I Got Hired: Alessandro

Posted on: 16 October 2025 by Richard Finch in Class of 2024

Alessandro De Luca is a class of Architecture graduate who now works as a Part 1 Architectural Assistant at Formation Architects.

How did you hear about your role?

I was fortunate to secure a summer internship with an architecture firm just before entering my third year at university. The experience was incredibly rewarding, and after completing my degree, I reached out to the firm again. Following our reconnection and the success of the internship, I was offered a full-time position.

How did you get to where you are now?

A big part of how I’ve reached this point is due to starting work from a young age. During secondary school, I took on various roles—from helping out at an after-school sports club for younger children to working at well-established companies like John Lewis & Partners and M&S. Each role exposed me to a diverse range of people, helping me develop strong interpersonal skills and the ability to connect with clients and customers from all walks of life. This has proven invaluable, especially in interviews and professional settings where confidence and communication are key. My early work experiences gave me both the discipline, and the people skills needed to take advantage of the opportunities that came my way.

Your favourite experience as part of your current role?

What I enjoy most about my current role is that everything feels fresh and new. As it’s my first full-time position in the field I studied, every task presents a learning opportunity. That constant exposure to new challenges keeps the work exciting and makes each accomplishment feel genuinely rewarding.

The most challenging part of your graduate journey?

One of the most challenging aspects of starting out has been feeling like the least experienced person in the room. Working alongside colleagues who have years of experience can be intimidating at times. However, I’ve found this to be a valuable learning opportunity. Engaging with experienced team members and learning from their insights has been a key part of my professional development.

What's your #1 piece of advice for future grads?

My biggest piece of advice is to strike a balance between staying grounded and recognising your own achievements. Graduating is a huge milestone, and it’s important to take time to reflect on how far you’ve come. Many graduates feel pressure to immediately figure out their next steps, but it's okay to pause and appreciate your journey. Maintaining this mindset—one that values both humility and self-recognition—can help keep you motivated without becoming overwhelmed.

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