Settling in Weeks University of Galway: Get Involved, Get on Track, Diversity Week, Wellbeing Week

Week 1 Get Involved: 18–22 Sept

Enterprise challenge Information Session 

When: 1-1.30pm, Mon 18 Sept
Where: IdeasLab, Arts/Science Building

You're invited to our information session on the Enterprise Challenge! Experience how diverse student teams collaborate to solve real challenges from enterprise partners Aerogen, SAP, and Medtronic in an immersive 8-week design sprint. Witness creativity, problem-solving, and impactful solutions.

No previous experience necessary, we will support you along the way. Registration required, register here. 

Action for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG's) 

When: 3-4pm, Mon 18 Sept
Where: ALIVE Office, Áras na Mac Léinn

Do you want to make an impact on environment, health, education, equality, and more? Come along and hear all about the projects available to you, explore the options and get started on making a difference right here in Galway with community groups.
 
 

Socs Day

When: 12–5pm, Tues 19 Sept
Where: Áras na Mac Léinn 

Get involved in university life and take your pick from 120 Societies, learn about volunteering opportunities & get your questions answered at the support stands. Freebies & Free Food - don't miss out! More info here.

ALIVE Volunteering Fair

When: 12–5pm, Tues 19 Sept
Where: Áras na Mac Léinn foyer 

ALIVE, University of Galway's student volunteering programme, brings you this Volunteering Fair as part of Socs Fest! Volunteering is a brilliant way for you to get involved in the community, build your skills and make a difference.

Come along and meet some great community organisations of Galway City as well as our own student programmes such as LIFT, Seas Suas, Class Reps and more. Learn about volunteering opportunities in health, environment, education, social justice and culture.

Design your University Journey

When: 1-2pm, Tues 19 Sept
Where: THB-G010 (Moore Insistute Seminar Room), facing library entrance

In this workshop, you will explore what university means to you and design your path through university to get the most out of opportunities available at University of Galway. The workshop is based on Stanford's Design Your Life framework.

Spaces are limited - register here.

Clubs Day

When: 12-4pm, Wed 20 Sept
Where: Kingfisher Sports Centre

There are now over 45 active and vibrant sports clubs at University of Galway. Joining and participating in a sports club will provide you with lasting memories of university life, and a fun way to keep fit. Drop by the Kingfisher Sports Centre, our first-class fitness facility, to learn more and sign up for your perfect sports club. 

Learn more about the clubs on offer here.

Intro to Canvas - Stay Connected 

When: 11am-12pm, Wed 20 Sept
Where: Online (Zoom)

Canvas is the new Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) in use at University of Galway. It allows students to download lecture notes, reading lists, assessment information and other course-related material from their Canvas sites.

In this 1 hour online session we’ll get to grips with the basics of Canvas from logging in, finding your courses, accessing content and how to get help if you need it. As part of Get Involved Week, this session will also focus on using Canvas tools to stay connected.

Join the workshop via Zoom here. 

Employability Award - Introduction

When: 12-12.30pm, Wed 20 Sept
Where: Careers Seminar Room, Arts/Science Building

Discover how the Employability Award will help you to develop the skills employers look for and increase your chances of getting a job. Sign up for the award at this event!

Register to attend here.

CÉIM Peer Learning - Introduction

When: 1-2pm, Wed 20 Sept
Where: THB-G011, the Hardiman Building

CÉIM supports 1st year students to transition successfully to University of Galway, make friends and create connections within their subject area. CÉIM is offered to students studying Engineering, PCM, Geography, Hotel Management, Law, Political Science and Sociology, Psychology, Science and Spanish. Hear how CÉIM peer learning works, get to know fellow students in small groups, and ask any questions you have about studying at University of Galway. 

No registration required, just drop-in! More info about CÉIM here: ceim.su.universityofgalway.ie

LIFT Leadership Facilitator Training

When: 5pm, Wed 20 Sept
Where: Áras na Mac Léinn

Grow your leadership skills in a small group and join the LIFT programme. You do not need to be in a particular role or have experience, LIFT is here to support you and give you a new opportunity – all welcome to join in!

To learn more and register, visit the LIFT webpage: Leadership - University of Galway 

SU Freshers' Fair

When: 11am - 3pm, Thurs 21 Sept
Where: Áras na Mac Léinn

Come along on Thursday for freebies, prizes and surprises! Get your FREE Students' Union Rudaí Áille bag filled with lots of treats and the SU Fresher's Magazine. Visit the exhibitors in the foyer of Áras na Mac Léinn and Bailey Allen or sample some food from the food trucks outside. Why not join in some of the games in the Bailey Allen Hall or visit the vintage pop up shop in the Cube? Its all happening so make sure to stop by!

Seas Suas

Get involved & join Seas Suas - a programme that promotes personal safety and encourages empathy both on campus and in the wider community. In partnership with community organisations, Seas Suas covers a wide range of important topics such as Suicide Prevention, Drug & Alcohol Addiction and Mental Health in general. Each participant receives a certificate when they complete the programme and these hours can be used towards ALIVE volunteering certificate.

This October it will run between 6pm-8.30pm on four Tuesday evenings; the 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th . Food will be provided each evening.
 
If you would like to register for the Seas Suas programme, click here.

Week 2 Get on Track: 25 - 29 Sept

FYI: First Year In

When: 3–3.30pm, Mon 25 & Wed 27 Sept
Where: Library Training Room PC Suite

Geared especially for first year students: get to know YOUR University of Galway Library. What are the Library's collections and services, and how can they help you succeed during your studies at Galway.
 
Learn how to borrow a book - in print and electronic format!
 
Book in if you would like to attend online (you will receive a link before the session). You can also do so if you want to attend in person and would like a reminder email.
 
Feel free to also to drop-in in person on the day, no need to register!
 

Money and Budgeting, Hints and Tips

When: 10am-4pm, Tues 26 - Thurs 28 Sept (Booking Required)
Where: Student Enquiry Centre, Arts/Science Building

Drop into the Student Enquiry Centre with your questions on managing financescreating and sticking to a budget and eligibility/application for the Financial Aid Fund. 

Book a 30 min one to one session, in person, online or drop in for a quick chat.

Setting Goals for your University Year

When: 1–2pm, Tues 26 Sept
Where: THB-G010 (Moore Institute Seminar Room), facing the entrance to the library

You will leave this workshop with a brand new method for setting goals that are Positive, Personal, Possible and Prioritised.

Spaces are limited - Register here. We look forward to seeing you there! 

Intro to Canvas (online workshop)

When: 11am–12pm, Wed 27 Sept
Where: Online

Canvas is the new Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) in use at University of Galway. It allows students to download lecture notes, reading lists, assessment information and other course-related material from their Canvas sites.

In this 1 hour online session we’ll get to grips with the basics of Canvas from logging in, finding your courses, accessing content and how to get help if you need it. As part of Get on Track Week, this session will also focus on using the Canvas help and support tools.
 
Link to join via zoom here.
 

Employability Award Workshop

When: 11-12pm, Wed 27 Sept
Where:Careers Seminar Room, Arts/Science Building

Understand the employability skills employers are looking for. This workshop is part of the requirements for the Employability Award.
 
Register here!
 

Unsure about your course?

When: 10am-12pm, Thurs 28 Sept
Where: Career Development Centre, Arts/Science Building

Speak 1:1 with an experienced Career Advisor for course or career guidance. No Appointment needed just drop in!

Employable YOU – Finding a Part-Time Job 

When: 4–5pm, Thurs 28 Sept
Where: Careers Seminar Room, Arts/Science Building

Join our Career team where you will learn how to find part-time work and boost your funds. Get key tips on how to present your CV and more.

Register on Careers Connect here.

 

Week 3 Diversity Week: 2–5 Oct

Ignite and Unite: Embrace the Adventure of University Life

When: 1-3pm, Mon 2 Oct
Where: The Cube, Áras na Mac Léinn

Calling all First Years! Join this interactive workshop where you will get to connect with your peers, meet the Careers & Student Success Coaches team and learn how your uniqueness is valued and adds to your student journey. No registration required, just drop in!

Uncovering Empathy - For Learning and Life

When: 10-11am, Tues, 3 Oct
When: The View, Áras na Mac Léinn

Do you want  to build better social connections, develop your relationships with others, reduce anxiety and enhance your wellbeing? Come along to this workshop and learn about core empathy skills, how you can practice empathy, overcome barriers to empathy and put empathy into action.

This workshop will be delivered by Professor Pat Dolan, who holds the prestigious UNESCO Chair in Children, Youth & Civic Engagement. Cillian Murphy, Actor (Oppenheimer) and Patron of the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre with Pat and colleagues Gillian Browne and Mark Brennan recently coedited and launched the book “Ionbhá  - the empathy book for Ireland (Mercier Press).

No Registration required, just drop in!

Making Your Strengths Work for You

When: 1-2pm, Tues 3 Oct
Where: SC200A Seminar Room, Arts/Science Building (Located next to South entrance to Concourse near Smokey's)

In this session you have the opportunity to explore your personal strengths and increase awareness of how you can use them successfully at home, in work and in teams.

Spaces are limited - register here!

Diversity Table Quiz

When: 6.30-8.30pm, Tues Oct 3
Where: Sult, Áras na Mac Léinn

Ready, Set, Quiz! With rounds from BródSoc, African Carribean Society, Disability Soc, and more, test your knowledge and win great prizes! Get tickets here. All proceeds are going to Cancer Care West and Galway Rape Crisis Centre.

Storytelling for Interviews 

When: 5-6pm, Wed 4 Oct
Where: Careers Seminar Room, Arts/Science Building

Learn how you can use storytelling in interviews to bring a relevant experience to life, share what you learned from it, and convey something about you that you want the interviewer to appreciate and remember.

Registration required, register through Careers Connect here.

Cultural Potluck with BródSoc

When: 6pm, Thurs 5 Oct
Where: The Hub, Áras na Mac Léinn

Join the SU in collaboration with BródSoc and sample food from around the world from our very own students! Why not bring a dish from your own native culture? This is a great opportunity to celebrate diversity and meet new people.

Week 4 Wellbeing Week: 9–12 Oct

Mindfulness Meditation

When: 8.10-8.45am, Tues 10 Oct 
Where: AMB-G065, The Psychology Building

Take the chance to practice some simple mindfulness with this in-person meditation session, suitable for both beginners and for those already familiar with meditation. This practice of mindfulness takes place every Tuesday.

No Registration required, just drop in!

Finding Balance in my Student Life 

When: 1-2pm, Tues 10 Oct
Where: SC2001 Seminar Room, Arts/Science Building 

In this workshop you will explore how to create balance in your busy student life, making time for the things that are important to you. Learn techniques and a tool to help you find and keep your balance.

Spaces are limited, register here!

Ecosystems Nature & Health Walk

When: 12-12.50pm, Tues 10 Oct
Where: Starting at the Orbsen Building (Meet at the herb beds outside Moffatts)

Discover the buzzing sights and sounds of Ireland’s most biodiverse campus in this 50 minute long Nature & Health Walk. Getting outside is key to maintaining balance as a student. Why not pick up some tips on health & wellbeing while you enjoy your surroundings? 

No booking required, just turn up and dress weather appropriate!

In the meantime, why not 'Experience the Most Biodiverse Campus in Ireland by Sound'.  

Troubled by Procrastination: Goal Setting & Motivation Workshop

When: 5-6pm, Tues 10 Oct
Where: Bridge Room (Library lobby) & Online

Join Counselling & Wellbeing for the first workshop in the troubled by procrastination series, a series of workshops to help you find the motivation to get started on those difficult but important tasks.

In this workshop, 'Goal Setting & Motivation' you will identify, write up and begin taking action towards achieving your lifetime goals. Taking charge - your life, your time, your choice.

No registration required if attending in person, just drop-in! If you would like to attend virtually, please register here and you will be sent a zoom link closer to the workshop.

CEAPAIM Workshop: Get Study, Assignment & Exam Ready

When: 5-7pm, Tues 10 Oct
Where: G066, Psychology Building

This interactive, practical workshop led by Dr. Emma Frawley, Senior Occupational Therapist and Postdoctoral Researcher at the School of Psychology will focus on metacognition (thinking about our thinking), how it applies to third level study and student life. The workshop will be a mixture of psychoeducation, interactive tasks with space for individual reflection and group discussions. Movement breaks and snacks will be provided!

You can register for this workshop here.

Jigsaw 5 a Day for Mental Health

When: 6.30-7.30pm, Tues 10th October 
Where: Online

This FREE one hour workshop aims to provide you (young adults, aged 17-25) with the strategies necessary to build and take care of your own mental health. After this workshop, you should:

  • Gain an understanding of mental health
  • Become aware of mental health as a resource for living
  • Learn a range of practical strategies that you can implement to improve and manage your own mental health on a day to day basis
  • Learn how and where to get help
  • Become aware of the supports available in your local area

Online registration here.

FYI: First Year In

When: 3-3.30pm, Wed 11 Oct
Where: Library Training Room PC Suite

Geared especially for first year students: get to know YOUR University of Galway Library. What are the Library's collections and services, and how can they help you succeed during your studies at Galway.
 
Learn how to borrow a book - in print and electronic format!
 
Book in if you would like to attend online (you will receive a link before the session). You can also do so if you want to attend in person and would like a reminder email.
 
Feel free to also to drop-in in person on the day, no need to register!
 

Campus Biodiversity Trail

When: 12.15-12.50pm, Thurs 12 Oct
Where: Meet at Dangan Park & Ride

Join us to experience the health and wellbeing benefits of our biodiverse campus and find out about our research into how connecting to nature benefits our health and wellbeing.
 
No registration required - please dress for the weather, and wear waterproof shoes or boots. Participants will be able to return by bus at 12:50pm.
 
 

WRAP Programme

When: Sat & Sun, Oct 21 & 22
Where: TBC

Wellness Recovery Action Planning is a self-management and recovery system running on the 21 and 22 of Oct for anyone who wants to create positive change in the way they feel and increase their enjoyment in life.

Spaces are limited - Sign up here!

Need Help?

Check out our Support Wheel - a way for you to easily see what support is available to you, based on your needs and how you're feeling. Click on the wheel below to learn more.

Student Services Support Wheel