During the recent TUS Middle East GAA Féile weekend in Dubai, Vice President Internationalisation & Alumni Donnacha McNamara met with TUS graduate Tara Dunne to discuss her journey since graduating and her experience of building a career abroad.

Tara, 23, from Offaly, graduated with a Level 8 Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Care and Education at TUS Moylish Campus in 2024. After completing her studies, she made the bold decision to move to the UAE, where she now teaches KG2 (5- and 6-year-olds). Reflecting on her choice, she says, “I always knew this was the career path I wanted, but I also wanted to make sure I truly loved it – and I absolutely do. The job, the community, the sport, the travelling – everything about it has been such a positive experience.”

She first discovered her passion for early childhood education during her TY year in secondary school and cemented it through work experience in a crèche. Inspired by friends already teaching in the UAE, Tara seized the opportunity to move overseas after graduating. “My only concern was that I didn’t know anyone from an Early Childhood Care and Education background working here, so I worried it might be difficult to find a job. Thankfully, when my friends handed in my CV to their schools, I got an interview, got the job and made the move,” she recalls.

For Tara, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing children grow and develop, understanding each child individually, and celebrating their little breakthroughs. Teaching can be challenging, especially with EAL learners, but she says, “Once you build routines and truly get to know your class, that’s when it all comes together. That’s what I love most.” Outside the classroom, she enjoys playing GAA, going to the gym, and socialising with friends.

Looking back, Tara credits TUS with giving her both practical skills and confidence. She fondly remembers supportive lecturers and the GAA experiences during college, noting how both shaped her growth and career outlook. She encourages current students and graduates not to limit themselves: “Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone – you never know where it might lead.”

Tara also values the idea of an alumni community. “When I was in college, I would have loved to hear from someone working abroad about the opportunities available… An alumni community opens students’ eyes to what’s possible,” she says.

Looking ahead, Tara is completing a PGCE in the UAE while continuing to teach, before obtaining her QTS and eventually returning to Ireland to pursue primary school teaching. In the meantime, she plans to gain more experience, travel, and enjoy the UAE.

Like many Irish graduates abroad, Tara has found a strong sense of community through the Middle East GAA, helping her stay connected to home while building networks overseas.

Online study options for the Middle East

With a growing number of alumni and learners based overseas, TUS is now offering a range of online programmes designed for those living in the Middle East. These programmes are structured to allow participants to study alongside work and other commitments.

As part of this initiative, discounts are available for TUS alumni and Middle East GAA members, supporting continued professional development for those already connected to the TUS and GAA communities.

⏰ Applications close on Monday, 23 February 2026.

👉 Learn more about the available online programmes and apply here.