My name is Georgiana S., I am from Suceava and I have just graduated “Petru Rareș” National College.
Începând cu anul următor voi studia la UCL, The Bartlett School of Architecture din Londra, UK, cea mai bună universitate de arhitectură din lume.
I knew I wanted to become an architect, since the first grade. As a child, I used to look through my parents’ interior design magazines and then create my own dolls’ houses out of cardboard. However, after my parents divorced and I had moved with my mom, things changed and I focused more on my education. Shortly after, my father passed away and his loss changed me, as I became more mature, a bit too early. He was the one that kept telling me to work hard for my dream and this advice stayed with me and offered me the determination and the ambition I needed to move on.
Later on, I signed up for the National Organization of Romanian Scouts where I got to see the world differently. I discovered my passion for photography and for travelling. The people I met and the countless hiking and camping trips showed me that “home” is more than just a simple plan on an architect’s paper. It’s a place filled with memories and emotions, that will always remind you that you belong to something. This is why I want to help others to create their own ideal place.
Since I knew I wanted to become an architect, no effort seemed too big. During the last two summers I worked in Switzerland for one month and a half, 12-15 hours a day and also in Romania, at an English summer camp for children, as assistant manager. I worked hard because it was the only way through which I could afford to prepare for university, in Bucharest. Each week, I would spend my weekends commuting 14 hours and going to architecture classes 4-5 hours a day, both on Saturday and Sunday.
Even though my financial situation and my path to become an architect had begun to consolidate, a new obstacle appeared in my life. Last year, my mom passed away, too and I had to move in with my best friend. Being suddenly part of a world where the idea of family took new shapes, my dream to be an architect gives me strength one more time.
With all the difficulties I have been through, I met many people that reminded me to never give up. My participation at Oxford for Romania Summer School 2019 offered me a glimpse of hope that I can become an architecture student. Initially, I signed up to see if England would suit my professional path. In addition, I met people that showed me how important it is to help others. Although I have a lot to learn until I will build my own “home”, I will take something out of each experience, knowing that one day this will happen.
The fact that I was accepted to study at UCL, proved to me that dreams can come true, no matter the hardships that appear on our way. This accomplishment is just the first step to achieving my dream of creating for others that sense of belonging through my future projects. The next step is to afford to go to this notorious university.
Despite the fact that the tuition fees are covered, the living costs in London are pretty high. I will continue working every summer and I estimate that I could cover a third of my expenses, but, unfortunately, it is not enough. This is why I am asking for your help.
Thank you!
