We recently caught up with Gozde Yildirim, AIA, an architect at HOK’s Washington, DC studio. After earning her bachelor’s degree in Istanbul, Gozde came to the U.S. in 2015 to complete her master’s degree in architecture and pursue U.S. licensure. Now with 10+ years of experience in health care design, Gozde shares what led her to the architecture profession in the first place, as well as how she navigated the journey to U.S. licensure as a Turkish immigrant and non-native English speaker.
Identity & Architecture
NCARB Offers ESL Accommodations
Licensure candidates who speak English as a Second Language (ESL) are eligible to apply for Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) accommodations.
My architectural journey began with wonder during a childhood visit to the ancient city of Ephesus in Izmir, Turkey. Standing among those Roman ruins, I was captivated by how structures could endure centuries while continuing to tell stories and serve communities.
That moment ignited my fascination with architecture's power to create lasting impact—how thoughtful design could shape human experiences across generations.
Growing up in Izmir, I became increasingly aware of how the built environment influences daily life, health, and well-being. This early recognition of architecture's transformative potential drove me to pursue my bachelor's degree at Beykent University, where I began understanding how spaces could serve as catalysts for positive social change.
Journey to US Licensure
My licensure journey was both challenging and transformative. I had to navigate NCARB requirements while managing ongoing visa uncertainties. After earning my master’s degree from Miami University of Ohio in 2015, I began logging the required 3,000+ hours of professional experience. However, the unpredictability of my visa status made it hard to plan where I’d be working and for how long, which complicated my experience documentation.
As an international graduate, the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) exams posed additional challenges. I had to learn U.S.-specific building codes, zoning laws, and construction practices—many of which were unfamiliar compared to my previous education. Each division required not only technical study but also an understanding of the American regulatory system and professional liability standards.
Despite these hurdles, persistence and support from mentors who understood my situation made a big difference. Earning my license proved that with determination, no barrier is too great to overcome.
Overcoming the Language Barrier
As an English as a Second Language (ESL) candidate, I faced a dual challenge: proving my architectural expertise while navigating complex technical terms in a second language. The ARE exams tested not only my professional knowledge but also my ability to interpret nuanced English phrasing and context-specific vocabulary.
I used the ESL accommodation, which gave me extra time—and that made a big difference.
Instead of rushing through questions, I could stay calm, read carefully, and focus on showing what I knew about architecture, rather than struggling with language under pressure.
This experience showed me how important these accommodations are. They help create a fair testing environment for international candidates, ensuring that language barriers don’t get in the way of demonstrating true professional competence.
Passion for Patient Care
My focus on health care design began with the Basaksehir Health Campus in Turkey—the largest hospital in Europe. Serving 15 million people in Istanbul, the project introduced me to the complexity and impact of health care architecture.
Inspired by the power of thoughtful design to improve lives, I committed to creating spaces that support patient care and community well-being. At HOK, working on projects like Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center in Southeast Washington, DC—an area facing health care disparities—reinforced my belief that health care is a basic human right.
As an architect, I especially enjoy bridging conceptual design with construction reality, ensuring these life-saving spaces become tangible assets for the communities that need them most.
I’m passionate about designing environments that heal, comfort, and empower both patients and caregivers.
Advice for International Licensure Candidates
First, embrace your unique perspective: Your international background is a strength, not a limitation. Build a local support network and connect with mentors who understand and relate to your journey. Take time to learn local codes, culture, and professional practices, while staying confident in your abilities. Don’t let language barriers hold you back. Instead, use them as a chance to improve your communication skills and grow your cultural fluency. Most importantly, be patient and persistent. The path may be challenging, but your resilience will become a powerful leadership asset.
Remember, your diverse experiences will make you a stronger architect and a valuable contributor to the profession!
Want to hear more from architects across the U.S.? Check out more stories from NCARB's Architect Spotlight series.