Breaking Into Architecture: Dexter Wong (Interview)
Breaking Into Architecture is a short series by Chaim Lieder, a recent job-seeking Bachelor’s graduate based in Melbourne. Chaim launched this initiative to re-frame his own challenges into an opportunity to help others in the same position.
Interview 6 (Bonus): Dexter Wong
Dexter Wong is currently studying a Master of Architecture at The University of Western Australia and working for Woods Bagot’s Perth studio.
He first joined Woods Bagot in 2018, working for the Melbourne studio during his final semester of his bachelor’s degree at Monash University. Growing up immersed in the creative arts, including classical piano music and drawing, it was a natural decision for Dexter to go into Architecture.
He has a strong work ethic and consistently provides the team with support and aid whenever needed.
What attracted you to a career in Architecture?
I grew up surrounded by all types of creative activities, such as art, sketching and music. After year 12 when faced with the dilemma of following most of my friends down the rabbit hole of commerce/business, I realised it wasn’t something I could see myself doing for a very long time. I wanted to channel my creative energy into something aligned with my ideals. Architecture provided that sense of creativity and the ability to improve people’s lives while having a sense of ownership over the work that you do.
What is the most rewarding part of a career in Architecture?
The most rewarding part of a career in architecture is the ability to actively create a positive change in society.
Another rewarding aspect is the exposure it gives you. I can’t express this enough, the exposure you get is like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. The people you meet and the friendships and connections you build by participating in the real environment can take you very far in your career. It’s not just a stepping stone, it’s a spring. Meeting all types of people and communities is eye-opening.
Another thing I find rewarding is the ownership you take over your work, be it renderings, reports or diagrams. A s a student, seeing them being used in reports, client presentations or published on the website is a great feeling.
How did you land your first job in the Architecture industry?
During the 3rd year of my bachelor’s at Monash University, I was filled with passion and the urge to gain experience and was lucky to have a great tutor who provided me with a stepping stone into the industry. I expressed to him how I'm looking forward to getting into the industry and asked if he had any contacts, or if he could advise me on how to break-in. He took the time to give me advice on my folio and invited me to various architecture-related events, which provided me with the opportunity to get in touch with different architects and designers. At one of these events, I met a principal at Woods Bagot, and I chatted with him about my vision and my passion for architecture, and he was willing to help me get a foot in the door. Eventually, I was offered an internship at Woods Bagot, which turned into a full-time student role.
What advice would you give students & fresh graduates who are struggling to land a job?
Invest in your tutors: The one most important thing you can do while at university is building a connection with your tutors and peers because these people are the ones that are going to reach out their hand when you need it. Stay behind in class, have a chat and build that connection. Your tutors are gold, and they have connections inside and outside the industry. If you are willing to take the extra step to put yourself out there and seek advice it will benefit you immensely.
Believe in yourself: Students are often fearful that they lack skills or experience, preventing them from applying for jobs. Skills can be taught, and experience is earned. You’re an asset with your fresh perspective and your ability to bring in new software and efficiencies to the company. What you lack in confidence is merely 10% of what you require for the job, the other 90% is learned through the experience you get working on real-life projects so don’t let it get you down.
Put yourself out there: I had a friend who landed a job through an Instagram post of a model he had created. Social media is such a powerful tool you have at your disposal, leverage it to display your skills and passion. Doing competitions is another great way to get yourself out there.
Do you have any tips for students & fresh graduates transitioning from university to practice?
Go into the industry with passion, excitement and an open mind. Be a sponge, ask questions and get to know people. Don’t be afraid to try something you haven’t done before, that’s when growth happens. You will speed up your learning experience by jumping into different roles in different projects.
For more Job Seeking advice, please check out our free Job Seeker Workbook.