The local AIA Hampton Roads chapter had their first annual "Mentoring Mayhem" event last night and it was a big success. The event was meant to share with the students from the local colleges professional thoughts an opinions about their resume, portfolio and the process that would best give them to obtain jobs once they graduate. In an industry that has been hit hard over the last couple of years there isn't as many graduating in architecture as the past. Many are changing their career paths to other directions to better obtain employment after school. This was an opportunity for many of these young students to hear what professional architects, engineers and contractors had to say about seeking employment. A large number of these professionals have been in the industry for many years and the students were eager to hear what each had to say and share.
With the number of individuals giving their time to mentor these young designers, all were able to get their varied opinions. All architects see and do different things, so to hear options from numerous sources had to be beneficial to the students. There were students from Hampton University, Virginia Tech and the University of Virginia. A great turnout for a rainy evening. We even had individuals from NCARB there for support and DPOR about licensure.
I had planned on staying for only a short time but got wrapped up in the discussions and ended up speaking for over 3 hours. It was great fun and I feel a great success. I received all sorts of questions not only regarding their work but my work, how I got started, where I went to school, how long had I been an architect, was I the owner of my firm, how did I start the firm......A great fun and I hope we continue to do this event. Ionic DeZign will certainly continue to be part of this event.
