Higher Options – How To Make The Most Out Of Your Day
By Eimear Dinneen – 3 minute read
Choosing a third level course is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. You’ll never get the time to visit every college’s open day so having them all in one place at the Higher Options Event is a great opportunity to find out what you need to know. To make sure you get the most out of your day, check out these 6 tips.
1. Know what you’re looking for
These events tend to be busy, so it’s a good idea to make a list of all the colleges’ stands that you want to visit. Also, keep an eye out for the Studyclix stand! (We always have loads of free stuff to give away!)
2. Ask the right questions
If you want to get the most out of Higher Options then you’ll want to come home having all your questions answered. It’s a good idea to make a list beforehand of all the things you want to find out. Here’s a few questions you might include;
- What courses are on offer?
- Is there an interview involved?
- What were the points required last year?
- How do I apply?
- Is the course that I am interested in covered under the grant scheme?
- What’s the weekly timetable like?
- What are the career prospects once I graduate?
- What are other graduates of this course doing now?
3. Keep an eye out for new courses
It’s always worth checking out any new courses available as often these will be brought on stream as a result of demand in the jobs market.
4. Go to the talks and lectures
There will be talks at the event about topics such as the CAO and UCAS application process as well as applying to study in Europe.
5. It’s good to talk
There will be lecturers and current students on hand to answer your questions. Don’t be afraid to approach these people with your questions. The last thing you want is to come home with unanswered questions because you were to shy to ask.
6. Summarise everything when you get home
If you’ve followed our advice it’s likely that when you get home your head will be full of information and impressions. It’s a good idea to sit down and write out the name of each of the courses that interested you along with all the pros and cons of that course. This way you’ll have a record of your first impressions while they are still fresh in your mind.
Finally!
Remember you’ll be doing a lot of walking and picking up lots of information so wear comfortable shoes and bring a bag!
Happy Course Hunting!
Francis O' Toole Author - Careers Ireland 