Jeremiah Hough has graduated with a first class degree in BArch (Hons) Architecture and delivered a speech to hundreds of fellow graduates and guests at his graduation ceremony. Something that he would have found hard to believe three years ago.
“For me, the journey to this point hasn’t been straightforward. I came through the Clearing process after not achieving the A Level grades I had initially aimed for,” explained the 21-year-old from Kidsgrove.
“At the time, it felt like a major setback, but in hindsight, it was a simple redirection. That experience taught me resilience and reminded me that our paths don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. It brought me here, a place where I have flourished and a place I leave with a first class degree.”
Jeremiah is part of the second ever cohort to embark on the architecture course at University of Staffordshire. Last month, it received Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) accreditation, signifying that the course meets the high standards set by RIBA for preparing students for professional architectural practice.
Throughout his studies, Jeremiah has been part of several projects including 'Rammed Earth', a collaboration with the British Ceramics Biennial to design and create a children’s playground formed of spoil clay sourced from a UK construction site.
Praising the lecturers, Jeremiah said: “They have stood by both myself and my entire cohort. Their unending support is one of the main reasons I am able to stand here as a 2025 University of Staffordshire graduate.
“They've always pushed us to work with each other. And the amount of times they have brought expert sand professionals from the field to speak to us, to talk to us, to teach us, give us crits and feedback. It's there for us. It really helps to prepare us for going forwards.”
Jeremiah hopes that his story will reassure others who may not get the exams results they had hoped for. He commented: “When I opened my results on A Level results day back in 2022, I could not have imagined Ithat 'd be standing here today with a first, ready to go and start my professional career.
“For anyone in a similar position, just apply! There is no harm that comes from just applying and trying. Come and visit. We have the Open Days for Clearing. Just come!”
Get ahead of results day and discover University of Staffordshire’s range of future-ready courses – apply through Clearing and get an instant decision online