An academic odyssey: My family of Liverpool graduates by Dr John W. McGarry

Posted on: 21 August 2026 by Dr John W. McGarry, Honorary Senior Lecturer in Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences in Community

Having studied at the University in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Honorary Senior Lecturer John shares the special role the University of Liverpool has played across generations of his family. His wife, brother and in-laws all have connections to the University, and this summer he proudly celebrated his daughter's graduation, with his youngest daughter set to follow in the future.

"An odyssey may be described as a long, wandering journey filled with adventure and changes in fortune. Attending the degree graduation ceremonies recently, we found ourselves reflecting on an epic journey with this University which has entirely shaped our lives.

"I graduated in Pharmacology here 48 years ago and then completed an MSc and PhD (1985-1992) in the Faculty of Veterinary Science/Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM). During my subsequent career spanning some 30 years, I taught multitudes of veterinary undergraduates and post-graduates.

"It was at the University I was fortunate to meet my future wife Helen as she completed her own master's and PhD. Our related research in medical and veterinary parasitology took us to east and west Africa over several years, with many memorable and exciting field work ventures along the way.

John's wife Helen graduating with a PhD

"Our two girls Rosie (21) and Ellen (19) are now part of the special University of Liverpool journey. Rosie graduated with a Law degree this summer and wishes to complete an LLB master's here, while Ellen is looking forward to Geography second year in September.

John, Helen, Ellen and RosieRosie and John

"But the impact of this institute has reached further still. Family alumni include my brother Dave (BA Sociology) and it was as undergraduates that Helen’s sister Susan (BA English) met her future husband John (BA Architecture)."

Susan and John on their graduation days

A huge thank you to John and his family for sharing their special story.