Lecture Reflection: Engineering & Architecture

Because of my interest in architecture, I was sure to attend the Engineering and Architecture Lecture.  I have always been drawn to it because of its ability to combine art and creativity with math and logic. I enjoy the architecture class that I am in now, too.  I believe that an architecture major fits me well because I am good at thinking logistically. I do fairly well in math. At the same time, I love thinking creatively and creating new things. Drawing has always been one of my favorite pastimes. While the other majors in the Architecture Department (Landscape Architecture and City and Regional Planning) were interesting, I still think that an Architecture major interests me the most.

Although I had already done a lot of research about architecture, I learned quite a bit at the lecture. One of the most interesting things was that it is not essential for someone to be good at drawing or math in order to successfully pursue an Architecture major.  The most basic drawing skills necessary are explained in one of the first introductory courses, even for something as simple as drawing a line. As for math, neither of the three majors involve heavy amounts of it. It doesn’t get much more challenging than Calculus 1151.

At the end of the lecture, a student asked about the salary that architects make. The answer was about $44,000 for a starting salary. While I have looked at more information online about how much architects get paid, the information is varied. I am curious about the details of salaries and job placement. For instance, how difficult is it for the average Ohio State student to get hired in a successful firm? Do they travel far to get well paid jobs? How well do Ohio State graduates get paid compared to others? These are a few questions that I still have.

Unfortunately, my thoughts about majors in these programs haven’t changed. As for engineering, I was never interested in the first place. The lecture reinforced the fact that it is heavy in science which most likely isn’t for me. I am still interested in architecture, but not sure that it is something I want to ultimately pursue. I already knew that it involves some of my interests, but I can’t say that it does so to an extent greater than several other majors.