On Monday, September 9, 2024 the Career Connections Center hosted a workshop covering the fundamentals for creating an effective architecture portfolio that could be used in a job or internship search process. The portfolio is a critical piece of the puzzle for those in architecture and related design fields. This document, be it physical or digital, is utilized to demonstrate an applicant’s skills, creativity, and experience.
Watch the workshop recording to kickstart the process of designing your portfolio or identify ways to improve your existing document. You may also find our Architecture Portfolio Guide a useful resource.
WORKSHOP SUMMARY
Introduction:
Gabby Diaz-Portalatin, a manager for career pathways at the Career Connection Center, led a workshop on crafting and architecture portfolio. She introduced herself and her role, and mentioned that she and Jillian, another coach, support students interested in architecture, manufacturing, natural resource, and agriculture pathways. Gabby also mentioned the Career Showcase, a multi-day fair where employers from various industries, including architecture, recruit students. She encouraged participants to consider attending the fair or reaching out to companies of interest. Gabby then conducted a poll to gauge the participants’ starting points in creating their portfolios. The majority of participants had already created a portfolio, while some had only done research or hadn’t started yet.
Portfolio Creation and Design Practices:
Gabby discussed the importance of having a portfolio as a tool for demonstrating creativity, skills, and professional experience. She emphasized that the portfolio should be authentic to the individual and tailored to the specific audience it is being presented to. Gabby also highlighted the pros and cons of physical and digital portfolios, suggesting that both formats have their advantages and disadvantages. She recommended that the portfolio should include a cover page, table of contents, introduction, project pages, technical skills, final projects, and additional sections such as design competitions, publications, or exhibitions. Gabby also stressed the importance of good design practices, such as maintaining visual consistency, using a grid system, and focusing on quality over quantity. She concluded by emphasizing the need for continuous review and updating of the portfolio as the individual’s work and experiences evolve.
Improving Work Through Feedback and Resources:
Gabby discussed the importance of seeking feedback from peers, mentors, and industry professionals to improve one’s work. She emphasized the need for practice in mock interviews and the use of resources like the portfolio lab and the Gator Career Closet. Gabby also highlighted the availability of one-on-one appointments and drop-ins for career-related questions. She showcased examples of student portfolios and encouraged attendees to utilize the resources provided and to share those with others. The conversation ended with an open floor for questions.
