Angus Alexander Edmonds

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Your time at the University

I thoroughly enjoyed my lectures in English Literature, Moral Philosophy, and British History, and the discussions - putting the world to rights - in the common room at the foot of the newly built David Hume Tower. I also enjoyed the debates in the Union, and the Friday night bashes, dancing wildly to The Athenians. I joined the Nat Club in Potterrow and had some great years there, serving as Secretary and Debates Rep. I was also elected to serve on the Union’s Committee of Management.

My favourite lecturer was Dr Ian Gregor. Along with his colleague, Mark Kinkead-Weekes, he was writing a book on William Golding, and he organised special tutorials in his beautiful New Town apartment to discuss Golding’s novels. Years after graduating, I visited the University of Kent, and came across Professor Gregor on his very last day at the university! We talked about Edinburgh and I was able to thank him for opening my eyes to the wonderful world of literary criticism.

I have very fond memories of my University days - ‘Salad Days’ as we used to say. I gained some good results, and better, a truly rounded education. Thank you, Edinburgh.

I believe one of the great learning experiences is living with others - you’ll learn to live and let live.

Angus Alexander Edmonds

Tell us about your Experiences since leaving the University

I became a teacher after studying at Moray House, and taught in Hawick and Dundee before emigrating to Australia. I was Head of Emmanuel College at the University of Queensland for 21 years, on one occasion playing host to the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Edinburgh, Professor Sir Timothy O’Shea.

I retired in 2004 and received the Medal of Order of Australia for services to education.

I have been an amateur historian for many years. My particular interest is the Rev Dr John Dunmore Lang DD, a graduate of the University of Glasgow, who became a radical politician and promoted an independent republican Australia.

As for current projects, I am about to publish a historical novel on Robert Burns.

Alumni wisdom

Make the most of your time at university, both in your chosen discipline and also through involvement in the clubs and societies.

I believe one of the great learning experiences is living with others -you’ll learn to live and let live, as well as finding the standards you appreciate and want to uphold.