SRC Regional Representative — Region I

Lauren McKim

lmckim@rutgers.edu

Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
First-year M.C.R.P. student; expected graduation/May 2012

Leadership & Volunteer Positions & Planning-Related Activities

Executive Board Member (2011); APA Student Representative (2011)
Rutgers Association of Planning and Public Policy Students (RAPPS)

• Shape and provide input on the events, programming and activities of the organization
• Encourage student involvement in professional and social activities beyond academics
• Provide a voice and connection for planning students to the New Jersey Chapter of APA

Executive Committee Member (2011)
New Jersey Chapter, American Planning Association

•  Communicate the interests and concerns of students to Chapter leadership

Legislative Committee Member (2011)
New Jersey Chapter, American Planning Association

•  Help to communicate and implement legislative priorities of the Chapter

Conference Committee Member (2011)
New Jersey Chapter, American Planning Association

• Participate in session selection and coordinate student volunteers

Vice-Chair, Education Committee (2009 – 2010)
Young Leaders Group of the Washington DC District Council of the Urban Land Institute

• Led a group of 12 volunteers in developing events for the Young Leaders Group of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Washington on current topics in planning and real estate development
• Contributed to the strategic plan and direction of the Young Leaders Group as a member of the Steering Committee

About APA and Planning

Describe how you have benefited from APA student membership to date.

Given that I am new to the field of planning, my APA student membership has been a great way to immerse myself in the profession and connect with practicing planners, who daily address real world challenges and opportunities in urban and regional development.  As a volunteer at the Chapter's annual conference, I also had the opportunity to attend sessions and gained a better understanding the dynamic planning environment of New Jersey.

Describe your qualifications for the SRC Regional Representative.

• Previous experience identifying the needs and shaping the direction of an active subgroup of a larger professional organization – the Young Leaders Group of the Washington DC District Council of ULI
• Demonstrated leadership and active participation in reaching organizations' goals
• Enjoy communicating one-on-one, in small and large groups, and in public settings with a broad range of people; I feel that I can successfully convey the views and priorities of students within my region to the leadership of APA, if elected
• Strong commitment to the value and benefit of involvement in professional and student organizations, as demonstrated by my current membership in APA, ULI and RAPPS

How can APA and its student leaders assist planning students transition into planning careers?

Facilitating interaction between current professionals and students is one of the most important ways APA and its student leaders can assist this transition.  Providing seminars specifically for students, which feature a variety of planning professionals in the region, would also be invaluable.  Topics might include: current issues in planning, future employer expectations, and professional skills needed in the work place.

Why did you choose planning as a career path?

The interdisciplinary approach of the profession was what first drew me to planning.  I particularly have the desire to better understand the connection between physical space and human interaction and the impact that has on our society.  By pursuing a career in planning, I hope to gain the range of skills necessary to help tackle the challenges of urban revitalization and development.

What have you learned from previous leadership experience?

Previous leadership experience has taught me that leadership is not just about communicating a common vision, but about listening and recognizing the value and input from the group in developing that vision.  A good leader can guide the direction of an organization or a project, but I have learned that an effective leader motivates the members of the group and that leads to the successful fulfillment of goals.  I have learned being a leader means demonstrating the type of engagement, excitement and work ethic in yourself that you hope to see in others.