I recently graduated with a first-class BSc degree in Quantity Surveying from the University of Reading.

I came to the UK from Korea where I achieved a first in a BSc in Architectural Engineering. During my QS degree, I did a work placement with Gardiner & Theobald. G&T applied for a Training and Work Experience Scheme (TWES) permit on my behalf. I gained valuable experience with G&T. But, had I known the trouble that this work permit would bring me, I would never have taken the placement.

After graduating, I was offered a job with EC Harris. However, my new work permit application, which was made through EC Harris, was rejected due to my previous TWES permit with G&T. Following the rejection of my work permit this August, I prepared for the appeal with a supporting letter from the RICS, five letters from professors at the University of Reading and a letter from G&T.

But, the appeal that EC Harris made for my work permit was rejected again, and the firm cancelled my contract in September without advance notice.

Since then, I have gained a one-year work visa (the Science and Engineering Graduate Scheme permit), which cost £1,600, and had many job interviews. Several companies have offered me jobs, but it is likely that I will have to leave the UK when my one-year work visa expires. So, I have been forced to decline the offers, as I want to have a future plan for more than one year.

I have dreamt of being a chartered QS for more than five years. I have decided to go to Davis Langdon in Australia now and return to the UK in a few years. I hope the RICS work permit campaign is successful this time.

Sooyoun Kim, via email

Source

QS News