My name is Hajar, I come from Italy, and I am studying Architecture Technology and Construction Management. It is a common misconception that this programme is all about architecture. It is actually a good combination of the design and more technical aspects of the construction industry, giving to the students a good understanding of the overall construction process step-by-step. And that is exactly what I like about it.
Learning through collaboration
The idea of studying abroad has always appealed to me and I chose Denmark and VIA because of the high level of education here. However, I was really surprised that the teaching style is completely different from what I was used to at home.
Here, we always work in groups, and we are encouraged to figure out solutions, share our knowledge and collaborate to realise the projects we work on. In this process, the teachers are very supportive and always ready to help and make sure that we are in a good place.
In our daily teaching, I especially enjoy the subject Building Design, because it made me realise how important it is to consider every single detail of a construction and how even a small change can make a big difference in the final project.
Study-life balance
Having a study-life balance here is very important, and VIA makes it easy thanks to our schedules and to all the facilities that we have access to on campus that allow us to let out our creativity. The students here can study, have a part-time job and still have some free time to dedicate to friends and other activities.
The biggest challenge that I faced moving abroad is figuring out everything by myself - living alone and adapting to a new environment. However, once I was here, I realized that the other students are all in the same situation which makes it easier, since we can rely on each other and get through things together. This brings us together creating a big supportive network.
I’m still not sure about the future but since I really like this country, I would love to stay here and start working in the construction industry and learn more about different strategies to make it more sustainable.