Please briefly describe your current role and what you do.
I have just finished a year placement as a Part 1 Architectural Assistant at a practice in Manchester. I helped out on all kinds of projects at different stages from feasibility to detail design.
How did you get this role?
I applied for a number of jobs myself. I looked for jobs with practices that interested me in Manchester and secured a couple of interviews. I was also offered a couple of interviews after practice representatives visited the end of year exhibitions and saw my work.
Has your degree proved useful?
Yes
Were any options/experiences in your degree helpful in getting your current role?
None in particular as the course is tailored entirely to the profession - everything covered during the course is essential. However, I was told by my employers that they thought I had quite a good technical understanding, showcased in a couple of images in my interview portfolio.
Did you do a placement year or work experience/internships/volunteering at Manchester Met? Did these experiences help you find your current role?
My role this year was as a Part 1 Architectural Assistant. This is a necessary placement year which takes place between the undergraduate degree and the masters degree.
Since graduating have you taken any additional qualifications to develop your career?
No
Have you undertaken any Freelance work? Do you have plans to develop this option for work?
No. In the future after finishing my masters course and after having gained enough practical experience afterwards, I plan to do so.
Where do you see your career going from here?
I hope to start my own Architectural practice eventually, but gaining enough experience and gathering contacts and work beforehand is vital, so I see this happening ideally in my late twenties/early thirties.
What advice/tips would you give to current School of Art students approaching graduation?
Show enthusiasm and start looking for jobs early, produce business cards to go with your final degree show exhibition as professionals who visit the exhibition will take them if they like what they see. Contacts can be very helpful.
Describe your experience of studying at Manchester School of Art
It was very enjoyable, the facilities are very good, the staff are very helpful. Also, all of the different arts degrees which take place on the same campus create a very inspirational environment.
Your thoughts on Manchester as a place to be an art and design student
An amazing city, so much culture, brilliant student atmosphere wherever you go. The arts culture, especially the musical history of the city, makes you feel part of a very creative place which helps to inspire.
Top three things about Manchester School of Art
Atmosphere, facilities, Location
Top three things about Manchester
It's music culture and wealth of industrial history. The manageable size of the city centre - so much to see and do, all within walking distance. The city is known all over the world for numerous reasons. This makes me proud to call it home.