
Welcome to your weekly email from your Students’ Union / Fáilte chuig do r-phost seachtainiúil ó Chomhaltas na Mac Léinn
Election of Postgrad Student to Údarás na hOllscoile
The call for nominations is open until 5pm tomorrow Fri 22nd Jan 2021 for any NUIG Postgrad students interested in running for this position. Údarás na hOllscoile, the Governing Authority, is the ultimate decision-making body in the University. More info and application link HERE
Kilometre Challenge
Why not sign up here for our Kilometre Challenge this February? Set yourself a target number of kilometres to cover during the month and get walking/running/cycling 1st-28th Feb. All funds raised will go to the SU Charities – Galway Rape Crisis Centre, Galway Autism Partnership and Helplink Mental Health.
Stitch & Bitch!
We are setting up a weekly Stitch & Bitch knitting group on Tuesday evenings where you can pop along for a chat while you work on your current craft project. We also hope to work on some group knitting projects. If you are interested in joining email studentsunion@nuigalway.ie
Get your New Student Leap Card
Good news if you need a Student Leap Card we can now process your application and post the card out to you until TODAY Thurs 21st Jan! Details on how to apply are HERE
Please note your order number expires after 7 days so please apply promptly.
Our Hump Day Hoolies are on every Wednesday at 7.30pm. Join us and comedian Steve Bennett for lots of craic, comedy and speed friending! Get your tickets HERE
Dúil agat sa Ghaeilge?
Glac páirt i gCoiste Gaeilge an Chomhaltais. Cabhraigh linn feachtais a rith leis an nGaeilge a chur chun cinn in OÉ Gaillimh, Seachtain na Gaeilge ina measc. Foghlaim scileanna nua, déan cairde nua agus cothaigh grá don teanga. Déan teagmháil le su.gaeilge@oegaillimh.ie le tuilleadh eolais a fháil
Financial Aid Fund Still Open
More info HERE
If you need stationery, home school supplies or stuff for arts & crafts. You can now shop online 24/7 at the SU Shop online shop HERE
Mature Students Drop-In Clinics
Weekly drop-In Clinics are available for all Mature Students. Here you can discuss issues, challenges, ideas, suggestions, and much more. The clinics are hosted by your SU Mature Students’ Officer Michelle Mitchell on Zoom and are on 10am-12pm Tues and 2pm-4pm Thurs (links below). You will sign in and meet other mature students in a general meeting – if there is something you wish to discuss privately; you will be sent to a breakout room and you would meet Michelle alone. So please join us on Tuesdays and Thursdays to chat, vent or laugh – regardless of what your needs are – in a safe and welcoming space. More info email: su.maturestudents@nuigalway.ie
Attention Postgrad Students
For any postgrad students out there feeling the winter blues, the Postgrad Society is putting on a bunch of online events to catch up and hang out – from coffee mornings and bake-alongs to a book club and watch parties. Feel free to drop by to meet other Postgrad students in a friendly social space.
You can sign up to the society here or find them on Twitter and Facebook
The Union of Students in Ireland (USI) represent + work on behalf of 374,000 students across the island of Ireland. Nominations for positions on the 2021/22 USI Executive Team are now open and close Weds 24th Feb. Give us a shout on su.president@nuigalway.ie if you’re interested in running for USI Elections and we can give you more info.
LIFT Leadership – Join a Group!
NUI Galway has purchased the license for this semester to run the LIFT Leadership programme. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to focus and build your leadership skills and potential! Small groups will be made with a trained facilitator and run for Feb and March.
Sign up here. There will be an online short welcome for any questions or drop a line to lift@nuigalway.ie
C&E (Consultants & Entrepreneurs) Society Virtual Case Competition
This is a platform for you to collaborate with fellow NUIG students to solve a realistic business problem and propose best possible solution. It’s a perfect opportunity to practice your analytical and problem-solving skills ahead of the Irish Student Consulting Group’s (ISCG) inter-varsity case competition on 29th Jan.
Register Here Contact – Instagram, LinkedIn
SUMS is offering additional support to NUIG Students taking Access/Foundation courses and Mature Students from this Fri 22nd Jan. Normal SUMS Service hours will resume Mon 22nd Feb. More info HERE
The Library is closed but they still have the following services available:
- Click & Collect – Order and collect books you need for exams and research.
- Scan & Deliver – Request a journal article or book chapter and receive it electronically.
Are You Experiencing Exam Stress?
You can speak to NUIG Chaplaincy support staff if you experience exam stress from 9am-7pm Mon-Fri (11th-22nd Jan) on:
- Phone: 091 497 999
- Email: examstress@nuigalway.ie
- International calls/text : +353 89 462 3763
- Video Calls available by appointment
The Power of Disability Conference
The USI and AHEAD Power of Disability conference takes place today Thurs 21st Jan and tomorrow Fri 22nd Jan. This two day event will include discussions, presentations and feedback sessions encouraging students with disabilities to be leaders on their own campuses and provide information for students and Students’ Union officers on the issues facing students with disabilities. Registration is free, but you must book your spot HERE to get the link!
The Student Health Unit is open and you can book an appointment online HERE. For students with Covid symptoms who need a test they can provide remote assessment and referral even if you are not in Galway. For urgent issues you can call 091 492 604.
Make Galway More Accessible
Would you like to join others in influencing universal access and disability inclusion in Galway City? Contact fiona@gcp.ie to join the Zoom meeting at 11am on Thurs 28th Jan.
Women Lead is a two-day event Fri 29th and Sat 30th Jan which aims to empower, encourage, inspire and motivate self-identifying women to put themselves forward for leadership positions in their Students’ Union, clubs and societies on campus or any other positions of influence. This two-day event will include discussions and presentations by inspirational women on everything from running a campaign to what it’s like to be a CEO! As a participant you will have the opportunity to engage with empowering panel discussions, motivational talks and learn invaluable skills that will help you running for election.
Registration is free, but you must book your spot HERE to get the link!
Hardiman PhD Scholarship Scheme Open
Applications are now open for the 2021 Hardiman PhD Scholarships scheme for new PhD Students starting Sept 2021. The Hardiman PhD Scholarships are fully funded for four years; with a stipend of €16,000 per annum, plus fees are paid for the 4 years. Applications close 12th Feb. More info.
Arthritis Ireland Galway Events
The Galway branch of Arthritis Ireland has the following events coming up:
- 1st – 28th Feb “Walk Where You Are” Walking Group INFO HERE
- Weds 17th Feb Talk with dietitian on achieving a Healthy Diet and Lifestyle for People Living With Arthritis. TICKETS HERE
The Smarter Travel Campus Awards are back for 2021!
The Awards invite students to create entries to encourage and enable walking, cycling, public transport and carpooling. Why not get involved in a real-life project and you could be invited to the national awards ceremony where you will be in with a chance to win prizes and have your project showcased.
Entry deadline 19th March 2021. Info, guidelines and last year’s winners HERE
Need Someone to Talk To?
- Contact NUIG Counselling service to set up an appointment on: counselling@nuigalway.ie
- Text HELLO to 50808 if you need mental health support or advice. Service available 24/7
- Phone the Samaritans on 116 123 or email them on jo@samaritans.org 24/7
Keep up to date with NUIG events online here
Contact Us / Déan teagmháil linn
You can contact the Students’ Union by email to studentsunion@nuigalway.ie with any questions or suggestions you may have. You can also like or follow us on Facebook Instagram Snapchat (@nuigsu) and Twitter.
Our office is currently closed but we are working remotely to help you.

MAC LÉINN IARCHÉIME A THOGHADH CHUIG ÚDARÁS NA hOLLSCOILE
De réir Acht na nOllscoileanna, 1997, tá mac léinn Iarchéime amháin le toghadh ag na mic léinn Iarchéime le bheith ina c(h)omhalta d’Údarás na hOllscoile. Mairfidh tréimhse oifige an duine a thoghfar chun an folúntas reatha a líonadh ón 1 Feabhra 2021 go dtí an 31 Eanáir 2022 (ar an gcoinníoll go mbeidh sé/sí ina m(h)ac léinn iarchéime ar feadh iomlán na tréimhse sin).
Nós imeachta Ainmniúcháin:
Osclófar an ghairm ar ainmniúcháin ag 9:00am, Dé hAoine, an 15 Eanáir 2021 agus fanfaidh sí oscailte go dtí 5:00pm, an 22 Eanáir 2021. Ní ghlacfar le hainmniúcháin dhéanacha.
Tá ainmniúcháin le déanamh tríd an Tairseach Toghcháin ar Líne www.nuigsuelections.com
Ní mór na sonraí ainmniúcháin seo a leanas a bheith le gach ainmniúchán:
- Grianghraf den ainmní
- Ráiteas ón Iarrthóir – “An fáth ar cheart tacú liom” (250 focal ar a mhéad)
Nós imeachta Toghcháin:
Reáchtálfar toghchán Mic Léinn Iarchéime trí bhallóid ar líne ar thairseach toghcháin ar líne Chomhaltas na Mac Léinn ar an Déardaoin, an 28 Eanáir, 2021 ó 9:00am – 9:00pm.
Fógrófar torthaí toghcháin an iarrthóra rathúil ag 5pm, Dé hAoine, an 29 Eanáir 2021.
Tá an post seo oscailte do mhic léinn Iarchéime cláraithe amháin.
Céard é Údarás na hOllscoile?
Is é Údarás na hOllscoile comhlacht deiridh cinnteoireachta na hOllscoile. Bunaíodh Údarás na hOllscoile le hAcht na nOllscoileanna 1997. Bord reachtúil a bhfuil 40 ball air is ea é agus tá dualgas air maoirseacht a dhéanamh ar threoir straitéiseach na hOllscoile, a hacmhainní a bhainistiú agus a polasaithe agus nósanna imeachta a fhaomhadh.
Ballraíocht an Bhoird: Céard atá i gceist?
Tá baill den Údarás freagrach in éineacht as inbhuanaitheacht fhadtéarmach na hOllscoile. Ceanglaítear orthu breithiúnas neamhspleách a thabhairt ar shaincheisteanna amhail straitéis, feidhmíocht, acmhainní, príomhcheapacháin agus caighdeáin iompair.
Tá dualgas muiníneach, go sonrach, ar gach ball i leith na hOllscoile ar an gcéad dul síos (i.e. an dualgas gníomhú de mheon macánta agus ar mhaithe le leas na hOllscoile).
Cé mhéid ama atá i gceist? Tagann Údarás na hOllscoile le chéile cúig huaire in aghaidh na bliana ag deireadh mhí Feabhra, mhí Aibreáin, mhí an Mheithimh, mhí Dheireadh Fómhair agus i lár mhí na Nollag. Ina theannta sin, beidh baill ar fhochoiste amháin de chuid Údarás na hOllscoile. Tagann na fochoistí le chéile cúig huaire in aghaidh na bliana, roimh chruinnithe Údarás na hOllscoile. Cuirtear cáipéisíocht le haghaidh na gcruinnithe ar fáil seachtain roimh ré agus teastaíonn cúpla lá don léitheoireacht agus don ullmhú.
Cé go bhfuiltear ag súil go bhfreastalóidh gach ball ar roinnt cruinnithe go pearsanta, beifear in ann páirt a ghlacadh i gcruinnithe go cianda trí ardáin ar líne.
Le haghaidh ceisteanna neamhfhoirmiúla maidir le Ballraíocht an Bhoird déan teagmháil leis an Rúnaí Gnóthaí Rialachais agus Acadúla:
R: govandacademicaffairs@nuigalway.ie
ENGLISH VERSION

ELECTION OF POSTGRADUATE STUDENT TO ÚDARÁS NA hOLLSCOILE
Under the Universities Act, 1997, one Postgraduate student is to be elected by the Postgraduate students as a member of Údarás na hOllscoile (The University Governing Authority). The period of office of the person elected to fill the current vacancy, shall be February 1, 2021 – January 31, 2022 (provided that (s)he continues to be a postgraduate student for the duration of that period).
Nomination Procedure:
The call for nominations will open at 9:00am on Friday, 15th January 2021 and will remain open until 5:00pm on 22nd January 2021. Late nominations cannot be accepted.
Nominations to be submitted via www.nuigsuelections.com
Each nomination must include the following nomination details:
- Photograph of nominee
- Candidate Statement – “Why vote for me” (max 250 words)
Election Procedure:
The election of a Postgraduate student will be conducted by online ballot via the Students’ Union online election portal on Thursday, 28th January, 2021 from 9:00am – 9:00pm.
Election results of the successful candidate will be announced on Friday, 29th January 2021.
This position is open to registered Postgraduate students only.
What is Údarás na hOllscoile?
Údarás na hOllscoile, the Governing Authority, is the ultimate decision-making body in the University. Established under the 1997 Irish Universities Act, Údarás na hOllscoile is a 40-person statutory board charged with over-seeing the strategic direction of the University, the overall management of its resources, and the approval of its policies and procedures.
Board Membership: What is involved?
Members of Governing Authority are collectively responsible for the long-term sustainability of the University. They are required to bring independent judgment to bear on issues such as strategy, performance, resources, key appointments and standards of conduct.
In particular, each member has a fiduciary duty to the University in the first instance (i.e. the duty to act in good faith and in the best interests of the University).
Time commitment: The Governing Authority meets five times per year at the end of the month in February, April, June, October and in mid-December. In addition, members are also members on one sub-Committee of Governing Authority. The sub-Committees meet five times per year, ahead of the Governing Authority meetings. Documentation for meetings is provided a week in advance and requires a couple of days reading and preparation.
Although all members are expected to attend some meetings in person, it will be possible to participate in meetings remotely via online platforms.
For informal queries on Board Membership contact the Secretary for Governance & Academic Affairs:

Welcome to your weekly email from your Students’ Union / Fáilte chuig do r-phost seachtainiúil ó Chomhaltas na Mac Léinn
Thanks to everyone who voted in our Elections back in December and well done to all the candidates and their teams. The newest members of your SU Officer team are:
- International Students Officer: Niamh Quinn
- Ethnic Minorities Officer: Cheyanne Nwaonukwube
- Societies’ Chairperson: Barry Sugrue
- Convenor of College of Business, Public Policy & Law: Victor Igonin
- SU Council Chair: Fionn Sexton Connolly
Nominations will open in April for our Elections for 2021/22 Officers. More info here.
Book Space on Campus to Sit Exams
You can book space to sit your online exams on campus via this link. There are 50 seats available in The Bailey Allen Hall and there’s one space in The Cube available for use by a student and a PA.
Are You Experiencing Exam Stress?
You can speak to NUIG Chaplaincy support staff if you experience exam stress from 9am-7pm Mon-Fri (11th-22nd Jan) on:
- Phone: 091 497 999
- Email: examstress@nuigalway.ie
- International calls/text : +353 89 462 3763
- Video Calls available by appointment
Get your New Student Leap Card
Good news if you need a Student Leap Card we can now process your application and post the card out to you until Thurs 21st Jan! Details on how to apply are HERE
Please note your order number expires after 7 days so please apply promptly.
Our Hump Day Hoolies are back every Wednesday at 7.30pm. Join us and comedian Steve Bennett for lots of craic, comedy and speed friending! Get your tickets HERE
If you need to defer any of your exams all the details on how to apply for a deferral are here.
FREE 6 Week Strength and Conditioning Course
Just 50 spaces available for the SU FREE 6 Week Strength & Conditioning course which starts this Monday 18th Jan. Suitable for all fitness levels! More info + registration here.
Our next Charity Challenge is our New Year Challenge. Each day in January we will be helping you to step outside your comfort zone by having daily suggestions at #NewYearChallenge for new things you can try for the new year. You could try a new sport, learn a new skill, volunteer or join a society. The opportunities are endless! It’s all about making small changes that can make a huge difference to you and the SU Charities. More info here.
Dúil agat sa Ghaeilge?
Glac páirt i gCoiste Gaeilge an Chomhaltais. Cabhraigh linn feachtais a rith leis an nGaeilge a chur chun cinn in OÉ Gaillimh, Seachtain na Gaeilge ina measc. Foghlaim scileanna nua, déan cairde nua agus cothaigh grá don teanga. Déan teagmháil le su.gaeilge@oegaillimh.ie le tuilleadh eolais a fháil
Due to Covid Level 5 Restrictions we will no longer be able to meet up for a Clean Up BUT we are encouraging everyone to do a socially distanced clean up within their 5km radius this weekend and tag us in your photos. Is there a green area near you that could do with some TLC? Are you near enough to the beach to do a 2 minute beach clean-up? Get out for some fresh air and do a clean-up if you can!
We have limited spaces left on our 10 Week Sign Language course 11am-12pm Tues 26th Jan-Tues 30th March. All other courses are fully booked. More info and registration link HERE.
The Student Health Unit is open and you can book an appointment online HERE. For students with Covid symptoms who need a test they can provide remote assessment and referral even if you are not in Galway. For urgent issues you can call 091 492 604.
The Library is closed but they still have the following services available:
- Click & Collect – Order and collect books you need for exams and research.
- Scan & Deliver – Request a journal article or book chapter and receive it electronically.
Passionate about the Irish Language?
Join the SU Irish Language Committee! Help run and plan campaigns to promote the Irish Language at NUI Galway including Seachtain na Gaeilge. Learn new skills, make new friends and share your love of Irish. Contact su.gaeilge@oegaillimh.ie for more info
Drug Use Survey
The Drug Use in Higher Education in Ireland (DUHEI) Survey is being sent out to a random sample of Higher Education students including NUIG students between 18th-31st Jan. The survey aims to gather info on drug use trends and behaviours and will contribute to the development of harm-reduction interventions and policies. All information you provide in this survey will be completely anonymous so please complete it accurately if you receive it and help develop strategies and policies to keep students safe in the future.
Do you wish to strengthen your well-being and resilience?
WRAP® (Wellness Recovery Action Planning) is an evidence-based program which develops personalised tools to manage distress and promote a positive approach to maintaining wellness. Participants partake in four 2.5 hour sessions over two weeks, guided by a trained facilitator. Limited Spaces available for the first WRAP® program of the year, beginning Tues 19th Jan. For further details, future workshop dates and to apply, e-mail WRAP® Project Coordinator Fiona Fitzgerald at fiona.m.fitzgerald@nuigalway.ie
- Motivation to Learn + Time Management 11am Thurs 14th Jan
- Maximising Study Skills 3pm Fri 15th Jan
- Using MS Teams Effectively 3pm Mon 18th Jan
- How to Use Academic Skills Hub Effectively 11am Tues 19th Jan
- Developing Blackboard Skills 11am Weds 20th Jan
- Referencing and Plagiarism 11am Tues 26th Jan
- Register here: https://efmfeed.verintefm.com/se/0A88DF3E7CFD2682
The free online Stress Control course is available again. More info here
NUI Galway MSc Marketing Practice students have bravely come forward to share their personal experience of contracting the COVID-19 virus. Watch their stories HERE.
Celebrate cycling and sustainable transport with An Taisce this January!
Our daily choices of transport have an impact on the world around us. Spread the word, have fun and share your photos + stories tagging #NewYearTwoWheels and #AnTaisce. More info HERE.
First Cut! Youth Film Festival is thrilled to announce that submissions for the 2021 festival are now being accepted!
Are you a filmmaker? Are you aged between 12-24 years? Do you have a short film you want to screen? Then First Cut! wants to hear from you! Whether you are an individual filmmaker or part of a secondary school, college or youth group, visit firstcutfilmfestival.com to find out how to submit your film free of charge. Every type of film is welcome, including fiction, documentary, animation and music video. Festival events run Sat 17th April – Sun 9th May 2021. Deadline for entries is 5pm Fri March 5th 2021.
Applications for 2021 Charlemagne Youth Prize open until 1 Feb 2021
Are you aged 16-30 and working on a project with a European dimension? Apply for the Charlemagne Youth Prize and get rewarded for your project to further develop your initiative! The three winning projects will be chosen from 27 projects nominated by national juries in all EU countries. The first prize is €7,500, second prize €5,000 and third prize €2,500! More info HERE
Coming Up this Semester
Fri 1st Jan-Sun 31st Jan | SU Charity Challenge New Year Challenge |
Fri 15th Jan | SU Clean Up (where you are!) |
Mon 18th Jan | SU 6 Week Strength + Conditioning Course Starts |
Tues 19th Jan | SU 10 Week Sign Language Courses Start |
Weds 20th Jan | SU Hump Day Hoolie |
Weds 27th Jan | SU Hump Day Hoolie |
Mon 1st Feb-Sun 28th Feb | SU Charity Challenge Kilometre Challenge Part 2 |
Mon 1st Feb | SU Sustainability Day |
Weds 3rd Feb | SU Hump Day Hoolie |
Fri 5th Feb | SU Clean Up |
Mon 8th Feb | SU Sustainability Day |
Weds 10th Feb | SU Hump Day Hoolie |
Mon 15th Feb | SU Sustainability Day |
Mon 15th – Fri 19th Feb | SU SHAG Week |
Weds 17th Feb | SU Hump Day Hoolie |
Mon 22nd Feb | SU Sustainability Day |
Mon 22nd Feb | SU Council + SU AGM |
Weds 24th Feb | SU Hump Day Hoolie |
Financial Aid (Emergency Hardship) Fund Still Open
The Financial Aid (Emergency Hardship) Fund is still open for applications from students in financial distress. The Application Form and further information is available here.
Need Someone to Talk To?
- Contact NUIG Counselling service to set up an appointment on: counselling@nuigalway.ie
- Text HELLO to 50808 if you need mental health support or advice. Service available 24/7
- Phone the Samaritans on 116 123 or email them on jo@samaritans.org 24/7
Our Big Yellow Thing Charity Socks are on sale now on the SU Website for just €9. All proceeds go to the SU Charities: Galway Rape Crisis Centre, Galway Autism Partnership and Helplink Mental Health. More info here.
Keep up to date with NUIG events online here
Contact Us / Déan teagmháil linn
You can contact the Students’ Union by email to studentsunion@nuigalway.ie with any questions or suggestions you may have. You can also like or follow us on Facebook Instagram Snapchat (@nuigsu) and Twitter.
Our office is currently closed but we are working remotely to help you.

New Year Challenge
This month as part of our Charity Challenge we will be helping you to step outside your comfort zone by having daily suggestions of new things you can try for the new year. You could try a new sport, learn a new skill, volunteer or join a society. The opportunities are endless!
Remember all funds raised by the Charity Challenge this year will be going to support Galway Rape Crisis Centre, Galway Autism Partnership and Helplink Mental Health and donations can be made HERE
Here’s just some of our suggestions for your New Year Challenge and please let us know what you are up to using #NewYearChallenge on social media:
- Run for #NUIGSU21 elections
- Learn to cook
- Volunteer with Flirt FM
- Join the SU 6 Week Strength and Conditioning Programme
- Write for Sin newspaper
- Join the SU Clean Up
- Find volunteering opportunities with Alive
- Learn Sign Language
- Become a Digital Champion
- Join the SU Welfare Crew
- Sign up for the NUIG free January courses
- Quit Smoking
- Join NUIG Clubs
- Join the SU Events Crew
- Make new friends at the SU Hump Day Hoolie
- Work on your employability with the NUI Careers Office
- Join NUIG Societies
- Go Vegan
- Learn Leadership skills with LIFT
- Learn Suicide Prevention Skills with LivingWorks Start programme
- Become a Blood Donor and join the Vampire Cup Challenge
- Try Meditation
- Get ready for the SU February Kilometre Challenge
- Control Your Stress with the Free Stress Control Course
- Assess your relationship with Alcohol
- Enter the Smarter Travel Campus Awards
- Do a digital detox
- Sleep better
- Get Organized
- Get Walking
- Join the SU Environmental Committee

#NUIGSU20 Election Results 18th December 2020
Convenor of the College of Business, Public Policy & Law | Tionólai Coláiste an Ghnó, an Bheartais Phoiblí agus an Dlí
Victor Igonin
View Results here: SU Elections – Toghcháin CML-Convenor of the College of Business, Public Policy & Law
Ethnic Minorities Officer | Oifigeach na Mionlach Eitneach
Cheyanne Nwaonukwube
View Results here: SU Elections – Toghcháin CML-Ethnic Minorities Officer
International Students Officer | Oifigeach na Mac Léinn Idirnáisiúnta
Niamh Quinn
View Result here: SU Elections – Toghcháin CML-International Students Officer
Societies Chairperson | Cathaoirleach na gCumann
Barry Sugrue
View Results here: SU Elections – Toghcháin CML-Societies Chairperson
SU Council Chairperson | Cathaoirleach Chomhairle na Mac Léinn
Fionn Sexton Connolly
View Results here: SU Elections – Toghcháin CML-SU Council Chairperson
Well done to all the candidates and their teams and thanks to everyone who voted.
Nominations will open in April for our Elections for 2021/22 Officers.

Welcome to your last weekly email of 2020 from your Students’ Union / Fáilte chuig do r-phost seachtainiúil ó Chomhaltas na Mac Léinn
Vote online today 10am-8pm to elect your 5 new Students’ Union Officers. More information about the candidates is available here
The SU Office is open TODAY 4pm-8pm and also 4pm-8pm Mon 21st Dec and Tues 22nd Dec. Call in to get your Student Leap Card (apply online for your code first), SU Diaries, free face masks, Class Rep Hoodies and to buy SU Charity Socks. Please use contactless payment. The SU Office is located upstairs in Áras na Mac Léinn (beside Sult)
Seachtain na Gaeilge / Irish Language Week
Déardaoin 17 Nollaig / Thurs 17th Dec
17:00 Oga Yoga as Gaeilge / Yoga in Irish ZOOM LINK HERE
Dé hAoine 18 Nollaig / Fri 18th Dec
10.30 Maidin Caifé / Coffee Morning ZOOM LINK HERE
15:00 Ciorcal Comhrá / Irish Conversation ZOOM LINK HERE
19:00 Scannáin agus Scíth / Movie Watch Party (Check SU Social Media for link on Friday)
Tuilleadh eolais ar fail ó / More information from su.welfare@nuigalway.ie
Staying in Galway for Christmas? We are holding a Merry Quizmas Quiz for all NUIG students staying in Galway at 7.30pm Mon 21st Dec. Loads of great prizes including €50, €30 + €20 One4All Vouchers and festive cheer with quiz host Steve Bennett from our Hump Day Hoolie. Get your tickets here.
Study Space over Christmas Holidays
There will be 25 seats available in the Reading Room 9am-5pm over the Christmas period (Closed Christmas Day + New Year’s Day). They will be available to book HERE
Read all the NUI Galway news you need to know in issue 6 of Sin newspaper HERE.
Virtual SU Officer Hour 1pm-2pm TOMORROW
Join Martin your SU Postgraduate Taught Officer and Aoife your Convenor for Science and Engineering for the SU Officer Virtual hour 1pm-2pm tomorrow Friday 19th Dec. It’s open to ALL students with any queries so feel free to pop along for a chat. ZOOM LINK HERE.
Here’s the list of who is open/closed on campus over the Christmas Holidays LIST
SU Life Skills Courses Enrolling now for January
- Complete Beginners Irish Course – 4 Weeks €20 (+ €20 refundable deposit)
- Refreshers Irish Course – FULL
- Sign Language – 10 Weeks €40
- Strength & Conditioning Training (12 Classes €30)
- Disclosure Training (€10 donation to Galway Rape Crisis Centre)
If you missed our live Q&A with the University President you can watch it back HERE
Free Pizza!
The NUIG International office would like to invite you and a friend for a free festive pizza and soft drink at Sult 12pm-8pm Mon 21st Dec and 11am-5pm Tues 22nd Dec. To book please call Sult on 091 492671/Walk-ins also welcome.
Our next Charity Challenge is our New Year Challenge which starts on the 1st of January. Each day in January we will be helping you to step outside your comfort zone by having daily suggestions at #NewYearChallenge for new things you can try for the new year. You could try a new sport, learn a new skill, volunteer or join a society. The opportunities are endless! It’s all about making small changes that can make a huge difference to you and the SU Charities. Find out more and register here.
Glassary – Donations of your Things welcome!
ALIVE volunteers are leading a circular economy and sustainability initiative. Donation boxes will be in all the main student accommodation central reception lobbies clearly labelled “Glassary” for you to drop any materials you do not want to bring back home and are willing to donate. Irons, lamps, rugs, books, buckets, you name it we are looking for it! (Except pillows and duvets!) All the donations will be collected and form the Library of Things at NUIG and also will be part of a donation to the SVP shops. So your donations will not go to the dump and instead make a big impact for future students and families in Galway. Email alive@nuigalway.ie to join in with us on this project or any questions you may have!
Are you unable to travel home this holiday season? Will you be staying in Galway? Sign up HERE to meet with others who will also be spending time in Galway.
Our next SU Clean Up is taking place in January and you can register to take part HERE.
Thurs 17th Dec | 6pm | College of Arts, Social Science and Celtic Studies |
Thurs 17th Dec | 6pm | College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences |
Thurs 17th Dec | 6pm | Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge |
Meeting links will be emailed to class reps. For any queries contact su.education@nuigalway.ie
Tickets are now available for our two Hump Day Hoolies Weds 20th and Weds 27th of January. Get yours here.
The NUIG St. Vincent de Paul Society is holding a Christmas Raffle, in aid of St. Vincent de Paul. Tickets are just €3 and there’s an amazing hamper to be won which includes seasonal food, drinks and vouchers. Get your tickets HERE and the winner will be announced 8pm Mon 21st Dec.
- Public Speaking, Presenting + Interviews using Online platforms 11am Tues 12th Jan
- How to manage your Email (Folders, Search + Organisation) 11am Weds 13th Jan
- Motivation to Learn + Time Management 11am Thurs 14th Jan
- Maximising Study Skills 3pm Fri 15th Jan
- Using MS Teams Effectively 3pm Mon 18th Jan
- How to Use Academic Skills Hub Effectively 11am Tues 19th Jan
- Developing Blackboard Skills 11am Weds 20th Jan
- Referencing and Plagiarism 11am Tues 26th Jan
- Register here: https://efmfeed.verintefm.com/se/0A88DF3E7CFD2682
Are you concerned about your relationship?
COPE Galway can offer you free support and advice. Find out more here.
Financial Aid (Emergency Hardship) Fund Still Open
The Financial Aid (Emergency Hardship) Fund is still open for applications from students in financial distress. The Application Form and further information is available at: https://www.nuigalway.ie/financialaidfund/
The survey title is: Psychological stress and intention to vaccinate, in the context of COVID-19. The survey is fully anonymous + will take approx. 10-15mins. It is open to anyone over 18 who is Irish resident/citizen. Complete the survey HERE.
The Helping Haircuts group of NUIG Students are holding an event to raise funds for Galway Simon Community. They want you to suit up to have a socially distanced or virtual meal with your friends and donate to their page HERE. There will be prizes for donors! Follow them on Insta HERE for more info.
Register for Governing Authority Election Vote
NUIG Governing Authority Elections take place online 9am Mon 11 Jan to 12pm Tues 12 Jan. If you are an NUIG Graduate make sure you are registered to vote by sending your details to Alumni Office by Fri 1st Jan at: alumni@nuigalway.ie. Meet the nominees here.
Nominations Close Tues 22nd Dec for the Teaching Hero Awards. You can nominate HERE.
Need Someone to Talk To?
- Contact NUIG Counselling service to set up an appointment on: counselling@nuigalway.ie
- Text HELLO to 50808 if you need mental health support or advice. Service available 24/7
- Phone the Samaritans on 116 123 or email them on jo@samaritans.org 24/7
Hardiman PhD Scholarship Scheme Open
Applications are now open for the 2021 Hardiman PhD Scholarships scheme for new PhD Students starting Sept 2021. The Hardiman PhD Scholarships are fully funded for four years; with a stipend of €16,000 per annum, plus fees are paid for the 4 years. Applications close 12th Feb. More info.
The Smarter Travel Campus Awards are back for 2021!
The Awards invite students to create entries to encourage and enable walking, cycling, public transport and carpooling. Why not get involved in a real-life project and you could be invited to the national awards ceremony where you will be in with a chance to win prizes and have your project showcased.
Entry deadline 19th March 2021. Info, guidelines and last year’s winners HERE
Are you living with a long-term health condition or caring for someone with a long-term health condition? Living Well is a free 6 week online group self-management programme to help people manage long-term health conditions. More info.
Our Big Yellow Thing Charity Socks are on sale now in the SU Shop, the SU Office and on the SU Website for just €9. All proceeds go to the SU Charities: Galway Rape Crisis Centre, Galway Autism Partnership and Helplink Mental Health. More info here.
Need Help?
Sums provide free extra mathematics or statistics tuition.
ComputerDISC is a Computer Programming Drop-In Support Centre for all students who are taking any programming/software development courses.
The Academic Writing Centre provide free one-on-one tutorials on essay writing.
The SU Grinds Register provides details of tutors in a wide range of subjects.
Keep up to date with NUIG events online here
Beannachtaí na Nollag agus Athbhliain faoi mhaise.
We hope you all have a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
See you in 2021!

Christmas Holiday Arrangements 2020
NUI Galway semester 1 teaching ends on Fri 18th Dec 2020.
Exams take place Mon 11th – Fri 22nd Jan 2021.
Semester 2 Teaching starts on Mon 8th of Feb 2021.
Academic Dates for the rest of 2020/21 are available HERE.
- The Students’ Union Office will close at 8pm on Tues 22nd Dec and will reopen Mon 11th Jan
- Sult will close at 5pm on Tues 22nd Dec and will reopen at 9.30am on Mon 4th Jan
- The SU Shop will close at 4pm on Fri 18th Dec and reopen at 8.30am on Mon 4th Jan.
- The James Hardiman Library will be closing at 5.30pm on Fri 18th Dec and reopening at 8.30am on Mon 4th Jan. If you need to request books before Christmas closure please do so via their website. Books can be returned at any point to the drop box outside the library.
- There will be 25 Study Spaces available to book in the Reading Room 9am-5pm each day over the holidays (closed Christmas Day + New Year’s Day). Book space here.
- The Student Health Unit will close on Fri 18th Dec and will reopen Mon 4th Jan. For urgent/emergency medical issues during this time please go to their website for services which are available – please note there is a charge for these services.
- NUIG Covid testing centre will close Weds 23rd Dec and reopen Mon 4th Jan. Covid testing is available in Galway throughout the holidays. More info.
- Sin Newspaper will be back with a new issue on Tues 9th of Feb
- Flirt FM will close at 10pm on Sat 19th Dec and will reopen Mon 18th Jan
Beannachtaí na Nollag agus Athbhliain faoi mhaise.
We hope you all have a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
See you all in 2021!
*Please note these arrangements are all subject to change as per Government Covid-19 regulations

SU Office Reopening!
Great news!
The SU Office will finally be open:
4pm-8pm Mon 14th, Tues 15th, Weds 16th, Thurs 17th and Mon 21st December 2020!
We will reopen after the Christmas Holidays on Mon 11th Jan 2021.
Call in to get your Student Leap Card, free NUIG face masks and free SU Diaries.
Please note for the Student Leap Card you must apply online first at https://www.studentleapcard.ie/ and call to the SU Office with your application number and student ID. The application number expires after 7 days.
The SU Office is located upstairs in Áras na Mac Léinn (next door to Sult).
Don’t forget to wear a mask and follow the social distancing signage.

Seachtain na Gaeilge / Irish Language Week
Dé Luain 14 Nollaig / Mon 14th Dec
19:00 Oíche fhéin-chúraim / Self-Care Night – Think pyjamas, face masks + chats! ZOOM LINK HERE
Dé Máirt 15 Nollaig / Tues 15th Dec
16:00 Among Us Trí Ghaeilge ZOOM LINK HERE
19:00 “I wish I could speak Irish, but…” Bilingual event for people learning Irish, discussing ways to learn the language, tips, resources and the benefits of learning Irish. Speakers include: Síomha Ní Ruairc (TG4), Ola Majekodunmi ZOOM LINK HERE
Dé Céadaoin 16 Nollaig / Weds 16th Dec
12:00 Tae agus Plé / Virtual Tea and Chats ZOOM LINK HERE
17:00 Linda Ervine on the Irish language. A conversation with Linda Ervine about how she grew to love the Irish language. Linda Ervine is a language rights activist from East Belfast. She is a speaker and supporter of the Irish language and is the project leader of the “Turas” Irish language project which “aims to connect people from Protestant communities to their own history with the Irish language”. ZOOM LINK HERE
19:30 Cóisir na Céadaoin Crua / Christmas Hump Day Hoolie TICKET LINK HERE
Déardaoin 17 Nollaig / Thurs 17th Dec
17:00 Oga Yoga as Gaeilge / Yoga in Irish ZOOM LINK HERE
Dé hAoine 18 Nollaig / Fri 18th Dec
10.30 Maidin Caifé / Coffee Morning ZOOM LINK HERE
15:00 Ciorcal Comhrá / Irish Conversation ZOOM LINK HERE
19:00 Scannáin agus Scíth / Movie Watch Party (Check SU Social Media for link on Friday)
Tuilleadh eolais ar fail ó / More information from su.welfare@nuigalway.ie