Megan Wakefield headshot

Programs
Master of Urban and Regional Planning


CONNECT

/ Urban and Regional Planning Student

Megan Wakefield

Learning comes from everywhere: peers, faculty, projects, and lectures. If you want to feed your brain, you have the resources to do it here.

Hometown
Tuscola, IL, United States

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

Expected Graduation Date
April 2024

Academic Areas of Interest
Urban planning, economic development, transportation planning, housing

Hobbies or interests outside of academia
Hiking, snowboarding, reading

Why did you choose Taubman College as the right program for you?
A lot changed for me when I attended the preview event in the spring for admitted students. I was already very interested in the program, but the preview experience provided insight into what to expect at Taubman. Some faculty members gave exciting and thought-provoking lectures as well. I had traveled from Colorado, so it was meaningful to be in the space where I could spend a lot of time if I chose the program. In addition, studying urban planning so close to a city like Detroit was very appealing.

What is special or excites you about the Taubman community?
I have enjoyed learning about the experiences and interests of my fellow classmates, and I really feel inspired by their ambitions. Everyone in the program wants to make a difference in some way, and Taubman provides critical support. Also, whether it is with faculty or students, it feels like something is always happening at Taubman.

Describe your experience with faculty and professional staff during your time at Taubman?
Both faculty and professional staff at Taubman have been approachable, knowledgeable, flexible, and supportive.

How has Taubman’s career and professional development support prepared you for a successful career in your chosen field?
So far, their support has directly reformed my resume, and they frequently send out information regarding upcoming career events, job & internship openings, and workshops. The connections to alumni are also helpful for finding out information about any jobs or companies I’m interested in.

What benefits have you experienced being part of the University of Michigan?
Learning comes from everywhere: peers, faculty, projects, and lectures. If you want to feed your brain, you have the resources to do it here. Also, many schools falsely claim to have a strong alumni network, but Taubman actually does. I have met a number of Taubman alumni already, and their insights have been valuable.

What do you like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community?
I commute to Ann Arbor from Jackson, MI, and I feel welcome and supported by the community during my time in the city. Everyone I’ve interacted with in Ann Arbor or the surrounding areas has told me how nice the city is, and I’d have to agree. Additionally, I appreciate that there are some diverse food options around town and near Taubman.

What advice would you give prospective students as they consider Taubman College?
Check out the Taubman College website to learn about your program of interest. Combing through information about the urban planning faculty, courses, and focus areas helped me understand more about Taubman and how I might fit in here. Also, take time to visit campus.

What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to secure a job in either the Midwest or Denver, CO. I am looking to be a general planner, and I’m seeking to make an impact on the development of neighborhoods that have experienced disinvestment over time.