Juggling between his work schedules and studying has been a difficult journey yet rewarding for Richard Brian Ive, who graduated Cum Laude, on the 24 April 2015.
The 27 year old Durbanite, who has finished his Bachelor of Technology (BTech) degree in Architectural Technology, graduated during the University’s April graduation ceremonies held at the Fred Crookes Sports Centre, DUT Steve Biko Campus.
Privileged and honoured to have received Cum Laude, Ive admits that his studies were no easy journey for him. “Btech is a long, hard journey filled with obstacles and hurdles. It has been one of the most difficult things I have done in my life. I’ve made use of the invaluable professional knowledge and guidance handed down by my lecturers,” he said
Choosing a career in Architectural Technology for Ive was a decision based on his passion for Architecture during the final stages of his high school life in Northwood Boys High. Ive, who initially wanted to study graphic design, had spent most of his life visiting building sites with his mother who has been in the Architectural field for over 35 years. “I spent much of my childhood visiting building sites and drawing with my mother’s pens and pencils,” he said.
The biggest challenge for Ive while studying towards his Btech was his choice to do it part-time. Ive attended evening classes and worked during the day, however his five year experience in the field contributed a lot to his current achievement. “My time in the field has helped me gain valuable real world experience in the field. The years I spent working before I decided on furthering my studies exposed me to a variety of designs and taught me processes needed for a building sketch to a final product,” he said.
Although he plans to further his studies by completing his Masters Degree, he will take a break and focus on gaining a few more years of work experience to give him enough ammunition for his masters.
Pictured: Richard Brian Ive receives Cum Laude during the University’s April graduation ceremony.
– Noxolo Memela