Semester Two

Well done on completing your first semester! You have made it this far – you can make it through Semester Two too! 

Your second semester is an opportunity for a fresh start. Here are five top tips for you as you start your second semester:

1. Reflect on your first semester

Identify what worked well for you and what didn't. Use this insight to set realistic goals for the upcoming semester. Celebrate your successes along the way and adjust your goals as needed The Student Success Coaching team provide one-to-one or group sessions to help you decide on achievable actions to move forward and succeed in achieving your goals. Check out our first podcast in the Student Success Series – Getting Semester Two off to a Good Start! Listen in now. 

2. Manage your time and stay organised

Get familiar with your new timetable for Semester Two. Take time to create your personal schedule that includes dedicated study time, extracurricular activities, and relaxation time. Take a look at this vlog from Fiona O'Brien, second year BA Human Rights student who shares her experience about time management, especially when it comes to completing assignments. Keep your materials, notes, and assignments organised and consider planners or apps to track your deadlines.

3. Get involved with clubs and societies 

If you didn’t get around to joining a sports club or society last semester, don't worry. You will have a chance to attend Socs Day and the Volunteer Fair on Wednesday 15 January, and Clubs Day on 22 January, to find out more about the many ways you can get involved – there will be something for everyone! Joining a club or society or taking part in volunteering opportunities not only gives the you the chance to meet new people and make friends, it will also provide you with a way of taking a break from your studies and helps you to develop new skills. In this video, hear from our students as they share their experiences and favourite moments, challenges, and how these experiences have enriched their lives.

4. Mind yourself

Prioritise your physical and mental well-being. Get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly. Establishing healthy habits contributes to your overall success and ability to manage stress. While staying on top of your studies is crucial, it's essential to maintain a balance with your social life. Make time for friends, family, and relaxation. Building a strong support network contributes to your overall wellbeing.

5. Ask for help

If you're facing challenges academically or personally, make sure you reach out for help. It might be a relief to know that there are many supports on offer that you can access when you need them. Click on the Support Wheel to find supports relevant to your needs, or reach out directly to your Student Support Officer for support and advice to help you get back on track. Take a look at this video, where our students share their experiences of asking for help at University of Galway. We are here for you! 

Week One: Restart Your Routine

Podcast: Student Success Series - Getting Semester Two off to a Good Start!

Majella Perry, Student Coaching Manager, and Raimey O'Boyle, former Students' Union VP for Education, discuss the importance of finding balance and planning for a successful semester two. Listen now. Transcript available here. 

Freshers' Point

Come along to Freshers' Point, where you can meet other first years, enjoy a cuppa, play some games, or just chill out. A relaxed and fun environment, led by fellow students who know exactly what it’s like to be in your shoes. Check back later for more info. 

Socs Day - Wednesday 15 January

When: 11–3pm, Wednesday 15 January
Where: Áras na Mac Léinn 

Get involved in university life and take your pick from 130 Societies, learn about volunteering opportunities and get your questions answered at the support stands. Lots of freebies and food on the day - don't miss out! 

Week Two: Rebuild Your Connections

Podcast: Student Success Series - Coaching for Success

Niamh Tobin, Success Coach chats with Raimey O'Boyle, former SU Vice President for Education 23/24, about the services of a success coach and how they can help support you during your time at university. Success Coaching events are open to all students.  Listen now. Transcript available here. 

Student Vlog - Friendships

Larissa Di Lucia second year medicine student, talks about the importance of friendships. She shares her insights on how joining clubs and societies has been instrumental in building connections and friendships during her academic journey. Watch Larissa's vlog for great tips and ideas. 

Clubs Day - Wednesday 22 January

When: 12 - 4.30pm, Wednesday 22 January
Where: Sports Centre Hall, Kingfisher

There are now over 40 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 it's a fun way to keep fit. 

Learn more about all our clubs.

Design Your Galway - Wednesday 22 January - Wednesday 5 February

Are you up for taking part in a 3 week programme to help you succeed in life and university? Collaborate with other first year students in this series of workshops facilitated by the Student Success Coaches, and learn skills and tools for success. Take a look at the themes each week below, Week 3 includes a 1-1 coaching session. Refreshments provided at each workshop.

When: 12-1pm, Wednesdays 22 and 29 January and Wednesday 5 February
Where: AMB 1004, Arts Millennium Building

• Week 1 - Jan 22: Using Life Design to Build a Great Semester 2 
• Week 2 - Jan 29: Design More Energy into Your Life 
• Week 3 - Feb 5: Generating Ideas and Prototyping using Life Design 1-1 coaching appointment (at a time that suits you).

Sign up on this link. If you have any questions about the programme please contact successcoach@universityofgalway.ie

Week Three: Restore Your Balance

Check back later for more info. 

Week Four: Reframe Your Mindset

Check back later for more info