Elena Monteforte about BA Architecture at BI

Our BA Architecture student Elena is talking about what studying at Berlin International is like and answering the most frequently asked questions to prospective students of BI!

The Bachelor’s program in Architecture at Berlin International University of Applied Sciences offers students the skills and specialized knowledge necessary to apply creative and responsible solutions in the field of architecture.

“Hi, I’m Elena. I’m 20 years old and I’m from Italy. I’m studying architecture and I’m currently in my third semester. I chose this major because architecture is something that influences all of our lives from the moment we’re born. It’s inevitable, you cannot choose whether you stand on, under, or inside the form of architecture, unless you’re in nature, of course. Dealing with something so impactful is truly fulfilling. As an architect, there is a lot of responsibility in this sense. It’s important to be passionate. 

Since I was online for most of the first year, I can’t say I had a real university experience. But, I was lucky enough to meet some great people in the short time I spent on campus, one of which is my housemate now, and became kind of like family. And it’s nice to have this when you’re away from home. 

I chose BI probably for the same reason that pushed everyone else. I was attracted to the international and progressive environment that it offers. It is also very hard to find a good school that teaches architecture in English if English is not the main spoken language of the country. And BI had very good ratings. Being a small university, you also get to have a closer relationship with your professors which is a total plus because it changes your university experience and it makes it more personal. 

Studying in Berlin is one of the best choices I ever made. It’s so vibrant and multicultural. Every district has its own history and characteristics and it almost feels like you change city when you travel across it. And you can never get bored. There are so many opportunities if you’re open enough and put yourself out there. Also, something that helped me a lot is that it’s pretty easy to find student jobs to sustain yourself.

I don’t have particular plans for the future. I want to give myself time and space to go in different directions. I think it’s too early to have it all figured out. Our professors always give us insights on what their jobs are like and in which different fields it’s possible to end up and it’s very helpful to hear from them.

Some advice I would give new prospective students is to be confident, believe in yourself, and take initiative. It’s important to make yourself heard and be passionate about what you do. The courses are challenging and you will have to put a lot of effort into your studies. And the three words I would choose for my major are “challenging”, “inspiring”, and “competitive”.”

Thank you for taking the time to read our article about studying at Berlin International. If you are interested in studying Architecture in Berlin, take a look at our BA program in Architecture.

Feel free to contact our Student Affairs team at any time via application@berlin-international.de.