24 Lessons from 2024: From an Architecture Student

Last Blog Post of 2024: Realizations and Lessons

As 2024 comes to a close, I wanted to reflect on the realizations and lessons this year has brought me. These insights, born from my journey as an architecture student, might resonate with you and offer some helpful tips for your own path.

1. Stop Being Modest About Your Work
   Show your work with confidence. Let people see what you’re capable of—you never know what opportunity comes your way. 
2. Keep Your CV Ready
   Opportunities can arise at any moment. Don’t lose out because you don’t have a CV prepared.
3. Create Separate Portfolios
   Organize your work into distinct portfolios for academics, graphic design, photography, etc. It makes sending out applications much easier.
4. Update Your LinkedIn Profile Regularly
   Employers often ask for your LinkedIn profile alongside your CV. Keep it updated to showcase your latest achievements.
5. Prioritize Health and Sleep
   Your health is directly proportional to your productivity. A healthy routine ensures you stay sharp and efficient.
6. Include Fun in Your Routine
   Don’t wait for college fests to break your monotony. Add something enjoyable to your schedule to keep life interesting.
7. Ask Yourself the Big Question
   “If you remove architecture/design from your life, what’s left?” Reflect on this to discover other passions or interests.
8. Say Yes to Opportunities
   If you’re somewhat skilled for a task, accept it. You can learn and figure out the rest along the way.
9. Patience is Key
   Learning, doing, failing, repeating, and progressing requires immense patience. The final outcome is often secondary to the growth you achieve.
10. Choose Group Work and Friends Wisely
    Group dynamics can be tricky. Collaborate with people who align with your goals and work ethic.
11. Identify Your Standout Skills
    Whether it’s software, graphic work, or something else, identify what sets you apart. If you don’t have one, start developing it now.
12. The Field is Ever-Expanding
    Every day brings a new plugin, concept, or skill to learn. Stay curious and adaptable.
13. Learn From Making Installations
    Hands-on projects teach real-world skills like material procurement, budgeting, and teamwork.
14. Stress Doesn’t Define Care
    Not panicking doesn’t mean you don’t care. It’s a sign you’ve adapted to handling jury stress.
15. The Learning Journey is Endless
    You might never feel completely ready for a job. Start anyway—learning continues on the job.
16. Nobody wants to pay an architect 🙁
    Understand the industry realities and prepare to advocate for your worth.
17. RIBA Approval Limits Opportunities Abroad
    You can’t open a practice in Europe without RIBA certification. Plan accordingly.
18. Gain Work Experience Before Masters
    Bachelors’ programs rarely provide real-world experience. Work before pursuing advanced studies.
19. The Challenges of Architecture
    Accept that being an architect is hard. Once you do, navigating this field becomes easier.
20. COA Restrictions on Partnerships
    In India, all firm partners must be COA-approved architects. Know the regulations before making plans.
21. College is Just the Beginning
    CEPT and similar institutions are paths, not destinations. They’re stepping stones to bigger things.
22. Control Over Time Equals Happiness
    I’m happiest when I control my time, not the faculty. Maybe a 9-to-5 isn’t for me.
23. Faculties Appreciate Initiative
    Ask questions and start conversations with your faculty. They won’t offer insights unless you engage.
24. Plan Your Week in Advance
    A rough weekly plan increased my productivity tenfold. A little organization goes a long way.

This year has been transformative, filled with challenges and growth. As I step into 2025, these lessons remind me of how far I’ve come and how much more there is to learn. Here’s to another year of progress and discovery. Happy New Year!

Want More Stories? Dive Right In!

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2. 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting Architecture School