Yiwei Huang

Why did you choose Taubman College?

I chose Taubman because I was always interested in urban design studies, and Taubman offers the best M.U.D. program in the U.S.

Describe the work that you do.

I teach studios and technique courses, that include landscape performance, community design and planning, and contemporary issues in urban studies.

What are some of the projects that you have worked on recently?

My work focuses on the intersection of ecology and sociology in urban areas. The recent project I’ve been working on is the understanding of multiple impacts associated with climate change on urban populations and how designs can help increase dwellers’ adaptive capacity.

How did Taubman College prepare you for your career?

Upon graduating from the M.U.D. program, I knew I wanted to begin my Ph.D. studies and work towards becoming a college professor in the future. One year later, I received the offer from UC Davis and began my Ph.D. I graduated in 2020 and became assistant professor of Landscape Architecture at Purdue University.

What is an important lesson that has stayed with you from your time at Taubman College?

All of the studios I had while at Taubman were great experiences. They helped me realize that urban designers should not just create “spaces,” but create “places,” which has led me to my current research. Different professors have their expertise in specific areas, please take advantage of that! All of the courses will truly play a role in your career life later on. So, I would recommend you to appreciate every minute — the time you collaborate within your cohorts, the times of meaningful exchange and dialogue with your professors, as well as the time you sit in an urban policy class. All of those experiences will be of value to you in the future.

What did you like best about attending Taubman College?

That we have a world-wide alumni connections, that we are critical, and that we are always open to new ideas.