I have been lurking in this community for some time now and you have been an invaluable source of knowledge.
I was hoping you could all offer me some advice.
I graduated with a part 1 BA degree in Architecture in 2018, from a top university with a first-class.
I then worked in practice for one year, 2018 - 2019, then, due to unforeseen circumstances, I had to return home and be a primary caregiver. This also shocked me and I began dealing with my own mental health issues.
As I remained home, I began doing menial jobs to pay the bills, like customer service, as well as doing some property sales - all from home. So essentially from 2019 to 2021 there is a gap unrelated to architecture.
Now, however, I would like to return to architecture-related employment or really just pursue a career again, I am a bit saddened as I am now 25, only completed my part 1, and have a long way to go to become a fully qualified architect. I will have to fund my Masters and final exam largely myself. But right now, I would like to focus on the first step, which is getting back into employment.
My question is:
How would I explain the 2 year job gap if they ask?
Also, I am considering doing another design-related career such as UX, as pursuing architecture now would be both time and money-intensive.
Just tell them you had to provide care for someone else for a period of time. If they don't understand that, you probably don't want to work for them to begin with.
I would put it on your resume as a home health aid. Mention the gap in your cover letter. Be honest about everything. A good employer will understand. If they don't why would you want to work for them?
Part 1 Architectural Assistant - Advice?
Hi all,
I have been lurking in this community for some time now and you have been an invaluable source of knowledge.
I was hoping you could all offer me some advice.
I graduated with a part 1 BA degree in Architecture in 2018, from a top university with a first-class.
I then worked in practice for one year, 2018 - 2019, then, due to unforeseen circumstances, I had to return home and be a primary caregiver. This also shocked me and I began dealing with my own mental health issues.
As I remained home, I began doing menial jobs to pay the bills, like customer service, as well as doing some property sales - all from home. So essentially from 2019 to 2021 there is a gap unrelated to architecture.
Now, however, I would like to return to architecture-related employment or really just pursue a career again, I am a bit saddened as I am now 25, only completed my part 1, and have a long way to go to become a fully qualified architect. I will have to fund my Masters and final exam largely myself. But right now, I would like to focus on the first step, which is getting back into employment.
My question is:
How would I explain the 2 year job gap if they ask?
Also, I am considering doing another design-related career such as UX, as pursuing architecture now would be both time and money-intensive.
Any words of advice?
Just be honest, employers understand that life happens.
Thank you, yep - I guess I was just catastrophizing it in my mind. Would you recommend putting it in the cover letter?
Just tell them you had to provide care for someone else for a period of time. If they don't understand that, you probably don't want to work for them to begin with.
I would put it on your resume as a home health aid. Mention the gap in your cover letter. Be honest about everything. A good employer will understand. If they don't why would you want to work for them?
Good luck!
Thank you, yes, I have actually updated my resume based on your recommendation and I am writing it in my cover letter.
Just tell them what happened, you can't really discriminate against a situation like that.
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