It's now my 7th week at BBC Radio Bristol, and I finally feel like I'm starting to settle in this wonderful city. I really do love this job, and although in some respects it is still a steep learning curve.
So far, the only downside that I've come across is the early starts. It's not as bad as the rest of the early team, but it is still a bit of a shock to the system when the alarm goes off at 4:40am. I've been practising my ninja skills so as not to wake the rest of the house.
It is quite an artificial environment to throw your body in to. There's no windows for soundproofing reasons, not very much airflow, just bright lights and lots of noise - and yet you have to be on the ball! I've taken to double and triple checking my usual morning preparations so as not to make any big mistakes. There have been the odd ones which have affected output, which I blame on the rather confusing studio layout!
Aside from that, there's a real sense of satisfaction coming from feeling like a team member and affecting programme output. One of the main problems I had at York was not getting to know people socially, I just turned up and did what was required. Small talk really makes the job I think.
I feel rather fortunate to have landed in a job with such nice people to work with too. The producer I work with is a good laugh in the morning, and very supportive of me and my development potential within the company.
My room is slowly taking shape at last. Cushions have been purchased for my window seat, the window has been painted (although I later found out it was with emulsion rather than proper paint), and the last thing I think I need is some picture hooks to hang my photos on, and a proper desk for my turntable and I should be sorted.
There's also the prospect of recovering my social life at last! Finally I am able to go out socially with my housemates or workmates, which is a great feeling. Already, the advantages of being so close to London are becoming apparent, since I've visited two weekends in the past 7 weeks for the spectacular Palais De Danse.
Next on my list, find a place to have proper dance lessons...
