Editorial - Do we lose or gain an hour lads?

Ah yes it’s that time of year again, where we type “when do” into Google and then the rest of the sentence is filled out automatically to “when do the clocks change.” That’s just the beginning however. I will have needed more fingers to count how many times I debated whether we gain or lose an hour of sleep with friends and family over the course of last weekend. Thankfully, by the time you’re reading this, you will know by now and the ‘jet lag’ from the hour’s difference will have passed - hopefully. I’m sure that on Sunday morning many of us will have welcomed the extra hour in bed but what I’m not looking forward to is the afternoon darkness that is fast approaching. Coming out of a lecture in the pitch black is not exactly ideal, especially if you’re someone who is prone to getting the ‘winter blues.’  Speaking of blues, how did the Jazz Festival go for ye? I’m praying that I managed to peel myself away from doing assignments and got my groove on over the weekend. It’s so important to try and give yourself a break every now and again, or else you might totally crack up. Even if you just get out for a brisk walk in the cold air, surrounded by a plethora of colours, it’s bound to be good for the soul. It’s mad to think that we’re only 5 weeks away from exams and even madder to think that Christmas is less than two months away. Balancing study, assignments, exams and buying presents can be stressful so perhaps you should try and make a plan to see where you can spare time over the next four weeks. For those first years who are reading this, be prepared to be stressed, it’s okay if you are, we’ve all been there, and many of us are still there, so don’t worry. I always try and embrace this time, I must admit that I love it. The colours of the leaves, the breath in the air, the hot chocolate stands that come on campus….what’s not to love? For the lads out there it’s also a great opportunity to send your CVs off to girls who tweet about wanting a boyfriend to keep her warm over winter – I’m preparing mine as we speak, so keep your fingers crossed for me.As always I hope this edition finds you all well and that you enjoy reading our latest edition! Míle Buiochas – Ciaran.