Summer Programs for Architecture

College Majors Architecture Major
1

Hey guys

As I’m heading into my senior year this August @-) , I’m looking for a summer program which will help boost my portfolio, hone my design/technical skills, and help me decide if architecture is the right major for me.

I’ve heard that Cornell and RISD offer excellent programs to enhance portfolios, but they last for six-weeks and I don’t think I have that much time this summer, since I’m planning to tour campuses, study SATs and do internships as well. :-<

So I’m now considering the 2 or 4 week architecture exploration program @USC. What do you guys think? Have any of you actually done it and does it help with your architecture portfolios? I’m honestly worried that it’s going to be ALL play no work and a waste of my summer before college apps are due, because I just can’t find any photos or evidence of what previous students have done through this program!

If you know any better architectural summer programs around 2-4 weeks max, please let me know.
For example what can you tell me about BAC, Berkeley CED?
It doesn’t necessarily have to be in the west coast.

Thanks
Anon

2

Hey, sorry I have no idea about those summer programs (im only familiar with the Carnegie Mellon, Cornell, and RISD summer college things) ----- you should look into the Carnegie Mellon one! (but I think its 5 weeks too…)

3

Look up CIAO summer architecture program. It’s three weeks, takes place in Italy, and truly inspired me to pursue architecture. You work with Cooper Union, Yale and Harvard grads, so you get some great education. It didn’t really help build a portfolio, although it inspired me to create one. If you’re looking purely at portfolio building classes the 6 week Pratt, RISD and Cornell programs are the best unfortunately enough for you. If you live in a big city you can take a portfolio prep class that would also really help