How a visit to RICS HQ helped one Real Estate student visualise her future career
For many students, university is as much about exploring future possibilities as it is about earning a degree. For Arvinder, a Real Estate Management student at Kingston University, an early visit to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) headquarters helped bring those possibilities into sharper focus.
Seeing the profession beyond the classroom
Arvinder visited the RICS headquarters in Westminster during her first year as part of a fieldtrip for Real Estate students. The day included presentations from professionals working across the sector, offering students valuable insight into the different pathways available after graduation and the routes to becoming RICS accredited.
One aspect that particularly stood out was learning that many of the presenters were not full-time RICS employees. Instead, they were practising professionals working on major projects across the industry who had volunteered their time to share their knowledge and experiences with students. For Arvinder, this helped demonstrate the strength of the professional community and the industry's commitment to supporting the next generation.
Bringing career ambitions to life
The visit also provided an opportunity to explore the historic RICS building itself. From its extensive library of professional resources to its rooftop views overlooking London, the headquarters offered a glimpse into the heritage and prestige associated with the profession.
More importantly, the experience helped Arvinder picture herself progressing from student to professional. Seeing career pathways explained by industry leaders made the journey feel more tangible and achievable. Rather than simply learning about surveying in lectures, she was able to see what a future career could look like in practice.
Finding purpose in real estate
Although Arvinder is now entering her third year, she is still exploring the many directions a Real Estate Management degree can take her. Initially interested in valuation, she has become increasingly drawn to residential development and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to people's lives.
Growing up in London, she witnessed first-hand how new developments can transform communities by creating homes and improving local areas. That experience sparked an interest in the built environment, and the role property professionals play in shaping places where people live.
One of the reasons she chose Real Estate Management was the flexibility the course offers. The degree opens doors to a wide range of career paths, including planning, valuation, project management and development, allowing students to discover their interests as they progress through their studies.
The human side of property
For Arvinder, the skills needed for a successful career in real estate extend far beyond technical knowledge. Having worked in retail for several years alongside her studies, she believes communication, empathy and the ability to work with different people are among the most valuable qualities a property professional can develop.
Whether supporting communities through residential development or helping people navigate property decisions, understanding individual circumstances and building relationships is central to the profession. It is this human element that continues to motivate her as she considers her future career options.
Looking ahead
As she prepares to begin her final year, Arvinder is still exploring where her career might take her. However, one thing is clear: experiences beyond the lecture theatre have helped shape her ambitions and given her greater confidence about the future.
For students considering a career in surveying or real estate, her advice is simple. Make the most of every opportunity available, whether that's attending industry visits, networking with professionals or exploring the many pathways the sector offers. A single visit to an organisation such as RICS can provide valuable insight, inspiration and a clearer picture of what comes next.
In Arvinder's case, the trip offered something more than a behind-the-scenes look at a professional body. It provided a chance to see how a career in real estate can shape communities, support people and create lasting positive impact. Explore your options today to see where your career could take you!