Kassandra Maraz

“What really sold the program to me was the variety of planning topics, and the Radical Planning Initiative course that is led by students.”

Academic Areas of Interest
Rural climate migration planning, environmental justice, water rights and access, food systems in urban spaces, climate change adaptation, and urban sustainability

Hobbies or interests outside of academia
Sustainable crafting, running, and community gardening

Why did you choose Taubman College as the right program for you?
The Taubman Urban Planning program felt right to me because of the courses that connect issues from justice initiatives, climate in planning, and how our built environment perpetuates harm in vulnerable communities. What really sold the program to me was the variety of planning topics, and the Radical Planning Initiative course that is led by students.

What is special or excites you about the Taubman community?
The Taubman community in Urban Planning is very small compared to other programs at UofM, and this provides the opportunity to grow close to my colleagues and connections that will last into my career.

Describe your experience with faculty and professional staff during your time at Taubman?
The Taubman staff and faculty go above and beyond for their students. It is easy to connect with people and make meaningful connections that engage in career topics and pursuits.

What do you like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community?
I love that there is room for everyone from all backgrounds, and how the Ann Arbor community connects people through diversity.

What advice would you give prospective students as they consider Taubman College?
If you are looking at Taubman as a potential program, be sure to visit the school if you are able to. Getting to actually walk in the school and see the study spaces is what truly made me feel at home in the program.

What are your plans after graduation?
I hope to work at the local government scale in the Midwest as an Urban Planner with a focus on rural and urban climate development. My focus is rooted in justice initiatives and intersectionality across community, especially as regions begin to face harsher climate impacts and an increased need for diverse solutions.