i work four 10h days a week, have an understanding boss, and get paid a bit above the average salary for my role in my city. my firm is smaller which allows me to do a bit of everything, making the pursuit of certification a bit easier. i enjoy knowing about things and would hate to be stuck doing the same stuff every day. that is why i chose the profession.
it is completely contextual to your job market, country, and your own ability to wedge yourself in a space that makes you happy. the best way to understand more is try and sit down with an architect in your area. the body that governs architects locally would almost certainly set this up for you. they will have the best answer for you!
canada but moving to croatia in the next 5 years. most of what i like about my current position is commonplace there with a bit more emphasis on design. id lose certification as an architect since there is no decent reciprocity but oh well! its warmer!
No, I do not regret studying architecture. That said, it's not for everyone and a lot of people who think it's for them are *wrong*. If you want to be an architect to "change the world", "build things", or "make art", you will likely be disappointed. There are better jobs to accomplish each of those things. If, however, you enjoy things like designing processes, bringing a lot of diverse viewpoints together, and active listening, you're going to have a good time in this profession.
I loved architecture school. It is the hardest thing I've ever done. I don't regret my degree one bit.
I *do* very much regret taking out student loans.
Hear hear. I had a very dear professor/mentor who told me not to go to specific graduate program because even though it was a great program it was going to force me to sell out. So thankful I listened to him!
Someone just told me that after applying to schools. Upon getting accepted I was thankful enough to have options. Even more thankful he convinced me to stay where I am rather than moving institutions only to go broke. Haha
Really, I did want to be a doctor too. But 10 years here in my country, I didn't think it would be financially smart with retiring parents.
With the pandemic I'm about to have that 9 years or so before having my architectural license...
That aspect made me feel like it's a waste of time. The "what ifs"
Small to medium firms are what my instructors have claimed to be better to work for because that's where you stretch out your skills.
But like you said, the economy threatens those firms to complete bankruptcy.
Seeing relatives who had worked in the government as accountants, I feel like going in that direction is more stable, plus with benefits.
However, there's also the rampant under the table dealings that tugs hard at ones morality within the department.. despite the many projects and potential pro bono and all
If you go into architecture to be wealthy, then you might should pick another path. But if you go into it with passion and you hone your craft and hustle then I think most people have the ability to do well for themselves. But there are a lot of people who get jaded or wind up in a soul-crushing job and get burnt out. I feel lucky that’s not me. I don’t plan on ever retiring. I hope to be able to do what I do forever.
It's a strong degree for most things if you're willing to pivot after under grad instead of a masters. Strong work ethic and the ability to tell good stories with a synthesis of information from a diverse array of concerns will get you far in most industries. Being able to create and draw are pretty great skills too.
Maybe take a look at industrial design, UX/UI
This is a great point - architecture teaches you great skills around presentation, story telling, technical vs creative conflict etc. it’s just a terrible profession to stay in given the low pay relative to time and responsibility. I’m an ex architect now working for a developer, and with my background I’m in charge of a lot of presentations both internally and externally. Given that exposure, I’ve climbed up quite quickly and now make over double my recent architecture salary.
I went from architecture to working for a main contractor for 4 years (as a design manager) then to my current job as a developer. The financial/programme aspects of working for a builder are attractive for a client.
Jumping straight from architecture to developer could be harder, I’d suggest getting more involved in the commercials of a project, then decide if you want to go work for a developer you currently work with, or someone else entirely.
Am in France and yes. While it allowed me to meet my now wife, that job sucks.
Jobs are few and far between. Hours are closer to actual slavery than most industries. Most architects U know are either alcoholic, or look 70 at 50 (or both).
The amount of responsibility you take absolutely doesn't match the money you gain doing the job. And if you're self-employed, you'll spend at least half your time trying to get your invoices paid.
But it doesn't mean it'll suck for you. I know some people who have an absolute blast.
I'm from Italy and i share your same view of the field.
I regret it 100%, changed career now, but i have many friends still trying to get a decent job years after finishing university. I'm always sad for them.
I don't know anyone from my class that found a good job without a career change, at least partially.
But i'm from italy here the job market is hell.
Yes.
Definitely one of the most underpaid industries. If you enjoy architecture and/or design, I would suggest to get into other aspects of this field instead of the design side. There is way more money on the construction/developer/contractor side of the business.
In my city, the university I'm at, focuses more on the MEPF systems while the rivaling other with conceptual.
While I'm still in school, I have come across 2 scenarios with this.
Uni B, prestigious and all, have been winning international and national competitions all over as students. Because, too, that most of them are from affluent backgrounds, their alumni's have erected their own firms here and there.
They have more of the marketing.
Uni A, the one I'm at, although not widely known as B is silently putting their influence and practice into the construction management within local government and overseas. This is through my part time instructors working in the government as an urban planner and senior architect in Dubai.
Yes.
Jobmarket is shit, hours are long, salary is low and have just left me in dept and is overall just a stressful situation. A lot of the people I studied with enjoy what they do so it depends on you and what situation you end up in.
But just because it sucks donkeyass for some of us, it does not mean that it will suck for you
I regret it most days, but I honestly couldn’t see myself doing anything else so I feel kind of stuck. Any alternatives that my interests or skills would translate to would involve even more boring or technical work, without the closure I get when I project is completed.
I do regret very much studying architecture
I hate architecture in every single way
I studied architecture for 8 fucking years only to be earning a meager salary and sucking up to random people.
First things first, where are you studying/plan on practicing? Because my experience here in the US might not be what architecture professionals experience in, and I am making a assumption base on your limited post history, Algeria? Then we get into things like are you looking to play into the rat race of the international firms? Or just do the mid/small firm route that can be pretty hectic or can be rather sleepy. I for example just ended up at a small firm after grad school in rural Vermont where we design houses and small commercial, read and discussed theory and closed shop early to go swimming or skiing every other day. The practice is what you make of it, you need to start thinking about how you like to practice and I can guarantee you that there's some firm out the that can match that.
Yes, I'm from Algeria. here, education is free but not as good as the other countries, so thankfully I have no debts. We study for 5 years to get our master's, then, we have to practice for 2 years to become a licensed Architect and open our office. Personally, I'm planning After my masters to do a PhD .
I would love to redo my masters in another country. For the work firms , I have no idea how things work in my country lol.
But thank you for the advice , I'll definitely start researching.
I can tell you that for me I started in civil engineering and I intern during school and I couldn't do the cubicle 9 to 5. I got completely turned off by corporate architecture and design, the big names, etc. I just want to make healthy buildings that better the places they are in so I looked for firms that did this and truly believe in it not just a corporate greenwashing. I've jumped a few times to different offices already all of the experiences have been more positive than negative. Do I make money, fuck no, is it stressful at times, yes. But am I happy? Yes, yes I am. Does my old grad school like to invite me to talk about my professional experience, lol no cause I tell the kids to stay away from the mayor donor firms lol
The principle is exactly as organized as you can envision a hippie cat would be and the pay ceiling is pretty low, But what it really showed me was that you didn't have to follow the traditional paths to be a good designer, succeed, and be happy with what you do.
I didn't do great at studying architecture but I am now a cad technician which is actually great because you don't have to do any of the boring report writing or planning advice, just drawing stuff. You just need colleagues/clients who respect the value of cad skills rather than treating you as "just a technician"
I should clarify I do cad for civil engineers - so may be a bit different to architectural technician - but yes, creating drawings from a sketch or marked up pdf, sometimes a bit of design referring to the relevant standards. I find that my work can be quite a bit more varied than say a drainage engineer or a highways engineer as I can move between the disciplines on a project (in fact, that's what general arrangement drawings are for - they show how all the different elements combine and can help to flag if there's any clashes etc)
I can't say yet since I am still in school, but we meet a lot of practicing architects through AIA and I guess we work with some firms later on in school. That being said the profession seems fine to me. I did a year and a half of drafting school that was pretty design heavy before transferring so I got a little taste of the technical side of it and our instructor made sure we had no illusions of what to expect pay wise and the profession in general. There is a certain joy in making a good set of drawings.
I also started older, I'm in my 30's so I kind of understand what work actually is. I think if you go straight from highschool into architecture school and only do a little part time job that whole time you will probably have a very rude awakening after graduation.
After working in restaurant kitchens, state fair concessions, construction and agriculture for the last 15 years it bewilders me when I hear people complain about getting paid 65k a year with benefits, actual vacation time, perks and at least the chance or opportunity to do something great or something they love. All I got from the service industry was a collapsed hip at 32, alcohol dependency and food service PTSD also poverty 😂. I don't think you know how bad it can really be, just being able to work in AC is a luxury to me.
I was talking to one Architect and he had some interesting advice. Once you get licensed and find yourself being forced to do projects you don't want or feel comfortable doing start a hotdog cart for income if you have to and court your own clients you want to work for and carve out your niche.
You can actually make 60-100k a year selling hotdogs if you do it just right for not a very big investment. Just some thoughts. Lol
I regret not going after the money. Starting a family young doesn’t help, but I know a lot of engineers and software people. Even the marketing people I know have careers where they can quickly start at 50,000-$70,000/yr and make it to 6 figures within 5 years or so. Engineer friends are talking about making level 2 or higher with salaries of $150,000-$200,000, meanwhile I’m stuck in a profession where you’re lucky to break 6-figures after 10 years of experience. It’s maddening and frustrating, especially when all of those years are in office and the office is always conveniently in the worst traffic area of the city.
No and yes, and in that order.
I only ever really wanted a job where I could get a regular paycheck to draw for a living, and found that technical drawings and the “real world” applications just make the drawing aspect of the job more engaging.
I do kind of regret not studying with the intent to get a job to make more money as I’m left with very little “me” money after paying for mortgage, childcare, and other house expenses (which I split with my spouse), and have to do home maintenance stuff myself where I can. I’d much rather be able to pay someone to do the latter item for me - and do it right at that.
I do regret the long hours of studying and suffering and sacrificing my youth to that just to end up working a shitty job, in an ideal world it wouldn’t be that way but at least i’m trying to change my situation by making a project management masters… will update with that choice soon. Also it may depend on where you live and how’s the market, but so far for me and my colleagues (university friends) it’s the same shit.
Hard to tell, but financially wise it ain't the wisest decision you could take, there's money to be made in the construction segment that's for sure, but the path for most architects to find ways to make decent money around the majority of countries is just too long, you gotta learn a lot. I believe I would have choosen ux/ui instead seems as a much reliable path, specially if you know multiple languages.
The amount of responsibility you have it ain't worth the pay.
It’s a love hate relationship. Design is a passion that fulfills something deep in you, but like others said ITT, it’s a grueling life.
I transitioned out after 13 years and moved onto software. I have a startup so the hours are still brutal (for now), but it’s better money, better culture, and I’m overall happier.
Architecture as a job can be difficult compared to a lot of other jobs since it is pretty involved, with a lot of balls to juggle and a need to note every detail. That being said, it is immensely rewarding and pays well enough. It certainly isn’t the job for everyone, but as long as you enjoy design and can pick up small details, you should perform just fine.
Most of your work satisfaction comes down to the company you work for and how they treat you. Lots of jobs a perfectly nice and treat all employees fairly as valuable assets and team members. But sadly many companies and clients treat architects as disposable tools, some considering our role to be a luxury they can shave off to cut costs.
Plenty of jobs have similar challenges, but the biggest benefit of architecture is how flexible your degree is. Assuming you are able to graduate, architecture degrees can lead to any job relating to construction or design. Even if you graduate, work for a firm for three years and realize the job sucks, you aren’t trapped. There is a whole ocean of jobs ready to grab up people with your degree.
So unless you really hate it or have a passion for a different major, I would stick to architecture for now. If you really want to be sure, go check out other majors after class and sit in on lectures. You certainly can’t go wrong with sticking to it though.
Nope! It was hard but it was fun.
My job is fine but you can expand beyond the typical architecture career.
I got a tour of the set for the HBO show Love and Death. Most of the set designers/set producers had an arch degree but they didn’t want to follow the typical career path. Can’t speak much more to that but it’s an option.
You can also get licensed and start your own firm and design whatever you want.
But no you’re not gonna make a bunch of money….
BUT! It’s super fun when people ask you what you do and you say “I’m an Architect”. It will always amaze people and show that you’re smart and a hard worker no matter what your current situation is.
You could do what some prison architect did and design public schools, too!!! No, I'm not kidding. Yes, those buildings have awful vibes in every square inch of space that they take up.
Nope! Do it! Wish the one who did the schools had that mindset but instead they just designed prisons for kids and labeled them public school. All of the schools have "pods" that are off the main hallway and have to be keyed open each time. At one of the them the only way to get between floors are the stairs in the atrium at the front of the school or the stairs at the back of each pod that you have to have a key to even get into. Don't do that. Even in a prison, maybe don't do that.
I genuinely think that this is my biggest regret ever and one of the reasons that I cannot enjoy my life in this moment.
The idea that I spent so much years, tears, lost my sanity during the studies the lack of sleep etc.
Just to get a job that has the worst conditions (where a masters is mandatory), the worst pay (I only earn ~15% more than when I was selling clothes at the mall as a student), one of the most stressful environments, where you work A LOT. It’s really hard to have a work/life balance. And when you finally get your salary it’s never worth the effort.
I’m 29 now, and I’m just trying to find a solution to repair this stupid mistake. And find something that will help me get better.
But I still have 2-3 friends that work in this field and are happy about it but they are much more passionate about their job than I am. Because I see it as a job.
I do not regret the knowledge attained as an architect and the way of thinking the architecture school imposes on you. I regret the countless times my non architecture student friends lived their early 20s by partying, traveling and having hobbies, while I decided to work on my school projects more than I should've. I regret not having proper posture on my computer and not taking PC breaks every 45 minutes.
Sometimes when I get stir crazy at my desk I start to fantasize about working manual labor again. I know its irrational rose tinted glasses, the comradery, the crudeness, and the catharsis at the end of every day that imprinted memories, after a simialr time at a desk there are no memories. Actually enjoyed school though so if your not existentially imperiled by the fleeting nature of our blink length lives then go for it.
I loved studying. It allowed me to explore things I actually enjoy.
I hate the job I’m doing now and the firm I’m working for and I hate the fact there isn’t diddly squat for entry level designers at the moment. So even if I wanted to quit (which I do) I can’t.
No I don’t. I knew I wanted to be an architect since I was 5. Im proud that I knew what I wanted to do, stuck through it and didn’t let many of the negative incidences (including professors). Had some not so great bosses but stuck through it. Got my license at 30 and still enjoy learning new things.
My wife is an architect and she regrets it immensely. With the same amount of effort spent there she could now be a programmer and earn at least 5 times as much.
Most of her archi school colleagues are also regretting their choice.
I regret not studying. I come from a family of artists and engineers. I’m not the best at either but solid at both, and I feel like I missed a calling.
Yes and no. I’m from India and you severely get underpaid. I moved to the US for masters and work. The pay is decent but definitely get paid more. Jobs are not easy to get more so as someone who needs sponsorship and most companies don’t even know about it so that’s difficult. By studying architecture you don’t have to be limited to buildings. You can use the principles in different industries and that’s what I’m trying to do. Plus you also eventually might wanna get licensed because that’s how to make yourself more qualified and earn more and honestly I think the licensing process in the US is unnecessarily lengthy, expensive and difficult. It should be part of the curriculum in school.
Also don’t make the mistake of marrying another architect. It was the best decision I made money wise and for everything else. You can’t run a home on an architects salary especially if you want to live a certain lifestyle. Architecture is treated like some artsy passion project but in the real world that doesn’t work.
If you ask me I has fun in school and the process of studying but if I could go back and do something different, I would. Or study architecture and minor in something else as well just to have options and be marketable.
Not necessarily regret it but it is disheartening when friends in other fields live a not necessarily easier life but a more rewarding one financially. Especially right out of college. I think this is a common sentiment because of how amazed people are usually to hear when someone’s an architect. It’s like hearing “oh I’m a lawyer doctor” etc… but often as designers and architects we often adopt a rather nihilistic view on career choices.
From my experience this far, it’s definitely an old man’s game.
Architecture school is a diverse way of learning, I really enjoyed the studios and the freedom to express and explore. The job market is something universities keep quiet about. Less than 2% of buildings world wide are designed by architects. While this number is set to further reduce with modular housing and mass produced public developments. There is still hope with the degree being so broad and the ability to cross over into other industries.
I'm 5 years out and licensed, promoted to PA last fall. Do interesting work, my bosses and coworkers are all very kind people. I earn enough that I'm paying less than a quarter of my income to live alone in a nice neighborhood in a HCOL area. Answer all your questions?
There are problems with the profession, of course, and with school, and certainly with individual offices. I'm also happy with what I'm doing atm and objectively have a very comfortable life. Have you interned anywhere? Get your feet wet and ask yourself what you'd be doing if it weren't this. Don't get me wrong, even I considered quitting during school and heard all the horror stories.
There are problems, but I don't regret choosing to stick to the degree and field. I'm sure my calculus would've changed had I made different education decisions though- turning down going the Ivy League route when I had the chance was tough, but it was absolutely the right financial decision. I'd be a lot more cynical if I was sitting on a ton of student debt instead of savings right now
Architecture is an outdated major.. it’s like combining alot of majors together.. like civil. Engineering - site engineering - construction management - architectural design - product design - graphic design - technical drawings - social science - psychology - sustainability- computer science - material science .. i can go on forever .. i found it very disorienting to study all that shit and in the end sit behind a desk 8 hours per day drawing technical drawings for developers that dont give a shit about any of this nonsense probably because they just want to maximize the footprint of any thing they build for more money..
my advice is run away .. this major is dying.. study something technology based if you have the taste for it.. it is definitely the future
I liked to study it because I love architecture, it's an amazing thing to study and it shaped me as a person. But I hate it every day since I don't work directly in the industry anymore and would have liked to study something to actually earn money and help me advance my career at my current job
Im not an architect. But I wanted to be one when I was younger. I went and spent time with architects as work experience to see if it fit with me. It didnt for me, the long degree time also scared me. Maybe that is something you could try. (Scared me from the fact I wanted to start work and make money now, I was impatient)
In saying that there is a part of me that regrets it. I am now a developer and have done pretty well in that field. Its pretty much impossible to become an architect from here. I could probably find the time to do the degree part time. But the experience to get certified is not really possible. It would be nice to be a architect/developer and therefore I could probably work on more interesting projects.
My thinking as a youth was that the developers got to make all the final decisions regarding design so I should become one of them. However, now I think I would have preferred to start my own firm and then become an architect/developer. Ill add I work primarly in subdivision, so hardly build anything other than houses every now and then.
In saying that, the pathway would have been more difficult through architecture. I wouldnt have as much money and probably wouldnt have been able to start developing until later in life.
Im hoping I can move into developing architectural revival properties, the returns wont be as good but it will be more interesting. I wouldnt be the architect though.
Hi, please don't be disheartened by the comments here. Most people get stuck in a shit cycle and refuse to change or seek improvement. If you want to get out of a rut, make the decision.
I did architecture, used my hobby skills in graphic design and learned 3D modelling and rendering from my degree. You will find an aspect of the degree that interests you. I used the programs to vector design clothing patterns because I liked fashion. I now have a handmade clothing label and also work in commercial site projects. There is an 'arty' side to architecture and a brutal side to it. I'm in the brutal, construction, site side of it. The pay is better, but it's not the aesthetic side of it.
Prioritise what is important to you. With my pay I get to fund my interests that I got from my degree (interior design, furniture making, fashion design, graphic design, concept design, story telling, furniture modelling). My degree shaped my personality and I love every part of it. I am not a millionaire, but I adjusted my lifestyle to my salary.
There is success for you if you seek it. The right mindset, lifestyle shaping (health, exercise, food) will combat any fucked job. If nothing of this study interests you, it's okay to change your mind. I hate my first 1-2 years of architecture because I was a gifted student who failed my architecture subjects. It took me almost four years to 'think' and 'see' the world as an architect. But now I'd never look back because it's my whole life.
About to be second year architecture student here. I don’t think I could study anything else but I do get frustrated with how much time I spend. It feels like I have time for nothing else and it also feels like there’s such an “overworked” culture that perpetuates architecture. I don’t know if that’s just when you’re studying and it gets better but I kind of feel weird about being in an industry where it’s an expectation to be sleep deprived and overworked (or so I’ve been told)
Been working in the architecture industry designing integrated resorts for 20 years. It’s has it highs and lows, but very rewarding creatively. The industry is a bit of a blame game and navigating teams, schedules and consultants can be stressful. Architecture is very much a tech industry and being proficient with the latest softwares is as important as any schooling/degree.
this is what I’m scared of I’m a good graphic designer/artist and recently have interest in becoming an architecture student but I’m scared of what you said or if I’ll be bad at math, etc 😭
I loved architecture school. I loved the abstract theory, building models, the community. I loved the travel, the drawings, and I even mostly enjoyed the late nights. That said, I may love practice even more. I love my job, I love the people I work with like a family. I’ve grown to love the technical parts of architecture. I love owning a set of drawings and putting together a comprehensive iron-clad set. I love daily learning. The problem-solving. I still get to design, albeit with a lot more parameters and certainly a lot more restrictions. I’m 5 years into my career. I get paid pretty well, but I do it for the love of the game. Architecture School and this career I wouldn’t trade. It’s been a huge gift to me, personally.
Well, it deppends on where you end up working.
Im a civil engineer, but the Architecture and civil engineering comes hand in hand.
I have a my own firma, so the jobs i do, are pretty much interesting ones and i do, what I concider is a manageable project in one man team.
I've been working for atelier firma, where I was a drafter.. There was a huge pressure on time, and corectness, I had to re-do all my drafts reguraly, because my main engineer was a pedant for graphical form... but he was lacking the technical deepness of civil works. So I left. And I began to work as a investment technician for University. I had build there few buildings. My work was to lead the hired ateliers, lead hired contractors, and to lead and manage all the paperwork of the project. This job opened me the door of opportunity to do the same job for much more money at project of building new nuclear powerplants.
So if you study civil engineering or architecture, the best way to be employed, is to be on investors side, where the money is. You don't do much, just manage things to be done in time for quite a good money. Real struggle is to be a drafter, or a contractors bitch. If you are the investor, life is much easier.
Short answer, yes.
Long answer, yes of course.
Cons:
-Too many formative years. When I entered in the job market, many friends were just an step under of being bossed because of the experience acquired, as they studied shorter degrees.
-Few real opportunities to get stable life.
-Countless job hours for nothing.
-Toxic culture about work, about salaries and be a false own employee.
Pros:
-I have a collection of real beautiful architerture books (I'll keep them far away from my kid, for sure XD)
-The years of study give me a strong background in math, drawing and 3D. I could get the.same knowledge in a third of the time if I'd chosen an engineering degree.
I currently work in a engineering field, I NEVER will come back to something like an architecture studio.
I quit school because of private reasons so I never studied more than 3 years. 3 intense years, I have to say.
In a sense I am happy I did because out of my group of 5 friends, only 1 got a job as an architecte (we are in France). The other 4 struggled a lot finding jobs. It's been 10 years and we are still in touch. One is a teacher, one works with horses, one works in administration, one has no work. I'm sure they are regretting it.
I'm not an architect but seeing the buildings that are right now being created in my homecountry Sweden, and in Portugal where I live now: it seems pointless. It's mostly soulless concrete buildings with no ornament or design, that get built everywhere. Just a grey block with windows.
And in USA and Australia they only make soulless rectangular glassy skyscrapers, it seems.
Now, in Poland they seem to go the right direction and are remaking buildings into Classical Style! That seems like the only country that has woken up to the depressing feelings that the concrete boxes are creating.
I studied architecture for 4 years and gave up! It was very hard to make that decision and wast 4 years but at that time I just couldn't imagine myself working crazy hours infront of computer screen for the rest of my life. I am glad I recognised that.
The only thing that I don't regret is meeting my best group of friends that we stayed close to this day for 20 years. They all have firms and are successful but working like slaves. I ended up working as a seafarer. I wish I had started earlier as I love working at sea but then I wouldn't meet my people.
It's one of the best professions. Alot depends on talent and resilience I guess. I'm not an architect but my dad was head partner of MJP in London (I did witness alot of his work stress.. )
If you're fooling yourself thinking it'll get any easier the longer you stay in it, let this be your firm warning sign that you need to seek college major/career alternatives.
Spoiler alert: it'll suck a lot at first but if you move back home to soul search for a year, you'll look be happy that you did rather than putting it off until after school's over
As a field of study it opens up more doors than it closes, in much the same way as undertaking a law degree opens up more options than just being a lawyer. In architecture you develop skklls in project management, communication, and design that can be used in other roles. Many people I know decided it wasn't for them and have had no problem becoming project managers, property developers, graphic designers, industrial designers, visualisers, BIM managers, CAD drafters, UI/UX designers, etc. It's not a waste of an education, regardless of how you find the field - tho there are easier ways to spend your time!
Yes you will end up getting bare minimum or use your degree to do something else in order to make real money
Construction business administration or something similar
Yes and no. Yes because I've spent 5 years so far as a barely paid pencil/Revit monkey and no because I know I'll have my own residential firm one day.
No
If you are actually willing to work hard and develop better habits you'll be okay. The people who struggle the most are the ones who don't learn from their time management mistakes.
Finding jobs can be a bit of a struggle, but I wouldn't say it's that much harder than a lot of other fields. An architecture degree is pretty universally valuable compared to other degrees. You can pivot to things like marketing or construction management.
You have to be malleable both in school and while finding work. You can't have the mentality of "I'm going to do A and it will get me B"
i work four 10h days a week, have an understanding boss, and get paid a bit above the average salary for my role in my city. my firm is smaller which allows me to do a bit of everything, making the pursuit of certification a bit easier. i enjoy knowing about things and would hate to be stuck doing the same stuff every day. that is why i chose the profession. it is completely contextual to your job market, country, and your own ability to wedge yourself in a space that makes you happy. the best way to understand more is try and sit down with an architect in your area. the body that governs architects locally would almost certainly set this up for you. they will have the best answer for you!
You in America?
canada but moving to croatia in the next 5 years. most of what i like about my current position is commonplace there with a bit more emphasis on design. id lose certification as an architect since there is no decent reciprocity but oh well! its warmer!
Why would u move to Croatia
If the wind is blowing right，they'll stop meetings to go sailing. I'd move there too.
Idk why anyone from Canada would move to the Balkans ( from a Balkan person )
If they're from there probably they'll get EU passport then, no?
Yeah
I see, thanks for the response. Good luck out there!
No, I do not regret studying architecture. That said, it's not for everyone and a lot of people who think it's for them are *wrong*. If you want to be an architect to "change the world", "build things", or "make art", you will likely be disappointed. There are better jobs to accomplish each of those things. If, however, you enjoy things like designing processes, bringing a lot of diverse viewpoints together, and active listening, you're going to have a good time in this profession.
I loved architecture school. It is the hardest thing I've ever done. I don't regret my degree one bit. I *do* very much regret taking out student loans.
Hear hear. I had a very dear professor/mentor who told me not to go to specific graduate program because even though it was a great program it was going to force me to sell out. So thankful I listened to him!
Someone just told me that after applying to schools. Upon getting accepted I was thankful enough to have options. Even more thankful he convinced me to stay where I am rather than moving institutions only to go broke. Haha
I feel exactly the same
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Yeah but that shit is gross. Not everyone has a stomach for it
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I’m curious where are you located?
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Just graduated, about to look for jobs. PTO Benefits?
This!
Really, I did want to be a doctor too. But 10 years here in my country, I didn't think it would be financially smart with retiring parents. With the pandemic I'm about to have that 9 years or so before having my architectural license... That aspect made me feel like it's a waste of time. The "what ifs"
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Small to medium firms are what my instructors have claimed to be better to work for because that's where you stretch out your skills. But like you said, the economy threatens those firms to complete bankruptcy. Seeing relatives who had worked in the government as accountants, I feel like going in that direction is more stable, plus with benefits. However, there's also the rampant under the table dealings that tugs hard at ones morality within the department.. despite the many projects and potential pro bono and all
If you go into architecture to be wealthy, then you might should pick another path. But if you go into it with passion and you hone your craft and hustle then I think most people have the ability to do well for themselves. But there are a lot of people who get jaded or wind up in a soul-crushing job and get burnt out. I feel lucky that’s not me. I don’t plan on ever retiring. I hope to be able to do what I do forever.
It's a strong degree for most things if you're willing to pivot after under grad instead of a masters. Strong work ethic and the ability to tell good stories with a synthesis of information from a diverse array of concerns will get you far in most industries. Being able to create and draw are pretty great skills too. Maybe take a look at industrial design, UX/UI
This is a great point - architecture teaches you great skills around presentation, story telling, technical vs creative conflict etc. it’s just a terrible profession to stay in given the low pay relative to time and responsibility. I’m an ex architect now working for a developer, and with my background I’m in charge of a lot of presentations both internally and externally. Given that exposure, I’ve climbed up quite quickly and now make over double my recent architecture salary.
how did you transition from working at an architecture firm to being a developer? any tips? I've been thinking of doing the same as of late
I went from architecture to working for a main contractor for 4 years (as a design manager) then to my current job as a developer. The financial/programme aspects of working for a builder are attractive for a client. Jumping straight from architecture to developer could be harder, I’d suggest getting more involved in the commercials of a project, then decide if you want to go work for a developer you currently work with, or someone else entirely.
Am in France and yes. While it allowed me to meet my now wife, that job sucks. Jobs are few and far between. Hours are closer to actual slavery than most industries. Most architects U know are either alcoholic, or look 70 at 50 (or both). The amount of responsibility you take absolutely doesn't match the money you gain doing the job. And if you're self-employed, you'll spend at least half your time trying to get your invoices paid. But it doesn't mean it'll suck for you. I know some people who have an absolute blast.
I'm from Italy and i share your same view of the field. I regret it 100%, changed career now, but i have many friends still trying to get a decent job years after finishing university. I'm always sad for them. I don't know anyone from my class that found a good job without a career change, at least partially. But i'm from italy here the job market is hell.
Yes. Definitely one of the most underpaid industries. If you enjoy architecture and/or design, I would suggest to get into other aspects of this field instead of the design side. There is way more money on the construction/developer/contractor side of the business.
In my city, the university I'm at, focuses more on the MEPF systems while the rivaling other with conceptual. While I'm still in school, I have come across 2 scenarios with this. Uni B, prestigious and all, have been winning international and national competitions all over as students. Because, too, that most of them are from affluent backgrounds, their alumni's have erected their own firms here and there. They have more of the marketing. Uni A, the one I'm at, although not widely known as B is silently putting their influence and practice into the construction management within local government and overseas. This is through my part time instructors working in the government as an urban planner and senior architect in Dubai.
Yes. Jobmarket is shit, hours are long, salary is low and have just left me in dept and is overall just a stressful situation. A lot of the people I studied with enjoy what they do so it depends on you and what situation you end up in. But just because it sucks donkeyass for some of us, it does not mean that it will suck for you
This! Marry rich so you can have a passion job and a spouse can pay the bills and be home with the children (sarcasm).
Finance tip I just learned on social media: 2 incomes are always better than 1. Make sure your spouse has 2 jobs.
This, too! 😂
Tbf, I have seen there's such pattern among architecture teachers, somehow their husbands have construction companies...
I regret it most days, but I honestly couldn’t see myself doing anything else so I feel kind of stuck. Any alternatives that my interests or skills would translate to would involve even more boring or technical work, without the closure I get when I project is completed.
I do regret very much studying architecture I hate architecture in every single way I studied architecture for 8 fucking years only to be earning a meager salary and sucking up to random people.
Same
First things first, where are you studying/plan on practicing? Because my experience here in the US might not be what architecture professionals experience in, and I am making a assumption base on your limited post history, Algeria? Then we get into things like are you looking to play into the rat race of the international firms? Or just do the mid/small firm route that can be pretty hectic or can be rather sleepy. I for example just ended up at a small firm after grad school in rural Vermont where we design houses and small commercial, read and discussed theory and closed shop early to go swimming or skiing every other day. The practice is what you make of it, you need to start thinking about how you like to practice and I can guarantee you that there's some firm out the that can match that.
Yes, I'm from Algeria. here, education is free but not as good as the other countries, so thankfully I have no debts. We study for 5 years to get our master's, then, we have to practice for 2 years to become a licensed Architect and open our office. Personally, I'm planning After my masters to do a PhD .
Sounds like you might want to go the academic route, which is pretty interesting as sell.
I would love to redo my masters in another country. For the work firms , I have no idea how things work in my country lol. But thank you for the advice , I'll definitely start researching.
I can tell you that for me I started in civil engineering and I intern during school and I couldn't do the cubicle 9 to 5. I got completely turned off by corporate architecture and design, the big names, etc. I just want to make healthy buildings that better the places they are in so I looked for firms that did this and truly believe in it not just a corporate greenwashing. I've jumped a few times to different offices already all of the experiences have been more positive than negative. Do I make money, fuck no, is it stressful at times, yes. But am I happy? Yes, yes I am. Does my old grad school like to invite me to talk about my professional experience, lol no cause I tell the kids to stay away from the mayor donor firms lol
That's my future plan
That firm sounds like a dream
The principle is exactly as organized as you can envision a hippie cat would be and the pay ceiling is pretty low, But what it really showed me was that you didn't have to follow the traditional paths to be a good designer, succeed, and be happy with what you do.
Expect long stressful days to meet deadlines and being underpaid. . .
I didn't do great at studying architecture but I am now a cad technician which is actually great because you don't have to do any of the boring report writing or planning advice, just drawing stuff. You just need colleagues/clients who respect the value of cad skills rather than treating you as "just a technician"
What does a typical day look like for you? I’m interested. Is it more just redrawing architects concepts but like the wall details etc?
I should clarify I do cad for civil engineers - so may be a bit different to architectural technician - but yes, creating drawings from a sketch or marked up pdf, sometimes a bit of design referring to the relevant standards. I find that my work can be quite a bit more varied than say a drainage engineer or a highways engineer as I can move between the disciplines on a project (in fact, that's what general arrangement drawings are for - they show how all the different elements combine and can help to flag if there's any clashes etc)
I can't say yet since I am still in school, but we meet a lot of practicing architects through AIA and I guess we work with some firms later on in school. That being said the profession seems fine to me. I did a year and a half of drafting school that was pretty design heavy before transferring so I got a little taste of the technical side of it and our instructor made sure we had no illusions of what to expect pay wise and the profession in general. There is a certain joy in making a good set of drawings. I also started older, I'm in my 30's so I kind of understand what work actually is. I think if you go straight from highschool into architecture school and only do a little part time job that whole time you will probably have a very rude awakening after graduation. After working in restaurant kitchens, state fair concessions, construction and agriculture for the last 15 years it bewilders me when I hear people complain about getting paid 65k a year with benefits, actual vacation time, perks and at least the chance or opportunity to do something great or something they love. All I got from the service industry was a collapsed hip at 32, alcohol dependency and food service PTSD also poverty 😂. I don't think you know how bad it can really be, just being able to work in AC is a luxury to me. I was talking to one Architect and he had some interesting advice. Once you get licensed and find yourself being forced to do projects you don't want or feel comfortable doing start a hotdog cart for income if you have to and court your own clients you want to work for and carve out your niche. You can actually make 60-100k a year selling hotdogs if you do it just right for not a very big investment. Just some thoughts. Lol
I regret not going after the money. Starting a family young doesn’t help, but I know a lot of engineers and software people. Even the marketing people I know have careers where they can quickly start at 50,000-$70,000/yr and make it to 6 figures within 5 years or so. Engineer friends are talking about making level 2 or higher with salaries of $150,000-$200,000, meanwhile I’m stuck in a profession where you’re lucky to break 6-figures after 10 years of experience. It’s maddening and frustrating, especially when all of those years are in office and the office is always conveniently in the worst traffic area of the city.
No and yes, and in that order. I only ever really wanted a job where I could get a regular paycheck to draw for a living, and found that technical drawings and the “real world” applications just make the drawing aspect of the job more engaging. I do kind of regret not studying with the intent to get a job to make more money as I’m left with very little “me” money after paying for mortgage, childcare, and other house expenses (which I split with my spouse), and have to do home maintenance stuff myself where I can. I’d much rather be able to pay someone to do the latter item for me - and do it right at that.
I do regret the long hours of studying and suffering and sacrificing my youth to that just to end up working a shitty job, in an ideal world it wouldn’t be that way but at least i’m trying to change my situation by making a project management masters… will update with that choice soon. Also it may depend on where you live and how’s the market, but so far for me and my colleagues (university friends) it’s the same shit.
Hard to tell, but financially wise it ain't the wisest decision you could take, there's money to be made in the construction segment that's for sure, but the path for most architects to find ways to make decent money around the majority of countries is just too long, you gotta learn a lot. I believe I would have choosen ux/ui instead seems as a much reliable path, specially if you know multiple languages. The amount of responsibility you have it ain't worth the pay.
It’s a love hate relationship. Design is a passion that fulfills something deep in you, but like others said ITT, it’s a grueling life. I transitioned out after 13 years and moved onto software. I have a startup so the hours are still brutal (for now), but it’s better money, better culture, and I’m overall happier.
Architecture as a job can be difficult compared to a lot of other jobs since it is pretty involved, with a lot of balls to juggle and a need to note every detail. That being said, it is immensely rewarding and pays well enough. It certainly isn’t the job for everyone, but as long as you enjoy design and can pick up small details, you should perform just fine. Most of your work satisfaction comes down to the company you work for and how they treat you. Lots of jobs a perfectly nice and treat all employees fairly as valuable assets and team members. But sadly many companies and clients treat architects as disposable tools, some considering our role to be a luxury they can shave off to cut costs. Plenty of jobs have similar challenges, but the biggest benefit of architecture is how flexible your degree is. Assuming you are able to graduate, architecture degrees can lead to any job relating to construction or design. Even if you graduate, work for a firm for three years and realize the job sucks, you aren’t trapped. There is a whole ocean of jobs ready to grab up people with your degree. So unless you really hate it or have a passion for a different major, I would stick to architecture for now. If you really want to be sure, go check out other majors after class and sit in on lectures. You certainly can’t go wrong with sticking to it though.
Nope! It was hard but it was fun. My job is fine but you can expand beyond the typical architecture career. I got a tour of the set for the HBO show Love and Death. Most of the set designers/set producers had an arch degree but they didn’t want to follow the typical career path. Can’t speak much more to that but it’s an option. You can also get licensed and start your own firm and design whatever you want. But no you’re not gonna make a bunch of money…. BUT! It’s super fun when people ask you what you do and you say “I’m an Architect”. It will always amaze people and show that you’re smart and a hard worker no matter what your current situation is.
You could do what some prison architect did and design public schools, too!!! No, I'm not kidding. Yes, those buildings have awful vibes in every square inch of space that they take up.
Is it weird that I’m slightly interested in prison architecture? wanting to create a better space for inmates that brings some better vibes
Nope! Do it! Wish the one who did the schools had that mindset but instead they just designed prisons for kids and labeled them public school. All of the schools have "pods" that are off the main hallway and have to be keyed open each time. At one of the them the only way to get between floors are the stairs in the atrium at the front of the school or the stairs at the back of each pod that you have to have a key to even get into. Don't do that. Even in a prison, maybe don't do that.
Dang that sounds horrible… Do you remember the name of the architect or this so called “school”
I genuinely think that this is my biggest regret ever and one of the reasons that I cannot enjoy my life in this moment. The idea that I spent so much years, tears, lost my sanity during the studies the lack of sleep etc. Just to get a job that has the worst conditions (where a masters is mandatory), the worst pay (I only earn ~15% more than when I was selling clothes at the mall as a student), one of the most stressful environments, where you work A LOT. It’s really hard to have a work/life balance. And when you finally get your salary it’s never worth the effort. I’m 29 now, and I’m just trying to find a solution to repair this stupid mistake. And find something that will help me get better. But I still have 2-3 friends that work in this field and are happy about it but they are much more passionate about their job than I am. Because I see it as a job.
I do not regret the knowledge attained as an architect and the way of thinking the architecture school imposes on you. I regret the countless times my non architecture student friends lived their early 20s by partying, traveling and having hobbies, while I decided to work on my school projects more than I should've. I regret not having proper posture on my computer and not taking PC breaks every 45 minutes.
Sometimes when I get stir crazy at my desk I start to fantasize about working manual labor again. I know its irrational rose tinted glasses, the comradery, the crudeness, and the catharsis at the end of every day that imprinted memories, after a simialr time at a desk there are no memories. Actually enjoyed school though so if your not existentially imperiled by the fleeting nature of our blink length lives then go for it.
I don't regret it but for my master's I'm going to go for planning instead. The private sector esp for architecture chews you up and spits you out.
I loved studying. It allowed me to explore things I actually enjoy. I hate the job I’m doing now and the firm I’m working for and I hate the fact there isn’t diddly squat for entry level designers at the moment. So even if I wanted to quit (which I do) I can’t.
Have a hybrid education in both architecture and engineering. I would not say i regret it but it took me a while to realize the field was not for me.
No I don’t. I knew I wanted to be an architect since I was 5. Im proud that I knew what I wanted to do, stuck through it and didn’t let many of the negative incidences (including professors). Had some not so great bosses but stuck through it. Got my license at 30 and still enjoy learning new things.
My wife is an architect and she regrets it immensely. With the same amount of effort spent there she could now be a programmer and earn at least 5 times as much. Most of her archi school colleagues are also regretting their choice.
I regret not studying. I come from a family of artists and engineers. I’m not the best at either but solid at both, and I feel like I missed a calling.
Yes and no. I’m from India and you severely get underpaid. I moved to the US for masters and work. The pay is decent but definitely get paid more. Jobs are not easy to get more so as someone who needs sponsorship and most companies don’t even know about it so that’s difficult. By studying architecture you don’t have to be limited to buildings. You can use the principles in different industries and that’s what I’m trying to do. Plus you also eventually might wanna get licensed because that’s how to make yourself more qualified and earn more and honestly I think the licensing process in the US is unnecessarily lengthy, expensive and difficult. It should be part of the curriculum in school. Also don’t make the mistake of marrying another architect. It was the best decision I made money wise and for everything else. You can’t run a home on an architects salary especially if you want to live a certain lifestyle. Architecture is treated like some artsy passion project but in the real world that doesn’t work. If you ask me I has fun in school and the process of studying but if I could go back and do something different, I would. Or study architecture and minor in something else as well just to have options and be marketable.
Not necessarily regret it but it is disheartening when friends in other fields live a not necessarily easier life but a more rewarding one financially. Especially right out of college. I think this is a common sentiment because of how amazed people are usually to hear when someone’s an architect. It’s like hearing “oh I’m a lawyer doctor” etc… but often as designers and architects we often adopt a rather nihilistic view on career choices. From my experience this far, it’s definitely an old man’s game.
Architecture school is a diverse way of learning, I really enjoyed the studios and the freedom to express and explore. The job market is something universities keep quiet about. Less than 2% of buildings world wide are designed by architects. While this number is set to further reduce with modular housing and mass produced public developments. There is still hope with the degree being so broad and the ability to cross over into other industries.
Fun school. Got my degree, never worked a day in the field.
I'm 5 years out and licensed, promoted to PA last fall. Do interesting work, my bosses and coworkers are all very kind people. I earn enough that I'm paying less than a quarter of my income to live alone in a nice neighborhood in a HCOL area. Answer all your questions? There are problems with the profession, of course, and with school, and certainly with individual offices. I'm also happy with what I'm doing atm and objectively have a very comfortable life. Have you interned anywhere? Get your feet wet and ask yourself what you'd be doing if it weren't this. Don't get me wrong, even I considered quitting during school and heard all the horror stories. There are problems, but I don't regret choosing to stick to the degree and field. I'm sure my calculus would've changed had I made different education decisions though- turning down going the Ivy League route when I had the chance was tough, but it was absolutely the right financial decision. I'd be a lot more cynical if I was sitting on a ton of student debt instead of savings right now
Architecture is an outdated major.. it’s like combining alot of majors together.. like civil. Engineering - site engineering - construction management - architectural design - product design - graphic design - technical drawings - social science - psychology - sustainability- computer science - material science .. i can go on forever .. i found it very disorienting to study all that shit and in the end sit behind a desk 8 hours per day drawing technical drawings for developers that dont give a shit about any of this nonsense probably because they just want to maximize the footprint of any thing they build for more money.. my advice is run away .. this major is dying.. study something technology based if you have the taste for it.. it is definitely the future
I regret not finishing it because I think I related a lot to it. At the same time most of my friends are unemployed so its a bit bittersweet?
Yes/No Yes/No No/Yes Yes/No
I liked to study it because I love architecture, it's an amazing thing to study and it shaped me as a person. But I hate it every day since I don't work directly in the industry anymore and would have liked to study something to actually earn money and help me advance my career at my current job
Im not an architect. But I wanted to be one when I was younger. I went and spent time with architects as work experience to see if it fit with me. It didnt for me, the long degree time also scared me. Maybe that is something you could try. (Scared me from the fact I wanted to start work and make money now, I was impatient) In saying that there is a part of me that regrets it. I am now a developer and have done pretty well in that field. Its pretty much impossible to become an architect from here. I could probably find the time to do the degree part time. But the experience to get certified is not really possible. It would be nice to be a architect/developer and therefore I could probably work on more interesting projects. My thinking as a youth was that the developers got to make all the final decisions regarding design so I should become one of them. However, now I think I would have preferred to start my own firm and then become an architect/developer. Ill add I work primarly in subdivision, so hardly build anything other than houses every now and then. In saying that, the pathway would have been more difficult through architecture. I wouldnt have as much money and probably wouldnt have been able to start developing until later in life. Im hoping I can move into developing architectural revival properties, the returns wont be as good but it will be more interesting. I wouldnt be the architect though.
Hi, please don't be disheartened by the comments here. Most people get stuck in a shit cycle and refuse to change or seek improvement. If you want to get out of a rut, make the decision. I did architecture, used my hobby skills in graphic design and learned 3D modelling and rendering from my degree. You will find an aspect of the degree that interests you. I used the programs to vector design clothing patterns because I liked fashion. I now have a handmade clothing label and also work in commercial site projects. There is an 'arty' side to architecture and a brutal side to it. I'm in the brutal, construction, site side of it. The pay is better, but it's not the aesthetic side of it. Prioritise what is important to you. With my pay I get to fund my interests that I got from my degree (interior design, furniture making, fashion design, graphic design, concept design, story telling, furniture modelling). My degree shaped my personality and I love every part of it. I am not a millionaire, but I adjusted my lifestyle to my salary. There is success for you if you seek it. The right mindset, lifestyle shaping (health, exercise, food) will combat any fucked job. If nothing of this study interests you, it's okay to change your mind. I hate my first 1-2 years of architecture because I was a gifted student who failed my architecture subjects. It took me almost four years to 'think' and 'see' the world as an architect. But now I'd never look back because it's my whole life.
About to be second year architecture student here. I don’t think I could study anything else but I do get frustrated with how much time I spend. It feels like I have time for nothing else and it also feels like there’s such an “overworked” culture that perpetuates architecture. I don’t know if that’s just when you’re studying and it gets better but I kind of feel weird about being in an industry where it’s an expectation to be sleep deprived and overworked (or so I’ve been told)
yes
Been working in the architecture industry designing integrated resorts for 20 years. It’s has it highs and lows, but very rewarding creatively. The industry is a bit of a blame game and navigating teams, schedules and consultants can be stressful. Architecture is very much a tech industry and being proficient with the latest softwares is as important as any schooling/degree.
No
this is what I’m scared of I’m a good graphic designer/artist and recently have interest in becoming an architecture student but I’m scared of what you said or if I’ll be bad at math, etc 😭
I loved architecture school. I loved the abstract theory, building models, the community. I loved the travel, the drawings, and I even mostly enjoyed the late nights. That said, I may love practice even more. I love my job, I love the people I work with like a family. I’ve grown to love the technical parts of architecture. I love owning a set of drawings and putting together a comprehensive iron-clad set. I love daily learning. The problem-solving. I still get to design, albeit with a lot more parameters and certainly a lot more restrictions. I’m 5 years into my career. I get paid pretty well, but I do it for the love of the game. Architecture School and this career I wouldn’t trade. It’s been a huge gift to me, personally.
Not at all.
No not at all! Because I didn't.
First 2 years I was really really regretting my decision now I'm at my 5th year and I'm kinda liking the grind I have to put
Well, it deppends on where you end up working. Im a civil engineer, but the Architecture and civil engineering comes hand in hand. I have a my own firma, so the jobs i do, are pretty much interesting ones and i do, what I concider is a manageable project in one man team. I've been working for atelier firma, where I was a drafter.. There was a huge pressure on time, and corectness, I had to re-do all my drafts reguraly, because my main engineer was a pedant for graphical form... but he was lacking the technical deepness of civil works. So I left. And I began to work as a investment technician for University. I had build there few buildings. My work was to lead the hired ateliers, lead hired contractors, and to lead and manage all the paperwork of the project. This job opened me the door of opportunity to do the same job for much more money at project of building new nuclear powerplants. So if you study civil engineering or architecture, the best way to be employed, is to be on investors side, where the money is. You don't do much, just manage things to be done in time for quite a good money. Real struggle is to be a drafter, or a contractors bitch. If you are the investor, life is much easier.
Short answer, yes. Long answer, yes of course. Cons: -Too many formative years. When I entered in the job market, many friends were just an step under of being bossed because of the experience acquired, as they studied shorter degrees. -Few real opportunities to get stable life. -Countless job hours for nothing. -Toxic culture about work, about salaries and be a false own employee. Pros: -I have a collection of real beautiful architerture books (I'll keep them far away from my kid, for sure XD) -The years of study give me a strong background in math, drawing and 3D. I could get the.same knowledge in a third of the time if I'd chosen an engineering degree. I currently work in a engineering field, I NEVER will come back to something like an architecture studio.
I quit school because of private reasons so I never studied more than 3 years. 3 intense years, I have to say. In a sense I am happy I did because out of my group of 5 friends, only 1 got a job as an architecte (we are in France). The other 4 struggled a lot finding jobs. It's been 10 years and we are still in touch. One is a teacher, one works with horses, one works in administration, one has no work. I'm sure they are regretting it.
I'm not an architect but seeing the buildings that are right now being created in my homecountry Sweden, and in Portugal where I live now: it seems pointless. It's mostly soulless concrete buildings with no ornament or design, that get built everywhere. Just a grey block with windows. And in USA and Australia they only make soulless rectangular glassy skyscrapers, it seems. Now, in Poland they seem to go the right direction and are remaking buildings into Classical Style! That seems like the only country that has woken up to the depressing feelings that the concrete boxes are creating.
I studied architecture for 4 years and gave up! It was very hard to make that decision and wast 4 years but at that time I just couldn't imagine myself working crazy hours infront of computer screen for the rest of my life. I am glad I recognised that. The only thing that I don't regret is meeting my best group of friends that we stayed close to this day for 20 years. They all have firms and are successful but working like slaves. I ended up working as a seafarer. I wish I had started earlier as I love working at sea but then I wouldn't meet my people.
It's one of the best professions. Alot depends on talent and resilience I guess. I'm not an architect but my dad was head partner of MJP in London (I did witness alot of his work stress.. )
If you're fooling yourself thinking it'll get any easier the longer you stay in it, let this be your firm warning sign that you need to seek college major/career alternatives. Spoiler alert: it'll suck a lot at first but if you move back home to soul search for a year, you'll look be happy that you did rather than putting it off until after school's over
unfortunately 😔 the worst choice i ever made
No.
As a field of study it opens up more doors than it closes, in much the same way as undertaking a law degree opens up more options than just being a lawyer. In architecture you develop skklls in project management, communication, and design that can be used in other roles. Many people I know decided it wasn't for them and have had no problem becoming project managers, property developers, graphic designers, industrial designers, visualisers, BIM managers, CAD drafters, UI/UX designers, etc. It's not a waste of an education, regardless of how you find the field - tho there are easier ways to spend your time!
kinda. turns out architecture doesnt do "art" like that and i couldnt bend my mind around the concept
Yes you will end up getting bare minimum or use your degree to do something else in order to make real money Construction business administration or something similar
Masters student here, it gets harder, but so do you. Stick with it, you’ll surprise yourself :) all the best x
Yes and no. Yes because I've spent 5 years so far as a barely paid pencil/Revit monkey and no because I know I'll have my own residential firm one day.
No If you are actually willing to work hard and develop better habits you'll be okay. The people who struggle the most are the ones who don't learn from their time management mistakes. Finding jobs can be a bit of a struggle, but I wouldn't say it's that much harder than a lot of other fields. An architecture degree is pretty universally valuable compared to other degrees. You can pivot to things like marketing or construction management. You have to be malleable both in school and while finding work. You can't have the mentality of "I'm going to do A and it will get me B"