What to Do With Your Architecture Degree

A recent gathering of architecturally trained panelists who "who work in fields alternative to conventional practice" for a discussion titled "Architects Beyond Architecture" provides Lubell with an opportunity to reflect on the diverse opportunities available to graduates while architecture jobs remain in short supply. The event, hosted by Woodbury University, brought together alternative career success stories from recovering architects such as Natasha Case, co-founder of Coolhaus ice cream and Sebastian Munoz, a designer at design product manufacturer Arktura.

"'If we look at pure labor statistics we should shut down half the schools,' said Lee Waldrep, assistant director in the School of Architecture at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champagne. Instead, he suggests that students trained as architects are also suited for communication, collaboration, research, and creative problem solving. This can open the door to careers in planning, project management, computer design, development, fashion design, photography, humanitarian development, furniture design, film, and many more. 'Design is everywhere,' as he put it."