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.
Christine Cody, School Patronage Officer at RCB
Alumni Spotlight: Christine Cody
BA (Honours) in Business Management (2024)
School Patronage Officer, RCB
About Christine
Christine Cody completed the part-time, two-year BA (Hons) in Business Management at National College of Ireland, graduating in 2024 with a First-Class Honours degree. Returning to education later in life was a significant decision for Christine, one that had been years in the making.
She first encountered the College in the late 1990s when NCI was based on Sandford Road in Ranelagh and it remained on her radar over the years. In more recent years, signing up for an initial information webinar proved to be the catalyst that helped her take the leap back into education.
Support While Balancing Work, Family and Study
Throughout her time at NCI, Christine, balanced full-time work, family life as a mother of three, and major live events including a house move alongside her studies. She recalls the honesty and encouragement of the Programme Director, Dave Cormack, who made it clear that the accelerated nature of the course meant that it would be demanding, but that support would always be available.
That promise rang true. Support from lecturers, the library support centre, and her peers played a crucial role in helping her stay motivated and confident, particularly during challenging periods.
"What stands out most is the sense of possibility that NCI creates."
Dave's genuine interest in each student's journey and his belief in their ability to succeed helped instil confidence and reassurance when it was most needed.
Confidence, Career Progression and Growth
Encouraged by a line manager who recognised her potential, she pursued the degree with the understanding that it would support both her professional development and her personal growth.
Christine credits her time at NCI with developing a strong sense of confidence and a "can-do" belief in herself. She also developed a deeper understanding of organisational behaviour, management and leadership, all of which have directly supported her career within the RCB.
"Completing my degree has showed me what I am capable of and opened new opportunities for growth in my work."
Christine notes that she is most proud of the journey itself - moving forward in her career while raising a family, moving house and returning to education. Since graduating, she has been promoted twice, progressing from an administrative role to a line management position and now to School Patronage Officer where she is responsible for the management, planning and operation of patronage services for Church of Ireland primary schools.
Reflecting on NCI at 75
Looking back as NCI marks 75 years since it was founded, Christine sees the College as a place defined by opportunity and accessibility, which recognises that education does not follow a single, linear path. People can return, restart or reinvent themselves at any stage of life, and that learning can be achieved through different approaches.
Her experience as part of a diverse cohort of mature students, all balancing study alongside major life events reflects NCI's long-standing commitment to adapting to the needs of learners and the workforce. For her, returning to fulfill an ambition first formed decades earlier is a powerful reminder of what's possible when education meets people where they are.
"Looking back over its 75 years, I see NCI as a college that has consistently adapted to meet the needs of learners and the workforce."
Christine's story is one of perseverance, belief and achievement. Her advice to today's students reflects her experience as she recommends not underestimating what you're capable of. There will never be a "perfect" time to return to education, but if you are committed and willing to work hard, it is achievable. Use all the supports available and keep your long-term goals in sight.
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