A desire to shape the world around him led Will to the Bachelor of Design.
Will decided to return to study after realising the influence architecture has in shaping the world around us.
Why did you decide to study the Bachelor of Design?
I’m a mature-age student from a small town on the South Coast of NSW in my second semester of the Bachelor of Design, majoring in Architecture. After living and working in Berlin, Germany and travelling throughout Europe and Asia, I realised the significance of architecture and its influence in shaping the world around us. I chose to major in architecture to explore ways in which architecture can positively influence social, political and environmental contexts, specifically with the desire to create community and empower others.
What majors are you studying?
I chose to undertake a single major in Architecture to focus specifically on architectural history and sustainable design. The University offers a variety of specialisations which enable students to explore specific interests and this has enabled me to select both Design History and Environmental Systems.
What was your favourite first year Bachelor of Design subject and why?
Global Foundations of Design encompasses architectural history from the beginnings of shelter to the end of the 17thcentury, exploring social, technical and environmental contexts in various cultures around the world. The subject is incredibly engaging, covering a wide range of significant architectural typologies and sets a strong basis in terms of understanding and analysing architecture, encouraging students to think deeper and differently about the spaces we occupy.
Image: Will's physical model for his design of Lincoln Square for Dystopian Dreams in Design Studio Alpha
What are some of the skills you have learnt while studying the Bachelor of Design?
Effective time-management. It’s crucial to plan your time and set priorities, giving yourself enough time to engage with course content and complete assessments. It’s also important to have fun and enjoy what you are studying, there are some amazing opportunities to make friends through joining clubs and societies.
How important is it for you to graduate with a degree from a world standard university?
International recognition is extremely important to me for future study and employment opportunities both here and abroad. The quality of education and organisation at University of Melbourne is clear, with many University academics at the forefront of design and research in Australia and globally.
Image: Will's final design for Construction as Alchemy which included a brick wall, timber deck and steel shelter.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to prospective students before starting the Bachelor of Design?
Inform yourself about opportunities available at the university and also in Melbourne. A well-rounded education includes knowledge and experiences gained both within and outside of the classroom. I would definitely recommend attending Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) and engaging with the Design and Environments Student Society (DESS). There are also lots of talks and events organised by the Melbourne School of Design which are often free to attend for students.
Image: Will's design esquisse for a playground for children with vision impairment for Design Studio Alpha.
Interested in studying the Bachelor of Design?
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