Graduate surveyor — Issy Woods

After completing the BA History and Sociology at the University of Leeds, Issy joined the Gerald Eve graduate programme as a graduate surveyor while studying towards a Masters degree in real estate

How did you get onto the Gerald Eve graduate programme?

During the summer before applications opened, I worked as a temporary receptionist for two property developers. This exposure to the industry made me realise how much I enjoyed the environment and the work, which provided me with a basic understanding of the sector.

As I am dyslexic, I learn better through practical experience. Because of this, I decided that applying for the Masters route of the graduate scheme would benefit my learning more than doing the Masters myself.

I then did some research into firms that offered the Masters route into the industry, and Gerald Eve was one of those that offered the programme.

Going through the application process highlighted the transferable skills I had gained from my undergraduate degree, which helped me secure a place on the scheme. Emphasising these skills helped showcase my ability and how I could effectively contribute to their team.

What's a typical day like on the scheme?

I am in my third rotation in retail lease consultancy. Some days, I am in the office, working on reports and collecting comparables, which involves a lot of data analysis and market research. On other days, I am out on inspections all around London, experiencing a variety of retail stores. This aspect of the role really helps me gain the necessary practical insights.

What do you enjoy most about the programme?

There is a huge variety of people to meet and speak to daily, which continually improves my network.

I also really enjoy being able to get out and about to see different parts of London, as well as the country.

Finally, the working environment at Gerald Eve encourages growth, which enables me to keep on developing my skills.

What are the challenges?

My biggest challenge is balancing work with my Masters degree in real estate. Managing both can be difficult, but the experience has been incredibly rewarding. I find that learning on the job is much more effective than just attending lectures. Being part of this programme has been hugely beneficial to my development, as has the support from the firm, which is crucial in helping me manage the demands of both roles.

In what ways is your degree relevant?

The analytical skills developed through my degree have really been put to good use in this role. At university, I had to learn how to research as well as analyse the data that I found, and then present it clearly. This has helped me in the report writing that I have done for my previous rotations, as well as when I am researching information about properties.

How has your role developed and what are your career ambitions?

Having completed two of my five rotations, I am now able to support new graduates with the knowledge I have gained. As well as being rewarding, it also reinforces my own understanding of the markets we work in.

When I first started, I focused on mastering the fundamentals of the job, such as basic valuation techniques. Over time, I've gained a stronger understanding of these core areas. I'm now working on building relationships with surveyors outside of the firm to expand my professional network. This often helps provide fresh perspectives.

In the short term, my ambitions are to gain my Masters in real estate, as well as pass my APC (Assessment of Professional Competence), in the next year-and-a-half.

What three tips would you give to others looking to apply for this scheme?

• Always be yourself when interviewing for jobs. Employers value authenticity, and it helps to find a firm that's the right fit for you.
• Demonstrate your ability to learn, as real estate is a diverse field with many areas to explore and adapt to. Being willing to explore new disciplines also adds to your own skill set.
• Get relevant work experience. It is important to have an understanding of what field you are looking to enter. This also helped to provide focus regarding my career goals.

Find out more

• Consider 9 graduate careers for surveyors.
• Explore Masters degrees.
• Read more about the graduate programmes at Gerald Eve.