Being such a bookworm, lately I’ve found it difficult to get so into a novel as I did with Eternal and the pages flew by in three days until I was signing over the happy ending on the last page. Then I just had to get the 3rd to see the sub-plot continue and then I thought that I should properly read the 1st one as well. So and I know I was planning to read Wuthering Heights whilst I was on holiday, but I’ve decided to read both of these instead, because really being on holiday should mean that everything-even your books-shouldn’t be work related.
My holiday which starts this Saturday, is two weeks in Cornwall in a tent right on the edge of a beach. My family have had camping holidays since as far back as I can remember and we do go without electricity-beside from the car and the spare battery! This year will be the first time that such an item like a laptop has come away camping with us and its only because I need to find out if I’ve passed my English Lit! Plus also it means I can carry on this blog from the campsite –with any luck, due to the internet access. I’m looking so forward it now, but first comes the stress of having to find anything that’s needed –the tent, sleeping bags, camp cooking station, chairs, lights, clothes that cover every season and weather condition, plus spare things and board games for the chilled out family night. So much to do so little time!
At least I’ve a place to hide myself in with a book when it all becomes too much….The Summer house has returned! It was a much loved structure at my 21st pirate themed birthday party last year and my dad decided to rebuilt again this year to give people a place to study and a chance of quietness away from our busy house. It’s dry, warm and comfy and without a clock, so time does fly by in there! The perfect summer hide away….
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Well have finished my first week back at placement, had to miss the original first week due to glandular fever, which was sad times, at one point was convinced I was dying! (nursing is definatley the profession I need to be in, all that medicine at hand, just in case! but am recovered and back to placement. I’m on a Neuro unit and last week was working nights on HDU (high dependency unit), really enjoyed it and am looking forward to going back next week, although long days are going to be a bit tiring! Coffee is the way forward. Neuro is well different from my last placement, firstly because I was on day case, so had easy shifts! and also because it was all about renal, kidneys and whatnot and now its all about brain type things. Learnt some clever sounding words which I might try and slip into casual conversation to make myself sound intellectual 
. After the initial dread of having to go back to placement its actually not too bad, all the girls are enjoying it and we make the most of the chance we have to learn new skills and all that.
Moved into our new flat, yes above the lovely marmaris on saturday. After four nights of shifts, to be woken up at 11 and told we were moving was a bit emotional! But got through it and celebrated with a cheeky cocktail or two 
. Moving out of halls was a bit sad, especially as it required us to carry all our worldy possesions three flights of stairs… my arms still ache 
but is sooo good when you get to live with lovely ladies ( or gentlemen as the case may be). Within the first few weeks of uni you get to know the others so well its good times! Uni seems really quiet apart from random children and other studenty types roaming around on open days and suchlike. I did over hear a teacher telling a pupil that they needed to ‘ keep their window shut when in their room (main halls) because pigeons fly in’!. so heads up anybody who is living there, not sure how valid this information is but you have been warned . Summer is definatley here, and its good to be living in town in case the need for ice gets too much we can just have a cheeky trip over to liquid bar, who were most accomodating in our time of need. Still trying to convince the staff at marmaris that I would be a worthy employee but not sure they are convinced? non the less I shall keep trying, with the subtle hints that as a neighbour it would do much for neighbourly civility to have one of us work in the take away! Hope you have all been successfully applying for your halls and loans and all that, good luck with everything over the summer and hope to see you at some of our open days. The packing away of my room is looming…. still! so have a lovely week and will keep you informed of the goings on of placement Jo
I’m one of those people, who just hates change! I’ve always been like that whilst growing up, but in reflection change can also be a good thing.
You change from being single to being a relationship with someone else, sharing your life with someone else, your thoughts, feelings. That is one thing I would not alter, although change of getting into a relationship is difficult I love it!
As for a change on my course – university is a different discipline, you need to gain research skills, independence, and work in a very different way as you would in school or college!
As for the change of moving house, in my first year I moved out of halls into a house, and this year I move out of my house back into halls. And all I can say is….moving house is the most stressful experience of my life!! I think moving house is stressful in any case, but how can I acquire so many things?
Other changes in my life were independence…moving away from home to another city is a change. It is scary to be independent….to do your washing, own cooking, sort your own bills and look after yourself!!
So these few weeks are the start of a new change, and for once… I’m ready to move house. I move on Wednesday, and I’m nearly all packed!!!
Until next time!
Natalie
PS: At the moment I am still in theory until next week when I start a new placement – I will tell you about that in my next blog! xxx
]]>Don’t be worried about making friends or being with people you don’t think you will get along with and don’t be worried about whether you get the accommodation you chose because most people are happy no matter where they end up living. I know September seems like ages away but it will definitely be worth the wait. Freshers week is the time to settle in with the people in your accommodation, learn more about your course and get to know the campus and Ormskirk.
So yesterday i went back to uni, packed up my room and carted it all back home for the summer in preparation for next year’s freshers (you!) So don’t be scared, worried or anxious … be excited and happy with your choice to come to Edge Hill. Blog soon
]]>I guess what I’m saying is being here has taught me so much already, like how important friendship is, how much my degree means to me and basically not to take things for granted. I will definitely be a slightly different person upon my return to Britain.
So now, How’s things going over there in Britain? Edge Hill has so many exciting things going on. The new halls are scheduled to be finished for you guys moving in there in September, there is a new Sports Hall being built as we speak and Facilities management are getting a new home, which I’m sure means nothing to you guys coming in September because you won’t have known where their old home was, haha, but the Uni could have completely changed by the time I get back.
Don’t forget everyone, if you have any specific questions regarding accommodation on or off campus, allocation of accommodation, car parking, tuition fees, bursaries, grants or results then PLEASE ring the University and speak to the correct team because they genuinely are the best people to ask. Speaking to someone on the forum may give you information specific to that person as opposed to information specific to you and your situation so it’s always best to check!
So my results come out next week. Fingers crossed. I know how I’ve done before Christmas due to getting marks back at the time but there’s a few marks I’m yet to get which means I’m unsure at the moment but I’ll wait and see. I know I’ve done well in 6 of my 8 modules, it’s just the other 2 I’m worried about. I think I let myself down in those modules so I may have to do some resits…Yes! Even from America! Haha, That’s how hardcore I am!!
Right, well I’m off since today is intake day for session two and campers are just starting to arrive so I’m sure I’ll be needed for something pretty soon.
‘Till next time…Nay
]]>Things never seem to turn out as perfectly planned though and when my housemate told me she was moving out for good last Saturday, I decided that it really was time for me to go too and I had become too attached to the house and my room without realizing it. I think this just happens, you live there for half a year and a house or hall can become like a home. You know the areas, you have everything sorted in your room and you’ve settled down. I think though that giving the house a nickname has made leaving it worse though.
How my house become known at The Aubergine and the story is long and complicated, too much for small post like this! I’ve just become too use to the name as well and so has everyone around me, because I won’t talk about the house without calling it the Aubergine! Anyway back to the main theme of the post: leaving.
Leaving can be easy or tough and this sort of reflects the whole leaving home thing that some of you are about to experience for the first time. It is scary and difficult, but given a few days this will pass. You’ll get use to where things are, faces and the feel of the place. Leaving can also be sad and its okay to cry….The first thing I did when my parents left me was to burst into tears and have a mini panic attack. My new neighbours in my hall quickly sorted me out though and I made lots of friends before my first night came.
Leaving a house is slightly different then leaving a hall though. Had to email my landlord and see what he wanted us to do. Mostly it’s clean everything and take all your things with you. Also we have to pay the last week/half day of bills because we used it whilst we were living there. Then after that there will be no more going back to that house…..at least I’ve a new place to look forward to now!
]]>However I’m back now and if anyone has any questions on things going on at the moment for next year let me know : )
Also would people benefit if I made a uni list for the basics of things to bring to uni?
Let me know
Becki x x
]]>The next open days are:
Open Event Saturday, 21 August 10:00am – 3:00pmOpen Event Thursday, 26 August 4:00pm – 8:00pm
This is the time of year where there are so many questions you want to ask, and the best place for this is the forum. If none of the student bloggers know the answers then one of us will find out the answer for you.
Accommodation: You now have filled you application for accommodation, so all you can do is wait. If you don’t get accommodation later in August the accommodation team will run house hunting workshops, also allowing you then opportunity to visit free houses/rooms in Ormskirk. So for the time being you have your offers, and just focus on your A2 exams….then have some fun!!! You will have lots of fun while being a university student – but since when did you have a time where you had no school/college work whatsoever!
Take Care
Nat x x
]]>First of all apologies for my long break before blogs but it seems, that when you leave uni you seem to spend more time there, well I do as I am senior for summer schools and am keen work all summer.
So first of all how the hell is everyone? It’s that time of year when the whole of England and Great Britain start going crazy, start wearing well next to nothing, and drink lots of crazy stuff and have a go at BBQ’s. The reason for this strange behaviour is two things really, one its summer and two it’s world cup season, so yay crazy time again. So I am not following it this year, but I did go to the Asda last night and went down the football isle and actually loved all the things they had, and I found myself buying a bubba keg which is boss. If you don’t know what this is, get down to the Asda and find one J
Well for me I have been teaching first aid to groups of pupils in schools, which is actually so much fun. In addition to that I have actually started working on summer schools which so far is fantastic. This is the second one and my first day as a senior and I am loving the responsibility.
Well enough about me and my busy schedule, but don’t forget you guy’s accommodation applications opened this week so get those done and dusted. Also Edge Hill has an open day on Saturday so I hope to see you all there.
So happy summer and I will be back soon
Shell.
]]>Networking.
It’s a word we’ve heard before, but one which we continually tend to ignore, as if it’s a rather confusing fly buzzing quietly in the background.
So what does it actually mean, to use as applicants, students, graduates, even employees?
Well, if we look at it closer, we realise we’re already doing it without even noticing.
Events such as the one I went to today, the Manchester Graduate Fair, are great opportunities to talk to recruiters / universities at stands. UCAS and Higher Education fairs, for example, offer you an opportunity to speak to people you might actually be working with in a couple of years time.
But that’s not to say that it’s easy.
And it comes in many forms. There are lots of ways to build your contacts, get yourself noticed, add people to your address book. Twitter (http://twitter.com) is proving to be an even bigger networking tool than anyone could have imagined. Keep your updates about boozing last night to Facebook, and post about how you’re interested in the ‘current social climate’ to Twitter, and who knows, you might just get yourself a few followers.
Business cards, CVs, even stickers might pick you out from the crowd when you’re after that job, too. And even though it sounds rather parent-like, a business card doesn’t have to be a piece of white card with your details on. It could (and should) reflect your unique personality.
Anyway, I’m sorry it’s a dull one today. My brain is buzzing with phrases like ‘Tell us about yourself’ and ‘Why do you want to work for Kellogg’s?’.
On a lighter note, I went to see Derren Brown at The Lowry, Salford last Friday.
I’m still trying to work out how he did half of that utter trickery, five days later.
Matt 
]]>We first explored the Cathedral which is free to enter and runs lots of events-such as going to the top of the bell tower at night and viewing Liverpool city in all its glory. It’s a huge place and you almost feel dwarfed by the size of the roofs and the floors. It’s mega quiet beside from the footfalls and the whispering voices. It’s a great place to just get away from the city and turn to your spiritual side. You can explore nearly all of the cathedral and they have like display cases and signs about the building and actives, so you can learn a little about the cathedral’s history. They have a shop and a cafe too!
On my leaving the Cathedral, my friend said she felt really calm and peace….I felt inspired! Well, we had been talking about the 3rd book of my Liverpool set trilogy on the train and I’m so including this place now! It is amazing. Its’ like 10 minutes away from the train station and I’m sure it can fit in my novel somewhere….
We then went down into the cemetery. It’s not really a scary place, but you can see how neglected it once was and how in some corners it still is being today. They have removed most of the headstones from the main ground and placed them along the walls. Firstly, as you head down into the cemetery and through the tunnel and then as you follow the path down and around. It was interesting to see and some of the headstones were really special too. I know it’s sad to read the names of people who are no longer on earth, but to me as a writer its interesting because you can look at writing on a grave and take a lot of things from it. I was upset by the headstones from the Liverpool Blue Coats Hospital and that of the girls and boys orphanages, because these were just names, ages and date, it give no clue to any of their lives other than that they were the unwanted and so forgotten about.
The cemetery has another interesting feature – the crypts and tombs that were made out of the rock walls which climb the sides. Most of the headstones had worn away or been removed, but some were still there and that was interesting to see. It reminded me of Highgate Cemetery, I place I’d love to see some day.
After that we went to Starbucks on the way home and my friend opened my eyes to Frabbochinos! These are so amazing and I can’t believe I’ve waited this long to drink one. So that was another highlight of my day. And I brought 6 books…..But I can explain my actions! First there was a manga –Japanese-comic book, reduced in Waterstones and it looked good, so I got it. Then came a book for my dad-father’s day on Sunday! Then I found one called Jane Slayer which is one of those take the mickey out of famous books and it’s Jane Austan! Which I’ve to read for 3rd, so I thought it might be good to like read that and see the real novel in a new light. Then we went to the works and it was like 3 brand new novels for £5. So I got two about this vampire band of brothers, which look really good and then a Morganville vampire book one. Hopefully I’ll have the time to read some of them!!!!!
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We first explored the Cathedral which is free to enter and runs lots of events-such as going to the top of the bell tower at night and viewing Liverpool city in all its glory. It’s a huge place and you almost feel dwarfed by the size of the roofs and the floors. It’s mega quiet beside from the footfalls and the whispering voices. It’s a great place to just get away from the city and turn to your spiritual side. You can explore nearly all of the cathedral and they have like display cases and signs about the building and actives, so you can learn a little about the cathedral’s history. They have a shop and a cafe too!
On my leaving the Cathedral, my friend said she felt really calm and peace….I felt inspired! Well, we had been talking about the 3rd book of my Liverpool set trilogy on the train and I’m so including this place now! It is amazing. Its’ like 10 minutes away from the train station and I’m sure it can fit in my novel somewhere….
We then went down into the cemetery. It’s not really a scary place, but you can see how neglected it once was and how in some corners it still is being today. They have removed most of the headstones from the main ground and placed them along the walls. Firstly, as you head down into the cemetery and through the tunnel and then as you follow the path down and around. It was interesting to see and some of the headstones were really special too. I know it’s sad to read the names of people who are no longer on earth, but to me as a writer its interesting because you can look at writing on a grave and take a lot of things from it. I was upset by the headstones from the Liverpool Blue Coats Hospital and that of the girls and boys orphanages, because these were just names, ages and date, it give no clue to any of their lives other than that they were the unwanted and so forgotten about.
The cemetery has another interesting feature – the crypts and tombs that were made out of the rock walls which climb the sides. Most of the headstones had worn away or been removed, but some were still there and that was interesting to see. It reminded me of Highgate Cemetery, I place I’d love to see some day.
After that we went to Starbucks on the way home and my friend opened my eyes to Frabbochinos! These are so amazing and I can’t believe I’ve waited this long to drink one. So that was another highlight of my day. And I brought 6 books…..But I can explain my actions! First there was a manga –Japanese-comic book, reduced in Waterstones and it looked good, so I got it. Then came a book for my dad-father’s day on Sunday! Then I found one called Jane Slayer which is one of those take the mickey out of famous books and it’s Jane Austan! Which I’ve to read for 3rd, so I thought it might be good to like read that and see the real novel in a new light. Then we went to the works and it was like 3 brand new novels for £5. So I got two about this vampire band of brothers, which look really good and then a Morganville vampire book one. Hopefully I’ll have the time to read some of them!!!!!
]]>I know you all have lots of questions regarding the accommodation application process, the fees, the policies surrounding living in halls and probably many more. So here’s just a few ways in which you can get your questions answered FAST!
1. Ring the University and ask to speak to the Accommodation team. They are the best suorce of info and will have all the up to date information. We can’t get into discussions about fees, or special circumstances so the team in the Accommodation office are the best bet!
2. Other than that, you can ask me questions here on my blog, just leave me a comment on this or any other post.
3. Following that, you can use the forums here on the Hi Site. This allows you to ask questions which staff and us bloggers can answer for you, and it gives you a chance to meet people who might be in your halls with you, so BONUS!
So…Off you pop to fill in that application form and remember to read all the info the Uni sends you. It really is helpful and will most probably answer most questions you have which saves you waiting for an answer.
‘Till next time…Nay
PS…The USA is awesome. The campers arrived today so Camp Greentop 2010 has officially started!
]]>Ever since finishing university unofficially I have kind of gone on a bit of a binge consisting of crazy stuff, mostly climbing and travelling and going out hanging out with friends. I should probably be focusing on my new job and my new kids but my mind has just gone into overdrive on this freedom kick! Hence why, I have had a little gap in my blogging but am on top form now! Once I signed everything off at university my mind just went swirling round with what ideas I wanted to get involved in! I had ideas, of going to France, visiting Scotland with my club, having friends to come and visit, spending time with my housemates enjoying our last house moments together, visiting Wales and other bits and bobs. And so far I have managed to do all these things. Am thinking soon I may have to ground myself and really focus on work and my future but after amazing three years completing my degree I feel I deserve a little freedom!
I think the first thing I planned for when I finished my work was to go climbing – especially in this weather it can’t be resisted. A friend from down south came to visit so that was my first call climbing around Lancashire – which was very enjoyable. I certainly couldn’t resist the offer to then go down south to climb in the Gower (South Wales) which was pretty immense. Sea cliff climbing is something I have always wanted to do and now I can say I have done it! Still not finished with the climbing bug, I think am off to France next week to climb in the South which should be fun and hopefully the weather will be positive. It has been really nice been able to do what I want without really any responsibility. I know soon my life will be filled with responsibility so best get it out the way now! Before I suppose I have to become a grown up, which is what I am quite worried about. Am sure I will figure out the work/leisure balance, but for now a few more weeks of freedoms shouldn’t hurt – then to definitely settle down! I will update you soon on being a grown up! Viki J x
Pictures to come!
]]>I decided I definitely needed a break after having an intensive couple of weeks after finishing placement to get all the loose ends tidied up at university. So a break is what I had – and what a better way to spend it than with some of my favourite people in the Outdoor Club and others who I didn’t really know in Scotland. Literally one of the best weekends of the year (just as good as my white water rafting weekend in Nottingham!), it involved a lot of sun, sea and sand! As well as the most important, the crazy outdoor activities which are obviously made the best part of the weekend. It just happened that the weather was superb so I got a bit of a tan! Unfortunately I got a sunglasses tan – which I cannot get rid of now and hoping it will fade soon!
So the point of the weekend? To spend time with friends who I might not but I definitely intend on seeing over summer! Or I suppose for a little while longer. Now I have finished university I do feel quite nervous about losing touch with some of my closest friends – but I suppose if we all put the effort in we shouldn’t lose touch – fingers crossed! Anyway the weekend was amazing, we camped up in Scotland (Machaharnish) for 3 nights, 4 days including quite a bit of travelling – grr (so worth it tho) and basically we all just went to have fun and enjoy each other’s company. The weekend activities did include sea kayaking, kite boarding, sea and sand zorbing (both more painful than I thought), frisbee, nerf ball, cliff jumping (most definitely the scariest thing of the weekend), fire poi, fire breathing, camp fire and a lot of sand, sea and sun – oo and beautiful sunsets! It was just really enjoyable and fun – lots of laughing and BBQ’s!
It’s definitely a great idea to organise with your friends a day or a weekend where you can just enjoy everything you have done together – while still making those most amazing memories. I will definitely miss my closest friends from the outdoor club (you know who you are!) but this is definitely another memory which has made my university experience one of the greatest times of my life! That why I have had limited blogging time as I have been enjoying myself too much with all my friends, making the most out of my final part of my university experience! Viki J x
Pictures to come!
]]>An end of an era! I have actually finished university, as in completely finished all my classes, handed in all my assignments and I believe I have actually passed everything! Am still waiting on the confirmation from academic registry, but I passed first year, then I haven’t failed any assignments, passed all my placements so I have a good feeling that I have passed but I will feel better when I get my end results. Also, am quite curious to find out my degree classification – I wonder what I will get; my grades were a little all over the place so fingers crossed it’s not too bad! So not just yet but soon to be an official graduate!
It’s been quite strange as I have been so busy recently finishing off all my last bits of work trying to get it all done, while still making plans for the future. I really haven’t had time to think and in a way it’s all come too soon or its probably better to phrase it as it’s all gone too quick. Now I’ve have had time to stop and think am quite saddened by the fact I didn’t really get to enjoy it as much as I could. I had a great few weeks but it all just went too fast, in a way I wish I could go back and do it all again but I think it be the same.
In the last few weeks, I experienced stress to finish everything, while spending time with my friends who were leaving earlier than me. I felt so happy that the end was near and all my hard work would be recognised but I felt just as sad when I spent time with my housemates thinking this will be some of the last times in my house with them. I still had a great laugh and really enjoyed my time with them but yeah that sad feeling lingers in the back of your mind. Anyway I can talk more about this another time I am just happy I think I’ve passed and yeah I have had an intense but brilliant last couple of weeks. I will be returning back to university soon for work and other bits but right now am having a break, doing things I want to do! Viki J x
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Just before I finished university, I signed up for a weekend at the Conway Centre, the Conway Centre is an Outdoor Educational Centre for children and adults close to Anglesey in Wales. Now for us this was all about working with children in outdoor education centres and what it can do for them. It was available to all teaching students so I went and a couple of friends including Tom, another blogger on the Hi Site (check out our cool picture)!
The weekend was great fun and really did show what skills and qualities children can get out of working in alternative educational settings. About 40 third year trainee teachers went down to go and ‘sample’ some of the activities on offer at the Conway centre. At the start of the weekend we did ice breakers to get to know each other as most people were from different teaching courses; this was very handy in getting to know each other. Then after that we split into teams to win points by completely challenges based around initiatives and ropes work (such as completely mini assault course with extra challenges within it). All the activities promoted teamwork, communication, leadership, challenge etc – a variety of skills and qualities were on offer to engage with. The staff at the centre were extremely helpful at pointing these out and utilising the opportunities of the challenges to promote these skills.
The more points you won allowed you to bid for materials to purchase items to build a raft in what was the final challenge (we competed against other teams) it just so happened our team won well done to the NO NAME TEAM!!!! So with the bidding at the auction the weekend even had mathematical stance on it! Anyway, it was a fab weekend and I recommend any teaching student to go on it if they have the chance, it had definitely built my confidence up in ensuring I use to outdoors as a teaching tool. All I have to do now I write a reflective assignment which will gain my 20 credits towards my Level 7 Masters which I intend on doing soon! So this FREE weekend not only has built by confidence but started me on my road to beginning my masters – all very exciting! Also we go to do High Ropes, which was ridiculously scary but fun! Viki J x
]]>Included below are the pictures from Go Ape as promised….
I thought this week I would tell you about my PDP (Personal Development Portfolio) as I have been taking lots of time to sort it out so my personal tutor can see it this week.
A PDP is a crucially important folder which houses lots of important documentation, but hopefully will ultimately help you get a job. Some of you who are or just finished applying for universities and having all those interviews will have taken along something similar to PDP to ‘sell yourself’.
Each module has to contain:
- A placement reflection which links to theory
- A theory reflection
- Hours sheets
- Practice Placement Assessment Documentation
- Any certificates or marking sheets from the module
- Assignment feedback sheet
Your portfolio needs to be:
- Tidy
- Include a CV and a front cover and contents pages
It really is a big pain in the bum! But I suppose it’ll be worth it when it hopefully helps me get a job!!! It’s so scary that there is about 15 months left. Anyone have a Bernard’s Clock to stop time????
Take care!!
Much love
Natalie x
This is afterwards actually – but we were both well and truely zonked! Oh, this is also before it decided the heavens had to open and tipped it down!
This was the worst thing ever, you swung out of a booth onto this net, it pulled my arms so much. This was the small one, and I chose not to go on the big version!
Athough you can’t see my feet in this, they are in sterriups (the things you wear when you are on a horse) which are all on individual ropes. Please feel free to use your imagination!
This was zip wire 2, it was mid length. Although the last one was the longest!
This is Sean climbing up a ladder onto another challenge!
This is me and Sean up in the trees!
I saved the best photo until last….. when you land off the zip wire you are meant to ‘pretend run’ and you will land on your feet. Sean however landed on his back on 2/3 of the zip wires – as shown above. However the one I decided to video record he landed on his feet – typical!
As you can see we had a fantastic time – I would definately recommend it! x x
]]>Yesterday I caught up with some friends and I discovered that they were having a great time doing…..nothing. Most of them were reading novels that they just wanted to read for fun-whilst I’ve been battling my way through the novels for 3rd year- playing games like final fantasy and Warcraft-I’ve been playing sims 3 to fill the boredom time I’ve in the evenings-watching lots of tv shows and day time tv and catching up with their friends at home.
I feel like a geek because I seem to have done nothing but uni work since we broke up for summer. I’ve been reading, writing poems and stories, planning stuff for my new house and also for leaving this one. I’ve also been to one of the guest lectures-see last week’s post-and only missed this week’s because my housemate invited me to tea. I’ll go to the one on the 22nd June though because that’s about Byron.
For me though it appears I’ve little choice in doing ‘nothing’ for the rest of summer. I know life in 3rd year will be easier if I read all the books whilst I’m not under pressure and can enjoy reading them instead of having to study them at the same time-which can take away a lot in a really good novel. I can’t stop writing either, it’s been a hobby ever since I wrote my first short story when I was 6. I wrote my first novel when I was 12 and I’ve had a passion for writing novels ever since then. So I just can’t suddenly stop and knowing how long novels can take to write and rewrite, its best to just carry on whilst I’ve some ‘free time’.
I know that when I go on holiday for two weeks in Cornwall, which is about 4 weeks time now, I won’t be on much of a holiday with my reading even then! I’ve plans to read the two Bronte novels whilst being stuck in a tent in the middle of nowhere…..
Still tho it’ll pay off and hopefully I’ll have some time to do nothing later on in the summer…..
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This is my photo of the week! My cactus Bob, who use to have his own blog, decided to flower! Doesn’t he look pretty?
]]>So, We have our Greentop Talent Show tonight! That should be hilarious! I’m wondering what exactly it is that I can do for the show…I guess we’ll find out soon enough!
‘Till next time…Nay
]]>We went out early (ish) people aren’t usually allowed into the bar area after 10.30 on a Wednesday night but on last night of the bar nights its 9.30. We spent some time in the bar area and eventually after a few drinks we plucked up the courage to head into the Venue to throw some shapes haha or at least try to! The Venue soon became really busy, but not busy that you couldn’t move or ended up with any drinks spilt down ya! So I went out with the girls I live with and met up with a few third years . The music was great the atmosphere was great and it has to have been one of my favourite nights at Edge Hill.
The final song was ‘Never Forget’ by Take That, and everyone sung and danced along. The third years got on the stage and enjoyed their last few minutes as uni students. The night was really good slightly emotional as people wouldn’t be seeing their friends over the summer but I return in September and can’t wait. So roll on September and more good times as a second year.
]]>Moving also indicated a change from theory into placement, in 3 weeks and 3 days time. This module is the last of the year, and although I have lots to look forward to in the summer such as going on holiday – I do not feel ready to be a third year student nurse.
How are you all enjoying the sun? I have had a ball these last few days and I went to Go Ape in Delamere a couple of days ago – I’ll include some pictures in my blog next week – it was great fun but very tiring!
Sorry for the short, sweet blog, tomorrow starts a new module and I have lots of bits to tie up from this before tomorrow! The life of a student eh! Take care
Love
Nat x x
]]>You know that feeling before you find out a piece of information which could change your life?
The one before you find out your final assignment grades, whether you got the job or not, or if you’ve done enough to secure a place in the Britain’s Got Talent semi-final?
Well, I’ve had that in plentiful supply over the last couple of weeks. I’ve had job applications and interviews, assignment marks back for pretty much the whole of the second semester, and after performing live on sta- …ok, the last one wasn’t true.
Anyway, the news has been a mixture of good and bad. I didn’t get the job I was after, but I did get fairly decent marks in my final assignments. Add to that the Edge Hill Class of 2010 Graduation Ball and it’s fair to say that May was a pretty good month.
Now it’s June, and it can be easy to simply write the academic year off as ‘finished’, and look forward to doing absolutely bugger all over the summer holidays. The final series of Big Brother, for example, would be a good way to spend limitless time on doing absolutely nothing but staring at the box. After all, you’ve worked hard this year, and you deserve to put your feet up and simmer in the garden.
I’ll admit, it’s exactly what I’ve done for the last say, 21 years of my life.
But I won’t be doing it this year.
I’ve learnt (rather late on) that working when everyone else isn’t could give you a big advantage when it comes to things like dissertation research, project planning, job applications and the like. Do something productive if you’ve got the summer before you’re due to start uni free – volunteer, do some work experience, research something you’re interested in – anything. Use your time wisely.
Stuff like this can only give you better skills, more content knowledge, more experience, more quality than everyone else.
Don’t forget the old adage; ‘If you fail to prepare, you are prepared to fail’.
And on that, rather preaching note, I’ll leave you with a photo of the graduation ball. Stolen from the website.
Matt 
The lecture was about how different Romantic poets and the general society at the time viewed people with disabilities either physically or mentally. The Lecture was given by a doctor in this field from the USA and though at first it seemed to be very complicated and way out of the normal study areas for the Romantics, I soon got into it.
I learnt a lot about looking closer at how the people of the time wrote about disability and that because people were being over critical about the meanings within the writing, that what the writers really meant had become lost or distorted. So it was interesting to me to study some of Wordsworth poems, taking this into light and found out things that I had not even noticed before.
I’m glad I went now, because it really has opened my eyes and the best part about it was that it was free and they had coffee and tea there! Plus there wasn’t so many people, which made listening and asking questions a lot easier. I’m thinking about going to the one next week and that looks to be on a very interesting subject matter……
http://www.edgehill.ac.uk/events/2010/06/08/romanticism-research-forum-professor-kelly-hurley
]]>Anyway, so i arrived on Monday (24th) and got stuck straight in, unpacking stuff from storage and setting up camp. Now the office where I’m based is all set up and I’m ready to go! I moved into a cabin with a great girl called Mekka, who is fantastic. Everyone here is so lovely. More and more staff are arriving everyday and by the end of the weekend we should have everybody!
In other news, I sent a friend to go and pick up my coursework pieces and my exam grades this morning since I’m not there and all! So more news to follow on that. AND I received an email off the lady who interviewed me the other week for my award that I received. She emailed me a copy of what she had written and now we’re just waiting for it to hit the papers.
Right, I’m off to do some more things here in the office. I’ll try and get a picture or two up here. Hope everyone is enjoying their summer.
‘Till next time…Nay
]]>Wow, what another busy week. Well I though seeing as I will be rather busy over summer, that it would be a good idea to have a load of days out all at once, so we have been on the go since Wed I think, in addition to doing work with Aimhigher I managed to fit a lot in. First we went the cinema VIP style that was so fun and I got completely stuffed on nachos and cheese, then we decided to have a board games night and got through about 20 games. Which was when I realised I don’t actually know how to play checkers but our made up rules were just as fun. Saturday saw me working with Aimhigher, in a celebration event, I will talk about a bit later on, and then we went to see Cirque Du Soliel in Liverpool. All I can say about this circus is OMG, I was watching in ore as about 20 people started to walk up metal poles, with no strings and then pose like superman with their legs keeping them up. As you know I love anything to do with circus, but these were fantastic and to make it even better we got half price tickets, and then when we got there we got upgraded for free to the best seats in the house. Sunday we had to go to a family christening which ended with a kids party and some silly dancing, then had friends around for tea. To finish off we had an amazing trip to Alton Towers for the bank holiday, we went by public transport, but the long trip was soo worth it, as I got to go on two new rides, the sonic and thirteen. Well that’s enough about my busy events, but I will tell you about the day I worked with Aimhigher on Saturday.
So it was a celebration day for a year 11 wise up project, and these young people we have been working with over a course of 3 years. The day was meant to be an outdoor sort of carnival, with stalls form other universities, big games, BBQ and graduation photos. But due to typical English weather, made us improvise and have everything indoors, which went boss. So my job was to take and print the graduation photos, and whilst I was taking them I started to think wow, this could be me in a month or so and started to get really excited about my own graduation, I didn’t think I would get this excited, but I really I am, so just have to keep my fingers crossed I get a grade I am proud of. So even though I had to put in a lot of hard work it is well worth it at the end.
Shell
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Friday saw my last day of my crisis resolution home treatment placement. So I thought I would reflect on it with you all and tell you what I enjoyed. Settling into placement at the beginning is always really difficult, you do not know none of the staff members, even other students unless they are in your group you do not know them, you also do not know the way in which the placement works – so understandably the first few weeks are difficult. My placement was a mixture of home treatment and accident and emergency presentations.
I especially enjoyed the accident and emergency shifts, the unpredictability of what may come through the door. I think the thing I found the most difficult was how young some of the clients are, some as young as 16/17. Young people who should not have any kind of mentally ill-health.
As well as finishing placement, over the course of this week my assignment draws to a close, and needs to get handed in. I have nearly finished, my word count currently stands at 3220, only about 250 words to go. I have learnt a lot during the course of this assignment about how there are still differential views within mental health, medication within psychiatry is still used an awful lot – it is the first choice of treatment by many psychiatrists, when really this should not be the case.
Although the United Kingdom, has improved vastly over the past few decades, the use of psychosocial interventions could be used more, especially with children and young people. I hope you are all using your spring bank holiday to good use ahead of upcoming exams!
Take care
Natalie x x
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I’m the silly one with the bunny ears!
This year was particularly wet
For the last few years I have done an event called Race for Life, it is ran by the charity Cancer Research, in order to raise money for cancer. It is likely every single one of us will know someone who has or had the diagnosis, and it can cause so much upset, many of us will have a story to tell. It is so touching to go through the race and read the notes pinned to people’s backs as they complete the race.
My dad was diagnosed with testicular cancer three years ago, but now thankfully has the all clear, and I’m sure stories of other relatives/friends/immediate family could fill this page plus more. It is a fantastic cause and a really lovely event even in really torrential weather (which I did it in last year).
To search for your nearest race….
Here 5 reasons why you should complete the 5km run, jog or walk
The nearest events to Edge Hill University are:
Liverpool (Aintree Racecourse) Sun 27 June 2010 14:00 5km Knowsley Thu 08 July 2010 19:30 5km
Wigan Wed 09 June 2010 19:30 5km
Leyland Sun 11 July 2010 11:00 5km
Haydock Park Sun 25 July 2010 11:00 5km
Good luck if you have already signed for the race this year!
]]>The campus is still really busy which I was surprised at as I assumed most people would have gone home by now but I know a few courses are still running for example the PGCE (secondary teaching qualification) and I suppose some people might be in the same position as me and have jobs here. Although exams have finished the bars here in Ormskirk are still doing their cheap student nights and the Venue is open on Wednesdays until the 3rd of June which is last night of the bar – should be a good night I’m really looking forward to it!
I’ve also been thinking about second year, I picked my modules in March but haven’t had much chance to research any further into each one. So I’m gonna start reading up about each one just so I have some general knowledge about each one. Anyways ill leave it at that. Blog soon.
]]> . Have a lovely week and enjoy the sun before being locked inside for exams and whatnot! Jo xxx
]]>I am the official North West Regional Winner 2010
I work for Edge Hill’s Job Club and my team leader nominated me! I was so pleased. Aaaaand, what’s even better, is that this is the first time that one of Edge Hill’s Student’s have won the regionals. So now I go forward to the national stage where all the regional winners have a chance at winning the big title. So I had my photo taken by the Uni photographer and had an interview with the press office who will run an article in the local Lancashire and Liverpool papers, AND in my own local papers back home!
So, What a nice way to end the year at uni before I jet off, volcano permitting that is! Well I’ve been informed that if possible I am to continue my role as a blogger throughout the summer, so I can keep you all updated about my travels. I say travels, I’ll really be at camp most of the time, Haha.
‘Till next time…(which will be in the States)Nay
]]>Ok so once we arrived we got off the train and saw the flashy lights of the dreaded arcades, that was it we were drawn in. We thought we would spend all our coppers on the 2p machine, take a chance on the grabbing machines and even managed to tune out to the awful sound of fruit machine music, well for about an hour or so.
With the sun blazing we thought of no better way to enjoy it, than to take a stroll down the pier and have some fish and chips. It was so nice to have no worries and enjoy the British sunny weather with a friend. We finished off our day with a Mr Whippy ice cream and cheesey music on the Ipod.
As we are on the subject of summer it got me thinkning of some the days out I am looking forward to this summer, Cheshire oaks, The Pine woods, the beach, BBQ’s in the parks and Sefton park in Liverpool. All of these are great days out and very cheap to so even better when you’re a student.
That’s all form me now so take care
Shell.
]]>Initially I had a lovely build up, where I went to the hairdressers, but had forgotten the flower for my hair. So I had to go to New Look to buy a new one… then it started raining….then I realised I had forgotten some flat shoes for the next day as I was sleeping at my boyfriend’s house…so I had to go home collect flat shoes and I ended up getting a taxi to the races ….. a great build up!
However………………. Once there ………. we had an amazing time, I’m not really the betting ‘type’, although we did get back the money we put on plus a little back so I was made up. We started with dinner, then seven races in total, and we picked the winner in 3 races. Afterwards Alexander Burke performed a 30 minute set, so that was really interesting to listen and watch.
Aintree Racecourse are not only a good student employer, but next year you may decide to go to the grand national or even one of the night races – its lots of fun with mates. Also I loved getting dressed up. You can see the pictures below….
Take care
Natalie x x
PS: I will write the next blog on my assignment..and how it’s coming together…however I need to get my own head around it first! x x
Hope you like the pictures x x
]]>Did you know?…It’s only 18 weeks on Sunday until Freshers week kicks off with Welcome Sunday, when Edge Hill will open it’s doors to the new undergrads for 2010. Your freshers week will be jam packed with all sorts of events no matter what you’re into and there is genuinely something for everyone whether it’s a night out, a night in, a social gathering or signing up to all the great things you can get involved in during your time at Uni.
So, If you still are yet to see the campus, or you want to see it again, pop along. It’s gorgeous this time of year with the sun shining and with the ducklings running around. Puts a smile on anyone’s face.
‘Till next time…Nay
]]>I have become such good friends with the girls I live with and the people on my course! I cannot wait to return in September, living off campus with 5 other people should be great! I’ve not packed up my room yet, my contract in Forest Court Rowan doesn’t end until June so I’m gonna stay for a few weeks which should be a lot of fun.
Anyway to celebrate the end of my exams and the return of one of the girls I live with from placement we are off into Liverpool for a night out, I’ve not been out in Liverpool that much really so I am really looking forward to it, also with a railcard you can get the last train for about £3 which is very cheap, taxis back are usually around £20 so if there is a few of you it still works out very cheap!
Some of you probably still have exams left and are at a point of ripping your hair out?! I know I have been for the last two weeks but I’m sure your all doing great! Keep revising and think about uni when you need some motivation! Blog soon.
]]>Liverpool has so much to offer, but kayaking is definitely one of my favourite things to do there. The kayaking takes place through the warmer months at Liverpool Marina, and its free, you just have to pay a one off members fee of £5 which is pretty ace. There is coaches there to teach you how to paddle and all the skills you need etc. I think I have definitely been converted into loving kayaking! I suppose having some experience of white water rafting and canoeing helps but yeah the people are really friendly, you don’t have to be a student and it is just fun – even if you’re a complete beginner!
I even tried a bit of dragon boating last week – Liverpool has loads to offer and it isn’t even that expensive to get involved. Anyway just thought I share some of the delights of Liverpool! Viki J x
]]>It’s a big weight off my mind, to know that by next year I will have a job and a class of my own. At the same time it is ridiculously nerve racking! All the questions run through your mind, if you’ll be good enough or what happens when! But I suppose I have to accept it as a new chapter in my life and I just have to roll with it while still being as prepared as possible! I must admit it’s very exciting!
I can imagine most third years at the moment are going through some kind of application process for something whether that’s further education, jobs etc! So I do want to wish you good luck and just keep calm and be prepared is probably the best advice I can give you! Think university is very nearly over soon, for some of us it is! Enjoy these last few weeks and then have some fun! Viki J x
]]>So that’s it. I’ve officially finished all the work for my degree. Done. Finito. (Is that a word?)
There’s been a gap between this and my last post for this very reason. For the last few weeks, myself and my third year housemates have been literally clearing out Tesco’s energy drink shelves, every single day.
In true ‘Will from The Inbetweeners’ style, we have pounded out the revision, the sketchbooks, the final projects and the mammoth essays. At the start of every module, I distinctly remember saying to myself; ‘I’ll have my work done well before deadline this time’.
I never did, which is why Red Bull have been doing a roaring trade in West Lancashire this month.
So, what of the last three years then? Well, I’ve never been one to wallow in the past, but I’ll indulge a little anyway.
Back in 2007, I arrived fresh-faced from a long, lazy summer into Eleanor Rathbone hall, dumped my suitcases and settled in for a week of pure, uninterrupted freedom. To be true, I had no idea that I’d settled myself in for (so far) the best three years of my life.
Little did I know of the people I would meet. The friendships I would make; the ones I know will be with me for life.
From the squabbles over who stole who’s frozen pizza from the communal fridge, to being distracted by Call of Duty when you know there’s a deadline around the corner, it’s been one hell of a ride.
To write it all down just wouldn’t do it justice.
See for yourself.
Matt
P.S. The pic below is a sample of a third year advertising student’s living room the night before deadline. Check the classic ‘ironing board full of empty energy drinks cans’ sculpture in the corner.
. !) Jo
]]>Well the last of my work is in, and all my current job applications have been sent off and voting done in the election, so I thought I would treat a friend and myself to a weekend away in Dublin. This was a great way to end my final year and just to relax a little. We got flights for so cheap to go so that when we got there we could be proper little tourists and see some of Dublin’s sights.
Well with so little time to actually see them all we done a lot on each day, and at the time thought it was a great idea but after recovering today my legs are so sore from all of the walking we did do. We went to an old jail were all the Irish revolutionist were sent for execution, we went on a ghost tour, to a childhood museum, saw umpteen castles and gardens, we visited the wax works museum and even had time to go to the national leprechaun museum. Yes that’s right a museum about so called mini people who dress in green, and guard their precious pots of gold near a rainbow. We managed to fit all this in and more, including tour buses, movies and fancy meals. I had such a great time and think the that when you’re at uni it is important to plan in some ‘me’ time and time to relax and celebrate after all of your three hard working years.
Well as I would love to ramble on about Dublin, thought it would be better to include some pics of what I got up to.Well after several attempts to put pics up I gave up, I will try and put them up as a separate blog so keep those eyes peeled.
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For all you potential student nurses coming to Edge Hill in September, prepare yourself for the whirlwind of totally messing up your body clock on nights – total reprogramming.
Although I have loved nights these past few weeks, as I was based in accident and emergency department assessing patients who required a mental health assessment. I worked Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday night from 8.30pm until 7.30am. I did find it never got easier to tell yourself you were awake at stupid o’clock. Come inside a building when it is pitch black and leave (having had no sleep) when it is sunny outside! Then to go home and have to sleep in the daylight – its most surreal.
But also probably one of the best experiences I have as a trainee nurse, I now know that 2 weeks out of my 3 weeks of nights is done for my course (although by the time you potential students come the rules may have changed and you may not have to do that amount, rumour has it you may only have to do one night shift). I learnt an awful lot, and was able to have lots of new experience.
However once a student, if the opportunity arises, take it!
I now know that should I have to do nights as a qualified nurse (which is very likely) I can do them. Accidents come through A & E at night time, and I heard some amazing success stories whilst in the department.
Its hard work, draining, challenging… most importantly it was a great learning experience and rewarding but hey….why else did I want to become a nurse.
Hope all is well, and you’re all looking forward to your exams!!
Take care…. Natalie x x
]]>However I do feel that I will miss being here as I can be more mature and independent. Whilst being at uni I have learnt how to do everything for myself like my own washing, cooking and just getting on with things. It has been a learning curve and I feel that without it I would not be the same person I am now.
I am looking forward to my second year as I will be in my own house in Ormskirk and my course gets more personal to what I want to do in the future.
How is everyone getting on with things at the moment? And are you all ready for the summer?
Becki x x
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Anyway, my vote is in and thanks to our Student Union this year, all on campus students at Edge Hill were automatically registered as a secondary measure so that they could still vote without having to go home to do so. This was a fantastic move on the SU’s behalf and not only allowed but also encouraged a lot of people to vote when they may not have done so.
In other news Stuart Maconie arrived on campus last Thursday evening to give a talk on his time at Edge Hill, his bestselling books and his fondest memories of music, food, country walks and all thing Lancashire. He was fantastic and really gave a good session. The fantastic Tanya Byron (our first Chancellor of Edge Hill University and my personal idol) introduced the man himself and the whole evening was just fantastic, fun filled and laid back. I got an autograph and a photo with Stuart too. I hope you all enjoy your time at Edge Hill as much as Stuart did and as much as I am.
‘Till next time…Nay
]]>We visited the Beatles museum which was brilliant; I’ve learnt all of their names and who they are now. Also was funny as there was a fire alarm half way through so we were evacuated.
We went on a bus tour around Liverpool looking around the parts I recognise and other parts I can now say I have seen. The tour was good also as I now know what a Lamb Banana is.
Also I took the family into Liverpool One shopping and I’ve got some new shoes and sun glasses now for the summer.
Therefore, I think it was a lovely day out with my family and I can now take my friends from home on a tour of Liverpool.
Becki x x
]]>Well guys, sorry for no blog last week, but this week you will get two or maybe even three.
Deadlines are looming for most students this time of year, exams, assignments, job applications for Sept for third years and dissertation deadlines. Well it is hard work getting all your work in and even harder when the weather is sunny outside and the last thing you want to do is stay indoors and finish off assignments. Sorry guys you can’t escape doing work whilst you’re at uni its juts got to be done if you want to pass and then enjoy the long long summer months. Yes, Yay, Woohoo, Finito, Oh Yeah, Yeehaa, however I want to put it I can honestly say there is now greater feeling than when all of your assignments deadlines have come and gone and now you have time on your hands to do, well erm anything really. Actually I have got this horrible feeling that I need to do some more uni work, its quite hard to believe I don’t have anymore unless I enrol in more education but that wont be until at least September.
Well enough about my deadlines, and me this week is a very important deadline for all you applicants, the 5th of May! Now those reading this and thinking what is she on about, that date means nothing to me, well you’re wrong. This date is very important, as this is the date set by UCAS, on which all perspective students have to have made their firm choice confirmed (providing all of their replies are back by 31st March). Now if you are reading this blog there is a good chance that you are on the HI website and are considering Edge Hill that is fantastic. So now all you have to do is make Edge Hill your firm choice and then you will become part of the friendliest university network: D, obviously I am biased but it really is fabulous and very friendly and very welcoming.
So make your choices ASAP and I’ll be back soon,
Shell.
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I’m sorry for a lack of blogs lately, so if you have forgotten who I am my name is Steph Hartley and I’m in my first year doing a history degree. Hopefully that will trigger some memories. I have been swamped with assignments and revision since returning from Easter.
So, I had three assignments to hand in, all three were 2000 words which is more difficult than I originally thought! Haha but they were all handed in last week, which means it’s time to focus solely on revision. I have three exams one for the medieval module, one for the nineteenth century module and one for the twentieth century. Thankfully there are a couple of days between each exam which spreads it out a bit. I can imagine a lot of you have exams coming up, A levels, what a nightmare! You’ll get through them though, just think of that long summer when you have finished!
Ok so enough talking about revision and assignments! This week my and a couple of my cluster friends did a ‘come dine with me’ style tea, which was very good – she got a good score from me! This was a great idea! It’s good to do organised meals like this it saves you money and you can have a real laugh, so I would recommend it to freshers.
Anyways, I will leave it at that, back to the mountains of revision I have to get through! I will blog soon, let you know how my revision is going!
]]>Whilst living in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire I was involved in the local authorities UK Youth Parliament where I was elected as a member of youth parliament. This meant I was responsible to represent the views of the young people in my area, helping to change things, and pass on these views nationally. I was involved in a sitting in the House of Lords in London and many regional events. My role then progressed to no longer representing the local authority (although I did remain involved) to representing the region of Yorkshire and the Humber on a national scale.
Throughout this experience and all of my volunteering I have met so many great friends, youth workers and had some amazing experiences that I would not change for anything.
Other volunteering I have done
- Being part of a steering group on children’s rights, helping to feed into a national investigation that was looked at by the UN Convention on the Rights of a Child.
- Volunteer my time for a charity of young peoples mental health problems. I was involved in making some viral videos that reached thousands of young people and helped many to access health services to get help to recover
This is just a small section of things I have being involved in, and so I decided to apply for the volunteer scholarship as I felt I had nothing to lose.
Application Process
# I made a booklet each with a different page of an organisation I was volunteering with. On each page, I looked at my role within that organisation, things I had being involved in, what it had given to me personally and included lots of pictures too
# I asked the staff who work for the organisations to write me a reference to support the work that I do in my free time
I then sent all this along with a covering letter explaining what I would do if I won the volunteer scholarship and how it would affect my university experience. I included the application form, and just waited to hear.
I was very shocked when I found out I had actually being given the scholarship, and what a fantastic difference it has made to my life. I received £500 in October 2008, £500 in January 2009, £500 in January 2010 and I will receive £500 in January 2011.
I hope with the £500 in January 2010, to contribute towards buying myself a car… I feel this will help me considerably once I finish university.
HOW TO APPLY
- CLOSING DATE FRIDAY 25th JUNE- Have a look at this website for details http://www.edgehill.ac.uk/study/fees/scholarships/entrance
- Have a look at this form for details http://www.edgehill.ac.uk/documents/study/EntranceAppForm.pdf
Good luck with the application, the scholarship has made a considerable difference to my life and I hope it can do that to you too! Natalie xxx
]]>All my essays are DONE All my assessments are DONE My registration form for my dissertation is…DONE! For those of you who don’t know what a dissertation is, let me introduce you to the word…A dissertation is a student’s year 3 project which can be an essay, a portfolio, a project, or in the case of Social Sciences, an experiment that we conduct and write up in 10,000 words. Now that might seem like a lot, but your essay word counts will increase throughout 1st and 2nd year so it won’t come as such a shock to the system when you come to doing the dissertation. It can pretty much be on any topic you like really within your degree, something that falls within your subject area that you may to may not have covered on your course. You are assigned a dissertation supervisor and you meet with them, discuss ideas until you settle on something and go about planning your piece. You will usually submit some kind of proposal or initial idea at the start of your 3rd year and then go onto do a small section in draft form which, depending on the course, goes towards the final mark. Then it’s down to you to write the damn thing up! So off I go on my dissertation journey.
However, aside from that, only 4 and a half weeks until I fly to America to do summer camp with Camp Leaders this year…13 weeks at Camp Greentop in Maryland USA!!!! I’m actually soooooo excited. I’ll say it again, it’s such a good way of earning money over the summer AND what greater experience than living in the US for 2/3 months. Why go back and work at your local supermarket or laze around all summer when you can get stuck in as support staff or working directly with the kids at summer camp?!?!
So, some of you may have heard from me this week as I’m doing a phone out with some of the team members to try and catch any last questions you guys might have before you make your decisions. Deadline date for final decisions is Wednesday 5th May…HOWEVER!!! That only applies if you had all your replies back before 31st March, so if you didn’t have them all back by this date, or even if you’re still waiting for some, then don’t panic, you’re deadline will be different 
Right, I’m off to enjoy this lovely time of year when I have no essays and no planned work to do…BLISS!
‘Till next time…Nay
]]>As the General Election fast approaches the SU are ensuring that everyone is as informed as they can be about the May 6th elections. We have organised a Question Time event on Wednesday 28th April at 1.30-2.45 in B001 (Business School) where candidates in the Lancashire West constituency from the Conservatives, Labour and Liberal Democrats will be on hand to answer your questions. Refreshments will be provided after the event and entry is free. This is your chance to go along and ask some questions – find out what they are doing for us! If you can’t make it and want to ask a question e-mail suvpactivities@edgehill.ac.uk (Pete our vice president) and they’ll get asked for you!
Finally the SU will be opening up Derby Hall until 4am in the Students’ Union building (behind the University Bar) on election night itself for those of you who would like to watch the events unfold and perhaps join in on some lively debate with others interested in the future of the country! Get involved, get informed and get active! Use your vote! Viki J x
]]>However I have made up my own tips to help me start revising effectively and they are useful to anyone. I have started writing down questions for myself and then answering them which is far easier and less boring that reading through all my work. I also meet up with some people off my course and revise with them because it can then be a lot more fun.
How does everyone else revise effectively?
Becki x x
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During this week I went to see the musical Blood Brothers at the Liverpool Empire Theatre. The theatre regularly houses tours of musicals or interesting comedies/plays, so coming to university here it may be worth a look.
This is the second time I have seen this musical, although it wasn’t as good as the first time I loved it, and feel in love with the attractive young actor; Sean Jones who played the character – his rough looking character was a hit.
The character of Mrs Johnson, the mother of the twins was played by Lynn Paul, she was a good Mrs Johnson. However I felt the only let down was her lack of a scouse accent. This was also the case with the narrator of the story, but the kids in the play kept the Liverpool twang alive!
It was a really good play, and whether you can catch the reaminings of this tour, can visit it in London or maybe see it in years to come it is definitely worth an evening out.
——–
I am quite lucky over these coming months as I have a few more evenings out planned;
# Scouting for Girls Concert
# Darren Brown: Enigma Tour
# Ladies Night Races at Aintree featuring Alexander Burke
# Rawhide Comedy Night at Liverpool Royal Court Theatre
—-
So I have plenty of things planned to keep me focused during placement!
Any questions about nursing or Blood Brother feel free to ask…
Lots of love
Natalie x
! Was a really good way to serve the students on campus and give people free food! Wednesdays day events I missed but heard they went well, with questionaires in the morning and a lunch bar type thing with a talk in the afternoon. In the evening we had an open mic night in the venue, our su bar. This was good, with poetry from rael and singing from billy and a few others. The rest of the weeks events have been disbanded until further notice, but last nights discussion went well, with members of the philosotea society coming for a bit of harmless debate .
]]>A couple of weeks ago, you may recall my post about why I love being a student ambassador. Amongst the referrals to ball gowns and Ferrero Rocher’s, I mentioned that I’d been nominated for the Edge Hill University ‘On campus Student Employee of the Year’ award.
Well, Tuesday night marked this year’s Edge Hill Careers awards evening. Held in the Faculty of Education, it was a brilliant night, full of hard working employees and volunteers receiving recognition for their efforts. There were a whole range of guests from outside companies and institutions, including an empty seat for my other employer, Compass Group. Who never turned up.
Anyway, I’m sure you’re all dying to hear the results.
Well, roll out the fanfare because I did win Student Employee of the Year (On Campus).
To be honest, even though I won, I wouldn’t have minded if I hadn’t. I was simply happy to be even nominated, and there was lots of stiff competition from some very, very hard workers.
The importance of the team, however, is never to be underestimated. I know for a fact that if, for example, one day I’m not feeling up to work, the rest of the team will bring my spirits up again and by the end of the day, I’ll be bouncing off the walls. It’s the collective who move things forward, because there’s only so much one individual can do. And I know for a fact that my team (mostly) deserve awards of their own for the work they put into making things happen.
Certainly, everyone who received nominations in particular worked their guts out for the privilege, and for that, I have an observation.
Imagine if awards ceremonies and the like didn’t exist. If nobody worked hard because they knew there was simply no chance of ever being recognised for it. Where would we be?
Simple. In the same place as we are now. Because the people up for awards, be it volunteering or employment, would still work as hard as ever, awards or not. Because they’re dedicated to their work, no matter what the situation. Because they will give up their own time to benefit others. Because they don’t work and expect to be recognised, but simply because they enjoy the satisfaction that good work gives them.
And that, my friends, is why awards ceremonies exist.
Matt
]]>But once again, I have to keep focused and organised to get it all done. This has meant I have cut down on the social side of things for a while; just as well it’s been Easter as not too many people have been around, gave me a chance to catch up and get some work done. Do miss the climbing though. But as long as I ensure my time management is good it equals a healthy blend of work and play!
At the moment I am not teaching full time and it is still pretty intense! So hopefully if I sort all the bits and bobs out now like paperwork and so on. I will be more organised when am teaching 80% of the time! Let’s hope anyway – I will keep you updated on this, considering placement is going to be my life for the next couple of months. One thing I will say it’s hard work – but so rewarding! Viki J x
]]>For the self-catered people, the local main supermarket is Morrisons in Ormskirk – just a bus ride away, or there is a small Iceland, Aldi and Tesco. For me I tend to shop in Morrisons as it’s cheap and everything is in one place. Also if you are more of a keen shopper there is a massive ASDA about 15minutes away on the train.
However if you are not so keen on shopping or cooking, the catered halls may be the place for you. You get a food card each with a specific amount of money on it each week. The places you can use it are:
The terrace café – the main place where you get all sorts of meals from,
The takeout – where you can get chips, burgers, pizza etc
‘Some’ small food courts – dotted around campus
So I hope I have helped some people out when choosing their accommodation or just simply wondering what’s around. If anyone has any further questions just post me a comment and I’ll get back to you 
Becki x x
]]>Well a great start to the week!
Well after quite a few interviews last week, I am pleased to inform you that I got everything I was interviewed for, which was very hard work. But I know that it was just a very lucky week, i like to think its form my amazing positivity I get things, and I do still need to keep trying for other things.
Well I want to teach so form now I have set myself three aims to improve my application, a bit ambitious but that’s me all over. The first is to learn a language, or as I already have French GCSE I want to be more confident in speaking the language and holding a conversation in French. My second aim is to learn an instrument, well I know I cannot learn everything there is to know about an instrument but hopefully learn a few songs. My third aim is probably the most expensive as it to start to learn to drive. I always think its great to set yourself aims as it gives you some focus and if you have good enough reasons to complete them they will give you a much need boost when comes to applying for jobs and courses.
Today is only a short blog as I am still proof reading the dreaded dissertation; so build up your skills and experience, stay positive and good luck with your application forms.
Shell
]]>Before this weekend, I’d never been to Alton Towers. In 21 years of being alive, I’d never managed to visit a place full of rollercoasters and water rides, even though I’d usually consider myself something of a thrill seeker.
We arrived well and truly ‘repping’ the uni with our brightly decorated ‘Edge Hill Student Union’ minibus. The sun was shining, I’d just beaten my ‘Connect 4 friend’ 10-3 on the motorway and for once, I wasn’t bursting for the toilet all the way from Ormskirk. The white knuckle rides were calling!
So, after waiting for two hours to get on the new rollercoaster Thirteen (which was well worth it, by the way), we headed to Rita to be blasted along a track at a speed I can honestly say I’ve never travelled at before without being 36,000 feet in the air. Given that Europe is currently a no-fly zone because of some volcano in Iceland, Rita probably was the fastest thing in the EU yesterday.
Oblivion would have been brilliant if it hadn’t have broken down whilst we were queuing. I’ll have to ask some of our very own Student Guides, who were stuck at the top of it when it conked out. Turns out we can’t go anywhere without causing trouble!
Finally, after shattering our bones on Sonic Spinball and Nemesis, we decided to get wet. Well, one of us did. Heading over to Ripsaw, a water ride where it looked as if most people were generally staying dry, I was quite confident that I too would escape having a jet of water shot into my face. Wrong. Turns out that I was the only one on the whole ride who did get watered. Same with the Rapids, although at least everyone else took some water damage on that one too.
Sometimes, though the deadlines are imminent and the workload is as large as ever, you just have to let your hair down. Alton Towers, for that reason, is a perfect getaway.
Matt
Just to plug our Students Union a little: They managed to get us entry tickets for £19.50 (a massive discount on what it would usually be), and loaned us the union minibus for a very small couple of English pounds each. For that, I think we were all very grateful. Don’t hesitate to contact the SU for more info if you want to book your own trips away!
]]> ! sunbathing times are a must, have had a few cheeky trips down to the park and had some picnics and whatnot, hit up southport today…. is like a smalltime blackpool only slightly less dirty primarked it up and had general sun times. . , as a judge I was awarded duty of eating lots of cake and scoring, my favourite was the eco friendly cookies which were awesome, full of chocolatey goodness, but abi took first prize with her moussey taste sensation! Hope if you have exams on the go or are preparing for the end of the year its all going well. Enjoy the sun while it lasts Jo
Oh yeh and missions week is starting on monday so look out for us if you are on campus and I will keep you posted if you arent!
Also a little holla to natalie who has been slaveing away on placement whilst the rest of us have been enjoying the sun! we salute you natalie keep up the good work!!!
Well, I forgot to actually post this on Wed, so here it is at the end of the week, better late than never.
This time of year, being in third year I can’t escape the busyness of course applications, interviews for both courses and jobs and the panics of getting everything finished to a high standard. But its almost come to an end which is a bit weird, as I am still technically a student until July but then I’m looking for jobs so I’m sort of in limbo and a bit unsure f what I should be doing.
Well this week I had my interview for the senior role during Aimhigher summer schools, which went great as I got offered the position yay! I also had a PGCE interview, which was very daunting, and one of my interviewers told me not to get my hopes up, a bit unprofessional I know but did ring to complain about his unprofessionalism. Anyway the place I was interviewed was just like a bigger version of Edge Hill, and Ormskirk, it really felt like home from home to me, so I will keep my fingers crossed.
So to finish this rather hectic week I am having a night out with friends tonight, to Liverpool, which will be great as we all have some rather cool sunglasses that we are going to wear. So enjoy the rest of the week and I will be back soon: D.
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The first day I was assigned to was the Princess Royal stand (if you were on the train going through Aintree and looked outside it’s the biggest and tallest stand). On that day we had to look out for the ribbon and circular badges and either given them a gold or aqua coloured band representing where they had to go. I also apparently met and wrist banded Alan Stubbs for Everton.
The second day I was on the Lord Sefton stand which is one of the newest stands by the winners circle. We had to look out for a ribbon shaped band and gave them either a purple or orange band depending on if they were in the lower or upper stand. Whilst wrist banding that day I met John O Shea for Man U and heard Ricky Whittle and Coleen Rooney were near us.
On the third day I was wrist banding on the Queen Mother’s stand which is the oldest and most expensive stand right by the winning post on the track. We were wrist banding all people that were upstairs with a not so attractive bright yellow band. I met John McCririck and Wayne Rooney was meant to be in the stand but I never got the chance to see or meet him. Also that day I got the chance to watch the Grand National which was a one in a lifetime opportunity.
Therefore thanks to the people I met those 3days including my employers Ken and Sue for Adventor Ltd and Edge Hill for advertising the job as I really enjoyed myself!
Becki x x
]]>I am aware there are still plenty of third years who have not handed in their dissertation yet and are stressing somewhat – but don’t because some how it all gets completed! The last stretch of my dissertation was intense, but I did feel extremely proud when it was finished! Especially after it was binded, very professional! After the dissertation was handed in, what was a really nice way to celebrate was a class meal (with my Humanities group). We all met up including tutors and had a nice meal just to discuss our futures plans and say good bye – it’s great when you bond as a group like that. Think about it for your class, was most enjoyable but I suppose quite sad an end of an era! Anyway, placement to focus on!
Just got my grade, 68 not bad eh! The work paid off! Viki J x
]]>After a long Easter Break involving a trip to Egypt I am back! And so far I have loved every minute of being back, all the girls in my cluster came back on Sunday night so we had a much needed night out, we ventured into Ormskirk and headed to Styles to celebrate our return! The night was really good and yesterday we all got on the train to Liverpool, £2.75 for a return with a railcard! (How cheap?!) for a bit of retail therapy and then did our weekly shop at the Tesco in Southport!
So I have been up to quite a bit considering i have only been back for just over two days, however I only have 4 weeks left, which is unbelievably scary! I still feel like I’m only half way through my first year, it had gone so quick and I have enjoyed every minute of it. But now is the time to crack on with some work, finish my assignments and get revising as I have exams in May, now I know some of you will be in the same boat, with A-levels, and sometimes its’ difficult to motivate yourself, but just log on here check out the forums and the blogs hopefully it will encourage you all to study and ensure you get a place at Edge Hill, Anyways I will leave it at that and let you know how my revision goes and let you know what I’ve been up to! Steph
]]>Hello, again, sorry for the late post of this week, but was a very very busy week.
Most of my academic work is complete now thanks to putting a lot of time in this week, so I had time to earn some money for my camping trip. For the last 3-4 weeks my road, has been chaotic with preparation, for the biggest event of the year (well in Liverpool anyway), the Grand National. An event spread over 3 days were people get the chance to put on posh frocks and drink a lot and some even win money for looking good. Well no, I didn’t actually go to watch the races I was working there, as many students do form Edge hill, as it is very close (even closer for me as I live next to the race course). Even though the work is hard I actually enjoyed it, the customers are always friendly and extremely funny when they are drunk. Serving on a bar I always find it comical that a girl is all dressed up in a really expensive dress, and looks really upmarket, then asks for a pint of larger and necks it 7 seconds, but those are the perks of the job I suppose. Another perk of this event is I backed the winner, second and third places, so got some money yay.
Well for the 3 days of hard work I earned about £170 that will be paying for a small camping trip in May/June when it’s a bit warmer. I cannot wait to go camping; it will be great, a few mates and me. Although last time our tent did get flooded and we ended up staying on a barn floor, I enjoyed every second of it.
Well that’s all I could fit in this week I will be writing another probably on wed, so take care.
Shell
]]> , . We have missions week with the CU coming up and our trip to formby beach soon with my nursing girlies, so busy times ahead! The grand national weekend will be coming to a close, never seen the trains so busy in my life! Drunken old people wasn’t sure wether to laugh or look mortified!?
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This week, it’s the biggest three days of the UK horse racing calendar: The John Smith’s Grand National at Aintree Racecourse.
Racing lovers and amateur gamblers alike meet at this prestigious event to enjoy a beer, soak up the April sun and win (or lose) a fair amount of cash.
I’ve been to the Grand National for the last three years in a row. Although from my side of the bar, I certainly haven’t been doing much drinking or betting. Bah.
One of the regular themes on my blog this year has been part time work. And every year, this race meet can be a sure-fire winner for skint students. Not by betting on rank outsiders like last year’s winner, Mon Mome, but by applying for one of the many hospitality and bar positions available.
Of course, I’m not just plugging my own employer here. The area around Aintree, for example, has many pubs, bars, restaurants, shops and outlets which I’m sure will all offer various levels of employment when the punters start rolling in.
Sadly, this years’ race meet is a bittersweet affair for myself. It’s probably going to be the last one that I’ll ever work, as it’s only 31 days until my last deadline for my assignments and after that, I’ll be heading home for Manchester.
I’d better get onto it then.
If anyone has any cheeky tips for this year’s National, comment me here.
Matt
, . This week has been good at placement, a car related incident on wednesday resulted in a day off, but apart from that it has been alderhey times all the way. Yesturday in particular I enjoyed learning about dialysis and it’s importance to those suffering from renal complications. This ward has been a very educational experience and have enjoyed it all, only three weeks left, which is sad, but am looking forward to seeing my family! Also will not miss the early mornings and perpetual tiredness…. should get used to it though, as it may be the pattern for the next few years .
]]>Well being a third year, I Can’t escape filing in application forms, I have filled out so many in the past week that they’re falling out of my ears. Its not just jobs that want application forms, its voluntary positions, post-grad courses, and even funding forms not to mention Tax rebate forms if you need one of those around this time of year.
Well I can honestly say, I think I listened well, to my tutors in first and second year about being reflective and keeping track of the experience I have done. It has made it so much easier to fill out application forms, with concrete example of when I have used particular skills, what relevant experience I have had and now I have got super organised and have made a table of every position I have ever had, whether voluntary or paid and have included a description of my roles and responsibilities and the dates I done them. And I know most of you won’t take this advice on board, but learn to be a reflective professional in whatever you do as it WILL help you out in the long run.
Enough said about me and my forms, and now all you freshers will be filling out a HUGE form around about now, the student finance form. Yes it is very big and a bit daunting, but my advice is to apply for everything because so much money is available, and goes unclaimed because people think they are not entitled to it. Well like DR pepper says, ‘what’s the worst that could happen?’ well simple they say no, I mean its not the end of the world now is it. And if you don’t get that form completed and returned soon then come September you may not get your funding in time and may not be able to party with the other fresher’s, or pay your rent.
Get those forms in and Remember, What’s the worst that could happen?
]]>So far I have gone out with my friends and family and had a great time along with celebrated my friends 19th birthday last week. I am also catching up with friends from high school this week as I haven’t seen them since December because they are also at uni.
I am now looking forward to Easter because Saturday to Monday I am going away to London with my parents and brother and sister. We are catching the train down in the morning and staying there till Monday afternoon which we will catch the train back again. It all sounds brilliant but my only concern is that I have to fit all my things in one rucksack! As women will know this can sometimes be impossible.
However I am coming back to uni early on the 7th April as I am working at the Grand National 8, 9 and 10th April doing the wrist-banding for all the punters. This will be an amazing opportunity for me as I get to do something different and can have a chance to meet some celebs.
After all of that I am back at uni doing my lesson from 12th April and only have 5weeks left of uni before I am done for the holidays. And I can’t wait for summer!
Becki x x
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As promised, my poster, form my pop module (Primary Ed). I learnt about an alternate educational setting, was really interesting. I presented my work as a poster and got a really good mark 
so there you go an example of my work! x
My Camp Leaders stuff is all done and sorted so I just need to get stuck in to the academics and I’ll be right as rain. Busy Easter to get everything done, BUT only 8 weeks till I fly away to Maryland! Cannot wait. I would definitely reccomend Summer Camp to anyone at Uni.
So, I hope everyone’s UCAS status’s are ok, and that Uni’s have replied to you. As said in my last post we’ve had a fair few Applicant Visit Days and teaching interviews so hopefully everyone is getting the info they need.
Don’t forget to use the forums on here if you need to ask any questions. We’ll try to help you the best we can or put you in touch with someone who can.
‘Till next time… Nay
]]>Regular readers of my blog (if any such people exist) may have heard me banging on about my part-time job working as a ‘Student Ambassador’ for Edge Hill University.
Now, for the most part, the job of ‘Ambassador’ doesn’t entail walking around in a ball gown with a plate full of Ferrero Rocher’s, as suggested in those iconic adverts of the late ‘90s. In fact, it often involves standing outside buildings around campus, in the rain, pointing visitors into a doorway I’m already stood by. Dressed in a bright green, extra-large bib. It might not sound like glitz and glamour to begin with, but I’ll let you into a little secret.
I love it.
The pay is good.
The people I work with are brilliant.
The skills I’ve developed from the job are invaluable.
I’ll tell you why.
Having worked on numerous applicant visit days, UCAS sessions, open days and Higher Education fairs around the region I’ve gotten myself a whole shed load of confidence, people skills, interaction and presentation skills to boot. Doing my ‘student experience’ talks (basically, where I get to bang on about my life for half an hour in front of a group of avid listeners) have boosted these skills even further.
Needless to say, if you’ve got issues with group working or presentation, then, this job will sort them out for you.
For applicants, and even current students, I’d recommend going for a job like mine any day. They skills you’ll gain are essential life skills, and look even better on a CV than they do listed here. There are all sorts of advocate and ambassador schemes going on at uni, and I’d certainly advise ANYONE to apply.
Anyway, I thought I’d round up by bragging about my nomination this year for the ‘Student Employee of the Year’ award.
Not bad for a job where I started as a ‘human signpost’, eh?
Matt
Today I have done some of my assignment, so, feeling quite impressed with the work I had done, me and my house mates decided to go out for tea, we went to a little place on the outskirts of Liverpool called the Netherton it was only about 15mins away from uni and it was great! On a Wednesday they do a curry and a pint for a fiver! I could not turn that down so I had a good chicken tikka massala, we all really enjoyed it, everything was very cheap and good quality, and on the way back we drove to the tesco at litherland for a chocolate cake for dessert. So today has been a really good day!
Tomorrow, hopefully I will have finished one of my assignments, which is a 2000 word essay; ‘Was Alfred the Great a good king?’ I have really enjoyed reading up on King Alfred it is one of the topics in my medieval module that I was really interested in. Anyways I just thought I would give you all a quick update J. I will blog soon. Steph J
]]>Well its that time again, official time off from uni, yet this week I have a feeling I will be there a lot more than I have been in the past month or so. This is for a couple of reasons, the first being I’m finishing off by dissertation. Yes I have blogged a few times about it but it really is the biggest thing you will do through your whole degree. The second being I have sat my science equivalency exam, so now have to complete my portfolio for that. Another reason I will be in uni a lot this week is work, I signed up to do quite a bit of work this week with Aimhigher, so yes you may be sick of hearing it but without good effective time management you can’t achieve everything, well something like that anyway.
So three big reasons why I will be at uni more, and it doesn’t seem to bother me being here a lot, actually I enjoy it. This is because when I work, I work with people I know and get on with so its very enjoyable, also when I’m in the library I always seem to catch up with people who I haven’t spoke to in ages so that’s always good.
Not only will I be up at uni a lot this week, but also am aiming to get my scrub on at home, by having a massive tidy and clear out. Not quite sure what I’m clearing out yet, but I know it needs doing before we disappear in a mountain of sofa’s and clothes lol.
So as you can tell its all go, go, go this week so that’s just about enough time for this blog and I will be back, hopefully not too exhausted next week with another update.
Shell
]]>The worst possible thing that could happen at this point in my degree actually materialised this week: my laptop exploded. Gone. One moment I was reading the news, the next, my laptop showed no signs of life at all. Literally dead.
So naturally, I turned to the Bank of Mum for a loan. I’ve got a new one now, but I’m still in the process of getting all my work, music, files etc back from the old one. Which I really, really need.
Having no laptop, and therefore no distractions (usually in the form of various social networking sites) I realised I had no other option but to get some sketchbook work done. And some essay planning. And some other stuff. I can’t stress enough how much this had made me realise how much time I actually spent online, and just how counter-productive at this time of year the internet could be.
So that’s the theme for this week. I’m in the final 7-ish weeks of my degree now, and for university applicants, this will too be a pretty gruelling time in the thick of it. It’s now or never when it comes to filling out those forms and getting the assignments done. The Easter break provides a perfect lecture-free opportunity to get your head down and make a headway on final projects!
That said, in a lecture this week, one of my tutors actually told us to take the Easter weekend off for a quick recharge of the old batteries. I actually agree with this wise statement, because it’s true that if you don’t take a break your brain will be full of muddles and that’s no use to anyone. One of my age-old philosophies is to get the balance of work and play correct, which is why I am now off to play football!
Matt
P.S, Sorry for the lack of activity over the last few weeks. I really have been snowed under. And this new keyboard doesn’t help.
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Hey Hey Guys!
Sorry for the delay in my post, It has been the Students’ Union Elections and I was unable to blog as it could have been seen as I was advertising my campaign via my blog which could be seen as unfair, so I decided to leave it for a couple of weeks. However now the results have been released I can tell you all about it.
For the past two weeks I have been campaigning for the position of Union Council Chair, and at 2.32am on Friday 19th it was released that 672 out of 769 voters voted for me to be their Students’ Union Chair, so as you can imagine, I was rather chuffed.
“So what’s the role of a Union Chair”, I hear you asking…well: The role of Union Chair is a crucial role that involves ensuring the correct procedures are followed to ensure the business of the Union Council is handled correctly. It will be my role to oversee the smooth running of every council meeting and listen to ALL students’ views.
Why did I want the position? I wanted to be the next Union Council Chair because I have been volunteering for the Students’ Union for two year in 2 separate roles, which therefore allows me to know, understand and appreciate the importance of the views of the student body. Having worked in the SU office and on various student events I am aware of the policies and procedures employed by the Union and how they operate. But, also I want to give something back on a professional level, the idea of being in-charge of a council of 14+ dedicated Students’ whom want to excel our Union really inspires me, hence why I wanted the role sooooo much 
Why I wanted the student body of Edge Hill to vote for me….? I want the SU to be a union where students’ feel listened to and valued. I am approachable and eager to listen to the views of students, and as a Students’ Union isn’t a union without the voice of students, therefore I want to hear from them. Now elected I will ensure that the council hears all student views and that decisions that are made will be in the best interests of the student body. Student participation in all areas of the Union is key to making it work.
I will just add, I was also supporting a close friend of mine to get in as the next SU president, his campaign team and supporters were fantastic and a massive thank you to them is definitely needed! Unfortunately this was not meant to be and he was unsuccessful in gaining more votes than the opposition, but our spirits and heads were held high as we know we did our best.
Well done to all candidates in this year’s elections even if you didn’t make it into the position you were battling for. Congratulations to the following people who will be making up your Students’ Union team for 2010/2011:
President – Dean Currall
Vice President Academic and Welfare – Billy Jones
Vice President Activities and Participation – Pete O’Farrell
Vice President Communications and Campaigns – Colin Gibson
Union Council Chair – Jak Williamson
Disabled Students’ Officer – Carly Davidson
Entertainments Officer – James Chambers
Faculty of Arts and Sciences Reps – Miranda Mort / Amy Brooks
Faculty of Education Rep – Nicole Todd
Faculty of Health Reps – Chris Valentine / Simon Needham
International Students Officer – Jose Mendoza
LGBT Officer – Emma Stewart
Manchester Site Rep – Matthew Pitfield
Mature Students Officer – Sian Evans
Sports Officer – Gareth Dowling
NUS Conference Delegates – Pete O’Farrell / Gareth Dowling / Chris Valentine / Helen Turner
Student Governor – Gareth Dowling
Well that’s it for now, you can read all candidates manifestos by following the below link to the Edge Hill Students’ Union site.
Jak x
http://www.edgehillsu.com/content/191515/rep__democracy/elections_2010/
P.s) My Manifesto
union-chair-manifesto.pdf
What could you do with £500…..or even £1000?
If you apply for one of the Edge Hill On-Course Excellence Scholarships this money could be yours!
If you do an activity in your spare time that you would like to be rewarded for then these are the scholarships for you. Applications are open to first and second year students on a full-time, three-year undergraduate degree course. Scholarships worth up to £1,000 are awarded in each of the following areas: Sports, Creative Arts, Performing Arts and Volunteering.
This what happened to me at the beginning of this academic year after being nominated and being the first of three to be selected for the Professor Tanya Byron’s Scholarship. I was awarded the scholarship for several reasons regarding contribution to the University:
· Peer Mentoring: I have been actively working for AimHigher & St.Wilfrids School in a scheme which I work 3 hours a week working with a Y9 & Y10 pupil, talking to them about the possibilities available to them after the compulsory education.
· Acting as a committee Rep: Working for the Students’ Union as Health promotions officer and on the Essential Thursdays student ran Ents night. As Health Promotion Officer, I organised a healthy lifestyle week in which included – Free Fruit, Sexual Health Screening, Contraception and Advice, Anti-Drink Spiking & implementing the Alcohol ‘Knowing Your Limits’ Scheme.
· Student Ambassador: Having worked for AimHigher for 2 years in different environments (in schools, outward bound settings, on campus) and being successful in the appointment as Senior Advocate for the Universities Summer School programme.
· Volunteering in the Community: Working as an Explorer Scout Leader in Ormskirk, after 2 months of moving to Uni. Volunteering for the Scouts Association and for Edge Hill’s Students’ Union.
· Running of an Event: Health Promotions Week (Blog I wrote about last year…Scroll down J)
All of these activities and more which I simply don’t have time to write down were seen as activities that raise the profile of the University in a positive way.
How has the Scholarship benefited me? The scholarship is much more than just a benefit finally. It makes me honoured to do the amount of voluntary work I do and the promotion of this fantastic university. It makes it worthwhile + you feel like someone has actually acknowledged the hard work you do.
If you think that you would possibly qualify for a scholarship or even if you don’t…check out the information on the Edge Hill website or email: scholarships@edgehill.ac.uk www.edgehill.ac.uk/study/fees/scholarships. You might as well as apply, the worst thing you can get is a declined letter, and you don’t lose anything. Deadline for Applications – Friday 25 June 2010.
S’laters,
Jak x
. Today I took out two cannulas, the like bendy plasticy things which go into the vein and you can admininster IV drugs through, whoop whoop, I felt right nursey! D2 the ward i’m on is really good for a first placement as I get to practice manual blood pressures- due to their accuracy as opposed to electronic BP machines which are nearly all other wards, so yay! Am becoming quite the expert in the art of BP taking! .
]]>Ok so whats been going on – the big one – top priority – Elections!! Time for the students of Edge Hill to vote for who they want to be; President, Vice Presidents, Representatives for different faculties and various other posts. It is a very important time as it allows every student to have a say in how the university is run and organised, it is also an important time for those students running for these posts, they have had to organise a manifesto, provide a successful campaign and try and receive as many votes as possible. Voting has begun today, but tonight is question time where the students can ask the students running anything about their campaign etc. So i think i will vote later in the week.
Secondly, – its St Patrick’s Day on Wednesday! And tonight its shindig which is an organised night out to Southport with a St. Patrick’s Day theme, but Wednesday night is social night so im sure the venue will be packed out with all the sports teams.
Finally, Thursday night is last night in the bar! Which if it is anything like the Christmas one, it will be a really good night, everyone is always really happy and excited to have a few weeks off. I will have also finished my timed essay that day so i will be rewarding myself with a couple of drinks.
So, that is the plan for this week, i hope it sounds like something you all want to enjoy next year! Anyways i will blog soon.
]]>Wanted… A personal assistant AND/OR a body double (not choosy, will take either)
Haha, So things have sped up a little since my last post. Got my next batch of assignments, lucky for me I actually kicked myself into gear this semester and made a head start on my work, putting me in good stead for these pieces of coursework.
My Camp Leaders situation is well on it’s way now, with all my paperwork in place and my contract was sent to me this week. Just waiting for my flight inventory now and I’ll be ready to go.
So, Has everyone been to the Uni over the last few weeks? Loads going on including open evenings, visit days, tours and such the like. You’ll be sick of the sight of us come September. Met quite a few new faces today at the Arts and Sciences Visit Day…I was the one welcoming you all in from the cold at the front of the Wilson Centre first thing this morning We had a really good day and everyone I spoke to today can’t wait to get here in September…And we can’t wait to have you!So I’m off to read some journals. See you all soon.
‘Till next time…
Nay
]]>I have another assignment next week before we break up for Easter it is a timed essay, which means that we have been given a topic which for this assignment is the cold war between 1947-1962. However, the question is unknown until I get to the seminar. So I need to go through all my notes and do lots of reading. The essay is done in exam conditions too which is quite scary but it prepares me for when I sit the examinations in May. Speaking of exams, it is results day today, I know a couple of people who have done really well back home, I am sure you have all done really well and are more excited about the prospects of university. I know I was. Anyways go out and celebrate you deserve it after the hard work you put in! Blog soon.
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As I want to be a business woman when I am older and not necessarily specialise in anything specific, I will always been on the path of carrying on just doing business management as an overall subject. However tomorrow (Tuesday 9th) we have got a meeting in Hale Hall about our courses and what we want to do or look at in the future.
The meeting is also to help me and others choose whether or not I want to do a placement in the summer either this year or next and also if I wanted to do a year placement instead in my 3rd year to make it a 4 year sandwich course. From starting university I have always considered doing a 4 year sandwich course and would look at getting a job near my hometown which would be near Birmingham. To also add to the stress if I wanted this sandwich year placement it would mean me looking at my placement all summer and have made a decision by October this year with arrangements made and what exactly I’m doing and where.
So I have to say this week may not be the most important week but it is very important as it is to do with my future and what exactly I am going to be doing when it comes to my course.
If any of you are in my same situation or looking at these options just add a comment and maybe we could help each other..
Becki x x
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]]>Unfortunately i haven’t got much to blog about this week, February was an awful month for assignments! Haha i think i had 4 to hand, one each week. So now it’s March (which I can’t believe, i still feel like im in freshers week!) i have a little break before i need to start doing lots more reading and writing for the next assignments i only have 5 assignments left for the year then i have the dreaded exams in May. I can’t wait for easter now, i finish on the 18th of March so i am practically counting down the days, especially seen as my holiday is over Easter, im off to Egypt, Sharm El Sheikh, well excited, been dying for a decent tan and it will be good just to chill and relax for a week!
This week i have been looking at the Black Civil Rights Movement in the U.S. i really enjoyed looking at this, i think the topic is extremely interesting, I have also looked at socialism in the nineteenth century, looking at Marx and many other European socialists.
I have been thinking about doing some volunteering as well, volunteering as very beneficial thing to do, I have volunteered once before in a charity shop but stopped when i came to uni, i have been thinking about something in a school or a place that deals with children so i will have to let you know how well this goes. Anyways, off out, blog soon. Steph J
]]>The local facilities in Ormskirk and great for just getting away from all the work here at uni; so while I am concentrating hard, I can also go out and enjoy myself. It was also a good idea to go out with my course friends as I got to know them all better away from ‘work mode’ and we could have a laugh and relax.
It is also my friend’s birthday this Monday and we are going to ‘shindig’ a club in Southport dressed as builders. I have never been to Southport on a night out before so hopefully I will enjoy it a lot especially with all my friends.
Has anyone else been up to much this spring? Would love to know what everyone else is doing..
Becki x x
]]>It’s been three years today since the Hi! Applicant site was launched! What’s more, the first set of students to use the Hi! Site – myself included – will graduate this year. Scary!
I’ve only been blogging for the site since last year but already I feel a sense of pride from my involvement with the content. I’m extremely proud to be contributing to future applicants, and maybe even future bloggers, my own thoughts and experiences of university life.
The student blogs themselves are a really useful insight into what it’s really like to be studying (and eating, drinking, living…) here at Edge Hill. Add to those the discussion forums and you can pretty much find out anything you like about being a student, straight from the horses mouth.
It’s not only the Hi! Site’s birthday, but Edge Hill University’s anniversary too this year; 125 years in fact. For more info about Hi!’s birthday, and lots of other interesting little tidbits about the uni, visit the ‘125 by 125’ blog: http://blogs.edgehill.ac.uk/125by125/ .
Matt
Tomorrow I’m taking part in some filming for a promotional video for the University. They filmed me talking about my experience at Edge Hill before Christmas and now they just need to get some filler shots of me walking around campus. I’m not used to being in front of the camera, so it’s kind of weird and I’m hoping I don’t look mega cheesy!
This leads me on to talk about all the opportunities to get involved in University life and chances to make a difference. There a small ways you can do this, for example, becoming a course representative. This means that once every term you speak to the members in you seminars and lectures and take any concerns or praise to the course meeting. Bigger ways you can get involved are that you could become actively involved in the Students Union and run for positions such as sports development officer, activities and entertainments officer or faculty representative.
Another way to get involved (and paid – kerrr ching!) is to become a Student Advocate. These are the people you will see at open days, visit days etc etc. They usually get the pleasure of wearing bright green bibs and will be around to help you during your visit to Edge Hill. Student Advocates are all current students at Edge Hill (including me and some of my fellow bloggers) and we are there to give the student perspective of the University and we get special training so we can tell you all the technical stuff as well. Like, did you know, the excess heat from the Business School is used to heat the Swimming Pool? One of my many facts about Edge Hill!
For me, being a student advocate is really rewarding because you get to share your experiences with people who are making a really tough decision. Plus, there is of course, the added bonus of being well paid…
That’s about it for now!
Yesterday, through process of deduction and pure mathematical skills which I do not actually possess, I worked out what my degree classification is probably going to end up as.
Well actually, I didn’t because at the moment it’s still rather ambiguous. Basically, I have 4 modules left, two of which are worth 30 credits, totalling 6 modules worth of marks to contribute in the final semester of my degree. (That all sounds a little complicated, but it basically means I’ve got 6 more module marks and then my fate is sealed).
And my fate does indeed rest upon these final, axe-wielding modules. As it happens, I’m still in line for a classification of ‘First’ for my degree – if I work hard enough. I need six ‘firsts’ grades, one from each modules, for my whole degree to level out as a first. Any less, and I’ll get a 2:1. If I fail miserably at this hefty target and end up with five 2:1’s, I’ll end up with a 2:2. The pressure is on, then.
I realise, to applicants, that this blog may actually not be of much worth at the moment. The gravity of the situation will not actually sink in until the second semester of the final year. I’ve done fairly well so far, but not well enough to stop me from sweating profusely at the mere thought that right now I could still come out with top marks if I get my head out of the Facebook-shaped clouds and simply work.
On another note, I bought the game ‘Rome: Total War’ this week. Rather unimpressed that I found out the news the day after my purchase!
]]> . . however it in theory it is painful times and I am almost 100per cent sure that my trainer is in fact trying to kill me! He assured me that if I can still crawl home then I am not working too hard! The daunting task of my one 10km run a week is upon me and I don’t know if I have the motivation to get out of my warm and slightly strange smelling room? This will be my third run this week and the muscles are already screaming out for some mercy! Ah well am sure I will appreciate this effort when I complete my first race….. if…!
]]>Alreet people,
Hope you have had a good couple of week, I have been well busy and hence the lateness of this double post.
Well, last week I went to the Liverpool Echo Arena to watch Kelly Clarkson’s European leg of her worldwide ‘All I Ever Wanted Tour’. I went to the gig with my usual group of cronies, which I hadn’t seen since our little adventure to Ireland.
The warm up band Parachute, were absolutely brilliant. They played a set that lasted about 40 minutes, which got the crowd really fired up for what happened to be a really great show. The band had real good vocals and the lead singer really got involved with the Liverpool crowd. So top tip, download there album on itunes from the 19th may 2010
Well on to the main girl, Kelly Clarkson…She was really good. Don’t get me wrong, I wanted to see her, but I thought it would be a more girlie orientated type of gig so I was a little apprehensive before, but after her first song, I was soooo glad to be there lol. Kelly kept the gig, bouncing even when she performed slower acoustic versions of her songs. She was a real crowd pleaser and the hour and half set flew by…
Anyway, will post another blog later tomorrow, with my activities over the weekend
J x
That isn’t just it, we break up for Easter on 19th March which is 4weeks away but for the week before we break up I have 4 assignments in then :( not good! But I am currently; on a Saturday night instead of going out, I am doing my work which will help me be less stressed and get it all done before hand so I am not cramming it all in at the last minute.However from this experience of having loads of work to do I have realised that I am probably very lucky because it is likely to be a lot harder, more stressful and more work next year so I guess this year is just practice for what’s going to come.
Some advice someone game me that I have taken on for myself and wish to share with others is:
1. Don’t leave it all to the last minute!
2. When you have spare time, don’t just doss around – do work!
3. Make sure you know exactly what you are doing rather than going at the last minute to ask your teacher!
So I hope the advice passed on will help everyone succeed and get what you want
Becki x x
]]>Hello people,
Hope everyone is well and have started finalising their UCAS applications and for you ones whom have been ultra-organised have started confirming Edge hill University as your firm choice!!!!
Unfortunately I’m finding it progressively harder to write a blog with as much excitement as the one I wrote a couple of weeks ago after my travels to Ireland….everything else I’m afraid doesn’t live up to the trip lol.
Well as far as updates go, I am in the middle of writing my dissertation and it is driving me up the wall, who thought 8000 would be so difficult and time consuming? Ha-ha clear was kidding myself when I thought it would be a doddle.
I have decided to focus my research on the use leadership programmes (such as the Duke of Edinburgh or Community Sports Leaders Award) in the combating of disaffection (and I now bet you are all like what the heck…? Me too, and I’m supposed to be writing 8000 words on it). The topic is about how you can make young people avoid dropping out of school and by offering exciting new activities, they wont truant, so a very educational and Physical Education based research but strangely enough it really interests me, especially getting to interview pupils whom are regular truants’ and what their views are about what would make them want to go to school and participate in P.E, but as you can imagine is difficult at times and verrrrrry time consuming.
So before I send you all to sleep with my research title I best get myself off to sleep, got my only full day 9am – 5pm tomorrow…. but we’ve got practical, so its not all theory
Speak Soon
J x
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Well, I love British cinema and social realist filmmaking and it is something that I have always wanted to explore in depth. However, the topic is very broad so I needed to hone it down to something specific. Being at Uni in the North and coming from the South has meant that I have become aware of many cultural differences between the two regions. At Uni (no matter where you go) you are guaranteed (by the unwritten University law) to have at least one argument over whether you are going to have a ‘bath’ or a ‘barth’, sit on the ‘grass’ or ‘grarse’ and whether you can ‘pass’ or ‘parse’ a ‘glass’ or a ‘glarse’. There is also the timeless ‘breakfast, lunch and dinner’ or ‘breakfast, dinner and tea’ debate and, of course, the ‘chips and gravy’ dispute. It fascinates me to think about these cultural differences can affect filmmaking and also how films from the North are visually different to films from the South.
That’s what is great about doing a dissertation; you can get your teeth sunk into something that really interests you. 10,000 words here I come.
Now…I need to get writing about it and not just thinking (and blogging) about it.
Hey people,
Not got much to report this week, nothing in comparison to last week anyway. Currently I have man flu, so as you all know (especially the ladies) it has made me rather bed ridden ha-ha.
However I do have to mention that I have secured my house for next year, which is one less worry I have to deal with.
Luckily enough a friend who I live with currently is retaking a year so I will be living with him again, but that meant we had 4 more bedrooms to fill.
Luckily we knew a group of 3 girls whom were looking for a house as they currently live in halls, but this meant we had a spare room going…….after a week of advertising it and having no interest, we began to get slightly worried as the landlord would not promise to keep the house in our exclusivity for much longer, so when I received a text on Wednesday night I was little bit excited to say the least lol.
So I will keep you informed about the house, but I thought I would include a couple of pictures to show you some typical student houses in Ormskirk.
Speak Soon
J x
I hope everybody had a great Christmas and New Year and that school/college/work isn’t bogging you down too much already.
Firstly, my apologies for not writing a blog for a while, I have had a few technically difficulties recently, which have been out of my control.
I returned to the mighty Ormskirk in early January with all good intentions to get my head down and concentrate on my ever-growing to-do-pile (well, it’s more of a mountain). However, disaster struck and my laptop decided to stop working! It just wouldn’t charge properly and it had done a similar thing before Christmas. I had nearly finished writing my Japanese essay and it completely died on me with no warning! My work didn’t auto recover and I lost half the essay. I was devastated! I finally managed to get it booted up again and I was saving my work to a pen drive after every two words!
So, I sent it off to be fixed (for free, ‘cause I brought a’ ‘whateverhappens’ agreement, such a life saver…I recommend it if your thinking about buying any electrical goods before Uni). There was a massive palaver arranging picking it up and dropping it off but I won’t go into that ‘cause it’s a whole blog in itself and involves a pixie, a reindeer and Santa’s sleigh. I got it back…and bam…just shut down on me again! So off it went to the ‘TECH GUYS’ again.
Second time lucky…new hinge covers, new motherboard, a new charger and a good clean. How did they not spot it the first time round? Beats me!
So, the moral of the story…prepare yourself for electrical failures! Make sure you are covered by warranty so you don’t have to fork out loads. Also, SAVE SAVE SAVE your work!
Despite all this…bring on twenty-ten!
Hello again guys,
Its has been a really jam packed couple of days for me, I think I have only just caught up with my sleep, hence the reason I am posting at 3.36am lol
Well the super funky roller disco was a massive success, seeing the university bar and venue nightclub being transformed into what can only be described as a return to the 1970’s, parents’ flares were utilised and the multicoloured wigs were a fashion statement that will definitely be replicated on the catwalk in Milan as students skated around the University Club.
On Saturday morning at 4.00am I awoke to the misty cold Ormskirk air, as I had arranged to take two of my friends to Dublin for the day as a surprise birthday present. They were blind folded all the way to the airport, which the taxi man found amusing at 5am. Once they had figured out their destination we boarded our Ryanair Flight at Liverpool Airport straight away, the flight was 39mins and was the plane was surprisingly comfortable. When we left Dublin international, we boarded a bus that would take us into the city centre, ironically this transfer took longer than the flight, haha.
As you can imagine at 8.30am, nothing much was open so we opted in to the obligatory student breakfast….Maccies. It was much appreciated to be fair as none of us had managed to eat anything at 5am. After a mooch around in 1C temperatures, we decided we needed to go some where, as the activity I had planned, didn’t start till 2pm so we went to go to the travel information centre.
After much deliberation we decided to go to the Irish Wax Museum Plus, the National Wax Museum is four floors of discovery, interaction and exhibition. You start by entering through the Irish Writers room and then descend in to the basement for a journey through the vaults of Irish history from the Vikings right up to the Good Friday Agreement, which I found really interesting as I didn’t know much about the history of Ireland. The second floor is The Science and Discovery room, a tribute to heroes of science, engineering and invention, which is supported, by Discover Science and Engineering and Engineers Ireland. On the third floor there is a Television studio and mixing equipment, for the girls birthday they produced a music video to high School musical which was rather funny, especially re-watching after several Guinness’s.
After the Wax museum, we were again rather hungry so we went to a traditional Irish Pub that only served Irish homemade food, which was heaven in particular, the Irish rabbit stew!!! So after our fill of food and the magical Irish Stout, we were ready to take part in the activity I had arrange. The Guinness Factory Tour. The Guinness Storehouse, “Home of Guinness”, is the Dublin’s most popular tourist attraction. A converted brewing factory, it is now a Guinness museum, incorporating elements from the old brewing factory to explain the history of its production. Some of the old brewing equipment is on show, as well as stout ingredients, brewing techniques, how it’s advertised and stored in Dublin before being shipped to over 250 countries around the world.
The exhibition takes place over 7 floors, in the shape of a 14 million pint glass of Guinness. The final floor is the Gravity Bar, which has an almost 360° view over the city, where visitors can claim a free pint of “the black stuff”. Whoop Whoop
I can honestly say it was one of the most exciting, yet informative museums I have ever been to; especially as there was free beer involved 
haha.
After the tour we went to Temple Bar, the Cities famous cultural spot to see some street entertainers and grab an Irish hot chocolate, which again was needed for the freezing temperatures, had finally gotten to us all. After this we made our way back to the bus station to get back to the Airport.
Once back in the UK It actually hit us how long we had been up, it was 11.30pm and we were dead on our feet, but it was a day out enjoyed by all, and would definitely recommend it, especially as it was so cheap!!!
Reet well I best get going, got lectures at 9.
Speak soon people,
J x
I know it has been a long time but I have finally got things sorted and have some rather exciting news!!!
In my last post I was talking about the filling out my PGCE application, which is similar to the UCAS form…Well, I have had my interview and I have just found out I have been accepted on to the Secondary PE PGCE here at Edge Hill, and I am over the moon…The PGCE will prepare me for the physical and mental challenges, give me the skills and stamina necessary to become an assured and high quality teacher of Physical Education. It will develop reflective and analytical skills and provide me with practical experience in schools, and give me hands-on classroom experience.
So as you can guess I am really excited and can’t wait to under take the challenges that a PGCE will create for me
On too some more exciting news, last night was our Student ran night, Essential Thursdays presents…The Silent Disco. Well as you can imagine it was amazing, if you have never experienced a silent disco basically it is where no music played out loud through the clubs speaker system, the music is played through wireless headphones that are provided with two channels with two competing Dj’s.
It was a completely new experience that has ever hit Edge Hill and here are a few comments from students who experienced the silent disco:
A third year “thought the silent disco was absolutely amazing…best night in the venue EVER!!”
A fresher said “Amazing night last night! Silent Disco….Whoop Whoop!!!”
Another Fresher Said “What a mint experience that was…..best event since freshers’ week!!!! ”
As it’s currently Refreshers Week tonight there is a roller disco, which is again a new experience for the students of Edge Hill, so I will be posting to let you know how it goes!!!! But for now, I’m going to try the skates out haha.
Speak Soon Guys, and it’s great to be back!
J x
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So, this is my first blog on the Hi website. I feel privileged to become a blogger because when I was applying to Uni (many moons ago, well…about 3years ago), I was a frequent user of Edge Hill’s Hi site and I found the blogs to be really useful and interesting. I just hope I can do the same for you.
If you haven’t had a look already, check out my about me to find out a bit more about the world of Hannah.
The first semester of my third year at Uni is nearly over! Deadlines are flying at me like bullets, and, unfortunately, I can’t avoid them like something out of the Matrix!
First on the list is a treatment for my third year film and then I’ve got to pitch the idea next week. Then I move on to finish my essays for film studies. I’ve got a 2,500 word essay on how traditional Japanese theatre has stylistically and thematically influenced Japanese cinema and also a 2,500 word essay on the influence of German Expressionism on early American horror film. Although they sound pretty scary, it was my choice to do those subjects. The great thing about film studies is that you can pick questions for your essays that most suits your interests. Because I really enjoy studying film history I tend to pick the questions that will allow me to explore that area. For example, in the Japanese module I could have chosen a question on American remakes of Japanese films or a question on anime. But I chose to do the influence of theatre on cinema because it lets me explore the history of Japanese film. Each to their own I suppose!
So, I must get this work out the way before I can get into the festive spirit!! Wish me luck…I’m going to need it…or just loads of Red Bull!
Hannah
I’m well aware it has been a long time, although I have been off everywhere doing loads of different things. I have been working on the Edge Hill Summer schools, this is in conjunction with AimHigher. The summer schools are residential programmes that are run during June, July and August for young people in the North West aged 14-18. These summers schools have provided me with great experience for my application for PGCE.
Which leads me nicely on to the topic of PGCE. I have been frantically filling out my application to do a post graduate degree so that I can teach. The application is very similar to the UCAS form but the personal statement is much more precise, which has lead me to pretty much ripin out my hair in stress…lol however its now finished and has been sent to my four universities of choice, will just have to wait now….eeek
Moving on……FRESHERS 09 in 9 days and counting…..Whoop Whoop I know I cant wait, so I’m hoping neither can you. I will post a blog on the weekend wen I’m back in the kirk!! J
Jak x
]]>I told you that I would get back to you shortly and here I have delivered all these all important pictures of the new build. Currently I don’t think you will all be that impressed as they are still immersed within a construction site, hence why the pictures are up-close and personal, however they do give you a taster of what you are in for.
Type F accommodation are the new build halls which will be £90 for a 40 week self catered, en-suite rooms. There will be 144 rooms which are clustered together in self-catered flats of 4, 6 or 8 rooms, sharing kitchen and dining facilities. Kitchen facilities include fridge, freezer, cooker, microwave, kettle, iron and ironing board, and 32” LCD Freeview TV (With a TV licence provided by the University………….Which is an AWESOME advantage!!!).
The Bedrooms also will boast the advantages of having fridges, PC with flat screens that can be used to watch Freeview on. (Although you will have to purchase your own TV licence.)
I WILL APOLOGISE NOW, BUT THE PROGRAMME THAT WE USED TO DO BLOGS ISNT VERY GOOD, AS IT WON’T ALLOW ME TO UPLOAD ANY MORE THAN 1500KB, WHICH IS POO, SO I WILL CONDENSE THE REST OF THE PICTURES AND MORE TOMORROW
Enjoy peeps
Jak xx
How are we? Hope all is good and I have noticed that there are even more of you joining the Hi.Edgehill website, which is brilliant. I think it is official now, I think I can say that the countdown to freshers 2009 has begun, and your all going to be a part of it, I’m excited for you!!!…..and a tad jealous hehe.
Well like I said last week I am on placement at a school in Lincolnshire, and this week is half term, so I have been busy all week lazyin about playing on my ps2 and facebooking it! Oh and of course creating lesson plans and activities for my delightful pupil’s lol.
I am also currently in the mists of trying to get my car insured, as ‘’apparently’’ my annual mileage has increased they have decided to jack the premium up by 300quid, so I’m not that impressed at present, so I might have to do some begging and borrowing off the parents, possible one of the best things about being a student, is the willingness of parents to help you out, thank god too!
Well I’m going to dash, as I’m going to go sail a motorboat on a lake, according to a text I have just received. I shall update you on the weekend.
Spk Soon!
Jak xx
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