A number of U.S. universities offer summer programs for high school students with an interest in architecture careers. Most universities with architecture schools, such as the University of Texas at Austin and Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, offer summer school for interested teens. Parents might also consider looking into programs at local museums or historic properties; they sometimes run architecture summer camps based on their collections or restoration interests.
If you are attending college and are interested in learning about architecture careers or want to expand your studies, a summer program is a prime opportunity. The first step is to find the nearest architecture school; the second is to inquire into its summer programs. If no educational opportunities exist, look into a student internship. Advisers at architecture schools or at your school's career development center can help you find local architects, museums or construction companies that are looking for help.
At the graduate level, student opportunities for summer programs rapidly increase. A number of grants, fellowships and travel programs are open only to graduate students or faculty. Your primary resource should be your academic adviser or another trusted professional. He may have not only suggestions for how best to spend your summer, but connections to interesting opportunities.
Many colleges and universities offer continuing education programs. These are special classes or programs offered for non-students, community members and alumni. If you are no longer in school but are interested in architecture, look into summer non-degree learning at a local college. If it has an architecture program, it may have the resources to sponsor summer non-degree courses, free lectures and topic-specific events.