Josh Smith’s first degree is in civil engineering. The transition to architecture was like "drinking from a fire hose” and he loved it. Read his story and see his work.

STUDIO FIRST helped Mikhala Gibson develop a winning MArch application portfolio. See images here.

With a background in mental health and community services, Ann-Catherine Lemonde aims to work toward “collective access and comfort in the built environment.” 

Want to pursue a career in architecture? STUDIO FIRST will help you create a competitive portfolio for application to any three-year Master of Architecture program.

With sites in Chile, Seoul, and Gatineau, Celeste Correia focused on sustainability and cultural “reverence” in her MArch application portfolio.

Keegan Metheringham returned to school later in life after working in the bike industry and construction. See his MArch application portfolio.

“The three projects I completed during STUDIO FIRST became the highlights of my portfolio,” says Daphne Stams.

Filipe Costa’s portfolio represents the skills and attributes he believes are vital to a successful career in architecture.

Mu Qu Jennifer Liu’s portfolio showcases work in hybrid mode, transitioning between hands-on making and digital processes.

Now working at a small firm in British Columbia, Josh Wallace illustrates the diversity of interests welcomed by the 3-year MArch program. And, he recorded the Athabasca Glacier.

Having previously studied interior design and environmental design, Sarah Fahmy is now completing her MArch with a thesis that seeks to improve life in the Gaza Strip.

"I envision working somewhere between engineering and architecture.”

Architecture skills are portable and offer an opportunity to live and work in other countries.

After completing a Master of Architecture and working in the field, Alisha Kapoor decided to do a post-professional degree at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. She is now pondering a career in research or humanitarian work.

“A wonderful facet of this degree is you can really go anywhere in an architectural, design, art, and culture capacity.”

“Deciding to change careers is a very complex and personal decision,” says Derek Clouâtre. He explains how and why he took the plunge.

Chiara Muia, who studied English literature, was nervous to commit to architecture. Here’s how she made the leap.

Stephanie Casanova, who transitioned from sociology, looks forward to a career “that is multidisciplinary, just as my path into architecture has been.”

Ben Stern reflects on his journey from McGill’s geography department to architecture and the role of STUDIO FIRST.

“We are achievers. We are resilient. We are dreamers with unique visions to offer at an especially important time in history.”