From Navy Officer to Architect: Ben Norkin's Inspiring Journey

Are you preparing for your architecture exams or considering a second career in architecture? Then you're in for a treat! In this episode of Design Create Inspired, I had the pleasure of interviewing Ben Norkin, an architect who not only designs custom residential homes but also helps aspiring architects pass their exams through his incredible study resources. Ben's story is a testament to the fact that anyone can pursue their dreams, regardless of where they currently are in life. Let's dive into his fascinating journey.

A Second Career in Architecture

Ben's path to becoming an architect was far from traditional. After completing his college education, he served as a commissioned officer in the Navy for six and a half years. However, he realized that it wasn't the career he wanted for the rest of his life. Ben started exploring other options and stumbled upon architecture. Though he had no prior experience or family background in the field, the idea of designing and building houses fascinated him. Determined to pursue his newfound passion, he began the challenging process of preparing for architecture school.

Overcoming Challenges

Transitioning from the Navy to architecture school wasn't easy for Ben. With a background in sociology and no formal art training, he had to quickly brush up on his skills and put together a portfolio. Despite the hurdles, Ben was accepted into an architecture program in Washington, D.C. While pursuing his Master's degree, he found himself surrounded by classmates who, like him, were embarking on a second career. This camaraderie and shared experience made the journey less daunting.

Enter Hyperfine

After completing his exams in 2017, Ben decided to share his knowledge and experiences with others. Initially, he started creating online courses on Revit, leveraging his teaching background and expertise. However, as he engaged with the ARE® community, he realized the need for comprehensive study resources specifically tailored to the exams. Thus, Hyperfine was born. Ben began developing ARE® 5.0 study assignments that challenged candidates to think critically and delve deeper into exam topics. These assignments were designed to enhance understanding rather than just test memorization skills.

The Impact of Are Resources

Ben's study assignments struck a chord with aspiring architects who were seeking a more effective way to prepare for their exams. The hands-on nature of the assignments, requiring pen-to-paper problem-solving, made a significant difference in the learning process. By encouraging a deeper level of understanding, candidates are better equipped to tackle the exams with confidence.

Advice for Exam Candidates

When it comes to preparing for the architecture exams, Ben emphasizes the importance of having a well-defined plan. Rather than relying solely on study materials, he suggests researching the exam content and understanding what areas require more focus based on individual strengths and weaknesses. It's crucial to tailor the study approach to one's specific needs and set realistic expectations. Remember, the exams cover a broad range of topics, and it's okay not to know everything. Focus on what you do know well and make educated guesses for the rest.

Ben Norkin's journey from an active-duty Navy officer to a successful architect and exam resource creator is truly inspiring. His story reminds us that it's never too late to pursue our dreams and transition into a fulfilling career. Whether you're embarking on your exams or contemplating a career change, Ben's advice to have a plan, focus on your strengths, and embrace the learning process will undoubtedly guide you towards success. So, go ahead and chase your architectural dreams with confidence, just like Ben Norkin did.

Do you want all the incredible resources we discussed today (and more!)?

-- Check out the links below --

Get the Hyperfine Assignments HERE

Start learning Revit today! Start Ben's Revit courses HERE.

Follow Ben on Instagram + YouTube @HyperfineArchitecture

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