So after ten months of working hard and more months of waiting you’ve finally received your CAO results! Welcome to TU Dublin, try not to be too excited/overwhelmed or disappointed even but relish in the fact you can finally start planning on the coming year. This also means that summer is slowly winding down, the festival season is coming to a close and the dread of 9am classes is starting to set in.
Fear not – I am here to help as much as I can, because college is tough and as much as it is fun, preparation is key!
The first key thing you need to know is when does college actually start?
Orientations start at different times but are between the 4th and 13th of September. This is when all first years get an introduction to the college, this usually includes a tour, general information, course specific information, a consent workshop as well as getting your student card.
Orientation is a great way to meet your class before college actually begins. Try making a group chat for your class at this time. Room and timetable changes always occur in the first few weeks and having a class group chat is the easiest way to ensure that you don’t walk into a room of very serious postgrad students trying to complete a lab. It’s also a great way to learn people’s names and organise whether you’re all going to Tramline or Workmans on a Thursday.
And classes officially begin on the 16th of September.
Next up and probably the most daunting… ACCOMODATION!
If you’re lucky enough to be already living near you’re college or you’re commuting, try figuring out early how long it takes to get to college and how you’re getting there.
If you’re looking for accommodation, I’m sorry – good, affordable accommodation is hard to come by and we’re currently in the middle of an accommodation crisis. It’s hard but not impossible and there are many ways to make it easier for yourself.
Your first step should be looking at your price range and signing up for Daft.ie and TUDublinstudentpad.ie. Then look at all your options. Digs is a good cheaper alternative and consists of you living with a family.
Deny it all you like but at some point, it may be a worry – making friends!
This is something you shouldn’t worry about in the slightest, there are lots of societies to sign up for which are catered to individual interests. There are also lots of clubs like Karting, Mixed Martial Arts and Surfing too. If events or welfare issues are more up your alley, consider joining up to the ents or welfare crew by contacting your local officers.
The best advice I received in first year was to recognise that you will be spending the next few years in college surrounded by people who will be in your respective field. The guy you share your notes with may be your colleague in 10 years’ time and what goes around comes around!
To fund your steady caffeine addiction, the rocketing prices of accommodation and €2 drinks in Dicey’s you’re going to need a job.
Jobs are somewhat hard to come by but not impossible. The fact that Dublin is still somewhat in the dark ages in terms of tech is something to be aware of when it comes to getting a job. To get a job you will probably have to spend a few afternoons going from place to place handing out your cv and cover letter. If you get an interview, make sure to send a thank you after and your chances of getting the job skyrocket! Never underestimate the power of a good connection, your Da has a mate that owns a shop – hit him up! Your friend’s place is hiring – get them to hand in your cv and give a good word!
College isn’t easy but it is incredibly fun, maybe classes aren’t fun or you don’t end up signing up for any societies but find things you do enjoy. And if you have any issues don’t hesitate to contact the SU or student advisors!
Moya xxx
