Architecture Registration Exams Story: Arick Dyrdal

Welcome to the Architectural Registration Exam (ARE) experience stories series! This series is to share experiences, timelines and advice of professionals that have completed their AREs. We know it can be a daunting task to get started and overwhelming on the number of resources out there. We hope you find this information helpful in organizing how you proceed through your exams. Good Luck!

This is the experience, timeline, and advice from:

Arick Dyrdal, RA, PHIUS

As a veteran, Latino, husband, and father of soon-to-be three, my path towards architecture began in carpentry. It struck me that I wanted to lead the construction projects I was part of, propelling me to embark on an architectural education. My drive to stand at the helm of my own endeavors, coupled with a desire for continuous growth, prompted me to venture into architecture. I always envisioned running my own business, and the path forward was clear.

“Passing the ARE is a stepping stone, not a final destination.”

July 21, 2018	In Person	PcM	Fail
February 5, 2020	In Person	PcM	Fail
June 8, 2020	In Person	PjM	Pass

Studied diligently for 2 months.

July 10, 2020	In Person	C&E	Pass
June 13, 2020	In Person	PPD	Fail
June 13, 2020	In Person	PDD	Fail
June 17, 2020	In Person	P&A	Fail
June 19, 2020	In Person	PcM	Pass
August 18, 2020	In Person	PPD	Pass
August 20, 2020	In Person	PDD	Fail
October 2, 2020	In Person	P&A	Pass
November 2, 2020	In Person	PDD	Pass

I often get asked “why do I need to get licensed?”. Why did you decide that you wanted to be a licensed Architect?

I recognized the value of licensing in realizing my aspiration of establishing and leading my own architectural firm. Licensing became an essential credential on my journey.

Often people don’t know where to start, do you have any advice for those looking to start their exams -or- how did you start?

The enormity of the ARE study landscape can be overwhelming. My advice is to simply commence. The first step often catalyzes the momentum needed for progress.

What type of study materials did you use? Any particular ones that you’d recommend?

Amidst the sea of study materials, I found Amber Book to be my beacon of success. Its efficient approach aligned with my busy schedule and helped me overcome the challenge of abundant study materials.

How did you fit study time into your schedule? Was there anything in particular that worked well for you?

Allocating study time amidst familial and professional commitments can be intricate. I found dedicating 20 hours a week to be a balanced approach, which aided in my consistent preparation.

Do you have any other advice for someone studying for their exams?

Passing the ARE is a stepping stone, not a final destination. Gaining experience and honing your craft remains pivotal. Every day is an opportunity to learn and grow within the realm of architecture.

We hope that this information helps you through your ARE journey, setting goals, and giving you some insight on how to get started.

Thank you again to Arick Dyral for sharing your story!

Edited by

Katelyn Rossier, AIA, NCARB, LSSBB