Nash Rougvie
Salem, Massachusetts
Aside from the prestige and reputation of AAP, what drew me to Cornell was the unparalleled opportunity to take an interdisciplinary approach to such a novel and complicated subject.
Why did you choose Cornell and AAP?
Aside from the prestige and reputation of AAP, what drew me to Cornell was the unparalleled opportunity to take an interdisciplinary approach to such a novel and complicated subject. The wide range of classes in URS and related subject areas means that I can explore my vast array of interests in the social sciences, while also having the ability to branch out into other areas that may surprise me. Additionally, Ithaca is the perfect place to go to college. The natural beauty is unique and inspiring, and provides a great setting to be able to focus on my education without the distractions that a large city can bring.
What inspired you to join the field of city and regional planning?
Growing up, I've always had a passion for geography. I loved learning about different places and cultures, and there was nothing I enjoyed more than scanning a new map. The most enriching and enjoyable experiences of my life have been my experiences traveling, when I am able to interact with these places and cultures first hand. My love for cities grew from this, as I grew to discover that urban environments are the best way to truly experience a different place. As I explored more and more, I came to see planning as the best way to apply my passions to the real world and continue to enrich myself in the areas that have always fascinated me.
What are your extracurricular interests and how have you incorporated them into your college life?
Coming from a small school with very few options for classes, I hope to continue to use extracurricular activities as a means of supplementing my educational experience to tailor it more towards my particular interests. In high school, I founded and ran our Model United Nations, in order to create an opportunity for people who have similar interests in geography and international relations to get involved in and actively discuss the fields. I also tutored students for the AP Human Geography test, which I had self-studied for and taken the year before. This was something I particularly enjoyed, as teaching geography provided new perspectives on the subject that I had not experienced or examined before. I have also participated in competitive trivia in the form of quiz bowl and history bowl, which were fun ways to use the knowledge I had acquired.
What do you hope to accomplish during your time at AAP and after graduation?
My main goal for my time at AAP is to gain a clearer idea of how I want to and will be able apply my interests to the real world. Given how dynamic and rapidly growing the field of urban studies is, having the opportunity to explore different areas at a very high academic level is what excites me the most about AAP.
