personal statement architecture examples

Sample Architecture Personal Statement (admitted to Cambridge, Cornell, Yale)

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following personal statement is written by an applicant who got accepted to top graduate programs in architecture. Variations of this personal statement got accepted at Cambridge, Cornell, and Yale. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in architecture should look like.

Here is the personal statement of the Architecure Student.

I am not particularly fond of tea. However, while working in the Northern regions of XYZ, I realized that sharing a cup of tea was considered a symbol of gratitude by its hospitable populace. This simple gesture transcended the commonplace and made our work for the community all the more personal.

For several weeks I shared many cups of the sugary beverage while volunteering with the Heritage Foundation constructing homes for the people of the XYZ. Their entire dwellings had been destroyed by the floods, and it came to us, a group of young architecture students, to revive this once-thriving community.

The process from etching the lines of chalk for the Women’s Community Centre to seeing it constructed into a beautiful bamboo building to be used for gainful employment is one that affected me deeply. The structures we built stand supported throughout the seasons, representing the enduring strength of the people of the XYZ. By helping to re-establish an entire community affected by an unprecedented natural calamity, I became aware of the power of architectural design to incite social change. Also, the focus on sustainable structures made me realize how designers need to focus on the available resources and capacities of the community they are involved in.

This experience was pivotal in realizing the path I wanted to take as an architect. My fascination with creating and manipulating space, seen from an early age by my experimentation with a Wendy Tent, went to the root of my desire to become an architect. Furthermore, the stories I had heard growing up about my ancestral home in XYZ, a city known for its scorching heat; as well as my childhood divided between XYZ, a country oblivious to any form of energy deficiency, and XYZ, a country struggling with shortages in resources have all served to underscore how design needs to adapt and address the social issues of its environment. This instilled within me a desire to work towards making my homeland self-sustaining.

To channel my proclivity, I applied to the country’s top architecture school, and my joy, I was accepted. During my five years at the XYZ, I studied the fundamental nature of the architectural design. I found its intricacies to be a maze that beckoned alluringly to me. Elected as the Vice President of the Architecture Students’ Association, I was in a position to influence how students would perceive architecture. I led the team representing XYZ and XYZ at the National Architectural Student Convention held in XYZ.

My team was honored with the prestigious Citation Prize for the Rubens Trophy. This victory awarded our design from amongst those submitted from more than a hundred universities. It proved to be a tremendous boost to my belief in achieving the career goals that I had set for myself. It also allowed me to develop a global understanding of architectural design. The following year, I volunteered to go to XYZ, an experience that left an indelible mark on my mind.

I returned with vigor to realize architecture’s power in shaping my community and channeled my motivation into my thesis project. I managed to study the overwhelmingly bustling historic urban center of XYZ and analyzed its context, which resulted in providing macro-level sustainable design solutions. A culmination of my efforts and passion, this project was awarded an ‘honors’ in my thesis.

I followed through with my academic goals by seeking employment at a firm that avidly incorporates sustainability in its design practices. After working at SR Design Works, I was reassured of the practical applications of the theoretical knowledge I attained as part of my undergraduate degree. Furthermore, with a conscious desire to be part of responsible design practices, I became associated with upcoming advocates of green building design. However, at the same time, I also grew aware that to achieve my aims, I would need further education.

While working on individual projects which incorporated the principles of sustainable design, I was exposed to the prospective benefits as well as the limitations of those principles. In light of this nexus, it was apparent that I needed further education to explore all its potential advantages.

Another hurdle I had to overcome in a predominantly patriarchal society like XYZ was to hold my own and work on an equal footing with various people, from clients to retailers; colleagues to contractors. This aspect of my character can be attributed to my mother, who raised my brother and me while working full-time as a real estate agent. She taught me to be independent and not to treat my gender as a disability. I have taken her wisdom to heart and have dared to dream of rising to the zenith in my field.

I realize that many architectural designs in XYZ fail to communicate with their environmental and social context, thus creating more hindrances for its inhabitants rather than presenting solutions. My experience in architecture has made me realize the necessity of greater responsibility and sensibility in building structures in XYZ. I greatly believe in XYZ potential and aim for this country to be a forefront practitioner of sustainable architecture.

I aim to practice sustainable architectural design in its true essence and promote green practices that can help build communities, hopefully sharing many more cups of tea in the process.

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Architecture Personal Statement Examples

• 1 Personal Statement Example Links
• 2 Career Opportunities
• 3 UK Admission Requirements
• 4 UK Earnings Potential For Architects
• 5 Similar Courses in UK
• 6 UK Curriculum
• 7 Alumni Network

Personal Statement Example Links

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Ever been fascinated by the design and aesthetics of buildings and structures around us? Intrigued by the prospect of creating sustainable, functional, and beautiful spaces?

If so, a degree in Architecture could be your perfect pathway. This dynamic discipline invites you to blend creativity, technology, and societal needs to shape the built environment.

The field of architecture is a fascinating one, combining creativity, technical skill, and an understanding of the built environment. As an aspiring architect, you need to demonstrate your passion for the subject in your personal statement . To help you get started, we’ve compiled a selection of personal statement examples from successful architecture students.

Architecture courses cover a wide range of topics, from the history of architecture to the principles of design and construction. Most courses will also include a practical element, allowing you to develop your skills in a hands-on environment. You’ll learn about the different materials used in construction, and how to use them to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing structure. You’ll also explore the cultural and social context of architecture, and how it has evolved over time.

In addition to the theoretical aspects of the course, you’ll also have the opportunity to develop your practical skills. You’ll learn about the different tools and techniques used in the construction process, and how to use them to create a structure that meets the needs of the client. You’ll also have the chance to work on a variety of projects, from residential buildings to public spaces.

👍 When writing a personal statement: Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

Graduating with an Architecture degree from a UK university provides a strong foundation for a range of career opportunities:

1. Architect: Plan, design, and oversee the construction of buildings, using creativity and technical skills to shape the built environment.

2. Urban Planner: Develop plans and programmes for land use in urban areas, balancing factors such as sustainability, community needs, and infrastructure.

3. Interior Designer: Design and plan interior spaces for homes, offices, and other buildings, considering aesthetics and functionality.

4. Landscape Architect: Plan and design outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, or public areas, focusing on sustainability and harmony with the natural environment.

5. Construction Project Manager: Oversee building projects from start to finish, ensuring they’re completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards.

6. Building Surveyor: Provide professional advice on construction, property and infrastructure, dealing with aspects like design, maintenance and repair.

7. Historic Buildings Inspector/Conservation Officer: Work to preserve and protect historic buildings and sites from deterioration or damage.

An Architecture degree can lead to an exciting career that combines creativity, problem-solving, and a significant impact on the places in which we live, work and play. Your future in architecture starts here!

UK Admission Requirements

The entry requirements for the University Course in Architecture vary depending on the institution. Generally, applicants will need to have achieved a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Maths and English, as well as two A-Levels or equivalent qualifications. Additionally, some universities may require applicants to have achieved a minimum of grade B in an Art or Design-based subject.

In comparison to other courses, the entry requirements for the University Course in Architecture are quite high. This is due to the fact that the course requires a high level of technical skill and knowledge in order to succeed. As such, applicants must demonstrate a strong aptitude for creative problem-solving and design. Additionally, many universities will require applicants to submit a portfolio of their work in order to demonstrate their creative ability.

UK Earnings Potential For Architects

The average earnings for someone with an architecture degree will vary depending on the individual’s experience and job title. According to the UK Office for National Statistics, the median salary for architects in the UK was £39,000 in 2019. This figure is expected to grow in the coming years due to an increasing demand for architects in the UK.

The job market for architects is expected to remain strong in the UK, with a predicted growth of 8% between 2019 and 2024. This is due to an increasing demand for new and refurbished buildings, as well as a need for more energy efficient designs.

In terms of job titles, the highest paid architects in the UK are typically those who work in a senior role or in a managerial position. Architects who specialize in certain areas, such as landscape architecture, may also earn higher salaries.

Overall, the average earnings for someone with an architecture degree are expected to remain strong in the UK, with the potential for higher salaries depending on experience and job title.

Similar Courses in UK

Some related courses to Architecture in the UK include:

1. Urban Design – Urban Design focuses on the design of public spaces, including streets, squares, parks, and other public areas. It focuses on the physical elements of the built environment and how they interact with the people who use them. It also looks at the social and economic aspects of urban planning. The key difference between Urban Design and Architecture is that Urban Design focuses on the public realm, while Architecture focuses on the design of individual buildings.

2. Landscape Architecture – Landscape Architecture is the design of outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and other green spaces. It looks at the physical elements of the landscape, as well as the social and environmental aspects of the design. The key difference between Landscape Architecture and Architecture is that Landscape Architecture focuses on the design of outdoor spaces, while Architecture focuses on the design of individual buildings.

3. Building Surveying – Building Surveying is the assessment and evaluation of existing buildings, with a focus on the condition and safety of the structure. It looks at the physical elements of the building, as well as the legal and regulatory aspects. The key difference between Building Surveying and Architecture is that Building Surveying focuses on the evaluation of existing buildings, while Architecture focuses on the design of new buildings.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in an architecture course will vary depending on the institution and the course structure. Generally, courses will cover topics related to the design, planning, and construction of buildings and other structures. This could include topics such as design theory, building materials, structural engineering, and the history of architecture.

Practical work is an important part of an architecture course and will involve hands-on experience in the form of design projects, model making, and construction. Students may also be required to visit and study existing buildings and sites.

In addition to the practical work, students may also be required to complete modules in other areas such as project management, sustainability, and urban planning.

Finally, many courses will also include modules on professional practice, which provide an introduction to the legal and ethical considerations of the profession.

Alumni Network

Notable alumni from the architecture course include Frank Gehry, who is widely considered to be one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. Gehry’s works are known for their sculptural and deconstructivist elements, and his most famous works include the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. Gehry is an important figure in the world of architecture and his works have been influential in the field for decades.

Alumni events and networking opportunities are available through the university’s alumni network. These events provide alumni with the chance to connect with other alumni and stay up to date on the latest developments in the field. Additionally, alumni can take advantage of networking opportunities to find potential employers or to learn more about the industry.

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10 Tips on Personal Statements (for Architect Students)

Gone are the days when prospective students applying to architecture schools get away with merely submitting an application form and a high school transcript.

Whether you are applying for entry into a pre-professional Bachelor of Science or Art (B.Sc. or B.A.) majoring in architecture, or the professional Bachelor of Architecture or Master of Architecture, chances are submitting a personal statement is necessary alongside your design portfolio.

But you could be apprehensive about the task of writing a personal statement as the requirement does not come with clear guidelines, unfortunately.

It is usually just one piece of A4-size word document, but a mighty powerful one at that – second only to your design portfolio – as it represents your voice in the eyes of the admissions evaluator.

It is essential to impress the school and show off your skills and suitability all in one place.

Here are some useful tips to get you started:

1. Give Yourself Enough Time

Probably one of the most valuable tips that you can get when it comes to personal statements is to start early.

Give yourself enough time to write your statement.

Research examples of architecture personal statements. Use one which you think is suitable as a reference but never copy.

Ask your current teachers or people in your life for feedback. If you are the only person reviewing your statement, you risk not knowing what it is missing.

2. Understand What the Statement is Asking For

There is no shame in asking for someone to read the question for you, which could help you understand it better. It could be as simple as “Tell us why you want to study architecture,” or “What would you gain from your experience at our school?”

Either way, a personal statement from a prospective architecture student is to convince the admissions evaluator that you deserve a place in their program.

Competition for entry is fierce, and you want to stand out by being yourself – no two persons are alike. So again, don’t merely copy one you found online for free; tweak and add your voice to it.

3. Introduce Yourself

No. Don’t start by saying, “I am (name), and I come from (birthplace). These are standard information already stated in your application form.

Give the school an insight into your personality and how you would add value to their community of young, budding architects.

Are you ambitious? Have any hobbies? Artistic? Work well in a team?

It does not matter what it is, as long as it helps you stand out from others. Writing a personal statement is not the time to be shy about the qualities you bring to the table – write to impress!

4. Craft Skills You Learned

You can write about the extra classes you took outside your school syllabus and how they relate to architecture.

Perhaps you’d enrolled in an oil painting or a woodworking class. Great, add it in!

But don’t just state those skills you picked up matter-of-factly. Go into the details of the intricate crafts you learned in making a piece of art or a unique solution you achieve by applying a tweak to a standard method.

Better still, point the evaluator to the piece you have included in your portfolio. Such cross-referencing can help reinforce the engagement between the evaluator and your application.

5. A Memorable Vacation

You have been to places and experienced different cultures.

Pick one that is rich architecturally, and elaborate on how your experience of walking through an ancient city or a modern architectural wonder made you want to be an architect.

6. Any Work Experience You’ve Got Under Your Belt

If you’ve got quite a bit of work experience, it is crucial to only talk about the relevant experiences that will help set you apart from the other applicants.

Write about something that shows no added value, and the evaluator would lose interest quickly. An architectural technician work experience role would be perfect for showing the school you know exactly what you are doing.

7. Talk about the future

Who exactly do you want to be when you leave architecture school?

Touch on why you want to study at a particular school and how the degree will help you with your future career. Let them know that you’ve got a whole plan set out, and you are determined to achieve it.

8. Don’t sound too academic

Remember, while you want your writing to sound professional, you don’t want it to sound like you have swallowed a thesaurus.

Too many students make this mistake while writing their personal statement, and it is very obvious to the person reading.

Authenticity over everything!

9. Check for Grammatical Errors

This tip is oft-repeated for any writing exercise, but it does not hurt to remind yourself how important this is.

Especially if you are an international student and English is not your first language, have a second pair of eyes proofread your statement.

A grammatical error-filled personal statement can be a real turn-off for the admissions evaluator.

10. Be Yourself

It may sound cliché but writing an excellent personal statement for an architecture school application is really about you.

In your absence, the personal statement represents you, and you want to make sure that it is precisely that.

There is no right or wrong in a personal statement; it is about the things that are uniquely you.

After writing the personal statement, you can start to apply to your school of choice using the complete set of architecture school application documents .

Independent Educational Consultants Association

Passion and purpose in the architecture personal statement.

By Evan Forster, MFA, IECA (NY)

No matter what name it goes by—statement of purpose, statement of interest, or plain old personal statement—architecture school statements are challenging. They often want you to cover a whole lot of information in only 500 words. For instance, Columbia University’s prompt last year was: In a statement of approximately 500 words, describe your background, your past work in your intended field of study, and your plans for graduate study and a professional career . All of that in only 500 words or less? No wonder my candidate Kara, an aspiring architect, had called me in a panic.

“So by ‘background’ do they mean my entire life story plus all of my work, school, and internship experiences?” Kara, wired on venti Americanos, asked. “It says ‘personal’—does that mean I should tell them about my parents’ divorce?”

Here’s the thing: It is important that after the admissions committee has read your statement of purpose, they feel that they know who you are. They need to know what you want to do (your goal)—Kara’s was opening her own “green” architecture firm one day—why this is important to you, what you have done thus far in regards to pursuing that goal or taking an interest in the subject matter, and what you still have left to learn and explore. And right there is the outline for your entire 500-word statement of purpose.

The break down:

Paragraph 1: This is where you get personal. No, this doesn’t mean empty the contents of your diary. This means write about the moment you realized you wanted to pursue your goal. In Kara’s case it was when her family moved from a sprawling home in Greenwich, Connecticut, to a 1,200-square-foot apartment in Manhattan. She found herself wishing she could move the walls around and reconfigure the space to be more open. There! She had her “ah-hah!” moment—the moment she realized that architecture would be a part of her life. This is the type of specific moment that all candidates should search for and write about.

Why? Graduate programs want students who are passionate about what they want to do, not students who are just looking to avoid the real world for another few years. This is your opportunity to show the school why you want this.

Paragraph 2: What have you done thus far to pursue your interest in architecture? Did you explore classes in college? Did you take art or art history classes? When you studied abroad, did you take an active interest in the city’s architecture? This is an opportunity to discuss specific classes you have taken as well as experiences—talk about a particular professor you’ve learned from or clubs you started or joined. Discuss internships or observation hours. But, as I told Kara, do not simply list them; you don’t want to regurgitate your resume (remember, they have it!). Tell the school what’s not on your resume. Dig down deep and discuss specific moments within that internship where you’ve learned something significant and how you plan to apply what you learned.

Why? Graduate schools want students who have already been seeking knowledge.

Paragraph 3: Why do you want to go to grad school? What do you still have left to learn? Discuss skills that still need development or improvement. Kara was looking to strengthen her foundation and design skills with a master’s in architecture. She was also interested in expanding her knowledge of technology and how she could use it in the design process in order to achieve greater innovation. So look at your goals, and then ask, “What do I need to get better at in order to improve my chances of achieving my goal?”

Now here’s the part where Kara asks, “But, don’t I want to appear confident? Won’t it make me look weak to admit that I still have stuff to learn?”

No. Schools want students who are self-aware, who know their strongest and weakest areas. Kara needed to show the school that she knows what she needs to work on and what experiences she needs to gather in order to accomplish her goal. This also demonstrates that she actually will benefit from graduate school—and proves to the school even more that she is a serious candidate.

Paragraph 4: The school-specific portion of your essay addresses why Columbia, specifically. Here it is important to be extremely specific to show enthusiasm for a particular school. Do your research on classes, professors, and clubs, and discuss how they will help you accomplish your goal.

Why? The candidate must prove their desire to go to the school. Being specific about the school demonstrates Kara’s ability to research and gain knowledge—good traits for a prospective student. Additionally, when she got that interview—she had lots to discuss.

Final paragraph: Finish with a few short sentences about how Columbia is going to help you achieve your goal—and how you will contribute to Columbia—to change the planet (by using your master’s in architecture).

Kara, who is now at Columbia, called me the other day. She was still drinking a venti Americano, but this time she was excited—not panicked. She had just interviewed for an internship at a prestigious New York “green” architecture firm and wanted to tell me she had nailed it. And she had applied the work we had done together almost a year ago. She researched the firm, was specific about what she could contribute to its office environment, and communicated clearly to the interviewers how gaining experience at their firm was in line with her long term goals.

Evan Forster can be reached at [email protected]

Top Tips for a Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement

Introduction: dos and don’ts.

Cambridge Personal Statements for Architecture is a crucial component of your university application as it presents a unique opportunity for you to differentiate yourself from other applicants. You would be able to articulate your story and explain your interests beyond that of numbers on an admissions test. Furthermore, it gives the interviewer a chance to understand who you are, providing a platform to bounce off questions during your interview. 

They can tailor questions to your personality, interests, and commitment to who you are as a person and your amalgamation of experiences before you. To guide you through the arduous university application process, our Oxbridge application experts have compiled a list of top 10 Architecture Personal Statement Cambridge tips– do’s and don’ts– for your Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement for the 2024/25 application cycle.

General Advice for Architecture Personal Statement

Architecture at Cambridge not only teaches you about the construction and design of structures and buildings but it is also balanced with teachings in the philosophy as well as the history of architecture. You can also expect to be exposed to more modern topics such as urbanism and contemporary culture, being enriched in knowledge in both design and theory. 

As such, your Cambridge personal statement should illustrate how you demonstrate certain key qualities, such as that curiosity, creativity, and intellectual grounding. Moreover, when planning out your Architecture personal statement, make sure you research Cambridge’s achievements in architecture and include it in your writing to illustrate your interest in architecture. 

Furthermore, when you are completing your university applications, you would likely also be applying to four other universities or courses. Hence, it is understandable if your Architecture personal statement is vague and non-specific to Cambridge. The University of Cambridge understands this and will allow you to fill out an ‘Online Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ)’ shortly after submitting the UCAS application. As such, make sure you’ve created another condensed version of your Cambridge Architecture personal statement that can be directly submitted to Cambridge.

Top 5 Tips for Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement

Display interest in both design and theory.

Some students might have the misconception that architecture is a pure art or design-based course, and others might think that they would be only learning about architecture theory. However, the architecture degree offered at Cambridge encompasses both. Hence, it is important to highlight to Cambridge tutors that you understand and are excited about this. You can display this understanding by highlighting that you are excited about both aspects of the course. You can also further elaborate on this by stating similar relevant experiences that you have undertaken because of this interest. For example, this could include architecture competitions or workshops.

Illustrate in your Cambridge personal statement that you are widely read

Oxbridge tutors love when you show that you are deeply versed in reading. This is because it is a simple, realistic, and straightforward way of showing them that you are genuinely interested in the course you want to pursue. Think of it this way– if you are a fan of a certain pop star or celebrity, you would want to find out more about them. Similarly, if you have a genuine interest in architecture, you would have taken the initiative to learn more about it and read ahead. Rest assured, reading is not only restricted to books. It could also include short articles, magazines, or even podcasts, documentaries, or Youtube videos. For example, Architectural digest is a fun way to be introduced to certain architectural concepts. You can also incorporate the consumption of these media in your daily life by tuning in to a podcast instead of your usual playlist on your ride home from school.

Read around the subject you’re applying for

When writing your Cambridge personal statement, architecture should show as your passion. First of all, reading around the subject doesn’t necessarily mean reading books. Podcasts, magazine articles, documentaries or Research Papers relating to the field of Architecture are all great ways to engage with new content. Popping your headphones in on the way to school and listening to a discussion on thought-provoking areas of your subject is far less daunting than being faced with a huge book. Furthermore, you are going to university to study – you haven’t started yet! – and so the person reading your Cambridge personal statement doesn’t expect you to be an expert, just to have an interest! Exploring a topic that you find fascinating and can form opinions about is far more impressive and important than trying to find the most academic text out there.

Reflect on any experience mentioned and link it to architecture

The main flaw that applicants have when writing their Cambridge personal statements for architecture is assuming that Cambridge tutors want the most decorated applicant. This is actually not the case, as what they are really looking out for is the student who most matches the course they apply for. Hence, do not simply state an experience just because you think it is impressive– reflect on how it has shaped you, and extract a quality that you were equipped with. Lastly, link this quality to how it is relevant to architecture, and how it makes you the perfect architecture student.

Leave yourself enough time when writing your Cambridge Architecture personal statement

Although it is easy to leave the writing of your Cambridge personal statement to the last minute, especially whilst you are busy with your studies or other extracurriculars, always buffer enough time to write your Architecture personal statement. This includes factoring in enough time for the completion of multiple drafts. This is because your first draft would never be your best one, and you would want to continuously refine it based on received feedback. Leaving sufficient time for yourself would also ensure you would not miss out on any information you might have forgotten. If you are staring at a blank document and finding it difficult to start, you can try listing out all your experiences and achievements in the past 5 years. Next, list out all the desirable qualities specific to an architectural student, as well as what the architectural course would entail. You can then match your personal traits to the course, and start fleshing out your paragraphs from there. You can also use prompts to inspire your writing, such as: What about architecture excites me? Why do I want to study architecture? What do I know about architecture at Cambridge and its modules?

Top 5 things to AVOID for your Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement

Be misinformed about architecture and what to expect.

Always be sure to research the course thoroughly before applying. You can also speak to current or post-graduate students about how they find the course. Most students’ perceptions of the course that they are applying to are shaped by that of the media, or their limited high school experiences. Hence, this can lead to a one-dimensional, and not a necessarily accurate view of architecture. Having an accurate and realistic understanding of Cambridge’s architecture programme would not only give you an edge if this understanding is displayed in your Architecture personal statement, but it also ensures that you are able to identify if you are a good match for it.

Associate too many qualities with a singular experience

Although it is recommended to always reflect on an experience and explain how it has equipped you with certain qualities, do not go overboard with the number of things you have learnt from a singular experience. For example, it is not realistic to learn time management, leadership skills, compassion, and perseverance all from a two-day camp. Choose one specific quality that you would like to highlight when enumerating your experiences. There is more value in explaining, rather than listing.

Make sweeping statements without showing how it is related to architecture

With all that you have done in high school and more, you might feel pressed to fit everything into the word count. Hence, it is important to pick and choose the points that you would really like to elaborate on and highlight, instead of mentioning everything with a simple one-liner. Avoid general statements that don’t add value to your Cambridge Architecture personal statement, and make sure that you are always linking your points back to how you are well matched for architecture. For example, you can avoid talking about experiences that are completely irrelevant to architecture. If you feel that a certain experience is crucial to you and your journey, try and extract relevant qualities from it. For example, your part-time work taught you to be resourceful or creative in finding unconventional solutions to common everyday problems.

Writing an essay on your favourite theory or architecture

Although mentioning certain books, ideas, or theories is a good way to show that you are well-read or passionate about architecture, do not turn your Cambridge Architecture personal statement into an argumentative essay or informational sheet about a certain theory. Do remember that what Cambridge tutors are interested in when reading your Cambridge Architecture personal statement is you. These tutors are people who are already experts in their field, and would likely know any theory that you are writing on. When reading your Cambridge Architecture personal statement, they want to learn about you and if you are a good match for architecture, not a theory that they can learn from any textbook.

Being cliché and unprofessional

Keeping in mind that Cambridge tutors are reading your Architecture personal statement to determine if you are a good fit for the course, it could come off as unauthentic if you talk about a cliché or movie-like moment being your only motivation to study architecture. It is alright if your reasons for studying architecture are due to amalgamations of small, seemingly insignificant reasons– as long as you show valid and reasonable reasons for wanting to study architecture. Be authentic!

If you’re unsure about what you’ve included in your architecture personal statement Cambridge draft, why not book a FREE consultation with our specialists and book a personal statement check .

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PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Architecture Personal Statement

Submitted by Thomas

Study Architecture at Staffordshire

Challenge existing assumptions about Architecture and learn about how the cities of the future will look!

Architecture Personal Statement

From a young age, I knew that I would pursue a career in design. Whether it was creating and designing my flawless dream car or producing my own handcrafted mechanical paper guns; scissors, a roll of cello-tape, and a set of colouring pencils were the main tools that never left my hands. However, it was only until recently that I decided to guide my career path in the direction of Architecture .

Having completed a work experience placement at McCready Architects, one of Northern Ireland's leading architectural practices, I acquired vital knowledge and experience of what its really like to work as a professional Architect . In the office, I was given the opportunity to use ArchiCAD, a specialist CAD package used to produce 3-dimensional sketches of structures and buildings. This was the highlight of my work experience as I was able to apply the CAD skills I gained from my A-Level Technology and Design course, and put them into practice. I learnt that there is a lot more to being an Architect than just design. Overall, this was a great opportunity as it highlighted to me the practical side, as well as the technical side of the profession, and gave me an insight into the life of an Architect.

My interest in Architecture became focused last year when I went on a weekend trip to London. Here, I was given to chance to observe and appreciate the outstanding, beautiful structures and buildings that the city had to offer. Canary Wharf, was the most thrilling part of the trip for me. Its modern, futuristic style opened my eyes to the skill and craftsmanship behind the jaw-dropping structures and buildings the area had to offer.

The modern side of Architecture especially appeals to me, however, this trip also gave me a chance to admire many of the historical monuments and landmarks such as Big Ben and St Paul's Cathedral. Seeing the difference between the styles in the various parts of the city sparked something within me, a desire to pursue a career in Architecture. As well as studying for my A-levels, it is important to me to have a good balance between working hard in school and other extra-curricular activities. One of my favourite things to do in my spare time would definitely be playing the drums.

As well as playing along to my favourite bands, I am presently working towards gaining my grade 8 qualification. I have had the opportunity to play at many recitals for the Lisburn School of Music, and an Open Day for my school. Playing in a band with other members is quite a challenge but helps me display my coordination skills and work effectively with other band members to put on a top performance. I would also consider myself quite an active person as I play hockey for my school's 1st XI. Playing hockey not only keeps me fit, but has also helped me gain and improve my communication and team-working skills which are important attributes needed on and off the pitch. Being in the sixth form and realising that it is important to set a good example, I put myself forward and was elected as a school Prefect. This gives me the responsibility to look out for the younger pupils so they can see me as a figure they can look up to. These are key qualities that would serve me well for this course.

I would love to pursue a career in Architecture because it will allow me to bring together all of my strengths; determination and a growth mindset, enthusiasm and a positive attitude, creativity and a fascination for the field of art. Studying Architecture is a prospect that I am looking forward to and I am very excited for the wide array of career opportunities that this course will offer me. My dream is to be behind a structure or design that people will one day stop to admire.

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Architecture Personal Statement Example

Read below the student Architecture personal statement example . Hope it will help you write a personal statement  for the university.

My passion for design, meticulousness, creativity, and ambition will make me successful in achieving excellent academic and industry results in architecture, interior, and spatial design. With a deep understanding of physics, an excellent ability to manage projects, and a profound sense of creativity, I believe I can enhance the academic environment that your university provides.

After completing a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering, I have a proven high level of research skills, meticulous design techniques, and methodical idea generation and development, through to completion. Capitalising on my ability to solve problems and produce new ideas, with systematic improvements and reliability. I ensure the design creativity meets safety regulations while keeping the audience in mind.

My strengths lie in my capacity to understand, calculate and design precise concepts, with innovative creativity within cross-functional project teams. I can bring my natural creativity and innovative perspectives, alongside my engineering degree, which reaffirms my propensity for accuracy, function and endurance in design and structure, and apply it to architecture.

Demonstrating my ability and commitment to pursuing a career in this field, I have undertaken important and relevant courses to further develop my skills and build my portfolio. This includes a professional architecture course at The Interior Design School, gaining a firm grounding in the design process, interior elements and drawing techniques. I have also developed the visual vocabulary required to present work to clients. I have cultivated my skills in residential and commercial design through various innovative projects.

Completing the 3DS Max and Vray Advanced Course has given me the powerful, industry-standard tools needed to create architectural and interior visualisations. Using these professional programs I am able to create high-quality visuals for practical applications. I have learnt how to work in a production environment, proficiently utilise a variety of techniques and materials to texture models, produce realistic light sources, render scenes, use Photoshop, post-processing and perceive compositional techniques.

Successfully receiving an AutoCAD professional certification, the course provided intensive and comprehensive practical training, including building, editing, managing and organising drawings; object selection and manipulation; 3D modelling, surfacing and rendering; applications for DesignCenter; annotating, dimensioning and productive plotting. I have also completed an architectural sketching course.

These comprehensive courses reflect my drive and ambition to succeed in this dynamic world of design. I am confident to take a brief, analysing the requirements, providing a visual interpretation, presenting the final project and evaluating the process and outcomes. The ability to use industry-standard programs proficiently gives me a solid competitive advantage in today’s complex marketplace.

I have successfully completed a three-month work placement as a project advisor for office design. Utilising my design skills and creativity, I was responsible for the refurbishment and redecoration of the offices. I continually maintain my design techniques and knowledge by independently producing designs, and evaluating historical and contemporary spaces. I take inspiration from peer-reviewed journals such as John Wardle Architects, and trade magazines such as Detail, FX and Idfx.

With a combination of precise engineering and technical design skills, passion for imaginative design and motivation, I choose to succeed in this demanding and dynamic field of architecture. My creativity and natural curiosity push boundaries reflecting my innovative style to produce substantial, effective and striking designs while considering the physical environment and sensitivity in contemporary society. I believe these qualities and skills make me a competent candidate, motivated to succeed on this course and in future endeavours.

Architecture

Architecture – 2013 ( bath, oxford brookes ).

Architecture combines many disciplines, from physics to art, mathematics to history, it relies on the successful integration of a multitude of skills. I’ve enjoyed art since I was a child.

Architecture – 2013 ( Cambridge Interview, UCL, Bath, Edinburgh, Westminster )

As part of a two week work experience at a London based architectural firm, I was around for the design phase of one of their French projects. The practice ...

Please note UCAS will detect any form of plagiarism. PSE and its contributors do not take any responsibility for the way in which personal statements are used.

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Architecture personal statement example 8.

Creation is a powerful skill, an intriguing ability evolving from our originalities and perspectives. By formulating our own unique creations, we may endeavour to create a parallel between our imagination and the world in which we live.

Winston Churchill once emphasised the fact that "we shape our buildings, thereafter they shape us". In my mind, these buildings personify and embody the diverse cultures that exist today, reflecting the power and endless potential of man's genius. Self expression is what differentiates us as an individual.

It is my passion for Architecture that acts as a catalyst for inspiration and therefore provides me with a prominent sense of ambition and desire. GCSE and A-Level qualifications have given me an opportunity to appreciate the aesthetic beauty prevalent in the world today. This insightful demonstration has allowed my passion to evolve further, hence determining my decision to continue at a more advanced level.

I believe the course will challenge my creative potential, culminating in the formulation of my own, authentic designs. In effect, Architecture is a potent, influential force in my life that has given me a sense of direction and meaning. I agree with the ideology that an individual will rarely exceed his own expectations. Architecture installs in me a belief that I can achieve and reach new heights, therefore acting as a foundation for success and fulfilment in the future

To me, viewing a structure in person is substantially more potent than a mere image. Travelling has succeeded in broadening my horizons and opening up my mind, therefore allowing me to appreciate traditional British Architecture and the spectacles created by foreign predecessors.

Last year, I travelled with my school to Barcelona, a city with an abundance of style and creativity. Buildings such as the Palacio Guell and the Mila Casa are simply inanimate representations of one mans personal style, a testament to Gaudi's creative excellence. Moreover, I also completed work experience with a contractor at Eton College. This process of shadowing a professional permitted me to survey Architecture with a greater sense of clarity

It is only by completing this experience that I can truly comprehend the complexities of the profession. Although I view learning as a crucial area to focus upon in my life, I strive to be more complex than this, making myself a more well rounded individual. Essentially, maintaining a healthy body is a prerequisite to achieving a healthy state of mind. Therefore, I frequently visit the gym and participate in a variety of sporting activities, both traditional and unique.

Personally, I enjoy sports such as tennis, rowing and football. In effect, these events allow me to work within a team orientated environment, whilst maintaining my individualistic sense of achievement. Conversely, I also attempt to integrate my passion with Architecture into my free time. On many occasions I utilise ICT facilities such as CAD in order to release the flow of ideas within my mind. This contrast of leisure and learning enables me to develop a clear sense of balance within my life

In my opinion, it is certain moments in time that encapsulate all our beliefs and theories. During my visit to Barcelona, I had the privilege to view the Casa Mila, a perfect representation of originality. Viewing this intriguing structure first hand simply confirmed my passion, enlightening me on the endless possibilities that exist.

The Casa Mila is perceived in a myriad of contexts, by a myriad of people, accentuating Gaudi's genius long after his death. I do not intend to follow the path of any individual, yet follow a path unique to myself. A famous quote once stated "don't bother just to be better than contemporaries or predecessors. Try to be better than yourself". I believe University is the first part of my journey and look forward to participating in a rewarding, self fulfilling course.

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Related Personal Statements

Is all this sentimental.

Tue, 10/07/2007 - 01:19

is all this sentimental twaddle really what admissions tutors are looking for? The person who wrote this sounds better suited to a philosophy degree. Would love to know if they got accepted, and if yes then where.

was this person from a

Sun, 23/09/2007 - 19:54

was this person from a private school, by any chance?

this is fantastic!

Fri, 28/09/2007 - 15:08

I thought it was a personal

Tue, 30/10/2007 - 09:56

I thought it was a personal statement about architecture not Winston Churchill. But hell yeah go for it.

Is it a bad thing i don't

Wed, 31/10/2007 - 14:22

Is it a bad thing i don't know who winston churhill is!!!

i like it, its better then

Mon, 05/11/2007 - 17:04

i like it, its better then the generic "i have been on the school hockey team for 2 years, it has taught me too work in a team" statements on here.

i think i is good but you it

Fri, 16/11/2007 - 21:47

i think i is good but you it is too flowery. however you have alot of knowledge about the subject. tiy it up and you have it. it is good

where does winston churchill

Fri, 23/11/2007 - 12:45

where does winston churchill come into it? bring up ghengis khan if anything because he was the hardest mongolian warrior ever.

Wed, 26/12/2007 - 01:10

This personal statement is very very good. It is obvious that the writer is as creative, well-rounded and well-read as they suggest that they are. This is the personal statement of someone who gets accepted into the universiy of their first choice. Well done.

i think this statement is

Thu, 10/07/2008 - 11:53

i think this statement is clearly very good and im sure he got eccepted and from his ive worked with 'eton college' hes obviously applied to cambridge and was privately educated but thats not such a bad thing. it is slightly to decorated around the point but im sure the tutors caught on with his ambition. im really impressed with the quotationsss... yes the personal statement isnt about churchill but the quote is relaventtt.

From just another employer

Sun, 12/10/2008 - 21:55

This is so much plagiarised mumbo jumbo, which I seriously doubt was created by a 17 year old. Since when did simply viewing a building in Barcelona, endow a privilege on anyone? If universities are taken in by this jargon, it is a sad indictment on the type of students they are attracting to their institutions and more worrying for the types of professionals they believe business desire.

Good for undegraduate

Sun, 11/01/2009 - 06:02

The introduction of this essay is well crafted, the Winston Churchill quote is relevant and contributes to the flow of the overall paragraph. (its always good to throw in a quote here and there, implies that you read)

However, the subsequent paragraphs about visiting Barcelona are too cursory and superficial; simply admiring buildings does not automatically give anyone the right to become an architect or a designer.

With that stated it is a good essay for an undergraduate student with limited experience though.

you shouldnt use quotes, its

Wed, 14/01/2009 - 00:53

you shouldnt use quotes, its a PERSONAL statment make up your own!

This statement leaves the

Tue, 03/02/2009 - 22:35

This statement leaves the reader with a very good first impression.

Fri, 13/03/2009 - 14:43

does he base his architectural excellence on Churchill and his travelling experience and context on Gaudi?.... lame P.S. i love Gaudi's architecture but it is the first example from the architectural text book...there is so much more to architecture than admiring Gaudi

ive read every architecture

Fri, 09/04/2010 - 23:06

ive read every architecture statement on this site and this is by far one of the best. the mumbo jumbo jargon spoken of earlier IS what they want to hear because you couldnt spk the talk if u didnt hav some knowledge on it and even if parts r copied it shows they took time to research the subject, which shows interest

HIPHIPHIP HEYY

Mon, 18/10/2010 - 11:18

HIPIDY HIP WHAY HEY HEY, DING-DA DIP HOP HIP HAP HOOOW!

I think this statement is a

Wed, 19/01/2011 - 23:46

I think this statement is a bit too far... The language is so rich,that you get lost in the meaning... If I were to to accept students, I would definitely consider this statement, but would be very attentive to every detail on the interview... The stateent is suspicious

Sat, 19/10/2013 - 17:23

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