Over the next few weeks, CUGS will be celebrating members of the class of 2021 who have left a mark on Trinity College and those around them. We’ll be posting interviews with selected seniors as our Senior Spotlight series. Meet Amanda Lafferty, a senior Urban Studies major and Writing, Rhetoric, and Media studies minor from Chicago, IL.
How would you describe your time as an Urban Studies major at Trinity?
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time as an Urban Studies major, starting with my participation in the Cities Program as a first-year student. Each course I’ve taken has helped me gain a better sense of the world around me and question why urban processes happen, who they benefit, and how meaningful change can occur. There’s also an important emphasis on connecting with Hartford, from working with community organizations to exploring the city with a research focus. It’s important for me that our courses often feel very “hands-on” in the ways we are encouraged to physically go out and walk the city (which is probably why I’m drawn to the term “flaneur”).”
Which classes, instructors, or experiences particularly stand out for you and why?
“As someone who finds herself geeking out about sustainable transportation use, I really enjoyed “Geographies of Transport” with Professor Gamble. “Urban Nightlife since 1964” engaged my passion for music and my desire to understand the history of my interests, especially as an amateur DJ. I’m currently taking “Community Development Strategies” with Professor Delgado and have enjoyed how the class explores the systemic problems communities face while also looking at how people and organizations aim to solve such issues.”
What are your hopes and aspirations, post-graduation?
“I’m planning on going to graduate school for a master’s in City Planning!”
What advice would you give future Urban Studies majors, based on your experiences in the department?
“Take courses that seem to differ from your particular interests. Not only will certain classes surprise you by incorporating ideas you may be familiar with, but you’ll learn about these concepts under new lenses. Challenge yourself and the knowledge you hold by asking questions, exploring these questions and the possible answers, and looking at how your assumptions have changed and why. The great thing about Urban Studies being such an interdisciplinary major is that you can truly explore a wide range of concepts and further expand your knowledge about the cities we live in and the cities we hope to explore.”
