Students and New Planners
Make Connections to Launch and Advance Your Career
You're excited about making a difference in your community, and you're not alone!
Whether you're a planning student or a new planner, APA will help you gear up for the career you want.
Socialize for Success
Connect with peers and pros on campus and in communities.
- Planning Student Organizations interact with students, faculty, and local communities.
- Young Planners Groups network with professional planners at the chapter level, opening opportunities to find mentors, plan and attend events, and volunteer.
- Join an APA division and share your interest in a planning specialty.
- Student Representatives Council (SRC) hosts Navigating the Jump: Becoming Planner I
Be a Leader
Add your voice to the national planning conversation.
- Write for the APA Blog.
- Present at the National Planning Conference, or review session proposals.
- Join the Planners' Advocacy Network.
- Serve on APA's Student Representatives Council.
Get Recognized
Compete for awards, scholarships, and fellowships from APA, its chapters and divisions, and other organizations.
- APA Scholarships
- APA Outstanding Student Awards
- AICP Student Project Awards
- PSO Outstanding Planning Student Organization (PSO) Awards
- Chapter and division scholarships, grants, writing competitions, and more!
Connect Online
Join us:
Students and New Planners Blog Posts
December 7, 2022
Finding Meaning in Municipal Careers: Insights From Planning Directors
March 27, 2020
Career Advice for Recent Grads: Navigating the Pandemic
December 31, 2019
New Vision in 2020: APA Student Leadership
July 24, 2019
Emerging Professionals Plug Planning Across Borders
April 22, 2019
Street Air on Earth Day
July 17, 2018
APA Ambassador Brings Children’s Workshop to Life in Texas
March 22, 2018
APA Ambassador Gives San Francisco Youth a Fresh Look at the City
January 9, 2018
"Park for All" Playground Brings Together APA Ambassador and Texas Students