As thousands of young people received their A-level results yesterday, we asked people in the construction world to recall their own A-level results day – and how it impacted on their later career choices. Here’s what they told us:
Alan Muse, global director of built environment professional groups at RICS
I obtained nine O-levels (as they used to be called) and three A-levels (in mathematics, geography and economics – perfect for quantity surveying!). These grades got me into the University of Salford to do a BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying and I graduated with a 2:1. My A-level results were economics A, geography B, maths, E.
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I attended Rastrick Grammar School in West Yorkshire. Rastrick is famous for its world-class brass band. The school had its own sixth form which I progressed into. I paid little attention to languages, which I now regret. I had not been introduced to economics until A-level, but it soon turned into my best subject because the teacher was so good. I have maintained a lifelong interest in economics and it has been very useful in my career and personal life. It is true that you never forget a good teacher.
Julia Evans, chief executive, BSRIA
Anyone who has ever taken an exam will be feeling for the recipients of A and AS-level results today and for those receiving GCSE results next week. Did they matter those results? Well yes and no. Yes because they were the route to university and opportunities that might have been denied otherwise and no in that there are always other opportunities even if Plan A doesn’t come off.
For me they opened one particular door of opportunity and a university career recalled largely by the friends for life I made there. But if I hadn’t gone to university then other things would have come along. As to future careers I have had a portfolio career in many different kinds of business; the thing about education for me was just learning never to say no to an interesting opportunity.
Richard Robinson, chief executive, civil infrastructure, EMEA & India, Aecom
I still remember it clearly. The paper seemed a little like a payslip and was quite confusing. It took me a moment to work out what grades I actually got. I recall being happy as I got the grades for Nottingham University, but was disappointed with a B in physics, though I passed physics S-level, which was harder than A-level.
