Meet Dahna
Architecture BA
A degree that has shaped my career
Pursuing a Bachelor of Honours in Architecture encourages creative, unconventional thinking. My Architecture BA course helps develops the ability to think in both two and three dimensions and to visualise complex spatial relationships.
This emphasis on diverse modes of thinking and making has helped shape me into the designer, thinker, and maker I am today.
At Newcastle University, I learned how to approach design problems critically and imaginatively, while also gaining confidence in communicating ideas through drawings, models and digital tools. The emphasis on experimentation and iteration helped me become more adaptable and open to refining ideas through feedback.
Equally important was the way the course encouraged independent thinking and self-direction, which prepared me for the expectations of professional practice. I also developed strong time management and organisational skills through managing multiple projects and deadlines, which has been essential in balancing work and further study.
Why I chose Newcastle
I chose Newcastle because it is a city rich in history and cultural diversity, shaped by its many landmarks, historic buildings, and vibrant communities. Newcastle is a well-connected city, with the Metro offering easy access to surrounding areas, including the beautiful coastline and towns such as Tynemouth. This combination of academic opportunity, cultural richness, and accessibility made Newcastle an ideal place for me to study.
Architecture offers a broad and engaging learning experience across a variety of disciplines, while also providing exciting opportunities for independent research through dissertation projects.
What surprised me most about Newcastle was how much it offers beyond first impressions. While I expected a city with a strong industrial history and academic focus, I was surprised by its vibrant cultural life, creative energy, and the strong sense of community among students and locals. The city feels compact and easy to navigate, yet it contains a wide range of distinct areas, each with its own character.
Where my degree took me
After graduating, I progressed into practice as a Part 1 Architectural Assistant at Morris+Company, where I gained valuable experience working on real projects and understanding how design develops within a professional environment. This role allowed me to apply my academic learning to live work, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and develop a clearer understanding of the design and delivery process in architecture.
I then continued my academic development by undertaking my Part 2 studies.
Balancing work and study strengthened my time management, resilience, and ability to critically reflect on practice, while also deepening my understanding of how architecture operates across both academic and professional contexts.
My current role involves a wide range of day-to-day tasks, including sketching, visualising ideas, model making, and collaborating within experienced teams of colleagues at different levels across the architectural industry. I value the opportunity to engage with these individuals on a daily basis, learning from their knowledge and insights into practice. I am continually inspired by the diverse creative backgrounds, activities, and industries that have shaped their architectural perspectives and careers.
Advice to future architects
My advice to students considering a career in architecture is to stay curious, open-minded, and resilient. I would encourage students to embrace experimentation during their studies, as exploring different ideas and ways of working helps develop a stronger and more personal design approach.
It is also important to seek out practical experience wherever possible, whether through placements, part-time roles, or conversations with professionals in the industry. Exposure to real projects helps bridge the gap between academic work and practice, this gives valuable insight into how architecture operates in the real world.
Finally, I would advise students to remain patient with their development. Progress in architecture is gradual, and learning often comes through reflection, feedback, and iteration. Building confidence takes time, but staying committed and engaged will help students grow into thoughtful and capable designers.
Architecture is a demanding but highly rewarding field that requires both creativity and perseverance.
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