Graduate Stories

What are you doing now and could you provide a brief overview of your career journey since graduating?

I studied Sociology and Social Policy in Trinity College Dublin for my undergraduate degree, graduating in 2015, and returned to Trinity in 2017 to do my PhD in quantitative Sociology, defending in 2022. Since then, I spent some time as a postdoctoral researcher in the School of Education in UCD, and now work as a Senior Researcher (Postdoc) at the INVEST Flagship Center in University of Turku, Finland. Here, I am researching educational outcomes and student decision-making using Finnish register data. 

What sparked your interest in the course and what aspects did you find most rewarding?

I enrolled in my undergraduate degree in Sociology and Social Policy as it seemed to combine both my general interest in the social sciences with an emphasis on how policy could moderate social mechanisms. Having developed an interest in researching social stratification, I identified a supervisor I was interested in working with in the department whose expertise aligned with my interests, and applied to the PhD programme.

Various aspects of the PhD programme were rewarding, but ultimately the international focus of the Department of Sociology was very beneficial. Presenting at international conferences, and having academics from Ireland and abroad speaking at the weekly Sociology seminar exposed me to approaches, feedback and methods that greatly helped the development of my own research.

What advice would you offer to anyone considering postgraduate studies in sociology?

While a PhD is rightly highlighted as a period of independent work, a supportive environment, from your supervisor, department, family and friends, forms a core part of your PhD experience. While it is tempting to apply for a supervisor who most directly matches your research interests or has the most experience, sometimes a supervisor with fewer PhD students and teaching commitments can provide the most supportive supervision.

Cost of living has been in the public consciousness for some time now, and it is just as relevant to PhDs. Understanding whether your funding is adequate to cover your needs is key to removing future stress.

Perhaps most importantly, when applying for a PhD, ask yourself if you think you will still be motivated by your field of research in four years’ time. PhD research can be incredibly rewarding, but there will be points of frustration and confusion. Having a strong motivation and love for your topic will help you push through.

May 2025