3 answers
Raima
Student
1
Question
Updated
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How can a high schooler who wants to be an architect boost her resume without spending loads of money on fancy college summer programs are there any firms that will take in high schoolers for unpaid/paid internships??
Is it mostly online or are there in person options available?
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3 answers
Aric Gitomer
Architect
36
Answers
Morris Plains, New Jersey
Updated
Aric’s Answer
Hello Raima,
It's fantastic to hear that you're keen on pursuing a career in architecture. If you're looking for ways to enhance your resume for architecture school, I believe the advice given earlier might have been well-intentioned, but perhaps not the most effective approach. High school is an excellent opportunity for exploration and pushing your boundaries. Strive for excellent grades, engage in activities that spark your interest, and focus on a well-rounded education.
When it comes to extracurricular activities, experiment with various art forms to start building a portfolio that showcases your abilities. Architecture schools are not necessarily seeking students with extensive architectural experience. Instead, they're interested in individuals they can guide and assist in finding their unique voice in architecture!
I wrote an article a while back that you might find beneficial. It provides insights into the selection process of some universities and what they're looking for in prospective students. These insights are based on advice from admissions officers from various programs. Here's the link: https://www.archdaily.com/907252/getting-in-admissions-advice-from-architecture-programs-around-the-world
Wishing you the best of luck! I'm confident that you'll reach your goals!
It's fantastic to hear that you're keen on pursuing a career in architecture. If you're looking for ways to enhance your resume for architecture school, I believe the advice given earlier might have been well-intentioned, but perhaps not the most effective approach. High school is an excellent opportunity for exploration and pushing your boundaries. Strive for excellent grades, engage in activities that spark your interest, and focus on a well-rounded education.
When it comes to extracurricular activities, experiment with various art forms to start building a portfolio that showcases your abilities. Architecture schools are not necessarily seeking students with extensive architectural experience. Instead, they're interested in individuals they can guide and assist in finding their unique voice in architecture!
I wrote an article a while back that you might find beneficial. It provides insights into the selection process of some universities and what they're looking for in prospective students. These insights are based on advice from admissions officers from various programs. Here's the link: https://www.archdaily.com/907252/getting-in-admissions-advice-from-architecture-programs-around-the-world
Wishing you the best of luck! I'm confident that you'll reach your goals!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1865
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Raima !
Great question ! It is a question that you will eventually find the answer to ! It will take a bit of research, footwork and one to one presentations, but with effort put forth, you will have taken the active step in obtaining what you want. With advice and doable direction, you can take the process which will be required so that you can gain some experience without having to pay a fee.
Since Architecture is your interest, you will first need to make a list of all the architect firms in your city or town. You will then be able to call and speak with their Human Resources Department and ask if there are volunteer opportunities in their offices. Your experience will only happen if you make this sort of contact and find out exactly who offers what opportunity. You didn't state your location, so I would advise doing a search online for the companies as well as volunteer opportunities in your town. You can also visit your local City Hall/Town Hall as well as your local Chamber of Commerce. It's all in the asking. Many opportunities are not listed on the internet so it pays greatly to visit in person or inquire directly to HR staff at each company.
Some great opportunities lay right at your fingertips on the internet, too ! There are websites at which you can do architectural oriented projects. Some of these websites can be found in a search and they are Planner 5D, K-12 Center for Architecture, and TinkerCad. They are all free ! Additionally, you can download the 3D Slash App with which you can make models and designs. Free, again !
I am leaving some resource links for you below, but you can decipher which online classes are free or not. I hope that you find them useful and wish you all the best moving forward with your education and doing projects in the field of work that you enjoy !
ARCHITECTURE 101 FOR KIDS https://archforkids.wordpress.com/online-classes/
AMAZING IDEAS FOR ARCHITECTURE USED BY HOME SCHOOLERS https://reneeatgreatpeace.com/architectural-engineering/
LIST OF FREE ARCHITECTURAL SOFTWARE https://www.capterra.com/architecture-software/s/free/
FREE ARCHITECTURAL SOFTWARE https://idecad.com/architecture-engineering-construction/building-design/free-architectural-design-software/
INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ONLINE https://cooper.edu/architecture/summer-programs/hs-introduction-architecture
Great question ! It is a question that you will eventually find the answer to ! It will take a bit of research, footwork and one to one presentations, but with effort put forth, you will have taken the active step in obtaining what you want. With advice and doable direction, you can take the process which will be required so that you can gain some experience without having to pay a fee.
Since Architecture is your interest, you will first need to make a list of all the architect firms in your city or town. You will then be able to call and speak with their Human Resources Department and ask if there are volunteer opportunities in their offices. Your experience will only happen if you make this sort of contact and find out exactly who offers what opportunity. You didn't state your location, so I would advise doing a search online for the companies as well as volunteer opportunities in your town. You can also visit your local City Hall/Town Hall as well as your local Chamber of Commerce. It's all in the asking. Many opportunities are not listed on the internet so it pays greatly to visit in person or inquire directly to HR staff at each company.
Some great opportunities lay right at your fingertips on the internet, too ! There are websites at which you can do architectural oriented projects. Some of these websites can be found in a search and they are Planner 5D, K-12 Center for Architecture, and TinkerCad. They are all free ! Additionally, you can download the 3D Slash App with which you can make models and designs. Free, again !
I am leaving some resource links for you below, but you can decipher which online classes are free or not. I hope that you find them useful and wish you all the best moving forward with your education and doing projects in the field of work that you enjoy !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6130
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Raima!
Boosting a High School Resume for Architecture Aspirants
1. Gaining Relevant Experience
To enhance a resume for aspiring architects, gaining relevant experience is crucial. High school students can look for internships or volunteer opportunities at local architecture firms, construction companies, or community organizations involved in urban planning or design. While many firms may not have formal internship programs for high school students, reaching out directly to express interest can yield opportunities. Some firms may offer unpaid internships or shadowing experiences where students can learn about the profession and gain practical insights.
2. Online Learning and Certifications
There are numerous online platforms that offer courses related to architecture, design, and engineering. Websites like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy provide free or low-cost courses on architectural principles, design software (like AutoCAD or SketchUp), and even introductory courses on architecture history. Completing these courses can demonstrate initiative and a commitment to learning.
3. Building a Portfolio
Creating a portfolio is essential for anyone pursuing a career in architecture. High schoolers can start by documenting any relevant projects they undertake—this could include school assignments related to design, personal projects like model building, or even digital designs created using software learned through online courses. A well-organized portfolio showcasing creativity and technical skills will be beneficial when applying for internships or college programs.
4. Participating in Competitions
Many organizations host design competitions aimed at high school students interested in architecture. Participating in these competitions not only provides practical experience but also helps build a network of peers and professionals in the field. Winning or placing in these competitions can significantly enhance a resume.
5. Networking with Professionals
Networking is vital in the architecture field. Students should consider attending local architecture events, lectures, or workshops where they can meet professionals and learn more about the industry. Engaging with local chapters of professional organizations such as the American Institute of Architects (AIA) can also provide valuable connections and resources.
6. Exploring Online Internships
In recent years, many firms have adapted to remote work environments due to technological advancements and global circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, there are now online internship opportunities available that allow high school students to gain experience without needing to travel physically to an office location. These internships might involve tasks such as research, assisting with presentations, or contributing to design projects under supervision.
7. Seeking Mentorship
Finding a mentor who works in the field of architecture can provide guidance and insight into the profession. This could be a teacher who specializes in art or design, an architect from local firms willing to share their experiences, or even family friends working within related fields.
8. Volunteering for Community Projects
Engaging in community service projects that involve planning or designing spaces—such as parks, community centers, or schools—can provide hands-on experience while benefiting the community. This involvement showcases social responsibility alongside architectural interests.
By combining these strategies—gaining experience through internships (paid/unpaid), enhancing skills via online learning platforms, building portfolios through personal projects and competitions, networking with professionals, seeking mentorships, and volunteering—high school students aspiring to become architects can effectively boost their resumes without incurring significant costs.
Probability that this answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Institute of Architects (AIA)
The AIA provides resources for aspiring architects including information on educational pathways and networking opportunities within the profession.
2. Coursera
Coursera offers various online courses from reputable universities covering topics related to architecture which help students build foundational knowledge at little cost.
3. Khan Academy
Khan Academy provides free educational resources across multiple subjects including art history and introductory design principles which are beneficial for budding architects.
God Bless You!
JC.
Boosting a High School Resume for Architecture Aspirants
1. Gaining Relevant Experience
To enhance a resume for aspiring architects, gaining relevant experience is crucial. High school students can look for internships or volunteer opportunities at local architecture firms, construction companies, or community organizations involved in urban planning or design. While many firms may not have formal internship programs for high school students, reaching out directly to express interest can yield opportunities. Some firms may offer unpaid internships or shadowing experiences where students can learn about the profession and gain practical insights.
2. Online Learning and Certifications
There are numerous online platforms that offer courses related to architecture, design, and engineering. Websites like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy provide free or low-cost courses on architectural principles, design software (like AutoCAD or SketchUp), and even introductory courses on architecture history. Completing these courses can demonstrate initiative and a commitment to learning.
3. Building a Portfolio
Creating a portfolio is essential for anyone pursuing a career in architecture. High schoolers can start by documenting any relevant projects they undertake—this could include school assignments related to design, personal projects like model building, or even digital designs created using software learned through online courses. A well-organized portfolio showcasing creativity and technical skills will be beneficial when applying for internships or college programs.
4. Participating in Competitions
Many organizations host design competitions aimed at high school students interested in architecture. Participating in these competitions not only provides practical experience but also helps build a network of peers and professionals in the field. Winning or placing in these competitions can significantly enhance a resume.
5. Networking with Professionals
Networking is vital in the architecture field. Students should consider attending local architecture events, lectures, or workshops where they can meet professionals and learn more about the industry. Engaging with local chapters of professional organizations such as the American Institute of Architects (AIA) can also provide valuable connections and resources.
6. Exploring Online Internships
In recent years, many firms have adapted to remote work environments due to technological advancements and global circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, there are now online internship opportunities available that allow high school students to gain experience without needing to travel physically to an office location. These internships might involve tasks such as research, assisting with presentations, or contributing to design projects under supervision.
7. Seeking Mentorship
Finding a mentor who works in the field of architecture can provide guidance and insight into the profession. This could be a teacher who specializes in art or design, an architect from local firms willing to share their experiences, or even family friends working within related fields.
8. Volunteering for Community Projects
Engaging in community service projects that involve planning or designing spaces—such as parks, community centers, or schools—can provide hands-on experience while benefiting the community. This involvement showcases social responsibility alongside architectural interests.
By combining these strategies—gaining experience through internships (paid/unpaid), enhancing skills via online learning platforms, building portfolios through personal projects and competitions, networking with professionals, seeking mentorships, and volunteering—high school students aspiring to become architects can effectively boost their resumes without incurring significant costs.
Probability that this answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Institute of Architects (AIA)
The AIA provides resources for aspiring architects including information on educational pathways and networking opportunities within the profession.
2. Coursera
Coursera offers various online courses from reputable universities covering topics related to architecture which help students build foundational knowledge at little cost.
3. Khan Academy
Khan Academy provides free educational resources across multiple subjects including art history and introductory design principles which are beneficial for budding architects.
God Bless You!
JC.