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Meet ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº Urban Design and City Planning graduate Katherine who talks to us about her path from ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº graduate to owner & placemaking consultant of placemaking business Builtfully.

Please share a brief introduction to your career path, from graduation to where you are now.ÌýÌý

After I graduated, I decided to grow my Katherine O Creative Community, LLC and start my passion project, Builtfully. This placemaking business showcases the benefits of beautifully built and better places for all. I had previous experience working for a placemaking firm and city planning and housing non-profit organizations. Receiving my Masters at ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº gave me the confidence, skills, and expertise to grow my business further. During the last couple of years, I was Vice President and Interim President of a design museum board and joined a design committee for my local non-profit to improve our main street.

Provide a brief summary of your core duties and describe what skills are important to your role?ÌýÌýÌý

My business revolves around placemaking consultations, community events, and content. I have started a blog, am selling my photography, providing resources, and design consultants. After joining a main street organization design committee in my local town, I co-organize an event series for creatives to build community and connections. My skills come from the background I learned in my programme, experience, and education over the years.

How did your time at ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº prepare you for the workplace?

I learned how to enhance my writing, communications design, and project management skills at ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº. The attributes I discovered about myself were my strength in public speaking and working well with others to form a team.ÌýÌý

I found my study abroad to be so impactful in my life. I got to know and learn from people from all over the world. London is a vibrant and inspiring study place with many resources, history, and beauty. I am writing a book about my year abroad because it was life-changing for me! I hope others choose to do a transformative study abroad year like I was able to do.ÌýÌý

I am so happy there is an ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº Alumni Group in Boston, and I have attended their events. It is so lovely to stay connected to the ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº community! It is also helpful to build connections even after graduation!

Were there any challenges in your job hunt?ÌýÌý

During the pandemic, it was a difficult time doing community events and activating public spaces. People were still needing community, so finding ways to connect online. I started a Mastermind group, led Board meetings, and networked all online. Once I could network in person, I got out there again and connected with people at any networking opportunity including the ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº Boston Alumni event.ÌýÌý

I overcame these challenges by diving into a new community and getting involved. I have found that joining committees, boards, and volunteering is a great way to build relationships, network, and showcase one's skills. This leads to collaborations and work projects.

Top tips for current students: List up to 3 short quick tips that you would like to share with current students.

1. Focus on your strengths and show up as a good team member for projectsÌý
2. Realise you can learn from your fellow classmates as well as your books and professorsÌý
3. Treat London as a place to find inspiration from, because it has so much to offer.

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