Graduate praises the support that shaped his journey into Quantity Surveying
Niki Hunwick, a Quantity Surveying (BSc) graduate of University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), has reflected on the guidance and opportunities that helped him build a new career direction after more than a decade working in the construction industry.
Now working as a graduate Quantity Surveyor, Niki reflects proudly on the path that led him there: “While my academic journey wasn’t linear or straightforward, it reflects steady progression driven by a determination and desire to develop professionally.”
Growing up in Port Talbot, Niki began his working life as an apprentice carpenter before gaining wider experience across the construction industry. As time went on, he became increasingly interested in exploring new directions and developing his career further. In 2022, he decided that returning to education was the natural step.
Applying to university, however, came with uncertainty. Earlier challenges in school and college had left him unsure of his own academic abilities. “University wasn’t something I imagined myself completing,” he said, “but on a personal level, I wanted to achieve something I never thought I would.”
Graduating in 2025 as the first in his family to enter higher education made this achievement especially meaningful.
Niki chose UWTSD because it provided a supportive, accessible entry point into higher education. “Choosing somewhere accessible and familiar made the transition feel manageable and realistic,” he said. “Another major factor in choosing UWTSD was the teaching staff who had real industry experience, and the course offered a practical, industry-focused approach.”
Quantity Surveying (BSc) proved to be a strong match for his strengths. With its analytical focus on costs, contracts, and structured problem‑solving, the course allowed Niki to apply his practical understanding of construction in a new context.
During his studies, Niki engaged with the University’s student support services. After experiencing difficulties with academic writing and concentration, he was assessed for dyslexia, with the assessment also highlighting traits of ADHD. “The level of support available was above and beyond what I expected,” he said. “The tailored study support I received was invaluable and played a major role in my success.”
Alongside academic support, the university also assisted during periods of mental health and financial difficulty. “By being open about my difficulties and asking for help, I was able to access support that allowed me to work to the best of my ability.”
Niki completed research into sustainable construction and wrote his final‑year dissertation on the potential use of smart contracts in the industry – a project that deepened his interest in digital construction and strengthened his ambition to contribute to emerging technologies within the sector. Looking ahead, he hopes to continue developing in his career, with plans to work toward RICS chartership and to build on his growing interest in digital innovation.
Reflecting on his progress, he said: “The course has changed how I see myself and what I believe I’m capable of. My journey has made me more confident, more patient with myself, and more willing to keep learning.
If Niki’s story has inspired you to explore where higher education could take you, we’d love to welcome you to one of our Open Days. You’ll have the chance to meet our expert staff, discover the support available at every stage of your studies, and find out how a degree at UWTSD could help you build new skills, unlock new opportunities, and take your career in a new direction.
Further Information
Mared Anthony
Communications and PR Officer: Alumni Relations
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: mared.anthony@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: +447482256996