Sophomores in Mrs. Dameron-Vines’s English 10 class worked throughout the month of March on a unit to craft Opinion Editorials, articles that explore an author’s opinion on a chosen topic of interest. We are happy to provide a platform for an on-going series that highlights some of students’ work.

At Homewood High School we have classes geared towards computer science, medical services, fine arts, and various specialized science classes, but we are not offered a drafting class. With the addition of AP Art History which will have a fairly large focus on architecture, I hope to see an increase in architecture focused classes. It would be nice to have something on my transcript that shows colleges I have an interest in architecture. It is an absolute shame that Auburn has one of the most highly esteemed Architecture programs of any public college, yet we do not offer a course to those who wish to pursue architecture as a career. At the end of the day, high school should aim to prepare you for what you will do in your adult life.

 Seeing as architecture has become far more digital with the overwhelming adoption of CAD (computer aided design) I do not believe it would be an extraneous expense to invest in a class to further the futures of us students. There are even programs like Autodesk which offer free access for educational use. I admit that I have no clue how difficult it is to find an educator to guide a drafting class, but seeing as other schools provide drafting classes, I think it is attainable. Exposure to CAD is also important for those who wish to go into engineering fields. I feel that having exposure to these programs would not only let students know if they really want to go down that career path, but also give them a leg up over those who did not have access to drafting programs in high school. Digital programs are such an important part of so many careers that we need to adapt our courses or risk falling behind.

I also think that having drafting experience would help students who are looking for internships before going off to college. Having something that sets you apart from other applicants can be immeasurably valuable. I personally learn best through experience, and going in blind can be a bit daunting. If I had prior experience in an environment that is conducive to teaching me the skills I need in order to succeed, it would be a much smoother transition into interning at an actual architectural firm. Of course there is more to architecture than just drafting, but I feel that a drafting class could significantly influence my thoughts about having a career in architecture. I also think it could be a good opportunity to get the community involved. Maybe guest speakers who use drafting in their everyday lives like engineers and architects could come through and provide insight into their respective fields similar to how principles of engineering operates.

I really think that Homewood High school would benefit from offering a drafting class to its students. I personally know a few students who are interested in pursuing architecture in college and thereafter. Please look into implementing this course in the near future.