Welcome to UCD! The early days and weeks of first year can be nerve-wracking. But we’ve all been there, so don’t be afraid to ask for help: before you know it, you’ll be the one giving directions and advice!
If you haven’t already, check out the UCD New Student website, which covers everything you need to know about registration and orientation.
Orientation
To help you settle into university life, UCD organises orientation events for all new students. These events run during the week before term begins and are designed to help you find your way in UCD.
During Orientation you have the opportunity to make new friends and familiarise yourself with how UCD works. You will be given important information about your programme, about key people who can help you along the way, and about all of the supports and facilities available to you as a UCD Student. There are specific timetables for each programme which can be found on the UCD New Student orientation webpage.
There are also lots of fun social activities during the week and there will be more events all through the first semester to help you settle into your programme.
Peer Mentoring
Orientation is when you will first meet with your Peer Mentor and your peer mentor group. Your Peer Mentor is a student who has already completed their first or second year of study in your programme. They understand what it is like to be a new student at UCD and they are there to help answer any questions you may have. You can read more about Peer Mentoring here.
Finding your way around campus
Belfield is a very large campus and it is easy to get lost initially. (opens in a new window)This link to the campus map shows the main buildings, car parks and services. If you want to locate a specific service, there is an (opens in a new window)interactive map available.
UCD is very well served by public transport links. You can find a guide here to commuting to UCD, including by car and bike.
If you have any questions about your Orientation or you having difficulty finding your orientation timetable or Peer Mentor please contact your Student Adviser.