Preparing the Next Generation of Architects: Early Career Development at the Mackintosh School of Architecture
Our Glasgow colleagues were very impressed by the facilities and support offered at the first drop-in mental health support space in Scotland.
Paul Smith was delighted to deliver a lecture and workshop with Stage 5 students at the Mackintosh School of Architecture recently, exploring early career development and preparing students for the transition from architectural education into professional practice.
The session formed part of the Professional Studio 5 course, which focuses on developing a student’s understanding of the professional, ethical, and regulatory frameworks that shape contemporary architectural practice. Building on previous learning around appointment, legislation, finance, and contract, the course encourages students to reflect critically on the wider responsibilities of the architect and to begin defining their own professional identity within the discipline.
During the lecture, Paul shared reflections on his own educational and professional journey, discussing how experiences in practice, international study, and extracurricular creative work can shape an architect’s perspective over time. Using jm project examples, the session explored how students can curate and communicate their work effectively, developing a strong visual and professional identity as they begin to apply for positions within practice.
The workshop element encouraged students to reflect on their own experiences and aspirations, considering how their projects, skills, and interests might be presented through portfolios, CVs, and cover letters. Particular emphasis was placed on understanding the cover letter as the gateway to an application, as well as the importance of tailoring professional materials to different practices and opportunities.
The session also considered broader questions around early career development, including choosing where to practice, the differences between small studios and larger offices, gaining experience across project stages, and beginning to build the knowledge required for progression towards Part 3 qualification. Students were encouraged to remain curious about the world around them and to view their portfolios and CVs as evolving tools that will grow and adapt throughout their careers.
It was a pleasure to engage with such thoughtful and motivated Stage 5 students as they begin to define their own trajectories within architecture and prepare for the next stage of their professional journeys.
“It was a real pleasure to work with the Stage 5 students at the Mackintosh School of Architecture. Seeing them engage critically with their own experiences, reflect on their portfolios and CVs, and think about the kind of architects they want to become was incredibly inspiring”
- Paul Smith, Architect, jmarchitects
Photography Credit: Keith Hunter Photography / Paul Smith
Credit: Paul Smith, jmarchitects
