What is your current job and how did your planning degree prepare you for it?
I am now a Planner for the City of St Petersburg Planning and Development Services Division. A large part of what I do is review construction plans for adherence to the Zoning Code (Land Development Regulations). I also review requests for special permits and variances, make presentations to the Development Review Commission, and regulate commercial permits for street vending. All of this is based on a concept of “the public good” or “compatibility” or “nuisance”. The MUP program helped me to think like a Planner and gave me a platform of knowledge to stand on while I learned more about how to define those terms for the residents, businesses, and builders in St Petersburg.
Why did you choose to study urban planning?
I chose to study urban planning because I love cities. They are crazy interesting, they are these living networks, and they are full of opportunities for people to live great lives. I want to be someone who helps create opportunities for people to live great lives. Cities are just really, really dope and I like supporting them.
What advice would you share with someone who is considering a career in urban planning?
Don’t let your dreams die. Don’t become jaded. Remain positive. Don’t chase the money (at least not always). Just do what you think makes your home a better place.