Jason Braithwaite
BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology
What appealed to you about studying your course at Northumbria University?
I am a big fan of the North East of England and the University's School of the Built and Natural Environment seemed like a perfect place for me to study and develop as a construction professional. I was right to make the decision as I discovered just how much the University look to get the best out of their students and how the dedication of the teaching staff ensure this.
What was the best experience at University?
Constructionarium, where we worked on a construction project. It was an excellent way to experience how something 2D on paper can be built in reality. As an Architectural Technologist, such experience is essential in understanding how design is translated into construction. It was also great to be part of a team with my cohort and although it was hard work, it was a lot of fun and really enjoyable.
Would you recommend studying your course to prospective students?
Absolutely! The Architectural Technologist role is essential in every modern-day architectural design practice. If you have an eye for design and have a desire to understand how buildings are built then this is the course for you.
How do you feel that your university course helped you with finding employment?
Every assessment/hand-in is a portfolio building exercise. If you put the work in, not only do you get good grades, but you also build up a fantastic portfolio to help you find the job you are looking for. I was no exception to this and I was able to build a portfolio that I could be proud of.
What useful skills did you learn while studying at University that you can take into the work place?
I learnt many skills that I have taken into my current work place. The most important of which is what it means to be a professional in the construction industry, which is, meeting deadlines, handling pressure and producing a good standard of work. Another important aspect that I have taken into the work place is the technical principles and procedures when translating design into construction. As a technologist, technical competence is key to the role and although this comes with experience, the course helped me in defining the main principles I should work from and what end result I must achieve in order to deliver construction drawings to the highest standard.
