Obviously every year has its highs and it’s (not so) highs, however I think 2011 has been a real learning curve, I’ve had some brilliant opportunities presented to me and I feel I’ve worked hard along the way. I don’t really think it’s been my best year yet, but I will go into 2012 with an open mind and high hopes as I normally do. I’m not really sure what to make of 2012 in general, as supposedly it’s going to be the year the world ends (which I’m not sure is true) but hopefully it will be filled with wonderful things. Here are my own personal highlights of 2011!
Starting my blog
Initially, I started my blog as a means of putting my work online and having an online space where prospective employees could take a look however it’s developed into much more of a hobby. It’s amazing to think that people are actually reading my nonsense (and hopefully enjoying it while doing so). I really appreciate all your lovely comments, support and advice throughout the year and I hope 2012 brings bigger and better things for my blog!
Meeting the cast of Made in Chelsea
I was invited along to the Made in Chelsea end of season party because one of their producers picked up on the fact that I wrote about it so much on my blog, and had so many opinions about it. I was so pleased to be invited, as although I have been to live shows and events which are broadcast on television before, I had never been invited by one of the crew (meaning I wouldn’t have to queue in the cold for hours beforehand). I met the lovely Chloe Green, who amazingly recognised me from my blog and bought us drinks. I stood front row throughout the ‘Made in Chelsea’ reunion show, and then met all the cast at the end of the show! It was an amazing night out, and I am so thankful to be given such an opportunity! (I have written a blog post on this event, if you search Made In Chelsea in my search bar!).
Passing my driving test!
After a year’s worth of driving lessons, two attempts at a theory test and a failed practical test I finally passed my driving test in November of this year, which was a relief as well as terrifying. Although I’m pleased that I never have to sit that dreaded driving test again (which is the worst nerves EVER!) I was anxious about driving on my own for the very first time, without an instructor reassuring me every step of the way. The first time I drove on my own, I stalled so many times at a set of traffic lights out of nervousness that I managed to miss two sets of lights. I was actually ready to jump out of my car and apologise to the other drivers behind me (doing the school run) because I didn’t think I could get the car moving again. After this incident, I have avoided that route – but I am a little more confident behind the wheel. It’s still nerve-wracking, but it is an achievement I’m proud of and passing my test is definitely a highlight!
Getting some decent grades in my AS!
Although I’ve never really struggled at school, I was pretty nervous about receiving my AS level results in the summer because the exams I sat in May were probably the worst exams I’d ever done and I wasn’t feeling confident about the final mark. I was preparing myself for a D in Philosophy and Ethics, as I practically wasted 45 of the exam worrying if I’d written enough and not actually writing anything. However I got a B overall (and three marks off an A) so it was a pleasant surprise. I also got an A in English Literature, an A in Media Studies and a B in Photography – so it wasn’t all bad!
Holidays
I was lucky enough to go on three lovely holidays this year, two with my boyfriend and one with my family. I absolutely love going on holiday, especially if you have it booked in advance because it gives you something nice to aim towards and look forward to. I went to Austria in February with my boyfriend on a skiing holiday, which was lovely. Although I only skied once or twice throughout the whole holiday, it was lovely nonetheless however I don’t think I could go skiing every year as its very expensive and I prefer sunny holidays! I then went to Austria again in the summer, which was very relaxing and the following week I headed off to La Manga in Spain. I’ve been to La Manga every year now for the last three years, and it is a really nice resort. In 2012 I have a wonderful holiday to Florida to look forward to! I am really excited to be able to have the Disney experience (despite the fact I will be 18 when I go) and I cannot contain my excitement for a visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter!
Work Experience
Although it took nearly 90 emails and lots of hard work to get the work experience placements in the first place, it was well worth it! In August this year I had one week’s work experience at talkback THAMES (who produce X Factor, Take Me Out, Britain’s Got Talent) which was fantastic, as I got a real insight into what a television production company does on a day to day basis, and it gave me lots of ideas and aspirations for the future! I also was lucky enough to have three days working on ‘Take Me Out’, where I was helping the team to ‘target’ audition areas and decide on prospective contestants. Although everyone who aspires to work in television starts as a runner and its usually considered a very low paid, mundane job in order to work up the career ladder (you make the teas, coffees and lunch runs), I actually really enjoyed it! It’s fantastic to have two amazing work placements under my belt when I’m under 18, as it’s quite a hard task finding companies that take on younger students (for insurance purposes).
And Finally
Although it has been quite a recent highlight, I have been offered a place at Bournemouth University on their television production course – which is a very tough course to get onto and the interview day was extremely hard work! Although I didn’t really feel the interview/activity day went as well as I’d hoped I managed to secure a place on the course, which was amazing – as although it’s not my first choice course, it’s definitely a course I am interested in! I love Bournemouth University as it has such a friendly atmosphere which is more than you can say for other Universities, and I have another interview day in January for the course I’d really love to be accepted on – so wish me luck!
I hope you have had a fantastic 2011, and thank you to everyone who read my blog and supported me! I hope you all continue reading in 2012, and that the new year brings you wonderful opportunities!
