Megan Churcher

Why did you decide to study this course at Solent?

I started my career in construction in 2015 and when I started I had never heard of a quantity surveyor before. With the support of my employer I decided to further my knowledge of the job and the world of construction by going to university. I knew Solent had a very good quantity surveying and construction management course from speaking to people I work with, so I looked on the Solent website for more details and applied. I started my HNC in Quantity Surveying that September and graduated in 2017. Since then I have pushed myself further to receive my BSc in Construction Management. I have stayed with Solent University and continue to receive wonderful support from the lecturers who understand your needs and aspirations, and will go above and beyond to ensure you walk away from the University proud of what you have achieved and ready to succeed in your career. I left Solent in summer 2021, thankful to all the wonderful lecturers who have supported me.

What’s been your favourite part of the course, and what are the biggest challenges?

My favourite part of the course has been meeting like-minded people from all different backgrounds within construction. It has been so interesting how we have all been able to learn from each other and expand our knowledge and skills together. I have met some wonderful people who helped me through the stressful moments, and we have all pushed each other to the finishing line.

In all honesty, the biggest challenges have been in balancing part-time studies with working full-time. I didn’t expect it to be quite so difficult, but I wouldn’t change the experience I have had. It has been amazing having my colleagues around me who have years of experience and technical knowledge, and are always so happy to help.

How do you find the balance between full-time work and studies?

My tip for those who are looking to do part-time studies while working full-time is to schedule your time! Every Sunday I sit and plan the week ahead – whether it is work or fitness or assignments or revision, have time slots for it all and stick to it as best you can during the week. By doing that I have been able to find the right balance of work/study while still doing all the other things I enjoy, such as seeing friends and doing my fitness classes. Also, don’t be too hard on yourself if it doesn’t always go the way you planned – keep your head high, keep going, try your best and that is all anyone can ask of you. And make the most of your time at Solent because five years goes by so fast!

What has been the biggest highlight of your studies so far?

The highlight of my studies has been proving to myself that I can do it if I put my mind to it. Anyone that knows me will tell you my history of education is not the best, but I got an opportunity at 18 and since then I have worked hard at it to better myself and prove that I am capable of anything I put my mind to. Also being able to make a change – women in construction are few and far between, especially young women. So, to be able to say that I am one of them and am paving the way for future women to join the industry is a huge highlight from the past five years.