From STEM student to Architect: How DEC shaped my future

Unsure which career path to follow, Drew discovered DEC and found a direction that combined creativity, sustainability and purpose, leading her to pursue a future in architecture.

Student Name
Charleston Academy
(Scotland)

TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Design, Engineering, and Construction in the Digital Built Environment (RQF)

CAREER PATHWAY:
Architecture

Hear Drew’s story below

“I hope my journey demonstrates the value of opportunity, encouragement and perseverance, and shows what can be achieved when young people, whoever they may be, are given the chance to explore their full potential.”

RELEVANT QUALIFICATIONS:

Part 1 MA (Hons) Architecture – First Class
The University Of Edinburgh
TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Design, Engineering, and Construction in the Digital Built Environment (RQF)

Drew began her DEC journey at Charleston Academy in Inverness, Scotland, where she studied DEC Levels 1 and 2.

DEC introduced Drew to the built environment and helped her see how creativity, sustainability and social purpose could come together through architecture. With encouragement from her DEC teacher, Mr Richards, and support from Balfour Beatty, Drew found the direction and confidence to pursue a future in design.

She went on to study Architecture at the University of Edinburgh, completing an internship at Ryder Architecture, studying abroad at Politecnico di Milano and developing projects focused on sustainability, inclusion and community led design. Drew has now graduated with a First Class MA (Hons) Architecture degree.

As a DEC Ambassador, Drew shares her story to show young people, especially young women, that careers in architecture and the built environment are open to them when opportunity, encouragement and ambition come together.

Why I studied DEC

“As secondary school student, I was passionate about STEM subjects but lacked a clear sense of direction. I worked hard, enjoyed science and mathematics, and wanted to make a positive impact through environmental groups, STEM clubs, and community initiatives. Yet, like many young people, I didn’t know exactly what career path I wanted to follow.

“That changed when I enrolled in Design Engineer Construct!. At the time, I viewed it very simply as a new challenge. I could have never anticipated how profoundly it would alter the trajectory of my education.

“DEC gave me my first real insight into the built environment and introduced me to a world where creativity, sustainability, and social impact could coexist.”

My aims for the future

“Each step has reinforced my belief in the power of architecture and the built environment to create meaningful change.

“As I begin the next stage of my career, I remain as ambitious and as curious as I was when I first started.”

What I would say to someone considering studying DEC

“I hope my journey demonstrates the value of opportunity, encouragement and perseverance, and shows what can be achieved when young people, whoever they may be, are given the chance to explore their full potential.”