About my current job
I run a research centre that has approximately 20 staff, bringing in funding to support the research and directing the research. I also do university and college teaching, examining and administration.
How did my education influence my career path?
I hadn't seen myself as a candidate for Oxbridge since I hadn't been encouraged by my comprehensive school. After I got three 'A' grades at A level, though, I applied as a post-A-level applicant by writing to three colleges, explaining that my school couldn't prep me for the entrance exam. None of the Colleges were prepared to admit me without it - except Peter Bryant at St Johns. He interviewed me and gave me a place on the strength of the interview and my A levels. Three years later, I got the top First in my year and went on to a career in academia, which I also had never envisaged prior to being taught and encouraged by Peter Bryant.
Did you have a favourite tutor/lecturer/prof, and how did they inspire you?
Peter Bryant and Alan Allport were top. Peter taught me about reading development in children and Alan lectured on adult reading by analogy. Both were inspirational lecturers. I later combined the two topics in my PhD work.
