Coming to university for the first time is a big life style change. Commuting, living away from home, navigating a new campus, making new friends, passing your exams! It all can seem too much to adapt to. Here we share some helpful tips for all students to ‘survive first term’!

The first thing to know is where we are! Student Life and Learning reception is open from 9am to 12.30pm and 2-4pm Monday to Friday in the business building main campus. If you need help or any question answered – we have you covered! Staff are always on hand for any query. No problem is too big or small that we can’t overcome together.

Drop in to the Academic Skills Centre- once registered you will know where to go if you need academic help or advice. Staff are available from 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday. If you are not sure what new terms you’ve heard in lectures are and didn’t feel comfortable to ask, then we can help break down new terms, assignment briefs, help you time manage your schedule, help you find your way to a lecture hall and let you know what services are here to help.

We have many services on campus to name a few are our Student Assistant Fund, to our University Nurse, to Counselling, to free Maths Support in our FTG building! We cover it all in campus services for any of our student’s needs. All you have to do is ask. We are happy to answer.

There are many clubs and societies on campus too. Students Union provide a comprehensive list on our website. Societies – SETU Waterford Sports Clubs & Societies

The most important thing when you join SETU as a student is to keep up to date with your student emails (student number@setu.ie) and see all the information that is sent directly to you. All course information will be sent from your lecturers to Moodle , our virtual learning environment.

Have a listen to our SLL podcast where we discuss settling in as a student and tips to help. Thanks to Megan & Imelda from SLL

Surviving the Semester – SETU Podcasts

Social Tips

• Introduce yourself to classmates and don’t be afraid to start conversations.
• Join clubs, societies, or sports teams to meet new people.
• Remember that most students are just as nervous as you are.
• Get involved in campus events during your first few weeks.
• You are not the only student who is autistic on campus.

Students who are autistic and have ADHD may benefit from a body doubling session (focus hub online) to help with study and assignment work. ADHD Ireland run 1 hour workshops to help you focus and get work done! Events – ADHD Ireland 

Students – Higher & Further Education – ADHD Ireland

Or drop into ASC to help you focus on your work. Maybe link in with a class mate and body double together. Even sitting with your tutor in ASC can help.

Timetables for class get updated each Friday- so always check online.

Quick Advice from Students- by Megan Tubbritt Student Ambassador SLL

• “Don’t be afraid to ask questions.”
• “Get involved early.”
• “Everyone is nervous coming to college.”
• “Try new things and know there is support on campus.”
• “College goes by faster than you think—Term 2 is even quicker.”

Digital Tips

• Check your student email regularly.
• Familiarise yourself with Moodle learning platform.
• Back up your coursework using OneDrive, Google Drive, or another cloud service.
• Save important college websites and support service pages as bookmarks.
• Keep an eye on college social media channels for updates and events.

Student Life and Learning SETU Waterford (@sll.setu) • Instagram photos and videos