Your memories Nick Devas

Nick Devas

MA Economics, 1970

What’s your standout memory of Warwick?

I went to Warwick to study Economics in 1967, its third year of existence - the farmer was still ploughing the fields around Rootes Hall. I nearly didn't get there: my A level results were not good. I had already been rejected by my first five choices, so when I went for an interview I didn't have high hopes. At the end of the interview with Dr Shiv Nath, I asked "So, do I get in?", "I think so", he said. I hope I paid back his trust in me by getting the only First in Economics that year. It was a wonderful three years, with much pioneering going on. I loved Dr Nath's lectures on Welfare Economics and Development Economics. After studying city planning in Liverpool and working in Africa, I went on to teach economics and urban governance at Birmingham University's International Development Department for 30 years. I also met my wife at Warwick, studying history, and we have been happily married for over 50 years. Thank you, Warwick, for that head start in life!

How would you sum up Warwick in the time that you were there and your generation of students?

A highlight for me: The story of Winnie the Pooh written overnight on the path to the library and everyone walking backwards to read it. When the Vice-Chancellor ordered the grounds staff to turn the paving stones over, a sign went up: "Winnie the Pooh will live longer than you!"

Finish the sentence: Warwick influenced who I am today, because…

Being part of both the Christian Society and the Christian Union - both of which had a profound influence on my life.