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Information Pack 2 2020 June 2020
RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2 2020 2
RCS I
C ONTENT S
Welcome to the HEALTH SERVICES ??
RCSI Information Pack 2 5 Student Health Primary Care 28
Introduction to the Emergency/Hospital Services 28
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland 8 Health Insurance 29
WHO’S WHO & WHAT’S WHAT 10 Vaccinations 30
ARRIVING IN DUBLIN 12 Health & Safety 30
ORIENTATION & REGISTRATION 13 COMPUTER AND IT SERVICES 31
Term Dates 13 GENERAL FACILITIES
& SERVICES AT RCSI 33
Timetables 14
Crèche Facilities 33
Booklists 14
Food & Catering 33
Freshers’ Events 14
Libraries 34
ACCOMMODATION 15
Lockers 34
On-Campus 15
Mobile/Cell Phones 34
Off-Campus 15
Sports Facilities 35
IMMIGRATION & VISA REQUIREMENTS 17
Student Union (SU) 37
Do I need a visa to study in Ireland 17
STUDENT LIFE 38
Applying for a Visa 18
Clubs and Societies 39
Irish Residency Permit (IRP) 20
LIVING IN DUBLIN 41
BANKING 22
Cost of living 41
GARDA VETTING 22
Travel Costs 42
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES 23
PERSONAL SAFETY 44
Learning Access & Facilitation
On Campus Security 44
Service (LAFS) 23
Security Tips 45
Student Financial Assistance 23
Counselling Services 24 TRAVEL & TRANSPORT 46
RCSI Student Welfare Supports 24 Public Transport in Dublin 46
Staff Buddy System 25 Ferry Terminals 47
Student Learning Communities Cities, towns and villages 47
& Personal Tutor System 25
WORKING IN IRELAND 48
CoMPPAS Student Assistance
Programme (CSAP) 26 ABOUT DUBLIN 49
USEFUL INFORMATION 51
USEFUL CONTACTS 56
This booklet is produced for information only. Every effort is made to ensure that it is accurate at
time of going to print. However, RCSI is not bound by any error or omission therein.
3
RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2
2020
B EG IN N IN G A N Y
NEW U N IV E R S I T Y I S
AN E XCIT ING T I ME
AS YO U A D J U S T
TO L E A RN IN G N E W
SU BJ E CTS , MA K I N G
NEW F RIE N D S
AND L IV IN G I N
A DIFFE RE N T
ENVIRO N M E N T.
PLE A SE RE ME M B E R
THAT THE S T U D E N T
SERV ICE S OF F I C E
I S AVA IL A BL E
TO A S S IST AN D
SU P P O RT YO U
WIT H YO U R
TRAN S ITIO N I N T O
YOUR NEW LIFE IN
R CS I A N D T O M A K E
I T A S SM O OT H A S
POS SIBL E .
4
RCS I
WEL COME T O T HE
R C SI INF O R M AT IO N PAC K 2
This document is the second of three information documents that you will receive in
advance of arriving in Dublin. This document is from the Student Services Office who will
play a significant role in looking after you during your arrival into your new life in RCSI. The
document provides information, direction and advice in relation to beginning your new life
as a student in the College.
We have tried to make the guide as practical as possible and hope that it helps to answer
and address the many and varied queries you may have. Not all questions can be answered
at present as some processes are yet to be finalised.
A third and final information booklet will be sent to you in the middle of August with the
final details that you require before you leave home. In addition, we will send you updates
that we feel are important to you in advance of that time as the information becomes
available.
Beginning at any new University is an exciting time as you adjust to learning new subjects,
making new friends and living in a different environment. Please remember that the Student
Services Office is available to assist and support you with your transition into your new life in
RCSI and to make it as smooth as possible.
The Student Services Office also acts as your ‘first stop information shop’ providing
information, advice and guidance to students in relation to a variety of matters. If we can’t
help you ourselves, we are sure to know someone who can.
Accommodation is usually one of the greatest concerns for new students arriving at RCSI. As
a first step, please study the accommodation section on our website www.rcseye.com where
you will find information on our on-campus accommodation at Mercer Accommodation, New
Mill and Scape Accommodation.
As outlined in our ’Supporting your Health, Safety and Wellbeing’ document, view here,
we are encouraging as many students to live on-campus accommodation this year as we
wish to ensure that we can support you as fully as possible in the early days and weeks after
you have arrived. As mentioned in the document, the current health advice is that you will
be required to self-isolate on arrival into Ireland for 14 days, so please ensure that you read
this document to familiarize yourself with its contents.
5
RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2 2020 You have also been given access to the RCS-Eye website when you received your acceptance offer. As a closed website, the accommodation section in the RCS-Eye has additional information that is available to newly arriving students only, so please make sure you familiarize yourself with the accommodation information on this site. On-campus student accommodation can be booked now using the booking information that is provided on the site. Some students will choose to live off campus and while we cannot book off campus accommodation on your behalf, we are always available to advise and support you in your efforts. And rest assured, all our students ALWAYS find somewhere suitable to live. It may take a bit of work on your part but try not to panic. The RCS-Eye website also has important information on a host of other matters related to your arrival and life in Dublin. The site is continuously updated so please check in on the site regularly for the most up to date information. In undertaking a degree in Medicine, Pharmacy or Physiotherapy, you are embarking on a very exciting journey. It will be very rewarding and also challenging. The Student Services Office has provided supports to students for many years and we have yet to come across an issue that can’t be solved. We are here to make your student journey a positive and memorable experience. The Office has an open door policy so call in and visit us anytime. Corriena Brien Student Services Manager Email studentservices@rcsi.ie 6
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7
RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2
2020
IN TR OD UCT ION T O T H E
ROYA L CO L L EG E O F
S UR GEONS IN IR EL A N D
The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland undertake your Obstetrics and Gynecology
was granted a Charter on the 11th of training). Subsequently, a disused hall in
February 1784, giving the College the Mercer Street beside Mercer’s Hospital was
license to regulate the practice of surgery acquired. The College flourished from the
and to make provision for surgical very start and, in 1810, moved to its present
education. location on the corner of York Street, facing
St Stephen’s Green. The site acquired for
Prior to that time, surgeons were grouped
the building at that time was a disused
with the barbers and the Barber-Surgeons’
Quaker graveyard.
Guild. This is the reason that you see the
Red and White striped pole in a Barbers The College set about educating doctors
Shop. The red strip representing blood, the with a strong emphasis on surgery. The
white representing the bandages. One of founders were influenced by the standard
the Founding Fathers of RCSI was Sylvester of surgery in France at that time and, out of
O’Halloran (a pioneering ophthalmologist) respect for the French College of Surgeons,
and a number of likeminded colleagues set they adopted the motto “Consilio
about breaking the ‘preposterous union of Manuque”, meaning ‘Scholarship and
the Barber- Surgeons Guild’. Dexterity’. The stimulus for growth in the
early years was the demand for Army and
Their challenge was taken up by the Dublin
Navy surgeons for the Napoleonic wars.
Society of Surgeons and in 1784 they
received a Royal Charter from King George In 1844, a supplemental Charter was
III of Great Britain and Ireland (Ireland was obtained from Queen Victoria, the chief
part of the United Kingdom until it became provision of which was the institution of
a republic in 1922). The charter extracted the Fellowship which divided Graduates
the Surgeons from the Barbers-Surgeons’ into Licentiates and Fellows. The latter
Guild and ‘incorporating them separately could only be obtained by examination
and distinctly upon liberal and scientific taken a minimum of three years following
principles’ for the pursuit of surgical graduation. This is essentially the Charter
practice and training. by which the College operates today.
The Founding Fathers had no premises, The Medical Act of 1886 confirmed that
so the earliest meeting was held in the graduates had to be educated in surgery,
boardroom of the Rotunda Hospital in medicine and obstetrics and so the
Dublin (the hospital in which you will Conjoint Board between the Royal College
8
RCS I
RC SI M O TT O
“C O N SILIO
MA N U Q U E ” ,
ME A N IN G
‘SC HO LA RS H I P
A N D DE XT E R I T Y ’
of Surgeons and the Royal College of medical programme, the University
Physicians came into existence. Graduates also delivers undergraduate degree
therefore receive the historical Licentiates programmes in Pharmacy, Physiotherapy
of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and Nursing and is home to the Faculties of
and the Royal College of Physicians of Radiology, Dentistry, and Sports & Exercise
Ireland. In addition to the undergraduate Medicine.
9
RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2 2020 WHO ’ S W HO & WHAT ’ S W HAT The University has a number of administrative offices that provide services to the students. As a newly arrived student it is helpful for you to have an understanding of these departments and general services that each is responsible for. Admissions Office The Admissions Office is responsible for the admission of students to all of the Universities undergraduate programmes. Email: admissions@rcsi.com Located: Ground Floor 123 SSG. Center for Mastery, Personal, Professional and Academic Support CoMPPAS CoMPPAS is RCSI’s hub for student advancement and growth. Through personalised support and development opportunities, CoMPPAS seeks to support students in achieving their academic and personal success while a student at RCSI. CoMPPAS as a multi-disciplinary team is a one-stopshop providing a range of professional services to the RCSI student community. It offers confidential personal assistance to any student in need of help. CoMPPAS personal support and development services operate independently and confidentially. Access to these services is not recorded on student transcripts. 10
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Services include: • Confirmation of Registration letters
• Academic Development • Exam transcripts
• Personal Development • Exam results
• Communications and Language Skills • Exam timetables
• Student Well Being • Garda Vetting
• Access & Facilitation • Regulations and Records
Email: compass@rcsi.com • USMLE’s
Located: First Floor 123 SSG. • Clinical Electives
• Peripheral Rotations
Fees Office Email: ssgsara@rcsi.ie
The Fees Office is responsible for all issues Located: First floor 123 SSG
in relation to student fees.
Email: studentfees@rcsi.ie Student Services Office
Located: Within SARA Office. First floor The Student Services Office is responsible
123 SSG. for a range of non-academic support
services. The Office is a one-stop
Information Technology Office information shop and available to point
The IT office manages all IT matters in the you in the right direction if you require
College. A student helpdesk is available to information or assistance at any time. All
support students with all IT enquiries of the student societies, clubs and student
Email: helpdesk@rcsi.com events are managed from the Student
Located: Ground Floor 121 SSG Services Office. The services that sit with
the Student Services office include;
Student Academic and
• Accommodation
Regulatory Affairs (SARA)
• Access
The SARA Office is responsible for all
• Clubs & Sport
academic matters related to your course
• Financial Assistance
from timetables to examinations. The SARA
• Gym & Fitness Facilities
office is the Registry and holds all records
• Immigration
of all students, past and present, and is an
office that you engage with for the duration • Merchandising
of your studies and indeed after you • Orientation
graduate as you are likely to require copies • Societies
of your final transcripts for many years after • Student Events
you have graduated. • Student Publications
The services that the SARA office are • Visiting Student Supports
responsible for include; Email: studentservices@rcsi.ie
Located: Ground Floor 123 SSG
11RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2 2020 A R R I VI N G IN DUB L IN RCSI is pleased to offer a Meet and Greet Service to all new students and their families. This welcome service will meet you on arrival in Dublin airport and arrange complimentary transport to your accommodation. If you wish to avail of this service, you must complete the online registration form a minimum of 10 days before arriving into Dublin airport. The registration form will be available from early July on the Non EU section of www.rcseye.com. Students who are living on-campus in Mercer, New Mill or Scape Accommodation can check in from Friday to Sunday immediately before their academic start date, e.g. students joining the 6 year medical course on Monday 14th September, can check in from Friday 11th – Sunday 13th September. Detailed information on arriving into Dublin and the current requirement for self-isolation is covered in the ‘Supporting your Health, Safety and Wellbeing’ document. 12
RCS I
O R I ENTAT IO N
& R EG I STR ATIO N
Orientation & Registration takes place Term Dates
at the start of your course and will be Academic Year 2020/21 Semester 1 dates
delivered online this year during the first are shown below. Semester 2 dates are not
two weeks of the progamme. It comprises available at present and will be published
a series of introductory lectures which will on the www.rcseye.com website as soon
lay the groundwork to ensure that you are as they are available.
fully appraised of all academic and non
GEM Semester 1 key dates
academic matters, to allow you to flourish as
a student in the College. AC TIVITY S TART DAT E
Online Start 31st August
The full details of Orientation and
Registration and indeed the academic and Campus start 14th September
non-academic timetables for the first two
Mid-term break 24th - 29th October
weeks is currently being developed and will
be made available to you in the third and Term 29th October
final version of this document.
Study time 26th Nov - 10th Dec
Once you begin your studies (at the start of 11th - 21st December
Assessment period
your self-isolation) your status will change
from being an applicant to RCSI to being a Christmas break 22nd Dec - 5th January 2021
student of the College. All students will be
5 year Programme
provided with the following in advance of Semester 1 key dates
their first day.
AC TIVITY S TART DAT E
• RCSI Student Card (this will provide
Online Start 5th October
access to the Library, Computer Labs
and other areas of the RCSI campus( for Campus start 19th October
use after your self-isolation period has Mid-term break 24th - 29th October
been completed
Christmas break 23rd Dec - 4th January 2021
• RCSI Apple Laptop
Teaching complete 8th January 2021
• Log-on details for online services
& RCSI e-mail account Study time 9th - 17th January 2021
• Moodle access (RCSI’s virtual learning Assessment period 18th - 31st January 2021
environment)
Semester 2 start 1st February 2021
13RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2
2020
6 year Programme nearby medical bookstore. Alternatively,
Semester 1 key dates students can avail of copies available in the
A CTIV IT Y S TA RT D ATE Mercer Library. The Students’ Union also
arrange a second hand book sale during
Online Start 14th September
the first weeks of term where books can be
Campus start 28th September purchased at reasonable prices.
Mid-term break 21st - 26th October
Freshers’ Events
Teaching complete 18th December
Christmas break 19th Dec - 3rdh January 2021
Study time 29th Dec - 3rdh January 2021
Assessment period 4th - 16th January 2021
Timetables
The first week of Semester 1 is known as
Timetables are published on the Virtual
‘Freshers’ Week’. The aim of the week is to
Learning Environment platform Moodle.
welcome all new students and assist with
An academic timetable, covering the first the settling-in process. This year, as a result
period of your programme, will be sent of COVID-19, the Freshers activities will be
to you by email in advance of your first different as students will be self-isolating. A
week. Once you begin, you will have access committee, which includes representatives
to Moodle and will be able to view your from the Students’ Union, are developing
timetable online. plans for this year’s welcoming activities.
Some Freshers Events will take place during
Booklists the self-isolation period while others may
Recommended reading lists are available be postponed until after the students are
on Moodle and on the RCS-Eye Website. out of isolation.
Our academic staff suggest that students The Freshers Events are not yet finalised
are best advised not to purchase books as the government guidelines on lifting
in advance of arrival. They suggest that the lockdown are being accelerated
students should review books on any as the COVID situation is improving
particular subject in the Library before (ahead of projections). The organizing
they decide which book to purchase as committee are therefore waiting to have
the writing style of textbooks can vary a full understanding of what the health
significantly from one book to the next guidelines will when the programme is due
so it can be useful to find a textbook that to begin.Details of the Freshers Events
matches your learning style. You can then, will be published on the www.rcseye.com
if you wish, purchase the book from the website when they are available.
14RCS I
AC C O M M O D ATIO N
On-Campus Accommodation. All newly arriving
One of the most important tasks faced students will qualify for a 15% discount on
by new students is the search for suitable published prices in these facilities as we are
accommodation. The ‘Supporting your encouraging as many new students to stay
Health, Safety and Wellbeing’ booklet in one of these developments to allow us to
provides advice on accommodation, support you as fully as we can during your
self-isolation and the health and welfare self-isolation period.
measures that are being put in place to
support students this year. This information Off-Campus
guide was emailed to all new incoming Some students may prefer to live off-
students and is already available on campus in private rented apartments.
the www.rcseye.com website. We are Please note that if you choose to do so,
encouraging students to make their we will still do our very best to support
accommodation bookings soon to ensure you in settling into life in Dublin. The most
that you have your accommodation in popular private rented accommodation
place, as rooms fill up quickly which will options that students choose include;
limit your options later in the summer. Adelaide Square, Aungier Street
The on-campus accommodation that Residence, Castleway and Wyndham Court
we are recommending for this year is apartments, which are all located close
Mercer, Scape and New Mill Student to RCSI. If you wish to search for private
15RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2
2020
rented apartments, the following websites begins in order to search for suitable
are useful. RCSI is located in Dublin 2, so accommodation and to allow time to get
search for accommodation in Dublin 2, settled into your new life in Dublin. You
4 and 6 as these areas are closest to the should never book accommodation without
College. first seeing or having someone that you
• daft.ie • let.ie trust check it over for you.
• myhome.ie • homelocators.ie The Student Services Office is available
• findahome.ie • quillsen.ie to assist you with short-term and private
• wyse.ie • huntsman.ie rented accommodation queries. The
Office provides listings of alternative
• gumtree.ie • collegecribs.ie
types of accommodation, including host
If you intend to live in a rented apartment, families and shared accommodation.
please note that rented accommodation Accommodation listings are most useful
tends to be available for immediate from July/August onwards.
occupancy.
For information on and assistance with
If you have not secured accommodation in accommodation please consult the
advance of arriving in Ireland, you should www.rcseye.com or Email:
arrive early, complete your self-isolation studentservices@rcsi.ie
and allow at least 3-4 weeks before term
16RCS I
I MM I G R ATIO N &
VIS A R E QU IR E M ENTS
Do I need a visa to study in Ireland?
Not all students require a visa to travel to and study in Ireland. Please check the list below
to see if you require a visa to enter Ireland to study.
N AT IO NA L I T Y VISA RE QUIRE D NATIONALIT Y VIS A REQUIRED
TO STUD Y IN T O S T UDY IN
IREL AND IRELAND
Australia No Malaysia No
Bahrain Yes Maldives No
Bermuda No Mauritius Yes
Botswana No Nigeria Yes
Brazil No Oman Yes
Canada No Pakistan Yes
China Yes Qatar Yes
Egypt Yes Saint Kitts and Nevis No
Hong Kong Yes (Visa only Saudi Arabia Yes
required if you hold
a Hong Kong SAR Singapore No
Document of Identity)
Thailand Yes
India Yes
Turkey No
Iran Yes
United Arab Emirates No
Japan Yes
United States No
Korea, Republic of Yes
Zimbabwe Yes
Kuwait Yes
Lebanon Yes
Libya Yes
A full list of nationalities who require a visa to enter Ireland are available at
www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/Study
17RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2 2020 Applying for a Visa If you do require a visa, please apply to the Irish Embassy that is assigned to your Country. CO U N T RY I RISH EMBASSY/ VISA AP P C E NTRE PHONE Afghanistan Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 (0)2 4958200 Algeria Berne, Switzerland Tel: +41 31 350 03 80 Azerbaijan Ankara, Turkey Tel: +90 312 459 1000 Bahrain Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 11 407 1530 Bangladesh New Delhi, India Tel: +91 11 4940 3200 Canada Ottawa, Canada Tel: +1 613 233 6281 China Beijing, China Tel: +86 10 8531 6200 Egypt Cairo, Egypt Tel: +202 27287115 Ethiopia Addis Ababa, Ethiopi Tel: +251 (11) 518 0500 Ghana Accra, Ghana Tel: +233 302 768417 Hong Kong Visa only required if you hold a Hong Kong SAR Document of Identity India New Delhi, India Tel: +91 11 4940 3200 Indonesia Jakarta, Indonesia Tel: +62 (0) 21-2809 4300 Iran Ankara, Turkey Tel: +90 312 459 1000 Iraq Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 11 407 1530 Jordan Amman, Jordan Tel: +962 6 550 3234 Kenya Nairobi, Kenya Tel: (+254) 0205 1 353 00 Kuwait Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 (0)2 4958200 Lebanon Cairo, Egypt Tel: +202 27287115 Libya Rome, Italy Tel: +39 06 585 2381 Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: + 603 2167 8200 Mauritius Pretoria, South Africa el: +27 12 452 1000 Morocco Lisbon, Portugal Tel: +351 21 330 8200 Myanmar Bangkok, Thailand Tel : +66 2 016 1360 Nepal New Delhi, India Tel: +91 11 4940 3200 Nigeria Abuja, Nigeria Tel: +234 9 4620611 18
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CO U N T RY I R ISH EMBASSY/ VISA AP P C E NTRE PHONE
Oman Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 11 407 1530
Pakistan Ankara, Turkey Tel: +90 312 459 1000
Palestine Ramallah, Palestine Tel: +970 2 240 6811
Peru Santiago, Chile Tel: +56 2 24024949
Philippines Singapore Tel: +65 6238 7616
Qatar Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 (0)2 4958200
Russia Moscow, Russia Tel: +7 495 9375 900
Saudi Arabia Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 11 407 1530
Sri Lanka New Delhi, India Tel: +91 11 4940 3200
Sudan Nairobi, Kenya Tel: (+254) 0205 1 353 00
Syria Cairo, Egypt Tel: +202 27287115
Thailand Bangkok, Thailand Tel : +66 2 016 1360
Tunisia Madrid, Spain Tel: +34 91 431 9784
Turkey Ankara, Turkey Tel: +90 312 459 1000
UAE Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 (0)2 4958200
Ukraine Prague, Czech Republic Tel: +420 257 011 280
UK London, UK Tel.: +44 (0)20 7235 2171
USA Washington DC Tel: +1 202 462 3939
Vietnam Hanoi, Vietnam Tel: +84 24 3974 3291
Yemen Pretoria, South Africa Tel: +966 11 407 1530
Zimbabwe Pretoria, South Africa Tel: +27 12 452 1000
A full listing of Irish Embassies are available
https://www.dfa.ie/embassies/irish-embassies-abroad/#H
19RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2
2020
Irish Residency Permit (IRP) The Irish Residency Permit
All Non EU students intending to study • Does not allow you to travel to or live
full time university courses in Ireland, freely in other EU countries. - All
including those who do not require a visa existing travel and immigration rules
to enter Ireland, are required to obtain still apply.
an Irish Residency Permit IRP (Formally • Must be carried all times and presented
known as the GNIB card). The IRP is to an immigration officer or a
obtained from the Irish Naturalisation and member of An Garda Síochána (Police)
Immigration Service INIS, after you arrive if requested - this includes whenever
in Ireland. You have 3 months from the you leave or re-enter the country.
time you arrive in Ireland to obtain your
• Is issued by post, it will not be given to
Irish Residency Permit.
you at your registration appointment.
The IRP is obtained from the INIS offices
How the appointment system works:
which a 15 minute walk from the College.
Due to COVID-19, the IRP appointment
Students are required to obtain an
booking system is being redesigned by
appointment to visit the INIS office to
INIS and the online appointment system
obtain their IRP. When attending for your
is not open at this time. INIS remain in
appointment, you are required to bring a
contact with the Universities and booking
letter of registration from RCSI.
appointments will be available from
This letter can be requested through September. Full details will be available on
Moodle once you have commenced your the www.rcseye.com.
programme and can be collected from the
What to bring for your IRP appointment
SARA Office. The letter will also include
As mentioned the appointment system
your Dublin living address which is required
is being redesigned but it is unlikely to
as part of your IRP application.
change significantly. In previous years it
The IRP permit must be renewed annually worked as follows:
and in the first year you are required to • Students registering for the first time
attend in person. In subsequent years, the are finger printed (much like in the
IRP is obtained online without the need to airport)
attend the INIS office. An Irish Residence • You are required to present the
Permit costs €300 payable by debit or following at your appointment;
credit card. > Copy of your appointment
confirmation
> Valid Passport (and entry visa, if
required)
20RCS I
> Your 2020/21 RCSI Student Card REMEMBER: You cannot register with the
(issued to you when you begin your Immigration Office (INIS) until AFTER you
course) have completed your RCSI registration and
> Evidence of Financial Support - e.g. completed your self-isolation.
current bank statement showing The INIS office will prioritise all Non EU
your name and balance of at least students and are committed to ensuring
€3,000 that all students are provided for and
> A letter of guarantee from a parent receive an appointment to secure their
or guardian indicating availability IRP. This may include facilitating additional
of sufficient funds to support you appointments/days to their appointment
during your stay in Ireland; or a letter schedule if required or extending the
from your sponsoring body period to complete the process beyond the
confirming financial status. normal 90 days.
(Students from countries that require
visas do not have to provide
evidence of financial support)
> A Registration letter from the
College’s Student Academic &
Regulatory Affairs (SARA) Office.
Please request this letter after
registration from the SARA Office
(this can be requested online
through your Moodle site)
> A receipt of fees paid from the
Student Fees Office
> Evidence of private medical
insurance (MUST be purchased in
Ireland)
> Credit/Debit Card.
Please ensure that you bring all of the
above documents with you, as you will not
be able to register without them.
21RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2 2020 BANKI N G Prior to COVID-19, Allied Irish Bank (AIB) You cannot open a bank account until after and Bank of Ireland (BOI) came on campus you have completed your self-isolation. If during the first week to assist students with your landlord is looking for an Irish Bank opening their Irish Bank Accounts. Students Account, please contact the Student could also go directly to designated Services Office who will provide a letter branches of these two banks located confirming that you are a newly arrived close to the College. This year, in light of student of the College. COVID-19, the Banks are reviewing the Please be reminded that your local ATM/ process by which International students Credit and Debit cards will all operate in will open their bank accounts. We will send Ireland without the need to have an Irish details of this process to you as soon as it Bank Account. becomes available. G AR D A VE T T I N G Police clearance is not required to allow you to start your course. All students however will undergo Garda Vetting during their first year. Garda Vetting is required as part of your clinical teaching and is a standard protocol for all individuals working and training in the healthcare sector. Garda Vetting is organised through the SARA office and will require you to complete a form outlining all of the permanent addresses that you have lived in from birth. 22
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STUD EN T S U P P O RT
SER V I C E S
The welfare of RCSI students is a University wide priority and there are
many support services available to you.
Learning Access & Facilitation Student Financial Assistance
Service (LAFS) RCSI recognises that students may
The learning access and facilitation service experience financial problems for a number
(LAFS) provides confidential advice and of reasons, for example, due to unforeseen
practical support to students who seek events like a family bereavement, accident
assistance with learning access and or illness. EU students may apply to the
facilitation due to their disability, on-going Student Assistance Fund (SAF) and Non
significant medical condition or learning EU students to the Student Hardship Fund
difficulty. In all cases, the services provided (SHF). The funds are managed through
are in place to remove a disadvantage or the Student Services Office
impairment to learning due to a disability, Email: studentservices@rcsi.ie
a significant medical condition or learning
difficulty. EU Students - Student Assistance Fund
(SAF)
If you have an evidenced disability, or
Funding is received from the Irish
significant medical condition or learning
Government with assistance from the
difficulty, or just need more information,
European Social Fund to support EU
please talk to the LAFS who are based in
students. The SAF is aimed at tackling
the CoMPASS Office. We will assess your
educational disadvantage by providing
needs and may be able to assist you in
financial support to those who may require
achieving your academic and professional
it to enable them to fully participate in their
goals. We understand some students may
third-level education. The SAF is open
feel nervous about disclosing their personal
to full-time EU students. Students will be
circumstances. However, disclosure of your
required to provide financial information
disability, significant medical condition
to support their application for assistance.
or learning difficulty is confidential,
This is a hardship fund and cannot be
professional and makes sense in terms
used for Tuition Fees, Electives, Loans or
of getting the support you need to be
Personal Debt.
successful. Email: learningsupport@rcsi.ie
23RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2
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Student Hardship Fund (SHF) Students may contact the Clinical
The Student Hardship Fund is funded by Psychology Service directly –
the College and College Alumni. The Tel: +353 1 283 9366, through the Mercer
SHF is available to both EU and Non EU Medical Centre, their Personal Tutor,
Students. Students will be required to Student Welfare, or the Student Services
provide financial information to support Office.
their application for assistance. The
Student Hardship Fund cannot be used RCSI Student Welfare Supports
for Tuition Fees, Electives, Loans or The CoMPPAS Student Welfare team
Personal Debt but can be used to support provide confidential one-to-one support
students who find themselves in hardship and advice for students at RCSI. The service
due to changes in their personal or is Social Worker led and is in place to help
family circumstances that have resulted in students reach their full potential and
unexpected financial hardship. overcome any challenges that they may
meet in their time at RCSI.
Counselling Services The Student Welfare team aim to:
RCSI offers a professional independent
• Provide a compassionate, inclusive and
confidential counselling service to all RCSI
student centered service
students, which is located off campus.
• Promote positive mental health among
Our counselling service has extensive
the RCSI student body
experience over many years in providing
counselling support to RCSI students. • Implement personalised support plans
On behalf of RCSI, they manage a collaboratively with students based on
diverse panel of over 20 professionally individual needs
registered counsellors with a broad range • Promote the rights of the students and
of expertise. As part of the counselling advocate on their behalf
process, a student will firstly meet with a • Provide individual consultations with
Clinical Psychologist who will carry out an students, run workshops and student
initial assessment of their support needs. events.
This is a collaborative process and will take
The team will also help students to access
into consideration a student’s needs and
support from other helpful services
goals. The student will then be matched
including:
with, and referred to, one of our specialist
• Counselling
counsellors depending on what best suits
their needs. • Strategies for positive mental health
• Self Care
All counselling services are provided free
of charge to students as part of our student • Adjustment support, for settling into
welfare support. student life
24RCS I
• Academic related issues community groups, and extracurricular/
• Feeling overwhelmed or anxious co-curricular activities will also be based
around these learning communities or
• Making a plan to overcome any
subgroupings. Students will be allocated to
difficulties you may be facing
a Learning Community and welcomed into
Staff Buddy System their Learning Community by students and
We are conscious that International staff before they commence their academic
students who are joining us this year are programme. Each learning community
required to self-isolate for 14 days. As an will have an Academic lead (member of
additional welcome and support, all new Faculty) and a Student Engagement Lead.
students will have access to a staff buddy The Student Engagement Lead will lead
if they so wish. Staff buddies are members the wellness and social activities of the
of the academic and non academic staff Learning Community and help students
who have volunteered to act as a link and to engage in areas of personal and group
contact point in the early days and weeks of interest.
your new journey. Personal Tutor System
The staff buddy and the student will Each student will be assigned a Personal
communicate on an agreed schedule to Tutor who is a member of Faculty from the
catch up and check that you are settling in relevant year of the curriculum. The role of
to your new life in Dublin. the Personal Tutor is focused on ensuring
that each individual student is known and
Student Learning Communities & valued and that their needs are recognised
Personal Tutor System and supported.
The overall institutional objective for the Timetabled small group sessions between
coming academic year is to design a quality, tutors and students will occur on a weekly
fit for purpose curriculum incorporating basis in the first weeks of the academic year.
multiple means of engagement which They will consist of discussions and activities
creates and maintains a sense of community which will provide academic and pastoral
for students. To achieve this, two elements support to students.
will be central to creating supportive,
Each group meeting (which can be
constructive and collaborative learning
facilitated online) will have a specific theme
experiences for students.
and focus e.g. time management and
Learning Communities: independent learning skills. Students will
The creation of learning communities will also have regular individual meetings with
provide an important sense of connection their personal tutor.
for students. Students will experience
learning and teaching within their
25RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2
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The Personal Tutor’s role involves: CoMPPAS Student Assistance
• Providing support Programme (CSAP)
• Offering a listening ear CSAP is a professional specialist information,
personal development and counselling
• Academic Advice
service available to RCSI students 24 hours/7
Academic staff are also available
days a week, 365 days a year, including
for consultation where students are
holiday periods. This service is available
experiencing academic difficulties.
anytime to students anywhere in Ireland or
Students are encouraged to get to know
abroad. The service is independent and the
their Personal Tutors, as they are a valuable
college will not be notified that you have
source of support throughout the College
accessed the service unless you ask and
years. You will be advised of your Personal
consent for this to be done. The service
Tutor after registration.
includes access to emergency confidential
Student Welfare Officers telephone counselling and local face to face
The Student Welfare Officers provide counselling if required and can be accessed
a caring and confidential service which at any time.
provides support to all RCSI students. To access the service call
The Student Welfare Officers can guide Freephone 1800 995 955 (from Ireland)
students with up to date information on Email: eap@vhics.ie
all RCSI policies and procedures and, From abroad: +44 2037017293
where necessary, act as an advocate on a Text: 00353 86 776 6010
student’s behalf.
The service can also be accessed via
Student Welfare Team: the CSAP online portal
Sinead O’Kelly www.wellbeing-4life.com
Email: swo@rcsi.ie Access Code: VHIRCOSI
sineadokelly@rcsi.ie
Niteline
Aoife Gilligan-Quinn
Niteline provides a friendly and completely
Email: aoifegquinn@rcsi.ie
confidential listening ear for anyone
Michelle Whelan
who feels they need to talk about issues
Email: michellewhelan@rcsi.ie
worrying them. Phone lines are open every
The general Student Welfare Team night of term from 9.00 pm – 2.30 am.
Email: swo@rcsi.ie Tel: 1800 793 793
niteline.ie
Niteline also offer an online listening service
via instant messaging.
26RCS I
Please Talk people there who can help. It promotes
Please Talk was first launched in January this message through a collaborative
2007 in UCD. It was in response to the effort involving the various support
deaths of a number of students by suicide. services present in colleges up and down
Please Talk urges students to understand the country such as: counsellors, student
that talking is a sign of strength, not of support officers, students’ unions, disability
weakness, and if they are experiencing support services and many more,
problems while at college, there are www.shine.ie/please-talk
27RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2 2020 HEALT H SER V I CE S Student Health Primary Care other Irish citizen. Admission to hospital A comprehensive student health service is subject to a government levy of €80 per is available at the RCSI Department of night, up to a maximum of €800 in one General Practice in the Mercer Medical year. Attending an Accident & Emergency Centre. Consultations are by appointment Department (ER in some parts of the (Tel +353 1 402 2300). A full range of World) incurs a cost of €100 (this is per services are available, including treatment illness, for life). This charge is waived if you of injuries and advice regarding lifestyle. are referred to the A&E Department by a Consultation fees are covered by RCSI, General Practitioner. however students are responsible for house Please note, that if you are admitted calls and prescribed medication charges. to hospital due to COVID-19, your full For further information regarding student hospital costs will be covered by the Irish health, visit mercersmedicalcentre.ie Government. Emergency/Hospital Services Non-EU students are regarded as“ordinarily All registered Non EU students are deemed resident” in Ireland if they satisfy the Health ordinarily resident in Ireland* and are Board that it is their intention to remain in entitled to public care in a public hospital. Ireland for a minimum period of one year. International students in full time courses Evidence which may be sought which can are effectively treated the same as any be satisfied by: 28
RCS I
• Proof of property purchase or rental, If you require further information please
including evidence that the property in read the document, Private Medical
question is your principal address Insurance Requirements for Non-EU/EEA
• Evidence of transfer of funds, or bank Students – inis.gov.ie
accounts
Private Health Insurance is essential with
• Irish Residence Permit Card (IRP Card) annual costs depending on the plan
• Visa or residence permit as stamped on chosen. Further information is available
passport from the Student Services Office or the
• Signed affidavit by the applicant www.rcseye.com website.
Health Insurance Information on Private Health Insurers
All Non-EU/EEA students are required to operating in Ireland:
have Private Medical Insurance to obtain • O’Driscoll O’Neill Insurance (Please
their Irish Residence Permit. Newly arrived note that although O’Driscoll
first year students can use 1 or 2 of the O’Neill offer the most competitive
following to fulfil the health insurance rates for students, which is sufficient
requirement:
for immigration purposes IT DOES
1. Purchase private medical insurance – NOT COVER pre-existing illnesses
which must be purchased in Ireland or newly diagnosed illness. Therefore
OR we strongly recommend that if you
2. Travel insurance which must cover the avail of this policy, you should also take
student for; out a more comprehensive package
• The entirety of their stay up to a with another provider) odon.ie/rcsi
maximum of 1 year The 3 large full health insurance providers
• A minimum of €25,000 for Accident in Ireland are:
and €25,000 for Disease
• Voluntary Health Insurance VHI
• Any period of hospitalisation Tel: +353 1 890 44 44 44
Please note that: vhi.ie
• Travel insurance can only be used
• Laya Healthcare
for newly arrived first year students and
Tel +353 21 202 2000
medical insurance, purchased in
layahealthcare.ie
Ireland, must be used for all
subsequent years. • Irish Life Health
• Insurance policies purchased in your Tel: +353 1 890 717 717
home country will not be accepted irishlifehealth.ie
by the Irish Naturalisation &
Immigration Services (INIS).
29RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2
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Vaccinations Health & Safety
All newly registered students must undergo It is the policy of the Royal College of
serological screening. The College will Surgeons in Ireland to provide a healthy
arrange for such screening and follow up. and safe study environment. This can
RCSI can ONLY accept vaccinations carried only be achieved successfully with the
out by the RCSI Mercer’s Medical Centre to cooperation and vigilance of the staff and
ensure that all students are in compliance. students. According to the Safety,
The cost of the RCSI vaccination Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, all
programme for all Non EU students is staff and students have a “duty of care” to
covered as part of your tuition fee. There themselves and others, to work in a safe
may be a small charge for additional manner. To this end, white coats, safety
vaccines not covered by the standard glasses, and other protective clothing
programme. Screening and immunisation must be worn when required. Students are
are compulsory and failure to comply may also reminded that it is a criminal offence
result in discontinuation. Queries can be to interfere with or misuse equipment
addressed to the Mercer Medical Centre. provided for their collective safety.
Action will be taken against any student
who deliberately endangers the health and/
or safety of others. For example, misusing
fire extinguishers.
30RCS I
CO MPU TE R
AND I T S E R V IC E S
All undergraduate students are provided If you wish to connect a personal laptop/
with an Apple MacBook laptop for computer to the College network (other
academic use. This laptop will be provided than the device provided to you by RCSI),
to you at the start of your academic you must contact the IT department to
programme. When you start your laptop arrange a system check. Failure to notify the
for the first time, you will be asked to IT department about connecting a personal
input your RCSI login credentials and computer to the RCSI network may result
the machine will automatically download in suspension of your network services/
software to configured the machine to your privileges.
course. Your login details will be provided YOU SHOULD INSURE YOUR LAPTOP!
to you when you receive your laptop. Please note that your laptop is essential for
Instructions on setting up and using the RCSI course work. It is your responsibility to
teaching software will be provided to you in look after it carefully. RCSI cannot replace it
advance of your course. in the event of it being stolen or damaged
31RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2
2020
beyond warranty repair. A laptop E-mail
‘insurance letter’ for RCSI students is All students are provided with an e-mail
available from the Student Services Office. address after registration. It is mandatory
This letter will enable you to obtain that students use this e-mail address
insurance. Cover4students provides for all communication with the College.
specialist contents and possessions Important notices will be sent to students
insurance for students. via their RCSI e-mail address. We therefore
recommend students check their inbox on
Email: info@cover4students.com
a daily basis.
Web: www.cover4insurance.com
Network
Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)
RCSI has, in addition to the wired network,
Moodle, the RCSI VLE (vle.rcsi.ie) is
numerous WiFi access points available
a valuable resource for all registered
to students to connect with the network/
students, facilitating access to a wide
internet. Students must be aware that
variety of information: class timetables,
use of the internet is subject to the RCSI
lecture notes, multimedia tutorials,
Acceptable Usage Policy.
examinations results, self-assessment tests
and calendar of events for clubs IT Support
and societies. It is password protected The College offer IT support to students
for the exclusive use of RCSI students. through the IT Helpdesk, which is located
To log on to the system, simply enter your in the IT Department, Ground Floor, 121 St
RCSI provided network user name and Stephen’s Green.
password. IT HELPDESK
Email: helpdesk@rcsi.ie
32RCS I
G ENER AL FA C IL I TI ES
& S ER V IC E S AT RCSI
Crèche Facilities Food & Catering
Crèche facilities are available to registered Catering for the needs of our international
students of RCSI at a discounted rate student body, our on-campus restaurant
through Giraffe Childcare & Early Learning. and two coffee shops serve a wide
Giraffe develop and operate Childcare selection of freshly-made food and drinks,
and Early Learning Centres for pre-school including vegetarian and halal-friendly
children from three months and upwards. options.
Please note that rates vary depending ‘Remedy’, a Coffee Shop located in the
on the location of the centre and places lower Ground Floor of 123 SSG, opens at
are limited so early booking is advisable. 7.30am and is the idea place to kick start
Emergency care is also available when your day with a caffeine fix. Offering quality
other care arrangements are temporarily coffee with quick breakfast and lunch
unavailable. options to stay or to go.
For further information: ‘The Dispensary’ is for Starbucks lovers
Email: info@giraffe.ie giraffe.ie or where students can grab their Tall, Grande,
contact the Student Service Office and Venti hot drinks and snacks. The
33RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2
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Dispensary also opens from 7.30am and Information Desks in 26 York Street and
is located on the ground floor of 26 York Beaumont Hospital, curriculum sessions,
Street. online via the Library website, Moodle,
LibGuides, a Student App and Library
BiteSize sessions that are available
throughout the year. As you progress
through your programme, the Library
staff are on hand to support you with
finding and using information at all stages
of your studies - your first assignment,
while on clinical placement, with patient
care information - to enrich your student
experience. The Library can be contacted
at: E-library@rcsi.ie
Lockers
All new students are issued with a locker
at the beginning of the academic year.
Allocation of lockers will take place
‘1784’ is the main College Restaurant and
after the self-isolation period has been
is located beside Remedy on the lower
completed.
ground floor of 123 SSG. Named 1784, (in
honour of the year that the College was Mobile/Cell Phones
established), the restaurant operates from Your own personal mobile/cell phone may
7.30am to 3pm, Monday to Friday and operate in Ireland. It is essential that you
serves up a wide variety of eating options check with your local service provider. You
from snacks to full meals. may want to buy a mobile phone when
you come to Ireland. Mobile/Cell phones
Libraries
can be purchased from a variety of shops
The College has two Libraries, 26 York
located around the city. Prices start from
Street and Beaumont Hospital. The
€20. Compare the cost of a ‘pay as you
Libraries provide access to a wide range
go’ mobile phone and a phone with a
of study spaces, an extensive collection of
monthly bill.
biomedical resources, and an expert library
team. Learning how to find, evaluate, use, There are several mobile phone companies
and manage information is an integral part in Ireland: Vodafone, 3, Tesco and Eir. Each
of your healthcare studies. company has several outlets close to the
College. Credit for mobile phones can be
The library team provide guidance and
purchased in local shops. Once you open
support through a dedicated team at
a bank account you can also buy credit at
34RCS I
an ATM. Most mobile phone provider
websites contain information about
mobile phone prices and call rates, so you
can get an idea as to which phone would
suit you best. Phones can be purchased
online and each website gives a store
locator. You may also try purchasing
phones and/ or comparing phone and
plan prices at Carphone Warehouse.
If you are completing your self-
isolation in one of the RCSI on-campus
accommodation facilities, arrangements
will be in place to allow you to purchase
SIM cards for your mobile phone while
you are completing your self-isolation.
Prayer Rooms
The College has a multi-denominational
oratory and prayer rooms for students of
the Islamic faith. Prayer rooms are also
available in Beaumont and Connolly
Hospital, RCSI’s two main teaching
hospitals.
Sports Facilities
No. 26 York Street is home to state of
the art sports facilities including an
intervarsity size basketball court, the
main gym, a ladies gym and a studio.
The Basketball court accommodates a
variety of activities including volleyball,
five a side soccer, badminton and cricket.
The studio adjacent to the gym can host
yoga, pilates, dance and much more and
our ladies only gym is a private gym with
cardiovascular and toning equipment that
provides a private area for ladies of all
abilities to workout.
35RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2
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RCSI Gym your health and fitness goals in the most
We understand that busy students need time-effective way. From tailored fitness
the very best facilities to balance their programmes and nutrition advice to sports
academic and health and fitness ambitions. specific programmes, they are available at
Our fitness centre caters for complete all times to ensure you get the very best
beginners to regular exercisers and offers results. Extensive opening hours mean that
the very best gym equipment available the gym is open when it suits you - be it an
anywhere in Ireland. Our cardiovascular early session to wake you up, a lunchtime
suite has over 40 pieces of equipment to workout to invigorate your afternoons’
ensure you get the best variety in your study or a late night class to finish your day
workouts. To tone, build and sculpt your strong. E-mail: gymaccess@rcsi.ie
body, you will need resistance machines
Sports Co-ordinator
and with our range of over 30 sectorised
The RCSI Sports Co-ordinator is responsible
weight machines, you will get the results
for all matters relating to sports and for
you want in an effective and safe way. Our
providing assistance and support to the
weights room contains over 2,500kg of
College’s sports clubs/teams. RCSI has
plates and dumb bells and a large range
playing fields at Railway Union Rugby Club
of racks, benches and platforms. You
where a flood-lit rugby pitch, soccer pitch
can be sure of hitting your strength and
and cricket wicket are available. In addition,
conditioning goals.
the college contracts with other sporting
The gym team, who are all qualified and
facilities to ensure that our students needs
experienced fitness professionals, are
and requirements are met.
always on hand to assist you in achieving
36RCS I
Student Union (SU) body and the officers attend and represent
The Student Union aims to maintain and the students at a number of College
promote the education, social and general Committees including Academic Council
welfare of all students. All students are and the Student Affairs Committee.
automatically full members of the Student The SU ensure that the students voice
Union with voting rights in the election of is heard on all matters related to their
Officers and Class Representatives. Elected academic and non-academic life.
annually by the student body the SU
The Student Union works closely with the
consists of eight officers:
Deans Office, the SARA Office, the Student
• President Services Office and the IT department
• Vice President to provide feedback to the College
• Societies Officer and to develop quality improvement
measures across all aspects of College
• Education Officer
life. The also work closely with the Sports
• IT Officer & Societies Unions and contribute to the
• Events Officers comprehensive social life at RCSI. Their
• Treasurer most visible events of the year are Freshers’
Week, SU College Ball and Chocolate Ball.
• Cultural Officer
E-mail: su@rcsi.ie for more information.
• Welfare Officer
The Student Union is the link between
Faculty/Administration and the student
37RCS I I NF O R M AT I O N PA CK 2 2020 STUD EN T L IF E Student life is a rich and vibrant part of College. This memorable night is spent RCSI. Here is a small flavour of some travelling around the world in a matter of activities that take place annually: hours through dance, drama, and music. > Cultural Diversity Month is organised Not to be missed! by the Student Union and the Student > International Food Night is organised Services Office to celebrate the diversity annually by the Gourmet Society, this feast of the RCSI student body. One of the for the stomach and the senses celebrates many events is the Cultural Exhibition the multicultural backgrounds of the RCSI Fair where students set up stands and student body through food. YUMMY! exhibits showcasing their country, culture, > The Chocolate Ball is another popular landscape, food and traditional dress from event. As the name suggests, there is a their homelands. LOT of chocolate involved. The Caribbean- > World Music Night and the African Society (CAS) organises the Ball. RCSI World Cup Five Aside Soccer The proceeds from the event go to charity. competitions are just two of the many other > The Music Society organise Ballad cultural theme events that also take place Sessions each academic year. Great music, during Cultural Diversity month great fun. > International Night is one of the major > Boston Marathon RCSI students are student social events of the year, which fortunate to participate annually in the showcases the ethnic diversity within the Boston Marathon. This affords students 38
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