BSc Architecture graduate, Paulina Lemos, played an important role in shaping the identity of the course for years to come.
During her time at the University of Reading, Paulina helped to promote her fellow students high-quality work externally – by supporting an End of Year Show that creates a pipeline for businesses looking to offer jobs and practical experience to graduates.
Choosing architecture at Reading
Paulina, a Portugese native, felt that study opportunities in her home country were limited and after looking at international programmes, applied to the BSc Architecture course at Reading.
"Reading caught my interest with its connection to research and the artistic and technical balance of the course. I'm really happy with the decision I made."
End of Year Show involvement
In her first year Paulina, alongside staff and a small group of students, put on the School of Architecture's first End of Year Show. This event provided an opportunity for the School's students to showcase their innovative and inspiring projects and design work.
Given the School's established connections with local, national and international architects and construction companies, the End of Year Show offers excellent networking opportunities for students.
Since its inception in 2017, the annual event has gone from strength to strength, as more academics and students participate in its design and organisation.
"Seeing how much progress the Show has made over the years has been a great experience. The Show is an amazing opportunity for students to meet companies, show off work and secure practical experience and jobs."
It was in Paulina's first year that she saw for herself the commercial benefit of the event.
"I spent a summer working at a company who spotted my work at the Show. In my time there I was involved in several projects from diverse sectors."
Paulina is one of several students who were able to secure summer placements or work experience as a result of the Show, with other students securing work at a range of architectural companies.
In addition to her commitment to the End of Year Show, Paulina has been active in the production of a School publication that further showcases student work throughout the year.
Vibrant learning environment
Paulina is keen to credit the tutors she worked with for helping her go the extra mile:
"The tutors were encouraging, helping us to think progressively and experiment with our projects, which was exciting. They are diverse and have different skills while also being friendly and approachable."
Looking forward
Paulina is now looking at options, including at Reading, to study the Master of Architecture (MArch) course so that she can continue to apply her learning into practice.
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