Saturday, August 11, 2018

ARCHCareersGuide.com http://archcareersguide.com

Amazingly, I launched this ARCHCareers blog on May 29, 2008 -- over 10 years ago.  During these ten years, I have authored over 550 entries; looking back, I am amazed as I never thought I had that much to share.

But I did and still do.  To that end, I am launching a new website / blog.


       ARCHCareersGuide.com http://archcareersguide.com


ARCHCareersGuide.com has been in the works since last December; and, as it with any project, it is still in the works.


From the new website.




Welcome to ARCHCareersGuide.com, an interactive guide to careers in architecture designed to assist you in becoming an architect!  It assists you in learning more about and understanding the process of becoming an architect.

More than a career resource, ARCHCareersGuide.com provides resources such as interviews with architects, links to valuable websites including architecture programs, a suggested reaching list and an opportunity to engage with Lee W. Waldrep, Ph.D. (aka Dr. Architecture), an expert on the process of becoming an architect.

More than a blog, this new website replaces the long-standing ARCHCareers.org that no longer exists.  More than a website, it connects you with me, a career professional with almost 25 years of experience in architectural education.Let me know how I can help you in the pursuit of "becoming an architect."


Dr. ArchitectureTwitter: @DocArchitecture

ARCHCareersGuide.com






Saturday, July 28, 2018

RESOURCES - Selecting a Program

RESOURCES

The following are resources to assist you in making a decision on an architecture.

First, contact each of the programs in which you are interested to receive promotional materials both from the university and the academic unit (architecture program).  I fully understand that each institution will have a website but sometimes having materials in your hands can be helpful.

All of these materials are helpful in learning more about the university and its architecture program; however, recognize that they are designed to persuade you to select the institution. Review the materials alongside materials not produced by the program or visit the campus to see for yourself.

STUDYARCHITECTURE.COM
Maintained by the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA), StudyArchitecture.com is a valuable resource for researching programs. Its primary content is a compilation of descriptions of the over 125 institutions offering professional degree programs in architecture.

The website provide you the ability to search the institutions and programs by a number of different criteria, including location (school, state, region), degree, population (female, minority, international, and out of state), curriculum (related disciplines and specialization), and financial factors (scholarships, tuition, residence, and degree level).

NAAB NATIONAL ARCHITECTURAL ACCREDITING BOARD
NAAB accreditation is the primary means by which professional degree programs in architecture assure quality to students and the public.
Like ACSA's StudyArchitecture, NAAB maintains a list of accredited architecture programs.
CAMPUS VISITS / OPEN HOUSE
A very helpful resource is the campus visit. Campus visits are an absolute must, especially for your top choices. When arranging one, consider spending the night with a current student to get an inside feeling about the institution. If possible, request that you stay with an architecture student. In addition, visit with a faculty member or administrator within the architecture program, ask for a tour of the facilities of the program, and attend a class.

In the fall, most schools host open houses as an opportunity for prospective students to meet with faculty and students and to learn more about curricular opportunities. While these are excellent opportunities, recognize that they present the campus at its best. In addition to these planned events, visit unannounced to see the campus, including the design studios, in its normal setting. Many graduate programs in architecture host an open house in the fall for prospective candidates and a parallel one in the spring for admitted candidates. Take advantage of these opportunities to learn more about a program and make an impression.

In the spring, schools again host open houses but they are reserved for admitted students.  Visit again if your schedule allows, but sometimes visiting on your schedule may be more helpful.  

ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR ADMINISTRATOR
As you narrow your choices, one of the best resources is an admissions counselor or an administrator (director, advisor, or faculty member) from the architecture program. Remember, the task of these individuals is to assist you in learning more about their university and the architecture program. Develop a personal relationship with them to obtain the information you need to make an informed decision. Do not hesitate to keep in touch with them throughout the admissions process.

STUDENTS / FACULTY / ALUMNI / ARCHITECTS
An often neglected but important resource is conversations with individuals associated with the architecture program—students, faculty, and alumni.  During campus visits, ask for an opportunity to speak with students and faculty. Request the names of a few alumni in your area, both recent and older graduates, to ask their impressions. Finally, seek out architects in your area and ask them their opinions about the schools you are considering for admission. If you are unable to visit a program, request the email addresses of students or recent alumni to ask questions.

ARCHITECTURE CAREER / COLLEGE DAYS
While many high schools and community colleges host annual college fairs, these events do not usually focus on the architecture programs.  Fortunately, there are a handful of annual events that are specifically about architecture!
Held in the fall, the architecture Career Days/College Fairs are a great opportunity for you to learn more about pursuing a degree. You can interact with representatives from a variety programs and ask specific questions (see examples below); you will connect with faculty, program administrators, and possibly students and alumni. Having these conversations will help you gain a better insight and help make a decision about which program is right for you.
Below are the events slated for Fall 2018.
Boston, MA – Saturday, September 29, 2018
Boston Society of Architects – Architecture / Design College Fair

Philadelphia, PA – Saturday, October 6, 2018
Temple University – Philadelphia Architecture + Design Fair

Dallas, TX – Saturday, October 13, 2018
AIA Dallas – 2B an Architect

Chicago, IL - Saturday, October 20, 2018
Consortium for Design and Construction Careers – Chicago Architecture + Design College Day

New York, NY – Saturday, November 3, 2018
Center for Architecture – Architecture & Design College Fair

Seattle, WA – Sunday, December 30, 2018
American Institute of Architecture Students Expo 2018

Finally, feel free to contact me with more specific questions on the process.

Dr. Architecture

Saturday, June 16, 2018

Architecture College / Career Days - Fall 2018

While many high schools and community colleges host annual college fairs, these events do not usually focus on the architecture programs.  Fortunately, there are a handful of annual events that are specifically about architecture!
Held in the fall, the architecture Career Days/College Fairs are a great opportunity for you to learn more about pursuing a degree. You can interact with representatives from a variety programs and ask specific questions (see examples below); you will connect with faculty, program administrators, and possibly students and alumni. Having these conversations will help you gain a better insight and help make a decision about which program is right for you.
Below are the events slated for Fall 2018.
Boston, MA – Saturday, September 29, 2018
Boston Society of Architects – Architecture / Design College Fair

Philadelphia, PA – Saturday, October 6, 2018
Temple University – Philadelphia Architecture + Design Fair

Dallas, TX – Saturday, October 13, 2018
AIA Dallas – 2B an Architect

Chicago, IL - Saturday, October 20, 2018
Consortium for Design and Construction Careers – Chicago Architecture + Design College Day

New York, NY – Saturday, November 3, 2018
Center for Architecture – Architecture & Design College Fair

Seattle, WA – Sunday, December 30, 2018
American Institute of Architecture Students Expo 2018



Saturday, May 12, 2018

A.R.C.H.I.T.E.C.T - An Acronym for Successful Job Searching

As it is spring, many graduate from architecture programs will begin the careers.  While many may have secured a career position prior to graduation, many may still be searching.

If you are one of them, below is is an acronym that may be of help in your search.


A.R.C.H.I.T.E.C.T.
Acronym for the a Successful Job Search

By applying your talents as an architecture student to the job search process, you will be able to design your own career, rather than just letting it happen.  You will want to be more creative in organizing your job search and selling yourself to prospective employers.  While not guaranteed, the following hints, spelling out the word ARCHITECT, may assist you in finding a position a little quicker.  They are:

Assessment
The first step in any search for a position involves assessing yourself.  Assess what aspect of architecture inspires you: programming, design, interior architecture, construction management, etc.; what is it that you desire to do within an architecture firm and what are you able to offer a prospective employer.  Ask yourself the question -- Why should this firm hire me?  What would your answer be?  Constantly evaluate your interests, abilities, and values and how they match those of your current or a prospective employer.

Research
Research is critical to the job search process.  What positions within an architecture firm can best utilize your skills and knowledge? What employers have such positions? Do not limit your job search to the architecture profession; the best employment opportunities for you may be with an interior design firm, a construction firm, or an engineering firm; again, be creative in your search.

Connections
Connections are crucial for a successful job search.  Regardless of the career field, over 60% of all openings are obtained through networking. As a novice job-searcher, you should be adding five to ten names to your network monthly.  Local monthly AIA meetings are one of the best places to perform your networking by talking with principals of your local architectural firms. Listen.  Learn. Talk.  Remember, every conversation is a possible job lead.  The more ears and eyes you have looking for you for the positions you want, the more likely something will materialize.

If you read any book on job searching, you will quickly learn that the most effective method to learn of employment opportunities in NETWORKING, but most people, especially students do not know what networking is?  Simply put, it is informing others around you of your intent in gaining experience and asking if they may know of any leads for you.  In a school setting, this may include classmates, professors, and staff. Another excellent idea related to networking is to approach guest lecturers or architects that may be on your juries.  Ask them if they hire students for the summer or part-time positions.  They may not always be too responsive, so politely ask for a business card for you to follow-up.

Help
Help with your search can be gained from a variety of sources. A good place to start is the Career Center; touching base with a career counselor can be a great place to begin as they can help you target your job search.   Most local AIA chapters have job boards for use by job searchers or may have a list of area firms for research.  Public libraries are another valuable resources; they have a multitude of resources that may be of some assistance.   As well, you should seek support from others, especially family and friends; talking to them can be a big boost to your job search.

Undoubtedly, most programs in architecture promote employment opportunities within the area of the program.  When seeking students to perform entry-level tasks, many firms will send a position announcement outlining the duties and responsibilities, qualifications, and contact information.
  
Interim Jobs
If you were unable to secure your ideal position after graduation, consider an interim job.  An interim job provides you with a regular income, but is only a stopgap solution; you have no intention of staying on a permanent basis. Ideally, interim jobs allow you to continue your job search, connect you with a wide variety of people for networking, and build upon your skills.

Tools
Critical to the job search process are your resume, portfolio, ability to write cover letters and to interview; they are very important tools to communicate your "self" to potential employers. Are your tools in top form?  If not, practice your interviewing skills, rework your resume or have someone critique your portfolio.

As with any discipline, having a resume is essential when conducting a job search.  Just as critical is a well crafted cover letter. While it is not the intent of this article to duplicate the rigors of resume writing or other aspects of the job search, what can be shared are insights to these necessary tools.  For the resume, keep is simple and straightforward providing information from your background and experiences that demonstrate your abilities.  Do not be afraid to include skills learned from studio or other classroom projects under a section entitled - course projects.  If you have not worked formally in an architectural office, you can still promote your drafting, modeling-building, and design skills learned in studio.

Another idea for the resume is the inclusion of graphics!  With the ease of scanning drawings and graphic publishing softwares, placing an image on your resume can be powerful; however, exercise caution as the image may make reading the resume more difficult. Rather than including graphics on your resume, you could create a one-page portfolio.

For most, cover letters are an afterthought, when in reality, cover letters serve as the introduction to you as the prospective employee.  Most cover letters are typically three paragraphs: 1) introduces yourself and explains the purpose of the letter; 2) sells your skill set and makes the match for the employer; and 3) provides the terms of follow-up.  Regardless of the letter, be sure to address the letter to an individual, not a "Dear Sir/Madam."  If you do not know the name of the individual, take the time to contact the firm and ask.  Be persistent if the firm is reluctant to provide this information.

Finally, remember, the purpose of the resume/cover letter is to get an interview!

Just as important as the resume and perhaps more important is your portfolio.  As architecture is a visual based discipline, the portfolio provides a direct link for the employer to your skills as an architect.  For this reason, you will want to provide images that demonstrate all of your architectural skills - drafting, model-building, drawing, design, etc.  As well, you want to provide some drawings from projects from beginning to end.  In other words, do not only include finished ink on mylar drawings.  These will allow the employer to see your thought process as it relates to a design problem.

The key to a successful interview is preparation and practice. Prepare by reviewing possible questions that may be asked of you and researching the firm.  In addition, develop answers to questions by demonstrating how you are able to address a firm's needs and how you stand out from other candidates.

Experience
At this point in your career, you may feel as if you have little experience.  This may be true, but recognize that, in many cases, employers are hiring your potential.  If you do not have the experience needed, consider trying one of the following to obtain it: 1) part-time work, 2) volunteer work, 3) informal experiences, 4) temporary work.

Commitment
Searching for a job is a full-time job which means 9 to 5.  As a former architecture student, I recognize that you are too busy with various commitments, but devote every possible minute to your job search; doing so will payoff.  In fact, if you have not already done so, start your search now!  Do not wait until next week or next month.

Transition
Realize that you are going through a major life transition, that of entering the profession of architecture. In addition to your new job, recognize that all aspects of your life will be affected. Summer vacations are a luxury of the past.  Finally, there are financial adjustments as you begin to receive an annual salary and have new expenses.

It may be a tough job market, therefore, be assertive, learn the job search process, and do not be afraid of rejection.  Searching for a job is a skill you will be using throughout your life.

A FINAL THOUGHT!

The answer, in a nutshell, is:
    Thru your research
    and then thru your contacts.

    -  Richard N. Bolles

Saturday, January 6, 2018

Summer Opportunities - More

As the spring semester begins, many architecture students will begin their search for summer positions.  

While attending Career Fairs is a great start, you may wish to consider applying to one of the many firms that offer a scholarship that typically includes a summer position.

Those listed are just the tip of what is available; to search for more, search the internet, check with local AIA chapters or connect with faculty.  If you learn of others, do share with me.

Best in your search!























ZGF Architects
Deadline: February 1, 2018
https://www.zgf.com/scholarship/

MOA Architecture
Deadline: January 31, 2018
http://moaarch.com/we-are-moa/scholarship-internship/

Gensler
https://www.gensler.com/internships?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=Summer%20Internships

HOK
http://www.hok.com/about/careers/internships

Eskew Dumez Ripple
http://www.eskewdumezripple.com/opportunities/internship-program

Harriman
http://harriman.com/careers/

Perkins + Will
http://perkinswill.com/pages/interns.html

HKS Inc.
http://www.hksinc.com/hkscareersdraft/careers-students/

Kirksey Architecture
Deadline: February 16, 2018
http://www.kirksey.com/firm/careers/summer-intern-program

Hanbury
Deadline: March 1, 2018
http://www.hewv.com/practice/summer-scholar-program/

SOM
Deadline: Varies
http://www.som.com/about/careers

Sasaki
Deadline: February 9, 2018
http://www.sasaki.com/about-us/Internships/

Smith Group
http://www.smithgroupjjr.com/internships



Dream Careers - Barcelona, SPAIN
https://www.summerinternships.com/internships/architecture

Dr. Architecture
lwaldrep@gmail.com