Athlone IT launches 'virtual CAO hub' for prospective students

Athlone IT has launched a "virtual CAO hub" to provide support and guidance to prospective students and their parents in navigating the CAO decision-making process.

As part of the initiative, the Institute will run a series of virtual open days throughout April and May, covering core disciplines across its academic schools. These will take place live on Facebook, Instagram or Pubble.

CAO applicants and their parents will have an opportunity to ask questions in real-time and learn more about the institute, its 65+ CAO courses, its academic and sporting facilities, prime placement opportunities, and more.

“We’ve moved all of our engagement with prospective students, parents and guidance counsellors online, via our virtual CAO Hub,” explained Daniel Seery, student recruitment officer at Athlone IT.

“Our campus may be closed but we are still available to assist in the CAO decision-making process. We can talk students through our undergraduate courses and steer them in the right direction in relation to student supports, scholarships, accommodation, and lots more.

“We’re very mindful that Leaving Certificate students and their parents have endured a lot of uncertainty in recent weeks and we want to reassure them that we will continue to offer support and guidance during this difficult time.

“We’re on hand to put their minds at ease and help students make the transition to third level education. We are all in this together,” he added.

Prospective students and their parents will also get the chance to hear from current students, graduates, lecturing and support staff through a variety of subject area-specific podcasts, vodcasts and blogs.

Another feature of the CAO Hub, AIT Decoded is a brand-new podcast series aimed at decoding third level education. 

This fun, student-friendly podcast delves into the student experience and features interviews with current students and lecturers.

The CAO Hub also features a student ambassador blog series which offers insight into the experiences of current students. 

Topics range from the benefits of work placement, exams and other forms of assessment, to college life and what supports are in place for students struggling to cope.

Prospective students can even take a virtual tour of Athlone Institute of Technology’s award-winning campus to get a flavour for its state-of-the-art sporting and academic facilities.

Visit  www.ait.ie/virtualevents to view the full schedule of virtual events.