Shubham Jain came all the way from India to study Advanced Architectural Design at Strathclyde. He completed his bachelor’s degree in architecture with First Class Distinction from Marathwada Mitra Mandal’s College of Architecture, Savitri Bai Phule University, formerly and otherwise known as Pune University, Pune, India.
Shubham decided to come to the University of Strathclyde because of the University ranking. There were also available bursaries, the course modules looked good, and he'd heard about our state-of-the-art facilities. Let's find out more.
Glasgow in itself is a feast to the eye, from an architectural point of view, I am amazed, for too much this city has to offer. I totally would recommend Strathclyde and Glasgow. It is safe. It is well connected by subway, trains, busses, the community cycle sharing scheme is super easy too.
Why architecture?
I've always been interested in architecture and urban design. After five years of undergraduate study in architecture, I knew it was all I wanted to do. My enthusiasm, coupled with the scope for innovations and opportunities available in the field of architecture, planning, urban design, and sustainability, has motivated me to pursue my masters degree.
Why did you choose to study at Strathclyde?
I chose to join Strathclyde after extensive research, googling and meeting people. The University ranking helped, where Strathclyde was ranked top 8th in the UK for postgraduate education. The bursaries provided were very attractive. Taking into consideration the cost of living and other expenses Glasgow seemed economical and manageable.
Also, Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland and the second largest in the UK. From an architectural point of view, I was intrigued by the mix of Victorian and modern architectural style offered in Glasgow.
I'm very happy to have decided to come to Strathclyde. I'm learning from experienced and industry-leading tutors, have access to excellent in studio facilities, and my course is accredited by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
What do you like about the course?
The course is very well laid out and managed. The modules are interesting and up-to-date, and we have regular interactions with the staff and tutors. It's research-intensive and also gives an opportunity to explore my specific interest.
Students are encouraged to visit, experience and be part of architecture and art exhibitions, sites, important buildings, works of industry leaders and acclaimed architects.
Study tours are included as part of the course in both years. In the first year of the course, the Department organised a trip to Switzerland. I had the opportunity to visit and explore the architectural works of Architect Peter Zumthor in different cities while we were there. In the second-year, the Department gave us the opportunity to visit the Venice Biennale, Italy.
All this has helped me explore, understand and experience international architectural trends.
What are your thoughts on the staff here?
The staff have been very helpful, supportive and accepting. The professors are always motivating, they were happy to have our inputs as international students come from a varied architectural background.
