Ask the Architect

On preparing for a career

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Q. My son is graduating from high school and hoping to go into engineering or architecture after finishing the “core” courses the university requires. What can you suggest he do to prepare for his career? What courses should he be taking that will look best on his resume?

A. Congratulations on his graduation, and to all graduates. Hmmm, what can I suggest? The core courses are truly important. I know it seems that they’re just basic, but writing, speech-making and all the math, science and art you can cram into one brain is best. Presenting work in written form and speaking clearly at meetings are acquired skills. Understand that your son will now not just be learning subjects to pass tests, but acquiring the tools to apply math, art and the sciences to earn a living.

Nothing is unimportant to architecture and engineering. Even real estate courses, sports, dance and pottery are useful. A high school student recently spent a day in my office to see what an architect does, and was surprised to learn that her dancing skill could be applied to construction. I told her about the performing arts school I worked on, and how I had to not only understand the type of floor, its need to flex, and the relationship to how the study of dance and human physiology would apply, but aided in making sure the structure was correct so that the dancers and other performers wouldn’t break an ankle.

In general, the working world requires great communication skills, not just people who know computer techniques. Everyone needs to know when to listen, when to speak, how to do so effectively, how to phrase a question, and understand that you’re there to create a benefit for the company, not just for the company to benefit you. There’s no shame in starting in the mail room and working your way up. I’m humored by stories from students who plan a career in which they start as CEO. I hope they do, or that they have the attitude to develop the aptitude to get there.

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