Sam Elbahja
📃 On paper
Module breakdown
Structures - it’s more of the physics side of the degree - understanding how a structure would stand
Constructions - more about the materials used
Studio - all the model making and drawing workshops
Paper 1 - Pre 1800
Paper 2 - Post 1800
👐🏻 General approach
To never be too attached your design, and even in a final crit your design is always subject to change and mold for the better. So always have the intention of wanting to grow and learn more.
You’re supervised on studio work in individual tutorials and group critical reviews, which encourage you to explore different approaches and develop essential design skills. The resulting portfolio accounts for 60 per cent of your overall marks each year.
Lectures, classes and visits to completed buildings or buildings under construction/restoration cover the rest of the curriculum. In addition to the two studio days, in the first year you typically attend six or seven lectures each week; and three classes and three small-group supervisions each fortnight, for which you’re required to complete essays and undertake preparation
There are international trips and external critics come in to review student work. Cambridge also offers lectures and seminars that enrich the academic aspect of the course.
💖 Student support
The student support is quite good, if there is something that you are struggling with there will always be someone around to support you, whether that’s a tutor or another fellow student.
There is a family system in Cambridge where you are given a college mum and dad, they are there to guide you and act as a 'go-to' if you have any questions about anything at all.
🛠️ Facilities
Cambridge has great model making workshops and plenty of studio space
📄 Application Process
The application process is quite intensive because there are different rounds of the process. So there is the personal statement stage, then the portfolio, then the exam and then the interview. And you have to be successful at every stage to progress.
😉 Insider Tips
Never be afraid to ask for materials! The studio often has a plethora of materials for you to use and they are there for you anyways. Never feel shy to ask!