Landscape Architecture MA

My decision to study at Writtle University College was based on a number of positive factors. Most importantly the breadth of modules offered within the course appealed to me for the variety and scope they presented. There has always been encouragement to develop strong conceptual ideas throughout my course and I have really been able to be creative with my skills and knowledge.

My immediate goal now is to work towards becoming a chartered Landscape Architect and to develop ways of practicing that embraces other disciplines, such as urban economics, anthropology and politics.

My interest in urban regeneration led me to study Landscape Architecture so I could design for people's living environments. Writtle College seemed the appropriate place to study because of its knowledgeable lecturers, nice campus in the English countryside and the conversion course to prepare for the Masters.

My Phd was a logical step after completing my master in Landscape architecture. The excellent lecturers with a high variety of backgrounds/disciplines and with their personal touch convinced me that this was the right place for a Phd position.

Writtle helps you with exploring the subject you are interested in and attempts to unlock your full potential on this journey. The luxurious design studios, the beautiful location in the heart of agricultural land but near London, and working with the students from different disciplines are all reasons for me why I enjoyed my time here so much.

They say that doing a PhD is one of the toughest tests anyone can face in academic life and this is completely true. My Phd project entitled: ‘An ecosystem services analysis and evaluation of urban green spaces to promote human well-being in the design and planning of cities’ was challenging in several dimensions. In the beginning everything is new; the field the academic world and the work itself. The aim to develop an innovative assessment for systemic evaluating the different qualities of green infrastructure was a journey on itself. How can we improve the accessibility of green spaces for a continues growing urban society? How can we make cities more sustainable?

These questions challenged my full potential and asked for consultancy with many practitioners as well as with local communities. I learned a lot from their knowledge and experiences and it enriched my view of cities completely. Your supervisors are crucial in this process and my first supervisor Dr Peter Hobson and second Dr Saruhan Mosler provided essential guidance in this process. I will treasure the numerous long meetings I had with Peter where we discussed the research strategies and the vital value of green spaces for human health and well-being.

I have been offered an associate fellowship of the Centre for Econics and Ecosystem Management Society which has been established by Writtle University College and Eberswalde University for sustainable Development in Germany. Thus, the research work continues and I stay connected with the inspiring Writtle Community.