6 answers
Kevin
Student
Pensacola, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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How do you get started in urban development and community engagement?
I will be graduating with my B.A. in Communication in May 2024. I will also be enrolling in an MPA program this Fall.
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6 answers
Jerry Tingstad
Professor/middle school teacher/48 years
93
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
First: Pay close attention to Patrick's answer. There is so much there.
On the other hand, I'm a little surprised regarding your question. Just about finishing the first four years at an institution of higher learning in communication and wishing to move on into public administration and you ask this question?
I would assume that you have spent a great deal of time in your local community. You should have an enormous amount of information regarding the area, its positives and challenges. Local television news. Local newspapers. 'word of mouth. All that is pert of communication.
Take a little time and answer the question for yourself.
On the other hand, I'm a little surprised regarding your question. Just about finishing the first four years at an institution of higher learning in communication and wishing to move on into public administration and you ask this question?
I would assume that you have spent a great deal of time in your local community. You should have an enormous amount of information regarding the area, its positives and challenges. Local television news. Local newspapers. 'word of mouth. All that is pert of communication.
Take a little time and answer the question for yourself.
Amalya Sukiasyan
ESOL teacher at Washington English Center
297
Answers
Yerevan
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
Hi Kevin,
It depends on the specific program you are going to apply for. Firstly, choose the program, check their application requirements, and apply being prepared for any expected challenges. If you mean starting a career/job in your mentioned fields, the best way is to find a relevant position. But if it doesn't happen so quickly, you can start from internship and work experience programs which are offered both in-person and online.
All the best.
It depends on the specific program you are going to apply for. Firstly, choose the program, check their application requirements, and apply being prepared for any expected challenges. If you mean starting a career/job in your mentioned fields, the best way is to find a relevant position. But if it doesn't happen so quickly, you can start from internship and work experience programs which are offered both in-person and online.
All the best.
Eric Corpuz
Director of Real Estate
2
Answers
Foster City, California
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Hi Kevin!
To add to the great advice already given, I would recommend attending local city council meetings and following local government meeting agendas. That might be a good resource for you to get more in tune with where community engagement is needed with respect to your urban development interests. Congratulations on your upcoming graduation!
To add to the great advice already given, I would recommend attending local city council meetings and following local government meeting agendas. That might be a good resource for you to get more in tune with where community engagement is needed with respect to your urban development interests. Congratulations on your upcoming graduation!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Kevin !
Congratulations on approaching your graduation ! A great milestone and goal achieved ! Since you are starting your Masters program in the Fall, I would suggest that you obtain a job in the social services realm and you can also consider being a housing inspector since you eventually want to go into city/urban development. It will require a specialized short training, though, but it will give you a fantastic way to learn the details of your community. There will always be a way to actually work as a city planner once you get some work history and good applicable experience behind you, plus your Masters Degree.
You can also see if you can obtain a job within your local city parks and recreation department. To be honest, your degree in Communications will be an asset to you. Figure out what your hours will be for working on your Masters Degree and hopefully you can get a job that works around your hours. I would advise registering at Linked In and Indeed and keeping an eye open for local employment that will put you out there in contact with local, state or federal offices. You can get to know some people and that may open doors for you during and after you receive your Masters Degree.
Congratulations on approaching your graduation ! A great milestone and goal achieved ! Since you are starting your Masters program in the Fall, I would suggest that you obtain a job in the social services realm and you can also consider being a housing inspector since you eventually want to go into city/urban development. It will require a specialized short training, though, but it will give you a fantastic way to learn the details of your community. There will always be a way to actually work as a city planner once you get some work history and good applicable experience behind you, plus your Masters Degree.
You can also see if you can obtain a job within your local city parks and recreation department. To be honest, your degree in Communications will be an asset to you. Figure out what your hours will be for working on your Masters Degree and hopefully you can get a job that works around your hours. I would advise registering at Linked In and Indeed and keeping an eye open for local employment that will put you out there in contact with local, state or federal offices. You can get to know some people and that may open doors for you during and after you receive your Masters Degree.
Thank you for the advice, Michelle.
Kevin
You are very welcome, Kevin !
Michelle M.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
750
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Kevin, thank you for reaching out and asking your question. I also wanted to say congratulations on your upcoming graduation and MPA program enrollment. Your interest in Urban development and community engagement offer impactful career paths.
To start your journey, it's crucial to strengthen your academic foundation by incorporating courses on urban planning or community development into your MPA program. Furthermore, don't underestimate the power of networking at conferences and events, pursuing internships for hands-on experience, and staying updated on industry trends.
Additionally, immersing yourself in local communities can offer invaluable insights. Consider joining esteemed professional associations like APA or ICMA and seeking mentorship for expert guidance. Remember, it's never too early to find a mentor, and you're not limited to just one.
Lastly, it's essential to gain skills in project management, public speaking, and data analysis, all while leveraging your background in communication. These skills are vital in Urban Development and Community Engagement. Don't hesitate to explore various specializations within urban development that resonate with your interests and ambitions.
To start your journey, it's crucial to strengthen your academic foundation by incorporating courses on urban planning or community development into your MPA program. Furthermore, don't underestimate the power of networking at conferences and events, pursuing internships for hands-on experience, and staying updated on industry trends.
Additionally, immersing yourself in local communities can offer invaluable insights. Consider joining esteemed professional associations like APA or ICMA and seeking mentorship for expert guidance. Remember, it's never too early to find a mentor, and you're not limited to just one.
Lastly, it's essential to gain skills in project management, public speaking, and data analysis, all while leveraging your background in communication. These skills are vital in Urban Development and Community Engagement. Don't hesitate to explore various specializations within urban development that resonate with your interests and ambitions.
Thank you so much, Patrick!
Kevin
Houcine Lakhchach
Career Development Specialist | U.S Department exchange Alumnus | EFL/ESL trainer | Program manager
139
Answers
Kenitra, Gharb-Chrarda-Beni Hssen, Morocco
Updated
Houcine’s Answer
Hello Kevin,
Embarking on a career in urban development and community engagement with a B.A. in Communication and an upcoming enrollment in an MPA program is an exciting journey. To get started, consider leveraging your communication skills to build connections within the community. Engage in local events, attend town hall meetings, and connect with community leaders. Internships with organizations focused on urban development or local government can provide hands-on experience and insights. Networking with professionals in your desired field, both within your academic circles and through industry events, can open doors to opportunities. Stay informed about urban development projects and community initiatives in your area, and actively seek ways to contribute and collaborate. Your MPA program will further equip you with valuable knowledge and skills, enhancing your ability to make a meaningful impact in urban development and community engagement.
Warm regards,
Houcine
Embarking on a career in urban development and community engagement with a B.A. in Communication and an upcoming enrollment in an MPA program is an exciting journey. To get started, consider leveraging your communication skills to build connections within the community. Engage in local events, attend town hall meetings, and connect with community leaders. Internships with organizations focused on urban development or local government can provide hands-on experience and insights. Networking with professionals in your desired field, both within your academic circles and through industry events, can open doors to opportunities. Stay informed about urban development projects and community initiatives in your area, and actively seek ways to contribute and collaborate. Your MPA program will further equip you with valuable knowledge and skills, enhancing your ability to make a meaningful impact in urban development and community engagement.
Warm regards,
Houcine