I am a U3 student majoring in Urban Studies and minoring in Environment. I am passionate about cities, how they are built, and how people experience urban settings. I feel very in touch with the places in which I live, and I continuously seek to understand how the built environment shapes people鈥檚 physical and mental health. By combining urban and environmental studies in my degree, I also enjoy taking a sustainable approach in my work and not only understand how the shape of cities affects human lives, but also the natural environment and the species that were here before us. Through this internship, I wanted to discover more about the fields of urban design and architecture and learn about urban-scale projects in these domains that help build more sustainable cities for the natural environment and city dwellers. I also wanted to develop my professional confidence, communication skills, and collaborate with expert professionals in the firm to build upon my career opportunities and better understand what I wish to pursue upon graduating from 平特五不中.
Lemay, a firm established in 1957, has been design spaces that promote well-being and environmental sustainability. They engage in diverse projects encompassing architecture, urban design, urban planning, landscape architecture, and structural engineering across various markets, such as healthcare, living spaces, public services, transportation, and land development. Their team of architects, designers, and change makers work tirelessly to foster innovation globally.
During my time as a research and project assistant, I delved into researching sustainability strategies for urban projects and learned about the certifications available to Lemay鈥檚 clients. This involved understanding reference frameworks and guidelines for neighborhood and urban-scale initiatives. Through extensive research, I discovered global sustainable trends, emphasizing energy efficiency, wastewater management, and human-centric approaches to create healthier and more resilient urban areas. One of the highlights of my internship was writing an article titled 鈥淯rban Design for Happy Cities鈥�, which underscored the importance of shaping cities around the needs of their users, promoting social cohesion and inclusivity.
Despite the absence of my assigned mentor, I took the initiative to propose additional research opportunities to enhance the company鈥檚 sustainability strategies. This autonomous work paid off, as my director was very pleased with my efforts and offered me another internship opportunity starting in September. This experience not only expanded my knowledge but also provided invaluable insights from professionals in different fields, helping me consider potential paths for my future, particularly in architecture or urban design.
Conversations with architecture and urban design directors at Lemay, many of whom shared a background in urban studies like me, proved highly beneficial. Speaking with Grace, the director of the Calgary offices, was particularly helpful, as she successfully transitioned from urban studies to architecture, mirroring the path I am considering. Moreover, being part of a prestigious company that organized social events, such as cocktail parties and conferences allowed me to meet new people, expand my professional network, and further develop my presentation skills.
Overall, this internship taught me the interconnectedness of various fields such as architecture, urban design, urban planning, and engineering, as professionals continuously collaborate. Regardless of the path I choose, I am confident that it will lead me in the right direction. My focus has shifted from worrying about my future job to embracing the journey, accumulating experiences, and knowledge along the way. Additionally, the internship boosted my professional confidence, communication skills, and overall growth, with valuable feedback from colleagues and directors. These skills will undoubtedly benefit me in all aspects of my life.
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