John Finn may have lost out in round one, but he is still optimistic about the other options open to him

John Finn has just narrowly missed his first choice of social studies in Cork Institute of Technology after the points requirement for the course in question jumped.

However, all is not lost as he's got no shortage of contingency plans worked out should he fail to make it again in the second round of offers released today by the Central Appliactions Office.

"My course went up by 30 points to 390 this year - I got 385 points in my Leaving Cert. I may get a second round offer today but, if not, I'm taking the PLC route," he says.

Social work has always been a career goal of his, but he is also a committed musician. He's an accomplished guitar and double bass player and, in addition, is also very keen to get to know a lot more about the business and production side of the music industry.

He continues: "I've been performing with my band - Kallus - around Cork and further afield for some time now and I'm really interested in a career in the music business."

John Finn has an interview for a place on the music management and sound programme at Coláiste Stiofan Naofa in Cork this week so, if the second round offer does not materialise, he'll be banking on a good interview leading to a place on the course.

"I've actually had my eye on this course for about four years. If I am offered social studies I will probably take it, but I wouldn't rule out taking the music management course when I'm finished at Cork Institute of Technology. Either way, this week's events could really leave me at a crossroads."

John Finn already has an offer of a place on a business course at Cork Institute of Technology but he's not going to accept it - it doesn't really fit into the master plan he has worked out for himself.

"I'd love to work as a studio engineer if I don't go into social work. Even if I do, I'll keep playing with Kallus - we're gigging this week in Tramore."

Louise Holden