A Ball State alumnus shared the story of his architecture career with students to show them how much they can accomplish with their degree.
Two chairs and a gray backdrop set the stage Monday for the first lecture of the "Conversations" series. The lecture took place in the Architecture Building room 100, where students and professors alike filled the audience.
"Conversations" is a series that discusses the lives of professionals from a variety of fields, rather than their careers. It explores the challenges people have faced, the inspiration they've received and the mentors they've encountered that have led them to becoming professionals and leaders in their careers.
Monday's lecture featured guest Joe Mrak, a 1981 graduate of Ball State's College of Architecture and Planning and an owner and principal architect for RQAW Consulting Engineers and Architects.
Mrak said that an array of factors helped him in his career, but he especially emphasized the value of being prepared.
"You always have to be prepared for the unknown," Mrak said. "You never know where you're going to be, what you're going to be doing or who you'll be doing it with."
For this reason, Mrak said it is also important to network. Many of the people he's met, whether classmates or employers, have influenced his life. Mrak discussed one situation in which he became the boss of the man who hired him.
"He always treated me well," Mrak said. "You never burn bridges, and you never take anything for granted."
Students who came to the lecture said that because of the emphasis on Mrak's life, it seemed more helpful than other lectures.
"Most people talk about their firms or projects," John Widdifield, sophomore architecture major, said. "What does that mean to us? This was more general, but in a good way."
Max Wurster, sophomore architecture major, shared similar sentiments. He went to the lecture because he wanted to know what employers look for in interns. He said he found what Mrak had to say relieving.
"[Mrak] is assuming firms aren't going to make you work without pay," Wurster said.
He said Mrak made him feel relieved about future employment overall.
Mahesh Daas, CAP chairman and Irving Distinguished Professor of Architecture, said the design of the series is based upon a study his class performed in spring 2011. The class, titled "Design Thinking and Innovation Methods" focused on the needs and desires of students within CAP.
Though "Conversations" has a focus on architecture, Daas said it should appeal to all students. The series focuses on the importance of leadership and mentorship, methods of establishing a career — topics that are relevant to students in all areas of study.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
