Architecture is confusing

Learning architecture takes time. There are just so many things to take into consideration in trying to understanding what architecture is, and what makes good architecture good.

Architecture Education is confusing

In the increasingly fragmented world we live in, universities are forced to break down large projects into various ‘assignments’ and submissions. It is becoming increasingly hard for students to see the big picture of the particular unit as well as the whole course. Studio balloting, whilst it is great to have the complexity and diversity of choice, students often miss some of the fundamentals and core skills in architecture.

Architecture Practice is largely unknown

Whilst architecture schools should not be about vocational training, the disconnect between students of architecture and the expectations of architectural practices is becoming greater, from core skills such as drawing conventions, understanding scale drawings, understanding plans and sections to soft skills such as people skills, social skills, communication skills, asking questions and being able to be goal focused rather than task focused.

Portfolios are basically Tinder profiles

There is too much focus on the development of portfolios which as essentially like a dating profile and a job interview is like a date. It may get you noticed but it does not mean you are necessarily longer term relationship material suitable as part of a team in an architectural practice. It is therefore important to develop all the other skills that are important for a holistic contribution to the profession.