Exhibit This 2013: Media Event

Whether you have a passion for all things radio, enjoy reading top-notch journalism or have an eye for fabulous photography, make sure you come along to Exhibit This 2013. The two-day event, set up by third year Media and Communication students from Birmingham City University, will showcase some of the finest work produced by innovative media workers of the future.

Taking place on both Tuesday 28^th and Wednesday 29^th May 2013 at the Custard Factory in Digbeth from 6pm-9pm, the event promises to be buzzing with creative individuals showcasing their skills in journalism, television, radio, music industries, public relations, photography and web and new media. Students will be showing off their individual portfolios, group projects and creative displays for the perusal of others.

Showing an array of talents, you can speak to PR specialists, admire photographer’s portfolios, enjoy short films from television students and much, much more – there really is something for everyone at this wonderful event. If you’re a singer and want some more recognition, why not get in touch with some journalists to get an article produced about you for promotional purposes? Or speak to photographers to get some snaps of you in action if you’re a dancer – there is a great opportunity to network as well as the chance to admire some quality media work. Refreshments will also be provided (free wine, anyone?).

So get one of those dates in your diary! Make sure you venture down to the Custard Factory in Digbeth on either the 28^th or 29^th May to enjoy some top quality media work and network with creative individuals.

Venue: The Custard Factory, Gibb Street, Birmingham, B9 4AA

Dates: Tuesday 28 May and Wednesday 29 May

Time: 6.00pm until 9:00pm

Twitter: @ExhibitThis2013

By Grace Montgomery

Embarrassing Celebrity Moments

Is it possible to act normal in front of celebrities? Could someone actually talk to them as usual without making a fool of themselves? Apparently not! The stars in our eyes clearly mush up our brains when in the presence of a famous person, which can only result in one thing: utter embarrassment. Read all about our shameful celebrity interactions right here...

“I was on a show was called Genius, which is where you had to send in your own genius ideas. They chose me to be on the show because they liked my idea; which was to have Paul McKenna as a bonus feature on DVD. The point was for you to watch a film, and then watch the feature, where Paul hypnotises so you forget what happened, so the next time you watch that film it’s like you’re seeing it for the first time. I met Dave Gorman - the presenter of the show - whilst talking about our ideas when being filmed for the programme. I had a card with a succinct description of my idea on, but I got quite nervous and forgot about the card, so I ended up rambling on for too long. They cut me out of the final show, which is pretty embarrassing when you are sat there on the sofa watching the show with your family and friends and expect to appear on TV but everyone else is shown and not you...”

Ben, 23, Knowle

“I was at ultrasound music festival with my friends and while we were there we met Gaz, James and Gregg from Geordie Shore. Because I love Geordie Shore so much I had James' bare bum as the background of my phone. When I hugged him he saw it and he asked whether it was his bum as my wallpaper. I obviously had to say yes, but it was the most embarrassing and awkward moment of my life!”

Beth, 15, Knowle

It isn’t just you guys though – we girls at Student Speak have had our fair share of awkward A-list encounters too...

“I used to work for a hospitality agency and they asked me to help cater for an exclusive fashion event. We had to serve champagne and fruit juice in the VIP room and during my shift George Lamb - who was presenting the show – came in for a drink. Myself and the three other workers excitably huddled together as he sauntered over to us looking all dapper in his smart suit. He shook our hands and then said “So, how has your weekend been?” whilst stopping and looking directly at me. I couldn’t seem to formulate an answer; I just stood there staring right at him smiling like an absolute idiot. Time stretched on and he gave me at least ten seconds to answer but I couldn’t seem to respond, so he just walked off. I spent the rest of the day replaying it in my mind and wondering why the hell I didn’t say anything!”

Hannah, Editor

“Mark Wright made an appearance at a club that we went to every week, and when I went over to him during the meet and greet, he was a lot shorter than I expected! Whilst taking a photo with him I had to bend my leg significantly to reach his height. I’m already quite tall, but I had big heels on which didn’t help! I also looked really pale next to him, because of his glowing Essex tan next to my English rose (super pasty) complexion!”

Grace, Copywriter

By Hannah Montgomery

21st Birthday Gift Ideas

 

For a lot of you students, you will be fast approaching your 21^st birthday. And as you all must be aware, 21^st birthdays are significant, so why not make your mates’ special day even more special by giving them a gift to remember? Forget chocolate or wine; get them something different, or put in some extra effort to make them feel great. Here are some ways which you can show the love to your pal on their 21^st...

Birthday gift countdown: For those of you who adore your friends, have a generous heart and a pretty bulging wallet, this is a perfect idea! Give them a present a day for a week, going from the smallest (or cheapest) gift to the most significant one on the actually day. It’s sweet, its thoughtful, its original...and they will feel spoilt by you, meaning you = the best mate possible! Go you.

Birthday present hamper: Find a basket, or a casket, or even just a shoebox (well, you ARE students) and fill it with gifts for your buddy. Their favourite food, their preferred alcoholic beverage, a piece of trendy jewellery, a new phone cover...whatever you find which you feel will appeal to your good friend, stick it in the hamper and dress it up with sequins and ribbons or anything else which will suit their style.

Handmade card: Cheesy, but who cares? Maybe write 21 reasons as to why they are such a brilliant mate? Or 21 fun and memorable times you have shared with them? Okay, that is definitely cheddar cheesy, but chances are, it will warm their heart and make them smile, and it will be completely worth it. (Wow, this is nearing stilton-esque proportions...next paragraph, thanks.)

Handmade cake/cupcakes: Nothing shows you care more than a homemade cake. You’ve actually took the time to make something for them, from scratch (or a packet, it doesn’t really matter), with them in mind – extra brownie points for you!

Scrapbook: Buy a scrapbook from a stationary shop or a department store, and fill it with whatever you like – photographs, quotes, poems, memories, stickers, embellishments...the list is endless. For you arty and thoughtful souls, this will be perfect for you. Much time will be needed for such a gift though, so buy it in advance to ensure you can finish scrapbooking before the birthday.

Photo montage: Make them a photo montage of the two of you, so when they look at it they can be reminded of all the good times. If you can’t be bothered to go to such an extremity, then just purchase a photo frame and stick your favourite photo of the two of you inside it. Awww.

Personalised gift: Personal presents are always the best! Whether you have nicknames for your pal, or banter between you both, make sure this comes across in a gift specially made just for them. Shop online at various stores such as www.gettingpersonal.co.uk for some inspiration, and get those personalised goodies delivered!

 

By Hannah Montgomery