College officers
There are many people who will help you get through and enjoy college.
While most colleges have officers with the following headings, the types of services they run varies, so always read the college material.
Accommodation officer:
Provides advice, tips and information on local accommodation, rental costs and sometimes an accommodation list. They can advise students on all matters relating to their accommodation. During the year, they can advise and sometimes mediate on any accommodation difficulties that arise.
Student services /student affairs:
Student services respond to and plan for student needs, often co-ordinates services such as medical, counselling, mentoring and child care/crèche facilities.
Students union:
Represents students, organises entertainment, advises on students issues. Some students unions assist with accommodation problems and can advise on all areas of student life.
Access officer:
Assists students with various issues, such as financial problems, educational worries and facilities / resources for people with disabilities. Many colleges also have separate disability officers. Some access officers administer the student Assistance Fund.
Admissions officer:
The Admissions officer is often the first point of contact when phoning a college. They will advise you on the administration of college life, deferring courses, course changes, etc.
Fees officer:
As the name suggests, the Fees officer assists with queries on fees, and administering the maintenance grant.
Getting help and support:
There is lots of help available to support you if you face any problems at uni or college. Asking for help when you need it is a mature and sensible thing to do. This is particularly important if you are finding it difficult to cope. Don’t suppress or try to ignore problems- getting help as early as possible can prevent problems growing or becoming unnecessarily complicated. See the Help section for supportive information and support organisation contact details.
You can check for further information on the college’s official website.
Content thanks to: Flying The Coop, Youth Work Ireland, Roscommon/ N.E. Galway
If you are at university or college there is often a free counselling service provided. See www.pleasetalk.ie for information on student support services at all the universities in the Republic of Ireland.
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