PhD Perspectives

Can you give us a brief overview of your research and what inspired you to choose this topic?

My research examines the intersection of socio-economic, ethnic and religious disadvantage in Irish education. From my professional experience as a classroom teacher and in school leadership for 12 years, I became acutely aware of the structural inequalities in the education system and the discriminatory impact it has on young people, particularly as a result of socio-economic, ethnic or religious status. My research is a critical examination of these systemic inequalities and an exploration of the impact on young people's wellbeing as well as the practical and policy implications for practice in schools for both school leaders, teachers and external stakeholders.

When my own children entered the education system, I saw even more clearly the power and impact a teacher and a school environment can have on a child and their development and felt even more viscerally the importance of working to ‘do better’ for all children as well as for teachers, principals, families, communities and schools. The research is clear around the impact of a child’s sense of belonging and wellbeing in their school community on their educational outcomes therefore it is of utmost importance that we strive to better understand belonging and inclusion for students in the most minoritized school communities. The stories of the children and parents I have worked with and those who participated in my research motivate me as an educator and a researcher, so I carry them with you and try to keep them at the center of everything I do. 

What has been the most surprising or interesting finding in your research so far?

I never fail to be in awe of families and communities who continue to thrive, despite adversity. Minoritized communities are often depicted negatively but my research depicts so much positivity and so many examples of resilience, strength, joy and fun.  School can be such a lighthouse in these communities and although it’s not surprising to me, it really reaffirms for me the importance of teachers and schools in bringing hope, safety and security to children, families and communities. 

How do you think your research could impact the field of sociology or society as a whole?

Although educational disadvantage and the experiences of racially and religiously minoritized students have been studied separately, research in the Irish context rarely examines students and school communities that experience both, despite long-standing evidence that designated disadvantaged (DEIS) schools experience higher levels of ethnic and religious diversity and evidence that students in these schools are persistently less like to advance to third level education.   Many of these communities have also experienced significant tension in recent years due to increasing anti-migrant sentiment.  The research design also involved both external and internal stakeholders which is novel in the context of Irish research in the area. Overall, my research contributes in a unique way to research in the sociology of education in Ireland and my hope is that it will contribute to greater understanding which will have implications for policymakers and patron bodies as well as for practice in teaching and learning as well as school leadership.   

What advice would you give to other students who are considering pursuing a PhD?

The PhD journey can be lonely so my advice is to build a network of like-minded people who will support you throughout the process.  Lean into people and organizations working in your area and reach out to connect with them so you have opportunities to experience the real humanity of your research. I’d also recommend attending conferences, presenting your research to diverse audiences and taking opportunities to upskill throughout the process. It’s worthwhile to get a notebook and jot down your reflections regularly, particularly during fieldwork.  Engaging with critical reflective practice has been powerful for me, particularly in terms of considering my own positionality.

For me, remaining true to my values and my motivation as well as remembering to trust myself has been so important throughout my PhD journey.  On hard days, it helps to remind myself that my belief that the system can change for the better and that a more inclusive system can help all students fulfil their potential keeps me going

Most importantly, enjoy the process of being able to dedicate yourself to something you are passionate and curious about and the privilege of representing the stories of others in your research.