Urban Studies Sparked Interest in Architecture

Ben Stern, of Toronto, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies from McGill University in 2020. After taking STUDIO FIRST in summer 2020, he received offers from four architecture schools and chose Carleton University. As Stern completes his first year of the three-year Master of Architecture program, he reflects on his new direction.

What were you doing before?

Before getting into architecture, I was studying Urban Studies at McGill University. I was taking courses that explored cities on a macro scale, and they would occasionally touch on architecture. 

How did you decide to make the switch to architecture?

A large portion of that class was dedicated to reviewing architecture in these cities, and so I became interested in learning more about the field. At the time of taking the class in the third year, I was beginning to think about what I wanted to do. I have also always been interested in drawing and art. So, architecture was kind of a natural progression. 

Ben Stern
BA, Geography — Urban Studies
McGill University

“I hope to work for an architecture or land development firm and one day become a licensed architect.” 

How did STUDIO FIRST help?

For someone without a background in architecture, I needed some guidance in learning the foundations of design that are taught in architecture undergrad courses. These included how to use basic computer software and drawing techniques. The STUDIO FIRST program taught basics that I could build on in the MArch program. 

How many schools did you apply to?

I applied to four schools in Canada and four schools in the United States. I was accepted to the Pratt Institute and SCI-Arc in the US and the University of Calgary and Carleton in Canada.

Why did you choose Carleton?

I chose Carleton because I had such a great experience in the STUDIO FIRST program and knew that the MArch program would be the same. I liked the instructors’ teaching styles and received great feedback during class and crits. 

Work by Ben Stern from the studio course "Re-Envisioning Long-Term Care". Lead Faculty: Assoc. Prof. Zachary Colbert and Asst. Prof. Suzanne Harris-Brandts

How would you describe your experience of the first year of the MArch 1 program?

I have learned many new skills and techniques in the MArch program. The program has been challenging, especially because the professors are fast-tracking you to learn the skills that your peers learned in their undergrad architecture degrees. However, the environment is very supportive, and your peers, teaching assistants, and professors are there to guide you. 

What has been the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge has been learning time management in architecture. You quickly learn that some things require more time than others and realizing how to manage your time to complete all the assignments can be an issue.  I overcame it by creating a schedule and being consistent in completing tasks each week. 

Map Drawing by Ben Stern: “Evolution of the Lachine Canal’s Working Class”. Lead Faculty: Assoc. Prof. Zachary Colbert and Asst. Prof. Natalia Escobar Castrillón

What has been the best part?

The best part has been working with peers and collaborating on projects. It is nice to know that others are there working on the same assignments as you, so asking questions and working in groups has been the best part of the experience. 

What kind of career do you envision?

I hope to work for an architecture or land development firm and one day become a licensed architect. 

What advice would you give to someone considering a major pivot?

I would advise people to do a program like STUDIO FIRST to make sure that they enjoy architecture and can see themselves pursuing the discipline. Architecture can be demanding, but it is worth it if you love it. 

Work by Ben Stern from the studio course "Re-Envisioning Long-Term Care". Lead Faculty: Assoc. Prof. Zachary Colbert and Asst. Prof. Suzanne Harris-Brandts