Blog - designed to give Students and Entrepreneurs the information needed to successfully Design & Build their career and creative businesses so they can reach their goals and build a life they love.
As someone who has spent over 15 years immersed in architecture as a practising architect and a university lecturer, I’ve had the privilege of guiding thousands of students through their interior and architectural education. In my opinion, becoming an architect is one of the most rewarding journeys you can undertake but it also demands a lot of time, hard work, caffeine, creativity, resilience, determination and strategic planning.
Read MoreI’ve launched a monthly newsletter. It’s a way to connect with you, and my community, and serve you with exciting things like posts, stories, motivational quotes, links, offers, and so much more. I want to share my downloads; wins, struggles and lessons learned. But imposter syndrome kicked in, and I started to overthink it so it had been living in drafts. But no more…
Read MoreMy path to studying architecture wasn't traditional, but through the UK's university clearing system, I found a way to turn my dream of studying architecture into a reality. Here's how I did it and how you can too.
At the end of my sixth year, I left school with a National Record of Achievement folder filled with certificates and glowing references but I was lacking in grades.
I knew my exam results weren't that of an architecture student the big dream of architecture wasn’t realistically on my mind when I left school.
I loved Art & Design and interiors so I applied and was accepted, to my local college to study for a diploma in Interior Spatial Design. It was in that course that I truly learned about architecture.
My Diploma gave me the tools to take on interior projects from hands-on lessons in drawing and model making to experience in project presentation. I gained a deeper understanding of design principles and was eager to learn more.
With my new skills, I also grew in confidence and was ready to aim higher - I wanted to prove I could.
I graduated was an Advanced Diploma in Interior Spatial Design.
When it came time to apply to university, imposter syndrome hit - I wasn't sure I'd get in. I spent the summer mulling over my options and missed the UCAS deadline. But I plucked up the courage and figured I had nothing to lose. I went all in applying to pretty much all the Architecture courses on the Clearing list.
After a few weeks of phone calls and train journeys up and down the country with interviews and portfolio reviews - to my surprise, I was offered direct entry into the second year of the BA Hons Architecture program at my first choice school. This meant I could bypass the first year entirely because of my Diploma and experience in Interior Design.
I had done it, I was in. And I was about to find out how much work it was going to take. I accepted the offer and enrolled on the course the following month.
Clearing is a process used by universities in the UK to fill any remaining spaces on their courses. It's typically available to students who:
Didn’t receive the offers they hoped for.
Didn’t meet the conditional offers due to lower-than-expected exam results.
Are applying late, after the initial UCAS deadlines.
As a Senior Lecturer, I also have experience making offers to students who have applied through clearing. These students were a great addition to the cohort and no one knew they hadn’t applied alongside their classmates.
Clearing is a lifeline for many students who want to pursue higher education but have hit a few bumps along the way. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to reassess your goals and potentially discover new pathways.
University courses use clearing to top up their numbers and add to the mix of students. It’s not just about grades but about you, your story and reason for wanting to study your subject could win you a place. Diversity in the studio is so important, especially when encouraging collaboration and group projects.
Flexibility: Clearing offers a second chance to apply to university courses that might not have been available to you initially. It’s an opportunity to apply with your actual results rather than predicted grades.
New Opportunities: You may find courses or universities that weren’t on your radar before. You might discover a more tailored program that better fits your interests and previous experience.
Direct Entry Possibilities: If you’ve gained relevant experience through college or work experience, you might qualify for direct entry into a later year of your chosen course, like my second-year entry into Architecture.
If you’re considering applying through clearing, here’s a checklist to guide you through the process:
Identify which universities still have open spots for your desired course. The UCAS website lists available courses during the clearing period.
Review the course details carefully to ensure it aligns with your career goals and interests. Feel free to pick up the phone and ask the course team as many questions as they would ask you in an interview.
Have all your exam results and any relevant qualifications to hand.
Made a personal statement.
Be ready to explain why you want to study the course and how your background makes you a suitable candidate.
For architecture and design courses, your portfolio is critical. Make sure it’s updated and showcases your best work. I always say that less is more, and remember white space is good so don’t overcrowd pages.
The clearing process can be very quick so don’t wait, contact the admissions office. Call the universities directly to inquire about available spaces. Be prepared to discuss your qualifications and why you’re a good fit. Don’t be nervous, they need your information and they want to fill the spots so don’t hold back, answer the questions and sell yourself.
Finally, inquire about direct entry options if you have relevant experience or previously studied a related course. Ask questions and explain your experience.
Practice makes perfect, or as perfect as you can be, so get a head start by practising your answer to common questions. You will likely be asked about your experience, why you chose this course, your future goals, designers you love, a building that inspires you, etc.
Be enthusiastic about the course and subject. Your passion and enthusiasm for the subject can set you apart from other candidates. but don’t worry, when we talk about something we genuinely love, it shows.
Review offers and make sure you understand the terms of the offer, including any conditions. Clearing spots can fill up fast, so if you get an offer, be ready to accept it quickly. And if that’s you, congratulations.
Clearing was a turning point in my academic journey, and it could be for you too. Whether you didn’t get the grades you expected, you are realising another path might be better for you, or you want to push yourself in your higher education, clearing offers a unique opportunity to pursue your education and academic goals.
If you’re feeling unsure about the process, or if you need guidance on preparing for a clearing interview, I’m here to help.
I offer coaching calls and online tutorials to help you navigate the application process, prepare for interviews, and increase your chances of success.
Book a call with me today. Let’s make your dream of studying architecture a reality.
Getting a job interview can be exciting but also pretty nerve-wracking. I just found out that I didn't get the job I had interviewed for here in Reykjavik so I wanted to write out some points to help anyone else who is going through the stress of job searching, applications, and the interview process.
If you’ve gotten through a few rounds of interviews, the interviewer(s) have probably gotten to know you well so there’s no harm in asking for feedback at the end of your follow-up email. There is always a chance that they won’t provide feedback because it might be seen as a liability or they are short on time.
Maybe the interview didn't go as well as you hoped (were you on time, dressed appropriately, prepared, or too nervous, did you research the company, understand the position, or ask good questions?)
You had a glaring typo in your resume or cover letter (mistakes happen but this is the no 1 reason employers don't call people back)
Take some time to reflect on your experience and think about what went wrong. This will allow you to avoid making the same mistake in the future. Think of it as a learning opportunity, to be a better candidate next time.
Sometimes it's not about you or anything you could have done (or done differently). One thing I learned from hiring people is that there are so many great candidates and there are also a lot of behind-the-scenes decisions that go into each hire. Sometimes the decision to not hire you truly has nothing to do with you.
If you reflect on your experience, and can't find anything that went wrong, it's possible that nothing did. There could have been someone with one more year of relevant experience or knowledge of one more computer program.
Don't be hard on yourself. Don’t take it too personally - everyone goes through this at some point. Move on to the next application - the job that is right for you is out there. Realize that the hiring process often takes time
You'll be able to focus better on the next application if you can get excited and motivated for it.
The job search can be very stressful…
Keep a positive attitude
Remain optimistic
Apply for multiple jobs within the same area
Approach companies even if they aren't advertising
Focus on continually learning and improving
Keep your CV and LinkedIn up to date
Practice makes perfect so do mock interviews
Network - it’s often who you know!!
Remember, there are a lot of things in life you can't control but do your best at what you can. Be prepared and present yourself to the best of your ability. Good luck and feel free to comment below with your stories.
We’ll explore the different types of educational institutions (schools, colleges, and universities), why having backup schools is essential, and the various funding options available for higher education.
Whether you’re just beginning your college or university search or are about to pack your bags for university, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions. If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below or reach out to me on Instagram.
When considering higher education, it's important to understand the different types of institutions (schools) available. Each offers unique experiences and advantages, so choose the right one depending on your academic goals, personal preferences, and career aspirations.
High school is the foundation of your educational journey. It’s where you’ll complete your secondary education, earning the credentials needed to apply to colleges or universities.
Colleges are institutions that offer undergraduate programs, leading to associate or bachelor's degrees. They are often smaller than universities and focus on providing a more personalised education experience.
Typically you can complete a Diploma or Advanced Diploma and this can be a more affordable option to get some skills training and experience before entering the job market. Some students will leave school and attend college before transferring to a university program.
Universities are larger institutions offering both undergraduate and graduate programs. They provide a diverse range of subjects (majors) and advanced research opportunities (PhD).
Depending on where you live or want to study, you can choose from:
Public Universities: State-funded institutions
Private Universities: Funded through tuition, donations, and endowments, often providing more financial aid options
Research Universities: Focus on producing cutting-edge research, offering extensive resources for students pursuing graduate and doctoral degrees.
Applying to college or university is a competitive process, and even the most qualified students might not get into their top-choice school. This is where having backup schools becomes crucial.
Peace of Mind. Knowing you have other options can reduce stress during the application process.
Exploration of Alternatives. Sometimes, a backup school might offer programs or campus life that better suits your needs than your initial first choice.
Increased Chances of Admission. Applying to a range of schools increases your chances of receiving an acceptance letter.
Paying for college can be a daunting task, but there are several funding options available to help make higher education more affordable.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic, athletic, or artistic achievements.
Need-Based Grants / Bursaries: Provided based on financial need, typically from the government or the institution.
Private Scholarships: Offered by companies, organisations, or individuals (ask at your school and local library)
It’s not ideal but you might have to consider it.
The most common option is a student loan provided by the Government (Federal loan) as these often have lower interest rates and offer more flexible repayment options. Always check the terms, if and when interest rates apply, and when repayments start.
If you can not get a student loan, some students take private loans provided by banks or other financial institutions, usually requiring a co-signer and having less flexible repayment terms.
Many colleges and universities offer work-study programs that allow students to work part-time while attending school. This can help offset tuition costs and provide valuable work experience. Also, consider taking a gap year to help fund your studies.
READ: Should you take a gap year
Choosing the right school, having backup options, and understanding your funding opportunities are essential steps in your higher education journey. By staying informed and preparing ahead, you can navigate this process with confidence.
Whether you're applying to college or about to embark on your university journey, this series is designed to provide practical advice to help you make informed decisions.
A gap year is typically a year-long break taken by students between finishing school and starting university. While traditionally associated with travel, a gap year can encompass a wide range of activities, from work experience and volunteering to pursuing personal interests or learning new skills. It’s a chance to step back, reflect on your goals, and gain experiences that will enrich your personal and academic life.
Immerse yourself in new cultures, learn a language, or volunteer abroad.
I took a gap of 3 months whilst on my work placement year, after my undergraduate degree. I was working in an architecture firm and felt like I was falling out of love with architecture. I needed a break to do something completely different.
I took the money I’d earned from working for 9 months and bought a flight to KL. I travelled around Asia (Borneo, KL, Singapore) for one month and then spent two months doing the coast of Australia.
I experienced completely different lifestyles and gained a broader perspective on the world. I needed that break, and on a sailing boat just north of the Great Barrier Reef, I looked up at the stars and realised I was ready to get back to work and fall back in love with architecture.
Gain practical skills and insights by working in a field related to your future studies or career. Save money to support yourself during university.
You will likely have to do a work placement as part of your course, depending on where you study, but summer jobs can also give you a huge boost of confidence and experience, and the networking that comes with it will be a huge advantage.
Contribute to meaningful causes, whether locally or internationally. Build a strong sense of community and develop valuable soft skills.
I volunteered in my postgraduate years for the Girl Guiding Estates Committee. I got to advise on the upkeep of buildings, many of which were listed.
Learn new skills, such as coding, photography, or a musical instrument. Take online courses or attend workshops to deepen your knowledge in areas of interest.
Start a blog, launch a small business, or work on a creative project. Use the time to explore passions and hobbies that might not fit into your university schedule.
I started this blog and my online shop after my studies but I think that was more down to the time I graduated. Though Etsy was growing in popularity, I don’t recall many people having side hustles like they do now. But I was always entrepreneurial. Making crafts, and art and taking commissions.
Make sure to check out my courses and resources.
Taking a gap year can be highly beneficial, both personally and academically.
Here are some of the key advantages:
Increased Self-Awareness: A gap year allows you to explore your interests and passions in a more focused way. This time can help clarify your academic and career goals, ensuring that when you start university, you're more committed and motivated.
Enhanced Academic Performance: Students who take a gap year often return to their studies with a renewed sense of purpose and maturity. The experiences and skills gained during the year can lead to improved academic performance and a more fulfilling university experience.
Improved Employability: Work experience, volunteering, and skill development during a gap year can make you stand out to future employers. You'll not only have practical experience to add to your CV but also a range of transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and adaptability.
Broadened Perspective: Exposure to new cultures, ideas, and ways of life can broaden your worldview. This expanded perspective can influence your approach to studies and life in general, making you more open-minded and adaptable.
Personal Growth: A gap year is an opportunity for significant personal growth. Whether through travel, work, or self-directed projects, you'll face challenges that build resilience, independence, and confidence—all qualities that will serve you well in university and beyond.
Deciding whether to take a gap year is a personal choice that depends on your circumstances, goals, and readiness for university. Here are some questions to consider:
Are you feeling burned out from years of academic pressure?
Do you have clear goals for how you would spend your gap year?
Are you eager to gain work experience or explore the world before diving into university life?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, a gap year could be a beneficial option for you.
If you decide to take a gap year, careful planning is crucial to ensure it is a productive and rewarding experience.
Define what you want to achieve during your gap year and when that year ends. Make sure you have thought it through and know if and when you are going back into education. Make the most of this time, you’ll never get it back.
Plan your finances carefully, especially if you’re travelling or taking unpaid internships. Going to university can be pricey and a lot of students take a gap year to earn money for their student days. It’s a balance-don’t blow your savings on travelling, etc if you won’t have anything left for student life.
Keep track of your plans, applications, and deadlines. You need to stay in touch with the university you are looking to attend after your gap year. Make sure you don’t miss any deadlines and make plans to be ready to hit the ground running on your first day of term post-gap-year.
Allow room for spontaneity and unexpected opportunities. Life is full of surprises and opportunities, and your gap year is the time to take them. Adopt a “yes” mentality and see what life has in store for you (within reason).
A gap year can be an incredible opportunity to grow, explore, and prepare yourself for the challenges of university and beyond. Whether you choose to travel, work, or pursue personal projects, the experiences you gain will be invaluable.
Follow me on Instagram for more university advice and tips, and don't hesitate to DM me with your questions.
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Architect & former University Lecturer turned Entrepreneur. I help female Entrepreneurs successfully Design & Build their Creative Businesses in Interior Design, Architecture & Urban Sketching.
Hi, I’m Sonia. I help you successfully Design & Build your career and creative business in Interior Design, Architecture & Urban Sketching.
Architect & former University Lecturer turned Entrepreneur. I help Students and Entrepreneurs successfully Design & Build their Careers and Creative Businesses in Interior Design, Architecture & Urban Sketching.
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