When I received the news that I had been nominated for the RICS Matrics Young Surveyor of the Year Award (YSOTYA) 2022, I was so happy, but when I was told that I’d made finalist, I was truly over the moon. I have worked so hard to be the best Surveyor I can be, and it’s such a good feeling to be recognised for your efforts.

Having a military background means I have many transferable skills that are highly sought after, but residential surveying was a new world to me. Fortunately, I came across the Sava Level 6 Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation, which was a fantastic course. It teaches you everything you need to know so you can work on the day of qualifying – the course is held in such high regard that you gain direct entry into the RICS. The learning journey continues once you’re qualified, and I take every opportunity to enhance my knowledge.

The award ceremony was held at The Royal Lancaster in London. My company at the time arranged transport, and we all travelled down together. The atmosphere was great, and there was a real chance I could win. Unfortunately, I didn’t win the award, but just being there and knowing I made the finals was still an outstanding achievement – and there’s always next year (even though I can’t really say I’m young anymore!)

Sava heard of the news, and the team were delighted that many other Sava graduates and I had been nominated for the award. They asked me to do a Q&A with them, to which I obliged, and it can be viewed by clicking on the link here > Lee Dowdall Q&A – Young Surveyor of the Year Finalist.

I urge anyone considering stepping into the residential surveying world to go for it. I am happy to assist wherever I can, especially if you wish to use the Sava Diploma.