Architecture school is a journey like no other.

While I don’t believe in regrets (every experience teaches us something), I can’t help but think how much smoother my path might have been if someone had shared these tips with me when I was starting out.

From study strategies to building connections, these are the things I wish I had known in my first year of architecture school.

If you’re just starting out, consider this your early advantage!

1. Prerequisites Matter More Than You Think

Architecture courses often build on each other. For instance, in my school, building technology had five levels spread across semesters.

Struggling in the first course can make the rest of the sequence much harder to grasp.

While some subjects (like History of Architecture) might stand alone, foundational courses lay the groundwork for later applications.

Treat these classes as the stepping stones they are and aim to master them early. Your future self will thank you.

2. Anki Is a Game-Changer for Studying

I discovered Anki way too late in my architecture journey.

This flashcard app uses spaced repetition to help you retain information more effectively—a lifesaver for architecture students bombarded with technical terms and concepts.

If I’d known about it in my first year, I’d have used it to breeze through the theoretical-heavy lower-year courses.

Don’t sleep on this tool; it’s one of the most efficient ways to study.

3. Invest in Digital Skills Early

Manual drafting and sketching are essential skills, but learning digital tools early gives you a huge advantage.

Software like AutoCAD and SketchUp are staples in architecture, and familiarizing yourself with them in your first year will make you more efficient later on.

I started experimenting with AutoCAD during my first year—even though it wasn’t in our curriculum until the third year.

By the time I needed to use it, I was confident enough to focus on learning advanced programs like ArchiCAD, Twinmotion, and Lumion.

4. Treat Every Plate Like Portfolio Material

Not every plate you produce will be your best work (burnout is real), but it’s important to approach each project with the mindset that it could end up in your portfolio.

When the time comes to curate your portfolio, you’ll want a range of standout pieces that showcase your growth and skills.

Keeping your files organized will also save you hours of frustration later on.

5. Build Strong Connections With Professors

Your professors aren’t just your teachers—they’re valuable resources who can guide you academically, professionally, and personally.

Developing a good rapport with them can open doors to mentorships, career opportunities, and even industry connections.

Architecture is a small world, and you never know who knows whom. Start building those relationships now; they’ll benefit you far beyond graduation.

6. Focus on Understanding, Not Just Grades

Grades matter, especially if you’re a scholar. But it’s equally important to prioritize real understanding over just hitting the numbers.

High grades won’t mean much if you leave school without the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field.

Take the time to truly grasp the concepts taught in class—you’ll carry them with you throughout your career.

7. Start Apprenticeship Early

I didn’t realize until later in my architecture journey that you don’t have to wait for upper years to start gaining real-world experience.

During my third year, I met someone in their second year who had already completed a two-month apprenticeship.

Imagine how much experience you could gain if you started early—whether during summer breaks or semester gaps.

8. Find Inspiration From the Right Sources

Burnout is common in architecture school, and when it hits, finding inspiration can feel like a monumental task.

Over time, I discovered a few YouTube channels and podcasts that reignited my motivation:

YouTube Channels

30x40 Design Workshop: Eric Reinholdt’s content offers a behind-the-scenes look at architecture practice, with plenty of tips and aesthetic inspiration.
OUROBOROS ARQ: Great for understanding construction techniques through scale models using real materials.
Llyan Austria: A Filipino architect whose relatable and educational content is perfect for students, especially those from the Philippines.
Thomas Rowntree and Architalks: These vloggers offer a mix of student life insights and architecture-related topics.

Podcasts

Life of an Architect: Offers insights into the day-to-day realities of architectural practice.
Architecture, Design, and Photography: A blend of creative discussions perfect for background listening while working on plates.

Final Thoughts

Your first year in architecture school is the foundation for everything that follows.

By mastering prerequisites, building connections, and staying inspired, you’ll set yourself up for a more manageable—and enjoyable—journey.

Here’s a quick recap of the things I wish I’d known:

Prerequisites count for more than you think.
Use Anki to study smarter.
Invest in digital skills early.
Treat every plate like it’s portfolio-worthy.
Build strong connections with professors.
Focus on understanding, not just grades.
Start apprenticeships as early as possible.
Find inspiration through YouTube channels and podcasts.

What’s one thing you wish you knew when you started architecture school?

Share it in the comments below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

8 Things I Wish I Knew My First Year of Architecture School