Megan Lanigan, a top-tier graduate of Setu in marketing and digital media as of last May, shares her story. A resident of Gorey, County Wexford, Megan was prepared to commute for her education, but was instinctively drawn to the Setu campus location in Waterford instead of the more urbanised Dublin.
Choosing a course that would deeply engage her daily, she was fortunate enough to have her first pick. That first year was an eye-opener– at the tender age of 18 and having hardly visited Waterford before, Megan relocated to the city solo, pushing herself out of her comfort zone.
Immersing herself into campus life, Megan took up memberships in clubs and societies. In particular, the Setu surf club, which they established and continues to exist even after her graduation.
She developed her financial skills, implementing budgeting strategies to control spending. Utilising specific tools like Revolut vaults and the youth Leap card helped save and manage expenses effectively.
The new learning environment was challenging, but she adapted. She discovered that self-discipline was key to completing her tasks on time in an environment where you’re not constantly monitored. Studying proved more productive in the library as opposed to in her room in college accommodation.
Forming new friendship circles was intimidating initially, but Megan knew it was a hurdle she had to overcome. She found solace in the understanding that every other student was in a similar situation. Her class, though small, grew to be a tightly-knit community. As a student ambassador, she got further involved in campus life. It proved challenging to step out of her comfort zone but it was an essential part of the university experience.
Megan offers advice to incoming students: embracing the new routine accelerates the settling in process. Furthermore, she encourages them to commit wholeheartedly and look forward to the surprising outcomes.