Part II Architectural Assistant: Q&A with Jia
Jia is currently working as an RIBA Part II Architectural Assistant at HPA. He joined in the summer of 2023 after studying at the University of Liverpool where he obtained a Master of Architecture (MArch) from the University of Liverpool, having previously earned a Bachelor of Architecture (BA Hons).
What is your Role at HPA?
My role as an Architectural Assistant in the office is to support the architects and facilitate the progress of projects. This includes document amendments, drawing up existing buildings and using software such as CAD for proposals. These are some of my main tasks within the office. As my experience develops, I hope to have more of an involvement in the design process, and begin preparing for my RIBA Part 3 – the final qualification for an Architect.
When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in Architecture?
I have known I want to be an Architect since I was in Year 9. The idea that one day I can point to a building that people experience on a daily basis and say I contributed to its creation was incredibly exciting to me.
What advice would you give someone preparing to study Architecture?
Learning about the theories and design concepts at university is all well and good, but it is the application of that knowledge in the work environment that is the real test. Applying those theories to practice is the real skill here, and you probably won’t get it right the first time round, but the good thing is that there will always be someone in the office to offer advice or guide you when you are starting out.
What is a usual day like for you at HPA?
My day usually starts off with a big cup of coffee, but after that each day is different. There is always something new to be done, whether it be aiding in a planning application or implementing interesting solutions to complicated problems, each day is never the same as the last!
What do you enjoy most about life at HPA?
The Birthday cakes. 🎂
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