GMIT Students' Union Handbook & Diary 2010-11

GMIT STUDENT HANDBOOK & DIARY

10/11

www.gmitsu.ie

For all your medical, prescription, cosmetic and

digital processing needs

Ballybane Pharmacy5 mins walk from GMIT

Ballybane Shopping CentreBallybane Road

Tel/Fax 091-757044

Introductions 3

The Students’ Union 6

What We Are // What We Do // Clubs & Societies //

The Achievement Awards // The Gym // GAA Development Offi cer //

Recreational Soccer Facilitator // SU Shop // Photocopying // Lockers // Binding

Galway – Get Out There! 18

Student Services 21

Chaplaincy // Counsellors // Careers Service // Health Unit //

Access Offi ce // Sports Hall // Administration

SU Advisory 31

Registration // Parking // Exams // Money // Accommodation //

The Library // The Canteen // IQ Bar // IT Centre // International Offi ce // PAL

After Hours 50

Freshers Week // Christmas at GMIT // RAG Week

Welfare 53

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

Alcohol // Drugs

The Diary 77

Important Diary Dates 78

Year Planner 118

Notespace 120

Timetables 124

Contacts 128

Page

TABLE OF CONTENTS_

_CREDITS

Compilation and Editor_Brendan Kenny, Students’ UnionArt 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.

_

©2010 A GMIT Students’ Union Publication

_3www.gmitsu.ie

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 fi rst 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 fi nd you have an interest, which is not covered by our

range of clubs and societies, talk to the Students’ 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 fi rst 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 fi nal 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 CoyPresident, GMIT_

Marion Coy_

A WELCOME MESSAGE FROMTHE PRESIDENT OF GMIT

_Hi everyone,

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.

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.

As well as being the President, I am also the education offi cer 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

A WELCOME MESSAGE FROM THE

SU PRESIDENT//TV

Program

me

: Top

Ge

ar, M

atch

of th

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ay, S

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da

y Ga

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, En

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e //Film

: M

icha

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un

da

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ptio

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ae

lic Fo

otb

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ug

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uote: “Live

for to

da

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mo

rrow

” //If you could go on a date with any

celebrity: Me

ga

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hie

rry He

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//Favourite food/drink/stimulant: C

hicke

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me

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ull //B

iggest fear: H

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Q&

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CONTACT COLIN

TEL : 091_742055 // 086_3473284EMAIL : [email protected]

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 Offi cer for the upcoming year. Most people call me Jocser and I’m perfectly fi ne with that as well!

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 fi rst 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!

I hope to serve you to the best of my ability as this year’s SU Welfare Offi cer, which involves looking after any problems you may encounter relating to sexual health, mental health, your fi nances, 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 offi ce 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 fl oats your boat!!

Good luck with the upcoming year and I hope to hear from you soon!

Joe_ Your Vice-President/Welfare Offi cer

//TV P

rogramm

e: Th

e So

pra

no

s, Lo

st, En

tou

rag

e, D

exter //Film: T

he D

epa

rted,

Train

ing

Da

y, Gla

dia

tor //Sport: N

FL

Fo

otb

all, S

occer, G

aelic F

oo

tba

ll, UF

C //Q

uote: “O

bsta

cles are w

ha

t you

see wh

en yo

u ta

ke you

r eyes off th

e go

al” –V

ince L

om

ba

rdi //

If you could go on a date with any celebrity: E

va M

end

es/Ch

eryl Co

le //Last person you’d invite to a party: B

rian

Co

wen

//Favourite food/drink/stimulant: Irish

Stew

, D

utch

Go

ld, B

uckfa

st //Biggest fear: C

hu

ck No

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Q&

A

CONTACT JOE

TEL : 091_742316 // 086_2191862EMAIL : [email protected]

_STUDENT BODYThe 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 fi nal say on all matters of importance affecting the union.

HOW DOES THE STUDENTBODY HAVE ITS SAY?

This is done in two ways; fi rstly, by voting in elections for class reps, part-time, and sabbatical offi cers.Secondly, by voting in referenda which take place on various different topics throughout the year.

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

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

THE STUDENTS’ UNIONWHAT 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

6_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

_7www.gmitsu.ie

THE PRESIDENTThe President is the chief executive offi cer 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 Offi cer 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 REPSYour Class Rep (Class Representative) is the spokesperson for your class within the Institute. The class rep is the fi rst 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 offi cers 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.


THE STUDENTS’ UNIONWHAT 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:

_General enquiries, phone the main offi ce on 091_742264

BRENDAN KENNY_COMMUNICATIONS EXECUTIVE

T // 091_742308E // [email protected] Students’ Union Offi ce

_9www.gmitsu.ie

//DON’T WALK HOME ALONEGMIT’s offi cial 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 offi ce 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 fl at 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)

// STUDENT PATROL SCHEMEThis 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

YOU WOULDN’T TERRORISE YOUR OWN GRANDPARENTS,

WHY TERRORISE SOMEONE ELSE’S?

RESPECT YOUR COMMUNITY, RESPECT YOUR NEIGHBOURS


www.gmitsu.ie _11

//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 fi nd 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 fi nd out when they meet.

CLUBS & SOCIETIES

b i th

12_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/201112_ GMITSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2010/2011

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 fi rst meeting. We can also help with ideas on fundraising, activities, organisation, and publicity.

Contact the Students’ Union for more details.

Archery•

Basketball•

Camogie•

Cricket•

Cycling•

Diving/subaqua•

DJ Society•

Engineering Society•

Equestrian•

Gaisce•

Gaelic•

Hotel & Catering•

Heritage•

Hurling•

Indoor Soccer•

International Society•

Karate•

Kayak•

Ladies Gaelic Football•

Ladies Soccer•

Letterfrack•

Mature Students•

Mens Gaelic Football•

Mens Soccer•

Photography•

Surfi ng•

Rowing•

Rugby (Men & Wom)•

Russian•

Tag Rugby•

Theatre•

Volleyball•

Windsurfi ng•

Yoga• and more...

_Continued

WHAT’S ON OFFER:

CLUBS & SOCIETIES

www.gmitsu.ie _13


//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.

THE STUDENTS’ UNION

//THE GYM

The Fitness Centre (gym) is located upstairs in the Sports Hall. This facility is equipped with the fi nest 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.

Personal Training Programmes Free and included in MembershipContact Eimear or Ray on 091_742194

//GAA DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

GMIT has a full-time GAA Development Offi cer 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 // [email protected]

GMIT Students’ Union are pleased to announce that we will be liaising with the Kingfi sher 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.

//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 Offi ce or by e-mail at [email protected]

_Prices for students are as follows:

Sep - Dec €60 Jan - May €80 June - Aug €40

Academic Year Sep - May €110 Calendar Year Sep - Aug €140

Daily €7.00 Weekly €15.00

//SU SHOP

Many items are on sale there, including pens, pencils, paper clips, newspapers (at student rates), refi ll pads, greeting cards, phone credit, international calling cards, confectionary, drinks, painkillers, photocopying cards (located in the SU offi ce), 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 Offi ce (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 offi ce. 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 offi ce 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.

THE STUDENTS’ UNION



GALWAYGET OUT THERE!

YOU’RE NOW LIVING IN GALWAY, CITY OF THE TRIBES.

GET OUT THERE. EXPLORE_ DREAM_ DISCOVER_

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 try some water sports? There’s plenty of water here to go around! Or if you’re up for going further afi eld, 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 fi nd out more about how Che Guevara was a Tribesman!

WHY NOT VISIT THE STUDENTS’

UNION OFFICE FOR BROCHURES,

INFORMATION, AND OUR OWN

RECOMMENDATIONS.

MARK TWAIN

STUDENT SERVICESWE’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 fl oor

that link Student Services & SU Offi ce.

_21www.gmitsu.ie

OTHER CHURCHES

CHURCH OF IRELAND ISLAM IMAM KHALID SALLABI METHODIST//TEL 091_521914 //TEL 091_751621 //TEL 091_591494

//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

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

CHAPLAIN: FR. ADRIAN MCGRATHLocation: Beside the Medical Centre and CounsellorsOffi ce on the corridor to the Students’ Union and banks.

T // 091_742226 or 757298 (home)E // [email protected] // gmitweb.gmit.ie/chaplaincy

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


WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU

PAULINE STAUNTON_COUNSELLOR

T // 091_742301E // [email protected] Beside the medical unit and Students’ Union

PAULINE CLANCY_COUNSELLOR

T // 091_742563E // [email protected] Room 160A opposite Student Services Offi ce

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

_For more informationwww.gmit.ie/Life-at-GMIT/counselling

//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?

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:

• Academic concerns: Course diffi culties, 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.

HOW LONG DOES IT NORMALLY TAKE?

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

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

_Counselling is free and confi dential

_23www.gmitsu.ie

We can assist you with the following:

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

• Pyschometric Testing: Access to computer assistance guidance systems and aptitude tests.

• Job Vacancy Information: Email: [email protected] with your name and course.

• Book a career workshop for your class: Email [email protected].

• Further opportunities: For study and transferring to other colleges both within Ireland and abroad.

• Employment: job seeking strategies/ employer information/job news/interview skills & techniques.

• Postgraduate opportunities.

• Working and travelling abroad.

Look out for:

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

• Careers Service Newsletter: produced weekly and on careers page of www.gmit.ie. Email: [email protected] with your name and course if you want to be included on our careers database & emailed relevant jobs each week.

• Employer Presentations on Campus

• Jobs Notice Boards

• Careers Talks/Workshops

• Careers Fair – 6th & 7th October 2010 Careers Talks & Workshops with key speakers

• Careers Clinic – 12th October 2010

• Postgrad Careers Fair

//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.

BRIDIE KILLORAN_CAREERS OFFICER

T // 091_742392E // [email protected] Room 1009, 1st Floor New Library

For appointments, call in person to the Student Services Offi ce, or email [email protected] or phone the careers offi ce at 091-742392.


//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?


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.)

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.

online student discount store!

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www.gmitsu.ie _27

//ACCESS OFFICE

The Access Offi ce 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 Offi ce supports students with physical, sensory or specifi c learning diffi culties such as dyslexia. Students with disabilities should contact the Access Offi ce 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 disabilitiesAlternative 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•

accommodationsPhotocopying service•

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

MATURE STUDENTS ACCESS SUPPORT

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)

DEIRDRE O’CONNOR_ACCESS & DISABILITY OFFICER

T // 091_742129E // accessoffi [email protected]

PEIGÍN NÍ CHÉIDIGHT // 091_742182Room // GD107

The Access Offi ce provides supports for

mature students in the following areas:


//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 Offi cer and is designed to tackle disadvantage by providing limited fi nancial 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 Offi ce and all applicants are subject to interview

//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_742213Location Sports Hall

E // [email protected] Hours // 9:00am – 5:00pm Mon – Fri

STUDENT SERVICES SECRETARIES

NORA WALSH

091_742118ANITA MAHONY

091_742392


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 member-ship 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 educa-tion to name just a few. Over the coming weeks USI will be launching a number of campaigns including

The best piece of advice I can give you is to get involved in college life and a great way to

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

Paddy BonnerWestern Area Officer

Gary RedmondPresident

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 offi ce and we’ll do our best to assist you!

SU ADVISORY


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 Offi ce 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 offi ce (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 log-in proves diffi cult 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.

//HOW TO GET THROUGH COLLEGE

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE

OFFICE OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

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 offi ce. 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 fi rst 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 offi ce 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 offi ce on time. There is a late fee of €250 strictly applied for late forms.

Temporary registration for those awaiting grant confi rmation is available, but the fi nal deadline for fi nal registration is October 31st. The late fee thereafter is applied.

Served All DaySmoothies

Speciality Coffees & Teas Toasted Sandwiches & Pannini’s

Tasty Breakfast Rolls

@ Union SquareThe GMIT Meeting Place

Gourmet Quality at Student Prices

Top QualityIngredients

Playstation : Plasma Screens : Music

www.gmitsu.ie _35

//PARKING

FROM SEPTEMBER, ALL STAFF AND STUDENTS

MUST DISPLAY A PARKING PERMIT.

You can obtain your obtain your offi cial 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 certifi cate.•

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.

SU ADVISORY :: PARKING

THERE IS NOW ADDITIONAL PARKING AT

GALWEGIANS FROM SEPTEMBER WITH 200

EXTRA PARKING SPACES FOR GMIT STUDENTS

AND STAFF - PERMIT HOLDERS ONLY.


_37www.gmitsu.ie

// 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 fi nd college work diffi cult, 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.

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.

SU ADVISORY :: EXAMS


_39www.gmitsu.ie

//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 fi nd 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 Offi ce. 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.studentfi nance.ie

MONEY ADVICE BUDGETINGSERVICE (MABS)

www.mabs.ieT // 091 569349

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 fi nd a fl at for the fi rst 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 offi ce.

Don’t panic and take the fi rst 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 classifi ed 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 fi ghting 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 fi nd your own place.

SU ADVISORY :: ACCOMMODATION


SU ADVISORY :: ACCOMMODATION

GLASÁN www.glasan.com (091_773333 / 779872)GLEANN NA RÍ www.gmitstudents.com (091_746000)CÚIRT NA RÁSAÍ www.cuirtnarasai.com (091_764131)TÍR NA GCAPALL www.tirnagcapall.com (091_763328)CEANN BOIRNE (086_9671249)

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

GALWAY ADVERTISERwww.galwayadvertiser.com

FIND MORE INFORMATION AND SUPPORT:

THRESHOLD www.threshold.ieT // 01_6707000E // [email protected]

DAFT.IEwww.daft.ieE // [email protected]

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.

Check out the Students’ Union ‘ACCOMMODATION ADVICE BOOKLET’ available at www.gmitsu.ie or

from the SU offi ce. Here you’ll fi nd information

on everything from Types of Accommodation to

Tentant’s Rights and Duties

GMITSU

ACCOMMODATION

ADVICE BOOKLET

T: 091 764131 E: [email protected]

See for yourself why Cuirt na Rasai makes our students feel they have all they want in a campus accommodation

GMIT Student Complex - Ballybrit, Galway

“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 spaciousits also a Great place to meet

new friends”


//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.

SU ADVISORY

_45www.gmitsu.ie

//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

“509” 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 [email protected].

//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 specifi c applications such as computer aided design. Specialist computing resources are also available for research and project work.


//INTERNATIONAL OFFICE

The International Offi ce is located in Prefab 9 which is at the back of the old building. The offi ce looks after the concerns of students on Erasmus exchange programmes, US exchange students and non-EU students.

The offi ce is open to deal with students from Monday to Friday, 2.30 – 4.30pm. (091-742211 direct or [email protected]). 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 Offi ce 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 offi ce of the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB). The GNIB offi ce 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 identifi cation card•

Bank statement showing a balance of • €1,000

Evidence of medical insurance•

SU ADVISORY :: FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

_47www.gmitsu.ie

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 Offi ce at an annual premium of €120, 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 Offi ce, 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 re-entry visa as your initial one is single entry only. This can only be obtained from the GNIB offi ce at 13-14 Burgh Quay in Dublin (city centre) and you require a letter from the International Offi ce.

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 Student’s Liaison Offi cer. 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 diffi culties students may be experiencing. Dandan can be contacted through the SU Offi ce or by e-mail at [email protected]


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 confi dence to present your ideas in front of other people.

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 subject-related 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 fi rst years. They are experts in surviving the fi rst 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.

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.

SU ADVISORY :: PEER ASSISTED LEARNING (PAL)

_49www.gmitsu.ie

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

fi nd 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 diffi cult•

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 benefi ts PAL

sessions provide to their fi rst year students. To fi nd out if

PAL is running on your programme check your timetable or

www.gmit.ie/pal or email [email protected]


AFTER HOURSIT’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

Infl atable 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 fi nishing 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

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

for further details.

//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 offi ce.

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

Bodkins Librarybar GmitLibraryBar Join us on FB for a chance to win a €50 voucher for The Library

CALL 091 761761 OR DAVE ON 087 2716884

THE FOLLOWING PAGES CONTAIN INFORMATION AND

ADVICE ON VARIOUS ASPECTS OF STUDENT WELFARE.

WELFARE

A comprehensive welfare booklet is available from

the Students’ Union or at www.gmitsu.ie

_THE WELFARE SECTION COMES TO YOU IN

CONJUNCTION WITH WWW.SPUNOUT.IE

_55www.gmitsu.ie

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’•

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.

SPUNOUT.IE IS AN INDEPENDENT, YOUTH POWERED

NATIONAL CHARITY WORKING TO EMPOWER PEOPLE

TO CREATE PERSONAL AND SOCIAL CHANGE.

_GET INVOLVED AND LOG ON TO WWW.SPUNOUT.IE

HEALTHGENERAL 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.

1st Year Students_will have been offered 2nd MMR in schools a result of the HSE’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.

PLEASE ASSIST US IN PREVENTING FURTHER ILLNESS.

_The mmr vaccine is available through your gp.

CONTACT// GMIT STUDENT HEALTH UNIT

WEBSITE: WWW.IMMUNISATION.IE


//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 fi nd 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 Offi cer (091_742316) for peer support and

advice. Additionally, you can visit our GMIT Chaplain, Adrian McGrath, whose

offi ce is located in the Student Services Area.

YOUR HEALTH

_57www.gmitsu.ie


//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 fi nd 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 diffi cult 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 fi rearm can increase the risk of suicide.

Young men and elderly people are more at risk of suicide. •

YOUR HEALTH

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:

SAMARITANSwww.samaritans.ie Email: [email protected]

Tel: 1850 60 90 90

PLEASE TALKwww.pleasetalk.ie/gmit Email: [email protected]

SPUNOUTwww.spunout.ie Email: [email protected]

Tel: 091_533693

JIGSAWwww.jigsaw.ie Email: [email protected]

Text: 087_7725232 Phone: 091_549252Drop in: 18 Mary Street, Galway City

PIETA HOUSEwww.pieta.ie Email: [email protected]

Tel: 01_601 0000

CONSOLEwww.console.ie Email: [email protected] Tel: 1800 201 890


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 wouldn’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

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 [email protected].

_61www.gmitsu.ie


//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 fi gure out what we like.

You might feel unsure about your sexuality or who you fi nd 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 TOWWW.BELONGTO.ORG

T // 01_873 4184 Online support: https://belongto.org/support.aspx Supporting Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) young people.

SEXUALITY

_63www.gmitsu.ie

//WHAT IS SEXUAL HEALTH?

Sexual health from this positive view is about being able to create a happy, healthy and fulfi lling 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 fi rst experience of penetrative sexual intercourse was for them.

_Continued

//LGBT STUDENTSLGBT = 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 // 091_742316M // 087_2191862E // [email protected]

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

SIOBHAN MCGUIRE

LGBT RIGHTS OFFICERUNION OF STUDENTS IN IRELAND (USI)

T // 01_7099300M // 086_7816393E // [email protected]


_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 infl uence 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 fulfi l 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 PROMOTERAIDSWEST AND HEALTH PROMOTION DEPARTMENT, NUI GALWAY

GET YOUR WELFARE BOOKLET FROM GMIT STUDENTS’ UNION

SEXUAL HEALTH

SEXUAL HEALTHINFORMATION SUPPORT

SEXUAL HEALTH CENTRE_

w : www.sexualhealthcentre.come : [email protected] 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.iee : [email protected] t : 01_806 9444

National voluntary organisation promotion sexual and reproductive rights and help. Provides information, support and advice.

THINK CONTRACEPTION_

www.thinkcontraception.iewww.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.iee : [email protected] t : 01_814 6292

The Crisis Pregnancy Agency provides information on Irish pregnancy counselling. Provides info on what to do next and contraception.

If you want a full screen for STI’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

//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:

//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

Never walk alone at night time. Stick 1_ to busy streets, with lots of lighting and traffi c. Do not take dodgy shortcuts. If you think you are being followed, go to somewhere busy and fl ag down a taxi.

Only use licensed taxis and hackneys. 2_ Ask the driver’s name and when he/she drops you off; ask that he/she waits until you are safely in the door.

Do not leave keys to your home in an 3_ 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.

Always be aware of who’s around you 4_ when you go to an ATM. Do not use ATMs at night on isolated streets.

And in the top spot is….

5_Walk with confi dence, be alert and always look like you know exactly where you’re going.

PERSONAL SAFETYLOOKING AFTER NUMBER ONE


//SEXUAL ABUSE/ASSAULT

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.

If you’ve experienced any form of sexual abuse it can be very diffi cult 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 diffi cult 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.

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’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.

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

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

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

There are rape crisis centres where you • can speak to someone confi dentially 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 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 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.

_69www.gmitsu.ie

_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 fl ashbacks about what happened• and fi nd it diffi cult 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

LOOKING AFTER NUMBER ONE


ALCOHOLENJOYING 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 fl avourings.

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.

_71www.gmitsu.ie


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 fl ashbacks 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:

ENJOYING IT SENSIBLY!

_Continued

_Log onto drinkaware.ie for hints and tips on safer drinking plus

competitions to win tickets to the best gigs and festivals!

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 fi nd 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.

Use soft drinks to pace yourself. •

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.

www.gmitsu.ie _73

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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

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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 fi nd 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- fi nding it very diffi cult to sleep or sleeping unusual hours. •

Feeling shaky, with fl u-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. •

DRUGSTHE 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.

_75www.gmitsu.ie

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 fi nd out which treatment is best for you. Never be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help or support- there are people and services available specifi cally 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.

COUNSELLING

Talking to a trained counsellor (in GMIT) may help you realise why you have a drug problem and help you overcome that problem.

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.

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 fi nding it diffi cult 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 treatment. Ask the your doctor or the support services in GMIT about what option is most suitable for you and where the nearest hospital, residential rehab, or clinic for addiction treatment is.

AFTER TREATMENT

Don’t be afraid to ask for continuing support after your addiction treatmentis fi nished. 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.


STUDENTDIARY

_77www.gmitsu.ie


SEPTEMBERMonday 13th First Years Return (Induction Day & Night)Tuesday 14th Other Years ReturnMonday 13th - Thursday 16th 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

Sunday 19th - Thursday 23rd Freshers Week (see page 50) including...Arthurs Day Celebration in Sports Hall // Please Talk Launch // Sexual Health Workshops / Condom Olympics

Monday 27th -Tuesday 28th Clubs & Societies DayMonday 27th -Wednesday 29th Student Finance and Alcohol Awareness (Information

Stands)Thursday 30th GMIT Heart Day Walk in conjunction with the Irish

Heart Foundation

OCTOBERWednesday 6th - Thursday 7th Careers Advice Sessions including...

Career choices, CV clinics, interview techniques, motivational workshops

Monday 11th - Thursday 14th Road Safety Week w/Interactive Road Safety ShuttleSaturday 16th European Night Without AccidentWednesday 27th Nominations for sports/cultural scholarships to

Student’s UnionThursday 28th Halloween Party

NOVEMBERWednesday 3rd - Thursday 4th Conferring Galway (Radisson Hotel)Monday 8th - Wednesday 10th Financial Awareness WeekWednesday 17th Open Day (Dublin Road and Cluain Mhuire Campuses)Monday 22nd - Thursday 25th Mental Health Week 1 (Positive Mental Health)

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

IMPORTANT DIARY DATESDON’T MISS A THING

www.gmitsu.ie _79

DECEMBERThursday 10th Christmas Day (Library Bar)Monday 6th - Thursday 9th Less Stress More Success Week 1 : Healthy Eating

Healthy LivingFriday 10th Lectures end for year long modulesWednesday 15th Kiddies Christmas PartyFriday 17th Christmas Exams CommenceThursday 22nd Christmas Holidays

JANUARYWednesday 3rd Exams Re-CommenceFriday 7th Exams FinishMonday 24th - Wednesday 26th Career Guidance WeekMonday 17th All students return / Semester 2 commences

FEBRUARYMonday 14th- Thursday 17th SHAG (Sexual Health And Guidance) WeekMonday 22nd RAG (Raise And Give) WeekMonday 28th PINK Week

MARCHTuesday 1st Rainbow Day w/LGBT societyWednesday 16th Pre-Paddys Day PartyThursday 17th St. Partricks Day (College Closed)Friday 18th College Closed (in lieu of December 8th)

APRILMonday 4th- Thursday 7th Cultural Diversity Week w/Equality GroupThursday 14th End of Year BallFriday 14th Lectures End / College ClosedMonday 18th- Thursday 21st Mental Health Week 2 (Suicide Awareness)Friday 22nd - Wednesday 27th Easter Week (College Closed)

MAYMonday 3rd Study WeekTuesday 3rd- Wednesday 4th Less Stress More Success 2 (Important exam

information and Support)Monday 9th Summer Examinations Commence

_81www.gmitsu.ie

SEPTEMBER

MONDAYSEPTEMBER

13

THURSDAYSEPTEMBER

16

TUESDAYSEPTEMBER

14

FRIDAYSEPTEMBER

17

WEDNESDAYSEPTEMBER

15

SAT/SUNSEPTEMBER

18/19

WEEK 1


SEPTEMBER_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAYSEPTEMBER

20

THURSDAYSEPTEMBER

23

TUESDAYSEPTEMBER

21

FRIDAYSEPTEMBER

24

WEDNESDAYSEPTEMBER

22

SAT/SUNSEPTEMBER

25/26

WEEK 2

_83www.gmitsu.ie

SEPTEMBER

MONDAYSEPTEMBER

27

THURSDAYSEPTEMBER

30

TUESDAYSEPTEMBER

28

FRIDAYOCTOBER

1

WEDNESDAYSEPTEMBER

29

SAT/SUNOCTOBER

2/3

WEEK 3

+ OCTOBER


OCTOBER_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAYOCTOBER

4

THURSDAYOCTOBER

7

TUESDAYOCTOBER

5

FRIDAYOCTOBER

8

WEDNESDAYOCTOBER

6

SAT/SUNOCTOBER

9/10

WEEK 4

_85www.gmitsu.ie

OCTOBER

MONDAYOCTOBER

11

THURSDAYOCTOBER

14

TUESDAYOCTOBER

12

FRIDAYOCTOBER

15

WEDNESDAYOCTOBER

13

SAT/SUNOCTOBER

16/17

WEEK 5


OCTOBER_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAYOCTOBER

18

THURSDAYOCTOBER

21

TUESDAYOCTOBER

19

FRIDAYOCTOBER

22

WEDNESDAYOCTOBER

20

SAT/SUNOCTOBER

23/24

WEEK 6

_87www.gmitsu.ie

OCTOBER

MONDAYOCTOBER

25

THURSDAYOCTOBER

28

TUESDAYOCTOBER

26

FRIDAYOCTOBER

29

WEDNESDAYOCTOBER

27

SAT/SUNOCTOBER

30/31

WEEK 7


NOVEMBER_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAYNOVEMBER

1

THURSDAYNOVEMBER

4

TUESDAYNOVEMBER

2

FRIDAYNOVEMBER

5

WEDNESDAYNOVEMBER

3

SAT/SUNNOVEMBER

6/7

WEEK 8

_89www.gmitsu.ie

NOVEMBER

MONDAYNOVEMBER

8

THURSDAYNOVEMBER

11

TUESDAYNOVEMBER

9

FRIDAYNOVEMBER

12

WEDNESDAYNOVEMBER

10

SAT/SUNNOVEMBER

13/14

WEEK 9


NOVEMBER_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAYNOVEMBER

15

THURSDAYNOVEMBER

18

TUESDAYNOVEMBER

16

FRIDAYNOVEMBER

19

WEDNESDAYNOVEMBER

17

SAT/SUNNOVEMBER

20/21

WEEK 10

_91www.gmitsu.ie

NOVEMBER

MONDAYNOVEMBER

22

THURSDAYNOVEMBER

25

TUESDAYNOVEMBER

23

FRIDAYNOVEMBER

26

WEDNESDAYNOVEMBER

24

SAT/SUNNOVEMBER

27/28

WEEK 11


DECEMBER_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAYNOVEMBER

29

THURSDAYDECEMBER

2

TUESDAYNOVEMBER

30

FRIDAYDECEMBER

3

WEDNESDAYDECEMBER

1

SAT/SUNDECEMBER

4/5

WEEK 12

NOVEMBER +

_93www.gmitsu.ie

DECEMBER

MONDAYDECEMBER

6

THURSDAYDECEMBER

9

TUESDAYDECEMBER

7

FRIDAYDECEMBER

10

WEDNESDAYDECEMBER

8

SAT/SUNDECEMBER

11/12

WEEK 13


DECEMBER_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAYDECEMBER

13

THURSDAYDECEMBER

16

TUESDAYDECEMBER

14

FRIDAYDECEMBER

17

WEDNESDAYDECEMBER

15

SAT/SUNDECEMBER

18/19

WEEK 14

_95www.gmitsu.ie

DECEMBER

MONDAYDECEMBER

20

THURSDAYDECEMBER

23

TUESDAYDECEMBER

21

FRIDAYDECEMBER

24

WEDNESDAYDECEMBER

22

SAT/SUNDECEMBER

25/26

WEEK 15


JANUARY_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAYDECEMBER

27

THURSDAYDECEMBER

30

TUESDAYDECEMBER

28

FRIDAYDECEMBER

31

WEDNESDAYDECEMBER

29

SAT/SUNJANUARY

1/2

WEEK 16

DECEMBER +

_97www.gmitsu.ie

JANUARY

MONDAYJANUARY

3

THURSDAYJANUARY

6

TUESDAYJANUARY

4

FRIDAYJANUARY

7

WEDNESDAYJANUARY

5

SAT/SUNJANUARY

8/9

WEEK 17



MONDAYJANUARY

10

THURSDAYJANUARY

13

TUESDAYJANUARY

11

FRIDAYJANUARY

14

WEDNESDAYJANUARY

12

SAT/SUNJANUARY

15/16

WEEK 18

_99www.gmitsu.ie

JANUARY

MONDAYJANUARY

17

THURSDAYJANUARY

20

TUESDAYJANUARY

18

FRIDAYJANUARY

21

WEDNESDAYJANUARY

19

SAT/SUNJANUARY

22/23

WEEK 19



MONDAYJANUARY

24

THURSDAYJANUARY

27

TUESDAYJANUARY

25

FRIDAYJANUARY

28

WEDNESDAYJANUARY

26

SAT/SUNJANUARY

29/30

WEEK 20

_101www.gmitsu.ie

JANUARY

MONDAYJANUARY

31

THURSDAYFEBRUARY

3

TUESDAYFEBRUARY

1

FRIDAYFEBRUARY

4

WEDNESDAYFEBRUARY

2

SAT/SUNFEBRUARY

5/6

WEEK 21

+ FEBRUARY


FEBRUARY_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAYFEBRUARY

7

THURSDAYFEBRUARY

10

TUESDAYFEBRUARY

8

FRIDAYFEBRUARY

11

WEDNESDAYFEBRUARY

9

SAT/SUNFEBRUARY

12/13

WEEK 22

_103www.gmitsu.ie

FEBRUARY

MONDAYFEBRUARY

14

THURSDAYFEBRUARY

17

TUESDAYFEBRUARY

15

FRIDAYFEBRUARY

18

WEDNESDAYFEBRUARY

16

SAT/SUNFEBRUARY

19/20

WEEK 23


FEBRUARY_This month, I’m looking out for:

MONDAYFEBRUARY

21

THURSDAYFEBRUARY

24

TUESDAYFEBRUARY

22

FRIDAYFEBRUARY

25

WEDNESDAYFEBRUARY

23

SAT/SUNFEBRUARY

26/27

WEEK 24

_105www.gmitsu.ie

FEBRUARY

MONDAYFEBRUARY

28

THURSDAYMARCH

3

TUESDAYMARCH

1

FRIDAYMARCH

4

WEDNESDAYMARCH

2

SAT/SUNMARCH

5/6

WEEK 25

+ MARCH

12/13

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

MONDAY


MARCH_This month, I’m looking out for:

MARCH

7

MARCH

10

MARCH

8

MARCH

11

MARCH

9

MARCH

WEEK 26

SAT/SUN

_107www.gmitsu.ie

MARCH

MARCH

14

MARCH

17

MARCH

15

MARCH

18

MARCH

16

MARCH

19/20

WEEK 27

MONDAY

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT/SUN


MARCH_This month, I’m looking out for:

MARCH

21

MARCH

24

MARCH

22

MARCH

25

MARCH

23

MARCH

26/27

WEEK 28

MONDAY

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT/SUN

_109www.gmitsu.ie

MARCH

MARCH

28

MARCH

31

MARCH

29

APRIL

1

MARCH

30

APRIL

2/3

WEEK 29

MONDAY

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT/SUN

+ APRIL


APRIL_This month, I’m looking out for:

APRIL

4

APRIL

7

APRIL

5

APRIL

8

APRIL

6

MARCH

9/10

WEEK 30

MONDAY

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT/SUN

_111www.gmitsu.ie

APRIL

APRIL

11

APRIL

14

APRIL

12

APRIL

15

APRIL

13

APRIL

16/17

WEEK 31

MONDAY

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT/SUN


APRIL_This month, I’m looking out for:

APRIL

18

APRIL

21

APRIL

19

APRIL

22

APRIL

20

APRIL

23/24

WEEK 32

MONDAY

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT/SUN

_113www.gmitsu.ie

APRIL

APRIL

25

APRIL

28

APRIL

26

APRIL

29

APRIL

27

APRIL/MAY

30/1

WEEK 33

MONDAY

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT/SUN

+ MAY


MAY_This month, I’m looking out for:

MAY

2

MAY

5

MAY

3

MAY

6

MAY

4

MAY

7/8

WEEK 34

MONDAY

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT/SUN

_115www.gmitsu.ie

MAY

MAY

9

MAY

12

MAY

10

MAY

13

MAY

11

MAY

14/15

WEEK 35

MONDAY

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT/SUN


MAY_This month, I’m looking out for:

MAY

16

MAY

19

MAY

17

MAY

20

MAY

18

MAY

21/22

WEEK 36

MONDAY

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT/SUN

_117www.gmitsu.ie

MAY

MAY

23

MAY

26

MAY

24

MAY

27

MAY

25

MAY

28/29

WEEK 37

MONDAY

THURSDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

SAT/SUN

//SEPTEMBER

2009_2010 GMIT ACADEMIC YEAR PLANNER WWW.GMITSU.IE

//OCTOBER //NOVEMBER //DECEMBER

Mon

Tues

Wed

Thurs

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tues

Wed

Thurs

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tues

Wed

Thurs

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tues

Wed

Thurs

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tues

Wed

Thurs

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tue

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

2010_2011 GMIT ACADEMIC YEAR PLANNER WWW.GMITSU.IE

//JANUARY //FEBRUARY //MARCH //APRIL //MAY

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

TIMETABLE_

//MO

ND

AY

//TU

ESDA

Y

//WED

NESD

AY

//TH

UR

SDA

Y

//FRID

AY

9

:00

-

10:0

0

10

:00

-

11:00

11:0

0

- 12

:00

12

:00

-

1:00

1:0

0

- 2

:00

2

:00

-

3:0

0

3

:00

-

4:0

0

4

:00

-

5:0

0

5

:00

-

6:0

0

_121

TIMETABLE_

//MO

ND

AY

//TU

ESDA

Y

//WED

NESD

AY

//TH

UR

SDA

Y

//FRID

AY

9

:00

-

10:0

0

10

:00

-

11:00

11:0

0

- 12

:00

12

:00

-

1:00

1:0

0

- 2

:00

2

:00

-

3:0

0

3

:00

-

4:0

0

4

:00

-

5:0

0

5

:00

-

6:0

0

TIMETABLE_

//MO

ND

AY

//TU

ESDA

Y

//WED

NESD

AY

//TH

UR

SDA

Y

//FRID

AY

9

:00

-

10:0

0

10

:00

-

11:00

11:0

0

- 12

:00

12

:00

-

1:00

1:0

0

- 2

:00

2

:00

-

3:0

0

3

:00

-

4:0

0

4

:00

-

5:0

0

5

:00

-

6:0

0

_123

TIMETABLE_

//MO

ND

AY

//TU

ESDA

Y

//WED

NESD

AY

//TH

UR

SDA

Y

//FRID

AY

9

:00

-

10:0

0

10

:00

-

11:00

11:0

0

- 12

:00

12

:00

-

1:00

1:0

0

- 2

:00

2

:00

-

3:0

0

3

:00

-

4:0

0

4

:00

-

5:0

0

5

:00

-

6:0

0


NOTESPACE_REMIND/EXPRESS YOURSELF:

www.gmitsu.ie




www.gmitsu.ie



USEFUL CONTACTS_

Student Union Offi ce 091_742264

GMIT Switchboard 091_753161

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086_3473284

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086_2191862

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Pauline Staunton Counsellor 091_742301

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