| Joix, I am sorry that it did not work out for you 15 years ago, but the profession has changed. Starting salaries have more than doubled, and even with the downturn we are in, hiring will continue to be strong for good graduates. We went to recruit at Iowa State this spring, and there were 72 firms there trying to recruit 35 students. This demographic trend is going to continue, especially as the baby boomers retire.
Yes, college is going to be a lot of hard work, but I managed to letter in two varsity sports and always maintained a dating relationship during college despite the hours. Those years in studio were some of the best I have ever had.
The partners in the significant architecture firms in my town are making more money than the partners in the structural and MEP engineering firms. Frankly I would never trade places with an engineer, even if I made less money. Construction management graduates will make more coming out of school, but it evens out pretty quickly.
My only advice is to work hard in school, put together a good portfolio, and if you don't love what you are doing, find another major. Look for good places to work, they are out there, and don't give up on your dreams.
rick | 
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