On July 1, the CAO’s ‘Change Of Mind’ facility closes – which means that the final course choices listed on your form are set in stone. However, you still have time to explore your possibilities, and look around the vast array of course options available to you.

Planning for your future can feel like a terrifying notion, but by prioritising your passions and interests, the process can open up exciting new paths that you may have never even envisioned. During this stressful time, it’s important to remember that there’s more than one route to a successful and fulfilling career – so why not think outside the box?

Long-hailed as a leader in the delivery of media and music courses in Ireland, Ballyfermot College of Further Education has been running music courses since the Rock School was set up in 1990. The Rock School is a two-year HND course in Contemporary Music Performance, aimed at students who aspire to become professional musicians, and who want to learn about the music industry. Live performances in the college and at city centre venues are an integral part of the course – with famous alumni of the music programme including Damien Dempsey, Mundy, Lisa O’Neill and Junior Brother.

BCFE’s animation department, meanwhile, produced Nora Twomey, creative director and animation director with Cartoon Saloon – and the seventh graduate of BCFE to be nominated for an Oscar.

“BCFE has an excellent reputation for providing quality first choice courses, which prepare students for employment, or further or higher education progression within their chosen career area,” says the college’s principal, Cecilia Munro. “Class sizes are small and students are supported through their educational journey in BCFE with specific guidance, learning, pastoral care and ICT supports. Graduates of BCFE are highly sought after by employers both nationally and internationally.”

For more information about Ballyfermot College of Further Education, visit bcfe.ie.