Finally back on campus!
It's been a looooong wait - 18 months to be precise - for your return to the beloved college campus...
But the day has finally arrived.
And while we know you're ecstatic about the return to campus, there's probably some jitters in there too?
Well, no more!!
iRadio have teamed up with IT Sligo to bring you some helpful tips to make your campus return smooth and fun.
And we'll also tell you all about their unreal induction week and #ITSBack! celebrations.
We have all your bases covered, from Covid safety, renting, academics and, of course, having a bitta craic!
So pop on the kettle and browse through our tips at your own leisure:
Tip #1 - Get organised
Ever feel like things seem too overwhelming to keep up with?
Well, that may happen as you get back into the groove of getting to and from college, managing your schedule and making sure you've time to unwind, eat and sleep.
But keeping some kind of diary, planner or calendar can go a long way here.
Invest in a little notebook, diary or even a little whiteboard and set things out in pen/marker, and you'll feel much more able to manage everything you've to do.
Tip #2 - Finances
So, a lot of people feel they've been able to save lots of money working/studying from home.
There are finances you didn't need to worry about while not attending college in person, but now that it's back keep an eye on how that wallet/purse is feeling, weight-wise.
Try to come up with a figure you want to spend each week, and attempt not to go beyond it.
Little things, like cycling/walking instead of taking buses and packing your own lunch can go a long way.
But, don't be too harsh on yourself, and make sure your budget has a little treat fund too!
Remember too to check out grants available such as SUSI, and also your college's website for extra supports.
Tip #3 - Renting: landlords/agencies
Gotten used to your parents being in charge of the household?
Well, now that you're back renting, you may have a new boss and rules to adhere to.
But, don't forget to brush up on your own rights as a tenant.
Here are two websites to pop over to when you have a spare minute, to make sure you know what's what when renting:
rtb.ie and citizensinformation.ie.
Tip #4 - Renting: housemates
Throughout college, and adult life in general, you may have a variety of different housemates.
Some are great, some are bad, and some are plain weird!
Your life will be made a lot easier, whatever kind of housemates you have, if you keep communication WIDE OPEN.
We can't really stress this enough, just don't let issues build and build...
Remember also that compromise is a part of living with other people, and it may take some time to find a rhythm with new people, but you'll get there!
Tip #5 - Social liiife
We bet you cannot wait to get out there again, in whatever shape or form that takes for you.
Getting back on campus is super exciting, and it means that there's lots going on socially.
But, remember to take it at your own pace, and be understanding of other people too.
It's been a while since we've been properly out and about, so only do as much as you feel ready for.
We'd definitely recommend checking out your college's societies and clubs to get involved in campus life!
Tip #6 - Covid-19 safety
This is a short tip because we know you're well aware of all the safety measures going.
The one thing we would recommend though, is to check out the measures in your college and accommodation, to make sure you're fully up to speed!
And finally... Tip #7 - Have fun
It has been a while since you were back on campus.
So just make sure you take it all in and enjoy every second of it!!
Following those tips above, you should be able to forget your troubles and have fun!
#ITSBack!
What's this all about??
On 15 and 16 September, IT Sligo and IT Sligo Students’ Union are hosting an action-packed day of catching-up, entertainment and information, while on 22 and 23 September, it’s the turn of all brand-new first years.
They're going to have a bunch of activities planned, both in person and online!
Each #ITSBack! session is two hours long and the campus (including dining areas) will be fully open to all students throughout.
Students will be able to book a place at #ITSBack! on Eventbrite.
