Got a serious side?
Wednesday 17 January 2007
Sick of celebrity culture and want to find out more about what's going on in the world? Do you find yourself left out when it comes to banter about the latest movies but keen to concentrate on more serious issues?
Having a serious side doesn't make you a geek. If you're stuck for ideas on how to turn your interests into a social life, take a look at our guide.
I want to talk about important issues
Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton's new handbags are all very well, but where do you go if you want to chat about some of the more serious issues affecting teenagers? Has it ever crossed your mind that you might not be alone in thinking there's more to life than celebs and sports? Why not put up a notice around school to drum up interest for a school debating society.
Debating is a hugely popular activity at schools and universities in the US and across the world and is getting more interest in the UK, too. Not only does it help you speaking skills and confidence, having a good old barney is pretty therapeutic and once it's all over, you shake hands and that's that!
I want to help others
Sometimes you might want to give up your free time and use it to help others. While it's important that you keep some of your free time for yourself, there's no harm in giving over an evening or part of the weekend over to volunteering.
It looks good on your CV and is a great way of giving something back to your local community and getting involved in charities or organisations close to your heart. See our related links for volunteering opportunities.
I'm interested in politics
Political parties are always trying to come up with ways to get young people interested in politics, but some teenagers don't realise there are already organisations looking for people like them to make a contribution.
If you fancy yourself as a political mover and shaker, a good place to start might be the UK Youth Parliament. Known as the UKYP, the Parliament gives a voice to young people between the ages of 11 and 18 on the issues that matter to them.
The UKYP has over 300m elected members from all over Britain and meets once a year to debate and discuss important issues. Even if you don't fancy standing as a member, you can still get involved at a local level. Find out more on the UKYP site.
I want to focus on my career
All work and no play isn't a good idea, but if you're determined to get one step ahead ion the career stakes, a bit of extra training or work experience every now and again won't do any harm.
Speak to your careers teacher to find out more or give Connexions Direct a call for a few ideas on how to get started.
