Hi all,
It's probably an issue that's affecting or affected you (especially if you are a student hoping to go to university, like me), but when it comes to the government giving out money to people, I think you actually have to donate a body part to actually get anything out of them. Be it for declaring that you're a carer, separated, signing on for benefits, or student finance, the government will simply not allow the application process to be straightforward to understand. I mean, okay, I'm grateful for the fact that we can actually apply for this, but surely the government should make it easier to understand about applying for sums of money, especially the Student Finance England website - it's literally the biggest pile of rubbish I've seen in ages. It's like comon, surely the government could afford to invest in decent IT staff to look over the website and improve it. It'll save everyone precious time.
To affirm that my parents are separated, Student Finance needed evidence. That's understandable. Except for the fact that on the website, there were only two options. Now I'm sorry SFE, but due to the fact that I'm applying for the highest amounts of loans and grants possible, maybe you haven't realised that a solicitor's letter would be a massive sum of money to pay out on, for people like me who live underneath David Cameron's shoe, holding our breaths in case the shoe drops down upon us (again). Surely you realise that not every separation involves a court order. What to do, what to do.
They sent me a letter about a week after I finished my application (soon after the applications were first open), saying they needed proof, and get this, they even said we could send FINANCIAL INFORMATION this time! Fair enough, a small mistake on their website, no harm done yet. We sent the evidence off, as they asked, and even the right year as they requested. Nearly everyday I checked my application online, still saying that they haven't received evidence. We phoned them up twice, and both times they said that they had definitely received the evidence, and the second time the person even said they were processing it as they were speaking. Still no confirmation of this on the website. So it came to May 30th (yesterday), and the website was still saying they were waiting on evidence. Phoned them up, and surprise surprise, their 'systems were down' so we couldnt do anything. Phoned them up again today, and finally we get some response, albeit an extremely annoying one. Apparently, the evidence we submitted was not valid, because they needed the 2011-2012 information - this was only given to us this month, way after I first submitted my application and original evidence. SFE, you really are taking the piss now. Earlier today I sent off the information they required to fully complete my application and secure me a grant. Lets just hope that they don't ask for my left arm next time (I hope there isn't a next time).
Student Finance England, you NEED Computer Scientists, so get your act together in the mean time.
Until next time.
Tuesday 31 May 2011
Sunday 29 May 2011
Knowing and Thinking
Hi all,
Just watched the film 'The Book of Eli' on Sky Anytime (thank you Sky, and my Aunt for recommending for me to watch it), and I must say, what a superb film. For those of you that have watched it, you're probably guessing what the text in the following part of the blog will be about. To those who haven't, I suggest you watch it. Don't worry, it's not pro-Atheism. Kinda the opposite, really.
Imagine life without religion. What do you see? Do you see a world of people wasting away their lives as drug addicts? Do you see a world full of people who are confused? Do you see a world full of people who go out committing crimes without any remorse or reason? Or do you see a world where wars no longer exist? Do you see a world where everyone gets along? Do you see a world with more advanced technologies? Do you see a world where the human species is preserved?
Then a person comes along claiming to hear the voice of a greater being, and explains how everyone and everything was created. In a modern, educated society such as the one we live in now, we would of course dismiss this person as being disillusioned and quite frankly, a bit weird. From my own point of view, there must be something within this human's brain that has triggered such an enormous misconception of reality (but who are we to say that they're wrong); something physical and - if you like - material that has somehow manipulated the psyche of the person to make them truly think that they have heard the voice of something unexplainable. Perhaps this person suffers from an unfortunate mutation and has lost a portion of his rational self. Then again, perhaps this is evolution taking shape; perhaps this person has developed this from a gradual change in his gene pool through previous generations. I can't imagine this happening, as the only time I think this sort of event happens and makes an impact on society is where there is not enough understanding of the world we live in - at least not a common understanding. To say that a person educated at Oxford is more intelligent than a person with no education living on one of the islands in the South Pacific is extremely naive. To say they are more knowledgeable is less naive, but equally arrogant. Say if the religion which the Pacific islander believed in was real, and the Oxford graduate was an Atheist. Who's to say that the Islander isn't more knowledgeable than the graduate then?
Knowledge isn't about how much you know, but how much you THINK you know.
Had a good time at the pub just now with two of my close friends. We played pool for a good hour and a half. I used to play pool quite a bit with my uncles back when I was around 12, but haven't played as regularly since then. I had some REALLY lucky shots. Must be the childhood skills coming back to me, I dunno. André and Angelo play pool properly though; they think about how the ball bounces, and even down to the tactics on how the balls are laid out for breaking. That's how its meant to be played, unlike me who just puts it all down to lady luck.
Until next time.
Just watched the film 'The Book of Eli' on Sky Anytime (thank you Sky, and my Aunt for recommending for me to watch it), and I must say, what a superb film. For those of you that have watched it, you're probably guessing what the text in the following part of the blog will be about. To those who haven't, I suggest you watch it. Don't worry, it's not pro-Atheism. Kinda the opposite, really.
Imagine life without religion. What do you see? Do you see a world of people wasting away their lives as drug addicts? Do you see a world full of people who are confused? Do you see a world full of people who go out committing crimes without any remorse or reason? Or do you see a world where wars no longer exist? Do you see a world where everyone gets along? Do you see a world with more advanced technologies? Do you see a world where the human species is preserved?
Then a person comes along claiming to hear the voice of a greater being, and explains how everyone and everything was created. In a modern, educated society such as the one we live in now, we would of course dismiss this person as being disillusioned and quite frankly, a bit weird. From my own point of view, there must be something within this human's brain that has triggered such an enormous misconception of reality (but who are we to say that they're wrong); something physical and - if you like - material that has somehow manipulated the psyche of the person to make them truly think that they have heard the voice of something unexplainable. Perhaps this person suffers from an unfortunate mutation and has lost a portion of his rational self. Then again, perhaps this is evolution taking shape; perhaps this person has developed this from a gradual change in his gene pool through previous generations. I can't imagine this happening, as the only time I think this sort of event happens and makes an impact on society is where there is not enough understanding of the world we live in - at least not a common understanding. To say that a person educated at Oxford is more intelligent than a person with no education living on one of the islands in the South Pacific is extremely naive. To say they are more knowledgeable is less naive, but equally arrogant. Say if the religion which the Pacific islander believed in was real, and the Oxford graduate was an Atheist. Who's to say that the Islander isn't more knowledgeable than the graduate then?
Knowledge isn't about how much you know, but how much you THINK you know.
Had a good time at the pub just now with two of my close friends. We played pool for a good hour and a half. I used to play pool quite a bit with my uncles back when I was around 12, but haven't played as regularly since then. I had some REALLY lucky shots. Must be the childhood skills coming back to me, I dunno. André and Angelo play pool properly though; they think about how the ball bounces, and even down to the tactics on how the balls are laid out for breaking. That's how its meant to be played, unlike me who just puts it all down to lady luck.
Until next time.
Saturday 28 May 2011
Cinematic Peeves
Hi all,
Sorry again for the break in tradition for blogging everyday. I fear that I'll have to permanently break it, cos you know, I'm a busy person!
Went to the cinema up at the O2 yesterday to see The Hangover: Part II. It's a pretty awesome film I must say, not better than the first one, but not worse at the same time. One part of it which I didn't get (possibly bad scripting or on the director's behalf) was the part where (minor spoiler) Stu's Bride-to-be's brother loses his finger, and doesn't really feel bothered at all by it. I'm sorry, but if I were to lose one of my fingers, I would be more than just a bit upset, especially if I was 16 (the actor looked more like he was around 20). Then again, this is an American film, whatchagonnado?
Had a minor issue with my ticket in the cinema as well. I decided to use the self-service ticket machine that only accepts cards. Sure, I got a ticket, and paid the full £9.40 Adult price, but there was one problem; my friends all had their ticket for the 21:45 showing, while I had the one for the 22:50 showing. I am absolutely positive that I chose the right ticket on the self-service machine. When I asked the manager about it, he said that the tickets for the 21:45 showing were all sold out, so that's why it gave the 22:50 showing instead. Well thanks a lot, VUE Cinema! Instead of informing me that the tickets were sold out for the showing, instead you take my money, and give me a ticket for a showing which I DID NOT ask for. What, can you tell how flexible I am; "Meh, I asked for the 21:45 showing, and it's getting late, but sod it! might aswell get home for like 3 in the morning". Nevertheless, I managed to get in with my friends to watch it at 21:45. My word, there was a lot of advertising, so the film actually started at 22:10 or something.
I guess it's just me, but I get quite annoyed when people start talking about the events that happened during a film you just watched. It's like "Yeah yeah, that bit was funny - oh yeah, that bit too - yeah that was good - ok - yep - *nod* - *nod* - *sigh*" ad infinitum. Maybe it's because they really want to remember parts of the film so that they can talk about it in the future, but I mean, comon, we all watched it, and our attention span isn't that of a 5 year-old (for most of us, anyway). Actually, come to think of it, I'm really bad at remembering films.
Until next time.
Sorry again for the break in tradition for blogging everyday. I fear that I'll have to permanently break it, cos you know, I'm a busy person!
Went to the cinema up at the O2 yesterday to see The Hangover: Part II. It's a pretty awesome film I must say, not better than the first one, but not worse at the same time. One part of it which I didn't get (possibly bad scripting or on the director's behalf) was the part where (minor spoiler) Stu's Bride-to-be's brother loses his finger, and doesn't really feel bothered at all by it. I'm sorry, but if I were to lose one of my fingers, I would be more than just a bit upset, especially if I was 16 (the actor looked more like he was around 20). Then again, this is an American film, whatchagonnado?
Had a minor issue with my ticket in the cinema as well. I decided to use the self-service ticket machine that only accepts cards. Sure, I got a ticket, and paid the full £9.40 Adult price, but there was one problem; my friends all had their ticket for the 21:45 showing, while I had the one for the 22:50 showing. I am absolutely positive that I chose the right ticket on the self-service machine. When I asked the manager about it, he said that the tickets for the 21:45 showing were all sold out, so that's why it gave the 22:50 showing instead. Well thanks a lot, VUE Cinema! Instead of informing me that the tickets were sold out for the showing, instead you take my money, and give me a ticket for a showing which I DID NOT ask for. What, can you tell how flexible I am; "Meh, I asked for the 21:45 showing, and it's getting late, but sod it! might aswell get home for like 3 in the morning". Nevertheless, I managed to get in with my friends to watch it at 21:45. My word, there was a lot of advertising, so the film actually started at 22:10 or something.
I guess it's just me, but I get quite annoyed when people start talking about the events that happened during a film you just watched. It's like "Yeah yeah, that bit was funny - oh yeah, that bit too - yeah that was good - ok - yep - *nod* - *nod* - *sigh*" ad infinitum. Maybe it's because they really want to remember parts of the film so that they can talk about it in the future, but I mean, comon, we all watched it, and our attention span isn't that of a 5 year-old (for most of us, anyway). Actually, come to think of it, I'm really bad at remembering films.
Until next time.
Thursday 26 May 2011
Local Education
Hi all,
Continuing from my last blog post...
After Leaver's Mass was ended, and after having a short conversation with a few teachers, we all traditionally headed to the great low-cost, student-standard, nearest-to-school pub that is the Hudson Bay. Now on our usual Friday evenings, there's only a few of us, perhaps 5 or 6 at the most. Yesterday we pretty much packed out the whole of the beer garden. Was a great laugh, I must admit. I stupidly forgot to take my ID with me when I left in the morning, so I had to kindly ask my mum to drop it off to me. I was hoping that the guy who usually serves us was behind the bar yesterday, instead there were different people, but people that had served me before nonetheless. Apparently everyone was being asked for their ID when they ordered drinks at the bar. Understandable though, as most of us had St. Bons blazers on and a few of the girls had their St. Angela's uniforms on. Plus, I wouldn't be able to remember so many people's faces if I were in the same position.
People didn't stay for too long, so that cued my departure too. It was still well before dusk. Me and a very close friend of mine, André, crawled over to another pub closer to where we live. We've been in there a few times now, but it's one of the pubs you go past each day but hardly think much of it; it doesn't stand out much, and nobody we know has been in there before us. Needless to say, it's not a student pub. It's more of a local's pub, more for people over the age of 30. We're probably two of the youngest regulars (I say regulars but we've only been in there once before and know the barman's name), so in a pub filled with a mix of East Londoners, we catch the few odd stories here and there.
So yeah, yesterday we were casually talking to a few regulars in the pub while sitting by the bar. Wasn't as insightful as the previous time we went in there I'll admit. The previous time we went in, soon after we walked in a few of the regulars noticed André was carrying his instrument. "Play us a tune! Comon lads". The guy's name is Marvin, although he introduced himself by a different name. At first I thought he we just playing with us, because his 'name' sounded like it might be intimidating if I was in any way involved in 80's gang culture. He showed us this tattoo on his arm. It looked quite faded so it showed how old it was, but what could be read were the letters 'I.C.F'. For those of you that aren't accustomed to East London, the ICF are the Inter City Firm; West Ham United's hooliganism group. 'Hooligan' seems too harsh a word, considering the truly decent person we met at the pub. I believe him, in all honesty, and in his words "I have no reason to be bullshittin' with ya". It was definitely an education, hearing his stories. He knew all the main people too, like Cass Pennant, being among the few people in the Firm to be black.
So after an education on the history of East London, and well-wishes of making it big in the music industry (it would double the length of this blog to explain why it's funny), we left the pub feeling more a part of London than before. Also makes me think that I should really start following football, West Ham in particular, so as to have at least something to talk about at the pub, as a safeguard in case there's nobody who happens to want to share their opinions on anything other than football. Luckily I'm usually with André, who keeps very much up-to-date with most sport. It was especially handy yesterday, because a conversation on the greatest footballers came about. Oh, and the one embarrassing event for me was managing to spill literally ALL of my pork scratchings bag over the carpet as I opened them. Such is the way of life.
Until next time.
Continuing from my last blog post...
After Leaver's Mass was ended, and after having a short conversation with a few teachers, we all traditionally headed to the great low-cost, student-standard, nearest-to-school pub that is the Hudson Bay. Now on our usual Friday evenings, there's only a few of us, perhaps 5 or 6 at the most. Yesterday we pretty much packed out the whole of the beer garden. Was a great laugh, I must admit. I stupidly forgot to take my ID with me when I left in the morning, so I had to kindly ask my mum to drop it off to me. I was hoping that the guy who usually serves us was behind the bar yesterday, instead there were different people, but people that had served me before nonetheless. Apparently everyone was being asked for their ID when they ordered drinks at the bar. Understandable though, as most of us had St. Bons blazers on and a few of the girls had their St. Angela's uniforms on. Plus, I wouldn't be able to remember so many people's faces if I were in the same position.
People didn't stay for too long, so that cued my departure too. It was still well before dusk. Me and a very close friend of mine, André, crawled over to another pub closer to where we live. We've been in there a few times now, but it's one of the pubs you go past each day but hardly think much of it; it doesn't stand out much, and nobody we know has been in there before us. Needless to say, it's not a student pub. It's more of a local's pub, more for people over the age of 30. We're probably two of the youngest regulars (I say regulars but we've only been in there once before and know the barman's name), so in a pub filled with a mix of East Londoners, we catch the few odd stories here and there.
So yeah, yesterday we were casually talking to a few regulars in the pub while sitting by the bar. Wasn't as insightful as the previous time we went in there I'll admit. The previous time we went in, soon after we walked in a few of the regulars noticed André was carrying his instrument. "Play us a tune! Comon lads". The guy's name is Marvin, although he introduced himself by a different name. At first I thought he we just playing with us, because his 'name' sounded like it might be intimidating if I was in any way involved in 80's gang culture. He showed us this tattoo on his arm. It looked quite faded so it showed how old it was, but what could be read were the letters 'I.C.F'. For those of you that aren't accustomed to East London, the ICF are the Inter City Firm; West Ham United's hooliganism group. 'Hooligan' seems too harsh a word, considering the truly decent person we met at the pub. I believe him, in all honesty, and in his words "I have no reason to be bullshittin' with ya". It was definitely an education, hearing his stories. He knew all the main people too, like Cass Pennant, being among the few people in the Firm to be black.
So after an education on the history of East London, and well-wishes of making it big in the music industry (it would double the length of this blog to explain why it's funny), we left the pub feeling more a part of London than before. Also makes me think that I should really start following football, West Ham in particular, so as to have at least something to talk about at the pub, as a safeguard in case there's nobody who happens to want to share their opinions on anything other than football. Luckily I'm usually with André, who keeps very much up-to-date with most sport. It was especially handy yesterday, because a conversation on the greatest footballers came about. Oh, and the one embarrassing event for me was managing to spill literally ALL of my pork scratchings bag over the carpet as I opened them. Such is the way of life.
Until next time.
Final Day of Sixth Form
Hi all,
Apologies for being inconsistent and breaking my 'blog-a-day' tradition; I was a bit tired after the brilliant day I had yesterday.
Started off with going to a Mass with my family at St. Mary's and St. Michael's Church, in remembrance of my Nan. My Mum's side of the family live further into London than I am; not out of East London though. All of them attend or used to attend a Catholic School, like me, but I'm not sure if any of them have the same religious (or non-religious) beliefs as I do. When I went up to receive a blessing from the priest, his eyes seemed to pierce through my head. He looked into my eyes for more than a few seconds. I find it hard to believe that anyone can 'sense' that you're an Atheist, but on this occasion perhaps I was obviously lacking a certain 'faith' in my soul. Or something. I'd say it's nothing.
After spending a bit more time with my family at the cemetery, my Mum drove me and my sister back to school. We arrived at lunchtime, and being the last day of Sixth Form, there was a Leaver's Mass ceremony that took place after lunch. The first thing I noticed was that the guys were in their Bon's blazers AND ties. Really wish I did the same; the only things I had on (with regular 6th Form clothing, of course) were the Bon's tie (Music tie, so it had an extra purple stripe) and the Head Boy badge from Year 11. Then again, I guess I was representing the whole Sixth Form, as there were quite a few externals present. Didn't wanna make them feel too left out! So yeah, cue lots of photos being taken and people getting emotional (no tears though, as I was quite surprised by).
When it came to the Mass, I found myself allocated a seat right at the front, on the seat closest to the middle walkway. The Headteachers and some Senior Staff decided that the sun was too much for them, so we had to swap seats with them. The heat was quite intense, at some points. Good thing the wind came along (the Mass was outside), although at times it was quite violent, knocking over the crucifix on the altar. Of course, because I'm the Head Boy (was?), I was chosen to do the First Reading at the Mass. Needless to say, it was quite hypocritical, thinking to when I said my speech. Then again, the words were simply words to me. I'm merely a speaker of words that others may take to have more meaning behind them. Of course, this was the second Mass I went to, so it was the second time I went up for a Blessing instead of the Blessed Sacrament. And of course, I was situated right at the front, the nearest to the priest. This priest happened to be none other than the Monsignor John Armitage, who had in the past given me the Blessed Sacrament and watched me grow up in a Catholic school. I got a few looks from some teachers, but luckily I didn't have far to travel back to my seat. Near the end of the Mass, the Headteachers of both schools, the Director of Sixth Form, the Head Girl and myself all delivered speeches to the audience; the Year group and quite a significant number of teachers. Here's the full transcript:
Afternoon people,
For a few people sitting here today, this is probably the first time you’ve seen or noticed me as the Head Boy. If I’m to be honest with myself and all of you, I’m not sure whether or not I’ve performed enough duties for the Sixth Form as a whole to fully fulfil the title. Nevertheless, I’ve done as was asked of me, and I hope that you’re happy with my actions over the past year.
From what I’ve seen and experienced over the past two years, our year group stands out from the others in more ways than one. On one hand, you could say that our year likes to be different; different in terms of dress sense, different in terms of punctuality, and different in terms of how much we choose to make friends with the rest of the year group. Of course, I’m speaking generally; I’m not saying it applies to everyone individually. I do however believe that we can eventually penetrate through those barriers that each of the groups in this year possess. I’m sure that every past year group has had some level of these traits, and our year group by no means possesses the worst of these.
In my personal experience, being in this Sixth Form has brought me great opportunities that have defined the person speaking in front of you now. I have developed my understanding of who I really am, who my friends are, and experienced the highs, and lows, of being a teenager maturing into an adult. I think the greatest development I have made is that of understanding the world surrounding us. The Sixth Form has opened up chances for me to view the world more openly, instead of just this stubborn chrysalis that we call London
And if you’re not proud of yourself, at least know that I’m proud of you. I wish every one of you all the best wherever your lives take you, and I hope that we’ll meet each other again in the near or distant future.
Thank you.
I admit, it took quite a bit of my courage to say that I'm an Atheist in front of everyone, especially Monsignor and my GCSE RE teacher. What can I say, I like to surprise people at the most appropriate times. After the speech, Serviam badges were handed out to the Deputy Head Boys and Girls, then to the Head Girl and I. They're pretty much like the Victoria Cross medals of the two schools. Honestly, I was really proud when I received mine. I'm always going to be proud of where I'm from and where I attended, because these places have made me who I am today. I'm also proud of the people I've gotten to know over the past two years, and for some it's been seven years. I'd like to thank all of you, wherever you are, and wish you the best in trying to make this world a better place. You're the future!
So, as the service was ended, I was returning back to my seat when the Monsignor put his hand on my shoulder, saying "You're a very brave man". I apologised to him, in case I offended him by saying I'm an Atheist, but he stopped me, saying "no no, no need to apologise, you're a brave man for saying what you've said. The only thing I'm asking you is to never give up on Him. He'll always be waiting, so you needn't worry". To an extent, I agreed with what Monsignor had to say. I'm not giving up on the idea, but I'm not accepting it as the answer. He's a wise man, regardless of what anyone thinks. A really down-to-earth guy. A person that I respect, and have respected for many years now.
A few teachers approached me afterwards, saying the exact same about how brave I was to say what I said. They joked about too, saying "I think there's a stoning taking place outside a bit later, you might wanna get a move on" - words of Mr. Templeman. Mrs Burke (née Reynolds) offered to double-check my Leaver's Ball speech, to which I replied saying that I wanted to keep it a surprise. Although I think I've blown all my surprises at once with the speech I said.
I'll post a blog later about the good few hours that followed. Most of which has been documented already by people's cameras. That reminds me, I really do need to get a camera.
Until next time.
Tuesday 24 May 2011
The End is Near
Hi all,
After reading through other people's blogs, I'm starting to think that I need more imagery, especially at the top of the page; it's looking a bit plain at the moment. A redesign of the blog is due. Not sure when that'll happen though.
I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome Andrew and Angelo to the world of blogging. They're really good friends of mine; people I can rely on, and people who have always been there for me. I can't say much about their blog at the moment because they've only posted a couple of entries each, but they like talking about what's wrong with the world, as do I. Check their blogs out if you can; they've even given insight into their backgrounds. The great thing about blogging is that it makes you realise how people think differently, and the ability to speak freely about your opinions, or however much you wish to reveal them to the world.
Had my last ever day of timetabled lessons today (and lessons, for that matter). I'm not feeling much at the moment, but I guess when I get around to acknowledging the things I'll be missing out on, sadness will briefly make an appearance. No more seeing the same teachers and saying "Orright Sir!" or "Orright Miss!" as you walk past. No more seeing the same classmates almost every day. No more banter in the classrooms. No more feeling like the oldest kids around the two schools. No more casual talk with teachers during lessons. No more free education.
I guess the sadness will start seeping in tomorrow after Leaver's Mass. No doubt that some girls will shed tears - perhaps a few guys but they won't speak of it. As Head Boy, I'll be doing a speech during the service. I'll leave my speech as a surprise in case I spoil anything. Don't worry, I won't be bludgeoning religion or leaving everyone feeling angry (I hope). As much as I love venting my opinions (as do most people), I absolutely hate making people angry or upset. The only thing I'm remotely awkward about is the fact that I'll be doing the First Reading during the Mass. Not on the fact that I feel strange about saying these words like "the Lord our God", because they're no more than words to me, but more because I wouldn't like to offend anyone by doing these readings. Then again, Muslims and Hindus will be present during the Mass, so I won't be totally isolated (along with a few other Atheists) in my thoughts about the meaning behind the 'Words of God'. If you're in Year 13, I'll see you tomorrow.
Until next time.
After reading through other people's blogs, I'm starting to think that I need more imagery, especially at the top of the page; it's looking a bit plain at the moment. A redesign of the blog is due. Not sure when that'll happen though.
I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome Andrew and Angelo to the world of blogging. They're really good friends of mine; people I can rely on, and people who have always been there for me. I can't say much about their blog at the moment because they've only posted a couple of entries each, but they like talking about what's wrong with the world, as do I. Check their blogs out if you can; they've even given insight into their backgrounds. The great thing about blogging is that it makes you realise how people think differently, and the ability to speak freely about your opinions, or however much you wish to reveal them to the world.
Had my last ever day of timetabled lessons today (and lessons, for that matter). I'm not feeling much at the moment, but I guess when I get around to acknowledging the things I'll be missing out on, sadness will briefly make an appearance. No more seeing the same teachers and saying "Orright Sir!" or "Orright Miss!" as you walk past. No more seeing the same classmates almost every day. No more banter in the classrooms. No more feeling like the oldest kids around the two schools. No more casual talk with teachers during lessons. No more free education.
I guess the sadness will start seeping in tomorrow after Leaver's Mass. No doubt that some girls will shed tears - perhaps a few guys but they won't speak of it. As Head Boy, I'll be doing a speech during the service. I'll leave my speech as a surprise in case I spoil anything. Don't worry, I won't be bludgeoning religion or leaving everyone feeling angry (I hope). As much as I love venting my opinions (as do most people), I absolutely hate making people angry or upset. The only thing I'm remotely awkward about is the fact that I'll be doing the First Reading during the Mass. Not on the fact that I feel strange about saying these words like "the Lord our God", because they're no more than words to me, but more because I wouldn't like to offend anyone by doing these readings. Then again, Muslims and Hindus will be present during the Mass, so I won't be totally isolated (along with a few other Atheists) in my thoughts about the meaning behind the 'Words of God'. If you're in Year 13, I'll see you tomorrow.
Until next time.
Monday 23 May 2011
Exploration and Understanding
Hi all,
Had a fairly insightful day into the minds and experiences of other people. I guess people are becoming more reflective now that it's coming to the final few days of Sixth Form.
I chatted with my form tutor (one of the two) this morning about his gap year. He just happened to have a photo album of it in the classroom, I presumed he kept it there for showing students like myself. He went to Australia for three months, stopping off in Los Angeles and Hawaii on the way there, 5 days in each area. Even though he only had a few photographs, it was enough to capture the main events that happened. Makes me want to go out and experience the world even more, actually. There were a few photographs he took of Ayer's Rock. Quite amazing actually, even though they were taken back in (what looked like) the late 80's / early 90's. It's reassuring that you can still get great images and capture all the good times even with a fairly average camera. Now of course with digital cameras you can view the image you've just taken, rather than having to wait until the photographs are developed in a shop from the roll of film. I'm hoping to take loads of decent photographs in Uganda, and even on the way there and back. For me, the excitement starts as soon as I walk on the plane. I love a good window seat.
Later on in the day, during lunchtime and my free period, I had a (calm) discussion with my friends about religion. Needless to say, on the spectrum of religion, I was probably on the 'most extreme side' of Atheism out of all the people present, but at the same time I wasn't the only non-religious person present. Instead of venting my own opinions, I tried my best to ask questions that uncover the true thoughts of religious people. All people suffer with a degree of difficulty in explaining their thoughts - as in, you know your thoughts well, but find it difficult to explain it to another person so that they can understand where you're coming from. It's also interesting to know how much a person thinks about their beliefs, and their reaction to your own interpretation of it. One example was when I asked about someone's reason to believe that when it comes to Judgement by God, only their group of a couple of hundred or so people will be saved and delivered to Heaven. They seemed to think for a second, then say 'well, if people have lived their lives according to the Bible, then of course they will be saved'. This of course suggests that not everyone in every denomination necessarily abides by their denomination's set beliefs, otherwise the person I was speaking to would have no reason to be a part of a separate Church, a few hundred people in number. Obviously there must be some sort of incentive for people to abide by their own separate denominations. It's quite amazing how people don't pick up on the fact that you can actually 'create' your own religion by simply stating that 'actually, I believe that everyone will go to Heaven, regardless of how they've lived their lives'. But of course, humans are naturally more selective and hard-going on themselves to do that, as has been indoctrinated.
Until next time.
Had a fairly insightful day into the minds and experiences of other people. I guess people are becoming more reflective now that it's coming to the final few days of Sixth Form.
I chatted with my form tutor (one of the two) this morning about his gap year. He just happened to have a photo album of it in the classroom, I presumed he kept it there for showing students like myself. He went to Australia for three months, stopping off in Los Angeles and Hawaii on the way there, 5 days in each area. Even though he only had a few photographs, it was enough to capture the main events that happened. Makes me want to go out and experience the world even more, actually. There were a few photographs he took of Ayer's Rock. Quite amazing actually, even though they were taken back in (what looked like) the late 80's / early 90's. It's reassuring that you can still get great images and capture all the good times even with a fairly average camera. Now of course with digital cameras you can view the image you've just taken, rather than having to wait until the photographs are developed in a shop from the roll of film. I'm hoping to take loads of decent photographs in Uganda, and even on the way there and back. For me, the excitement starts as soon as I walk on the plane. I love a good window seat.
Later on in the day, during lunchtime and my free period, I had a (calm) discussion with my friends about religion. Needless to say, on the spectrum of religion, I was probably on the 'most extreme side' of Atheism out of all the people present, but at the same time I wasn't the only non-religious person present. Instead of venting my own opinions, I tried my best to ask questions that uncover the true thoughts of religious people. All people suffer with a degree of difficulty in explaining their thoughts - as in, you know your thoughts well, but find it difficult to explain it to another person so that they can understand where you're coming from. It's also interesting to know how much a person thinks about their beliefs, and their reaction to your own interpretation of it. One example was when I asked about someone's reason to believe that when it comes to Judgement by God, only their group of a couple of hundred or so people will be saved and delivered to Heaven. They seemed to think for a second, then say 'well, if people have lived their lives according to the Bible, then of course they will be saved'. This of course suggests that not everyone in every denomination necessarily abides by their denomination's set beliefs, otherwise the person I was speaking to would have no reason to be a part of a separate Church, a few hundred people in number. Obviously there must be some sort of incentive for people to abide by their own separate denominations. It's quite amazing how people don't pick up on the fact that you can actually 'create' your own religion by simply stating that 'actually, I believe that everyone will go to Heaven, regardless of how they've lived their lives'. But of course, humans are naturally more selective and hard-going on themselves to do that, as has been indoctrinated.
Until next time.
Sunday 22 May 2011
The Root of Intelligence
Hi all,
Admittedly, over the past few weekends I have done very little revision - a lot less than I should anyway. I like spending my weekends relaxing a bit more, what can I say!
I caught up with the latest documentary series presented by Michael Mosley (another public figure I like, along with Michio Kaku and Robert Winston), "Inside the Human Body", this one about the development of our brains. It's an episode that stands out the most in my opinion, because I think it defines who we actually are; the essence of ourselves and individuality. The complexity associated with our brains is something which I think will captivate me for a while yet, and I aim to make something of this interest by making myself part of artificial intelligence research groups at the University I'm going to. I'd like to get into Bristol, as they've got research groups that are of particular interest to me, such as the one focusing on decision making: http://www.bris.ac.uk/news/2011/7561.html
The mind is truly a wonder. The biggest wonder in existence, I think. So much so, that I think we'll sooner discover the origin of the universe's existence than how our minds operate. Everything we perceive is due to the fact that our brains are routing electrical signals between microscopic nodes (that's what we think at the moment, anyway) inside our cranium. On the topic of artificial intelligence, I hope to join research groups that are focused on understanding the true meaning behind the word 'intelligence'. I wish there was a different title for AI because the meaning of the word 'intelligence' seems to shift depending on how you define it. When I went to open days at Bristol and Sheffield, I asked the lecturers what their definition of 'intelligence' was. The one at Bristol seemed taken aback at first, because he said he's not actually been asked that question before (I doubt it, but these are his words). Also, it'd be interesting to see what USA is researching, if my opportunities guide me that far.
Until next time.
Admittedly, over the past few weekends I have done very little revision - a lot less than I should anyway. I like spending my weekends relaxing a bit more, what can I say!
I caught up with the latest documentary series presented by Michael Mosley (another public figure I like, along with Michio Kaku and Robert Winston), "Inside the Human Body", this one about the development of our brains. It's an episode that stands out the most in my opinion, because I think it defines who we actually are; the essence of ourselves and individuality. The complexity associated with our brains is something which I think will captivate me for a while yet, and I aim to make something of this interest by making myself part of artificial intelligence research groups at the University I'm going to. I'd like to get into Bristol, as they've got research groups that are of particular interest to me, such as the one focusing on decision making: http://www.bris.ac.uk/news/2011/7561.html
The mind is truly a wonder. The biggest wonder in existence, I think. So much so, that I think we'll sooner discover the origin of the universe's existence than how our minds operate. Everything we perceive is due to the fact that our brains are routing electrical signals between microscopic nodes (that's what we think at the moment, anyway) inside our cranium. On the topic of artificial intelligence, I hope to join research groups that are focused on understanding the true meaning behind the word 'intelligence'. I wish there was a different title for AI because the meaning of the word 'intelligence' seems to shift depending on how you define it. When I went to open days at Bristol and Sheffield, I asked the lecturers what their definition of 'intelligence' was. The one at Bristol seemed taken aback at first, because he said he's not actually been asked that question before (I doubt it, but these are his words). Also, it'd be interesting to see what USA is researching, if my opportunities guide me that far.
Until next time.
Saturday 21 May 2011
Rapture (nothing to do with Bioshock)
Hi all,
I guess it was inevitable that I'd be blogging about this whole speculation about the second coming of Jesus or Judgement Day or whatever you'd like to call it.
According to an 89-year old (I don't know why his age is relevant) American Christian Radio broadcaster, Harold Camping, brimstone and fire would start to sweep across the world on this date (if you haven't heard about it already), earthquakes would start in each timezone at 6pm. Well, as I'm typing this, the clock is reading 18:28. I guess I'll just keep holding my breath until 7pm. Lol.
It'd be unfair to bludgeon the whole of religion for this idiotic prediction, and to be honest I think I've exhausted my Unholy Cannon of Arguments for a while. I don't like constantly disagreeing with people, but as an Atheist it's almost a daily occurrence for me. I keep my mouth shut in most situations, hence my need to vent my opinions in other forms.
I'm gonna have to leave this post shorter than most. Again, apologies if you were offended.
See y'all in Hell! (said Harold Camping)
Until next time.
I guess it was inevitable that I'd be blogging about this whole speculation about the second coming of Jesus or Judgement Day or whatever you'd like to call it.
According to an 89-year old (I don't know why his age is relevant) American Christian Radio broadcaster, Harold Camping, brimstone and fire would start to sweep across the world on this date (if you haven't heard about it already), earthquakes would start in each timezone at 6pm. Well, as I'm typing this, the clock is reading 18:28. I guess I'll just keep holding my breath until 7pm. Lol.
It'd be unfair to bludgeon the whole of religion for this idiotic prediction, and to be honest I think I've exhausted my Unholy Cannon of Arguments for a while. I don't like constantly disagreeing with people, but as an Atheist it's almost a daily occurrence for me. I keep my mouth shut in most situations, hence my need to vent my opinions in other forms.
I'm gonna have to leave this post shorter than most. Again, apologies if you were offended.
See y'all in Hell! (said Harold Camping)
Until next time.
Friday 20 May 2011
Medicinal Empathy
Hi all,
Apologies if you were offended in the slightest by my last blog post.
After nearly a year of being completely acne-free, my face has flared up again. Went to the doctors today and got a prescription of the same medication that seemed to help most after my first affliction. More of a trial-and-error thing really; I've been prescribed loads of stuff to try and alleviate the spots. It's nowhere near as bad as it was when I first had it back in 2009, but it needs to be 'nipped in the bud' as they say. I'm starting to think that perhaps certain medication that is prescribed by doctors is more of a placebo than an actual drug. I guess there's a lot of health treatment that focuses on reassuring the patient's mind rather than actually providing an improved immune system. I guess it's to keep costs down, but with the overwhelming amount of people doing medicine, you'd imagine that there'd be a better way of alleviating symptoms. I could be wrong; I'm no psychologist.
My Mum recently went for an (pretty serious) operation at St. Bart's Hospital, and she was telling me how she was waiting for ages on the operating table to be given anaesthetic by the younger assistants in there. Apparently, they were more interested in discussing their social life than my Mum's welfare. The surgeon started operating, but they still had not given her any anaesthetic. Needless to say, my mum was in a lot of pain. At first, I felt angry at the assistants (likely to be medical students), but then I thought 'hold on, which idiot is giving them responsibility to be present at an operating procedure?'. Quite frankly, it's disgusting that such people should be kept in their government-supported courses, when clearly they don't give a damn about other people. To them, my Mum was just a bunch of meat on the table adding to their points record. Disgraceful.
You'd think that people going into medicine would actually do it more to help people than the money. It's a crying shame. Perhaps this was a fairly isolated incident. I really do hope so, because if I were that surgeon who operated on my Mum, I'd kick each and every one of those students off the course. They don't deserve it. People may complain that 'you can't be nice to people all the time blah blah blah' - but the point is, don't go into medicine unless you're willing to help people whenever you can, and have at least some empathy in your duty.
Until next time.
Apologies if you were offended in the slightest by my last blog post.
After nearly a year of being completely acne-free, my face has flared up again. Went to the doctors today and got a prescription of the same medication that seemed to help most after my first affliction. More of a trial-and-error thing really; I've been prescribed loads of stuff to try and alleviate the spots. It's nowhere near as bad as it was when I first had it back in 2009, but it needs to be 'nipped in the bud' as they say. I'm starting to think that perhaps certain medication that is prescribed by doctors is more of a placebo than an actual drug. I guess there's a lot of health treatment that focuses on reassuring the patient's mind rather than actually providing an improved immune system. I guess it's to keep costs down, but with the overwhelming amount of people doing medicine, you'd imagine that there'd be a better way of alleviating symptoms. I could be wrong; I'm no psychologist.
My Mum recently went for an (pretty serious) operation at St. Bart's Hospital, and she was telling me how she was waiting for ages on the operating table to be given anaesthetic by the younger assistants in there. Apparently, they were more interested in discussing their social life than my Mum's welfare. The surgeon started operating, but they still had not given her any anaesthetic. Needless to say, my mum was in a lot of pain. At first, I felt angry at the assistants (likely to be medical students), but then I thought 'hold on, which idiot is giving them responsibility to be present at an operating procedure?'. Quite frankly, it's disgusting that such people should be kept in their government-supported courses, when clearly they don't give a damn about other people. To them, my Mum was just a bunch of meat on the table adding to their points record. Disgraceful.
You'd think that people going into medicine would actually do it more to help people than the money. It's a crying shame. Perhaps this was a fairly isolated incident. I really do hope so, because if I were that surgeon who operated on my Mum, I'd kick each and every one of those students off the course. They don't deserve it. People may complain that 'you can't be nice to people all the time blah blah blah' - but the point is, don't go into medicine unless you're willing to help people whenever you can, and have at least some empathy in your duty.
Until next time.
Thursday 19 May 2011
Religion: A Touchy Subject
Hi all,
I'm quite enjoying the blog sessions now. Kinda lets me extract my thoughts and allows me to reflect on what I've been doing.
I may have mentioned this already, but I'm an Atheist. To class myself as an Atheist does not mean that I believe in particular things. It merely means that I do not believe in any form of a deity. Many people seem to think of atheism in terms of a religion; that all atheists believe in the big bang, and all atheists live in the same way etc. Perhaps it is merely our human instinct to classify people so bluntly and with such ignorance. Perhaps it's for the better, especially when dealing with large groups of people. Everyone thinks differently, so for one person to control many people, they need a way in which they can understand people on their own level; a way of summarising, for if they were to consider each person individually then they'd be hesitating on decisions for decades.
I guess I've been a proclaimed atheist for about a year now. Not to say that I was religious at any point prior in my life. I've been brought up in a Catholic Primary and Secondary School and to a Catholic Family. I'm lucky (in my opinion) that neither my family nor my schooling has shoved religion down my throat at a young age. I think that children are most susceptible to doing as they are told, and that is the danger with teaching religion to be practised. Learning about religion is absolutely acceptable - heck, I know that I'll be teaching my children about all kinds of religion, if their education facilities fail to. You see, I've been taught these things, and received the sacrament of Baptism and Holy Communion, but never actually BELIEVED in anything related to a greater entity being benevolent and omnipresent and so forth. It's actually quite embarrassing when I look back on myself performing these rituals. I only did it because I was a child following what everyone else around me were doing.
After having debates with people from other faiths, including Hinduism, Islam and non-Catholic Christian denominations, I'm always stunned by people's stubbornness to believe in ideas that they cannot explain to me rationally. It's like they don't understand why they 'believe' the ideas themselves. They just accept these ideas. Of the religions who base beliefs on texts written down, I cannot to this day (and perhaps never will) fathom why people believe almost blindly to what is in those texts. When I asked one of my classmates why his Hindu beliefs told him that he should stay away from eating garlic and/or onions, his own response really interested me. He looked bemused as he stated that he didn't know, and said he'd go and look it up. I looked it up, and apparently it's because it creates a sense of negativity in the mind, and dullness in the mood. Well, at least there's a reason, albeit an odd one.
I guess in part, the reason why most people defend their religion is because they want to maintain their own dignity, even if they know that in their rationality, their 'beliefs' are highly unjustified. But hey, that's just an Atheist's point of view. And for those of you that are religious: all Atheists think the same don't they?
Until next time.
I'm quite enjoying the blog sessions now. Kinda lets me extract my thoughts and allows me to reflect on what I've been doing.
I may have mentioned this already, but I'm an Atheist. To class myself as an Atheist does not mean that I believe in particular things. It merely means that I do not believe in any form of a deity. Many people seem to think of atheism in terms of a religion; that all atheists believe in the big bang, and all atheists live in the same way etc. Perhaps it is merely our human instinct to classify people so bluntly and with such ignorance. Perhaps it's for the better, especially when dealing with large groups of people. Everyone thinks differently, so for one person to control many people, they need a way in which they can understand people on their own level; a way of summarising, for if they were to consider each person individually then they'd be hesitating on decisions for decades.
I guess I've been a proclaimed atheist for about a year now. Not to say that I was religious at any point prior in my life. I've been brought up in a Catholic Primary and Secondary School and to a Catholic Family. I'm lucky (in my opinion) that neither my family nor my schooling has shoved religion down my throat at a young age. I think that children are most susceptible to doing as they are told, and that is the danger with teaching religion to be practised. Learning about religion is absolutely acceptable - heck, I know that I'll be teaching my children about all kinds of religion, if their education facilities fail to. You see, I've been taught these things, and received the sacrament of Baptism and Holy Communion, but never actually BELIEVED in anything related to a greater entity being benevolent and omnipresent and so forth. It's actually quite embarrassing when I look back on myself performing these rituals. I only did it because I was a child following what everyone else around me were doing.
After having debates with people from other faiths, including Hinduism, Islam and non-Catholic Christian denominations, I'm always stunned by people's stubbornness to believe in ideas that they cannot explain to me rationally. It's like they don't understand why they 'believe' the ideas themselves. They just accept these ideas. Of the religions who base beliefs on texts written down, I cannot to this day (and perhaps never will) fathom why people believe almost blindly to what is in those texts. When I asked one of my classmates why his Hindu beliefs told him that he should stay away from eating garlic and/or onions, his own response really interested me. He looked bemused as he stated that he didn't know, and said he'd go and look it up. I looked it up, and apparently it's because it creates a sense of negativity in the mind, and dullness in the mood. Well, at least there's a reason, albeit an odd one.
I guess in part, the reason why most people defend their religion is because they want to maintain their own dignity, even if they know that in their rationality, their 'beliefs' are highly unjustified. But hey, that's just an Atheist's point of view. And for those of you that are religious: all Atheists think the same don't they?
Until next time.
Wednesday 18 May 2011
Project Uganda
Hi all,
Feeling quite worn down today, I've got a bit of a headache and I don't think I've had enough sleep. Early night for me today!
I've probably mentioned this a few times now but I'll fill you in completely with Project Uganda.
It's a project based in the 6th Form, headed by an organisation called World Challenge. They help to govern expedition programmes for young people to experience life outside their comfy First-world countries. You might be thinking "Why the hell would you want to go to a third-world country that's probably dangerous and full of disease?". If so, then you Sir, have a very narrow mindset. Broaden your horizons, for goodness' sake. Sure, the country may be worse-off than ours in terms of healthcare and finance, but it hosts a different world to the cosy and mundane world you've grown up in. I guess you'd only slightly agree with me if your parents have houses in these countries, because in that case, your experience of those countries would possibly mean you're still living cosily and not much different to how you are back home.
If you're a person living in an 'inner-city' area, chances are you've already seen the worst state of living in this country. Council estates, homelessness, eviction... at least homeless people have access to free food and support to get them back with a roof over their head. This is how a lot of people live in third world countries. Minus the free food. Minus the ample support centres. Minus the safety in knowing you're being looked after in the most basic way by your country.
I didn't choose the destination, nor did any of the other 6 students. Uganda's a country in the centre of Africa, has a rainforest-like climate and passes through the equator (in case you didn't know anything about it apart from "Eat Da Poo Poo" and Fonejacker's George Agdgdgwngo). Oh and I'm going there in... 7 weeks time!
We'll firstly be introduced to the country by going on community trails and short treks through rural villages in Western Uganda. Then we'll be doing 10 days of project work in a primary school, possibly helping to build their playground, renovate classrooms and perhaps even teach for a bit. I'm most looking forward to this part. I'm loving the idea of making an impact on a small community of people, helping them to have a better quality of life. A true gift of life. No doubt I'll be taking LOTS of photographs. I've never left Europe before, and I really do love going to different environment and seeing new things. I'd like to document what happens too, so I'll probably end up continuing this blog while I'm there. Oh, and for the last few days we'll be going on Safaris and be all tourist-y.
I think the headache has merged with my neck and back now, time for that early night.
Until next time.
Feeling quite worn down today, I've got a bit of a headache and I don't think I've had enough sleep. Early night for me today!
I've probably mentioned this a few times now but I'll fill you in completely with Project Uganda.
It's a project based in the 6th Form, headed by an organisation called World Challenge. They help to govern expedition programmes for young people to experience life outside their comfy First-world countries. You might be thinking "Why the hell would you want to go to a third-world country that's probably dangerous and full of disease?". If so, then you Sir, have a very narrow mindset. Broaden your horizons, for goodness' sake. Sure, the country may be worse-off than ours in terms of healthcare and finance, but it hosts a different world to the cosy and mundane world you've grown up in. I guess you'd only slightly agree with me if your parents have houses in these countries, because in that case, your experience of those countries would possibly mean you're still living cosily and not much different to how you are back home.
If you're a person living in an 'inner-city' area, chances are you've already seen the worst state of living in this country. Council estates, homelessness, eviction... at least homeless people have access to free food and support to get them back with a roof over their head. This is how a lot of people live in third world countries. Minus the free food. Minus the ample support centres. Minus the safety in knowing you're being looked after in the most basic way by your country.
I didn't choose the destination, nor did any of the other 6 students. Uganda's a country in the centre of Africa, has a rainforest-like climate and passes through the equator (in case you didn't know anything about it apart from "Eat Da Poo Poo" and Fonejacker's George Agdgdgwngo). Oh and I'm going there in... 7 weeks time!
We'll firstly be introduced to the country by going on community trails and short treks through rural villages in Western Uganda. Then we'll be doing 10 days of project work in a primary school, possibly helping to build their playground, renovate classrooms and perhaps even teach for a bit. I'm most looking forward to this part. I'm loving the idea of making an impact on a small community of people, helping them to have a better quality of life. A true gift of life. No doubt I'll be taking LOTS of photographs. I've never left Europe before, and I really do love going to different environment and seeing new things. I'd like to document what happens too, so I'll probably end up continuing this blog while I'm there. Oh, and for the last few days we'll be going on Safaris and be all tourist-y.
I think the headache has merged with my neck and back now, time for that early night.
Until next time.
Tuesday 17 May 2011
Leaving Free Education
Hi all,
Since I've been going on about stuff that's happened in the past, I thought I should start to blog properly about stuff that happens day-by-day.
Today was a pretty good day, everyone seemed to be in a good mood, despite the fact that it's the second day of exam season. I still don't think it's sunk in yet about how close I am to leaving the Sixth Form. Only a week left until we're given Study Leave. Needless to say, the biggest change will be not seeing the same faces each week, and not seeing my friends each day. I don't know anyone else in the Sixth Form who are likely to go to Bristol. Probably better that way though. New beginnings!
I've requested to do a speech at the Leaver's Mass (held just before we're given Study Leave). I guess they won't say no because I'm the Head Boy, but this is just me assuming. I want to do a speech because I'd like to give a kind of 'sign-off' to the rest of the students. Also, I'd like to feel as though I've actually fulfilled my title. There are other people who I think the title of Head Boy should have been given to; people that actually get involved regularly in societies and take leadership. As I've found out from my time trying to fundraise for an Expedition to Uganda, I really don't like taking charge of things. I don't like bossing other people. I don't like having to make the main decisions. I especially don't like it when there's money involved.
Ah, Leaver's Ball...
So, if anyone from the Sixth Form is reading this, are you going? The answer from most people seems to be "Ahh I dunno man, are you going?!" or "£50? DAS A BUMP BRUV".
I'll say that I'm going, to encourage others to go. Also I'm kinda obliged to. Lol.
This'll probably have to be explained in another post, or will never be explained at all, but I will genuinely miss my Further Maths classes, primarily because of the brainchild of two people in the class; Kaiser 'Face to Face' Iqbal and Jad 'Big 12' El-Houssami
Until next time.
Since I've been going on about stuff that's happened in the past, I thought I should start to blog properly about stuff that happens day-by-day.
Today was a pretty good day, everyone seemed to be in a good mood, despite the fact that it's the second day of exam season. I still don't think it's sunk in yet about how close I am to leaving the Sixth Form. Only a week left until we're given Study Leave. Needless to say, the biggest change will be not seeing the same faces each week, and not seeing my friends each day. I don't know anyone else in the Sixth Form who are likely to go to Bristol. Probably better that way though. New beginnings!
I've requested to do a speech at the Leaver's Mass (held just before we're given Study Leave). I guess they won't say no because I'm the Head Boy, but this is just me assuming. I want to do a speech because I'd like to give a kind of 'sign-off' to the rest of the students. Also, I'd like to feel as though I've actually fulfilled my title. There are other people who I think the title of Head Boy should have been given to; people that actually get involved regularly in societies and take leadership. As I've found out from my time trying to fundraise for an Expedition to Uganda, I really don't like taking charge of things. I don't like bossing other people. I don't like having to make the main decisions. I especially don't like it when there's money involved.
Ah, Leaver's Ball...
So, if anyone from the Sixth Form is reading this, are you going? The answer from most people seems to be "Ahh I dunno man, are you going?!" or "£50? DAS A BUMP BRUV".
I'll say that I'm going, to encourage others to go. Also I'm kinda obliged to. Lol.
This'll probably have to be explained in another post, or will never be explained at all, but I will genuinely miss my Further Maths classes, primarily because of the brainchild of two people in the class; Kaiser 'Face to Face' Iqbal and Jad 'Big 12' El-Houssami
Until next time.
Monday 16 May 2011
Hopes for Bristol and June Exams
Hi all,
So, after getting my rejection letter from Oxford soon after I returned (printed on fancy, 'screw you, you commoner' paper, and delivered in time before Christmas), I shrugged my shoulders and looked towards Bristol.
I loved it there when I went on an open day back in October. Such a vibrant and friendly place. It's genuinely the only place in the UK where I've thought "You know what, I wouldn't mind living here". I guess one of the many things I like about the place is that it has a really good balance of both City and Countryside. I didn't get a chance to walk across the Clifton Suspension Bridge to view the Avon valley properly, but from what I saw, it was one of the most beautiful natural sights I've seen within the UK.
My impression of the University was the direct reflection of my thoughts on the city itself. Unlike the other Uni's *COUGH Oxford COUGH*, Bristol's Professors were more down-to-earth and less lacking in social skills. The course is what attracts me the most, especially the Year Abroad scheme. They've got links to loads of places, but I'm turning my attention to Berkeley, near San Francisco. That's the (American) dream! I'll probably write a blog another time to do with why I'm going for USA over the other countries...
So, three A grades in August means I'm in to Bristol. I'm pretty much set with Maths. After getting 100% in my C3 exam which I sat in January, I only have to get two marks in my C4 exam to secure myself an A grade. Might aswell try for the A*, but I'm not gonna push myself for it. Computing coursework is all done and dusted, thank fuck (I use a strong word for my strong feelings), so I THINK I've secured myself an A grade there. The written test may prove a slight challenge because it's wordy, and I don't like wordy exams. Further Maths is going alright for me. I reckon I just need to keep up the revision.
I know I might seem like I'm chatting a lot about Universities and Exams and grades etc. but I guess the truth is that you remember the most about the stuff you're focused on. And there probably aren't too many people my age who aren't thinking similar things. Then again, everyone's different.
Until next time.
So, after getting my rejection letter from Oxford soon after I returned (printed on fancy, 'screw you, you commoner' paper, and delivered in time before Christmas), I shrugged my shoulders and looked towards Bristol.
I loved it there when I went on an open day back in October. Such a vibrant and friendly place. It's genuinely the only place in the UK where I've thought "You know what, I wouldn't mind living here". I guess one of the many things I like about the place is that it has a really good balance of both City and Countryside. I didn't get a chance to walk across the Clifton Suspension Bridge to view the Avon valley properly, but from what I saw, it was one of the most beautiful natural sights I've seen within the UK.
My impression of the University was the direct reflection of my thoughts on the city itself. Unlike the other Uni's *COUGH Oxford COUGH*, Bristol's Professors were more down-to-earth and less lacking in social skills. The course is what attracts me the most, especially the Year Abroad scheme. They've got links to loads of places, but I'm turning my attention to Berkeley, near San Francisco. That's the (American) dream! I'll probably write a blog another time to do with why I'm going for USA over the other countries...
So, three A grades in August means I'm in to Bristol. I'm pretty much set with Maths. After getting 100% in my C3 exam which I sat in January, I only have to get two marks in my C4 exam to secure myself an A grade. Might aswell try for the A*, but I'm not gonna push myself for it. Computing coursework is all done and dusted, thank fuck (I use a strong word for my strong feelings), so I THINK I've secured myself an A grade there. The written test may prove a slight challenge because it's wordy, and I don't like wordy exams. Further Maths is going alright for me. I reckon I just need to keep up the revision.
I know I might seem like I'm chatting a lot about Universities and Exams and grades etc. but I guess the truth is that you remember the most about the stuff you're focused on. And there probably aren't too many people my age who aren't thinking similar things. Then again, everyone's different.
Until next time.
Sunday 15 May 2011
My Taste of Elitism
Hi all, sorry for the hiatus on blogging (not that many people will be reading this anyway)
So, since November last year quite a bit has happened in terms of my life, i'll try to bring you all up-to-date with the whole experience.
I managed to get an interview at Keble College, Oxford back in December, and well, that's all that I got from it. Wasn't the most bitter pill i've had to swallow, but it was definitely a tough one. I'm possibly more disappointed not at the fact that I didn't get an offer of placement, but more because of the way in which Oxford carries out its elimination process. Everyone is asked the same question. The professors (interviewers) don't say that, but all the interviewees congregate in the Junior Common Room and share their experiences (after being advised not to), thus giving away what people will be asked in the interviews; giving them precious chances to put themselves closer to an offer. The majority of interviewees were nice enough people, albeit highly stressed and apprehensive at making friends too quickly. After all, we were all competing against each other. The private school kids seemed to have the upper hand in keeping to themselves. I could almost feel the barrier between classes. What an eye-opener.
Aside from the interviews, I had a really good time in Oxford, I'd recommend it to anyone who's even vaguely considering applying there. The accommodation wasn't bad either, as you can see from the images. Only after chatting to other people did I realise that I actually had one of the shittier rooms. I had a shared bathroom which I suppose was a giveaway but I just thought "Hah, even Oxford has shared bathrooms". I also had a view of some of Oxford's architecture which, I admit, is stunning.
Everything about the University spells 'fancy', but what I found out is that it mostly is just that; fanciness meshed on top of fanciness. It's success stems from tradition and reputation (and money), and what I discovered while in Oxford is that it's simply a good University. Just as Bristol and Sheffield and York are all good Universities. Oxford (and Cambridge, for that matter) are quite simply the epitomy of elitism and British tradition. Not to say that tradition is a bad thing, only that perhaps this country should stop serving its aristocrats more than its 'commoners'. It was an eye-opener to see the rift between classes. I guess it's even more apparent when you're White British and growing up in Newham - possibly the most diverse area on the Planet.
Nevertheless, I have good memories of the place, and it's certainly taught me to be calm in similarly stressful situations. I made friends too, some of whom I still talk to occasionally (very occasionally, now). I could go on for pages and pages about my experience there, but it's getting late and I've got school/revision sessions to look forward to tomorrow. Hah.
Until next time!
So, since November last year quite a bit has happened in terms of my life, i'll try to bring you all up-to-date with the whole experience.
I managed to get an interview at Keble College, Oxford back in December, and well, that's all that I got from it. Wasn't the most bitter pill i've had to swallow, but it was definitely a tough one. I'm possibly more disappointed not at the fact that I didn't get an offer of placement, but more because of the way in which Oxford carries out its elimination process. Everyone is asked the same question. The professors (interviewers) don't say that, but all the interviewees congregate in the Junior Common Room and share their experiences (after being advised not to), thus giving away what people will be asked in the interviews; giving them precious chances to put themselves closer to an offer. The majority of interviewees were nice enough people, albeit highly stressed and apprehensive at making friends too quickly. After all, we were all competing against each other. The private school kids seemed to have the upper hand in keeping to themselves. I could almost feel the barrier between classes. What an eye-opener.
Aside from the interviews, I had a really good time in Oxford, I'd recommend it to anyone who's even vaguely considering applying there. The accommodation wasn't bad either, as you can see from the images. Only after chatting to other people did I realise that I actually had one of the shittier rooms. I had a shared bathroom which I suppose was a giveaway but I just thought "Hah, even Oxford has shared bathrooms". I also had a view of some of Oxford's architecture which, I admit, is stunning.
Nevertheless, I have good memories of the place, and it's certainly taught me to be calm in similarly stressful situations. I made friends too, some of whom I still talk to occasionally (very occasionally, now). I could go on for pages and pages about my experience there, but it's getting late and I've got school/revision sessions to look forward to tomorrow. Hah.
Until next time!
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