GMIT SU Handbook & Diary 2010-11 by Brendan Kenny

GMIT STUDENT 10/11 HANDBOOK & DIARY

www.gmitsu.ie www.gmitsu.ie

Ballybane Pharmacy 5 mins walk from GMIT

For all your medical, prescription, cosmetic and digital processing needs Ballybane Shopping Centre Ballybane Road

Tel/Fax 091-757044 2_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

TABLE OF CONTENTS_

Page

Introductions

The Students’ Union

What We Are // What We Do // Clubs & Societies // The Achievement Awards // The Gym // GAA Development Officer // Recreational Soccer Facilitator // SU Shop // Photocopying // Lockers // Binding

Galway – Get Out There!

Student Services

Chaplaincy // Counsellors // Careers Service // Health Unit // Access Office // Sports Hall // Administration

SU Advisory

Registration // Parking // Exams // Money // Accommodation // The Library // The Canteen // IQ Bar // IT Centre // International Office // PAL

After Hours

Freshers Week // Christmas at GMIT // RAG Week

Welfare

General Health // Healthy Mind // Please Talk // Sexuality // Personal Safety // Alcohol // Drugs

The Diary

Important Diary Dates

Year Planner

118

Notespace

120

Timetables

124

Contacts

128

_CREDITS Compilation and Editor_ Brendan Kenny, Students’ Union Art Direction_ Fuerty Ventura, Design Detective

With thanks to_ Noodle Salad // Students’ Union Sabbaticals // Students Services Staff // Our Partners: SpunOut.ie // USI // Our Advertisers // Photography: Ros Kavanagh, Andrew Downes, Aengus McMahon, Angelica Dooley, Joe O’Shaughnessy and Gary Murphy // All other contributors // Print_ Castle Print, Liosban, Galway Disclaimer_ While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the material printed within, GMIT Students’ Union cannot accept liability in respect of any errors or omissions.

A WElcOME MESSAGE frOM

ThE PRESIDENT OF GMIT

Marion Coy_ You are very welcome to GMIT and I want to thank you for choosing to come and study with us. I look forward to working with you and listening to what you have to say about your experiences at GMIT. First year at college is one of the most interesting and stimulating times in our lives. You will have opportunities to study new disciplines, get involved in a wide range of clubs and societies and enjoy the general atmosphere of campus life. The most important thing you can do in the first few weeks is to go to as many events as possible. Do sign up for something that is very different or that you never considered doing; it may turn out to be the start of a life-long interest. If you find you have an interest, which is not covered by our range of clubs and societies, talk to the Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Union about establishing a new one. They will be glad to help you out. Keep in mind that next May will come around very quickly! During your first few weeks, make sure that you get an overview of all your subjects and the examination requirements. The biggest difference between the examinations systems at second level and third level is the continuous assessment component. You can accumulate a substantial element of your final grade by doing well in the continuous assessment. Our business here in GMIT is learning, and we see learning as an active collaboration with you. Talk to us about what is working or not working for you in GMIT so that we can improve our service and meet your needs. Above all else, enjoy your time here as a student and I hope that in one way or another, you will be a GMIT student for the rest of your life.

Marion Coy President, GMIT_ www.gmitsu.ie

A WElcOME MESSAGE frOM THE

SU PRESIDENT _hi everyone,

As well as being the President, I am also the education officer for the year ahead, so I will be here to help you with any academic problems you may encounter during the year (grants, lectures, exams, timetables etc) so don’t hesitate to give me a shout if you need any advice. Also, everyone involved in the Students’ Union is here to help you so don’t be afraid to approach any one of us with queries or questions. Finally, I would urge each and every one of you to make the most of your days in college by getting involved in clubs and societies as it is a great way to meet new friends, share common interests and indeed be able to represent your college on a national and in some cases an international front. Galway also boasts one of the best social scenes in the country with its extensive range of great restaurants, leisure facilities, cinemas and pubs/clubs throughout the city. So make sure to stay tuned in to our website, notice boards and newsletters about upcoming entertainment, events and gigs throughout the year.

All the best for the coming year,

Colin_

Your SU President CONTACT COlIN

TEl : 091_742055 // 086_3473284 EMAIl : supresident@gmit.ie

//TV Programme: Top Gear, Match of the Day, Sunday Game, Entourage //Film: Michael collins, Any Given Sunday, Inception //Sport: Gaelic football, rugby, Soccer //Quote: “live for today, not for tomorrow” //If you could go on a date with any celebrity: Megan fox/Diane lane //Last person you’d invite to a party: Thierry Henry //Favourite food/drink/stimulant: chicken & Pasta, Jameson, red Bull //Biggest fear: Heights

As GMITSU President, I have overall responsibility for the Union and how it is run. It is my job to ensure that your needs and problems are taken care of. I sit on a number of boards and committees, and I bring your concerns and problems to the attention of the college management, and ensure that your voice is heard.

Q&A

I would like to welcome back everyone; I hope you all had a wonderful summer and are looking forward to the new college year ahead! Also I want to take this opportunity to welcome all our new 1st year, international, and transfer students to GMIT. I can honestly say you have made a fantastic choice in coming to GMIT as it is one of the best places in the country to complete your studies, enjoy a busy social life and also make great friends.

A WElcOME MESSAGE frOM THE

SU VICE-PRESIDENT _hey guys, My name is Joe O’Connor and I’m your Student Union Vice-President and Welfare Officer for the upcoming year. Most people call me Jocser and I’m perfectly fine with that as well!

Q&A

Welcome back to those of you that are returning to GMIT, hope you all had a great summer! I may have got to know you over the past few years and if not, I look forward to doing so over the course of the year! I’d like to also of course welcome those of you that are starting in GMIT for the first time, you’re coming to the best IT in the country in the best city in the country, with plenty of friendly people and a great night life, so I’m sure it won’t take you too long to settle in!

//TV Programme: The Sopranos, lost, Entourage, Dexter //Film: The Departed, Training Day, Gladiator //Sport: NFl Football, Soccer, Gaelic Football, UFC //Quote: “Obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off the goal” –Vince lombardi // If you could go on a date with any celebrity: Eva Mendes/Cheryl Cole //Last person you’d invite to a party: Brian Cowen //Favourite food/drink/stimulant: Irish Stew, Dutch Gold, Buckfast //Biggest fear: Chuck Norris

I hope to serve you to the best of my ability as this year’s SU Welfare Officer, which involves looking after any problems you may encounter relating to sexual health, mental health, your finances, and also your accommodation. I will also be running campaigns over the course of the year to raise awareness and provide information on these areas and all other areas of student welfare. So if you’ve got any problem or query, big or small, or anything is causing you stress, be sure to call down to my office beside the banks, or get in contact with me by phone or e-mail, and I’ll do my very best to help! Finally, the Student Union will be putting on plenty of events and activities both on and off campus during the day and night during Freshers Week, so be sure to get involved in the fun and games! Also, GMIT offers a range of different clubs and societies to cater for your needs and interests, so don’t hold back in signing up for whatever floats your boat!! Good luck with the upcoming year and I hope to hear from you soon!

Joe_

Your Vice-President/Welfare Officer

CONTACT JOE

TEl : 091_742316 // 086_2191862 EMAIl : suvpresident@gmit.ie

ThE STUDENTS’ UNION wHAT wE ArE?

THE UNION IS A DEMOCrATIC OrGANISATION rUN BY STUDENTS FOr STUDENTS. WE ARE hERE FOR yOU. Decision making within the union takes place on three levels: A_Student Body B_The Assembly C_The Executive

_STUDENT BODy

_ThE ASSEMBLy

The student body is just another word for all of the students of the Institute together. The student body is the supreme decision making body within the union and has final say on all matters of importance affecting the union.

The Assembly is the ‘parliament’ of the students union and is made up of all class representatives and executive officers. The Assembly meets once a month and adopts policy for the union as well as holds the executive officers accountable for the work they do.

HOw DOES THE STUDENT BODY HAVE ITS SAY? This is done in two ways; firstly, by voting in elections for class reps, part-time, and sabbatical officers. Secondly, by voting in referenda which take place on various different topics throughout the year.

_ThE ExECUTIVE The Executive is the ‘cabinet’ of the students union and comprises both full time sabbatical officers (the president, deputy president, and campus president for Castlebar) and part time officers who continue as full time students while serving the union on a part time basis.

8_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

The President The President is the chief executive officer and principal spokesperson for the Students Union. He/she is responsible for administering the Union on a day to day basis and for negotiating on its behalf with external organisations. The President represents the students on all of the major decision making bodies within GMIT including the Governing Body and the Academic Council.

Vice President / Welfare Officer The Deputy President/Welfare Officer is responsible for welfare services on all campuses with the exception of the Castlebar Campus. The Deputy President provides advice and referral services on issues such as health, accommodation, and general safety while at college. The deputy president also acts in place of the president during his or her absence.

Class Reps Your Class Rep (Class Representative) is the spokesperson for your class within the Institute. The class rep is the first point of contact for all Institute authorities with your class. The Class Reps are collectively responsible for deciding the policy of the Student Union. The class reps also hold the elected full-time and part-time officers to account. What you stand to gain by becoming a Class Rep: • Leadership skills// Your classmates may look to you for leadership on issues that face your class such as, issues with timetables etc. • Negotiations skills// You may be required to negotiate with your department head or a lecturer on matters such as re-arranging a class or extending an assignment deadline etc. • Advocacy skills// This means that you will learn to speak on behalf of your classmates at a number of different levels, i.e. class rep meetings, course boards, etc. • Organisation Skills// As class rep you will be responsible for the organisation of class parties, trips away, and that kind of thing. Class outings such as these are crucial to developing a group spirit among your class and ensuring that nobody is left out.

GET INVOLVED IN YOUR UNION! GMIT Students’ Union Galway is specifically responsible for students at the Dublin Road, Cluain Mhuire, Letterfrack, and Mountbellew campuses.

www.gmitsu.ie

THE STUDENTS’ UNION What We do...

The Students’ Union is assists students in areas including: • Grants • Accommodation • Timetables

• Exams • Lectures • Personal issues

The Students’ Union is also responsible for managing extra-curricular activities and facilities that enhance the student experience such as: • • • •

• • • •

Clubs & Societies Welfare Campaigns Entertainment Common Areas (Room 509 and Union Square) The SU Shop

The Gym Student Travelcard Binding Laminating

The SU also provides Barbarista, the on-campus cafe at Union Square You can keep up to date with Students‘ Union activities through... • • • • • •

• • • •

SOUP’ the fortnightly newsletter The new SU website www.gmitsu.ie GMITSU Facebook (become a friend today!) GMITSU Twitter The SU App (free from Apps Store) Plasma screens

Information points & noticeboards Bluetooth The Handbook & Diary (free to all 1st years) You can also sign up for the SU text service at the start of the college year

To have anything communicated through these medium to the student body, please contact:

Brendan kenny _communications executive T // 091_742308 E // brendan.kenny@gmit.ie Location Students’ Union Office

_General enquiries, phone the main office on 091_742264 10_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

//DON’T WALk hOME ALONE GMIT’s official cab company for the year, CARA Cabs, will be running the Don’t Walk Home Alone Campaign. This campaign allows students, who do not have enough money to pay for their taxi fare, to leave their GMIT student card with CARA Cabs, and they will be brought home safely. They can then call back to the CARA Cabs office to collect their card and pay the fare they owe. CARA Cabs is the only cab company recommended by the Students’ Union, and they will be offering a flat fare of €7 to town from the GMIT area, and vice versa, upon one passenger producing their GMIT student card.

//Sshhh!! (SILENT STUDENTS, hAPPy hOMES) YOU wOUlDN’T TErrOrISE YOUr OwN GrANDPArENTS, wHY TErrOrISE SOMEONE ElSE’S? rESPECT YOUr COMMUNITY, OMMUNITY rESPECT YOUr NEIGHBOUrS OMMUNITY,

// STUDENT PATROL SChEME This year the Students’ Union will be hiring members of the student body to become paid student patrollers, who will provide a hotline service to local residents to report anti-social behaviour disturbances, and a clean-up service of local residential communities.

_CONTACT JOE O’CONNOr IN THE STUDENTS’ UNION FOr FUrTHEr DETAIlS ON THESE AND OTHEr wElFArE CAMPAIGNS

www.gmitsu.ie

_11

12_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

ClUBS & SOCIETIES

//CLUBS AND SOCIETIES Clubs and Societies at GMIT promote community, personal development, and student involvement. Joining a club or society gives you a chance to explore and participate in interests you might not encounter in your studies. Meet like-minded people and make your college experience something to remember!

HOw TO JOIN A ClUB Clubs and Societies Day at the end of September is the best place to find information on the individual groups. Joining a Club or Society simply entails signing up at the desk, and going along to the meetings or gatherings. The degree of involvement is entirely at the discretion of the student. Information on Clubs and Societies is widely publicised on campus, particularly on the SU website, Facebook and in Soup. If you miss Clubs and Societies Day, you only need to get in touch with the group and find out when they meet.

www.gmitsu.ie

_13

CLUBS & SOCIETIES

_Continued

What’s on offer: • Archery

• Heritage

• Photography

• Basketball

• Hurling

• Surfing

• Camogie

• Indoor Soccer

• Rowing

• Cricket

• International Society

• Rugby (Men & Wom)

• Cycling

• Karate

• Russian

• Diving/subaqua

• Kayak

• Tag Rugby

• DJ Society

• Ladies Gaelic Football • Theatre

• Engineering Society

• Ladies Soccer

• Volleyball

• Equestrian

• Letterfrack

• Windsurfing

• Gaisce

• Mature Students

• Gaelic

• Mens Gaelic Football

• Hotel & Catering

• Mens Soccer

• Yoga and more...

Not what you’re looking for? _Start your own Club or Society! Starting your own group is easy! Come into the Students’ Union for a chat and we can get you on your way to starting a new club or society. The process is short and relatively easy. We can help you brainstorm ideas, get them down on paper, and set up your first meeting. We can also help with ideas on fundraising, activities, organisation, and publicity. Contact the Students’ Union for more details.

14_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

www.gmitsu.ie

_15

The Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Union

//THE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS The Student Achievement Awards are an ideal forum for a celebration of all those who have contributed and excelled in extra curricular activities of the college over the last year. The annual award ceremony commemorates both individuals and teams that have surpassed themselves in academic, personal, and sporting practices. While it is impossible to remember everyone that has contributed, the Awards are an ideal opportunity to highlight all those that have devoted so much of their time and energy to their respective clubs and societies. The 2011 Student Achievement Awards Ceremony and Ball will take place at the end of the college year. The Ball is one of the highlights of the GMIT social calendar and always proves to be a great night out.

16_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

//ThE GyM The Fitness Centre (gym) is located upstairs in the Sports Hall. This facility is equipped with the finest treadmills, resistance equipment, cardiovascular machines, and free weights available. The gym is the green and red building located on the city side of the Galway campus. The current opening hours are Monday – Thursday from 8:30am to 9:30pm and Fridays from 8:30am to 3pm.

_Prices for students are as follows: Sep - Dec €60 Academic Year Sep - May €110 Daily €7.00 weekly €15.00

Jan - May €80 June - Aug €40 Calendar Year Sep - Aug €140

Personal Training Programmes Free and included in Membership

Contact Eimear or Ray on 091_742194

GMIT Students’ Union are pleased to announce that we will be liaising with the Kingfisher Gym in Renmore, which provides classes and has the added facility of a 25m swimming pool, thermal suite including sauna, as well as a steam room & jacuzzi. Joint membership for the academic year is €200.

//GAA DEVELOPMENT OFFICER GMIT has a full-time GAA Development Officer to deal with the administration and development of Gaelic Games within the Institute. Gaelic Games as a whole have the largest club membership within the Institute. Gaelic Games compromises of Men’s and Ladies Gaelic Football, Hurling, Camogie and Handball. For further information on Gaelic Games in GMIT please contact:

DAMIAN CURLEy

T // 091_742062 E // damian.curley@gmit.ie

//RECREATIONAL SOCCER FACILITATOR David Hand is our Recreational Soccer Facilitator. The aim of this position is to increase student participation through recreational football. David will be running Futsal and 5-aside leagues, referee and coaching workshops along with inter-college competitions. David can be contacted through the SU Office or by e-mail at soccer@gmit.ie

The Students’ Union

//SU SHOP Many items are on sale there, including pens, pencils, paper clips, newspapers (at student rates), refill pads, greeting cards, phone credit, international calling cards, confectionary, drinks, painkillers, photocopying cards (located in the SU office), Bus Eireann tickets (at student prices), rubbers (all types available), and much much more!

_The SU Shop will also be the location of the post box while construction continues.

//photocopying There are photocopying machines available at the SU Office (as well as the library). Cards cost €2.00 and are available from the card machine and in the SU Shop.

//LOCKERS Get your locker keys in the SU office. There are a limited amount for each department, so get in early to get yours! The cost is €20.00 for the year, of which you will receive €5.00 back on return of the lock and keys at the end of the year.

//BINDING :: LAMINATING :: TYPING The SU office provides binding, laminating and typing services throughout the year. Do come in in plenty of time though (particularly at the end of each term) so that we have time to get it done for you! Don’t give us something to bind at 11:05 if it’s due at 11:00 as we’ve had to sell the time machines due to cutbacks!

_In General: If you require something by the afternoon, bring it in by early morning. 18_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

GALWAY

GET OUT THERE!

You’re NOW living in Galway, City of the Tribes. Get out there. EXPLORE_ DREAM_ DISCOVER_ MARK TWAIN

Why not go to a Trad session, sample the craic in a Galway pub, head out to the wilds of Connemara, or even the Aran Islands.

Why not visit the Students’ Union Office for brochures, information, and our own recommendations.

Why not try some water sports? There’s plenty of water here to go around! Or if you’re up for going further afield, you could do a trip to the Cliffs of Moher, Craggy Island Parochial House. If you’re the curious type, you might even want to investigate Galway’s Spanish connections or find out more about how Che Guevara was a Tribesman!

20_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

STUDENT SERVICES

WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE HERE TO HELP YOU

Student Services provide professional advice on issues such as Student Health, Students with disabilities, Counselling, Careers, Chaplaincy, and Financial Support

_Follow the yellow feet on the floor that link Student Services & SU Office.

//ChAPLAINCy Fr. Adrian McGrath is your GMIT Chaplain. He comes to GMIT having studied a H.Dip in Youth and Community work in NUI, Maynooth.

THE CHAPlAIN: • invites students and staff to liturgical celebrations, opportunities for spiritual nourishment and expression • responds to, intervenes and is present at times of trauma, crisis, illness, and bereavement • the Chaplaincy is representative of ALL Faiths and will help students of all Faiths to make contact with their spiritual leaders

• provides community building projects including: Opportunity to Volunteer in the wider Community AND Opportunities to be involved in different aspects of college life • offers a pastoral counselling bridge to, and support for professional counselling • helps with Student Support • the Chaplain visits the Cluain Mhuire campus on a weekly basis

ChAPLAIN: FR. ADRIAN MCGRATh Location: Beside the Medical Centre and Counsellors Office on the corridor to the Students’ Union and banks. T // E // W //

091_742226 or 757298 (home) adrian.mcgrath@gmit.ie gmitweb.gmit.ie/chaplaincy

hours: 9:00am – 5pm Monday to Friday, or by appointment with Student Services Secretaries

STUDENTS AND STAFF ARE WELCOME TO CALL INTO THE CHAPLAIN’S OFFICE EACH DAY BETWEEN 9AM – 5PM.

OTHEr CHUrCHES CHURCH OF IRELAND //TEL 091_521914

www.gmitsu.ie

ISLAM IMAM KHALID SALLABI //TEL 091_751621

METHODIST //TEL 091_591494

_23

WE’RE hERE TO hELP yOU

//COUNSELLORS All of us at times can feel overwhelmed or stuck. While it’s good to talk with family and friends, sometimes it can be useful to talk with an objective outsider who will listen and can help clarify things. This can help to get us back in control of our life.

wHAT ISSUES wOUlD STUDENTS TAlK ABOUT wITH A COUNSEllOr?

HOw lONG DOES IT NOrMAllY TAKE?

You can consult the counsellor about any issue, big or small, that is a source of worry or confusion to them. Concerns are very varied and may include:

It depends on the individual. The counsellor can provide a once off session, short-term counselling or longer term therapy if required.

•

Academic concerns: Course difficulties, study skills, motivation, exam stress

•

Personal concerns: Stress, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, addiction, family, issues, relationship issues, relationships, loneliness, shyness, sexual issues, pregnancy.

•

Welfare concerns: Financial issues, child care issues.

Never feel that you are helpless and on your own in college. Contact the counsellor to get help and support in total confidence.

_Counselling is free and confidential

PAULINE STAUNTON _COUNSEllOr T // 091_742301 E // pauline.staunton@gmit.ie Location Beside the medical unit and Students’ Union

PAULINE CLANCy _COUNSEllOr T // 091_742563 E // pauline.clancy@gmit.ie Location Room 160A opposite Student Services Office

Counsellors are available one day per week in Cluain Mhuire and Letterfrack campuses.

_For more information www.gmit.ie/life-at-GMIT/counselling 24_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

//CAREERS SERVICE The Careers Service is available to all students and recent graduates of GMIT. We aim to support students and graduates in developing and implementing successful careers plans, and to facilitate the recruitment process for students and employers. We can assist you with the following:

Look out for:

• Career Counselling: to assist you to know and evaluate the many possibilities available.

• Careers Information Area: located in 1st floor Main Library. Here students and graduates can access information themselves (both take-away and reference material) occupation files/ employer files/job search material/college prospectus/reference books.

• Pyschometric Testing: Access to computer assistance guidance systems and aptitude tests. • Job Vacancy Information: Email: careers@gmit.ie with your name and course.

• Careers Service Newsletter: produced weekly and on careers page of www.gmit.ie. Email: careers@gmit.ie with • Book a career workshop for your class: your name and course if you want to be Email bridie.killoran@gmit.ie. included on our careers database & emailed relevant jobs each week. • Further opportunities: For study and transferring to other colleges both within • Employer Presentations on Campus Ireland and abroad. • Jobs Notice Boards • Employment: job seeking strategies/ • Careers Talks/Workshops employer information/job news/interview skills & techniques. • Careers Fair – 6th & 7th October 2010 • Postgraduate opportunities. • Working and travelling abroad.

Careers Talks & Workshops with key speakers

• Careers Clinic – 12th October 2010 • Postgrad Careers Fair

For appointments, call in person to the Student Services Office, or email studentservices@gmit.ie or phone the careers office at 091-742392.

BRIDIE kILLORAN _CArEErS OFFICEr T // 091_742392 E // studentservices@gmit.ie Location Room 1009, 1st Floor New Library

www.gmitsu.ie

_25

WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU //health unit Welcome to the Student Health Unit. We are a team of doctors and nurses, who provide health care for the body and the mind during your transition through the college year; however, we do not replace your family doctor. Doctors attend for 20 hours a week and provide a GP service by appointment. These appointments are from 9am to 1pm Mon to Fri, contact the student services secretaries on 091 742118

_THE SERVICE IS FREE & CONFIDENTIAL

What can we do for you? The Doctors and Nurses can help you with a variety of health issues, for example:

Where are we? • • • • • •

Accidents and Emergencies First Aid treatment GP service - treatment of medical complaints arising during the college year Contraceptive advice and information Pregnancy Testing Sexually transmitted disease screening

• • • • • •

Cervical screening Physiotherapy referral Wound dressings Prescription service Health promotion information and literature Health and well being events

The Student Health Unit does not offer a comprehensive medical service. Its purpose is to deal with health issues that arise with students during the course of the college year. Students who have special medical needs are encouraged to register with the Student Health Unit staff as soon as possible and provide details of their condition/medications etc. Students with long-term illnesses such as Asthma, Diabetes, Epilepsy etc. who require emergency treatment in relation to these illnesses will be seen in the Student Health Unit but should attend their own GP’s for long –term management. T //

091_742118

Nurse is available: 9:00am – 5:00pm Monday – Friday

If you have an urgent issue, feeling unwell, can’t wait for an appointment? Come to see the nurse who will ‘Triage’ you (assess and prioritise your needs according to urgency.) 26_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

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THE ULTIMATE T STUDENN T DISCOU CARD GAA GAA

GAA

COLLEGE CAN BE EXPENSIVE ...have you thought about a loan from us to make things easier?

00 an 0 , 1 € al Lo on 20.43 s r e P ts € k* Cos er wee p

*€1,000 personal loan over 1 year, variable rate of 11.94% (12.68% APR), weekly repayments of €20.43, the total amount repayable will be €1,061.88 Terms & Conditions Apply

//ACCESS OFFICE The Access Office provides a range of supports and services for students applying to GMIT and attending full-time and part-time courses within the Institute. It facilitates equality of access and participation for all students.

Students with Disabilities The Office supports students with physical, sensory or specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia. Students with disabilities should contact the Access Office in advance of commencing their course or as early as possible in the academic year so that supports can be put in place. The following supports are available: • • • • • • • •

Alternative induction Application for the fund for students with disabilities Alternative print format Loop system Accessible class location Referral for psychological assessment Personal assistants Interpretation services

• • • • • • • •

Note takers Mentoring One-to-one learning support Assistive technology Assistive technology training One-to-one academic support Examination support and examination accommodations Photocopying service

It is vital that students requiring examination accommodations register with the Access Office. The Access Office approves readers, scribes, use of I.T, extra time etc. for end of semester examinations.

Mature Students Access Support The Access Office provides supports for

Deirdre O’Connor

mature students in the following areas:

_Access & Disability Officer T // 091_742129 E // accessoffice@gmit.ie

• • • • •

Assistance with application process (CAO) Information and advice on funding Pre-entry training Mentoring Study skills workshops and courses covering: effective study techniques, effective note taking, essay writing, examination techniques, IT (beginners)

www.gmitsu.ie

PEIGÍN NÍ CHÉIDIGH T // Room //

091_742182 GD107

_29

WE’RE hERE TO hELP yOU //SPORTS hALL A complete range of competitive or recreational sports is available for everybody to participate in. See the section of Clubs and Societies on how to get involved in some of these activities.

FRANk RyAN _SPOrTS OFFICEr T // 091_742213 Location Sports Hall

//ADMINISTRATION The administration staff provides a variety of services to students. Appointments for all services may be made by calling to the Student Services secretaries. We are delighted to help you with any query you may have and can refer you to the appropriate service or department when necessary.

STUDENT SUPPOrT FUND The fund is administered by the Student Services Officer and is designed to tackle disadvantage by providing limited financial support to students to help them complete their studies. The fund also administers the fee Waiver Scheme. Application forms for support are available from the Student Services Office and all applicants are subject to interview

STUDENT SErVICES SECrETArIES E // studentservices@gmit.ie Hours // 9:00am – 5:00pm Mon – Fri

NOrA wAlSH 091_742118

ANITA MAHONY 091_742392 30_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

Hi there, My name is Gary Redmond and I am the President of the Union of Students in Ireland (USI). If you are reading this page, then the chances are you are not only a member of the Students’ Union in your college but also USI. USI is sole national representative organisation for students in Ireland which has a membership of over 30 students’ unions and 250,000 students both North and South of the border. While your local students’ union fights for your rights on campus, USI is fighting for you on the national stage. We represent your interests on various government bodies and agencies, such as the Higher Education Authority (HEA) which deals with policy and funding of higher education, the agency that awards your degree, and bodies overseeing the quality of education to name just a few. Over the coming weeks USI will be launching a number of campaigns including • Preventing the Government from doubling the Student Services Charge • Stopping the Government from reducing the Maintenance Grant again. • Forcing the Government to tackle graduate unemployment & emigration. • Returning the grant to students receiving the Back to Education Allowance. The best piece of advice I can give you is to get involved in college life and a great way to begin this is by running for class rep. Class reps deal with issues that effect their classes and are also responsible for helping your class get to know each other by organising class parties and trips. It’s a great way to get to know people and its also great fun. Wishing you all the best in the year ahead, Regards,

Gary Redmond, President, Union of Students in Ireland

Gary Redmond

President

Paddy Bonner

Western Area Officer

SU ADVISORY THE FOLLOWING PAGES CONTAIN GENERAL INFORMATION THAT SHOULD MAKE DAY-TO-DAY LIFE AT GMIT THAT BIT EASIER. If there is anything here you are not clear on, or you have any questions, just call into us in the Students’ Union office and we’ll do our best to assist you!

//How to get through college Brought to you by the Office of Academic Affairs Keep your code of conduct close at hand. This is your guide to rules and regulations for your time at GMIT (how to stay out of trouble!!). It outlines your responsibilities as a student. It gives you information on many aspects of student life including disciplinary procedures, exams and registration regulations. You will receive your code of conduct in your registration pack. Alternatively it is available from the Office of Academic Affairs (across from the old reception). Once you have registered with GMIT ensure that your mailing address (usually home address) is kept up to date on the GMIT system. All correspondence from GMIT will go to this address and the information is important. If this mailing address changes throughout your time in college please inform the registration office (located across from the old reception). Check your college email account regularly for information updates throughout the year. Important information such as details on how to access your exam results will be sent to this account. If the login proves difficult why not forward all emails that reach this account to your own personal email account e.g. gmail or yahoo. This way you never miss out on relevant information.

34_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

Coming up to exam time your exam timetables will be available on the gmit website http://www. gmit.ie/study-at-gmit/exams/ unless otherwise communicated to you by the exams office. It is your job to check the correct time and date for your exams. It is also advisable to check the timetables a couple of days prior to your first exam (just in case there are any changes). When you get your exam results in June before you let loose for the summer, please please please sort out any repeat exam issues before you go. The repeat forms

are normally printed about one week after the results. You need to sign this form and send it back to the examinations office as soon as it arrives at your mailing address. If you are away for the summer, assign a reliable person to get your form back to the exams office on time. There is a late fee of â&#x201A;Ź250 strictly applied for late forms. Temporary registration for those awaiting grant confirmation is available, but the final deadline for final registration is October 31st. The late fee thereafter is applied.

Gourmet Quality at Student Prices

Top Quality Ingredients

@ Union Square

The GMIT Meeting Place Playstation : Plasma Screens : Music

Served All Day Smoothies Speciality Coffees & Teas Toasted Sandwiches & Panniniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tasty Breakfast Rolls

SU ADVISORY :: PARKING

//Parking From September, all staff and students must display a parking permit. You can obtain your obtain your official parking permit at www.gmit. ie/parking-management. You will need your laser/visa card and it costs €5.00. See www.gmitsu.ie for details on this. • You’ll need proof of address, drivers license, and insurance certificate. •

Students / Staff living within 1000-1100 meters of the campus are not entitled to a parking permit (see www.gmitsu.ie for the full list of addresses not permitted). From September all vehicles will be liable to be clamped if in breach of GMIT Car Parking Policy. The possession of a parking permit does not guarantee parking.

What about drivers with disabilities? Drivers of vehicles requiring the use of universally parking accessible bays may only do so if their vehicle displays a valid and registered “blue badge”. Universally accessible bays are marked with a sign on the ground and/or on a nearby pole. If drivers display a blue badge, they may use these bays for free.

There is now additional parking at Galwegians from September with 200 extra parking spaces for GMIT students and staff - permit holders only.

www.gmitsu.ie

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38_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

SU ADVISORY :: EXAMS // Exams _Forget cramming until 5am, exams are all about good preparation! Exams are an unfortunate reality of education. Everyone says “If you study consistently during the year then exams will be no problem”. However, do you know anyone who really does this?! Many of us rely on cramming for the weeks before the exam and hope that this is enough to see us through. The weeks before the exam can be very stressful. If you haven’t really worked all year then you can feel that it’s too late. If you find college work difficult, then you’ll be wondering what’s the point anyway? Even if you have worked hard all year you may still be worrying because you don’t trust that it will be okay. Well stop stressing: this section has lots of useful tips on preparing for exams.

Preparing for exams

• Arrange your study space to ensure that it’s warm, quiet, and comfortable. • Make a study plan. Ask your friends or lecturers to help with this and try to be realistic about how much study you can get through every day. • Try to stick to the plan. If you have a lapse, don’t stress out, just go back to it again. • Don’t spend too much time on any one subject. • Make notes when you’re studying. Next time you study that subject, you can revise your notes. • Ask your lecturer for help with anything you don’t understand.

www.gmitsu.ie

• Practice exam questions. Time yourself and try to simulate an actual exam situation. • Avoid cutting out large parts of the course just because you don’t like them. Those topics might just be the ones that end up on the exam paper! • Take breaks and give yourself rewards for time spent studying. • Make sure you get enough sleep. You won’t perform well in an exam if you are sleep deprived. • Don’t compare yourself to your friends. Everybody has a different way of preparing for exams and what suits someone else might not work for you.

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40_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

//MONEY Handling your finances Everyone likes money but you might feel that you don’t see enough of it. Here are some ideas about how to get the most out of what’s already around you.

Drawing up a budget Few things sound as boring or as mean spirited as counting every penny in a weekly table of what is coming in and going out. However, if you want to make sure you have that little bit extra for your nights out then you should be prepared to spend just a few minutes a week on a simple, honest budget and a little bit of effort making it work. To put it simply you add up all the money that’s coming in to you and calculate how much that leaves you with weekly. Then you compare that to how much money you are spending every week. Include everything from chocolate bars, to TV license to money spent on clothes and alcohol. You should have more coming in than going out and if not you need to find ways to realistically cut down on some of your less important outgoings.

//BANKS ON CAMPUS Allied Irish Bank and Bank of Ireland are on campus next to the Students’ Union Office. Their opening hours are 10:30am to 4:00pm Monday to Friday (except Wednesday; open at 11am). Both banks close for lunch each day from 12:40pm to 1:40pm.

FURTHER INFORMATION AND ADVICE: www.studentfinance.ie Money Advice Budgeting Service (MABS) www.mabs.ie T // 091 569349

www.gmitsu.ie

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SU ADVISORY :: accommodation

Once you have a place in GMIT, you need to organise somewhere to live quickly. Depending on your situation you might continue living at home or have relations that you can stay with. However for many people, college means moving to a new town or city and trying to find a flat for the first time. Nabbing that perfect pad: • The Students’ Union have an up-to-date accommodation list, which you can view at www.gmitsu.ie, or you can call into the SU office. •

Don’t panic and take the first place you look at. Ask someone with experience of living in rented accommodation to come with you and check stuff like the heating, who you’re living with, how long it will take you to get to college and is the kitchen okay for cooking.

•

Check out the local newspapers and www.daft.ie for the area your moving to. There are often loads of classified ads with houses or rooms to let. Make sure to get a copy of the paper as soon as it comes out as everyone will be fighting for the best deals.

•

Everybody has different needs when it comes to living space. Some people are happy to share a room, others need their own space. You might be looking for a party house or somewhere where you can study and get a good night’s sleep. You also have to consider whether you want to cook for yourself, independence or home comforts, to live with other students or find your own place.

SU ADVISOrY :: ACCOMMODATION

This year the Students’ Union will be offering private inspections of your student accommodation in both September and May to aid students in effective deposit retention. Notes and photographs will be taken and inventory checks carried out.

CONTACT JOE IN THE STUDENTS’ UNION BY FrIDAY SEPTEMBEr 17TH IF YOU wISH TO AVAIl OF THIS SErVICE.

ION MODAT ACCOME BOOKLET ADVIC

GMITSU

Check out the Students’ Union ‘ACCOMMODATION ADVICE BOOKLET’ available at www.gmitsu.ie or from the SU office. Here you’ll find information on everything from Types of Accommodation to Tentant’s Rights and Duties

FIND MOrE INFOrMATION AND SUPPOrT:

ThREShOLD

DAFT.IE

GLASáN GLEANN NA RÍ CúIRT NA RáSAÍ TÍR NA GCAPALL CEANN BOIRNE

www.glasan.com www.gmitstudents.com www.cuirtnarasai.com www.tirnagcapall.com

www.threshold.ie T // 01_6707000 E // advice@threshold.ie

www.daft.ie E // info@daft.ie

(091_773333 / 779872) (091_746000) (091_764131) (091_763328) (086_9671249)

GMIT SU

www.gmitsu.ie (click on accommodation page - updated weekly)

GALWAy ADVERTISER www.galwayadvertiser.com

44_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

GMIT Student Complex - Ballybrit, Galway See for yourself why Cuirt na Rasai makes our students feel they have all they want in a campus accommodation

“Safe Secure Accommodation with Friendly, helpful staff”

“Staying in Cuirt na Rasai in 4th year really helped me achieve my study goals”

“Apartments are very spacious its also a Great place to meet \ new friends”

T: 091 764131 E: info@cuirtnarasai.com

SU ADVISORY

//THE library GMIT Libraries provide a wide range of services and facilities to support learning, teaching, and research in the Institute. There is a library in Galway, at the Learning Centre on the Dublin Road, in Cluain Mhuire on the Monivea Road, and in Letterfrack. On registration, all students become library members and use their GMIT ID cards as library cards. GMIT’s libraries hold over 100,000 books covering all the subject areas studied in the Institute. In addition it subscribes to 500 printed journals and to over 10,000 full-text journals available electronically via our website. Past exam papers are available via our website or in hardcopy in the library. Other electronic resources include additional web-based research services, a wide-range of CD and DVD titles and other multimedia material. An Inter-Library Loan service is provided for items not available in our libraries. The library on the Dublin Road includes an Independent Learning Unit for students with special needs, an IT Training Room, Multimedia Room, Research Unit, Archive Room, Ph tocopying Room and a suite of Group Study Rooms.

_Website & Catalogue http://library.gmit.ie

LIBRARY OPENING HOURS* Monday – Friday

09:30 – 17:00

Monday – Wednesday

09:30 – 22:00

Thursday

09:00 – 21:00

Friday

09:00 – 17:30

Saturday

10:00 – 13:00

*Times subject to change. Please contact the Library or the Students’ Union for further information.

46_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

//GMIT Catering Company GMIT Catering Company Ltd comprises of 3 outlets in The Dublin Road Campus. The Cafeteria (Open from 08.30am) is a great place to sit around and soak up the busy atmosphere of the college. It serves hot breakfast, dinner and tea and contains a soup counter and fresh made sandwich and salad bar. It also offers a range of desserts, confectionaries, coffees, teas & minerals until 09.00pm Monday to Thursday and 05.00pm on Fridays â&#x20AC;&#x153;509â&#x20AC;? is a small convenience shop that opens from 10.00am, selling refreshments, minerals, confectionary and newspapers. The Cafe Foyer, overlooking Galway Bay, provides a contemporary service consisting of snacks & beverages and opens from 09.00am till 03.30pm Monday to Friday.

_Look out for Meal Deals, Promotions, Theme Days, Give-Aways & Special Offers During the Year. Should you have any queries in relation to the Catering Company, you can call in, phone 091_74214 or e-mail joe.doyne@gmit.ie.

//IQ BAR The IQ Bar is available for drinks and speciality food. It is located just around the corner from the canteen, and is open from 6pm to 9pm Monday to Thursday. You can celebrate a birthday there, watch a big match on the widescreen TV, or hold a class party.

//I.T. CENTRE Networked computing laboratories are available on all campuses with access to internet and email are also available throughout the Institute. Desktop PCs are used to provide access to a range of applications and services such as word processing, spreadsheets, database software, a wide variety of programming languages, and discipline specific applications such as computer aided design. Specialist computing resources are also available for research and project work.

www.gmitsu.ie

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SU ADVISORY :: FOR INTERNATIONal STUDENTS

//INTERNATIONAL OFFICE The International Office is located in Prefab 9 which is at the back of the old building. The office looks after the concerns of students on Erasmus exchange programmes, US exchange students and non-EU students. The office is open to deal with students from Monday to Friday, 2.30 – 4.30pm. (091-742211 direct or international@gmit.ie). Any student requiring a formal letter will be asked to complete a form and the letter will be provided the following day. Students on Erasmus or US exchange programmes have a learning agreement agreed between GMIT and their home college before they arrive. Students very often want to change the subjects they are taking, once they have had a chance to experience GMIT and discuss their interests with lecturers. Any change has to be agreed by the Head of Department concerned and it is the responsibility of the student to then notify the International Office so that your academic record on the student record system is changed. Failure to do this will result in a student having problems obtaining their examination results and transcripts. Students from countries which require a visa to enter Ireland to study full-time will have their visa stamped (stamp 2) with a one month entry stamp when they enter Ireland at airport immigration. They then have the month to prepare the necessary paperwork for the Galway office of the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB). The GNIB office in Galway is located at Unit 2 Liosbaun Industrial Estate, Tuam Road.. (Ph. 091-768002 or fax 091-768003). The opening hours are Monday to Thursday, 7.30am to 12.30pm and 2 – 3 pm and Friday, 7.30 am to 12.30. It is a 20 minute walk from the Galway campus. Enter Liosbaun estate at the Ulster Bank on the Tuam Road and walk straight to the last building on your right. Registration with them costs €150 annually. The documentation required is as follows: • GMIT identification card • Bank statement showing a balance of €1,000 • Evidence of medical insurance

48_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

You obtain your ID card at registration. You can open a bank account at either of the two banks on campus and they will send you a statement to your local address within one week. Medical insurance, unless you have arranged it yourself, can be obtained through the International Office at an annual premium of â&#x201A;Ź120, which can be purchased at www.odon.ie/gmit. Registration with the GNIB is compulsory and you will be issued with a GNIB identity card and your passport will be stamped for one academic year. The card is proof that you are entitled to be resident and studying in Ireland. If you change address, you are legally required to notify GNIB of the change within

7 days. Each time you need to have your visa extended, you can obtain the necessary letter from the International Office, provided you produce proof that you have passed your examinations and are eligible to progress. Students holding visas who want to return home for some reason during the academic year must obtain a reentry visa as your initial one is single entry only. This can only be obtained from the GNIB office at 13-14 Burgh Quay in Dublin (city centre) and you require a letter from the International Office. All non EU full-time students are entitled to work part-time during term time for a maximum of 20 hours per week.

// International Students Liaison Officer Dandan Yan is our International Studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Liaison Officer. Dandan is the point of contact for all international students attending GMIT. She is here to assist international students in adapting to campus life both socially and culturally and to offer advice on any other difficulties students may be experiencing. Dandan can be contacted through the SU Office or by e-mail at dandan.yan@gmit.ie

www.gmitsu.ie

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SU ADVISORY :: PEER ASSISTED LEARNING (PAL)

For most new students, coming to Third Level College is both an exciting new venture and an anxious experience. There are new people to meet, new friends to make, and the opportunity to study in depth a subject you enjoy. At the same time, you’ll probably be wondering whether or not you’ll be able to keep up with your studies, write assignments to an appropriate standard, organise your time effectively, and have the confidence to present your ideas in front of other people. Wouldn’t it be good if there were students from the year above who had been trained to guide you through all this? Now, with the help of PAL, there is.

What is PAL The Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) scheme was introduced to GMIT Programmes in 2009. PAL is a scheme that offers cross-year support between students on the same course. PAL is run by students for students. It encourages you to support each other and learn co-operatively under the guidance of a trained student from the second year of your course. PAL aims to help you adjust quickly to college life, improve your learning and study skills, enhance your understanding of the subject content of your course and prepare better for your assignments and exams. PAL sessions are intended to be supportive and friendly but also purposeful. In PAL, the emphasis is on everyone in the group working co-operatively to share subjectrelated news items, and develop their understanding of course topics or work to be assessed.

PAL is therefore about exploratory discussion lead by the PAL Leaders. The more everyone joins in these discussions, the better the sessions will work.

How can PAL benefit you? PAL Leaders are uniquely placed to help first years. They are experts in surviving the first year. PAL Leaders receive training in how to run PAL sessions effectively and how to manage group discussions. They are also provided with resources that will help you develop your study skills and better understand the more challenging topics on your course.

How does PAL take place? The PAL session for your programme will appear on your timetable from September – April. There will be a one-hour PAL session timetabled each week.

50_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

What can you discuss in PAL? The most important point about PAL is that you can decide what is to be discussed in your weekly PAL sessions. Ask your PAL Leader to help you: • with accommodation issues, travel or to share information on the best places to go • find your way around campus • locate resources in the Library • practise your referencing skills • avoid plagiarism • discuss how to get the most out of lectures • analyse note taking techniques • explore methods for getting the best from group work • practise presentations • review lectures you’ve found really difficult • analyse assignment questions Anything may be covered, but please remember that the PAL Leaders are not lecturers, so they’re not allowed to teach you - please do not ask them to! PAL will run from the beginning of term when you will meet your PAL Leader who will explain more.

_Note: Attendance at your PAL sessions is recorded weekly. Remember that your School Management, lecturers and Course Co-ordinators choose ‘PAL’ to be included in your programme because they understand the benefits PAL sessions provide to their first year students. To find out if PAL is running on your programme check your timetable or www.gmit.ie/pal or email pal@gmit.ie

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AFTER HOURS

IT’s MORE THAN STUDY?

//FRESHERS WEEK Freshers Week takes place the week of September 19th and will see a variety of events held to help orient and welcome new students to GMIT. Do get involved in all the activities as it’s a great way get to know new people and discover the Galway social scene. Sunday

Launch with BBQ @ Library Bar from 9:30pm

Monday

Bands, DJ & Exhibitors on campus from 11am Inflatable City @ GMIT pitches with Gladiator, Human Table Football and more from 12 noon Freshers Welcome Party @ Club K from 11:30pm

Tuesday

Fear Factor @ Union Square from 1pm Pub Tour kicking off @ The Library Bar from 8pm finishing in Club K for Tight-arse Tuesday

Wednesday Pizza Eating Competition from 11am Paintballing Arena @ GMIT pitches from 1pm Jon Kenny @ Library Bar from 8pm folllowed by Live Band & DJ Thursday

Condom Olympics on campus from 11am Sexual Health Workshop on campus from 1pm Arthurs Day Celebration featuring Delorentos, Miracle Bell, Hijackers, Rip Tide Movement, iRadio’s Fergal D’Arcy, Comedian Andrew Stanley, The Vibes, and Ham Sandwich @ GMIT Sports Hall from 5pm

Friday

Hangover Party in Room 509 with refreshments and Icebreakers games

DJ and bands all week 52_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

//CHRISTMAS AT GMIT Launched in 2008, each December sees hundred of GMIT students get into the festive mood by attending the GMIT Students’ Union Christmas Day. The event includes Christmas dinner, festive music, sweet treats, live bands and DJ, an appearance of the odd bearded man in red, and...a partridge in a pear tree. This December will see the SU Christmas Day take place for just the third time, so watch out for more information on it in mid November! December also sees the Christmas Kiddies Party hosted by Students Services and the Students’ Union. This event gives students with young children the opportunity to bring them on campus and even meet up with a very special guest from the North Pole.

//RAG WEEK RAG Week (or Raise and Give Week) will be held towards the end of February 2011. In recent years the Students’ Union managed to raise thousands of Euro for charities such as Cancer Care West, Alan Kerins African Projects, Serve, Console, Jigsaw Galway, and Habitat for Humanity. Students raised the money through a huge variety of events including Paintballing, Bungee Jumping, Tinchy Stryder, Tommy Tiernan, The Blizzards, Sidney Samson, The Saw Doctors, Celebrity Blind Date with Danielle Lloyd and Aaron McCusker, Guru Josh Project, Father Ted Fancy Dress, and Jon Kenny. Get involved in the activities this year! We need lots of volunteers so if you are interested in helping out, please contact the SU office.

Keep an eye on www.gmitsu.ie and the SU Facebook page for further details.

Everything you want... ... under one roof • Full student menu main course from €6 • Sky sports & Setanta live on the big screen • Promotions, giveaway’s and live entertainment weekly • Wii, playstation and pool table • Heated Beer Garden • All Birthdays, Class Parties, Club & Society events catered for

CALL 091 761761 OR DAVE ON 087 2716884 Join us on FB for a chance to win a €50 voucher for The Library

Bodkins Librarybar

GmitLibraryBar

WELFARE The following pages contain information and advice on various aspects of student welfare. A comprehensive welfare booklet is available from the Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Union or at www.gmitsu.ie

_The Welfare Section comes to you in conjunction with www.spunout.ie

SpunOut.ie is an independent, youth powered national charity working to empower people to create personal and social change. SpunOut.ie provides: •

100s of youth friendly factsheets on all aspects of youth health, lifestyle, and citizenship including drugs, alcohol, sexual health, mental health, environment, work, education, and more

• Signposting to support services nationally • Moderated discussion forums for peer discussion & debate • An alternative media space to publish news, views, opinion pieces, comments, video, photos, and art • A platform for advocating, participating, and engaging with the national media, with politicians, and decision makers on health and social policy • A way for you to ‘take control of your world’

_Get involved and log on to www.SpunOut.ie We can all feel spunout at times, but there are answers. You can get involved in making decisions that affect your life. You can get help. You can educate yourself. You can get published. You can be entertained. You can lobby for change. You can learn how to organise a protest. You can make change for the good in your world. You can get heard. This is your space. You own it. There is someplace on the SpunOut.ie website for you. If you don’t think so, tell us and make it happen! Get in, get involved, and take control.

www.gmitsu.ie

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HEALTH

GENERAL INFORMATION YOU OUGHT TO KNOW!

// Mumps _You must complete MMR vaccination before registration. As you are probably aware, there have been outbreaks of mumps in third level colleges in the last couple of years, as many adults aged 18-25 years have not received TWO doses of mumps (MMR) vaccine. Therefore, we have large numbers of students at risk of getting and passing on mumps infection. Mumps is an acute viral illness that causes fever, headache, and usually painful swollen saliva producing glands. Mumps often gives an appearance of swollen cheeks or jaws. The mumps virus is spread from person to person by coughs and sneezes. It can also be transmitted through kissing and other direct contact with saliva.

PLEASE ASSIST US IN PREVENTING FURTHER ILLNESS. _The mmr vaccine is available through your gp.

1st Year Students_will have been offered 2nd MMR in schools a result of the HSEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s control measures. If you didn not receive a 2nd, please attend your own GP prior to registration in GMIT. All other Students_if you have not yet received your 2nd MMR vaccine, please attend your own GP prior to registration.

_If you are unsure whether you have received 2 MMR vaccines, it is no harm to have another. Contact// GMIT Student Health Unit

Website: www.immunisation.ie 58_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

Your health

//Healthy Mind How do you explain your feelings and worries? Who can help you if you are too shy to ask for help? Does anyone notice when it feels like your world is falling apart? Suicide and depression are huge problems in Ireland today. 10% of the Irish population suffers from depression. But mental illness is a taboo subject and we often ignore the problem until it takes over. However, there’s nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about if you are stressed out, worried, or are struggling emotionally. Everyone goes through it, and it helps to talk to somebody to set your thoughts straight. Mental health is a way to describe the state of your mind, feelings, emotions and nerves. Mental health is the balance between all aspects of life - social, physical, spiritual and emotional. It impacts on how we manage our surroundings and make choices in our lives - clearly it is an integral part of our overall health. Mental health is far more than the absence of mental illness and has to do with many aspects of our lives including: • How we feel about ourselves. • How we feel about others. • How we are able to meet the demands of life.

_In this section you’ll find information to help you understand mental health, tips for staying in good mental health and links to support services. GMIT has counsellors available free of charge, available when you want to talk about what’s on your mind. Call Student Services 091_742228 for an appointment. You can also come in for a talk with Joe O’Connor, the Students Union Vice President and Welfare Officer (091_742316) for peer support and advice. Additionally, you can visit our GMIT Chaplain, Adrian McGrath, whose office is located in the Student Services Area.

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Your health

//Suicide Awareness The reasons that someone may decide to attempt suicide are complex. Sometimes the decision to attempt suicide might be linked to depression, loneliness, or it may be a cry for help. It may also be a sudden decision (maybe in anger or sorrow), when drunk or after taking drugs. Maybe it is a desperate attempt to escape from reality. However the most common reason is that the person feels despair or hopelessness and can’t find any other way out.

High risk factors: •

There’s a high risk of suicide at traditional celebration times such as Christmas Day or Valentine’s Day. Feeling lonely on these days can push people into despair. If you think someone you know is alone and unhappy at a time like this, remind them that there are people around who care about them and how they are feeling.

•

Attempting suicide can be a cry for help. Maybe you know someone who has attempted suicide. Perhaps they told someone in time to be brought to hospital. If you or someone you know has attempted suicide then talk to a doctor or support organisation immediately.

• Suffering from depression and not receiving appropriate help or treatment, may increase the risk of suicide. • Going through difficult times such as when a loved one dies or having a long-term or terminal illness can increase the risk of suicide. • Family, relationship and break up problems, abuse and bullying can all be factors in pushing someone towards suicide. • If you abuse alcohol or drugs, you are more at risk of suicide. Both can act as depressants leading to serious problems for your mental health. • Access to a method of suicide, such as harmful medication or a firearm can increase the risk of suicide. • Young men and elderly people are more at risk of suicide.

60_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide or self harm, you should immediately contact a suicide hotline: Samaritans 085 60 90 90 available 24 hours a day. _Find more information and support:

SAMARITANS

www.samaritans.ie

Email: jo@samaritans.org

Tel: 1850 60 90 90

PLEASE TALk www.pleasetalk.ie/gmit

Email: info@pleasetalk.ie

SPUNOUT www.spunout.ie

Email: info@spunout.ie

Tel: 091_533693

JIGSAW www.jigsaw.ie

Email: galway@jigsaw.ie

Text: 087_7725232 Phone: 091_549252 Drop in: 18 Mary Street, Galway City

PIETA hOUSE www.pieta.ie

Email: mary@pieta.ie

Tel: 01_601 0000

CONSOLE www.console.ie Tel: 1800 201 890

Email: info@console.ie

62_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

Please Talk was initiated in 2007 following the deaths of a number of students at UCD by suicide. The project has two main components. The first is the campaign's message that 'talking is a sign of strength', which urges students to talk to someone if they're having problems at home, at college or anywhere else. This was borne out of a realisaiton that while many of the nearly 250,000 students in Ireland knew that help was available to them on campus should they need it, when it came to a time of crisis they wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily know where to go to find it. The second component of the campaign, the Please Talk website, www.pleasetalk.ie, aims to address this by providing a directory of support services available to students on campuses throughout Ireland, as well as other information that may be helpful to them. The content for the site can be controlled centrally by our team, and also each college are empowered to maintain the content on their part of the site locally. Since it began, Please Talk has reached 31 colleges throughout Ireland so far and continues to grow, and thanks to Strategic Innovation Fund funding from the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention, we are confident that Please Talk will have a home on every campus throughout Ireland, and the campaign's message will become synonymous with student support, and being at college. The Please Talk message is conveyed to students in a number of ways, including through a range of branded materials such as: badges, t-shirts, pens, posters, and fliers as well as banners and other permanent fixtures, as well as by organising events and initiatives such as comedy events, balloon launches, and celebrity visits, and by getting the Please

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Talk brand and logo included in printed and online materials being produced on campuses. To-date, Please Talk has been coordinated and developed by a team of four students and recent graduates, and it relies heavily on close working relationships with student support staff on campuses such as student advisory services, students' unions, counseling services, and chaplaincy services, as well as national bodies such as the CSSI (the Confederation of Students Services in Ireland), CN3 (Chaplains Network at third level), and the USI (Union of Students in Ireland), to ensure the Please Talk message and website is conveyed clearly to as many students as possible, and we are thankful for their support and enthusiasm. We are also aware of the importance of fostering and developing relationships with groups and organisations in the mental health community in Ireland to ensure Please Talk remains sustainable into the future. We are very excited in summer 2010 to have established a steering committee made up of key student support staff, students, and mental health professionals from around the country to oversee the development and activities of the campaign for the year and years to come. We are working hard to establish relationships, and form partnerships with other organisations and individuals in the mental health sector. Anyone can get involved with Please Talk either by wearing a badge or t-shirt, organising events or initiatives on campuses to encourage students to talk about their problems, or by contacting us directly at info@pleasetalk.ie.

_63

SEXUALITY

//What is sexuality? Sexuality is about how you think, act, and feel towards sex. Part of your sexuality is your sexual identity. This refers to what sex you fancy (boys or girls) or if you fancy both. During puberty and our teen years we start to explore our sexuality and to figure out what we like. You might feel unsure about your sexuality or who you find attractive might change during your life. What you like and feel comfortable with is different for everyone. Some people may know from a very young age that they are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, and others may be confused about their sexuality right into adulthood. Working out whether you are gay, lesbian, bi or straight can be confusing. You don’t have to tell your friends anything about your sexuality or who you fancy unless you want to, but remember it does help to talk. Coming out as LGBT can be a hugely positive experience – a liberating time, when you embrace your sexuality. Telling friends or family is not always easy, but coming out in a supportive environment can make the experience a rewarding one. Whatever your sexual identity, remember it is only one part of your life; so embrace how you are feeling and enjoy being individual! It is important that you feel comfortable with your sexuality. If you want to talk to someone about sexuality, contact:

_Find more information and support: BeLonG To www.Belongto.org T // 01_873 4184 Online support: https://belongto.org/support.aspx Supporting Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) young people.

64_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

//LGBT Students

LGBT = Lesbian Gay Bi-Sexual Tran-Gender GMIT Students’ Union runs a LGBT Society, with a representative on the Equality Working Group. You can also talk to

Joe O’Connor (Vice President & Welfare Officer) If you have any questions about the LGBT Society or would like to get involved. T // M // E //

091_742316 087_2191862 suvpresident@gmit.ie

The USI representative for LGBT students is also available to speak to you:

Siobhan McGuire LGBT Rights Officer Union of Students in Ireland (USI) T // M // E //

01_7099300 086_7816393 lgbt@usi.ie

//What is sexual health? Sexual health from this positive view is about being able to create a happy, healthy and fulfilling sex life that is fantastic for you and those who you choose to share it with. Everyone should be able to have as much satisfying, sensuous, mutually satisfying and safer sex as they want to. That doesn’t mean you are not sexually healthy if you choose not to have sex with anyone else or even with your self – it is about having the freedom to choose to be sexually active or not. It is about being able to feel sexually competent, a term developed from looking at lots of people’s descriptions of how negative their first experience of penetrative sexual intercourse was for them.

_Continued

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_65

SEXUAL HEALTH

_Continued Sexual competence has four elements: 1. Not regretting it (i.e. who, what, when and where it all happened) 2. Willingness (not being coerced or under duress) 3. Having decided yourself to do this (i.e. as part of a natural follow on in the relationship, being in love, curiosity) rather than due to peer pressure or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs 4. Using reliable contraception If you can tick those four boxes most of the time then you will have had the chance of actually enjoying the experience, as if and when you do choose to share your body it was willingly, knowingly and you used contraception that allowed you not to worry afterwards that you have made a baby and/or picked up an STI. In Ireland we are at a strange crossroads – where it seems that anything sexy is good yet we are still afraid to really discuss our feelings and desires in relation to sex. We live in a highly sexualised world yet when pleasure is referred to it tends to be as guilty pleasure. We can change that atmosphere so young people don’t have to learn how to be sexual beings by watching pornography. We can create the spaces where it is ok to ask those questions you really want to know and to receive honest answers. Pornography is shaping young peoples’ sexual knowledge with images of sex that are unrealistic and blur the line between consent, pleasure and violence; showing women as being there to be used and men being there to use them. Surely we are all looking for more than that. We deserve to have sensuous beautiful sexual experiences which fulfil and please those involved. As a generation you have the opportunity to impact on the media representations and government policies by our personal choices and collective actions.

Siobhán O’Higgins Sexual Health Promoter Aidswest and Health Promotion Department, NUI Galway

GET YOUR WELFARE BOOKLET FROM GMIT STUDENTS’ UNION

66_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

SEXUAL HEALTH INFORMATION SUPPORT If you want a full screen for STIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s you can avail of the free service in U.C.H.G. STI Clinic

T // 091_525200 Mon 2-5 and Fri 10-12 by appointment only Wed 9-12 and 2-4 Walk in Service

Sexual Health Centre_ w : www.sexualhealthcentre.com

e : info@sexualhealthcentre.com t : 021_42 75 837 The centre provides a range of services in relation to sexual health issues. These include peer support through education and telephone helpline services; personal support & counselling to people with HIV and their families; non directive three option pregnancy counselling and lots more.

Irish Family Planning Association_ w : www.ifpa.ie e : post@ifpa.ie t : 01_806 9444 National voluntary organisation promotion sexual and reproductive rights and help. Provides information, support and advice.

Think Contraception_ www.thinkcontraception.ie www.thinkcontraception.ie is a source of information for men and women living in Ireland who want to learn more about their sexual and reproductive health, especially contraception.

Crisis Pregnancy Agency_ w : www.crisispregnancy.ie e : info@crisispregnancy.ie t : 01_814 6292 The Crisis Pregnancy Agency provides information on Irish pregnancy counselling. Provides info on what to do next and contraception.

PERSONAL SAFETY

LOOKING AFTER NUMBER ONE

//Crime Prevention Ireland is still a comparatively safe place to live. Even here in Galway, there is an extremely low rate compared to other major western cities. Having said that, it’s not as safe as it once was. This idea that it is only women who need to be careful has long expired. Men are increasingly likely to be victims of crime, particularly physical assaults when alcohol is involved. There is no point living in fear. As well as using your own sensible precautions follow these top 5 tips to stay safe wherever you are: 1_ Never walk alone at night time. Stick to busy streets, with lots of lighting and traffic. Do not take dodgy shortcuts. If you think you are being followed, go to somewhere busy and flag down a taxi. 2_ Only use licensed taxis and hackneys. Ask the driver’s name and when he/she drops you off; ask that he/she waits until you are safely in the door. 3_ Do not leave keys to your home in an accessible place. Everyone knows to look on top of the door frame, in or under the

potted plant, just inside the letter box, under the mat, under that oddly placed huge rock by the door etc. 4_ Always be aware of who’s around you when you go to an ATM. Do not use ATMs at night on isolated streets. And in the top spot is…. 5_Walk with confidence, be alert and always look like you know exactly where you’re going.

//dont walk home alone If you have no money for a taxi, Cara Cabs will bring you home. Simply give the driver your student card and it will be returned to you once the fee is paid!

_Contact the Students’ Union for further details 70_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

_If you have been a victim of crime, there is help and support available from the Gardaí and Victim Support, as well as the support services in GMIT.

//Sexual Abuse/Assault

• You have the right to ask for a male or female garda, police officer, or doctor.

The Rape Crisis Network gives support to victims of rape, sexual assault and child sexual abuse. They can go with you to the Gardai or police, listen to you or make sure you get counselling. There is also professional help available from your local Health Board.

• When you’re reporting the attack you can ask for as many breaks as you want and leave the station any time you want.

If you’ve experienced any form of sexual abuse it can be very difficult to talk about it. People often describe feelings of guilt, shame, anger, disgust and even disbelief. There can be worries about what will happen to you or the person involved if you speak out. It is unbelievably difficult for any young person who is the victim of incest (when the abuser is a family member). People who have been abused will often fear that they won’t be believed if they tell someone. However. it is very important not to let this fear stop you from getting help.

•

Reporting a crime means you’ll be asked a lot of detailed questions and should carefully read through your statement when it’s finished to make sure there are no mistakes.

•

There are rape crisis centres where you can speak to someone confidentially if you’ve been raped or abused. The centres give support to victims of rape, sexual abuse or child sexual abuse. They can go with you to the Gardai, listen to you or help in any way possible.

• Remember that it’s never your fault even if you feel guilty.

• If you have been sexually abused or raped: • Tell someone you trust, even if you were abused in the past but never spoke about it. •

If you think you’ve been drug-raped ask for a medical examination or urine sample to be taken so they can check for traces of the drug.

If you’ve been assaulted or raped (or think you might have been) then report it to the police immediately. Don’t worry if you were drunk or taking drugs, the assault is much more serious.

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_71

LOOKING AFTER NUMBER ONE _Continued How you react to sexual abuse or rape is different for everyone and it can take a long time for you to deal with what happened. • You might feel disbelief, numb, frightened, powerless, ashamed, disgusted with yourself, or humiliated. • You might feel guilty and responsible for what happened or blame yourself for letting it happen. • You might want to be alone and feel unable to tell anyone that you were sexually abused. • You might have nightmares or flashbacks about what happened and find it difficult to get involved with anyone else. • You might become self destructive or out of control: drinking too much or taking drugs, getting an eating disorder, self-harming, or having sex with more people than usual.

//FURTHER INFORMATION AND ADVICE: Rape Crisis Network www.rcni.ie Tel: 1800_77 88 88 Provides a 24 hour helpline for victims of rape and sexual abuse. Also provides counselling and therapy for victims of rape, sexual assault, child sexual abuse, and sexual harassment in centres throughout Ireland. Contact details of centres throughout Ireland: www.rcni.ie/hlp_map.htm In an emergency always call 999 or 112. If it’s not an emergency, call your nearest Garda station. These can be found in your phone directory or by calling directory inquiries on 11811 and asking the details of the nearest station to you.

_Millstreet Garda Station, Galway: 091_538 000

72_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

ALCOHOL

ENJOYING IT SENSIBLY!

SO THE ‘DRINK’ MADE YOU… ACT A BIT CRAZY? TEXT YOUR EX? CRY OR TURN INTO A SUPER-FLIRT? THINK AGAIN The reality, according to the new drinkaware.ie booze myths campaign, is that all booze contained in every alcoholic drink is pretty much the same stuff. Whether it’s beer, wine or spirits, it is really just ethanol with some flavourings. So if you think ‘gin makes you cry?’ and ‘whiskey makes you frisky?’ Then it probably will. The fact is that if you expect to react in a certain way to a certain alcoholic drink, you will, even though all alcohol is pretty much the same. Studies have been conducted where volunteers were told they were being given free booze while in fact half of them were being given alcohol-free substitutes that simply had alcohol rubbed on the rim of the glass, duping them into thinking they too were drinking alcohol. 80% of ‘sober’ volunteers who thought they were drinking free booze started acting like they were drunk; talking loudly, staggering, feeling dizzy and slurring their speech. Each of these ‘sober’ volunteers would have passed a breathalyzer test. But because they thought they were drinking free alcohol and getting drunk, they acted like they were drunk.

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_73

ENJOYING IT SENSIBLY! _Continued We all have them, our boozey beliefs, with some even more widely believed than others. Is your one golden rule ‘never mix your drinks’? Well, as we said ‘booze is booze’. The booze in every alcoholic drink is pretty much the same stuff - so it’s not the number of different types of drinks that will land you with a whopper of a hangover, it’s the number of drinks, full stop. Next time you’re nursing a hangover, watching Dr. Phil and blaming the drink for those embarrassing flashbacks it may be time to consider that it is not the drink that’s the problem but how much you are actually drinking.

//Top Tips for a safer night out: •

Plan how you’re going to get home before you leave. Make sure you’ve got numbers for taxis and keep aside enough money to get home safely.

• Eat before you go out, or during the evening. •

Ideally avoid getting involved in a round. Alternatively, limit rounds to 2 or 3 friends. If you find yourself in a round but feel that others are drinking faster than you - or over recommended limits - it’s OK to skip a drink. Also feel free to remove yourself from the round altogether.

• Drink water regularly to stay refreshed and hydrated.

•

Remember that too much drink will do nothing for your looks - you’re drop dead gorgeous until you drop down drunk.

• And don’t succumb to the beer goggles effect - you might think you’ve met your dream date - until the effect wears off. •

Don’t accept drinks from strangers and never leave your drink unattended - it’s all too easy for someone to spike your drink… with more alcohol, for example.

•

Keep an eye out for your friends. Make sure your phone is fully charged and make contact if you get separated over the course of the night.

• Use soft drinks to pace yourself.

_Log onto drinkaware.ie for hints and tips on safer drinking plus competitions to win tickets to the best gigs and festivals! 74_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

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_75

Take the Summer off and get 4 months FREE Digital TV & Fibre Power Broadband With each student pack you get: • • • •

All your favourite TV channels. Fast, reliable, always-on Broadband. No usage limits with our 15Mb and 30Mb service. Free wireless router with our 15Mb and 30Mb service.

With May, June, July AND August 2011 FREE, don’t worry about paying for your Digital TV & Fibre Power Broadband while you’re away next summer - that’s sorted.

To start saving

CALL TODAY

Harry Mc Gowan T : 087 6607460 E : hmcgowan@upc Terms and conditions apply but nothing too complicated - visit www.upc.ie for further information. Offer ends 14th November 2010. Information correct at time of print (08.10).

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€211

DRUGS

the verve were right

The most obvious sign that you (or someone you know) is addicted to something is the feeling that you NEED to have it or do it. There are other signs, which we have listed below. You may have some of the signs and not others. These signs can also be caused by other issues: talking to your doctor is the best way to find out if you have a problem. Psychological signs: • Using drugs to forget your problems. • Withdrawing from your family/friends or keeping your drug use a secret from them. • Your drug use is affecting relationships- with family, friends, or boyfriends/ girlfriends. • Losing interest in activities that used to be important. • Having problems at work, school, or college because of your drug use. • Spending all your time with people who use drugs. • Spending a lot of time planning how to get drugs. • Owing money because of your drug use. • Thinking about stealing so that you can afford to buy drugs. • Not being able to stop taking drugs, even though you have tried. • Mood swings, anxiety, or depression can be linked to drug use. Physical signs: • Changes in sleeping patterns- finding it very difficult to sleep or sleeping unusual hours. • Feeling shaky, with flu-like symptoms or feeling sick when you try to stop taking the addictive substance. • Needing to take larger amounts of the substance to get the same effects. • Losing a lot of weight or putting on a lot of weight. www.gmitsu.ie

_77

the verve were right Treatment for drug dependency There are various treatment options available once you decide that you are ready to get help for addiction. Not all types of treatment are the same and it’s important that you talk to your doctor or the support services in GMIT to find out which treatment is best for you. Never be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help or supportthere are people and services available specifically to help you beat addiction.

Reducing harm If you aren’t able to stop taking drugs yet, there is still treatment available to improve your health and reduce the harm that drugs are doing to you. Or you might need treatment to prevent your drug use from getting worse: talk to the support services in GMIT for advice and information.

Needle exchange If you inject drugs then it’s important that you use clean injecting equipment every time you inject. You can get free needles and advice and support from needle exchanges. Ask your doctor or the support services in GMIT about where the nearest needle exchange is.

Alternative therapy Alternative therapies such as acupuncture can help you feel better while you’re coming off drugs. They can also reduce your cravings.

Hospital, residential rehab or clinic treatment

If you are finding it difficult to stop taking drugs while living at home, then consider the option of going into hospital, a residential rehab, or to a clinic that will offer a supportive atmosphere and Counselling treatment. Ask the your doctor or the support services in GMIT about what option Talking to a trained counsellor (in GMIT) may help you realise why you have a drug problem is most suitable for you and where the nearest hospital, residential rehab, or clinic and help you overcome that problem. for addiction treatment is.

Medication If you tell a doctor that you take heroin, he/she might prescribe a replacement drug, like methadone. Methadone and other substitute drugs can help reduce the amount of heroin you take and help you stop taking drugs altogether, or they may just help prevent your drug use from getting worse.

After treatment Don’t be afraid to ask for continuing support after your addiction treatment is finished. A doctor, support service, or counsellor can provide aftercare that will help keep you off drugs and deal with any other problems you might have. It can also help to join a support group such as Narcotics Anonymous. 78_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

STUDENT DIARY

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_79

IMPORTANT DIARY DATES

DON’T MISS A THING

PLEASE NOTE: All dates are provisional and are subject to change. Get information on additional events and schedule changes throughout the year on www.gmitsu.ie

SEPTEMBER Monday 13th Tuesday 14th Monday 13th - Thursday 16th

Sunday 19th - Thursday 23rd

Monday 27th -Tuesday 28th Monday 27th -Wednesday 29th Thursday 30th

First Years Return (Induction Day & Night) Other Years Return Orientation Week including... Launch of Sshhh!! Campaign and Student Patrol Scheme // Launch of SU Inspections of Student Accommodation // Launch of Don’t Walk Home Alone Campaign // Welcome Back Party Club K Freshers Week (see page 50) including... Arthurs Day Celebration in Sports Hall // Please Talk Launch // Sexual Health Workshops / Condom Olympics Clubs & Societies Day Student Finance and Alcohol Awareness (Information Stands) GMIT Heart Day Walk in conjunction with the Irish Heart Foundation

OCTOBER Wednesday 6th - Thursday 7th

Monday 11th - Thursday 14th Saturday 16th Wednesday 27th Thursday 28th

Careers Advice Sessions including... Career choices, CV clinics, interview techniques, motivational workshops Road Safety Week w/Interactive Road Safety Shuttle European Night Without Accident Nominations for sports/cultural scholarships to Student’s Union Halloween Party

NOVEMBER Wednesday 3rd - Thursday 4th Monday 8th - Wednesday 10th Wednesday 17th Monday 22nd - Thursday 25th

Conferring Galway (Radisson Hotel) Financial Awareness Week Open Day (Dublin Road and Cluain Mhuire Campuses) Mental Health Week 1 (Positive Mental Health)

80_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

DECEMBER Thursday 10th Monday 6th - Thursday 9th Friday 10th Wednesday 15th Friday 17th Thursday 22nd

Christmas Day (Library Bar) Less Stress More Success Week 1 : Healthy Eating Healthy Living Lectures end for year long modules Kiddies Christmas Party Christmas Exams Commence Christmas Holidays

JANUARY Wednesday 3rd Friday 7th Monday 24th - Wednesday 26th Monday 17th

Exams Re-Commence Exams Finish Career Guidance Week All students return / Semester 2 commences

FEBRUARY Monday 14th- Thursday 17th Monday 22nd Monday 28th

SHAG (Sexual Health And Guidance) Week RAG (Raise And Give) Week PINK Week

MARCH Tuesday 1st Wednesday 16th Thursday 17th Friday 18th

Rainbow Day w/LGBT society Pre-Paddys Day Party St. Partricks Day (College Closed) College Closed (in lieu of December 8th)

APRIL Monday 4th- Thursday 7th Thursday 14th Friday 14th Monday 18th- Thursday 21st Friday 22nd - Wednesday 27th

Cultural Diversity Week w/Equality Group End of Year Ball Lectures End / College Closed Mental Health Week 2 (Suicide Awareness) Easter Week (College Closed)

MAY Monday 3rd Tuesday 3rd- Wednesday 4th Monday 9th

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Study Week Less Stress More Success 2 (Important exam information and Support) Summer Examinations Commence

_81

SEPTEMBER

week 1

MONDAY SEPTEMBER

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER

FRIDAY

SEPTEMBER

SAT/SUN SEPTEMBER

18/19

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SEPTEMBER

week 2

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY SEPTEMBER

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER

FRIDAY

SEPTEMBER

SAT/SUN SEPTEMBER

25/26 84_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

SEPTEMBER

week 3

+ OCTOBER MONDAY SEPTEMBER

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER

FRIDAY

OCTOBER

SAT/SUN OCTOBER

2/3

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OCTOBER

week 4

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY

OCTOBER

TUESDAY

OCTOBER

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER

THURSDAY OCTOBER

FRIDAY

OCTOBER

SAT/SUN OCTOBER

9/10 86_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

OCTOBER

week 5

MONDAY

OCTOBER

TUESDAY

OCTOBER

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER

THURSDAY OCTOBER

FRIDAY

OCTOBER

SAT/SUN OCTOBER

16/17 www.gmitsu.ie

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OCTOBER

week 6

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY

OCTOBER

TUESDAY

OCTOBER

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER

THURSDAY OCTOBER

FRIDAY

OCTOBER

SAT/SUN OCTOBER

23/24 88_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

OCTOBER

week 7

MONDAY

OCTOBER

TUESDAY

OCTOBER

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER

THURSDAY OCTOBER

FRIDAY

OCTOBER

SAT/SUN OCTOBER

30/31 www.gmitsu.ie

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NOVEMBER

week 8

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY

NOVEMBER

TUESDAY

NOVEMBER

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER

THURSDAY NOVEMBER

FRIDAY

NOVEMBER

SAT/SUN NOVEMBER

6/7 90_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

NOVEMBER

week 9

MONDAY

NOVEMBER

TUESDAY

NOVEMBER

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER

THURSDAY NOVEMBER

FRIDAY

NOVEMBER

SAT/SUN NOVEMBER

13/14 www.gmitsu.ie

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NOVEMBER

week 10

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY

NOVEMBER

TUESDAY

NOVEMBER

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER

THURSDAY NOVEMBER

FRIDAY

NOVEMBER

SAT/SUN NOVEMBER

20/21 92_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

NOVEMBER

week 11

MONDAY

NOVEMBER

TUESDAY

NOVEMBER

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER

THURSDAY NOVEMBER

FRIDAY

NOVEMBER

SAT/SUN NOVEMBER

27/28 www.gmitsu.ie

_93

NOVEMBER +

DECEMBER

week 12

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY

NOVEMBER

TUESDAY

NOVEMBER

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER

THURSDAY DECEMBER

FRIDAY DECEMBER

SAT/SUN DECEMBER

4/5 94_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

DECEMBER

week 13

MONDAY DECEMBER

TUESDAY DECEMBER

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER

THURSDAY DECEMBER

FRIDAY DECEMBER

SAT/SUN DECEMBER

11/12 www.gmitsu.ie

_95

DECEMBER

week 14

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY DECEMBER

TUESDAY DECEMBER

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER

THURSDAY DECEMBER

FRIDAY DECEMBER

SAT/SUN DECEMBER

18/19 96_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

DECEMBER

week 15

MONDAY DECEMBER

TUESDAY DECEMBER

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER

THURSDAY DECEMBER

FRIDAY DECEMBER

SAT/SUN DECEMBER

25/26 www.gmitsu.ie

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DECEMBER +

JANUARY

week 16

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY DECEMBER

TUESDAY DECEMBER

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER

THURSDAY DECEMBER

FRIDAY DECEMBER

SAT/SUN JANUARY

1/2 98_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

JANUARY

week 17

MONDAY JANUARY

TUESDAY JANUARY

WEDNESDAY JANUARY

THURSDAY JANUARY

FRIDAY JANUARY

SAT/SUN JANUARY

8/9

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JANUARY

week 18

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY JANUARY

TUESDAY JANUARY

WEDNESDAY JANUARY

THURSDAY JANUARY

FRIDAY JANUARY

SAT/SUN JANUARY

15/16 100_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

JANUARY

week 19

MONDAY JANUARY

TUESDAY JANUARY

WEDNESDAY JANUARY

THURSDAY JANUARY

FRIDAY JANUARY

SAT/SUN JANUARY

22/23 www.gmitsu.ie

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JANUARY

week 20

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY JANUARY

TUESDAY JANUARY

WEDNESDAY JANUARY

THURSDAY JANUARY

FRIDAY JANUARY

SAT/SUN JANUARY

29/30 102_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

JANUARY

week 21

+ FEBRUARY MONDAY JANUARY

TUESDAY

FEBRUARY

WEDNESDAY

FEBRUARY

THURSDAY

FEBRUARY

FRIDAY

FEBRUARY

SAT/SUN FEBRUARY

5/6

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FEBRUARY

week 22

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY

FEBRUARY

TUESDAY

FEBRUARY

WEDNESDAY

FEBRUARY

THURSDAY

FEBRUARY

FRIDAY

FEBRUARY

SAT/SUN FEBRUARY

12/13 104_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

FEBRUARY

week 23

MONDAY

FEBRUARY

TUESDAY

FEBRUARY

WEDNESDAY

FEBRUARY

THURSDAY

FEBRUARY

FRIDAY

FEBRUARY

SAT/SUN FEBRUARY

19/20 www.gmitsu.ie

_105

FEBRUARY

week 24

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY

FEBRUARY

TUESDAY

FEBRUARY

WEDNESDAY

FEBRUARY

THURSDAY

FEBRUARY

FRIDAY

FEBRUARY

SAT/SUN FEBRUARY

26/27 106_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

FEBRUARY

week 25

+ MARCH MONDAY

FEBRUARY

TUESDAY

MARCH

WEDNESDAY

MARCH

THURSDAY

MARCH

FRIDAY

MARCH

SAT/SUN MARCH

5/6 www.gmitsu.ie

_107

MARCH

week 26

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY

MARCH

TUESDAY

MARCH

WEDNESDAY

MARCH

THURSDAY

MARCH

FRIDAY

MARCH

SAT/SUN MARCH

12/13 108_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

MARCH

week 27

MONDAY

MARCH

TUESDAY

MARCH

WEDNESDAY

MARCH

THURSDAY

MARCH

FRIDAY

MARCH

SAT/SUN

MARCH

19/20 www.gmitsu.ie

_109

MARCH

week 28

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY

MARCH

TUESDAY

MARCH

22 WEDNESDAY

MARCH

23 THURSDAY

MARCH

24 FRIDAY

MARCH

25 SAT/SUN

MARCH

26/27 110_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

MARCH

week 29

+ APRIL MONDAY

MARCH

28 TUESDAY

MARCH

29 WEDNESDAY

MARCH

30 THURSDAY

MARCH

FRIDAY APRIL

SAT/SUN APRIL

2/3 www.gmitsu.ie

_111

APRIL

week 30

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY APRIL

TUESDAY APRIL

WEDNESDAY APRIL

THURSDAY APRIL

FRIDAY APRIL

SAT/SUN

MARCH

9/10 112_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

APRIL

week 31

MONDAY APRIL

11 TUESDAY APRIL

12 WEDNESDAY APRIL

13 THURSDAY APRIL

14 FRIDAY APRIL

15 SAT/SUN APRIL

16/17 www.gmitsu.ie

_113

APRIL

week 32

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY APRIL

18 TUESDAY APRIL

19 WEDNESDAY APRIL

20 THURSDAY APRIL

21 FRIDAY APRIL

22 SAT/SUN APRIL

23/24 114_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

APRIL

week 33

+ MAY MONDAY APRIL

25 TUESDAY APRIL

26 WEDNESDAY APRIL

27 THURSDAY APRIL

28 FRIDAY APRIL

29 SAT/SUN

APRIL/MAY

30/1

www.gmitsu.ie

_115

MAY

week 34

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY

MAY

TUESDAY

MAY

WEDNESDAY

MAY

THURSDAY

MAY

FRIDAY

MAY

SAT/SUN

MAY

7/8 116_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

MAY

week 35

MONDAY

MAY

TUESDAY

MAY

10 WEDNESDAY

MAY

11 THURSDAY

MAY

12 FRIDAY

MAY

13 SAT/SUN

MAY

14/15 www.gmitsu.ie

_117

MAY

week 36

_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAY

MAY

16 TUESDAY

MAY

17 WEDNESDAY

MAY

18 THURSDAY

MAY

19 FRIDAY

MAY

20 SAT/SUN

MAY

21/22 118_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

MAY

week 37

MONDAY

MAY

23 TUESDAY

MAY

24 WEDNESDAY

MAY

25 THURSDAY

MAY

26 FRIDAY

MAY

27 SAT/SUN

MAY

28/29 www.gmitsu.ie

_119

2009_2010 GMIT academic year planner

//september

www.gmitsu.ie

//october

Mon

//november

//december

Tues

02 03

Wed

Thurs

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tues

Wed

Thurs

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tues

Wed

Thurs

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tues

Wed

Thurs

Wed

Thurs

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon Tues

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon Tue

2010_2011 GMIT academic year planner

//january

//february

www.gmitsu.ie

//march

//april

//may

30 31

TIMETABLE_

5:00 - 6:00

4:00 - 5:00

3:00 - 4:00

2:00 - 3:00

1:00 - 2:00

12:00 - 1:00

11:00 - 12:00

10:00 - 11:00

9:00 - 10:00

//Monday

//Tuesday

//Wednesday

//Thursday

//Friday

TIMETABLE_

5:00 - 6:00

4:00 - 5:00

3:00 - 4:00

2:00 - 3:00

1:00 - 2:00

12:00 - 1:00

11:00 - 12:00

10:00 - 11:00

9:00 - 10:00

//Monday

//Tuesday

//Wednesday

//Thursday

//Friday

_123

TIMETABLE_

5:00 - 6:00

4:00 - 5:00

3:00 - 4:00

2:00 - 3:00

1:00 - 2:00

12:00 - 1:00

11:00 - 12:00

10:00 - 11:00

9:00 - 10:00

//Monday

//Tuesday

//Wednesday

//Thursday

//Friday

TIMETABLE_

5:00 - 6:00

4:00 - 5:00

3:00 - 4:00

2:00 - 3:00

1:00 - 2:00

12:00 - 1:00

11:00 - 12:00

10:00 - 11:00

9:00 - 10:00

//Monday

//Tuesday

//Wednesday

//Thursday

//Friday

_125

NOTESPACE_ Remind/express yourself:

126_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

NOTESPACE_ Remind/express yourself:

www.gmitsu.ie

NOTESPACE_ Remind/express yourself:

128_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

NOTESPACE_ Remind/express yourself:

www.gmitsu.ie

USEFUL CONTACTS_ Student Union Office

091_742264

GMIT Switchboard

091_753161

Cluain Mhuire Reception

091_770661

Letterfrack Reception

091_742650

Colin Canny

SU President

091_742055 086_3473284

Joe O’Connor

SU Vice President

091_742316 086_2191862

Anita or Nora

Student Services Office

091_742118

Fr. Adrian McGrath

Chaplain

091_742226

Pauline Staunton

Counsellor

091_742301

Pauline Clancy

Counsellor

091_742563

Bridie Killoran

Careers Officer

091_742392

Gemma Broderick

Health Unit / Nurse

091_742228

Deirdre O’Connor

Access Office

091_742129

Frank Ryan

Sports Hall

091_742213

Dympna

SU Shop

091_742041

Eimear or Ray

Fitness Centre

091_742194

Dental Surgery

4 Ballybane Road

091_756222

AIB

On Campus

091_752811

Bank of Ireland

On Campus

091_755347

Garda Station

Mill Street

091_538000

130_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

www.gmitsu.ie

_131

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