“ARE you Ready?”: An ARE Study Session

Based on feedback from the AIA Virginia Associate Survey, it is clear that Associate members are looking for more support and resources as they pursue architectural licensure. With that in mind, I wanted to create an opportunity that made studying for the ARE more interactive and collaborative.

ARE Taboo Night challenged exam candidates and emerging professionals to describe key ARE terms without using a set of common “taboo” words. The goal was to encourage participants to think critically about exam concepts while learning from one another. I believe some of the best learning happens through community, and activities like this create opportunities to share knowledge, build connections, and make the licensure process feel a little less isolating.

A special thank you to AIA Virginia for sponsoring two copies of The Desk Crits Insider’s Guide to Conquering the A.R.E. 5.0 as prizes. Two exam candidates were able to walk away with a valuable study resource, and I greatly appreciate AIA Virginia’s continued support of emerging professionals and licensure.

I would also like to thank AIA Blue Ridge for providing the opportunity to host this program. It was a well-attended event, and I hope to engage with other YAF components across Virginia to bring similar programs to their members.

Aidan Brown
Associate AIA