1. Good actually meaning average in this sense.

It’s strange how opinions can change almost at a click of the finger.  After college I was adamant that further education was not  the path for me but thanks to my cousin and then-colleagues who persuaded me to take on the challenge of university.  Were it not for them I probably would either be still inspecting cameras or feverishly coding and designing websites¹.

*Memory lane*

Whilst on MSN Messenger² to my cousin she mentioned a jewellery course she was considering, which was jewellery making-related.  It was something we could do together.  The course sounded great fun but I still wasn’t sure but thought I might as well since I needed to make something of my life.  However, I knew persuading my parents was going to be a job and a half – and I was right.  They weren’t particularly keen on the idea, being the kind of Asian parents where if an immediate career wasn’t a dead cert. then maybe the course wasn’t the right one.  Eventually with some wise words and words of encouragement I made sure I pushed forward my choice – I wouldn’t say my mum was in agreement more so than annoyed with my constant pestering.  It resulted in an “ask your father” response.  Needless to say he didn’t disagree.

That was when I felt I needed to prove, not only my parents but also myself, that I am good at something.  Particularly since school and college results left a lot to be desired.  I needed something to be pleased about and to rectify what I didn’t do before.  Going to university was an opportunity to give my confidence a boost.

After sending my application I managed to get an interview for a gemology course, which I had to decline because I didn’t apply for that course.  I called to rectify and was told to come in and see the interviewer.  Since I had left the application late I thought there wasn’t going to be a fudge of a chance that I’d get onto the course but I guess we got a lucky break; my cousin and I secured a place on the course.  We both came out of the interview very happy and were about to enrol on ND Design Crafts.  Having earlier been shown around the exhibition by the interviewer we looked in amazement at the spectacular jewellery pieces.  Was I really going to be able to create jewellery like those?  I’m pretty sure my jaw dropped when I saw an 18ct gold brooch, which was made by a former ND student.

*End of memory lane*

Never mind prematurely thinking university was not an option I stuck with it for a further 3 years – completing the Higher National Diploma and BA(Hons).  It’s a chapter in my life I’m extremely proud of because I achieved a lot better than what I thought I would have and have been wanting a career in jewellery since I made my first gold brooch.  I can finally say that I have found my future, which wasn’t the case after college.

All in all I”m excited to see what I can bring to the future so remember my name because in the future my name may be plastered on shops. :P I know I’ve made it when I can price my jewellery more towards the higher market, or as some may say ridiculous prices.   I’m thinking big as in Thomas Sabo big!

1. Not that there’s anything wrong with the latter occupation but it’s just not healthy losing slept trying to fathom why something you’ve coded isn’t translating correctly.  Heh.
2. The thing back then.

With that said, it’s onwards and upwards.  I’m going to get a couple of the rings’ components redone¹ and laser weld the parts together before the starts of the Graduates’ Exhibition.

It will be that mark of something though.  University has been an experience, well, you would think I experienced at least one thing having spent 5 years there.   I probably would be in the situation (with a degree) if it weren’t for my cousin or work colleagues so I’m glad they gave me that little push I needed.  I never thought I’d find “it”; the job that would lead to a career I now desire but it’s happened.

I won’t get to graduate until next year in February but I very much look forward to what the future has in stall for me.

Congratulations to those who have made  it to the end of university and all the best in the future.  I will certainly let you know how mine goes.  I’ll either bore you with it here or on my more professional jeweller’s blog.

1. The sublimation and laser cutting.

© hemmy.net

]]> http://blog.annieli.co.uk/2011/01/20/all-i-want-to-do-is/feed/ 0 http://blog.annieli.co.uk/2010/08/25/i-have-a-blackberry/ http://blog.annieli.co.uk/2010/08/25/i-have-a-blackberry/#comments Wed, 25 Aug 2010 20:07:26 +0000 Annie http://blog.annieli.co.uk/?p=592 I’m going to openly say I have a contract with Three, and have been with them for a few years now.  The contract is good and at a fair price and despite what others have said the signal and service has been great for me.  It has only been the last couple of months I’ve experienced problems; can only seem to make emergency calls at the locations I’m at most.

Okay, I’m starting to veer of the tangent slightly.  Anyway, I’ve had things said about my choice of mobiles (read: I really don’t care much about mobiles so will usually go with which ever is free with the contract¹.)  My main brand of mobiles has usually been Sony Ericsson though.  With my current mobile playing silly buggers I decided to get a more than decent sim-free phone, which turn rebellious teen on me.

I was tempted to go to the shops but I didn’t want to get harrassed by an Apple fanboy/girl² so instead I researched online and read reviews.  Yes, I am one of those buyers: research then debate for centuries as to whether you want to buy or even spend the money of such things.  Also, being one of those loyalists I was thinking about getting another Sony Ericsson phone but go with the times (touch screen).  My sister told me not to, being the luck I have with Sony Ericssons.

Samsung is an instant no.  Don’t get me wrong, I know they’re good phones but I used to work in a Samsung product based company (the RMA area) so I knew the faults.  That’s what really puts me off buying any Samsung product³.

Babbling again aren’t I?  Fast foward to the Sunday just gone, I bought a Blackberry.  I had been debating on the buy for months and with a nudge I actually bought it.  At the moment it’s charging the howevermanyhours mobiles are meant to charge for.  When I received the package today I was really surprised that my phone had come, as I was expecting the silicone skin to arrive first.  Now though, I’m wondering, should I have really spent that much on a mobile; a technology I’m not too fond of.  I was really happy and excited⁴ but now…not so much.  I’m thinking I should have just left that money for uni, or even stationary⁵.   I’m going to go all organised now and start organising my life away with my new phone.

God I’m sad.

1. That’s not to say I don’t take care for my phones though.
2. No, offence to anyone but some assistants do tend to make it out as the end all, be all product.
3. Here’s some advise, if you really love a certain brand DO NOT work in that’s brand “faulty products” department. It will put you off for life.
4. Me, excited about a mobile?  Never.
5. I’m a stationary geek, or should that be storage geek?  Hah.

My friend and I saw a notice in the canteen about Platform2; which essentially is scheme for volunteers to travel and make a difference in less developed countries.  On a whim we opted to take part and even got the forms ready.  Months later my friend is going ahead with plans, however I’m thinking otherwise.

Late a night I’d be thinking about the humbling experience and how great it would be to physically help out…until the what-ifs started popping into my head.  Would I appreciate the opportunity if I did get accepted, or would I sit and moan?  What are the people like?  Where do you find the line in reality between adverts and TV programmes such as Comic relief?  The former unveiling a more melancholic situation and the latter displaying high spirits.

It does come down to selflessness and how much you’re willing to sacrifice.

I decided not to enter because:

1. It was an impulse decision and impulse should not be the deciding factor for these kind of experiences.
2. The help requires 10 weeks of your time.  I wouldn’t be able to fully commit myself as I am wanting to do the top-up degree and my summer holiday isn’t that long.
3. I need to use that time to work and earn money to pay for the tuition fees and materials…etc…etc.

So, yes, it’s a little bit selfish but at a different time I will heavily consider.

My question is would you consider taking part is something like Platform2, or have participated in something similar?  If so, please share your experience.

1. See bullet point 8.

If you would be so lovely as to help me¹ with my presentation, please answer the following questions:

1. Do you think using recycled articles to make new ones will be a new fad (for lack of better word) in the future?   Possibly eliminating the use of more precious materials.  Maybe Valentino will make a dress out of old curtain nets? (Apologies to all fashionistas for the horrendous imagery).
2. Do you think class plays a part in what kind of products people choose to buy?  E.g. Choosing between a Chanel bag or an eco-bag.
3. Could more be done to reduce land fill?  If so, how?
4. How does your country promote recycling?
5. In terms of jewellery would you choose a piece made from recycled items (buttons, watch straps) over a precious metal piece?
6. For us geeks, would you consider jewellery made from electronic components?²

1. Here comes some sucking up
2. This one won’t be part of my presentation.  I’m just intrigued.

I think Valentine’s Day has lost it’s true “purpose”.  Wasn’t the intent of this day dedicated to those – who aren’t taken – who wish to share their admiration for someone?  Valentine’s Day can be used as an incentive to show through words, action or gift that someone is liked.

Now you get people in relationships wondering why they didn’t receive any gifts or words of affection.  If you’re in a relationship wouldn’t it be better to relish what you have already?  Rather than work up a fuss on this one day, when any other day would be just as suitable.  As long you’re with someone who deeply cares about you that’s all that matters, right?

This post wasn’t written to make anyone feel guilty about vexating their partner.  I just think Valentine’s Day is pointless if you’re in a relationship, as those kinds of things should be done without the excuse/reason of 14th February.