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Dan Pearson

Dan PearsonAssistant Principal, North West Kent College

BA Performing Arts and Theatre Studies, 1997

What made you choose Middlesex University?

I chose Middlesex because of its reputation for Performing Arts and its location.

What course did you study?

My course was a BA in Performing Arts and Theatre Studies.

What attracted you to your course and made you apply?

I chose to apply for my course due to its strong reputation but also because it matched my career aims.

What aspects of your course did you enjoy most?

I loved being part of the student community- they were the best years of my life!

What is your fondest memory of life at Middlesex?

The Summer Balls and Trent Park union on summer nights. Oh and of course our performances.

What one piece of advice would you give to a prospective student interested in studying at Middlesex?

Make sure the course you choose gives you a solid head start in these tough times of austerity. Also remember that Graduates, despite media hype, are statistically in higher paid positions than none graduates.

How did your course and time at Middlesex help you to get where you are professionally today?

My course taught me excellent research and study skills and gave me a breadth of transferable skills to apply in my professional life.

What made you choose the industry you work in and what are its pros and cons?

I was a touring Actor and Artistic Director but the lack of stability of income made me decide to move into education. The pros are it is rewarding and varied. The cons are dealing with the constant changes that result from new Government agendas.

How did you get your foot on the career ladder post university?

By making a number of applications and working hard. The first few years were very tough but then I had a few breaks.

What has been your defining career break or highlight to date?

Being appointed as one of the youngest senior academic directors in the country.

What does the future hold for you?

I would like to become Principal. The consultation and hard work I do will continue until I hit 65 in 30 years but who is counting.

What are the top three career tips you would give to current students and recent graduates?

Gain as much work experience as possible. Carry out detailed research into the organisations or jobs you apply for and get a 1st degree if you can.

What one piece of advice would you give to the 17/18 year old you?

Build up as much work related experience as possible. Keep learning and develop a wide breadth of skills. Master the art of dedication and commitment.

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