Hey guys!
So this post is a little late because I only got my laptop back yesterday! I don't mind though because it is fixed (Thank you TechHelp!), much faster and I have so much more space on it for pictures and college work now!
I went back to college on Monday and as I'm entering my second semester of year two, I decided I would share some of my hints and tips on how to survive the semester with you guys!
Exam Results
I'm lucky enough to have my year semesterised so I have exams before Christmas and in May. My results came out today and I know how daunting it is to wait for your results.
The thoughts that are running through your mind before the results go online are the worst part of it all, in my opinion. The best advice I can give anyone waiting on exam results is to get some form of rescue remedy if anxiety is an issue for you (I get the gummy stars because I am a total child at heart) and to seek out your tutors or lecturers if you have an issue with a result or would like some feedback.
While failing an exam will have financial repercussions, it is not the end of the world! You will be able to continue in your degree and there are numerous supports available in colleges if you need help!
Check out your SU's websites for the supports available to you, should you need them.
Reading Lists
We all know the drill, you promise yourself you'll stay on top of your readings and by week two you're already behind. While the volume of readings you need to do for each module can be daunting, setting aside a half hour, once or twice a week, for each module, is completely doable and you will stay on top of everything and actually know what your lecturer is talking about!
If you don't want to buy the books because they are really expensive, go to the library and get the book out, it's a lot easier (albeit time consuming) to photocopy the relevant chapters you need for each module or search for a free pdf version online!
Stay Alert
Although your day may not be as long as it was in secondary school, it can still be tiring! Be sure to eat and drink between lectures so you can actually pay attention in each one!
Grab a coffee, water or a snack from an SU or campus shop between lectures and you won't regret it!
Go to your Lectures!
Okay so this may sound incredibly obvious but you'd be surprised how fast a room full of people drop like flies after the first week or two.
It is so important to attend your lectures, tutorials and labs! You're there to learn, you've paid to learn and if you want to do well in a module, you'll actually have to go to lectures!
Get Involved
A lot of colleges run a 'Refreshers Week' towards the start of the second semester and it is the perfect time to join a club or society that you regret not joining in September.
Have a look at their social media and see what the society or club does, how you can get involved and if you already know anyone in the society/club. It is a great way to make new friends and fully immerse yourself in college life!
Go on Class Trips
I went on a society trip last year and had such a good time! This year I'm hoping to go on one of my class trips during our spring break. It's such a unique opportunity to go away with a bunch of people you don't know very well (I always make sure to go with at least one friend as well) and discover a new city!
Society or class trips are usually inexpensive and they try to be accessible for everyone within the group, most run on a first-come, first-served basis but it's definitely a college experience you don't want to miss out on!
Make Use of What's on Offer
If you're lucky enough to have access to a gym, pool, other sporting facilities or even a cinema (yes, UCD has one...) be sure to actually use them! Most colleges that have an on-campus gym also include some form of a membership in your fees.
If you have access to facilities like these, make sure to use them!
Have Fun!
Whether it's cocktails with your crew or a pizza night with your pals, don't forget to have fun as well! College isn't supposed to be pure work, there's room for fun too!
Go on a few nights out, head to the local bar or just stay in and catch up with everyone!
Avail of Student Discounts
While flashing your student card in some stores will get you that handy discount, having a student leap card will get you even more discounts (10% off in Boots, how bad!).
Download apps like Unidays and sign up for student discounts, if you're unsure if a shop has a student discount, just ask!
It's literally saving you money, just for being a student!
Good luck to everyone going back to college, or already back in college for the semester ahead!
Ciara,
xoxo.
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