1 Arranging Your Supports

You may like to explore the different supports available before you start your college journey.

Remember, you may also be entitled to avail of ‘reasonable accommodations’ – these are adjustments that enable you to participate in the academic assessment process on a fair and equal basis.

 

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2 Healthy living

This article focuses on the importance of healthy habits for wellbeing. The article provides useful tips and information regarding physical wellbeing, diet, responsible alcohol use, exercise and sleep.

‘Maintaining a healthy diet while at University can be challenging due to busy schedules. However with some planning and mindful choices, you can prioritize your health and well-being’

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3 Studying remotely in times of social distancing

The article provides practical assistance with studying during and after the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting lockdown. It covers mental health and well-being considerations as well as guidance in navigating university systems, services and people you can liaise with. We also offer guidance on prioritising your work, taking into account a healthy work-life balance.

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4 What is university really like?

It’s hard to know what university is like until you get there, and all universities are different.  In some ways it’s easier to describe what university isn’t! Well, everyone says that it is not like school or college, or work, or home. So, what IS university really like? We aim to give you a realistic view, based on things students told us they wish they had known.

“Remember that everyone’s University experience is unique, and your own experiences will depend on factors such as the institution you attend, the program you choose, your personal goals and your level of involvement. It’s an exciting and transformative time in life, offering a wealth of possibilities for learning, growth and exploration.”

 

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6 Choosing a Course and University

“Choosing a course and University is an important decision that can have a significant impact on your future career and personal growth.”

This article will help you decide what to study, and at which university. We provide practical tips on how to compare universities, how to prepare for open days and who to talk to at these events.

Please see video below from AHEAD ‘ I don’t know what for students with Disabilities’ for more insight-

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7 The Careers and Employability Service at TUS Midwest

The Careers & Employability Service at TUS Midwest plays a crucial role in supporting students and alumni in their transition from education to the workforce. TUS Midwest Careers and Employability Service supports individuals to explore their career options, develop essential employability skills, as well as preparation for college placements/work experience.

The Careers and Employability departments is invaluable as this support enables students to align their interests, and aspirations with exciting and fulfilling career options !

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8 Funding Support for Students with a Disability

Most students registering with the Disability Support Service request access to a range of supports that help the student to reach their full potential while studying. Most student needs are accommodated through these supports. Some of these disability student supports are funded by the Department of Education and Skills and Higher Education Authority. 

After registering online, students who wish to avail of specialist support will be invited to meet with a member of the Disability Support Service Team, on a one-one basis, to undertake a needs assessment and to discuss a support plan.

 

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11 Telling people at college about your autism

Telling people about your autism at university is also known as ‘disclosure’ or ‘declaring a disability’. Disclosure is a personal decision, whether you choose to disclose or not, remember that autism is just one aspect of your identity, you have many strengths and talents to offer !

More information about what this means and why it might be important to you is available in the article below.

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12 How to manage exams

This section looks at how to manage exams. This includes information about what to expect, how to prepare for an exam and practical tips to help you perform well. The exams that you will take at University are the formal assessments, to demonstrate your knowledge, understanding and skills in your respective academic subjects. These exams will serve as an essential component of the learning process and are designed to assess your comprehension of course material. As well as your understanding of the module outcomes. Assessment will be applied through formal exams and/or continuous assessment (CA). Continuous based assessment may include practical projects, research papers, essays or group assignments.

The traditional written exams may consist of short answers, essay questions or multiple-choice questions. Or a combination of the above. Depending on the nature of your programme of study. Some subjects may require practical exams, especially in the areas of science, engineering and the arts. These practical exams will involve hands-on-skills and the application of theoretical knowledge.

Remember exams results provide feedback to students on their performance, helping them to identify areas for improvement and informing their future study strategies ! Exams represent just one method of assessment. Other forms of assessment such as projects and practical experiences, also play a significant role in assessing students’ learning and capabilities !

 

 

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13 Talking about your autism

By talking about your autism and advocating for yourself, you make an important step towards feeling comfortable with others. This activity introduces the advantages of being open about your autism, and give some practical tips.

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14 Meeting people at College

Remember that University is a time of exploration and personal development, building a strong network can enhance your college experience and create a memorable college journey !

Meeting people at university can be an enriching part of your college experience. Many students find meeting new people and making friends amongst the most exciting but also one of the most difficult aspects of starting university.

Orientation events are designed to help new students get acquainted with the campus and each other. Participating in these events is an excellent opportunity to meet fellow First Year students and to start building connections with your peer group and college staff.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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16 What is group work really like?

Group work at college can be a valuable learning experience, as it promotes teamwork, collaboration and the development of interpersonal skills. However, it can also be a challenging experience.

Working in a group with other students is part and parcel of university study. Quite a few people worry about it, and some have real problems with it. This activity looks at the main issues people have with group work and gives you some practical tips for your own study.

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17 What happens if I have Practice Placements on my course

Practice placements are an essential part of many college courses as they support students to transition from academic learning to the professional field in which they are interested in. Practical placements offer a valuable experience that contributes significantly to a students’ personal and professional development. At TUS Midwest you will be informed about placements procedures, responsibilities and timings on your course through your lecturers and academic department. You can also link with the Disability Support Service Team or Careers and Employability if you have an questions or concerns in relation to your college placement.

You can also find our more information on placements at TUS Midwest here- TUS | Work Placements. 

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18 What are Tutorials really like?

Tutorials compliment traditional lectures by providing an opportunity for active learning and interaction. Tutorials can contribute significantly to students’ academic growth as well as preparation for future endeavors ! Tutorials provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students can actively engage without feeling overwhelmed by a large group setting.

Tutorials provide an opportunity to explore topics by discussion, and to identify and resolve any questions that may arise after lectures. Tutorials provide a smaller, more interactive learning environment in comparison to lectures. This learning environment enables students to gain a deeper understanding of the course material , theories and concepts being explored. Tutorials often involve active learning strategies, such as group activities. The core objective of this learning strategy is to promotes critical thinking and discussions.

This section will look at how to prepare for a tutorial, and what to expect from one.

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19 What are computer lab sessions really like?

On technical courses such as Computing, Forensics, Games Development or Creative Technology you will spend a lot of tutorial time in a computer lab. Whilst you’ll often focus on what you’re coding or designing, you may also take part in discussions and group tasks, like in a traditional seminar. Read this article to learn more about the nature of lab sessions.

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20 Managing conflict

Different people have different expectations and styles of working or living together. Sometimes that can lead to conflict. This article will help you recognise causes of conflict and proposes strategies to resolve it.

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22 How to reduce anxiety and stress

It is normal to feel anxious when starting something new, like a university course, and everyone feels stress at difficult times of the year like exam periods or when there is a lot happening in their lives. It can sometimes be hard to relax. This activity is about helping you to manage these feelings and includes tips from other autistic students.

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