TUS students get the ball rolling on new academic year

Students at the Technology University of the Shannon (TUS) Athlone campus have got the ball rolling on the new academic year with a lively Orientation Week

Orientation opened with motivational speaker Stephen Naughton, who encouraged students to “make choices and play to your strengths” before leading the colourful “Balls of Positivity” ice-breaker challenge.

Hundreds of students tossed balls marked with positive words around the Douglas Hyde Theatre, filling the space with laughter and energy as they connected with their new classmates.

“College life can be daunting at first, but Orientation Week is designed to remove some of that uncertainty,” explained Frances O’Connell, Vice President for Student Education and Experience, TUS.

“There’s a fantastic buzz across our campuses this week, and the energy from our students has been infectious,” added Sarah La Cumbre, Student Resource Centre Manager, TUS Midlands.

“The Balls of Positivity captured that spirit perfectly, showing students how we are focused on breaking down barriers and helping new students feel at home. Importantly, the fun and excitement of Orientation is matched by the wraparound services we provide all year round.

"Whether it’s health and wellbeing supports, learning or financial support, or simply a listening ear, our message to students is clear: you are not alone on this journey — we are here to help you every step of the way.”

This year also sees the launch of TUS’s new online Starter Pack, which helps first-year students prepare for campus life with practical information and resources before they arrive.

The new Starter Pack is part of TUS’s commitment to ensuring students make a confident and smooth transition into higher education. Available online, it offers guidance on what to expect during Orientation, practical advice on academic and social life, tips on wellbeing and financial supports, and resources to help students navigate the opportunities available at university.

Linda Barry, Academic Administration and Student Affairs Manager, TUS Midwest, said: “Orientation is about much more than timetables and tours, it is the moment when students step into a new community and begin to see themselves as part of something bigger.

"At TUS, we pride ourselves on smaller class sizes, strong personal connections, and a whole-university approach to support. From day one right through to graduation, our goal is to ensure students feel at home, stay motivated, and have every opportunity to thrive both academically and personally.”