Parker Wise

“I think the M.U.R.P. community, in particular, is special because each cohort is relatively small.”

Hometown
Lubbock, TX

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

Expected Graduation Date
May 2025

Academic Areas of Interest
Urban Sustainability, Participatory Planning, Community Development, Climate Adaptation, and Urban Public Health

Hobbies or interests outside of academia
Hiking & camping, tabletop role-playing games, baking

Why did you choose Taubman College as the right program for you?
I am a dual degree student at Taubman and the School for Environment and Sustainability. I think sustainability and planning are incredibly intertwined, and both have huge effects on residents. Being able to mix these degrees and learn about how planning can impact sustainability, climate adaptation, and people’s lives was helpful to my career goals. Finding out there were a lot of options in the curriculum within the M.U.R.P. program, plus I could tailor it to what I wanted to learn, which made me know that it was the right program.

What is special or excites you about the Taubman community?
I think the M.U.R.P. community, in particular, is special because each cohort is relatively small. You get the chance to meet almost everyone and learn about their wide variety of backgrounds and interests and how it can provoke further studies from you.

Describe your experience with faculty and professional staff during your time at Taubman?
The planning faculty has been accessible and always willing to meet and speak with students, even when I was a prospective student. You don’t even need to take a class with them to have them speak with you and give suggestions to help you fulfill your career and academic goals.

How has Taubman’s career and professional development support prepared you for a successful career in your chosen field?
They are always willing to meet and try to connect you with people who might be able to help you learn about different professional areas. They also will set up events and talks geared toward teaching students what different types of professions look like so you can get more knowledge to inform your future careers.

What benefits have you experienced being part of the University of Michigan?
Michigan is one of the most well-known public institutions in the world. It is helpful to know that alumni are everywhere, and I have experienced that. Also, due to its size, you can always find a community that is right for you.

What do you like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community?
I like that downtown Ann Arbor is relatively easy to get around without a car. It has gotten easier if you live a bit farther away too, due to the increase in bus service. There are also ample green spaces and areas for outdoor recreation. It is also close to the airport and close to Detroit, so you can always find something to do!

What advice would you give prospective students as they consider Taubman College?
I would look at the curriculum and the research professors’ areas of interest. Also, if you can reach out to faculty and get some more information, many, especially in planning, are willing to speak to you. They might even connect you to students who would likely be willing to speak with you and answer any questions. Additionally, if you are able, attending the open houses and preview days are really good ways to get to engage with faculty and students personally.

What are your plans after graduation?
I hope to work in community-informed planning focusing on sustainability and social/economic development.