Architecture Registration Exams Story: Wei Wang

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:

Wei Wang, AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Wei Wang, is an Associate at Dattner Architects in New York City. She has a holistic vision of architecture that extends beyond design and functionality. For Wei, the architect’s role encompasses uplifting communities and promoting social equity. With a diverse portfolio, she has successfully managed projects ranging from mixed-use high-rise residential developments to a wide array of commercial buildings.

Wei’s unwavering passion lies in exploring building materials and conducting research, actively engaging with her firm’s Sustainable Practice Group. Her dedication to sustainable practices aligns with her commitment to creating environmentally conscious and socially responsible spaces.

Wei is a graduate of Pratt Institute, where she obtained a Bachelor of Architecture. Additionally, she expanded her knowledge by studying furniture design at the esteemed Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts.

“Whether it’s a formal study group or simply having a friend who had already gone through the process, having someone to serve as a sounding board was invaluable.”

It’s essential to remember that you will pass if you persevere and continue to put in the effort. The journey towards licensure may have its ups and downs, but with determination and a support system in pace, you can overcome the challenges and achieve your goal of becoming a licensed architect.

Remember to work at your own pace!

	In Person	CDS (4.0)	Pass
	In Person	PPP (4.0)	Pass
	In Person	SITE (4.0)	Fail
	In Person	SITE (4.0)	Pass

Transition to ARE 5.0

	In Person	PDD (5.0)	Fail
	In Person	PDD (5.0)	Pass
	In Person	PPD (5.0)	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 realized that while licensure is not the sole qualification for being an architect, it plays a significant role in preparing you to be a holistic practitioner. Obtaining a license helps to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge gained from ARE textbooks and the practical application of that knowledge in real word architectural practice.

Personally, that was partially why I waited six years after graduating before I started taking the exams. I wanted to gain some experience and have a better understanding of the field before pursuing licensure.

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?

I found it incredibly beneficial to be part of a support group. Whether it’s a formal study group or simply having a friend who had already gone through the process, having someone to serve as a sounding board was invaluable. Sometimes, after a long and challenging exam, you just need to debrief and discuss your experiences.

In my case, I took the ARE V4, which meant that it took over a week to receive the results. There were instances where I failed, and it was disheartening, however, having someone there to encourage me and remind me to keep going was crucial.

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

Thank you again to Wei Wang for sharing your story!

Edited by

Katelyn Rossier, AIA, NCARB, LSSBB