Blessing” J.K

Different people’s career plans determine what they do with themselves after Architecture school. Me? When I left school, my goal was to become a fully licensed Architect and that meant that I needed to serve under a licensed architect for 2 years post masters. I also needed a steady source of income because for most of it, I was going to be on my own in Abuja. This made it necessary for me to get a 9-5. Tbh for me it was more about the experience than the pay. I worked in one firm for 3 years until I attempted the license exams for the first time and was unsuccessful. I’m very grateful I got to work under the architect I worked with because he taught me proper drafting, project administration and how to design. 👌 My first salary was 40k, then 70k, then 80k. After I didn’t pass my exams the first time, I restrategized and started preparing myself for life outside the system. I worked with an interior design firm for a year and then a furniture design company for a few months. Out of desperation, I went back to an architecture firm and after one month there, I was more or less dismissed 😂 That was when I was dead sure that I had paid my dues to 9-5 and it was time to grow differently. I supported my basic needs as a ride hailing driver, took courses to improve my graphic design and writing skills and took on private jobs whenever they came. My point? Everybody’s story is different. Find out what you need to do to get what you want and do it. Even if it means earning a below par salary for a while in a firm that will give you what you want, Do it. Unapologetically. Analyse the reality and plan with it.