Malaysia, BA (Hons) Architecture, followed by MArchD
“I enjoy working in the studio the most because they have up-to-date software on all the desktop computers. Also, there is the technology workshop, where students get to use the laser cutter, 3D printer, all those high-tech machines to make models. Also, there is opportunity to collaborate with other departments in the university. Like, for example, my design project deals with photographic chemical emulsions. So I got to collaborate, or just ask advice from, one of the chemists in the Chemistry Department.”
What made you decide to continue studying at Oxford Brookes, after you finished your undergraduate degree?
In terms of practicality, it’s the easiest route for me to get on a Master’s course compared to me making an entirely new application to a different university. Also, I’m familiar with the tutors and style of teaching, facilities and learning environment here, which I find conducive and it will help me progress further on my Master’s course. And also, I’m very interested in the sustainability course, which I did in my first year.
What would you say is actually the best thing about the MArchD for you?
The best thing would be the first-year Master’s specialisation units. So I specialised in what I love doing and I gained a lot of knowledge in my first year. Then second year of the Master’s programme encourages you to push your conceptual thinking, to be more creative and go wild with ideas, which is great. Since this is our final year of studies, I appreciate the freedom that we are given to go wild and creative with our design project.
Which learning facilities have you found the most useful for your postgraduate studies?
I enjoy working in the studio the most because they have up-to-date software on all the desktop computers. Also, there is the technology workshop, where students get to use the laser cutter, 3D printer, all those high-tech machines to make models. Also, there is opportunity to collaborate with other departments in the university. Like, for example, my design project deals with photographic chemical emulsions. So I got to collaborate, or just ask advice from, one of the chemists in the Chemistry Department.
What do you like the most about living in Oxford?
It’s a beautiful city, very peaceful, and it’s also very close to London. I can just take a one-hour bus to London to get inspired. Also, it’s a very conducive student city, so when I go to the city centre, I see lots of Oxford University students, working hard and mingling around. And the social life here is just balanced; not too crazy and not too boring.
Where are you living now, are you still living in the student house?
I’m living in a rented house with four other people. It gives me more independence and responsibility.
How did you find the transition from undergraduate studies to postgraduate?
There is a big difference but I transited quite smoothly by doing the work placement. So during the work placement, I got to reschedule my whole time management and be more efficient in my time management, managing my social life and my studies.
What are your general top tips for international students when they’re coming to Brookes?
It can be really intimidating for a lot of international students, especially if you are coming from a conservative background, because the social life, the style of mingling and mixing around here is very different from what I experienced back home. But you just have to put yourself out there; don’t just stay in your own shell. And just mix around with a lot of other people, not just with your own usual group of friends. So I would advise international students, if this is their first time being in the UK, just to be as open-minded as possible.