Nedal Harris
“The Academy made university, a professional career and the creative industries feel not only accessible but achievable.”
Defining Real World Success
Real world success, to me, means doing work that feels meaningful, staying curious, and continually growing both professionally and personally. Hammersmith Academy played a huge part in shaping that mindset. At HA, I was encouraged to explore my strengths, think ambitiously and set clear, realistic goals. Being surrounded by supportive teachers and motivated peers helped expand my sense of what was possible. The Academy made university, a professional career and the creative industries feel not only accessible but achievable.
Beyond academic knowledge, HA gave me confidence. I learned discipline, independence and how to approach challenges strategically. I built resilience, strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate-qualities I rely on every day in my work as a Part 1 Architectural Assistant, postgraduate architecture student, and now the director of the architectural practice where I originally completed my work experience.
One of the most valuable lessons I learned at HA was that ambition is about perseverance—breaking big goals into manageable steps and treating setbacks as opportunities to improve. That mindset has been essential in a demanding field like architecture.
Preparation for University, Careers and Life
The academic rigor at HA prepared me extremely well for university. By the time I finished Sixth Form, I was already comfortable managing deadlines, researching independently and presenting my ideas. That made the transition to architecture school much smoother, especially when it came to handling long-term projects and regular critique.
Skills like teamwork, communication, resilience and time management were built into almost everything we did at Hammersmith Academy. Whether through group projects, enrichment activities or the wider culture of the school, I learned how to work effectively with different personalities, manage multiple commitments and stay organised under pressure. These skills have proved invaluable both in university and in my professional career. They shaped the way I collaborate with colleagues, handle demanding workloads and approach complex design challenges with confidence and clarity.
These skills were embedded into everything—from classroom projects to enrichment activities—and have proven invaluable both in university and in professional practice.
When I started university, I quickly realised that I felt “ahead of the game.” While many students were still adjusting to independent study, I already understood how to structure my time, respond to feedback and take initiative.
HA also prepared me well for the workplace. The school’s emphasis on digital skills and project-based learning meant I entered the industry with confidence, ready to work on real projects and collaborate in a professional environment.
Opening My Eyes to the World of Work
Hammersmith Academy gave me the exposure I needed to understand the wide range of career paths available. Before joining HA, I only had a vague idea of what architecture involved. Through careers events, guest speakers and real-world experiences, I was able to see what a future in design could look like.
Careers Days and Insight Programme speakers were particularly influential. Hearing professionals talk openly about their journeys made creative industries feel much more accessible.
My work experience placement—something HA helped me secure—was a turning point. I gained first-hand insight into how design, communication and problem-solving come together in an architectural practice. That same placement became my Part 1 role, and today, I’m the director of that very practice.
The Careers Team supported me every step of the way. They helped me explore pathways, refine my personal statement and portfolio, and identify opportunities that suited my interests. Their guidance gave me the confidence to apply for competitive university courses and roles.
One especially practical moment of support was when I was preparing my architecture portfolio. Teachers and the Careers Team gave me detailed feedback that helped strengthen my submission and ultimately secure offers.
Opportunities That Made the Difference
Some of the most impactful experiences I had at HA were enrichment activities, design projects and trips. These experiences helped me develop creativity, curiosity and confidence—skills I now recognise as essential to my career.
HA teachers believed in me and pushed me to aim high. Their encouragement helped me turn ambition into real, achievable goals, such as pursuing architecture school and continuing along the Part 1 and Part 2 qualification path.
Being part of a school that valued experiences beyond the classroom made a huge difference. Education at HA felt holistic—it wasn’t just about exams, but about personal growth, developing independence and understanding the wider world.
The diversity at HA also prepared me well for my career. Working with people from different backgrounds taught me empathy, communication and adaptability—skills that are crucial in architecture, where collaboration is at the heart of everything.
A Foundation for Real World Success
Looking back, it’s clear just how much Hammersmith Academy shaped my journey. The school helped me build confidence, develop practical skills, and discover a career I’m truly passionate about.
From securing work experience, to preparing applications, to building the mindset needed to thrive in university and the workplace—HA gave me the foundations to succeed in the real world.
I’m proud of the path I’ve taken so far, and I know it began with the support, opportunities and belief I found at Hammersmith Academy.
Attaining Success in The Real World
