Civil Engineering/Architecture as a career

In this interview, we seek to clarify the most common doubts of those who are considering entering higher education in the areas of Civil Engineering and Architecture. Through the answers of recent graduates and final year students, we offer a practical insight into the challenges and expectations, helping students make informed decisions about their academic and professional path.

Why choose Civil Engineering/Architecture as a career?

Architect Ângelo Luís: " I realized very early on that I was drawn to drawing and exact sciences. At the end of the first cycle, I had to decide which path to follow, knowing that a common profession 7-15 in the state was not an option, so I had to decide between Architecture and Engineering, and I opted for the former. The decisive factors were that, among others, when I was young I saw an episode of a TV program where houses were being renovated or built for disadvantaged people, and the architect in charge appeared explaining the project... and that was when I said "I want to do that".  Furthermore, it also suited me better because I didn't want to lose the freedom (even if conditioned) to dream and experiment, and I liked the idea of ​​creating."

Eng. Fábio Conge: " I chose Civil Engineering because of my passion for mathematics, creativity and the desire to contribute with practical solutions to improve people's lives. I have always been interested in infrastructure, especially highways and drainage systems, as I believe that these areas have a direct impact on sustainable development and the quality of life of communities."

Issufo Ibrahimo: "Since I was a child, I have always been fascinated by large infrastructures and I always imagined myself designing or constructing such structures as buildings, bridges, dams, etc. So, my love for engineering comes from my childhood and that is why I chose it as a career. But, I will not lie, I also chose it because it is a lucrative career..."

Eng.º Francisco Quisele Jr .: " Since I was a child, I have always been involved in activities related to construction, such as the interpretation of drawings and plans. This connection was born, firstly, because my father worked in the construction sector; secondly, because, during primary and secondary school, I always had a greater inclination towards subjects such as Drawing, Visual Education, Mathematics and Physics; and, finally, because I have always reflected that my country still has a long way to go in terms of infrastructural development, making this an area that will certainly continue to be of fundamental importance in its growth. This passion has been consolidated over the years."

What challenges did you face during your training and how did you overcome them?

Arch. Ângelo Luís: " There were moments of depression, doubts about my ability, internal and external pressures. But what helped a lot was a lesson shared by a high school teacher, who said that as students or learners we have to focus on the content shared and not on who shares it. This helped in situations where I felt (real or not) some hostility. Another input of good energy was to remember that if someone is doing what seems difficult to me, I am also capable."

Eng. Fábio Conge: " The main challenges were time management and balancing theoretical and practical subjects. Many academic projects required great dedication and studying outside of class hours. I overcame these challenges with planning, prioritizing the most urgent tasks and seeking support from colleagues and teachers."

Issufo Ibrahimo: " One of the main challenges I faced was adapting to higher education. I came from a high school that had not prepared me for what was to come and, also, at the beginning it was difficult to adapt to using public transport to get to college, since I came from a city (Chibuto) where everything was very close... And, without forgetting, the pandemic, it ruined a very productive rhythm that I had been having since the 2nd semester of the 1st year, but I recovered it when normality returned."

Eng.º Francisco Quisele Jr.: " The challenges I faced throughout my education were countless. From the first contact with higher education, I was immediately confronted with the pressure typical of the first year, especially in the subjects "Introduction to Engineering" and "General Workshops" — those who studied at FENG know what I'm talking about. I also faced difficulties in "General Chemistry", since I didn't have Chemistry in the 11th grade.  and 12th  high school class. Furthermore, getting back into the swing of studying after the pandemic was a real challenge. However, I overcame it all because I had to. No one forced me to choose this course, and I knew that if I wanted to achieve my goals, I would have to face these adversities. But what really made the difference was the study group I joined. The mutual motivation we shared was fundamental — there was always a tendency to support each other and lift each other up in the midst of storms, which was crucial to getting through the most difficult moments."

If you hadn't chosen Civil Engineering/Architecture, what would be your other career option? EP or why?

Architect Ângelo Luís: " At the time of choosing, if I wasn't an Architect I would be a Civil Engineer. They are sister areas, my knowledge base and academic inclination leaned towards this. Today I am interested in many other disciplines, but they come as a complement because I wouldn't give up Architecture, Urbanism and Physical Planning."

Eng. Fábio Conge: " If I hadn't studied Civil Engineering, I would probably have chosen Architecture or Economics. Architecture, because of the possibility of working on creative projects that also involve urban planning, and Economics, because I like to analyze how resources can be optimized for the sustainable growth of a country. Both are connected to my vision of contributing to social development."

Issufo Ibrahimo: " If I hadn't chosen Civil Engineering as a career, I would have chosen Architecture. I already mentioned the reasons for this choice in the first question."

Eng.º Francisco Quisele Jr.: " If I hadn't chosen Civil Engineering, I would certainly have chosen Architecture, since both areas are closely linked. I've always been very interested in everything that involves interior design and space optimization, and I know that architecture goes far beyond that. I've always found the idea of ​​creating functional and aesthetically pleasing environments interesting. From an early age, I remember how I spent hours playing games that stimulated creativity, like Minecraft in creative mode, where I could freely experiment with building and organizing spaces with different types of blocks."

Do you believe it is important to seek specialization after graduation? And why?

Arch. Ângelo Luís: " It's good to have a niche. Being a generalist doesn't usually give you big monetary gains. I put it this way: To fill your pocket, specialize.  To fill your head, don't specialize. It depends on what you want to enrich yourself with, but it is also possible to do both."

Eng. Fábio Conge: " Yes, I believe that specialization is essential. The market is increasingly competitive, and a postgraduate degree or master's degree allows you to deepen your knowledge in specific areas, such as transportation, hydraulics or structures. In addition, specialization expands job opportunities and helps you face more complex technical challenges, keeping you up to date with industry trends."

Issufo Ibrahimo: " Of course, because higher education in Mozambique focuses on teaching the general aspects of a given area. The reason is justifiable, but in current times, out of context. Because, as the saying goes, "those who want everything, lose everything." Many of us leave higher education knowing a little about everything, but without any apparent mastery of a given area. That is why I recommend specialization, to improve the skills of the area that the person has chosen for their career..."

Eng. Francisco Quisele Jr. : " Yes, I believe it is extremely important to seek specialization after completing the course. I have always seen a degree as a kind of key that opens the mind, allowing us to explore various areas and discover which ones we fit best and have the greatest affinity with. From there, it becomes essential to deepen our knowledge in a more specific and detailed way, instead of maintaining a generalist understanding. Specialization not only provides a more solid command of a certain area, but also makes us more competitive in the job market."

Is there anything you wish you had known before starting the course? If so, what?

Arch. Ângelo Luís: " Being an Architect does not automatically imply an abundant life."

Eng. Fábio Conge: " I would have liked to have known more about the importance of developing practical skills, such as the use of technical software, at the beginning of the course. I would also have benefited from better understanding the impact of complementary areas, such as project management and interpersonal communication, which are just as important as technical knowledge."

Issufo Ibrahimo: " To be honest, because of my cousin who was already attending the course I chose, I already had information about what it would be like to study the course. But, it's one thing for them to tell you and another for you to be there. "

Eng. Francisco Quisele Jr. : " Yes, I wish I had known that Civil Engineering goes far beyond Mathematics and Physics."

What keeps you motivated even in difficult times at work or in your studies?

Arch. Ângelo Luís: " I want to be and serve better with my knowledge."

Eng. Fábio Conge: " What motivates me is knowing that each effort is bringing me closer to my goal of contributing to solutions that really matter to people. I also find inspiration in the concrete results of my work, such as a completed road or drainage project. In addition, the support of family, friends and colleagues, along with the vision of professional growth, helps me overcome the most difficult moments."

Issufo Ibrahimo: " It's not about motivation, because that comes and goes, but about discipline. Doing what needs to be done regardless of the circumstances."

Eng. Francisco Quisele Jr. : " The simple fact that I am following the path I have always wanted is, in itself, a constant motivation."

Have you ever regretted choosing this field? If so, what made you change your mind?

Architect Angelo Luis: " No."

Eng. Fábio Conge: " There were challenging moments, especially when dealing with complex projects or when faced with tight deadlines. However, I never regretted it. These moments were overcome when I saw the positive results of my work and realized that each challenge is a learning opportunity. The satisfaction of seeing something I designed being implemented is priceless."

Issufo Ibrahimo: "No..."

Eng. Francisco Quisele Jr .: " No."

What advice would you give to someone who is unsure whether to pursue Civil Engineering or Architecture?

Arch. Ângelo Luís: " First, see if it is really what you want to do, and that it is for you. Because it is your life and it is what you will be and probably do for the rest of your life. Learn as much as you can about the professions before entering college, talk to professionals. Don't just focus on knowing what life is like in college, because college is just a means. Prepare yourself for what comes next, because that is the destiny."

Eng. Fábio Conge: " I suggest you reflect on what most awakens your passion. If you enjoy creating technical solutions, calculating, planning and working on infrastructure with a functional focus, Civil Engineering is the path for you. On the other hand, if you have a more artistic streak, focused on space design and aesthetics, Architecture may be a better fit. Both areas are interconnected and equally rewarding, but the choice depends on where your main motivation lies."

Issufo Ibrahimo: " Choose what you like and love because your future depends on it, don't go for the money, because it comes and goes, regardless of the area you choose..."

Eng.º Francisco Quisele Jr .: " I understand this doubt well, as I also found myself in the same dilemma when I pre-registered. I ended up choosing Civil Engineering as my first option, but the truth is that it took me a while to decide, precisely because I have always found both areas fascinating. Both Civil Engineering and Architecture require continuous effort and a strong commitment, each with its own focus: Engineering is more linked to the technical and structural side, while Architecture focuses more on the design, functionality and aesthetics of spaces. My advice would be: if you enjoy creativity as much as finding technical solutions, and you see yourself working on creating structures and designing spaces, then both areas could be good choices. The secret is to explore which one sparks your interest the most, be it the technical and structural side of Civil Engineering or the more creative and artistic side of Architecture. In any case, both are complementary and can even work together on many projects."