Dr Feifei Bu came to Essex with an interest in sibling differences and leaves not only with a PhD Applied Social and Economic Research, but also valuable media and communications experience.

Dr Feifei Bu

Her research on the educational successes of firstborn daughters was covered by media outlets around the world and she gave several radio and television interviews.

She said: “I felt a bit overwhelmed,” but added “I was happy that my voice could reach beyond academia and generate some discussions and reflections among the general public.”

Feifei was able to make use of valuable data held by the Institute for Social and Economic Research at Essex for her study and also took advantage of the many opportunities available to PhD students to develop her skills.

Feifei is now at the University of Stirling where her focus is analysing administrative and survey data in the fields of health, formal and informal care.

The doors to Graduation 2016 open on 12 July. 4,691 students will graduate, bringing the number of Essex graduates, since 1964, to more than 93,000.

Each and every one of our 2016 graduates has had a life-changing experience. They have risen to the challenge of developing a research mindset, they have been involved in clubs, societies and volunteering, and they have grasped opportunities.

We can’t tell all their stories but our Graduating 2016 student profiles shine a light on the individual experiences that make the Essex family inclusive, international and inspiring.