[ERB]

Here’s a link that might help on that front (although it’s almost two years out of date): http://www.asla.org/uploadedFiles/CMS/Government_Affairs/State_Goverment_Affairs_and_Licensure/Licensure_Advocacy_Resources/CEChart(2).pdf

[ERB]

CLARB has a list of their pass/fail rates for the last couple of sessions up.

https://www.clarb.org/Candidates/Pages/PassRates.aspx

[ERB]

I would say it’s about passion. The pretty pictures are great to look at, but at the end of a hard day, you need to have the internal motivation to say “I’m doing this because I love it, and because what I do can have a positive impact.” There is a high level of variety in the field, and if big, grand parks are what you want to do, then you need to be sure that you’re willing to put in the time and effort it takes to get there, from school to internships to the time and effort it takes to land a job at firms that do that kind of work. That effort is not a cake walk by a long shot, but it is also not impossible.

A good way to start considering if this is for you is to talk to landscape architects in the real world, not on a forum. You will be able to get a sense of what LAs do, what makes them tick, and what it takes to make big projects like the ones you mentioned come to fruition. Research programs and the courses they offer to see if they interest you, especially the required ones like soils, plants, design theory, and grading. ASLA (if you don’t know that acronym you soon will) does have an introduction to Landscape Architecture at asla.org/design. Expanding on what Leslie mentioned, you will spend a lot of time advocating for the profession, because it is not well known or valued everywhere (think: explaining the entire field to your relatives at the holidays and people you meet at parties).

I switched my major from the social sciences to landscape architecture and never looked back, because I love what I do and what I’m a part of, even when times are rough. I also think everyone in this profession knows someone who has left and couldn’t be happier in their new line of work. I think it really comes down to how passionate you are about landscape architecture.

I’m young and early on in my career, but I think it helps to hear from people at all stages. I hope this comes off as eager and enthusiastic, and optimistic, but I know it’s hard to gain inflection from the internet. Also, take everything you read in the forums with good cheer and a grain of salt.

[ERB]

Congratulations, Andrés! I am a 2011 grad, the job search has been tough on me as well.

What I found that has made the biggest difference was getting involved with my local ASLA chapter and volunteering at other local events. I know there are differing opinions on the value of ASLA, but it has been nice to have a community of people with similar proclivities, and local chapters are often more than happy to have volunteers, especially those who are emerging professionals. I second what Leslie said above about volunteering. It’s a great way get out of your apartment, network, and feel good about your self while helping out. I got involved with Park(ing) day last fall, did some pro-bono design work for a pre-school, and I am looking forward to NLAM in April. Being an advocate is a great way to bolster the profession and yourself.

I have also given though towards going back to school, as well as taking on additional certifications. I decided that it wasn’t for me personally at the moment, but I’m not ruling it out either. If you’re looking to save money, maybe see if your local community college offers any related programs you might be interested in.

Good luck, keep your head up!

-Eleanor

[Author]

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