The Last One

My my hasn't this year gone quick. Only yesterday it seems I happened to see the internships advertised by the UoB and thought I'd look into it. Ten months later and it's all coming to an end. Just another adventure of mine that I've encountered and tackled, and one of many I hope.

So, earlier this year I counted down the highlights of 2013 which included my academic year 1, so I suspect it suitable to count those of year 2. Here goes...

10: Year 2 completion! 4 units, 11 assignments: 3 essays, 5 reports, 1 proposal, 1 mock conference and a wiki article.

9: Completed a periodical blog through the UoB Blogging Internships (thanks for the opportunity guys - you've been great!) with this making my 40th post!

8: Made my first application for funding for a community project (my CAS Conference 2014) which was approved by out very own UoB StEPS programme.

7: Co-wrote my first wiki article on The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

6: Attended an two-day introductory course in Life Coaching which I hope will compliment my professional service.

5: Recieved an appreciation award for Course Representative for my signposting and advocacy. 

4: Documented my 1 year Personal Development Plan (PDP) which I have already crossed over a third off from.

3: Organised a degree wide networking and presentation event for the Child and Adoloescent Society.

2: Was put under more responsibility at work and offered a promotion which I hope to take up this coming year.

1: Applied for and was accepted into the Peer Assisted Leaders (PAL) team - my next adventure - maybe I will meet you there!

*

So I guess this is where I sign off! Thank you all for listening and if you want to get in touch for any reason please leave a comment or two. :)

And good luck in whatever you choose to do in the university of life. Don't give up in your vision! Make it work for you and enjoy the learning experience!

Applying, Step 4: Finance and Money!

If you haven't already, I've just received my reminder to reapply for student finance. The website is www.studentfinance.gov.uk

Survival is a very important part of studying, and if not working full-time hours around your studies, Student Finance is the first place you should go, there are loans available at very reasonable interest rates (make sure you check them carefully for any surprises as you are charged from your very first payment), and grants available for those with children, adult dependants, and even just you yourself if you are over a certain age and living independently. You are not obliged to take any of these, and can pick and choose, for instance in my first year I took out a loan but now I am trying to get my income from other sources that I don't have to repay (grants, tax credits, casual work etc.).

Tuition Fees however, unless you are lucky enough to have a sponsor, you must apply for (and as soon as possible) to pay for your course. You must be careful to dot the i's and cross your t's here as you cannot attend your degree units without your fees, and you cannot get your fees without attending study (these are all paid directly to your university). There is a Student Finance desk near SiD (student information desk) that will help you if stuck but do get over there soon as possible if you're having any issues - the last thing you want is someone telling you to come back next year!

And don't forget your supporting evidence, the Student Finance website is marvellously laid out so after making an account and applying, your instructions and reminders will show up on your account page. Hop to!