By Alex L.
As I sat on the grassy hill in Gas Works Park, overlooking Lake Union and the city of Seattle, I could not help but marvel at the magnificent view that lay before me. The beautiful, blinking lights of the city and shimmering reflections on the water created a mural more memorable than the 4th of July fireworks themselves. In this moment, I felt insignificant as I gazed upon the entire city in front of me. I pondered how a small piece such as myself could impact the enormity of the world.
The following Monday, I returned to my workplace, Futurewise, with this question still resonating in my mind. But as I looked around, I saw my fellow colleagues all striving to create a better living environment for the Seattle population. Some were working on developing sustainable neighborhoods, some guarding the city’s shoreline against water pollution, while others were aiding the implementation of urban development policies. It was then that I realized how it was us, the tiny pieces, who together pieced the city of Seattle into the gorgeous metropolis it is now. Our individual work might appear trivial or unnecessary, but collectively we have the ability to contribute greatness in the world.
The following Monday, I returned to my workplace, Futurewise, with this question still resonating in my mind. But as I looked around, I saw my fellow colleagues all striving to create a better living environment for the Seattle population. Some were working on developing sustainable neighborhoods, some guarding the city’s shoreline against water pollution, while others were aiding the implementation of urban development policies. It was then that I realized how it was us, the tiny pieces, who together pieced the city of Seattle into the gorgeous metropolis it is now. Our individual work might appear trivial or unnecessary, but collectively we have the ability to contribute greatness in the world.
At Futurewise, I am proud to be part of an organization that impacts the city of Seattle. My community partner focuses on advocating for the smart growth policies of cities in King County. These past weeks, I have had amazing opportunities to participate in fieldwork by walking and observing the living conditions in underprivileged neighborhoods, to participate in an open house regarding the potential extension of the light rail, as well as taking part in a city council hearing. I have also conducted research on various long range development plans for certain neighborhoods and studied the existing policies on “public land for affordable housing” in various cities around the country. My work with Futurewise has ranged from focusing on a streetlight in Yesler Terrace to examining the entire city’s Comprehensive Plan for the next twenty years. While the work here can be challenging, I have gained invaluable knowledge and skills regarding urban planning that I hope to take with me in my future endeavors.
Beyond work, I have been blessed to experience urban life and unique culture of Seattle by exploring various parks, landmarks, restaurants, and markets. As a tiny piece of a large puzzle, I am excited to immerse myself in the community for the next five weeks to come.
Beyond work, I have been blessed to experience urban life and unique culture of Seattle by exploring various parks, landmarks, restaurants, and markets. As a tiny piece of a large puzzle, I am excited to immerse myself in the community for the next five weeks to come.