Theo Roberts

Through University and beyond: Theo's Story

I first discovered Gresham College by happenstance, while a first-year History student at King’s College London wandering to one of my lectures.  The opportunity to attend free lectures on a wide variety of topics, both related and unrelated to my degree, was hugely appealing. 

The first lecture I attended was ‘How the English Learned to Hate Catholics’ by the excellent Professor Alec Ryrie. I found it a great sociopolitical look at the complex and nuanced processes of religious transition, so often presented as a straightforward swap in our national story. I still regularly attend Gresham College lectures, often inviting friends with me. We particularly enjoy retiring to the nearby pub, Ye Olde Mitre, after the lecture to discuss our thoughts. Coincidentally, the Mitre is roughly the same age as Gresham, having been recorded as a drinking house since 1547. As a student I worked at the pub, always making sure to find time to attend Gresham College lectures when I wasn’t pouring pints. Given the similarities in age, I always thought that the connection between the two places must be a very well-trodden path.  

No longer a student, I now find great benefit in the College’s massive archive of past lectures, a free and bountiful supply of high-quality educational content. My own professional development has been greatly enhanced by watching a variety of lectures of corporate governance, the profession in which I now work. As a firm believer that the pursuit of learning does not need to be tied to academic or professional progress, the back catalogue also provides the opportunity to continue to pursue my interest in history.  It is testament to the broad appeal of Gresham College lectures, offering content complex enough to expand one’s pre-existing knowledge whilst conveying in such a way that is approachable to a complete novice. 

I believe the fundamental idea of knowledge for knowledge’s sake should be championed as much as possible. This is especially important in a time when young people are particularly stressed about their career prospects and learning has increasingly felt like a transactional process tied solely to exams and qualifications. 

I wholeheartedly encourage anyone and everyone to travel to a Gresham College lecture or browse through its archive, to expand their knowledge on a topic of interest or learn about something completely new. I hope the College can continue to educate the masses and bring people together for many years to come. 

If this story resonates with you or you have benefited from Gresham College lectures in other ways, please support our mission to open up education and to encourage a love of learning.

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