How to build up a portfolio?

<p>I’m right now taking some general education classes in a community college:)!ready to apply for architecture schools next year! So I think it’s time for me to build up my portfolio. The goal is to get it done by the end of this year. I have taken a painting class last quarter and did amazing! But at this point, I’m just quite lost - how do I actually start?
I have some pieces that really impress myself:</p>

<p>*self-portrait(oil painting)
*still-life(oil painting)
*Some ceramics
*two or three charcoal drawings</p>

<p>What makes a good portfolio?What are the schools’ expectations?How many pieces do I need?Isn’t drawing more important than painting?Should I put more painting work in my portfolio since it’s my strong point?How do I bind all the stuff together?</p>