Chris Pollock

NAME: Chris Pollock
JOB: Commercial building surveyor
EMPLOYER: GVA Grimley Ltd
QUALIFICATIONS: BA archaeology, Durham University; PgDip building surveying, London South Bank University

After leaving university I worked in management consultancy but became frustrated by the lack of tangible results. I decided to take some time out, look at my skill set and research other career options. Building surveying seemed to offer a good match for me. It was important to show my interest in the construction industry, so I joined several agencies and secured some experience working for an asbestos consultancy for three months.During this time I applied to surveying firms I found on the RICS website, concentrating on those with the largest annual turnover. Eventually I got an interview with the research department of my current employer. My intention was to get my foot in the door and then transfer to building surveying. However, once I confessed my plan, an interview was arranged for me within the building consultancy department, where I landed a job.

Studying and working

I enrolled part time with London South Bank University on a two-year day-release scheme, which allowed me to attend college one day a week and work for the remainder. I also began the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) at the same time. Working and studying simultaneously was a challenge, requiring commitment and discipline to keep up with everything. Carrying out practical tasks alongside your studies gives you a context for the work though, and means you better understand the concepts.

Skills from my first degree

In my experience those graduates without surveying degrees (non-cognates) make good recruits as they have consciously decided to pursue this career after university. Archaeology gave me a good foundation of skills, teaching me to interpret evidence systematically. This is the same with many analytical degrees. I’d caution students undertaking the RICS qualification as non-cognates against trying to complete the APC in two years though – the workload is too heavy. It took me another 18 months to qualify. My advice to those considering a conversion course is to do your research. It’s very important to understand the route of entry and the APC – employers will expect you to be able to explain why you want to be a surveyor.