Reflection
The AE senior thesis is intended to be a culmination of everything learned in the architectural engineering curriculum applied in a practical design project. The unstructured format of the course, especially in the spring semester, means that the responsibility of meeting course objectives lies largely on the individual students. While this format does provide both a challenge and room for creativity, It also has some downfalls.
The main problem that I ran into while working on the design portion of the senior thesis is that I felt as though I was working in a bubble. Design, especially for someone relatively inexperienced, doesn't happen in a bubble. Likely the fault of no one but myself, I found myself often without anyone I felt comfortable asking for advice or guidance on my project. I often felt as though I didn't have to skills or tools necessary to complete such a huge undertaking that was the senior thesis.
This is does not, however, reflect my feelings about the AE program as a whole. I do believe that my AE education has equipped me well for a successful career in the building industry. Although I believe the senior thesis is intended to mimic the experience of working in a real design firm, I have found my internship experience to be way more valuable educationally than the senior thesis project. Because of the department's connections in the industry and the career fair held every year, the majority of students complete at least one internship before the fifth year. In lieu of a year long thesis, I find it may be even more valuable to provide opportunities for students to take a spring or fall semester off to gain even more internship experience. This would be especially valuable for someone in my position, who is entering an industry where internships are critical to entry to the field.
Overall, I found the design freedom of thesis to be both challenging and rewarding, but I don't think this type of capstone assignment is an effective method of education for everyone. Thesis is largely what the individual student makes of it, but I personally felt I could benefit more from either a classroom or a true industry setting.