Welcome back, listeners!In this episode of The Young Architect Podcast, we delve into the inspiring story of Matthew Drake and his journey to becoming a licensed architect by first learning to believe in himself!
Matthew's foundation in architecture began with childhood play – those tiny, interlocking bricks we all know as Legos. They were more than toys for him; they were a stepping stone into a world where he could invest in learning and understand the mechanics of building, all while following a detailed plan.
Though originally immersed in the creative avenues of arts and musical theater. Matthew decided to pivot towards a more stable career path to support his future family. This decision rekindled his passion for construction and design, which led him to explore city planning before eventually diving into an accredited architecture program in 2015.
Graduating in 2018, Matthew set a common goal: to pass all six ARE exams within a year. However, after several unsuccessful attempts, his self-confidence wavered. It was during this time that Matthew's resolve was fortified by a remarkable support system – his wife. Together, they discovered the YA ARE Boot Camp, which proved to be a turning point.
The sense of community and shared experience he found in the Boot Camp re-ignited Matthew's drive. He realized he wasn't alone and that reaching out was a pivotal step towards success. For those hesitating about Boot Camp, Matthew's advice is clear: take the leap. It's a gateway to invaluable resources and a supportive network.
Matthew's path wasn't without its obstacles – juggling family life, a global pandemic, and job loss. And when the PPD exam became his nemesis after ten attempts, he paused to reassess and seek therapy, eventually finding solace and strength in ketamine treatment to conquer self-doubt.
His strategic approach to the final exam was unique, and it's this part of his story that is truly transformative. Now a licensed architect, Matthew's life has evolved in profound ways. Tune in to hear how he navigated the lows, celebrated the highs, and learned that you need to believe in yourself as that is the most crucial part of any journey.
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