FROM HNC TO ARCHITECTURE: HNC ALUMNUS JAKE SHARES HIS STORY
28.11.2024In the next in our series of alumni stories, we speak to former student Jake about his journey from A Levels to his career as an award-winning Senior Architect.
At HNC, students are supported to achieve the life-changing qualifications that will lead to their dream career. Opportunities for students to become their best selves take place both inside and outside of the classroom, and in our latest in a series of alumni success stories, Jake shares more about how his journey from HNC helped to shape his career…
What did you study at HNC?
I joined HNC in 2010 where I studied A Levels in History, IT and Design Technology (now called 3D Design) and took part in a range of experiences including the Duke of Edinburgh programme, work placements and an overseas trip.
What were your next steps after HNC?
I progressed to university after my time at HNC – I studied at the University of Newcastle (followed by further studies at the University of Cardiff and the University of Cambridge) and graduated with a first-class degree in Architecture.
What are you doing now?
I’m currently working as a Senior Architect, Passivhaus Designer, and retrofit coordinator at an architectural practice in Bath. In my role, I oversee projects from the initial concept design through to quality control and reviews during the construction phase. Over the years, I’ve worked on a variety of building types, including housing, education, public, and retail. In addition to this role, I also run my own architectural practice and hope that this becomes by main job in the future. Furthermore, I tutor at the University of Cardiff on the Masters of Architecture programme. You can see some examples of Jake’s work below.
Did you always aspire to work in your current sector?
I’ve always wanted to work in the creative design sector, but it wasn’t until I completed a work experience placement that I decided architecture was the right path for me. The profession blends creative flair with practical technical skills, which perfectly suits my abilities.
How did your college experience help you secure your current role?
My Progress Tutor was incredibly encouraging, especially in helping me find work experience. I have dyslexia, which initially made me hesitant about pursuing higher education, but the support I received at HNC was invaluable. They gave me the confidence to think bigger, and without their encouragement, I wouldn’t have achieved as much or settled into my current role as well as I have.
What advice do you have for students aiming for a career in architecture?
Gain work experience early on to get a feel for the profession. Start building a portfolio of artwork and extracurricular projects. Take the time to explore the architecture around you and keep up with journals and news articles to stay informed.
Rebecca King, Employer Liaison Officer, comments “It is always inspiring to hear from our past students about how the experiences on offer at HNC have helped to shape their journey. Here at HNC our promise to our students is if they commit completely to the opportunities and experiences on offer, they will become their best selves and be in a position to progress to their dream career. Jake has shared more about how his work experience placement helped to shape his vision for the future, and we continue to support our students to explore their career options through a wide-variety of high value work experience placements. Thank you to Jake for sharing his success story!”
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