Hobbies

Hitting the Gym

Yes. I'm someone who likes to go to the gym. It surprises me too. It's a new thing for me, last 4 years only. It's been an amazing journey over those 4 years, changing not only my physical appearance but my whole approach to life. It's made me realise that if I can go from a 19st couch potato to what I am today, then I can do most things I set my mind to.

I go about 4 times a week. I enjoy competing against myself, at my own pace. It's a great tension reliever and I feel fantastic afterwards.

University subsidises a personal trainer, so I have had one of those for the last couple of years and my training has come on in leaps and bounds.

Fencing

I joined the Fencing Club at Nottingham Trent University and have enjoyed learning the sport. I'm now in the second year of training, so hopefully I have some idea of which way round a sword goes! It's a really great sport and I have enjoyed getting to know the other members of the group.

Tech Talks

Nottingham had several great monthly tech talk events. I currently attend TechNotts and Women in Tech Nottingham. Both have guest speakers talking about tech related subjects which are always interesting. These events are a really great way to meet people similarly interested in tech and to also shamelessly network a little!

Volunteering

I volunteered weekly at the local Clifton NG11 Food Bank. I started this in 2018 and have loved every minute of the experience, the people there are great, we have a good laugh and there's a really friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Obviously there's a serious side as well and helping out, seeing the clients we have benefit from that and leaving with a sense of achievement is a really great thing. Currently looking for another volunteering opportunity as I moved away from Nottingham.

Video Games

Yes. I'm a gamer. I got my first computer (a Commodore C16+4!) when I was 7 and that was my introduction to programming (yes, at 7 I was programming BASIC) and gaming. When I have time, I really enjoy getting lost in the story of a good Roleplaying Game and I absolutely love MetroidVania games. I bought myself an Oculus Rift a few years ago, so I'm also playing around in VR when I can.