Becoming an expert in a field takes time, patience and lots of learning and practice. Some fields take a lot of study before you even get to the trial and error part, because the error part can cost you and others a lot. Architecture is one of those fields, and architecture students are often not prepared for what awaits them. In order to become an architect, students should know the following things.
Mathematics – Boring but Necessary
Most architecture students have something against mathematics, either they find it boring, unnecessary or excessive. It is true that architecture courses focus a lot on mathematics and that it is necessary, to a degree. The formulas used for architecture are basic, but it is important to know how they work and why they are necessary. If for no other reason, it is next to impossible to become an architect without knowing some mathematics, because you would be unable to pass the exam.
Patience – Obligatory Part of Being an Architect
If you do not lose your mind on the way to becoming an architect, you are already doing more than most. Patience is what is necessary to become an architect, especially after you become one. Architecture is not about walking around a construction site and choosing this or that room from a guide, but rather slaving away over schematics, 3D designs and small details which can make or break a design. These things are important and take lots of time, especially because for the most of it, while you are not working on something ridiculously small and full of details, you are dealing with people.
The Ability to Follow Guidelines – As Regulated as they Get
In most countries in the world, an architect needs a special license to work as an architect. In the United States, for example, you would have to have a license in every state you wanted to work in. The reason for this is the responsibility of an architect’s job. A poorly designed building, turned into reality, can lead to many people being hurt or dying, not to mention property damage. This is why an architect must go through various stages of development prior to getting their license.
Creativity – Even Physics Can Be Creative
Architecture, being as regulated as it is, means that your designs have to be up to some standard. Defying the laws of physics is for the moment, impossible. Famous architects became famous due to creative designs in a myriad of patterns and schemas. This is why architects have to be creative if they want to make a name for themselves.
These are but some things a person should know or practice if they want to become an architect.
