Biography
Name: Yu Cui
University: University of Reading
Title of research: A Longitudinal Analysis of Academic Achievement, Higher Education Performance, and Early Career Development in England and Wales: the Impact of Socioeconomic Status and Multilingualism
Flagship datasets using: GUiE LEO
Supervisor: Holly Joseph, Daisy Powell
Please tell us about your PhD project
This study utilizes the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) and Growing Up in England (GUiE) datasets to investigate the academic and early career outcomes of students from different socioeconomic and language backgrounds. By analysing Free School Meal eligibility (eFSM), English as an Additional Language (EAL) status, alongside household factors, such as parental occupation and income, we aim to understand how these variables influence educational and career trajectories. The research will also consider the role of gender, ethnicity, and first language in shaping these outcomes, offering insights why our current ways of measuring socioeconomic disadvantage may not be appropriate for multilingual children.
What are your key takeaways from the ADR UK PhD Annual Gathering 2025?
I gained a lot this time. All peers had a deeper understanding of their research, and I paid special attention to their research questions and methods, particularly those in the field of education, those using similar databases, or those whose research is somewhat related to mine. This has been very inspiring for me.
Are there any speakers, session or presentation that particularly resonated with you? And why?
During the first day of the workshop, I had opportunities to discuss data usage and models with different researchers. Compared to our last meeting, I was able to raise more targeted questions based on my research focus and current difficulties, and I received some very helpful answers.
I also realized the importance of considering stakeholder needs at the beginning of the research process. I used to believe that research only needs to be showcased externally after achieving significant results.
How has the event impacted your perspective on your research?
Through discussions with others, I realized that many students encounter some level of difficulty, and I am not the only one facing challenges. This made me feel better.
Did the event inspire any new ideas for your current or future research? Can you please share with us your next steps for your research following the event?
I may not have any new ideas but surely will keep in touch with other PhDs.