I experienced everything you described. It felt like i was floundering for the first few years after architecture school. Small firm, zero mentorship and boring projects. What turned everything around for me was when I decided to start studying for the architecture registration exam. It gave me a goal, direction and an amazing education about how architecture is practiced. It helped understand how architecture works as a business and where my place was in the equation. The knowledge I learned studying became much more valuable then the knowledge i gained working on repetitive projects. Even before I was done with all my exams i was able to get a better job and move to the next chapter. This wouldn't have happened without studying for the ARE.
My take: Architecture can be difficult. Small firms don’t have enough resources to grow you. Large firms want to pigeonhole you because growing you costs them money & time. Some firms are just toxic. Most clients are obnoxious and want everything cheaper. Losing hope is inevitable, and most who went to Architecture school will never become one. Breaking through to the promised lands is 1 in 1000. Also, don’t go down this path if you like money.
Can you do a video talking more about what you touched upon at @ 15:30? Im checked out mentally of the traditional architecture route and I'm looking for ways to continue moving so as not to waste my masters degree
you need to know yourself and what you like and don't like. locus of control. are you defined by others or yourself? you skipped over that many young 24ish people still dont even know themselves. and many older people are ok with just getting a paycheck. What is the cool part of the job you like? but in the end, it is will the client give you or the company money to do the project and how much you have to compromise your vision to what the client wants. ... its a balance. feel good about what you got approved and laugh at the choice the client made that looks stupid.
