Second Year Urban Studies and Planning + Real Estate and Development @UCSD
Hi, my name is Ella and I'm a second-year Urban Studies and Planning major here at UCSD. I'm passionate about understanding how cities and communities are shaped, and I love that my major lets me explore those questions right here in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. When I'm not in class, you can find me working out, hiking, baking, cooking, kayaking, or exploring everything San Diego has to offer. I can't wait to share my love for this campus with you!
About me
- GenderFemale
- Current academic yearSophomore
- Age20
- Admission typeAdmitted as a freshman
- Academic focusArchitecture/Design
- Personality typeSomewhat extroverted
- College experience ratingAmazing
Tour type
- Campus tour
- Video chat
Hometown
San Jose, California
Major(s)
Urban Studies and Planning
Minor(s)
Real Estate and Development
Extracurriculars activities
- Greek life
- Club/Organization
- Job/Internship
- ROTC
- NCAA varsity sport
- Recreational sport
- Student government
- Community service
- Religious/Cultural group
- Art/Music/Performance
- Study abroad
- Other
Clubs, organizations & involvement
Women in Business, Sustainability Investment Group, TrailBlazers, SanDiego Beach Volleyball, Urban Change-makers, Architecture Club, Internship with California State Senate, On-Campus Job, Study Abroad Florence, Serving Seniors, Mustard Seed Project
Housing experience
- Dorm
- Off-campus house or apartment
- Fraternity or sorority house
- Home (Commuter)
- Other
Describe your college experience
My favorite experience at UCSD has been attending the Women in Business Conference. Being surrounded by so many talented, driven, and inspiring women, hearing their stories firsthand as panelists, was genuinely one of the most motivating nights of my college career. I left with new perspectives, real-world insights, and a deeper sense of what's possible for my own future. And to top it all off, the night ended with tacos at the Gliderport overlooking the ocean, a perfect San Diego evening. It reminded me that at UCSD, some of the most meaningful learning happens outside the classroom.
Tip for future students
Take advantage of every resource available to you, and there are a lot of them. UCSD offers an incredible range of academic support, clubs, networking events, and opportunities that many students don't discover until it's almost too late. My biggest piece of advice: say yes to things that scare you a little. The events, organizations, and experiences that pushed me outside my comfort zone ended up being the most rewarding parts of my time here. Don't wait until you feel "ready" — show up.
Favorite class
My favorite class has been Land Use Planning. It opened my eyes to how the decisions made about physical space, such as where we build housing, parks, roads, and communities, shape people's everyday lives in profound ways. It connected so many dots between policy, environment, and social equity in a way that felt immediately relevant to the real world. It's the kind of class that changes how you look at a city when you're walking through it.
Career goals
I hope to pursue a career as an Urban Planner/Planning consultant, either in the public or private Sector. I also hope to stay in San Diego!
Ideal way to spend a free night
I love finding a new spot to try, whether that be to watch the sunset, a new restaurant, a fun activity, or a sweet treat!
High school or secondary school
Branham High School, San Jose California
Meeting point
Triton Fountain on the University of California San Diego campus
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