Courtney studied a Bachelor of Design (Architecture) followed by a Master of Architecture. Her passion for Architecture is about improving the quality of life for others and designing spaces that respond to people and culture.

A trip to China was instrumental in her decision to study architecture. “I remember the first time I was overseas with family and I saw the Forbidden City in Beijing. I looked at all the buildings and thought, wouldn’t it be amazing to be the person that made the decisions and designed it all. It took until my best friend’s older brother studied architecture for me to realise how I could be that person.”

Courtney was fortunate to go on an overseas design program to Nepal as part of her studies, working on two real-world projects to benefit the community. As part of a team, she designed and documented village houses to strengthen them against earthquake damage as well as working on the design of new toilets and sanitation amenities for a local school.

“The experience was once in a lifetime. It opened my eyes to how lucky we are in Australia and allowed me to put my skills to use in directly improving the lives of others,” says Courtney.

To this day, the Nepal trip holds a special place in my heart and has helped form me into the designer I am today. It allowed me to explore my passion and realise why I love doing what I do!”

Studying gave Courtney the vital skills she needed in her career, but also allowed her to explore her passions as a designer while fostering connections within the industry.

“Since graduating I am still in contact with my tutors and my fellow graduates. The University of Newcastle creates an inclusive environment where the alumni network becomes a family for life,” says Courtney.

She now works at EJE Architecture in Newcastle on architectural projects from community projects to hospitality, residential and retirement villages. Her role involves analysing the brief and producing concepts during the whole project lifespan from design to construction.

She encourages others like her to consider studying architecture. “If you have a love for creative problem solving and the desire to make a change to people’s lives, do it!

“It’s so diverse - I find even now every day I am learning a new skill or aspect I didn’t know existed. Funnily enough, a lot of things I learnt in my degree, I’m now realising how it has shaped my career directly and indirectly.”

Study a Bachelor of Architecture (Design) at the University of Newcastle

Study a Master of Architecture at the University of Newcastle

Courtney White `

Courtney White

Courtney's undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Architecture has fueled her passion in improving the quality of life for others and designing spaces that respond to people and culture.

It’s so diverse - I find even now every day I am learning a new skill or aspect I didn’t know existed. Funnily enough, a lot of things I learnt in my degree, I’m now realising how it has shaped my career directly and indirectly.