What is architecture really about?

A few architecture questions?

• Hey everyone! I'm a sophomore in high school and I'm pretty interested in architecture and I've been pondering a few questions that I would really appreciate and answer for: 1. How long do you have to go to school for architecture--I've heard 4, 5, 6 even. I'm especially interested in Notre Dame's architecture program (it's 5-year), is the five-years all I'd need? 2. How much does an architect get paid (approximate)? 3. If you're an architecture, do you enjoy your job and everything it entitles? What are some good and bad aspects? 4. How should I prepare for architecture in high school? What classes, interships, etc should I partake in? Thank you for your help, I really appreciate it!

• Answer:

  1. Depending on the country the length of the courses varies. In Europe most courses are 5 years long. These entitle you to apply for full professional qualification / recognition. Getting it requires about 2 years officially recognized apprenticeship under a qualified architect. 2. This is highly variable. Popular conviction is that architect are rich by definition which i s not necessarily true. But you can make a good living anywhere. 3. Off course it is enjoyable and challenging job. A lot off work is a bit monotonous. Perseverance is quite important. 4. You should train your hand in drawing. Pencil or ink. Just good structural drawing. There are courses for that. It is also good to train math and physics. Awareness of general history of art and architecture is required. You should also pay attention to contemporary design, art, architecture and general technology. Architecture is a combination of arts and crafts with some flavor of technical science.