Laura Sagues

Hometown: Ross, California
Undergraduate Degree: University of Pennsylvania, Urban Studies, 2009
Favorite City: Philadelphia
Planning Concentration: Development

How did you get interested in planning?

I'm pursuing a career in real estate. I know the substance and critical thinking skills I take from planning will be an asset and give me a more more multi-dimensional approach to development.

What was your background prior to coming to Penn?

I sub-matriculated into planning while studying for my bachelors at Penn.

Why did you choose Penn to study city planning?

Penn Urban Studies majors can apply to start the masters during their senior year and stay just one extra year to complete the degree. I couldn't have had a better experience at Penn so I took the opportunity to stay.

What has been your favorite class so far?

I can't narrow it down to one; the planning curriculum covers so much that classes are often hard to compare. I use what I learned in quantitative methods all the time; it was immediately practical. Workshop was rewarding and my first real exposure to the planning process. Property Development was great because it was so straightforward and gave me tools that I've needed in all other real estate classes, Workshop and at my internship.

Are you involved in any planning related activities?

I'm co-president of the Real Estate club along with Steven Van Leer, an architecture student. The club does a lot to cover the nexus of planning and development and often collaborates with the Law School and Business School clubs. We have many active members with diverse backgrounds and interests.

What are your career ambitions?

I'm very interested real estate, especially in development and asset management. I'm working for a developer right now in Philadelphia. I try to keep myself involved in as many different areas of the industry as possible because I'd like to develop on my own or with a partner in the future.