TY Update Summer 2018 | Page 38

Top tips forTY’s We asked Teachers to share their TOP TIPS for the best TY Experience and here is their expert advice: YOU GET OUT WHAT YOU PUT IN This simple tip features most frequently in all the teachers’ advice. Challenge yourself and give TY 100% commitment; you will be amazed to find out what you’re capable of. If you approach the year like a doss- year, you will have a doss- year. DON’T WAIT to be asked to get involved in projects or activities. Seek them out. Put your hand up. Put your name down. Put yourself forward for every opportunity that sounds interesting, this is critical. Ask yourself what it is that stops you from trying out things you might enjoy? Shyness? Fear of failure or ridicule? Lack of confidence? You might be surprised to learn that most people your age have similar fears. The trick is not to let your fears stand between you and the experience of your life. TY starts now!! Not in September, not when you’re given an instruction by the teacher, NOW!! Be open to trying new experiences. Don’t just do the easy work experience in the local shop or restaurant, put some effort into finding something you are interested in. Use the year to develop a new skill such as a software or communication skills. PLAN Start early, things take longer than you think. Develop clear goals as early in the year as possible (during the holidays if possible), and do not allow yourself to drift from your goals. Keep a journal or a year planner and write all project deadlines and other critical dates in your journal as soon as you get them. Keep your planner visible. VOLUNTEER Volunteering is great for your community, your club or your group. It allows you to give of yourself to others. But volunteering is not only about giving, because you get a lot in return. Volunteering builds confidence, develops communication skills and helps build your network. Stay positive and enthusiastic, and remember that TY is not only about having fun. There will be times when you have to knuckle down to get work done, but the rewards will be there if you do! BE PROACTIVE independent; pick the ones that you think you’ll enjoy, ones that will challenge you or that might lead you in new directions. STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE Don‘t pick modules or activities just because your friends picked them, or because they’re easy. Be T Y U P D AT E S U M M E R 2 0 1 8 www.4schools.ie ASK FOR HELP If you are not sure what to do, have nothing to do or are overwhelmed …ask for help. TY is a really special year and you can can achieve so much but you may need assistance at times. Reach out to Teachers, Parents, Friends and Community leaders - you will be amazed at the help that is is available to a TY student. ENJOY YOUR YEAR