I’m excited to share some invaluable insights that I wish I had been privy to before embarking on my journey into the profession of landscape architecture in the video above and summarized below. It’s one of those fields that often stays under the radar until you stumble upon it in college or through a friend or family member already immersed in it. So, if you’re considering diving into the world of landscape architecture, buckle up and get ready for some key considerations!
5. You Don’t Need to Be an Artist
When I was first considering landscape architecture, I feared my lack of artistic background would be a roadblock. However, let me set the record straight – you don’t need to be a Picasso to succeed in this field. Sure, having an artistic flair can be beneficial, but landscape architecture is more about dedication and practice. It’s like that old saying: practice makes perfect. The more you invest your time and effort, the better you’ll become. Remember, we all start somewhere, and continuous improvement is the name of the game.
4. New Habits Will Form
Becoming a landscape architect comes with its unique set of habits, both good and not-so-great. Focusing on the minutiae and striving for perfection becomes second nature, sometimes even spilling over into our personal lives. I’ve embraced better organization habits, which turned out to be a silver lining. However, there’s also the pursuit of unattainable perfection and the perpetual need to stay productive. It’s a love-hate relationship with these habits, but they’re all part and parcel of the design school experience.
3. Design School is a Community
One of the unexpected perks of design school is the tight-knit community that forms. Since all your classes and professors are directly tied to your major, you’ll naturally form close bonds with your classmates and mentors. These relationships provide invaluable support and camaraderie throughout the challenging journey. Your classmates and professors will become friends for life, offering encouragement and shared experiences as you navigate the trials and tribulations of design.
2. A Different College Experience
Design school isn’t your run-of-the-mill college experience. It’s a demanding and all-consuming journey that sets it apart from other majors. While your friends in other disciplines enjoy their free time, you’ll be engrossed in your design projects, often working through the weekends. The sheer intensity of design school sets you on a unique path that doesn’t align with the typical college experience, but the rewards are well worth it.
1. It’s Expensive
Let’s address the elephant in the room – the cost. Depending on where you study, landscape architecture can get expensive quickly. The need for specialized tools, software, and drawing materials can take a toll on your wallet. If your school doesn’t offer free access to essential programs or printing services, those expenses can pile up. It’s crucial to factor in these costs when considering the landscape architecture path.
So, there you have it – my five insights to help you navigate the world of landscape architecture. I hope this peek behind the curtain prepares you for the exciting and challenging journey ahead. If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to hit that like button and subscribe to my channel for more design-related content. Until next time, stay inspired and keep creating!
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Thumbnail Image: Dr. Michael A. Dirr leads a plant workshop at LABash Conference at University of Georgia, 2019. Photo by Sydonne Blake.
