What have I been up to?

It’s been a very long time since my last blog post, I was trying to get into the habit of doing on a week (usually while at work :p). So since my last post I have been manically writing my dissertation and major project – an investigation into implementations of network access control technology, and sitting exams. As well as other more social/fun things:

NUS LGBT Conference 7-9th May
I attended the NUS LGBT conference in Liverpool this year, taking place over the weekend there were various talks, policy meetings and political motions to be passed, as well as socials. I couldn't help but feel like Malcolm tucker wandering around the hotel with my phone and paperwork, because the decor was that horrible parliamentary green. Conference its self was a very long and tiring event starting most mornings at 9 straight into policy debates right up until 8pm, then followed by social events.

This year one of the groups I'm affiliated with - The West Midlands Coalition (Now the Coalition Midlands LGBT) scooped an award for 'LGBT Event of the year' for joint efforts by Birmingham, BCU, Coventry and Warwick LGBT groups to bring together a series of events for LGBT History month (February)

Exams and End of University Celebrations  - 26th May
So for those not aware i have been studying a Computer science degree and pending results have just completed my third year. I have managed to survive the long torment of a dissertation and exams which all came to pass with a lovely night out fuelled by alcohol and absinthe. The other day i had my project presentation which considering how little i prepared for i felt remarkably confident about and don't think i have anything to worry  about.

Birmingham Pride 2010 - 29-30th May
This was the first year i have been to Birmingham pride, and along with going The Coalition were sponsored by Missing Bar, providing us with a tent and a small bar from where we could host our own student campaign events. Although i did not take part in the parade i watched it from the side lines and found it very interesting and diverse, which is just what we need, to show that the LGBT community are real people with real interests.

I was impressed by the amount of heteronormative couples or  straight couples wandering around within the village over the weekend, some even bringing there kids who were happily supporting the LGBT rights movement by wearing badges and just generally having a good time.

I went for both days, the Saturday consisted mainly of wandering around looking at what was going on and later on coming back home to rest, as it was really expensive entry wise to the clubs at night. Sunday was a little more different because I ended up drinking all day, but i met some very good friends and nice people who made the day so much more fun.

On balance it was a good fun weekend, with lots going on for everyone and i will be interested to see what next years is like.

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Finally the Download Festival - which is in its own blog post, purely because its more recent and I can remember it.