Joseph Leander

Why did you decide to study at Heriot-Watt University?

Heriot Watt university being a British university present in major sought after locations of the world interested me at first. A wide choice of course options, structure, research and a high quality of academic education reinforced my decision. Learning architecture in a highly futuristic city like Dubai made me choose HWUDC.

What do you enjoy most about your programme?

The course structure of architecture makes us learn across disciplines. We get a holistic idea about a buildings design, its function and its relationship with people. Working alongside with our tutors over the weeks in a studio environment was great fun and enjoyable. Rigorous design approaches combined with effective architectural theories and lectures provided me an all-rounded understanding of design and technology. Experiential and experimental approaches during my final thesis design project and imbibing knowledge across various disciplines cherished my university experience to the fullest. Additionally, taking part in university organized open series lectures, debates, competitions, youth-fests, fieldtrips, site visits, public exhibitions and model making sessions in FCube workshop helped widen my knowledge. 

What will being a graduate of Heriot-Watt University do for your future?

Being a graduate of Heriot watt university makes me highly recognizable, especially in the industry. The knowledge, research and taught courses of Architecture RIBA part 1 from Heriot Watt is a gateway to pursue my Masters Part 2 RIBA course in UK. The deep insight, experience and knowledge I gained from the part 1 course would support my design decisions throughout my future. I highly recommend the architecture programme at HWUDC especially for its high adherence to the RIBA’s course delivery, teaching methodology and academic outcomes. 

 What's been the highlight of your time here so far?

Being a fourth-year architecture student and the Vice president of events and communities in the student council, made some incredible blockbuster memories in my university life.  Involving myself in the management of university events, interacting with a large student community and a tight schedule really brought out the best in me. I was also privileged to be part of a live build project called the Solar Decathlon Middle East competition in 2018 representing HWUDC’s ORA house. Working as the Site operation coordinator, communicating with industrialists, design consultants and firms provided me a great opportunity to learn about the practical aspect of design.

Describe Heriot-Watt University in four words.

Gateway for pioneering future.