On Tuesday October 24 MCS’ Guidance Department hosted a College & Career Fair for its senior students. Invitations were also extended to Leaving Certificate students from neighbouring schools through the Midlands Branch of The Institute of Guidance Counsellors. Representatives from Higher Education institutes- Universities, Technological Universities and Colleges of Education, Further Education & Training including Moate Business College, LWETB and LOETB and the National Learning Network were in attendance.

Gurteen Agricultural College and the University of Ulster presented talks during the event to interested students and parents in the Lecture Room. Their engaging presentations provided guests with information about courses, application procedures, entry requirements and college life. Each talk was followed by a question and answer session. These colleges also had a stand in the school gym.

Interest from local industry and businesses was much appreciated; Alkermes, Medtronic, Ericsson, RBK, JHL Engineering, St. Brigid’s Credit Union, First Polymer Training and Citizens Information were in attendance. The presence of industry gives students great insight into the variety of careers within the various economic sectors. Other invaluable exhibitors were the Defence Forces, An Garda Síochána and the National Ambulance Service. There were many highlights but two that stand out were the presence of TUS Athlone Campus’ robotic dog who gave students immeasurable pleasure and paramedic demonstrations. We look forward to our next event particularly as feedback from exhibitors, students and parents from within and outside of the school community was so positive.