Bachelor of Commerce, Valuation & Property Management
Employed as a draughtsman for five years in Christchurch, Ben says he was looking for a change.
“I wanted to build on the knowledge I already had of the property industry and advance my studies,” he says.
Ben says he wasn’t interested in studying something that would leave him with a ‘generic’ qualification, so the industry-based focus of a BCom (Valuation & Property Management) was what appealed. Lincoln stood out for the simple fact they were the only university to offer a ‘property’ degree in the South Island.
“The BCom (VPM) is a very specific and practical degree that offers a realistic and market-based approach. It provides a good understanding of the property industry and the knowledge and skills obtained are directly applicable to the tasks you are expected to perform on a daily basis,” he says.
In his second year, Ben received the Quotable Value (QV) Scholarship, which paid for his third-year course fees and provided him a job with QV upon the completion of his degree.
Ben is currently employed with CB Richard Ellis as a commercial property valuer in Christchurch.
“Being a multinational property company, you are involved in a large variety of work and deal with range of clients from private individuals to corporate institutions. You’re surrounded by a group of professional and energetic people who are passionate about the property industry and are always happy to share their expertise.”
Looking back, Ben says his decision to study at Lincoln University has opened the door to an exciting new career in property.
“The BCom (VPM) provides a great platform to launch your career in property and the future opportunities are endless. The project you’re working on today may lead to a new opportunity tomorrow, you just never know which doors might open up in the future.”
[bcom alumni profile]