Dan Marsh: BSc Hons Geography

Dan Marsh

BSc Hons Geography, 2003

“I am a teacher of Geography at the Asian International School in Colombo, Sri Lanka.”

Dan graduated from the University of Luton in 2003 with a BSc in Geography. He chose Luton because it was close to home but not close enough that parents could come round too often! He liked the location of the campus right in the town centre and most importantly the course options offered by Luton fitted what he was looking for.

He said: “Everything I was looking for Luton seemed to offer. The University had everything you needed and the course and lecturers were fun! It never really felt like an education, but it was.”

Dan has many great memories of his time at Luton, in particular, he said: “Being independent for the first time and taking control of my life was one of the things I remember most. Of course there were all the wild parties and nights out as well! Some of my fondest memories are of my friends, particularly my two housemates Laura and Tori. I know that my friendships from University will last a life time and for me that’s one of the best things about Uni.”

Dan is sure his degree has helped him get where he is today with the added bonus of lots of other experiences and lessons outside of the lecture rooms.

Dan started his current job as a teacher of Geography at the Asian International School in Colombo, Sri Lanka, after graduating in 2003. He teaches children in the English medium from the ages of 10-18, preparing the exam classes for the international GCSE’s. He has also helped to compile the Geography syllabus for the Sri Lankan National Curriculum which is taught in State Schools.

When his contract comes to an end Dan hopes to return to the UK to work within either the Foreign Office or the Government. Later in life he hopes to return to Asia to live and work again, particularly with Non-Governmental Organisations or one of the large international aid organisations.

Dan said: “My time in Sri Lanka has been one of the most challenging, rewarding and humbling experiences of my life. To say that I’ve changed would be an understatement in the way that I see the world and the contrasts that exist within it.

“I know that I am very blessed to have the opportunity at such a young age to live and experience life on another continent, a world away from our own. I’ve laughed and cried along the way but I’ve made fantastic friends in all corners of the globe and seen beautiful places ….. I think I can say I’ve lived my dream.”

Interview took place in 2005.