What's the Name of That Book??? discussion

Boy who goes to a magical university in the South Island, maybe Otago. Author might be called Rachel? Maybe? Cover has white on it and feathers.

I think the second book in the trilogy is called something to do with journeys. Maybe apprentice.

And that the trilogy has been compared to Lev Grossman's The Magicians, but better.

Published in the 2000s/2010s.

Sorry I can remember so little! Any suggestions welcome :)

This trilogy might be too recent but maybe Instrument of Peace by Rebecca Hall?

Found searching online.

YES THAT'S IT thank you so much! Seems like the only thing I got right is that the author's name starts with R.

Thank you!!!!

And the feathers! :-)
I'm glad this is trilogy you were looking for!