Katriona O'Sullivan @katrionaos Twitter profile | Pikagi

Pikagi

Katriona O'Sullivan

@katrionaos

19,351

Followers

4,842

Following

581

Media

6,200

Statuses

Lecturer, researcher, activist, mother, friend, intellect- wants to change the world. My book, Poor published by @PenguinIEBooks is out May 2023. .

Ireland

https://t.co/vJJP8SZFUR

Joined March 2009

Don't wanna be here? Send us removal request.

Pinned Tweet

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 year

I grew up in Birmingham, born to Irish parents who loved drugs more than me, I had a baby at 16,was homeless & helpless...I am now an award winning academic-grants worth millions, publications,a loving family & a full heart! This is my thank you to the people who saved me!

@PenguinIEBooks

Penguin Books Ireland

@PenguinIEBooks

1 year

We are delighted to reveal the cover of Poor, @katrionaos 's gripping account of her journey from abject poverty to academia. Moving, funny & brave, Katriona's story makes a compelling case for what we could do to help other poor kids like her.

Tweet media one

10

30

199

141

339

4K

Last Seen Profiles

@SHackenmil65269

@AlysonShew44271

@BlazeG1798

@BirchJeffr96612

@DanBere

@TransitoAereoAr

@businessamnl

@parkes_rob25780

@Abebab

@knifesaintkris

@_aj

@Moutalogy

@SamNolan04

@TrinityTigersB2

@ACordova92

@MauArtist

@septemberVrouw

@HunterChorus

@AvascanExplorer

@ronii_fs

@JohnBrennan

@hunxho

@tomg_

@MHuzaifa125

@LxSingh9

@Wildniss_Sello

@ICANN

@Blfire

@CommackSchools

@TimB0626

@Imuhhhhjustabug

@NewDealChief

@CoE_Call_Centre

@MarillionOnline

@YinzerSzn

@pekinshowamachi

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

4 years

If this crisis happened when I was a kid I would be stuck at home all day with parents in the height of their addiction; they would have no money to get gear and the anger would be horrible. I'd have no escape- no school to provide food or safety-some kids are living in this now

103

1K

13K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

5 months

I grew up poor, born to parents who loved drugs more than me, I had a baby at 16,was homeless & helpless I am now an award winning professor-grants worth millions,a loving family & a full heart! I just got invited to tell my story to the UN commission in Feb 24! What an honour!

209

351

7K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 years

My foster son finished his leaving cert 2 weeks ago, has a full time job already, he gets up every day on time- himself, makes lunch, catches buses. This is the kid that Tusla said had serious behavioural problems which caused his old Foster parents to mistreat him.Fuck you Tusla

70

136

4K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

Sometimes I have to pinch myself that this is my life now, in 2002 I was a cleaner in Connolly station & I worked as the dinner lady in the Institute- serving sausage rolls to kids whose parents could afford to pay for their education. I feel so lucky today!

85

52

3K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 month

Age 5,there was a darkness in my chest from not being loved. My 1st teacher, Ms Arkinson,changed that. She taught me to wash,that I was enough,that I was worthy. She placed a light in my chest that has never gone out! Today,I got to meet her again. Today, I said thank you!

Tweet media one

108

122

3K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

9 months

When I was 15 I worked in a factory packing 24 frozen sausages into boxes, when I was 22, I worked as a cleaner in Connelly train station, when I was 23 I was the dinner lady in the @instituteofedu , when I was 32 I graduated as a doctor of Psychology from @tcddublin ....(1)

58

79

3K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

6 months

Age 15, I slept rough in Birmingham, pregnant & then I lived in a homeless hostel for 18 months. None of this was a choice! It was a consequence of bad policy & low opportunities. Luckily, I found my way to Ireland, where policies were in place to help me escape poverty!

@SuellaBraverman

Suella Braverman MP

@SuellaBraverman

6 months

What I want to stop, and what the law abiding majority wants us to stop, is those who cause nuisance and distress to other people by pitching tents in public spaces, aggressively begging, stealing, taking drugs, littering, and blighting our communities. 4/4

2K

299

3K

33

217

2K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

Growing up with heroin addicted parents affected all of my life-school,work,self esteem,relationships-it broke my heart.The lack of understanding in policies, teachers, garda & society added to my trauma-producing more hurt! Please listen to @SenLynnRuane this is a solvable issue

Tweet media one

10

164

2K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

We starting fostering 3 years ago a 15 Yr old, like most kids in care he has his issues, but also a great kid. at age 18 he was told if he didn't stay in education & training he would not get anymore support from @tusla (1)

68

256

2K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

Feeling pretty sorry for myself. I have covid & I feel dreadful. Symptoms are bad! When I'm poorly I really wish I had a mam...I know that sounds so pathetic but I never really had one & when I'm vulnerable like this I have this deep longing to be minded

122

15

2K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

8 months

This is why I wrote my book.This is the pure prejudice people face in poor communities every day. The assumption that we are shameless, talentless, yobs who act like the characertures shown on shows like benefit street. This is our leader. This is vile! The smirk is sickening

103

367

2K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 year

I was a child of 2 addicts, I was abused, I was hungry, I was in care, I was a mother age 16, I was homeless, I was wild & alone I was POOR! Today...I am an award winning academic, I am a doctor, I am a wife & a mother, I am happy & healthy. POOR is my story-out 25/5/23

@PenguinIEBooks

Penguin Books Ireland

@PenguinIEBooks

1 year

We are delighted to reveal the cover of Poor, @katrionaos 's gripping account of her journey from abject poverty to academia. Moving, funny & brave, Katriona's story makes a compelling case for what we could do to help other poor kids like her.

Tweet media one

10

30

199

57

66

1K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

6 months

Tonight I won two @AnPostIBAS book awards. Biography of the year & listeners choice book of the year! Thank you @PenguinIEBooks for the support & all the wonderful people who read my book. I'm slightly overwhelmed but happy

Tweet media one

99

46

1K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 years

My mam should have been 67 yesterday, she died at age 60 from liver failure-she had Hep-C from IV heroin use & drinking a lot! I miss having a mam, I miss worrying about her, I miss the laughs, I miss hoping that one day she will be ok. Happy Birthday Tilly- you are still loved

Tweet media one

27

10

1K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

6 months

I share my story of triumph in the hope that we start to see poverty differently. There are 1000s of girls out there who are like me, full of talent & potential, who lack the opportunity to shine. Here's the link to watch the interview back #LateLateShow

Tweet media one

52

141

1K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 years

my brother gets out of prison Monday morning, into a hostel he goes...he has been begging for help & for treatment his whole sentence & nothing was done! now we face another cycle of hope-loneliness-fear-drug use-crime-prison. we have been on this merry-go-round for 20 years now!

54

90

1K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

7 months

I don't want or need extra tax credits, extra child benefit or reduced college fees for my child. I can afford to live! I want children in lone parent families to feel safe & secure. I want the 200,000 children living in poverty to have a home, health & happiness #Budget2024

35

122

1K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 years

Our foster son-my nephew, finished his Leaving Cert today. 2 years ago he was dropping out, he was hurt & angry.He's breaking that cycle, proving the system wrong. We are so proud of him & our little family...despite the ups & downs that life can bring we are succeeding -together

18

9

1K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

8 months

30 years ago today, at the tender age of 16, I gave birth to my 1st son-John. He taught me how to love fiercely, how to fight harder, how to be grateful every day for what you have. He is by far my greatest achievement yet. Happy birthday my boy- we are forever proud of you.

Tweet media one

16

9

1K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

4 months

This is someones email signature...'I usually need a couple of days to go through my emails and a few more to carefully think about the content before responding calmly. The culture of immediacy does not fit very well with the kind of life I aim to lead.' ....I love this person

7

69

1K

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

last first day of school term for my middle boy Sean today! school hasn't always been easy for this quiet, non sporty, non tiktoking boy but he hasn't given up & we love him for who he is! Good luck son x

Tweet media one

42

6

985

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

4 years

My brother celebrates another birthday in prison today. We've no contact, he's addicted & he hurts. But I love him; I know that he had no chance at life. Addict parents, abuse, poverty and neglect leave little space for normality or happiness or growth. happy birthday Daz ❤❤

33

23

942

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

4 years

my 12 year old son just tested positive for school-o-virus19, its a novel adaption of #cv19 , & basically causes children to fake symptoms to get out of scool. testing was pretty simple, you just need to be able to recognise the signs of a fake cough & extreme abbey acting! #fml

28

29

861

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 year

My parents heroin addiction robbed my childhood-I longed for food & love every day! Homeless, a mum at age 16 & alone, my dream was to have my own council flat & secure payments...Today I'm award winning academic, I have a family I love & a full heart This is my story 25/5/2023

@PenguinIEBooks

Penguin Books Ireland

@PenguinIEBooks

1 year

We are delighted to reveal the cover of Poor, @katrionaos 's gripping account of her journey from abject poverty to academia. Moving, funny & brave, Katriona's story makes a compelling case for what we could do to help other poor kids like her.

Tweet media one

10

30

199

20

76

863

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

9 months

Before writing my memoir Poor, I blamed this 15 year old me for getting pregnant, for failing school, for choosing the wrong boy. This picture of me & my mam reminds me of just how vulnerable I was & the squalor I lived in. It wasn't my fault. We can do better for girls like me!

Tweet media one

26

32

795

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

10 months

Do you know annoys me the most about the @tusla story. People are only listening now because a retired judge is saying things. Families like mine, & many others, have been saying the care system is broken for years...no-one cares about our voices though. (1)

29

100

788

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 months

Our boy, Sean, turned 19! He is slugging away in 1st year @MaynoothUni bearing the weight of being the cycle breaker in our family-the 1st to finish school, the 1st to get 'directly in' to uni! I have to keep reminding him (& me) that being a good & kind matters more than grades!

Tweet media one

11

8

798

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 year

I'm a best seller! I can't believe my book is no. 1 for non-fiction, and no.2 for all books sold in Ireland in the last week! I also made the non-fiction chart in the UK! Thank you to everyone for the support.

@PenguinIEBooks

Penguin Books Ireland

@PenguinIEBooks

1 year

Congratulations to @katrionaos , Poor is the best-selling non-fiction title in Ireland this week! Moving, funny and brave, Katriona's writing is full of emotion and insight into the social conditions that influenced her life's trajectory. Order @easons -

Tweet media one

1

6

28

50

48

796

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

please @tusla consider changing the aftercare services, support kids who age out of care to find homes and build lives for themselves beyond age 18...care should mean care!

6

48

781

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

He was a principal in a Deis school, his wife worked in a south side private girls school. He had to go in for a heart operation. Turns out his cardiologist was taught by his wife, while the porter was one of his past pupils. A coincidence or a reflection on our education system

60

51

766

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 months

Next week, I tell my story at the United Nations How i became a professor & best selling authour How 25 yrs ago,I was a lone parent on welfare cleaning toilets How 30 yrs ago, I was homeless, age 16, with a 6 month old baby Or how 40 yrs ago, I was a hurt child of 2 addicts

Tweet media one

23

66

723

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

I found my 2nd year secondary school report- even though I left the next year pregnant & homeless, feeling like I wasn't good enough... it looks like I was wrong! I was actually destined to be a scientist & mr Winters knew it too! #GirlsInSTEM #WomanInSTEM

Tweet media one

19

17

691

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

10 months

I am never really impressed by people who are 'famous' or in power, real people inspire me more,yesterday that changed. Michael D Higgins was amazing. His gumption-his capacity to express himself-was so impressive! What an honour it was to have had a bit of craic with him, too!

Tweet media one

31

17

694

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

9 months

When I was 33 I was a post doc in the @RCSI_Irl & then research coordinator in @AccessTCD , when I was 41 I was a lecturer in @MaynoothUni & at 45 I became associate Professor in @All_Institute @MUpsychdept ...working in a university is a privilege. I am so grateful for my life!

18

8

681

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

11 months

My life was changed by the love & kindness of a teacher. The journal has published an extract from my book today about the wonderful teacher who taught me how to wash myself as a girl.

Tweet card media

Extract: 'My teacher gave me power with that small bundle of towel, flannel, and pants'

Dr Katriona O’Sullivan shares an extract from her new autobiography in which she documents the many challenges she faced growing up in poverty in Birmingham.

www.thejournal.ie

28

90

675

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

4 months

3 photos show how education can change a life! The 1st is me & my son, age 16 & homeless, out of school a year! The 2nd is me graduating @tcddublin with a 1st in psychology. The 3rd is me graduating as a doctor of psychology @PsychologyTCD Education is the great equaliser

Tweet media one

13

50

650

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

Lads, it happened, I got promoted from small Ass professor (assistant professor) to big ASS professor (associate professor)! This is such a fantastic feeling- to know that my university recognizes the work I am doing in the dark corners of equality & of course the pay rise...

Tweet media one

82

11

646

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

4 months

What a privilege it is to be @easons book of 2023. Many times in my life I felt like giving up...I never knew what my life could be! Thank you for believing in me! Ms arkinson,mr Pickering,Mel, irena...sometimes all you need is someone to say 'you can do it, I believe in you!'

@easons

Eason

4 months

💫 Eason's Favourite Book of 2023: 'Poor' by Katriona O'Sullivan 💫 From adversity to achievement, this memoir is a compelling testament to resilience. A must-read voted by Eason customers ! Congratulations @katrionaos Available in store and online-

Tweet media one

2

4

20

26

34

635

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

7 months

My life was changed by 2 teachers. They cared & they always believed in me...even when I was behaving badly, or when I didn't believe in myself. Thank you to all the teachers who continue to care! It's international #TeachersDay

Tweet media one

8

71

616

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

9 months

Wow, i am struggling this week! I have the overwhelming feeling that I am not doing enough, I'm not skinny enough, Im not fit enough, that my house is not clean enough, that I'm not mammying enough! I just want to lie in bed thinking of all the ways to solve the problem of me!

110

12

607

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

5 months

What a wonderful way to end the year. Poor, my memoir, is no 1 again in the irish non-fiction charts! 30 weeks out & it's still top of the charts. A Christmas no 1 is a dream come true! Thank you to all who have read it & messaged me. Let's hope it helps make things a bit fairer!

14

21

574

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 year

I grew up in the UK, born to Irish parents who loved drugs more than me, I had a baby at 16,was homeless & helpless...I am now an award winning academic-grants, publications,a loving family & a full heart! My book Poor published today is my thank you to the people who saved me!

@PenguinIEBooks

Penguin Books Ireland

@PenguinIEBooks

1 year

We are delighted to reveal the cover of Poor, @katrionaos 's gripping account of her journey from abject poverty to academia. Moving, funny & brave, Katriona's story makes a compelling case for what we could do to help other poor kids like her.

Tweet media one

10

30

199

26

70

575

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

yesterday I found him a room to stay in & hes got a job...but he's struggling with authority & who knows what's going to happen. @tusla how can you expect children who age out of care to commit to education or training when they have so much to contend with (3)

3

25

563

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

4 months

This is why I wrote poor! Thank you to all the teachers trying hard to make things easier x

Tweet media one

9

31

564

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

4 years

got a call from Tusla, our Foster sons new social worker of only 6 months is leaving, this means he has had 9 social workers in 8 years. How can anyone defend this system & call it 'care'? I would love to exit interview those who leave Tusla...I can guarantee I know the reasons!

18

85

551

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 month

Paul asked to paint me for the vanquished writing history project. I was sceptical at first-art is posh?? He asked to paint me where & how I wrote my book...this is me in my comfiest life, sipping coffee, writing my story...eating cake, laughing, crying & trying...always trying.

Tweet media one

25

13

553

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

4 months

My face is literally on the side of a building today! It doesn't get any better than this haha thank you, @NollaignamBanIE , for the wonderful award & for the event yesterday. Im truly honoured. (P.s. is it I too late to add a qr code to the photo to keep the sales going! 🤣🤣)

Tweet media one

16

15

551

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

5 months

Tweet media one

7

72

551

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

8 months

I'm in absolute shock! I've been nominated for the @goss_ie Woman Trailblazer of the Year Award! What an absolute honour...thank you (does this mean I'm going to the ceremony & will someone help me get a fancy dress)

@goss_ie

Goss.ie

8 months

@Google @MakeUpbyAimeeC @sculptedbyaimee @SoniaDeasy @PMortar @Eatto_ie @MullinsGrainne @gra_chocolates @ChupiSweetman @ShorlaOncology @GymPlusIreland @leona_maguire @rhasidatadeleke @HannahTyrrell21 @Katie_McCabe11 @ciaramageean @LucyMulhall @OConnorAmy10 Check out the nominees for Trailblazer of the Year: #GossWOTY #GossWOTY23

Tweet media one

2

0

21

36

15

548

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 years

I know it can be hard for people to understand crime & it can be hard to have sympathy.But this is my little brother who has experienced significant trauma throughout his childhood-I remember him for the lovely boy he was & I love him irrespective. Please be kind or say nothing

25

6

526

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

I know this is completely off topic but sociology could help so many people understand why their lives are so hard if it wasn't so hard to fucking read! for example-social & cultural capital can be defined in easier terms than in 9000 word articles published in obscure journals

23

45

518

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

7 months

I'm still holding my own in @easons blanchardstown book charts! I'm always popping in to check it's actually real...im a best selling authour! This chavvy girl who was expected to fail is actually a successful, woman -who just didn't have the right conditions to flourish!

Tweet media one

32

16

509

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 year

My husband & I didn't finish school,my eldest son left school at 16 to play prof football & no1 in our family applied to college-so this is our 1st experience of the #CAO I cannot believe how hard it is-how a parent with no education experience navigates this system is beyond me!

34

17

488

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 months

Poor is no 1 again in the Irish non-fiction chart, its in the top 5 for 42 weeks! I appreciate every person who has read my story, every person who cares, every person working hard to make things equal The vulnerability of sharing my story has been outweighed by your support

Tweet media one

16

31

481

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

I've a letter on my notice board downstairs that says the investigation of my experiences will be followed up & they will be back in touch...im still waiting. how can you expect hurt adolescents to stay in education when they don't even feel secure at home (5)

3

14

468

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

6 months

I am delighted to see my memoir #Poor in the list of Best Non-Fiction Audible Books of 2023! I recorded it myself, which I'm extremely proud of! There are parts where I cry and parts where I laugh! Thank you x

Tweet media one

7

26

463

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

6 months

Those supports provided me with hope. And a pathway to Trinity College Dublin - to becoming a PhD & an award winning lecturer. Homelessness is not a lifestyle choice. It's miserable & lonely, empty & hopeless! Bad policy creates bad conditions & broken people! Not bad people

7

25

461

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

6 months

Thank you @irishtatler

@irishtatler

Irish Tatler

6 months

The Irish Tatler Women of the Year Special Recognition Award speaks to a significant event in the year, where an individual’s story has affected society and created change. The Irish Tatler Women of the Year Special Recognition Award 2023 goes to @Katrionaos #WOTYA23

Tweet media one

1

19

150

16

17

455

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

11 months

The Leaving Cert begins tomorrow & this young man has made us so proud. School was a nightmare for him-covid, no friends & social awkwardness - made it hard, but he got here. The 1st in our family to complete school! Whatever happens in the exams, we are so proud of who u r Sean!

Tweet media one

12

3

448

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

you have left him with nothing & noone, we have been asking you to help for months but all we got was the same shite 'he has to be in education or training to be supported'. the last time I posted about @tusla on twitter I was messaged privately & told my views would be heard (4)

2

16

442

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 months

Today I got to tell my story @UNDESASocial Some of what i said is here... "Education is not designed for poor people. It expects everyone to behave the same way. We are told to sit down, to listen, to pay attention, and to learn the same way...(1)

Tweet media one

11

43

435

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

10 months

I grew up in Birmingham, born to Irish parents who loved drugs more than me, I had a baby at 16,was homeless & helpless...I am now an award winning academic-grants worth millions, publications,a loving family & a full heart! This is my thank you to the people who saved me!

3

32

432

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 months

Thank you @AerLingus for flying me to the US to address the UN! I'm a little giddy on the free orange juice I got when I boarded.

Tweet media one

11

2

420

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 months

Hey (middle class) twitter...how do I get onto a board? Like a state board or the like...they don't teach this stuff to access students in college or in council estates, so I am risking asking you to help?

78

37

415

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

Hi I have a guy who is in homeless services who has started a diploma in Maynooth in Addiction, he is looking for help with fees & keeps getting refused because its part time course. Any advice twitter? I asked the course to waive the fee but they can't...I will pay half the fee

64

117

408

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 years

i need help. my dad was born 1953 in Cork, was adopted from golden bridge 1958- we have no record of where he was born or the first 5 years of his life. he died 9 years ago, all his family are passed. id really like to understand where he came from & my heritage. where do I start

37

192

404

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

Twitter I need help, a girl from dublin sent me this today...she cannot do medicine without 2 sciences in most places so how can we help her? why are we letting young women down like this & not teaching ALL subjects in ALL schools...esp if they are wanted!

Tweet media one

92

94

400

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 month

Live your life. Swim in the sea. Hug people. Laugh. Cry. Do nothing. Do everything. Try harder. Love your body. Heal. Smile at strangers. Call your mum...or you dad (if you can). Say sorry. Say no. Scream. Fight. Wear comfy clothes. Rest. Love. Love. Love.

Tweet media one

1

9

405

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 years

As a young girl living with heroin addicted parents, visiting my dad in prison, going in and out of care, my dreams were limited! I could not imagine a life like this. Never give up & if you can pay it forward. My story in the Irish Times today -

Tweet card media

Paying it Forward - Issuu

Space to dream, however, is not something Katriona herself had much of as a child. “There’s poverty and there’s underneath poverty. That’s where my family was,” she said. Katriona had a baby at 16...

21

63

398

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

4 years

@Dare4Danielle you really wont ever know how important teachers like you are. ms Arkinson was my teacher and she showed me so much love and care it buffered against my home life and gave me a feeling of love. teachers matter you matter xx

1

9

387

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

8 months

In school my teacher communicated my value in very specific ways. She always asked me to do jobs-even though I didn't complete them half the time- she never stopped believing I could be good & great! Her belief in me wasn't dependent on my behaviour! It was unconditional!

9

25

390

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

25 days

Amazing to see my book, Poor, named in this list of Best Memoirs of all time... I'm loving seeing my name alongside the likes of @tarawestover and Anne Frank...what an honour! @VikingBooksUK

Tweet card media

Best memoirs of all time

Delve into fascinating, gut-wrenching and healing snippets of life

www.standard.co.uk

6

17

386

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

5 months

Thank you to @AnPostIBAS and everyone who voted for my book Poor. I have spent a lifetime trying to heal from my childhood. The love & support I have received in recent months has shown that little girl that this world is a good place. That there is hope & love. Thank you x

20

15

382

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 months

I was raised POOR. I lived in a home that lacked love & hope. I lived in a community that was underserved - that lacked resources. I went to a school that couldn't cope with hurt kids, which taught me my place. Being poor isn't about money. Being poor is about opportunity.

9

32

379

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

9 months

When celebrating your child's success tomorrow, please acknowledge the privilege you have(if any) & be aware of the message that exam results send poor kids! If you paid to help your kid do well-say that.If your family history helped your kids succeed- say that! #LeavingCert2023

Tweet media one

14

60

380

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

He is here. My first grandson Axel William Anthony OSullivan arrived into the world on the 5.3.22 & stole my heart. He is so loved & so wanted. #Grannyloved

Tweet media one

33

3

370

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

our family christmas was so lovely this year but im having a sad day. My brother spent his Christmas in prison alone- he has noone in his life right now & I havnt heard from my sister at all, I always get a drunken call this time of year, I'm worried as I don't know where she is

25

6

375

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

9 months

This morning, I had a chat with @RadioBrendanRTE about my struggles with body images. I am a size 16 healthy woman who has spent 30 years trying to be something else, smaller, slimmer, skinnier! I don't have the solution, talking might help

Tweet card media

Dr. Katriona O Sullivan, best-selling author, and lecturer in psychology in Maynooth University joins Brendan for a deeply personal conversation about the relationship women have with their bodies.

19

15

361

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 years

im so delighted to have my chapter from the @LilliputPress #trinitytales book featured today in the @IrishTimes . please go easy though in comments. this is only my story lads

Tweet card media

‘I sat drinking in the knowledge, and for the first time in my life I felt alive’

Dr Katriona O’Sullivan began on the Trinity Access Programme which led to a PhD

www.irishtimes.com

56

48

358

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

6 months

Dave just said "I've never watched the whole show, ever!" A testimont to how great @PatricKielty was tonight on the #LateLateToyShow I love the hint of tears too! A feeler is our Patrick! Well done to @rte great choice!

9

4

345

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 year

I'm really struggling with parenting today...all I do is moan at my (lovely) son about the Leaving Cert...shaming him because he doesn't want to study! Does everyone go through this? If you have advice for me please send it as im convinced he will hate me by the end of it all!

162

6

339

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

6 months

What a privilege it was to be the keynote this morning at the @scienceirel #SFISummit . I got a standing ovation- that blew me away! Thank you for hearing my story! Thank you to @MU_Research for the support!

Tweet media one

7

15

339

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 month

"Academics are 25 times more likely to have a parent with a Ph.D. This nearly doubles at prestigious universities & is stable across 50 years...academia is disproportionately accessible to the privileged which shapes their scholarship & reproduction."

Tweet card media

Socioeconomic roots of academic faculty - PubMed

Despite the special role of tenure-track faculty in society, training future researchers and producing scholarship that drives scientific and technological innovation, the sociodemographic characte...

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

24

89

334

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

10 months

The last 9 weeks have been a whirlwind-with much worry about my parents legacy! A friend of my dad wrote me-"Whilst I’m sure it would have brought up plenty for him I know Tony would be so proud of you & the book. He never hid from his story" this meant more than the book sales!

Tweet media one

7

2

329

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

7 months

After the success of my book Poor & the feedback , I started a podcast called 'Classed Women' The podcast explores how social class punctuates all of our lives; how it can lesson, limit or liberate peoples lives. Please listen, & if you like, share!

Tweet card media

Episode one - Intro!

Listen to this episode from 'Poor' on Spotify. We are three deadly women who have lots of things to say about being working class. This episode you get to meet us and hear a bit about our journey in...

open.spotify.com

17

73

327

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 years

I shared my story with the @2NorriesPodcast last night. Growing up with drug addicted parents is not all of my story...or theirs. Im thinking of my mum & dad this morning. RIP Tilly & Tony O'Sullivan...thank you for teaching me how to dance & how to say fuck you to convention

Tweet media one

8

9

325

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

10 months

Absolutely thrilled to learn my book is no.1 again this week in the non fiction chart. @HollyAnnFoley planned a lovely surprise bestseller tea for me here in Donegal too! I feel very lucky to live the life I do. Thanks to everyone who has messaged & who has read my book!

Tweet media one

8

3

316

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 month

I grew up in Birmingham,born to parents who loved drugs more than me! I had a baby at 16,was homeless & helpless-I am now a university lecturer-I have grants, publications,a loving family & a full heart! Poor is my thank you to the people who saved me!

Tweet media one

8

23

316

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

5 months

From the Monto in 2003 to Tolka Park 2023, I am always proud of you. You have never stopped believing in yourself. Even when you were held back,put down, or overlooked, you have always come back harder & stronger! You are my inspiration. I am so privileged & proud to be your mam!

Tweet media one

5

7

314

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

4 years

27 years ago today 16 year old me gave birth to my first son John. He is my greatest achievement to-date. We've survived homelessness, addiction, death, lone parenting, 3 dogs, a phd, 2 new brothers, football, fostering & my most scary karaoke moments. I love u son @J_O_Sully18

Tweet media one

11

7

300

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

I regularly feel like being from the street just doesnt suit being in the polite middleclass system, I feel like im too direct, I ask awkward questions, I swear, I answer back! I am finding it really hard to live with the feeling of difference today.I miss being ok with myself!

35

7

312

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

1 year

Today was special, I got to see @LockwoodCm , one of my primary school teachers.I got to thank her for seeing past my fear & anger, for hugging me & for feeding me! She remembered so many details about me as a little girl I couldn't help but cry. From 7 year old me- thank you!

Tweet media one

@PenguinIEBooks

Penguin Books Ireland

@PenguinIEBooks

1 year

We are delighted to reveal the cover of Poor, @katrionaos 's gripping account of her journey from abject poverty to academia. Moving, funny & brave, Katriona's story makes a compelling case for what we could do to help other poor kids like her.

Tweet media one

10

30

199

6

11

307

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

Hey twitter for academics- I just got promoted to associate professor & want to help any other early career academics looking to apply too(esp. women)- if you want to see my draft application & feedback send me a PM with details & I'll send it on #AcademicTwitter #WomenInSTEM

20

44

302

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 months

On April 18th (my birthday), the paperback of my best-selling memoir, poor, is being released. To mark this wonderful occasion, we decided to change the cover, we wanted to ensure that it accurately reflected my journey - I hope you love it as much as me!

Tweet media one

16

21

301

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 years

last month he left our house, we still support him but the fights got too hard, he is sleeping on the sofa of alcoholic family, @tusla have withdrawn all support as he's not attending his plc course anymore (2)

2

14

295

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

5 months

I get so many messages & emails since the publication of #Poor but this message was so moving, I made this woman think - that is all I ever wanted- was to make people consider the impact of poverty! Keep sharing your thoughts!

Tweet media one

2

20

293

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 months

I have a heart, I care about humans- all of them. Today's speech demonstrated he is struggling, but my sympathy doesn't stretch too far. Leo never used his privilege or his position to educate himself on poverty, he is the person who said poor people are not 'deserving'. ⏬️⏬️

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

8 months

This is why I wrote my book.This is the pure prejudice people face in poor communities every day. The assumption that we are shameless, talentless, yobs who act like the characertures shown on shows like benefit street. This is our leader. This is vile! The smirk is sickening

103

367

2K

13

46

287

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

3 years

I am 44 today! I celebrated by running my longest run so far, snoozing on the sofa & I'm about to eat cake. I'm so grateful for my life, I miss my dad on days like today...he knew how to make today special, its was the 1 day of the year my brothers were warned not to bate me! 🤣

Tweet media one

35

4

286

@katrionaos

Katriona O'Sullivan

2 months

I grew up in Birmingham, born to Irish parents who loved drugs more than me, I had a baby at 16,was homeless & helpless...I am now an award winning academic-grants worth millions, publications,a loving family & a full heart! This is my story @anniemacmanus

@anniemacmanus

Annie Mac

2 months

"Society hates lone parents.. especially when you're young and poor." Meet Dr @katrionaos O'Sullivan, an Irish woman breaking barriers. Raised in poverty, pregnant at 15 and now a psychologist challenging education barriers. Listen to her powerful story:

1

15

76

7

34

287