Meet Taylor Barry
Plan NH Intern through the Semester for Impact Program
What's your major?
" I am currently a sophomore at UNH Durham with a dual major in Community & Environmental Planning and Sustainability. "
What are your career goals within the planning field?
" I hope to develop and influence public policy, especially related to sustainability, on the state and local level. This could take the form of a sustainability director, energy manager, or town planner. I am also interested in working at a non-profit related to social justice, community planning, or sustainability! "
How did you first hear about Plan NH, and what made you want to intern here?
" I first heard about Plan NH through the University of New Hampshire and the College for Innovation’s Semester for Impact Program. It pairs students with internships at non-profits in the Durham area. When I heard about Plan NH, I was intrigued. I have experience in climate justice advocacy. Now, as I progress through my major, I am realizing the intersection of affordable housing and smart growth with climate justice. This semester, I wanted to explore an internship that used landscape design to cultivate community and environmental stewardship. That is why I joined Plan NH. Not only does the organization make a positive impact across the state, but they do so in such an innovative way. "
Are there any specific projects that you are particularly excited to work on?
"I love Plan NH’s charrette program. Charrettes are such a unique and comprehensive approach to community planning. I am excited to explore this program as I progress in my internship. In particular, I look forward to developing analysis reports of how Plan NH’s charrettes have made an impact on community development thus far and celebrating 30 Years of Charrettes later this year! "
Since starting your studies, what has surprised you most about the planning field?
" It is fascinating how multidisciplinary planning is! Within my major, everyone has a niche interest from green building design to transit-oriented development to affordable housing. Regardless, my peers and I agree that planning tools can be used to cultivate a sense of place and provide social services to all communities. "
Outside of your studies and internship, how do you spend your time?
" I am a member of the Women’s Club Soccer Team and the Outing Club at UNH so I love to be outdoors and active. I have appreciated all the snow that we have gotten this winter so that I can go skiing! I also like to read and adore spending time with my dog Maverick. "
Ok, give us a fun fact about Taylor Barry!
" It is one of my goals to hike all 48 of the 4,000 footers in New Hampshire. I have 15 down so far! "
Learn more about the College for Social Innovation and the Semester for Impact Program by visiting their website at www.collegeforsocialinnovation.org.
