My essential question:

• How do cities balance people’s needs, environmental sustainability, and corporate interests?
• What part do various stakeholders play when designing public spaces?

I would like to participate in an internship in an organization that deals with urban development and has an interest in environmental sustainability as well. Specifically, I’m interested in organizations that are maybe involved in redesigning public spaces to make them more efficient or usable. I currently have a possible internship opportunity available, though I’m not certain it will work out. I believe this is feasible because I could have a virtual internship.

Alternatively, I would like to create a design proposal for a reimagined public space. There are several lots near me that currently provide no benefit to the neighborhood, and that no one has done anything with. I’d like to meet with various members of the community and understand their concerns and needs. I’d also like to meet with other stakeholders such as whoever owns the lots, etc.  This project would culminate in a design proposal.

I’ve always been interested in design and sustainability and how to work around people’s habits and behaviors, so I’d like to explore the field of urban development in my senior project.