Rhys Gregory

Content roundup week #1

Rhys Gregory — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:30:08 +0000

An introduction to planning your blog content – Source
5 ways to promote your white papers & generate more leads online – Source
7 Ways Interviews Can Skyrocket Blog Growth – Source
Get innovative: launch your annual report on Tumblr – Source
5 best practices for B2B corporate blogging – Source
How long did it take social media websites to reach 50m users? – Source
How to write an Article in 20 Minutes – Source
5 valuable content creation skills – Source
Are you hitting the target or firing blanks? – Source
Facebook’s content strategy game changer: Insight from F8 – Source
Applying the Justin Bieber content marketing strategy to business – Source

Accommodation Crisis in Aberystwyth

Rhys Gregory — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 07:25:34 +0000

This isn’t new, Aberystwyth University and the town has been struggling to cope with the increased intake of students each year. Back in 2008, students were put up in hotels and nearby caravans until they could find somewhere long-term to live.

Now in 2011, we’re back to square one. Perhaps in an even worse situation as, the University even tried to deter students until next year.

The solution? – Bunk beds!

In some ways you must admire them, a quick thinking approach but, at what cost to student living? The university has prided itself on a good reputation but I can’t help but think student satisfaction for this academic year will be dented.

As much as I miss the student lifestyle and studying at Aberystwyth University. I can’t help but think I have had a lucky escape in the bunk bed jungle. If this is something that will continue then I’d like to think that new social venues will be in place as students avoid their rooms.

Have your say below

Twist in the UK Pylons Competition [graphic]

Rhys Gregory — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:03:50 +0000

Image courtesy of @BaseStructures

Over the last week we have seen the short-list announced for the UK Pylons Design Competition but have they missed a late minute entry?

These great big masts have interrupted our skylines, but no more, as the short-listed designs seen here are more works of arts than anything. But there lies the problem, I can’t help but think pylons should look like pylons. If our skies are filled with futuristic sculptures, are we more likely to notice them in admiration than them disappearing into the background. What do you think?

Content Strategy for Content Marketing

Rhys Gregory — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:50:25 +0000

Content Marketing: Getting Started

View more presentations from Marketing Clout

Getting found by customers in search engines was as easy as 1,2,3… you could cleverly write an article, laced with rich-keywords that search engines would just collapse over, but gone are those days.

Put simply, there’s too much content out there and, not enough time to view it all. These days it takes people a split second to analyse your website, if it’s a wrong-un and doesn’t give them what they want, they’re gone.

As search engines such as Google come to realise it’s about quality content, rather than computer-speak, the more they develop ways to analyse your content’s worth.

B to what?

B2C, B2B… it’s all business. You need to start thinking about what value you can add to your product or service. Then develop content around it.

If you’re unfamiliar with the term content marketing or content strategy, check out the latest eBook in the series by Marketing Clout (@marketingclout). It’s a useful starting point, featuring a nifty visual of what it all means and additional content resources in the back.

Download the Free eBook here.

Guide to Aberystwyth Freshers Week 2011

Rhys Gregory — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 07:36:06 +0000

Aberystwyth Freshers Week Monday 26^th September 2011. Starting with a warm up event on the day students officially move into university halls of residence on the Saturday (24^th). The week promises to consist of fun… fun and more fun.

Over the next few weeks leading up to your arrival, I will be updating this page with the latest guides, photos, videos and event information. Collect your results today, relax.. chill as soon it will be Aberystwyth time!

Aberystwyth Sports Week

Sports week at Aberystwyth is a great opportunity to try out a variety of sports. More than worth the £60 and it gets you into accommodation halls early. Find out more here.

Freshers’ Week Events

Every year, Aber Guild offers a great range of events to kick-start your time at Aberystwyth. The first Saturday night is always the best. Students head to the students union with their new housemates and party till the early hours. Find the latest event information below. Join the official Facebook event here. Find your way from your accommodation to the students union using this map.

Saturday 24th September
The Big Sale, in the Joint, Guild of Students building- 11am- 3pm Our student nearly-new household sale, pick up crockery, saucepans, and utensils at discount prices.

Sunday 25th September
“Get Fresh- Get to know your Union”, Hugh Owen A12, 12.30-1.30pm A brief introduction to the Students Union from the 5 Sabbatical officers, and a chance to ask questions only a student could answer!

Monday 26th September
Freshers Fayre, (Trade Fair) in the Sports Cage, Penglais campus- 10am-4pm A chance for new students to get a host of freebies and information from local and national businesses to assist them with their University life ahead.

Tuesday 27th September
Sports Clubs Fayre in the Sports Cage, Penglais campus- 10am-4pm A chance for new students to find out about what Sports Clubs are on offer to them.

Wednesday 28th September
Societies Fayre in the Sports Cage, Penglais campus- 10am-4pm A chance for new students to find out about what Societies are on offer to them.

Aberystwyth Freshers Week T-Shirt 2011

With the success of the Aberystwyth Freshers’ Week T-Shirt in 2010, it’s back for 2011!. Order now!

Aberystwyth Halls of Residence Reviews

Check out the Pentre Jane Morgan (PJM)

What is the best accommodation on penglais campus?

Nightlife

Cwrt Mawr Bar on Penglais Campus

Academy Bar in Aberystwyth town

Why Not – Bar and Club Aberystwyth

Pier Pressure / Inn on the Pier Aberystwyth Night Club

The Best Pub in Aberystwyth

Aberystwyth Supermarkets

You may not be thinking about it now. But your stomach will be when you arrive. Don’t forget to take a trip to one of the local supermarkets in Aber and stock up on snacks… drinks and oh yes, food to survive the hangovers. Find local supermarkets using this Google map. But remember, everyone else will pretty much have the same idea so it might be worth bringing one or two items with you. Photos of how busy it can get when students move in. Don’t forget to check out the Aberyswtyth Student Fod Co-op here.

Resources

Map of Penglais campus

Map of Aberystwyth town and the surrounding area

Places to eat out in Aberystwyth

Student Budget and Financial Planning Guide for 2011-2012

Visit Aberystwyth Arts Centre

Student Prospectus to Aberystwyth University

What is the best thing about studying at Aberystwyth University?

Freshers Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to Pentre Jane Morgan Student Village Aberystwyth

Rhys Gregory — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:46:36 +0000

Pentre Jane Morgan (PJM) is one of the largest halls of residences at Aberystwyth University. Located at the top of Penglais Hill, the accommodation is only a short walk away from the main University campus opposite via the footbridge.

Houses are primarily 5-6 bedrooms, although in recent years, the 5^thbedroom in the 5 bed houses has been a shared room between two students.

The village offers fantastic views of Aberystwyth and the surrounding areas. Students can be often found sitting outside the amenity block watching the sunset.

What’s it like to live in PJM?

“The best thing about PJM is that you’re living in halls of residence but in your own house. Like other halls, bills are already paid for in your accommodation fee so you won’t have to mess around with sorting any of that out. I stayed in PJM in my first and final year at Aberystwyth. The houses are spacious, clean and tidy (especially if you keep it that way). Can be expensive when comparing it to living in town but is very much worth it. Every accommodation at Aberystwyth University has its own plus points. It depends what you’d prefer at the end of the day”. Rhys Gregory.

The Kitchen

Spacious modern kitchen. At least one cupboard storage each. Also acts as your living room.

Clothes Washing

During certain times of the day, the PJM wash room can get quite busy. It costs £1.80 for a wash and £1 to use the dryer. PJM houses do have an airing cupboard where you can dry your clothes but it can take a while.

24 House Computer Room

Super fast broadband, access to the University network is not only available in student rooms at PJM but also in the 24 hour computer room.

Things to remember

You’ll need a parking permit if you’re bringing your car. You don’t need one when you’re moving in. Buy a bucket and sponge if you plan on washing your car.

Bringing a TV? – A good indoor digital aerial is recommended for TV reception. Not only this but you’ll need to purchase your own individual TV licence.

Insurance – by staying in halls of residence you’ll automatically be entitled to insurance cover. See your accommodation packs for details. However if you may wish to take out extended cover.

Bicycle Storage – PJM has two large cupboards inside where you can store your bicycle. Remember to ask your housemates first.

Collecting your keys – You will be collecting your PJM house keys from the amenity block located in the centre of the village. This is where the computer room and wash room is for the village.

What’s Supplied

Microwave

Oven

Henry Hoover (bags are supplied by University)

Ironing Board

Kettle

Toaster

Getting here

By road – A487 North/South. Map and directions here.

By rail – See National Rail website here.

By technology – Post code for your sat nav – SY23 3TE

Resources

Pentre Jane Morgan house numbers map

CK Supermarket Opening Times

Finding your way to the Union

Parking Permit for PJM

Washing and laundry facilities at PJM

PJM Computer Room

PJM review first year

What are those in the sky above Bristol?

Rhys Gregory — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 20:48:43 +0000

Is it a bird, is it a plane? – no wait, it’s the 2011 Bristol Balloon Fiesta . I was driving into work and noticed something strange in the sky. I got out of my car and hurried to work for a better view.

Stepping out onto the balcony 11 floors up, a strange sight awaited me. Looking back at the photo, it seemed so unreal, to see something so unusual.

I was unable to attend the actual event but enjoyed watching them float passed my office window. Were you lucky enough to go, how was it?

Techniquest Cardiff: take a deep breath

Rhys Gregory — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 20:39:43 +0000

Have you ever been to a Techniquest before? – if not then you’re missing out. Putting fun into science and learning, Techniquest centres offer practical exhibits where people of all ages can learn something new. You’re never too old or to young.

Many of the exhibits haven’t changed in 10 years. Some of the classics have been replaced with musical science, instead of the mirror maze (one of my favourites). On a personal note, it did feel pretty cool to go there and already know how to work things whilst others struggle.

Back to the review. Prices aren’t that bad. £5 for us as we were concessions (students), Adults £7 and children even cheaper.

If you’ve already been then share your experience below, if not, are you planning on going?

See, I told you that your data is still on Facebook

Rhys Gregory — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 20:29:47 +0000

Whilst browsing photo albums on Facebook, you may have noticed a new subtle update. “On this day” Facebook status updates.

What happened on this day? – well Facebook now rotates status updates from your past. A nifty little feature but it does make you wonder where all this info’s stored.

You might be naive in thinking that once your updates on your profile get bumped onto the previous page that these will be gone forever. Well they’re not. As you can see.

Now I do like these features that Facebook installs, don’t you? – but it does make me wonder how much data websites have on me and who has access to it. Once you post something it seems to remain there forever.

How do you feel about your data being stored and used?

Aberystwyth bus pass price climbs 350%

Rhys Gregory — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 20:19:15 +0000

Last week, Arriva announced that it would put up its Aberystwyth student bus pass (AHA card) from £40 per year to a whopping £180.

For the last few years the AHA bus card has been subsidised by the University to run regular services up and down Penglais Hill to the main campus. Arriva said that the current service is unsustainable.

Although this comes as a shock, bus passes in other parts of the country don’t come cheap, with some areas charging high hundreds. So is £180 such a big deal? – they are promising to lay on extra services.

What is rather interesting is that they will be using a double decker bus to minimise the usual over-crowding that regularly happens. If it’s a brand new one then I’d understand that they want to claw back the money asap..

The bus pass still remains cheaper than running a car but is £180 more expensive than walking. Existing students who are familiar £40 price may think twice before renewing as they’re used to that price. For new students, who knows what the take up will be.

Would you pay £180 for an Aberystwyth bus pass? – Have your say below.

View the full announcement on the Aber Guild website here.

Looking at studying at Aberystwyth University? Check out this budget and spend forecast for the academic year 2011-2012 here.