| Geez...until I read this thread, I didn't realize how badly my life had turned-out.
I am a 50 yr old woman architect; educated at a selective top-tier university in the late 70s; moved east for the job opportunities and passed the licensing exam in the minimum three years. I worked for a non-profit doing low-income housing and then for a small architectural firm where I was able to continue this type of work (my 5th year thesis subject) as well as be exposed to other types of architectural design. Eventually I began to specialize in interior architecture and left that firm to start my own small firm with another woman. We were (and the firm continues to be) very successful on a regional level (including awards and recognition) for interior design.
I also was able to own my own house, then marry at 30 (somewhat coincidently to another self-employed architect) and have two children. Like many mothers, I took about five years off from the workforce to spend full-time launching my kids. I sold my half of the business to my partner and then was able to return to the firm as an employee first part-time and then full-time. Most recently I have taken a position as a project manager for a regional owners' rep firm.
It's been a terrific life. We have not gotten rich or famous. But we are extremely happy with our decisions. I see alot more female architects today, than I did 25 years ago. I believe in the northeast at least, there is gender parity in salaries. Yes salaries are low and the hours can be lengthy (especially early in one's career), but you can eventually make a living as an architect. I don't know anyone who could be characterized as "burnt-out", not even small business owners.
Looking back, architecture as a career is not much different than any other. You work hard to establish yourself when you are young; at the same time you determine what part of the field interests you and you begin to specialize; you find a company that you like, with co-workers you respect; and you get on with the rest of your life. Women survive in all fields, the decision to marry and have kids, even if they take some time off. I actually believe that it may be easier as an architect. |