Daniel has a passion for architectural design; environmental and energy efficiency; and building services, and aspires to become a project manager in the construction industry. During his second year on the BEng Architectural Engineering course, Daniel decided to switch to MEng Architectural Engineering to get the most out of his time in the UK.
Making the switch
When joining the University of Reading, Daniel’s plan was always to study for four years. However, he decided to switch out a placement year for an additional year of study.
“My initial plan was to study the BEng Architectural Engineering and do a placement year, but after careful consideration I decided that a summer placement would suit me better. I still wanted to gain more knowledge and study for four years (which was the initial plan either way). By switching to the MEng I would have the possibility of applying for chartership.”
The process for students to transfer from BEng to MEng Architectural Engineering is a very simple process with ample support from University staff.
“The process of changing from BEng to MEng was rather easy. Around March/April in year two we were told we had the option to change from one type of programme to another. I told the programme co-ordinator, Dr Mehdi Shahrestani, about my intention - he told me to follow a simple process consisting of contacting Student Services. I filled out a form and the switch was completed.
“Mehdi was always there to help me with anything I needed and to solve any doubts that I could have.”
Choosing Reading
Originally from Spain, Daniel was drawn to the University of Reading because of its sustainability initiatives and research impact. Research projects in the School of Construction Management and Engineering tackle issues including quality of life, sustainability of communities, wealth generation and long-term resilience.
“I chose to study at Reading because the University aligned well with my personal interests. For instance, both sustainability and research are of great importance to the University - looking ahead, these are also highly valuable to my future career development, and most importantly, for improving the quality of our built environment - and thereby quality of life.
“The University of Reading has great prestige and a very convenient location (near London, near Heathrow airport). Having members of my family living here greatly helped me make my decision.”
Josh Smith: dream graduate role
Josh credits the School's supportive community, adaptable courses and regular industry networking events with helping him attain his dream graduate role at Turner & Townsend.
Lanre Onanuga: a lifelong ambition
The unique flexibility of our undergraduate courses enabled Lanre to pursue projects and issues he was passionate about during his degree.
Louise Lawson: successful networking
As President of the Reading University Construction Society (RUCS), Louise helped other students to build their industry networks, secure placements and join the School's supportive community.
