WITH CAO points for most third-level courses set to rise, students disappointed with today’s Leaving Certificate results are being urged to consider options including a gap year.
Muireann Ní Dhuigneáin, head of Dublin City University’s career service urged students unhappy with their grades to “be creative” and remember other options are available to them.
She advised students who may not have received their desired points to talk with the school regarding a recheck if they think they deserve a better grade.
“Students should also talk to their school guidance counsellor or one of the many Leaving Certificate results helplines if their school counsellor isn’t available.”
Ms Ní Dhuigneáin said gap years were very valuable to students as long as they are focused.
“They are very valuable especially for those interested in languages but students must make sure whatever they do is of benefit to them either by furthering their CV, career or college application,” she said.
Students should remember there are other ways to get a degree such as doing a certificate or diploma first which can form access to a degree course, she added.
The Union of Students in Ireland urged students not to panic if they don’t get their desired points or grades.
Gary Redmond, president of USI, said there are many options out there to do a college course without having got the necessary points. “For example, if a student doesn’t get the necessary grades for medicine they can now do a science course and then apply for medicine through the graduate entry programme,” he said.
He said gap years were beneficial to students but warned against taking them in the belief that CAO points may drop next year.
Students disappointed with today’s results should until Monday and the CAO offers before worrying or panicking as the points might drop for their preferred choice, he added.
Tom Hall, editor of Lonely Planettravel guide said gap years have enormous benefits and can improve people's chances of getting a job later on.