BE Connected: University of the Built Environment launches new student community
Posted on: 16 October, 2026
A new initiative is bringing University of the Built Environment students together to share industry expertise, exchange ideas and make connections beyond their own degree programmes.
BE Connected launches today (Friday 16 October 2026), offering the 100+ students who registered the opportunity to meet and learn from each other as well as alumni and industry professionals through a series of regular online events.
The virtual event, the first of its kind at the University, aims to make better use of the considerable professional knowledge and experience within its global student community, while helping students build networks that extend beyond their studies.
The first event features University alumna Amrita Chana, Contracts Manager at Worley, who will share insights from more than a decade working across engineering, construction, renewable energy and carbon capture projects.
Students attending the session will have the chance to hear about Amrita’s career, participate in a discussion on how built environment careers are changing and the skills professionals will need in future, gain first-hand industry perspectives and network with peers studying different built environment degree programmes.
Making the most of a global student community
BE Connected was conceived by Priti Lodhia, the University’s Academic Apprenticeships Lead and Senior Lecturer, who recognised that students, many of whom are already established professionals, have a wealth of expertise and industry experience that can enrich the wider student community.
“While reflecting on the student experience, it struck me how much knowledge, experience and professional insight exists within our student community, yet many students never get the opportunity to connect with one another beyond their own programme,” she said.
“I saw an opportunity to create a space where students could connect with one another, build professional relationships and develop a stronger sense of community. BE Connected has been designed to help make those connections happen.
“Having a regular opportunity for students to meet creates possibilities that extend beyond the curriculum. My ambition is for BE Connected to grow into a community where students can share their knowledge and experiences through activities such as student lightning talks, collaborative projects, networking and cross-disciplinary discussions.”
She added: “The built environment sector depends on professionals from different specialisms working together, so creating opportunities for students to connect beyond their own discipline can help them build confidence, develop professional networks and better understand the collaborative nature of the industry.”
Strengthening our digital campus
Importantly, students will have a say in how the community develops. Although University staff will help organise and facilitate sessions, students will be encouraged to suggest speakers, propose discussion topics and shape future events.
The launch is also part of the University’s wider commitment to strengthening its digital campus and creating opportunities for students to engage with one another outside formal teaching.
Through BE Connected, the University hopes to build a community in which students can benefit from each other’s experience, develop professional relationships and remain connected to its wider network throughout their studies and beyond.
