Tips for becoming a journalist from a trainee reporter

I realise I am extremely lucky to be able to say I'm currently in my dream job at the age of 22. It was first 'real job' - besides a brief stint as a waitress and time spent in retail - and I somehow managed to get my foot on the journalism ladder before I'd even graduated. 

In terms of my job, I still believe it was a case of being in the right place at the right time. In case you don't know... I started out on a six-week paid placement at the Nottingham Post in July. This was then extended for an extra month, and another month, then another six months, until in January I was offered a permanent position.

I was offered the initial placement after going for an interview to be a digital journalist at a new publication the paper was setting up. Despite technically being successful, the job fell through, but luckily I managed to secure the work experience.

I see numbers of work experience students coming through our doors daily, and I can remember the struggle and stress of realising university was soon ending and I needed a job. I could've stayed at Boots, but I knew that wasn't what I truly wanted to be doing.

So around this time last year, before I'd finished handing in my assignments, I started applying for jobs. When it comes to sending in your CV and covering letter, you need to tailor them to every job. It's time consuming, but it's definitely worth it. Make sure you show off your current skills and knowledge, and let the company know how you can benefit them.

In terms of where you should be looking for available positions. I'd recommend these websites:
Mediargh
Local World
Johnston Press
Journo Grads
Diary Directory
And remember - don't ever stop yourself from applying for a job because you don't think you're good enough or have enough experience. There is no harm in sending in an application.

I understand it's hard to get a job in journalism unless you have experience. My experience was my blog, plus a two-week placement at a magazine. But despite this, I understand the importance of getting yourself into an office environment. My first day at the Post wasn't that great at all as I had no idea what to expect due to my lack of experience. But luckily the editors were willing to work with me.

Secondly, whether you're a fresher, handing in your dissertation or are about to embark on a work placement, make sure you work hard. Journalism isn't a glamorous job - there are definitely perks - but it's mostly long hours and stress. The industry is extremely cut throat and filled to the brim with deadlines. And if you don't have passion, organisational skills or a good work ethic, you'll struggle.

Also it's worth working on your contact's list. After 10 months, mine is now nearly bursting at the seams but to start with it was awful having to ask the other reporters for their contacts. Writing a story is a lot easier when you know exactly who you should be speaking to and that by giving them a phone call they'll give you the comment you're after.

And finally, we're in the midst of the digital age so brushing up on your web skills is a must. They don't need to be extensive, but learning how to use Facebook, Twitter, Hootsuite and content management platforms and also teaching yourself SEO is beneficial. If you can, HTML is worth knowing too.

If you have any questions, or would like further advice then do contact me! Although I do realise I'm still very new to the industry and have a lot to learn.

It's best to either use jemma.page@nottinghampost.com or jlpage11@googlemail.com.

Do you want to be a journalist?

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Life lately - where I've been

This is definitely the longest I've gone without writing on my blog, and I thought it was about time I did a little update. Since we last spoke I have turned 22, bought a new car, officially became a trainee reporter for the Nottingham Post (and interviewed McBusted), booked my first holiday abroad without my parents and got myself the loveliest boyfriend. As you can tell a lot has happened and sadly while I've managed to find the perfect work/life balance, this blog has taken a back seat. 

I'm not saying I'm going to stop writing on here because I'm not. Although I write for a living, sometimes it's nice to get my own thoughts out on paper, instead of other people's. It'll just be less frequent - probably once a month - and more lifestyle focused, rather than beauty.

What have you been up to over the past month?

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Reflecting on 2014, and looking forward to the next 12 months

My first blog post of 2015 was supposed to be my current skin care routine - but seeing as I'm currently laid in bed, off work and ill, I decided I would reflect on the past year. It's been a strange one; the past 12 months have been dominated by some of the most amazing moments of my life, and for me personally it's been a successful one.

University

After three years hard graft, lots of partying and a whole host of fun, I somehow managed to graduate with a first class honours degree in journalism. Looking back to my first year, I never imagined I'd get a first. I completed both my first years with a 2:1, and I was always set to get that grade. But somehow towards the end I managed to pull it out of the bag and get the highest mark possible. I couldn't be happier with what I achieved at university.

Work

It's still hard for me to believe I'm a real life reporter. I see my byline in the paper almost everyday and it's still crazy. I can't believe that I got my dream job before I'd even graduated. I go to sleep excited to go to work. It's stressful, it's hard and it's long hours, but I wouldn't change a thing. I could talk about my job all day long - but I don't want to bore you. However if you are thinking about going down the journalism route and would like a post on tips, let me know.

Friends

When you grow older you learn that it isn't about the amount of friends you have - it's the quality. I'd say I have four best friends: my sister, her best friend, and two of my friends from university. Although I don't get to see them as often as I like, I know they're always going to be there for me and I can't thank them enough. Staying in touch is hard when you all work full time, but if it's something you manage to do, and you make time for them, you know they're keepers. When I was going through my break up my two friends from university couldn't physically be there for me, but despite that they still had a massive presence in my life at that time. 

Myself

I ended this year happy and content with myself. Since being a teenager my confidence seems to have plummeted an awful lot, year by year. I actually think being cheated on was one of the best things to happen to me. It wasn't nice at the time, but it put things into perspective and I'm a very strong and independent person because of it. It made me learn a lot about myself, and I finally feel comfortable with who I am.

I ended 2014 in the best way possible. I wasn't partying away and I wasn't getting hammered. In fact I was drinking Coca Cola and eating a korma with someone quite special. And I hope the happiness I'm feeling right now continues on in the next year. So, Happy New Year Bamboozle Beauty readers. This year will be my fifth year as a blogger, so let's make it a good one. 

How was your 2014?
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Life is a journey, and not a destination

Life is a journey, and not a destination. While I hate cliches, this is one that's really struck a cord with me recently. When I was younger I used to think when I hit certain milestones in my life, I'd have reached a destination and that would be that. But as I've matured, started experiencing more and generally just stopped being so naive I've realised that it couldn't be further from the truth.

Education

I remember when I was applying for university and I thought, 'once I've got my degree then I'll be sorted, know everything and be 100 per cent ready for work', but since I've attained my qualification and started working in the media I've realised that was very naive of me to think. I've learnt a lot in the five months I've been at the Post and I know that I still have an awful long way to go. In fact, I doubt I'll ever know everything there is to know about journalism. The media is changing, and the way the public consume media is changing. As someone who has grown up in the digital era it's fascinating to see.

Happiness

This blog post really just prove how naive I've been - and this one is probably the worst. I touched upon this issue in my 1989 tag where I mentioned that I used to think that once I'd found happiness, it'd remain forever. I've realised that now when you're going through a rough patch, it's a part of life. And that is something I've really come to appreciate. We're lucky to be advanced enough to be able to experience such a variety of emotions and feelings, and although sadness, anger and heartache are awful to deal with, they shouldn't be taken for granted. The hard times have made me stronger and I'm forever thankful for them.

Love
I'm the biggest advocate of love. I think it's such a beautiful thing. And there was a time when I thought I'd met the man of my dreams (looking back now I realise how stupid I was). I've spoken about my experience a lot on my blog because I know it's something many people go through and I think speaking about these things helps. But I don't want to dwell on it too much. The past is the past and although it makes you who you are today, some things should be left there. Five months down the line and I know why certain things have happened, especially when it comes to my love life. And although I'm not thankful for the way he went about it, I'm glad it's now over because I realise I deserve better. I'm sure I'll experience heartache many more times (let's hope not though) but in the end I know it'll be worth it and it'll work out for the best.

Let me know your thoughts on this blog post below. I'd love to hear if we share any of the same opinions.

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What it's like to meet and interview Union J

If you don't follow me on Twitter then you probably won't know that this week I got to interview Union J (twice!) and also meet them. You might be thinking, 'great, who cares', but seeing as they're my favourite boy band I thought it'd be nice to write an account from a fan's perspective. You see, I wrote an article for the newspaper as a reporter, and I've written a follow up interview too. But they're just facts, so I've decided to write more of an opinion piece on my blog.

The moment I found out the boys were visiting Nottingham on their single signing tour, I knew I had to be the person who covered it. I've loved them since X Factor - not just because of their dashing good looks - but also because of their music, believe it or not. When I got the go ahead, I was unbelievably excited and even now, I can't believe it's happened (FYI - their tour manager's mobile number lives in my phone, bezzies).

So after a shift at work in the office, I headed over to Morrisons, in Gamston, to speak to a few fans (who had been queuing for hours and were freezing) and meet the boys. I wanted to come off as professional but I knew I needed to get a photograph with them, and possibly a signed CD myself. After speaking to some adorable fans, and chatting about who is our favourite (JJ for me, mainly George for them) I was met by the band's tour manager.

We took a long journey upstairs where I could hear Josh singing. It was beautiful. I got to interview both JJ and Josh - and Jaymi yesterday on the phone - and they were both adorable. Firstly giving me hugs (I died) and an absolute pleasure to interview. They then signed my CD, and I got to record a video of them saying how much they all loved their Nottingham fans, which now happily lives on my iPad. The photographer did his thing and then it was my time for a photo with the quartet.

Heading down to the crowds, the boys were signing Let It Go and Thinking Out Loud. George then met his family downstairs (some live in West Bridgford) and Jaymi tried to sell the crowd a Morrisons reef for £7 - bargain. You wouldn't think they were superstars. They weren't divaish at all. Just normal 20-something lads who were more than happy to be interviewed by someone who had a professional exterior but who was actually fan girling inside. Let's say I have the best job in the world.

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The 1989 tag

It's safe to say I'm a massive Taylor Swift fan. She's relatable, her music is mindblowing, and she's the perfect inspiration to many. When I saw this tag I knew it was one I had to take part in myself as 1989 has quickly become one of my all-time favourite records. I also must apologise for the format of this post as I'm writing it on my iPad - Blogger, please enhance your app. 

1. WELCOME TO NEW YORK 

If you could live in any city, which would it be and why? 

At the minute I'm very happy living in Nottingham, although I'd like to eventually move to the city centre, instead of living in the outskirts. It's always been a dream of mine to live in London, but as I've grown older I've realised that it'll never be possible. It's very expensive, and moving there would probably ruin the magic of the city for me. Visiting makes me happy, but I can imagine moving there would be a nightmare. 

2. BLANK SPACE 

What is something that everyone thinks is true about you but is actually false? 

Probably that I'm either boring or stuck up. I'm a shy person, and unless someone speaks to me the chances of me talking to them first is very slim (unless it's a part of my job, of course). I think this gives off the wrong impression of me, but it takes me a while to fully trust and open up to someone. 3. STYLE What is one item in your closet that makes you feel unstoppable? I love fit and flare dresses as they complement my figure. I'm definitely a dress girl 

4. OUT OF THE WOODS 

What is one thing that you’re afraid of? 

I'm scared of a number of things. Spiders is quite a big one. My dad's old house was full of gigantic ones, and I'd always cry and shake if I saw one. I'm also scared of getting ill, unfamiliar places, the dark, death, people... Oh every bloody thing! I'm a wimp. 

5. ALL YOU HAD TO DO WAS STAY 

Who is someone you wish was still in your life? 

A couple of years ago I realised that people don't stick around forever. Your best friends who you once thought were everything to you will possibly end up leaving. But as time goes on you realise that those who have stayed have remained for a reason. Right now I'm lucky to be surrounded by so many incredible people. I have two close friends, and I'd rather have those two, who I know I can rely on for absolutely anything, than lots of random people who are never there for me. We don't see each other as often as we'd all like, but it know they're always only a phone call or text away. 

6. SHAKE IT OFF 

What is something you have had to shake off? 

Self depreciation. I'm my own worst critic, and although over time it's got me to where I am now, I've had to realise that I am good enough. When I first started working as a real journalist I found it hard to believe in myself. It took me a good few months before I realised I was there for a reason, and that I was actually decent. Now I'm much more confident in my abilities and I think it shows. It also helps that I'm in an office full of bright sparks! 

7. I WISH YOU WOULD 

What is something you’d like to happen right now? 

I'm currently on a mission to lose weight. I'm the biggest I've ever been so I've gone back to using the Weightwatchers plan. I understand it isn't a lifestyle change, but for me it does work as it makes understanding calories and nutritional information much easier. Hopefully I'll drop a couple of dress sizes and start to feel confident again. 

8. BAD BLOOD 

Have you ever had someone stab you in the back? 

In terms of the song Bad Blood, I always associate it with my ex. He stabbed me in the back in ways I didn't think were possible. I think he meant it in a harmless way, and I don't think he was being malicious at all. Maybe he didn't understand the extent of his actions, but it's something I'll never forgive or forget. 

9. WILDEST DREAMS 

What would you like to be remembered for? 

Being nice. I think it's a trait that's often looked down on. You only have to look at Taylor Swift for this. She's genuinely a nice person, and in this day and age people can't understand that. They think she's manipulative. People don't seem to trust people who are nice which I think is ridiculous. There's nothing wrong with putting other people before yourself and being a caring, loyal human being. 

10. HOW YOU GET THE GIRL 

What is your favourite pick-up line? 

I love so many of them. I don't use any, and I hope no one uses them on me, but I find them hilarious. 

11. THIS LOVE 

What is something you got back that you never thought you would? 

Happiness. For the first time in a long time I'm very content with where I am, and who I am. I used to think happiness was a destination and when you reached it, it'd remain forever. I now know that isn't true, but I've realised when you're going through a rough patch that it's a part of life, and I've come to appreciate that too. 

12. I KNOW PLACES 

Where is one place you always feel safe? 

When I'm with my friends, when I'm with my family, and when I'm working. I don't have a safe place, it's people who make me feel safe. 

13. CLEAN 

What is an important lesson you have learned in life, and how did you learn it? 

I think I answered that in question 11. Life isn't easy, and you have to take the good with the bad. I've definitely grown up a lot in the past few months. This year has been a strange one but I've learnt an awful lot and I'm incredibly grateful for all the crap I went through with my ex. He taught me that no guy is worth crying over. Trust me, there's plenty more of them out there. It'd be silly if we stuck with one who wasn't good enough for us our entire life. 

Have you taken this tag? Leave your post as comment below. _________________________________________________________________________________ Twitter|Facebook|BlogLovin|Instagram

A London haul with my two best friends

Phew, what a hectic week it's been. Since starting work full time, I feel like I never get a minute to myself - not that I'm complaining, I adore my job - I just miss blogging a lot. Last weekend I visited London with my two best friends. It was lovely as we hadn't seen each other since May. Keeping up with friends is a nightmare when you leave uni but I think it really shows you who your true friends are. And Anna and Lauren are definitely the best a girl could wish for. During my break up, even though they couldn't physically be there, they were always on the end of the phone and I can't thank them enough for that. 

Anyway, enough of the sobby stuff. A bit about London. We had a lot of fun! The biggest event of the weekend was going to see The Lion King. It's without a doubt my favourite animated film and I'd been wanted to watch the stage show for as long as I can remember. The show was a spectacle and completely breathtaking. It's definitely one of those "you need to see it to believe it" shows and I couldn't stop crying; it was that unreal. Before the Lion King, we went out for food and cocktails (although I had a glass of a Coke because I'm a non-drinker) which of course, was lovely. 

The following day we visited Regent Street for a spot of shopping. One of the best things about being in the capital was the fact that we all have really good jobs, so money wasn't a worry. It was wonderful to be able to do as we please. We went for breakfast and had cake, spent too much money in KIKO (eeeeek my first time in the store of my favourite brand) and Ted Baker and had lots of fun in H&M's in store photobooth. Needless to say, the weekend was perfect and we had a lot of gossip and laughs to exchange. I was sad to leave the pair of them but I'm looking forward to our next adventure. 

The main items I bought:

Ted Baker Caleena Bow Leather Matinee purse in Dusky Pink - £75

I couldn't resist this purse when I saw it. It's the perfect shade of pink and I adore rose gold. I'm currently saving for the matching bag which is even more beautiful.

KIKO Body Exfoliant Wipes - £6.90

I saw these nifty wipes and immediately put them into my basket. I barely get time to exfoliate any more so hopefully these will come in handy.

KIKO Long Lasting Eyeshadow Sticks in 05 and 07 - £6.90 each

As soon as I saw these, I knew I had to pick a couple up. They're incredibly long lasting and beautifully pigmented.

KIKO Luscious Cream Creamy Lipstick in 502 - £6.90

I didn't originally set out to get a lipstick but the moment I saw this nude, I knew it'd suit me wonderfully. And I was right. It's nice and pigmented and super creamy.

KIKO Kiss Balm in Pineapple - £5.90

I LOVE the Kiss Balms so I desperately wanted to add another to my collection. I chose Pineapple because it's a gorgeous wearable nude that's perfect for the day time.

The Body Shop Honeymania Bubble Bath Melt - £8.00

I'm obsessed with anything honey-scented and this smells delicious. I've used it in a couple of baths since and I adore it. I need more from the Honeymania range.

The Body Shop Honey Bronze Bronzing Powder in Light Matte - £13.00

Did I need a new bronzer? Nope. But I couldn't resist this as it's the most perfect shade for my fair skin. It blends beautifully onto the skin and the packaging is to die for.

What products have you been buying recently?

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The Purrfectbox - a must-have for any cat

I've never been bothered by the beauty boxes - I've always found them to be quite lacklustre. However the Purrfectbox* is something that immediately caught my eye. These subscription-based monthly gift boxes contain a selection of five to six premium goodies for your cat (or dog - the Pawsomebox) that are customised based on your pet's size, breed and preferences. 

My cat, Ratchett (named after the Transformer) absolutely adored his box. In fact, he went a little bit crazy over it and we've since had to hide it from him. He's only allowed it out on certain occasions now. The boxes start at £15.90 a month and you can play the game below to win either 20% off of your first box or a free box.

This month's box comes with the Wasabycat Scratching Post which was by far Ratchett's favourite item in the box as it comes complete with catnip. Sadly we couldn't give the Hello Cat Snacks or the Trixie Multi-Vitamin Paste to Ratchett as he's on a strict diet due to an illness but we did pass them on to one of his friends who told us how delicious they both are! The Spot Laser has always been a favourite toy and the Heart Cushion 4Cats is adorable (and once again comes with catnip).

This is a subscription service that we're definitely looking into buying as it's nice to treat our furry friends every now and then. Sadly because of Ratchett's condition, he couldn't try any of the food-based items but everything else was spot on. Although he's quite an old cat he's still extremely playful. And it's nice to get him moving as he is an indoor cat. 

What are your thoughts on this subscription service?
*PR Sample

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How to get over a break up

I suppose this was my first real break up. And I'm unsure as to whether or not it has been easy. In a sense, I'm glad it happened at the time it did. I'd have been more devastated had it happened years into our relationship and I'm glad that the negative energy has now evaporated from my life. I don't need someone who is like that around me. It still hurts, and I still think about him. I walk past a restaurant we once went in and have to remind myself to be strong so I don't break down. But every day is getting easier.

Break ups are something that we all are going to have to go through at some point. Whether you're doing the breaking up, you've been cheating on or it's a mutual decision, it's never easy leaving someone who once a big part of your life behind. Because of this, I thought it'd be nice to use this topic as another lifestyle-style post and to also get you guys involved a little at the end. 

Keep yourself busy 

I was very lucky that I found out my ex had cheated on me the evening before I went to work. I didn't have the chance to wallow too much because I knew that I had to sleep for work the next day. And at work I definitely didn't have time to even think about what had happened. It helped a lot. Whether it's reading, working, writing, going out, dating or working out. You need to do everything possible to keep your mind occupied.

Surround yourself with a good support system 

Although my friends are scattered across the county because they're from university, they were there for me. They were always checking in on me, texting me, calling me, just making sure I was okay. They didn't really give me an opportunity to think about what he did. My family didn't mention him - which I asked for and my friends ripped into him - and her - and built up my confidence and made me feel better. Sometimes, that's just what you need.

Remove them from social media 

This one was harder for me because I'm waiting for my ex to return my things so I've had to keep in touch with him (he hasn't half dragged it out, ugh). But the person from Facebook, unfollow them on Twitter, delete their number. And make sure you don't stalk them. I had to remove my ex from Facebook because him and and the cheatee were splattered all over my timeline, and that's something I didn't need to see. Another thing is to throw away negative things that you remind you of that person.

Music 

Music is such a major part of my life. I need it to function and without it, I doubt I'd have gotten over the break up so quickly. Music speaks to me. But it's important to listen to empowering songs - no Adele! Some of my favourites: Alanis Morissette, You Oughta Know; Britney Spears, Lonely; Britney Spears, Stronger; Cheryl, Screw You; Justin Timberlake, Cry Me A River; Pussycat Dolls, I Don't Need a Man; Taylor Swift, Picture To Burn; Fifth Harmony, Miss Movin' On; Miley Cyrus, FU; Miley Cyrus, On My Own. 

Meet other people 

This one is quite controversial as I know some people will think the last thing you should be doing is dating. When I went on my first date after the break up I felt bad. Should I be dating? Should I be meeting others? But then I thought... he was dating other people WHILST we were together. I think putting yourself back out there is a scary concept, especially when your confidence is at such a low. But it helped me. 

@bamboozlebeauty the best thing about your boyfriend cheating on you, is that you get to go on another first date oh my god!!!1!

— Jamie Spicer (@jamie_spicer) September 7, 2014

@bamboozlebeauty eat lots of chocolate and watch non stop chick flicks. :) xo

— Sharna ♥ (@PerksOfSharna) September 7, 2014

@bamboozlebeauty Friends & time. They help heal the wounds & make you feel like life is worth living. Oh and a few nights out help ;) xx

— Sian ♡ (@SianMarieBeauty) September 7, 2014

@bamboozlebeauty Time and keeping busy :) x #bbloggers

— Sophie (@SophiesMakeup) September 7, 2014

What are your top tips for getting over a break up?

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Being cheated on

I've always wondered what it'd be like to be cheated on. I've always been massively anti-cheat as no one is forcing you to be with a person. But I never imagined it'd be this awful. It's not as if you're mourning for that person - every nice feeling you ever had for them is quickly replaced with hatred - you just feel so low in yourself.

What's worse for me is that I had no idea it was going on and I had no idea he was unhappy as he claims to be right now. I thought everything was fine, and I was going along all happy whilst he was sat there lying to me and planning a life with someone else. I was telling my friends and family what an amazing guy he is, whilst he was scouring online, searching for someone new to replace me.

It's as though it's all my fault. Everything that's happened is because of me, like the quote above says. He did what he did because I wasn't good enough, because someone better came along. I tried hard, I did everything I could to make him happy, but it wasn't good enough and there's nothing I can ever do about that. To him, it might've been a joke. I might've just been someone who was there to entertain him for a few months before someone better came along. But to me, it was serious.

To make matters even more worse, he still can't see what he's done wrong. And all I'm now left with is a worthless half-hearted apology. He's continuing his life, happy as Larry with this new girl, and I'm here, confused. I have no idea how I'm supposed to be feeling, and I have no idea what to do. I've not only lost him in a relationship-sense, but also as a best friend.

He walked away (in the most disgusting way, I might add) and left me as if I didn't mean anything to him. All of those months completely wasted. And I had no idea it was happening. I don't really know where I'm going with this post. I have no idea whether or not to publish it. I suppose I just need advice. Similar stories. And it's nice getting your feelings out there. I haven't read this back so sorry for any mistakes and errors.

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LIFESTYLE | Cruising around the Mediterranean

The reason my blog has been a bit lacklustre recently is because my life has become quite hectic. And that's something I never thought I say. For the past four and a half years I've managed to juggle this blog, with my education and a part time job. Yet finishing university, moving out of two houses in the space of three weeks, going on holiday and starting a new job really has gotten on top of me. Today is the first day in a while I've felt relaxed, and able to chill out and write a proper blog post.

I decided that I would focus on my holiday seeing as I promised more lifestyle posts (don't worry, the beauty will always be there)! I went on a cruise around the Mediterranean for a week with my grandparents, my mum, her partner, my sister, my auntie, uncle and cousin. It was really lovely, but I don't think you'd find me cruising anywhere in the near future as one of the nights was quite rocky and off putting. We sailed from Spain, to Italy, to France and back to Spain again and got to see many beautiful places. That's the beauty of cruising, you're not just stuck in one place for a week. This world is huge and full of fascinating cities, and I definitely want to explore every single part of it.

One place I definitely need to go back to is Italy. I've now visited Rome, Venice, Verona and Lake Garda and I've loved every inch of it. Sadly in Rome, we only spent a few minutes at the Colosseum so the next I visit, I must go inside of it. I absolutely adore historical Rome and the Romans. I also have to go to Pisa! I've only decided to show a few photos from the holiday mainly because in total, there was 700+ photos taken and I don't think Blogger, or your computers, would be very happy with me if I uploaded them all. So here are a few. Mainly on the boat, in Corsica, Rome and Cannes.

Have you been on a cruise before? What's your favourite place in the world to visit?
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Life after university...

My favourite blogs to read are the ones with a bit of personality behind them. I love getting to know the person who writes the blog, and although I mainly read blogs to find out about beauty products, a few personal lifestyle posts never did anyone any harm. So that's what this post is going to be. A bit more personal, a little bit sad but hopefully it'll be relieve me of stress. After all, a blog is an online diary and a way for me to get things off of my chest.

In case you didn't know, I recently finished my final year at university. For the past three years, I've been studying journalism and working hard, whilst maintaining my blog, having a part time job and having a social life. It hasn't been easy, but it's been an incredible journey and I've met some wonderful people on the way. I didn't want university to end, mainly because my friends are now all scattered across the country, but I never imagined that leaving university would be this hard.

This week alone, I've applied for 27 jobs. Since my last assignment was handed in, I've applied for hundreds. Yes, I've had quite a few interviews for some spectacular publications and yes, I'm still waiting to hear back from a few, meaning that I haven't actually received a no from them yet. But there is nothing harder than finding a job after university. You work your butt off for three years to be told that a degree isn't good enough. A degree simply puts you on a level playing field these days, whereas back in the day, it'd put you ahead of the competition.

Rejections are hard enough, but what's harder is sitting by my phone, constantly checking my emails and waiting for someone to give me a yes. All I want is a chance. And of course, some money. I had to stop my part time job at Boots because it wouldn't have been worth the journey every week. But now I have bills to pay, and no money whatsoever coming in. I'm 21 years old and I'm having to ask my parents for money. I shouldn't have to do that, and kills me. It's something I've always hated doing.

This past week has been exceptionally hard. I've been stressed, bored and waiting. There have been times when I've questioned my life; where it's going and if there's any point to it. Today, I received some good news which cheered me up enough to write this blog post. This post doesn't have much structure to it, or much meaning. It's just a way for me to get a few things off of my chest. If you're currently going through the same thing, then I hope you know that you're certainly not alone. Keep working at it, keep trying hard and something will come along in the end. Hopefully. I have my fingers crossed for both you and I.

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LIFESTYLE | The Lincolnshire Show

Last week absolutely flew by, probably because I was pretty busy. I'm going to try and write more lifestyle type posts as personally, I love reading them myself and they're something nice to look back at. On Thursday, I visited The Lincolnshire Show. Despite living in Lincoln for the past three years, I'd never heard of the show before my invite. But after a look at the website, it seemed like it'd be a nice day out and as a town girl, interesting to learn more about the countryside. I visited the show with my friend who has lived in Lincolnshire his entire life, and we ended up staying at the show from 9am until 6pm - the full nine hours.

People who attended weren't short of things to do and there was plenty to see. We visited the bee tent a couple of times as we were both fascinated with how clever the little creatures actually are. The amount of things that bees provide us with is insane - not to mention how fabulous honey and beeswax is when it comes to beauty products. We saw the bees get on with their day-to-day lives, the queen, honey being extracted and even learnt that bees work themselves to death and on average, live around six weeks.

There were plenty of animals on show, of course, and I got to see rabbits, pigs, cows, sheep and even police dogs - which were my personal favourite. I'm a massive fan of animals, especially clever ones, and these dogs were extremely intelligent. We saw them detecting drugs, chasing after criminals all whilst watching the wonderful Red Arrows fly over our head - it really was a spectacle. Another showstopper to mention: the RAF Falcons. I'd never seen them before but the entire show stopped and starred as they parachuted out of the sky.

Surprisingly, I also enjoyed looking around the farming machinery and old vehicles. It was fascinating seeing what equipment is actually out there - I only thought there were tractors. And of course, the food court was exceptional. Pricey, but absolutely delicious. Overall, it was a lovely day and despite staying at the show for nine hours, it didn't seem that long at all. I'd highly recommend visiting the show with family and friends next year if you get the opportunity to.

Did you visit this year's show?

*both tickets were provided free of charge as press passes

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Canvas Design & Discount Code

I adore photos. They capture a special moment and ensure it's never forgotten about. One moment that - even without photos - I doubt I'll never forget is when I danced onstage with Britney. I won't gush too much as you probably already know, but I'm quite frankly the biggest Britney Spears fan in the whole world. My love for her runs deep, it's an obsession, and I'm sure I know more about her than she knows about herself. So when I got the opportunity to go onstage with her, it was without a doubt the greatest moment of my life. If you're interested, you can read more about it here.

I have the photos in albums, on my laptop, printed in large print, they're everywhere. You can't get away from them. But I've always wanted the photos on canvas. I love canvases, they look beautiful and since I started working in Boots' photo department, my love for canvases has grown deep. So you can imagine my excitement when I was offered two canvases from CanvasDesign*. I immediately knew which images I wanted displayed and when they finally arrived at my door, I fell in love instantly.

As I mentioned, I work in Boots' photo department so I do know how to make a canvas. And the ones from CanvasDesign are beautifully made. They look stunning on the wall and really do complete a wall and showcase a special memory. They were easy to put onto the wall - if my dad can do it, anyone can! I find myself constantly admiring them, it most definitely is a precious memory to me and it's wonderful to have it showcased so beautifully on my wall. I'd highly recommend going to CanvasDesign if you're looking to invest in something pretty for the wall. Their prices start from just £7.99 and if you use the code "BLOG15" then you can get a 15% off of your order.

Do you have canvases on your wall? Is it something you'd consider?
*PR Sample

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LIFESTYLE | Happy 4th birthday Bamboozle Beauty

Four years ago today, I sat down and registered on Blogger. I had no idea what I was doing, all I knew was I wanted to share my experiences and love of beauty with the world. I never imagined that blogging was something I'd still be dedicated to and doing four years later. And I certainly didn't expect the blogging industry to blow up like it has done. It's crazy! We're no longer considered as customers with an opinion - we're taken seriously and it's fabulous. This is a career for some people and many vloggers are seen as celebrities. It's been a beautiful thing to experience and be a part of.

I don't want to ramble on too much but I did want to mark my blog's fourth birthday because it's something I'm proud of. I love my blog. It's a form of escapism for me. A way to share my love and my favourite things with you lovely people. And since starting Bamboozle Beauty, I've achieved a lot. (In no particular order) I met the Spice Girls, danced onstage with Britney Spears, started university, passed my driving test, turned 18, turned 21, been invited down to London for incredible events, worked with some of my favourite brands and that's just a few of the things. It's overwhelming to think about how much I have changed as a person in four years and how much this blog has achieved in four years. It's flown by.

But yes, happy birthday Bamboozle Beauty! And I hope I can say "happy fifth birthday" next year. Thank you for all of your support - it means so much to me and I love each and every one of you.

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LIFESTYLE | Today, I'm 21

Today, I am a woman. Well, that's a slight exaggeration but I do happen to be 21 today. It's crazy, isn't it?! I still feel like a little girl who loves to pop on make up, dance to Britney Spears and sneak biscuits up to her bedroom. I suppose it's true; no matter how old you get, you still feel young at heart and despite all of the responsibilities, it's refreshing to know that I can still have fun. This year is a big one for me. I turn 21 (obviously), I will get my braces off and I will hopefully graduate from university and step foot into the big wide world. It's quite scary and I've already had a lot of "so, what will you be doing after uni" questions and the answer is, I have absolutely no idea. I'll think of that when I come to it but for now, I'm working damn hard and enjoying my last few months of freedom. I will be posting a "what I got for my birthday" post soon seeing as I didn't do one for Christmas - I simply didn't have the space to photograph everything! - so look out for that. Over the next two weeks, I'll also be doing work experience (at a real magazine!) so this blog may falter a little bit sadly as I'm going to be working "real people hours." Kill me now. But it is Bamboozle Beauty's 4th birthday on the 17th of January - madness!

I should probably get back to doing grown up things now, have a wonderful day and have a drink for me.

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