Interview with a promising graduate

30 June 09  

Nicole Jean graduated from Heriot Watt University with a first class honours degree in BEng Architectural Engineering on the 23rd June 2009. Nicole was the lucky recipient of the Hays Building Services and Charted Institute of Building Services (CIBSE) student bursary; she received funding three consecutive years of her degree programme.

1. What are your plans after graduation?
   NJ: I am currently looking for a job within a consultancy as a design engineer.
2. Why did you choose to do a building services course?
   NJ: I have always had a passion for architecture and when it came to choosing a course I found this one and thought that it sounded really interesting. 
3. Do you have any work experience?
   NJ: Yes, I worked three summers during my degree; I spent two summers working at an architectural company as a lighting engineer, the third I spent in an electrical and mechanical engineering company, again as a lighting engineer. This experience was great as I got to use some of my skills and experience from university as well as gaining first hand experience and a true feel for the industry.
4. Overall, how was your degree?
   NJ: On the whole, I really enjoyed my course – it was full of different and interesting modules, for example I learnt about plumbing, something I never thought I would know anything about but the course is so varied you never get bored – every day is something different and new. 
5. What was the hardest part of your degree?
   NJ: Definitely the hardest part was the final year – there is a lot more work which means there is a lot more pressure – but it was definitely worth it.
6. What was the best part?
   NJ: We went to Barcelona – an amazing experience as we got to look at the incredible architecture there as well as learning about how building services work inside the buildings. It was great to be able to put theory into reality – especially in such a fantastic location. 
7. Would you recommend the course?
   NJ: Yes, if this is something that interests you then definitely. Building services is an exciting career move – if somewhat undiscovered by many people. 
8. Best advice you could give to someone considering the course?
   NJ: Don’t be put off by the name as there is so much more to it. 
9. Best advice you could give to someone starting the course?
   NJ: Make sure you get some experience – it opens your eyes to the industry and helps to put everything you learn in to context. It can also help you realise where your passion and skills lie – not to mention that it’s great for your CV.
10. How did being the recipient of the Hays Building Services and CIBSE bursary help you throughout your degree?
    NJ: The financial assistance provided by Hays Building Services and CIBSE allowed me to truly focus on my studies without the added stress of worrying about finances. I am really proud of my achievement and am really excited about starting my career and using all the skills and knowledge gained during my course in the real world. I have even just registered with Hays Building Services and hope they will find me a suitable position – after I’ve enjoyed a long, relaxing holiday of course!