WSA celebrates first Master of Design Administration graduate

Elisa Migliorini is the Welsh School of Architecture’s first Master of Design Administration (MDA) graduate and winner of the Society of Construction Law prize for best overall performance in the MDA.

We caught up with her to find out why she chose to complete the course and how it has helped her with her future career aspirations.

Why did you choose to study the MDA?

I chose the MDA to better understand the procurements and contracts world in the UK, since I developed my education in a different country.

What did you enjoy about the course?

I appreciated the variety of topics on the construction sector, ranging from contracts and regulations to procurements and management strategies to approach each project phase. I also very much enjoyed meeting with industry experts. The interaction between different backgrounds of experts, students and Professors has resulted in very interesting analysis during the course. I also appreciated the understanding of the teaching staff in the School in regards to the working students and their needs.

What have you learned that has helped you enhance your career prospects?

I now understand what other figures and roles are emerging in the construction market and the developing needs. I became aware of what is considered good management and developing a project, acquiring confidence over matters such as procurement form of contracts and construction law. I am convinced that increasing my knowledge is essential to understanding and facing different scenarios, thus improving opportunities.

How have your tutors helped you to complete the course?

The tutors are very helpful and understanding and very exhaustive in giving advice and ideas on how to approach the tasks during the course. Moreover, they offer useful information on where and how to find sources for your research, optimising your time.

What are your hopes / aspirations for the future?

My hope is to proactively put the new knowledge acquired into practice and move towards design/project management. Furthermore, I want to implement my confidence and be able to work in any country.

Would you recommend the course?

I would highly recommend this course as it offers a huge amount of practical information related to the construction field in the UK and worldwide. It is also very beneficial for those with different backgrounds but aiming to approach new boundaries of expertise. The Professors are also very keen on helping you pursue your goals and guide your research to achieve them. To conclude, meeting people from different backgrounds and experiences is an opportunity that can hardly be found outside the university, the MDA offers this chance by creating new collaboration networks.

Elisa finished the MDA with a merit. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, she has now returned home to Italy and is currently working for The Italian Sea Group on a project called “Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63“ – we wish her the very best with her future career!

To find out more about the MDA programme, please visit the course pages.