My first urban planning project was my First Year Workshop at UPenn.  This workshop, overseen by

Ms. Eleanor Sharpe, looked at how best to integrate UPenn development with the needs and wants of the surrounding community.  The project was sponsored by the University’s Real Estate Department, because they wanted to maximize the development potential for their commercial properties, while also supporting local businesses and providing services for both students and residents.

This project helped me to better understand how to deal with the challenges of urban planning.  I learned from my classmates and professors how to listen to all sides and make proposals that were well researched, supported by facts and sought to benefit all stakeholders.