I visited an Open Day and I loved the general vibe on the campus. This alone influenced my decision to study at Loughborough.
I selected the Urban Planning BSc at Loughborough because it is a new course which means compared to a lot of other accredited courses, the course is much more relevant and up to date. I found the lecturers incredibly engaging than other universities which was also a big draw.
As a keen hockey player, the integration of sport alongside academic studies and how they are both highly regarded really stood out.
Loughborough’s Urban Planning BSc offers a unique blend of design and theory, making learning both engaging and relevant. I especially enjoyed the Urban Economics and Development Appraisal module, which applied economic principles to real-world urban challenges.
The teaching is excellent, with interactive lectures due to smaller groups and a really supportive atmosphere.
The campus facilities are top-notch, and there are plenty of places to study, whether alone or with friends. I also loved the field trip to Nottingham, where we explored the city and applied our skills to redesign a specific element. The lecturers and tutors are really approachable and always available to help.
We call this affectionately as the 'L'boro bubble'!
Outside of the academic setting, the campus is like a little village because you always see someone you have met which makes you feel part of the Loughborough family. The friendly campus community makes you feel right at home.
I spent my placement at Ridge and Partners LLP as a Placement Planning Consultant. My responsibilities were planning statements, objection letters, site appraisals, design and access statements, representations to local plans and call for sites, managed small and medium applications.
The best thing about it was being given the responsibility of managing my own projects. I also got involved in some pretty big projects such as a new Innovation Village at the Royal Agricultural University, and a project at Silverstone for Aston Martin.
Loughborough provides the perfect balance of sport, academia and socialising. The close-knit community is fuelled by so many people sharing their love of sport, whether it be through playing or watching. It can be tough at times but there is always a way to make study and sport work.
You need to be incredibly organised but you will always make time to do the things you love and reap the benefits of being a Loughborough student.
I am hoping to either have a career as a Planning Consultant or an Urban Economics Consultant. The degree uses real world scenarios which help to develop the skills and knowledge that are directly transferrable to job roles.
I would highly recommend this programme to those who are passionate about the built environment, and understanding how the built environment develops.
Always do things you enjoy, and if you think you will enjoy this course, go for it!!