By EmilyRose Nulty
There’s no rulebook for achieving your goals; do what fits best for you.
College season is well underway, and with that, it can mean a lot of excitement; it can also mean some frustration. There is a lot of emphasis surrounding securing a college place and the pressure that comes along with it, but it is important to remember that there are alternative routes:
- PLCs
- Work experience
- A gap year
- Appreticeships
These paths aren’t a sign of disappointment or delay; they are about finding the right fit for you.
Alternative routes exist for many reasons:
- Some students may need time to decide on their degree
- Some may not be financially viable
- Some might not want to go to college
- Others might want to gain practical skills
It is not about lack of intelligence, it’s about your situation, not your ability.
Taking an alternative route can open up doors beyond academics. PLCs, working, or a gap year help you gain skills and build self-confidence and, most importantly, show you what truly interests you.
For example, I did multiple PLCs online, then attended one in person, and through that, I was accepted as an advanced entry (meaning I skipped Year 1 to Year 2) and did a 3-year course instead.
This was the best decision I could have made for myself because it taught me how to write properly under college guidelines, opened me up to new passions, and showed me how to learn and study independently.
Another example is Eugene Greaney from “Dough Bros.” Eugene and his brother, Ronan who have created a hugely successful pizza brand from the ground up. Eugene was featured in RTÉ News speaking about his experience failing the Leaving Certificate, to now his business is in the Leaving Certificate business paper!
Alternative routes may help you make a more informed decision about your career or degree.
Every skill, lesson or connection is creating the foundation for your future.
If you are considering an alternative route, don’t be afraid to ask teachers, parents or friends for guidance; they could inspire you to discover something new.
It is also important to research courses, and if you have questions, reach out directly – more times than not, people want to help you and give you as much advice as possible.
As a student, you are eligible for a free ISIC card, which is internationally recognised. Whether you are in second or third level education, you can avail of student discounts in a wide variety of places: universities, shops, travel, and experiences.
Here are some resources that may help you:
Finance:
More information on ISIC cards
SUSI grant (PLC and Third level)
Grants and funds for mature students
Student Assistance Fund & other grants
Fund for Students with Disabilities
College, PLC and Apprenticeships:
Careers Portal – Comprehensive PLC and College information
Apprenticeship – includes different industries
No matter which path you take, every experience is valuable. Whatever you decide, it will help you grow and gain more confidence, and most importantly, discover what truly drives you.
There’s no “correct” way to achieve your goals, so do it in a way that suits and benefits you the most.
If it feels overwhelming right now, you are doing the absolute best you can right now, and that is all you can do.
It will work out, even if at times it doesn’t feel that way, it will.