Paige Stables

Master of Architecture (Professional) student
Bachelor of Architecture and Future Environments

AUT’s forward-thinking approach really spoke to her, says Paige Stables who came to AUT to study architecture and is currently enrolled in a Master of Architecture (Professional).

“As a little girl I was always interested in the built environment, and I used to spend my after-school time drafting up floorplans of ‘my dream home’. As I grew older, my interest in architecture developed as I started to realise its ability to influence social, cultural and environmental outcomes.

“I chose AUT because I felt it best suited the way I learn. I’ve always thrived in environments that are practical and hands-on, and loved that AUT isn’t afraid to challenge the conventional methods of architectural education, pushing students to think differently. What excited me most is how AUT graduates seem to leave with a unique perspective and a strong voice in areas the profession hasn’t always given enough attention to. I wanted to be part of that.”

What she has enjoyed most about student life is the balance it has given her.

“I’ve loved having the chance to actively work towards my bachelor’s and master’s degrees while also exploring new hobbies and passions along the way. University has been such a transformative time, not just academically but personally. The growth and self-discovery that happen throughout these years really shape who you are and where you’re heading. For me, student life has been about saying yes to opportunities, stepping out of my comfort zone and seeing where that journey takes me.”

An environment to grow
Paige wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to other students.

“I’d definitely recommend AUT to anyone who wants to make change and challenge the way we see the world. What makes AUT special is that it doesn’t just give you answers – it encourages you to ask questions, think critically, and bring your own identity and experiences into your work. AUT has created an environment where it feels safe to step outside my comfort zone, try new things, and really embrace this time as a chance to be a sponge and absorb as much knowledge as I can. That freedom is so important because it shapes not only how you practise now, but also the kind of architect or professional you’ll become in the future.”

The people she met have been one of the highlights of her studies.

“As an outgoing and social person, one of the things I’ve enjoyed most about my studies at AUT have been the people. I’ve built some of my closest friendships here, while also forming strong relationships with lecturers, tutors and mentors. I feel like a big part of my degree belongs to them too, as they’ve guided me through both life and study over the past four years. The support and encouragement from staff has been incredible, and I really value how they bring out the best in each student.

“In particular, my lecturer Micheal McCabe and my tutor Ansgar Pale have been fundamental in my success through AUT. Their professional and personal support helped me through hard times and allowed me to push myself to achieve outcomes and potential that I didn’t know possible! They were influential in the pursuit of my degree.”

Advice for other students
Paige – who expects to complete her master’s degree in 2026 and loved sharing some of her work to inspire future students at AUT LIVE, the university’s open day – has some great advice for other students.

“Something I wish younger Paige had known is to have confidence in her contributions and to truly value her potential. We all carry something unique and special with us, and it’s so important to celebrate that.”

You don’t have to be perfect, she adds.

“It’s okay not to be perfect. University isn’t about having everything figured out, it’s about learning. This is the time to experiment, take risks and try new things. That was actually one of the biggest challenges for me; learning to be comfortable with growth and accepting that I won’t always get things right the first time. I’ve come to understand that this is exactly what university is for; to make mistakes, to learn and to grow alongside incredibly talented people.”