Architecture Career Reflection Spotlight Panel

What does the path from architecture student to practicing professional really look like? The Architecture Career Reflection Spotlight brings together a dynamic panel of practitioners representing a range of career paths—from sole practitioner to large firm leadership, public sector, federal work, and urban design—to share candid insights on how they got started and how their careers have evolved over time. Moderated by a Virginia Tech student leader, this conversation is designed to bridge the gap between academic experience and professional reality.

Panelists will reflect on the pivotal decisions that shaped their early careers: how they approached their first job search, what factors influenced where they chose to work, and how their interests and opportunities shifted along the way. Through personal stories and practical advice, attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the diverse trajectories available within the profession and the many ways to build a meaningful and adaptable career in architecture.

This session is ideal for current architecture students seeking guidance, perspective, and confidence as they begin to navigate their own professional journeys.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify strategies for securing a first position in architecture, including effective approaches to job searching, networking, and evaluating opportunities.
2. Compare different career paths within the profession, including small practice, large firms, public sector, federal work, and urban design, to better understand their unique opportunities and challenges.
3. Evaluate factors that influence early career decisions, such as firm culture, project types, mentorship opportunities, and long-term growth potential.
4. Recognize how architecture careers evolve over time, including shifts in roles, responsibilities, and areas of focus, to better anticipate and adapt to change within the profession.

***This program is only open to Students. Please note capacity for this event is 25 individuals.***

Pending 1.0 AIA|Elective
Course Code: NOVA2026-015