Alumni profile: Katherine O'Neil
Meet Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖÐÌØÍø Urban Design and City Planning graduate Katherine who talks to us about her path from Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖÐÌØÍø graduate to owner & placemaking consultant of placemaking business Builtfully.
15 November 2022
Degree programme:ÌýUrban Design & City Planning MSc
Graduation year:Ìý2019
Current job role:ÌýOwner & Placemaking Consultant
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 Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖÐÌØÍø 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 Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖÐÌØÍø prepare you for the workplace?
I learned how to enhance my writing, communications design, and project management skills at Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖÐÌØÍø. 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 Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖÐÌØÍø Alumni Group in Boston, and I have attended their events. It is so lovely to stay connected to the Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖÐÌØÍø 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 Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖÐÌØÍø 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.
- Focus on your strengths and show up as a good team member for projectsÌý
- Realise you can learn from your fellow classmates as well as your books and professorsÌý
- Treat London as a place to find inspiration from, because it has so much to offer.
Need help with your job applications or CV?Ìý
Get free access to VMockÌý- an online tool that can provide immediate tips and advice on how to improve your CV.ÌýAfter this, don’t forget, you can book a 1-2-1 appointment with our dedicated team of friendly Careers Consultants. Find out more here.
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