Arts courses

English

Get information from people in a similar situation to yourself about what is possible and practical. Ask, ask and ask again for what you need - academics can be forgetful and harrassed but most of us really want to make things as accessible as we can. I tell my students to nag me and nag me until I do what they need.

Law

The Trinity Access Programmes (TAP) aims to increase participation in education by students from non-traditional backgrounds. The TAP Pathways to Law initiative has been developed in partnership with the School of Law in Trinity and aims to inspire students from under-represented groups who are interested in the law and to give them the confidence, knowledge and tools to maximize their potential.

Social Sciences

These courses are reading intensive, much of what we teach requires good communication skills which may be challenging.

I suppose that I would give the same advice to all the students, highlighting what general standards are required etc. I would also suggest that disabled students register with the disability service if they have not already done so. Students often push themselves very hard and have unrealistic expectations of themselves.

Histories

Ask for support when you need it and do not wait until it may be too late. Lecturers and fellow students are mostly more than willing to help but do not know exactly what causes problems and where you need help. Only you know this; therefore, as difficult as this may be, you must tell them explicitly.

Languages

Make sure that your lecturers/teaching assistants are aware of your needs. Use all the supports available, in particular from Disability Service and your tutor. Try and work steadily and regularly right from the beginning. Ask questions and request help and advice as soon as you feel even slightly out of depth. Early intervention can solve many problems.