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Study skills > Module 1 > Page 6

 

General concerns - but what about me?

Trains, boats and planes - getting there

How are you going to reach college every day? Can you get there in time? Check that there is a public transport service that will bring you to college. Gather timetables and information on discount travel cards. Do you need to get a student card that will facilitate discounted travel? Do you need to get rain gear, a bicycle or learn to drive? Is there parking? Start thinking about this now.

Leaving the nest - accommodation

If your chosen college is located too far from home and daily travel is prohibitive then you need to organise accommodation as soon as you receive an offer of a college place. Accommodation in or near universities is notoriously difficult to find once college starts and extensive searching may be required at any time of the year.

Ask friends or family to help you with this and always visit before signing a lease or agreeing to rent a room or house. Check accessibility and parking arrangements. Sort out bills, agree tenant and landlord responsibilities, ask for a rent book and organise direct payment method through a local bank.

Employment - to work or not to work?

If you need extra cash and are in a position to work, it is a good idea to begin work as soon as possible so that you settle into your job and establish a routine. Inform your employer of your availability when you get your full timetable and only work as many hours as you are comfortable with. Make sure that you allow time for social and extracurricular activities – college life is about balance and this entails work and play.

Checklist of other concerns:

• do you need childcare or crèche facilities?
• do you need a local doctor or dentist?
• do you need a resident’s parking permit?
• have you informed your bank, doctor, social welfare office of your change of address?
• locate local supermarkets.
• familiarise yourself with bus routes to and from home and college.

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