CUA at the Irish Times Higher Options Virtual Open Day

What is Student Life really like?

Our students talk about CUA student supports, clubs and societies, and sports facilities

I became the class rep in first year and I’m also the head rep of all the electronic engineers in the college. I was a Pass Leader which helps first years when they start in college. I was also a Smart Consent Leader, which is basically teaching students the rights and wrongs and what no means and what yes means. GMIT are great with funding for disadvantaged students and mature students. They have programs in place where they give you funding. I’m just after getting a laptop from them to work from home. Ricky Small, GMIT, Software and Electronic Engineering

I loved my time in IT Sligo. The clubs and societies were amazing. IT Sligo created an environment full of sporting activities that allowed me to express myself. I made so many lovely friends through swimming, basketball, tag rugby, badminton, athletics and spinning. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Avail of the medical services, career services and student supports. I am going to write this in big capital letters, and it is – AVAIL OF THE COUNSELLING SERVICES. The supports are there so use them!. Aoife Gannon, IT Sligo, BBs in Applied Sport with Business

It was exciting and daunting to be back studying as a mature student. The small class sizes provide a personal learning environment, where it was easy to ask questions and participate in class discussions, making it fun. The supports for students are incredible. The Curve, which is a learning centre within the college, provided me with extra support for maths with additional tutorials whenever I needed it. They provided great encouragement for all of us, and they went above and beyond to help us with employment opportunities. Ronan McNamee (pictured right), LYIT, Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering

What is Student Life really like? (contd.)

The gym in IT Sligo is a fantastic place to train. There is a wide range of equipment and the atmosphere inside is very motivating. As a chess player, it is important to keep physically fit and active to use the mind to the best of its capabilities. Chess games can last up to five hours, for the mind not to fatigue early, the body must be physically fit. The sports scholarship has eased my financial stress with regards to paying for my coaching. It has also lit a fire of determination within me. The scholarship reassures me that IT Sligo is supporting me. Now, more than ever, I am determined to push myself and progress towards my goal of making the Olympia chess team once again. Eibhia Ní Mhuireagáin, IT Sligo, BBs (Hons) in Marketing

I loved campus life. I played for the LYIT ladies GAA team and was delighted to receive a scholarship in Year 4 of my studies. There were lots to get involved in. I love athletics and have represented Ireland internationally. The scholarship helped to fund my sporting trips which was fantastic. I loved every minute at LYIT and made so many friends that I’m still in touch with. The nightlife was amazing, we had many fun times. Being originally from Donegal, I enjoyed being so close to home. Lisa Shiels, LYIT, BA Business in Sports Development and Coaching

From day one, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in GMIT. As a wheelchair user, GMIT was extremely accessible which helped me settle in quite quickly. The Access Office were excellent in accommodating my needs and putting in place a brilliant Education Support Worker to help me. Gerry Burns, GMIT, Degree (Hons) in Bachelor of Arts in Information Systems Management