Basant Chopra

What attracted you to Kent?

Having completed my Architecture BA, I was attracted to the MArch programme at Kent because of the way the course leader Michael Richards ran the programme. He gave us a lot of creative freedom; we were challenged and encouraged to further develop our creative thought processes, which enhanced the work we produced.

How were your studies?

The studies were challenging to begin with, but as I progressed, I began to enjoy it more and more. I’d spent some time working in the industry before starting my MArch, but the experience of studying on the course was very different. I couldn’t rely on my work experience and was challenged to work out of my comfort zone. I found this really interesting and pushed myself to explore new ways of solving design-related issues.

What did you think of the teaching at Kent?

The teaching at Kent is good; the teaching staff are friendly and approachable. In fact, I currently teach at Kent as a visiting lecturer, which is something I enjoy. Also, the support staff here are very friendly and helpful. The computer technicians and the workshop staff are always willing to go out of their way to help students.

Was the course flexible enough to allow you to pursue your own passions?

The course is very flexible. We were allowed to choose and write our own brief for our design project and in another module we were able to explore an architecture-related field using any media.

How do you think the MArch programme changed you? 

My course helped me immensely. As I’ve mentioned, it took me out of my comfort zone and, by being focused and not giving up, I was able to overcome all the challenges. All of this gave me a lot more confidence in my own abilities and it made me realise how important it is to face one’s weaknesses – when you do, it makes you even stronger.

How did you find your time at Kent in general? 

I really enjoyed my time at Kent: the social life is great, the students were a friendly group. It is very important to find a balance between your studies and having a bit of fun.

In what ways did your degree help you to find work?

There are a lot of ways of succeeding at architecture. I have been fortunate and have always been able to find work easily. I’d gained experience of working and had been part of some very high-profile projects, but my degree was the final piece in the jigsaw puzzle. Doing so well in my degree gave me a lot of confidence to start on my own. I now have my own company and enjoy everything about my work. In the future, I plan to expand my business and am keen to continue to learn and improve as an architect. 

What advice would you give to graduates thinking of coming to Kent? 

In architecture, the most important thing is to demonstrate your abilities through the quality of your work, so having a good and well-designed portfolio is very important. I have come across students who are so focused about getting a particular class of degree that they forget that architecture is a lot more than that. You really need to learn about the subject and develop your understanding of architecture and architects but alongside that, your own personal development is also crucial. It is the combination of these things that makes you employable.

Would you recommend studying at Kent? 

Studying at Kent is a wonderful experience and students should definitely make the most of it.