Written by Tamia Wall, 2023 Urban Design Center Intern & Student in North Carolina A&T’s Landscape Architecture Department

---

The summer of 2023 I embarked on a journey that would redefine my understanding of urban planning and design.  I had the incredible opportunity to intern at Charlotte Urban Design Center, and what unfolded over the next few weeks was transformative. From the first day to the last, every experience shaped me both personally and professionally. In this blog post, I’ll take you through the highlights of my summer internship, capturing the challenges, triumphs, and lessons that made it an unforgettable chapter in my life.

Stepping into the Charlotte Urban Design Center on my first day, excitement and nervousness intermingled within me. I was greeted by a team of passionate professionals, all devoted to shaping the Queen City into a better, more equitable, and beautiful place. As an intern, I was eager to contribute but also cautious about the tasks that lay ahead. However, the openness of my colleagues soon eased my anxieties, and I found myself embracing the unknown with an eagerness to learn.

The beauty of this internship was that it allowed me to immerse myself in various projects, from the Urban Arboretum Trail to community placemaking projects. I was exposed to the complexities of urban planning and design, the importance of data-driven decisions, and the significance of understanding diverse communities’ needs. One project involved reimagining an underutilized public space. Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, I learned from architects, landscape designers, urban planners, artists, and engineers. The experience of seeing a collective vision come to life through planning and design was profoundly rewarding.

No urban design endeavor is complete without engaging with the community it serves. Listening to the concerns and aspirations of residents was both humbling and eye-opening. Understanding the real impact of urban design decisions on people’s lives became a guiding principle in every subsequent project I worked on.

Balancing multiple projects, tight deadlines, and adapting to unforeseen changes demanded resilience and flexibility. There were moments when it felt overwhelming, but the continuous support of my mentors helped me overcome hurdles. These challenges taught me the importance of teamwork, effective communication, and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Beyond the technical skills and knowledge gained, my summer internship at Charlotte Urban Design Center catalyzed my personal growth. It challenged my preconceived notions about urban spaces and opened my eyes to the endless possibilities for creating sustainable and inclusive environments. I developed a deeper appreciation for the synergy between art, architecture, and functionality in shaping the urban landscape.

As the summer ended, with school approaching I found myself filled with gratitude for the experience I had at Charlotte Urban Design Center. The lessons learned left an indelible mark on my journey as an aspiring landscape architect. My internship reaffirmed my passion for making a positive difference in people’s lives through thoughtful design. As I step forward into my future endeavors, I carry with me the memories of this enriching summer, armed with a renewed commitment to creating spaces that inspire and unite communities like mine.