Devon Jenkins

Seattle, Washington

Cornell's focus on social justice plus the university-wide emphasis on bridging disciplinary divides were both important factors for me in choosing to come to AAP.

Why did you choose Cornell and AAP?

Cornell's focus on social justice, plus the university-wide emphasis on bridging disciplinary divides were both important factors for me in choosing to come to AAP. Ultimately, though, it was the people I met when visiting, including faculty, students, and staff, and the intangible feeling that came across so clearly when I visited — a group of people that, despite nuanced differences, felt truly engaged, enthusiastic, and motivated by a call for something larger than themselves, and seemed to really enjoy each other and the work they were doing.

What inspired you to join the field of city and regional planning?

The desire to work towards a healthier society. I came to AAP with a bit more professional experience than most students (about 15 years worth), and while my career before coming to AAP was focused on social and environmental justice, I'd come to see that the skills, tools, and opportunities present in the field of planning would enable me to be more effective at working towards the impact that I'd like to have. That and planning honestly just makes me happy!

What experiences have contributed to your sense of belonging at AAP?

I'm honestly quite impressed with how sincere and open the students, faculty, and staff are in the department. There are always fun and interesting things to go to, and people are really warm and inviting. It's a great environment to be part of.

What are your extracurricular interests and how have you incorporated them into your college life?

Growing food, riding bikes, pruning fruit trees, meeting strangers, storytelling, fermenting food, foraging, dorking out about transit and active transportation, hiking, backpacking, and taking time to be mesmerized by nature, people, and life.

What do you hope to accomplish during your time at AAP and after graduation?

To grow as a person and professionally, to nurture the relationships that I've started to make here, and gain skills, knowledge, and perspectives that will help me be more impactful in my life and work.

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