It’s September at last, but still a few weeks to go before Uni starts. I’m really looking forward to settling back into a scholarly routine. The past few days I’ve noticed a some distinct changes which have reminded me that Autumn is nearly here – the new season officially starts on 22 September (the day …read more
Reaching the End of August
Only a few months ago, returning to university seemed like an age away. And now we’re nearly at the end of August, and I am reminded that for students, this means the start of term is fast approaching. I know it’s a cliché, but where has the time gone? Whether you are a new or …read more
Rewrite
“I’m not a very good writer, but I’m an excellent rewriter.” James Michener – American Author One of the biggest things I’ve learned from my first year of American Studies is how important it is to give yourself some extra time before an essay deadline. Checking the work over before the hand-in never fails to …read more
Blake’s View: A Rainy Wednesday Afternoon
Last week, as the rain lashed and the wind gusted outside, a dry tavern provided the perfect space as a friend and I pondered a frustrating question: Why had we decided to spend more than three additional years in higher education? Perhaps this is a question you might be asking yourself. Although to some the …read more
Summer Dreaming
Though I can’t say the weather is particularly summery, I have been enjoying a few very quiet days at home, which makes it feel like a summer holiday as far as I’m concerned! I’ve met up with friends, been on a few excursions and taken on extra hours at work, which has made the time …read more
Farewell First Year!
My last essay hand-in was actually two weeks ago, when the weather was incredibly hot. After submitting my final piece of work for the year (ten minutes before the noon deadline!), I ambled over to the University Library to unload a few books, wearing just a t-shirt, swimming shorts and sandals. Being the last day, …read more
Exam Time – Need Tea!
It’s exam time, which means I’m trying very hard to concentrate on writing essays and studying. But after at least four hours of racking up words for an essay, and at least five cups of tea to keep myself going, I’ve finally succumb to distraction. After checking my email, and then Facebook, and then looking …read more
In the Eye of the Storm
I think the eye of the storm is a good metaphor for my mood right now. Yesterday I handed in a Literature Review and then this afternoon I had my Japanese speaking exam, which was only 5 minutes long (though I put in quite a bit longer than that preparing for it!) It feels good …read more
Easter Break … Now Panic!
Apparently we had 3 weeks off over Easter, but it sure didn’t feel like it! There was a lot I wanted to get done, but somehow I’m already back in classes with little progress made on my assignments. I’m pleased to be back, as lectures continue to be excellent, but I’ve reached the point where …read more
Blake’s view: Nobody likes 9am lectures
Do I have any complaints about the course? No, not really. Okay, nobody likes 9am lectures. Lectures and seminars are only an hour long, and sometimes I find myself wishing they were longer. The timetabling isn’t always great, which has left me with breaks of several hours. But no matter, I’ve filled in the gaps …read more
About Blake
Hi, I'm Blake! I'm in my Second Year of American Studies. Read this blog to find out more about me and life as a University student in Portsmouth.
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