Welfare
Hey Everyone,
My name is Kevin O’Grady and I am the Vice President and Welfare officer for I.T Sligo Students’ Union for 2011/12. I am 23 years old and I’m originally from the lovely little resort that is Newport, Co Mayo. Last year I was your Clubs & Societies officer and have completed a higher Business degree with Recreation and Leisure.
I would firstly like to start off with a massive welcome to all the Fresher’s and International students that are coming to IT Sligo. An adventure awaits you. If you don’t know already college is where you meet new people, make friends for life, pull all nighters before exams and look back on for the rest of your life because it’s true, college days are the best days of your life. College should be a time of great fun and a time to broaden your mind, expand your horizons, try new things meet new people and learn more about the world around you.
To all of you who are returning and have passed exams a big Congrats and you know the Sceal and there is serious craic to be had. Hopefully a fun, enjoyable and carefree (within reason) year awaits you.
IT Sligo is an amazing place to study and experience and enjoy college life to the full. Two valuable pieces of advice that I give to you is Firstly, to get involved, join some of our wide range of Cubs & Societies and mingle with as many people as you possibly can. The more people you Know the easier and more enjoyable your time here at It Sligo. Secondly, find the balance between college and social life that is beneficial both socially and academically.
My role as Welfare Officer is to help with all non academic issues one may face throughout college. I’m here to provide support, representation and raise awareness for students in relation to sexual, physical and mental health, financial aid, accommodation issues and general welfare issues such as student security and even some information on grants.
I also point students in the right direction in terms of accessing support for whatever problem they may be facing. If I can’t help you, I’ll try my best to find someone who can. Some of the campaigns I aim to run in the upcoming year are Road Safety Awareness, Sexual Health and Guidance, Positive Mental Health, Drink Aware, Physical Health Week.
We here at ITSSU understand that being away from home can be tough especially if it’s your first time. Apart from the practical stuff like cooking your own meals, washing and looking after the house; it can also be daunting living away from home and trying to make new friends. That is why we are here to help in this transition. Make sure that you know that we are always here to offer help and guidance or even if only for a chat. So don’t be afraid to call in to my office and remember anything you discuss is dealt with in the strictest of confidentiality
Have a fantastic time and enjoy the coming year at IT Sligo
