Emma Garske

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the position of Part II Architectural Assistant. I have recently graduated with a Master's degree in Architecture from Oxford Brookes University and am enthusiastic about putting the skills and knowledge I have learnt over my years of work and academia into practice.

I believe that I would be an asset due to my ability to complete both individual and group design projects to strict deadlines and a high quality, demonstrating effective communication and teamwork. In my previous role as an Architectural Assistant at Adventure in Architecture, I had the opportunity to work closely with experienced architects on both high end residential and commercial projects in RIBA work stages 0-4. I have gained experience working independently on measured surveys, and CAD orthographic drawings. Furthermore, I have submitted planning applications, made several design and access statements, and learnt how to make electrical and mechanical plans. My refined organisational skills, adherence to budget and timescale, and ability to multitask effectively allowed me to contribute to the firm's success. 

I have displayed initiative and adaptability in different areas of my professional life, including during my tenure as a receptionist. Managing other reception staff during busy days such as New Years and weekends, taking on waitress and back of house duties when necessary. I have successfully resolved customer disputes empathetically and believe that the customer facing skills I have acquired will translate into being adept at liaising and building rapport with a range of clients. Moreover, I excelled at cover targets regularly while maintaining high standards for customer experience, as shown in our regular mystery diner feedback.

I believe that I possess the qualities needed to thrive as an architectural assistant and thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,

Emma Garske

Receptionist – The Ivy Oxford Brasserie– August 2022/Present (Part-time)

As a receptionist, I was in charge of organising bookings, ensuring the flow of service and that the guest experience was faultless. It was a fast-paced and high-pressure environment, especially on holidays such as Mother’s Day and New Year’s Eve.

Architectural Assistant – Adventure in Architecture – October 2020/June 2021 (Full-time)

I have liaised with clients and contractors through email, phone calls and zoom meetings. Independently and with co-workers I have conducted measured surveys to then create CAD drawings. Based on those drawings I created PDF presentations to then submit as a tender pack for a planning application. Involved in stages 1-4 of the RIBA plan of work, with a high amount of involvement and juggling multiple projects at a time to strict deadlines.

Sales and Service Advisor – Unite Students – November 2019/July 2020 (Part-time)

I worked on the front of house reception for student halls. This job included a variety of responsibilities including admin tasks, sales, and events. I was a key worker during the pandemic, working in four different buildings and took on more responsibility as there was a skeleton crew at that time. I learnt practical aspects of a building in stage 7 of the RIBA stages of work, such as dry and wet risers, fire escape procedures and accessibility.

MArchD – Oxford Brookes – September 2021/2023

Completed Applied Design in Architecture

BArch (Hons) – University of Portsmouth – 2017/2020

Received Upper Second-Class Honours for a Bachelor of Architecture