Advice for all students

Cavan woman Geraldine Fay, a lecturer in Humanities gave her top tips for students managing college life.

Geraldine has been teaching at the Blanchardstown campus of Technological University Dublin (TUD) since 2018.

Passionate about her students, Geraldine spoke to the Celt to advise new and current students who may be nervous about the return to the lecture hall.

Topping her student 'to do' list is organisation.

She advised students to plan their commute to college to avoid being late.

“Look up your bus timetable and ensure you are giving yourself enough time to get to class.”

"This saves arriving late and feeling behind,” she said.

She told students to draw up a plan, factoring time for class, assignments and study, reminding students that “life happens".

“Things won’t always go to plan, but having a system in place can provide a stable base to return to.”

The lecturer emphasised the importance of attending orientation, which provides “steady footing” for all students. Not only that, it will give pupils a feel for the college and also an opportunity to meet people.

A tricky topic for some students, Geraldine spoke about the importance of budgeting.

“Finances are an ongoing consideration,” she said. She guided students to plan ahead and have conversations at home to ease financial worries.

Proper nutrition is very important for students, aiding concentration and productivity. With “so much going on” students can often forget to factor in meals.

“Devising simple weekly meal plans will enable you to fuel your body and mind,” Geraldine said, mentioning this will also allow them to forecast weekly food expenditure.

She warned students that timetables may not be set in stone at the beginning and asked students not to panic.

“Timetables may change initially to facilitate room changes and times,” she said. If students are feeling overwhelmed for any reason, she said there are student health centres and counselling services available.

“Remembering why you are going to college and what you want from it can help on those unmotivated days,” she empathised.

"Lots of students are trying to find their feet,” she reminded.

The return to college may be a worry for many especially at this time, given that most courses moved online last year. She told students not to be afraid to ask for help.

“I have known many students to find forever friends by simply asking for directions to a lecture,” she enthused.

Updates from the college will be sent out via email. To “keep connected”, she asked students to check their student email regularly.

Last but certainly not least, she advised students to have fun.

“College is a time for new friends, experiences and a chance to develop your knowledge and skills for life,” she concluded.