Student Experience - UCC

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Nov 18, 2014 - services, projects and initiatives that are delivered under the student ... The Student Experience Office
Student Experience Issue 1: November 2014

NEWS

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1. W  elcome from the Head of UCC Student Experience read more »

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2. An Introduction to the Student Experience Office read more »

3. Themes for Development read more »

4. Spotlight on Disability Support Services (DSS) read more »

Story 1 Welcome to our UCC Student Experience Newsletter

5. Facilitating Engagement in Student Life read more »

6. Student Voice read more »

Other News read more » Story 4

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For info and submissions email: [email protected]

UCC Student Experience NEWS

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WELCOME

TO OUR NEWSLETTER I am delighted to be writing this welcome note as part of the very first UCC Student Experience Newsletter. We will be sharing news, events and projects relating to the work of the Student Experience Office and its connected professional services. Dr Ian Pickup

In our work we aim to facilitate a world class student experience through which all UCC students are empowered and supported to achieve their goals. Our approach is a holistic one, with the personal and professional development of our students throughout the student journey at its core. UCC is a great university with a proud and long standing tradition in providing and facilitating an excellent student experience. Of course, the student experience is supported and facilitated by everyone at UCC, as well as by external stakeholders, alumni and governors. We cannot achieve our aims without the on-going dedication, expertise and enthusiasm of all staff and stakeholders, and this newsletter aims to raise awareness of the wide range of ways through which our students are supported at every stage of their student journey. In this newsletter, we aim to provide background to the wide range of services, projects and initiatives that are delivered under the student experience umbrella. We will shine the light on each of our services and update the UCC community on key developments. I hope that you enjoy this first edition. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any queries, or ideas for helping to make the UCC student experience even better. Dr Ian Pickup Head of Student Experience

[email protected]

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AN INTRODUCTION TO

THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE OFFICE UCC strives to facilitate a world class student experience, incorporating high quality teaching, learning and research and a rich and dynamic range of opportunities for students to engage in activities outside the curriculum. The core of the student experience is a student’s chosen course of study, supported by a range of services, characterised by rigorously high standards, an emphasis on independent learning, encouragement to challenge received ideas, and top quality pastoral care. In addition however, and as importantly, the experience of a community environment and hospitable and inviting campus, and the opportunities which UCC provides in music and the arts, on the sports field, in special interest activities and in volunteering form a key part of student life at UCC. The Student Experience Office (SEO) leads and coordinates the strategic development and direction of policy and practice related to the UCC Student Experience in a range of functions and activities, working closely with other offices, departments, schools and colleges.

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OUR SERVICES 1. Access Programme comprising: – Disability Support Service – Mature Student Office – UCC PLUS+ 2. Budgetary Advisory Service 3. Career Services 4. Chaplaincy 5. Granary Theatre 6. Sport & Physical Activity 7. Student Accommodation 8. Student Counselling & Development 9. Student Health 10. Student Societies Administration 11. Students’ Union Administration 12. uLink Peer Support.

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THEMATIC WORKING

UCC Student Experience NEWS

In line with strategic aims of UCC and of the SEO, and in a deliberate effort to minimise ‘silo working’, areas of work in each of our services are mapped to thematic activity strands. These are clustered around aspects of the student journey and/or specific cross-cutting projects: • Contributing to Outreach and Transition into University • Supporting Student Retention, Progression and Success • Supporting Student Health and Wellbeing • Facilitating Engagement in Student Life • Supporting Transition to Work and Further Study Some student services are directly aligned to one such strand of activity, whilst others contribute to more than one area. Similarly, some services work in partnership with other services, departments, Schools, Colleges and units of the University to deliver outcomes for students within these strands of activity. This approach encourages shared working towards common goals, aims to maximise current and future use of resources, and recognises the importance of all facets of the student experience - wherever this is delivered, funded or managed. This framework is also being utilised to plan the development of the new Student Hub, one of the University’s leading strategic projects within the current planning cycle. The Student Hub will be featured in our next edition of this newsletter. Following a successful quality review in 2014, the SEO continues to develop its approach to facilitating a world class student experience. The quality review process helped to identify a number of thematic and cross service projects which will be designed to improve outcomes for students in a number of areas. We are currently developing a range of Student Experience Projects (STEPs) and updates will be provided in future editions of this newsletter.

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UCC Student Experience NEWS

CONTRIBUTING TO OUTREACH AND SUPPORTING SUCCESS: SPOTLIGHT ON DISABILITY SUPPORT SERVICES (DSS) The DSS supports over 1000 students with disabilities pursuing degree programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate level. In 2014/15 the Service has seen an increase of 30% in students with disabilities accessing UCC with the majority accepting places on merit having achieved the points for their degree programme. Students registered with the Service include students with physical and sensory disabilities, students with specific learning difficulties including those on the autism spectrum, students who experience significant ongoing illnesses and students with mental health difficulties. The DSS operates a holistic model of support aimed at enhancing independent learning wellbeing success and employability:

Assistive Technology Central to all the work of the DSS is assistive technology as technology empowers students with disabilities to achieve their potential.

The Assistive Technology Lab This is located on the ground floor of the Boole Library and hosts the latest technologies and software which supports students with a wide range of disabilities and is utilised by students daily from 10am to 9pm. A variety of specialised software and hardware is accessible in the Lab to enable access to course material in a format that is accessible to them. There are 3 high performance scanners that enable students to convert print material into an electronic format and access this in a format that is suited to their educational needs. DSS staff deliver training to students on a variety of software packages to ensure each student is making optimal use of the specialist software applicable to their needs.

Assistive Technology Outreach Programme The DSS delivers an Assistive Technology (AT) Outreach programme with schools in UCC’s catchment area to promote the use of AT. The Outreach Programme is

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focussed on developing awareness and training for teachers, parents and students by providing workshops in specific software for prospective students, parents, teachers and professionals in the field of education and disability. The success of this programme can be seen in the competency of entrants with disabilities studying at UCC on merit and utilising technology to support their learning.

Training for UCC Staff/Students Throughout the academic year Linda Doran delivers training in Assistive Technology to: 1. Staff as part to the HR Training Programme 2. Students in the Professional Masters in Education as well as the Postgraduate Diploma in Special Educational Needs. By linking with these programmes we hope to encourage and develop the use of AT in Primary and Second Level. Check out DSS webpage for more information on Assistive Technology: www.ucc.ie/en/dss/assistivetech/

South West Regional Alliance on Access The DSS links with UL to promote access to 3rd level for students with Sensory and Physical Disabilities. The project has identified a number of students in second level and both HEIs offer an AT support to these students together with a mentoring/coaching opportunity from current students in higher education. It is hoped that this interaction with the schools and students will increase access of these cohorts which are central to the targets set by both the National Access office and in our own institutional planning.

Promoting Panopto Note taking in lectures is a huge obstacle for many students registered with the DSS and as funding is reducing for individual note takers, the service has moved to facilitating students’ needs with use of Panopto software. The DSS has linked with Audio Visual to provide lecture capture equipment in teaching rooms across UCC over the past 2 years. Over 80 hours of lectures are now being recorded weekly in either audio or video and these recordings are made available to students registered with the DSS. This resource is another step towards mainstreaming supports for students with disabilities. Students are embracing the changes and becoming independent learners.

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SUPPORTING STUDENT HEALTH & WELLBEING

Student Health The UCC Health Matters team are delighted to announce that the second annual UCC Health Matters Day has taken place on Tuesday the 18th of November 2014. We hope that everyone enjoyed the day! The aim of this event is to inform and educate and empower staff and students of UCC to make positive healthy changes in their lifestyles. The day included information stands and activities such as laughter yoga to beat exam stress, exercise classes on the Honan Plaza, sexual health check-ups, and even a health check for bicycles by the Victoria Cross Bike Doctor!

Student Counselling & Development CALM (Computer Aided Lifestyle management) is a series of online, multi-media, self-help programmes available to students and staff of UCC 24/7 via www.ucc.ie/studentcounselling The CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) programmes are designed to assist in the areas of Anxiety; Stress; Low Mood; Alcohol & Drug misuse. The new Student Wellbeing Coordinator, Ms Maura O’Neill will assist students in accessing appropriate student supports and will work with colleagues to develop current and new wellbeing initiatives. Maura shares an office with Rebecca Murphy, PASS Coordinator in the Windle building.

Peer Support Rebecca Murphy PASS Co-ordinator explains to us what exactly Peer Support is: “uLink Peer Support is a support service primarily for incoming first year students, who are linked with a student in 2nd, 3rd or 4th year of their course. This student meets them at orientation, guides them through campus that day and to different workshops, and stays in touch via email, coffee mornings, group meet ups etc throughout the year. Peer Support Leaders also act as reps to clubs and societies and help first years to go to their first meeting.” If you’d like to get in touch with a uLink peer supporter, access full information as well as a list of PSLs, please see ulink.ucc.ie

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FACILITATING ENGAGEMENT IN STUDENT LIFE We chat to the Director of Sport and Physical Activity, Declan Kidney:

Declan Kidney

Semesterisation has really squeezed events together, but the students are adapting well and all events are up and running as per normal. Indoors we are hosting a couple of Intervarsity events over the coming weekends: Powerlifting (November 15), Volleyball (November 27-29) and the Judo Club are holding a training seminar on November 22nd. Out on the fields our Hurling and Football (Men’s and Ladies) squads have had great success in getting to the qualifying stages of their respective leagues. Preparations for our hosting of the Sigerson Cup Finals in February 2015 are in operation. Soccer and rugby games are in full flow ever week and our Hockey Club (Ladies and Men’s) have been competing in the Irish Hockey League, with the men playing at this level for the first time in the University’s history. In relation to fixtures and results – our new Sports Website and App are starting to come on stream and more information on this will follow in future newsletters. On the water, training and participation is ongoing with increased numbers in sub aqua, sailing, canoeing. A lot of credit should go to our Rowing Club Committee for making the club so vibrant after the departure of their Development Officer who has moved to a new role at Cambridge. Special thanks to all the alumni/UCC Staff who have come in to help this club build on the good work of the last number of years. Credit to the committees of all clubs - for example martial arts, racket clubs, dance etc for all their work on behalf of the participating students; because without their hard work a lot of these events would not be taking place. The UCC Sports Clubs are a great example of student leadership in action.

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UCC Student Experience NEWS

We chat to David O’Leary, the Societies Officer about societies within UCC: The first term has simply flown by and at this stage you will hopefully have seen the strong Society presence that is always around Campus. We currently have 103 active societies with the addition this year so far of Fermentation Society, Korean Society, Orchestra Society and Engineers Society. Since the start of term our societies have run 554 events - an average of 60 events every week. Full details of our weekly events can be found at our website www.uccsocieties.com and also our weekly newsletter goes out every Monday morning. The introduction of semesterisation provides many challenges for the office particularly keeping students engaged in society activities due to the earlier exams in December, so one has to keep reinforcing the benefits of student engagement and the skills students acquire from running and managing their own society. At the time of writing, it’s very busy with Mental Health week with plenty of activities such as food fairs, live music sessions, film screening, talks from renowned speakers and plenty more. Don’t forget our Choral Society host their annual “Choral by Candlelight” on the 3/4/5th December with a selection of festive musical number that will surely get you in the mood for Christmas even at this early stage! Tickets are on sale at the Visitors’ Centre.

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SUPPORTING TRANSITION TO WORK AND FURTHER STUDY: EMPLOYABILITY NEWS The first semester is a hive of activity for our Career Services team, with a focus on providing our students with a range of employability related experiences.

UCC Volunteering Fair 2014 This year the UCC Volunteering Fair was hosted by the Career Services and was held on the 21st September in Devere Hall. The Fair featured 45 stands from organisations involved in a range of sectors such as international development, education, animal welfare, human rights and mental health. In addition to international organisations such as Trocaire and Amnesty International, the fair had a strong emphasis on promoting local organisations. Cork based organisations included Cork Penny Dinners, Cork Life Centre, and Cork Mental Health Foundation. Approximately 1000 students passed through Devere Hall on the day, making the Fair a great success.

Students can gain recognition for volunteering In addition to exposing UCC students to volunteering opportunities, the Volunteering Fair also aimed to expand the links between UCC and voluntary organisations. This was achieved through the promotion of UCC Works, a programme run by the Career Services which aims to recognise the learning students gain from their involvement in extra- curricular activities. This year the UCC Works team are aiming to significantly increase the number of students receiving the award through the volunteering pathway.

UCC Works: We need your help to build on last year’s success Last year up to 500 students received a UCC Works award. This year we hope to further increase that number, for that we need your support! If you would be interested in getting involved in UCC Works as an internship provider we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact Adel Coleman, at [email protected] for more information on the programme and how to register. Further information available at www.ucc.ie/en/careers/uccworks/

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UCC Student Experience NEWS

Jobs Roadshows: A Roadmap to Employment Opportunities Over the past month UCC Career Services organised six Job Roadshows in the following areas: IT, Legal Sector, Accountancy, Food & Retail Industry, Banking & Finance and Engineering. The Roadshows gave UCC students a wonderful chance to engage with employers from 43 companies and gain insight into the wide range of employment opportunities available. Employers generally spoke about the application process for their graduate programmes, and gave insight into the life of a graduate in their company. All Job Roadshows are recorded and students can catch up and listen to the speakers and view their PowerPoint presentations by going to www.ucc.ie/careers and click on the Career & Employer Events section.

Graduate Careers Fair – October 15th and 16th 2014 HUNDREDS OF JOBS ON OFFER. The UCC Graduate Careers Fair was a very successful event – rated highly by both students and graduates, and also the employers. This year’s 2 day event gave UCC students the chance to meet over 80 employers in a wide range of industry sectors, and to find out about the opportunities they have on offer. There were hundreds of graduate jobs available, both in Ireland and overseas, as well as internships and graduate training programmes. The Graduate Careers Fair on October 14th and 16th gave students and graduates the best opportunity to engage with potential employers. Employers and UCC Careers Staff tweeted live from the event, with photographs at the stands throughout the day.

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Alumni Focus Róisín O’Neill studied Drama in UCC, class of 2011, and worked extensively with the Granary Theatre whilst here. A prominent member of Dramat appearing in many productions, Roisin look fondly back on her time and experience:

Róisín O’Neill

“During my time at UCC the Granary Theatre was always buzzing with activity. It was the heart of the college for those of us interested in theatre. I could always walk in and find a friendly smile, or at least a stressed out stage manager! Although I always knew I wanted to be on the stage, I had a great time working as an ASM on Spring Awakening for Tony Mc Cleane-Fay. As part of my Drama and Theatre Studies degree I interned on the show for both its Granary and Everyman runs. The patience and guidance shown to me helped me to understand all the work that the backstage crew do. It helped me to gain the greatest respect and admiration for those that make it happen behind the scenes. I would definitely say it’s an experience that has improved my character.” Róisín recently debuted in the Abbey Theatre’s acclaimed production of John B. Keane’s ‘Sive’ in the leading role. ‘Sive’ is now on tour and will be in the Everyman in Cork from 25 - 29 November.

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STUDENT

VOICE

IN THIS SECTION OF EACH EDITION WE WILL PROVIDE A STUDENT PERSPECTIVE ON THE UCC STUDENT EXPERIENCE. To kick us off we hear from Barry Nevin, the Students’ Union Communications and Commercial Officer who answers the frequently asked question “So what is the Students’ Union, and what does it do?” This question is asked – many times a year – and it is so difficult to define. The Students’ Union is made up of each and every student within UCC. It is run by the SU Executive who report to Student Council – a body with one rep per class in the University. A lot of the time, our work can be quite intangible, ranging from giving student input on discussions to ensuring that decisions that would have a negative impact on students are opposed. This involves sitting on a huge range of committees while actively listening to the issues of students on the ground.

Barry Nevin

We also provide a significant number of services to students. We run a second hand book shop, we have a dedicated Welfare Officer to offer advice on Mental, Sexual and Physical Health to students, along with referral to counselling services, assistance with accommodation issues and much, much more. We have an Education Officer who helps students with any academic issues and will take on case work to ensure these issues are resolved. We run an online grinds service to help students who are struggling with certain subjects. We have an Entertainments Officer who organises events for students when they need to unwind, and a Campaigns Officer who is responsible for campaigning locally and nationally on issues affecting students and much, much more. In essence, the Students’ Union is here to ensure that each and every student can make the most of their time in UCC. From the day they come into UCC to the day they graduate, no issue is too big or too small. We represent the student voice across campus and on a national level through the Union of Students in Ireland.

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The Student Experience Office in the North Wing

Student Experience Contact Us You can get in contact with the Student Experience Office through: 1. Web: www.ucc.ie/en/studentexperience/ 2. Email: [email protected] 3. Twitter: @UCCExperience We would be delighted to hear from you!

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