My entry for the "Queen's Architecture Student Film Competition" A short film about my Queen’s Architecture experience so far. For more content find me on Instagram: Social: / sara.s.katzer Studygram: / happytecture
Hi! I am a Korean student and I plan to take foundation course for architecture studies at QUB as its foundation course does not require portfolio. Do you mind if I ask you a few questions on your academic and social life at QUB? 1. I am hearing that studying architecture is like virtually living in hell as you will constantly be under extreme pressure/stress and you do not even get to sleep properly. Don’t you have enough time to socialise and workout while you’re studying? 2. Aside from the amount of assignments and projects, Is architecture academically challenging? Apparently QUB requires AAA for its architecture degree ( and that’s why I need to take foundation course ) which is way higher than any other courses available at QUB. Is this degree only for the ones who’ve always outperformed at school getting straight As? I finished high school in New Zealand and my high school grades would be converted below BBC or BCC. I am super worried and scared of not being able to manage my studies and keep up the classes properly and finally dropout or fail to graduate in time. Do you happen to see anyone dropout? 3. What are the things would you suggest me to be prepared before starting the degree? (probs physics and drawing skills?) 4. Would you recommend QUB over other universities such as Cardiff or Newcastle? 5. How was your social life at QUB? Was making friends easy? Sorry for way too many questions 😅
Hey there! Here are my answers to your questions :) (1) Throughout the past two years that I have been studying at QUB I have not pulled ANY all-nighters. The key is good time management and good planning. It depends on the person whether you put yourself under pressure and what your priorities are. I have been in a competitive dance cheerleading team at QUB for these past two years with training one a week, have taken part in language courses, environmental groups and had time to go out with friends, so I truly believe that it all comes down to the organisation of your time :) (2)This is a difficult question because although it is not a typical "learn-things-by-heart" subject it requires a lot of discipline and creativity as well as drive. I don't think it's only for the "straight-A students", but definitely for people that are willing to learn about a wide range of topics such as technology, design, history of architecture and anthropology. People usually drop out usually because of a lack of interest or simply realise that drawing plans, sections, modelling in 3D and studying construction is not for them. Don't overthink it! Everyone has their doubts about their's abilities - so don't be anxious about your results. What is meant to be - will be, so don't stress yourself out I'm sure you'll do great. (3)Surprisingly we don't have much physics involved in the actual degree. Obviously, in the design process, you'll have to take basic knowledge about gravity into consideration :P but you won't be expected to do any extreme calculations on physics in general. You will, however learn a lot about detail construction, materials, drawing skills, computer programmes etc. If I were you I'd probably watch some tutorials on Photoshop or Indesign. You can also play around with CAD. That will put you a bit ahead of the game. However have in mind the fact that the university is going to teach you skills that will be necessary to complete the course so there isn't anything you HAVE to already know 100%. Drawing skills are super useful and the habit of sketching is a huge plus. (4)When it comes to the choice of universities I cannot answer this question. It all depends what you're looking for. Things I took into consideration when applying were: ranking of university (global and in the UK), tuition prices, size of campus (do you want to be in a huge school with massive events and sporting games or do you like the small-town feel?), programme (take a look at university websites or have a look at what the courses actually teach and see if what they offer interests you). I hope this helps. (5)QUB creates lots of opportunities to meet new people when coming to university. There are hundreds of clubs, societies and programmes that I highly recommend joining. Find what interests you, sign up for something along with those interests and you will find like-minded people! Also, architecture is studio-based, which means you will be spending a loooot of time in a hall with all of your classmates so automatically you will make friends with those you spend time with. One thing to remember is that finding your true good friend group takes time. It's super easy though, it's enough to put yourself out there and introduce yourself to people - you will all be in the same boat :) I hope these answers were helpful! If you have any other questions don't hesitate to DM me on Instagram @sara.s.katzer or my architecture account @happytecture All the best :))
