Expert: John Henry Architect - 8/20/2008

Question
Hi John, Alex writing.

I'm in year 10 in Adealide, Australia, and am keen to get into the career as an architect. I'm great at most subjects, maths, design, computers, science.. and recieve decent grades (A's 95% of the time), so i'm not too worried about being too dumb to become an architect. Of course i'll work hard but i'm just wondering whether or not i'm on the right track with my subjects. I'm going to do specialists maths, physics, design and computer programs. I also read that you need 2 years of practical experience to recieve a job as an architect. I was wondering how you got yours, when in your studies did you do it and what you did. I would also appreciate what your day to day job is like, eg. early mornings? late nights? deadlines? is it interesting or do you wake up everyday dreading what has to be done?

Thanks for your time

Sincerely, Alex

Answer
Hi Alex,
How you prepare now is based on what you want to do later.  You may wish to start your own business after internship or work in a corporate setting.  Business basics, believe it or not, are very important in establishing a viable practice.  A great architect you may be but the competition is astounding and you have to know how to market services, interact with clients, etc.
Here are some of the opportunities in a corporate setting, although you have to be a bit of all of these to run your own firm: Lead designer, specifications writer, draftsperson, marketing/ developing contracts, construction administration, field observation or construction management, interior design.

I followed the typical process: college degree, pass the licensing exam, internship, work for others, start my own business.

I actually did not know this was going to be my final occupation as I went through several majors in college until 'settling' on architecture.  It is exciting and different every day.  I am a sole proprietor with a small staff and do boutique luxury home primarily but also have commercial capabilities: www.floridarchitect.com

Your first few years are a learning curve.  When on your own you will definitely do all nighters (as in college) to make project deadlines, then projects should come to you on a regular basis where normality sets in!

Some dread: quality of work, completeness of drawings and details, client expectations, etc.

I lived overseas in Europe for many of my younger years and love the old cities, ancient ruins, and classical buildings.  Develop your skills and you should do well.

Send me an email to this address and I will forward more related info: johnhenry@cfl.rr.com