Student proves that it’s never too late to learn new skills

For Alejandra Montecinos, applying to the HNC Quantity Surveying at UWTSD via Clearing provided a flexible and accessible route into higher education in the UK. 

Alejandra moved to the UK from Honduras where she had graduated in Civil Engineering from the National Autonomous University of Honduras (UNAH) in 2010.

She had already developed a broad professional career in the construction industry before moving to the UK but was keen to develop her professional career and gain an UK qualification. 

Alejandra chose UWTSD because the HNC Quantity Surveying course, which is accredited by the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE), offered a practical and focused pathway into the UK construction industry. 

“I found the Clearing process straightforward and supportive” she says. “The University provided clear guidance throughout the application process, making it much easier than I had initially expected. The experience gave me confidence and reassurance that I was making the right decision for my future”.

She explains: “As an international professional looking to continue my development and adapt my qualifications to the UK market, Clearing provided an opportunity to find the right course at the right time”.

“Having worked as a civil engineer for many years, I wanted to expand my knowledge and gain a recognised qualification that would help me transition into Quantity Surveying within the UK. I also wanted to improve my career prospects and continue progressing professionally within the construction sector”.

Alejandra, who moved to Swansea with her family in search of new study opportunities, says that she wanted to build on her existing engineering experience while gaining a deeper understanding of estimating, construction law, measurement, procurement and cost management, all of which are covered in the one year course based at the University’s SA1 Waterfront campus in Swansea.

“The course structure appealed to me because it provides essential industry knowledge and practical skills within a relatively short period of time” she says.

One of the highlights of the course was how much relevant industry knowledge was delivered within a single academic year. 

Alejandra continues: “I was fortunate to learn from highly competent and dedicated lecturers. In particular, my tutor, who also taught Estimating, and my lecturer in Construction Law were incredibly supportive and played an important role in my academic journey. Their guidance, encouragement and professional expertise made a significant difference to my learning experience” .

Alejandra says that her previous professional experience allowed her to relate many aspects of the course directly to real-world construction projects.  Her background in contract administration, project supervision, cost-related activities and property valuation provided valuable context for her studies and helped her appreciate the practical application of Quantity Surveying principles.

She continues:  “Moving from Honduras to Wales required me to adapt not only academically but also culturally, which made completing the course even more rewarding. 

“Returning to education after many years in professional practice was a significant challenge. Studying in a second language and adapting to the UK education system required determination and perseverance.

“I would highly recommend this course to anyone interested in pursuing a career in Quantity Surveying or developing their knowledge of the construction industry. The course provides practical, industry-relevant skills and knowledge while being taught by experienced and supportive lecturers. It offers an excellent foundation for further study and professional development”.

As a mature student with a family, Alejandra found balancing her academic and personal commitments as well as  financial pressures could be a challenge but overcame these by staying focused on her goals, seeking support from lecturers when needed, and maintaining a positive mindset throughout her studies.

Professionally she says that the course has given her a greater understanding of the UK construction industry but it has also increased her confidence and demonstrated that it is never too late to learn new skills, adapt to a new environment and pursue new career opportunities.

Alejandra is now progressing onto the HND in Quantity Surveying before completing the degree BSc in Quantity Surveying.  She is also seeking opportunities where she can combine her extensive civil engineering experience, as she has gained a Statement of Comparability from the UK ENIC which shows how international qualifications compare to the UK education systems. 

Further Information

Eleri Beynon

Head
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: e.beynon@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 01267 676790