How do you as a student of architecture gain work experience (get a job) when you have no experience.  It is a catch 22 -- how do you get a job without experience and how do you gain experience without a job.  As stated above -- it is hoped that your school might have programs to assist you, but even if it does not, realize that you are gaining actual experience as you work through your projects in the design studio and other related courses.

Listed below are a variety career programs designed to assist current architecture students in gaining experience within the profession.

Mentoring

Many schools of architecture have mentoring programs designed to link you with either an older student or a local professional.  Perhaps surprisingly, the concept of mentoring has played a role in the profession of architecture since its early days as students would study under a seasoned architect to learn the ins and outs of the profession.  Even now, the profession is committed to mentoring through IDP as many states require an advisor, an architect outside of firm with whom you meet periodically to discuss your growth as an architect.  Having a mentor does not provide you direct experience as a job might, but your mentor can provide you invaluable insight as you progress through your path to becoming an architect

But what is a mentor and what do they do for you; and how do you find one?  Webster's  defines mentor as "a trusted counselor or guide; a tutor or coach".  While having to wear many hats, the mentor is committed to the professional and personal development of the protoge.   A mentor must be: trustworthy, respectful,  supportive, patient, an excellent communicator, and confident.

A mentor must be a challenger, a teacher, a  guide, and a counselor.  As a challenger, the mentor encourages protoges to accept challenges and take risks, assists in developing problem-solving skills, and accept challenges he or she might otherwise shy away from.  As a teacher, the mentor educates the protoges on the skills needed to be successful. While not an expert on everything, the mentor can help identify the correct source for the answers.  As a guide, the mentor directs the protoge through the nuances of the profession and firm culture. The mentor also serves as a networking resource, opening doors and providing opportunities for the protoge.  The guide helps the protoges avoid pit falls and failure.  As a counselor, the mentor assists the protoges in career decisions.

If you are seeking a mentor ask yourself:

	Who possess the professional characteristics I would most like to acquire?
	Who has the balance of personal and professional life that I would like to achieve?
	Who is a good role model?
	Who do I trust and feel comfortable sharing my professional aspirations and problems with?

Obviously if your school has a mentoring program, the purpose of such a program is to match you with a mentor, perhaps an alumni of the school.  However, if your school does not have a program, contact the local chapter of the profession (AIA) to determine if they have such a program.  Again, if they do not, ask for the president of the chapter and ask for suggestions.  It may be surprising, but most architects will help you.  You may also wish to begin within your school by connecting with a faculty or student further into the program than you.

Remember, establishing a mentoring relationship does not happen overnight.  Rather it develops over time.  In addition, you have a role to play as well.  You need to be a student, learning from the mentor and actively seeking experiences that will expand your career. Volunteering in the community, attending lectures and seminars, and participating in the local AIA component are a few career-enhancing opportunities that enhance a protoges leadership skills.

You need to make the initial contact with the mentor.  You must also be eager to learn, a team player, patient, a risk taker , and maintain a positive attitude.

A mentor can assist you with your career, but you are solely responsible for the direction it will take.

Externship Program

University of Virginia - Held during the winter break, the externship program provides students in the College of Architecture an opportunity to Òshadow" an architect in their workplace for a week.  Typically placed with alumni, over 125 students are provided this inside the profession experience each year.

CAREER Programs (Coming Soon)

Career Fairs - Days

Over the past few years, more and more schools of architecture are hosting Career Fairs or Career Days. Regardless of the official name, the purpose is to bring architecture firms and architecture students together.  In many cases, a Career Fair-Day is similar to that of a Job Fair, whereby the firms attending are seeking potential employees to fill a position be it part-time or full-time. In addition, students attend the event with the express purpose of "interviewing" with the representatives of the firm and hand out resumes.  However, beyond the more direct "hiring", the Career Fair is a great opportunity to simply learn more about the firms in attendance for later employment possibilities.

Professional Pathways (Coming Soon)

Firm Tours / Dinner with an Architect (Coming Soon)

PART-TIME CAREER RELATED POSITIONS / SUMMER POSITIONS

Volunteer Work (Coming Soon)

Habitat for Humanity (Coming Soon)

Docent / Tour Guide (Coming Soon)



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