Taubman’s commitment to social justice and equity-centered community engagement stood out to me among the programs I applied to. Additionally, even before I set foot on campus, I felt connected with Taubman faculty and staff; their genuine desire to meaningfully invest in their students was palpable and continues to enrich my graduate experience.
Hometown
Vacaville/San Francisco, CA, United States
Degree Program(s)
M.U.R.P.
Graduation Date
May 2023
Academic Areas of Interest
Land Use and Zoning, Spatial Justice, Affordable Housing, Environmental Resiliency, Commercial Corridor Planning, and Small Business Development
Hobbies or interests outside of academia
Running, Boxing, and Competitive Storytelling
Why did you choose Taubman College as the right program for you?
Taubman’s commitment to social justice and equity-centered community engagement stood out to me among the programs I applied to. Additionally, even before I set foot on campus, I felt connected with Taubman faculty and staff; their genuine desire to meaningfully invest in their students was palpable and continues to enrich my graduate experience.
What is special or excites you about the Taubman community?
Again, the Taubman community always centers on justice and equity. This commitment has inspired, beneficially challenged, and grounded me throughout my four years at the University of Michigan.
Describe your experience with faculty and professional staff during your time at Taubman?
I have developed such meaningful relationships with Taubman faculty and staff during my graduate education. They have provided mentorship, research and professional opportunities, and more letters of recommendation than I can adequately thank them for! They truly invest in students, and I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to work with and learn from Taubman professors and administrators.
How has Taubman’s career and professional development support prepared you for a successful career in your chosen field?
The Taubman career and professional development team has been incredibly helpful. For example, as someone who entered graduate school without a design background, they advised me through every step of the portfolio development process and helped me win a design-focused scholarship! I am also very grateful for the Spring Break Externship program; through this program, I gained meaningful planning experience in a city I plan to move to in the future.
What benefits have you experienced being part of the University of Michigan?
University of Michigan’s large (and spirited) alumni network has greatly benefitted me during my time as a student, and I know it will continue to enrich my professional and personal life after graduation!
What do you like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community?
My favorite things about Ann Arbor are Argus Farm Stop and York (i.e., coffee, local produce, and food)!
What advice would you give prospective students as they consider Taubman College?
Seek out every potential funding opportunity – internal and external scholarships, teaching and research assistant positions, writing competitions, etc.
What are your plans after graduation?
As a dual degree student at Michigan Law School, I will be clerking with a judge immediately after graduation! In the long term, I plan to work as a land use and zoning attorney with aspirations to teach as an adjunct professor.
Additional advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective students?
Ask Taubman to introduce and connect you to current students – talking with them will give you the insights you need to make your decision!