Finance the main worry of DCU students

Finance is the main issue affecting students at DCU, with increasing numbers seeking advice and support since the recession began according to the Students’ Union.

SU education and welfare officer, John Murphy said, “the biggest worry this year is financial. With the recession going on, it’s really affected everyone, including students.”

“The big issue this year is grants and being able to pay the registration fee. With the delay in grants, this had had a knock-on effect where students were struggling to get the registration fee paid in time,” he revealed.

Murphy revealed that the other main areas of concern affecting students are exams and health. With job prospects for graduates in Ireland looking very grim, students are trying harder than ever to get the best degree they can.

The job market is expected to remain extremely competitive into the future so students who want to be successful are finding exam time very stressful.

Helena Ahern, head of the counselling and personal development service said that they are dealing with concerns of students across the “full spectrum” of the university.

“We deal with students from first year to final year, to postgraduates and doctorate students,” she said.

If a student finds themselves in a worrying financial situation, Helena recommends doing an income and expenditure audit to reveal any areas that they could make savings.

If the problem requires more serious intervention, there is a financial assistance service available in the colleges student advice centre.

Students can contact the head of the Student Advice centre, Deirdre Moloney if faced with very difficult financial trouble by emailing her at deirdre.moloney@dcu.ie.

Helena advises students with any major worries or concerns that “seeking support is a healthy step as stress can escalate”.

She said that in a situation like this “it is better to act sooner rather than later”.

As emphasised in the Please Talk campaign, she says that “talking is a sign of strength not of weakness”.

Students who wish to avail of the counselling and personal development service can call to the secretary, Marie McNamara in CG72.

Alternatively, they can call 017005165 for counselling information or email counselling@dcu.ie.

Anyone who wishes to talk to someone can also contact Niteline on 1800 793 793.