Are you intending on going to college this year? Have you completed your CAO? If so, it is imperative that you give serious consideration to your CAO choices.

Often students focus on their first, second and third preferences and pay no attention to lesser preferences on their CAO application.

Students also often do not even contemplate level six and seven courses, tending to focus solely on level eight degrees. It is important for students to sit back and take note that no matter what their chosen career is, there are back door entry routes to getting there.

For example, if you wish to become an Occupational Therapist, you would need to obtain 520 CAO points in order to secure a place on NUI Galway’s Occupational Therapy programme. If you do not achieve such points, your dreams are not shattered as students have numerous options in regards to qualifying as an Occupational Therapist.

Examples include studying level 8 programmes such as Arts (300 points NUI Galway), Social Care Practice (310 points AIT) or Sports Therapy with rehabilitation (365 points AIT), or level seven courses such as Applied Social Studies (310 points AIT) to name but a few.

After completing an honours degree in courses such as those listed above, students can progress and complete a two year Master’s in Occupational Therapy at University of Limerick. The important point is to explore your chosen career in depth and understand what back door routes are available.

Remember, just because you do not achieve adequate points, your career aspirations do not have to be over. Be smart in selecting alternative programmes and you will get there!

For expert advice on all career guidance and educational issues, contact Clodagh A. Higgins of Galway Careers Clinic, Salthill, Galway on 091-581234 or galwaycareersclinic@gmail.com or alternatively visit www.galwaycareersclinic.com.