I had the opportunity to orchestrate a research project for the city using data that had never been given attention to previously. This role gave my job specific responsibilities and prepared me for what a career in planning and municipal administration involves. My bosses trusted me to deliver my work without persistently overseeing what I was doing and I found that it helped me grow an autonomous learner. I had responsibilities that were expected to be completed and I had to them under my own time frame and guidance; this is unlike a class setting and was beneficial for me to adjust my expectations for the working world.
What I wish was different
The city of Cambridge is a wonderful employer and I would recommend them for any ambitious student trying to gain experience in planning and community development, there was nothing to complaint about in my time working for them.
Advice
It took me many emails to finally find an opportunity that would most benefit me and my future prospects. I emailed 20 different towns surrounding my hometown about planning oppurtunities and was even willing to take unpaid work. My diligence allowed me to have a variety of options for what I finally selected and prepared me for an application process post-graduation. My advice is to apply, apply, apply, and eventually a rewarding experience will present itself. Be humble and remain confident in the face of rejection or dismissal and it will prepare you for the pursuit of your career later in life.
