The Day I Met Nigella Lawson

It was a mild November day as the sun set over University College Dublin. The stage was set for one of the biggest events of the year as the college welcomed Food Writer and Journalist Nigella Lawson. The Literary and Historical Society hosted the event where Mrs Lawson discussed her life and offered inspiration to students and staff. Mrs Lawson who is famous for her many cook books and television shows has masterminded some of the nicest recipes on the planet. From brownies to flapjacks, the Domestic Goddess has captivated the imagination of people across the earth.

I had the opportunity to ask a Mrs Lawson about the advice she would give young people hoping to pursue a career in Journalism. She urged those present to contribute to student newspapers and write. The chef explained the role of a Journalist and provided guidance to all those present. Her direction was well received and proved what can be achieved if you work hard and persevere.

The famous television personality was also asked a crucial question that has baffled young people for years. The hot topic of whether pineapple belongs on pizza is a controversial one but Britain’s Domestic Goddess cleared everything up. Nigella explained that her friend owns an Italian restaurant in London and he says it’s fine to use pineapple. Ever since this clarification, I have always ordered pineapple on my pizza from Silvios, Templeogue. The topping is very popular worldwide but still causes a stir in Dublin!

Following the question and answer session, I had the chance to speak to Mrs Lawson and thank her for coming over to see us. We shook hands before she left UCD after an insightful visit.

By Cian Byrne.

The Day I Met Donald Tusk

On the 10th April this year, I had the honour of meeting the President of the European Council Donald Tusk. The chance to greet this pinnacle of European democracy occurred after his speech to the UCD Law Society. Mr Tusk, who was Poland’s longest serving Prime Minister, was in the University to receive a lifetime membership of the society. This is an honour which was bestowed on many people before him including Judge Judy Sheindlin and Former Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald.

The President delivered an outstanding and witty speech where he won over fans with his knowledge about Ireland. Mr Tusk spoke about personalities like Sinead O’Connor and Conor McGregor. The assembled audience were amazed when he described how Brexit makes him “furious”. Mr Tusk said what everybody else in the room was thinking. I’ll never forget waking up in the early hours of the 24th June 2016 feeling angry myself. Brexit will be the defining moment of our generation and I admire Donald Tusks’ determination and commitment to continue the stability of the Union.

Following his speech, I was honoured to speak to the President before he sat back into his car. Mr Tusk took time to talk about my College course and I thanked him for his work in Europe. It is a conversation that I will always remember and gave me great momentum as I faced into the exam period. Following this, the sirens blazed and the cavalcade departed as the President of the European Council left UCD after a thought provoking evening. Donald Tusk is somebody to watch as Britain makes its final preparations before exiting the European Union in March 2019. The manoeuvres of Mr Tusk along with those of Jean-Claude Juncker and Michel Barnier will decide the fate of the bloc forever.

By Cian Byrne.