Balancing work and study: How LSBU is helping me take my career in construction to the next level
If you’re looking to take your career in construction to the next level while balancing work and study, LSBU could be the perfect fit. Lauren McShane is currently studying a part-time MSc Construction Project Management through the non-cognate route, having previously studied Politics and International Relations. With a busy full-time role as a client-side construction project manager in the retail sector, she chose LSBU for its flexible hours, central location, and practical focus... plus the added benefit of professional accreditation through CIOB, APM, and RICS.
What did you study at LSBU, and why did you choose your subject?
I am studying Construction Project Management (Non-Cognate - PT). I chose this subject to upskill myself and gain technical accreditation to further my career (i.e. this degree is accredited by CIOB, APM and RICS), as I currently work as a client-side construction project manager doing projects in the retail sector.
LSBU is ideal for working professionals who are seeking to study alongside their work
Why did you choose LSBU over other universities?
LSBU is ideal for working professionals who are seeking to study alongside their work, and the hours are flexible which is ideal. It's also quite central and close to my office, so it's good for commuting purposes. It was also one of the few universities which offered a non-cognate route into construction which was crucial for me, as my bachelors was in Politics and International Relations!
What would you say are the main benefits of studying at postgraduate level?
You already have experience of how to study at a higher level and write critical papers from doing a Bachelors, so you are more prepared of the demands at a postgraduate level. Studying a master's also helps takes you to the next step in your career and give you that technical knowledge and accreditation to support you to excel in your professional role.
What have been your favourite aspects of studying here?
I really enjoyed meeting other people in my course who are in a similar position like me - juggling full-time work and studying - and using the high-quality facilities like the library and gym in between classes make studying more enjoyable.
LSBU is definitely helping me sharpen my time-management skills and ability to work under pressure! It's also giving me exposure to topics that I feel confident to refer to in my every day work, such as Construction Law
Have you faced any challenges during your studies?
Yes, my full-time job is quite demanding, so juggling studying and revising on the weekend alongside my job has been quite the adjustment, but I am already half through my part-time masters so I know completing this challenge will be quite satisfying!
What is your current focus or project?
My current focus in my degree is to start thinking of a topic for my dissertation and I am also currently learning how to drive a manual, so I am keen to get my license this year so I can start driving to site if need be.
Studying a master's helps you take the next step in your career and gives you the technical knowledge to excel
How do you feel your time at LSBU is preparing you for your future career?
LSBU is definitely making me sharpen my time-management skills and honing my ability to work under pressure! It's also giving me exposure to topics that I feel confident now to refer to in my everyday work i.e. Construction Law and Construction Technology.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in your field?
Network like your life depends on it both in-person and online, it's how I got into the industry - so connect with that industry professional you think looks interesting and offer to have a coffee meeting, with the coffee on you. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is sharp and active. Don't start looking for a job only at the end of your degree, start from September always because recruitment processes are very long nowadays. Make sure your CV is Harvard-style (keep it clean and simple) and ATS compatible - run it through Chat GPT if need be.
Are there any upcoming projects you’re excited about?
In my job I'm currently supporting a lot of clients who are getting ready for the Black Friday and Christmas period, so it's very busy right now!