Starting College is exciting, but can also be overwhelming. Between finding your way around Belfield campus, adjusting to lectures, and meeting new people, there’s a lot to take in.

If you’re about to begin your journey at University College Dublin (UCD), here are some tips to make your first year smoother and more enjoyable.

1. Take advantage of orientation week

Orientation is the perfect place to make new friends. You’ll meet people from your course, and also get a chance to socialise with people from other courses.

You will also meet your peer mentor group this week. Out of 6 people in my group, I’m still really close to 3 of them. So, make sure to make the most of it!

2. Join as many societies as possible, and go to events!

There’s something for everyone at UCD. Whether you want to take part in sports clubs, or other societies, you WILL find your niche.

You will have the chance to join societies at fresher’s week (there will be large tents set-up near the student centre). Go there, and sign-up to all socities you like.

Clubs and societies are where you will make friends!

3. Use the UCD Gym & Facilities

Best thing about UCD is definitely the gym and swimming pool. There are 3 gyms, completely free for students. To use the swimming pool you need to get a membership, which isn’t that expensive either.

Tip: The Pool-side gym is almost always full. I try to go during off-peak times, which tend to be in the mornings. Afternoons and evenings are packed, use one of the other two gyms then.

4. Use Career services early

Don’t wait until final year to think about jobs. UCD’s Career Services offer CV workshops, career fairs, and internship opportunities from the start.

You can access these services through UCD Connect > My Career.

You also have the facility to book a one-on-one session with guidance counsellors too. I would definitely recommend doing this.

5. Get a student leap card early

If you’re commuting to UCD, a student Leap Card is essential. Why miss out on cheaper fares.

6. Always carry your U-Card

Your u-card is your library and gym access, printing credit, and identification for exams. You’ll need it for photocopying, entering buildings, borrowing books, exams etc. Keep it safe and always on you.

Replacing the u-card costs €20. So, don’t lose it either. But if you do don’t worry.

7. Find you go-to spots

UCD is huge, and having a few personal “go-to spots can make college life much easier. These are places you feel comfortable studying, relaxing, or meeting friends.

I usually go to Pi-restaurant in the Science building, or at the sofas in the Village.

8. Don’t miss out on free stuff

Usually near the student centre, there’s often people handing out free stuff like free cans of redbulls, pots of cup-noodles etc. Especially around the start of the year.

These give aways happen mainly during the afternoon, so if you’re free make sure to check it out.

9. Take advantage of free food

Of course societies are great for making friends, but most events end with free food too.

So, make sure to look for events that offer pizza at the end and that’s dinner sorted.

10. Take advantage of student discounts

Your U-Card has another use, it can get you discounts at almost all shops and restaurants.

Cafés, restaurants, cinemas, and shops in Dublin often offer student deals, so always ask before paying full price.

11. Budget

You wouldn’t want to spend all your money during fresher’s week. Make sure to have a budget to help you with this.

12. Explore campus cafés and food spots

Here are some of the places you can get a drink, lunch or a quick bite at:

• Pi Restaurant (science building) – they have a buffet style canteen
• Burger place beside Pi Restaurant –
• Sub Club (Beside James Joyce LIbrary)
• Blue Bird Coffee (Beside Newmann)
• Global Lounge (Gerard Manly Hopkins building)

13. Make sure to go to tutorials

Ideally, you should go to all classes. But definitely try not to miss out on tutorials. That’s where you practise exam-style questions and get help on any coursework.

14. Look-out for event promotions

Most of the events are announced through posters. Make sure to stop and look at these posters. They’re often scatter outside James Joyce Library.

15. Balance study and scoial life

Obviously keep up with lectures and assignments. But make sure to give time to socialising and events too.

Both are equally important.

16. Have tons of fun

College is meant to be fun. While it’s important to focus on your studies and do your best in your course, don’t let that stop you from having fun.

Get involved, try out new things, and have a blast.