How can I Become an Architect?
Becoming an architect can prepare one for work in many different fields. An architect may design buildings, help plan sites, work on restoration of historical buildings, or use their knowledge to teach history or art. Aptitude for high level math, like trigonometry and calculus is important. As well, skill in drawing is invaluable.
In high school, teens can prepare for becoming an architect by assiduously studying math, taking mechanical drawing when available, and also taking art classes that emphasizes drawing and painting. Architecture is not only a practical field, but also an artistic one. The would-be architect should work to develop taste and application of manually produced art.
Teens may also want to subscribe to magazines like Architectural Digest which give plenty of information about current and past design. As well, the architect must not only consider design and function, but what is reasonably possible to produce. It does not hurt to spend some time working in construction fields, to understand what builders undergo when faced with an architectural challenge. Volunteering to work for organizations like Habitat for Humanity can give one on-site building experience, and make a valuable impression on potential colleges.
Frequently, the architect now relies on computer programs, most basically, AutoCAD, which can help plan the logistics of designs. It also has diverse applications in civil engineering and city planning. Most community colleges offer beginning to advanced courses in AutoCAD.
A person wishing to become an architect is advised to take these courses prior to graduating from high school. Courses may be offered over the summer, or in late afternoons or evenings. Knowledge of this important tool is key to work in all architectural fields. This knowledge can help one obtain valuable summer internships or actual paid positions throughout college, which can enhance experience.
In college, one generally pursues a major in architecture, and a masters degree in architecture is often recommended. College offers one the chance to learn about the history of architecture, building codes, the physical aspects of creating designs, and more AutoCAD, as well as any other computer programs that can help put designs into three-dimensional models.
If city planning is more appealing, one might wish to pursue a degree in civil engineering as opposed to architecture. Civil engineers also frequently design buildings and plan whole structures with the assistance of architects or on their own.
In either field, if one plans to work in a major city, it can be of particular value to be bilingual. Many construction workers speak Spanish as their primary language. This is particularly the case in California, Arizona, and Texas. Being able to directly communicate with those carrying out one’s designs can be particularly helpful and inspiring to all involved in the building process.
Written by Tricia Ellis-Christensen
