Nikki Rao
International student Nikki Rao is keen to use her combined Master of Urban Planning (Professional) and Urban Design to positively impact the way we live.
"After graduating overseas with a theory-heavy Bachelor of Arts in geography and sociology, I wanted to further specialise in an area that allowed me to apply practical skills and be impactful in my career.
"When I discovered this programme at the University of Auckland, I was impressed by the course descriptions and the opportunity to do a combined masters covering both aspects of urban planning and urban design as opposed to choosing one or the other."
I was further impressed that I would receive a professional degree from a highly-ranked and reputable international university.
"In my combined masters, I am exploring the challenges and opportunities of implementing biophilic urbanism to enhance urban regeneration initiatives and place-making in Auckland. I am fascinated by how our relationship with nature has evolved and how this continues to influence how we plan and design cities.
"The most valuable skill I have gained from my degree, aside from the practical application, is collaboration. Through group projects with peers of various academic and professional backgrounds, I have realised that collaboration breeds creativity in this field. We have so much to offer and to learn from one another."
One of the best aspects about the University is its convenient location. I love that the campus is so well situated – right in the heart of Auckland! I can read in the park between classes or grab sushi or supplies across the road from my department building. I can even finish class and walk to the wharf with a coffee to unwind and enjoy the views of the harbour. It's great!
"The most helpful learning services offered to me at the University have been ‘AskAuckland’ for general campus and enrolment enquiries, and DRH (Digital Research Hub) for software tutorials. In terms of boosting career opportunities, CDES (Career Development and Employability Services) has been great at organising career fairs, and groups like SUPA (Students of Urban Planning and Architecture) have been amazing at organising events with experts in the field to give us an idea of the work that is currently being done and the opportunities that lay ahead.
"During my study, I have had the chance to gain some professional experience. I interned in a role that allowed me to enhance the company's GIS (Geographic Information System) capabilities to answer business challenges regarding environmental impact and policy. I worked with an extremely talented and knowledgeable team of experts, one of whom turned out to be a professor at the University of Auckland."
Once I move into the industry, I intend to leverage my degree by actively contributing to projects prioritising environmental sustainability, social equity, and cultural identity. Eventually, I aspire to take on leadership roles and be a force for positive change. I want my passions to translate into the work I do.
"To those looking to study this degree, the built environment encompasses so much more than its infrastructure. It shapes and is shaped by how we live and function as a society. If you want to understand the impact that policy changes, market influences, or challenges like climate change and social inequality have on urban development, this is the degree for you."