Eileen Hardy – 35 Day Technical Award

What is your current job role?

'I am company director of Hardy Estates Cyprus and Hardy Homefinders based in Paphos Cyprus.'

Why did you enrol on the course you chose and why did you select the 35 day route?

'I wanted a recognised qualification in estate agency and I chose the 35 day Technical Award as I wanted an intensive training programme which I could work around my day job, and because I like a challenge!'

What was your goal for doing the Technical award?

'I wanted to get a recognised qualification in estate agency in order to offer a better service to my clients and because I have a personal commitment to lifelong learning.'

How did you manage your time when studying and were there any challenges you faced whilst studying?

'I think the key to my success was setting aside a regular time each day to devote to my coursework. In my case I found first thing in the morning suited me and I resisted the urge to quickly check on my emails before starting. Life always throws challenges up and in my case I was trying to get my new website live and get a new office set up at the same time, so I had to be extremely disciplined to keep on track with my studies.'

Any tips you can share with other prospective students interested in the Technical Award?

'I think the best tip would be to resist the urge to jump straight in and spend some time listening to the memory and study techniques audio workshop to set the scene for learning, especially if like me you have been away from formal learning for some time.

'I also got four envelopes (one for each unit), coloured markers and index cards. As I completed each section, I created a card with the main points that I needed to remember. In that way, I had a handy revision guide for each unit which I kept handy and when I had a spare minute I could test myself on what I could remember.

'I also liked to listen to the tapes for unit 2 in the car as it reinforced the learning from the workbook.

'Also, I would say to any prospective student – don’t be put off if you’re a 'mature student' like me as you will have lots of life experience buying and selling your own properties, and will most likely already be familiar with the property styles and terms for the parts of the houses.

'Last, and certainly not least, I would say make use of the tutorial time with the tutor. I kept a notepad handy and noted down any questions so as not to forget to ask them. The tutors are there to help so make the most of the time.'

How did the role of the tutor help?

'My tutor Jo-Anne was absolutely super and very supportive. We hit it straight off and I felt able to ask her about any queries. It was useful to have an induction call and to have an informal chat about the course and what help and support she could give.

'The other very useful thing that she did at this time was to set the date and times for all the tutorial calls at the beginning. I picked the same time each Tuesday and Thursday, so that I could get into a routine straight away.

'Each tutorial was very useful and Jo-Anne used various ways to keep it interesting by playing the 'glossary game' and by asking me different questions. She also gave me good tips on how to remember certain facts.

'Moreover, she was able to encourage me. Even when I thought I hadn’t done particularly well, she would always put a positive spin on things to keep me motivated.

'She gave me very useful tips for the exam and gave me good feedback from the mock which encouraged me greatly.'

Why did you choose a supported course as opposed to buying the workbook only?

'I personally prefer to learn using a variety of methods and as a people person, I like to have a real person to talk to. I would have found using a workbook alone a very dry, unfulfilling way to learn and would not have done the course. The workbook can’t give you feedback or help explain something if you get stuck!'

Which part of the tutor training did you find the most effective?

'That's a hard one to answer as all of the tutor training was effective. I think having an expert on hand to explain something and relate it to a real life situation is invaluable.'

Now you have the qualification, what have you done with it, and how do you think it will affect your career?

'I have only just completed the qualification and can’t wait to get my certificate so I can proudly display it in my office! I think having the qualification has given me the extra confidence I need to succeed and gives me a greater understanding of the industry and the right tools to keep on learning. My next step is to use it as part of my application to AIPP and NAEA overseas as proof of my commitment to my professional development.

'Should I ever return to the UK, I know I can look for work or set up my own estate agency business.'