Reflections on Choosing Architecture: A Journey from Ambition to Success

I was once very passionate about pursuing a career in architecture just like my late father. However, as I delved deeper into the profession, I had to reassess my choices. A combination of factors, including financial considerations, the behavior of many architects, and the general perception of the profession led me to reconsider my ambitions. This article reflects on my journey from wanting to be an architect to discovering a fulfilling career in mechanical design.

The Ambition

My father was an excellent architectural designer, and he encouraged me to follow in his footsteps. Before his untimely death, he was working towards earning his degree to sit for the architect test. The removal of the ability to apply for the test based on experience instead of education was a significant barrier, but I was determined to achieve what he had set out to do. I hoped to find that elusive ‘thing’ I was good at, and I was ready to pursue my passion with all my heart.

The Reality Check

Getting an associates degree was my first step towards turning my ambition into reality. However, the harsh reality of the profession hit me hard. Architecture is often poorly paid, and many architects can be less than professional, which isn't ideal for someone looking to make a positive impact in their field. In addition, in the year 2021, it became increasingly common for people to opt out of hiring architects for building projects, making the profession seem 'optional' rather than indispensable.

These realizations, combined with an offer from a civil engineering firm that I considered ‘great money,’ forced me to reconsider my career path. My teacher and mentor encouraged me to take the offer as 'shut up and take it money,' knowing that it would be challenging to find a better opportunity elsewhere. I initially accepted the job, intending to balance my workload with school through the company’s tuition reimbursement program. The firm also offered a robust structural/civil background, which seemed like a valuable addition to my skill set.

The Unexpected Turn of Events

Unfortunately, the company faced some major client losses, and I was let go through a first-in-first-out policy. Despite several promising interviews with architecture firms that did not pan out, I eventually stumbled into a job as a Mechanical Designer for a small firm through a colleague’s recommendation. Over the next few years, I learned the ropes and ultimately secured an amazing position at one of the best multi-discipline firms in the state, working alongside architects, designers, and engineers from various disciplines.

While my path was not exactly as planned, I found a fulfilling career in mechanical design. The irony was not lost on me when I later discovered that my father’s top choice for employment was the firm where I now work. It’s clear that things can work out in unexpected and wonderful ways, even when they don't go as planned.

Lessons Learned

This journey taught me the importance of flexibility and resilience in the face of unexpected challenges. Pursuing a career in architecture was a noble ambition, but it required careful consideration of the realities of the profession. By diversifying my skill set and embracing new opportunities, I discovered a fulfilling path in mechanical design that aligns well with my interests and career goals.

Key Takeaways:

Architecture may not be as financially rewarding as you hope. Many architects might have difficult personalities, making the profession less than ideal. The perception of architecture as an 'optional' profession is growing, especially in the modern era. Flexibility and openness to new opportunities are crucial in a career.

Conclusion

While my initial dreams of becoming an architect were set aside for practical reasons, I found a highly satisfying career in mechanical design. The experience has taught me that sometimes, the path to success is not as straightforward as we might hope, but the journey can still be incredibly rewarding. My story serves as a reminder to stay open to opportunities and to embrace change with a positive attitude.

So, if you're considering a career in architecture, it's essential to weigh both the pros and cons. While the history and legacy of great architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, Le Corbusier, and Philip Johnson are worth studying, it might be wise to explore other career paths that align better with your goals and aspirations.