The College Awareness Week 2016 survey asked Oireachtas Members who was the biggest influence on their decision to go to college, one in three said their “mammy”.
Over 40% of those polled in the survey said they were the first in their family to attend a further education course, while one in ten did not attend further education at all.
The findings suggest that prospective third-level students should consider advice offered by family and guidance counsellors, as well as by the wider community.
Kathleen O’Toole-Brennan, College Awareness Week Campaign Founder and Programmes Manager with Trinity Access Programme, said: “The purpose of this survey was to look at a cohort of people that was representative of society and to highlight the many educational opportunities available to all, regardless of age and socio-economic backgrounds.
"While those surveyed all work in the Oireachtas now, the career paths and qualifications that brought them there are diverse.”
The survey found that TDs and Senators are not just drawn exclusively from the well-represented professions of law, teaching or accounting, as half did not continue beyond degree level to obtain a professional qualification.
Oireachtas Members have completed courses on everything from music and media technologies to ecology and marketing. Before being elected to either the Dáil or Seanad, they came from a wide variety of occupations such as farming, fishing, childcare and engineering, among others.
Asked what they would say to prospective students to help them become ‘college ready’, they gave the following advice:
“One exam will not define you, but never ever turn down an opportunity to learn more, to question or to examine the world around you.”
“Decide on a career path that excites you – consult with people in that career – explore all options on how to achieve this including college courses.”
“Look at all the options carefully, take your time and realise that there are many different ways to achieve the career you want.”
Just one sleep to @CollegeAware week! See Leaders & Learners by primary school children at @gpowithistory! https://t.co/RAjoG3bxq3 #CAW16
— College Awareness Week (CAW) (@CollegeAware) November 20, 2016
College Awareness Week, which is in its third year, runs from 21-27 November. It aims to inspire and inform all students of the importance of having a post-secondary education plan.
It advocates for students to have the choice to pursue the course best suited to their interests, abilities and future plans, whether that is a PLC qualification, an apprenticeship or a university degree.
Launching College Awareness Week today (Monday) in South County Dublin Library, Tallaght, Senator Lynn Ruane said: “It is an honour to be part of this amazing initiative which promotes education for all. It is important that everyone realises their potential and is aware of the many options available to them, whether as a school leaver or someone seeking to return to education.”
More information can be found here.