Just got a WhatsApp text with a link to a petition asking for Irish universities to partially refund domestic, EU and international students because of the covid-19 crisis and subsequent campus shutdown.

As a student myself, I don't want a refund. And here's why - (1/5)

First, Irish universities have responded to the crisis swiftly & efficiently. Almost all classes went ahead despite lockdown, with lecturers & administration working under high stress to maintain academic integrity & deliver modules/assessment for the rest of the semester. (2/5)

Second, online classes are not 'less effective' than physical classes. While studying on campus is ideal, studying online does not remove university costs to pay for lecturers, other staff & services. Alumni/industry networks are still accessible & degrees will be awarded. (3/5)

Third, I know it's a hard time for students, especially since placements are being cancelled & the job market is unstable. My own placement with the Sunday Times, which I was ecstatic about, got cancelled. It breaks my heart, but there's no one to blame. Just bad timing. (4/5)

Finally, the university sector is one of the worst hit in this crisis. Huge potential revenue sources are being lost & this adversely affects future students. It is the govt's job to save the sector, and students, from the €500b losses to come - that's your real petition. (5/5)