James

Project Manager, AECOM
MSc Construction management (2013)  

Give it all your effort for that short amount of time and it will provide you with benefits that will last far beyond the length of the course.

My masters degree provided the key to the employment door. Once I had a degree in a specific, work related subject, I was able to perform to a much higher standard in interviews and discuss technical topics with informed direction and valid opinions. I got my first job in a small construction consultancy in North Birmingham, I started in September and, due to the small size of the company, was immediately given extensive responsibilities. I learned a huge amount about the construction industry during my time at this company and would recommend working for a smaller company when first entering the world of employment for this very reason. Off the back of this job, I was able to secure my current role, in AECOM. I am working on numerous projects, all of which are very interesting and provide unrivalled job satisfaction. The company and the staff are very welcoming and the graduate support is second to none. I would recommend working for a company such as AECOM to any graduate.

What is the best thing about what you are doing now? 
The satisfaction of successfully implementing the skills I have developed during education in nationally and internationally important projects.

What was the best thing about your time as a student here? 
The quality of the course. 

In what way did living and studying in Birmingham live up to your expectations? 
I grew up in Birmingham and can confirm that some areas of the university do look like Hogwarts.

How did you grow as a person by coming to University? Did it change your life in any way?
I became much more adept in professional conduct and building professional relationships.

What advice would you give to current students studying on your degree programme? 
The course lasts one year. Give it all your effort for that short amount of time and it will provide you with benefits that will last far beyond the length of the course.