Sex might be a two way operation but it really calls for each individual to make their own decisions before getting under the covers. No one can tell you what to do; you are the only one that can decide what is right for you. Whatever you decide, stick to your guns and respect the decisions others make too.
If you are having sex, be smart about it, protect yourself. You wouldn’t go out in the rain without a coat so why have sex without protection - and by the sounds of it having a head cold beats having chlamydia.
There are many forms of contraception but like any form of medical intake, everyone is different so just because your friend uses one form it doesn’t mean it will suit you.
There’s a lot of choices out there for you:
Condom, The Pill, The Mini Pill, Diaphragm, Coil, Injectable, Natural, Patch, Female Condom, Implant, Intrauterine System (IUS), Morning After Pill
Information on all can be sought from the medical centre here on campus or online at www.sexualwellbeing.ie
It is important to remember that while many of the above prevent pregnancy, only condoms prevent STIs. That’s why you should always use a condom, even while using alternative forms of contraception.
Sexually Transmitted Infections are on the increase each year. Student populations are particularly prone to STI’s.
There are oodles of infections you can get such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Genital Warts, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, Pubic Lice (Crabs), Thrush, Trichomonas, Vaginalis - wait, there’s more - Molluscum Contagiosum, Syphilis, Scabies, Hepatitis B, Bacterial Vaginosis, HIV and AIDS , Herpes, Hepatitis A, oh yes, and a whole host of non-specific infections!
We aren’t doctors by any means so if you even think you might have an STI then go to the doctor or to the STI Clinic. The most common signs that you might have an STI are:
Remember that some STIs show no visible symptoms. You won’t always know if you need a check-up.
If you are sexually active and you or your partner might be having sex with someone else you should plan to have a check up every 6-12 months.
If you’re going to an STI Clinic here’s a heads up on what to expect:
Here are your local STI/GUM Clinics:
Limerick: University Hospital, Limerick (Phone: 061-482382).
Thurles: South Tipperary General Hospital, Nenagh (Phone: 051-842646)
Don’t worry these services are free and 100% confidential.
P.s. Embarrassment is for the embarrassed, not for the person who chooses to be smart about looking after themselves in terms of sexual activity. NEVER be embarrassed about getting checked – EVER!
At the end of the day, you have to look after yourself because no-body else will do it for ya!
Please check out www.sexualwellbeing.ie for a more comprehensive guide to STI’s and their symptoms.
We want you to have the best possible experience during your time in MIC. This involves having your wits about you and following the advice below to keep safe as a student. If you ever need assistance or support, please contact MISU, the nearest Garda Station or a college support service.
Driving
Cycling
Walking
Car
Bike
Burglary Prevention:
Most day-time burglaries take place in unoccupied homes. Use the following tips to help prevent a burglary:
Fire Safety Tips
The local community Garda runs a weekly on-campus clinic in the SU. Contact SU Reception (061) 400013 for more information
“I can’t graduate coz I was acting the maggot”
Although being a student gives you a sense of invincibility the reality is you are still a human who must abide by all the rules and regulations of society. Quite unfortunate we know, but such is life and there is nothing fun about being arrested.
Here is what you need to know so you don’t get arrested and end up not being allowed to graduate which is technically what you are here for in the first place.
There is a list of things not to do under the Public Order Act. To put it simply, use your common sense. Some of the things which you can be arrested for include;
Most importantly, if you get a criminal record you cannot be a teacher or take up other public jobs.
That’s the law bit over with but what is REALLY important to remember is that although the craic is ninety when everyone is out mid-week, there are still tons of people living in the city and surrounding areas who have a real job to get up to in the morning. To disturb them or their property is not only unacceptable on a legal level (they have every right to call the guards) but it’s not ok on a social level. College may be a laugh but remember, you are also deemed a responsible adult by society at this point so act like one.
Our neighbours here are pretty cool. You have to hand it to them, we are not mice and they are usually much more accepting of our boisterous antics than they have to be, so appreciate that.
Finally, if you are reported for unruly behaviour outside of the college grounds, it CAN still affect your degree. Fact! It is considered as bringing the college into disrepute. So the next time in the wee hours of the morning when you’re walking home (even though the SU have told you to get a taxi) and one of your buddies looks at you with that look of devilment and says “Will we…for the laugh?” … just think about it.
Also, the SU has a Personal Accident Insurance policy. It covers all full time students 24/7 so if you ever need to avail of it just call into the office!
It is important to plan your spending carefully while you are in college.
A helpful website for helping you manage your money is www.mabs.ie, where you can download their weekly spending diary. Try your best to keep track of your spending; your habits are bound to change when you see your week’s expenditure add up!
Both www.susi.ie and www.studentfinance.ie provide information on what funding is available, who is eligible for a grant and how to apply. The Student Grant section of www.studentfinance.ie is the most comprehensive source of information on the available schemes that you will find anywhere in Ireland. It provides a handy step-by-step guide to eligibility in clear, plain English.
The Student Grant is the main source of financial assistance and anyone who is thinking of embarking on further study should investigate whether they are eligible.
Students who live (your home house, not your student house) within 45km of Mary I receive the adjacent grant. The non- adjacent rate applies to everyone else.
Budgeting tips:
· Look out for student discounts! Your student card (and cards such as the student leap card) gives you access to some great deals in stores and online.
· Shop around for best value.
· Don’t be a brand snob!
· Cook in bulk, freeze, then microwave. If there are 4 of you in a house it might be an idea that one person picks a specific day to cook.
· Get a club card.
· Bring your lunch to college.
With the other stuff:
· An Siopa (Limerick) will provide you with all of your stationery needs at student-friendly prices.
· www.software4students.ie has a range of IT related products at discounted prices.
You should budget your money around the times your grant comes through although you can expect delays at the best of times. If you are concerned about your grant or have any major issues please contact the MIC Grants Office on 061-204909 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
MISU have a Food, Toiletries and Stationery Hub that is a support available for all students. If you are short of groceries or college supplies, drop in to the office and have a chat with a member of staff. You can get assistance instantly!
If you are under severe financial hardship while in college, we encourage you to make contact with the Sabbats in the SU or Maura Moore (Access & Disability Officer) on the Limerick Campus or Paula Hourigan (Senior Academic Administrator) on the Thurles Campus. We cannot perform miracles but it doesn’t mean we won’t try.
You can contact Maura on 061-204927 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and you can contact Paula on 0504 20535 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.