17 As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
-Proverbs 27

Context
I have found in several workplaces that projects are divided into two phases: design and production. The architect designs in one corner, the intern produces in another. This form of “collaboration” is a slick way to disguise dictatorship. If you don’t believe me, watch an intern tell an architect, “I am not convinced why you did that.”

Thus begins the vicious cycle: First, the architecture student is rejected for using his or her design intuition; after five to eight years studying architectural design, history, and theories, the intern is placed behind a computer drawing lines for someone else’s design and resents his or her principal; finally, if one’s dreams aren’t smashed, attaining the status of principal is a cynical goal that entitles one to an overbearing ego that preys on architecture students and interns.

Be Like Children
An architecture student emerges from academia with more questions than answers. This is the truest moment in an architect’s career. Unfortunately, it is short-lived. Interns rush to absorb as much knowledge as possible, preferably in enough doses to satisfy IDP requirements in the shortest amount of time. However, employers are reluctant to relinquish many duties outside of ‘specifications’ and ‘construction documentation’.

In a field that is losing [surrendering?] the war of ideas and innovation, why have architects not recaptured the curiosity that one possesses out of school? Knowing less means questioning more. Questioning more leads to new discoveries. The types of questions that architects grapple with today are ones of identity. Are we drafters or architects? Do we offer services or products? Don’t let the client define who we are and what we do! Does a patient tell a surgeon how to operate?

The intern has conviction and romanticized ideals. Who is the architect to dash those dreams? Use the intern’s passion to rekindle what pessimism has enveloped you. Question your attitude. Attitude means the altitude at which one climbs. It is the difference between mountain climbing and a mountain climbing machine. Interns bring oxygen.

Beware playing the “inexperience” card.
IDP requires interns to be proficient in several categories. These categories can be divided into three skills1: 1. Analytical 2. Creative 3. Social. To be analytical is knowing what to think and when to think it. To be creative is knowing how to think. To be social is to be interpretive and sharing with others what you think. Generally, architecture schools emphasize 2 and 3. Becoming more analytical comes with time and experience in the field.

So why don’t architects manage an office to compliment these strengths? For a reasonable price, an intern will work with a studio-like
ethic as long as the job is fulfilling. What makes the job fulfilling is having a voice. Having a voice ensures long-lasting vigor. The intern plays melody. The architect plays harmony and chorus. This form of improvisation renews the spirit with no losers. Any other method is like teeing-off with the wrong club. The architect must empower the intern by serving him or her. If not:

To the architect, it is the difference between architecture and exterior decorating.

To the intern, it is the difference between blowing on the coals and blowing them out.

1
Analytical
Site & Environmental Analysis
Engineering Coordination
Building Cost Analysis
Construction Documents
Construction Phase - Office
Construction Phase - Observation
Project Management

Design
Schematic Design
Design Development

Social
Programming
Code Research
Specifications & Materials Research
Bidding & Contract Negotiation
Office Management
Professional & Community Service
Document Checking & Coordination