2022 November Alumni of the Month

Why did you choose to study at UEL?
I was on the DLR one day when I saw an extraordinary cluster of buildings across the water. The Docklands Campus. I thought to myself "I should study architecture THERE". Inspirational, creative space.

What is your one special memory of your time at UEL?
I have two; being able to explore the Fine Arts workshop as an elective and also the fantastic lecturer-guided study trips around the UK and Europe to discover how buildings work in practice.

What have you done since graduating from UEL?
I utilised my CAD skills on mechanical and electrical drafting for some amazing London projects, then specialised in restaurant HVAC. Four years ago I moved to the USA and started up my own business.

What is your current job role? And what does it involve?
I'm a freelance Architectural designer. I survey, CAD draft and admin on a huge variety of projects, from winery facilities to private residences. No two days are the same.

How did UEL help you get to where you are now?
I developed great transferable skills that are useful in many situations. Experiencing such an eclectic student make-up has proved helpful in everyday interactions with clients and colleagues.

What advice would you give your younger self?
Always listen to a different perspective before deciding something. Ultimately make choices and create things that YOU like and appreciate.

What advice would you give to UEL current students preparing to graduate?
Be brave but don't be stubborn. Take all those different skills you've just learnt and explore ways to use them that aren't necessarily the most obvious. Nothing is a mistake if you can develop from it.

Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know:
I was the fastest sprinter at my Primary School when I was 12. I beat the boys too. I took first in a 100 m race at an all-schools state championship.

If you were to do it all again, would you still choose UEL?
I was the fastest sprinter at my Primary School when I was 12. I beat the boys too. I took first in a 100 m race at an all schools state championship.