Professor Katriona O’Sullivan, whose memoir Poor fast became a number one bestseller, joined students from the University’s Pathway Opportunity Programme to discuss how an investment in many young people can change their lives.

Poor recounts the author’s own lived experience of severe poverty, and the people and systems that both failed and nurtured her along her journey. 

Speaking at the event, she said:

“When I was younger, I had no idea of my potential because nobody looked at me as someone who would get to university. As a poor kid, other people's expectations for me were low and so getting a degree wasn't on my radar.

“Access to higher education played a huge part in my journey and whilst I am grateful to the programmes and the people who supported me, I firmly believe that an education should be for every person who wants one. I am therefore delighted to be at Queen’s to talk about the importance of equity of opportunity and widening participation in higher education for students who will excel when given the right support. 
 
“The Pathway Opportunity Programme at Queen’s means hundreds of brilliant minds are supported to fulfil their potential.”

At present, 34% of Queen’s undergraduate entrants are from lower socio-economic groups, placing the University as a UK leader in widening access to Higher Education. 

Its Widening Participation team delivers a range of programmes, with wraparound support, to help address the added challenges faced by those underrepresented in Higher Education.

The Pathway Opportunity Programme engages senior school year-groups who may have care-experience, caring responsibilities, experience financial hardship, or are the first in their family to consider university. The programme delivers workshops, study sessions, summer schools and mentoring alongside confidence building exercises that raise the aspirations of young people involved and acclimatise them to university life.

Eddie Friel, Director of Alumni Engagement and Philanthropy at Queen’s, said of the Programme:

“The powerful personal testimonies of both Professor O’Sullivan, Queen’s graduate Dr Stephen Clarke and Queen’s Pathway Students demonstrate the significant impact philanthropy has on the lives of young people by supporting them to access opportunities that they may not have otherwise considered, enabling them to overcome barriers and supporting them to excel. 

“Last year, through the generosity of our supporters, the University was able to administer over 450 bursaries, alleviating some financial pressures and supporting these students to thrive in higher education.”

Hannah Lily Lyttle, a graduate of Queen's with a degree in Law, navigated her academic journey through the Pathway Opportunity Programme. Reflecting on her experience, she shares:

“Growing up, I never envisioned the possibility of studying at a prestigious Russell Group University, nor did I have direct connections in the legal field, which initially made me feel uncertain about my path. The Pathway Opportunity Programme was a pivotal turning point, providing not only the confidence to pursue my ambitions but also the financial support necessary to thrive. Although financial challenges were a reality, the Pathway Bursary alleviated some of the pressure, allowing me to focus more on my studies. The Pathway Bursary enabled me to invest in essential tools like a laptop. This support empowered me to fully engage with my academic pursuits and achieve my potential.”

Former CEO of WH Smith, graduate and Honorary Graduate of Queen’s, Stephen Clarke, stressed the impact of giving back:

“As a Queen’s graduate, it’s important to give back and invest in the future of young people by supporting the University’s Widening Participation programmes across the University.

“I support the Pathway Bursary Fund that opens up a third level education to talented students who may not have even considered it a possibility. I also support the Reading Together Programme, supporting literacy in cared for children, and the SUQCESS project which supports and empowers students who face unique challenges so that they can fully engage with university life.

“Philanthropy doesn’t always have to be about big gestures but small acts that can make a huge impact on the future of our young people.”

Media

For media enquiries contact alana.fisher@qub.ac.uk