DCUSU Handbook 2018/19

part of the Office of Student Life

Freshers Guide 2018/2019

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YOUR SU Hello 04 Profiles 05 Elections 08 Campaigns and USI 10 Office of Student Life staff 11 Helpdesk services 12 Services available on campus 13 TIME OUT SU Events Clubs and socs Nightlife in Dublin Things to do in the local area LGBTQ+ diversity in DCU Uaneen Module Arts Bursary

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WELLBEING Mental health 26 Physical health 28 Healthy eating 30 Alcohol 32 Drugs 33 Sexual health 34 Consent 36 Abusive relationships 48 Pregnancy 39 Staying safe around DCU 40 Managing finance 41 Accommodation 42 COLLEGE LIFE Sustainability 46 Lectures 47 Exam guide 48 Troubleshooting 49 Volunteering 50 Campus guide 51 ‘The U’ Student Centre 52 Travelling between campuses 53 College survival tips 54

Your SU

Student life is an exhilarating time of your life filled with a world of boundless possibilities.

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Student life is an exhilarating time of your life filled with a world of boundless possibilities. It’s one where you will be balancing study, work, friends, family and much more. At times it might be tricky, and if you ever meet a bump in the road, you can depend on us to help steer you in the right direction!

Run for students by students, our job is to represent, support, and enhance your life here in DCU. You’ll see a lot of our work throughout the year as we campaign on issues that matter to you. Last year, we successfully helped create a sustainable and plastic-free campus and worked tirelessly on your accommodation rights! Of course, a lot of work goes on behind the scenes as we are the recognised channel to represent your views at a University-wide level on various committees and bodies throughout the University.

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which you can get involved too, by running for class rep at the beginning of the year or for one of our elected executive positions in early semester two! There are five full-time elected officers and eight part-time elected officers that work on all aspects of college life. We have all the information you may need to ensure your time in DCU can be the best it can be.

We operate facilities on Glasnevin campus & St. Patrick’s campus (D Block) where you can top up your leap cards, buy Ticketmaster tickets, merchandise and much more. We also offer representative support to DCU students across all campuses. We are proud to have just opened our brand new state-of-the-art student centre which will be the home of student life and the hub of activity at Dublin City University. If there’s anything you need, don’t be afraid to pop in for a chat!

Vito Moloney Burke President Hi, I’m Vito! As President, I oversee all union business. You can come to me for absolutely anything and I will point you in the right direction. I will work towards engaging as many students as possible in university life, and with the SU or clubs or societies. I am also looking forward to working on initiatives we have planned to better the lives of our students from both an academic and welfare perspective.

Course you studied Business Studies Age 21

Past Involvement Class Rep, RAG, HeadstARTS, Enactus, Speakeasy, Sober Favourite DCU memory There is a lot to choose from, but I’ll have to settle on my experience with the Raising and Giving Society (RAG). I was involved with the society from my first week to my last, was introduced to so many brilliant people - both in the university and in the local community, and involved in so many brilliant fundraising events. My last week on the RAG committee saw us being crowned the best civic/charitable society in Ireland, a nice way to go out!

Where you’re from Kildare 5

Craig Mchugh Vp For Education & Placement Hey, I’m Craig, and I’m here to assist students with any of their education issues, such as exams, repeats or extra support outside the classroom. I have a particular remit to assist those students undergoing placement as part of their time here in DCU. So if you’re a teacher, nurse, INTRA student or going out on placement and are feeling anxious, need support or advice, having difficulty with your employer, want clarification on your rights at work or just need someone to chat to - my door is always open. Student life can get stressful but the world of the workplace is an entirely new ball game – so whatever the issue is - get in touch! A problem shared is a problem halved!

Course you studied Economics, Politics and Law Age 21 Where you’re from Dundalk Past Involvement Class Rep, Humanities & Social Sciences Faculty Rep, Debate Soc, Speakeasy, ELSA Favourite DCU memory Shite Night! (In General) or playing a lead role in #ShanowenShakedown which eventually saw the Irish government introduce rent caps on student accommodation.

Callahan Commons Vp For Academic Affairs Hi, my name is Callaghan Commons but if you see me around you can call me Cal. My position this year is Vice President for Academic Affairs. I deal mainly with any education issues that you may encounter throughout your time in college such as exams, lectures and studying. This year, I plan on running two campaigns. One of these campaigns is to raise awareness of the options students have before deciding whether they should drop out of college or not. The second campaign is Careers Week, which will aim to give students the skills they will need to be employed during their college years and once they leave college.

The year ahead is going to be amazing and I’m excited to get to know you all.

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Course you studied Analytical Science Age 21 Where you’re from Meath Past Involvement Chair of Class Rep Council, Science & Health Faculty Rep, Raising & Giving Society Favourite DCU memory Organising and selling out the 5th Annual Science & Health Ball after months of planning and preparation.

Karl Mcgovern Vp For Engagement & Development Hi, I’m Karl. It’s my job to help you find your place in DCU, whether it is a club or a society or volunteering opportunity – there’s a place for everyone. Not only that, but I’m in charge of Class Reps system and run the biggest and best events for you.

Age 23 Where you’re from Dublin Past Involvement A&F soc, DCU Style, DCU basketball Favourite DCU memory Running DCU’s biggest college ball as chairperson of A&F and walking in DCU Fashion Show

Aisling Fagan Vp For Welfare & Equality Hallo hallo, I’m Aisling. Welcome to DCU! It’s my job to help you be the best possible version of yourself, and to have the best college experience. You can come to me with any issues surrounding physical, sexual or mental health, finance, accommodation, equality issues, or if you just want a cuppa and a chat. This year, I will be focusing on creating awareness and campaigns around consent, mental health, LGBTQ+ issues and ensuring that all students know who I am, where my office is and that no problem is too big or too small. I will work tirelessly to represent, help, support, provide opportunities, engage and educate the students of DCU to the very best of my ability!

Course you studied Communications Studies Age 21 Where you’re from Wexford Past Involvement HeadstARTS, Enactus, RAG, SUAS, Ladies Rugby Favourite DCU memory There are far too many, with the majority being related to those clubs & socs I just mentioned. If I had to pick, it would probably be HeadstARTS winning ‘Best New Society’ at the 17/18 Clubs and Socs Awards, or representing DCU at the Enactus World Cup in Toronto and London, or every HeadstARTS showcase over the last three years!

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Dear members, Class Representative nominations are now open!

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What is a Class Rep? A class rep is elected to work and represent the views on behalf of the class! Some things a rep would often do include: 1 Representing Your Class at University meetings.

2 Help signpost classmates to the right services on campus.

3 Representing the class at Council.

5 Organise Class Parties.

6 Volunteer in running key student campaigns such as accommodation crisis and mental health week!

Why become a Class Rep? There are huge benefits to being a class rep, notably:

– You’ll make new friends, meet likeminded students and work with other motivated and enthusiastic people.

– Gain skills such as leadership, negotiation, advocacy, public speaking and negotiation skills.

– Employers regard class reps very highly and the skills you gain are crucial to furthering your career.

– Can contribute towards the DCU Award or the Uaneen module in final year (accredited module).

Full training is provided which will take place on the afternoon of Tuesday 23rd October 2018

How many reps does my class have?

It all depends on the number of students in your class. Any class with up to seventy-five students have two class reps. Classes above seventyfive students are entitled to one additional rep for every seventy-five students. E.g 60 students in the class = two reps, 151 students = three reps.

How do I become a class rep?

To run for Class Rep, simply collect a nomination form from the SU Helpdesk or alternatively, you may download a form here.

Nominations Close All forms must be returned to the SU Helpdesk by 5pm, Wednesday 3rd October. Late or incomplete forms will not be accepted. Scanned copies may be sent via return mail to suelections@dcu.ie Elections The Elections of Class Representatives, where contested, will take place on the 10th & 11th October. Further details will be issued upon close of nominations.

What if I have any questions?

Get in touch with: Karl, your Vice President for Engagement & Development at karl@dcusu.ie or Podge, the Democracy & Development Officer podge.sheehan@dcu.ie

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DCU Students are members of USI (The Union of Students’ in Ireland). The organisation acts as the national representative body for the 374,000 students in third level education on the Island of Ireland.

In the last 3 years, it was this organisation that mobilized thousands of students to Vote Yes for Marriage Equality and to repeal the 8th amendment.

The next big issue facing irish

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students is housing; so, this October we’ll be rallying together to demand an end to extortionate prices in student accommodation – make sure to save the date – October 3rd!

For more info, contact your President and USI Rep, Vito at vito@dcusu.ie

Una Redmond Manager E una.redmond@dcu.ie Podge Sheehan Democracy & Development Officer E podge.sheehan@dcu.ie Martina Browne Marketing & Communications Co-Ordinator E martina.browne@dcu.ie Sandra McCormack Uaneen Module & Arts Bursary E sandra.mccormack@dcu.ie Tom Carroll Maintenance Margaret Kinsella Accounts Manager E margaret.kinsella@dcu.ie Ann Marie Brophy Helpdesk Supervisor (Mon – Wed) Glasnevin Campus E ann-marie.brophy@dcu.ie

Eugene Nastasa E eugene.nastasa@dcu.ie Clubs & Socs Siobhan Byrne Finance & Development Officer E siobhan.byrne@dcu.ie Marie Murray Clubs and Socs Administrator E marie.murray@dcu.ie Mark McMahon Clubs & Socs Assistant E mark.mcmahon@dcu.ie Ciara MacGrath Clubs & Socs Assistant E ciara.macgrath@dcu.ie Seanie Germaine Clubs & Socs Events Admin E clubsandsocsevents@dcu.ie Mary Bambrick Clubs and Socs Assistant E mary.bambrick@dcu.ie

Barbara Whittle Purchasing Officer & Accounts E barbara.whittle@dcu.ie Jackie Headon Helpdesk Assistant St Patricks Campus E jackie.headon@dcu.ie

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Our Helpdesk provides you with a range of services and offers you a one-stop shop for any questions or advice you might need during your time in DCU!

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We have a Helpdesk on our Glasnevin campus (in The U) and St. Patrick’s campus (D Block).

Some of our services include: – S tudent Leap Cards.

– Travel Tickets & Top-ups.

– Bill Payments and Mobile Top-up.

– Ticketmaster.

– Merchandise & Clothing.

Student Advice Centre E student.support@dcu.ie T (01) 700 7165 Counselling & Personal Development Services E counselling@dcu.ie T (01) 700 5165 Health Centre E healthservices@dcu.ie T (01) 700 5268 Emergencies T (01) 700 6999 Disability & Learning Support Services E disabilityservice@dcu.ie T (01) 700 5160 Careers Service E careers@dcu.ie T (01) 700 5163

Student Learning Workshops E student.learning@dcu.ie Interfaith Centre & Chaplaincy Services Go to dcu.ie/chaplaincy/contact. shtml to submit a query.

Sports Development E sportsdevelopment@dcu.ie Intra Office, Maeve Long (Head of INTRA) E maeve.long@dcu.ie T (01) 700 5515 Access Office E jennifer.collins@dcu.ie T (01) 700 8052 Seomra Caidrimh, St Patrick’s Campus Off D block

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Time Out

Getting involved is often cited as making peoples’ college experience as the best time of their lives

Semester 1

Semester 2

Week 1 Freshers’ Week & Class Rep Recruitment

Week 1 Community/Volunteering Week, Anti-Bullying, ‘Pay It Forward’

Week 2 C&S Days, Class Rep Elections, Smart Consent Workshops Week 3 Give it a Go Week Week 4 Know Your Options Week 5 Class Rep Training, Halloween Event Week 7 Reading Week, Graduation, Nurses Appreciation Day Week 8 Get Sh*t Done Week, Open Day

Week 2 Careers Week Week 3 SU Election Nominations Open, KISS Week (Keep it Safe & Sexy), Gaeltacht Funding Campaign Week 4 Green Week Week 5 SU Candidates’ Campaign Week 6 SU Elections: Voting, Seachtain na Gaeilge

Week 9 Mental Health Week

Week 7 Reading Week, Seachtain na Gaeilge, ISSE

Week 10 Diversity Week

Week 8 ISSE

Week 11 SU Leadership Campaign

Week 9 ISSE, C&S Awards

Week 12 C&S Xmas Events, Christmas Day Event

Week 10 Rainbow Week Week 12 Summer Event

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There are over 140 clubs and societies in DCU, and they are the focal point of campus life.

Whether you have a passion for media, rugby, volunteering, athletics or anything else, there’s a club or society for you, and if there’s not, you can always set one up! Getting involved if often cited as making peoples’ college experiences the best time of their lives. This is due not only to the fun they have but the like-minded people they meet and developmental opportunities they experience. It costs €4 to join a society, and you can do so in the following ways:

1 Come to our Clubs and Socs Fair in Week 2, taking place on both Glasnevin and St. Patrick’s Campuses.

2 Visit the Clubs & Socs team, located in the U on the Glasnevin Campus and in the Students’ Union office on the St. Patrick’s Campus.

3 Contact the club or society directly.

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Copper Face Jacks One of the most notorious night clubs in Dublin and adored by people from the country. The student night here is on a Tuesday where it’s a tenner in and is over 19’s.

South William The new home of €2 Mondays in Dublin. This spot is alive all week and is a great spot for anyone after something a little less mainstream than coppers.

The George The most famous gay bar in Ireland and potentially the only place where you will hear Britney Spears - Toxic mixed into Lady Gaga – Born This Way. The George is always a good night out for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.

O’Reilys Check this spot out on a Monday for great drink deals and a serious atmosphere. It’s 5 minutes from O’Connell Bridge and right next to Tara Street DART Station on George’s Quay.

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Opium A pretty cool and newly refurbished nightclub on Wexford Street. The music here is usually a bit more techno if this is more your kind of taste in music.

Flannery’s A bar in the heart of Dublin with a traditional twist. Flannery’s has the largest beer garden in Dublin and with a variety of music from trad music to DJs. McGowan’s Known by some as The Coppers of the north side, McGowan’s is a fun late night pub in Phibsboro.

McGowan’s is great alternative for when you don’t want to head all the way into town but still want a great night out.

The Workman’s Club As well as being a great nightclub with a variety of flavours of music on offer, Workman’s is also often a venue for many gigs, so you are sure to be here at some stage in your college years. Would recommend on a Wednesday.

You can also grab a serious WOW Burger on the top floor.

Omni Cinema Santry The Omni is only located around the corner from DCU and on Tuesday nights the cinema has a cheap student deal which provides a great alternative in the evening if you don’t want to go out.

Bowling in Coolock Coolock is only a short bus journey away and has a great bowling alley which is great to get a few friends together and go to.

National Botanic Gardens Located in Phibsboro, the National Botanic Gardens is great for a scenic and peaceful walk when the hustle and bustle of Dublin gets a bit much.

GoQuest This is an indoor, challenge arena. The arena has 28 unique challenges that you and your team try to complete, against the clock. There is a variety of challenges with three levels of difficulty so there really is something for everyone!

Jump Zone Santry This is an indoor trampoline zone that is ideal for group activities where you can free jump, do tricks or partake in some of the main activities on offer such as dodgeball.

Croke Park Tour Croke Park is only a few minutes’ walk away from the St. Patrick’s Campus and the tour is one of the best things you can do. The tour gives you the background and history of the infamous GAA sportsground.

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DCUSU is committed to embracing the diversity of our LGBTQ+ students and allies. At DCU, students are encouraged to explore their identities and take time to find themselves; no matter what shape, size, sexuality, gender or appearance that comes in! This past summer, DCUSU attended Dublin Pride, Belfast Pride, Galway Pride and the first Dublin Trans Pride. Along with that, we have been working closely with DCU LGBTA - our resident student LGBTQ+ (and allies!) society – on ensuring LGBTQ+ students have the space to be themselves and flourish. As the home to the largest student-organised drag competition in Ireland and one of 20

the first universities to introduce gender-neutral bathrooms, DCUSU recognises the vibrancy of our LGBTQ+ community and the importance of supporting students that identify with it.

For the first time, DCUSU are excited to announce Rainbow Week! Rainbow Week will be organised alongside DCU LGBTA to bring week-long events to DCU students highlighting LGBTQ+ identities, sexual health, entertainment, rainbows, unicorns, and all of the other good stuff.

Representation in DCU Ensuring that students see themselves represented is paramount for DCUSU. There are three main student pointsof-contact that you can avail of concerning LGBTQ+ concerns and representation in DCU. These are: Aisling Fagan VP Welfare & Equality Equality Officer Incorporating LGBT & Gender Class Rep Council DCU LGBTA Student Society

DCU LGBTA Society DCU LGBTA is DCU’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender & Allies society. All students that support the LGBTQ+ community are welcome to join and we will always welcome straight and cisgender allies. As the winner of DCU’s Best Event 2018, you can rest assured that we know how to keep our members entertained and explore issues within the community, too.

Events that DCU LGBTA have run in the past include: DCU Drag Race, Allies Week, Sexual Empowerment Week, Trans & Non-Binary Week, Bi+ Week, Beyoncé Appreciation Night, Weekly Coffee Morning, Christmas Party and so much more! You can get in contact with DCU LGBTA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat.

You can also email us at: dculgbt@gmail.com

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The Uaneen module is an academic module that recognises and rewards the work done and learning acquired by students within the University and outside clubs, societies, community work and extracurricular activity in general.The experience and skills gained from extra-curricular activity during the third level experience is being recognised and valued more and more by employers.A graduate’s work with clubs, societies and other extra-curricular activity during their time studying is often what sets them apart from other applicants in an interview or job situation.The Employer’s organisation, IBEC facilitates and recognises these awards.

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The Uaneen Module is open to all students in their final year.If you are interested in apply for the Uaneen Module or would like to know more information before your final year, please visit www.dcu.ie/Uaneen for more information. If you have any general queries about the benefits of taking the Uaneen Module or the course structure, please email uaneen@dcu.ie.

The Office of Student Life, supported by the Educational Trust offers a limited number of Arts Bursaries to undergraduate students involved in the Arts.

The aim of the Arts Bursary is to promote excellence in artistic and cultural activities and to encourage the pursuit of excellence.The Bursary is open to any student involved in visual art, performing art and media practice and is open every year to all DCU Undergraduate students and all art forms are considered.

If you are interested in applying for an Arts Bursary please visit the resources section of dcusu. ie for more information and an application form.Deadline for applications for the Arts Bursary for 2018/2019 is 21st December 2018 with interviews to be held in Semester 2.If you have any general queries about the Arts Bursary, please email arts. bursary@dcu.ie.

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Wellbeing

Your college years can be the absolute best experience ever, but it can also be an incredibly testing and stressful time for many reasons for a lot of students

Your college years can be the absolute best experience ever, but it can also be an incredibly testing and stressful time for many reasons for a lot of students. We all have mental health, and must remember to look after it, just like we look after our physical and sexual health. They are all equally important!

If you are experiencing mental health issues, or you are concerned about your own or a friend’s mental health, the first points of contact in the university should be your welfare officer, the counselling service or the health service. You can contact Aisling at aisling@dcusu.ie and she will listen, and will help point you in the right direction.

Always remember that you are not alone, and that talking is a sign of strength. These services all provide confidential, nonjudgemental support - no matter what problems you’re facing or where you are, there will be someone available to offer you support.

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Look after yourselves, and look out for your people. Eating healthily, drinking less, getting good sleep, removing negative people from your life, doing some exercise and adding friends to your cup of tea can always help, even if it’s just a little bit.

Counselling

Health Centre

DCU Glasnevin Campus Student Advice Centre on the ground floor of the Henry Grattan Building.

E counselling@dcu.ie T (01) 700 5165

DCU Glasnevin Campus CG13 Ground Floor Henry Grattan Building E healthservices@dcu.ie T (01) 700 5143 / 5766

DCU St Patrick’s Campus Student Health Services Reception in A104 E spd.counselling@dcu.ie T (01) 884 2239

DCU St Patrick’s Campus A104 Ground Floor A Block E Espd.healthcentre@dcu.ie T (01) 884 2239 Out of Hours Service D-Doc Mon–Fri, 6pm–8am Saturday / Sunday / Bank Holidays, 24 Hrs T 1850 22 44 77

Other important numbers if you need to talk The Samaritians Free phone: 116 123 Text: 087 260 9090 Aware (Depression & Anxiety) T 1980 303 302 National Suicide Helpline (Pieta House) T 1800 247 247 I rish Advocacy Network (Peer advocacy in mental health) T (01) 872 8684 IACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy) T (01) 230 3536 Shine (Supporting people affected by mental ill health) T (01) 860 1620

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Physical health is hugely important. Some of the best ways to help look after your physical health include healthy eating, physical activity and good sleep. Why not join the gym on campus? DCU Sport offers state of the art facilities incorporating health and wellness to meet all your exercise and leisure needs. DCU Sport comprises the University Sports Complex, the DCU Sports Grounds and our 5-a-side Soccer Centre. We have a wide range of facilities at the University Sports Complex, including pool, tepidarium, sauna, steam room, spa pool, sports halls and studios as well as a fitness centre with over 100 pieces of equipment! The

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DCU student academic year membership is ₏205 (September 1st until 20th May 2019). This membership gives you access to gym facilities on the DCU Glasnevin AND St Patrick’s Campus. We also have a High Performance Centre (fancy or wha?), which is designed to assist and develop elite athletes in all aspects of training. DCU has over 140 clubs and societies too, ranging from ladies rugby, to golf, to mens soccer, to trampolining to athletics to archery. Keep an eye out for them at our Clubs & Socs days!

Some of the best ways to help look after your physical health are eating healthy, exercise and good sleep.

If you ever need access to a doctor or hospital head back a page for our Health Centre information.

Hospitals nearby Beaumont Hospital Beaumont Road, Dublin 9 T (01) 809 3000

*It is important to note that the GP on campus does not accept medical cards. However, the pharmacy on campus does. There are many other GP’s in the area that do accept medical cards.

Mater Hospital Eccles Street, Dublin 7 T (01) 803 2000

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Eating well at college is so important.

We think it’s just not cool anymore to fill ourselves with sugar and fat and feel like crap. You definitely developed some healthy habits at school, so it’s important to keep them up! Experts in Ireland have put vegetables, salad & fruit at the bottom of our pyramid, which means we should aim for 5–7 serves a day! You can find really good information on the Healthy Food For Life website from Healthy Ireland.

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Top Tips for Cheap Healthy Eating Never skip breakfast Plan for healthy snacks (fruit, nuts, etc.)

Drink lots of water – get yourself a good BPA free water bottle Leave out sugary drinks (including energy ones) – save your calories for something you can get your teeth into & really enjoy!

Fill half your plate with vegetables or salad Lean meats are the way to go Buy seasonal – grab supermarket flyers & find out what’s on offer as you shop earn one or two easy dishes to start with, cook in L bulk & freeze Get some inspiration from a reputable blogger, they can really improve your knowledge & skill base as well as your motivation

Dining on Campus DCU have an array of healthy food available throughout your college day. Here are our tips for grabbing something from the deli Choose wholegrain over white breads Always add salad & vegetables to sandwiches, wraps etc.

Choose lean meats Go easy on the cheese & sauces atch out for some deals, are they W really only encouraging you to add crisps/ chocolate or a sugary drink to your meal sk for toasted, it makes things taste A much nicer Add tea or coffee to your choice, the warm feeling will make you feel fuller

Social Media & Healthy Eating Influencer’s can have a huge impact on our health behaviours, both positively and negatively. It’s important to follow those who are fully qualified to dish our healthy eating advice!. Here are our top picks: ‘The Food Medic’ Dr Hazel Wallace – a qualified Doctor and personal trainer, Hazel is originally from Ireland but working in London. The Food Medic is a real source of solid information.

Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube & Twitter Jamie Oliver – you can’t go wrong with Jamie. He has a great cheap healthy eating section on his website.

A qualified food team are behind all his recipes. Jamie is also currently completing a Masters in Nutrition.

Find him on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & Pinterest.

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For some people when they come to college, all they think of is the freedom and late night parties; there can be an element of this if you want, and it can be a very enjoyable part of the student experience, but it is important to know your limits.

Here are a few tips for a successful night out Eat a meal before you go out. tay hydrated. Water will also help the S hangover.

Drink at your own pace.

Don’t overdo it at pre-drinks.

If you don’t want to drink, just don’t!

Go out with friends and get that taxi home together.

Don’t take drink off a stranger.

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It’s important to have the right information.

If you’re smart enough to make it to college, you will also be smart enough to know that drugs are very bad for you. DCU has a zerotolerance policy to drugs, they are illegal and DCUSU most certainly does not condone them. However, it is important to acknowledge that drugs are out there, and

should you plan on taking them it is important to have the right information on them, as you can never tell exactly what an illegal drug contains. There is no safe level of illicit drug use, but should you plan on taking them, visit drugs.ie for further guidance.

Addiction symptoms checklist Talk to a health care provider if you experienced two or more of these symptoms in the last year. ften taking more of the substance for a longer period than O intended.

Ongoing desire or unsuccessful efforts to reduce use.

Great deal of time spent to obtain, use or recover from substance.

Craving the substance.

Failing to fulfill obligations at work or college as a result of continued use. ontinued use despite ongoing social or relationship problems C caused or worsened by use. epeated use in physically dangerous situations (i.e. drinking R or using other drugs while driving). ontinued use despite ongoing physical or mental health C problems caused or worsened by use. eveloping a tolerance, feeling less effect from the substance D with continued use.

Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after reducing use.

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Sex is class. It can be an expression of love or lust, it can be passionate or meaningless, it can be pleasurable or just plain painful! Sex should always be practiced safely, and in a safe environment. You should only ever have sex if you really feel ready, whether it’s your first time, or you’ve done the deed plenty of times before.

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On a lighter note, be yourself, know you’re not under any pressure to be having constant sexy-time like they make out college life to be like in movies.

That is just not how it is. If you do decide to participate in some sexy-time, be safe, enjoy yourself, and always make sure both parties have consented.

STI’s (Sexually Transmitted Infections) are zero craic. Signs you gotta head to the DCU Health Centre for a FREE STI check include; good ole itchiness down there, discharge, peeing hurting a lot, OR there could be absolutely no symptoms at all! So, wearing that good ole protection and getting checked often is essential to avoid those bad boys. As they say, don’t be silly, wrap that willy.

Contraception is the key to avoiding these nasty STI’s, and, let’s not forget the big one - pregnancy. There are many different types of contraception, here are a few of the most common;

Condoms Available for free in the SU The Pill Is a daily tablet available on prescription from your GP. Diaphragm Placed inside the vagina so that it prevents the sperm from getting into the uterus.

The Contraceptive Implant The implant is inserted in the arm by a healthcare specialist and must be removed after three years.

Emergency Contraception (aka. The Morning After Pill) is available in the pharmacy on campus. You should take it ideally within 24 hours after unprotected sex (this offers over 95% protection). The longer you wait, the less effective it will be. After 72 hours (3 days) the effectiveness drops to below 50%.

Always note, that no contraceptive is 100% reliable, and some can have side effects.

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Consent Definition; permission for something to happen or agreement to do something.

Consent is essential for absolutely everything, sure no one wants to be forced to do anything that they don’t want to do, ESPECIALLY when it comes to sex.

You gotta make sure that consent is enthusiastic, sober, ongoing, mutual and freely given.

To simplify things, imagine instead of initiating sex, you’re making someone a cup of tea.

You say “hey, would you like a cup of tea?” and they go “omg yes, I would LOVE a cup of tea! Thank you!” then you know they want a cup of tea.

If you say “hey, would you like a cup of tea?” and they say, “I’m not really sure…” then you can make them a cup of tea or not, but be aware that they might not drink it, and if they don’t drink it then – this is the important bit – don’t make them drink it. You can’t blame them for you going to the effort of making the tea on the off-chance they wanted it; you just have to deal with them not drinking it. Just because 36

you made it doesn’t mean you are entitled to watch them drink it. If they say “No thank you” then don’t make them tea. At all. Don’t make them tea, don’t make them drink tea, don’t get annoyed at them for not wanting tea. They just don’t want tea!

If they are unconscious, don’t make them tea. Unconscious people don’t want tea and can’t answer the question “do you want tea?” because they are unconscious. Unconscious people don’t want tea. (Tea Consent by RockstarDinosaurPiratePrincess) Whether it’s tea or sex, never ever assume. Consent Is Everything.

Consenting to one act is not consenting to all acts.

DCUSU will be holding consent classes during Semester 1, Week 2; GLA Monday – Thursday and SPC Tuesday & Wednesday and are essential for all Freshers!

Whether it’s tea or sex, consent is everything.

DCUSU will be holding consent classes during Semester 1, Week 2

GLA Monday – Thursday SPC Tuesday & Wednesday and are essential for all Freshers!

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Anyone can find themselves trapped in an abusive relationship. If your partner displays two or more of the following traits, you may want to consider the possibility that your relationship is not healthy.

Checklist My partner gets very jealous easily.

My partner follows me around or checks up on me a lot.

My partner tries to control how I dress or who I spend time with.

My partner yells/calls me names/puts me down.

I hide things that I think would upset or anger my partner.

I am afraid to say no to sex. y partner has threatened me in the past or still M does.

My partner hits, throws or breaks things when angry.

I am afraid to disagree with my partner.

My partner has pushed, slapped, punched or otherwise hurt me.

I feel like my partner’s anger is my fault.

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If you are trapped in an abusive relationship, please contact Women’s Aid Freephone Helpline T 1800 341 900 Amen.ie A service for men in abusive relationships Dublin Rape Crisis Centre T 1800 77 88 88

PREGNANCY If you think that you are pregnant, the first step is to perform an official pregnancy test with a GP Should you require any guidance, your Students’ Union Officer or DCU SS&D will always be there for you.

Continuing the Pregnancy Managing a pregnancy is a long and challenging process. It might be tough but is important to speak to friends and family, who will be able to offer support and guidance. Should you require any guidance, your Students’ Union Officers or DCU Student Support & Development will always be there for you.

Adoption Adoption is the process whereby a child becomes a member of a new family. It creates a permanent, legal relationship between the adoptive parents and child.

Abortion Although the recent referendum to repeal the Eighth Amendment passed, it has not taken legal effect yet, with the forecasted date being in 2019. So, at the time of writing, abortion in Ireland is still currently illegal. There are still options though, many women travel abroad every year to terminate pregnancy.

You can find further information on crisis pregnancy and all of the above routes at positiveoptions.ie.

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Our campuses are all safe campuses but, as in all urban areas, students are advised not to walk alone after dark and to take all normal precautions towards ensuring their own personal safety.

DCU has its own private Security Service which aims to provide a safe and comfortable environment for staff and students at all times! The campus is further protected by a network of CCTV cameras, which keep records of the movements on campus around the clock.

In an emergency, call 5999 from any of the internal phones in the University or phone (01) 700 5999 from a regular phone line. Should you wish to speak to a member of the Security staff: lasnevin Campus - Security G is based at the exit ramp of the Multi-Story Car Park.

Saint Patrick’s Campus - Security is based at the main entrance of the campus.

All Hallows Campus - Contact Drumcondra House reception for assistance on (01) 700 5999.

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Security carry out regular patrols of Campus Res, so try not to be too rowdy after 11, as those fines are a big ole pain.

DCU has launched a free app service to give round-the-clock safety reassurance to staff and students. SafeZone is a simple-to-use app that is free to download! It is designed to allow students and staff to summon security or safety assistance via their phones. Make sure to lock your bikes, don’t forget your house keys, and look out for your buds!

University, for many, brings heightened levels of financial independence, and is where many spending habits (both good and bad!) are born. It can be very tempting to spend a lot of money on nights out, goujons and chips

and Mooju in your first few weeks, but it’s important to keep an eye on your bank balance and make sure your finances don’t run away from you. Here are a few tips for keep track of your money:

1 Cook communal dinners 2 Shop in Lidl/Aldi and buy their brands!

3 Get a job 4 Compare prices for utilities

If you are struggling with finances, contact aisling@dcusu.ie and she can put you in touch with DCU’s financial assistance service.

5 Make packed lunches 6 Avoid credit cards 7 Get a bike (especially if you are on both campuses!)

8 Make a budget and stick to it 9 Download VIPSY 10 Get A Leap Card (Caps at a fiver a day/20 a week) 11 Walk!

12 Avoid taxis if you can.

13 Don’t do rounds of drinks on nights out.

Be sound but take care of your pocket.

14 Avoid takeaways/just eat/deliveroo or try limit them to once a week!

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Whether it’s digs, purpose built student accommodation or a mouldy room in a student house, moving away from home can be incredibly exciting, but can also be difficult and daunting!

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We promise you will get used to that sweet, sweet freedom very soon. If not, and you’re missing home, Mammy’s home cooked meals and a functional washing machine, then that’s perfectly ok too! Homesickness is extremely common, you’re not the first and you won’t be the last to experience it. We can guarantee that you’re not the only one in your group feeling it, so make plans for visits home and chat about it with your pals.

When you first move in, bite the bullet and introduce yourself to your new roomies asap! The longer you leave it, the more awkward it can get. If you’re staying in digs, have a cuppa with the fam you’re staying with. Make yourself at home and get to know the people you’ll be spending the year with.

Top tips Don’t buy everything new. Trust us, you’ll find much better things to spend your money on before too long. The cheapest way to get by in college is to raid base camp.

When you arrive, you probably will have brought the essentials.

However, there are a few things that are sometimes forgotten.

Don’t forget the essentials – toilet paper, cling film, towels, tupperware, tea bags, toothpaste, washing powder, and bin bags.

Make your bed first, it’s the last thing you’ll want to do after all that unpacking craic!

Set up a house facebook or whatsapp group so you and your roomies can keep in contact, organise nights out and fight over whose turn it is to take out the bins.

When dealing with landlords, it can be tough, so you gotta make sure you know your rights. Some important things to note include; if you are renting a room from a landlord, they are obliged to allow you the tenant to enjoy peaceful and exclusive occupation i.e. not enter the house / your room without permission. Try and get a receipt every time you hand over money, and don’t pay by cash if possible. Your landlord does not have to return your deposit on the day you leave but it must be returned promptly. A period of 14 days is a reasonable time-frame for the return of a deposit under normal circumstances! If you have any accommodation issues, or need more information on this, you can contact aisling@dcusu.ie, or refer to Threshold.ie for lots of helpful information and resources.

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College Life

Exams in university are pretty different to that of secondary school, so its important you start preparing early

SUSTAINABILITY DCU recently agreed to go single use plastic free by 2020 so it’s a good idea to get used to the phase out of single use plastics and check out how you can play your part in making this university go green!

1 Take Notes Electronically (Use a laptop/iPad) 2 Re-use your bag when you go shopping! (Save Money!)

3 Learn how to recycle . (recyclinglist.ie) 4 For Pre-drinks/Dinner: Use a glass instead of a plastic cup!

5 If you NEED to use a straw use a paper one!

6 Avoid Taxis and get the bus.

7 Carpool with friends to save money and the environment 8 Shop with your housemates for food instead of buying your own, and wasting loads of it! E.g sauces, spcies, meat etc.

9 Buy a keep cup and save money on coffee!

(Discounts at Starbucks) Single use coffee cups are a major part of our waste problem in Ireland and most of them are NOT recyclable.

10 Fill your water bottle up rather than constantly buying new ones.

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If you’re really interested in this issue, be sure to check out DCU’s Sustainability Society!

How-to guide Be on time Lecturers really don’t like it when students stroll into lecturers have through the lesson so make sure to get to your lectures on early in order to get yourself settled and ready for the lesson.

Take notes The biggest lie people tell themselves is: “I’ll remember that I don’t need to write it down”.

Always make sure to jot down quick short bullet points during lectures. Sometimes what the lecturer is saying isn’t in the notes so you need to make your own.

Ask questions When you are in big lecture halls with new people it can be hard to speak up and ask questions but it is so important to ask if you don’t understand something. There is no such thing as a stupid question.

Don’t miss lectures No one is expecting you to attend all your lectures. You’re in college and are an adult now, what you do is up to you. However, its definitely worth your while to attend as much of your lectures as possible, you’ll be thankful you did when you get to exam times.

Pay attention It can be very tempting to want to talk about who coupled up with who on last night’s Love Island with the person beside you or to send a cheeky snapchat to the boy you shifted last night in Coppers but the more you pay attention in lectures the more you will learn.

Sometimes what the lecturer is saying isn’t in the notes so you need to make your own.

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Exams in university can be very different to those that you might have experienced at secondary school, so it’s important you start preparing early.

Here are a few tips for surviving exams in college: 1 Get to the library early to get a seat and do a study plan.

2 Take regular study breaks.

3 Try to avoid too much caffeine and drink loads of water.

If you need energy have some coffee or a banana, avoid energy drinks as these increase anxiety.

4 Don’t leave the house without a good breakfast , your student card and blue, black and red pens.

5 Aim to be at the exam hall twenty minutes before your exam.

6 If talking to friends on the day makes you nervous, you don’t have to talk to them so put yourself first and do what makes you comfortable.

Remember, you’ve got this! Start preparation for exams nice and early and make sure you look after yourself. Exams can be a stressful time for us all, but if you’re having doubts, make sure to contact Cal, our VP for Academic Affairs, before things get too much. You can reach him at callaghan@ dcusu.ie, he will be able to point you in the right direction!

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What should I do when...

I’ve failed an exam…

The best thing to do when you’ve failed an exam is not to panic, we all make mistakes. When you fail an exam you should contact the Students’ Union VP for Academic Affairs and they will advise you of your next steps in regards to an exam resit and any support you may need to do so. You should also contact your lecturer straight away and organise to view your exam to see where you went wrong.

I’ve had bereavement/illness…

SSometimes the unexpected can happen so you should know that there is always support and advice here for you in the SU. You can come to anyone of the 5 sabbatical officers at any time and we will always be here to help. If you believe that such a situation may have an effect on your performance in an exam then you should fill out an extenuating form (R-30 Form). This will allow the examiner to take into consideration your situation when correcting your exam.

I’m having difficulties while on placement/INTRA… Some courses require you to go out on a work placement/INTRA. This can be a great first-hand experience of the working world.

However, sometimes you can find the move from the classroom to the workplace stressful, encounter problems with other members of staff or various other issues. If this happens you should contact the Students’ Union Vice President for Education & Placement and your placement/ INTRA coordinator in order to resolve the issue.

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Volunteering whilst in university can be one of the best things you can do.

As well as being extremely rewarding and eye-opening, potential employers also look at a history of volunteering very favourably, and see it as a great way of developing professional skills. There are ample opportunities to get involved and gain invaluable experience during your time in DCU. As well as joining one of our numerous volunteering societies, such as

RAG, Enactus, HeadstARTS or SVP, you can also speak to the Volunteer Helpdesk. Here, you can speak to the DCU Student Volunteer Coordinator, who will help you find the perfect volunteering opportunity.

Volunteering is so incredibly rewarding, and is proven to have many positive effects on your mental health!

For further information, you can find @ DCUVolunteer on social media, or contact volunteer@dcu.ie.

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There are certain aspects of DCU life that every student must go through, a rite of passage, if you will!

Here’s the checklist for your first year on campus, can you tick them all off?

Goujons in Nubar The goujons and chips combo in the Nubar is the stuff of legend.

Just like the generations of students who have come before you, for €5 you will be served up with the DCU national dish.

SHITE NITE This is the weekly student night in the Nubar. Every Tuesday, you will hear all the cheesiest tunes, from Westlife to Kanye, with our very own resident DJ, DJ Damo.

With shite games, shite music and shite dancing, Tuesday nights are about to become the highlight of your week.

Club & Society Clubs and Societies are centre of all activity in DCU; with over 150

of them there is something for everyone. So many of the best memories and friends you make in college will come from getting involved! Clubs and Socs signups are in Week 2 so make sure to get down and join up.

DCU Gym DCU has state of the art gyms located on both the Glasnevin Campus and the St. Patrick’s Campus. If you like to keep on top of your health, these gyms are definitely worth joining.

Albert College Park One of the highlights of the summer time is lying out in the sun in Albert College Park, even though you know that you should be in the library studying! This is a great place to relax with friends and forget about all of your worries.

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The heart of DCU Student Life Due to open September 2018, the iconic building is at the heart of Glasnevin campus where students can access a breadth of activities and support, as well as housing over 140 clubs and societies. It will provide collaborative and creative spaces where all students can engage with the cultural, social, entrepreneurial and international aspects of university life. The centre costing €15 million has been funded through a student levy, voted on by students themselves, as well as through

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significant donations from The Tony Ryan Trust and Bank of Ireland and will significantly enhance the on-campus experience for students at DCU. Meet, Enjoy, Grow – S tudent Leadership and Life Skills Centre – Arts and Culture Venues – A Global Village – Enterprise and Innovation Hub – Home to DCU Clubs and Socs – DCU Students’ Union HQ

Heading further afield?

There’s a range of public transport options available by visiting: dcu.ie/info/ public_transport.shtml

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Step Outside of your Comfort Zone Whether it’s starting a new sport, taking up a new language, making a speech, auditioning for a part, or talking to new people. Doing something that scares you can not only be an exhilarating experience, but also a very rewarding one!

Get Involved!

Be it Clubs and Socs or the Students’ Union; getting involved on campus will not only allow you a break from study but is also a great way to meet new people, make serious contacts for the future or build up a strong C.V.!

Go to orientation/freshers If the talk sounds boring, go to it!

You can complain to the person beside you about how boring it is, use it as a conversation starter to make friends! We’ve been flat out all summer trying to put together some sober/not so sober fun freshers’ events to help you get settled into DCU and show you how great the social aspect is.

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Keep Active Aside from academia, work, the social life and all that college has to offer, it’s important you stay active while in college. Hitting the gym, taking up a sport or joining a club can be great ways to offload stress and hangout with friends.

Budget It can be a shock to the system starting college, especially if you’re away from home for the first time. The last thing you want is to be struggling to put a dinner on the table, so budget and stick to it.

Jobs A lot of students work alongside their studies. We recommend not working more than 15 hours a week and prioritise college over your part-time work. If you burn out, your grades will suffer and you’ll be left with no spare time.

When times get tough You are never alone, there’s always someone to talk to in DCU whether they are your friends, your classmates or us here in the SU.

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