Technology enthusiast Blake Anneberg is a committee member of the Denver alumni group. He tells us how an inspiring meeting has encouraged him in his career. Name Blake Anneberg Degree BA in Humanities & Social Science Year of Graduation 2008 Image Blake Anneberg on a visit to Edinburgh Castle. Why did you choose the University of Edinburgh? I consider myself very fortunate to have studied at Edinburgh University because I initially did not get in when I applied. So after a year in Aberdeen I transferred and I greatly enjoyed my studies and life in Edinburgh University. The varied courses I took allowed me to study the rich history of Scottish Political Thought. What I learned not only shaped my understanding of the ongoing debates of the Scottish Referendum but gives me hope for the current political discourse in the United States today. Highlights at Edinburgh included representing the University on the Men’s Lacrosse Team in a British Universities Sports Association (BUSA) Championship game. Enjoying the incredible comradery with the Edinburgh University Hare and Hounds Running Club and the opening of a new world for me through the course I did the best in: South Asian Studies. I had the privilege working with the Student Disability Service for extended time on exams and the use of a computer. One of the reasons I did not go to university in America was because universities in Scotland seemed to take dyslexic students more seriously. During my time in Edinburgh I had the chance to meet alumnus and NASA astronaut Piers Sellers. His passion for science and exploration for humanity inspires me to this day. Blake Anneberg Tell us about your experiences since leaving the University After graduating in 2008, I used my Edinburgh University politics background to be immersed in the Colorado State Capital where I focused on technology that enabled better constituent communications. That experience led me to join AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) — the domestic Peace Corps in America — where I assisted nonprofits with technology. I currently work as a freelance education technology specialist. Edinburgh University is doing a fantastic job leading the charge for online courses. Their use of technology to eliminate barriers of time and distance is to be commended. During my time in Edinburgh I had the chance to meet alumnus and NASA astronaut Piers Sellers. His passion for science and exploration for humanity inspires me to this day. To that end, I write public policy for Colorado Hyperloop and try to document the social impacts of this new space age transportation technology. Running for Edinburgh Uni and countless laps around Arthur’s Seat turned into a passion of mine. I have now completed two Edinburgh Marathons and 25 other international ultras and marathons and one Seven Hills Race of Edinburgh. Alumni wisdom If you have the opportunity to do so, use the Student Disability Service as much as possible. Get the help you are entitled to. Then, share what you learn with the world. Disseminate as much of what you learn to those who do not have the same opportunities. Related links Student Disability Service Edinburgh University Sports Union Piers Sellers alumni profile Colorado Hyperloop (external link) Please note, the University of Edinburgh is not responsible for the content and functionality of any external links provided. This article was published on 2024-10-28
