After searching across the country for the right degree, Esme settled on Edinburgh for her undergraduate studies in Architectural History. Having developed her practical and theoretical skills at ECA, Esme has gone on to work as a Heritage consultant in an architectural practice right here in Edinburgh. 

Why ECA? 

When I started looking at university courses I didn’t know what I wanted to study. I visited many different universities across the country, sitting through welcome talks for a variety of courses. I eventually, almost by accident, stumbled upon the ‘Architectural History and Heritage’ course offered by Edinburgh College of Art. This course would allow me to combine my love of architecture with my interest in history and, I hoped, would set me up for a career within the heritage industry. (Spoiler alert, it did!) I also appreciated the unique nature of the course - it remains the only undergraduate course in architectural history in the UK, and the few other universities which offer a comparable course only provide it at postgrad level. The course at the ECA allowed me to delve into the world of architectural history and discover more about the built environment around me from day one. Plus, I got to do it in the beautiful, historic city of Edinburgh which I continue to call home.

Tell us about your time at ECA

I really enjoyed my lectures at university (which was good because I had a lot of them), several times a week I got to go into a classroom and learn about a brand new topic taught by an expert in the field. These lectures were supplemented by tutorials, a hefty reading list, and occasional field trips to see the theory in action around the city.  

We had occasional group projects but the vast majority of submissions were self-led essays, with some end of term exams depending on the course. Although much of the work was individually assessed, I was never left to fend for myself. My lecturers and tutors were incredibly supportive and generous with their time, giving me essay advice and answering my many questions. Plus, I would regularly study with friends and course mates. Your university experience will not be complete without some coursework reading in one of Edinburgh’s many cafes, or a late night essay writing session in the Main Library (which is open 24hrs).

Typically the ‘Architectural History and Heritage’ course has options for European study trips, industry placements, and study abroad opportunities (I received a place to study at the University of Virginia). Unfortunately, during my time these didn’t go ahead due to the COVID pandemic and I very much encourage future students to get involved in these.

I really enjoyed my time at university and my job at the Edinburgh University Students’ Association, where I worked to supplement my income whilst I was studying. As I reflect on my time, I realise that the scale of opportunities and experiences offered by the ECA and the university more broadly are unrivalled. I would really encourage future students, when they can, to get involved in extra-curricular activities beyond their studies. Attend some free evening talks, volunteer for a charity, or just get out the classroom and explore Edinburgh - it’s a world heritage site for a reason. 

Tell us about your experiences since graduating

I was so excited when I graduated, I’d really enjoyed university, but I knew I wasn’t meant for a life in academia. It may sound strange but I was really looking forward to entering the world of work and putting all of the skills and knowledge I’d built up into practice.

I started applying for jobs after graduating. For me, it had felt a little too overwhelming to search for work and finish my dissertation at the same time. It took me the better part of a year to find what I was looking for, and I worked in hospitality for the long intervening months, but it was worth the wait.

I currently work as a Heritage Consultant at an architecture practice. Throughout my four years of study I gained a strong grounding of architectural styles and periods, learned how to visually analyse a building, and how to write clearly and concisely about any given topic. In my current role I take these skills and apply them to writing documents such as conservation plans, statements of significance, and heritage statements. I’ve also continued to learn and build up new skills, developing an understanding of the legislation and guidance which protects our heritage assets, and how listed buildings can gain listed building consent in order to facilitate change.

Since leaving the ECA, I’ve been able to continue living in the beautiful city of Edinburgh and work in a job I love with an amazing team. I feel incredibly blessed to have found a role which allows me to put my degree into practise and in which I continue to learn and develop at this early stage of my career. 

Alumni wisdom

It sounds cliché, but to someone who is just about to start university I would advise you to say yes to as many opportunities and experiences as you can. Get involved in a new sport, join a society, or learn a new language for free with the university’s Open Language courses. You’ll be quite busy and stressed at times, so it's important to take a break and do something else you love.

To someone graduating this year, I would say don’t get stressed or disheartened if you can’t find what you’re looking for immediately. It’s tough when other people all seem to be finding something if you haven’t. Keep searching because the right role will come along, and know that it’s alright to be picky and find the right thing for you.