Senior Transportation Planner, Gresham Smith
B.S. EAS 2003; M.C.R.P. 2005
Young
Megha
Gresham Smith
Atlanta, Georgia
Please briefly describe your current job:
Senior Transportation Planner - I work for a private consultant (Gresham Smith) and manage a variety of transportation planning efforts for state and local governments, regional agencies, and similar entities.
What is your favorite part of your current position:
I truly feel like the work I do is helping to improve people's lives - improving commute times, creating more opportunities to walk or bike and enjoy nature, or making sure people have safe ways to access bus stops - everyone deserves to have safe and convenient ways to get around.
How did your EAS education prepare you for your current job?:
I was exposed to so many fantastic aspects of earth and atmospheric sciences. Even though my focus was meteorology and air quality, this exposure gave me a well-rounded education. I appreciated the small class sizes and attention we received from excellent professors. I feel like the greatest value of my EAS education was sharpening my critical thinking skills and encouraging me to think in a holistic manner, both of which are crucial for my current role.
What do you wish you had known as an EAS undergraduate in order to land the job of your dreams?:
Your definition of a "dream job" will change over time, and that's okay. As you get exposed to different disciplines and fields and have the opportunity to intern in different positions, you will hone in on what you truly enjoy. You may even have the opportunity to tap into expertise of different fields you've worked in, which is always fun!
