Tag Archives: debate

Expelled for missing the bus (Rousse)

Posted on August 28, 2025 by Dreamaticus

It was a huge honour to have been appointed to this high profile expert panel to work with the most senior UK academics and the country’s top civil servants. After Day 1 of important confidential debate, the chair released us … Continue reading →

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Liz Truss bores Welsh sports fans (Rousse)

Posted on February 10, 2022 by Dreamaticus

My university friend HB was waiting for me in the lobby of the Welsh Assembly with a slightly overweight woman who resembled her. ‘Hello’, I said cheerily as I introduced myself. ‘You must be HB’s sister.’ ‘No, I am Liz … Continue reading →

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A wasted wedding day in Edinburgh (Rousse)

Posted on March 31, 2018 by Dreamaticus

This had to be the most boring and short-lived wedding celebration of all time. Although some of my most interesting school friends were amongst the guests (including JB and GB, now a married couple themselves), TPR and I were sitting … Continue reading →

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PhD in Middle Eastern history: the mock viva experience (Rousse)

Posted on March 16, 2018 by Dreamaticus

I was completely unqualified to serve as an examiner at this mock PhD viva. What on earth did I know about Middle Eastern history? I had been persuaded to participate on the grounds that I could ask all the standard … Continue reading →

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Jaded academic seeks oblivion with the help of yellow jellied cocaine (Rousse)

Posted on March 1, 2016 by Dreamaticus

It took us a while to find the meeting on the top floor of a deserted University building. The venue was a formal board room, and it was packed. All the great and good were there, including KW who greeted … Continue reading →

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England v Sweden: where to watch the match (Rousse)

Posted on May 26, 2015 by Dreamaticus

Belle and I debated where we should spend our evening together. The final choice depended on who won the football. We really wanted to be with the fans of the victors, whether or not England beat Sweden.

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Is librarianship a profession? Rousse joins the debate

Posted on September 28, 2012 by Dreamaticus

A beautiful couple entered the children’s reading room. She was a tall, elegant African woman in a blue and white midi dress. He was also tall, handsome and clearly devoted to his companion. If not lovers, they might have been … Continue reading →

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