Kyle Mcpheron, Planning
What inspired your decision to come to Environmental Design at CU Boulder?
I had changed my major several times before I had actually settled on ENVD. I enrolled as an Engineering Physics major and eventually switched over to Psychology. Neither of these paths fully liberated me in what I wanted to do and my discovery of Urban Planning as a field is really what drew me to Environmental Design.
Did you know right away that you wanted to major in sustainable planning and urban design? How/when did you know?
I did! I came into ENVD largely because it was the only way I could pursue the field. I had wavered a little through the process and almost pivoted to architecture, but once I’d taken my second Planning studio, I knew it was where I belonged.
Do you have a favorite project that you're currently working on/have worked on in the past?
My last project in ENVD1140 was absolutely wonderful. It was my first time developing a site from the ground up and really helped me test my urban design skills.
What has the program taught you about yourself as you’ve taken on your educational career?
Honestly, I’ve learned a lot about taking a step back from my designs and asking myself not only are they viable, but are they wanted? I think we can catch ourselves designing for us rather than the communities that we are trying to help. In the end, these developments are for people. Only when we work in tandem with communities' wants and needs can we fully excel at our practice.
What would you like to do upon graduating from Environmental Design?
I would like to pursue a job at an urban design firm where I could work with communities across the country in developing and modernizing their communities. However, I would absolutely be open to working with the city government in ensuring a united vision for urban development.
What tips or advice would you give to future design students?
Follow your heart! For me, I adored architecture, but it lacked a certain ability to organize and benefit communities at large and that’s largely why I never fully committed to the switch. Understand that only you know what’s best for you and in the end if you are willing to believe that, things will work out as they should.