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What steps should I take now that I've chosen to major in Architecture?
I'm a 16-year-old student at Galileo High School in San Francisco. After spending some time improving my art skills, I’ve developed a passion for design and creativity. I decided to choose Architecture as my college major. I’m really fascinated by how architecture shapes our environment. But, I'm still unsure about my decision.
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Jami’s Answer
Hi Tyrell,
Congratulations on choosing to major in Architecture! It’s perfectly normal to feel indecisive after making a decision that directly impacts your future career trajectory and sets you on a new path.
But it should be even more exciting to pursue a field that combines creativity, design, and practicality. If you feel this way, here are steps you can take to solidify your decision and prepare for a successful path in architecture:
1. Research the Field:
- Explore Different Areas of Architecture: Understand specializations within architecture (e.g., sustainable design, urban planning, interior architecture).
- Learn About Potential Career Paths: Investigate job roles, industries, and what architects do day-to-day.
2. Strengthen Relevant Skills:
- Continue Improving Art Skills: Focus on drawing, sketching, and digital design software (like SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite).
- Familiarize Yourself with Architecture Software: Learn tools like AutoCAD, Revit, or Rhino if possible. There are many online tutorials.
- Take STEAM Courses: Enroll in classes such as math (especially geometry), physics, and computer science, which are important in architecture.
3. Build a Portfolio:
- Create a Design Portfolio: Start a portfolio that showcases some of your tutorial attempts and simple sketches. Over the course of the program, expand your portfolio by including CAD drawings, coursework, and any relevant projects. This way, you would have a robust portfolio ready to be leveraged by the end of your course.
- Participate in Design Projects: Be willing (and eager) to join school clubs or participate in local competitions that allow you to collaborate on design-related projects in college.
4. Explore Programs:
- Research Schools: Investigate colleges or universities with strong architecture programs. Look at their admission requirements and what courses they offer.
- Check for Pre-College Programs: Some institutions offer summer programs for high school students interested in architecture.
5. Get Hands-On Experience:
- Shadowing: Look for opportunities to shadow professionals in architecture firms or construction companies.
- Volunteer for Community Projects: Participate in community service related to building or design to gain practical experience.
6. Network and Seek Mentorship:
- Talk to Professionals: Reach out to local architects, attend architecture events, or join architectural associations.
- Find a Mentor: Consider finding someone in the field who can provide guidance and answer your questions.
7. Stay Inspired:
- Visit Architectural Sites: Explore famous buildings, bridges, or parks in San Francisco and beyond. Take note of their design elements.
- Read Architectural Books/Magazines: Subscribe to architecture publications or follow relevant blogs for inspiration and to stay updated.
8. Plan for College:
- Understand Admission Requirement: Many architecture programs may require a strong portfolio and specific high school courses.
- Prepare for Standardized Tests: If applicable, plan for any necessary college entrance exams (like the SAT/ACT).
9. Reflect Regularly:
- Assess Your Interests: As you gain experience, regularly ask yourself if architecture still inspires you and if it matches your career goals.
- Stay Open to Opportunities: Be flexible and open-minded about the different paths within architecture, as your interests may evolve.
10. Engage with the Community:
- Join Online Forums or Clubs: Engage with online communities or local clubs focused on architecture or design.
Making a decision about your major is an important step, but remember that it's perfectly normal to have uncertainties.
Take the time you need to explore your interests and skills, and you'll find the right path for you in architecture.
Good luck Tyrell!
Congratulations on choosing to major in Architecture! It’s perfectly normal to feel indecisive after making a decision that directly impacts your future career trajectory and sets you on a new path.
But it should be even more exciting to pursue a field that combines creativity, design, and practicality. If you feel this way, here are steps you can take to solidify your decision and prepare for a successful path in architecture:
1. Research the Field:
- Explore Different Areas of Architecture: Understand specializations within architecture (e.g., sustainable design, urban planning, interior architecture).
- Learn About Potential Career Paths: Investigate job roles, industries, and what architects do day-to-day.
2. Strengthen Relevant Skills:
- Continue Improving Art Skills: Focus on drawing, sketching, and digital design software (like SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite).
- Familiarize Yourself with Architecture Software: Learn tools like AutoCAD, Revit, or Rhino if possible. There are many online tutorials.
- Take STEAM Courses: Enroll in classes such as math (especially geometry), physics, and computer science, which are important in architecture.
3. Build a Portfolio:
- Create a Design Portfolio: Start a portfolio that showcases some of your tutorial attempts and simple sketches. Over the course of the program, expand your portfolio by including CAD drawings, coursework, and any relevant projects. This way, you would have a robust portfolio ready to be leveraged by the end of your course.
- Participate in Design Projects: Be willing (and eager) to join school clubs or participate in local competitions that allow you to collaborate on design-related projects in college.
4. Explore Programs:
- Research Schools: Investigate colleges or universities with strong architecture programs. Look at their admission requirements and what courses they offer.
- Check for Pre-College Programs: Some institutions offer summer programs for high school students interested in architecture.
5. Get Hands-On Experience:
- Shadowing: Look for opportunities to shadow professionals in architecture firms or construction companies.
- Volunteer for Community Projects: Participate in community service related to building or design to gain practical experience.
6. Network and Seek Mentorship:
- Talk to Professionals: Reach out to local architects, attend architecture events, or join architectural associations.
- Find a Mentor: Consider finding someone in the field who can provide guidance and answer your questions.
7. Stay Inspired:
- Visit Architectural Sites: Explore famous buildings, bridges, or parks in San Francisco and beyond. Take note of their design elements.
- Read Architectural Books/Magazines: Subscribe to architecture publications or follow relevant blogs for inspiration and to stay updated.
8. Plan for College:
- Understand Admission Requirement: Many architecture programs may require a strong portfolio and specific high school courses.
- Prepare for Standardized Tests: If applicable, plan for any necessary college entrance exams (like the SAT/ACT).
9. Reflect Regularly:
- Assess Your Interests: As you gain experience, regularly ask yourself if architecture still inspires you and if it matches your career goals.
- Stay Open to Opportunities: Be flexible and open-minded about the different paths within architecture, as your interests may evolve.
10. Engage with the Community:
- Join Online Forums or Clubs: Engage with online communities or local clubs focused on architecture or design.
Making a decision about your major is an important step, but remember that it's perfectly normal to have uncertainties.
Take the time you need to explore your interests and skills, and you'll find the right path for you in architecture.
Good luck Tyrell!
Updated
Henry’s Answer
Hello Tyrell,
Great thinking on your part! Opting for a design program like architecture could be a smart move as it could lead you into a college with less competition. However, it's crucial to check in with yourself - are you genuinely passionate about design, or is it just because you're good at it? Remember, it's going to demand a significant amount of effort and many late nights, so ensure this is truly your desired path!
Great thinking on your part! Opting for a design program like architecture could be a smart move as it could lead you into a college with less competition. However, it's crucial to check in with yourself - are you genuinely passionate about design, or is it just because you're good at it? Remember, it's going to demand a significant amount of effort and many late nights, so ensure this is truly your desired path!