5 answers
Avery
Student
Berwyn, Illinois
1
Question
Asked
2874 views
What should I consider doing in high-school to prepare myself for an architectural major?
Additionally, what should I look for in a college program, and what should I learn/add to my portfolio to prepare myself for applying? I am a junior in high-school who’s taken many AP classes and challenges myself outside of school.
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5 answers
Josh Gormally
2
Answers
Updated
Josh’s Answer
My recommendation is to start to design and think about design in your free time and see if you're passionate about it. For example, perhaps try designing and sketching out your dream home.
Thank you, Josh!
Avery
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Preparing for an architectural major and a successful career in architecture begins in high school. Here are steps to consider:
**1. Build a Strong Foundation:**
- Focus on your core subjects, especially mathematics and physics. These will be valuable in architectural studies.
- Take art and design classes to develop your creative skills.
- Learn about architectural history and theory to gain an understanding of the field.
**2. Develop Technical Skills:**
- Familiarize yourself with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Revit. Proficiency in these tools will be beneficial in college.
- Consider taking drafting or computer-aided design (CAD) courses if available.
**3. Create an Impressive Portfolio:**
- Start building a portfolio of your design work. Include sketches, drawings, models, and any architectural projects you've worked on.
- Showcase your creativity, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail in your portfolio.
**4. Gain Hands-On Experience:**
- Seek internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities with architects, design firms, or construction companies.
- Participate in design competitions or architecture-related workshops to gain practical experience.
**5. Extracurricular Activities:**
- Join clubs or organizations related to architecture, design, or engineering. Leadership roles in these clubs can strengthen your college applications.
- Participate in community service projects that involve planning or building structures.
**6. Attend Architectural Camps or Workshops:**
- Consider attending summer programs or workshops focused on architecture and design. These experiences can provide exposure to the field and help you build your skills.
**7. Maintain a High GPA:**
- Continue challenging yourself academically and aim for a high GPA. Many architecture programs are competitive, so strong grades can be an advantage.
**8. Research College Programs:**
- Look for colleges and universities with accredited architecture programs. Accreditation ensures the program meets certain quality standards.
- Consider factors like location, faculty expertise, facilities, and available resources when evaluating programs.
**9. Visit Campuses:**
- If possible, visit the campuses of the colleges you're interested in to get a feel for the environment and architecture facilities.
**10. Tailor Your Application:**
- When applying to colleges, tailor your application essays and portfolio to reflect your passion for architecture and your relevant experiences.
**11. Scholarships and Financial Aid:**
- Research scholarships or financial aid opportunities specifically for architecture students. These can help offset the cost of your education.
**12. Plan Your Path:**
- Think about your long-term goals in architecture. Do you want to specialize in a particular area (e.g., sustainable design, historic preservation)? Tailor your coursework and experiences accordingly.
Remember that architecture is a demanding field that requires both creativity and technical skills. Starting your preparation in high school and continuing to build your skills and portfolio will set you on a path toward success in your architectural studies and future career. Good luck with your journey in pursuing an architectural major!
**1. Build a Strong Foundation:**
- Focus on your core subjects, especially mathematics and physics. These will be valuable in architectural studies.
- Take art and design classes to develop your creative skills.
- Learn about architectural history and theory to gain an understanding of the field.
**2. Develop Technical Skills:**
- Familiarize yourself with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Revit. Proficiency in these tools will be beneficial in college.
- Consider taking drafting or computer-aided design (CAD) courses if available.
**3. Create an Impressive Portfolio:**
- Start building a portfolio of your design work. Include sketches, drawings, models, and any architectural projects you've worked on.
- Showcase your creativity, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail in your portfolio.
**4. Gain Hands-On Experience:**
- Seek internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities with architects, design firms, or construction companies.
- Participate in design competitions or architecture-related workshops to gain practical experience.
**5. Extracurricular Activities:**
- Join clubs or organizations related to architecture, design, or engineering. Leadership roles in these clubs can strengthen your college applications.
- Participate in community service projects that involve planning or building structures.
**6. Attend Architectural Camps or Workshops:**
- Consider attending summer programs or workshops focused on architecture and design. These experiences can provide exposure to the field and help you build your skills.
**7. Maintain a High GPA:**
- Continue challenging yourself academically and aim for a high GPA. Many architecture programs are competitive, so strong grades can be an advantage.
**8. Research College Programs:**
- Look for colleges and universities with accredited architecture programs. Accreditation ensures the program meets certain quality standards.
- Consider factors like location, faculty expertise, facilities, and available resources when evaluating programs.
**9. Visit Campuses:**
- If possible, visit the campuses of the colleges you're interested in to get a feel for the environment and architecture facilities.
**10. Tailor Your Application:**
- When applying to colleges, tailor your application essays and portfolio to reflect your passion for architecture and your relevant experiences.
**11. Scholarships and Financial Aid:**
- Research scholarships or financial aid opportunities specifically for architecture students. These can help offset the cost of your education.
**12. Plan Your Path:**
- Think about your long-term goals in architecture. Do you want to specialize in a particular area (e.g., sustainable design, historic preservation)? Tailor your coursework and experiences accordingly.
Remember that architecture is a demanding field that requires both creativity and technical skills. Starting your preparation in high school and continuing to build your skills and portfolio will set you on a path toward success in your architectural studies and future career. Good luck with your journey in pursuing an architectural major!
Amalya Sukiasyan
ESOL teacher at Washington English Center
297
Answers
Yerevan
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
You can develop your knowledge in architecture through self-study. Take online courses, internships and work experience programs. It will help you deeply understand the field and be more ready to start studying that major.
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Avery
Siddhartha Roy
Product Manager
16
Answers
Fremont, California
Updated
Siddhartha’s Answer
Dear Avery,
Building a robust foundation in Architecture begins right from high school by choosing the right courses. Aiming for advanced classes like Calculus AP, IB, or BC can significantly boost your chances of getting into a top-tier architecture program. If your high school doesn't offer these high-level Calculus classes, don't worry. You can still enroll in one at a nearby community college. Remember, your high school transcript should reflect four years of math. This is because mathematics is a critical tool for architects, and a deep understanding of it is an asset.
Furthermore, if your school provides it, consider enrolling in an advanced physics class, such as AP Physics. This will give you a better understanding of the physical principles behind architectural structures. In addition, if your school provides courses like 3D Art and Design, AP ART, or Drawing, don't hesitate to take them. These classes will help you develop your design skills, which are crucial for any budding architect.
Hope this guidance proves useful to you.
Building a robust foundation in Architecture begins right from high school by choosing the right courses. Aiming for advanced classes like Calculus AP, IB, or BC can significantly boost your chances of getting into a top-tier architecture program. If your high school doesn't offer these high-level Calculus classes, don't worry. You can still enroll in one at a nearby community college. Remember, your high school transcript should reflect four years of math. This is because mathematics is a critical tool for architects, and a deep understanding of it is an asset.
Furthermore, if your school provides it, consider enrolling in an advanced physics class, such as AP Physics. This will give you a better understanding of the physical principles behind architectural structures. In addition, if your school provides courses like 3D Art and Design, AP ART, or Drawing, don't hesitate to take them. These classes will help you develop your design skills, which are crucial for any budding architect.
Hope this guidance proves useful to you.
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Avery
Dino Ubalde
Educator/Psychologist/Life Coach
204
Answers
Tracy, California
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Avery, how's everything going? I appreciate you reaching out to us. Your question is a great one. It's encouraging to see you're already preparing for your college journey.
I assure you that your chosen program will align with your unique strengths, interests, hobbies, passions, personality traits, aptitude, and intellectual abilities. These are all crucial factors to consider to ensure you're making a well-informed decision.
As a junior high school student, it's impressive to see your dedication to your studies. Your determination and focus on your future career are commendable. Always aim for a GPA above average. This will give you the confidence to apply to any college or university you choose.
Remember to engage actively in curricular and extracurricular activities at your school and use these experiences to build your portfolio. Take the initiative to become a student leader and contribute to your community, whether it's related to your high school course or not. Start with a community. No matter how small or big your contribution is, it matters. Of course, always get your parent's permission first.
Best of luck to you, Avery! I'm eager to see what you decide to pursue in college!
Try to visit your career counselor in your school and ask some assistance in your career exploration.
Attend any activities related to college life and learn from them.
Try to interview college students regarding their adjustments and college life experiences.
I assure you that your chosen program will align with your unique strengths, interests, hobbies, passions, personality traits, aptitude, and intellectual abilities. These are all crucial factors to consider to ensure you're making a well-informed decision.
As a junior high school student, it's impressive to see your dedication to your studies. Your determination and focus on your future career are commendable. Always aim for a GPA above average. This will give you the confidence to apply to any college or university you choose.
Remember to engage actively in curricular and extracurricular activities at your school and use these experiences to build your portfolio. Take the initiative to become a student leader and contribute to your community, whether it's related to your high school course or not. Start with a community. No matter how small or big your contribution is, it matters. Of course, always get your parent's permission first.
Best of luck to you, Avery! I'm eager to see what you decide to pursue in college!
Dino recommends the following next steps: