Meet Charles — an undergraduate Business student from Brazil — sharing his experience of EDI Support at CCT College.

The EDI Office (Equality, Diversity & Inclusion) provides dedicated support to students experiencing learning challenges, ensuring an inclusive and accessible learning journey for all.

“Don’t be afraid to ask for support. You are not alone”

My name is Charles, and I am an international student from Brazil studying at CCT College Dublin.

Before I started at CCT, I already knew that the college had an EDI support service for students. Knowing that this support was available gave me more confidence before I started my course. During my first week, I contacted the EDI Office because I knew I would need support. From the beginning, I felt welcome, listened to and understood.

Starting university in a new country was a big challenge for me. As an autistic student, one of my biggest challenges is communicating in public, especially during presentations. Even when I know the subject well, I can become very nervous and find it difficult to express my ideas clearly.

The support I received made a big difference to my university experience. The alternative presentation arrangements helped me feel more confident and reduced my anxiety. They allowed me to demonstrate my knowledge without my communication difficulties becoming a barrier. I was also approved for extra time in assessments, although I did not need to use it. Just knowing that this support was available gave me more confidence.

The EDI Office supported me throughout my studies, not only through emails but also through face-to-face meetings whenever I needed guidance. Anne regularly checked how I was doing at university, answered my questions and helped me find the best solutions. I always felt listened to, respected and supported. I am truly grateful for everything Anne and the EDI Office have done for me.

If I could give one piece of advice to other autistic students, it would be: don’t be afraid to ask for support. You are not alone. The EDI Office is there to help you, and asking for support can make your university experience much more positive.

I hope my story will encourage other students to ask for support when they need it.

The CCT EDI Office (Equality, Diversity & Inclusion) is here to support every student, offering guidance and encouragement to help you navigate any learning challenges on your journey through college.

To speak to the EDI Officer email: edi@cct.ie