5 Reasons Not to Be an Architect

There's a romanticized idea about being an architect, often portrayed as a job full of creativity and inspiration. However, the reality is that it's a profession that is very rigid and has a lot of stubborn constraints. As someone who has worked in the architecture industry, I would like to expose the lie that being an architect is a job that combines creative and technical skills. Let me tell you first up that it is actually a job that doesn’t involve much creativity. It is important that you guys know why you want to be an architect before you actually start on this path. If you want to be an architect because you want to use your creativity and become the next Zaha Hadid, please forget it because all you will be doing all day every day for the next 50 years are stressfully drawing lines on the computer and babysit your client with dumb requests. As a person who graduated from a top UK architectural school, my dreams are completely crushed after stepping into the professional industry and I want to leave this profession for good. Here are five reasons why you may want to think twice about becoming an architect:

1. Long and unpredictable hours
   Architects often work long hours with tight deadlines. The workload can be unpredictable and stressful, which can lead to burnout and a poor work-life balance.

2. High educational requirements
   Becoming an architect requires a significant investment of time and money. You need a bachelor's degree in architecture, and most states require you to complete a professional degree program and pass a licensing exam.

3. Limited job opportunities
   The job market for architects can be competitive and limited. You may have to relocate to find job opportunities, and the demand for architects can be affected by economic conditions and government funding.

4. High risk and liability
   Architects are responsible for designing safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing structures. However, mistakes can happen, and architects can be held liable for any design flaws or construction errors. This can have legal and financial consequences that can be stressful and damaging to your reputation.

5. Low pay compared to other professions
   Despite the high level of education and expertise required, architects may earn less than other professions that require similar levels of education and training. The median annual salary for architects in 2020 was $82,320, which is lower than many other professions in the same field.

In conclusion, while architecture can be a challenging and rewarding career, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and drawbacks before pursuing it. As someone who has worked in the industry, I know the demands of the job, the financial costs of obtaining the necessary education and training, and the potential risks and liabilities associated with practising architecture. It's crucial to have a realistic understanding of these factors before making a decision to become an architect. Maybe do an internship for a few months so you can know why you might hate it. Comment below if you think otherwise.