Money Matters: A Fresher Architect's Dilemma

Updated on 2018-10-14

There come certain points in life when we find ourselves standing on crossroads unable to decide which path to follow. A fresher architect, especially in our country, has one of the hardest times than most other professions in figuring out the perfect kick-start to their professional life. Finding a job is one trouble, but the real dilemma arises when they are hired for a very nominal remuneration. So the question arises- What matters more? Experience or money?

The Ordeal To Professionalism - Architect Jobs

As most architecture colleges in India do not offer any campus placements after graduation, it becomes a bit difficult for fresh graduates to secure a job and end up wondering finally an architect, what next? Mostly, fresher architects move to the major metropolitan cities and settle there initially to get architecture internships and then for jobs with low architect salary just to remain employed. While some rebel to look for the perfect job with the perfect architect starting salary, most are bound by the limitations of life and end up doing a job that exploits them professionally and economically.

Also, read Brilliant Tips to Negotiate an Architect's Salary

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Architecture Career - Where’s The Motivation?

Leaving aside the fact that it is very difficult to find architecture jobs after graduating, most fresher accept whatever is being offered to them when they find a job. But are the young architects of India motivated at all to build a career in architecture? In fact, most of them fall into a depression of not being able to earn much after investing a huge amount of money and time for five years into architecture study. They feel incompetent and creatively demoralized.

Also, read Challenges Faced By Architectural Education, Affecting The Profession

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Big Bucks Calling - Average Architect Salary

Even though, one needs to gain a high amount of professional experience being a fresher, should one compromise on their remuneration? This remains a big question. It is a debatable fact as to which should be the major priority for a fresher- Money or experience, but it is a natural instinct for a graduate who has entered into the reality of life to want more money for the work being offered by them. So naturally fresher architects run behind money and end up changing jobs frequently or working for a branch of architecture they might never have planned to choose the specialization to pursue masters in. For example, People end up working in landscape firms or interior firms just because they offer more money even if their real interest lies towards urban design or commercial architecture.

Average architect salary

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Whose Fault Is It?

While the experienced professionals blame the fresher for being impatient and unprofessional, the point to consider is that the fresher is not to be blamed entirely. Being new to the profession they are drawn towards shiny promises benefits and as a result, many do not stock their commitment to a particular job. But the same problem arises as there is no fixed salary outline made by COA in our country, as a result of which most firms end up paying less than the national average.

A Fair Plan

The trouble faced by a fresher architect can only be felt by experiencing it. Numerous interviews and just a few callbacks, job offers that do not suffice their basic needs and exploitation in the name of professionalism are all leading to an unhealthy architecture practice in India. We have to keep in mind that the youth of today are going to shape the future of the county. So instead of putting them in such dilemma, certain guidelines and regulations must be put into practice that considers a fair treatment to fresh graduates. Only by motivating the young architects and providing them with professional knowledge, we can have a bright architectural profession in the future.

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