As with all life choices, the choice to become an architect should be carefully considered.
If you've ever picked up a book about architecture, you've probably come across the same question: why should you become an architect? You might have asked this question yourself as well. While studies have shown that architects are some of the happiest professionals in America (and beyond), there are many reasons why becoming an architect can be difficult. We're going to explore what it means to be an architect and whether or not it's right for you.
You should study architecture if you want your work to impact people's lives.
If you're interested in architecture, you need to know that it's not just about the buildings. Architecture is the art and science of designing structures for human use, habitation and beautiful surroundings. Architects work with clients to design places where people live, work and play; they also consider how these spaces can promote health and well-being.
Architects think about space--where people will sit or stand, how they'll move through a building--and they think about light: what it does to us when it hits our eyes; how much space we need between ourselves and others in order not feel crowded; where natural light should come from (directly overhead or from other angles). They think about materials too: wood versus steel beams? Stone versus brick? How will these materials affect our experience inside whatever structure we're building?
Designing something as complex as an entire city is beyond most people's capabilities--but if this sounds like something you'd like to try someday then studying architecture could be a good choice for you!
You should study architecture if you're detail-oriented.
As a student, you will spend most of your time in the studio. The architecture major is all about details and that means having a keen eye for detail is crucial.
Architecture is not for people who are interested in shortcuts or quick solutions. You can't just throw some paint on the walls and call it good; everything has to be perfect, from plumbing fixtures and ventilation systems to door handles and light switches.
You shouldn't study architecture if you expect an easy job.
Although architecture is a rewarding career, it’s not for the faint of heart. You should know that you will be working hard and dealing with constant pressure to meet deadlines. You should also realize that you may have to work on several projects at once and juggle different tasks as part of your job description. This can be overwhelming for some people, especially those who aren’t used to multitasking in their everyday lives.
Architects are expected to be able to manage many different aspects of the design process—from conceptualizing ideas and gathering information through research, analysis and design models all the way through construction documents and site inspections after construction has been completed—all while working under tight deadlines.
You shouldn't study architecture if you hate to answer questions.
In order to be an architect, you need to be able to communicate your ideas and designs clearly. If you're the type of person who hates being asked questions and can't stand explaining things (we've all been there), architecture might not be the right career choice for you.
The reality is that architects are constantly having conversations with clients and other architects about their ideas. Sometimes these conversations take place in person or on video calls; sometimes they happen over email; sometimes they happen on a piece of paper or software. No matter how it works out, though, an architect's job requires them to be able to explain their ideas clearly so that other people easily understand what it is that they want done.
You shouldn't study architecture if you can't handle criticism.
In architecture school, you will be constantly receiving criticism for your work. You should be prepared for this because it's a very necessary part of the learning process.
Not only will your professors provide feedback on your work, but fellow students in class may offer constructive criticism as well.
In order to become an architect, you need to learn how to accept negative feedback without letting it hold you back from improving yourself as an architect.
As with all life choices, the choice to become an architect should be carefully considered.
Architecture can be a lucrative career path.
The skills and qualities needed to become an architect are unique, but not difficult to acquire.
Becoming an architect requires a lot of time in school and studying.
If you're still wondering whether or not becoming an architect is right for you, we urge you to think about the long-term implications of such a career choice. If architecture sounds like something that would be fulfilling and meaningful to you, then by all means, go ahead and pursue it. If it seems like it would be more of a struggle than a joy—or if there are other careers out there that might make more sense for your personality type—then take some time before making any final decisions about what path to follow.
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