Interview with a model

For my journalism module, News and Feature writing, I worked in a small group to produce a student based magazine called "SCOOP", for which we recieved a first, which was a great achievement. After reading about a model who goes to my university in The Sun, I decided to contact her to see if she would be available for an interview. She accepted, so I met her at my campus to conduct the interview. Here is the finished article.

Jemma does body part modelling

Jemma juggles uni life with her modelling

When you think of the word model, you probably conjure up all sorts of stereotypical notions. It wouldn’t be unusual to envisage stick-thin girls who are snooty, catty, self-obsessed…but Jemma Jade Saare is everything but.
It wasn’t hard to pick Birmingham City university student Jemma out from the crowd in the bustling Costa canteen. Perched on a sofa looking expensive in a sophisticated black leather jacket, sheer leggings and boots, the leggy model greets me with a welcoming smile. Her almond shaped eyes are framed with a subtle flick of black liquid liner and the half-Chinese, half-Estonian beauty exhibits all the features of a classic model: flawless skin, pearly white teeth and an enviable yet healthy figure. With her friendly presence and relaxed attitude, I feel instantly at ease in her company.
   She smashes any formed stereotype that models are ditzy and shallow, as she speaks with clarity, intellect and poise – composing answers thoughtfully yet confidently in a well-spoken manner. Watch out BCU girls and guys – Jemma is set for a sparkling future, of this I am certain!

RISING STAR
Jemma is fast becoming a soaring success in the fashion industry. Starting when she was just 9 years old, what started as an innocent hobby soon became a viable career path.
   The stunner was signed with Boss model management but left because her desire to obtain a degree at university meant she couldn’t commit to the agency and its high demands. Jemma has worked for the likes of Next, NSPCC and Tatler and does fashion shows in the iconic Mailbox for Harvey Nichols.
   Clients book her specifically for her luscious lips, never-ending legs and silky hair. “I do mostly commercial stuff,” Jemma explains, sipping a cup of coffee. “I am viewed as a ‘token ethnic’.”

THE GOOD, THE BAD, THE BITCHING
It wouldn’t be uncommon to assume models have it easy, but according to Jemma, the reality is a whole other story. “It’s like you are constantly working. Your agency can ring you up whenever, and you have to be prepared to work – the amount of travelling is insane!”
   However, Jemma admits that there are perks to having such a fashion-focused career, including a model discount for MAC makeup and 30% off Harvey Nichols. The pay isn’t too shabby either, as Jemma has made up to £2,000 for one project – not bad for a day’s work!
   When questioned about the darker side of the industry, Jemma shakes off assumptions that models indulge in spiteful gossiping: “In my fifteen years of modelling I haven’t experienced any bitchiness! You can’t afford to be like that because it will damage your reputation in the industry. If you don’t do the job properly, they’ll drop you.”

BALANCING ACT
  The ambitious student has always had other career plans in mind. Ever since she was a young girl, Jemma aspired to become a writer, which explains her choice of studying an English Literature degree. However, balancing the two has proved to be a challenge. “It’s  really, really difficult.” She explains, tossing her black tousled hair over her shoulder. “My agency gets annoyed with me sometimes because I’m not free all the time.”
   Although her modelling career is blossoming, Jemma holds her studies in high regard, refusing to miss classes and prioritising university. “Modelling is a great experience, but it’s career that won’t last forever, so I want a degree to fall back on.”
   Many girls dream of obtaining the supermodel lifestyle, but what does it take to become successful in such a competitive industry? “You definitely need lots of confidence to be a model,” Jemma claims, her chocolate brown eyes glittering.  “My advice would be to send photographs to local agencies. You don’t have to be a certain weight or height because there are different types of modelling.”

HARSH REALITY
With a career so judgemental and image-obsessed, being thick skinned is essential. “The industry is cut-throat!” Jemma claims, toying with her silver heart bracelet. “You can’t go into it thinking “Oh, I’m so pretty” because although one agent may tell you that you’re beautiful, another may reject you.”
   Jemma is a shimmering example of an ambitious individual hungry for success and brimming with determination.
   Who said models were unintelligent, shallow   attention seekers? If Jemma is anything to go by, they’re down-to-earth and likeable individuals. Although juggling her modelling and academic career is proving a challenge, keeping her options open will allow her to reach her goals in the long run.

Energy Bills - Commissioned Piece

In our News and Feature writing module we were set a commissioned piece, where we had to construct an article on the subject of energy bills. We had to gain quotes on the topic and make an interesting and informative news article, and this is my offering on the subject.

It’s winter. After tackling the blustering winds, drizzling rain and icy temperatures, all you want to do is snuggle up on the sofa in the warm comfort of your home…but this security and satisfaction comes at a price. And a rather expensive price at that.

Government policies have resulted in a dramatic increase in energy bills in current times, leaving many people to suffer from what has rapidly become known as “fuel poverty”. Residents have to splash the cash on electricity and gas bills which have upped considerably, making it harder to afford everyday essentials such as groceries and other bills such as the water supply.

So why the increase? The reasoning behind this rise in cost lies within the government and their decision to provide more support for the fuel poor, and to cover the expense of carbon and renewable energy.

Unfortunately, the costs will continue to increase. A worrying statistic which has recently cropped up will take effect in just under a decade, and will have a significant impact upon occupants. According to the Department of Energy and Climate Change, government policies will issue a dramatic increase in the cost of electricity by 2020, seeing the total price rise by 27%. In its annual energy statement it was claimed that the increase will see the cost of an average bill grow by almost £280.

Susan Pudge, a single mother from Sheldon, is one of the many people suffering from the soaring cost of energy bills. The unemployed mother of three pays £25 a week for electricity and £10 a week for gas, and the economic elevation has resulted in her having less money to spend on food and non-utility bills. This has consequently led to an on-going financial struggle, having to constantly monitor purchases and remaining faithful to a restricted budget.

Susan has her own ways of cutting down the costs: “I have the heating on as little as possible to save money and only the living room is heated. I buy energy saving light bulbs and more frequently use the shower instead of the bath.” She believes that the solution to this significant problem lies in the hands of the energy providers: “Energy companies should consider their customers first, instead of focusing their attention mainly on shareholders.”

Out of the six leading energy providers, five of them announced price increases of up to 24%. Npower increased their gas tariffs by 15.7% and electricity expenses rose by 7.2% from the beginning of October.

However, it isn’t all bad news. The Department of Energy and Climate Change further stated that their energy saving strategies will more than compensate for the surge in expense; as its policies on energy-efficient products, home insulation and smart meters would result in any average household being £94 better off overall.

Help has been offered from the government, who have launched a “Green Deal” consultation; a programme encouraging energy efficiency. The project provides support for poorer households and helps consumers reduce their energy bills. This is done through the obtainment of loans through the “Green Deal”, which will save people £53.

Cutting down on both electricity and gas usage will make for a more energy efficient lifestyle. Whether that may be simply switching off plugs instantly after using them or investing in specific products, there is always a way to reduce energy utilisation and subsequently, cost.

David Burman from British Gas offered his energy-saving tips: “I would recommend turning the thermostat down and increasing loft insulation. Investing in double glazing would be preferable, but it would also be wise to use energy efficient washing machines and energy saving light bulbs.” 

Research conducted by the consumer watchdog Which? revealed that customers can’t calculate energy tariffs, and this confusion over domestic bill prices has prompted British Gas into taking action.

The leading energy supplier has promised to run a more transparent billing system with a guarantee that tariffs will be simplified. This change has been set into motion to encourage customers to stick with the company, and by regaining trust in British Gas, consumers can more easily comprehend their energy bills.

British Gas will ensure customers receive a complete bill breakdown so they can understand all of the costs, and the major supplier will offer both fixed and variable tariffs.

Ray Halfpenny, an energy consultant from Marston Green, claimed the cost of energy bills has increased because the price of crude oil and coal generation has risen. He said there are offers made to those who are the most vulnerable in the cold winter months: “winter payments are made to the elderly and the infirm to help them manage their extortionate bills, but these are only very small amounts.”

Ray believes that the key to solving this on-going issue is to address the government, namely to make them advertise energy-saving resources more prominently: “I think the best way to tackle the problem of extortionate energy bills is to push forward green issues. Using solar panels, wind power and hydro power will help the environment, so the government should promote these more.”

Ray also had some energy saving tips which will save people a substantial amount of money: “Use low energy light bulbs and invest in double glazing. New technology in the form of a quality, up-to-date boiler (which is more energy efficient) can cut down energy usage. Loft insulation is also a viable option, or simply even just adjusting the radiator valves on your thermostat will help.”

Unfortunately, decreasing the cost of energy bills in the future seems unlikely. “The expense of energy bills may change, but they will only ever go up in price.” Ray admitted.

It seems that in order to be more energy efficient, becoming “green” is the way forward. And with chilly December fast approaching, it may be a necessity to use energy saving products…after all; we do want the luxury of snuggling up on our sofas, without the worry of paying excess amounts of money!

Example Album Review

Here is a review I produced for "SCOOP" magazine, our creation for an assignment.

After Examples soaring chart success over the past few months, I was awaiting the release of his newest album, Playing in the Shadows, with great anticipation. And it’s fair to say that it doesn’t disappoint.

The overall tone is notably different to his previous album, Won’t Go Quietly, but after listening to the tracks, I have taken this as a welcomed change.

The singer has shed his kooky image (the crazy, spiky hair and upbeat, mainstream sound) in favour of a more relaxed, dark approach, complete with a new flat haircut. He has definitely changed a considerable amount in terms of both his image and his music, which in essence gives this latest offering a whole new vibe.

However, hard-core fans of his original dance orientated style shouldn’t be disheartened; as the artist still encapsulates the quirky and lyrical package that is Example. He doesn’t fail to disappoint vocally, whether that may be whilst delivering rapid raps or slowing the pace in more heartfelt tracks, as his distinctive voice blends in with the stomping background beats.

In fact, the more downbeat style he has adopted only accentuates his development as an artist and his experimental nature, as the new album reflects his gradual move into the darker sounds of electronica and dubstep.

It contains the number one tracks “Changed the Way You Kiss Me” and “Stay Awake” and recent release “Midnight Run” as well as a whole host of other exciting songs.

My personal favourite is “Microphone”, which sees a moderately slow-tempo start up follow up beautifully to an impacting and powerful chorus. The lyrics are laced with thoughtful lyrics expressing what I find to be a rather interesting insight into Example’s life.

Combine his more sentimental, meaningful “Under the Influence” and “Anything” with the more sinister sounds of his “Playing in the Shadows” – which sustains Examples usual portrayal of promiscuous antics – and you have an extremely varied collection of catchy songs that you won’t easily tire of.

Example has gone from strength to strength in his musical career and although his music has altered markedly, he remains charismatic in character, has a flair for writing rhymes and is talented enough to incorporate rapping and singing in the album with his adaptable voice.

Overall it’s a highly enjoyable listen; a combination of catchy songs, clever lyrics and dominating beats secures Example as a unique and extremely talented artist who is fast becoming ever more prominent in the music scene.

8/10

The Cost of Christmas

As our magazine for the News and Feature writing module was created during the winter months, a Christmas themed article was inevitably highly appropriate. I set out on creating a piece which included both opinions and statistics (because this is conventional of magazines), and this is my completed article.

Is Christmas worth the expense?

Christmas Day. A towering mound of presents has formed underneath the vast, beautifully decorated tree, and an enormous seasonal feast dominates the dining table.
Twinkly coloured lights frame the house and vibrant decorations hang in every available corner, transforming the normally mundane space into a sparkly, festive grotto – encapsulating all aspects of the joyful Christmas spirit. Even your grumpy old Granddad musters a smile as everyone is soaking up the warmth of the magical event, yet this enjoyment comes at a cost. And a rather expensive one at that…

  Christmas is an extremely pricey time of year. What with all of the presents, the decorations and the banquet to consider, splashing out is of incredible importance in December.

  According to a survey conducted by Abbey National, over £1.6 billion is spent each year on Christmas food including turkeys, mince pies, chocolates and nuts. An extortionate £900 million is blown on decorations, Christmas trees, cards and crackers; and almost 40% of people buy new decorations annually. This research illustrates the shocking expense of Christmas – yes, it may be the season to be jolly, but it certainly isn’t the time to be stingy!

  David Bates, 20, a media student says : “My parents insist on getting a real tree every year, but they don’t get it until 2 weeks before Christmas and it always makes a mess.” In terms of expenditure, David spends £10 each on his mom, dad and brother, whilst making sure to buy his grandparents chocolates. To save money, the Bates family reuse the same decorations annually and David suggests buying presents that are on offer as a way of minimising the total cost.

  Tom Harris, 20, is a lifeguard who spends around £15 on each family member and £20 on his girlfriend. “I always aim to have a fair bit of money left over – whether that may be from my wages or my loan - because I don’t want to be skint! I make sure that doesn’t happen by restricting myself – I stick to a budget of £20 a week.” At the Harris household, Christmas is a huge deal to them, regardless of the cost: “We always make the effort to really decorate the house. It may sound cheesy, but Christmas is all about spending time with the ones you love.”

  Daniel Nolan, a 19-year old I.T student, has some useful ideas on how to save money in such a wallet-exhausting time: “Shopping at the wrong time can lead people to spending too much at Christmas. One method I usually stick to is to wait for the January sales because prices drop dramatically, resulting in the purchase of your wanted product at a much lower price. However, if you want the gifts on the day, the best thing to do is use your student discount card in as many shops as you can.” Daniel spends around £80 whilst out shopping for the occasion, and the Nolan’s always invest in new lights and decorations for their tree. “We reuse our Christmas candles and keep the odd decorations to place around the house like the singing Santa toy and the snowman ornament,” he admits.

  Beth Rubens, a 19-year old Speech Language Therapy student finds herself spending a fortune at this festive time of year, despite the unemployment increase affecting many teenagers in this economically challenging time: “I always spend too much, I can’t really help it!” she admits.

And Beth isn’t the only one. Amazingly, 50% of people confessed to splashing out more than they could afford during the festive period, and 33% claimed it would take them approximately six months to pay off their debts. Quite possibly the worst part about all of this is the fact that some people know they will go over their desired limit! A recent study found that four out of ten consumers haven’t set themselves a budget to stick to, and out of those who have, 46% expect to overspend.

  Liam Short, a 20-year old rifleman in the armed forces, spends approximately £150 on presents – a considerable amount compared to other teenagers. However, Liam stresses the essence of Christmas is about the thought involved, not the extravagance of the shopping: “It’s not spending a lot that’s important, it’s about making the effort and buying people what they want and deserve. It just always ends up being expensive!”

  So, Christmas may be expensive, but there’s no denying that for the heart-warming atmosphere and joy that it brings, it is worth every penny. And at least we can reassure ourselves that it’s only one day of the year!

Professor Green Album Review



Here is an album review I wrote for our News and Feature writing module assignment (the production of a print magazine). This album was current during the period when we were constructing our publication, so I chose to write about it for our reviews page.

Cheeky, crude, charismatic – there’s just something special about Professor Green. He’s been in the mainstream music scene for less than two years, yet he has still established himself as a talented rapper and a unique musician.

I was looking forward to purchasing his new release, after finding his previous album, Alive Till I’m Dead, a fulfilling collection of infectious songs and clever rhymes.

   Admittedly, it took me a few listens to grasp the more sombre feel of his newest offering, At Your Inconvenience. It seemed that in the majority of songs the normally cheeky chappy was quite pessimistic and at times, almost whingey. However, I found myself rapidly warming to the album, enjoying his usual contribution of lyrical genius laced with upbeat electro-dance and standard grime.

   However, How Many Moons confused me to say the least. The unexpected and incredibly slow chorus contrasts a little too much with the fast-paced rapping, and the combination doesn’t really work. Saying that, there’s no doubting the line-spitting talent of the Prof.

   Forever Falling is a powerful song with an explosive chorus; bringing forth many emotions, centring around experiences that Professor Green has clearly been greatly affected by – most notably, the impact his father’s suicide had on his childhood and upbringing. It’s dramatic, compelling and expressive – belted out with pure sentiment and passion. It’s definitely an effective and heartfelt number perfect for crooning on an emotional day.

   Never Be a Right Time is a gem on the album which allows us to see another side to the normally overly confident Professor as he struggles to find the words to break up with his girlfriend. The thoughtful lyrics reflect his experiences, and the relatable topic will prove significant to any listeners affected by a similar situation.

   Personally, the album doesn’t disappoint. It may be considered slightly depressing at points, but the songs have such deep messages and meaningful lyrics, that the overall dark vibe works, and gives an incredible and honest insight into the rappers life. The sexual innuendos and celebrity references make for a more upbeat and humorous ambience and is characteristic of the promiscuous, loud-mouthed musician. Fans will enjoy the classic puns and vulgarity that has secured Professor Green as a mischievous, foul-mouthed performer, and any new consumers will undoubtedly deem the album an interesting listen, as the album paints a vibrant picture of the artists’ colourful life.    6/10

X Factor Article

Here is a news story I wrote for my News and Feature writing module assignment at Birmingham City University. It had to be appropriate for an informal student magazine, so I chose to write about The X Factor final, which at the time of print was a popular and current topic.

LITTLE Mix have made X Factor history by becoming the first girl band to win the ITV3 talent show.

The four young ladies and mentor Tulisa Contostavlos screamed in delight after Dermot O’Leary revealed they had won the public vote last night.
   Band members Jesy Nelson, 20, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, 19, Perrie Edwards, 18 and Jade Thirlwall, 18, successfully secured the prize after singing En Vogue's Don't Let Go (Love) and a compelling cover of Christmas carol Silent Night.
    The girls beat fellow contestant 23-year old hairdresser Marcus Collins, who delivered a lively performance of Jackie Wilson's (Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher but dwindled slightly with a shaky version of Last Christmas by Wham!
   The winner’s Christmas single Cannonball by Damien Rice was then performed by both acts in the busy Wembley Arena in North London where the final took place.
   17-year old runner up Amelia Lily was booted out on Saturday night’s show, leaving Little Mix to battle it out with Marcus Collins in the big final.
   Little Mix are set to rake in an astonishing £8 million from commercial deals alongside their prize of a £150,000 recording contract following their X Factor glory. Show business tycoon Simon Cowell has already expressed plans of turning the group into the next Spice Girls, recruiting Richard “Biff” Stannard to pen a smash hit for the band. Stannard aided the Spice Girls in their bid to find fame, and will no doubt work his magic again with the perfect pop package that is Little Mix. X Factor judge Gary Barlow is also set to be involved with their swiftly rising career, as the successful artist and songwriter has been enlisted to help write for their first album.
   The talented foursome have already received multiple offers, and they are expected to earn £50,000 a time whilst promoting products for major brand names. Hair products, clothing manufacturers, cosmetic firms and corporate gigs are examples of the commercial deals the lucky ladies will be offered.
   Bookies claimed last night that Little Mix weren’t deemed favourites to clinch the Christmas Number One spot. For the past few years the X Factor winner has always been predicted to be the seasonal best seller, but the odds saw them fall behind as 9/4 second favourites to the Military Wives. Punters who bet Little Mix would win the contest will collect over £200,000 in winnings.