Central Otago based Amy Young chose to study a New Zealand Diploma of Architectural Technology at Southern Institute of Technology for practical reasons: the free fees offer allowed her to study without accumulating any debt, and class times fitted in with her work schedule.
“SIT offer a two-year Diploma as well as the three-year degree, which meant I could become qualified sooner,” Amy says. After researching SIT and speaking to a couple of people who had completed the course, she enrolled at the Invercargill campus.
Amy has a design and marketing background. Following several years working in the real estate industry, she took a similar role in the wine industry when she moved to Central Otago.
Having always held an interest in Architecture, Amy says even prior to studying design and marketing at Otago University, “it was something I had considered”. As the saying goes, ‘timing is everything’; when the free fees scheme and government campaign to get more people into trades was announced, it provided Amy a second chance to study Architecture.
“After a bit of juggling and a lot of support, it quickly moved into something that could be achievable for me at this time in life.”
Amy travelled from Central Otago to Invercargill for her weekly classes and as these were mainly grouped together over several days, “it meant for the most part, I didn’t need to stay away from home the entire week”, she explained. “The tutors have been great, they’re always very helpful, and the class sizes not too large, so it was very easy to ask questions. And I am grateful for the flexibility they showed due to my weekly commute.”
Whilst it was a challenge to get back into study mode, Amy has relished the learning at SIT. “I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started ... I am currently near the end of my second year and have really enjoyed working on my designs, and the theory behind architecture.”
Commenting on the value of being taught both CAD programs “structured in a way that directly relates to the real world”, Amy says this practical style of teaching is an ideal way to learn the process of designing a residential home and a commercial building. “The weekly requirements ensure you stay on track,” she adds. The same method is also applied in year two using a different program.
“The residential and commercial projects have also been very fulfilling, actually being able to see our designs through the entire development and plan process is a great way to learn.”
Amy says her studies at SIT have definitely broadened her understanding of Architecture. “There is a lot to learn and we have only touched the surface. I look forward to applying everything I have been taught so far, to the real world and continuing to learn as I work.”
Amy has achieved quality work in her two years of study; in her first year, she received the ADNZ Otago – Southland Branch Award for Best Presented Resolved Residential Design at SIT’s 2022 Award ceremony. “It was definitely a big highlight for me. I was so ecstatic that all of the hard work and effort had been recognised,” she says. She is finishing her qualification true to form, taking the 2023 award for Top Student – New Zealand Diploma and Bachelor in Architectural Technology.
Also gaining much satisfaction from completing her second year portfolio, Amy’s had the opportunity to show some of her creativity. “ ... it has involved a lot of sketch work which I enjoy.” The part-time role Amy was offered at a local architectural firm during her final year has provided industry experience she describes as “a huge help” to her studies.
Without a doubt, the last two years have placed demands on Amy. “ ... the time away from home has been the most challenging part, along with getting my brain back into study mode! There was so much to learn, especially in the technical side for me.”
With sufficient experience, Amy would like to achieve her LBP (Licensed Building Practitioner) for design, which will potentially allow her the freedom to be self-employed one day. “I do enjoy designing residential homes and I am very interested in passive house building for the future.”
Amy’s bond with the wine industry also remains; she likes the idea of completing further study in the field of interior architecture, to work on creative projects for hospitality venues.
Amy suggests those who interested in learning more about SIT’s Architectural Design programmes, to get in touch with the tutors. “They will happily answer any questions you may have.”