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.
Leanne Kelly, Speech and Language Therapist
Alumni Spotlight: Leanne Kelly
BA (Honours) in Psychology (2020)
Speech and Language Therapist
About Leanne
Leanne Kelly graduated from National College of Ireland with a BA (Hons) in Psychology in 2020. Looking back on her time at NCI, she recalls a highly engaging learning experience, supported by interesting course content, approachable lecturers and class sizes that encouraged discussion and participation.
The Psychology programme not only developed Leanne's academic knowledge but also helped her discover new career interests. After graduating, she began working in autism preschool settings, where she developed a passion for supporting children's communication and language development.
“Studying psychology at NCI opened new opportunities for me.”
This experience inspired Leanne to pursue a Master's degree in Speech and Language Therapy, demonstrating how her undergraduate studies provided a strong foundation for future learning and career development.
Following a New Path
After completing her Master's degree in Speech and Language Therapy, Leanne began her first graduate role as a Speech and Language Therapist, working as part of a children's disability team, an area she is particularly passionate about.
Reflecting on her journey, Leanne is proud of allowing her interests to guide her career path. While her career has taken a different direction from where she first started as a psychology student, she believes that being open to new opportunities and trusting herself has led her to a role that she finds both meaningful and rewarding.
Her advice to current students is not to feel pressured to have every step of their future mapped out immediately.
“Take your time. There's absolutely no rush and you'll get to where you want to get to in your own time.”
Leanne's story highlights how a degree can create opportunities that extend beyond a single career path, helping students discover new interests, build confidence and find a direction that truly suits them.
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