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For an architecture major in college, what extra-curriculars or electives should I take in highschool to best prepare me for college? Did you take any of these that you recommend?
I am a 16 year old who is interested in architecture. I love designing, planning, and drafting.
#architecture #college #university #architect #major #college-major #design
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Lori’s Answer
You may be hard-pressed to find an actual club or extra-curricular activity directly related to architecture, but maybe not! Remember, the purpose of extra-curricular participation is to try something new, explore an interest, or meet new people. To college admissions personnel, they don't judge the "type" of activities a student lists on their high school resume, but rather, if the student balanced them well with their studies. However, if you have the opportunity to take a seminar or week-long program at a college during the summer between the school year, this often helps one stand out. Many colleges offer "camps" to high school students for this purpose.
If you are interested in learning more about directly-related courses to prepare you for your college major, check your school's Curriculum Handbook. There may be classes offered on "design" which on the surface appear to be just about computer applications or engineering but can encompass "The Principles of Design" that interior designers, game designers, and architects use. You may be able to take the first course as a one-time elective without taking an entire vocational program. Our school district has "hubs" located in different high schools for specific vocational or college-preparatory programs. For example, there is an interior design focus at one high school. Students take one, full-year course each year (grades 9-12). Another high school offers manufacturing certification to become a state-licensed machinist. Be sure to talk to your high school counselor about your goals. A design course might be considered a fine art elective.
For your own interest and to open your mind to types of architecture and related jobs, check out architectural blogs about using alternative materials, eco-friendly design, trends in building, designing buildings to withstand hurricanes, earthquakes, etc. You can always find books at the public library about renown influencers. Begin by asking a Reference Librarian about either a local historical society or buildings of interest in your area.
Check out the link below for Architectural Camps.
https://studyarchitecture.com/blog/featured/2021-summer-architecture-programs/
If you are interested in learning more about directly-related courses to prepare you for your college major, check your school's Curriculum Handbook. There may be classes offered on "design" which on the surface appear to be just about computer applications or engineering but can encompass "The Principles of Design" that interior designers, game designers, and architects use. You may be able to take the first course as a one-time elective without taking an entire vocational program. Our school district has "hubs" located in different high schools for specific vocational or college-preparatory programs. For example, there is an interior design focus at one high school. Students take one, full-year course each year (grades 9-12). Another high school offers manufacturing certification to become a state-licensed machinist. Be sure to talk to your high school counselor about your goals. A design course might be considered a fine art elective.
For your own interest and to open your mind to types of architecture and related jobs, check out architectural blogs about using alternative materials, eco-friendly design, trends in building, designing buildings to withstand hurricanes, earthquakes, etc. You can always find books at the public library about renown influencers. Begin by asking a Reference Librarian about either a local historical society or buildings of interest in your area.
Check out the link below for Architectural Camps.
Lori recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Ravi’s Answer
Working with any design software will be very helpful for Mechanical Engineers and Architects. ( example: CAD, Solidwork, 3D printing software, etc.)
Updated
Justine’s Answer
If your high school has any extracurriculars in the arts I think that would be a good way to get you used to thinking outside of the box. Being on tech for a Drama club would have designing, planning activities, and working with a team as well. Colleges don't just want you to focus on the one thing you're there to study, they want to you to be a well-rounded whole human being. And it's also ok to have fun while you have the ability to have a free education!