Student Interview: Brian McGillivary

Brian McGillivary is a second year computing student at National College of Ireland. He has won an NCI Sports Scholarship two years running and recently represented Ireland in Soccer at the Special Olympics. We caught up with him to chat about how he's finding life at NCI.

How are you enjoying college life?

I really enjoy college life! The social life is great but as I’m big into sports I don’t go out a lot during the week due to training. In terms of my course, it doesn’t matter how big the classes are, if you have a problem you can talk to the lecturers about anything. They are very friendly and approachable.  NCI was my first choice and I’m glad I made it.

Were you nervous about coming to college?

When I started here at the college I was a little bit nervous. I didn’t have any friends coming to the college with me but once I got to know people it was great.

Can you tell me a little bit about your disability?

I have Cerebral Palsy, a condition affecting body movements and muscle co-ordination. Certain movements I have are stiff; I mainly have problems with my left arm and left leg. I am very open about my disability but when it comes to girls I wouldn’t be as open as I would be with the lads!

What supports have you received in college?

From the very first day I received plenty of support from the college. I met with the O2 Student Support Officer, Stephen Kennedy and he told me everything there is to know about the college and the course I was doing. I received a specialised laptop and extra printing facilities to help with my course work. NCI Disability Support also assists me with exam preparation, academic writing and note-taking.

How important is a Disability Support Service in a college?

I think a Disability Support Service is hugely important in a college. There are a lot more people in third level education with a disability than people realise. They can be nervous and shy about their disability and the support service is an ideal way of getting to know about the college and what assistance you can receive. I believe that a Disability Support Service like the one in NCI is very beneficial. A person with a disability feels different already, this helps them feel less different and to fit in easier.