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Illustrator looking to apply to M.Arch
Hi, I'm new around here and have been reading the discussions.
I'm 26-years-old and have a BFA in Illustration. I've just started gaining a little bit of recognition as professional illustrator, and had some recognition as a student. I am BROKE, though.
The thing is, I've been going back and forth on whether I should pursue architecture for what seems like YEARS now. The biggest deciding factor has been money. It's always about money. Other factors have been my insecurity and lack of support. I come from a pretty blue-collar family. I think that's where I get my anxiety from. One day, they'll encourage me for leaving home to pursue better things, and the next, they'll make me feel bad for not going a "practical" route.
Anyway, I happen to have met a few architects over the years, and they've encouraged me to pursue architecture. Their support, and my success in illustration, has made me more comfortable in thinking that it's actually possible. One of them has even offered to pay for my admissions and to co-sign for student loans.
I'm here because I'd like an objective view, because my architect friends are obviously biased.
I figure since I'm a [struggling] illustrator, that my portfolio can be my illustration portfolio?
I graduated my BFA with a 3.0 GPA, which I know is low. I think I just made the minimum to even be considered for M.Arch programs? I had to work a lot to financially support myself and pay for tuition and I don't know if that's a good enough excuse. However, I had recognition from the Society of Illustrators as a student, and the Assistant Chairman of my major department loves me and has agreed to give me a sparkling letter of recommendation. So that should balance out?
I'm considering Columbia University's Introduction to Architecture summer program (I called and they're still accepting applications). I wonder if it would be worth it? I don't have that kind of money ($2837 plus fees and supplies) so I would have to go out on a limb and borrow it. I feel that doing well in that program would help to further offset my GPA, and also to ease my anxiety about pursuing architecture by becoming more comfortable in that kind of environment. Again, the deciding factor is money.
I haven't taken the GRE yet, but I'm making it a point to study everyday. According to my SAT, I have a feeling that my score is going to be much higher in Verbal. I'm also currently gaining certification to teach ESL, so it's only natural for Verbal to be easier for me. For architecture programs, isn't it usually the other way around? That's why I'm not confident that I can depend on the GRE to balance out my GPA.
Okay, sorry that this has turned out to be such a long entry. Any thoughts would be very much appreciated!
if you enjoy architecture, then pursue it
be careful with the debt. this tends to hold aspiring architects down
your background in illustration should assist you in this industry
Thank you for replying.
Ah, yes, it's always about money! I've discussed my interest in applying to grad school with my parents, and surprisingly, they've been emotionally supportive. My father, who freaked out at me when I changed my undergrad major to Illustration, told me that architecture school would be a risk worth taking. Afterall, my lifestyle can't be any worse than it is now! Funny man.
I talked to my parents about this summer course and if I can borrow the money, they can pay it back for me over 10 months. I don't know yet if I want to do that. I have trouble asking for help. But then again, being so fearful of taking risks, I feel, has led me to fall behind 5 years.
live life with no regrets... go for it! the summer program is a good idea, though. It'll inform you either way as to if architecture is right for you. If it affirms your instincts, you should have a better portfolio from it.
Sounds like you have the right attitude. You'll never know if architecture is for you unless you go for it. If anything, doing a summer program will help you determine if this is really the direction you want to take with your life.
Drop-out rates in the first year for architecture students tend to be very high, but those of us who stick with it are generally happy with the decision (aside from the usual complaints about money, licensing hurdles, and long hours). It's a good way to weed out those who are committed to the profession and those who are not.
I think your background in illustration is a benefit, since a significant portion of architecture is representation of an idea. Just be prepared to modify the style of your techniques...and have fun with it.
Good luck.
Thank you for the feedback.
I think that maybe I think too much! haha I tell you, it's because I'm the youngest and the first one to go to college in my family. I'm so fortunate to have had a great guidance counselor when I was in high school. Applying to schools still gets me really nervous, because I often doubt as to whether I'm kidding myself, especially when looking at Ivy League schools. I'm trying to put myself in the mindset of "I mind as well try!" I do plan on applying to a range of programs and will be happy getting accepted in any one of them, but AIM HIGH!
I think I'm going to add myself to the 2010 thread. So here's hoping!
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