Preparing for the NCARB licensure process while working full time at SENER Los Angeles has been one of the most challenging and rewarding parts of my experience in the United States. What initially felt overwhelming gradually became an opportunity to truly understand what it means to grow as an architect in a global and competitive market.
Studying for licensure while actively participating in real projects has given me a deeper perspective on architecture. Theory and practice constantly intersect, and each day at work reinforces what I’m learning for the exams. In many ways, the NCARB licensure process has helped me see architecture not only as a creative discipline, but also as a profession built on responsibility, standards, and long-term commitment.
Professional Practice and the NCARB Licensure Process
Working at SENER has allowed me to experience firsthand how large-scale projects are managed in the U.S. market. Collaboration, coordination, and clearly defined processes play a key role in every stage of development. At the same time, preparing for the NCARB licensure process has made me more aware of the technical, ethical, and regulatory aspects that shape architectural practice in the United States.
Balancing both paths requires discipline and consistency. There are long days, tight schedules, and moments of doubt. However, this combination has strengthened my confidence and clarified my professional goals. As a result, understanding how licensure aligns with daily practice has made the process feel purposeful rather than abstract.
Understanding the Business Side of Architecture in the U.S.
Beyond design and technical skills, one of the most valuable discoveries has been learning how architecture firms operate as businesses in the U.S. market. Being exposed to discussions about project management, business development, and firm growth has expanded my understanding of what it takes to build and sustain an architectural practice.
Moreover, observing how new companies emerge, how teams position themselves in the market, and how strategy influences design decisions has been eye-opening. Architecture in the United States is deeply connected to entrepreneurship, and understanding this connection has helped me identify new possibilities for my own professional future.
Reflections on Growth and Direction
Looking back, I realize that this phase has been about much more than exams or professional experience. It has been about learning how to balance ambition with patience, effort with resilience, and goals with adaptability. Preparing for the NCARB licensure process while working at SENER has taught me that growth often happens when we challenge ourselves on multiple levels at once.
If there’s one lesson this journey continues to teach me, it’s this: professional growth is not linear, but every step even the difficult ones builds a stronger foundation for the future.
