Starting off

For many, the maiden voyage into college life is fraught with as much anxiety as aspirations. We’re often told that university will be the best time of our lives, yet starting out can be daunting for many a fresh-faced first year.

“It’s a jarring transition, but you’re not alone,” advises TUDÕs Brian Jordan. “There’s innumerable support available if you just ask. In TUD, we have free medical and counselling services, for example.

”My mantra for first years has always been: Say yes to everything. College is what you make of it. It can be the best few years of your life - but you have to grasp it.”

Sex and drugs

While embracing new experiences is crucial, so is safety, especially when navigating the realms of sex and drugs.

“We’ll be launching our annual Drug Harm reduction campaign in line with Freshers Week,” says Brian, “so that, if students do decide to experiment, they can make safer and more informed choices. We’ve seen that there are better outcomes in countries where they take a more ‘harm reduction’ approach, rather than ‘prohibition’. We’ll have things like anti-spiking materials, earplugs and welfare points for our club-type events, to ensure students feel as safe as possible!

Alex Balfe, Student Union President at the University of Maynooth touches on sexual awareness.

“We will be hosting a SHAG (Sexual Health Awareness and Guidance) week in both semesters” she notes, “to help educate students to break down stigma around the topic of sex.”

One of the most important things to remember when it comes to sex in college is taking your time.

”I advise heading to the active consent workshop at the start of the year,” says Balfe. “Always remember people feel ready at different stages. Just because your friends are doing it, doesn’t mean you have to.”

Maynooth Sutdent Union President Alex Balfe

Cost of living

The escalating cost of living crisis in Ireland is disproportionately affecting students, with most relying on part-time jobs. Many unions have supports in place to make sure your financial situation won’t take away from college life.

“The cost-of-living crisis is at the forefront of every student’s mind,” says ATU’s Sarah Mohan. “If you pop down to your SU, your welfare officer has plenty of information and will run through a monthly budgeting sheet with you. We also have a Student Hardship fund - a repayable loan you can receive in times of need for unexpected costs.”

“All students should check their suitability for the SUSI grant - this year, any student whose household income falls between €62,000 and €100,000 can avail of €500 off fees,” adds Brian. “The university also offers free medical and counselling services, a Student Assistance Fund and so much more.”

Commuter students

With the persistent housing crisis forcing many students to live at home, many are worried about missing out on the quintessential college experience. Unions are adapting and looking to make the best of a less than ideal situation.

“Maynooth has around 70% of students commuting,” says Alex. “We plan to run weekly commuter friendly events to allow commuters to be involved with the campus community and allow them to have a student experience.”

”We understand the struggles and will be running most of our events throughout the daytime and there'll be a few online events too,” says Sarah. “For any nights out we organise, we have a student deal confirmed with a local hotel, meaning you won’t miss out on the party!”

ATU Student Union President Sarah Mohan