Aoife Braiden
I work during summer while I'm at college. I worked in the campus bar during rag week, but I'm lucky in that I don't have to work during the college year. Some friends have to work because of the inadequate grant and, because they work late in a bar, they often miss lectures or have to borrow notes. Courses can have hidden costs, like field trips or equipment, which make budgeting difficult for some.
Eoin Ryan
I worked all through college as a lifeguard at a swimming pool. It was fun and fairly flexible, so I could fit it into my schedule. I admit that work interfered with study in the past - you just can't do everything. I've four sisters in college, so I have to work to supplement money, but I have important exams soon so I am having a break. I'm really looking forward to working in a hospital in New Zealand this summer.
Conal Corduff
I have worked in Penneys during previous years. This year there is more pressure in college and we often have lab classes from 6 to 9 p.m. - that makes it difficult to work in the evenings. I have to do a work placement soon with Boston Scientific and I get paid some money for that as well as it being part of the course. I live at home so that cuts down a lot of expenses, but even the day-to-day costs of college really add up.
Amy Kilcline
I'm student union women's officer this year, but apart from that I don't have to work to support myself. I strongly believe that studying for a professional career is a full-time job in itself. The grant is meagre for people who can't rely on parental support. I have friends who failed exams because they have to work. Social life is an important part of college too. A job makes balancing work, study and friends hard.
Marc Bolger
Most weeks, I do a few hours of work coaching school kids and others on the climbing wall at the college sports centre. That gives me just about enough pocket money to cover my daily expenses, which makes me feel better than pestering my parents for money. I do voluntary work for the Cubs, a homework club and the St Vincent de Paul. It's very rewarding work, but sometimes finding time is difficult.
