Congratulations to our newest Architect
Well done to Becca Outterside, who has passed her Part 3 exam and graduated from the University of Westminster as an Architect!
Becca started her Part 3 in late 2020 and completed it this year. Due to the ongoing pandemic, all study - and assessment - during this time was done remotely. We spoke to Becca to find out more about her experience of preparing for this final qualification and just how it has been affected by virtual learning.
Can you describe your experience of studying for your Part 3?
Juggling full time work and studying was definitely challenging, however, as the Part 3 course teaches you all the practical and legal side to architectural practice it enhanced my understanding of live projects and the workplace hugely. The case study module, that I wrote on Cambridge House, allowed me to really explore and understand elements of the project I wouldn't have necessarily done without taking RIBA Part 3.
I did decide to defer the course for six months as the combination of studying, working and a pandemic became quite intense and I recognised there was no real reason to rush. In retrospect, I think these six months were beneficial to gain further experience and confidence that benefitted me in the long run.
How did you find studying and being interviewed remotely? Do you think it’s been harder?
I think remote studying was actually quite advantageous for Part 3. As the course is part time and outside of work hours, it meant that we didn't have to spend time commuting and could use this time more productively for studying. The lectures, online exams and case study all worked well online, however the interview was perhaps a bit more disjointed being virtual as it is a more unnatural human interaction. Having said this, it would have been nice to have met fellow students and lecturers in person and establish more of a support group.
Which architects are you inspired by and what is your favourite building?
I don't necessarily have a favourite building as I appreciate different elements in a range of different buildings, but one architect who has always stuck with me since my undergraduate is Samuel Mockbee, co-founder of Rural Studio, whose founding principal is ‘all people deserve good design’, which has been demonstrated through all of their projects over many years, and an ethos I maintain.
What would your dream project be?
My dream project would probably be to experiment in designing a home that used as many, if not all, sustainable materials and processes with a cradle-to-cradle approach, with a large focus on bio and recycled materials.
What advice would you give to someone about to start a career in architecture?
It's a long haul, so really take time to consider if it is something you are passionate about enough to pursue. However, it is unlike any other subject to study, allowing you to be immensely creative, alongside developing a diverse range of skills in a vocational career that will stand you in good stead for your future.
Finally, now that you have finished studying, what will you be doing with your ‘free’ time?
Now that I'm not studying, I hope to have more time to go running and play badminton. During my masters I developed a passion for biomaterials, and I'd like to delve back into that as an extra-curricular activity, experimenting with various waste resources and how they could be repurposed.
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