Cerys's portfolio and work experience impress employers

BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology and Practice student Cerys Graham has secured herself a full-time role before she even graduates. Her work placement, portfolio and experience gained throughout the first two years of her course led her to impress and be offered this position.

A portfolio to be proud of

After completing her placement year, Cerys applied for a Trainee Architectural Technologist role at Morrison Design. The company is a RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) Charted Architecture practice based in Derby with projects in the UK and Europe. The experience she had gained whilst working in her placement in the Estates Department here at the University of Derby helped her shine in the interview. Cerys created a portfolio of the projects completed throughout her studies which she felt very proud of. And rightly so, as her skills and knowledge amazed the interview panel so much that she was offered the position. Cerys will work full-time in her new role whilst completing the final year of her studies part-time.

Female student and male estate team member analyse a hole in the ground

Real-world experience

Throughout her placement year, Cerys was "involved with developments across the University site, including assisting with the collation of information for the University’s new Business School. The project team supported me throughout the placement to ensure that I got the most out of it. Working within the Estate's department has allowed me to see all areas involved in running the estate."

Cerys recommends anyone who is thinking of studying this course at the University of Derby to “make the most of the opportunities available. Definitely get involved in the placement year as, in my experience, it has helped me gain so many additional skills on top of my studies. The course allows you to make what you want out of it, so that you not only graduate with a degree in Architectural Technology, but you’ll leave with a portfolio of work to be proud of, use in interviews and showcase.”

Virtual design of a seating are in the 100 Queen's Gate Hotel London, Curio Collection by Hilton
Virtual design of a bed room in the 100 Queen's Gate Hotel London, Curio Collection by Hilton
Virtual design of a restaurant in the 100 Queen's Gate Hotel London, Curio Collection by Hilton

A love of building

Cerys has always been interested in the design of buildings and understanding how they work. Her goal is to continually progress and develop by learning new things throughout her career. The construction industry suits her way of thinking as it is constantly adapting to new ways of living and working, with the most recent focus being on sustainability, and it is this constantly changing environment that interested her.

A Centre of Excellence

After researching the University of Derby, Cerys chose to study BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology and Practice “due to it being a well-established course and being one of the few CIAT (Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists) Centres of Excellence within the UK and abroad." She says "a selling point for the course was the opportunity to work on live briefs throughout my studies, this allows experience to be gained in working with clients. Through working with real-life clients, you also gain a level of professionalism.”

Whilst studying the course she has gained a wide variety of skills and knowledge to use within her career including using CAD (Computer-aided design) software to building systems and materials. Along with new technical abilities, Cerys has also developed strong personal skills by working on live briefs with real clients helping to build confidence and professionalism.

Kedleston Road, Derby Campus entrance

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