In Agony! Volume 2 - (Spring 2010 issue)

VOL. 2 - SPRING 2010

Yes that’s right, I’m back in spite of popular demand! I’m Terry (waits for applause…) and I’ve been reading your letters with the aim of helping a select few of you escape the pitfalls of your tragic lives. As hard as it may be to believe, I am far from perfect. No really, but I am aware of my flaws. I just don’t much care anymore. However, some people out there do care and they need that extra kick in the backside to make changes. Luckily I’m happy to provide that along with some modern day common sense, so I do what I can out of the goodness of my heart… and for a cheap laugh where possible.

Now remember the ‘In Agony!’ twist! Sometimes the advice is already out there you just need to know where to look. So with your response I will also be giving HOMEWORK. This will include a specific song, film, book or TV show episode for you to research, which will hopefully shed some light on your issue.

Lady Gogo wrote:

I’m a first year student living at Paragon. Uni’s not what I was expecting and I’ve been a bit depressed lately. What’s a good way to meet people?

A: Well one way is to get involved with the university. There are societies you can join as well as the SU, events and of course the magazine! Also Paragon is looking for people to join the new resident committee and help organising events there. Keep your chin up, the first year away from home can be rough for a lot of people but it will get better.

HOMEWORK: (Listen) McFly – “I’ll be okay”

Batman wrote:

I’ve been seeing this new girl for over a month now. I really like her and I thought she liked me but every time I’ve tried to take things further she totally shuts me down. Should I keep trying or cut my losses?

A: I lived in a majority female flat for the last two years and we all got along really well at the time. Maybe it’s a generalisation but from that experience I learned that girls like to feel in control (even if that means pretending they aren’t). I’m sure she likes you too but it sounds like she might be feeling pressured. Stick with it and let her make the first move (or for her to signal you that it’s okay for you to do so). Until then just get used to being comfortable around each other. Maybe even suggest “taking things slow” which will give her back the control and may even provoke a response.

HOMEWORK: (Read) a women’s magazine - Cosmopolitan etc. They often include “what men really think” type articles, which are a hilarious read for any guy! Also there will probably be other things in there like tips and rules for every aspect of a relationship. Have a read through and try seeing things from the other side, it’s the whole know your “enemy” idea. 


Princess wrote:

I’m making a film for part of my course. I like my ideas but I think the other people in my class have better skills than I do and great equipment at home to work with.

A: Not really a question in there but okay. I think if you have a good idea and execute it along with the guidelines your course leader has set then it shouldn’t matter, go over the assignment guidelines in your module study guide. Using basic skills perfectly can be better than trying to take on something too ambitious.

HOMEWORK: (Watch) Harry Potter - any #. Huge budget, Big name actors and the latest available tech but somehow the films are still a painful experience to sit through.

Nighthawk wrote:

I’m not really interested in anyone I meet lately, is that weird?

A: Why do you have to be interested in anyone? Take some quality you-time and maybe someone will come along when you stop looking.

HOMEWORK: (Listen) Natasha Bedingfield – “Single"

Kurosaki ichigo wrote:

I’ve had a pretty rough life but that’s not what I’m writing about. Recently everything has been going surprisingly well. I have a great job, uni’s going well, my girlfriend is amazing and we have our own place. The thing is I’m getting really paranoid, waiting for everything to go wrong and it’s starting to keep me awake at night. Any insights?

A: You need to work out a worst-case scenario. In the unlikely event that everything DID go wrong what would you do? Make an actual plan and keep it in the back of your mind. By doing this you will be able to relax safe in the knowledge that you have contingencies. Here’s a general rule for everybody out there and my personal mantra - Whatever happens in life, wherever it takes you, in the worst of times and the best, don’t let yourself be caught off guard. ALWAYS have a plan B!

HOMEWORK: (Watch) Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle. 
Even when they have clever, thought out plans they have backups at the ready that help save the day! 


I'll give anything a go so send your letters, embarrassing illnesses, secret shames and all the rest, to tezofalltrades@gmail.com with ‘HELP’ in the subject box and leave an alias for how you want to be addressed.