Mary Lou McDonald, MEP for Dublin

Where did you go to school? Notre Dame Des Missions, Churchtown, Dublin 14

What was your best subject? English

Who was your favourite teacher and why? Sister Una. She was patient, encouraged all of us and treated us as equals.

Who was your childhood idol? John Lennon.

Who was your best friend and why? Michaela. She was great craic, we were inseparable.

What is she doing now? Living a busy life as a midwife, mother of two, wife (of one!) and friend of many.

What TV show/film most reminds you of your schooldays? Grease and Only Fools and Horses.

What song most reminds you of your schooldays? Free Nelson Mandela (The Special A.K.A.) Tainted Love (Soft Cell).

What food most reminds you of your schooldays? Lunchbox sandwiches.

Would you send your children to the same school you went to? I plan to send my children to a local school on the northside of Dublin city.

What was the best thing about your education? My friends, debating, long summer holidays.

What was the worst thing about your education? A limited mix of people from different social and ethnic backgrounds.