Elyse Cote

Architecture Student
Urban and Regional Planning Student
Programs

Master of Urban Design

Master of Urban and Regional Planning

“The Taubman community is truly representative of all cultures, backgrounds, identities, and life experiences.”

Hometown
Andover MA, USA

Degree Program(s)
M.U.R.P.
M.U.D.

Expected Graduation Date
December, 2025

Academic Areas of Interest
Architecture history

Hobbies or interests outside of academia
Trying new coffee shops, going to the farmers market, pilates

Why did you choose Taubman College as the right program for you?
Taubman College was 100% the right choice for me. I was looking for a program that addressed food systems and sustainability, as well as celebrated the collaboration of urban planning and urban design. Taubman not only incorporates theory courses, but also practice-based courses and opportunities to fully prepare us to make a difference in communities upon graduation. What finally sealed the deal for me was that there were both courses and a Ph.D. student looking into the topics of my undergraduate thesis projects.

What is special or excites you about the Taubman community?
The Taubman community is truly representative of all cultures, backgrounds, identities, and life experiences. Learning from my peers has been so special, and that is something you cannot get from a textbook. Additionally, we plan various social activities outside of class which makes you feel like you have a home here.

Describe your experience with faculty and professional staff during your time at Taubman?
I have never once had to advocate for my own education because I have been so supported by the faculty and professional staff here. They truly are here to help you achieve your academic, professional, and personal goals. I have had such wonderful chit-chats in the hall, long office hours conversations, and support at outside of class events.

How has Taubman’s career and professional development support prepared you for a successful career in your chosen field?
I cannot say enough good things about the career office here! They are constantly hosting career events (e.g., alumni panels, careers fairs, office trips in cities), editing my resume and LinkedIn, and taking the time to get to know me personally to help me find the right fit.

What benefits have you experienced being part of the University of Michigan?
No matter where you go, there will always be someone shouting, “Go Blue!” The Michigan pride is strong and wide, which makes you feel like you are part of something larger than Taubman. It has also been an incredible way to network and meet other Wolverines in different locations.

What do you like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community?
As a self-proclaimed foodie, it has been such a joy trying new spots with my peers. You will never be bored of the food options here! Ann Arbor is also a wonderful place to learn about urban planning because there are various projects happening right outside our classroom. Projects range from zoning issues, new bike lanes, development pressure, master plan updates, and local advocacy groups to get involved with.

What advice would you give prospective students as they consider Taubman College?
My first piece of advice would be to look at the required and elective courses and see if there are opportunities that excite you. Taubman provides immense flexibility in your schedule so that you can curate an academic experience that addresses your individual goals. Second, connect with current students to hear about classes, extracurriculars, favorite coffee shops, and whatever else is on your mind!

What are your plans after graduation?
Although I am not graduating for a few semesters, I hope to work for an urban planning and design firm that specializes in industrial adaptive reuse and flooding resilience. Being from Boston, I would love to move back to the East Coast but my family thinks that I’ll never move back from Ann Arbor since I’m enjoying my time so much.

Additional advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective students?
A great aspect of Taubman and Michigan as a whole is that there is active cross-collaboration across different degree programs. Urban planning is a field that touches many other areas of studies, so don’t be afraid to look at courses outside of Taubman for electives, certificate programs, or a dual-degree.