Student Profiles

Kara Van Lieshout

Finishing at the end of this year (2010) and graduating at the beginning of next year (2011)
Bachelor of Arts (Interior Architecture)

I chose to study at Curtin primarily because it was the only university in Perth that offered the Interior Architecture course, but also because I loved the campus and its location suited me.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my course and studying at Curtin. The experience has been very rewarding and enriching. There have certainly been challenging moments and a lot of stress but with the end in sight I know it has all been worth it.

Bloke's Shed - Kara's work I went on a study trip to Hong Kong in 2009, which was an unforgettable and invaluable experience that greatly impacted my future areas of interest in the field of Interior Architecture.

The staff at Curtin, particularly in my final year, were wonderful. Khoa Do, who was involved in the study trip I attended to Hong Kong, has been extremely supportive of me. Sarah Beeck, my dissertation supervisor, has also been very supportive and constantly positive. All my teachers over the years have inspired me in some way or another. The staff at the resource centre have also made my experience at Curtin an enjoyable one, as they are always happy to help and chat.

When I graduate I hope to work in Perth as a graduate and then travel, so that I can expand my horizons and develop my understanding of the built environment. My degree has sculpted my career path. It has given me so many opportunities to ‘tap into’ my creative side and made me a more confident person.

I definitely would recommend the Interior Architecture degree. I love the fact that you are taught to become critical of your own work and to be confident and innovative in your approach to everything you do. A strong work ethic is required and time management is a skill that I have had to develop in order to succeed in my course.

Kara recently won a commendation from the Design Institute of Australia