Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc)
Pratt Institute
University of Southern California (USC)
Tulane University
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Temple University
University of Oregon
Cranbrook Academy of Art
New York Institute of Technology (NYIT)
Kansas State University
Super Excited
So I'm super excited about graduating in August... so much that I just had to ask this question.
My boss from my first co-op said to me and another employee once that he wished he started his own firm a long time ago, in his 20's.
Having worked for a couple semesters, and having realized I know absolutely nothing about the practice/construction, is that possible? More specifically: If you just got your license (lets say like 3 years after graduation if you're on top of it), are you at all prepared to own and operate a firm?
Seems to me that a LOT of experience is required in this field... a lot more than 3 years.
If not I'm doing it.
it depends what type of architecture you are doing and where, in my experience --- if you are doing mid-range residential and small community banks and shopping centers in a rural area, 3-5 years might be enough --- or if you are working only on conceptual design or some other narrowly defined specialization --- for instance opening up as a LEED/sustainable architecture consultant --- I don't think you'd be ready to open up shop to design schools, factories or hospitals within 3-5 years
i wish that i had started my construction company a lot sooner than i did.
don't be afraid to fail. if the practice does not do well so what try again later.
some people will be impressed that someone your age has the balls to hang their shingle.
but one downside is that if you do have to close up shop and try to go and work for another firm they will be hesitant to hire you knowing your ambition to start your own practice. its a fact. i think.
i have guys asking me for a job all the time that had to close their construction company and i never call them back because (1 they have their own ways to do things (2 they don't want to do the grunt work anymore. we all grunt on my jobs even me. and (3 they will leave as soon as they get their own jobs.
employers want to know what you can do for them to make money
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