<p>architecture is not an easy profession but it’s probably one of the most stable creative careers out there. the reason why starting graduates dont’ earn that much money is because school teaches you how to design and think, but not how to operate a firm, etc…so while the starting salaries are low, the earnings accumulate quickly as you gain more experience. the attrition rate is high because of this. the process is long, and a lot of patience is required but if you’re very passionate about it, then it is very rewarding on the long run. plus, it is not true that you can’t make a lot of money in it because i do know architects who are millionaires although you cannot expect making that much money if you are to pursue the field. although i must say, there are ways in which you can earn more money…it just depends what you want to do. the main reason why the architecture profession is low paying is because it is so competitive yet if you have business knowledge and are good at understanding architecture from a business/financial viewpoint, then have a much higher advantage in being succesful…a lot of depends on luck as well. if you are concerned about money, you can always combine your arch degree with real estate or an mba. </p>
<p>i have met both bitter architects and architects who have no regrets pursuing the field. a lot of is based on expectations because it can be frustrating sometimes. but it is part of the process and I think if you have realistic expectations and are very passioanate about creating things for people, then i think it is a worthwhile pursuit. </p>
<p>who cares if it’s not an ‘honorable’ profession. on the long run, if you have to do what you believe in doing and what you enjoy doing. otherwise you’ll end up miserable especially if you don’t like what you’re doing. </p>
<p>the economy for architecture varies based on location but places like china right now are booming so the demand for architects there are high. </p>
<p>nicnilee- if you’re sure you want to be an architect, pursue the 5-year bachelors of architecture professional degree. it’s cheaper, and faster to become an architect. and in case you dont’ become an architect when you grow up, you can go to grad school to pursue something else…thus giving you more flexibility in waht you do.</p>