Ann West

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Your time at the University

I chose to study at the University because of its good reputation; I had performed Latin verse in an ESU competition there so I felt I knew something about the university; and it was convenient to travel there from home.

I studied English Language as well as Literature and this was, I believe, ground-breaking at the time. Diversity was always a strong point in the Scottish education system and I studied a range of subsidiary subjects including Logic and Metaphysics and Social Anthropology.

My favourite memory is serving James Robertson Justice with petrol while working at a local garage to earn some cash. He was Rector at the time and although portly he was squeezed into a mini - the car not the skirt!

Tell us about your Experiences since leaving the University

I am the Secretary of UELAN (University of Edinburgh London Alumni Network). I really appreciate this connection I still have with the university.

Ann West

Following my undergraduate degree, I went to Moray House and took a teaching qualification. Most of my teaching was in colleges of further education in and around London. For the last 15 years of my career I held a number of management positions, ending up as a Director of Faculty at a large inner-city college.

I am retired now and enjoy a broad range of voluntary activities mostly involving children and young people. I am the Secretary of UELAN (University of Edinburgh London Alumni Network). I really appreciate this connection I still have with the university.

In my career, and now in my voluntary work, I have found enormous satisfaction in finding ways to give opportunities to young people which has fuelled their ambition and developed their skills.

Alumni wisdom

Grab this opportunity with both hands. When you are young, It’s easy to take for granted what you hold in your grasp. Studying at Edinburgh is a privilege and you may never be so lucky again.