I’m currently dually enrolled as a first year architecture student and high school senior, and also applying to numerous B.Arch programs this year, so I can hopefully provide a bit of insight.
Architecture is far from a dying profession. We are just beginning to explore the possibilities the future might hold as science and technology continue to evolve. Here’s an article on new emerging materials: http://architizer.com/blog/material-trends-for-2014-and-beyond/.
Even in terms of jobs and salaries, architecture is growing (expected to grow 17% over the next 10 years):
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/architects.htm#tab-6.
There’s no doubt that it is a difficult field. You’ll be up all night finishing studio projects while your friends are out partying, and you’ll likely experience professors that rarely give A’s. The industry itself is incredibly competitive, and you’ll be hard pressed to differentiate yourself from your peers. However, this isn’t to say architecture degrees are pointless for the payoff. Architects are scientists, engineers, philosophers, problem solvers and artists, and there are numerous careers you can pursue with a degree.
You should definitely make sure that architecture is what you want to pursue before dedicating yourself to it, but I doubt there are many paths more diverse or enriching. I would research different architects and the profession A LOT to make sure it excites you, then show your parents info on job growth and the different aspects of architecture.
Hope this helped!