[James Atchison]

John,

As an entry-level LA, I would like to see ASLA develop a system in helping “new to the industry” workers understand where they should be knowledge wise and how to reach the next step.

A lot of us are computer savvy these days and I would like to see emails informing us of free learning sessions about specific topics that we (entry-level) employees need to know. 10 minute video about how a retaining wall is constructed or how a parking lot is graded. Where we can start to grasp fully about what we are doing in the office that week. 

I could not help wondering what is the ideal entry-level employee. So I ask ASLA to send out emails to get employers to develop what an ideal candidate should be. (Also the successive levels after Entry-Level) That way everyone in our profession can have a baseline and expectations all the while a method of bringing people up to speed and forward.  

I hope that makes sense…

[James Atchison]

I would look into finding a program that specializes in healthcare projects. At Arizona State, there was a Health Environment (or something to that nature) Course that specialized in healthcare design.

I say that because that is the kind of work our firm is doing and that market will not go away. So I would just do a quick google search if there are any programs in the Northern California (b/c you said Berkley) College circuit. If not, I would go with the MLA. You should be able to do more with a MLA than a MUD.

Trust me, I have a BSLA and a MUD.

[James Atchison]

To give you some context. It’s a MOB and we are using Forms + Surfaces for the bike rack (Capitol) and trash receptacle (Knight). 

Erlau has some interesting options. We will discuss them in our next meeting. Thanks.

[James Atchison]

Deryn, 

Let me start out by saying that I have attended Linn’s workshop as well as ESDA’s graphic workshop. I find you always learn something new because of the different perspectives from each class. I have changed things like, the type of pen I use to the color of markers I keep together. It depends on what you want out of the workshops (the more specific you are the better). I have bought the book (Drawing and Designing with Confidence) before Linn’s workshop and the only thing I saw was HOW to draw what he draws. Quick little short cuts that Linn points out are helpful for sketching, but not final presentations. One thing I keep hearing over and over again is, trace what you like and get to the point where you do not need to trace it again! 

 

I keep hearing that my hand graphic skills are what sets me apart from the students coming out of school. Remember we are designers that communicate through a graphic “language.” If you are taking a class to help with that language, then it might be worth it. 

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