Dalal Almuhaideb, a PhD researcher and a lecturer in the Education department

Whether you’re returning to Ireland or arriving for the very first time, welcome! Starting your postgraduate journey is an exciting new chapter, full of opportunities, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. This guide is here to help you settle in smoothly and make the most of your time in Ireland.

1. Give Yourself Time to Settle

Adjusting to a new place, meeting new people, and managing a new routine can feel like a lot at first. Take your time. It’s completely normal to feel out of sync, especially in the beginning. The key is to find a rhythm that works for you. Maybe you’re an early riser who loves getting up and studying in the morning, or perhaps you need afternoon breaks to recharge. There’s no rush— as my supervisors always say, “be kind to yourself.” You’ll find your balance soon enough!

2. Transportation Tips

Whether you’re living in Dublin, Kildare, Cavan, or any of Ireland’s cities, finding reliable transportation to and from the university is essential. Ireland offers various options like TFL buses, trains, and coaches, or you can drive if you have a car. Test out different transport modes to see what suits your schedule best—and always have a backup plan! If one option falls through, having an alternative will save you time and stress. You’ll be glad you planned ahead when the bus is running late or the weather suddenly takes a turn.

Make sure to have your TFL card handy, along with some coins just in case. Remember, the card needs to be updated every year to stay active. Staying on top of this, along with having a backup plan, will make your commute a lot smoother!

3. Nutrition and Energy

Look after yourself. They say, “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” and it’s so true! Staying energized throughout the day means fueling your body with nutritious meals. Sure, campus canteens and local restaurants are convenient, but packing your own lunch and snacks is a healthier, more affordable option over time.
Maynooth’s Student Pantry in the John Hume Building is a great resource for grabbing healthy food options to keep you powered throughout the day. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, too! Carry a reusable water bottle—Maynooth University has many water stations around campus to help you stay refreshed.

4. Stay Active

It’s easy to get wrapped up in your studies, but don’t forget to take care of your body too. Whether it’s a fresh walk around campus, a session at the gym, or joining a football or basketball game, staying active is essential for your physical and mental health. As they say, “A healthy body leads to a healthy mind.” Even short breaks to stretch or move around can help you refocus and boost your energy for the day ahead.

5. Prepare for Winter

Winter in Ireland can sneak up on you with its cold, wet, and often grey days, so being prepared is key. A great tip I got from an American friend is to start prepping your body for winter in advance—and it’s always worked for me! Strengthen your immune system with plenty of Vitamin C, hot ginger tea, and hearty meals like chicken soup.

Make sure you’re ready for the weather too. Cozy jumpers are a must, but even more important is a good waterproof jacket with a hood. I had this conversation with a friend about why so few people here use umbrellas. The answer? It’s too windy! Instead, the best way to stay dry is to invest in a windproof, waterproof jacket. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver—forget about fashion when the rain comes pouring down! you’ll thank yourself on those windy, rainy days!

Ginger Tea Recipe

One of my favorite ways to stay warm and boost my immune system during the colder months is homemade ginger tea. Ginger tea is great for digestion, boosting immunity, and keeping you warm on those chilly Irish days.
It’s easy to make and so soothing!

Ingredients:

• 1-2 inches of fresh ginger root (peeled and sliced thinly)
• 2 cups of water
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

6. Take It Step by Step

One of the most important things to remember is to take things one step at a time. Whether it’s planning your studies or scheduling time for personal activities, break tasks into manageable pieces so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. And don’t stress if things don’t go as planned—there’s always support available! From student services to academic help, you’re not alone in this journey. A friend of mine always says, “Don’t worry, we’ll get there.” Remember, it’s okay to ask for help.

Starting a new academic year can feel both thrilling and overwhelming, but with some preparation, self-care, and support, you’ll be set for success. Embrace new experiences, enjoy the journey, and most importantly, be kind to yourself. Best of luck with your studies, and welcome to your new adventure in Maynooth !