Christopher Scanlon fills us in on all the necessary for Cork’s top class Institute of Technology, CIT
What’s the local area like?
The local Bishopstown area is nice and quiet for the most part, however it has a good buzz around student accommodation areas.
What’s the story with accommodation? How expensive is it?
Accommodation is easy enough to find. There are various types, be it renting a house with your mates or going into student accommodation. For first years I advise student accommodation as it is a great way to meet new people and have a bit of a laugh! Prices range from €65-110 p/w
What’s the cost of living like?
Cost of living is the same as most places really however the food in the canteen is cheap and cheerful.
Is part-time work easy to come by?
Not really due to the recession but if you put your CVs in early enough you shouldn’t have a problem getting a job.
What are campus facilities like? Computers / Library / Banking / Residential Accommodation?
They are good. Both AIB and BOI are located on campus, the open access computers can be busy at times and the library is always busy during exams. Student accommodation is within 5 mins walking distance of the college too.
What kind of sports facilities are there?
The sports and societies in the college are great. You can also rent the astro-turf for a 5 a side game of footie for €10 for the hour and the tennis courts are €4 p/h
What’s the deal with the college bar? Good atmosphere? Cheap drinks?
Here in CIT we don’t have a college bar however the two main student bars in the area are The Bishopstown Bar and The Loft. Both are about 5-10 mins walk from the main campus. They both offer reasonable deals and give you discounts if you have class parties etc… all of which you can organise through the students union entertainments manager upstairs in the student centre.
What’s the grub like? Good food? Variety?
The grub is very good we have both the canteen located in the main building which serves cheap and cheerful food and the bistro in the student centre which is a bit more expensive but nicer.
What kind of clubs and societies can students join?
CIT has everything from the surfing club to family guy society. LGBT to the circus society. The list is endless but well worth doing. Get involved and meet new people is my tip.
What advice would you offer new students?
Get involved and join as many clubs as you can the more ya join the more friends you make and the easier college will be.
What’s the “worst thing” a new student can do?
The worst possible thing is try to do an exam with a hangover. It doesn’t help people trust me….
What’s “the best”?
Get out get active and have fun. Meet new people and make the most of your college life.
And finally, any other useful stuff you would like to add?
Learn how to cook before ya leave home. It helps and it gives ya more money for the valuable things in life… Like alcohol.