As I approached my final semester at Columbia University, I found myself reflecting on my career aspirations and the path I wanted to take. I was particularly passionate about urban design, with a specific interest in placemaking, which emphasizes creating engaging, people-centered spaces. I set out to target firms that shared this focus, However, I also recognized the importance of being open to new experiences, which led me to consider landscape architecture—an area I had yet to explore but felt could enrich my understanding of the built environment.
As an international student, I was keenly aware of the significance of working in a firm that not only prioritized collaboration but also fostered diversity. Civitas had worked on a range of projects, across the country. I believed that a varied team could bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table, enhancing the creative process. My search for the right opportunity took an exciting turn when my professor at Columbia introduced me to Mark Johnson. That introduction proved to be a pivotal moment in my career journey, and the rest, as they say, is history.