By now, the annual hunt for jobs and internships is in full swing, and students are looking for every advantage to help them plan the ideal summer. Those interested in architecture and urban planning are no exception. A fall workshop with Anthony Arcieri, career adviser at the Office of Career Services, laid out the best strategies and resources for students pursuing opportunities in these fields.

First, what do we mean by “architecture”?

• Combine art and science into the design of spaces and environments;
• Determine the needs of buildings and structures, and turn these needs into concepts for design;
• Create drawings and build scale models, complete with specifications;
• Supervise these projects in the field.

And what about “urban planning”?

• Focus on the structure and function of cities – tackling complex problems by developing strategies for growth and development through a broad vision;
• Research, design, and develop public programs;
• Effect social change by leading public processes and educating the public;
• Make policy recommendations and design regulatory strategies.

What is the job search process like?

Begin with a careful self-assessment – in essence, know who you are and where you want to go. Consider carefully what you most want from an employer and a general work experience. Then, compile a list of options you would like to pursue. You must also prepare the relevant job search documents (e.g. resume, cover letter), but these documents are much easier to prepare if you’ve done the necessary work before that. Finally, apply!

What are some good strategies and resources for exploring these fields?

The name of the game: plan, plot, prepare.

• Schedule an appointment for career counseling at OCS with Anthony Arcieri;
• Connect with alumni, students, and employers through Crimson Compass, peer2peer, and LinkedIn;
• Visit the OCS Reading Room and browse employer directories, field manuals, and more;
• Utilize online resources like Crimson Careers, UCAN & iNet, and Going Global;
• Talk to people you know working in these fields;
• Attend workshops, programs, and events in these fields;
• Seek out “externships” (shadowing) and volunteer opportunities at firms in these fields;
• Take part in a “Career Discovery Program” (database on ArchCareers.org).

Where will I find opportunities to work in architecture?

Common employers include:

• architecture firms (though they tend to reserve internships for students in full programs);
• nonprofit preservation societies (e.g. Historic New England);
• city planning (e.g. City of Boston Urban Mechanics Program);
• government-funded preservation programs (e.g. Office of Historic Resources);
• museums (e.g. National Building Museum).

What about urban planning?

• governments (e.g. towns, cities, states, and regional planning agencies);
• private sector (e.g. consulting firms/developers, venture capital, investment funds)
• nonprofits (e.g. associations, museums, foundations).

What’s the typical timeline for securing jobs and internships in these fields?

 Admittedly, the timeline varies depending on the industry, though most opportunities won’t become available until the spring. Nevertheless, the fall is not too early to begin building your contacts!

Other resources…

…in architecture:

-     American Institute of Architects Career Center

-     Arch Careers

-     American Institute of Architecture Students

-     Architectural Record

…in urban planning:

-     Urban Planning Now

-     American Planning Association

-     National Association of Regional Councils

-     Planetizen

Happy hunting!

—Nicandro Iannacci, ’13