Describe your job.
Urban planners help to keep a city organized and running well. We help decide where people live, work, learn, play, shop and how people move around the city. We try to organize the city space in a way that is fair, clean, inclusive and safe.
What problem does your job help to solve? How does your job make the world a better place?
Urban regions many times are the economic engines of their countries. They are great places where people of all walks of life can interact. But they can also be polluted, congested, unsafe and very socially unequal. Planners try to emphasize the strengths of cities and minimize their less desirable traits.
Why did you choose a career in Engineering? What was your greatest influence in making the decision?
I did engineering because I was interested in the environment. I knew that people interact with their environment in different ways, and wanted to make sure that we developed in a smart, respectful fashion. I cared about how the natural and the built interacted, and that's something I took with me into urban planning.
What are you passionate about?
Children, young people - While not formally, I have always let young people around me know how capable they are. I taught Bible classes to kids age 6-16 for about 4 years, I did high school outreach, and I have lots of young cousins, nieces and nephews. I care about how people perceive themselves when they are young.
What would you enjoy doing even if you were not paid to do it?
Teaching. It's my alternate universe career. But I love what I do too
State some of your hobbies.
I love wandering the internet. I like to read articles on urban issues as much as I like Buzzfeed. I love TV too. Netflix is the bomb. I do have friends though, and I'd rather brunch, or hang out at home, than do something loud and noisy. I do turn up once in a while.
What advice would you give your 16 year old self?
Girl, take any and every opportunity to lead, to learn and to try new things. Do not ever let the fear of failure stop you from trying anything. You will be shocked at what you can accomplish, even the times you do fail.
What would you like to be remembered for?
I want to be remembered as a city practitioner who was thoughtful and creative, helped create vibrant and lasting public spaces, and worked with humility to empower city stakeholders (including the informal sector, minorities and children) to help shape their cities. I want to help kids reach their education goals. How is yet to be determined but that would be a good legacy. Lastly, for being a good steward of my God-given gifts and using those gifts to build others up.
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