Raja Khan

Raja has kickstarted his career as a Junior Consultant. We spoke to him about how graduating with a Building Surveying degree helped him to gain the role.

Why did you choose to study your course? 

I’ve always had an interest in architecture and construction, so I wanted a career that had a combination of the two. I attended an Open Day at BCU, where I heard about the career of a Building Surveyor and the way it was described as ‘the doctor of the built environment’, this really appealed to me. My experience at the Open Day co combined with my existing work experience helped me to make the decision to study BSc (Hons) Building Surveying. I would definitely recommend the course to anyone interested.

Why did you choose BCU? 

I chose BCU because I was impressed by the Open Day talks and activities. I felt that BCU had the best and newest facilities and was continuing to heavily invest in the campus. The BCU city centre campus was also very easy to access and in a good location (for those early morning coffees’ and the late-night takeaways!) I also like the flexibility of being able to attend other BCU campuses to work from time to time.

What did you enjoy most about studying your course at BCU? 

I feel that the staff were the biggest asset in helping me attain my first-class degree and I really appreciate their time in doing so. They always went above and beyond and I would not be where I am today without their support. I also really enjoyed using the facilities, as well as attending the range of events across campus such as Graduate+, BCUSU events, course trips etc. 

What is your current job role? 

I am currently a Junior Consultant - Building Surveyor. Within this role, I look at CAD plans, tender packs, tender reports, and building surveys, for our commercial and local authority clients. 

How has your degree helped you to secure and undertake this role? 

It helped me very early on! I discovered the Building Birmingham Scholarship which massively supported me financially. Working with BCU and the BBS I secured work experience, which then led to me securing a Level 6 Building Surveying Degree Apprenticeship. 

After securing the apprenticeship, I was given the opportunity to stay on. I have been working with the company ever since, as a Junior Consultant. The next step is to become chartered and also become a team or account leader in my workplace. I then have the opportunity to be promoted to a senior consultant.

What do you enjoy about this role? 

No day is the same! Completing a project is always rewarding as I see the process of housing, infrastructure and transport being developed, knowing that I helped to create the built environment around us.

What main skills from your university days will you take with you through your professional life? 

I think knowing how to communicate in the industry is a huge skill! From working on projects, gaining work experience, and speaking to industry professionals, I have learned how to interact with other professionals. Working with a range of people is common for a Building Surveyor.

What have been your greatest achievements since graduating from BCU?

• Being promoted to Junior Consultant
• Successfully managing a complex project from start to finish
• Managing social value for our clients and arranging events to give back to the community
• Assisting in the management of health & safety within the West Midlands region
• Assisting in the management of a complex multi-million-pound project

What advice would you give to students who are heading into their first roles? 

Networking is key. The more people you meet and learn from, the better! Every colleague, from whatever role in the business, can teach you something new. The most important thing to learn is that if you put the effort in, the results will show. Also, revise for your RICS APC, as soon as you graduate.