Arqus Invites Students to Explore Anxiety and Wellbeing in Two Online Workshops

Students from across the Arqus European University Alliance are invited to take part in two online workshops focusing on anxiety, emotional wellbeing and building confidence in academic and social situations. Organised through cooperation between Vilnius University and Maynooth University, the sessions will take place on 6 October and 10 November 2026.

The workshops aim to provide students with practical tools for recognising and managing anxiety, understanding its effects and developing greater confidence in everyday situations. Led by counselling professionals from both universities, the sessions will offer opportunities to explore common challenges experienced during university life.

The initiative builds on cooperation between Maynooth University Counselling Service and its International Office, which have worked together since 2023 to support students preparing to study abroad and incoming Erasmus students. In collaboration with Vilnius University and with the support of Arqus Alliance Engagement Coordinator Philippa Harper, this experience has developed into a wider initiative to strengthen student mental health and wellbeing support across the Alliance.

Understanding the Anxiety Scale – 6 October

The first workshop, held on 6 October at 15:00 CEST, explores how anxiety can manifest at different levels and how to recognise its effects. Led by Deirdre McDonagh, Head of Maynooth University Counselling, Student Services, the session introduces practical approaches to understanding anxiety and identifying when and where to seek support.

Presentation Anxiety: Building Confidence in Social Situations – 10 November

The second workshop will take place on 10 November at 15:00 CET and will be led by Rūta Bakanaitė, Community Psychologist at Vilnius University Counselling Service.

The session will focus on presentation anxiety and the challenges students may encounter when speaking in front of others or navigating social situations. Participants will explore ways to manage these experiences and develop greater confidence in academic and social settings.

Both workshops are open to students from all Arqus universities and will be held online. No prior registration is required, and students can join using the links provided for each session.

The initiative reflects the ongoing cooperation between Arqus universities in sharing expertise and developing opportunities that support students' wellbeing throughout their academic experience.

More information here.