2024 Plan Hillsborough Fellows shine

Each year, students from the University of South Florida join Plan Hillsborough to gain professional experience. Meet the cohort joining our team this year!

Miriam Gbedy

What year of your USF program are you in?

I am in my first year of USF’s Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) program.

Why did you choose planning as a career path?

I chose to study MURP because the program aligns with my career goals and aspirations. I aspire to be one of the best, if not the best planning officers in the world and make a meaningful impact within the field. 

Why did you choose the Planning Commission for your fellowship?

I chose the Planning Commission for my fellowship because it presents me with the opportunity to engage in real-life projects while pursuing my master’s in urban planning. This hands-on experience will deepen my understanding of urban development and policy implementation and provide me with practical insights that go beyond classroom learning. This dynamic learning environment will significantly shape my planning career since it will help me improve my skills, build professional networks, and gain the experience needed to influence meaningful change in urban development.

Samantha Landes

What year of your USF program are you in?

I am in my first year of the USF MURP program, though this is my third semester if we count summer classes.

Why did you choose planning as a career path?

I chose planning as a career path because I took a human geography course and was told this was the only related career where I could support myself (thanks, internet!). I have stayed pursuing urban planning because it is interesting, and I enjoy the classes I’ve took. It was my minor when I was an undergraduate student.

Why did you choose the Planning Commission for your fellowship?

I chose the Planning Commission for my fellowship because the people were very nice when I interviewed. The work also sounded interesting, but everyone I interviewed with was very kind. I wanted a fellowship because I wanted to be able to gain practical planning experience while pursuing my degree.

Michelle Newton

What year of your USF program are you in?

I am currently in my first year of the USF Master of Urban & Regional Planning program.

Why did you choose planning as a career path?

I chose planning as a career path because I was interested in how cities and regions can shape their futures through planning. I wanted to learn how to help bridge the gap between communities and the vital resources that enhance their quality of life.

Why did you choose the TPO for your fellowship?

I chose the TPO because it presents me with real-world knowledge and experience of planning initiatives within the Tampa Bay area. It gives me a comprehensive understanding of the short-term and long-term needs of Hillsborough County. I have also been given the opportunity to network and collaborate with experienced planning professionals in the industry. Plan Hillsborough has provided me with invaluable knowledge, experience, and skills that will continue to shape my planning career.

Jocelyn Daniels

Jocelyn is a returning Fellow this year! See her spotlight here.

Livia de Oliveira

While not a USF MURP Fellow, Livia is working with the Planning Commission as an intern to assist the Public Engagement team.

What year of your USF program are you in?

I am in the final year of a double major in Economics and Sociology with a certificate in business.

Why did you choose planning as a career path?

I’ve always been passionate about improving social and economic outcomes for communities. Planning allows me to combine my interests in policy, public engagement, and data-driven strategies to shape equitable, sustainable cities.

Why did you choose the Planning Commission for your internship?

The Planning Commission aligns with my goals of community development and policy innovation. Their focus on shaping sustainable growth through collaboration and public engagement offers an ideal environment for me to contribute while learning about impactful urban planning practices. During my internship, I have been able to meet exceptional professionals and engage with key projects in Hillsborough County.