Graduate profile: Manon Vilagines, BA Architecture

We recently caught up with BA (Hons) Architecture 2020 graduate, Manon Vilagines, to find out more about her time at Kent and what she has been up to since graduating.

What are you up to now?

I am currently working as a Part 1 Architectural Assistant at Richard Reid and Associates, and looking into options of what to do next year.

What attracted you to your course, and to Kent?

The diversity of the students at this university and the proximity to France which allowed me to go back home regularly. The campus life was ideal for a bachelor degree and Canterbury is such a lovely town, with so much to do, see and eat!

Which aspects of your degree did you enjoy the most, and why?

The focus on sustainability in the Architecture programme which is something I believe to be essential and very sought after in architecture nowadays.

What impressed you most about our academic staff?

The insight they had on current projects and on the architecture field as most of them practice while teaching.

Could you describe a typical day in your current role?

Part 1 Architectural Assistants typically work as part of a team, under a Project Architect and assist the team in the design and production of schemes in the office. I mainly do orthographic drawings, some 3D modelling and renderings of the firm’s designs while learning from the team’s work. This “year out” experience is meant to help you learn the more technical aspects of the architect’s job before doing your masters. In addition to learning from projects themselves, I am learning from a variety of architects, their leadership styles and working collaboratively with other architectural assistants.

What are your future plans/aspirations?

My future plans/aspirations are to qualify as an architect, to open my own firm and to design architecture which is about people, how they live, their culture and identity.

What is your favourite memory of your time at Kent?

My favourite memories from my time at Kent are small moments like getting coffee with friends, constantly meeting new people and having interesting conversations and debates with tutors and peers.

What advice would you give to somebody thinking of coming to Kent to study architecture?

Be ready to absorb as much knowledge as you can from academics as well as from your peers, ask questions and take risks!

How would you describe your time at Kent in three words?

Fulfilling. Rewarding. Fun.