My interest is around bringing green infrastructure into urban spaces

Cornelia Gower is a student on the BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture course.

Choosing the course

I am half English but I was born and raised in Hong Kong. I went to International School and did the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP). I was able to study anywhere in the world. My friends went to the UK, USA, Australia and New Zealand but I decided to study in the UK because I have family here and I am a native English speaker.

The second reason was that the course at Gloucestershire is well established. It offers the oldest Landscape Architecture course in England and it’s very well recognised.

The course

The course has been amazing. It’s hands-on and all our lecturers are practitioners; most are chartered landscape architects. So, you’re working with people who know what they’re talking about and can teach you not only the theory, but how it is in practice. Most of the lecturers are in practice simultaneously, so their industry connections are current and up to date.

The University places a lot of importance on employability and helps with trying to get internships, work placements and work experience. One of the deciding factors for choosing the course was that it boasted 100% employment rates.

Teaching style

The course is very engaging and involves far more hands-on interaction between students and lecturers than some theory-based degrees. In my first week, we went on a coach trip to Croome Estate and Sezincote House & Garden, and recently, we visited the Cotswolds to do a pH test of the soil. It is fair to say I am quite happy with my choice.

Student life

I am currently a course representative with the Student Union, I’m in the process of becoming a student ambassador and I’m also in the Botanical Society. At Christmas, we collected and used locally sourced plants to make wreaths.

Student accommodation

I am currently living at Pittville student village. I chose it because it is close to the campus and the rooms looked good. I have a private bathroom which is quite nice. Compared to other student accommodation I’ve seen in the UK, we get a pretty good deal. As it was built in 2018, everything is quite modern – we have induction hobs, good insulation and proper heating.

Inspiration

Since I was about 13, I have wanted to enter this profession. In Hong Kong, my grandmother is an avid gardener and plant collector. I grew up gardening and helping her with anything I could in the summer – I really enjoyed it.

Sustainability

My school puts a lot of importance on sustainability and working towards a greener future. Landscape Architecture was a career where I could get my hands dirty but also have a positive impact on the planet, making cities better places to live.

My interest is around bringing green infrastructure into urban spaces, so it is nice to be in a place that holds importance on green living and to be at the University striving towards it.

The course also tries to stay relevant with what’s happening in the profession and we are exposed to the newest technology and research regarding sustainability and eco urbanism. It’s a big benefit of coming here, and very reassuring with regards to the future.