Trinity Life issue 3, Trinity News, Vol. 64, Issue 3

TRINITY

TRINITY NEWS

Life

Issue 3, November 2017

A Guide to Campus Life

CONTENTS§ Around the world with 80 societies

p4 Life with ADHD

p6 Student thoughts on Christmas exams Art by Sarah Laraggy

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Where to Look for Christmas Jobs

By Enya O’Connell-Hussey

City Centre Shopping

Hotels

Regional Shopping Centres

Many of Dublin’s high street outlets are currently hiring seasonal workers until the end of December or January . Arnotts on Henry street has positions for sales and customer service assistants for their Santa’s Grotto.

Places like Michael Kors and Pandora are currently hiring, which probably means your Christmas money is going to be gleaned from a lot of D4 parents trying to appease their children with pink handbags.

The Christmas period is busy for the hospitality industry, meaning many are looking for extra staff, from waiters to porters. Websites like indeed.ie are a good start for listings, but for a start the Red Cow Moran Hotel have a range of jobs for bartenders, night club staff and more.

If you’re looking for a seasonal job outside of Dublin, your best bet is a retail job in your nearest large shopping centre. Check out their websites for job postings, or visit the stores themselves. Shopping centres like Mahon Point in Cork or Whitewater Shopping Centre have stores like French Connection UK, Carraig Donn and Pandora all hiring temporary sales assistants.

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Trinity Life November 2017

... ever increasing fees Exasperated by the College’s increasing fees, one student pens a letter to Trinity explaining her thoughts Molly McCrory Contributing Writer

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EAR TRINITY,

I love you. I just wanted to start out that way so you know that the rest of this letter is written from a place of love.

This September, the College’s Finance Committee approved a 5% increase in fees for postgraduate and non-EU undergraduate students beginning in the 2018/2019 school year. GSU President Shane Collins has stated his intention to resist this increase, and TCDSU President Kevin Keane has stated his support for the GSU in opposing these increases.

This 5% uptick is more than previous 3% increases and will undoubtedly place an undue burden on current postgraduate and non-EU students, two already financially hard-pressed groups.

This will certainly be difficult for many postgraduate students, but non-EU students are not getting nearly enough notice in this debate.

I read three articles on the subject before I found anything Kevin said about non-EU students, which is disappointing as someone who will be directly affected. This overlooking of our needs is something that is all too familiar to many international students, and the fact that it comes even on the heels of an increase to our already high fees just adds insult to injury.

This doesn’t come from malice, merely ignorance. For instance, I was talking the other day with a friend of mine, telling her about why I can’t support Students Against Fees. In short, it is because, if your fees go down, my fees go up, and while I support the intention, I cannot support something that not only doesn’t consider its impact on me, but will like-

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We are seen by you as cash cows and we are barely seen by our own Student Union (apart from one International Officer). Unfortunately, with this fee increase and inevitable future ones, there soon might not be many of us left.

ly ultimately lead to an unfortunate outcome for me and other students like me. This friend of mine, who is so passionate about education being available to everyone and so would

be just the person to be aware of issues like this, paused for a moment and said, “I’ve never even thought about it like that.”

And therein lies the larger problem. I don’t blame her for not thinking about this campaign from the perspective of a non-EU student.

Why would she? We’re not exactly the biggest group on campus, so it’s understandable that most Irish students have no idea what our experience is like unless, like my friends, they’re friends with one, and, even then, there are things they don’t even consider. Our experiences are discussed at length amongst ourselves but are rarely considered by the larger college community.

We are seen by you as cash cows and we are barely seen by our own Student Union (apart from one International Officer). Unfortunately, with this fee increase and inevitable future ones, there soon might not be many of us left. The higher our fees get, the fewer people from outside the EU will consider Trinity as an option. On top of our tuition, we also have to pay more to get to and from Dublin, and we pay fees to the GNIB. We can’t even get many scholarships because they are often dependent on country of citizenship.

Remember: I’m not saying any of this because I hate you. If I hated you, I wouldn’t bother saying anything at all, I would just leave. I love Trinity, I love Dublin, I love Ireland.

It breaks my heart that another student may not have the opportunity to fall in love like I have for financial reasons. I want to make life easier for future students, goodness knows international students have enough to deal with when coming to a new school in a new country. I love you, Trinity. I’m not mad, I’m just disappointed. You can do better.

Lots of love, Molly

Editorial Staff Editor Mary Hartnett Deputy Editor Laura Grant Societies Editor Caoimhe Landy Projects Editor Aoife McColgan Assistant Editor Enya O’Connell-Hussey Georgina Francis Art Editor Jenny Corcoran Layout Emma McCarthy Sorcha Ní Cheallaigh Photo Editor Joe McCallion Printed at The Irish Times print facility, City West Business Campus, 4000 Kingswood Rd, Dublin 24.

Trinity News is partially funded by a grant from DU Publications Committee. This publication claims no special rights or privileges. Serious complaints should be addressed to: The Editor, Trinity Publications, 6 Trinity College, Dublin 2. Appeals may be directed to the Press Council of Ireland.

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Trinity Life November 2017

My experience of Ireland Beginning college is daunting for anyone, but even more so if you’re travelling halfway across the world to do so! Rateeka Johari discusses the difficulties and amazing experiences that come with moving to Dublin.

Rateeka Johari Contributing Writer

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OING TO A NEW CITY IS ALWAYS A DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE. When you go on a vacation it is mostly fun, but when you go to study it is a little daunting.

Before moving from India to Ireland, I was excited to be moving to a new country, but also afraid and apprehensive of leaving the place I called home. Moving to Ireland was probably the hardest, but also the most exciting decision I’ve had to make. But I knew that it would be the best move for my future academic and professional career.

I’d been to Europe before so the culture shock weren’t as pronounced for me. I was still a little taken aback by the amount the Irish love their alcohol. However, one thing that’s going to take a little getting used to is “slagging”, the Irish way of making friends by insulting them. I’m going to have to make conscious efforts to not get offended if someone insults me and know that they’re just trying to be friends with me!

One major difference I found is in terms of the education. In India, all the information required was in the presentation, self-reading wasn’t required as much. Here, however, the

professors expect you to do a lot of self-study and they sometimes just put up a diagram and explain it. The professors treat us like adults and know that we are capable of doing a majority of the things ourselves.

Having said that, I would also like to point out that we can go and ask the professors any doubts we may have.

Another difference I felt is the gap between the teacher and the student.

In India, the distinction is more pronounced and the teachers aren’t as approachable and friendly. Here, I know I can go and talk to my professor about anything without hesitation. And I think it’s wonderful. The curriculum is up-to-date with the latest research happening in the field and the professors themselves are very knowledgeable about their area of work and specialty.

It’s not just the academics that’s wonderful, it is also the number of extra and co-curricular activities that happen. Be it a talk by an expert in the field, the 120 societies Trinity has to offer, or the various sports clubs, one finds a way to maintain the perfect balance between work and play.

I must credit the Irish with their friendly and helpful nature. The day I arrived in Dublin, I didn’t have internet on my phone and I was surprised to find people helping me with directions and even checking Google Maps for me. One rule of thumb is “If

you don’t ask for it, you won’t get it”.

The “it” could be help, student discounts or anything else.

Another thing that’s going to take getting used to is the infamous Irish weather. India has three distinct seasons throughout the year. Ireland has three seasons in one day! Buying the perfect jacket that will keep you warm and protect you from the rain is the key to braving the Irish weather.

The work culture is very different in India and Ireland. The Irish are particular about working hours and they love their weekends. In India, however, a “9-5 day” doesn’t mean you come at 9am and leave at 5pm - working professionals sometimes have 12-hour work days.

Another thing that I like about Ireland and Dublin is the safety. You can be out till 4am in Temple Bar or sitting near the River Liffey, without any worries. Safety is a major aspect when it comes to international students, and I think when coming to Dublin it should not be a concern.

My only advice to someone coming to Dublin would be to find accommodation soon as that is a major problem faced by almost all international students.

I love Ireland and coming here is something that I will never regret.

I have managed to meet some wonderful people, both international and Irish students. I could call this beautiful place home for at least a year, if not more.

Five ways to make your life more Hyggelig Feeling the effects of closely looming deadlines and leaving and arriving home in pitch black? One student talks us through how living a bit more hyggelig could make the world of difference.

Ella Mulcahy Contributing Writer

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tudent life can be hectic, and sometimes stressful. You may have heard that Denmark is pegged as the happiest country in Europe nearly every year, and well … wouldn’t you like a slice of that?

Whether you are away from home or living at home with your parents, hygge is for you. It’s a beautiful Danish concept that’s centred around feelings of comfort, homeliness and general warm fuzziness.

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Lighting Lighting is one of the easiest ways to make your space more hyggelig. For instant cosiness, try adding candles to one of your favourite spaces - a few tea-lights around the bath, or an elegant candle to your bedside table. Fairy-lights are also a great option - they can be draped almost anywhere and provide an easy way to add a little twinkle into your evenings. For a more permanent addition, think about how a lamp could add elements of comfort.

As a rule, warmer lighting feels more hyggelig. Try replacing your bright white bulb with a softer, more yellow toned one or go all out and buy

a brand new, gorgeously glowy lamp. that run the place is a great way of discovering Joyce’s classic without being too overwhelmed and intimidated. Bonus: you can even choose in what language you want to proclaim Bloom’s adventures in as there is a group that reads Ulysses in French every Saturday from 6:30pm to 8pm.

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Music Music is possibly the quickest way to introduce hygge into your busy life, and it can be completely free. You can listen to soothing music anytime, anywhere. A calming playlist can turn your morning battle with the Luas into a little bit of me time, and your afternoon stint in the Ussher library into creativity central. If you already have a playlist titled ‘Chill’ or ‘Relax’ or something similar, then you are already on the right track. Keep that playlist up to date with new songs that make you feel cosy. If you’re unsure where to start, but think that a hygge playlist sounds like a great idea then there are tonnes of playlists already made for you to try online.

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Clothing Clothing can be a way of investing in a hyggelig lifestyle, and also a way of literally carrying it around with you. Odds are you already own a jumper that makes you feel cosy as anything, so simply wearing it to college more often can incorporate hygge into a busy college day. Dressing in the style of hygge includes wearing comfy scarves, and layering for maximum warmth.

Believe it or not, wearing black is also considered to be hyggelig - so break out those black jeans. The key to cosy clothing, and the Danish way of dressing, is being casual and comfortable - ideal for the busy college student.

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Social time Spending quality time with friends and family is a key aspect of hygge. A feeling of ‘togetherness’ is the aim of the game. A vital step in creating an atmosphere of closeness when you are with people you love, is to be present in the moment. In today’s world, social media can take over nearly every moment of the day, and it is important to take a step back from that in order to engage with those around you. Something as quick and easy as having a coffee with your mum for an

hour without checking your phone can be a great act of hygge.

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Food and Drink Comfort food...one of life’s great pleasures. You can inject a little dose of hygge into your day through your meals, and through moments spent with both hands wrapped around a steaming mug of tea. Preparing yourself a hearty, healthy meal is a wonderful way to undertake in some self care and hygge. There are plenty of recipes that are available online, but a warm cup of soup from The Buttery or a delicious vegetarian meal from Cornucopia on Wicklow Street can be just as hyggelig. Indulging in treats, like your favourite cake, is also a way of being hyggelig. As for tea and coffee, they provide instant warmth and, when enjoyed mindfully, can be an instantaneous hit of homely feelings.

A quiet coffee in a cafe like Clement & Pekoe on South William Street can be all the hygge your afternoon needs.

If you would like to read more about hygge, there are many books on the topic, including ‘The Little Book of Hygge’ by Meik Wiking.

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Trinity Life November 2017

Visit my city: Marseille

Taking us southwards to the coastal city of Marseille, one student tells us about the less explored French location she calls home trees. In the ochre and narrow The city centre is full of charming have nowadays replaced actual Lucie Rondeau du Noyer olive streets, people happily engage in museums that are free for every EU imals. You can also head down Contributing Writer

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EFORE 2004, MARSEILLE, THOUGH LOCATED in a splendid harbour of the Mediterranean coast and boasting a substantial heritage as the oldest city in France, could not be deemed a tourist spot. Its inhabitants, les Marseillais, were reduced to demeaning cliches and caricatured nationwide as heavy-accented, destitute football hooligans.

Then, Plus belle la vie (“Life’s so sweet”) began to air and everything changed. The soap opera, set in the historic town centre, quickly became one of the most popular shows ever broadcast on French television. The rest of the country suddenly realised that, indeed, life can be sweet in Marseille. Winter does not exist there. Every road leads to the infinity of deep-blue sea or to the steepness of white hills dotted with pines and

chatting and bantering rather than ignoring each other in a very Parisian fashion.

Marseille definitively established its touristic reputation after its highly successful stint as European Capital of Culture in 2013. Since then, at the entrance of the harbour, the dramatic promenade that links the fortifications of the austere Fort SaintJean to the latticework shell of the new Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations (MuCEM), the cultural institution that embodies the renewal of the whole city, has never been empty of wanderers.

Is it still possible to experience the diversity that has defined Marseille since its beginnings? Some locals, a bit bewildered by the sudden influx of visitors, might wonder. But as an almost outsider observer – since I must confess that I was not born and bred in Marseille – I can assure you that it is.

student under 25 and are far from being overcrowded. In the Vieille Charité, an architectural masterpiece conceived by the famous classical sculptor Puget, the largest French collection of Mexican popular art is displayed. The accumulation of masks and other papier-mâché artefacts is stunning. A few 100 metres away the Marseille Museum of History, on top of offering creative museography and plentiful archaeological collections, houses the remains of the ancient Greek colony that once was Marseille in its Garden of Ruins.

After so much culture, it might be time for a break. If you look for an invigorating pause, the best pizzas in Marseille can be purchased at Pizza Charly, 24 rue des Feuillants.

To enjoy them in splendid scenery, you can walk up to the Parc Longchamp, a public garden embellished by a monumental “water castle”, an English landscape garden and quaint zoo buildings where pop sculptures

anthe Canebière to the Old Port, from its marina to its pedestrian streets.

If you plan to stay more than one day in Marseille, it is worth visiting one or two districts removed from the Old Port. The best way to reach them is boarding on one of the affordable shuttle boats operated by the local public transport company.

It will lead you in thirty minutes up to L’Estaque, widely considered as the most authentic neighbourhood of Marseille. Besides, L’Estaque and its beaches are the perfect setting for enjoying the sunset while discovering two famous typically Provencal snacks, the panisses (fried chickpea flour cakes) and chichi frégi (large donuts flavoured with olive oil and orange blossom water). If possible, wait until the night for the return trip: it is a rare chance to see one of the busiest cities in France at rest.

Surf, snow and sun: Our pick of society trips The society trips abroad not to be missed this year Caoimhe Landy Societies Editor

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VERY YEAR MORE AND MORE SOCIETIES are adding international trips to their calendars. It is easy to understand why the appeal of a wellhyped annual trip abroad can attract huge amounts of new members to the society during Freshers’ Week.

Some societies have become better known for their annual trip abroad than the rest of their activity during the year combined. Below are some of the most famous (and infamous) trips taking place this year as well as a few lesser-known ones which promise to be just as exciting DU Snowsports Ski Trip Of course I couldn’t possibly write this article without mentioning DU Snowsports’ annual pilgrimage to the pistes of Europe. This trip has become somewhat of a rite of passage for many Trinity students, attracting 500 of us each year. This year, following on from the success of last year’s trip, it has been decided that the trip will take place in Val Thorens, France, once again.

It is the highest ski resort in Europe and is guaranteed optimum snow conditions all year round.

However, if you have ever been lucky enough to nab a spot on the ski trip you’ll know that the skiing isn’t exactly the principal draw of the trip for many. What seems to attract the vast majority of club members who brave the trip each year is the promise of some of the best and wildest nightlife in the Alps. Although tickets are officially sold out for this trip, there would be no harm in keeping

a watchful eye on the Facebook page to get your hands on a last-minute ticket being sold on. It could be, like it has been for so many others, one of the highlights of your time in Trinity Trinity Surf Club International Trip Although this year’s Surf Club International has not yet been officially announced, each year during the second reading week of the year Trinity Surf Club send a group of eager surfers and non-surfers to an exotic location to soak up some sun, enjoy epic waves and party, a lot. For the last few years the trip has graced the beautiful shores of Morocco. Surf lessons are optional and can be enjoyed for a small addition to what is usually quite a reasonable price for a week’s holiday in Morocco.

A number of day trips are organised throughout the week as well as nights out and a bonfire by the beach. Tickets for this particular trip will go on sale before Christmas so be sure to keep an eye on the Surf Club’s Facebook page and become a member if you have not already done so. This trip is quickly becoming one of the most popular society international trips for a reason.

TCD BioSoc Christmas Liverpool Trip One of the perhaps less-hyped trips on the list but one that has hugely grown in popularity over the last few years, particularly among the medical students of the college.

It is advertised as somewhat of an international mystery tour, with the location of the trip not being revealed until a few days before tickets went on sale.

This year the society has revealed they will be “jetting ‘Across the Uni-

verse’ to the home of The Beatles”, Liverpool. This trip, it is safe to say, is all about the nights out. There isn’t much organised for the trip-goers during the day, to ensure that what goes on during the night is particularly special (and you get some well-needed recovery time the next morning!). Unfortunately tickets are already sold out for this one but don’t fret, as BioSoc is encouraging everyone to go ahead and book their own accommodation near the Hatters Hostel where they will be staying and enjoy the same benefits as those who secured the official places on the trip.

This one is sure to be a well-earned break for all you hard-working medical students and others alike.

DUHAC Lanzarote Trip Finally, I wanted to include a sports club’s trip abroad that really is all about the sport. For the last three years Dublin University Harriers and Athletic Club (DUHAC) have been travelling to Lanzarote during

the Christmas break for a spot of warm-weather training. However, fear not, this trip is not for elite athletes and fitness fanatics, it is for anyone that would like to enjoy some well-needed time in the sun but keep active while doing so.

The club will be travelling to the state of the art Club La Sante in Lanzarote which offers a fully equipped running track, running trails and a vast gym which offers a variety of classes from beginner to advanced level. Of course the exercise isn’t compulsory and travellers are equally free to chill by the pool all day and soak up some sun before enjoying the nights out that will take place each evening. This trip is almost full but if you’re interested in going be sure to contact one of the club’s captains to quickly secure your spot. It could be one of the most surprisingly enjoyable and rewarding trips of the year, regardless if you’ve ever trained with the club before!

Art by Natalie Duda

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Trinity Life November 2017

Innovation, ideas and illumination: an interview with student entrepreneur Cian Fogarty JF General Science student Cian Fogarty, along with a classmate, started up their company in their transition year. Next year he hopes to see their product appear on shelve. T-Life caught up with him to hear all about the past, present and future of Greener Globe.

Aoife McColgan Projects Editor

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ELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND. How did you get started with Greener Globe?

Greener Globe began as a Transition Year project back in 2014 in our school in Tullamore, Offaly. It started just as any other mini company; with a pair of students brainstorming in the back of a classroom. We wanted to create a simple product that could potentially have a worldwide impact.

We began by winning smaller local competitions and with a little bit of luck, coupled with our simple idea, the business began to gain a bit of traction. By the end of TY we had won awards at the Young Scientist exhibition, SCIFEST and Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur. The pinnacle of our success was when we went to Russia in August of 2014 representing Ireland in the Students for the Advancement of Global Entrepreneurship (SAGE) World Cup. Competing against countries such as America, China and Canada throughout the three-day competition, it was tough to say the least. In the end, we won the world cup, bringing home gold for Ireland for the first time ever. This result was a springboard for Greener Globe’s big media campaigns and newfound partnerships with YSI and other companies. Upon returning to Ireland we were given a Civic Reception from Offaly’s County Council. Considering the last person in Offaly to receive this accolade was world-class golfer Shane Lowry, we were very privileged. A few weeks later this led to a Presidential Reception from President Michael D. Higgins. We received help from our Local Enterprise Office and YSI to grow our business along the way, which was invaluable to our success.

What inspired you to first start working on Greener Globe?

When sitting in class, as many students out there are, we began to dream big with our ideas. We didn’t want to just run a school bake sale, make a bit of money and then forget about our mini company. We wanted to make TY a memorable experience and get the most out of the year. We wanted to go all out and embrace this opportunity we were given to explore the business world. We had very supportive teachers who we knew would support us along our business venture. We always knew that we never wanted to have a day-to-day job.

We wanted to be innovative, explore new ideas and be our own bosses.

What better way to achieve this than to start our own business with a core ethos of innovation?

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Do not think business is easy.

Our story sounds great when you read it but there’s a lot of tough chapters in the story that you never get to read about. You have to persist and take every challenge as it comes.

Who were some of the mentors you met along the way?

We met so many wonderful people on our business journey and continue to do so every day. Rachel Collier, our YSI mentor, provided us with so many great opportunities such as our trip to Russia. She came with us to the SAGE World Cup and was there every step of the way. We built a strong relationship and to this day still work with Rachel and her team.

Fergal Naughton, CEO of Glen Dimplex, was a very important person for us. He set up a meeting with the Glen Dimplex team which went on to become a very beneficial relationship.

What’s your #1 piece of advice for people who want to get started with their own business idea?

Put everything you have into it. If you don’t fully believe in your business and yourself, you can’t expect others to do so. One of my favourite quotes is from a motivational speech my dad told me about when I was very young: “When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, then you’ll be successful.” Do not think business is easy. Our story sounds great when you read it but there’s a lot of tough chapters in the story that you never get to read about. You have to persist and take every challenge as it comes.

Do you have any role models when it comes to business and entrepreneurship?

As an aspiring physicist/entrepreneur, Elon Musk is most definitely one of my biggest role models. His larger-than-life undertakings are truly inspired. He never sees a challenge as too big or too difficult to overcome. He is constantly looking to create new products and pursue different ventures, always looking outside the box at new angles to approach problems.

What problem did you see that needed to be fixed by the Aquacica shower head?

Greener Globe created, designed and manufactured an innovative, water conserving product. “Aquacica”, our product, is a showerhead with a timing and lighting system. We integrated LED lights into the face of the showerhead so the light illuminates the water as the flows out. Our product is designed to work inside a seven minute time frame. As the shower is started, the LEDs turn on automatically illuminating the water green.

The LEDs stay green for five minutes. Following the five minutes, the LEDs change to amber for two minutes. The amber light is a “warning” period letting the user know that time is running out. After seven minutes of shower time the LEDs will turn red indicating that the suggested duration of a shower has passed and the user should get out.

Our product aims to save the consumer water and money, which in

turn will enhance environmental sustainability as stated in the 7th Millennium Goal. Former World Bank Vice-President, Ismail Serageldin said “the wars of the 21st century will be fought over water”, as it is such a valuable resource. In Ireland, as we know by even looking at the rain outside, we have plenty of water. This natural resource could prove to be as valuable as oil in a few years and we need to conserve it.

It was also created with the Irish “water charges” in mind as a solution for consumers to reduce their water consumption and reduce their water bill. Considering that shower usage, according to the CSO, is where the largest quantity of water is consumed in the household, it is a key area to focus on reduction. The product is a simple idea combined with smart technology that has the potential to save millions of litres of water every year.

What’s next for Greener Globe?

We hope to have our product on the shelves very soon. We are working on different avenues of getting the product to the consumer as well as revamping our website at present.

The goal is to obtain enough revenue to reinvest into another product to expand our business and product line. We have recently been accepted into the Trinity Entrepreneurial Society (TES) incubator. We are very excited for this programme as we know it has the capability of pushing Greener Globe onto the next stage and onto the shelves.

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Life with ADHD

Trinity Life November 2017

A student gives her experience of an often misunderstood disorder Grace Kenny

Contributing Writer

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T WAS ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPER Disorder Awareness (ADHD) last month and in the spirit of discussing mental health, I’ll tell you three short stories.

One day in July 2016, I was finally determined to have Autistic Spectrum Disorder, after many, many years of misdiagnosis, watching J.J in Skins and reading The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night in tears of helplessness. I cried too that day, however, my tears were brought on by the relief of everything finally coming together. But leaving aside the additional diagnoses of Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Panic Disorder and Depressive Disorder, I was puzzled and surprised by the diagnosis of ADHD. I, one of the quietest girls in my class? I, one of the high achievers in my class? But it made sense. The drifting of my eyes as forty minutes of class progressed in slow motion. The “grades do not reflect ability” comments on my report card.

Cut to 13 months later — 16 August 2017. This was supposed to be the triumphant note to end the six years that I forced myself to stay in school, amidst daily threats to drop out. I was supposed to prove to myself and to everyone that I could do this. I, with ADHD and Asperger’s, could achieve my top points.

But I was 100 points off my goal, making me 63 points short of my CAO requirement. Nobody outside of my house was ever told. I was so ashamed of myself as I screamed in the car, and I still am. Ashamed

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Reach out when you feel that ADHD is having a negative impact on your life. at myself for not reaching that goal despite studying every weekday of school since the first week of first year. Ashamed at myself for being so assured that I could achieve my goals that I told everyone about them.

Ashamed at myself for having what seemed like such fruitless goals. I can thank DARE for my place here, as I was reminded several weeks ago by the words, “You do realise you’re here through the DARE scheme”, uttered to me as if I had forgotten.

Two months later and we have arrived at my third story.

I won’t lie, the past month I have felt more lonely and frustrated than I have for a long time. I can’t explain why I just binged an entire bag of sweets at the thought of writing this, only to realise the damage afterwards. I can’t explain why I adore the literature I study in English and Film, yet am still unable to focus on a single chapter or scene without fulfilling the urge to move on to another activity. Mostly, I can’t explain why I have become more embarrassed about my diagnosis since I moved to college. The self-deprecating jokes and honesty were locked away on the first day, and every time they reemerge for some fresh air, paranoia sets in.

Note to self: Accidentally telling a room full of strangers of your diagnoses ended in disaster on one occasion, so this will always be the case.

Note to reader: This is most certainly not the case. These three stories, and many more, are exactly why I’m writing this article.

I would apologise for the excessively long anecdotes and make a joke about feeling as if I’m auditioning for the X-Factor with a sob story, but this is no sob story. This is the reality of life with ADHD. If I was to tell this story through speech, you may have had to quote the lady in Little Britain – “Say it again?” – but genuinely, since I do fulfil one of the ADHD stereotypes of speaking with impressive speed.

ADHD takes many more shapes than the stereotypical image of an inattentive, disruptive primary school boy at the back of the classroom. In fact, this stereotype is often difficult to apply to girls with ADHD (let’s not get started on the statistics relating to girls with undiagnosed ADHD, ASD and more).

ADHD is mainly characterised by academic struggles, oppositional behaviour and developmental delays. It is important to remember, however, that like any disorder, ADHD also impacts many other aspects of one’s life, from mental health to one’s relationships with both themselves and others. From impulsivity and hyperactivity to a lack of motivation and energy. From insomnia to difficulties with social interaction. And to get one thing straight while we’re dissecting ADHD — it is not curable by better parenting, a healthier lifestyle or medication.

In fact, it is not curable at all. Yes, the support of loved ones, looking after one’s health and prescribed medication can make life easier for many with ADHD and similar disorders, but this is not the case for everybody living with the disorder, nor does it remove the presence of ADHD. Myths and truths aside, I do want emphasise an ADHD diagnosis is valid and relevant and important enough to seek assistance when it comes to dealing with the obstacles of everyday life. Here in Ireland, we like to think of ourselves as modest, with a tendency to be a little lax on prioritising our needs and struggles.

“Ah, be grand”, we say. Think, for example, of the “thanks, Penneys” one says, accompanied by flushed cheeks, when complimented on an outfit. Except, here, in the scenario where one can access help but believes that their difficulties are not severe enough to “make a fuss”. As much as this can be deemed a positive quality in some instances, when we are struggling and need help, it only damages our own well-being.

I cannot emphasise enough how important it is to reach out when you feel that ADHD is having a negative impact on your life. This is especially relevant to settling into college, which should be more appropriately named “Land of a Level of Independence and Responsibility that Adolescenthood Did Not Prepare Me For”.

Where is help is available, help should be given, no matter how large or small the problem is. However, it is often required to disclose an ADHD diagnosis to professionals to access such assistance. At Trinity, the Student Counselling Service run oneto-one counselling, as well as online counselling. Niteline is another option if you feel comfortable speaking over the phone. The Disability Office offers many supports which range from assistive technology, such as dictaphones, to accessing respite rooms and examination accommoda-

tions. If you ask for assistance and do not receive support for unjustifiable reasons, ask, ask and ask again.

Dealing with being diagnosed is obviously not a life-or-death situation, but it can be overwhelming and confusing. Disclosing a diagnosis is always a personal decision, but please do not hide your ADHD due to fear of discrimination and isolation.

It sounds cliche, but how somebody reacts to hearing such a personal revelation says more about them than it does about you. One is never ever at fault for existing with ADHD (I need to take my own advice #2).

Leading on from this, it is ironic that a hidden disability can seem as if it is tattooed on one’s own face, sticking out like a sore thumb. Living with ADHD does not make it your identity. Yes, it can play many different roles in one’s life but you can still achieve so much in life. It does not make you less of a person.

On a final note, low self-esteem is one the many (cough) friendly faces of ADHD. At risk of resembling the tone of a Tumblr user who has just exited their emo phase, your diagnosis is valid, your successes and struggles are valid and above all else, you are valid.

7

Trinity Life November 2017

A day in the life

Have you ever wondered what life is like from a different side of campus? Two students from different disciplines take us through their day-to-day college journey.

The Psychology Student

The Law Student

Name: Ella Mulcahy Course: Psychology Year: Senior Freshman

Name: Kyra Thielmann Course: International and Comparative Law, LLM Year: Postgraduate

W

ITH MY TYPICAL START TIME this term being a cushy 11am, my mornings can be anything from remarkably productive to ridiculously lazy. Regardless of whether my morning begins with a lab report or a hangover, I reliably make my way to the Commuter service that lands me at college a comfortable ten minutes before my first lecture of the day. My morning lectures tend to escape the grip of distraction - I wish the same could be said for the afternoon. After my 11am lecture, I always have a two-hour break and a range of activities lined up.

For the second hour of my absurdly long breaks, lunching at KC Peaches or the Buttery is consistently on the agenda. A light timetable means that I only spend two lunchtimes a week on campus - that’s how I justify buying lunch.

My afternoon lectures roll around at 2pm, and by then I’m just about ready to do some serious procrastinating. As I’m class rep, I end up making Facebook posts about everything from a trip away to the SU campaigns. J1 job hunting and Erasmus investigating are also highlights of my afternoon lectures. Eventually, I wander into the library after my final lecture of the day, around 4pm.

More often than not, I have a couple of hours to kill before my evening plans, and this presents an opportunity to get in a couple of focused hours.

This year, I’ve made it my mission to make up for wasted time spent at home during first year, uninvolved in college life. Although I’m only in second year, I can picture my time in college slipping away and feel the real world looming in the distance. In an attempt to make the most of this year before Erasmus, I’ve piled a lot on my plate in terms of societies and college life. Most evenings I attend a society meeting or event - everything from VDP to SU Council. When I’m not attending a college event, I can regularly be found heading to work (three times a week) or rushing to the Luas to meet up with friends. Nine times out of ten, my evening closes with a trudge to the DART and an episode of a podcast. All in all, my days can be categorised by huge variety and a lot of time that I endeavor to use wisely.

B

EING A MORNING PERSON, MY day usually starts at 6am. After spending about 15 minutes putting on layers and layers of clothes - I’m South American, and Ireland’s fall is already colder than winters at home - I make my way to campus if I have a lecture, otherwise I stay at home reading for a while. Usually after 2 or 3 hours my brain needs a rest so that’s the moment when I hit the gym to release some stress.

Sometimes I have lectures from 1pm to 6pm, so there’s nothing too exciting about those days. They can be summarised in a constant craving for more coffee. But, if my schedule is free, I have to make use of that time by drafting essays. Or, I buy some chocolate at Butlers: priorities get a little bit confusing with an empty stomach and a tired mind. In any case, I usually end up in the postgraduate reading room or the library with my laptop, my gym bag, my backpack, my lunch … so if you see a person who seems to be moving into the library, it’s probably me.

As expected, I am unable to think properly in the evenings after all that studying. And since it gets too cold for me after dark, I like to either have a pint at a cosy bar or have a big cup of tea in my bed while binging series - if I don’t finish my postgraduate course successfully, blame Netflix. Unless I have powerlifting practice, of course! We train as a group at a gym off campus, really far away from my house, but the group is fantastic so it’s totally worth it. Those evenings I get home pretty late and basically just crawl into bed and get some rest before my alarm starts ringing at 6am to start everything over.

House Parties vs Clubs House parties or nightclubs, which do you prefer? Eliana Jordan gives her opinion.

Eliana Jordan Contributing Writer

E

NTER INTO A WORLD IN WHICH floors and fingers are sticky, decent shoes will be made filthy, clothes will be sloshed with beer and elbows will be plunged into vulnerable places.

Darkness will be pierced by the intermittent blink of colourful lights.

The repetitive beat of music will drown out your best attempts at conversation, and even once your friend hears what you’ve said after the eighth time, you’ll be so hoarse from the effort that you won’t want to talk much anymore. You will most certainly pay an obscene price for entry or drink, or both if you’re particularly lucky, and you will likely end up shifting a stranger who really only looked cute through the foggy guise of beer goggles. Welcome to the nightclub experience.

Given the option between a house party and a night out clubbing on any given Friday or Saturday, I would repeatedly and doggedly choose the house party. As an international student from the U.S., where clubbing isn’t even a viable option until you’re 21 (or younger with a fake I.D., but some of us aren’t so risque), I’d experienced my fair share of house parties prior to my intro-

duction into the world of clubs. I’d been through the red solo cup soirees at frat houses where, in the kitchen, beer pong reigns supreme, and in the living room, friends gather to chat and play less involved drinking games. This was the extent of going out, and it was perfect.

Clubbing changed the game, but for the worse. Gone were the slurred conversations on the arms of crowded couches, getting to know other tipsy individuals in the laidback atmosphere of a home; at a club, the height of productive communication beyond screaming garbled words over the blare of music is drunken gyrating with strangers. Dancing at a club can be fun at the right level of inebriation, the temporary amusement is outweighed once you get beer spilled on your sleeve, you’ve been stepped on repeatedly, and uncomfortably groped by a stranger.

On the contrary, house parties provide the freedom of choice between dancing (to music you might actually have the ability to select yourself ) and sitting down among friends for a few drinks and a chat. The likelihood of being jostled about by intoxicated strangers is significantly less, while the likelihood of feeling at ease is significantly heightened.

A house party is filled with limitless potential. The rhythmic throb of a bass shakes the front door on its hinges so that, even before you enter, you’re privy to the party within. You may enter into a world of comfort and familiarity, assuming you know the host, or you could be entering into an entirely new

province rich with the possibility of new discoveries and friendships.

And who wouldn’t want to enter a world like that?

Art by Anna Hardstaff

8

Trinity Life November 2017

Students’ thoughts on Christmas exams Students from across campus tell us what they think of the Provost’s newest announcement

Enya O’Connell-Hussey Trinity Life Assistant Editor

A

LTHOUGH THE ANNOUNCEMENT WAS MADE by the Students’ Union last year, the reality of Christmas exams did not become tangible until a few weeks ago when every student was greeted with an email welcoming us with ‘semesterisation’ from next year onwards. The email was a bit vague about the whole thing, focusing more on the earlier start of college next year rather than what the implication of Christmas exams would be — probably because this is unchartered territory for all of us.

Trinity is one of the few colleges that exam all modules at the end of the year, not just in Ireland, but across Europe and the US. Although there’s probably room for some symbolic spiel about the crumbling traditionalism of an increasingly secular middle-class student body, symbolism matters little to most students who are simply wondering the effect they will have on their studies. We’ve gathered a variety of students to give us their thoughts on the new format.

Anne Daly, SF Science: My initial reaction to finding out we would have Christmas exams next year was honestly ‘what the hell’ but now I am surprisingly happy about it. As much as I love watching my friends in other universities studying for Christmas exams while I am free to enjoy the merry festivities, I think it’s good that we will be having Christmas exams in the future.

The current structure in which we only have Summer examinations in my experience is unpleasant. It’s far too difficult to attempt to study modules from the previous semester for exams in summer, having not had lectures or tutorials for these modules in over four months. Last year I constantly had the weight of the first semester’s modules hanging over me, knowing that I should be revising them, when keeping up with second semester’s work was more than enough to be focused on. Having said all of this I did manage studying everything for Summer exams last year but I believe the introduction of exams at Christmas will make studying much less stressful for all students, by lessening the workload and pressure felt during the usual April/ May cramming season.

Niamh Keating, SF TSM History and English Literature I’m still unsure of Christmas exams honestly. The Christmas atmosphere will definitely have a bitter tinge to it as you look outside the library windows during the time where Dublin is most alive and bustling. It also must be said that Christmas is already a busy time for many TSM students, with most essay deadlines for the year being during the dreaded winter period. Adding the stress of exams to the mix will give the dark winter nights a more dreary effect. There is also a layer of frustration as we have all learned to study with the current system, and to go through the

growing pains of change during the Sophister period will be an addition to the existing anxiety and worry.

Though it is certainly pleasing that the three weeks of doom in April will no longer be, I wonder if the pressure as a whole will be alleviated. Exams are still exams at the end of the day, and I wonder if the college needs to look at the idea of them more thoroughly and think of other options to measure a student’s learning.

Siona Molony, SF Law: The introduction of Christmas exams is long overdue. All my friends in other colleges – particularly UCD – have always had them, and it’s always been one of these weird Trinity quirks that we wait until the end of the academic year. While it has made for great bragging rights and a less stressful run up to Christmas, in the long run, I think these changes are better for all students.

I only had 5 written exams last year, which were all done in the space of a week. However, I know people who had 10 or 11 exams, which often carried on for almost the whole month.

It’s an incredibly pressurised few

weeks. The stress involved will now hopefully be eased with the introduction of Christmas exams. They’ll also put an end to the bizarre practice of refresher lectures in March/ April for material you haven’t seen since before Christmas.

I didn’t have a clue what to expect heading into the RDS for the first time last April. The only reason I even knew what building to go to was because I followed a random girl from the bus stop. Friends from other colleges were surprised by my complete confusion and terror, until I explained that these were the first set of college exams I had ever done. I think these changes will ease the transition from secondary school to college, and ultimately halve the amount of work students have to cram into a frantic couple of weeks.

Anonymous: Although I am not entirely opposed to semesterisation, I think the way in which Trinity plans to implement it is counterproductive at best.

The same number of exams will be crammed into half the time, resulting in students being under far more

pressure than they are under the current system — contrary to what the College hopes to achieve. Our study period will be halved, as will the exam period, meaning that we will have little time to study before exams begin and virtually none at all between individual exams. Moreover, in many courses, STEM in particular, modules are often interlinked, and Hilary Term modules can help clarify material covered in Michaelmas Term. At the end of the year, we have a better understanding of the first-term modules and perform better in exams than we would have in December. Overall, I think the introduction of semesterisation will cause more harm than good, particularly for the Sophister students who are already used to the current system. If the change is to be effective at all, it should only be implemented for the incoming Freshers, instead of confusing and disrupting those of us that have already grown accustomed to the status quo.

Art by Isabelle Griffin