According to John Fitzgerald, former President of the Students' Union, The National College of Ireland has all that the capital has to offer right on its doorstep.  But in addition to the surrounding IFSC, with all its bars and restaurants, this campus at the heart of the city has a character of its own...

What's Dublin like?
Since moving campus in 2002 to the IFSC, NCI has been right in the heart of Dublin City. This means we pretty much have all that the capital has to offer right on our doorstep. With Busaras just a stone's throw away also, NCI students can avail of public transport that'll get them out of the city in a flash, whether it be home to 'da sticks' with a bag of clothes for washing, a short bus ride to the airport or just as a speedy escape route out of the city. Connolly Station, Heuston Station and the brand new Docklands Station are all very close and most Dublin Bus routes (the 90 and 151 pass the front door) are nearby also, so it's pretty easy to get around, especially when you're wizzin' through heavy traffic in the bus lanes.

Overall, Dublin's a pretty lively but laid-back city that has something for every student whether you're partial to a chat over coffee, a pint, a good meal, a decent night's entertainment or a de-stressing workout... there's so much to choose from.

Like most capitals and cities, there are some parts of Dublin which are to be avoided after nightfall otherwise just stay aware, stick to the main roads, with your mates where possible and you'll be ok.

What are campus facilities like?
The library is run very well in NCI and students will find the online database and staff helpful if they keep the munching and chatting to a minimum and remember their student cards! The photocopiers are located in the library as well and you should try and use them at quiet times to avoid queuing. There are a number of computer labs in the college where students can access information and type up projects, which is better than the library as computers there tend to get busy during the day, especially near exams, and some of them are strictly for looking up the online database.

AIB is located right beside the college and there is a Bank of Ireland branch at the entrance to the IFSC itself, but there are number of ATMs scattered around the area and in the shops as well. The medical centre in the IFSC is a great service for students as it only costs €8 per visit with your student card. There are two childcare centers right beside the college which is great for those full and part-time students who prefer to have their kids nearby.

What is the college bar like?
There isn't an on-campus bar for students but there are a number of really good boozers close by. Laguna, right across the road, has become our regular haunt after students were treated badly in the nearby Excise Bar. Laguna is a great spot for catching up on all the latest, with plasma screens all around the walls and even a giant fish tank above the bar to keep you entertained! Many of our student nights start off here and then move on to one of our usual venues across town.

What about the canteen at NCI?
Scholars Restaurant in the college is grand for some good nosh though it can be a little pricey as it isn't subsidised. NCI Students are absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to eating in the area, with dozens of restaurants, bars and sandwich bars all competing for your business. Whether you’re in the mood for a huge carvery, a foot-long Subway, a bagel, coffee, pizza or pasta, you will find it all within a two minute walk, some of which also offer student discounts! There’s even a Farmer’s Market every Wednesday if that wasn’t enough, where you will find the finest Thai Green Curry this side of Chiang Mai, along with delicious fresh food from around the world.

What kind of sports facilities are there?
There are two gyms right next to NCI. SV Fitness is a student focused gym with low rates and good equipment but with no pool. Sano Vitae Gym under the Clarion Hotel is a very up market gym with Jacuzzi, swimming pool and everything you could ever want, although you really do pay for it. NCI also have an agreement with Dublin City Council so students can use their facilities around the city for only €3 a go. There really isn't too much in the way of grass (to walk/play on) in the IFSC, but clubs and societies have access to Sports Co in Ringsend and Council playing pitches if they wish.

What kind of clubs and societies can students join?
There are over 35 clubs and societies in NCI, more than ever before, where students can do anything from paintballing to go-karting to surfing. Our Rugby Club won the Div 2 All Ireland League in 2006 and the Soccer Club has two full teams which play in different leagues. Overall, there are so many to choose from with something for everyone. Getting involved in just a few that you might be interested in will really help you settle into NCI.

What are the perks of living in Dublin?
Dublin is probably the best city at the moment to find such a diverse range of bars and restaurants which cater for all tastes. Broadway Pizzeria do great pizza and amazing pastas, Milano’s are at their usual Italian best, and the endless choice of City Centre restaurants are only a few minutes walk away! . UGC, The Savoy and many more cinemas are located only minutes away in the city from the IFSC and most offer student discounts.

Is accommodation expensive?
Dublin's pretty expensive when it comes to accommodation these days - approximately €90-120 per week in most cases. Our on-campus residence is comfortable enough though electricity is extra. Basically, wherever students choose to live, they should be aware of their rights as tenants.

Is it easy to find a part-time job?
With the amount of new restaurants in the immediate area, finding a job has never been easier. Retail outlets around town are always hiring too as well as cafes, bars and nightclubs. NCI also has a good relationship with the firms in the IFSC, with many taking on interns for the summer months, a great way to get your foot in the door of a large company.

What's the worst thing a new student at your college can do?
The worst thing, although it's a tad cliché at this stage, would be to not get involved in college. It’s one time in your life when you can really learn a lot socially not just academically. Fresher’s Week and Rag Week are the best times to go out on a limb and buzz around with every body. NCI has a great student community, where everybody is approachable and we try to involve everyone.

What's the best?
The best thing new students can do is to be yourself and have fun. Nights out and clubs and societies are the best way to mingle with new people and make great friends. You should have the freedom to be yourself and if anyone says otherwise, we'll send the boys around!