So you want work experience?

As a year 10 or an A level student, I'm sure you will want work experience.

And if you don't WANT it, trust me - you need it. 

You need it to see what will happen to you after you finish your fun, creative degree in Architecture... and what the real world of work in Architecture is all about.

So many people love the degree and hate working - you just need to see if this is really for you.

And that is mostly because the wacky, crazy designs you create in your degree just aren't really what most of your clients look for. I say "most" because there will be a few clients who let you do these amazing, crazy designs... but those people are scarce in the working world. Plus, your type of clients will depend on the type of practice, of course.

So that leads me to my first piece of advice...

1. Browse around

Check the work of lots of different practices before you chose which ones to ask for work experience. 

Doing this will give you an idea of what sorts of projects they do; compare designs, scale, clients, response to site, etc.

2. Apply to more than one place

A few years ago, during the recession I tried to find year 10 work experience and I got turned down by so many practices who just weren't getting many projects. After a while, I got lucky and finally got 2 weeks at a really nice practice. Now the economy is starting to pick up again in the UK and many will probably let more work experience students in - but just apply to lots of places to be on the safe side. 

3. Don't email

Many other people will disagree with me - but in my experience you won't get work experience by sending an email. If you do send it, you've most likely to not hear anything back or receive a generic no. This is because architects have the tendency to not even bother reading your email when they have more important emails to read from clients, contractors, engineers, etc.

Send letters or ring up and sell yourself- but be professional, of course. Aim for "The Apprentice" not "The Office".

4. Show them your work

If you have done some extra work outside of school that shows your interest in Architecture: show them!

You need to show that you are intrigued by what the practice does and to show them your eagerness to learn about Architecture.

5. It might be hard

Be optimistic and don't feel too disheartened if you receive a no. Remember that for the practice, letting in work experience students is a hassle for them - because they know they will have to spend time with you rather than working on their projects.

So that leads me to my final piece of advice.

If you're lucky enough to get some work experience - use it wisely. The practice has " let you in", which means you have a private viewing into what happens behind their closed doors; so you need to ask lots of questions and get a good look at their work. 

Make their most of your time there.