Student Parent Co-Ordinator Project
Mary Immaculate College is the first college in the country to offer a dedicated service to student parents and expectant parents. The Student Parent Co-Ordinator (SPC) Project began in October 2007 and is funded by the HSE Crisis Pregnancy Programme and Mary Immaculate College Student Union (MISU).
Nicola Hurley is the Student Parent Co-Ordinator and she is based in the Medical Centre, on the third floor of the Tara Building. The following services/supports are provided by the SPC Project:
One-to-One Support: For students experiencing crisis pregnancy and student parents adjusting and making the transition to College as student parents. This involves emotional support in a confidential and non-judgemental setting and practical information such as social welfare entitlements, financial assistance, assistance with childcare, linking with other MIC support services and external agencies.
Appointments: Text 'APPOINTMENT' to 087-9501160 or email Nicola.Hurley@mic.ul.ie (by appointment only)
'Drop in' Clinics: Mondays: 2.30pm – 3.30pm, Wednesdays: 10am – 11am. Venue: MISU Meeting Room, Tara Building (Ground Floor).
MISPACE (Student Parent Forum & Networking Space) Sometimes it helps to meet other student parents, share common concerns and know you're not the only one juggling the demands of college and parenting. MISPACE is a mix of workshops, information sessions, guest presenters and social child-friendly events such as the annual student parent Christmas party and Easter Egg Hunt. It is co-facilitated by Nicola Hurley and Eva Devaney.
This is also an opportunity to meet with other student parents over coffee and follow-up on any concerns or queries you may have with Nicola and Eva.
Wednesdays: 11.30am – 1.30am in the MISU Meeting Room.
Find out more by signing up for the monthly Student Parent Newsletter on www.misu.ie or find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/micstudentparents
'Information Guide for Expectant Students and Student Parents at Third Level' A research pillar was introduced in September 2010 with the aim of sharing the learning of the project by producing a series of resource materials for use by other third level colleges. This work is being done by Nicola Hurley (SPC) and Lorraine Whisker (independent researcher).
The 'Information Guide for Expectant Students and Student Parents at Third Level' is currently available on www.misu.ie
An evaluation of this resource is currently underway, if you would like to contribute and give feedback, please complete the online survey.