DIT Kevin Street student Maria Scannell fills us in on shabby-chic décor and fashion shows, all in the heart of Dublin city.
Introduce your university.
DIT Kevin Street is just one of a group of DITs. It’s where the majority of science and engineering courses are held. The rest are also located around Dublin city.
What’s the best thing about your college/university?
The best thing about DIT Kevin Street and the other DITs is where they are situated. The fact that it has a relatively small number of students and staff is a bonus, as lecturers are able to build a good relationship with their students.
The DIT Fashion Show is one of the highlights of the year. Students can sign up to help organise it or even model in it. It’s even featured on the TV programme Xposé!
What’s the worst?
The worst thing about Kevin Street is the décor. There is a lack of colour and comfort compared to the other DITs. The Aungier Street campus which is much more modern is just across the road. Their facilities are open to Kevin Street students.
What’s the local area like?
The local area couldn’t be better. It’s right in the middle of Dublin city. There are plenty of shops, restaurants and pubs right next door to the colleges. All buses and DART stations are within walking distance of the college.
What about accommodation? Is it expensive?
There is plenty of accommodation for students around the place, most within walking distance or a very short bus journey away. The Students’ Union can help with that.
What’s the cost of living like?
The cost of living depends on the person. If you choose to bring in lunch and eat it in the common student area The Snackery, or purchase lunch/dinner in the canteen, day to day living can be very reasonable. But if you decide to venture into town to eat it can be a little more expensive. Although, there are some students focused cafes and pubs on Camden Street that do lunchtime deals.
Is part-time work easy to come by?
Again, the college is in the city centre so part-time work is never a problem to come across. The notice board in the college always has a lot of job opportunities posted there.
What are the campus facilities like?
The college facilities aren’t fantastic, but there is everything you need. There is an ATM, a small AIB for lodgements, two or three computer rooms, a big canteen, a shop and The Snackery which has pool tables, a shop and plenty of seating. The library is quite small so it’s important to grab your spot early, especially close to exam time. Augnier Street library is available for Kevin Street Students to use which is much bigger.
What’s the food like? Is there a good variety? Is it expensive?
The canteen is a good place for a cheap, filling meal. It serves breakfast, lunch and dinner or you just grab a quick snack on the go. There is also a small shop to buy newspapers, notepads, pens, phone credit and snacks to help the study go faster.
What kind of sports facilities are there?
There is a gym on-site. It’s small but has everything you need. The yearly cost is very reasonable too and they offer classes in various activities also.
Are there a broad range of clubs and societies?
There are a vast range of clubs and societies in DIT. There is a day or two at the start of the academic year where you are invited to the hall to walk around, listen to some music, get a few goodies and join whatever club suits you. They range from the Physics Society, to paint balling, to DJ training.
Another great event is the DIT ski trip. This is where all the DITs come together and go skiing for a week. It has made a name for itself as one of the best college trips around. The cost includes accommodation, food and entertainment.
What’s the story with the college/local bar? Is there a good atmosphere? Is it cheap?
There is no student bar as Kevin Street doesn’t have a campus (Dublin city is more than enough), but right next door there is pub that does great student deals on food and drink and is always packed with students. It has a great atmosphere, especially after exams!
The Snackery also puts on weekly performances from bands and comedians during the day.
What advice would you offer to new students? For example, what’s the worst thing a new student can do? What’s the best?
The worst thing a new student in Kevin Street can do is to not join clubs or societies. As class groups tend to be small and it’s an opportunity to make friends with people outside of your course.
Overall, DIT offers a friendly enjoyable college experience.