Agustina Solassi

Your time at the University

After finishing university I worked in tourism in Edinburgh, and this has given me the opportunity to explore the city and learn more about its history. I worked in Cobble Tale Tours as an Architecture Tour Guide; I enjoyed meeting people from all over the world and walking through the incredible streets of Edinburgh.

I have also been volunteering with different organisations, which helped me expand my skills and knowledge in conservation. I have been working with some overseas projects in Buenos Aires, as well as working towards acquiring my full member accreditation of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC).

At the moment I am working with Sefton Council, protecting their built heritage. I really enjoy my work and I am super passionate about England’s built environment. The many interviews I had before acquiring this job were good practice and each of them has taught me new things. I am confident about my skills and what the University of Edinburgh taught me. I am always continuing with my professional development training with lectures and workshops and volunteer with diverse organisations to improve my skills.

My time at the University of Edinburgh was an amazing experience and I enjoyed every minute of it.

Your experiences since leaving the University

Since finishing university I have been working in tourism, and this has given me the opportunity to explore the city and learn more about its history. I work in Cobble Tale Tours as an Architecture Tour Guide; I enjoy meeting people from all over the world and walking through the incredible streets of Edinburgh. I have also been volunteering with different organisations, which helped me expand my skills and knowledge in conservation. I have been working with some overseas projects in Buenos Aires, as well as working towards acquiring my full member accreditation of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC). I am still in the process of applying for jobs in the area of conservation. My architecture experience is all overseas and I lack experience in this region. But the interviews are good practice and each of them has taught me new things. I am confident about my skills and what the University of Edinburgh taught me so I know I will find the right job for me soon. In the meantime, I will continue with my professional development training with lectures and workshops, volunteer with diverse organisations to improve my skills and share my knowledge of Edinburgh with new visitors interested in the city.

Your advice to new graduates

Applying for jobs can be a stressful process; I know it has been for me. But I've gained some knowledge and experience from it. It's important to give the right amount of time to each application - don't rush it. Put all your knowledge and skills into it, even the ones you don’t think are relatable to the job. It will be the first impression the company will have of you. Accept all the interviews you get, they are great practice and they help build your confidence. In the meantime, do some volunteer work in your field, it will improve your CV and you will gain amazing experience and contacts on the way. But above all enjoy your free time, do not overstress or feel discouraged. Keep a positive attitude and keep improving your skills with every opportunity you have.

Alumni wisdom

Plan your future, but do not forget to enjoy the present. Keep being positive and building relationships. Do not forget to be kind and remember that a smile is always the perfect start. With hard work, passion and commitment everything is possible.

Related links

Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture