Katie

Planning

Picture of Katie
Year: 2 

Stream of study: Regular

Career goal: I hope to be able to pursue a design specialization and also improve my knowledge of transit systems, innovative technology and learn more about how planning can be a catalyst for creating livable, inclusive and proactive cities.

Are you involved in any campus clubs?

Yes, my current clubs and extracurriculars include Velocity, beginners boxing, volleyball intramural, Environment Student Society, Planning Students' Association, ESS Coffee Shop, Salsa Beginners and the International Peer Community as a Community Leader.

Why did you choose to study in the Faculty of Environment at Waterloo?

I choose the Faculty of Environment at the University of Waterloo because of its long history, positive community and interdisciplinary programs. Not only did the Faculty of Environment host Planning, my current program, but I was happy to know that the Faculty had a dedicated pursuit to make meaningful change happen in the classroom, and in communities around the world.

What do you love most about your program?

Probably the freedom. I have many options for specializations and lots of electives which I can use to customize my needs for my field in the future. I also love the support that I get from my peers. I think Planning has a very strong support system and a group of alumni that want to help students achieve their best possible outcomes or goals at the University of Waterloo.

What problem would you like to solve?

I really would love to expand my knowledge on transit and how it impacts the way we live. I grew up in a very centralized public transit city (in Singapore), so when I came to Canada, the difference of how people get from one place to another is very interesting. Hence, I would hope planning could help me propose a better transit solution for Canada where we can become less car-dependent and more public-transit oriented.