From the Arctic Challenge to the London Marathon – Robert Breden’s Run for a Cause
When BSB alumnus Robert Breden secured a place in the TCS London Marathon, he knew it would be more than a personal challenge. What began as a simple ‘what if’ soon became a commitment to test his limits, support a cause close to his heart and prove to himself how far he could go.
Now studying for a Master’s in Finance at UCL, after graduating from City, University of London with a First-Class degree in Economics with Accounting, Robert is balancing the demands of postgraduate study with the discipline required to prepare for one of the world’s most iconic races.
‘The workload has definitely increased compared with my bachelor’s,’ he says. ‘But it’s a privilege to study here. The UCL School of Management campus is based in Canary Wharf, and the view from the 50th floor reminds me every day why I’m doing this and what I’m working towards.’
Alongside his studies and marathon training, Robert has spent the past few years exploring different industries through internships before deciding to pursue a career in mergers and acquisitions. Reflecting on that experience, he offers some honest advice to current BSB students thinking about their own next steps.
‘Finding internships in Bucharest is significantly easier than in the UK and just as valuable for your CV. Romania has many multinationals with offices in the capital, so the experience you gain there is highly relevant. A big part of building experience is recognising the opportunities available to you and making the most of them. Internships are also one of the best ways to explore different areas early on and understand what suits you best before committing to a particular path. And don’t be afraid to use your connections. Many people I know secured opportunities by reaching out directly or through contacts within a company’s leadership.’
Outside university, Robert has been preparing for the London Marathon, a challenge that has come to represent far more than race day itself.
Why did you decide to take on this challenge?
‘It started with a ‘what if’ question. This year, 1.13 million people entered the ballot for around 50,000 places, which makes it even more selective than my master’s course. Receiving a place felt incredibly meaningful, but it also came with a sense of responsibility to make the most of it.
I wanted to prove to myself what I was capable of. At the start of last year, I could barely run 5k. Now I can run more than 30km. Along the way, I’ve met amazing people, built lasting friendships, and felt better than ever, both physically and mentally.
The most important reason, though, is that I’m running to raise awareness for cancer. It has affected my life through family and close friends, and this is my way of standing beside them while also encouraging others to do the same.’
For Robert, the challenge goes far beyond the race itself. Training for a marathon demands resilience, but it has also given him a deeper sense of perspective. However demanding the preparation may be, it cannot compare with the daily reality faced by those living with cancer. That understanding continues to shape his motivation throughout the journey.
Looking back, Robert’s fondest memories of BSB go well beyond the classroom.
What stands out most from your time at school?
‘Helping with the construction of the first car that took on the Arctic Challenge was one of the highlights of my school years, and the friendships I made during that time have lasted. I still talk to Tudor quite often and always make sure to visit the Hub when I can. The advice and support that Tudor and Dan have offered over the years is something I will always appreciate.
I also remember how quickly BSB adapted when COVID hit, and how Mr Porter went to each Year 13 student’s home to deliver their graduation certificates. That really captured the school’s sense of community.’
Any advice for current BSB students?
‘Start doing things related to what you want to study at university as early as possible. Simply focusing on your A-Level subjects is not enough. Universities value initiative and experience, and the same applies when applying for jobs. The people reviewing applications often go through hundreds before choosing someone, so you need to find ways to stand out by showing why you are genuinely interested in that subject and what you can bring compared with everyone else.’
As Robert continues his studies and prepares for the London Marathon, his journey reflects determination, resilience, and purpose — qualities that continue to embody the spirit of the BSB Community.
👉 Support Robert’s fundraising journey here:
https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/robert-arthur-breden
