The University of Nicosia, and especially the Architecture Research Centre (ARC), have been an important milestone in my career development. The multicultural, educational backgrounds of the ARC faculty, their overall help and guidance, gave me the chance to realise the importance of the local and international architectural scene. They kept me up to date and informed on new trends and practices.

Moreover, I had the chance to participate in local and European architectural workshops, in Nicosia and Vienna, and take vital field trips to Greece and Italy. These trips and workshops were invaluable, helping me to expand my network with architecture students and professionals from all over Europe. In addition, I had the chance to engage as a summer intern in the architectural offices of my professors, participating in international competitions, working on conceptual and ongoing projects, while better understanding the architectural reality.

Furthermore, I was fortunate to experience academia within ARC as a Teaching Assistant for the 3rd year Architectural Studio, and as a Digital Fabrication Lab Assistant, dealing with technologically advanced architectural model-making machinery (like cnc, laser cutting and 3D printing). After graduating, I was given the opportunity to participate with several ARC faculty as a tutor for the international workshop of AA Visiting School, in collaboration with UNIC and the Cyprus Architects Association.

After leaving UNIC, I pursued architecture in some of the most important offices on the island, earning multiple prizes in architectural competitions along the way, while also officially registering as an Architect at the Scientific and Technical Chamber. I’ve since been able to leap forward with my career, relocating to New York, where I’ve worked for the Office of Metropolitan Architecture for almost 2 years. My time in New York has been marked by significant architectural projects of all types and scale, including skyscrapers in Los Angeles and Tokyo, a cultural centre in Los Angeles, and many other interesting and innovative smaller projects. I’m happy to be continuing my journey, gaining new architectural, educational and cultural experiences.

Thanks to the University of Nicosia and ARC, I have gained the knowledge, tools and experiences that have helped me to pursue and develop an international career in my field, always consistent with my character and understanding.

Stavros Voskaris
Architect, Office of Metropolitan Architecture, New York, USA
Architecture, Class of 2013