MAXIMIZE YOUR OPPORTUNITY
We are almost to formal summer – June 21, 2025; do you know what you are doing this summer. If you are a high school student or older with an interest in learning more about architecture, we hope you are strongly considering attending an Architecture Summer Program.
If you need some insight on the process of selecting a summer program, check out this article:
As well, here is the listing of Architecture Summer Programs; review the over 200 listings to select one that is best for you.
https://www.archcareersguide.com/summer/
Now, if you have made your choice, congratulations! How do you maximize the tremendous opportunity?
As we have been involved with three different summer programs at three different institutions, we have some experience that might be helpful to you. We encourage you
Have Fun: First off, enjoy the experience! From our conversation with former students, they will share that the best part is the fun. Truly, they were not aware how much they would enjoy the myriad of experience of activities of the summer program.
Connect with Fellow students: It may go without saying, but your fellow students MAY become your best friend or even your future roommate. Regardless of the size of your program, be sure to meet and connect with all of your fellow students.
Experience College: As most of these programs occur on a college campus, experience what it means to be a college student if only for a few weeks. Experience residing in a college residence, eating in the cafeteria, attending lectures, and designing in the studio. Most programs will provide a tour of the campus — enjoy and learn about college.
Learn the Skills: Obviously, the true purpose of these summer programs is for you to develop the skills of becoming an architect — sketching, drawing, designing, model-building, critical thinking, using an X-acto knife, etc. Be sure to observe others and ask lots of questions from your classmates, teaching assistants, and faculty.
Document the Process: In many ways, document your experience — your sketchbook, your phone camera, and journal. What are you learning? Maintain a record of what you do for the program including projects you accomplish for your portfolio.
Meet with Faculty: Be sure to take the extra time to connect with the faculty and / or teaching assistants to discuss your progress during the time of the program. By doing so, you ensure the faculty knows you to possibly ask for a recommendation letter for future use.
The steps / actions above will ensure that you will maximize your experience at the Architecture Summer Program.