Informational Interview: So You Want to be an Architecture Intern?
When Travis Schneider was deciding where to apply for his architecture internship, he didn’t have to look far. His high school mentor – Michael Malone – heads a top Dallas architecture firm, Malone Maxwell Borson Architects. Three summers later, the University of Texas senior keeps returning as an architecture intern for two main reasons he says: “the work is diverse and compelling, and the environment is supportive.”
Another reason? His continued dedication has meant a full-time job offer upon graduation. “Having a clear, stable, enjoyable option for my post-college future is a wonderful luxury,” the Frisco, TX, native says.
Curious about Travis’s architectural internship experience and advice for fellow architecture majors? Read on for our Q&A.
Q: What is your day-to-day like?
A: My main tool is the computer; I use programs like Revit, AutoCAD, Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign to make architectural drawings, 3D models, and construction documents based on the design decisions of the firm’s principals. I also visit our clients at the project sites to take measurements of existing conditions, and build a good number of building models by hand.
A: My main tool is the computer; I use programs like Revit, AutoCAD, Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign to make architectural drawings, 3D models, and construction documents based on the design decisions of the firm’s principals. I also visit our clients at the project sites to take measurements of existing conditions, and build a good number of building models by hand.
Q: What’s the most challenging thing about your architectural internship?
A: Deadlines are a constant, looming reality in architecture firms. I like to work at a natural pace in order to have a consistent level of effort and focus; so, deadlines can lead to some very stressful afternoons. Learning to increase the efficiency of quality work, and finding a compromise between “perfection” and productivity, is a career-long challenge.
A: Deadlines are a constant, looming reality in architecture firms. I like to work at a natural pace in order to have a consistent level of effort and focus; so, deadlines can lead to some very stressful afternoons. Learning to increase the efficiency of quality work, and finding a compromise between “perfection” and productivity, is a career-long challenge.
Q: You’ve continued to return to the same internship three summers in a row. Have you considered interning elsewhere, for a different mix of experience?
A: Considering the modest size and capabilities of the firm I work for, I could not have asked for a more positive internship experience. However, I think that a summer or semester working for a large and/or renowned architectural firm, one that does museums, concert halls, high-rises, and other large cultural infrastructure, would also be an important asset. Gaining experience with large-scale projects while still an intern makes it much easier to get a job doing that sort of work in the future, be that your desire.
A: Considering the modest size and capabilities of the firm I work for, I could not have asked for a more positive internship experience. However, I think that a summer or semester working for a large and/or renowned architectural firm, one that does museums, concert halls, high-rises, and other large cultural infrastructure, would also be an important asset. Gaining experience with large-scale projects while still an intern makes it much easier to get a job doing that sort of work in the future, be that your desire.
Q: What personality traits do you think best serve architecture interns?
A: You need to be adaptable because the work can be different and unpredictable each day. You need to be a good communicator because you will be working closely with co-workers on the development of designs, models, and drawings. Do not be afraid to ask questions (no matter how simple), but also use these questions to improve your self-sufficiency. Finally, a true passion for architectural design is essential; it will get you through the endless days of gluing pieces of chipboard together and staring into computer screens.
A: You need to be adaptable because the work can be different and unpredictable each day. You need to be a good communicator because you will be working closely with co-workers on the development of designs, models, and drawings. Do not be afraid to ask questions (no matter how simple), but also use these questions to improve your self-sufficiency. Finally, a true passion for architectural design is essential; it will get you through the endless days of gluing pieces of chipboard together and staring into computer screens.
Q: What advice would you give to someone looking for an internship like yours?
A: If you haven’t yet, make yourself known to the company you’re interested in. Having a well-assembled resume and portfolio is bare-bones stuff and will not make you stand out as a desirable hire. Connecting a face, voice, and story to these deliverables will be what keeps you in their memory.
A: If you haven’t yet, make yourself known to the company you’re interested in. Having a well-assembled resume and portfolio is bare-bones stuff and will not make you stand out as a desirable hire. Connecting a face, voice, and story to these deliverables will be what keeps you in their memory.
Social events held by the American Institute of Architects are great occasions to unobtrusively meet people. If you are an architecture student, take full advantage of your school’s career services and professional connections; many firms, especially the larger ones, make a habit out of farming their alma maters for potential interns.
Q: Any other advice?
A: Find a way to visit Europe before you begin working full-time! Experiencing a huge sampling of mankind’s greatest works of architecture is truly inspiring, and immersing yourself in the culture and organization of European cities is absolutely life-changing. It will challenge and expand your perception of what is successful, what is right, and what is possible in your home society.
A: Find a way to visit Europe before you begin working full-time! Experiencing a huge sampling of mankind’s greatest works of architecture is truly inspiring, and immersing yourself in the culture and organization of European cities is absolutely life-changing. It will challenge and expand your perception of what is successful, what is right, and what is possible in your home society.
Follow Travis on the UT website.
