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Wednesday 24 December 2014

END OF TERM 1 OF YEAR 3.

So term 1 of my final year has quickly come to a close. It’s so surprising how fast a term can go when you’re so busy. This term alone I’ve had 8 deadlines (some of those deadlines only counts for 10% but everything is important in third year!!), and I’ve been stressing out a lot to try and get them done. So far I have completed 5 of these deadlines with 3 more to go but thankfully I have nearly completed them all! The 3 only need tweaking whereas another one needs about 600 words to be added to it!

Nobody said university was going to be easy, and I admit that I am struggling a bit this year. Every course is different though, some of my friends only had 3 deadlines this term (lucky for them). Thankfully the workload is not too hard otherwise I think I would have had a breakdown by now. Some of them were quite difficult but nothing that has caused me to cry! - Yet.

What I’m looking forward to now is when I finally upload my final 3 assignments to Turnitin and having a wonderful Christmas with my family. To me, Christmas is all about family and in the run up and after Christmas means spending time with those who are important to me. I’ve probably spent way too much money on my family this year and also way too much on Christmas decorations but it’s all in good spirit.


Next term I’m going to work harder on my assignments (if that’s possible) and get them done way in advance so I don’t need to stress majorly over them in the final month. Here’s to term 2!




WINTER WONDERLAND!!!

The other week my friend and I decided to pay Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park a visit as I had never been before. I’m actually surprised I’d never been before as it was absolutely amazing! There were so many different stalls (mainly food – but who’s complaining!?). I was surprised as to how huge the place was, there were hundreds of stalls and tons of rides and everything just looked so good!

There were stalls full of sweets, candy floss, pulled pork burgers, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and so, so much more! It is a bit pricey but it’s free admission so that kind of evens it out a little bit and makes the price of the food/items a little bit more reasonable. My favourite ever stall was the one where they sold Churros (can’t believe I’ve never tried this before!). They gave us 7 churros (yes – SEVEN!!!) with powdered sugar and a massive scoop of melted chocolate and they were absolutely amazing. They were £5 but my friend and I decided to split it (because who can eat 7 churros to themselves?!) so it wasn’t as harsh on our student purses.


Overall, I had an absolutely brilliant day and I would definitely go back this year. It was so Christmassy and gave off a great vibe. I would recommend going the time that we did (around 1pm) as I hear it gets extremely busy at night. But I guess it’s worth it as all the stalls and rides light up with fairy lights. I would definitely recommend giving Winter Wonderland a go! Even if you can’t afford to buy anything, it’s great to walk around.

Wednesday 26 November 2014

Harry Potter Studios!

I don’t know if you guys all know this but people close to me definitely do, I’m a huuuuuuuge Harry Potter fan. I’ve always loved it and I always will! It’s something I was brought up with, the books, the films and the fact that everyone else loved it too. As soon as I got my first book, I think I was around 10/11 I instantly fell in love with it, which is why it surprises me that I haven’t visited The Making of Harry Potter studios.

As it is my birthday approaching very soon, my friend Jade (see pictures) and I decided to visit and was I convinced we definitely had to go because it was Hogwarts in the Snow!! (So even more reason to go, right?! – Right.) As soon as we got to the station a double decker Harry Potter themed bus arrived and I knew instantly that it was going to be an amazing day. Whilst on the bus there was a short video explaining the making of the Studios with the Harry Potter theme music playing in the background.

When we arrived there was a giant snow white Christmas tree in the entrance hall with images of all the actors on the walls. We were given little badges and a short explanation of the films before being taken into the real entrance hall. There were fires burning, loads of Christmas trees and actual clothing and props from the films. After this we were taken into another huge room full of props, costumes and where they filmed some scenes from the movies. There was the Mirror of Erised, the Triwizard Cup, the Philosophers Stone, the Pensieve and so, so much more.

When we went outside there was a huge Knight Bus, Hagrids’ bike, Arthur Weasleys’ flying car, a life-size number 4 Privet Drive and the best part – Butterbeer! It was so delicious. Of course it was all very expensive to buy, but the way I looked at it, I’m not visiting very often and I am a huge fan! So Jade and I decided to buy the butterbeer in a small tankard and I have to say that I absolutely regret nothing!!

After this we went back inside for part 2 of the tour, and this was where my favourite bit was – DIAGON ALLEY! This part was absolutely amazing, it was life-size buildings and everything was so detailed. It really made me think that I was actually there! On the last part of the tour it was the big model of Hogwarts and this was so beautiful. We probably stayed here for longer than what we should have and took far too many pictures but who can blame us right?! Look at it, it’s so pretty!

So what is Harry Potter without all the Harry Potter merchandise and memorabilia!? The shop was the very final stop on our tour and there was soooo much stuff! Of course, like the butterbeer it was completely overpriced (Bertie Bots Every Flavour Beans = £9 – SAY WHAAAAAT) but in the end I did pay £8 for a chocolate frog but can you blame me? I also got some Fudge Flies and a Harry Potter pencil (I don’t even write in pencil but it was only 95p and the cheapest thing in the store so I guess it kinda had to be done?!). The next time I’m definitely getting the Bertie Bots Beans and I don’t even care!

When we left it made me really sad and I wanted to go back but this definitely isn’t the last time I shall be visiting! 






Wednesday 12 November 2014

Cheerleading Initiations

Last week our new cheerleading freshers were finally initiated! We all had to dress up and the freshers had to complete a series of obstacles and games to be initiated. The returners were dressed as services, such as Police, Fire Brigade and Nurses, and the freshers in boiler suits. We then got put into teams where returners were given a bunch of freshers to look after for the night. Here is me with TEAM 2 (WOO!!) and a picture of me with Steph, we decided to go as Police Officers.

First up the freshers had to play Chicken in a Hen House. Cami, the coach, would shout out a phrase such as ‘Mermaids’ and the freshers would then have to complete the move with their partner as soon as possible and the ones to do it last would be eliminated. Of course, with initiations, there was drinking involved but it is all safe and we didn’t push anyone who didn’t want to drink and alternatively, we didn’t let other girls drink who we thought had already had enough.

Then the freshers had to play Stuck in the Mud which is a game which bought together the freshers and the returners. After this they then had to make up a rap and sing this to the returners for deliberation, whoever had the best one won! Then they had to finish with an assort course, having to skip, hula hoop etc. until they get to the end. Once this had been completed it was time to make our way to Sparrows! This is where we met our good friends, the guys from American Football, the Mariners, and then we drunk and danced and had a great time! Here is a picture of me with some of the Mariner guys.

Initiations were great but next up is competition so it’s time to get serious! Unfortunately I am not competing in this competition but I shall update you guys after and let you know how they got on anyway! Here is a picture to finish of all the returners and freshers at Sparrows! I did not make it in time for the picture L Sad times!



Wednesday 29 October 2014

JOIN CHEER AND BECOME A UNIVERSITY OF GREENWICH MERMAID!

So as the school year has begun, so has cheerleading and we already have a load of new girls that are loving it! At the moment in cheer the newbies are having an hour and a half of training, we’re just teaching them how to base, fly and all the cheerleading moves! Last week we were practicing step up to extension and at our last practice session we were practicing basket tosses, everyone was really amazing! After the newbies leave we have the next hour and a half to practice for the upcoming competition Winter Wonderland!


I honestly love cheerleading and I’m so glad I decided to join; you meet the loveliest people and create some friends for life! If you’ve read my blog before then you will realise how much I enjoy it! Not only do you meet friends from cheerleading but also from other sports teams as we all do socials together. 




Tonight we have a social with Women’s Football and we’re all dressing up as Cowboys! 

Also initiations is coming up soon which is going to be so much fun! We’re not as harsh as some of the other sports teams though! Then there’s tour which I have created a blog post for when I returned and it was probably one of the best experience of my life! 

I literally cannot wait to return next year. Not only is it good for socialising but it’s also great for flexibility and fitness. You learn loads of new things and is great for your health. 

It really is worth a try, you can view more information about cheerleading here: http://www.suug.co.uk/sports/cheerleading/


Tuesday 28 October 2014

Cheap Halloween Costumes for Students

Everyone knows Halloween is a time for students to go out and have a good time with friends. Sparrows this year is throwing a Halloween party and it’s the perfect excuse to dress up! If like me you’re a little confused as to what outfit to wear, never fear! I am here today to help you with some cheap and cheerful outfits.

Boohoo this year have put a whole section of their website aside for Halloween in particular, and as Halloween is fast approaching (and even if you have parties after Halloween), Boohoo have a great selection of snazzy outfits for you to wear. Plus one of the great things about this as well is that it is only £1.99 for speedy delivery so it’s sure you’ll get it on time!!

Dressy Halloween outfits:
So if you’re going to a house party (or even if you’re not and you still want to be a part of Halloween), velvet is big for Halloween parties and Boohoo have a lot of it! Even if velvet is not your thing, they have loads of cheap items. For as little as £12 you could go as a tiger and feel and look the part! Here are some dressy outfits:


Lulu Lace Bandeu Skater Dress - £15
This comes in a variety of beautiful colours!
Sacha Tiger Long Sleeve Bodycon Dress - £12
Vera Velvet Pocket Front Shorts - £12
These also come in a few lovely colours!

Actual fancy dress outfits:
If you’re the type to go all out on Halloween, I’ve found tons of fancy dress costumes that you’ll be interested in! I found them on partydelights.co.uk and also on joke.co.uk and they have a huge variety and also a part where it gives you ideas! Here are a couple I found:

Platoon Sergeant Elias Costume - £27.49
(You save £10) From Joke.co.uk
Adult The Joker Complete Costume – £29.98
(You save £21.01) From Joke.co.uk
Men’s Prisoner Overalls Costume - £14.99
From Party Delights
Adult Skeleton Baby Halloween Novelty Dress - £19.99
(You save £8) From Joke.co.uk

Women’s Wicked Witch Costume - £9.09
(Was £12.99) From Party Delights

High School Horror Zombie Schoolgirl Costume ­- £21.98
(You save £8.01) From Joke.co.uk
Somewhere inbetween outfits:
Not the type to go all out but still want to feel part of it? I have perfect outfit ideas for you:

Gloss Bone Printed T-Shirt - £6
This also comes in white!
Novelty Devil Onesie – £20
Maria Pumpkin Print Dress - £18
This also comes in orange!
Riley Slash Back Long Sleeve Midi Dress - £15
Georgina Pumpkin Face Long Sleeve Body - £8
This also comes in black!
Suzie Skeleton Print Leggings - £10
Hayley Pumpkin Black Vest & Short PJ Set - £12
Great for a movie night sleepover!
Novelty Tiger Onesie - £20
Novelty Penguin Onesie - £25
Myla Skull Print Long Sleeve Bodycon Dress - £12
Rachel ¾ Sleeve Leopard Print Bodycon Dress - £12
So that was my cheap Halloween costume guideline, I hope you found it useful and have a fun but safe Halloween!

Friday 3 October 2014

YEAR 3 HAS BEGUN!

I simply cannot believe that I’m going into my third and final year; these years have absolutely flown by. It’s weird because when I was starting my first year everyone was telling me that it goes by so fast but I didn’t want to believe them. I’ve had so much fun; it’s so true what they say about university and it being the best years of your life. I will miss it once I graduate! I am thinking about coming back to study a PGCE however, to become a primary school teacher. Working at the university has really helped my broaden my knowledge on what courses we offer and how to apply for them and what you need.

I’m actually looking forward to this year though, I’ve just had my induction classes for the modules I’m taking and they all seem really interesting. If you’ve read my blog before you’ll know that I already started research on my dissertation a few months ago as I really don’t want to get behind on it!


The thing I find the scariest is my graduation, I think it’s because after this I know that I’ll have to officially start sorting out my future as it’s crazy how important it actually is. There are loads to think about, but with a little help from the university I know it shall all be fine! I think it’s even scarier because it means I’m actually growing up!!! J



Monday 29 September 2014

FRESHERS

So Freshers fortnight is officially over! I can’t believe how quickly it went, I was so excited for Freshers and now it’s over which is quite sad. I’ve had such an amazing time though, as I am a cheerleader for the university I had many events to attend and to be honest, even though I am extremely tired, I’m so glad I decided to go to them! We all got to know each other a whole lot more and it was tons of fun. One night we had to dress up as pirates and another we had to dress up as lifeguards and we had so many other themed nights!

I’m really excited for what this new academic year has to hold but I’m also quite sad as it’s my last year. Sure, I’m thinking about coming back for a PGCE but that doesn’t count!


As I mentioned above, I am a cheerleader so we had to attend both Freshers Fairs, which turned out to be so much fun! We got free sombreros’, free Nandos and loads of other things! It turned out to be quite helpful and worth it. We did some stunting and recruited tons of girls and guys and they all seem really nice and friendly. Here are some pictures from the days:






Monday 1 September 2014

GETTING READY FOR YEAR 3

It feels so weird saying it but I shall be going into my third and final year in September! Eeeeek! I literally cannot wait but I know I will have so much work to do once classes begin.

The Dissertation is possibly going to be the hardest one so I shall be giving you some tips on how to cope with the work load (and shall keep you updated as I go along with my own work) and also how to get ready for your third year!


Dissertation Tips:
  • Start sooner rather than later: I started about a month ago now on my Dissertation research and there is still so much to be done! Starting as soon as possible is for your benefit as this means you won’t have a crazy workload all at one time!
  • Know what you’re researching: This is important as you do not want to leave it months and you still do not have a thesis.
  • Talk to your Dissertation Supervisor regularly: This way they know how to help you best and what can be the next step for you
  • Get a list of possible Dissertation books from your Supervisor and hunt through the library for other books that weren’t on the list: This is important; you need as much information as possible! Remember it is likely to be 10,000 words so you need all the quotes you can get.

Most of these tips were for your own benefit as you don’t want to have a breakdown halfway through third year. Plan things out properly and you will then begin to feel much more calm when it comes to approaching your Dissertation and other classes.

Keeping up with a busy schedule:
Everyone has busy schedules in their third year, or even any year! What with work, classes, social life and joining sports etc., it can get pretty stressful. Here are just a few tips to keep you on top of things:
  • Keep a diary: This seems pretty straight forward, that’s because it is! It really is the best thing to keep on top of things and stops you from getting too stressed out.
  • Plan things ahead of time: Last minute plans are great and all but it’s stressful when you need to think about whether you already have plans!
  • Make sure you get enough sleep: Things do not end well if you do not have enough sleep. Things get on top of you and you end up emotional and moody! Get enough sleep and everyone will be happy J and then you’d want to do more things!


Planning for Freshers:
  • Detox: This is soooo important! You need to prepare your body for the amount of alcohol that you’re going to consume (depending on how much of a drinker you are). I don’t drink a lot on a night out but it can get tiring and can take over your body when you are drinking every night. Make sure you drink a lot of water and eat healthy food like chicken, spinach, eggs etc. Anything that has a lot of protein to keep you going! Also try to get a good night’s sleep after you go out (seems impossible I know) but it’s important!
  • Plan what you’re going to bring to your new home (if you’re moving in): You don’t want to forget anything! There is a handy guide on what to bring, here: http://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/wiki/What_To_Take_To_University
  • Most importantly, have fun: Freshers is a time to get to know new friends and have an amazing time. So enjoy yourself!


But more on Freshers in another post!

Enjoy the rest of your summer guys J

Tuesday 19 August 2014

What I’ve been up too…

So these last few weeks have been non-stop, we’re working Clearing now and last week I worked 6 days in a row and it was super tiring!! Aside from this I’ve also been working hard on my dissertation, I know we’re not back at university until the end of September but I know the work load is going to be crazy so I’m trying to do as much as I can now!

ß This is me right now 



Weekend trips to the university library are becoming a thing and shopping for stationary too (who doesn’t love new stationary each year, if you say no... you’re lying!! :P)

I’m soooooo looking forward to going back to university though, I can’t wait for Cheerleading to start up again and see everyone who went home for the summer. I’m absolutely buzzing for Freshers Fortnight, there are so many amazing events that I literally cannot wait for!! Also, this year I can see Cheerleading initiations from a different angle, as a returner! I also just can’t wait for days after class when we go and chill in the Student Union bar with a drink and a cheap but tasty meal catching up with my friends. J

When I go back to university for my third and final year (it feels so scary writing that!!!) I’ll be based on the new campus: Stockwell Street. It looks so fancy, modern and new! I can’t wait to see what it looks like inside. The new library is also going to be here so I’m looking forward to seeing it all!

Work has been fun though; we have Theme your Team where everyone dresses up for the day. Also on the weekends we all go out for a drink and it always ends up being a great night.


Hope everyone's summer is going great!