To mark our 75th Anniversary, we are shining a light on some NCI alumni to showcase the amazing talent the College has produced throughout the years.
Carmel Hourican, Accounting Graduate
Alumni Spotlight: Carmel Hourican
BA (Honours) in Accounting (2004)
About Carmel
Carmel Hourican began her journey at National College of Ireland in 2002, joining the first group of students at the Mayor Street campus. Returning to education at the age of 57 following the loss of her husband, Carmel arrived at NCI during a deeply challenging time in her life.
What stands out most to her is the sense of community she found from the very beginning. She recalls the kindness of her classmates and lecturers, particularly the day fellow students came into college early to sit with her on the first anniversary of her husband’s passing. This moment of support and compassion has stayed with her ever since.
Starting Again Through Education
Carmel describes her time at NCI as transformative, giving her the confidence and courage to face life’s challenges and begin again. Through her studies, she found a renewed sense of purpose, building both her academic knowledge and her belief in her own abilities.
Following her degree, Carmel continued her learning journey, embracing further study and new opportunities, a path that led her to develop new skills, pursue new interests, and remain actively engaged in lifelong learning. She credits NCI not only with helping her rebuild after a difficult period, but with encouraging a mindset that has stayed with her ever since: that it is never too late to learn, to grow and to take a new direction.
Carmel’s story is a powerful reminder that education can provide strength, connection and new beginnings at any stage of life, opening the door to opportunities, confidence and renewed purpose.
#75YearsofNCI