<p>I also had the same concern before I attended Cornell architecture. My parents could pay for the tuition but I was also responsible for paying all my living costs etc.</p>
<p>Now as a 4th year architecture student, I would say that it is totally worth it if you really capitalize on the school’s education, resources, and connections. A lot of people in the school don’t and really miss out on what Cornell Architecture has to offer. </p>
<p>The truth is that if you are hardworking, talented, and diligent, you will always succeed in any school that you go to. There are always stellar students in any architecture school. And while Cornell architecture students are more employable, the starting salary is about the same as any graduate out there. And in this economy, everyone suffers, including cornell architecture students. </p>
<p>However, what Cornell provides is a very talented student body, a unique architecture culture, a very good name, great connections, and I think one of the best architecture education you can get. Every architecture school teaches architecture in a different way and I think it is Cornell’s level of criticality that produces students who become great thinkers and architects that is unfound in many schools of architecture. I am not saying this because I am a Cornell architecture student, but because of the many compliments employers say of Cornell Architecture students. </p>
<p>You also have wonderful opportunities to study abroad if you take advantage of them. Our school is divided into three campuses-one in Ithaca, one in NYC, and one in Rome. I also did a study abroad summer studio in South America-totally worth it. What you end up is a very global learning experience, which is critical to your architectural learning experience. </p>
<p>But none of these benefits come without your fair share of hard work. I’d probably say that Cornell architecture students work way more than most architecture students and you’re going to have to put in your fair share of hard work in order to enjoy the benefits. It is the crazy work ethic that students here put in that really makes cornell students desirable to employers. Architecture is an extremely competitive profession and Cornell will give you a great step up. </p>
<p>And you only get these experiences if you really take initiative to make connections, take advantage of the resources and programs (we have one of the best architecture libraries in the world), and do very good work in studio. </p>
<p>The school is also going through massive change right now so you’ll probably be getting a slightly different experience than most students. Milstein Hall is getting built, Dagmar Richter is assuming chair, and the school is going through financial cuts because of the economy.</p>
<p>All in all, I’d say it is totally worth it if you do well in studio, take advantage of the school’s resources, and maximize your experience. Those who do have an incredible time. It is life changing.</p>