Architect by Keeley Smith

Job Description Architects design buildings and other structures. In addition to considering the way these buildings and structures look, they also make sure they are functional, safe, economical and suit the needs of the people who use them. The architect and client first discuss what the client wants. The architect sometimes helps decide if a project would work at all or if it would harm the environment. The architect then creates drawings for the client to review. They may be involved in all stages of the construction of a building. On a typical day an architect will: - Discuss the objectives, requirements, and budget of a project; - Provide various predesign services which may include conducting feasibility and environmental impact studies, selecting a site, or specifying the requirements the design must meet; - Prepare drawings and present ideas for the client to review; - Develop final construction plans that show the building's appearance as well as details for its construction; - Follow building codes, zoning laws, fire regulations, and other ordinances; - Make necessary changes throughout the planning process.

Education Requirements There are three types of professional degrees in architecture offered through colleges and universities: – 5-year Bachelor of Architecture programs intended for students entering programs from high school or with no previous architectural training – 2-year Master of Architecture programs for students with a preprofessional undergraduate degree in architecture or a related area – 3 or 4-year Master of Architecture programs offered to students with degrees in other disciplines In the United States those who want to provide architectural services must be licensed. To become licensed one must earn a professional degree in architecture, complete a period of practical training or internship, and pass all divisions of the ARE (Architect Registration Examination). In most states, continuing education is required to maintain licensure. A licensed architect, after gaining experience, may take on increasingly responsible duties and eventual managing entire projects. Architects may advance to supervisory or managerial positions in large firms. Some become partners in established firms while others set up their own practices.

Wages Median annual earnings of wage and salary architects were $72,700 in Recent graduates working on internships will earn much less. Those starting out in private practices will go through a period of time when they are operating at a loss. Employment of architects is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through Prospective architects may face competition for positions at prestigious firms. To increase one's chances of getting an internship after graduation, prospective architects should gain career- related experience in an architectural firm while still in school. Those who know CADD technology will also have an advantage.

Interest In middle school, I was very interested in architecture and interior design. I think it’s the freedom to create new things that I know other people will not only look at, but work or live in. I always liked the idea of creating a work of art that was also useable. I was fascinated with Frank Lloyd Wright’s work (featured on the title page).

Relation Science and math teach us valuable equations and concepts that are very important to making sure that a building will stand long and be safe for everyone to enter and use.

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