Chun-Li
Reid

Tell us why you chose to study at NTU

I chose to study architecture at NTU because I heard that, at the time, it was one of the best places to study this course. Also, that Nottingham was a great place for young people and students.

What did you learn – both inside and outside of lectures? What still makes you smile when you look back?

I learned that with dedication and hard work. You are able to achieve almost anything. Also, meeting great people along the way helped make my uni experience one to remember.

What does your current day involve? Take us through a “typical” day (if there is one!)

A typical day for me always starts with an early start. Heading to work, completing tasks which was given to me.

What attracted you to this field of work?

Being able to design spaces that were once a thought but now a space that people can experience.

What challenges have you faced?

When I graduated, I found it extremely difficult to secure an architectural position. Even though I was faced with this opposition, I began practising graphic design to further develop my skills in design software. This not only strengthened my creative abilities but also allowed me to apply for a wider range of roles beyond traditional architecture.

Alongside this, I started my own platform, Bold, where I created a series exploring the relationship between taste and architecture called Cooking with an Architect. Developing this project allowed me to combine my interests in architecture, design, branding, and content creation while demonstrating my ability to work across different disciplines.

These experiences ultimately made me a more desirable candidate because I could offer more than one skill set. Rather than being limited to architectural design, I was able to demonstrate a broader range of creative and technical abilities, showing potential employers that I was adaptable, proactive, and capable of contributing in different ways.

What have been the highlights and biggest challenges of your career so far?
Some of the highlights have been learning that architecture offers so many transferable skills that can be applied across the wider design industry. Another highlight has been starting my platform, Bold, where we document the stories of people within the industry. Being featured in news articles has also been rewarding, helping us share the message that architecture is accessible to everyone.

What are your plans for the future?
Is to be a trusted voice within the design industry. That can inspire and influence individuals, that we’re not limited by our circumstances. But we can use what we currently have in our hands to make a lasting impact.

Advice I would give a new graduate is not to lose hope if your career path doesn’t look as linear as you thought it would be. The bumps, dips and turns in your career will ultimately lead you to where you need to be. Keep developing and never stop learning to create a career that you are proud off.

If you'd like to follow Chun-Li's journey you can find her on LinkedIn.