become more of a 'what I like at the moment' post and searching around, a few of these bits have caught my eye! I think I'll end up buying a few of these before I go on holiday or even just to add to my summer wardrobe. 

Stationery overload

Image from Pexels

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

   

Gift Guide: Mother's Day

Image from Pixabay

Mother's Day is just around the corner! With so many shops offering great Mother's Day deals and new products, there's no reason to leave your gift buying to the last minute. From cards to handbags, perfume to mugs, there's no excuse for showing your Mum how much she means to you with a small gift. 

Here's my Mother's Day gift guide suitable for any budget:

The Bag

If you're looking to spend more on your Mum this year, this Radley Multiway Bag from House of Fraser is the perfect buy. A beautiful blue handbag will see your Mum perfectly dressed for Spring and with an additional 20% off at the moment, what's not to love? 

Radley Bag - £135.20

The Personalised Gift

A personalised gift will always add that extra special touch. This keyring from The Laser Boutique is perfect for Mum's with younger children, with names embossed onto delicate hearts. It also comes in a presentation box, essential for those who hate the hassle!

Keyring - £9.99

The Cute Buy

When buying presents, I always end up buying for myself or buying a gift because I love it. This umbrella from ASOS is so pretty and definitely one I would be borrowing off my Mum! The classic duck head handle and beautiful shade of pink stand out and add a colour pop to any outfit.

Duckhead Pastel Pink Umbrella - £22

The Essential

It wouldn't be a gift guide without a stereotypical gift and this time, this mug has won me over. It's very minimal and delicate and in typical Not On The High Street style, has it's message written in a pretty, ditsy font. Perfect if your Mum loves her tea or coffee.

Mug from Owl & Otter - £13.50

The Luxury Item

This gorgeous fragrance is the perfect Mother's Day buy. A gentle, sweet scent enclosed in a bold, powerful bottle with a message that would put a smile on your Mum's face. Net-A-Porter have a large range of fragrances by the renowned perfumer Azzi Glasser but this is the perfect pick.

Bella Freud Parfum - £95

The Obvious

What would Mother's Day be without a candle? Yes it's an obvious choice but this beauty from The White Company couldn't be ignored. It's fresh, light and sweet aroma oozes Spring scents and is the perfect candle to pick up as the weather gets warmer.

Spring Candle - £20

The Unusual

Prosecco and strawberries are the perfect Mother's Day treat and these offer something a bit different, they're made of chocolate! What could be better? Choc On Choc are my favourite chocolate company and their take on everyday items and foods make for a brilliant, unique gift.

Chocolate Prosecco and Strawberries - £18

The Funny Gift

Enid Blyton's books will always be the best reminder from your childhood and this Mother's Day book is a funny alternative for any Mum. Waterstones currently have it on offer so grab it quick if your Mum loves a fun read.

Five Forget Mother's Day - £5.99

The 'I still don't know what to buy' Gift

It's always difficult choosing a gift and if you're still unsure on the perfect buy, let your Mum choose herself. Tesco currently have 20% off selected gift cards including ASK Italian, Pizza Express, Gap and Monsoon. Treat your Mum to a meal out or their choice of summer pieces.

Various Gift Cards - 20% off

10 places I want to visit before I'm 30

Image from Tumblr

I love travelling. Career and education options have meant that I don't have a free 6 months to actually leave the UK and explore the world but that doesn't stop me from visiting as many different countries as possible, immersing myself into different cultures and dreaming of a couple of weeks away. Travelling is my main motivation. When I had a part-time job, any extra shifts I saw as an addition to my holiday fund or spending money for an upcoming holiday. Now, I save as much money as possible and think ahead... places I want to visit in the near future and which destinations will be best for me once I start teaching!

I love looking ahead and setting a holiday as my ambition, whether it be saving for a couple of years for a long-haul dream holiday or looking forward to a well needed European break. Turning 30 seems a million miles away right now, but it's only 9 years and will probably fly by. So, here's my 10 (maybe a bit too optimistic) destinations I would love to travel to before I turn 30:

1. Rome

I always wanted to travel through Italy but I don't think that will be possible for now. I'd love to still travel to Italy and have a lot of Italian destinations on my 'to do' list, with Rome being the first one. Starting in the Capital seems like a good idea and there's plenty to see and do; architecture, shopping, culture and food, not to forget a trip to watch Roma (with strict instructions: 'we HAVE to go before Totti retires'). Better get booking up then!

2. Cambodia

Cambodia looks absolutely incredible. Ideally, I'd love to do a multi-centre trip, stopping in either Vietnam or Thailand too, as it works out much cheaper than visiting the countries at different times. However, Cambodia is probably number 1 on the list, specifically, Angkor Wat. Just looking at images and other posts about this amazing temple complex is enough to want to visit.

3. Morocco

Marrakech is a destination that I seem to always be on the lookout for. You can grab some bargains at secluded Riads which lie down maze-like side streets, close to the hustle and bustle of the centre. I'd love to explore the incredible mosques, palaces and gardens that this city has to offer, not to mention the traditional marketplaces where you can find brilliant hidden gems.

4. Madrid

Madrid is another city that I've always wanted to travel to, especially since my uncle moved out there. There's plenty to see and do, from tasty restaurants to traditional markets and I can easily do this city on a budget from all the suggestions and tips I've received from my family!

5. Odessa

This one may seem a little unusual, but I seem to have fallen for this city since reading about what it has to offer. The Southern Ukrainian city has some of the most beautiful beaches and the grand Primorsky Boulevard, which lies parallel to the ocean, is lined with impressive mansions and monuments. Seriously picturesque, and the weather's not bad in the summer too.

6. Mauritius

Another holiday destination that we nearly booked up for this year, but decided against, is Mauritius. However, it's still somewhere I would absolutely love to visit for many reasons; the culture, food, beaches and beautiful scenery. One of those 'once in a lifetime' holidays full of luxurious beaches, exquisite food and pinch-yourself moments.

7. Dublin

Staying a little closer to home for this one! Dublin has always been somewhere I'd like to give a go for a long weekend away. My best friend visited last year and family have also told me about their drunken Dublin adventures, and it seems like the perfect place to escape to. There's plenty to do; shopping, sights, pubs and restaurants, the ideal weekend getaway.

8. Florence

My second Italian escape on the list is Florence. I recently watched a television programme on the Tuscan city and it just made my decision even clearer. It's full to the brim with culture, art and architecture and looks insanely beautiful from every angle. Perhaps a little quieter than Rome, but that doesn't stop it from being just as cultural and ideal for a couple's holiday.

9. Jamaica

My Mum often speaks of her holiday's to Jamaica and it gives me serious holiday envy. From the famous Dunns River Falls to Kingston Town, Seven Mile beach to the secluded Miracle Spring, the picturesque island seems so inclusive and I'd love to explore the wonders it has to offer.

10. Moscow

I never thought I loved cities as much as beach holidays... until I wrote this list. There's a definite theme developing! Moscow is another wonderfully pretty city that I want to visit, for many reasons. The city seems to wow visitors with its majesty and history, not to mention it's wonderful landmarks and impressive skyline.

New Year ideas

Image from Pixabay

For me, last minute New Years plans are normal. It gets past Christmas and suddenly everyone is asking: "What are you doing for New Years?" and "Got any plans?" and I realise... I haven't even thought about it.

I love going out on New Years Eve but everywhere is so busy and pretty expensive and I definitely don't want to end up in Marilyns, (we're talking sticky dance floors and underage girls dancing to Nicki Minaj!), but I can never think of any alternatives!

So, for all of you in the same position as me, here's 8 ideas of how you can start 2017 with a bang...

1. Head to the Capital...

If you get the chance, head to London for a night of fun with so many events to choose from. My pick would be Kensington Roof Gardens, which host a circus themed evening; drinks, live entertainment, a huge fireworks display and plenty of surprises along the way.

https://www.designmynight.com/london/bars/kensington/the-roof-gardens/new-years-eve-at-the-roof-gardens-2016

2. Game on!

Grab all of your friends and have a night in. Lots of alcohol, drinking games and takeout food makes for the perfect New Years, with no worries about finding a taxi or spending it alone!

3. Go to the Races

Going to Cheltenham Races is one of the highlights of my year and their New Years Day event makes for the perfect excuse to go! Wrap up warm and grab yourself a few drinks while you're there... carrying on the party from NYE.

http://cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk/

4. Host your own

Host your own New Years party with a fancy-dress event. Casino night, Hawaiian Luau or an 80's themed party will make the evening more fun, not that you'll be able to remember it the next morning!

5. Drink in Dublin

Dublin's New Years Festival last 3 days and has pretty much everything you can imagine; a light extravaganza, sky dance, poetry slam and not to mention their concert, which this year sees Walking on Cars headlining! All of this and plenty of drinking will make for a New Years to remember. 

http://nyfdublin.com/

6. Or head further...

NYE is the perfect time to take a holiday. Expensive, yes, but the atmosphere that you'll experience in cities such as New York, Hong Kong, Berlin or Rio will make it completely worthwhile.

7. A girly evening

If you like a more laid-back evening, grab your girlfriends and set up camp in your garden. Plenty of blankets, fairy lights, projector films and bottles of Prosecco will make your New Years unique.

8. Just enjoy it.

No matter where you're off to this New Years, make sure that you're spending it with your faves. And really, as long as plenty of food and drink is consumed, you're sure to have a good one!

Winter, it's a love hate thing...

Image fom Pexels

It's that time of the year again. Leaves are falling off trees, you're trying to find the perfect winter coat and everybody is suddenly talking about Christmas!

Personally, I have a massive love/hate relationship with winter. Hopefully, you'll be able to see why I have such a dilemma...

LOVE

1. Cosy winter nights

The most appealing thing about winter is curling up in front of the fire with a hot chocolate. There's something appealing about the idea of staying in, lighting lots of candles and watching a classic Christmas film.

2. Christmas adverts

I absolutely love watching Christmas adverts and I think they get better every year. The biggest high-street stores competing for the best storyline and song makes the build-up to Christmas just that little bit more exciting. And FYI, my faves this year have to be Marks and Spencer, Heathrow and Sainsbury's.

3. Festive spirit

The build-up to Christmas may outweigh all of my winter 'hates', as nothing makes me happier than walking down the high-street and seeing all of the Christmas lights. Christmas is such a brilliant excuse for a night out, shopping dates and a trip to the races.

4. Christmas music

I'm not talking about the latest cheesy pop song that arrives every December. I mean traditional Christmas songs; The Pogues, Wham! and Mariah... just to name a few. If they don't get you in the Christmas spirit, then I don't know what will.

5. Food

Winter is the best time to indulge in all your favourite food, especially when pigs in blankets are on offer. A Sunday in winter is not complete without sleeping until you're hungry, and then eating until you're sleepy.

  HATE

1. It's freezing

I am the worst when it comes to feeling the cold; my dressing gown is my best friend. The idea of going out and having fun is brilliant and, don't get me wrong, I love Christmas dinners and late-night shopping, but I can never, ever, no matter how many layers I put on, keep warm.

2. And not just that...

THE RAIN. I'm writing this during a washout, one that has lasted around 4 days. It makes my bed seem more appealing than ever and the idea of walking into town or going on a night out in a dress seem awful.

3. Layers

I love buying a winter coat every year and always spend quite a lot on the right one. For one reason only; it's all you ever see. The 4 layers I have on underneath, however nice they may be, will never appear in daylight. Layering is such a waste of clothes!

5. Mince pies

Ewwwwwww. Stollen, mince pies and Christmas pudding. Probably my three least favourite puddings ever all come at once! Just pass me some chocolate and I'll be on my way...

Top 5 lifestyle tips

After a busy few weeks house-sitting and beginning my second year of uni, I wanted to share some simple tips that once you have grasped, become second nature. They're not bold, confusing or time-wasting, just very simple but extremely effective...

1. Find the right skincare

For the last two years, my skin has been awful. Not necessarily on my face or hands, but on my legs. I developed eczema, causing itching, bleeding and scarring - and no skincare cream or moisturiser seemed to help. I recently found out about Aveeno, and their moisturising cream has been my saviour. It may not work wonders on everyone, but my legs have cleared up, smoothed and cause no irritation. It's most definitely the best cream I have ever bought.

2. Drink more water

I always thought that I drank enough water, 4 or 5 glasses a day. Until dehydration became a huge problem for me, resulting in painful migraines and poor skin. Force yourself to drink as much water as you can everyday and you'll find that not only do you snack less, but your skin will begin to glow and plump.

3. Talk to people

As much as it may seem scary and daunting at first, speak to as many people as you can. Your hairdresser, friends of friends, strangers, people in your chosen career field. I recently created a LinkedIn account, where I have spoken to many people in journalism and teaching, and found that they may put you into contact for a job, work experience or just simply give you advice on your careers and ambitions. Talk to people - you might never know where it gets you.

4. Keep organised

My final year of uni is mad already. Being thrown into searching for work experience, thinking of ideas for a dissertation and constantly being told of expectations is a pretty daunting scenario (after 4 months off!), so keeping organised is my main focus. Writing everything down, taking as much from every lecture as possible and finding a way to manage my time has been tricky - but once you know what you're doing and when you have time to do it, it makes it seem that little bit easier.

5. Think positively

Exams, dissertations, assignments, work - the list could go on. It all seems so scary, especially when you want to do as well as you can. The main thing you can do is to think positively, believe in yourself and aim high. And if it's all getting too much, remove yourself and come back to it after a couple of hours. Go and watch bake-off and order a takeaway...

A fresh start

I've been spending a lot of time reflecting recently and although I'm not one to usually regret anything or want to change anything about myself, there's been some situations and set-backs that have really got me thinking about what it is I want.

I want to be happy.

Although I believe that I am a positive person and try not to dwell on things too much, my anxiety occasionally comes to haunt me and leaves me overthinking, worrying and just generally creating thoughts that have no reason to even be there. I want to live in the moment and worry less about everything, so I've made some pretty big decisions. Here goes...

I've quit my job. It actually gives me so much pleasure in saying this as it's something that's dragged me down for quite a long time now. I started uni with a 25 hour job and it just piled on the pressure. Even after cutting my hours, with the workload I had to compete with at uni, I was worrying more and more about pleasing both my manager and my lecturers, forgetting about what actually matters. Me.

The pressure to do so much more overtime, get coursework and revision done and have a social life was something that I just about dealt with for the majority of time at uni. Now, heading into my third year with a 2:1, I want to make sure I keep my grades up and concentrate on my work, and now I get a lie in on the weekend!

I've also decided to apply for a postgraduate PGCE. This decision, if you know me, isn't that much of a shocker. I started my summer this year by volunteering in a primary school for two months, and it's made me realise what I really want. Yes, I love media and journalism has been the perfect degree for me to study. If a job comes up in the media industry or I want to do more work experience in newspapers, magazines or PR, then I might! But after being part of a primary school the final term of the year, it's really opened my eyes into what it is I want to do and made me think about what's best for me.

So, as my final year of uni approaches, I've made some big decisions that I'm hoping will reflect positively on my work and grades. I've also made smaller, everyday decisions; to be more organised, to take every chance I'm given and to think of the positive in every situation. Hopefully, this time next year, I'll be able to look back and realise that I chose the right path.

X

10 random facts about me

A little insider into a few things about me. What I like, what I don't and some of my favourite things...

1. My favourite place in the world is New York. I like lots of cities and love the Cotswolds, but nothing will ever come close to the feeling you get in NYC.

2. My greatest achievement was getting into uni. I believe everything happens for a reason and since being at uni, I've seen how much my life, attitude and ambitions have changed for the better.

3. My biggest regret is not doing anything for myself, when I needed to the most.

4. If I could wish for anything, it would be for free travel. There's so many places I want to visit and I'm too impatient to save for years!

5. My most expensive purchase will be my car (once I pay it all off!).

6. When I was about 15, I was obsessed with One Direction. Completely obsessed. I've seen them 4 times.

7. I love writing lists. I write down lists for everything; packing for holiday, shopping at Christmas, things I need to do. Just generally anything I feel needs to be organised.

8. I'm actually quite shy. I seem confident, talk for England and love getting to know people but I definitely put a front up to hide my shyness and insecurities.

9. I am obsessed with chocolate, I can't get enough of it. I should probably stop...

10. I have never had a pet, but would love a dog.

My top tips on saving

If you know me, you'll know I'm a pretty good money saver. Whether it's trying to grab a bargain in the sales, selective buying or just storing my money for a rainy day - I'm pretty good at it.

As I get so many people asking me for tips, this post will hopefully help some of you who are looking at saving your money as well, even if it does give away my secrets of saving!

1. Promotional codes and student discount

I am a sucker for a good promotional code. I am that obsessed with them that when I buy anything online, I won't 'proceed to checkout' unless I have found a bargain. Whether it be 25% off student discount, free delivery or £5 off, it all makes a massive difference. Especially if it arrives and you find that it doesn't fit or isn't what you thought it was going to be.

2. Try to be organised

If you know you have something coming up, try to plan what you're going to buy in advance. If it's someone's birthday, you may find that what you want to buy them goes on offer or hits the sale, saving you money. For Christmas, I start as early as I can. Wanting to spoil family and friends and thinking of presents is difficult, so if you see something appropriate, even in September, buy it. It's always so typical that whenever you buy last minute, you can't find anything!

3. Shop the sales

Buy summer essentials in the autumn and winter favourites in the spring. Obviously, some things are only on-trend occasionally and you may find that impulse buying leaves you finding better, more on trend stuff the following year. However, coats, simple knits, denim shorts, bikinis and jeans will never go out of trend. Buying them in the sale will just save you money for when they come around again the following year!

4. Don't be afraid to splurge

I always fall in love with pricey pieces, even when it comes to looking for a new car or dreaming of future holidays. But it's all about compromising. Don't eat out as much, ask yourself if you really need so many underwear sets and put away some money each month. It's really not that difficult. Shopping sprees are a lot more fun when you've saved up money for them, rather than delving into your student overdraft.

5. Do you really need it?

Sometimes, you see an item you love and spend weeks longing for payday. But, even if you're not going to buy it there and then, try it on. It might not fit properly, be suitable or just not go with any other clothes you own! Or wait a week or two without impulse buying, you might not like it when you see it again...

Missguided haul

After Missguided managed to literally break the internet with a 50% off site-wide discount, I couldn't wait to receive my parcel. My 2 minute slot on the site resulted in frantic clicking and not entirely knowing what I'd actually purchased. A huge parcel finally arrived; shoes, jeans, playsuit, skirts, dresses and tops. All for less than £100.

Top Spring/Summer trends

Desert

Desert nudes are the perfect look for daytime, whether you're out for lunch or taking a day trip. Nudes, creams, whites and browns are all easy colours, but be imaginative. You can pair them with anything, but together they'll always look classic and effortless.

Lace

Lace has got to be my favourite trend this spring/summer. From lusting after the gorgeous Alexander McQueen and Dolce and Gabbana designer collections on the runway, to scrolling through pages of clothes online, I can't wait to find that perfect lace dress or skirt for long summer nights.

Lace is a perfect look for an elegant spring/summer wardrobe, and definitely won't go out of date.

Pastel

Pastel colours make for the perfect, girly summer look. Whether it's just a touch of pastel pink, paired with your favourite blue denim jeans, or a cotton-candy look dress, accessorised with a nude pair of wedges, you'll feel perfectly dressed for summer.

White

Crisp, white pieces are a must for the summer. White won't only keep your look cool and classic, but will go with any other colour, so mix and match brights and bolds with your favourite white top. Don't stick with plain cotton t-shirts though - textures work brilliantly with white, whether it's silk, lace or denim.