Currently based in Melbourne, alumna Shreyal Patel graduated from Ficino School in 2014. Shortlisted for in Australian Design Review’s 30 Under 30, she is about to relocate to the UK to continue her career as an architect. We caught up with her before the big move to find out more about life since graduation.

• What have you been up to since you left Ficino School?
   
  I’m currently an architect living in Melbourne. I moved here at 17 to study architecture and have loved every one of the past six years. Most recently, I’ve been working at Cera Stribley, running projects across residential, hospitality and wellness sectors and was shortlisted for Australian Design Review’s 30 Under 30, which still feels a little surreal.
   
  Alongside practice, I tutor undergraduate students, passing on both mentorship and a passion for designing thoughtful solutions in an ever-changing political, economic and environmental landscape.
   
  Outside of work, I’ve been solo travelling across Europe and most recently travelled through Sri Lanka with my flatmate, an unforgettable experience involving memories I still can’t quite put into words, and possibly one of an elephant running towards us. I’ve also kept up netball (a love that started at Ficino), joined ArchiSoccer against other Melbourne architecture firms, and even tried my hand at touch rugby and paddle. There’s a lot going on but it’s all incredibly rewarding and fills my cup in different ways.
   

• What was your favourite subject at Ficino and why?
   
  Drama, with a special mention to the Renaissance subject leading up to the Europe trip. Both encouraged creativity, confidence and curiosity beyond the classroom. Drama, in particular, brought out a side of me that surprised everyone, including myself, helping me grow in confidence and lean into a cheekier side. The Renaissance subject also sparked my early love for history and architecture.

• Favourite school meal (and least favourite)?
   
  Lasagna or mac n’ cheese – I still remember saving the crispy, cheesy top for the very last bite. Least favourite would have to be pumpkin soup.

• Please share a vivid memory from your time at the school.
   
  There are so many. From the Year 2 camp – my first night away from home, to the Year 6 camp where our teacher awarded the student who fell down the most with a bag of mud from our hike. Alongside, playing a lead role in Twelfth Night in Year 7 (something I never thought I was capable of), and of course the Year 8 Renaissance trip that first sparked my love for architecture. Each memory shaped who I am today in its own way.

• Any plans or dreams for the future?
   
  Moving to Melbourne was the best decision I ever made, and having two home bases now feels like a real privilege. It’s become home through friendships that feel like family and once-in-a-lifetime adventures that continue to shape my everyday life.
   
  That said, I’ve caught the moving bug again and plan to relocate to London in mid-April. I’m excited to explore a new city, find new cafés, join a new netball team, reconnect with family and build a third home base – knowing it’ll be challenging, but completely worth it.
   
  While London is my immediate next step, my longer-term dreams are centred around continuing to push boundaries in architecture, particularly finding solutions that address living standards, cost of living pressures and environmental responsibility. Alongside that, I hope to keep being a good friend and family member, someone who leads and attracts positivity and kindness.
   

• How do you think your time at Ficino has influenced you?
   
  The Year 8 Renaissance trip played a major role in shaping my love for architecture. Learning about each building in detail and how architecture influences social, political and economic life changed how I viewed the built environment and ultimately guided my career path.
   
  Beyond that, it was the day-to-day mindset at Ficino: approaching everything with intention, giving your best, and taking time to pause and rest. That balance has stayed with me and continues to help me stay busy, motivated and grounded in everyday life.

• If you could travel back in time, what advice would you give to 10 year old Shreyal?
   
  It’s okay to be shy and even the girl who wouldn’t let go of her dad’s keys on the first day of school. Focus on being someone who attracts positive energy and who people feel comfortable coming to. That will lead to lifelong friendships and relationships, far more rewarding than any grade or award.