Four architecture alumni returned to the Department this week to speak candidly about careers that extend beyond traditional architectural practice, offering students an energising and honest account of finding fulfilling creative work.
On Wednesday 13 May, the Department welcomed back four alumni for an Alternative Careers talk, bringing together students across year groups for an evening of reflection, inspiration and discussion. The speakers — artist Christie Swallow, scriptwriter and horticulturalist Kamal Kaan, Hollywood set designer Jack Berk, and sustainable fashion designer Tosin Trimm — all spoke about how their architectural training continues to inform creative practices beyond conventional architectural roles.
A shared theme among the speakers was the importance of following personal passions, whether through art, storytelling, fashion or set design, and recognising both strengths and limitations along the way. Several reflected on careers that have moved in and out of architectural practice over time, shaped by long periods of experimentation, persistence, coincidence and, as they openly shared, many rejections.
Reframing the idea of networking, Tosin Trimm encouraged students to think instead about “finding your people” — emphasising collaboration, generosity and shared curiosity rather than transactional career-building. Jack Berk echoed this, highlighting the central role of friendship, trust and camaraderie in creative work, and reminding students that connections often lead organically to new opportunities.
The speakers also spoke candidly about agency, emotional highs and lows, and the importance of working in ways that feel personally meaningful. Kamal Kaan reflected on how life experience, boredom and reinvention have shaped his career, stressing the value of communication and teamwork in storytelling and creative production.
As alumni, all four speakers expressed how meaningful it was to return to the Department and engage directly with current students. Their openness and generosity made for a lively and encouraging evening, and there are plans to host a similar alumni careers event during the Michaelmas term.