One factor in a
professional program such as Architecture is the hidden cost of learning. I
remember when I came to visit there was a joke about how much money models take
but there was not a clear remark about the reality of that statement. When we
factor that in to the expected costs of learning (tuition, fees, textbooks) and
then add the frequent field trips our major becomes unusually expensive. I
suppose another expense could be the need to order food because we tend to
spend such long stretches in studio. We could buy groceries and pack food but
who has time for that. I am always looking for sources to supplement my income:
The American Institute of
Architecture Students has frequent competitions that have cash prizes ranging
into the thousands of dollars, and sometimes offer paid internships at renowned
firms. Perhaps the most beneficial aspect to these competitions is that you may
use a project you’re already working on, and if you don’t have time to do it on
your own you may work in teams. There are three currently running with a total
prize pools over $10,000. These are your best bet as even if you don’t place
you still earn IDP hours.
Another great way to augment costs is
to join the various regulatory organizations as a student. Often membership is
free or greatly reduced and we gain access to discounted textbooks, webinars,
lunch and learns, opportunities for internships, and even travel vouchers for
industry conventions. One such opportunity is the National Steel Conference in
Toronto Canada in March. Joining the American Institute of Steel Construction
is free for students, and they are offering a $175 travel voucher for members
who attend the conference.
Look
for an externship or internship in Carbondale. There are six AIA registered
firms in the area and it can’t hurt to ask. You could get 10-20 hours a week
and since IDP changes went into effect you may count them as hours.
I’ve
mentioned before but it’s also important to recognize how fortunate you are to
have this time to devote to something you care about. Far too many people end
up working at something they dislike in order to pay bills. It is rough being a
student sometimes but we are allowed to pursue our passion for a time in return
for the steep upfront costs. Do what you can to lessen your financial burden
but I wouldn’t allow your efforts to distract you from what we are supposed to
be doing here. The few thousand dollars you save may not be worth the time
cost.
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