10 Pieces of Advice for Navigating Architecture School

These are important pieces of advice I would give to someone on their journey through Architecture School knowing all that I know now - coming from someone with a Masters in Architecture.

1. Perfection Doesn't Exist

2. Time is Your Greatest Asset

3. Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help

4. Find Your Unique Design Voice

5. Criticism is a Learning Tool

6. Maintain a Healthy Routine

7. Avoid Comparison

8. Prioritize Your Studio Work & Your Portfolio

9. Broaden Your Knowledge

10. Enjoy the Journey

Perfection Doesn't Exist

No project will ever be flawless, and that’s completely fine.

Focus on growth and the learning experience that comes with each design, not the pursuit of perfection.

Don’t aim for perfection, aim for progress

Time is Your Greatest Asset

Learn to prioritize your work. Set personal deadlines and stick to them. Over-revising & knowing when to call something “done” is just as important as the work itself.

Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help

Whether you’re struggling with design, software, or personal challenges, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Professors, peers, and mentors are there to support you.

Find Your Unique Design Voice

Learn from others, but don’t just mimic trends.

Use your time in school to explore and experiment, allowing your personal style and design voice to naturally evolve.

Criticism is a Learning Tool

Critiques are meant to help you improve, not discourage you.

Take feedback with an open mind, apply what’s useful, and trust in your vision while embracing constructive input.

Maintain a Healthy Routine

While late nights are inevitable, don’t neglect your health.

Prioritize eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep.

You’ll perform and create better when you take care of yourself.

Avoid Comparison

Everyone’s path is unique.

Don’t compare your work to others—it will only distract you from your own progress.

Celebrate your own milestones and growth instead.

Prioritize Your Studio Work & Your Portfolio

Grades matter, but your portfolio is what will set you apart in the professional world.

Prioritize your studio projects, & the time and effort you put into them.

Focus on developing a portfolio that showcases your skills, creativity, and design process.

Broaden Your Knowledge

Architecture is about so much more than buildings.

Explore art, literature, history, and culture to deepen your understanding.

These broader influences will make your designs and ideas all the more meaningful & impactful.

Enjoy the Journey

Architecture school is demanding, but it’s also a rare, transformative experience.

Appreciate the friendships, challenges, and personal growth that come with it—you’ll look back once it’s over & be grateful for the experience.

The journey will introduce critical thinking, attention to detail, work ethic, & an impact to the built environment.