‘‘I had never contemplated what differentiated homes from one another before that,’’ she said, after her graduation ceremony.

Ms Harwood previously worked in marketing, but decided three years ago to embark as a mature age student in the Bachelor of Design (Architecture).

Eager to understand more about related fields, she worked as a builder’s labourer for three months before commencing her studies and completed a carpentry pre apprenticeship last year.

Ms Harwood started working two months ago as a new home consultant at GJ Gardner Homes, which involves helping customers to adjust existing floor plans to suit their needs and in some cases, customising home designs according to their preferences.

She hopes to start her Masters of Architecture in a few years time.

‘‘My undergraduate degree was a lot of work, but I still feel like there’s a lot more work ahead,’’ she said.

‘‘I do feel a sense of accomplishment, but also a sense that the journey is not complete yet.’’