Biggest Challenges Faced by a Design Professional at Cushing Terrell
Blake's biggest challenge stems from a BA degree lacking the technical training of a BS, requiring a steeper "learning curve" to understand the practical aspects of the industry; this is combatted by recommending internships to see "how the machine runs." Ultimately, unrealistic client deadlines are also a challenge, but are an expected part of the architecture field, as "that's just the way we roll."
Industry Learning Curve, Technical Skills, Internships, Deadlines and Time Management, Client Management
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Blake Cronin
Business Development | Design Professional
Cushing Terrell
Univeristy of San Diego
Architecture, Interior Design
Architecture, Construction & Design, Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Creative
Video Highlights
1. The biggest challenge is overcoming the learning curve of having a Bachelor of Arts degree versus a Bachelor of Science, particularly regarding technical knowledge and practical skills like creating architectural drawings.
2. Gaining practical experience through internships is crucial to understand how the architecture industry operates, as it differs significantly from other industries.
3. Long nights and tight deadlines due to unrealistic client demands are common challenges in the architecture field, requiring flexibility and dedication.
Transcript
What is your biggest challenge in your role?
What is your biggest challenge in your role?
My biggest challenge would be the learning curve with getting a Bachelor of Arts degree rather than a Bachelor of Science. Coming in, there are a lot of technical things that people learn in accredited degree programs that aren't covered in a BA program.
I came in with a lot of theoretical knowledge but not a lot of tangible instructional knowledge, like how things are built or how to put together an architectural drawing set. Those are things I learned at internships, but not really through school.
So, it was about getting up to speed with the way the industry works. That's why I really encourage people to get into an internship in college and high school whenever you can, just so you can start seeing how the machine runs.
That is the architecture industry. That's pretty different from any other industry, as far as I know. So that's definitely a big learning curve.
Another challenge would just be sometimes there are long nights and deadlines. Clients like to be unrealistic and they'll decide to change everything the night before I do. Then I have to stay up all night and do it, but that's what comes with it.
Everyone who has done architecture knows that's how studio works. Everyone's in there until 5:00 AM the night before a big presentation. That's just the way we roll. It's tough, but I love the game.