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

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

Job Search

Hello, I am a Kent State University Graduate from the school of Architecture and Environmental Design with a bachelors in Interior Design. I am seeking a Career in my field. I need to know what companies are hiring and where to look to apply. I have my resume, references and portfolio and ample work experience. Please advise if you know of any job openings anywhere, I am willing to relocate. Thank you for your time and have a blessed day.
______________

I am not in a position to provide specific openings, but can certainly provide some insight on the job search.

The answer, in a nutshell, is:

Thru your research

And then thru your contacts 

--Richard Bolles

The above listed quote sums up the most effective method of searching for a position.  First, list potential employers that could hire you -- firms in your region, outside your region, etc.  Next, extend to your network (FB, LinkedIN, etc.) to find someone that knows someone in one your firms that is hiring.  

Everyone you know (family, friends, etc.) should know you are seeking a career position.  

Send your materials, knock on their doors, follow-up.

Your job is to secure a career position - full-time.  You should be spending 8-10 hours a day on your search.

Best.

Job Searching

Dear Dr. Architecture

This web site was referred to me by a friend and I came across your contact. I am a chartered architect from Sri Lanka. I have been working for the past 13 years, part of it in Sri Lanka, while a student and the last four years as a senior Architect in a British firm in Muscat, Oman.

Presently  I live in Rochester, MN with my husband and would like to explore the possibility of working here.  Any advice you could provide  on this would be really appreciated...

___________

Below is an article highlighting job searching.  Perhaps, this can be of help.

http://www.archdaily.com/386518/searching-for-a-job-in-architecture-10-things-you-need-to-know/

As the article states, the most effective method is networking.  Connect with architects in Rochester through the AIA or other means.  Knock on doors of firms - visit them directly and ask for an interview.

Best!

Interviewing Tips

I have an interview with a firm about a job opportunity. I was wondering if you had any advice or tips on what to expect. I have had a couple interviews with firms in the past but never successfully landed the job so any advice would be appreciated!
___________

The true trick is to be prepared.  Prepare a set of questions that you think they will ask and draft responses – not that you will simply repeat what you wrote but will practice the answers.  Have a set of questions for them as well.

At the end of the interview, punch it – in other words, reiterate why you are qualified for the position and ask what the next step is – when should expect to hear from them.  After, write a notecard of thanks!

There are plenty of websites on interviewing to learn possible questions that may be asked of you and ones you can ask the firm.  Below is just one.

http://jobsearch.about.com/cs/interviews/a/aceinterview.htm

Be confident and remember that it is not always the best candidate that gets the position, but rather than one who knows how to job search the best.

Good luck.

Job Search - Prior to MArch

I am currently in my 3rd year of undergraduate studies at the University of Chicago. Though I am not currently studying in a field directly related to architecture, I plan to pursue a masters degree in architecture after graduating. I aspire to one day become a licensed architect. 

I understand the requirements and efforts necessary for me to apply to such programs as a liberal arts undergrad, but in order to make myself more competitive and to get a better feel for the profession, I think I want to pursue an internship/job opportunity related to architecture for this summer. 

Unfortunately, this is incredibly difficult for someone with minimal CAD experience and no undergraduate studies in architecture. I've written about buildings quite a bit both as a journalist and in university, but other than attacking this problem from that angle, I don't really know how to get my foot in the door. Any suggestions?
______________

Congrats on your desire to pursue architecture and to become an architect

As for getting yourself in the door of an architecture firm prior to your graduate degree and with minimal experience, I offer the following:

First, do your homework on potential employers - architecture firms and others.  Ideally, you wish to work for an architecture firm, but there may be other design-related disciplines/employers that may also be helpful in your transition.  The AIA Illinois has a book entitled Archipages which lists all AIA-member owned firms in the state of Illinois.  The AIA Chicago has a website with many Chicago-based firms.

Next, you need to do an inventory of your skills (separate from AutoCad).  Although you may not have architectural skills, you do have skills that may be of interest to potential employers.  You mention writing - perhaps, you can be hired for a firm's marketing department to write proposals, marketing briefs, etc.  You can still be valuable to a firm even without architectural skills.

As well, you need to connect with architecture firms beyond the job search.  Become involved with the AIA Chicago (attend lectures, volunteer, etc.) to meet architects and architectural students/graduates who may help with connections.  Consider attending lectures at either IIT or UIC and meet those others that attend.

As you write - have you thought about blogging about buildings and architecture to become more known.

These are some ideas -- keep connecting and consider obtaining Becoming an Architect, 2nd ed.

Best.

Summer Internship

Hello, Dr. Architecture

I am writing to inquire about summer architecture internships or experiences that would be helpful to a 2nd year architecture student.  Would you be able to point me in the right direction?  It seems after searching that internships are often offered to the upper level students. Perhaps a better option would be to seek other career-related opportunities for the course of the summer.  What would be most helpful at this point in my education?


Thanks,
__________

I will share what I can, but if you provided your school/region of the country I might be of more assistance.

First, seeking a summer career-related experience is a precursor to your employment after graduation and is process of preparing your materials (resume, cover letters, portfolio, etc.), researching potential employers and making the match.

Start with your University Career Center to help you with your materials.  Perhaps have faculty or upper level students help with your portfolio; a good book is Portfolio Design (portfoliodesign.com).  At the same time research potential firms or employers that could use your talents/skills.  These may be other than architecture firms.

Once you have done these two steps, now contact the firm with your materials to schedule an interview.  Again, the Career Center can help you with cover letters and interviewing.

It may be difficult but start now and be persistent and ask for lots of help.

Best.

Questions

I have a B.Arch (Architect) from India, and currently struggling for following three issues:

1. Not able to find a job in US, I am currently in Phoenix AZ. Can you please suggest some good jobsite where I might able to see some openings.


2. Are there any distance learning universities where I can get my M. Arch completed.


3. Is the Indian B. Arch degree valid in US? Can I start my own practice with Indian Architecture Degree?
__________

Here is a start on your issues/questions.

1. I would steer you away from websites and network.  If you have not done so, join the AIA chapter or attend lectures/events frequented by architects to network.  Research the firms in the region and contact them with your materials.

2. There are two accredited M.Arch programs that a portion of their program is delivered online - Boston Architectural College and Lawrence Technological University.  You can visit - naab.org for their websites.  

3. The simple answer is NO, but you can still apply for licensure within the U.S; contact ncarb.org and review the information for foreign-educated individuals.  You will need to have your education evaluated through EESA to determine its equivalency to the NCARB Education Standard.

As for starting your own practice, the answer would be YES, but you could not practice architecture until you became licensed in the state in which you practice.  You could hire architects in the interim.

Job Searching Challenges

I can't find a job in architecture!
I have done every possible thing to become employed, yet no offers at all!
I attend architecture events in Orlando Florida regularly and network with architects.I applied for all kinds of jobs in architecture, from drafting, to design to internships. I visited the career center in college to check my resume and they keep admiring it,I even made a website for my portfolio. I graduated with a GPA of 3.5 with masters degree from a program in Chicago , and received some recognitions and awards during my years there. I don't know what I have been missing, why I can't find a job? This is very frustrating, sometimes I feel I made a wrong decision to get into this major.
___________________

As you have learned, the job market for architects is a tough one.

First, it is hard to say for certain why you have not yet found a position in architecture especially solely from your comments below, but you can always do more.  It is hard, but hopefully in the end -- it is worth the effort.

Certainly, the most effective career search method is "networking" which you are doing, but how do you network -- Do you introduce yourself with the "30-second" commercial?  -- Who you are, what you are about, and what you are looking for?  Do you inquire with them about additional connections or potential firms that may be hiring?  Do you obtain a business card and use it to follow-up after first meeting?

You state that you have applied for all kinds of positions, but have you also applied for positions outside architecture that still develop your skills - engineering, interior design, construction, etc.  Also, to develop skills, consider volunteer work with community design centers, etc. to develop connections and skills.

I applaud your being in touch with your Career Center on your resume, but check with IIT about their alumni network -- again, more connections.

In the interim, consider entering design competitions to keep your work in architecture continuous.

I fully appreciate your frustration, but searching is a full-time job.  I do not know all of the details of your search, but be positive.  Below is an article that may be of assistance.

Architecture and Beyond: Opportunities Abound
http://www.architectsuccess.com/2012/04/01/architecture-and-beyond-opportunities-abound-by-lee-w-waldrep-ph-d/

Best.

How to "network" your way into a job!

At least once in everyone’s career, whether by choice or circumstance, a job seeker will have to endure the stressful process that includes identifying, applying to, interviewing for, being offered, negotiating the terms of, and ultimately accepting – or rejecting – a job.

During my own job searches, I have found that my biggest asset is my strong network of personal and professional connections.  Without them, looking for a job would have been a far more painful process.  Here are some suggestions for how to network your way into a job:

1. Classmates: Stay in touch with classmates; you've had similar experiences and probably travel in similar circles.  They know people, and so do you. Perhaps someone's firm is looking to fill a position?  Speak to friends, family members, previous employers (with whom you've presumably remained in contact), the girl at the gym, the guy at the grocery store, etc. You never know whom they know -- or who they know who knows someone else!

2. School: Speak to your school's career counselor or alumni director.  Are there school-related events in which you can participate so that you can meet people? Do they keep their own job postings?  Do you have access to an alumni database?

3. AIA: Attend an AIA event or program and/or join a committee.  Local AIA chapters are always looking for volunteers.  This is a great opportunity to meet people who share at least two common interests: architecture and the AIA!

4. Social Media: Use social media to your advantage.  Websites like LinkedIn, Twitter, etc. will be great resources.  Do your research. Contact firms to set up an informational interview and/or firm tour. Many firms – despite their ability to hire – will still be interested to meet potential candidates for when positions become available. Also, architects love to talk – and will happily share their personal experiences. Usually the AIA has an updated list of the local FAIA members.  Seek them out as they are especially supportive of the young professionals and would gladly share a tale or two!

5. Consultants: If you've worked in a firm before, talk to your consultants.  Your product/material reps are also great resources.  They are in architecture offices all day long and know which firms are hiring. They generally have good relationships with people in those firms and might be able to facilitate a meeting for you.

While it’s more helpful to forward your materials to someone directly if a firm is hiring, it's important to note that, in most cases, you can still forward your materials to a firm, regardless of whether or not it appears to be hiring.  Many firms don't have the time to keep their career postings up-to-date and others keep generic ads active as a way to solicit resumes from the current pool of job seekers.  This allows a firm to make a quick decision when new work comes into the office.  You want to be at the top of their list!

Finally, don't get overwhelmed. It may take years to establish an effective network.  But, when you do, you will be delighted to have such a strong support system.  And remember:

1. Smile.  Everyone you meet is probably just as nervous as you are!

2. Say "thank you.”  People are more likely to help you again if they know how much you've appreciated their help.

3. It's a two-way street: What can you offer to the relationship?  Give your new connection another reason to keep in touch.  

About the author:

Lori Apfel Cardeli, AIA joined Bonstra | Haresign ARCHITECTS in Washington, D.C. in February 2012.  The firm focuses on affordable housing and multi-use residential projects.  Previously based in New York City, she also has experience in sustainable learning environments, high-rise residences, and high-end homes. Mrs. Cardeli received a B.S. in Architecture from Washington University in St. Louis (2004) and an M.Arch from Columbia University, GSAPP (2007), where she serves as an inaugural member of the GSAPP Alumni Association Board and Co-Chair of its Alumni/Student + Careers Committee.  As an active member of AIA, she was selected to serve on the Education Proposal Review Committee for its 2013 National Convention, participated in YAF Summit20, and is a two-time presenter at National Convention.  Mrs. Cardeli is a registered architect in New York State.

Mrs. Cardeli may be contacted, as follows:

e. LoriCardeli@gmail.com

t.  LArChitecting

Copyright © 2012 by Lori Apfel Cardeli.  All Rights Reserved.

Internship

Currently I live in  California. I have done B.Arch, (1999) in India. After 12 years, I am planning to start my career to empower my skills.  I am planning to start interior course in community college.
                                
I am wondering does this correct path to enter an internship an architectural firm?  If you give some ideas to get internship process it would be great.
_________________

If you desire to gain employment in the architectural profession, you have the education to apply for positions within architecture firms.  Granted, you applied a number of years ago, but you should be able to search for employment accordingly.

Certainly, you may seek additional skills from a community college as you outline. 

To gain a position, I would suggest the best approach is networking -- Connect with architects through the local AIA chapter or other organizations where you learn about firms.  Sometimes, you can connect via architecture programs.

Best.

Job Search Resources

I live in Portland, OR. I am desperatly looking for architecture work. I never see job postings in the Oregonian, Monster, and Craig's List. Can you give me better resources to find a job?

_____________

From what you have shared, I will provide the following -- the most effective job search method is networking, not looking on the internet job boards.  You do not share where you are in the process of becoming an architect.  Are you a member of the AIA? or any other professional organization from which you can network?

Have you researched the firms in Portland and approach them directly?  As you know, the market is challenging so firms are not advertising.  You need to approach them and create value for them.  Research the firms, determine which are the best for you and network you way in to someone who is responsible for hiring.

Did you go to school in Portland?  If so, what faculty did you have that might be of help?

Everyone you know and do not know are potential contacts.  I would spend some time, but not much in the job boards; instead, I would get out and meet people, preferably architects.  Volunteer with the AIA or other group for which you will connect with architects.  Attend lectures or other seminars where you will meet architects.

I hope this helps.

Internship in another Country

I'm a 5th year architecture student from the Philippines and will be graduating by March of this year. I am planning on taking on an internship in another country (maybe singapore or canada) and was wondering, with just about 2 months of previous architecture internship experience, is that enough to help me qualify for an internship with a foreign company? Also, I would like to ask if companies today are really open to foreign interns?

_________

 

My true expertise is becoming an architect in the U.S., not other countries.  With that said, I cannot address the work permit issue that comes from working in one country when an individual is from another county.

However, I always think it is worth applying for positions, internship or otherwise.  Granted, you would have two months previous experience, but that should not stop you from applying.  You may wish to network to the extent you can to gain access to firms in which you are interested.

You never truly know the answer to your question unless you contact them.  Also, why do you wish to work in another country?

Best!

 

Dr. Architecture

Internship in the U.S.

As a graduate engineer of architecture in Architecture /M.Arch. - 5 Years Bologna study program/ from Architectural Faculty at the Belgrade University,

May I ask you if you are able to help me in my quest for some internship program in the field of architectural design, please.

_________

To secure an internship in the U.S., your best starting point are AIA (American Institute of Architects) local chapters.  Determine the state/city you wish to search and google the local AIA chapter.  Most AIA websites have job postings and a listing of AIA member owned firms with their websites.

AIA Career Center
http://careercenter.aia.org/search.cfm

From there, you would need to contact and apply with your credentials.

Best!

Job Search

I graduated from UC Davis majoring in Design: Interior Architecture and Minor in Art Studio. I have had a various amount of internships in Architecture and Interior Design firms. However, I am still unable to get a job in the architecture or interior design field. What do you suggest I do next? Should I apply to grad schools? If so, is it smart to go to the UK to get a degree if ultimately, I want to practice in San Francisco (which is where I am living now). 

__________

As you have discovered, searching for your first career position is a challenge. 

It is truly hard for me to suggest what you do next without knowing fully your job search process.  You seem to imply that you are ready to give up on job searching.  Certainly, moving ahead to graduate studies is an option but are you confirmed for which discipline - architecture, interior design, other?

Obtaining a degree in UK is an option as well, but if it is in architecture, you will have additional administrative hurdles to jump for becoming licensed in the U.S.

Again, without knowing you job search, I am still inclined to suggest you redouble your efforts with searching for a career.  Step back and do some self-assessment to best determine your approach.  What skills do you have that potential employers may be seeking?  Do not just approach design firms.

The best way to search is via networking, not job boards.  Join a professional association or volunteer to connect with designers.  Research firms and visit them directly in person - not send them an email.

Contact your alma mater to see if they have an alumni network that you could use to connect with design professionals.  One resource to obtain is What Color is Your Parachute by Richard Bolles.

Best in your search and contact me if you have additional questions.

Dr. Architecture 

Volunteering for an Architecture Firm

I'm in grad school for my masters' degree in architecture. As you are probably aware, jobs in architecture, especially in entry level positions, are slim to none. I am pondering about working at a firm as a volunteer to become familar with the workings of an architecture firm. I'm 40 years old(I hope that my age does not make a difference), I do want to become an architect, more than anything. How should I approach an architecture firm to work as a volunteer? 

I have a technical diploma in AutoCAD 2010. In school, I'm currently learning Photoshop CS,Adobe Illustrator and model making, and I'm experienced with Word,Excel,Outlook, Powerpoint and Publisher. If it means anything, I've designed and built furniture for the past 5 years. Any advice you can give me will be greatly valued and appreciated.

_________

I can certainly appreciate that securing a position within architecture is challenging, but I would NOT recommend that you "volunteer" for a firm as a means of gaining experience.  First, it its strictest form, it is against Federal Labor Laws.  If you work for a firm, they are obligated to pay you minimum wage, at least.

Based on what you have shared you have talents to offer a firm and should continue your efforts to secure a paid position.  You may need to cast a wider net of employers including furniture design.  As this point, you want to develop your skills and ideally you wish to work for a firm, but others might benefit from your past experience and skills.

Begin to network with your faculty or alums of your institution to find possible leads. 

As an alternative to volunteering in a firm, consider volunteering for a non-profit or shadow an architect, but please do not work for free.

Best - Dr. Architecture

Internship - Discovering Architecture

I'm writing to you after reading the information given on your website relating to Architecture. I am currently a first-generation college student attending a community college in NYC. I'm still in the process of discovering what I want to pursue in my career life, though I am clear that I want to be in an industry where I can use my creativity, an industry where my imagination will be an asset in my career.

 

I want to experience the architecture world! And as an intern I will know if this would be the right path for me. Do I qualify to be an intern if I have no type of experience with architecture and no portfolio? How can I go about finding an internship? What other preparation would you recommend for me? 

 

I truly appreciate any time you have to spare to advise me.

__________

Congrats on discovering and following your passion -- using your imagination.

Architecture may be a good fit for you given your passion to use imagination.  However, given the economy and your limited skill set, it may be difficult in securing an architectural internship.  It does not mean that you should not attempt to locate one.

Think of an internship as a career related position in an architecture firm.  You can apply with your credentials but know that it be difficult as many firms are not hiring.  In your case as you are trying to determine if architecture is the right path for you, contact a firm to possibly simply do a shadowing experience where for a single day you learn about what an architect does. 

Perhaps, through your community college, you can contact an architect.  Of course, it would help to have a portfolio to demonstrate your skills and work.  Start by contacting the AIA NYC to view firms in the city.

If possible, visit the schools in NYC to talk with current architecture students; consider attending events through the AIA NYC - http://cfa.aiany.org/index.php?section=calendar -

Stay active and continue to ask lots of questions.

 

Dr. Architecture

Job Search

I am an architect engineer; I graduated from a foreign university.  I am a hard worker since I graduated from college.  I have passion in architecture;  I recently came here to U.S and I am seeking for a job even as a part time job.  I am planning to get a master degree next year, but I post my CV & portfolio to many links & places.  I am not getting any replies from them.  Am I missing something in experience? What do you recommend?

____________

Please recognize that the job market for architecture is currently very challenging.  Estimates are that there is between 20-30% unemployment in the field of architecture.

Thus, searching for a position in the field is difficult.

While it is hard to fully know the method of your job search, I will suggest you try "networking," the idea that you connect with others within the profession to learn of possible opportunities in your region.  Consider joining the AIA (professional association) to become more involved.  Do not rely solely on "links and places."

One resource to consider is What Color is Your Parachute by Richard Bolles to learn how to job search.

Dr. Architecture 

Coming to work in the U.S.

I'm a young Portuguese architect that is trying to relocate to the U.S to find a job opportunity in architecture. I got my master degree in 2009, done my full year internship in Portugal and I am now member of the Portuguese Architects Institute and so far made a few works, including got short listed for an exhibit in the Lisbon Architecture Triennale on a competition project.

I was planing to live abroad for a few years to develop my architecture and open my way of thinking and for that reason the U.S and his difference in many aspects in architecture compared to Europe is my first choice.

This is the reason why I'm sending this email to you, to find some help in finding places to work in the U.S, and to know what should be the best approach to the employers.

I'll be looking forward to hear from you.
_________

 

Congrats on your recent degree and becoming a member of the Portuguese Architects Institute.

I appreciate your desire to work in the U.S., but do realize that the job market for architects is a very difficult one now.  You will need to be very proactive and diligent in your search.

There are many sources for researching firms and possible opportunities, but a good place to start would be the American Institute of Architects, both the national association and the local components around the country.

http://www.aia.org/
http://careercenter.aia.org/search.cfm
http://www.aia.org/about/structure/components/AIAS078541

Most of the AIA components (listed above) have job boards as well as a list of firms in their locale.  You can research firms and contact them accordingly.

Here are a few others.

Architect Search

...founded in 1998, this executive recruiting firm specializes in placing architects across the US. You can review many positions they are working to fill or merely submit a resume for consideration in future searches.

Architect Job Source

...free site with links to architectural firms throughout the US. Select your state then city to see the list, which will connect you to the firm's website for review of jobs and submission of applications. Washington DC is listed under Virginia. Yes, I sent the owner a note about that.

Archinect

...developed in 1997 by Paul Petrunia, "the goal of Archinect is to make architecture more connected and open-minded, and bring together designers from around the world to introduce new ideas from all disciplines." The Jobs board has listings for architects, interns, model makers, systems managers, and others needed by architecture, construction, and design firms.

In terms of approaching employers, there are many resources on job searching in books, the web, and other resources.  You will want to develop a resume and portfolio to provide to firms.

Wishing you the best!

Portfolios via Cloud Computing.

Consider me a helicopter parent, and I suppose I will have to claim the title.  At any rate, my son, who graduated in May with a BArch, wants to apply to a firm that apparently wants to access his portfolio through what I guess must be cloud computing.  If I'm sounding stupid, it's because in this regard, I am.  So does he have to pay for some sort of service to upload his portfolio?  And in such case, would his portfolio be protected, or would anyone have access to it and could therefore pirate his materials?  He is so frustrated, so his helicopter mother is trying to keep him on track, but I need your help.

 

Thanks very much for any assistance you can provide.

_______

I may have to claim ignorance on this one as well, but I will give it a shot.

Many architecture students and graduates post their portfolios via websites of their own making or websites designed for such purposes.  One such website is the following:

http://issuu.com/ 

Issuu is the leading digital publishing platform delivering exceptional reading experiences of magazines, catalogs, and newspapers.

 

From my understanding, these websites are free to use for basic access, but there may be a fee for more advanced levels.  As firms do not want to have large digital files from candidates, they request the candidates digital portfolio online - or cloud computing.  In most instances, these files are NOT protected - meaning that anyone can access them.  A suggestion might be to NOT list your full mailing address but just email.

In all cases, he should be in touch with the firm as to how to best apply for a position.

I hope this helps!  If he is frustrated with a helicopter mom, tell him to contact me directly.

 

Dr. Architecture