From Grey Hairs to Groundbreaking Research: My Master's Thesis Journey

Well, it’s official—I’ve completed my Master’s! After months of reading, writing, and questioning every life choice that led me to academia, I’ve emerged (mostly) victorious. I submitted my Master’s Thesis back in September and whilst celebrating at Disneyland Paris- I received notification that I had Passed with a Merit and my MA Childhood and Youth had been awarded.

It started with enthusiasm, a laptop, and an unhealthy amount of Red Bull. It ended with a thesis, a few (hundred) late nights, and the horrifying discovery of my first grey hairs. A little badge of academic honour? Or just a sign that stress ages you faster than fine wine?

No one warns you that a Master’s degree doesn’t just expand your knowledge, it ages you prematurely. But in all seriousness, writing this dissertation has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life.

My research focused on the often-forgotten members of the adoption triangle: birth parents. Using a mixed-methods approach of surveys and interviews, I explored how birth parents experience post-adoption contact and whether this contributes to meaningful relationships with their children. Collaborating with Barnardo’s CAFIS, Kent, I worked to document their perspectives, aiming not to dissect or judge their responses but to validate their experiences. The findings? Mixed, complex, and deeply emotional, just like the reality of adoption itself.

One thing became clear: conversations with birth parents about staying-in-touch agreements are not happening as they should. Many parents are left out of crucial discussions or given misinformation by local authorities, adding to their emotional distress. The only positive support reported came from organisations facilitating post-adoption contact, highlighting a gap that needs urgent attention.

This journey has made me realise how much work is still needed in this field. Birth parents’ voices matter; not just for their own well-being but for the children and families involved. This study, though small in scale, has reinforced the importance of further research, particularly on how early support could empower birth parents, reduce power imbalances, and ultimately contribute to better outcomes for everyone involved.

I’ve applied for a PhD. I have formally gained and accepted an UNCONDITIONAL offer from the University of East Anglia. The irony is that the PhD is in the School of Social Work. Why stop at one existential crisis when you can sign up for four more years of them? But in all seriousness, this next step is about more than just research—it’s about amplifying voices that often go unheard. It’s daunting, exciting, and slightly terrifying, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

So, here’s to the next chapter—grey hairs and all

Summary of research to follow in the Spring 25'