National Apprenticeship Week: Zain Al-Hroub

What was it about Pick Everard that attracted you to them?

I met representatives from Pick Everard at a careers fair whilst I was at university studying my Part 1. Towards my final year, I saw that Pick Everard had a vacancy that I wanted to apply for and through the engagement at the careers fair, I knew I wanted to join the Practice. As I am from Jordan, Pick Everard have happily sponsored and supported my visa too.

Could you tell us a little bit about your programme of study and how it’s structured?

I am studying my Part 2 in Architecture at the University of Cambridge. The course is structured flexibly, through block study, for 2 weeks each term. This allows me to fully focus on my studies when at university and therefore fully focus at work when I am back in the office.

What advice do you have for an individual who is considering studying via an apprenticeship?

I believe that apprenticeships provide you with the best of both worlds. Learning from not only colleagues in the office, but also from the other apprentices that I am studying with. It’s important to weigh up the pros and cons to decide where you want to go, but ultimately studying via an apprenticeship provides a great work-life balance.

What has been the highlight of your apprenticeship journey so far?

My course leader at the University of Cambridge frequently arranges site visits to award winning buildings. This allows me to stay inspired and link back to my theoretical and practical work, both at university and at Pick Everard.