Survival Guide 2011/2012 by WIT Students' Union

Waterford Institute of Technology Institiúid Teicneolaíochta Phort Láirge

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Academic Diary

Waterford Institute of Technology

Students’ Union www.witsu.ie

Welcome to WIT. This diary is designed to be your survival guide to student life here in Waterford. It is designed to help you throughout the year with handy tips on such issues as exams, accommodation, finance/budgeting, sexual health, entertainment and much more. Life in Waterford is what you make of it so why not make it a great one. And remember, the Students’ Union is here to help you no matter what the problem is, so if you need advice, support or just need someone to listen, please dont hesitate to get in touch. Contact details are below. So from all of us here in the SU, we would like to wish you the very best of luck during your time here and in your studies and hope to see you around the college very soon. Simples.

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Students’ Union Addresses Useful Numbers College Street Clubs & Socs Mens Health Womens Health Budgeting Personal Safety Message from USI WIT Libraries Exams Healthy Living Unplanned Pregnancy WIT LGBT Anti Social Behavior Accommodation Eating Disorders Sex & Contraception STI’s Students’ Union Structure Mental Health Things to do under €10 MAp of WIT WIT Medical Centre Student Support Careers Student Counselling Your Grant WIT Access

Your Students’ Union Produced by WIT Students’ Union Edited by Lisa Kavanagh Design by EK Designs Printed by City Print

Name: Student No: Phone: Email:

If found, please return to WIT Students’ Union so I can be reunited with my owner. Thank You

WIT Students’ Union

Cork Rd Campus : 051-374744 College St. Camous: 051-302275 email: info@witsu.ie

Visit: www.witsu.ie and keep up to date with all that’s going on in Your SU!

WITSU Waterford Institute of Technology

Students’ Union

President

- Conor Doyle

Hey Everyone, My name is Conor Doyle, I am your Students’ Union President for the academic year 20112012. On behalf of your Students’ Union I would like to extend a heartfelt welcome to all incoming students here at WIT. I hope that your time in WIT will create new opportunities for you and you create many new friendships that you will cherish. My role as President entails overall responsibility for the daily running of the Union and to ensure that it represents all students in the college. I would like to encourage each and every student of WIT to get involved in a club or society. There are over 30 of such, something to cater for everyone and by becoming actively involved you are sure to create friendships and memories that will last forever. As a student representative organisation we are only as strong as you make us. Get involved, become a Class Rep, attend our social events, give a helping hand with our campaigns. This year promises to be an eventful one with Denise and Brian (Stan) co-ordinating many campaigns such as Positive Mental Health, Career Awareness Days, Love your Body Week and many more. Vikki the Communications Officer, will co-ordinate our fortnightly student publication and her role will be to communicate between the Union and the student body. Deirdre, Entertainment Officer, has an exciting year of events planned also, with the highlights of first semester being Fresher’s Week, WIT Fashion Show & Republic of Loose.

One issue which WITSU have tackled hands on over the past number of years is anti-social behaviour. I encourage you to respect both the residents of this city and also your fellow students. The actions of a minority reflect on the whole student body. Any student of WIT who acts in an anti-social manner will be dealt with by the Disciplinary Committee in WIT. Personally I have thoroughly enjoyed every second of my time studying and working in WIT. If you get the balance right between your study and your social life you will have the best days of your life here. I cannot emphasise enough, to all students, the importance of attending lectures and putting in adequate study time. REPEATS are not fun, so get the balance right and you will not go wrong. Your Students Union is here for you. So please, let us know if we can be of any assistance to you throughout the year. Our Sabbatical team were elected by you for you. Myself, Brian and Denise hope that you will find us approachable at any time, we are passionate about our roles here at WITSU, so whether you feel like stopping us in the corridor, having lunch with us, calling into our offices or having a sociable drink with us. We are here for you. WIT, Together We Are Stronger! Conor Doyle 086-7854420 president@witsu.ie

E R

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WELFARE

- denise mccarthy

This year I will be running various campaigns and awareness weeks for issues such as Sexual Health and Guidance, Positive Mental Health, Money Matters and many more. I am always looking for people to help out so if you want to, give me a buzz.

Hiya! My name is Denise McCarthy, your Student Welfare Officer for 2011/2012. Let me begin by welcoming all Fresher’s to WIT and to you returning students, well done for getting this far...! If you don’t know already college is where you will fall in and out of love, laugh, and cry, pull all nighters before exams and look back on for the rest of your life because it’s true, college days are the best days of your life. College should be a time of great craic and a time to broaden your mind, meet new people and learn more about the world around you. My role as Welfare Officer is to help with ALL non academic issues one may face throughout college. I’m here to provide support, representation and raise awareness for students in relation to sexual, physical and mental health, financial aid, accommodation issues and general welfare issues such as student security and even some information on grants. I also point students in the right direction in terms of accessing support for whatever problem they may be facing. If I can’t help you, I’ll know someone who can and this will be done with the utmost confidentiality and without bias.

Do not hesitate to get in contact with me, (don’t be afraid, I don’t bite) because there is no problem too big or small. We run an open door policy here at WIT Students’ Union and I’m here to help you! Feel free to call into the office at any time, give me a text, send me an email or even stop me on campus and have a chat. If I’m not free I will find time for you. There is always time for tea and a chat. It is important you use your voice and do what you can to make a difference so stand up and speak out and do what you can to make a difference so do your bit and get involved. I wish you all the best of luck for the upcoming year, play hard, work harder and be safe. Don’t forget, College is a time of development, turbulence is normal so if you need some help, JUST ASK! Is mise le meas :) Denise McCarthy welfare@witsu.ie

EDUCATION- BRIAN STAUNTON

Dia Dhaoibh agus ba mhaith liom fáilte a chur roimh gach duine go dtí WIT. Brian ‘Stan’ Staunton is ainm dom agus beidh mé i gceannas ar cúrsaí oideachas don bhlian amach romhain. Comhghairdeachas do chule dhuine atá taghtha go dtí WIT agus creid é nó ná creid ach beidh na blianta atá amach romhat san gcoláiste ar na blianta is fearr i bhur saol. Thogh na scolarí mise mar sin ta mé anseo chun tacaíocht a thabhairt daoibh ó thaobh Cursai Acadúla,Cursaí oideachais agus aon comhairle atá ag teastáil uaibh. Bhí mé mar scolaire san gcoláiste seo ar feadh 6 bhliain mar sin má tá aon ceist agat i rith na bliana, cur glaoch orm nó buail isteach am san oifig, beidh FÁILTe rOMHAT.

I’m here for all your academic needs whether it is grinds, exam appeals, grant applications, academic policies, issues with timetables, problems with lecturers, courses etc. Do not be afraid to stand up and speak out or express your opinions. Remember, no matter how big or small the problem, don’t hesitate to get in contact with me and I’ll do my best to help you out.

Hey everyone and welcome to WIT, My name is Brian ‘Stan’ Staunton and I’m YOUR Students’ Union education Officer for this upcoming year. Congratulations on getting into WIT and believe the hype, your college years will be the best of your life. I have been elected by students to represent students and am here to help you with any academic/education/ course related issue you might have. I am in college 6 years so if you have any questions or concerns during the year contact me or call in to the Students’ Union office, my door is always open.

I will do my best to ensure that everything passed through these committees is in the best interest of students. The stance that I take on issues at this level is determined by SU Council and the SU executives and remember you’re my boss so anything I do will be in your best interest

I am responsible for Class Rep Recruitment and Training and encourage all students to get involved in student life and make as many friends as you can. I also represent you on College committees where important executive decisions are made that will affect your education.

Make sure to check out the education Section of the diary for helpful tips you can use throughout the year. Also get involved in as many Clubs and Societies as you can manage as this is the best way to make lifelong friends. Hope you have a great year,

EDUCA stau TION

Brian ‘Stan’ Staunton sueducation@witsu.ie

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WITS

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COMMUNICATIONS- Vikki Murphy Hey everyone, my name is Vikki, and I am your Communications Officer in the Students’ Union. To start I would like to congratulate everyone on getting into college. The next few years are going to be the most enjoyable and memorable few years of your life. So as Communications Officer, It’s my job to keep you all up to date with everything that is going on within the Students’ Union. I promise I will do my very best to keep daily and weekly updates of everything going on within the Students’ Union. You will find all this information and everything you need to know on the Students’ Union Facebook page and witsu.ie.

We are here to help YOU!! If you need help with anything or ever need to talk to anyone about anything, just drop into the Students’ Union office, there will always be someone there to help. I hope everyone has a great year, there will be lots of fun events and fundraisers throughout the year and everyone should get involved. Good luck in all your exams!! Vikki Murphy communications@witsu.ie

I will also be putting up posters around the college advertising all the Students’ Union news and events.

ENTERTAINMENTS- DEE GRANT

Hey all, I’m Dee Grant and I’m your entertainments Officer for WIT Students’ Union for the 2011/2012 academic year. First of all I would like to welcome you to WIT. I am delighted you chose here to continue your studies. My role as ents Officer is to organise the various events, which are run throughout the year. These are the best places to get to meet new people and to have the craic. Also, it is my responsibility to help organise class parties and trips, giving the best venue choice and the best options for your class.

I will emphasise the importance of study and attendance in lectures, but entertainment is a necessary part of college life. We all need a way of relaxing and de-stressing after a long day of lectures and it gives you the opportunity to meet new people, create relationships, and experience different types of music/culture and just to have fun in general. Get the balance right and you will have no worries!! There are so many societies and clubs here that you, as a student, can join so do GeT InVOLVeD. You will not regret it. We, as your Students’ Union, are here for you. So, if ye have any questions at all don’t hesitate to contact me and I’ll do my best to help ye out! Dee Grant entertainment@witsu.ie

USEFUL NUMBeRS Students Union President: Conor Doyle Education Officer: Brian Staunton Welfare Officer: Denise McCarthy Cork Road Campus Office Colleage St. Campus Office

086-7854420 086 0499842 086 7854402 051 374744 051 302275

Waterford Institute of Technology WIT Reception: Registrar Office: Examinations Office: Main switch Board: Accommodation Office: Campus Bookshop: Careers Office: Chaplains Office: Fr David Keating Clubs and Societies Office: College Bar: Fitness Suite/Gym: GAA Office: Grants Office: Library Cork RD Campus: College Street Campus: Medical Centre Cork Rd. Medical Centre Coll. St. Secretarial Service Cork RD Campus: - College Street Campus: WIT Card Office: Sports Hall:

051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051 051

302601 302017 302043 302000 302615 302701 302038 302617 302238 302049 302484 302239 302088 302823 302262 302873 845671 302220 302276 302732 302051

Faculty/School Offices Business: Education: Engineering: Health Sciences: Humanities: Science:

051 051 051 051 051 051

302841 302040 302035 302035 302251 302037

U S E F U L N U M B E R S

Emergency Numbers Garda Barracks Ballybricken Community Garda Medical Centre: Louis Nelvin -Barronstrand St -Lisduggan Waterford Regional Hospital STI Clinic

051 874888 051 305377 051 302086 051 852999 051 87344 051 873321 051 842646

Banks / Tax / Post Office / Public Offices AIB Bank Cork Road Campus 051 372414 Bank of Ireland Lisduggan 051 355514 City Council 051 309900 Citizens Advice 051 304965 Social Welfare Office 051 356000 PAYE tax office 051 317100 Motor tax office 051 309952 Public Transport Bus Eireann station Iarnnroid Eireann enquiries Rapid Express

051 879000 051 317899 051 872149

Important External Numbers Garda Station Fire Station City Council Citizens Advice Dept. Of Social Welfare STI Clinic Citizens Advice Bus Eireann Iarnrod Eireann

051874888 051309982 051309900 051304965 051356000 051842646 051304965 051879000 051873401

Samaritans Rape Crisis Centre Free Legal Advice Centre Bodywhys

1850 609090 021 4505577 01 8745690 1890 200444

WIT

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Investing in college life

We Invest To deliver... ...student services at WIT Whatever you spend on campus, stays on campus. Campus services is an integral part of the WIT community providing a variety of services, not for profit, but to support campus life for the benefit of students

College Street, or the Good Shepherd as it is also known, is home to nearly 2,000 students. Studies here include Legal, Art, Design, Music, Social Care, Early Childhood and Psychology. Even though the number of students/ courses may not be as big as WIT’s Cork Road Campus, College Street is still a vital part of the WIT community. Do not hesitate to avail of the facilities here if it makes college life handier for you, e.g. using the library here to study instead of travelling to the Cork Road Campus (perfect if you live in Manor village!) College Street may be small but it has loads to oﬀer. THE STUDENTS’ UNION The Students’ Union is located on the ground floor, in Room CO17. It is from here that students are encouraged to come in and let themselves be known to our staﬀ members and officers who will be on campus regularly. We

strongly advise students to call in for a chat or if they have a problem we are always here to listen (there are usually loads of freebies going around too!!) Not only do we oﬀer an ear to rant to but we also have a full array of services for you to avail of. CLASS REP COUNCIL As part of the Students’ Union we are looking for each class to elect a Class Representative who will sit on Class Rep Council which takes place at least once a month. College Street also has its own special Class Rep Forum to deal with issues specific to the campus. This is to ensure that College Street has a strong voice. If you have any problems in the college then make sure to let your Class Rep know...we can only fix problems if we know there is one!

CAMPUS SHOP The Campus shop is located just inside the main doors on the left, just opposite the AIB Bank Link (the only bank link on campus). The Campus Shop sells everything from stationery to phone credit, text books to sweeties so you’re sure to find whatever you need. And mention it to the wonderful Sandra if you think they should stock any alternative supplies. CANTEEN Whether you’re looking for a cup of healthy homemade soup, a fry up to cure all hangovers or just a proper old school dinner with all the trimmings, the canteen is the place to be. The Staﬀ here are lovely and would bring a smile to anyone’s face. Here are a few tips to make the most of the Canteen: • Make sure you use your WIT card as it will get you a discount on your food • REMEMBER to go to class! It’s easy to forget the time when you’re hanging out on the sofas with your mates. • Look out for music sessions going on in the canteen, there’s nothing better than eating your lunch and getting a gig in as well for free!

so make sure you avail of it. Plus it’s probably the warmest room on campus so we’re sure you’ll love spending time here. COUNSELLING College Street has both a nurse and student counsellor available (check Useful Contacts) and both are based on campus most of the time. Both Nurse Louis and Counsellor AnneMarie are located just past St Dominic’s corridor on the left (By the Dance Hall) and are always up for a chat. So if you’re feeling a bit under the weather (physically or emotionally) there are no better women for the job of making you better. Fr David Keating is based in the Cork Road Campus but is never more than a phone call away. SECRETARIAL SERVICES You’ll find Secretarial Services inside the College Street shop. This is the perfect spot to hit if you’re looking for print outs of past papers or get your essays typed up, of course the service isn’t free but hopefully it’ll ease the stress of the exam period.

RECREATION ROOM The Students’ Union was delighted to open the brand new Recreation Room last year in College Street. It offers Students a fantastic opportunity to chill out between classes, surf the web, watch TV or read magazines. It’s your room, built for you, by your Union

Students’ Union Ofﬁce College St What’s Here: Printing/Photocopying, Binding, Stationary, Fax, Condoms Opening Hours:

Mon-Thurs: 9am -1pm & 1.30pm - 5pm Fri: 9am - 2pm

College St. Library For an up-to-date schedule of opening hours please visit : www.witlibrary.wordpress.com

Students’ Union Recreational Room Free room for students to relax, watch TV, use the computers/internet, read magazines and gossip.

& s b Clu s Soc SPORT AND RECREATION IN WIT The WIT Sport & Recreation Department consists of the Clubs & Societies Office, the WIT GAA Club, the WIT Sports Scholarship Programme and the WIT Fitness Suite. This department is responsible for the promotion and development of sport and recreation in WIT. As part of the WIT Student Support Team, this department responds to the sporting and recreation needs of the students, and enhances the student experience while completing studies in WIT. The services provide include the planning, development and deliverance of sport, leisure and recreation promotional strategies to achieve maximum participation and involvement of all students, from the casual recreational student to the very elite sporting student and to encourage students to develop lifelong interest in sport and recreation. CLUBS & SOCIETIES OFFICE The diversity of clubs and societies in Waterford Institute of Technology means that every taste is catered for. From basketball to badminton, swimming to surfing and frisbee to football; WIT has a club or society for you. Aside from academic learning, interacting with and socialising with other students can relieve the stress which college may bring. By getting involved with a club or society in WIT you will broaden your horizons, experience new activities and have the opportunity to meet new people from all walks of life. With a host of clubs and societies from field, indoor and water sports, academic, cultural and political areas, there will be something to suit and interest all those seeking new challenges. You can register to join a club or society in College Street Campus and the Cork Road Campus all year long so particularly look out for

our Clubs & Societies Open Days in mid September on campus. The Clubs and Societies Office is located in the courtyard on the Cork Road Campus and is open Monday to Friday.

Contact details: Robin Croke, Clubs & Societies Officer. Tel: 051 302238, email: clubsandsocs@wit.ie WIT GAA CLUB As the Institutes biggest and most successful club the WIT GAA Club has over 16 teams competing in a variety of 3rd level competitions; from Fresher to senior teams in hurling, camogie, ladies and men’s football as well as handball. A number of top-level GAA players from all codes have been past members of the club including Henry Sheﬄin, JJ Delaney, Brendan Cummins, Michael “Brick” Walsh, Declan Browne & Ursula Jacob. The WIT GAA Club Office is located in the courtyard on the Cork Road Campus and is open Monday to Friday.

Contact details: Conor Phelan, WIT Games Promotions Officer. Tel: 051 302239, email: gaa@wit.ie

WIT FITNESS SUITE

The WIT Fitness Suite is situated on the Cork Road Campus, beside the WIT Sports Hall. It has a full range of user friendly aerobic and strength training equipment. With highly qualified staﬀ providing programmes to meet your needs and highly competitive rtes of membership available the Fitness Suite is there to keep your body as active as your mind throughout your time here in WIT. Aerobics and Circuit Training classes take place throughout the week are open to both WIT staﬀ and students.

Applying for a WIT Sports Scholarship: Any prospective or current WIT student can apply for a sports scholarship and have their application considered; a condition of receiving a scholarship is that the applicant must be on or accepted onto a full time course in WIT. The closing date is 30th of September so get your applications in now!

Contact details: Tel: (051) 302484 Further information on Sport & Recreation in WIT is available on the Institute’s website: www.wit.ie/sportrec

WIT SPORTS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME

Waterford Institute of Technology is looking to award sport scholarships to suitable candidates in September. The WIT Sport Scholarship Programme is open to a multitude of sports and students from 1st year to post graduate level are encouraged to apply. There are a number of diﬀerent levels of Sports Scholarship in WIT; Bronze, Silver & Gold as well as Munster Council GAA scholarships. The Programme provides services and benefits to all sport scholarship recipients in the following areas: • Academic Mentoring Support. • Strength and Conditioning/ Injury Management. • Sports Science Support-access to nutrition, psychology etc. • Technical Support (coaching etc) • Financial support towards, books, catering services, and secretarial services. • Medical • Gym Use – access to Fitness Suite and Waterford Crystal Leisure Centre

Contact details: Cathy Pembroke, Scholarship Co-ordinator. Email: cpembroke@wit.ie

JOIN TODA Y!

“Men men men men, manly men men men!” “Men men men men, manly men men men!” “Men men men men, manly men, oo hoo hoo, hoo hoo, oo. “Men men men men, manly men men men!” “Men men men men, manly men men men!” “Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa Men ...” Charlie Sheen is not on his own lads. Most men think they are untouchable beasts who will never get seriously sick but if you look around at your friends, your dad, your uncles, etc. very few of you will be lucky enough to say that they have been untouched by health problems, either physical or mental. As you probably well known, you would be more likely to get your exhaust fixed than get checked for bowel cancer, your headlights fixed than get an eye exam and your oil changed than get an STI check. But you, you’re strong, you’re tough, and you don’t care. You’re “a real man” and seeking medical advice would be like admitting to weakness. The end result is that the average Irish male is uninformed, unaware and at risk. The tragedy is that these very same ‘real men’ who ignore their health and become ill end up affecting a whole bunch of other people including their family and friends. So listen up, guys, and listen hard.Your life is in your hands.

Your Health Is Your Wealth; you’ve seen it written down, you’ve heard it from your parents and now you’re hearing it from me. Don’t take your health for granted. Almost every day you will walk past a person on the street who is suffering from a serious physical or mental illness and as boring as you think your life is, they would do anything to be in your college going shoes.

N I W

G N I N

To ASSUMe is to make an ASS out of U and Me; If you find a lump, bump, wart or leak or you start feeling off, get it checked out. Don’t just assume that it will go away. An Ounce of Prevention Is Better Than a Pound of Cure; The basics are all it will take to look after yourself in college. Make sure you do some form of exercise every day, eat well, keep fit and if something does go wrong, make an appointment with your doctor to have it checked out. They are trained professionals who have seen it all, have the answers and will be able to refer you where necessary. Your College Life Is Much More eventful Than a 9-5 Working Week; With late night and early morning partying, all night study sessions, early morning classes and last minute submissions

dragging at you every semester, it’s important to stay in control, stay organised and get some proper sleep.You know your body better than anyone else and deep down you know when you’re not performing as you should. eat a Proper Balanced Diet; try to steer clear of relying on energy drinks, sweets etc, to eat more fruit and veg where possible and to drink water instead of soft drinks. The internet is one of the best resources for obtaining information on eating healthy, getting sample dinner menus and on living a healthy lifestyle. Just be sure to use reputable sites and take some advice with a pinch of salt, just don’t add salt to your food.

Mind Your BALLS

A REAL MAN GETS THEM CHECKED!

Women's Why do I need to examine my breasts? Finding a tumour before the cancer has spread to other parts of your body can mean the diﬀerence between life and death. An annual exam at the doctor’s isn’t enough; breast tumours can grow fast, particularly in younger women. Most breast cancers are first detected by women themselves, so it’s well worth taking the time to do a monthly breast self-exam. It’s best to begin around age 20, so you can learn early on what’s normal for you, but it’s never too late to start. You can still have your GP examine your breasts once a year, but you are more familiar with them and more likely to discover a suspicious lump sooner if you’re checking every month.

Health How do I examine my breasts? (See Below) 1. Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look for any changes in the size, shape, or skin of your breasts, including dimples or scaly patches. Check for discharge. Any bloody discharge should be evaluated by a doctor right away. 2. Clasp your hands behind your head and again look for changes in the size, shape, and contours of your breasts. Then check again with your hands on your hips, bending slightly toward the mirror with your elbows and shoulders pressed forward.

Cervical Cancer Cervical cancer is cancer of the neck of the womb (cervix). It can develop over time, starting oﬀ with early abnormal ‘precancerous’ changes to the cells in the cervix. The changes to the cells go through three stages, classed as mild moderate and sever dyskaryosis. A virus called Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is considered to be the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV infection is very common and in most people the virus has no symptoms and the infection clears within a few months. However some people seem to be more susceptible to persistent infections and this can lead to abnormal changes in the cervix. The early changes can be detected by means of a simple test called the Smear Test. The Smear test is a very simple procedure which takes about 5 minutes done by a doctor or nurse.

body. At the same time, healthy lifestyle choices are also key to improving body image.

Body Image: I’m fat. I’m too skinny. I’d be happy if I were taller, shorter, had curly hair, straight hair, a smaller nose, bigger muscles, longer legs…

Where can I get other information? Reach Out www.reachout.com Irish Cancer Society: www.cancer.ie Women’s Health Care: www.whc.ie

Body image experience includes…. A for Aﬀect - feelings of satisfaction or dissatisfaction about the body B for Behaviour – what we do in relation to our perceived appearance … weighing, exercising, starving, bingeing etc…. C for Cognitions – Our beliefs and thoughts about how we look. Body Image is a core part of our personality and aﬀects life in many ways especially in the case of people with eating disorders whose self evaluation is unduly influenced by the value they place on shape and weight. For more information on Eating Disorders go to page…

Is your body image positive or negative? If your answer is negative, you are not alone. Love and respect yourself no matter what. If you can’t respect yourself how do you expect others to. We all want to look our best, but a healthy body is not always linked to appearance. In fact, healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes! Changing your body image means changing the way you think about your

Budgeting & Finance Many students experience financial hardship while at college so do not worry about it - help is available. College is a very expensive period of your life and one which can incur a lot of debt. While studying here at WIT, be aware of the financial aids available to you.

This year your Students’ Union will run a Money Matters Campaign throughout the year to help you. MABS will be on campus to give you some advice and WITSU will be producing a Finance Guide that will be like your money bible.

The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) is an organisation which provides advice and support for people with financial difficulties. Check out the website www.mabs. ie for more information.

Financial Tips • Shop in the typical low cost stores • Buy in bulk, it’s much cheaper in the long run • Avoid convenience foods or other prepared meals • Keep your eyes peeled for special oﬀers • Never shop when you’re hungry or you’ll buy unnecessary items • Always make a shopping list • Go home for lunch if you’re near enough or bring lunch to college. It’s much cheaper. • Printing in the Students Union is the cheapest • DO A BUDGET FOR YOURSELF!!!

BUDGeTInG A budget is a simple way to make sure that the demands you place on your income can be met. A budget is an itemised summary of probable expenses and income for a given period. It is a plan for saving and spending. There are some simple things to bear in mind when you start to look at your income and spending. • List all income to your house • List all bills you have to pay • Count all spending, even bills or expenditure that only occur occasionally, entertainment costs, etc. • Include the costs of special occasions; Christmas, birthday and so on. View MABS pre designed budget sheet: www.mabs.ie/process/calcguide.html MAnAgIng YOUr MOneY • MInIMISe number and usage of credit cards • PLAn how to spend your money before you get it. When money for any budget category is gone, stop spending in that category. • In regards to STUDenT LOAnS, the longer you borrow money, the more interest you will pay. • KeeP a list of your goals to remind yourself why you don’t want to overspend. • Discover/define your financial situation and identify your objectives • It is vital that you PLAn AHeAD with money • Be reALISTIC and HOneST in your plans - not always easy! • PrIOrITISe your needs in your budget • AnTICIPATe the unusual and even the unexpected - it will happen! • Don’t leave yourself short but do LIMIT YOUrSeLF! • examine your ATTITUDe! Consider budgeting as a reward system, not a deprivation system

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We Invest To deliver... • Accommodation • Catering • Retail • WITCard • Dome Sports & Social Club • Clubs & Societies • Project Spot • Transport • Medical Services • Printing & copying • Sports Campus • Conference Centre 24

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“The Students Cab Company”

0 51

85 85 85

LOCAL TAXI RUNS ONLY €2 PER PERSON (minimum of 4 people per car)

T x t A Ta x i o n

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R a p i d E x p r e s s Co a c h e s Buses daily to: Carlow - Nass - Dublin

Bu ses weekly t o :

Clonmel - Cashel Carrick - Thurles - Limerick Buses for Hire for Class Parties and other events

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PERSONAL SAFETY The chances that you will become a victim of violent crime are low. Violent crimes are still comparatively rare and account for a very small part of recorded crime. Nevertheless, many people are frightened that they, or someone close to them, will be the victim of a violent attack. The best way to minimise the risk of attack is by taking sensible precautions. Most people already do this as part of their everyday lives, often without realising it. You may already be aware of some of the suggestions listed below, but some may be new to you, and you may find them useful. They seem particularly relevant to women, but if you are a man, don’t stop reading or turn the page. You can act positively to contribute towards women’s safety, as well as reducing the risk of assault yourself. Top Ten Tips For Personal Safety: 1. Do not walk alone at night. Walk in numbers. 2. When at all possible, stick to busy streets with lots of lighting and traffic. Do not take dodgy shortcuts. 3. Try to avoid talking on your mobile or listening to an Ipod, as either will make you less aware of your surroundings and also advertise that you have something worth stealing. 4. If you think you’re being followed, go to somewhere busy and flag down a taxi.

5. Always make sure someone knows when you’re going out, if and when you’re coming back, and whom you’ll be with. When you’re on your way home, let someone know when to expect you. 6. Only used licensed taxis and hackneys. Take note of the taxi licence number (the yellow display on the roof ) and key it into your phone or text it to a friend. When you arrive at your destination ask the driver to wait until you get inside the door before leaving again. 7. Do not leave keys to your home in an easily accessible or guessable place. Everyone knows to look on top of the doorframe, or under the mat, potted plant or just inside the letterbox. 8. Always be aware of who’s around you when you go to an ATM. Do not use ATMs at night on isolated streets – always choose those with good lighting. 9. Unfortunately, sometimes you will have to act suspiciously to strangers. Don’t be afraid to act assertively if you are uncomfortable or if you think someone is acting inappropriately. 10. When you’re walking: avoid while out walking alone, if possible, heavily overgrown areas, alleys and little travelled side streets and high crime rate areas. Do walk with authority, displaying an air of confidence and purpose of destination. Be alert to your surroundings.

YOUR COLLEGE LIBRARY, MORE THAN JUST BOOKS Where Are The Two College Libraries? The Cork Road campus has the Luke Wadding Library and College Street has the Good Shepherd Library. Both libraries are open all year round and opening hours can be viewed @: www.witlibrary.wordpress.com, you can contact them by E-Mail @ libinfo@wit.ie or Call Luke Wadding Library @ (051) 302823 and College St. Campus Library @ (051) 302262. On the Cork Road Campus the Luke Wadding Library is the big white building with the revolving doors facing the front car park. Access can only be gained by using your encoded WIT Card. The College Street library is in the main atrium opposite the canteen/ beside the porter’s desk. What Facilities Do The Libraries Offer? Books & Journals, Individual and Group Study Areas, Meeting Rooms, Computers With Internet Access, Thesis Collection, Information Desk, Inter Library Loans, Learning Support , External Borrowers , Special Collections and Research Support.

How to use the computers: When you get your WIT Card you will get a password with it, this along with your student number is all you need to log on to a computer anywhere in the college. Change the password to an easy to remember one in case you forget the original. The G: Drive can be used to save your work so make sure to save as you type. TIP: E-mail finished assignments to yourself as a free and easy to access memory stick. Also put your name and contact number on your USB Memory Stick and save a document with your contact details on it. How to Print Documents Oﬀ: Once you are logged in you are able to print; simply select print in the toolbar, then go to the nearest printer, scan/swipe with your WIT card and you should see the paper with all the information you need magically appearing from the printer. TIP: The Students’ Union offices on both campuses print from USB or E-mail.

DO save your work as you go. On your computer/laptop you can set up AUTOSAVE so that it will do it automatically.

Photocopying: Like printing, firstly scan/swipe your card, then place the paper you want copied on the scanning table, close down the lid and select how many copies you want, once again you will see your pages popping out and you’re good to go! Tip: See Above Tip Borrowing a Book: Different books can be borrowed for differed lengths of time and in different amounts. Long loan items can be borrowed for 2 weeks (max of 4 books at any one time). Short loan books (identifiable with a red sticker on the side) can be borrowed for a maximum of 2 days. TIP: Set a reminder in your phone to remind yourself to drop back the books to reception on time. Long loan items cost €0.50 per day overdue and short loan items cost €1.50 per day overdue! Library Do’s & Dont’s DO make sure to act in a manner so that you are not interrupting others. Soon you will be the one needing a quiet place to study and you will appreciate others being respectful.

DO call into the Students’ Union to get your hands on free EAR PLUGS, available all year round. DON’T annoy others by talking on your phone, texting constantly or listening to loud music on your MP3 player; even if you think nobody can hear you. DON’T bring messy food and drink into the library, there are canteens throughout the campus dedicated to providing comfortable area’s to eat in, the library is not one of these areas.

NB: You need your WIT card to take out books in both librarys. You also need your WIT card to access the Cork Road campus library

Before your exams: The first step to doing well in your exams is being organised from your first day in college. Make a note of the lecturers name and e-mail, buy a subject divider notebook and also a folder for handouts for each subject. Date everything, write the topic on top and make sure to take note of everything your lecturer says. Listen out for tips from lectures during class i.e. “This is an important topic”, “This is an examinable topic”, “Pay particular attention...” and so on. Go to class, listen in class, ask questions in class, participate in class and you will do CLASS in your exams. Moodle is great, photocopying notes from your friend is great, cramming is sometimes great but you will never learn as much as you will if you attend class. Plus the diﬀerence between 39%-40%, 49%-50%, 59%-60% and 69%-70% could be down to a good relationship between you and your lecturer :) Turn up for your exam on time, stay for the two hours, read the exam paper, re-read it, show all rough work. Do a thought cloud/ idea bubble/mind map to help you remember all the information crammed into your head. Assignments, Projects and Presentations; Some people love them and some people hate them but like it or not you will have to do them throughout the year. Assignments can help you pass a subject if you are not strong at exams and you often

have a number of weeks to do them. Make sure to Check your spelling, double check references and make sure it is presented well i.e. Paragraphs, Justified Alignment, Correct Font and Size, Page Number and a Contents Sheet. All the above will help you obtain a better mark. Grinds Tutors Are Available to Help: If you are struggling with a particular subject ask your lecture for advice, ask fellow students or check out the Students Union Grinds Database to get some extra help @ www. witsu.ie/grind_adverts

Bring Your WIT Card into EVERY Exam! 31

During the exam: Read directions carefully. Make sure it is your exam, make sure you know how many questions are on the exam, how many you need to answer and if any questions are compulsory. Listen to the directions given by the examiner. They will tell you how long the exam is and will usually give you a five minute warning when you’re almost done. Use this time wisely. Divide time out evenly between all questions. E.g. 2 Hour exam=120 minutes, 3 questions x 35 minutes each leaving you with 15 minutes spare to plan answers, read the paper properly and read over answers. Look for answers within the test; sometimes one question will include the answer to another and often you will remember something about a previous question while answering another question. Leave space at the end of all answers, there is no shortage of paper available. Post exam: A result of 40% is the minimum requirement to achieve an ordinary degree and then 50% to achieve an honours degree in most circumstances. Other requirements may apply depending on the course. If you fail an exam it will cost you €150 to repeat so do your best to pass everything.

Exam results are available on a given date after each semester via the internet. Make sure you apply to view your corrected examination Scripts. This must be made on line. Please Visit: http://www.wit.ie/exams/ExamRegulations/ViewingofScripts/ Waterford Institute of Technology will make arrangements to facilitate students wishing to view their corrected examination scripts. Students wishing to view their scripts must make application to view scripts online using the View Exam Scripts request facility. Appeals: If you fail an exam in a semester and pass in the autumn repeats, you will usually be given a pass result regardless of marks achieved. If there are extenuating circumstances during the academic year or summer exams, inform your department immediately so these may be taken into account (e.g. illness). NB: In the Students’ Union we have a dedicated Education Officer to help you with all your exam queries. So make sure you call into Brian in the office or contact him on 086-0499842 for any assistance you may need.

Living a healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to join the most expensive gym, only eat raw vegetables or take crazy supplements that promise the world, it involves simple things like monitoring what you put into your mouth, how much you move and how much you sleep.

ther and it will be cheaper, healthier and more rewarding. Local butchers are often cheaper and have better quality meat than supermarkets. They will also give you tips on how to cook the food, add seasoning for free and will divide portions into freezer bags if you ask them nicely.

People read every day about what to eat, what not to eat and how ‘easy’ it is to get a beach body in just 4 weeks. If everything that you read or were told was true then we would all look like the photoshopped models we see in magazines.

• Fresh fruit and vegetables are also important aspects to any balanced diet. Everybody has at least 5 diﬀerent fruits and 5 diﬀerent vegetables that they enjoy so why not add some to your dinner or have as a snack throughout the day.

What you put into your mouth: When you move away to college, it is often the first time that you will do your own shopping, plan your own meals and cook them. After the first few weeks you will really appreciate what your parents went through to put three meals a day together for you up until now:

• Keeping hydrated is also massively important in terms or keeping your body in working order. Try to avoid relying on fizzy/energy drinks and always reach for water, not from concentrate fruit drinks, or milk when thirsty. This is often the best remedy for tiredness or headaches as both can be triggered by dehydration.

• When shopping as a student, you want value and quality. Try to steer clear of ready meal/TV dinners or take aways. You will often find that if you buy each ingredient separately, the food will go a lot fur-

In order to stay in shape (and no, round is not the shape I am talking about) you will need to do some form of physical activity or exercise most days. • Physical activity can be as little as deciding to walk to college or the shops every day or any necessary movements throughout the day. “Go walking, it’s what you do, go walking.....” You know the rest.

regular sleep pattern will always be the most advisable option. • Sleeping is a must, not an option. You can try to fight it but you will end up losing every time like the Dublin footballers and probably end up complaining as much as well.

• Exercise is when you look to increase fitness levels by purposely taking part in an activity. Examples include walking the Slí na Sláinte routes in the college at lunch time, taking part in fitness classes, going to the gym, playing team sports, going swimming, surfing etc. How Much You Sleep: At night you never want to go to bed and in the morning you never want to get out. Wouldn’t it be great if it was just the opposite! Getting enough sleep every night will allow your body time to repair itself. • Most people need an average of 7-8 hours of sleep a night in order to enjoy a productive day and because of the hectic life most college students enjoy, many don’t get near to this. So if you’re out all night and only get 4 hours sleep it’s probably best that you get at least a power nap in during the day to help you stay focused on college work.

The best time to pick up good habits is when you are young. If you are reading this then you are a student and therefore you hopefully have a number of years in college ahead of you. This gives you plenty of time to make positive changes to your lifestyle and hopefully you can look back in 10 years time and say that college was a truly life changing experience. “One of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating” (Luciano Pavarotti)

• Around exam time it’s advisable to get a proper sleep on the nights running up to your exam. Doing ‘all nighters’ may sound like a great idea but a

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www.crossfitwaterford.com Email: tom@crossfitwaterford.com Tel: Tom 085 2119780 Tel: Eddie 086 9790781 Tel: Gary 086 0850287 Unit 2 Carrickpherish Business Park, Northern Extension, Cleaboy Road, Waterford

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Pregnancy? Know your options... Crisis/Unplanned pregnancy is a difficult time in anyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. A crisis pregnancy can occur to any female during her lifetime. For students the difficulty of coping with such a dilemma proves daunting. However, the resources and variety of support agencies means that decision making is easier. For more information log on to www. positiveoptions.ie. For immediate referral to a trained counsellor phone the Irish Family Planning Association on 1850 49 50 51. In the case of a crisis pregnancy it is important to take your time when making your decision. Firstly, you should have a pregnancy test. If positive, then you can start to consider the options available to you. A problem shared is a problem

halved - you will be surprised how much easier it can be to put things into perspective once you have talked to someone. The options open to a woman are as follows: Keeping the Baby If you decide to keep the baby there are options and benefits open to you. If you and your partner decide to get married you must consider if pregnancy is a reason to do so. If you decide to stay single there are practical problems to be surmounted. Irish Family Planning and CURA are organisations that deal with single parenthood.

The Federation of Services for Unmarried Parents and Children is also worth contacting in relation to housing problems. There are also Mother and Baby homes in Cork and smaller community homes. A Single Parents Allowance is available from the Department of Social Welfare. You should establish whether you are eligible within 3 months of having your baby. If you intend keeping your baby and continuing with you studies, childcare may become a big problem. There are crèche facilities available in many colleges. Feel free to ask your student union Welfare Officer about this service for further information. Abortion The decision to terminate a pregnancy is not one which any person takes lightly. You will need professional non-directive counselling and friendly support from friends, family and/or wider social networks. The time to make a decision is limiting and very often isolating due to persistent traditional beliefs. It is important to remember it is your decision and no one should place undue pressure on how you yourself feel about being pregnant and the decisions you make afterwards. It is important to stress that any woman who does

“It’s not the end of the world.” 38

pursue the termination of a pregnancy undertake a post-abortion medical check up and accessing counselling/befriending services. The Irish Family Planning Clinic and your Welfare Officer are there to listen and work through the diﬀerent stages of your decisions in a non directive, non-judgemental and impartial manner. Adoption If you have any doubts about keeping your child and are wondering about adoption, you should contact a Social Worker in an adoption agency (contact the Adoption Board for a list of societies). Many agencies now provide a much broader service for single mothers than just adoption and will help you to look at all the options. You should do this as early as possible as you will need time to arrive at the best decision for you and your baby. Seeking help or advice: If you are worried about being pregnant the following organisations may be able to help. Further details of the services provided by these agencies can be found on www.positiveoptions.ie. Freetext LIST to 50444 All organisations that oﬀer pregnancy counselling services run in total confidence and privacy. Pregnancy Counselling is free of charge to you no matter what your income is, how old you are, or where you live.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender? However comfortable or confident you may feel about coming to college, it can be a daunting and intimidating experience. It can be even more difficult and isolating if you are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or have just recently started to question your sexuality. Many students see college as their first opportunity to be open about their sexuality. Sometimes being out at home isn’t an option they felt they had, due to fear of a negative reaction from parents, family or friends. At college, LgBT students have to decide whether or not to be “out” about their sexuality. This does not necessarily infer being ashamed of being LGBT but is because society assumes everyone is heterosexual. LGBT students come out in order to be themselves, not what society assumes they are. They do it to be honest and to avoid the exhausting and often painful process of being “in the closet”. LGBT on Campus each experience of being LGBT differs uniquely from person to person. For most, their experiences depend on how open they are and how comfortable they are with their sexuality. WITSU wants to provide every student with a safe, relaxed, comfortable

environment, where they can make friends with other people in similar situations and find support, inclusion, acceptance and social justice. If you encounter discrimination and harassment, whether overt or subtle, spoken or unspoken, verbal, physical or sexual, from fellow students or staff you do not have to put up with it and you do not have to endure it alone. Seek advice and support from your Students’ Union: they are there to defend the rights of students and to aid in their welfare. Your Welfare Officer, Denise McCarthy, would be more than willing to help in this regard. The LgBT rights Officer of the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) will also always be available to help give advice and support. Siobhán McGuire (Pictured) can be contacted at lgbt@ usi.ie.

Siobhán McGuire USI LGBT Rights Officer

LGBT Society Above all, your college LgBT Society can be a source of support, understanding, fun, friendship and even refuge. The LGBT Society aims to create a safe place for you, so you can be yourself. Whatever your sexual orientation, they are there to make you feel welcome. Look out for the LGBT Society during your Fresher’s’ Week / Orientation Week / Clubs and Socs Day. Look it up on the LGBT section of the USI website. And finally... Being LgBT need not be an issue at all in college but this can depend on circumstances. either way, it shouldn’t negatively affect your participation in and enjoyment of your time at college. Keep an eye out for this years’ Rainbow Day!

every year the USI LGBT Rights Officer runs Pink Training, a weekend of talks and workshops on LGBT issues for students from across Ireland. This year it will be held on 18 – 20 november. If you would like to attend please contact your Students’ Union Welfare Officer for more info. If you are or think you might be Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender and you are looking for support in college you can contact your Students’ Union who will be more than happy to provide you with info and support or redirect you to someone who can help. If you urgently need to speak to someone in confidence you can use the national LGBT Helpline: 1890 929 539 Mon to Fri 7 - 9pm & Sat to Sun 3 – 6pm or visit www.lgbt.ie

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Antisocial Behavior Please note under the WIT Code of Conduct if students are reported by local Residents or the Guards for antisocial behaviour you will be called into Disciplinary hearing with the college Authorities, which stays on your Permanent Record and may stop you from graduating from college. So please don’t be stupid and make sure you respect your local community. We here in the Students’ Union have been working hard to build positive relations with the local communities around the college for the last two years. When a small minority of students behave in a disrespectful manner they do not just disgrace themselves,

but give ALL WIT students a bad name and this is simply NOT FAIR. So don’t ruin the fun for the rest of the students who act appropriately and let’s make sure that the good and well established name of WIT students keeps getting stronger. College is the best time you’ll ever have in your life but things can easily go from great to awful if you don’t abide by the law. A silly dare to streak can easily turn into a court appearance! To save you from the humiliation and shame here’s some simple do’s and don’ts to keep you in check!

• Do have respect for your neighbours. Make sure you talk to your neighbours and have an agreed time when the party will be over and make sure you respect that agreement. Build• ing good relations with your neighbours is essential. The big one!! Do try and keep the party inside and keep windows and doors CLOSED. • Do co-operate if the Gardaí arrive. • Do clean up the next day, the longer you leave it the worse it gets, trust me! Don’t forget the front garden too!!! • Do lock your rooms unless you want to change all the sheets too. • Do keep the noise down going from the party to town, especially when everyone is getting into the taxis.

DON’T

• Don’t let people in that you don’t know. • Don’t let people wreck your house. • Don’t leave your windows open with music on. Noise travels and the Gardaí will be at your door before you know it! • Don’t be rude or hostile if people ask you to keep it down. • Don’t relieve yourself in public and get yourself arrested. Judges tend to come down hard on public soiling oﬀenders. College is for degrees not criminal records. • Don’t be the person who abuses other people when drunk, be it Gardaí or foreign nationals, no matter how hard you think it might make you seem, you’re actually just a tool!

Accommodation For a lot of you coming to Waterford this year it will be your first time away from home. It’s time to live in the real world - with rent, food bills, missing your mammy’s home cooking, and so on. It’s time to make a home away from home with some advice.

Do’s and Don’ts Do: • Do read your lease/contract before you sign it and ask for a copy • Do keep a rent book • Do take an inventory of everything in the house • Do know you rights Don’t: • Don’t give any money without a receipt • Don’t take the first place you see or find • Don’t pay a deposit until you’re certain you’re moving in

Your Tenancy Rights Tenants have legal rights and duties. Your legal rights derive from general Landlord/ tenant law as well as from any written or verbal tenancy agreements between you and your landlord. They are several tenants’ rights, which you can find on the citizen’s information website and the Threshold website. Some include: • You have the right to privacy • Your deposit should be returned in reasonable time • You must be given/give written notice to leave • Your accommodation must be fit to live in

Useful Contacts WIT Students’ Union Welfare Officer Denise McCarthy Tel: 086 7854402 email: welfare@witsu.ie WIT Accommodation Ofﬁce Linda Murphy

Tel: 051 302615 email: accommodation@wit.ie

Threshold - Cork Advice Centre www.threshold.ie

Tel: 021 4278848 email: threshold@eircom.net

The term ‘eating disorder’ refers to a complex, potentially life-threatening condition, characterised by severe disturbances in eating behaviours. Eating disorders can be seen as a way of coping with emotional distress, or as a symptom of underlying issues. Although the term ‘eating disorder’ is applied to a wide range of disturbed eating behaviours, only three conditions are listed in official classifications of eating disorders: • Anorexia nervosa • Bulimia nervosa • Binge eating disorder

Anorexia Nervosa • A person will make determined eﬀorts to attain and maintain a body weight lower than the normal body weight for their age, sex and height. • They will be preoccupied with thoughts of food and the need to lose weight • They may exercise excessively and may engage in purging behaviours Bulimia Nervosa. • A person will make determined eﬀorts to purge themselves of any food eaten, sometimes following a binge, and often following ‘normal’ food intake. • They will engage in high-risk behaviours that can include fasting, excessive exercising, self-induced vomiting, and/or the misuse of laxatives, diuretics or other medications. • They may maintain a body weight with-

in the normal range of their age, sex and height. As a result, bulimia is often less obvious than anorexia and can go unnoticed for longer Binge Eating Disorder • A person will engage in repeated episodes of bingeing without purging • They will likely gain considerable amounts of weight over time. • They find themselves trapped in a cycle of dieting, bingeing, self-recrimination and self-loathing. Just because somebody doesn’t fit in absolutely with one particular category doesn’t mean they don’t have an eating disorder. A large number of people with eating disorders don’t fit strictly into one category but fluctuate between the three. Recovery begins with : • A will to change • An acknowledgement that the eating disorder is a problem • Working to build up a strong sense of self and a new, healthy way of coping that does not need the eating disorder to feel safe Recovery requires working on underlying issues, building self-esteem, and learning to manage and express feelings, as well as addressing the physical and nutritional aspects of the disorder. Recovery takes great courage and commitment.

Recovery requires working on underlying issues, building self-esteem, and learning to manage and express feelings, as well as addressing the physical and nutritional aspects of the disorder. Recovery takes great courage and commitment. Much sensitivity, compassion, respect, understanding and patience will be needed by those around them (family, friends, G.P., and other members of the treatment team) if a person is to be successfully encouraged and supported on their journey towards recovery. People can and do get better. Further information can be found in the books listed on the Bodywhys booklist and from other websites for eating disorders and related issues. See the bodywhys list of websites or contact the Bodywhys Helpline: Lo call 1890 200 444.

Sex & Contraception Sex can be confusing.With so many myths surrounding it, it’s not easy to know what’s true or false. A lot of these myths are based around sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and getting pregnant. Deciding when to have sex for the first time is something you have to do for yourself. This can be whether you’re in a committed relationship or looking for something more casual. But how do you know you’re ready? Just because your friends are sexually active doesn’t mean it’s the right time for you, and likewise, even if your friends decide to wait, you can feel differently. It’s an individual choice, but asking yourself some important questions first can help you feel secure about making it. Have you talked about it? Have you looked into contraception? Are you carrying condoms? What about your feelings? Are you open to getting advice? While the condom is the most widely used form of contraception among 18 to 24-year-olds, there are other options. Lots of options prevent pregnancy, but they won’t protect you from STIs. That’s why you should always use a condom, even

while using alternative forms of contraception. Choosing a method you like and feel comfortable with means you will be able to relax and enjoy sex more, without the worry of an unplanned pregnancy. The IFPA’s (Irish Family Planning Association) Virtual Guide to Contraception will give you an idea of all the methods available. THE PILL There are two main types of Pill which vary in hormone content and the way they work. The most widely used are the combined pills which combine two hormones, oestrogen and progesterone. Tests show that for every 100 women who take the pill correctly for one year, less than one will get pregnant. But with less careful use three or more in 100 will get pregnant. To make the pill as effective as it can be, remember: To take it regularly. It is a very effective method of contraception. It does not interfere with intercourse. It helps to reduce heavy or painful periods.

something you should be taking. You’ll be asked about any other medications you’re taking and the possible side effects will be explained. You may feel a little sick after taking it. If you throw up, seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist immediately because the drug may not have taken effect. MALE & FEMALE CONDOMS Both are barrier methods of contraception.They work by preventing the sperm from meeting and fertilising the egg. A male condom is a narrow tube, made from very thin, natural latex rubber which is soft and stretchy. It is closed at one end, and fits over a man’s erect penis. Most male condoms have a ‘teat’ at the closed end, to hold the man’s semen once he has ejaculated (or come). Male condom: 98% affective in proven tests if used properly. It is important to use a quality condom - carefully - every time you have sex, whatever your contraceptive method. Anyone, male or female, can get a sexually transmitted infection (STI), including HIV, from vaginal or anal intercourse. Using condoms - carefully every time - helps protect against STIs and HIV infection, whatever your family planning method. EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION If you have had sex and did not use contraceptive, or if you think your contraceptive did not work you can use emergency contraception.Where can you get emergency contraception? Since February 2011, emergency contraception has been available at pharmacies in Ireland without a prescription. Talk to a pharmacist about your options and see if it’s

You can also get emergency contraception from your GP, or your local sexual health clinic. If you’re worried about taking emergency contraception, talk to a sexual health nurse or a doctor. The emergency pill should be taken within three days of having unprotected sex. They are more effective the sooner they are taken. However, they are not as effective as other methods of contraception and do not protect against STIs. The emergency pill may; stop an egg being released, delay ovulation, stop a fertilised egg settling in your womb. HOW EFFECTIVE IS THE EMERGENCY PILL? Very effective. They are more effective the sooner they are taken after sex. If taken within 24 hours they will prevent more than 9 out of 10 pregnancies expected to occur if no emergency contraception had been used. If taken 72 hours after unprotected sex they will prevent more than 5 out of 10 pregnancies.

REMEMBER CONDOMS ARE READILY AVAILABLE FROM YOUR SU OFFICE AT A DISCOUNT PRICE. Also: 1200 condoms are handed out for Free every Wednesday. Where can I get advice: Irish Family Planning Association www.ifpa.ie Well Woman Centre www.wellwomancentre.ie The most important thing is to Respect your own body and yourself, stay safe although the only 100% safe sex is no sex at all and n-O spells no: never be afraid to say no!

REMEMBER!

YOUR SU SELLS CONDOMS

A Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) is an infection that can be passed on through vaginal, anal or oral sex. Most STIs are transmitted through the exchange of sexual ﬂuids, but some can be passed through skin to skin genital contact. STIs can cause a wide range of health problems, from mild irritations, to more serious illness. Some STIs are easily cured with antibiotics if detected early, but can cause long term problems if left untreated. Some STI’s cannot be cured, however treatments can help to ease the symptoms. Almost half of people with a STI do not know they have the infection because they have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur they can include: • Unusual discharge or itchiness around the genitals • Burning feeling when passing urine • rash and/or sore small lumps in the genital area • Unusual bleeding from vagina after sex or in between periods • Pain and swelling in the testicles An STI may be viral, bacterial, or parasitic. All three types of infections can occur whether you are having heterosexual (opposite gender) or homosexual (same gender) sex.

Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infections There are two basic types of genital infections that are not “true” sexually transmitted infections -- fungal or yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. Sometimes partners can re-infect each other with these infections through sex, but they are not technically considered sexually transmitted infections. Bacterial Vaginosis is caused by several different types of bacteria that live in the vagina and the bowel. Treatment includes antibiotics taken by mouth or antibiotic gels that go into the vagina. Chlamydia is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. This is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in teens and young adults and is on the rise. It can lead to infertility if left untreated. Chlamydia is usually treated with antibiotics, some of which can be taken for one day, others for 7 to 10 days.

• gonorrhea is caused by the bacteria neisseria gonorrheae. Gonorrhea is treated by antibiotics, with either a single injection or antibiotics for 7 to 10 days. • Syphilis is caused by an organism called “spirochete,” which is considered a bacteria but also has characteristics of a parasite. Syphilis is easily treated with a penicillin injection. Viral Sexually Transmitted Infections • Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus. It can be treated with antiviral medications at the time of outbreaks, and daily antiviral medications to prevent frequent outbreaks. There is currently no vaccine or cure for herpes. • Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), also known as the “genital wart virus,” can be treated with lotions and liquid nitrogen to freeze the warts. Currently, there is no cure or vaccine for HPV. This virus is especially important to be aware of because certain subtypes can significantly increase a woman’s risk for cervical cancer. Condoms cannot prevent spread of the virus to sex partners.

• Hepatitis B is caused by the Hepatitis B virus. Although this infection is difficult to treat, certain oral medications or injections are generally used. People who have chronic Hepatitis B may need prolonged or even lifelong treatment with injectable medications, which are sometime quite toxic. Hepatitis B can also lead to liver failure and increases the risk for liver cancer. There is an effective vaccine for Hepatitis B, but no cure. • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) can be treated and the progression slowed by using a combination of antiviral medications -- usually a minimum of three to four medications. There is currently no vaccine or cure for HIV. Parasitic Infections •Trichomonas is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomonas is very common and is easily treated with antiparasitic and antibiotic medications. • Pubic lice also called crab lice or “crabs,” are parasitic insects found primarily in the pubic or genital area of humans. Pubic lice is directly caused by an infestation with a small parasitic insect called Phthirus pubis. The condition is known as pediculosis. Pediculosis pubis refers specifically to pubic lice. It can be treated by a common créme rinse which is left in for 10 minutes and will kill the lice

Where can help: Waterford: Waterford STI Clinic, Ardkeen Hospital Tel: 051-842646 (Appointment Only) It’s Free. Dublin: St James’s Hospital, James’s St., Dublin 8 Tel: 01-453 7941, ext. 231/2316 01-453 5245 (by appointment only) Monday & Friday: 9.30am – 11.00pm Tuesday & Thursday: 1.30 pm – 3.00pm Cork: Victoria Hospital, Old Blackrock road, Cork Tel: 021-966 844 Monday/ Tuesday/Thursday: 9.30am – 11.45am Wednesday: 2.30pm – 4.30pm (by appointment only). Helpline number: 021-966844 Available on Tuesday: 1.00pm -2.00pm Website: www.ifpa.ie/sti/clinics.html

IT COULD BE YOU!!! B E F O R E

G E T I T C H E C K E D

I T S

70% of STI’s have NO SYMPTOMS but lasting consequences

W R E C K E D

STUDENTSʼ UNION STRUCTURE Waterford IT Students

SU Constitution

Class Council

executive Committee

President

Deputy for education

Deputy for Welfare

•Waterford I.T. Students: (You and all Full Time Students in WIT). SU Constitution: (Fundamental Principals by which the SU is •governed. Can be viewed at www.witsu.ie/site/view/20). Class Rep Council: (Monthly meeting with all class reps which shall •determine the policy of the union and mandate the Union executive). Executive Committee: (Monthly meeting with all School Convenors to carry out the decisions of the General Meeting, Council, •and referenda). President: The chief representative of the students of the college. Deputy for Education: responsible for education/Academic is•sues, employment and Union Representatives. •Deputy for Welfare: Responsible for Welfare and equality, Student Safety, Accommodation, Security and Health and all non-academ•ic issues. For comprehensive details on the above please view the WIT Students’ Union Constitution @ www.witsu.ie/site/view/20 or call into the office for a copy.

Mental Health Asking someone if they want to talk or if they’ve got something on their mind is a tiny thing that you can do to help. This helps some people in such a big way you may never fully appreciate...

Mental Health is defined as a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.

health. It’s a stark fact that Irish males aged between the ages 15 & 34 are more likely to commit suicide than be killed in a car crash. Unfortunately over 500 people died from suicide last year in Ireland. With the stresses of modern life depression is a real part of many people’s lives.

Mental illness can be defined as the experiencing of severe and distressing psychological symptoms to the extent that normal functioning is seriously impaired, and some form of help is usually needed for recovery. Examples of such symptoms include anxiety, depressed mood, obsessive thinking, delusions and hallucinations. Help may take the form of counselling or psychotherapy, drug treatment and/or lifestyle change. The more common mental illnesses include bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders and schizophrenia.

ONE in FOUR people suﬀer from some form of depression throughout their life. Let’s face it, we can all get a little bit down at times, whether through something said, Exam worries, bereavement financial problems etc. People have diﬀerent ways of dealing with & getting over depression. There are many bodies such as the contacts listed below are here to help people with depression.

Talking is a sign of strength, not a weakness! In our quest for physical health, it’s easy to overlook the importance of emotional

Depression is a condition that can take many forms. We all may experience short lived feelings of sadness in response to disappointments in everyday life. Depression as an illness is more severe & not short lived. It may be associated with negative thoughts such as suicidal ideas, which require urgent treatment.

Many people will not recognise the signs of depression, Check out the FESTIVAL index. • Feeling sad, anxious or bored all the time. • Energy - tiredness, everything is an effort, slow movement. • Sleeping - regularly waking during the night, having difficulty sleeping, or oversleeping. • Thinking - Constant poor concentration, forgetfulness or confusion. • Interest - Having no interest in your everyday routine (work, food, socialising.) • Value - Loss of self esteem • Aches – Headaches or other pains for no reason • Life – Being tired of life, thinking of suicide seriously Managing Stress Stress comes about when there are so many demands and just not enough resources to deal with them all effectively. Stress in small amounts can be a positive thing and many people use it to drive them. However, if it becomes overwhelming it can have serious negative consequences for your physical and mental well-being. Most people suffer from stress at some point or other; it’s about dealing with it so it stays at the positive, constructive end of the scale and doesn’t turn you into a withered dithering lacklustre shell of your former self.

Here are some all-round tips to deal with stress effectively: • Exercise regularly. This will keep you healthy, and more importantly will help you release those mighty mouse hormones called endorphins all around your body making you feel all happy inside. • Prioritise. When you’ve done this, you can better manage your time and fit in most of the things you need to do in your week and not feel too stretched. • Mind yourself. All-nighters and dosing up on coﬀee and Red Bull, while inevitable, isn’t good for you. Be sure to eat properly and sleep well before an exam to make sure you’re on top form. • Have someone you can talk to/rant at. It can be really helpful to get someone else’s perspective on things. • Laugh. Being too serious is bad for your health. Look what happened to Father Stone… • Talk to us. If you feel you’re struggling drop into Denise your Welfare Officer.

Headstong - www.headstrong.ie LET SOMEONE KNOW - www.letsomeoneknow.ie Mental Health Ireland - www.mentalhealthireland.ie/ Reach Out - www.reachout.com Pleasetalk - www.pleasetalk.ie/wit Denise McCarthy WITSU Welfare Officer: 0867854402 welfare@witsu.ie WIT Counselling: 051-302878 (R13 Cork Road Campus) 051-302475 (AL 10 College Street Campus) E-mail: studentcounselling@wit.ie

Things To Do Under €10 Waterford I.T. Fitness Suite: Carriganore Sports Complex:

Omni League SoccerTournament. Astro Turf Rental Running Track

Regional Sports Centre:

Pitch and Putt Running Track Rental

Cill Barra Sports Centre: Laser Blast Tramore: tre: Waterford Crystal Sports Cen Waterford Bowl:

Golf: Walsh Park G.A.A Grounds: Surfing in Tramore: Cinema: People Park Waterford City: Garter Lane Theatre: Theatre Royal Waterford:

Gym Hall Rental

Gym. Sports Hall Rental Student Discount Here Swimming Pool Gym Hall Rental Bowling Arcades Pool and Table Tennis Williamstown Golf Course Golf Tramore Driving Range & Crazy Local and National G.A.A events Surf Board and Wet Suit Rental Storm Cinemas (€7.75 Student)

Skate Park Quiet place to walk by day Open grassy recreation area Music/Film/Arts/Dance , Plays, Cookery Demonstrations Talks, Comedians, Music

t n u o c s i D t n e d 40% Stu Available off all take away hot beverages, mufﬁns and sandwiches

at BB’s Coffee and Mufﬁns, Georges Quay Shopping Centre. Just present your valid student ID in store to avail of this offer!

The Medical Centre at Waterford Institute of Technology

STUDENT MEDICAL SCHEME The WIT Health Centre was formed in March 1987. The aim of the healthcentre scheme is to provide medical and nursing care to students who often put their health low on their list of priorities. We at the Medical Centre provide a holistic approach to student healthcare. This scheme is provided by Dr Sharon O’Donnell, Dr Sean McBrinn, Dr Lisa O’Neill, Dr Caitriona Mooney, Nurses Gerardine Harrison, Tara Bourke, Eleanor Rossiter, our Practice Manager Jean Hubbard and our team of secretarial and receptionist staff.

Dr Caitriona Mooney MB DCH DME DCP MICGP

We hope to be able to provide ongoing care for those with medical and psychological problems when they are away from their families. Finally, we aim to help parents alleviate their concern for their children’s health while at college. REGISTERING WITH THE MEDICAL CENTRE

Annual fee: €100 (one hundred euro) for the Academic Year ( September - May). This would entitle the student to unlimited visitations to the two surgery premises (WIT campus and City Centre) and to the Nurses, Week-days 9am - 5pm. (Friday 4pm). Some procedures such as cryotherapy/smear test/travel vaccinations etc, may incur an extra charge.

Dr Sharon O’Donnell MB MRCOG MRCPI

MEDICAL CARD If you hold a current medical card, attendance at the Medical Centre is covered as with

your own GP. Students aged 23 years and over may apply for a Medical Card as MATURE STUDENT STATUS. This application to the Health Board is means tested.

Dr Sean McBrinn MB DCH PhD MICGP LFOM

OUT OF HOURS

Any visits outside the hours of 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday and on Bank Holidays will now be covered by CAREDOC @ 1850 334 999 and will incur a payment as per the doctor on duty. Medical Card holders are seen without charge in the Out of Hours Service. NON REGISTERED STUDENTS TO MEDICAL SCHEME AND NON MEDICAL CARD HOLDERS

Dr Lisa O’Neill

Students who do not wish to join the scheme or do not hold a current Medical Card will be requested to pay the following fees every time they attend either at the College or our City Centre Surgery.

MB DCH DOWH MICGP

Attendance to Doctor €40.00 each visit Attendance to Nurse Out of Hours

€20.00 each visit As above

Please complete the Medical Centre Registration form overleaf should you wish to join our Medical Scheme for the year described above. PTO

Nurse Gerardine Harrison SRN

Concerned About Suicide Warning Signs • Risk Factors What Are The Warning Signs?

Most people who feel suicidal don’t really want to die, they just want an end to their pain. These are some of the signs which may indicate that someone is thinking of taking their life: • A suicide attempt or act of selfharm • Expressing suicidal thoughts • Preoccupation with death • Depression • Becoming isolated • Alcohol abuse • Drug abuse • Sudden changes in mood or behaviour giving away possessions (such as books, CDs, DVDs)

• All acts of self-harm should be taken seriously • Self-harm is a communication of intense distress • Both males and females self-harm • It is a particular problem for young people • Many people who self-harm are

“If you are concerned about someone... ...show you care, ask the question, call for help.” How To Respond If you are concerned about someone you can follow these three steps:

Show You Care Note: Some of these warning signs and risk factors can be associated with everyday behaviour. You should look at the overall picture for the person you are concerned about. However, the more warning signs and risk factors, the higher the possible risk.

care. Say something like: ‘I’m worried about you and I want to help’ ‘ What’s up? I’m very worried about you’ ‘Whatever’s bothering you we will get through this together’

If you, or someone you know is in crisis now and need someone to talk to:

• Contact Samaritans on

1850 60 90 90 (Republic of Ireland) or 08457 909090 (UK including Northern Ireland)

• Contact your local doctor or GP

out-of-hours service, see “Doctors - General Practitioners” in the Golden Pages, Republic of Ireland / Doctors (Medical Practitioners) in the Yellow Pages, Northern Ireland

• Go to, or contact, the Accident and Emergency Department of your nearest general hospital

For details of local health services you can contact:

• Republic of Ireland - the Health

Service Executive between 8am and 8pm, Monday to Saturday on CallSave 1850 24 1850 or visit www.hse.ie

Ask The Question Associated Risk Factors

• Access to a method of suicide, • Loss of someone close (such as a friend or family member) • Relationship break-up • Impulsiveness, recklessness and risk- taking behaviour • Alcohol / drug abuse

Self-Harm and Attempted Suicide

Many people carry out what are called acts of deliberate self-harm. Some, but not all, of these acts can be thought of as a suicide attempt.

Don’t be afraid to discuss suicide, asking about it won’t put the idea in people’s heads: ‘Do you feel like harming yourself?’ ‘Do you feel like ending your life?’ ‘Are you so down that you just want to end it all?’

for Suicide Prevention, Ireland and the Suicide Awareness Coordinators for Northern Ireland with the support of CAWT (Cooperation And Working Together).

Call For Help

Encourage them to look for help: ‘Let’s talk to someone who can help’ ‘I will stay with you until you get help’ ‘You’re not alone and there are people who can help you out of this situation’

www.nosp.ie

www.dhsspsni.gov.uk

Student Support WIT Student Support Team is committed to the support and well being of all students during your college years. We operate private and confidential services. If you feel you need additional support at a difficult time, remember help is only a call away. Careers Centre The Careers Centre is available to help you to… • Prepare for the future • To advise you in your career choices and job hunting strategies • Run career workshops, seminars, employer fairs & presentations • If you are unsure of your Career plan please feel free to contact Careers Centre: Email: careers@wit.ie

Phone: 051 302038

Angela Collins- Careers Advisor International Oﬃce Selma Robinson – International Student Support

• International Office co-ordinates the admissions, administration & support for International students. • Located in Development office next to the Porter’s Office. • Monday to Friday 10.00am – 12.00pm & 2.00pm -4.00pm

Michael evans WIT Sport & Recreation Manager WIT Sport and Recreation Students are encouraged to get involved in extracurricular activities, - it’s an ideal way to meet new friends and gain valuable life skills outside of the classroom.

There are almost 40 clubs and societies - feel free to come along to any sessions or become a member by contacting clubsandsocs@wit.ie Phone 051-302238 or call to our office located in the Courtyard

Louis Nevin - Institute Nurse Institute Nurse Involved in the promotion of health and well being of all members of the Institute through various workshops, seminars and activities.

Contact Details: Cork Rd Campus – Room R14 Tel: 051-302863 College St Campus: Room AL10 (opposite the Dance Studio) Tel: 051 845671 Emergency No: 087-2724422 Chaplain David Keating- WIT Chaplain The chaplain provides pastoral care for students in WIT and responds to the personal needs of individual students on a day-to-day basis. He runs the SAFE Fund – Emergency loans are available

Quiet Room C41 cork road campus – available to all students for prayer, silence & reflection The Chaplain’s office is located at D26 Telephone 051-302617 or 086 330 2086 After hours on 051-378878 E-mail: dkeating@wit.ie

Website: www.dunnescoaches.ie

Disability Oﬃce If you are a student with a disability, evidence of disability must be furnished to the Disability Officer in the Student Life & Learning office.

Supports are funded through the ESF fund for students with disabilities and applications for support are made, on behalf of the student, in October. Please Contact: Disability Office Student Life and Learning Tel: 051-302871 E mail: disabilityoffice@wit.ie

The Student Life and Learning (SLL) aims to:

Patt O’ Keeﬀe - WIT Disability Officer

• Improve the retention of students within WIT by helping them in a range of ways to complete their programme. • Make the Institute more accessible for those who traditionally may not have considered third level education as an option for them. The Student Life & Learning office is located behind the main reception in the Cork Road campus. It can be accessed via desk 4 – all students must first report to the reception desk. The office engages with many activities and services, such as; Student Retention initiatives, policies and projects, First year Induction, Counselling Service, Maths Learning Centre, Disability Support Service, Careers Centre and many more.

Head of SLL Martina Harte Tel: 051-845513 or 302758 Email: sll@wit.ie www.wit.ie/sll

16 Beau Street (Off Catherine Street) Waterford

16 Beau Street (Off Catherine Street) Waterford New - Text us 087 2609090

WIT Student Counselling Service The WIT Student Counselling Service offers FREE friendly, professional and confidential support to students who are experiencing emotional or psychological distress. The Service is co-coordinated by Ann-Marie Quigley, Psychologist. Counselling is available, free of charge, to all full-time students who are registered with WIT. Counselling sessions offer a safe environment in which students can work to resolve any emotional difficulties they may be experiencing. Such problems may be current or arising from events in the past. The counselling process aims to support and empower students to find solutions to their difficulties and to make their day to day life more manageable. Skills gained through counselling can benefit both your personal wellbeing and interpersonal relationships throughout your life. Some of the problems with which students commonly seek help include: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, eating disorders, bereavement, rape, sexual abuse, addiction, exam stress, sexual identity, relationship or family difficulties. The Student Counselling Service also runs psycho-educational workshops and training programmes for staff and students.

The Student Counselling Service operates by appointment only. To make an appointment please call or e-mail the service (details below). When phoning or e-mailing to request an appointment please leave your name and phone number and we will contact you to schedule an appointment. Emergency appointments for students in crisis are available every week. To access an emergency appointment please call 051 302878. Contact Information Telephone for appointment (Confidential message service): 051-302878 (R13 Cork Road Campus) 051-302475 (AL 10 College Street Campus) E-mail: studentcounselling@wit.ie

Anne Marie Quigley Student Counsellor

No idea about a career? Need some help with applications? Wondering how to make the most of your work experience?

Whatever stage you are at with your career planning, we’re happy to help you. The WIT Careers Centre enables students and recent graduates to proactively manage their careers. This allows you to set realistic goals, make informed career decisions and develop the skills necessary to accomplish your goals by offering a range of professional services including careers information, education, advice and guidance. The service also works with employers to enhance their Graduate Recruitment activity in WIT and with academic community to develop careers education within the curriculum. The following services are an example of what is offered to assist you: • Careers Website www.wit.ie/careerscentreand dedicated careers resources on Moodle appointments • Careers Fair which is held in October each year • Postgraduate Fair in February • Quick Query / Drop in Service • CV, Application and Interview advice and guidance • Visiting Employer Programme • Careers Information Library situated in the Luke Wadding Library • Workshop /Class room work including Career Planning, transferrable skills, networking • E-guidance • Careers Newsletter It is always a good time to start thinking about your career and the WIT Careers Centre can offer advice, guidance and support at any stage throughout your time in WIT Careers Advisor and Head of Careers: Angela Collins Senior Careers Administrator: Annette White Careers Administrators: Marie Pickering and Mary Cronin Tel 051 302038 Email careers@wit.ie Web: www.wit.ie/careerscentre

Actin’ The Fresher! RULES & REGULATIONS: • Photographic/video evidence is necessary for all tasks to qualify • Only first year students (Fresher’s) may take part • 2-4 members per team • Opening Date is 12th September • Closing Date is 30th September (end of Fresher’s Week) • Please return this sheet and proof of activities to Cork Road or College Street Students’ Union Office • The team with the most points win-Judge’s ruling is final (In the event of a tie, the first team with all tasks will win 1st prize • If more than one team reaches max points the first team to return sheet will win

What You Have to do: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25.

PRIZES: 1st Place - €200 2nd Place - €100 3rd Place - €50

Present one of the Porters with some sweets. 2 points Lick the Entertainments Officer’s face. 5 points Get a picture proposing to Brian Staunton (Education Officer) 3 points Hug Conor Doyle (SU President) 2 points Get free condoms from Denise McCarthy (Welfare Officer) 2 points Go fancy dress to the Fresher’s Ball (It isn’t fancy dress) 5 points Dance with Vikki Murphy (Communication Officer) 3 points Do a In-betweener’s dance in the middle of the on campus (video) 3 points Start a chant in college of “The W the W the W.I.T” 3 points Get a Waterford Social Tour t-shirt 3 points Get a picture deep in thought in the Chapel of College St Campus 2 points Find Nurse Louis and present her with a flower 3 points Get a Waterford city bus schedule 2 points Get a photo with one of the ‘Alans’ in the Dome 3 points Get a photo with the Super Sperm on Condom Wednesday 2 points Get a Students’ Union business card from Nora or Will 2 points Play a board game in the Rec Room in College St Campus 1points Pole dance around the steal pillars outside the Library In Cork Road Campus (video) 5 points Get this form signed by Linda From Accommodation Office 2 points Find out what page of books in the libraries has the WIT Library stamp 3 points Go to the Fortune Teller during Fresher’s Week 3 points Get a photo outside of your schools office. Eg Humanities students outside humanities office. 2 points Get a photo outside student life and learning office on Cork Rd campus. 3 points Get a beer matt from the Dome Bar with the Dome stamp on it 3 points Get a photo with Robin Croke (WIT Clubs & Societies Officer)

70 Point Challenge

YOUR GRANT VISIT

IoT STUDENTS

APPLY TO YOUR HOME VEC

studentfinance.ie

UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

TO APPLY ONLINE NOW

APPLY TO YOUR HOME LOCAL AUTHORITY

THIS APPLIES TO THE COUNTY, CITY OR TOWN IN WHICH YOU ARE PERMANENTLY RESIDENT.

FOUR CRITERIA: 1. COURS R E RS

2. MEANS

3. RESIDENCY CY C

4. NAT A IONALITY AT

You must be studying in an approved course in an approved institution. Contact your County Council / VEC or USI if you are unsure if your course is approved.

The gross income being assessed must be at or below the reckonable income limits outlined below on this poster.

The application must be made to the County Council or VEC where you are of permanent residence at the time of your application. You must have been resident in Ireland for 3 out of the last 5 years.

You must hold: (1) EU, EEA or Swiss nationality; (2) Humanitarian leave to remain in the state; (3) refugee status; or (4) Permission to remain in the state due to marriage to an EU national employed here.

RECKONABLE INCOME: NUMBER OF DEPENDENT CHILDREN

LESS THAN

4 TO 7 8 OR MORE

HALF

FULL

OF GRANT & FULL CHARGE

100%

SPECIAL RATE*

€55,920

€51,380

€47,205

€44,720

€42,235

€41,110

€22,703

€61,440 €56,640

€51,880

€49,145

€46,415

€45,165

€22,703

€56,320 €53,360 €50,400 €49,045

€22,703

STUDENT STUDENT CONTRIBUTION CONTRIBUTION CHARGE CHARGE

€61,295

€66,700

GRANT LEVELS: NEW FIGURES

25%

50%

OF GRANT

100%

SPECIAL RATE*

ADJACENT**

€315

€625

€940

€1,250

€2,445

NONADJACENT**

€780

€1,560

€2,340

€3,120

€6,100

STUDENT CONTRIBUTION CHARGE

100%

ONLINE APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FOR: VECS

Co. Carlow VEC Co. Cavan VEC City of Cork VEC Co. Cork VEC Co. Donegal VEC City of Dublin VEC Co. Dublin VEC

75%

OF GRANT

GRANT

25%

50%

Dun Laoghaire VEC Kerry VEC Co. Kildare VEC Co. Kilkenny VEC Co. Laois VEC City of Limerick VEC Co. Limerick VEC Co. Louth VEC Co. Meath VEC

Co. Monaghan VEC North Tipperary VEC South Tipperary VEC Co. Sligo VEC Co. Wicklow VEC City of Waterford VEC

75%

LOCA C L CA A THORITIES AU Cork City Council Cork Co. Co. Donegal Co. Co. South Dublin Co. Co. Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Co. Co.

Kildare Co. Co. Kilkenny Co. Co. Laois Co. Co. Mayo Co. Co. Meath Co. Co. South Tipperary Co. Co. Wexford Co. Co. Wicklow Co. Co.

* In order to qualify for the Special Rate of grant the applicant must have been in receipt of one of the eligible payments as listed in schedule two of the Student Grant Scheme 2011. ** Adjacent = 45km or less from permanent residence to place of study ** Non-Adjacent = >45km from permanent residence to place of study.

Union of Students in Ireland in association with www.studentfinance.ie an initiative of the Higher Education Authority Union of Students in Ireland // +353 (0)1 709 9300 // www.usi.ie

NB: This document does not purport to be a legal interpretation of the Student Grant Scheme 2011 and it does not cover all aspects of the measures contained therein. Copies of the Scheme and Regulations 2011 can be downloaded from www.studentfinance.ie or can be accessed from Local Authorities or Vocational Education Committees. The Student Grant Scheme and Regulations 2011 are liable to change during the academic year.

ACCESS The Access team would like to take this opportunity to welcome you and to let you know about the WIT Access programmes.

examples of some of our programmes include:

We develop programmes aimed at encouraging and supporting under-represented groups to enter 3rd level and to provide these groups with a range of supports throughout their time in WIT. These groups include under-represented school leavers, mature students and minority groups such as members of the Traveller Community.

College Tasters/Information Sessions These are open to Primary and Secondary school pupils in our target schools, to young people linked to community groups and to adults returning to learning. Participants get a chance to experience college life, meet staff and students and to see facilities and academic programmes on offer in each department /school.

We believe that our work can make a real difference but we also know that we cannot do it alone – it is a team effort. We work with all the WIT departments and the wider WIT community to provide Higher education awareness programmes, alternative access routes and post-entry supports.

Learning for Life Primary Schools Programme Participants on our programme come to WIT on a weekly basis during 4th, 5th and 6th Class. They participate in a variety of workshops and a homework club. All these activities are supported by WIT Student Volunteers.

Why not join our team – we provide training and support to all our volunteers and you’d be guaranteed to have some fun. For more information log on to www.wit.ie/ access

Outreach Programmes These programmes are offered to some of our target schools. Trained WIT student buddies go out to the schools and deliver workshops in various academic disciplines. These workshops are linked to the school’s curriculum, however there is a dominant focus on raising awareness around 3rd level opportunities and positive role modelling. Parental Education Programmes We have a number of programmes which are aimed at parents/guardians. These programmes provide learning opportunities for the participants themselves and also expose them to the range of learning opportunities and supports that their children can avail of at 3rd level.

2010/11 70

2012

2011

Calendar 2011/12

Dates To Remember Semester 1 September 19th - 23rd September 26th - 29th September 22nd October 4th October 10th October 12th October 19th October 24th October 31st November 8th December 6th

Know Your Union Week Freshers Week Arthurs Day Class Rep Training Love Your Body Week 2011 CRC - Health Awareness Day Fashion Show Halloweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;en Fancy Dress Mid Term Charity Sleep-over College St. Mindfullness Day

Semester 2 January 16th January 23rd February 13th February 20th February 27th March 17th March 21st March 26th April 2nd - 9th April 30th May 8th

Semester 2 Begins Positive Mental Health Week Raise And Give Week Professional Development Week SHAG Week 2012 St. Patricks Day WITSU Elections Fight Night 3 Easter Holidays Study Week Semester 2 Exams

Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heading to college, festivals or returning home for the weekend, Bus Ă&#x2030;ireann have great value student fares available all year round. Tickets can be purchased at participating SU offices/shops, Bus Ă&#x2030;ireann ticket offices, from the driver or to buy on-line or for more information visit www.buseireann.ie

Carryout Special

Lunch Special

€6.99 Any small pizza €10.99 Any medium pizza €13.99 Any large pizza €16.99

Personal pizza Plus a can of Coke

Regular priced pizzas from the menu

Create your own up to 3 toppings.

Any personal pizza

€4.00

Small pizza* Plus a can of Coke

€7.00

or create your own up to 5 toppings.

Meal For One

Cyber Crazy Deal

Any personal pizza

€15.95 delivered

order on line at www.dominos.ie

€10.00

Create your own up to 3 toppings.

Valid online only.

SAVE

Super Deal

€11.00

Any large pizza

UP TO

Any medium pizza

Plus garlic pizza bread Plus potato wedges Plus 2 cans of Coke only

€15.99

Open Sun-Thurs: 12 noon-12 Midnight, Fri-Sat: 12 noon-1am.

Call

dominos.ie

OPEN

Plus garlic pizza bread Plus potato wedges Plus kickers OR strippers Plus 1.25ltr bottle TM

€25.00

Create your own up to 3 toppings.

Unit 3 Newtown Road, Waterford

UP TO

Plus garlic pizza bread OR potato wedges Plus a can of Coke Plus a dip of your choice

Any pizza, any size

Meal For Two

SAVE €5.00

(051) 858 111

Pop in

Tap the app

Deal Conditions: Not valid with any other offer. Valid at participating stores only. No coupon required. Please mention coupon when ordering. Order as many times as you want. Meal Deals at this store may not be available online. While stocks last. Offers valid for a limited time only. Unless you request otherwise the address details that you provide to the store on making an order will be retained on the store system for use in connection with future orders made by you. Not valid with any other offer. *Extra charge applies for Premium bases. Minimum delivery order €10. Valid until 16/10/2011.

SAVE UP TO

€11.50