Case studies: Commercial property surveyor: Nicole Fish

Nicole has a degree in physiology from The University of Manchester and a Masters in real estate management from UWE Bristol. She works as a graduate trainee commercial property surveyor for a property consultancy.

I studied biology, psychology, geography and P.E. at A-level but was unsure of what I wanted to do in the future. I decided that going to a well-renowned university to study a scientific, demanding subject would provide me with a solid base for whatever I eventually chose to do. I thoroughly enjoyed the complexity and relevance of the physiology course at The University of Manchester , which I truly believe has provided me with the fundamental skills needed to advance my career.

Following my undergraduate degree, I went on to do a Masters in real estate management with a view to becoming a commercial property surveyor. I am currently on the graduate scheme of a property consultancy, during which I will complete my professional qualifications to gain chartered surveyor status.

Although people are often confused by my path into the property sector, for me it made perfect sense. Property investment is a highly analytical, statistical and demanding field - skills which I developed through my undergraduate study. For example, studying the intricacies of the way in which the human body works developed my attention to detail, appreciation for complex systems and mathematical ability. I use all of these skills on a daily basis to ensure that clients invest money in property logically, budgets are calculated strategically and that properties are managed efficiently.

Throughout my degree I also learnt to be methodological and precise. These skills are easily transferred into my day-to-day working life, allowing me to be organised and easily understood. Communication in the workplace is key.

My job is highly enjoyable because I always have a different query to deal with and have to be strategic in my approach to work. I spend time both in and out of the office, which means I come across a range of people from a variety of sectors. 

My advice to those who are currently studying physiology and who are unsure about what to do with their career is to think outside the box. Your degree has taught you so much that you may not even be aware of yet, for example the ability to be methodological and strategic in your approach to any task. Make sure you research what you would like to do and try and gain relevant work experience to support applications for postgraduate study or jobs.

AGCAS

Sourced by AGCAS editors

Date: 

September 2011

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