4000 ESSAYS engineering

4000 ESSAYS
ARCHITECTURE

ARCHITECTURE
A pencil, ruler and rubber or perhaps a sharpener from time to time; those were the essential tools which
followed me around as a child whilst I imagined, designed and drew my perfect, dream house (which was
obviously and most tastefully pink throughout!!). So it was inevitable that I would pursue a career in design.
However, it was only until recent experiences that I narrowed that choice down to becoming an architect.
Being a fully committed art student I've neither lacked creativity, nor the knowledge or history of previous
architectural art forms and buildings, as architecture itself, is based around innovative ideas, aesthetics and
ingenuity, it naturally became a subject of interest to me. For instance, whilst in midst of my A2 personal
study for Art and Design I decided to compare two artists from different movements those being the Art
Deco movement, heavily influenced by Bauhaus buildings and architecture along with the Art Nouveau
movement, which commenced with the ornamental floral patterns of William Morris. Last Year, I was
fortunate enough to have the opportunity to visit Glasgow and hence appreciate Rene Mackintosh’s Art
Nouveau souvenirs, gaining inspiration from the influential Glasgow School of Art, Kelvingrove Art Gallery
and Museum as well as Princes Square. It was like a dream.
Along with the aesthetical side to architecture, I have also understood the more logical side. This was due
to a small work experience placement with Simon Janes, a local self employed architect who had acquired
a lot of attention and business over the last few years. Despite the fact that his entry route into the world of
architecture was slightly askew in comparison with what I had in mind, he was still successful. I built up an
array of knowledge and experience, having heard and witnessed the many challenges of the profession.
For example demanding clients (hopefully those polished people and communication skills I have obtained
from working at the post office will support me here), late hours, building codes and law, the logic of
engineering and mathematics and even the management of the business at times; were all skills that I
picked up whilst working along side Mr Janes. It was a great experience to witness the progression of so
many buildings, including; beautiful houses, apartments and office blocks. Having played a part in the
creation of something so beneficial, yet so striking would surely be the best feeling in the world? The feeling
that you contributed to someone’s dreams.

Having a father in the field of property development has played a vital role in my career decision. Through
his experiences and knowledge of properties, I realised that pragmatics comes hand in hand with aesthetics
in architecture. On a day to day basis i assist him in not only imagining and designing, but managing and
estimating all costs, time schedules, construction control, obtaining planning permission, leasing whilst
working with architects as well as urban planners, estate agents, builders, surveyors and engineers, so that
perfect properties are created for his tenants. He led me to the conclusion that dreams are the foundations
for success, but one can only build success with creativity and logic, especially when art can be so
subjective! So, what better way to share my passion for architecture than to help create those dreams for
others? After all, “An architect is the drawer of dreams" - Grace McGarvie

__ ARCHITECTURE
I am clear that I want to pursue a course in the area of architecture or planning, because it will enable me
to combine the strongest aspects of my personality; a fascination with functional art and design,
particularly arrangements of light and space; enthusiasm for solving practical problems; and working with
other people. It is my desire to travel around the world and experience other cultures and broaden my
horizons.With this in mind, possessing a set of transferable skills and knowledge will be invaluable for the
future
My ambition is to go to university and do a degree in planning and transport, or in architecture
My work experience last year helped me decide that I wanted to study an area of architecture or planning.
I spent part of my time at a hospital and shadowed doctors. The second was spent with an awardwinning firm of architects, planners and engineers in Bath. Whilst I enjoyed working at the hospital, I
preferred the variety, challenge and social context of the architecture and planning practice
At school I have been an all- rounder and this can be reflected in my grades. So for A- levels, I have been
torn between arts and sciences
I opted for a balance, because I knew how important it is to express my creativeness as well as learn
more about the physical world. I have a deep interest in literature, which I would like to expand and
develop. I have confidence and am a very keen worker who will not give up until I have achieved my full
potential. I feel prepared to take responsibilities and am co- operative and willing to accept guidance
where ever it will aid my cause. I always try to be enthusiastic and find I get on well with other people and
enjoy meeting new people and experiencing new surroundings. I also have the ability, and willingness, to
listen and try to understand the view points of others. I have good IT skills, which can be clearly seen in

my coursework and analytical and decision- making skills, to assess and resolve conflicting points of
view, which is vital in being a Town and country planner
I recognise the importance of having a good balance between working hard and engaging in pastimes. I
have a number of hobbies both in an out of school . Out of school I have been practicing Taekwondo, of
which I have been doing for five years and currently a black belt
This is a hobby, which I enjoy immensely and would like to in the future teach to others.I also enjoy
swimming and training at the gymIn school I have been playing the flute and I'm currently working
towards grade 5. I've been going to orchestra for about two years and have played in every concert since.
I hope to continue my music throughout my life and future career. I am also very committed- member of
the school council, which I find thoroughly interesting and enjoyable

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__ ARCHITECTURE
Architecture is a natural choice for me. I love the thrill of solving a problem in maths, physics and everyday
life. I do this with an imagination and enthusiasm that has propelled me to two terms as a Student Council
member acting as Public Relations Officer and Vice Chairperson where I promoted and lead the
development of a student voice in the school environment. These qualities and an insatiable drive have
brought me academic success and fulfilment
My spare time for many years has been filled with thousands of art classes, from watercolour to mixed
media. This passion for art and design has also lead me to great experiences in editing and designing the
Transition Year yearbook, developing a theme, poster, ticket and set design for our annual fashion show
and work experience with a graphic design company giving me real and practical knowledge of the
commercial creative process
In architecture I find the opportunity to express and develop these strengths and abilities
Ireland is a country littered by abandoned dwellings and these spur my interest in complementary design
and construction in renovation while my life close to the land inspires an interest in alternative techniques
such as straw bale. To build a structure worthy of Frank Geary out of turf blocks would be a dream
As a member of the executive of a local charity, SHARE, which provides homes for the elderly I have been

involved in research for our latest complex with the aim of providing the residents with best available safety
features and an interior that is sensitive to their needs while retaining the warmth and sense of community
in what are, after all, their homes. In groups we visited other similar facilities and reported back on the best
features of each to the architects of the complex
The want the time spent studying in a British university to broaden my horizons, provide me with the skills
required not only to work within an experienced team but to build my own practice

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ARCHITECTURE

I have always had a considerable interest in architecture, ever since studying it briefly during my art
GCSE course. Since then I've looked at architecture in detail through my work in as-level art, and in aslevel technology; where I spent 4 months on an architecture related project, and gathered a huge amount
of architectural knowledge. I think my versatility in coming up with solutions for proposals of any sort, and
my articulate manner of communicating these solutions would suggest I would be well suited to the job of
an architect. I believe it would be a very interesting career to pursue and could be very rewarding for a,
hard working, creative, intellectual person such as myself. I also think my enthusiasm towards the subject
would make the transition from 6th form to university much easier
During my time at school I have gathered many key skills and have absorbed a great deal of knowledge.
Out of everything I had been taught through my secondary education, my 'creative' and 'problem solving'
skills were the most influential and had become my greatest assets. The subjects I chose to study for my
AS-levels helped further my technical ability within these two areas. While mathematics and computing
have enhanced my problem solving skills, 'design and technology' and art have enriched my artistic and
creative capabilities. When researching architecture during my as-level technology course I learnt how to
produce a wide range of imaginative research and while looking at my two favorite architects; Frank Loyd
Wright and Eero Saarinen, I was greatly inspired and developed modern design strategies and
imaginative ideas. From all the books I've read, the Internet sites I view, and the programs I watch, I've

gathered a clear understanding of architecture
I worked at the Imax cinema in Waterloo and then in Merton council for my work experience. In Merton
council I was able to use my design and computing skills and I gathered a variety of other useful
attributes while working there. In the human resources department I helped design a 20-page booklet
about the dangers of smoking, and I was also given tutorial lessons on how to use a computer-aided
design (CAD) system in the technology department. I now work part time on a flexible schedule for a
catering business, and have worked at many high profile events, including 'party in the park' for the
prince's trust
I take pride in the fact that I readily contribute and take part in school charities, including a charity football
tournament where I captained my team to the semi-finals. I was a class prefect and spent time after
school organizing activities for younger students, including a chess tournament. I now regularly help out
with after school activities, including guiding for prospective applicants on open days and providing
general assistance. I was asked to take part in a gifted and talented enrichment program along with
several other promising students during my secondary education. I have now accumulated several
awards and certificates, my most significant being my 'supreme award', which I received for my academic
achievements and my contribution as a student to the school

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__ ARCHITECTURE
My application for your university stems from my desire to study at one of the best universities in the
world and from my internationalist perspective as a world traveller. It also ensues from my deep passion
for art, my appreciation of architecture, and my yearning to be amongst those who create the changing
skylines that form our cities. Christopher Wren once said, 'Architecture aims at eternity'. I can think of no
better way to achieve eternity than to help create buildings of tomorrow that preserve the ideas of today.
Ultimately, we are judged by what we leave behind.
Art has always been my true passion, and every forms of art has captivated me since I was a small child.
I sought pleasure, for example, in my surroundings during my encounters with various forms of artwhether it was a building, a person, or a photograph capturing a memory.
I have lived in diverse countries, such as Brazil, Taiwan, China, and presently Macau, which has allowed

me to reflect upon extrinsic lifestyles and fully immerse myself in other languages and cultures. As I move
from one country to another, I capture the images of these cultures and designs through sketches and
photographs which I collect. Time and again these mementos transport me back to distant lands.
This opportunity to combine my love for art and design with a career is once in a lifetime. Over the last
two years, I have worked at two medium-scale architecture firms across Asia. Through my work
experience as an intern, I've come to realize that architecture is a special overpass between imagination,
reality, creativity, and a world of dreams. I've learned that no successful project emerges from a singular
idea or person. Rather, it requires extensive communication with a team of engineers, contractors,
consultants, and the craftsmen who work on a building to achieve the greatest possible effect. Learning
from the collective expertise of my team has not only illustrated how each project involves more than
simply designing a building, but it has also demonstrated how creating and managing a construction
project is logical, organized, and defined.
Since childhood, I have been attracted to the distinctive national identity of a building style. A house, for
example, can be indicative of a people, the time it was built, and the way a particular society functions.
From my perspective, a home or building is a projection of so much more than bricks and mortar; it is the
capsule in which people live, work, and socialise. It is also a record of how we organise and live our lives.
As a designer, I constantly find myself pondering ways to make people's lives better, both aesthetically
and practically.
I enjoy studying languages, and I have found that being multilingual has given me a certain advantage.
On a study holiday, I attended an English language course at Stafford House, Imperial College, London.
Aside from finding the language study interesting, I explored London and discovered it to be a fascinating
city with its blend of the ancient and modern. Outside my studies, I enjoy drawing and attend sketch
classes every week to refine my perceptive awareness of still-life subjects.
I am disciplined in my approach. I study hard and I am not afraid to take initiative. In pursuit to enhance
my drafting skills using industry-standard software, I have completed many AutoCAD drafting courses and
have become an Autodesk AutoCAD certified professional. My commitment, work ethic, and selfmotivation allow me to strive for the highest possible
standards.
Considering my life experiences abroad and my determination to be the best at what I do, I believe I have
much to offer your university. My ambition is to contribute to society by introducing a particular
sophistication where harmony and beauty coalesce. Moreover, I am sociable, personable, and a great

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asset to any team. Please allow me to move forward and take my education and career to this next
exciting stage.

PROFILE INFO
This personal statement was written by alanhuang for application in 2013.
alanhuang's university choices
University College London
Cambridge University
University of Bath
The University of Nottingham
Green: offer made
Red: no offer made

__ ARCHITECTURE
I believe that quantity surveying is a vocation and not just a job. My interests in this area have established
within in the last year. Some of my ancestors are quantity surveyors and I have seen how demanding the
profession can be
Unfortunately I have not had the opportunity to shadow a Quantity Surveyor outside my family however I
would like to gain experience in the one year work placement that is offered through this course
I am able to communicate and participate well in a team, as well as being able to achieve goals and
objectives independently through hard work and dedication
I have attended school for fourteen years and within in this time I have gained a lot of experiences and
many rewards. I have obtained many certificates and recognition for school choir of the year, camogie
championships, netball tournaments, ladies Gaelic football and swimming. Academic awards include
recognition for French speaking, level 7 in information Systems skills, First aid courses completed with St.
John's ambulance service finally I received a plaque for gaining 8 G.C.S.Es grade C and above

I am currently playing for the Desertmartin Ladies Gaelic football team. This has taught me how to work
together as a team, consider others yet having self motivation as included in a team sport; this has given
me experience in how to work with others especially under pressure
A quantity Surveyor is a high pressured job and I feel I have the motivation and skills to deal with this
pressure and work to the best of my ability and I am sure this is the career for me.

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__ ARCHITECTURE
Creation is a powerful skill, an intriguing ability evolving from our originalities and perspectives. By
formulating our own unique creations, we may endeavour to create a parallel between our imagination
and the world in which we live. Winston Churchill once emphasised the fact that "we shape our buildings,
thereafter they shape us". In my mind, these buildings personify and embody the diverse cultures that
exist today, reflecting the power and endless potential of man's genius. Self expression is what
differentiates us as an individual. It is my passion for Architecture that acts as a catalyst for inspiration
and therefore provides me with a prominent sense of ambition and desire. GCSE and A-Level
qualifications have given me an opportunity to appreciate the aesthetic beauty prevalent in the world
today. This insightful demonstration has allowed my passion to evolve further, hence determining my
decision to continue at a more advanced level. I believe the course will challenge my creative potential,
culminating in the formulation of my own, authentic designs. In effect, Architecture is a potent, influential
force in my life that has given me a sense of direction and meaning. I agree with the ideology that an
individual will rarely exceed his own expectations. Architecture installs in me a belief that I can achieve
and reach new heights, therefore acting as a foundation for success and fulfilment in the future
To me, viewing a structure in person is substantially more potent than a mere image. Travelling has
succeeded in broadening my horizons and opening up my mind, therefore allowing me to appreciate
traditional British Architecture and the spectacles created by foreign predecessors. Last year, I travelled
with my school to Barcelona, a city with an abundance of style and creativity. Buildings such as the
Palacio Guell and the Mila Casa are simply inanimate representations of one mans personal style, a
testament to Gaudi's creative excellence. Moreover, I also completed work experience with a contractor

at Eton College. This process of shadowing a professional permitted me to survey Architecture with a
greater sense of clarity
It is only by completing this experience that I can truly comprehend the complexities of the profession
Although I view learning as a crucial area to focus upon in my life, I strive to be more complex than this,
making myself a more well rounded individual. Essentially, maintaining a healthy body is a prerequisite to
achieving a healthy state of mind. Therefore, I frequently visit the gym and participate in a variety of
sporting activities, both traditional and unique. Personally, I enjoy sports such as tennis, rowing and
football. In effect, these events allow me to work within a team orientated environment, whilst maintaining
my individualistic sense of achievement. Conversely, I also attempt to integrate my passion with
Architecture into my free time. On many occasions I utilise ICT facilities such as CAD in order to release
the flow of ideas within my mind. This contrast of leisure and learning enables me to develop a clear
sense of balance within my life
In my opinion, it is certain moments in time that encapsulate all our beliefs and theories. During my visit to
Barcelona, I had the privilege to view the Casa Mila, a perfect representation of originality. Viewing this
intriguing structure first hand simply confirmed my passion, enlightening me on the endless possibilities
that exist. The Casa Mila is perceived in a myriad of contexts, by a myriad of people, accentuating
Gaudi's genius long after his death. I do not intend to follow the path of any individual, yet follow a path
unique to myself. A famous quote once stated "don't bother just to be better than contemporaries or
predecessors. Try to be better than yourself". I believe University is the first part of my journey and look
forward to participating in a rewarding, self fulfilling course.

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__ ARCHITECTURE
At the end of year 11 I had seen my future career path heading towards Business management, as I have
the skills needed to motivate teams, solve problems and communicate with others to get jobs set to me
complete. All skills which can also be transferred to construction management. However construction
management offers me the challenge of having to find solutions to problems on a daily basis and the
promise that no two jobs will ever be alike but most importantly it will mean that I get a lot of time to spend

outdoors in the fresh air and cool summer days. At the end of year 11 my interest in construction
management was aroused when I decided to go and work for my dad, to earn some money to spend
when I went back to College. During the next ten weeks I was working on various Building sites from
small single room extensions on a house, to a giant sixteen room extension on a nursing home. I had
spent at least seven years before this following my dad around sites during my summer holidays but this
was the first time I was allowed to get some hands on experience laboring. I was very excited and willing
to get on with the tasks I had seen performed hundreds of times before.
I spent time working with all the key tradesmen who work on building sites, such as Electricians,
Carpenters, Plasterers, Plumbers and Brick layers. From working with all the various tradesmen I began
to get a better understanding of each of their jobs and the importance of them starting, and finishing on
time in order to keep the projects finishing date in sight. A large part of my time was spent learning about
the health and safety checks everyone has to pass to be allowed onto the site, everybody who wishes to
set foot on a building site needs to wear steel toe caps and safety hats for example. Many employers ask
employees who wish to work for them to have a "CSCS" card which shows employers this person is
competent and knows about health and safety rules on a site. In the last two weeks of working I started to
develop an interest in Melton the foreman's job. Melton's job was not only to do most of the plastering; he
was also the site manager. Melton would hold a mini site meeting every morning and make sure that
everybody new what they were expected to do that day and organize the workers into groups and make
sure supplies were ordered so that they were delivered just in time for use so that they weren't lying
around reducing the chance of theft.
When I envisage my life 10 years from now I see my self being very successful in my career as a
construction manager, I see myself having worked in various countries solving numerous problems using
the skills learnt at University to help enable me to do so and in a further ten years I see myself teaching
students in a university sharing my past experience with the young, the future of the Construction
Industry. As a person I am very confident and see myself as a leader rather than a follower in almost all
aspect of my life, I am not afraid to challenge an answer with my own opinion or ask a question if I don't
understand what is being said. During my time in college I fell that I have matured and became a more
confident individual. My major academic achievements have been scoring a few B grades in individual
units across my subjects. Sport is a big part of me and my life, I believe that there is no excuse to not be
fit and have kept active all my life. My sporting achievements include coming seventh in an all school

cross country race for Birmingham when I was twelve and being captain of my local football team. I
regularly attend my local gym at least three times a week and I play five aside football every Wednesday
evening.

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__ ARCHITECTURE
Architecture has always stood out as the perfect career path for me. It was at the age of 9 that I truly
understood what architecture was as I stood before the Sagrada Familia on a family holiday. I was taken
aback with the intricate detail of the impressive masterpiece by Gaudi.
Travelling to many different countries has allowed me to experience a variety of different cultures, along
with some of the most historic and outstanding pieces of architecture, from Italian renaissance styles like
the Duomo to the more modernistic Sydney Opera House.
I was fortunate to find a college with courses I knew I would be passionate about. Studying architecture at
A-level has given me an insight into what to expect at degree level. The course has widened my
knowledge of existing architects and buildings, whilst giving me some understanding of how to draw plans
and isometric diagrams. The fact that I have enjoyed it reaffirms that it is a path that I would like to
continue along, and I would love the opportunity to carry this passion into the future. I believe it will be a
rewarding profession and something I would gain great satisfaction from.
Graphic Design works well alongside architecture. It allows me to explore and express my creativity,
especially as it has introduced me to CAD. Working with programmes such as Photoshop and InDesign,
has allowed me to expand my flare for design which I put to use socially designing clothes, collages and
artwork for friends and family. I have practised my computer skills by voluntarily designing posters and
album covers for an upcoming band, and invitations to formal occasions.
With a career in architecture in mind I chose to do work experience at a design studio. This experience
allowed me to work alongside some phenomenal artists, and I had the opportunity to lead some of the
workshops and parties. I genuinely enjoyed working in the creative field and knew it was an area of work I
would like to pursue.
I manage two part time jobs; I work in corporate hospitality at Twickenham Rugby Stadium, where I have

worked at many high profile events. I also have an NPLQ which allows me to work as a qualified lifeguard
at a local pool.
At school I was an all rounder and this was reflected in my grades. As deputy head prefect, it proved I
was capable of handling responsibility and I was trusted with important tasks. This improved my
organisational and time handling skills. The PE department relied on me to produce good results in many
sporting events, which included hockey borough champions for five years and football captain. I continue
to be active.
In 2005, I completed my Duke of Edinborough award, I found it an excellent opportunity to work as a team
and push myself as an individual. For my community service I coached 11-15 year olds in hockey. It was
fulfilling to see their improvement and enjoyable helping others to succeed.
One of my favourite past times is visiting art galleries. I hold an annual family membership to the Tate,
where I find work from some of my favourite artists and inspiration for my courses. In the coming year I
will also get the opportunity to travel to Paris and Venice with my architecture class I look forward to
analysing and studying work from a new environment.
I believe that studying architecture at university will open many doors for me later in life. I want to make a
positive impact on the environment and dream that one day I will be the hand behind a design that people
will stop and admire.

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__ ARCHITECTURE
Since I was young I maintained a keen interest in different types of art, as photography, making the
postcards, flower arrangement, but mostly I liked dancing, drawing and painting what I've started to learn
when I was 5 years old with my parents who are the choreographers with some drawing and painting skills.
At the age of 11 I've been spotted by my teacher as creative student with the best capability to harmonize
the colours in the class. And therefore he asked for my parents to transfer me to high school of art.
These two and a half year in art school challenged my creative potential in painting and sculpture lessons,
but drawing and modeling I have enjoyed the most, because even now I still love to see how I can start
from drawing point by point, and after line by line with solving some math problems and making everything

narrowly, till the end, when I get the results which is your imagination made into reality on the paper, and it
gives me the satisfaction.
Unfortunately I didn’t have a possibility to finish that school, because of my parent divorce, I moved to
other school in the other city with my mother. Despite all these problems I've never stopped drawing and
painting. My spare time after school has been filled with a lot of art classes, from painting with computer to
mixed media. Now I have improved my IT skills and I can work with such the programs, as PHOTOSHOP,
MS OFFICE and learning with CAD.

Also I have had an opportunity to be a member of senate. This let me to develop my patience in pursuance
of the best results in organizing some events and shows in my school, and even in the other city schools. I
always try to be enthusiastic and find I get on well with other people, enjoy meeting new personalities and
experiencing new surroundings. I have assisted in a lot of projects and public competitions as well. I'm
pleased to take a dare for myself and show what I can for the others. But the best part is to see the reaction
when my work is being seen by people. I love to hear compliments and criticism, because it makes to
improve myself more and more.

When I was 15 I started to think about what I want from my life and I knew that I really want to do something
special that people would know about me and wonder at my striking creations.
These are the causes why I have the ambition to go to university and do a degree in planning the buildings,
creating some modern houses and interiors, because it will enable me to combine the strongest aspects of
my personality. Nowadays many buildings are so lofty, extremely the architecture of London. Consequently
I'm here. The centre of this city is the big museum, where I could spend all my time and watch all those
small, but labour-consuming details in creative constructions.

It's a bit hard to explain by letter why I truly want to study exactly an architecture course. It's just ambition
inside. I see a lot of perspectives in architecture with creation, which is just powerful skill. I'm inflamed with
desire to create something, but I'm missing some knowledge to realize that in the future. I love to do
something new, I have a lot of ideas and I really want to show it for the world. I feel prepared to face with
math, art history, I'm ready to learn all these for a long years and gain a professional architect name, I'm
ready to take that responsibility, but I'm just waiting for agreement.

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__ ARCHITECTURE
Instead of architecture, graphic design was my primary major when I first attend college. From graphic
design to architecture, this shift happened so suddenly and dramatic. In high school, I was doing graphic
design so well, well enough to earn an academic award in my senior year. With no doubt, I would
continuously doing it in college or even make it as my life career. This idea settled on my mind so strongly.
Until one day, I saw a wooden house model. I was so attracting by that little, roughly made house. Its simple
exterior design and the warm wooden texture suddenly catch my eyes. It reminded me the feeling of
“home”, witch I hadn’t felt since I immigrated to U.S. I was so amaze by that wooden house and
kept staring it for at least half hour. Then, on the following summer, I took my first architecture class in
community college.

No surprisingly, All of my friends and parents thought I was crazy, because I made a lifetime decision base
on that half hour staring. But what they didn’t know is, during that half hour, I was deeply connected
with that “house”. I was so amaze to realize that, even a non built house can be that powerful; and
finally noticed the environment that we surrounding in, were actually in some ways affecting our feelings,
emotions or even our lives. After that, I was so surprise to know how powerful or important an architect
could be and eager to know more about it. Without a moments thought, curiosity make me change my
primary major and lead me step on a new studying field – architecture.

Put down my graphic design's back ground, I walked into my first architecture class just like a dry, flat
sponge. A dried flat sponge, but have plenty of potential to expand and observe. In some ways, it was just
like me, with no architecture knowledge, but full of curiosity and eager. On each learning stages, I was
putting down hundred percents of effort. I am working so hard from the basic hand drawing technique, to
fundamental knowledge, and finally doing our own designs on vellum and CAD. I can swear, I have never
tried to skip a tiny, little step. As a student in architecture I understand how a good foundation important to
a building. Therefore, I am also trying my hardest to set a strong “foundation” to my career path. To

ensure my “foundation” would be strong enough, besides doing the best job on my classes, I also
active and participate on different school associations. Such as being a secretary of Chinese Association
Club and member of the Architecture Club. Getting involve into all of these association and doing relative
activities, actually helped me develop nice leading and social skills. And as a member of Architecture Club,
I also unintentionally get more chance to explore information about my career choices, such as degree
types and schools…etc. In this summer, I was lucky to find a summer job as an Auto CAD drafter. Even
though the company was so small, the boss was so nice and willing to teach. I was so lucky that can have
a chance to practice my Auto CAD commands by one hand, and learning the building codes on the other.
I see this working opportunity as a pleasure, because this is the first time I actually getting touch with the
realistic atmosphere. And also because of this opportunity, I realize that beside school classes, working
experiences is also part of the learning.

After three years community college, university of California is being a new place for me to learn, to explore,
to building my strong “foundation”. Three years ago, curiosity and eager made me brave enough to
change my major; and now with the same curiosity and eager, I am really to step on my next stage and
explore the new place.

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__ ARCHITECTURE
The rapid development of urbanization places a huge strain on nowadays architectects to build not only
comfortable and solid but also environment- and human-friendly buildings. Thus, Architectural science
requires a wide range of engineering and geographical knowledge. With this purpose, I was excited to
learn about your master programme which would expand my knowledge to design buildings with minimal
global impact.
My undergraduate studies included a one-month Garden Observation and Research which made me
more aware about ecological function of Architecture and inspired me to engage in this field at Master
Level. The undergraduate programme also widely contributed to my architectural creativity with a broad
range of alternative courses such as Basis of Woodworking and Basis of Masonry. In addition, the

programme further developed my great appreciation and fondness for Traditional Chinese Architecture, in
which my university specializes. To extend my perfectionism in this ancient art, I attended sketch and
calligraphy courses for 5 years. The university also gave me a valuable opportunity to pursue my interest
in sculpture, canvas and pottery through extra curricular classes. One of my sculpture works was
published in the book “The History and Amendment of Art”. Through making these works, I gained
a profound understanding of architectural aesthetics by enhancing my sense of material, shape and
colour. The academic environment of the university contributed to my enthusiasm about architecture just
as much as its physical environment. When I just started the course, I was strongly impressed by one of
the campus buildings in XXX Style with cyan bricks and black tiles. Deep fascination with the architect's
vivid imagination arose in me a large interest to Western Culture and Architecture.
To improve my English language skills, I often interact with International students studying at our
university. Collaborative discussions on the subjects of architecture not only taught me to express my
ideas clearly but also significantly broadened my horizons. To familiarize myself with British culture and its
educational principles, I spent a part of my summer holiday in London, attending various classes at
International School of Architectural Association. For one of our group assignments we had to design a
comprehensive city concept. This activity perfectly demonstrated the variety of thought and design
notions prevailing in different cultures. It was an interesting and challenging task to integrate these ideas
in a complex model of a future city. I believe that your course would advance my knowledge to the extend
that would allow me to blend the architectural traditions and needs of different cultures and times in the
most creative and effective way.
I also took advantage of summer and winter vacations to gain valuable work experience in the related
field. Thus, working in different Design Companies and Provincial Institute of Architectural Design in the
position of/as a ….., I learnt how to…../increased my expertise in … Furthermore, I participated in joint
Hangzhou Zhongshan Road project which was designed in cooperation with American Rhode Island
School of Design. It was a Road Alteration project which included programming, protection and building of
Zhongshan Road. By taking part in this project, I gained a practical insight into the entire process of the
operation from investigation and planning, to design and construction. This experience taught me to
appreciate the enormous collaborative effort that brings designers creation into life.
I deeply wish for my future projects to be worth such an immense effort in every single way. To design a
building that is a part not only of social but also natural environment, it is necessary to compromise

knowledge from a wide range of disciplines and subjects such as climate, energy consumption, fabrics
and many other. Thus, I believe that your programme would endow me with the desirable knowledge,
skills and practice, and I hope to make as valuable contribution to it with my previously obtained expertise
and devoted enthusiasm.

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It is difficult to ignore the accelerating growth of urbanization, caused by profound changes in the world
economics. This is, particularly, evident in the arena of rapidly developing countries like China, where the
expansion of urban space is currently facing a shortage of professional designers, predominantly, due to
the lack of Chinese universities specializing in this field. Being an enthusiastic and determined person, I
am prepared to take an advantage of the created opportunities, especially, for the reason that Urban
Design has become a major subject not only of my studies but also interest.
Since childhood I was engaged in many creative activities. From kindergarten to junior high school I was
attending painting and drawing courses, which endowed me with a more acute sense of color, sculpt and
space, which is vital for an excellent designer. At the same time, I enjoyed making handcrafted models of
plains, steamboats, cars and etc., which trained my hands adeptly. I am glad to have developed this
essential skill which has been, particularly, valuable during design projects, where appearance of the
model plays an important role in its presentation.
Along with love for nature, my interests and skills laid the grounds of my 3-year study in Landscape
Architecture, which, due to educational system of my country did not result in a Bachelor Degree. Being a
perfectionist, I could enjoyably spend several hours and even days working on a model or painting. As a
result, my hard work and sincere devotion to the subjects earned me a rewarding place among the top
students of University. My course belongs to the Department of Urban Construction - College of
Engineering, thus, I additionally gained some basic knowledge in this fields.To obtain a Bachelor
qualification I chose to study for another 2 years abroad, in Korea. In preparation, I studied Korean
language for over 1 year, which, along with previously acquired academic knowledge allowed me to enter
the 3rd year of the course. In Korea, the Landscape Architecture is run by Departament of Urban

Planning and Civil Engineering and closely intercorrelates with Urban Design and Planning courses.
In my first semester I became very interested in the problems of Chinese Urban development such as the
lack of green and public spaces, which, unfortunately, could not be tackled by my former field of study –
Landscape Architecture. Owing to the large support and encouragement from my supervisor, Professor
Lee, I decided to proceed with a new field of study - Urban Design. Heartened by similarities between the
two fields and stimulated by the challenges of unknown, I soon became very fond of the new subject. In
spite of my new and old speciality, I will graduate with a degree in Engineering Science since the course
is run by the College of Engineering. For my final assignment, I am working on a new town design project,
which was ordered from the university by Korean government. My contribution to this large group project
lies in designing outskirts of the town.
Studying in a foreign country and language significantly developed my independence and mature attitude
which, I believe, will become an asset to my learning in the UK. To improve my English skills I attend
English language classes twice a week. I have an American friend, who lives next to my room, and we
often play basketball and watch English movies. In my spare time I like reading historical and
geographical books, which partly satisfy my passion for travel, teaching me about various cultures. One
day I would like to go traveling around the world and enjoy different food and beautiful sceneries in reality.
The books are also a great source of inspiration and new ideas for design, which I often implement in my
projects. the education in British institution would remarkably broaden my horizons to Western approach
in Urban Design, which, in combination with my previously obtained knowledge and experience in
Eastern countries, would endow me with a valuable ability of innovative synthesis. Thus, your university,
well known for its deep expertise, proficient teaching staff and excellent facilities, is a highly desirable
place for me to commence my Master programme. After my postgraduate studies I would like to take an
opportunity to stay in the UK and gain some working experience in one of the British companies. I believe
that my commitment, skills and passion for the subject make me a suitable candidate for your course.

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Since a young age I've always had a great interest in Art and Design and this interest and commitment was

demonstrated in my GCSE A* grades in both Art and Graphics. Even before I finished studying at school I
knew that my ideal career would be in graphics.

On the basis of the knowledge I gained through my current studies, I have made an informed decision on
the course I wish to apply, this being Architectural Technology. This course would provide me with a great
insight into the technical side of Architecture and also equip me with the professional, practical and business
skills that an Architectural Technologist will require.

I have carefully researched all routes and courses that would lead to my ideal job and I concluded that your
university offers the course content, facilities and qualifications that would suit my needs and aspirations.
My long term aim is to pursue a career in Architectural Technology and the first step I had to take to achieve
this was to complete a course at a local college. I was fortunate enough to be accepted onto the course,
where I learned from great lecturers and acquired skills which I would like to hone even further.
This course has given me a greater knowledge about all aspects of the construction industry, including
topics such as graphical detailing. This was the subject I had the greatest interest in.
On this course we have covered a wide variety of topics including surveying, property valuation and the
stages of the design process, all of which I will need to have an understanding of when attending university.
Studying these at college has been a huge advantage as it made my career path much easier to choose.

I currently manage a full time college course and a part time job. This has developed my communication
skills as I deal with customers on a day to day basis including speaking, listening and providing excellent
customer service at all times. This will help me in my career in Architectural Technology, as it will require
me to have good communication skills to work effectively with clients. Through work I have shown that I am
able to communicate and participate well in a team, as well as being able to achieve goals and objectives
independently through hard work and dedication. Being able to manage both college and work I feel it has
helped me to organise my workload, helping me to meet deadlines and earn good grades.
I only have a little spare time and I enjoy spending it with friends and having time to relax. I like the general
activities such as watching television, meeting friends and going to the cinema.
Programmes such as ‘Grand Designs' and ‘To buy or not to buy’ interest me as they are about
property and design and this is the type of career I wish to have. Watching these programmes strengthened

my decision even further about going into Architectural Technology.

I believe that studying Architectural Technology at university will open many doors for me in later life, maybe
even progressing into Architecture as a whole. I know that I would truly enjoy the course and believe that
your programme will endow me with the desirable knowledge, skills and practice to pursue my career in
Architectural Technology.

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When I first began my undergraduate studies, I soon realized I found satisfaction in the art of design. I
studied many fields during my first few years in college, including engineering, only to find some were
unfulfilling. I was interested in expanding my knowledge of how the built environment affected our daily
outcomes with others. When younger, I would observe how our environment produced positive and
negative outcomes among people and was fascinated by the idea of how they could be altered.
In order to better familiarize myself with the study of landscape design, I took on Environmental Design (the
closest program available in my school to landscape design). Studying Environmental Design allowed me
to investigate how good planning tactics led to certain outcomes and trends in populations. I took
Architecture as a minor in order to establish a strong foundation for the actual construction of our built
environment. Studying architecture alongside environmental design allowed me to achieve a balance
between the arts, mathematics, and design. I fell in love with the idea of how building communities with a
simple pen and paper could easily flourish and yet fused many of my own passions.
To my surprise, as I became more interested in pursuing my subject to its fullest I came to know there was
no collegiate club or society I could join for my major. After having gained leadership skills from my past
Resident Advisor experience, I and a collective few chose to run for office and forge our school's very first
chapter for the Environmental Design major.

Establishing this organization helped maximize my commitment in working with members of given
communities, while expanding my capacity for designing ecologically sound environments. Being able to

work with communities provided a sense of accomplishment within me and was one aspect I wished to
instill to our future club members. Past experience of working with Street Synergy Community Association,
proved to spark my interest in the landscape architecture field. Providing opportunities like these to our club
members, could perhaps lead to the similar results.While working with Street Synergy Community
Association, I had the opportunity of helping design a local community garden. Designing a community
garden truly opened my hearts true desires. Knowing the design of this community garden would lead to a
reduction in crime rate in the nearby area, amazed and intrigued me. Looking to keep fulfilling this sense
of satisfaction, I opted to yearly apply to summer programs in similar fields. This year inclusively, I
bewildered myself in being adventurous and applying to the New York State's Department of Transportation
Summer College Internship Program and was accepted under the Landscape Architecture and
Environmental Sciences department.

The experiences I underwent through this organization helped me to truly determine Landscape
Architecture is the field for me. Since the start of the program, I devoted myself to the job as though I was
already part of the workforce. I am seeking to pursue a degree as a Landscape Architect to further develop
myself in the art of designing environments for current community members and those to come. I wish to
give back to my own community in the future. As growing up in a low-income area, we never had the
opportunities many high-income areas have. Many of my neighborhood streets were vastly filled with a high
crime rate. If I were to obtain a LA degree from your institution, I would embark the profession on a new
journey.

I wish to one day go back to my own neighborhood and redesign local community parks, playgrounds, and
public use facilities to re-invent a new environment and forge a better future. I am also seeking to broaden
my artistic capabilities suitable to this delicate profession.

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It was during a family holiday in continental Europe, when we passed through Barcelona that I was

enlightened to the true meaning and power of Architecture. Antonio Gaudi is Barcelona's most famous
and beloved architect, he gave the people iconic architectural monuments which are idealized and
internationally renowned to this day. Since the day I first stepped foot in that city and saw those
breathtaking buildings there has been no shadow of doubt in my mind that I wished to pursue a career as
an Architect. 7 years later all that has changed is that my determination to achieve this goal has grown
and to this end I have done all that I could to further my knowledge of this field and fulfill the academic
requirements for entry.
I have served in the Air Training Corps for 3 years and during that time I have participated in numerous
activities and feel that I am a key member of the group and have completed my Duke of Edinburgh Silver
Expedition which was a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding experience. I have attended The Dowding
Day Memorial Service in Moffat three times -this year assisted a veteran in laying a wreath on behalf of
the WAAF, and last year I was part of the Guard of Honour. In 2007/2008 I assisted the Dumfries Branch
of the Poppy Appeal selling 100's of poppies for this worthwhile cause and made such a good impression
that I was chosen to lay a wreath on behalf of the family of a pilot lost at sea in WWII which was a great
honour. To top that honour, I was chosen to lay the wreath on behalf of the Air Training Corps on
Remembrance Sunday making it the proudest day of my life to date. I have gone to 3 wing/regional
camps and am in the process of completing my BTEC. I have represented my Squadron in wing and
regional shooting competitions gaining silver and bronze awards. I believe my time in the A.T.C. has
harnessed my leadership, initiative and confidence and made me proud to add to a community all of
which I would deem vital skills for a successful Architect.
Due to my experience in Graphic Design I have been fortunate enough to be granted a role as a Study
Buddy assisting two junior classes with the basics of 3D drawings and spatial awareness as well as a
more advanced 3rd year Standard Grade class. I am finding the experience extremely rewarding as I see
the class progress and it has afforded me the opportunity to improve my communication skills as well
allowing me to give something back to the school community. I am also involved in the 'peer support club'
which allows me to help S1 pupils who are experiencing difficulties with the transition from primary school.
I am also proud to have been chosen as a prefect on merit of hard work and devotion to the school and
carry out my duties with great efficiency and enthusiasm. I was a member of the school eco group for 2
years and as part of a team was instrumental in the school achieving its bronze and silver awards. I was
also a member of the Pupil council and enjoyed voicing my thoughts and those of my peers along with

assisting in the planning of the schools 100th anniversary next year.
I am currently working part time in Halfords as a sales assistant and feel that I have successfully juggled
the pressures of work and school and that I have learned many new skills as a result. In S3 I participated
in a work experience placement in Dumfries & Galloway Housing Partnership's architectural department
when I had the opportunity to assist in numerous activities including CAD work, site visits and dealing with
clients. These experiences made me appreciate how each part of a team must work together towards a
common goal. It is my wish to become a RIBA chartered architect and found a successful career through
hard-work and determination and perhaps one day I may find myself in a position where I would be able
to design an iconic architectural treasure and relish the challenges and opportunities that university will
bring.

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Architecture is regarded as the most public of all art forms. I think this view barely scratches the surface.
Architecture can't be simply defined, and any attempt to do so raises more questions than it answers. It
challenges our preconceptions over issues like tradition, sustainability and the economy, while functioning
on a scale which impacts upon all of society. The prospect of following a career path that tackles these
questions, whilst still essentially creating art, is a dream for a creative person like myself.
At A Level, Maths Physics and History aren't always considered as conventionally creative as Art.
However I found the main reason I enjoyed these subjects so much was that creativity is central to all of
them. I believe evaluative writing, science and mathematical techniques can be alternative media to
express ideas, explore problems and communicate our thinking process, in the same way as Art and
Design.
Undertaking an Art & Design Foundation Course has been essential to my creative development, helping
me to re-evaluate my ambitions, and giving me more focus to pursue architecture as a career. Whilst
undertaking the diagnostic first term I have been excited to explore new approaches to creative work.
This has made me far more responsive to the importance of communication and diversity of techniques,
when displaying individuality and conceptualization of my ideas. It has also made me more able to

visualise and create work in three dimensions. The course has so far given me a wealth of experience in
a short space of time and has been crucial to maturing my approach to creative work. I am looking
forward to applying this to future study in architecture.
I am also nurturing my appreciation for architecture, art history and literature. Obviously there is much I
am yet to discover but an architect who really inspires me with his experimentation is Massimiliano
Fuksas. I like the stark industrial feel to his building-site themes, especially the Zenith music hall in
Strasbourg. I also admire the dynamic utopian ambition of Antonio Sant'Elia's "Citta Nuova" and Peter
Cook's (Archigram) "Walking City".
Outside education I feel I have accomplished a great deal, which has helped me gain maturity and
direction. In the summer I spent a week in work experience with Stubbs Rich architects practice in Bath. It
was an enlightening week involving everything from getting to grips with CAD programs to seeing the
creative process combined with needs of the client. Other work experience with Neill Menneer, a Bath
photographer, was informative in a different way, showing the working reality of creativity within business.
Both further inspired me to pursue the career whilst opening my eyes to what it constitutes.
In September 2008 I ran the Bristol half marathon for the Forever Friends 'space to grow' appeal at the
Bath Royal United Hospital NICU. This charity is close to my heart as I myself am a triplet who was
premature at Bath RUH. I completed the half again this year and hope to move on to full marathons soon.
Finding the time to run several times a week is important to me as it keeps me focused and healthy. I also
participate in the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme which has been an inspiring mental and physical
journey. I have been to some amazing places and had some memorable experiences in completing the
challenges of Gold, Silver and Bronze awards. This includes expeditions to the Brecon Beacons and
Galloway Hills, a residential with the RNLI, coaching youth football and community work in the Bradford
Youth Town Council.
Architecture is a dream career for me. I feel well prepared and confident to take the next step towards it.
From AS through to Foundation I have matured as a student and an individual, developed a confidence
and set of skills in my creative work and above all nurtured a focus and enthusiasm to study architecture.
I am excited to continue this progression to degree level and beyond.

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__ ARCHITECTURE
I vividly remember the moment when I knew I wanted to be an architect. I had been taken to Barcelona to
see ‘the wavy buildings’, at the time I didn’t know anything about Gaudí or his work so I was relatively
unenthusiastic. However, when I turned the corner onto the plaza where the Sagrada Familia is situated, I
was instantly emerged in its grandeur. From then on I was hooked, I never knew such awe inspiring
structures existed; the shape and colour of the stone looked like it had been dredged up from the earth,
as if it had always been there. I knew then, I wanted to be a part of it.
I feel my choice of A-levels have geared me towards architecture. Although I chose predominantly
sciences and mathematics, I knew I needed a balance so I chose English, partly because I enjoy it but
moreover I knew it would help me broaden my communication skills. A fundamental part of architecture is
communicating with engineers, technicians and of course colleagues; I also thought that it could help me
articulate my annotations and concepts more effectively. However, at the end of Year 12, it came to my
attention that despite my AS in English, I did not have a true art related subject behind me. I did not take
art at GCSE and felt out of practice, so to remedy this I decided to take an AS in art in my spare time; not
only to gain another qualification, but to nurture my creative side and develop my portfolio.Living in
Newcastle has given me a diverse architectural upbringing. I have tried to explore as much architecture
as my means allow, even if it’s just following a cobbled street I have not yet been down or catching the
train to a local cathedral city; such as Durham. Newcastle itself is brimming with a myriad of different
architectural styles and eras; from the classically inspired nineteenth century riverfront area, to modular,
brutalist scars on the city’s skyline. Traveling is a great interest of mine, visiting places which are
considered ‘boring’ by some such as Prague, have been enthralling for me.
During the summer, I was privileged enough to go to Peru on a charity related expedition. It was a lot of
hard work to raise the thirty-thousand pounds to go; but it was certainly worth it. Fundraising was often
challenging; but one event stands out in my mind in particular. Within our school, myself and the others in
my team organised a mass charity bicycle ride in which all pupils would take turns on a series of static
bikes to try to pedal the distance to Peru. Calculating the distance the wheels moved was difficult, but I
fashioned a device out of flexible card which would attach to the wheel. Knowing the card’s width, it would
pass though a light gate which would measure its velocity. This paired with the circumference of the
wheel and some technical know-how provided the distance. This may not relate directly to architecture;

but I feel it shows my ability to use my knowledge and adapt it to quite an abstract situation. To put it in an
architectural context, it shows I can think laterally and match a solution to a difficult scenario. However,
There is an obvious mathematical element to architecture and I believe this demonstrates my aptitude in
that area.Our mission whist in Peru was to renovate a school building in a small mountain village. I saw
how the building was being put together and was astounded at how simple the methods of construction
were. Bottles filled with sticks and plastic bags helped make the foundations, but it was the
resourcefulness of the exterior which was the most impressive. For bricks they would simply pack mud
into wooden moulds and leave to dry in the sun, they called them ‘adobes’.
Architecture is as much an art form as it is a science and I believe I have the right mental balance of logic
and a creative flare for design to be a successful architect. I want to recreate the feeling that was born
inside of me when I first gazed up that day, in every design I produce.
nanofarad's university choices
University of Bath
Cambridge University
The University of Manchester
The University of Edinburgh
De Montfort University

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__ ARCHITECTURE
I am passionate about art and helping people. I am pursuing architecture as a profession because I see it
as a career path where the two meet. Alvar Aalto said, “Building art is a synthesis of life in materialised
form. We should try to bring in under the same hat not a splintered way of thinking, but all in harmony
together.” The desire to make the world a better place for people to live in has been the greatest influence
in my pursuit of architecture as a profession.
Compassion has helped in my pursuit of architecture. Last semester I was put on the Dean’s List for
earning a grade point average over 3.50 with 18 units, but my grades haven’t always been good. When I
started architecture classes at El Camino, working to make a living was the highest priority. Neither of my

parents earned a college degree. It was important for me to learn a trade and support myself. I worked
restaurant jobs and eventually became a server at an upscale restaurant. I earned enough money to pay
for rent, groceries and other living expenses, but I struggled to balance my education with work. My
grades were low and I dropped several classes, but I was still interested in learning. I absolutely loved the
architecture classes. I took pride in my work, but I kept to myself in the campus studio. Advanced
students came to me and mentored me. Without me asking for it, they kept coming back. Eventually they
helped me to feel at home in the studio, and I felt comfortable as an architecture student. That made all
the difference in my educational progress. The character and determination I built from working restaurant
jobs to pay for rent and food could be focused comfortably on my dream of architecture. I have since
committed myself to helping other students in the architecture studio succeed.
I volunteer to help when I can. Outside of school I volunteer with The Sunshine Kids non-profit
organization, which provides positive group activities and emotional support for young cancer patients. I
participate in Sunshine Kids events and help kids receiving cancer treatment have a good time. At El
Camino this has gone beyond helping classmates with homework. I have found or made opportunities to
help people in other ways. I served a year as president of El Camino College’s Architecture Club, and I
used my leadership to create programs and activities that take the interest of over one hundred fellow
students beyond the classroom.
I led El Camino College’s Design Village teams in 2011. Going into the competition no team member had
participated in Design Village or any extracurricular design/build competition like it. Our goal was to see
our structures, a design we create just like in class, become a livable structure on a windy hillside in San
Luis Obispo. We felt this was a valuable experience to our education as architecture students, but the
school did not sponsor the teams and instructors were not able to oversee our operations. The project
was a challenge with several risks. We needed to collaborate among ourselves to research a comfortable
structure design that could be built on a very small budget, and we needed to be confident that it would
not tumble down a hill, blow away in the wind, get washed away with rain, or fail us in any other way. It
was a challenge we enjoyed. I met with local businesses to acquire building materials as donations, local
architects to review the design, and a local engineer to check the design for its structural integrity. We
invested weeks into the idea of seeing our design become a real structure. Every member sacrificed their
entire spring break to build the structures and participate at the Design Village event, and because of all
the hard work that went into the structures, sleeping in the structures didn’t seem like a risk.

I organized a group art show that allowed everyone in the architecture club the opportunity to display
artwork in a professional gallery for one night. I wanted fellow architecture students at El Camino to feel
good embracing their creative interests, and I wanted art goers to notice that community college students
are capable of more than just computer aided drafting – that there are in fact great minds at El Camino. I
collaborated with professional artists, local musicians, poets, promoters, and a newspaper to put the
event together. I initially funded all the costs of the event with my money. I collected artwork and hung all
the pieces in the gallery. I found club members who took pride in their cooking and offered to bring in

19


homemade goods. Everything on the night of the event was free. Admission was free, the music was free,
the refreshments were free, and artwork sales were free of commission. The event gained so much
momentum that a man volunteered to print t-shirts for the event. He printed dozens of t-shirts and gave
them away at the event for free. All the architecture students that took the risk of showing their artwork
were celebrated, and many of them told me they had a great time.
I know my future is in design innovation bringing solutions that improve the local and global environments.
My commitment to improving the lifestyles of people within my community, country and the planet was
evident to my professors, as I was amongst only four students selected to participate on a paid internship
program with the State Chancellor Office of California Community Colleges. The DEEP program is a pilot
program that takes a systems approach to teaching sustainability within a campus setting using buildings
as pedagogical tools for learning about topics like energy efficiency, waste, transportation. I am working
alongside professors and the boards of student clubs to integrate and infuse sustainability into existing
classes, researching topics for new curricula. DEEP programs will provide me with an opportunity to earn
the United States Green Building Council – Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design LEED Green
Associate certification. I am also writing a monthly newsletter to inspire the entire campus community to
think critically about environmental issues.
California College of the Art’s values align perfectly with my personal values. I want to do well, and I want
to be among the best. I want to go to CCA because CCA students do amazing work and because I
believe the college’s values create the perfect environment for students to help each other succeed. I see

a connection between the work students do and the environment created by the college’s value, and I feel
offering wisdom gained through my experiences could contribute to the creative greatness at CCA.
Despite my youth I have been very fortunate to have been given the opportunity and challenges to project
manage the Interior Design of Samuel Pepys, a pub and restaurant in Northamptonshire, by someone
who was willing to give me the challenge and liked my vision for when I applied for the project. This
opportunity gave me a taste of how exciting Interior design is. Experimenting with colours and furniture
and working with carpenters and decorators. For me the most intriguing aspect was choosing the furniture
and ornaments practically and aesthetically. I had to take into consideration how easily the chairs and
tables can be cleaned; will they show up dirt easily? Are they versatile enough to be used at
conferences? However the biggest part was choosing the colour scheme. This was not only going to be
used in the rooms but on the menus, pamphlets and business cards. – This lead to me also working with
graphic designers.
That said, I feel I have the foresight and maturity to realise to take this as my chosen career I need good
computer skills in design and visual techniques to enhance any natural ability that I may possess. And
that is why I wish to do an undergraduate’s degree in Interior Design/Architecture.Through my
Grandmother who worked at Burghley house I became fixated in historical Interior Design. When I was
shown through the mesmerising Elizabethan rooms, they were so rich and intricately detailed with the
hand sewn tapestries portraits and stunning patterned fabrics. From that point onwards I have regularly
visited stately homes and became a member of the national trust, with my favourite stately home being
Wimpole Hall. I took a particular interest into Alec Cobbe who redecorates historic British country houses.
He donated his design archives to the Victoria and Albert Museum which I visited in autumn last year.
In the summer of 2011 I did work experience at fired earth, gaining skills in creating professional mood
boards – which I did for a family bathroom, and gaining costumer service skills. During my time there I
had the chance to sit in a client meeting for a fitted bathroom and see what clients were looking for and
the way in which designs were put forward through computer animated design. In addition I was given the
challenge in designing an installation for a kitchen- choosing suitable colour schemes, tiles and fittings. I
also did visual window displays and delved into decorating.
This experience led me to become a shop assistant at the stationary Art shop Coleman’s (which I began
in June 2013) with emphasis in framing orders and selling art equipment from my own knowledge as an

20


art student. As a shop assistant I have to be charismatic and persuasive in selling products and have full
knowledge of the products available that we sell. What I enjoy most about my part time job is talking to
costumers and giving them advice to what to buy.
Although selling a pen is different from selling a room, I have learnt how to be persuasive and put forward
ideas clearly. As well as being a shop assistant I have had three other jobs in waitressing –which i have
done do the last three years. The main focus point from these jobs has been customer service and
working in a team, I have to work efficiently and well under pressure . I understand the importance of
communicating with different clients and feel that I have gained confidence to fulfil that and talk to people
at a professional level, and compose my ideas formally and clearly.I currently work sixty six hours a week
including my part time jobs and college. Due to the commitments to my jobs, I like to have a hardworking
ethos. I have had to constantly be able to manage deadlines and organisation skills due to my time at
college and part time jobs. It has allowed me to prepare and structure my times for when I am at
university, And in full time work placements in the future.I am currently doing a foundation diploma in art
and design at New College Stamford, the course is broad and covers a lot of art related subject. . I am
currently learning about 3D sculpture design and taking a particular interest into spatial design and
pattern designing. What I have so far found to be beneficial from the subject is the structure of the course,
and has given me perspective on what a university course would be similar to, especially because both
are practical based, I have also learnt about what is expected from you as a student, self-discipline and
meeting deadlines on time.
In addition I am also a representative to my art foundation course, showing that I can listen to what
people have to say and take action. I have the confidence to take leadership and represent groups
ensuring that everybody contributes.
Before my time at Stamford, I went to Prince William School Oundle studying three A levels in Art,
Textiles and religious studies. This taught me to independently manage deadline dates and organisation
skills. A level proved to be most challenging that I succumbed and passed because of my determination. I
thoroughly enjoyed Art and Textiles coursework most because I could chose my own topics. I drew a lot
of inspiration from Neo Classical Architecture from trips to Rome, Paris and London.During my two years

of studying textiles my coursework focused specifically into architecture. In the first year I looked into my
two favourite architects Preston Scott Cohen and Odile Decq. I took inspiration from Cohen’s building
‘TEL AVIV MUSEUM OF ART’ from the way in which the rectangular whole’s in the wall play about with
dimension almost to the state of confusion, With a simplistic interior and colour pallet of white and nudes
allowing the architecture to be the main vocal part.
During my time studying A level Art, I looked into various artists such as Paul Klee, but there was one
Artist that totally captivated me, with their piece ‘A Cold Dark Matter’ which was Cornelia Parkers
Installation of an abstract exploded shed hanging from the ceiling. What enchanted me about this piece
was not the artwork itself but how, it filled the room, with its lighting and dramatic shadows against the
otherwise bland walls creating an intense atmosphere. That’s what enthrals me most about interior
design- creating an atmosphere, one of my favourite quotes which is strictly follow is ‘ ‘ from the interior
designer Sarah Ward, where her ethos is ‘simple’.
In the future, my aim is to work for an interior design company such as __________ because I work
sufficiently well in teams and with other people. I would even aim to pursue A career in Historical interior
design or become self-employed.I have thought hard as to whether or not University was the correct
avenue for me, but I feel that I gained enough experience, confidence and electrifying enthusiasm to
pursue this degree. Doing the interior design for the pub has really revealed to me how fascinating and
captivating interior design is. And with the beneficial experience that I have gained I feel that I can inject
that into my work. I know I will work exceptionally hard and if you would consider me for your university I
will do everything I can to be a creditable student, and get the best out of it .
libby96's university choices
Northumbria University, University of Lincoln, The Arts Institute At Bournemouth, Falmouth University,
Oxford Brookes University

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__ ARCHITECTURE
"The architect must be a prophet... if he can't see at least ten years ahead don't call him an architect."Frank L. Wright
Architecture has become my way of life. By noticing the buildings do I see the architect and praise their

work. The elements which spark my enthusiasm are the subjects of continuous researching and the
attention to detail for a building's form and function with its unique and characteristic styles: organic;
modern; post-modern or minimalism. Also, supplementary to this, architecture is the backbone of success
in tourism in this country. Furthermore, that what I gain from the interests is the satisfaction in the ability to
realise peoples' dreams and create them in reality.
As a student, I have succumbed to respecting the architects that ever more. I was fascinated with the
Structural Mechanics class as we focused on loading that can disturb a building's stability; I excelled in
the Conversion/Adaption to Buildings and Architecture Design/Sketch classes. Upon building up my
awareness to the industry, I grew in spirit to learn so much more and improve my writing skill, sketches
and ideas. With what was taught I was eager to commence
the Graded Unit to prove myself I could manage on an imperative deadline. I feel I have grown in
responsibility as I have set priorities, marked deadlines, organised and positioned myself comfortably for
study. I was class representative during which attending meetings and discussions gave me confidence in
my communication skills. Being a student has awarded me with being proficient in my research: to know
what I'm looking for, where I'm looking, and what is relevant is a fundamental asset for me to master.
Frank L. Wright. Charles R. Mackintosh.
Frank Gehry. Each play an important influential role in my work with their styles being unique and ahead
of their time, inspiring me for more modern and less restrictive design-work.
I work in France during the Summer as a holiday courier. Interacting with customers, as one would a
client granted me the opportunity to sharpen my informative and organisational skills. I have also
achieved some practical knowledge from assisting in the Church creche, and with some people within the
community with new-build and renovation works, consequently leading to
a better understanding of on-site operations.
Chess. A game where mind over matter prevails, determination and patience being the key driving force
to success, and educates the mind with problem solving tactics and strategies. I consider it an important
hobby of mine. I reigned as chess champion for six consecutive years, with forming my chess club, at
Academy school. Chess develops the mind to thinking more logically and methodically, which can in time
improve stimulation of the mind for techniques to overcome such problems, teach patience, and introduce
an open eye to not overlook situations. This can be a benefit to the University standard.
Frank L. Wright once explained that, "'Arch' means the top... what does 'tect' mean? Technician...

knowing the way and the means-'tect'. Architect-there you have the master of know-how."
I understand what the University would be expecting of me as a student, but realising I may be that
'Master of know-how' from furthering my education, by taking that leap forward, inspires me to set down
concrete commitments. In the next ten years I hope to have achieved my goal, providing having
graduated from the University with a degree after a long and exciting four years' journey, acquiring a
secure job working for a respectfully well-known firm with experience in the office.
Reference: Patrick J. Mechan, 1987. Truth Against The World: Frank Lloyd Wright

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__ ARCHITECTURE
Growing up in post-soviet Belarus I wasn't surrounded by the architectural wonders - all the buildings
were dull and grey, therefore from early childhood I started drawing and making houses of my dreams. I
have been travelling a lot throughout my life and in every city I found buildings which truly excited me, for
example: The Russell Hotel in London, The Selfridges Building in Birmingham, Trulli houses in
Alberobello, 0-14 "Cheese" Tower in Dubai and El Capitolio in Havana.
While studying in Oxford, occasionally I tend to walk around narrow streets getting enchanted by
laconically combined romanesque, gothic and modern architecture. I was always interested in how
architects come to such great ideas and develop them from an initial concept to the final piece. To learn
the basics of sketching I completed the academic drawing course in Minsk Art School. There I gained
skills in understanding light, penumbra, reflex and shadow, had to apply perseverance and diligence while
perfecting my pencil still lifes. In Oxford, on the contrary, I explored color theory and 3D, while inspired by
Andy Warhol and Scott Specht. Being a committed art student I make sure my projects are firstly carefully
planned, then made in a relatively short period of time and aren't left until they meet all my objectives. I
enjoy combining techniques and materials, e.g. making a house model led me to use balsa wood, foam
board and plastic. I have compared the effect of drawing a building in Minsk both in dull and in bright
colors, evaluating the outcome and becoming a stronger critical thinker in the process.
Finishing specialized school in physics and mathematics, while also participating in Olympiads like
"Kangaroo" and "Zubrenok", I developed sound technical skills, which I think are equally important for an

architect. While solving physical problems and conducting various experiments I consolidated my
theoretical knowledge and improved reasoning skills.
Taking IB Geography opened my eyes on the issues of environmental contamination, fast-growing
population and scarcity of resources. My viewpoint on the world has altered after I read "Green
Architecture" by James Wines - I have learnt that two-fifths of fossil fuels and a quarter of the wood
harvest are used for construction purposes. To me it is of major concern; there is a huge necessity to
modify the architectural processes in order to provide sustainable environment for next generations.
In my Extended Essay I researched artistic ways of development of Belarusian Straw Art, which, as I
concluded became symbolic for the country. I got inspiration from folk craftsmen and enjoyed every
minute of the investigation, developing evaluating skills.
During summer, I had an internship with Aresa Service in Minsk that lasted 2 weeks. I saw different sides
of the profession and was convinced that being yourself in a creative way, listening and understanding
the client, cooperating with engineers and builders is what I'm looking for. As well as witnessing barely
noticeable progression of new buildings I was involved in the process of reconstruction of Vankovich's
homestead, watching the ways in which heritage can be preserved.
In parallel to my interest for built environment, I am keen about many more things. I have been playing
tennis for 7 years, learning finding the fastest and at the same time the most strategic way to beat the
opponent. Meanwhile, I used to be captain of handball school squad for 2 years what taught me how to
apply leadership skills in real-life situations and work in team. Being part of the Orientation this year I got
a chance to show my enthusiasm for helping people and communicating with them. I was also
responsible for singing competition, picking up good singers, jointly writing up lyrics and achieving 2nd
award at the end.

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Combining creative and logical skills in order to design human habitat in harmony with nature - this is
what I expect from connecting my future with architecture.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by Porcelain15 for application in 2012.
Porcelain15's university choices
The University of Manchester
University College London
The University of Nottingham

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