Before I saw this externship on 12twenty (a platform for Rice students to apply for jobs, internships and externships), I wasn't entirely sure what I wanted to do during my winter break. But when I saw that the opportunity was hosted by Richard Beard Architects, I quickly did some research about the company and immediately fell in love with their work. I was really interested in one of the previous projects that the firm had previously completed in Tokyo — a senior living community in Tachikawa, Japan. While researching the project, I was drawn in by their thoughtful design approach. What amazed me even more was that this massive, high-quality project was executed by a relatively small group of architects. This made me super curious about how they operated as a team, which is why I ended up applying.
The externship took place over the course of three days and offered a well-rounded look at both the creative and technical sides of architecture. Our experience kicked off with a tour of the studio, where I got a feel for the working environment and could see how ideas evolve from initial sketches to detailed models. We were introduced to several ongoing projects, which helped me understand the balance between design vision and practical execution. It also gave me perspective on how smaller firms manage their project timeline and balance workload.
Next came one of the most exciting parts of the externship — visiting construction sites. This is where I saw the designs come to life! The firm offered us an exclusive look at a client’s personal project just outside of San Francisco and took us to the worksite. The project was still under construction, but it was cool to see a physical manifestation of architecture coming to life beyond digital drawings. This site visit really gave me a new appreciation for the collaboration required between architects, engineers and contractors to ensure that a project fulfills both a client's needs and the city’s bylaws.
During the course of our externship, we also attended presentations on design technologies, which taught us how software tools can streamline the design process while enhancing creativity. I was also able to present my work and receive constructive critiques from experienced architects — an experience that not only provided valuable feedback on my own personal portfolio, but also gave me insight on how to better communicate my design ideas visually and verbally.
Beyond the educational benefits of this externship came yet another unexpected and rewarding outcome — the opportunity to explore San Francisco. I was privileged to explore this amazing city for the first time and immerse myself in its stunning architecture, vibrant culture and diverse food. I biked from Chinatown across the famous Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito and saw an incredible view of the bay as well as the city’s famous Victorian-style houses. I also visited the tranquil Japanese Tea Garden and enjoyed my first In-N-Out Burger at its flagship store at Fisherman’s Wharf. This externship was truly an incredible blend of professional growth and personal exploration for me, and every moment felt like an adventure.
I highly recommend that any interested Rice students, regardless of major, complete an externship if they are able to do so. Not only is this a unique opportunity to learn directly from professionals, but you may also be able to make some discoveries about yourself and your future path in the process.
-Jack, Baker ‘27 (Published on 01/24/2025)
