Reimagining futures: The journey of Cynthia Lakos, a T-Level student at Wates
As part of developing and upskilling the future generation in the built environment, we caught up with Cynthia Lakos.
She is a T-Level student from York College who is currently completing a placement on Wates Construction’s Woldgate School and Sixth Form College Department for Education (DfE) project site in Pocklington, Yorkshire.
Studying a Design, Surveying and Planning T-Level, Cynthia has been using our interactive T-Level Hub to enhance her learning and support her placement experience. From overcoming surveying challenges to discovering a passion for site management, Cynthia’s story is a powerful example of how we’re helping shape the next generation of construction professionals.
Cynthia shares her journey to date, why she chose the T-Level route, what she’s learned on site and where she hopes the experience will take her next.
Q: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what inspired you to study a T-Level?
I’m 17 years old and I am currently completing a second year T-Level Design, Surveying and Planning placement. I took this route as I enjoy working both on a computer, but also practically. I often do better in project-based exams, and these are part of the course I chose due to it being a T-Level. It also still allows me to go to university with a wide range of different career options, due to the UCAS points system incorporating T-Level results.
Q: How did you first hear about Wates and the opportunity to do your placement here?
I first heard about Wates at college, having been to an interview practice session with many different employers offering placements. I chose Wates because of the variety of opportunities and job roles on offer.
Q: What has your placement journey been like so far?
So far, it has been very enjoyable. I have experienced many different job roles, and this has helped me to narrow down what I would like to do in the future.
Q: What’s been your favourite experience on placement so far?
Getting onto site and viewing progress with the Site Management team.
Q: Have there been any challenges, and how have you overcome them?
I shadowed a Site Engineer to get some experience of surveying. I found it difficult to get the total station level; however, with practice, I got it in the end.
Q: How has your T-Level placement helped you think about your future career?
It has confirmed to me that I really enjoy being on site rather than being at a computer. As a result, I am now considering my career pathway to becoming a Site Manager in the future.
Q: What advice would you give to other students thinking about doing a T-Level?
Do It! Make the most of the opportunities you are given – make friends with the people in your class and have fun, but also make sure you learn lots too. For those considering Design, Surveying and Planning – revise for the first year’s core exams!
Q: Finally, what does ‘reimagining futures’ mean to you as a T-Level student?
Understanding what you really want for your future and your happiness.
