Lamin Darboe

Course:  BSc Occupational Safety, Health and Environment, 2020

Job: Soldier, British Army

“Working in the Army involves a lot of travelling in the UK as well as overseas. The fact this programme was distance learning meant it was tailor-made for people like me with busy schedules and deadlines. It was a no brainer to study with Greenwich.”

Memories of Greenwich 

Since my programme was distance learning, I used to look forward to the study schools held on campus. I would return at the beginning of each term to receive assignments from the tutors. This was a great opportunity to put faces to emails and to network. Regrettably, this was moved to Zoom sessions once the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Despite losing the face-to-face interaction, the course was a fantastic experience and one that met all my learning expectations. The team led by Dr Ikpe Ibanga are doing a tremendous job enabling people who will not have otherwise achieved a higher academic qualification to do so. The course has greatly enhanced my career and I gained a promotion as a result of it.

I also want to use this opportunity to thank my dissertation supervisor Dr Shaun Lundy for his timely feedback and guidance. He made writing my first ever dissertation a wonderful experience.

Life after Greenwich 

Prior to starting this journey, I had no previous experience in writing academically. In fact, I struggled massively writing my first two assignments. Nonetheless, I am now completing an MSc programme in Safety, Health and Environment with the university (I’m currently writing my dissertation).

I am looking at a further promotion at work this year too, all thanks to the University of Greenwich. My plan for the future is to enrol on an MBA programme early next year and to progress in my military career.

I chose this picture for my Snapshot as it represents my struggles in achieving my degree. Against all odds I was able to gain First Class honours. I was told by several work colleagues and family members that I wouldn’t be able to juggle a full time job in the British Army and a young family with a university degree. There is one thing I sincerely love doing, that is to prove naysayers wrong.