Meet Lakesiha, a Graduate Surveyor, Residential - London Development at JLL

Starting year at your organisation - 2023

Undergraduate university attended- University of Warwick

Undergraduate course studied - History and Politics

Year of graduation - undergraduate - 2023

Postgraduate university attended - University of the Built Environment

Postgraduate course studied - MSc Real Estate

Year of graduation - postgraduate- October 2025

I first came across JLL in Summer 2022 as a Commercial Intern! I was a part of the Sales and Solutions team. I enjoyed site visits and seeing the buildings JLL worked with during the 6 weeks, but I quickly realised commercial wasn't for me. I have a passion for social housing, and wanted to work within a space that reflected this. So, I reapplied for the JLL residential Graduate scheme and haven't looked back ever since!

The typical day in the life of a graduate involves finding comparable evidence for valuations and report writing. I also get the chance to go on site, conduct internal and external inspections of new build schemes, as well as price a range of property types.

I love the consultancy side of my role! This involves taking a scheme from idea stage to build complete and working alongside developers to see their vision come into fruition. I love seeing how our advice materialises. For example, suggesting a change to things that add value to a property, the layouts, specification or the unit mix- I think it's fascinating.

Every job has its more mundane side...as a valuer at timers that can be gathering comparables. I think the research can be fun at times, but when working on a project located in the middle of no where, the last thing you want to be tasked with is finding comparables, let alone speaking with local agents.

I completed my masters part time with University of the Built Environment. I am also being supported to complete my APC with the RICS.

The support you receive during every stage of your to being chartered. You meet colleagues and supervisors along the way who really hold your hand as well as challenge you to reach your best potential!