Best Careers 2009: Landscape Architect

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Nice article, ha.....suggesting we LA's look for a design job in CHINA. As Ricky Ricardo used to say, "I don't thin so, Lucy!"......geezzzz. I have a B.S. degree in Landscape Architecture here in Texas & over 33 yrs. of experience...and there is ZERO design work out there. And since firms don't exactly hire LA's with 33 yrs. of exp., I have no choice but to remain on my own. The LA profession is totally upside down...about the only jobs out there other than a very few entry level jobs are, professorships at Universities...and those probably require a Master's Degree. Who wrote this article anyway, they are clueless. I especially feel badly for young LA's and those now in Universities or who have just graduated...it's going to be tough sledding to say the very least.
Our ONLY chance is if BIG GOV'T backs off and allows PRIVATE INDUSTRY room to grow...and there's just no way I'd accept a job working for ANY government agency. I don't pretend to have all the answers here...I'm probably just as bewildered as the rest of the LA's in the U.S....but, what I do know is, relocating to CHINA is NOT the answer!

R. Wainner of TX 11:59PM February 02, 2011

I graduated with a BLA in 1973 and have gone through several cycles in the economy. There have been years when I was taking work home every night and years where most of my time was spent looking for work (2008-2010?). I would say the present recession has been the worst. Be prepared for ups and downs. Also, don't expect to get everything you design constructed.

ASLA, AICP, LEED AP of KS 11:46AM December 12, 2010

@ endangered profession. Are you kidding me? First of all, that blog has nothing to do with Landscape Architecture. It's just someone talking about conditions in INDIA and how there's no need for architects in INDIA. Plus it mentions how people flock to the US for jobs which must mean... there are jobs in the US.

Claire of PA 7:52PM December 09, 2010

I completed a degree in fine art, worked for 8 years kind of related to landscape construction then did a conversion at Leeds Met. I agree with the previous person-it is very verry high paced and you have to stick wih it to make it work. I thought it'd be a breeze and must admit, i did get laxidazle so it forced me even more to get to grips with everything. Now I am doing a postgrad looking to finish in Summer 2011. This is also hard work and lots to learn. I also agree with nature being such a true element. I feel myself drawn towards more nature and the environment in my designs which is very rewarding. Through sticking it out and learning and appyling yourself then it can work...just like anything - You put in good stuff and good stuff comes out!

Andrea 6:46AM November 22, 2010

read the reality of architecture profession here
http://diaryst.blogspot.com/2010/08/thinking-to-become-architect.html

Neelesh of NY 4:23AM August 16, 2010

my comment

nick of MS 1:24PM May 26, 2010

I have a BA in Graphic Desing & Advertising. I fell in love w/ the idea of creating a beautiful and colorful design that its components were alive. I disliked the dishonesty of Advertising, however, you can't get more honest than Nature. True: 3yr program for a non-landscape undergrad. Master's program is very fast paced. I strongly recommend a "briefing" before starting, whether an intership or taking online classes in landscaping.

Kaylee of FL 11:40PM March 24, 2010

new governments values news globally expected

ortunirwin of KY 9:55PM January 01, 2010

My MLA and the thesis I wrote landed me a job right out of school as an environmental specialist doing restoration design and documentation. I don't work for a design firm but when the economy rebounds everything I'm doing will translate into value on my resume.

Gulf of Mexico Alliance of FL 8:59AM December 28, 2009

I am a self-taught landscape architect from California and have been practicing in China for the last twelve years. There is work here and balancing integrity and proper design principles with China's incredible pace of growth and attitude is certainly a problem.
I have written a book about it, often times funny but very informative, see below;
“The Tragic Kingdom, or; “Prisoner in a Chinese Theme Park”, (found on all bookstore websites such as amazon.com, borders, etc), is a behind-the-scenes look into the field of design and build in China. The book is a profile of the personalities, culture, and psychology of the world’s most massive looming superpower as seen through the eyes of an ex-pat American.
I have witnessed a formidable decade in which China has commanded a modern presence on the world stage and have participated in the planning, designing, and building of mega-theme parks in Beijing, world-class aquariums in Shanghai, gigantic malls in the Pearl Delta, resorts in Tibet, and panda relocation projects in the foothills of the Himalayas.
The stories and themes found in The Tragic Kingdom spring from one man’s journey. At the same time I believe they disclose truths about a globalization that eventually will impact every economy, lifestyle, and person on the planet.
For more information: http://www.dnbasia.net

Broc Smith of CA 5:09PM December 22, 2009