We spoke with architect Quyen Ly, AIA, NCARB, about her experience on the path to licensure. Read about Quyen’s approach to taking the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), advice for fellow emerging professionals who speak English as a second language (ESL), and day-to-day work as an architect!
What motivated you to pursue a career in architecture?
I’ve always been drawn to art and crafts, and my interest in architecture started when I was very young. My dad subscribed to a popular Vietnamese architecture magazine, and I loved flipping through the pages, admiring all the beautiful and fascinating buildings. I never imagined becoming an architect until I participated in a design-build competition in high school. I spent nights building bridges and towers, and I absolutely loved it. After winning that competition, I knew I wanted to pursue something related to design and construction.
You earned your license just two years after graduating from the University of Tennessee Knoxville’s Bachelor of Architecture program—can you tell us a little more about your path to licensure?
I’m a planner by nature, and I’m always setting new goals for myself. My ultimate goal is to open my own firm and contribute to the profession by bringing my culture and knowledge into modern architecture. Finishing architecture school was a major milestone, and gaining experience through my first job helped me prepare for the next step, licensure. After a year of interning, I decided to dedicate myself fully to the ARE. With a year of studying and testing, I was able to pass all the divisions and officially become licensed.
You faced the additional challenge of navigating the licensure process as a second-language English speaker. Do you have any tips for fellow ESL speakers working to become architects?
As a second-language English speaker, the process was definitely more challenging. There were so many new terms and concepts I had never encountered before, which made studying slower. Thankfully, NCARB offers extra time accommodations for ESL candidates, which allowed me to carefully reread questions and ensure I understood everything. I used Amber Book as my main study resource; it’s very visual and engaging, which made it easier to grasp the content.
The process is long and difficult, but I kept reminding myself not to give up. I started studying soon after graduation, while I was still in a learning mindset, and that made a big difference. My advice to other candidates, especially ESL speakers, is to start early, stay consistent, and use the tools available to you.
How did you stay motivated while working to earn your license?
My workplace was very accommodating and supportive during my study period, and my family helped me manage other responsibilities. I also had a few friends who were on the same path to licensure. We studied together, took exams around the same time, and motivated each other throughout the process. Having that shared experience—and a bit of friendly competition—really helped me stay on track. I’m so proud that we all passed!
You currently work as an architect at Gilbert | McLaughlin | Casella Architects. What does a typical day look like for you? Can you share some projects you’re particularly proud of?
I’ve been with the firm for more than two years now. My typical Monday starts with a team
meeting where we discuss weekly goals and project priorities. After that, I review my notes from the previous day, finish any remaining tasks, and organize my workload for the week based on deadlines and importance.
As a newer architect, I’m constantly learning—balancing production work with project coordination and site visits. Lately, I’ve been more involved in construction evaluation for projects I helped design, which has been a great learning experience. Most of my work has focused on educational and residential projects, including several renovations and a few new builds.
One of my favorite projects is the Tennessee Nature Academy, a new-build educational project that I’ve been involved with from design development through documentation. The school’s concept is very different from a traditional learning environment—it’s centered around nature and outdoor engagement. Our design had to reflect the school’s philosophy, where every activity and space connects students to the natural world. It required us to dig deep into their mission and rethink what a “school” could be. Designing it has been an incredibly fun and inspiring experience, and I can’t wait to see it built.
What advice or resources would you recommend to someone still on their journey to licensure?
Start early and stay consistent! The longer you wait, the more life tends to get in the way. Use resources like Amber Book, NCARB’s guidelines, and study groups—having peers to share the experience with makes it much more manageable. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or accommodations if you need them, and remember that the process takes time. Stay patient, stay focused, and celebrate every milestone along the way.