Ayaka Takaki - Part 2 RIBA Office-based Examination graduate, 2012

I graduated in March 2012 with the RIBA Part 2 Diploma in Architecture. I am currently working for a practice in London which specialises in historic building conservation.

In order for me to complete this Examination, sheer determination was the most important factor. When undertaking this route to become a fully qualified architect, there is very little time to spare and it can feel that Part 2 deadlines are being chased constantly. This can be a difficult balance when you have work deadlines as well, and time management is shown to be a definite and key skill.

With my office mentor and tutor's support, I managed to stay focused and organised, and I believe I gained confidence by completing the course, as it demonstrated what I can achieve when I really put my mind to it.

Through undertaking the Examination, I gained a number of valuable architectural skills from the coursework elements. For example, I learned how to use Revit without any previous knowledge, and I am now more fluent in using software such as Photoshop and InDesign. Together with improved skills in my hand drawing, I believe my report writing is speedier and I am generally better organised overall than I was previously. My awareness of the wider context of the role of architect has been enhanced, as I have learned more about, amongst other things, the role of sustainability in architecture.

I developed an excellent relationship with my tutor whom I saw every month or more for tutorials, and we also exchanged ideas frequently via email and telephone. She supported me at all times with real encouragement and helped to improve my ability and broaden the way I think about architecture. I read many books, and carried out lots of sketching under her guidance.

My office mentor and colleagues were very supportive too, providing me with advice and moral support, which I greatly appreciated. It was particularly helpful to have tutorials with the Structural Engineer and the Mechanical & Electrical Engineer for my design project. They gave me a lot of information which was extremely useful, and I would recommend that other candidates use available resources in this way too.

The balancing of work in a busy office, studying for my Part 2, and maintaining an enjoyable social life has proven to be a great challenge, but I feel I have managed to achieve this. Support from my tutor and friends, plus my strong determination, have allowed me overcome all challenges to date to continue my education and experience to become a fully qualified architect.