Property Planning and Development BSc(Hons): After you graduate

"I have always had an interest in buildings and an appreciation of architecture which led me to choose property planning and development which focuses on the practical side of the built environment and provides the opportunity to gain a professional qualification. 

"I chose Kingston for a number of reasons: its proximity to London – a great thriving metropolis that always excites; the sandwich placement – a chance to get some hands-on experience; the excellent reputation held by the School of Surveying in the property industry; and the accreditation by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. 

"The course was both interesting and challenging, which I think is how a degree course should be. It allowed me to gain an in-depth appreciation of the technical side of surveying and apply that knowledge to real situations. I definitely became more passionate about the subject as time went by.

"My placement year in industry was one of the highlights of the degree.  It enabled me to develop professionally and bolstered my technical knowledge. It also refocused me when I returned to the University to complete my final year.

"After graduation I returned to my placement employer, DTZ. Following a year in the investment department, I joined the regeneration team. Here I qualified as a chartered surveyor, after sitting the challenging Assessment of Professional Competence exams.  

"DTZ is a global real estate adviser which provides innovative real estate and business solutions to a range of clients. My role involves advising on the viability and development potential of difficult sites.

"Since November 2005 I have been on secondment to the Olympic Land Team of the London Development Agency, which is tasked with delivering the land required for the Olympic Park & Legacy development. This involves negotiating and consulting with local groups and I have been able to draw on a lot of lessons learnt from my degree, not just the theoretical stuff, but also the soft skills such as building relationships and working as part of a team.

"I love the fact that every day is different and I can be out of the office as much or as little as I want. I am also lucky enough to work with the best people in the industry. Working with a diverse group of people who enjoy their work and are fun too makes a real difference, particularly when you're starting out.

"My advice to those going to university is to choose a subject you are passionate about.  Surveying offers a variety of exciting careers so if you can couple your studies with relevant work experience then even better."