How to choose a dissertation focus;

Hello my lovely, lovely blog!!

You missed me?

I know I've been on a summer hiatus but I am finally back and better than ever!

So just to keep you updated I've got lots of stuff to tell you about;

• I've turned twenty.
• I've gotten myself an internship in fashion journalism (yay!)
• I'm headed back to university to complete my third year.

Now, I'm sure you know that in third year, you have to complete a dissertation. A dissertation is a large piece of work which can be up to 12,000 words long (wow!), and counts for a lot of your final grade. For me, it's the work I have been dreaded since enrolling in first year. 

But recently, since the dreaded module is getting closer and closer, I've really started looking into my topics and have actually chosen one which I reveal later in the year!

So I thought I'd give you some tips on how to choose a focus for your dissertation...

Do your research

Make sure you research your potential topics to make sure there's plenty of material available about the topic. There's nothing worse than getting passionate about an idea and finding out there's no literature to support it.

Make sure you're interested in the topic

Choose something which ideally, has a lot of literature about it AND that you're really passionate about. Your dissertation is your own study and requires a lot of time and effort so ensure you can be interested in the topic for at least eight months - even though you'll probably hate it by the end. 

Speak to your tutors

If you're still stuck on what you should do for your dissertation, try talking to a tutor about your strengths and interests regarding your topic. My tutor was a huge help when choosing my subject, and gave me lots of information about how to shape my study. 

Start early

I cannot stress this enough! If you have to do interviews or your own research, please start early and get yourself sorted so you aren't panicking at each deadline. I've already started my reading for my lit review and suggest you do too. 

Hopefully you'll take my advice and I hope choosing your topic is a breeze!

Thanks for reading, 

Joanna x

I'm a Top 25!!

Hello Lovelies!

I'm taking a quick break from my summer hiatus to tell about my recent credentials...

Yes, Diary of a PR Girl has been featured as part of Personal Income's Top 25 Female PR Career Advice Bloggers at #12!!

I can't believe my little blog has been recognised in a Top 25, I am very honoured and humbled to be even considered!

If you want to see the article yourself please head over to Personal Income's website and give it a read!

http://www.personalincome.org/top-25-female-pr-career-advice-bloggers/

Big thanks to Lewis, the author of the Top 25, and I can't wait to start writing again regularly!

Thanks for reading,


Jx

What's happening Jo? + new header design!

Hello Lovelies!

Today I thought I'd start off with an apology. I'm sorry I haven't been committed as I was back in July, but I have been moving, finding out more about where I live and trying to get the bloody wifi to work in my flat. 

Oh the trauma of being a 21st century teen...

Anyway, this is my little 'sorry' and hopefully you'll all forgive me for my laziness and encourage me to get back to it!

I really enjoy writing to you all and I hope you all like reading! 

I'd also like to write a thank you for getting me to over 5,000 views on the blog! It means so much that so many people have taken time out of their lives to have a read of a dreaming girls scribblings - or typings...anyway you get the point. 

In other news, Diary of a PR Girl has had a slight makeover, thanks to another blogging buddy and uni friend, Dani of www.daniellegreaves.blogspot.co.uk , go give her a look and say that I sent you! 

The new header matches my theme perfectly and sums me up pretty much (I'm basically 78% coffee) so I hope you all love it as much as I do! 

Thanks for reading, 

Jx

Book review (i): The Devil wears Prada;

Hello Lovelies!

Now if you follow my Instagram you will see that I recently purchased three of Lauren Weisberger's books, 'Everyone worth knowing', 'Revenge wears Prada' and the infamous book turned movie, 'the Devil wears Prada'. Today's review starts with the latter.

This book follows the story of Andrea Sachs, a Brown graduate who is itching to get a job in magazine publishing. She ends up as an editorial assistant at the magazine 'Runway', to the most esteemed fashion mogul, Miranda Priestly. Andrea knows nothing about fashion but gets pulled into the world of designers, skinny women and all things Runway.

Miranda, of course, is not the ideal boss. She's awfully vague, spoilt and adopts a 'holier than thou' attitude throughout, and seems intent on making Andrea's life hell.

If you've watched the film, then you definitely need to read this book, to get a new perspective and relive some of those amazing fashion moments and name drops that every fashion blogger needs to know. Everything is different but still an incredible read.

I couldn't put it down and page after page, I wanted to know more about this 'she-devil' Miranda Priestly. Even though she seemed like the boss from hell, Weisberger still made me feel like that was the kind of environment I wanted to work in and I can't wait to start the next book!

After all, a million girls would kill for that job...


Thanks for reading,



Jx

A day in my life: Day off edition

Hello Lovelies!

Tuesday was my day off this week and since I really want you all to get to know me, I thought I'd show you what I do! 

Breakfast:

Two slices of 50/50 toast with crunchy peanut butter and raspberry jam and a nice cup of tea.

Im not really much of a breakfast person, but I will say that this combination is one of my favourites! Perfect start for my lazy day.

Blogging:

When I have any free time now it's dedicated to writing for you guys! I want to keep my blog flowing and make sure I upload content as much as I can. I currently have over twenty drafts pending and I'm so excited to share them with you all. I use this time to promote my posts on my social media sites (see contact me page) and check the stats and read comments you leave me! 

Skincare:

Even on lazy days, a shower is high up on my priority list, it makes me feel fresh and much better about myself. I exfoliate my face (see skin routine here) and then brush my teeth (mm, minty fresh)! I've decided not wear make up today, to let my skin breathe a little.

Reading: 

I'm currently reading 'the devil wears prada' (review coming Friday!) so I've taken  this day to really get through it. It's so good and I can't put it down! Reading is definitely a big thing on lazy days, as it keeps my brain working even though I'm feeling sluggish. This with a cup of tea and some yummy snacks (banana and peanut butter) is just a day off heaven! 

I also need some suggestions of some books to purchase, any suggestions leave them in the comments!

Elliot's home!

Elliot has been at work today so now he's back its time to chill out and wind down. He's got some university work to do so I take this bit of time to watch some TV and browse social media, (I live on the Internet). I also decided to restart an on line fitness class called Blogilates, created by YouTube fitness guru Cassey Ho. It's so great to get your blood pumping and work on toning your body. 

I love meditation and pilates so I'll try my best to find you guys some tips and tricks to stay flexible and healthy! 

Dinner:

After my workout, I'm starving so it's time for Elliot and I to make dinner. We actually decided on making a veggie curry out of things we found in the fridge! Recipe coming soon!

Bedtime:

Bedtime for us is usually around 11.30pm, we've both got to get up early and one of us doesn't enjoy the mornings *cough* Elliot *cough*, so it's time to settle down. Sometimes we watch a movie, or just do some last minute things ready for the morning. Tonight I'm having an Options hot chocolate so I fall asleep peacefully. Night night x

So there's a basic outline of what I do during a lazy day/ day off! What do you do to relax when you're not working?

Thanks for reading, 

Jx

How to get over being run down;

Hello Lovelies!

You know when you get that feeling that you're just not 100% yourself? You're covered in zits, your body aches, you've got the worst blocked nose in history, and you just need to sleep it off and recuperate.

If you're a regular reader then you know I've started work and it's been a bit of a shock to the system. I'm really suffering with my feet and knees right now so here's how I'm trying to make myself better!

1.) Rest. Sleep makes me feel like a new woman especially when I'm waking up as early as I do! Get into bed, read a chapter of your new book/your favourite Netflix show (try Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt)  and settle down for the night. Try a decaffeinated warm drink to help you drift off to the land of nod.

2.) Relax. Have a bubble bath or a long shower to scrub off the day. Use body scrubs and moisturiser that smell amazing and you'll feel clean as a whistle and you day will get even better! I recommend the 'I Love Strawberries & Cream' Shower smoothie which you can buy here.

3.) Respect. Listen to your body, if it's hurting there's a chance that there's a problem. My knee recently has come under a lot of stress and I'm going to visit the doctor's about it to get a second opinion. But make sure your body is happy so it can do whatever you set your mind to.

There's the three R's on how to help yourself get back up when you're run down. Hope this helps and if you have any more tips, don't hesitate to let me know!

Thanks for reading!


Jx

photo courtesy of advancecosmetic.com

Let's talk ¦ Almost twenty

Hello Lovelies,

Today I thought I'd address a topic that I haven't really talked about on my blog, and that is the subject of growing up. I know I talked about what job I'd like to do in a recent post, but I never really addressed the subject that has been bothering me for a little while now.

You see, I am eighteen years old and in less than a month, I will be embarking on my last year as a teenager. This thought not only terrifies me that I will no longer be a baby but has made me start thinking about that experimental and shaping period of time that is 'your 20's'.

A J-O-B:

Getting a 9-5 job seemed so far away last year, yet now I've got to start planning little parts of my future. This includes researching what career path I wish to follow, preparing for interviews and learning what a mortgage is (I still haven't a clue) so if I get a job, I can have a roof over my head.

If I'm honest, I feel like a child playing dress up when I get invitations to PR events and when I write important emails that end 'yours sincerely'. I can't believe that I get addressed as 'Madam' when I go into a restaurant. You've grown up so much that you're no longer that little girl any more.

It's one of those changes that happen in adolescence, like when they stop giving you crayons with your spaghetti bolognese at Frankie and Benny's. It sucks.

M-A-R-R-I-A-G-E AND B-A-B-I-E-S:

This subject for me is very up and down. I love children and I would love to have them some day, but the fear is definitely there, especially the fear of having a child at such a young age.

My mother had me when she was twenty two and I'm very grateful that she did (thanks Momma!) but there's a part of me that thinks I'll still be a kid at that time, there's no way I could support a tiny human in my life. I do commend all young mothers, you're doing a brave thing that I am no way ready for.

Marriage too seems a world away for me, I mean I'd love it to happen someday but I'm not insistent on it either. If someone can put up with my shit for eternity, then fair play to him.

MY ADVICE:

There will always be that one relative who comes over to you at a wedding or a christening and says "you'll be next!" and the fear comes over you, especially if you're single. My advice is brush it off! You are your own person and you can do whatever you want.

I know now that being in your 20's does not mean you have to get married as soon as you can and start popping out children like the number balls on the national lottery.

I don't want to put a number on the time I will get all those things because planning that sort of stuff isn't healthy for your development as a person, you might not have fun because you're waiting for your 'five year plan' to kick in.

So yes guys, I'm scared for my twenties. I'm scared of growing up and looking out for myself, so I fully intend to make this last teenage year count. It's going to be a big shock to my system and I'm not ready at all, but it's the kind of fear you get as you ascend up a roller-coaster track.

Hopefully I'm in for an enjoyable ride.

Thanks for reading,


Jx

How to get a good night's sleep;

Hello Lovelies!


Now, as a young teenager, sleep was not my friend. I was one of those people who stayed up until 2-3am and woke up at 7am to go to sixth form. It was unhealthy and caused a lot of grief when I was rushing around the house looking for things when I'd overslept - admit it, we've all been there!

I have realised now how important a good night's sleep is and here's some tricks I used so I have a great night's sleep.


1.) Hot drinks

If you're into herbal teas, like me,camomile tea can knock you out! Having one of these in bed will make you drift off into a peaceful sleep in no time. I suggest going to Holland and Barrett and having a good root around their shelves to find the perfect blend for you. My personal favourite is their 'Night time' blend, but there's lots to choose from! However if you're not into herbs, don't fret! I've also heard that a hot chocolate or warm milk will do the trick too!

2.) Get up early

The early bird catches the worm! Getting up early means you make more of the daylight hours and tire yourself out so when it's time for bed you'll be out like a light! This will boost your productivity and you'll feel accomplished everyday.

3.) Go outside

I don't know about you, but fresh air makes me so sleepy! Since working outside is quite a big part of my job description at the safari park, I've been sleeping so much better. So go outside, walk the dog, go for a run, walk into town! Get yourself out in the fresh air and sleep like a baby afterwards!


There's some things I use to make sure I get enough beauty sleep! Hope these tips help and you feel so much more rested! If you've got any more tips for me, don't hesitate to comment below or get in touch!


Thanks for reading!



Jx

photo from indulgy.com

What do I want to be when I grow up?

Hello Lovelies!


The question I will be answering today is "What do I want to be when I grow up?" The question which has been pushed on me by adults since I was old enough to hold a pen and answer their question by drawing myself as whatever I wanted to be that week/year/second.

I have wanted to be so many things in my life that I probably couldn't tell you all the careers I've wanted to pursue. The ones that spring to mind are;

• A lady farmer (I read all the 'Sophie' books) 
• A lawyer (Legally Blonde style) 
• An actress 
• A musical theatre performer
• A journalist 
• A Fashion PR practitioner/guru
• An Author (I share my name with JK Rowling...coincidence? I think not)

There's so many more things but you'd be here all day if I kept going. I've always enjoyed creative occupations so I kept to that area of the job world, and my search for a career that was never boring continued all through sixth form.

I ended up researching PR and loving it - it ticked quite a few boxes for me and still does. I've also always had a thing for writing and journalism, which goes hand in hand with PR in more ways than I had imagined.

Then I've got this old thing - my lovely blog. The fact that people enjoy what I write and the enforcement of the friendly community makes blogging so fun and interesting that this is becoming an increasingly appealing career choice also.

If I'm being honest with you all though, I still don't know exactly what I want to do, and if I had to tick a box and be specific, it couldn't be done. I have many aspirations in my life and I intend to try quite a few 'careers' so I never get bored. Hopefully I will get to!


Thanks for reading,



Jx

I haven't cut my hair, I just pinned it up 

Things to learn before you move out:

Hello Lovelies!

As I've mentioned in previous blog posts, I will be moving back to Liverpool to continue my studies. I'm really looking forward to moving back to a city where I can focus on studying and enjoy living life as a second year student!

Although there are a few things I've had to learn before I branch out and start a new chapter of living alone, so I thought I'd depart my wisdom onto any of you wonderful first years and people who are moving away from Mum and Dad and start independence.

1.) Remember to sort out your finances. You're paying for everything now so you've gotta make sure you've got enough for food, commuting to uni and paying rent. Don't get caught out at the train station or in the restaurant eating your food without money.

2.) Don't forget to learn how to wash your clothes. You will look gross if you're going out with soy sauce / chocolate/ blood on your shirt (what you do on your own time is your business).

3.) Learn to say no, You can't do everything and you've got to make sacrifices in order to live a life within your means. If your friends want to hang out, suggest coming round to yours and having a night in, it 's cheap and fun too!

4.) Be handy. If something breaks, try to learn how to fix it (unless you could get electrocuted - then hire someone or tell your landlord).

5.) Find hobbies. Living alone, like myself, means you've got a lot of time to kill. Do your uni work, watch TV that you enjoy, read books! Maybe even start something creative, a project maybe?

6.) Get to know your city/town. Walk around and get to grips with where you live. Where to go, where not to go, where's cheap, where isn't. The better you know your city, the safer and more at home you'll feel.

Hopefully this will help you guys with moving away and make preparing for the process as easy as possible!

Thanks for reading!


Jx

Twenty things you didn't know about me;

Hello Lovelies!


Today I thought I'd write a post to give you some insight into my life, seeing as you might not actually know much about me personally.

So here's twenty things you didn't know about me!

1. My eyes are dark brown.
2. I only like cheese when it's melted, my worst nightmare is a cheese sandwich *gags*.
3. I have no allergies to any food (lucky me) but I do get hayfever.
4. I once drove my mother's car into the wall that separates our drive from our neighbour's.
5. I get cravings for coca cola, like really really bad.
6. My favourite shop right now is Lush cosmetics. 
7. I have my tongue web (frenulum) pierced. That's the bit under my tongue, it's rocking.
8. I have a huge vendetta against most TV presenters - I just really dislike them.
9. I check my blog stats around eight times a day.
10. My shoe size is a 4/5.
11. I played Father Christmas in my Year 2 school play.
12. I like snakes, but I'm still freaked out by spiders.
13. My first pet of my own was a Black Moor goldfish called Joker. RIP.
14. I still play Sims 3.
15. My birth date is 22nd August 1996.
16. I have three tattoos, a daisy between the back of my shoulder blades, a Hindi word on my ankle and a Greek 'X' on my ribs. 
17. My Dad is Greek-Cypriot, he's from Cyprus.
18. I have dyed my hair most colours, including bright Rihanna red.
19. I sing and have grades 4 and 5 in musical theatre, both at distinction level (brag).
20. I love writing and I have written several short stories and started books.

There's a few things about me so you can get to know me better!


Thanks for reading,



Jx

Having a couple's night in;

Hello Lovelies!

Now I'm sorry to my single readers but today's post is about my experiences with a couple's night in!

Elliot and I have been very busy lately, with him finishing his dissertation for his Master's and starting his new job and me starting my summer job, so we've definitely needed a night in to just chill and reconnect.

Food: 

We are big takeaway junkies so home cooking is never really on the menu when we see each other, it's a miracle we aren't obese. Although home cooking does have it's perks. You can get creative, cook together, create a recipe and just experiment with different food! This could open doors to trying new things with your partner, e.g. I hated pate before I met Elliot and now it's my starter at most meals!

Movies: 

Choose movies that you're both fans of, don't make him sit through Mean Girls unless he absolutely insists on it (some guys do). Find common ground when choosing film genres when you first start dating and as the relationship progresses expand that genre to watch more and more together.

Pamper/treat yourselves: 

This is something most guys are scared to admit to but, they love a good pamper! Seriously, ask your boyfriend if he'd like a massage or a facial some time. It gives them a chance to put down the manly weight they carry and a chance for you to use all your beauty goo (cleanser, moisturizer etc.,) on someone other than yourself!

If that's not your thing, then maybe you're both into health? Couples can indulge themselves in a cheat day together - I'm thinking chocolate cake, ice cream, no limits! Show him you can eat like a horse and he'll love you even more (at least I hope he will).

Make time for your partners people! Especially as you get older, making your time together memorable and special is essential in making sure you both stay happy and in love! 

Thanks for reading, have a great night!

Jx

Yankee Candle favourites;

Hello Lovelies!


Just a quick 'Happy Birthday' to my youngest sister Demi who is thirteen today! Have an amazing day!

Anyway, back to the post, seeing as for Demi's birthday I got her a few Yankee candles, I thought I'd give you a list of my favourites...

Fresh Cut Roses;

Clean Cotton;

Mango Peach Salsa;

Pink Dragonfruit;

True Rose;

Check all of these out via the links, and see what you think...now I'm going to go enjoy a piece of birthday cake!

Thanks for reading!



Jx

Five blogs that I absolutely love;

Hello Lovelies!

I believe it's a great thing to read and show appreciation for other people's hard work, because it gives them encouragement which everyone wants and it makes you known to them so they can reciprocate your love, (it's all very loving).

Since joining Bloglovin' I have been reading quite a lot of different blogs that I find interesting, so I thought I'd share my list of my top 5 with you all!

#5 Circle of Chaos - www.circleofchaos.blogspot.co.uk

Vanessa is a German fashion blogger who has the cutest style and writes beautifully and in detail about all of her finds. She's not like all the other fashion bloggers out there, in my opinion, because she has her own style, which is classy and so elegant. I recommend her post entitled 'Ladylike' - that outfit blew my mind.

#4 Briar Rose - www.thebriarroseblog.com

Megan is just so lovely! When I'm having a bad day I like to read her posts because they're so honest and happy. She is a fashion and lifestyle blogger who talks about her home, her husband Grant (adorbs) and cosplay - all of which she does beautifully! Her hair also gives me envy on another level.

#3 Sincerely Amy - www.sincerelyamy.com 

If you're interested in Theatre, then this is the blog for you! Amy is the resident blogger for the Birmingham Hippodrome, so she gets backstage info on all the top shows out!
Amy's blog is probably the reason I continued writing my blog. I know her personally and her personality is shown perfectly through her words. She's a great girl and her travel vlogs are so fun to watch! Find her on Youtube at 'sincerely amy'. You'll thank me later.

#2 Career Girl Daily - www.careergirldaily.com

If you're an independent woman with your business head on then this is a blog for you! Celina has so many helpful tips and tricks on interviews, pitching and even looking the part so you ace whatever you're applying for! This is my go-to for lots of blog help and my career.

#1 Milk bubble tea - www.milkbubbletea.com

This girl can write! I love her happy and honest style and her little dachshund Oscar (dog envy right there). She writes recipes, hauls and updates about her lovely life. She's definitely a favourite and her blog name is cute too!

These blogs were all found on Bloglovin' and I'm so glad I did because they make life a little less boring when I read from their pages. Now go follow them too and tell them I sent you!

Thanks for reading!


Jx

My travel bucket list:

Hello Lovelies!

For Valentine’s day this year, I bought my boyfriend, Elliot, a world map on which you could scratch off the countries you've visited. He’s a bit of an adventurer himself,  during March he was making his way to South Africa – lucky sod.

I’ve never been much of the adventure type, happy to sit on the beach in Cyprus rather than throw myself into things. However, since giving Elliot that map, I’ve been thinking about how much world there is out there that I’ve not even grasped. There are 196 countries on our beautiful Earth with vast cultures and indescribable experiences for everyone. So, I’ve given it a lot of thought and I’ve pulled together a list of the places I want to visit, and things I want to do. Enjoy!

TOP FIVE ADVENTURE SPOTS

5. Australia

Don’t you think that life down under is amazing and so relaxed? I mean, the colourful foods, the clear water and the accent?! Definitely want to visit this place, see the sights and meet a kangaroo. I'd like to take a trip to Fraser island.

4. New York City

Do I have to explain? The big apple has been a beacon for aspiring adventurers for decades, with its sleeplessness and grand architecture. My aim to try the two New York classics; a bagel and a coffee while walking around Central Park, pretending I’m Carrie Bradshaw *sighs* if only…

3. The Maldives

A tiny cluster of islands which happen to host the most romantic beach houses I’ve ever seen. The water is perfect for snorkelling and it’s definitely the worlds favourite honeymoon spot.

2. Amsterdam

This city is the pinnacle of freedom and culture. The architecture, the food, the people. It all seems like a Nordic fairytale. I’d like to visit all the vintage shops, museums and walk down the canal. How romantic…I hope Elliot is making notes!

1. British Columbia, Canada

There’s something you’ll have to understand about me. I am crazy for whales, particularly Killer Whales. One of the best places to go sea kayaking and see orcas in their natural environment. It’s just the most amazing thing and I can’t wait to visit.

I hope you all enjoyed that little list and maybe I’ve inspired you to visit some beautiful places.

If not, I’m sure you could just Google it…

Thanks for reading!

Jx

Enquiries: diaryofa-prgirl@outlook.com
Twitter: @joanna22x

Update: I'm now on BlogLovin' !

Hello Lovelies!

I'm now on BlogLovin' so if you've got an account you can follow me on there!

Thanks for reading,


Jx


<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/14277181/?claim=bav8njhmvrm">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a

Why I don't always write about PR:

Hello Lovelies!

Today I thought I'd address the fact that most of my writing these days doesn't revolve around Public Relations.

There are several reasons for this...

Firstly, I'm currently on my summer holidays and I'm away from university, where I hear about lots of PR opportunities on a regular basis. When I'm away I focus on other things that I think will interest my audience (if I have one).

I also have reconsidered the field of PR I actually want to go into now, because there's so many different things I'm interested in... as you know if you read my blog a lot, I focus around lifestyle, beauty, fashion and now even health. I mean I'm actually taking a liking to politics! Something I never thought I'd like! (I blame you Paula). I could never pick one to focus on now.

So yes, I'm sorry if you come to this blog thinking it's going to be nothing but PR, because it's not. I'm still figuring myself and my preferences out, and it's going to be a long journey but hey, you're welcome to join me on the ride.

Thanks for reading this and I hope you continue reading,



Jx

How to stay healthy at University;

Hello Lovelies! 

Since I seem to be a fountain of knowledge about university lately, I decided to give out some tips on how to be happy and healthy, both mentally and physically, at university. 

1.) Drink water. I am a terrible advocate for hydration, but according to scientists having at least 2 litres of water a day can improve your health drastically. I know at uni everyone seems to be 'sloshed on the voddy', but hydration is key to having a positive impact on your studies. Drinking a big glass of water in the morning speeds up your metabolism and gets your juices flowing so you can take on the day!

2.) Exercise. "Exercise gives you endorphins, endorphins make you happy, and happy people just don't shoot their husbands."

Wise words from the queen, Elle Woods in legally blonde. Exercise, be it in a gym, at a class, or even just in your room, can improve both your mental and physical health, because it boosts your mood, makes you sweat and you can even make some friends as you achieve any fitness goals you have marked up! 

3.) Don't drink too much booze. Yes. Alcohol can be all well and good but knowing your limit should be essential especially at uni. It can ruin your liver and if it starts affecting your study then you need a serious talk with yourself. You're at uni to learn, not get pissed every night of the week.

4.) Don't eat all the Dominoes. You know what I'm talking about, uni goers...2 for Tuesday's, buy one get one free...I am guilty of buying two pizzas because it's cheaper...(I'm ashamed). 

Save your pennies and have fast food as a treat rather than a staple in your diet, you'll thank me later!

5.) Buy fruit and veggies. I am a veggie fiend so this is no problem for me. Fruit and vegetables will give you vitamins and minerals that you don't get from fast food. Making healthy lunches and dinners will keep your weight down and your mood up.

6.) Socialising. Now this is great for mental health. Make a habit of seeing your friends to ensure your mind stays social and stimulated, especially if you have papers due in. Studying is important but you'll go nuts and get pretty lonely if you sit in your room all day.

7.) Join a society. If you play a sport, like watching anime or even want to pole dance, universities have so many societies to join. These create friendships and hopefully enjoyment throughout your uni life. I'll let you know which ones I have joined when I go back in second year...( I was a huge social recluse).

8.) Get enough sleep. Beauty sleep is essential to focus in lectures. I have fallen asleep in class before and not only is it embarrassing and slightly rude, you miss out on essential information. So get your z's and you'll do better in every aspect of your uni life.

9.) Safe sex. Right, let's get down to it. At uni, people get drunk, get stupid, get laid. Now if you're gonna do that, protect yourself! Everyone, always carry and wear condoms and if the guy won't wear one or the girl says she doesn't need them cuz she's "on the pill", then you should leave them to have sex with themselves. Pills and implants DO NOT protect you from STI's and if you're burning downstairs then don't be stupid and get yourself checked out before getting down to business.

10.) Down time. Read a book, watch Netflix, have a bubble bath. Let your body relax after all that exercise, partying, drinking and whatever you've been doing. Having some alone time can help you recuperate and be ready for the rest of the week.

Now, there's my tips for keeping yourself in tip top shape at university. I personally need to follow these, (I eat a lot of dominos) and hopefully I will stay mentally positive and physically fit all year long!

Thanks for reading, 

Jx

Skincare routine:

Hello Lovelies!

Today I'm going to tell you a little about my new skincare routine which features cruelty-free products that work wonders. 

I currently am suffering from huge breakouts all over my forehead and chin, now this could be down to several things, a hormonal imbalance, sweating, eating fatty foods, stress...or a combination of all four!

I've never really had spots except for the odd one so this breakout definitely needed action. So I decided to up my skincare routine and show you all! 

1.) Get that makeup off! At university especially I would fall asleep with a full face of foundation and powder which did not do my skin any favours. I know scrub off any excess makeup with t-zone exfoliating wipes (if I'm feeling lazy) or a face cleanser.

2.) Cleanse. I now use the 'Deep action blackhead clearing cleansing scrub' by Superdrug. I simply splash my face with warm water and apply the product with my fingers focusing on my forehead and around my nose (blackhead city). 

3.) Face wash. Next I take my "Tea Tree lemon facial wash" by Superdrug and put a pea sized amount onto my Foxnovo electric face brush (OK, it's my sisters but mine is in the post). This brush helps clear pores, exfoliate the dead skin and remove excess oils in the skin. It feels amazing and I would recommend it for anyone, they've even got them in blue for you lads! 

4.) Moisturiser. I have very dry skin on my face so I try to moisturise every few days, especially in winter! When I do moisturise, I use Superdrug's vitamin E moisture mask. This moisturiser should only be used in small amounts because too much can make your face greasy. 

Now everyone knows how I achieve soft and healthy skin! Why don't you go and buy them to try for yourself and let me know the results?

Thanks for reading, 

Jx

Why should I vote?

Hello Lovelies!

I was asked this question by someone when discussing the upcoming election.

Now, I'll be honest, I've never really got into politics until university, because I'm eighteen (finally!) and I can vote for the man/woman who will be running the country as I become a flourishing (awkward) adult.

But this really struck a chord with me; "Why should I vote? It doesn't matter." a friend of mine said to me over dinner one night. She shall remain nameless, but what she said really resonated with me.

Why shouldn't you vote?

We are exceptionally lucky to live in a democratic society where we can vote! Women were chaining themselves to rails and throwing themselves under horses to make sure that women could have a chance to vote for their futures and you're going to sit there and tell me it doesn't matter?  No my friend, it does.

Now, let's address the  main parties we could vote for;

Labour - Big Party, Ed Milliband doesn't actually seem that bad. Bless him.
Conservative - David Cameron, been running the country for a bit, doesn't really answer questions.
UKIP - Lord give me strength.
Liberal Democrats - Bless these as well. They really need to get rid of Nick Clegg.
Green - Lady Leader! The one every teenager votes for.

Can I also comment on the amount of women on the debates recently? Fair play girls! Sisters doing it for themselves!

The problem with politics these days though is that it's hard to get your own view with the amount of political bias in newspapers and on-line. Even my opinion is biased to my beliefs and what I want to see in the political future.

So, my advice, is watch the debates! Choose for yourself who you want to vote for!

Even if the party you want doesn't win! There's still gonna be seats filled!

Do it kids!

See you soon,


Jx