During her time at Bath, Rebecca Plaza co-founded the Architecture and Engineering Society. After graduating and aged just 24, she launched her own architecture practice. Now, after a merger, her practice is ranked 88th in the world and one of the top three in the Philippines.
Read how studying in a UNESCO World Heritage city provided inspiration to fuel her passions for architecture.
Why did you choose to study at Bath?
I’ve known for a long time that I wanted to be an architect, and Bath has an excellent reputation for architecture. Since it was the degree I was passionate about, I also wanted to live in a place that would inspire me, and the idea of studying in a UNESCO World Heritage city was incredibly exciting. I moved halfway around the world from the Philippines, so I also wanted a town that felt welcoming and not too overwhelming, and Bath was the perfect fit. Finally, Bath was one of the few, if not the only, universities that offered an exchange program, which was important to me.
Did you have a particular career in mind when you chose your course?
Becoming an architect was always the goal. That’s one of the reasons Bath stood out. The University has a strong reputation among architecture firms for producing well-prepared and highly employable graduates.
Can you tell us about your experience of studying here?
I spent a lot of time in the design studios, which fostered a supportive and creative environment. I loved being surrounded by like-minded, ambitious peers. Bath, being a compact and friendly city, had everything we needed. I fondly remember weekend hikes with friends and exploring the charming villages nearby. The combination of nature, history, and community made it a special place to study.
Were you a part of any societies or sports clubs during your time at Bath?
I co-founded the Architecture and Engineering Society, where we launched a newsletter called Paperspace and organised socials to help foster connections across both departments. It was a fun and fulfilling way to bring students together beyond the studio and build a stronger sense of community.
I also worked on campus as part of the alumni telethon, where I helped raise funds for the University. My role involved calling alumni to catch up on their journeys since graduating and to share updates from the University. It was a great way to learn from people who had already walked the paths I was about to embark on. More than anything, it taught me valuable skills–like communication, persuasion, and confidence in asking for support–that I still use today, especially in running a business and negotiating with clients.
Describe your career journey since graduating. What is a typical day like in your current role?
After graduating, I worked at a few architecture firms in London before pursuing my master’s degree. I eventually returned home to the Philippines and founded my own practice, which later merged with WTA Architecture and Design Studio, where I am now the Managing Director. WTA is an award-winning architecture studio currently ranked 88th in the world and one of the top three in the Philippines. My role involves leading design, strategy, our overseas expansion, overseeing projects, mentoring teams and pushing the boundaries of what architecture can do for communities.
What do you enjoy most about your career? Has anything surprised you?
What I enjoy most is the ability to shape the built environment and make a lasting impact. I didn’t follow a traditional path–I took bold steps early in my career, including founding a firm at 24 years old. It was initially intimidating, but it taught me that there’s no single formula for success in architecture or life in general. What surprised me most is how each risk, each leap of faith, led to unexpected opportunities and growth.
How did your studies help to develop you, professionally and/or personally? If you took part in a placement, can you talk a bit about that experience?
The education at Bath was incredibly well-rounded. Many architecture programs are heavy on theory, but Bath combines conceptual design with technical grounding. The placement year was a major advantage–it prepared me for the realities of the industry and gave me valuable experience navigating job applications, client interactions, and interdisciplinary teamwork. Working closely with civil engineering students is unique to Bath and mirrors the collaborative nature of real-world projects, giving us a holistic understanding of how buildings come together.
What advice would you give to prospective students thinking about studying your course at Bath?
Take full advantage of Bath's opportunities–the Erasmus exchange, placement year, and interdisciplinary learning are invaluable. Be open to everything: try new things, explore Somerset, and embrace the experience. University is not only about your degree, but also about the friendships and memories you’ll carry for life.
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