! me to UCD 02_ Welco cers -Time Offi ll u F r u o Y 06_ iences Human Sc 08_ Arts / rinary lture / Vete 10_ Agricu ess / Law 12_ Busin re / Architectu g in r e e in 14_ Eng ciences / Health S e c n ie c S _ 16 Forum ns & Ents ig a p m a C 18_ ducation elfare & E W _ 2 2 Editor/ MĂcheĂĄl Gallagher es s & Servic _ SU Shop 6 2 Graphic Design/ Ger Byrne Advice modation e. ger@ucdsu.ie 28_ Accom e With thanks to: Rachel Breslin, 30_ Gaeilg Deirdre Carr, Dr. Martin Butler, s Viv Rath, Fran Rooney & 31_ Debate ap Mark Simpson. on the che 33_ Living
You’ve done it! You got the CAO points, and now you’re a proud student of University College Dublin: Ireland’s biggest and best third level institution. You’re following in the footsteps of political leaders such as Eamon De Valera and Dr Garrett Fitzgerald; world famous writers such as Maeve Binchy and the immortal James Joyce; sports stars like Brian O’Driscoll and Gordon D’arcy; as well as celebrities such as Brendan Gleeson and Ryan Tubridy. What legacy will you leave behind?
My best advice for you starting this new adventure is to get involved in UCD life, either with the Union, or with one of the many clubs or societies. It is a great way to make new friends and keep yourself busy with all the extra time you have earned yourself after the Leaving Cert! Your college journey is just beginning and over the next few years you’re going to meet the people who will define you as a person and stick by your side for the rest of your life. If there’s one thing that you take from this; your degree here in UCD will get you the interview for your future career and the choices you make during your time here will get you the job. Best of luck!
Mícheál Gallagher
Uachtarán UCDSU 2013/2014
Every year you automatically become a member the Students Union. This means you’re automatically entitled to:
Representation
UCD has roughly 25,000 students on campus. It’s not practical to get every single student into a room to debate any given topic, so we have a system of representation where officers present the views of the students at University meetings. Your four full time SU officers sit on UCD’s Governing Authority - the highest decision making committee of the University. At a more local level your convenors sit on your programme board, fighting to ensure you get the best quality education.
Campaigning
Your SU is here to campaign on pressing issues on your behalf. Landlords passing on the costs of property tax to students? Vital student services being cut on campus? The SU can campaign to stop this by representation.
Services
Your SU offers more than representation. There’s also a number of services that the Union run: Four shops (located in the Science, Library, Sports & Engineering.) An independently edited newspaper, the University Observer. UCD Ents - organisers of Europe’s largest private party - The UCD Ball SU Second Hand Bookstore best value books on campus GrindsFile - buy and sell grinds in various subjects.
Help and Advice
When times are tough your SU is there to support you. Whether it’s offering impartial and non-judgemental advice, or even help applying to the Student Welfare Fund: we deal with all of our appointments in the strictest of confidentiality.
Advocacy
In threat of being evicted from residences? Summoned to a plagiarism hearing? Our officers are trained in advocacy and come to these meetings alongside you. Having an officer who is a peer by your side in these tricky situations can be invaluable.
Past Achievements -
Securing Sunday opening hours in the James Joyce Library. Setting up an affordable food company, CleverCuisine.ie. Hosting Europe’s Largest private party, The UCD Ball. Securing hundreds of thousands of Euro from the Government for UCD’s Student Welfare Fund.
On October 1st and 2nd, you’ll be asked to vote on three different issues. You will be selecting your class rep who will represent you on Union Council for the year and you will be voting in two referendums. Being a class rep in UCD means you’ve chosen to be involved in college life. If you’re thinking of being a class rep read some advantages and commitments below: COMMITMENTS - Coming to SU Council twice a month.
ADVANTAGES - Sit on student staff consultative forums, relaying feedback from class.
- Coming to class rep training
- Employers value communication & organisational skills that students pick up as a class rep.
on the 4th & 5th October. - Organising class activities such as parties, trips away and arranging class hoodies!
- Make friends with people from all over UCD.
. ctober 2014 mpus by O oke free ca sm a D UC al to make ntly a propos eans that it There is curre Voting no m SU policy to e it m at co th eans will be Voting yes m is decision. th to t y or SU polic not supp will become decision. support this or tion. stance on ab ently has no putting The SU curr by e nc sta ce: for our ur preferen You can vote order of yo g options in the followin umstances der any circ abortion un o N es circumstanc der certain Policy Abortion un Current SU woman e th of t es on requ Abortion up
HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT BEING CLASS REP? WANT MORE INFO ON THE REFERENDUMS?
/elections getinvolved@ucdsu.ie @UCDSU
President
MÍCHEÁL GA
LLAGHER
Welcome to UCD! My name is Mícheál and I’m the President of UCDSU. As President I represent your views at both a local and national level. I also work as the CEO of UCDSU Ltd., responsible for looking after financial activities. I help co-ordinate the SU’s full-time and part-time officers in delivering representation and services to you, the Union members. I sit on dozens of the University’s committees and my primary purpose is to take what you ask the SU to do and make it happen. I’m also the member of the Executive responsible for the organisation of entertainments - so keep an eye out for freshers ball which we’ve been working hard on over the summer!
president@ucdsu.ie @MichealUCDSU
Hey hey, I’m Cian and I am your Welfare and Equality Officer for the year. The most important thing here is that I am YOUR officer! In a Welfare front it’s my job to help resolve any of the issues you will encounter between now and the end of your degree! Rent, Accommodation, Mental/Physical/Sexual Health, Finances and all the support systems available from UCD. There’s nothing that can’t be fixed no matter how bleak things may seem: please do make the Welfare Office in the Student Centre your first port of call! As for Equality, we have a huge community in UCD. It can sometimes feel like an intimidating place, especially if there’s a niggling sense of unfairness. No matter who you are, I’m here to resolve any problems you might face, and help shift UCD into an oasis of equality that would make John Lennon finally stop moaning.
welfare@ucdsu.ie @CianUCDSU
uality Officer
Welfare and Eq
CIAN DOWLIN
G
te Undergradua cer Education Offi
LL ADAM CARRO Hi guys, my name is Adam Carroll and I am your Undergraduate Education Officer in the Students’ Union for the year. I am a 21 year old general nursing student from Dublin. My job for the year is to help you, the students of UCD, in anyway I can in your journey towards obtaining your undergraduate degree. This can mean a variety of things from non judgemental advice on academic matters you may have, to campaigning on both local and national issues. My top priority for the year is making sure that your library opening hours are protected. I also run the class rep system, so it is my job to ensure that every course in UCD is well represented and that your representative is well trained; ensuring they have the tools to deal with or relay any problem which is brought to their attention.
education@ucdsu.ie @AdamUCDSU
Hi there, I’m Dylan Gray, the Graduate Education Officer for the SU. I’m 22 years old, and before starting my MA in the History of International Relations I got my BA in History and Greek and Roman Civilisation here in UCD. My job is to help postgraduate students in any area that they need it, whether it is academic counselling, giving information about extenuating circumstances for late submission of assignments or exams, or campaigning on behalf of postgraduate students on the issue of fees and grants. This year I am committed to working closely with the UCD Careers Office to offer classes, such as IT skills and public speaking, to ensure you’ve the employability skills you need when you leave.
ation Graduate Educ r ce ffi O AN GRAY
graduate@ucdsu.ie @DylanUCDSU
DYL
Arts students are the life of the campus, the life of the party.
AO N G H U S Ó
BRIAIN
Arts Convenor
What will I do
for you?
This is quite simply because we always have the craic! Some other programmes may try to put us down but personally I think everyone is just jealous of our awesome hours and the fun we have. Ok, so our building is old and what not, but that just adds to its character...just try not to lose your friends; I’ve gone days without seeing some of mine. Just remember I’ll be around if you need any help and feel free to ask me any questions.
Everything I can to make your lives that little bit easier: How about Arts Day; a day filled with FUN. A day where we show that we are the best faculty on campus through music, activities and fundraising, all to the benefit of a worthy charity. Class Parties, come on we all love a night out and what better way to get to know your class (Tip: Don’t shift too many!) I’ve kept the best until last —The Arts Trip. Yes, we the students of UCD will go away for a weekend and show the rest of the college how to PARTY! Don’t forget it’s not all about fun and games. I’ll also be here for all your academic and welfare issues and to insure that you get the best degree possible. I’ll be introducing new study sessions and will have a book sale early in Semester 1 so you can get your course books for next to nothing. Arts Soc, the one society you have to join. Not only will they give you free pizza but you wo will also bring you the best formal ball of the year. Trust me, the auditor, Matty, has great plans for the year and he will no doubt make aonghus@ucdsu.ie your experience that little bit more enjoyable. Think about a tag rugby competition, a /ucdarts Friends week, even a debate ‘Were Ross and Rachel really on a break?’ And a Mystery Hostel for a night. Yes, Arts Soc will bring you to some random hostel and, well, I’ll leave the @AonghusUCDSU rest to your imagination.
VOLVED GET IN n’t regret it!
es Human Scienc Convenor
ÁINE MOONE
Howareyaa? I’m Áine Mooney and this year I am your Human Sciences Convenor. I represent: Geography, Politics, Economics, Sociology, Philosophy and Information Studies, along with Psychology and Social Science.
Y
Arts & Human Sciences is very big but I’m going to do my best to make it seem smaller, by helping you get to know as many people as possible, making you comfortable and at ease in your lectures.
What will I do for you? There are going to be so many events throughout the year for Human Sciences students, a few coming up in Semester 1 are the Arts & Human Sciences Day - a day of charity raising events, followed by an unforgettable night out. The Arts & Human Sciences Trip Away - a weekend away with your class to properly bond! I’ll also be organising loads of class parties and events for you in the Student Club or non alcoholic events such as inter class football matches or movie marathons in the cinema. My most important job this year is to look after you and make sure that you are happy in Human Sciences. I will have weekly office hours and I would love for you to pop in!
Study tips for the Newman Building
1. Classes are very big, so take the time to talk to the person beside you! 2. Go to your tutorials, you’re being handed marks just to go to them! 3. Remember there are other places to print rather than the long queues in Newman. 4. The more you put into college the more you get out. 5. If you do find yourself lost and alone you should contact me and we can sort it all out, any problem big or small!
aine@ucdsu.ie
@AineUCDSU
Ag & Vet Convenor
DEVIN FINNE
RAN
Hey guys! Firstly Congratulations on making it this far! My name’s Devin, I’m from Roscommon and I’m in 3rd Year Ag! I will be your Ag & Vet Convenor for the year that’s in it. I’m here to help you guys settle in and learn the ropes of college life in your programme. Don’t be afraid to contact me at any stage if you feel I could help you out in any way, no question is too big or small, more than likely I’ve asked it myself before! I’m basically the link between the students of Ag & Vet, the staff and the Students’ Union.
devin@ucdsu.ie /littlemick.agsoc /ucd.vetsoc @DevinUCDSU
This year I want to make it easier for society reps and union reps by teaming them together to work more efficiently on organizing class trips, hoodies and nights out to bond and have the craic which is really important! I have plans on how to improve both the Agriculture and Veterinary buildings and services for students. I also want to work closer with both societies in the planning of events which include Ag Week, Vet Week and career days.
Both the Agricultural and Veterinary faculties are very welcoming, our buildings have character and quirkiness, we are big families and often the staff in the programme office are referred to as our “Mammies and Daddies”! During orientation I urge you to go to your planned activities. You get to meet your classmates, the girl in the corner could end up being your bridesmaid or the lad with the hat could be your best-man! I’m looking into organizing events which will appeal to both programmes such as nights out, a pub crawl, trips away to the dog races and the zoo!
VET SOC Veterinary Society is a traditional society and is run exceptionally well by its committee. This society also raises a lot of money for worthwhile charities each year! There are special first year nights where an older year is chosen to go for a night out with you guys, everyone’s assigned an older student who is obliged to buy one first year drinks for the night that’s in it. Some big events in the calendar include Rag week, the first week of semester two which hosts events like a “Father Ted Lovely Lady” competition! Also, there’s the AVS where students from the faculty get the chance to meet and compete, through sports, against other veterinary students in the UK in a brilliant weekend experience! Vet Soc Ball and the weekend trip away both take place in semester two along with the end of exams BBQ.
AG SOC Agriculture Society is a very wellknown society for the following reason: we have the craic while raising lots of money for charity. Even though, sometimes, we may get a little out of hand, we always have the best intentions at heart! Ag Soc run a shop on the bottom floor of the Ag Building, beside the common room, where we can have our tae in peace whilst having a good read of the Farmer’s Journal (€2 for the journal and a cuppa!). The Ag Shop opening hours do vary due to the well-established Ag nights out. Themes for these nights out include Barn Dances, County Colours and the unforgettable meet your match nights, a.k.a. Romeo & Juliet! The Cornerhouse in Windy Arbour is a natural habitat of the Ags and many a night is spent having a few pints, the co-ordination for pool and dancing gets better as the night goes on! Ag Week is a definite must go, including events such as the Ag Olympics, Milk Replacer Races and general craic round campus, as well as the Mystery Tours where you could end up in any part of Ireland. So join up now - how could you afford to miss out?
nicole@ucdsu.ie
w Business & La Convenor
@NicoleUCDSU
What will I do
for you?
My main aim this year is to make sure you don’t get overwhelmed by difficult subjects and have enough money to enjoy the social aspect of college life. I will be working closely with the Maths and Economic support centres to give extra assistance and organise “Hot Topic Sessions” for struggling students. I will be working with your class rep early on in semester one to bulk buy hoodies in order to get the best deal for you all and iron out any logistical problems with payment and delivery. I will also be working with class reps to get bigger and better class trips and parties. I also want to work on the success of the C&E annual trip away and work with Law Soc to get a similar one for Law students. I will be having a second-hand book scheme at the start of each semester to ensure you get value for money.
NICOLE SCUL
LY
Hi! My name is Nicole Scully and I am your Business and Law Convener. Firstly welcome to UCD! All those hours of studying have paid off! I am sure you are all both excited and nervous at this new transition. Believe me I know, I was in your shoes this time last year. As your Convener, it will be my job to help you in whatever way I can, whether that may be academically or socially. A Convener is the main connection and voice between our Students’ Union and the College of Business and Law.
C&E SOC
Commerce and Economics Society is UCD’s largest social society hosting the best nights out for its members. Whether it’s the Iron Stomach Competition that takes place during freshers week or the Comm Ball, UCD’s largest Black Tie Ball, C&E is the society for you. While we do love to party we also host careers talks and workshops with our main sponsors KPMG. Check out cesociety.com
Q SOC
LAW SOC
What’s LawSoc you ask? Well, we’re only one of the biggest societies on campus, who specialise in bringing you the biggest and best guests we can (think along the lines of Judge Judy, the Weasley Twins, Sir Christopher Lee), as well as holding some of the best Ents UCD has to offer (international mystery tour, night out at the races and a campuswide game of Assassins). Oh yeah, and did we mention we dabble in a bit of debating? Pop down to the Fitzgerald Chamber on Tuesday nights to see the experts go head to head on the most contentious motions you can think of. But if you get sick of watching the experts battle it out and decide you want to try it out for yourself, we have tonnes of competitions you can dip your debating toes into. We’ve got a cracking year planned out for you, so come down and visit us at the fresher’s tent next week. Who knows? Maybe it’ll be it’ll be love at first sight.
law.society@ucd.ie /UCDLawSoc
@UCDLawSoc
The Quinn Society is a college society that is a cut above the rest. We endeavor to place an academic emphasis on most of our events, while at the same time hosting UCD’s best parties. Our members are highly motivated and know the advantages of membership in such a large society. We host UCD’s highest cash prize event, The Apprentice where the winners walk away with a staggering €2500 prize. So what are you waiting for? Get involved!
STUDENT LEGAL SERVICE
The Student Legal Service is one of the fastest growing societies in UCD. Fancy using your newly acquired legal know-how? Or not a law student but would like information on a legal issue you’re having? We run legal information clinics which you can organise and take part-in if you’re a law student, or come along to if you need help. Our website has all the info regarding when and where you’ll find us, plus loads of helpful legal resources too! ucdstudentlegalservice.com
Congrats on getting Engineering/Architecture, you’re about to start one of the strangest, most interesting and best years of your lives, so enjoy it! You’ll have a lot of late nights and make some the best friends you’ll ever have. This year I’ll be working hard to make sure the facilities here meet your high standards and you can have the best place possible to study. I’m going to be making an academic survival guide for you guys to help lighten the load a bit. I’ll also make sure your reps get well trained and supported throughout the year, so you guys have the best class parties possible. For you architects I’ll be busy trying to get you new equipment and improve some of the facilities in Richview. My best advice to you would be to join some of the clubs and societies. I’d strongly recommend running for class rep, it’s a great experience and you’ll make a redonkulous amount of friends!
ENGSOC
Ignore the stereotypes of an all male anti-social society! EngSoc could not be further from it! We are the first on campus and the last to leave every day. We work hard and play hard. Be sure to check us out on Facebook and keep an eye out for a few surprises throughout Fresher’s week. Our two most popular events are the EngBall and EngDay. For those unfamiliar with EngDay it is quite simply the best stretcher race in Dublin. Described by “The University Times Trinity” as “a rogue motley crew of UCD students”. Picture everything from oompa loompas to inebriated pirates racing throughout the streets of Dublin’s city centre before crashing in trinity! This year we made the headlines of the Trinity paper by photo bombing the final year’s Economics class photo. Check us out on YouTube, just search ‘UCD EngDay’. Best of all...it’s all for charity! Eoin Farrell, Auditor
ARCSOC
Founded in 1927, the UCD Architecture Society, ArcSoc is in charge of all things social in Richview. After long hours of studio work, all nighters and pre-crit nerves, everyone needs to unwind and enjoy themselves. The ArcSoc team provides this relief and ensures that the social life of the students in Richview is not lost. Throughout the year, the society organises various nights out and events such as the ArcSoc Olympics. Each year there is a trip away to a European city to check out the architecture of the city and of course indulge in some local beverages. The main event on the ArcSoc calendar is the Ball which happens towards the end of the year. ArcSoc also organises different extra curricular activities for its members such as life drawing classes and yoga. Darragh Martin, Auditor
Eng & Arch Convenor
Hey guys! I’m Ciarán and I’m a 4th year Mechanical Engineering student, all the way from the lovely hills of Donegal. I’ll be your Eng & Arch Convenor this year. Basically this means that I, along with your soon to be elected class reps, will be your student representatives. If you guys have any problems, whether they be just about general college life or academic concerns, you can come to me. And don’t worry if you think it sounds stupid, I’ve definitely asked worse in my time. I might not be able to fix them all, but I can do my best to help. You can give me a buzz anytime on the contact details below or if you see me walking about feel free to just shout: you’ll get to hear the accent that way too.
CIARÁN DEVENN
EY
ciaran@ucdsu.ie /ucd.engsoc
@CiaranUCDSU
R VALERIE O’B
IEN
enor Science Conv
My name is Valerie O’Brien and I am Convenor to all of you in the Science programme. I hope you are all excited about joining the close community of science (it’s really not as big as it seems). From the events planned by UCD’s Science Society to the new social area in The Science Hub you’ll settle into college lifestyle as well as making some life-long friends. I am there to help with any bumps along the way!
What will I do for you?
I am one of your many support systems here in UCD, to help you with problems ranging from your academic matters to your welfare. A big question when starting in college is ‘will I be able to study abroad?’. I will be running an information campaign for Student Exchange in Science, to ensure you know your options. As well as this I am working to improve buildings facilities where needed, to make life as easy as possible for you.
SCIENCE SOCIETY
(SCI SOC)
valerie@ucdsu.ie
@ValerieUCDSU
NurSoc. This society sets up
student nurses social events. They also raise awareness around issues such as mental health and campaign against the government’s plans to decrease the pay for graduate nurses. facebook.com/nursocucd
Sci Soc is a non-profit charity organisation which raises money for Crumlin’s Children’s Hospital through the events they plan for you during the year. Some of the events you can look forward to this year are the legendary pub-crawl, the cycle to Galway and of course... the Science Ball.
RadSoc. This ‘Ultrasound’
society hosts a range of events throughout the year including beer and pizza nights, Mystery tours, BYOB bowling nights and of course the Physiography Ball. facebook.com/radsoc.ucd
MedSoc. Known for its academic
events such as career evenings, USMLE advisory talks, debating tournaments and guest speakers (such as state pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy), nightclub events, scavenger hunts, sporting events like the annual soccer tournament “Med Cup”, tag rugby inter-varsities, and the yearly black-tie Med Ball. Charity fundraising is also a huge part of this society’s activities during the year. ucdmedsoc.com or facebook.com/UCDMedSoc
PhysioSoc has the aim of letting
its members, from all different disciplines within the UCD community, interact together through sporting events, nights out and guest speakers like Olympic athletes and other people relevant to physiotherapy with practical workshops and events. facebook.com/physiosocucd Organising Health Science events, including a charity ball, mystery tour and non-alcoholic social events, including coffee mornings. Ensuring you can access the Health Science books you need at affordable prices from the SU Bookshop located in the student centre. Class nights out and trips away - I will assist your class rep with putting together unforgettable nights out with your class. Being there for you when you have a question or problem that needs to be dealt with.
BECKY GILMORE venor ces Con
Scien Health
Hey, I’m Becky and I’m a 2nd year Radiography student. Firstly, congratulations to you all for getting here! Now, the next year is all about celebrating and forgetting about that traumatic experience in June. During the next few years of your life, you will work and party harder than ever before, not to mention the amount of amazing new people you will meet. As your Health Science Convenor I will be with you every step of the way and hopefully help to make your first year experience as enjoyable and successful as possible.
What I’m doing for you this year... becky@ucdsu.ie
@BeckyUCDSU
The Campaigns Forum is a group of students who were elected to campaign for your rights! If you would like to get involved with any specific area of student life shown below then feel free to drop one of the co-ordinators an email.
inney -Perry
Rebek’ah McK
1
UALITY GENDER EQ OR CO-ORDINAT
gender.equality@ucdsu.ie
Rebek’ah assists the Welfare & Equality Officer (Cian) in campaigning and lobbying on gender equality issues. She also campaigns to encourage equal involvement of men & women in all aspects of Union activity, and works with Cian to encourage equal gender participation at Council and the Executive.
enviornment@ucdsu.ie
Maria Jacob
VIRONMENTA 2 ECNO-O RDINATOR
L
Maria promotes environmental awareness and related issues within the Union and the University. Maria is responsible for the organisation of publicity events to highlight environmental issues. Maria also promotes recycling on campus and ensures such facilities are maintained.
Conor Ryan
3
U D E N T S’ MATURE ST OR CO-ORDINAT
mature@ucdsu.ie
Conor represents and addresses the needs of mature students. He encourages the involvement of mature students in all aspects of Union activity and has special responsibility to help advertise the services of the Union to his constituents.
4
L AND AY, BISEXUSA CO-ORDINATOR LESBIAN, GD T H IG R ER TRANSGEN lgbt@ucdsu.ie nsee
Sam Blancke
Sam works with the Welfare & Equality Officer on any matter pertaining to lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender issues. Sam works to organise publicity events for related campaigns and issues.
DISABILITY RIGHTS CO-ORDINATOR
5
Sean Glennon
disability@ucdsu.ie
Sean works on matters pertaining to students with disabilities. Sean promotes the integration of students with disabilities into all aspects of the University environment. Sean is responsible for ensuring that all Union events are wheelchair accessible, as far as is practicable.
Bill Thompson
NT IONAL STUDE INTERNATA R O CO-ORDIN T
6
S
international@ucdsu.ie
Bill works with organisations representing international students within the University. He liaises with the University International Office and represents the interests of international students on committees and assists in the organisation and publicity of events to promote cultural diversity within the University.
sports@ucdsu.ie
SPORTS ATOR CO-ORDIN
The Sports Co-ordinator liaises with the Athletic Union Council (AUC) to promote the interests of the sports clubs within the University. The Co-ordinator acts as a means of communication between the AUC and the Union. They promote physical health through organising casual sporting events, including the Newman Games.
SOCIETIESATOR CO-ORDIN
8
societies@ucdsu.ie
They shall act as a means of communication between the Societies Council and the Union. The Co-ordinator will promote co-operation between societies and the Union. They assist in the organisation of joint campaigns and events between the Union and societies. r
Dean McGar
residence@ucdsu.ie
ES RESIDENCA TOR IN D R -O O C
9
Dean represents the interests of on-campus residents. His work includes helping to foster a sense of community among the campus residences. He assists the Welfare & Equality Officer with all community campaigns pertaining to residents. Dean also organises regular open meetings for each residence.
7
The democratic side behind Entertainments. The Entertainments forum maintains the democratic proceedings behind Entertainments. They manage UCD Ents, bringing you the biggest and best entertainment on campus.
Internal Promotions Co-ordinator
Clare O’ Connor - responsible for the publicising of all events that take place on campus. promotions@ucdents.com
External Promotions Co-ordinator
Emma Costello - responsible for publicising all events that take place off campus. promotions@ucdents.com
Artist Liaison Co-ordinator
Matty Healy - assists in the organisation of travel plans for artists. artistliaison@ucdents.com
Communications Co-ordinator
Anthony Strogen - responsible for informing all members of the Union about upcoming events and entertainment initiatives being undertaken by the Union. comms@ucdents.com
Production Co-ordinator
Vacant - If you’re interested in applying email getinvolved@ucdents.com This member is responsible for assisting in the organisation of all shows and ensuring that the technical specification is in line with the artists’ specification and technical rider. production@ucdents.com
Non-alcoholic Events Co-ordinator
Aaron D’arcy - responsible for ensuring that the Union organises non-alcoholic and daytime events. He is also responsible for the promotion of these events. alcoholfree@ucdents.com
There’s always something happening at UCD. We’ve listed a few big ones for you to highlight in your calender! Semester I
Semester II
Orientation Week At the end of orientation week, it’s time to get disorientated! Make your first week in UCD memorable with the massive party kicking off in the clubhouse!
Week of 20th January On the first day of term in semester two we’ll be hosting a charity Raise and Give (RAG) festival. What better way to reconnect with your classmates that you’ve missed over the Christmas holidays. Venue: Student Centre.
Dis-Orientation Party
Freshers Ball
CAN’T WAIT
Thursday 12th September For the last 7 years the Freshers’ Ball has always sold out within two days of going on sale. This year it returns as the premier event of Freshers’ Week to celebrate the joining of new societies by incoming students.
Halloween Ball
Thursday 31st October What better way to celebrate halloween than a massive fancy dress party. Expect top class performances alongside a spooky, decorated Student Centre.
Raise and Give Festival
Fashion Show
Wednesday 19th February The UCD Fashion Show is Europe’s largest and most glamorous studentrun fashion show. The Fashion Show returns in 2014 after taking a year break as the centerpiece to UCD’s Arts Festival. Venue: Student Centre.
UCD Ball
THE BIG ONE!
Friday 25th April The UCD Ball is Europe’s largest private party, it represents the highlight of the country’s collegiate social calendar and is a brand which is instantly recognizable among the nation’s students and beyond. The biggest and best international acts are coming to UCD.
MENTAL HEALTH
PHYSICAL HEALTH
If you are feeling sick or unwell, the UCD Health Centre is located on the first floor of the Student Centre. They can be contacted on (01) 716 3133/3143 or simply by calling in. Be sure to see www.ucd.ie/ stuhealth/ for more information.
FITNESS
Fitness UCD offers some of Ireland’s leading fitness facilities. With a highly dedicated team on hand to offer any advice, it is the perfect place to work towards and achieve any personal fitness goals. With an abundance of sports teams and clubs, keeping fit can be fun and a perfect way to meet people of similar interests and skill levels. Whether it’s doing double somersaults with the Trampolining Club, taking a stroll around UCD grounds, or anything in between, there are plenty of ways to keep active on campus!
What is your mental health? It is described as psychological well-being and there is a sea of stats and figures associated with it. What is clear across the board is that it is a sensitive thing that needs to be nurtured and cared for. The trials and tribulations that come with being a student can give your mental health a serious workout. Suicide has overtaken car accidents as the leading cause of death for young people aged 18-22 in Ireland. In UCD, students and staff members have come together under the PleaseTalk Campaign. This initiative promotes the fact that talking is a sign of strength. The website, pleasetalk.ie acts as a hub for information on support services in UCD.
FREE G! IN COUNSELL Here in UCD we also have a free counselling service for students to avail of. Information is just a phone call away at 01-7163133 and emergency cases can be seen swiftly. A healthy mind can start with something as simple as sitting down with a friend, Student Advisor or friendly neighbourhood Welfare Officer. Never underestimate the power of having a friend who listens.
SEXUAL HEALTH
FINANCES
If you are having difficulties with renewing your grant, or are facing delays with SUSI causing financial hardship, be sure to contact one of the SU Education Officers. They are experienced in liaising with SUSI and county councils to identify grant problems. If you find yourself in an unexpected financial emergency you should contact the SU Welfare Officer for an appointment to talk about the Student Welfare Fund. This fund offers financial assistance to students who encounter unexpected difficulties; such as loss of a part time job, bereavement or if your parents have suffered a drop in their income. With any difficult financial situation, it’s important to get in touch with your programme Student Adviser, or else the SU welfare officer (welfare@ucdsu.ie) , who can provide you with more information. See SUSI website, grantsonline.ie
TALK TO ! SOMEONE
More than likely you’ve jumped straight to this section and it might shock and horrify you to find out that students have sex! Two important things to remember are: 1) Your sex life is your own, so make your own choices. 2) Be safe! There is always a condom or two available FOR FREE from the friendly and non judgemental SU Welfare Office. The best method of keeping yourself safe from unplanned pregnancies and STIs is the use of protection, such as condoms or dental dams. Whatever your preference, always keep one at hand! Be sure to pick up your free condoms in the SU Orientation Tent from 3rd September - 6th September. Regular sexual health screenings are an important part of keeping yourself safe. Not all Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) can be flagged easily and some have no obvious symptoms at all! Checks are available from the UCD Health Centre and for free in St James’s Hospital. Modern checks are non-intrusive and are carried out with little to no discomfort. Most infections can be treated with a simple course of medicine so best to get screened rather than putting it off!
PLEASETALK.IE/UCD (9PM-2.30AM)
1850 60 90 90
Your one stop shop for information on sexual and mental health generated by young people.
REGISTRATION This can seem like a very daunting experience when you do it for the first time and can even trouble some of the veterans of UCD! This checklist below will help you with your registration to make sure you have it fully completed. If you still feel unsure, contact your Programme Office; they’re only too willing to help you.
EXTENUATINGCES CIRCUMSTAN In many modules with tutorials or labs etc, attendance can count towards your final grade. If you miss a tutorial, lab or even an exam for a legitimate reason like illness or bereavement you can fill in an Extenuating Circumstances form so you won’t be penalised. You can also submit a form if you miss an exam, be it a midterm or an end
- Make sure that you have all of your personal information correct. - Check your fees online to see what needs to be paid. Remember you can pay your fees in two installments at the start of each semester with the minimum payment being one third of the total fees. - Make sure that you register for enough credits (60 credits) and that you’re registered to any labs or tutorials that a module might require. - Ensure you drop any extra credits you’re not taking as you will be charged for them. - Check your UCD email regularly during registration as you’ll get important emails regarding the process, fees, orientation week and much more!
of semester exam. You can go to your Programme Office, where they will give you one or you can find them online. Be aware that you have to be able to prove you were sick with a doctor’s note! If you do miss anything for a legitimate reason, make sure you fill in a form: every little percentage helps in the end!
If you are currently on a grant and are looking to renew it, then you should go through your Local Awarding Authority or VEC as usual, or through SUSI if this is your second year with them. They should be in contact to confirm whether you wish to renew or not or in the case of SUSI you will need to go online to start the process. If you’re a first time applicant pay close attention to the next section:
GRANTS & SUSI Many students require financial assistance to go to university and the main source of financial help is the maintenance grant from the government for students in full-time higher education. Students on parttime courses, foundation courses (in higher-education institutions) and short courses are not eligible to apply for a maintenance grant, along with repeat students. The keys factors in grant applications are family and personal income. There are also a few other factors that will be assessed. If you need any advice on what financial supports are available to you or if you’re not sure of how to apply for them drop down to the Students’ Union and they’ll be more than happy to help.
Anyone who is applying for a grant for the first time or is entering the first year of a new programme is eligible to apply through SUSI. Applications for SUSI are completed online at grantsonline.ie. You will require documentation pertaining to family and personal income; specific documents needed are listed on the website. studentfinance.ie is another useful website which will provide you with all the information on the financial supports available. Make sure you have the important information needed for an application at the ready. This is all listed on the first website above. If you have any issues, be it a delayed payment of a grant from SUSI or your Local Awarding Authority/ VEC, filling out an application or finding out your income threshold, get in touch with the SU.
ucdsu.ie/shops shops@ucdsu.ie
The SU Shops around campus are owned by students and managed by the SU. These are your shops, which focus on giving you excellent value for money. Products vary in each, but you can find a selection of sandwiches, wraps & rolls, hot and soft drinks, confectionery, newspapers, bus tickets, leap card top-ups, phone top-ups and stationery in each shop. We also supply gluten free products in all four of our shops - including gluten free soup, and a range of cakes and biscuits.
Library Shop
The largest of our shops is situated on the ground floor of the Library Building, and contains a wide range of stationery, snacks, teas/coffees to assist you with your studies. There is also a grocery section which stocks frozen foods, dry groceries & dairy products; and a new pharma section for the ladies on campus (fake tan, eyelashes, hair sprays & tights, etc.) This is the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a break from the Library.
Sports Shop
You can find great value swimming equipment here, as well as deals on protein shakes. If you’re finished your workout why not call on over to the Sports Shop where you can also avail of the great deals behind the deli, including our range of hot foods - such as lasagna, quiches and assorted pies.
Science Shop
You can pick up all of your practical essentials, including lab coats, dissection kits and safety glasses, here in our brand new SU Science Shop. Also perfect for a snack in between labs.
Engineering Shop
Perfectly situated to enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and a sandwich down by the new lake on campus. Famous throughout Architecture and Engineering for its customer service.
GET YOUR OFFICIAL
UCD CLOTHEING FROM TH
LIBRARY SHOP! You can also order your class hoodies at classhoodies@ucdsu.ie
Book Store
Looking for the best value books on campus? Come to the SU Bookstore in the Student Centre, where you can buy second hand books and also sell on books that you no longer require. www.ucdsu.ie/bookstore
Grindsfile
This is a SU service which is facilitated by our website in which grinds adverts can be placed and located by students. You can also place adverts to give grinds to Leaving Cert Students.www.ucdsu.ie/grindsfile
Confidential Appointments
Latest Campus News
Wondering what’s going on in UCD at the moment? Pick up your free newspaper anywhere around campus. The SU funded and editorially independent ‘University Observer’ will keep you up to date. You can also check out the website, universityobserver.ie, to catch up with the laterst news. It also acts as a practical school of journalism for the budding journalists amongst you.
Been called to a plagiarism hearing? Worried about your finances? Think you may have a Sexually Transmitted Infection? You can book appointments with relevant SU officers through our website. We offer non-judgemental and completely confidential peer to peer support and advice on a wide range of topics. ucdsu.ie/advice
Finding Your Home - Take a step back first and ask yourself three questions. A. What type of accommodation will I need? B. Where would you like to live? C. How much rent can you afford? Once you’ve answered these questions, look at adverts for available houses through the SU Accommodation Advisory Service, online and newspaper adverts, local shop windows and notice boards.
View The Property
Lease agreement
Ring the contact details provided in the advertisement immediately and arrange a viewing time. If the ad states an open viewing time, turn up 30 minutes earlier. Ask plenty of questions regarding issues such as: heating systems, ventilation, lighting, television/internet services provided, local public transport, shops, amenities and safe local environment. Checks for signs of dampness - the cupboards, beds, carpets, sitting room furniture. Make sure the kitchen appliances and bathroom facilities are in good working order. Discuss rules on visitors, overnight guests, pets and redecorating. When viewing a property it is recommended that you bring a copy of the SU Accommodation Checklist. Do not hand over any money or deposit before viewing the property.
This is a legally binding agreement between a landlord/lady and the tenant containing the terms and the conditions of renting. A landlord/ lady doesn’t have to offer you a written lease agreement but must by law provide a rent book which you, the tenant retain. A lease agreement is normally for a set period. (e.g. twelve months). If you only intend on staying 9 months do not sign a year-long lease agreement unless you have the means of paying the 12 months rent. If a landlord/lady offers you a lease, read through it carefully before signing it. If you are unsure or in doubt, of any clauses in the lease get a second opinion; contact the SU Accommodation Advisory Service.
USEFUL FO SITES + IN Rent books Nearly all landlords/ladies will look for a deposit, which is usually one month’s rent. If you are living in rented accommodation in Ireland, you have certain rights that are set down by law. One of these rights is your entitlement to a ‘rent book’. A rent book is a document that records details about the tenancy and notes all payments of rent that you have made to the landlord. You can pick up a rent book at the SU Accommodation Advisory Service.
Inventory of contents Your landlord/lady must record in your rent book details of furnishings and appliances provided. It is also recommended that you record their condition as this can help prevent dispute in future reference to damaged or broken items. Dated pictures are an excellent way of recording contents and their condition. Check the inventory list to make sure that it is accurate as this could save trouble later on, in the case of a dispute.
accommodation@ucdsu.ie ucdsu.ie/accommodation ucdaccommodationpad.ie daft.ie
treshold.ie
ptrb.ie
Repairs A tenant’s responsibility is to generally maintain the interior of the dwelling and to comply with any other express provisions that may be laid down in a written agreement between the landlord/lady and the tenant. If, at any stage, you feel that the statutory minimum standards are not being met, ask the landlord/lady to address the problem.
Living on campus? If you live in UCD Residences you don’t have a lease agreement, instead you have a ‘license to reside’. The license to reside means that you have very different rights and responsibilities. Pleae see the SU guide to living with the license to reside, which can be accessed online at ucdsu.ie/accommodation
Irish Language Officer
C CAOIMHE NÍ
Haigh, Caoimhe Ní Chobhthaigh is ainm dom agus is Oifigeach na Gaeilge Aontas na Mac Léinn mé i mbliana. Last year I was the Irish class rep and I loved being involved in College life from my very first day here. I mbliana táimse sa dara bliain ag déanamh staidéir ar an nGaeilge, agus is breá liom UCD! Is áit iontach í le bheith ar an ollscoil agus don staidéar, ach is í an chraic an rud is fearr faoi UCD! A great way to get involved in college is through the Irish language, whether you join the Cumann Gaelach, become the Irish Class Rep or attend the various events that the Irish community on campus provide. Tá saol sóisialta iontach trí mhean na Gaeilge anseo sa COBÁC agus imeachtaí iontacha ar nós An tOireachtas’ (turas bliantúil chuig an bhféile gaelach is mó sa tír!), ‘Tóg Amach Mé’, ‘Bál na Gaeilge’, agus an ceann is mó, ‘Seachtain na Gaeilge UCD’.
Bord na Gaeilge UCD www.ucd.ie/bnag
/bordnagaeilgeucd
HOBHTHAIGH
For Seachtain na Gaeilge UCD this year we hope to have the usual events such as Rós UCD, Ceolchoirm Gaeilge, and a few special guests attending, le cunamh Dé! Táimid chun imeacht nua a chur le chéile i mbliana, Lá na Gaeilge, lá iomlán ina mbeidh pobal na Gaeilge in ann craic agus spraoi a bhaint as imeachtaí éagsúla ó mhaidin go hoíche! When the bar re-opens we would like to introduce an Irish night once a week just for a bit of fun and craic as Gaeilge regularly. Tá áiteanna éagsúla i UCD go bhfuil an Ghaeilge lárnach iontu, mar shampla An Seomra Caidrimh (Newman B207) - áit le cupán tae agus cúpla bríosca a ghlacadh agus taitneamh a bhaint as comhluadar trí Ghaeilge i UCD. Anuas ar seo tá Teach na Gaeilge ar champas i Merville, áit a bhfuil fáilte roimh gach duine le Gaeilge acu ar mhaithe le sult a bhaint as an nGaeilge!
Caoimhe@ucdsu.ie
@CaoimheUCDSU
L&H Society Founded by Cardinal John Henry Newman in 1855, the Literary & Historical Society is among the oldest, most esteemed and active student societies in Europe. It is older than University College Dublin itself. The L&H is the Debating Union of University College Dublin, and as such primarily focuses on hosting controversial and topical debates within the university for its members as well as entering teams in national and international tournaments.
GO TO THE
ABORTION DEBATE Y WEDNESDA TH
SEPT 25
R
FITZGERALD CHAMBE
As the college’s Debating Union, the L&H has, for over 150 years, gathered for weekly debates on topics of general interest. From the controversy of debating Home Rule for Ireland in the society’s early years to the college’s ban on debating the Communist Manifesto in 1949, the Society has never failed to be to the vanguard in addressing the most relevant issues of the day. Throughout its long history the L&H has been addressed by every President and Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister) since the foundation of the State as well as such figures as Patrick Pearse, W.B. Yeats, Flann O’Brien and James Joyce. Both Joyce and O’Brien ran unsuccessfully for the position of Auditor of the Society during their student days at UCD, Joyce losing out to Hugh Kennedy, later the first Chief Justice of the Irish State.
www.ucd.ie/lnh
/UCDLiteraryandHistorical
If you’re looking for good value grub look no further than the SU’s clevercuisine.ie initiative. For just €10 online you can have 4 ready to cook meals delivered to you every Monday. Shop and cook with friends or housemates. It works out cheaper than cooking for one, and you can take turns doing the dishes!
If you’re looking for something to grab for lunch on campus- look no further than the SU shops. At the deli you can have a ciabatta and drink for €5!
Buy dry and canned foods which last longer and won’t lead to waste. Throwing food away is throwing away money.
Looking for a nice meal out? Pick up an SU card at Orientation Week and enjoy two for one meals in some of Dublin’s best restaurants.
Pick up a Student Leapcard from the SU Bookstore and enjoy huge savings on travel around Dublin. Also, while you’re there, pick up second hand books for your course and save hundreds of euro. Cycle or walk to college if you can. Pocket the bus money you save for a treat at the end of the week.
If you head out to eat just that bit earlier, you can catch the early bird menus in most restaurants which can be great value. Ask your mates for suggestions.