The Power of Communities for Student Engagement

Starting university can be both exciting and overwhelming. For many students, the experience is accompanied by uncertainties about settling into a new city, forming friendships, and navigating academic life. TCD’s Goin' community has been a vital tool in easing these anxieties.

The 400,000 messages represent thousands of meaningful interactions where students found guidance, reassurance, and connection. Pre-arrival engagement—such discovering new friends and like minded interest groups—significantly enhances student confidence, creates a sense of belonging, and boosts satisfaction. These early interactions ensure that students arrive feeling prepared and excited, laying the foundation for academic and social success..

How Goin’ Supports TCD’s Engagement

Goin' provided the platform that allowed TCD students to connect meaningfully before their arrival. By offering a centralized space for sharing experiences, asking questions, and building friendships, the platform helped turn abstract worries into actionable solutions.

Whether it's discovering roommates, learning about the city, or sharing course tips, these interactions create a ripple effect of positivity. Students who feel connected and informed are not just more excited about their studies—they’re also more likely to be a part of their community once arriving, improving retention and long-term connection with the university.

TCD’s success highlights how a strong sense of belonging—cultivated even before arrival—can transform the student experience. By offering a platform where students can connect, support each other, and find answers independently, universities like TCD are meeting student needs while reducing the workload on staff. 

What the TCD Community Has to Say about Goin’

Kaustubh: "This is an amazing platform to help connect with students. And for someone who’s going abroad for the first time, it can be a little anxious. Knowing people beforehand can definitely help. So far, it’s been great—I was able to connect with people studying my course."

Olivia: "I love the concept of making connections before I get to Trinity! When I heard about this app at the open house I attended, I thought it was such a great idea."

Alexandra: "This is a great idea! It has reduced the initial stress of moving somewhere new and not knowing anyone else. So far, it has allowed me to talk to other students and help make friends who want to explore TCD and the city together!"

Shaelynn: "I think it’s a great way to connect with people with similar interests and to find out who your future classmates will be. It definitely makes the move abroad better because you gain advice from people who have already made the transition."

Selin: "This app helps make the uncertainty and anxiety of coming to a new country fade away a little bit. It made me feel relieved, and I am really grateful for this opportunity."

For universities like TCD, creating a sense of belonging before students even arrive is a game-changer. By offering a platform where students can connect, support each other, and find answers independently, institutions can better meet their students’ needs while easing the administrative burden on staff. Goin’s moderation and support systems ensure that these communities grow naturally, creating engagement without creating extra work for university teams.

Building the Future of Student Communities‍

TCD’s achievement with 400,000 messages illustrates the potential of community-driven platforms to transform the student experience. At Goin', we’re proud to support institutions in creating these vibrant ecosystems. When students feel connected and engaged, they’re set up for success both academically and socially.

To discover more about how Goin’ can support your university in building strong, engaged student communities, or to explore further insights on the impact of early connections, schedule a meeting with us and we’ll help you stay informed!