Tianna
McCormack

What do you enjoy most about your course?

I like the sense of community that comes with the course, everyone works as part of a team. The module I enjoy most is Construction Technology, which we are introduced to in our first year and it runs through to final year. The course teaches us about traditional and alternative construction methods that we can apply in other modules.

Have you been involved in any live projects during your time at NTU?

We have been involved in a few live projects from first year through to final year. My favourite live project was a retirement scheme in Beeston briefed to us by Pozzoni Architecture, an architectural practice based in Manchester. From the company contact with the University, I was able to complete a placement year with them.

Tell us a bit more about the placements you’ve completed during your studies.

In first year, I took part in a summer placement at Acheson & Glover assisting with pre-cast concrete design. I also competed a 14-month full-time placement in Manchester with Pozzoni Architecture. During my placement year I gained a lot of valuable experience, as I was able to expand my CAD software knowledge and learn how to work in a professional environment.

Have you had any speakers or lecturers from industry visiting as part of your course? If so, can you tell us about ones that you found most useful and why?

We have many guest lectures that speak and give tutorial advice regularly. Recently we had an off-site construction company to advise us on alternative structural methods and we had a lecture from a quantity surveyor on cost evaluation. Both lectures gave us a realistic idea of working in practice.

Have you been on any trips with your course? If so, can you tell us about one that you particularly enjoyed and how it helped you with the understanding of your subject?

We have been on many trips. Our most recent day trip was to the NEC Birmingham Construction Week. My favourite was a week-long trip to the Centre of Alternative Technology (CAT) in Wales. It helped us to understand the use and practicalities of sustainable building methods and materials.

What do you like about studying and living in Nottingham?

I like the city vibe that Nottingham has without it being a big city. Everything is within walking distance and there is always something fun going on for students. Being a student is great, there is a friendly and inclusive atmosphere around campus.

What do you hope to achieve after completing your degree?

I hope to get a job within the architecture and construction industry, possibly within the health sector.

What advice would you give to a prospective student thinking about studying your course?

I would highly recommend NTU because of the facilities and opportunities that the University has to offer students. The Architectural Technology lecturers are always looking for ways to improve student learning and set students up with the best experience for entering practice. Every lecturer has a different area of expertise.