You have graduated. All those hectic hours spent at studios have finally enabled you to walk out with your held high from your university with a degree in hand. You can?t wait to work in a firm that aligns with your desires. Although you are elated, you are apprehensive about working in an architecture firm for the very first time. If you are confused about what to expect and need a little peep into the world of the architectural profession, read ahead. This article is just for you!

Expectations vs. Reality: What To Expect In Your First Architecture Job

Architecture school emphasizes design, with graduates likely becoming formidable designers. The process of building design involves six phases: Pre-Design, Schematic Design (SD), Design Development (DD), Construction Documents (CD), Bidding and Negotiations, and Construction Administration (CA). The primary focus in school is on the first two phases, with studio projects serving as examples of a Schematic Design level. Life in an architecture firm is broader. As professionals begin to develop their work beyond these phases, other aspects of architecture come into play. Communication with contractors is crucial for understanding how all parts of a design will fit together; for example, how walls connect to the roof, and the colour, finish, and manufacturer of a chair. The design has many aspects, including fluid and creative aspects. However, the foundation provided by the school is essential for becoming a master builder, as time as a practitioner will build on it.

Entry-level Architect Experience: What you will learn on the job

The architecture profession requires constant teamwork, meaningful conversations between team members, and feedback to grow and improve skills. It is essential to accept feedback and cultivate patience and resilience to navigate setbacks and challenges. Building skills and creating a strong portfolio requires time and consistent effort.

While working you might juggle multiple tasks, such as drafting 2D drawings, visualizing 3D models, making physical models, etc. You will gain on-site experience with various construction methods, materials, and technologies, and improve your knowledge of practical building considerations required for a successful building project. As you work with diverse people, you develop a better understanding of real-world project management, including effective coordination with stakeholders and managing project timelines and budgets.

Efficiency with time is crucial for meeting deadlines and balancing tasks. Project managers should develop their own strategies to stay organized and manage their workload effectively, especially when handling multiple projects simultaneously. By focusing on long-term goals and utilizing practical skills, one can successfully navigate the challenges of the architecture profession.

Challenges

Your workplace is vastly different from the studio

Your professors and studios encourage you to aim for the stars, literally. They ask you to unleash your creativity and think out of the box. While this is excellent to develop your design skills it also instils high expectations in you in terms of design. Your workplace is more practical and challenges you to analyse a problem, think critically, assess the various constraints and come to a doable solution.

Architectural education is lifelong

Just because you are done with your schooling does not mean you are done with your education. You might have received praise from your professors but your first job as an architect requires you to learn new skills which are practical in the profession. Don?t be disheartened by your lack of knowledge. See it as an opportunity to explore and learn more. Even F.L. Wright started as an apprentice and was a rookie.

Self-Management, Project Management and Time Management

Project management and self-management are crucial skills in the architectural profession. While design skills are ideal, management is essential for generating efficient work. Self-management involves setting time and productivity levels, adhering to best practices, and meeting deadlines. Project management involves understanding the project’s fundamental needs and goals, resolving challenges at each stage, and understanding constraints such as client desires and design philosophy. Both skills are essential for a successful architectural firm.

Architecture is a collaborative profession

You might not be a team player, you might have spent an eternity alone, and in front of your laptop perfecting design in ways you deem right. But there is no denying that architecture is a collaborative field where you deal with various designers, shareholders, and workers to bring the project to fruition. Give yourself time to know your colleagues and build healthy relationships with them. You can learn a lot from them!

You are accountable

You were on your boss while studying architecture. No authority dictated when to work, sleep, have coffee, take a break or eat. But an architecture career after graduation demands you to follow some rules and report to some authority. In short, you are accountable. Your work has deeper meaning now and you cannot always play by your own rules.

Tips to Excel

Recent graduates should embrace continuous learning to successfully navigate the transition to the workforce. Staying updated with industry trends, new materials, and emerging technologies is crucial. Master 3D modelling programs like Rhino and rendering programs like Enscape, and transition between 3D and 2D. Familiarize yourself with creating drawings with proper layouts, line weights, and hatches. Work seamlessly across different software and refine your skills.

In the fast-paced workplace, you will learn more about the industry and refine your skills. Most offices are more interested in your thought process and design thinking than your proficiency with specific software.

Developing strong communication skills is also vital. Effective communication with clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders is essential. Learn how to speak and write confidently to convey your ideas and resolve any issue that comes up efficiently. Share your thoughts and ideas, allowing yourself to be heard. Remember that nobody is perfect and nobody knows everything. If someone doesn’t listen or give your idea the attention it deserves, take pride in knowing you made a meaningful contribution. With dedication, everything can be learned.

Conclusion

Starting an architecture career might feel daunting. Don?t worry. Just take a breath, prep for a bit and I promise, you will be fine. All the star architects have to start somewhere. Remember, each architectural firm will teach you something or the other.

So, what do you think of the article? Did we clear your anxieties and confusion? Comment below if you have any questions!

Sources

• https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/architecture-after-graduation-you-ready-alfred-recruitment-limited/
• https://rmjm.com/your-first-architecture-job-how-to-transition-from-university
• https://archinect.com/features/article/150125982/what-to-expect-after-graduating-from-architecture-school
• https://architizer.com/blog/inspiration/stories/navigating-the-transition-from-architecture-school-to-professional-practice/#:~:text=Transitioning%20from%20architecture%20school%20to,%2C%20expectations%2C%20and%20learning%20opportunities.
• https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/career-advice/a2978-how-can-architects-evolve-from-students-to-professionals
• https://medium.com/@lisa.m.wellman/how-to-transition-from-architecture-student-to-practicing-architecture-60273bfd8b70