Daniel Graham - BSc (Hons) Geography graduate

“As with many courses, the skills I learnt whilst studying at Plymouth are transferable. I was taught the art of writing and effective research, I learnt the importance of sharing experiences and listening to others, and I was reminded of the joys of exploration.”

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

Since graduating I have worked all around the world in a variety of jobs, from camel farming in Western Australia to provincial park maintenance in British Columbia. Alongside this, during the most recent years, I discovered the wonderful world of writing, and so began my journey towards becoming a published author.

What is the best, most exciting or fun thing that you have done in your career?

In 2013 my brother and I walked 3,000 kilometres across Western Europe, from Bristol, England, to the Mediterranean Sea. We spent five months walking from country to country, camping beneath trees and washing in rivers. My first book, A Walk to the Water, recounts this journey. There aren’t many moments in my career that can top this.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get in to the same line of work?

If you have a passion for writing, there are many channels you can follow. Don’t get disheartened if your first path is blocked. Writing as a career can come in many forms, from journalism and novel writing, to writing for business and copywriting. Think laterally and explore your options. I began as a freelance travel writer, creating content for online magazines, before discovering the world of adventure memoir/nature writing.

How did studying at Plymouth help you?

As with many courses, the skills I learnt whilst studying at Plymouth are transferable. I was taught the art of writing and effective research, I learnt the importance of sharing experiences and listening to others, and I was reminded of the joys of exploration. On a more geographical note, Plymouth’s location – sandwiched between the River Plym and the Tamar, and a stone’s throw from some of Britain’s most beautiful countryside – has forever been an inspiration for my writing.  

How has a degree from Plymouth University influenced your career?

My degree from Plymouth University taught me that if you work hard on something you are passionate about, reward will ultimately follow. I also learnt the importance of balancing work with life, or, better still, that it is possible to have a career doing something you love. This has certainly had a positive impact on my career.

What is your favourite memory of studying at Plymouth? 

I have many great memories from studying at Plymouth. In the second year of my BSc (Hons) Geography degree we went to Ireland on a field trip to explore the interactions between people and place. I remember walking across the limestone paving of the Burren National Park on the island’s western shores and looking out across the Atlantic Sea. It was one of my favourite memories.

Would you recommend undertaking a course with Plymouth University, and why?

Ever since graduating I have always said that Plymouth University is a great place to undertake a course. The city centre, seafront, student housing, and campus are all within walking distance of each other, and just a short journey outside of the city lies a wealth of beautiful countryside. With regards specifically to my course, I was delighted with my lecturers and so too the facilities in which they taught. Alongside the routine subject matter, we were also given valuable insights into career development and post-study opportunities, a great asset to prepare students for the next step.