What A Difference A Year Makes!

As the sun sets on another day in Exeter, I find myself reminiscing on the last year and the differences between now and May 2012. I still have the terrible habit of simply staring into space - To be honest, I think I'm always going to be drawn into the intrigue of my surroundings. There is a peace in watching the wind ruffle the leaves and a fascination in trying to figure out different peoples' stories - However, I have managed to secure myself a graduate job, a place on a graduate scheme that will truly kick start my career and, almost, gained the ability to drive without an instructor. Not bad, not bad at all. I think it's fair to say, though, that I've learnt my fair share of lessons along the way.
   For instance, I certainly understand why people take gap years now before launching themselves into their career or University life. This year, although not technically a gap year, has provided me with the perspective I needed to live in the world outside the education bubble. Indeed, by exploring and challenging my personality and expectations, I have found a forgotten passion that will be nurtured by the Teach First programme in 2014 - the importance of education. Considering my first graduate job has been in Higher Education under the employability remit, I suppose it was always there, I just hadn't realised how enthused I actually was. They do say the best place to hide things is in full view. And there it is, the biggest difference between now and May 2012 is the fact that I know what I want to do with my career.

Here are some of the other things I learnt along the way:

1. Dinosaur pictures and, in fact, any pictures of animals are always well received in student marketing.
2. Keep in contact with as many uni friends as possible because otherwise you can end up losing them in the fogs of China, the big city of London or the beaches of Australia.
3. Food shopping is essential but carrying 5 plastic bags home just leaves you with swollen hands for 2 days.
4. Never expect your parents to communicate anything to you unless it's at the last minute.
5. Always keep your credit card topped up for those sibling 'needs'.
6. Diets are almost impossible when working in an office.
7. Guys can be extremely messy to live with.
8. Lie-ins become very difficult due to your structured body clock.
9. Saturdays tend not to exist due to the night before.
10. Friends can appear in the unlikeliest places.