Sara O’Connor
Degree: PhD in Urban and Environmental Planning and Policy
Graduation Date: Spring 2023
Hometown: Brooklyn, New York
Can you tell us a bit about your background and path to your graduate program?
Growing up in a multicultural city, I was very interested in languages and culture from an early age and traveled at every opportunity. As an undergraduate, I studied anthropology, peace and conflict studies, and the Middle East, and years later pursued a master’s degree in urban planning. The urban planning PhD program was an opportunity for me to combine these interests and experiences in pursuit of research about how people interact with and impact governance structures in cities in transitioning states.
Why did you choose your field of study and your program specifically?
As I was studying urban planning, cultures, and languages I was always fascinated by how people interact with and understand the built environment around them. The program at UCI, and my committee, encouraged me to interrogate this more deeply, and provided the opportunity to study the larger meaning and impacts of these interactions, particularly as it relates to political transition.
We hear that you’ve conducted development research in Kazakhstan. Can you tell us about it?
My dissertation research is comprised of qualitative comparative case studies in Kazakhstan. Data was collected through in-person and virtual fieldwork, interviews, and participant observation. As a graduate student research assistant, I’ve held positions in the Team Science Acceleration Lab, with Dr. Maritza Salazar Capo, and in the Research Justice Shop. These positions have allowed me to conduct policy, institutional, qualitative, and quantitative research with mentors in the schools of Social Ecology, Business, and Informatics.
How has your experience at UCI shaped your career path?
When I entered the degree program at UCI, I intended on going into industry and not academia. After working and observing professors and mentors who modeled the ability to do applied work while teaching, I’m considering staying in academia as it will allow me to make contributions on imperative social justice issues through research and teaching.
How do you envision your degree from UCI opening doors for you and benefitting your career?
The degree program at UCI has equipped me with invaluable skills and a network that I have been tapping into as I prepare to go on the job market. The School of Social Ecology is well-known and respected, and having it on my CV has already opened some doors for me.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone enrolling in the program?
Go on a nice long vacation before you start. It’s intense, but very rewarding!
Do you have a job lined up or are currently working?
I will be going on the job market in the Fall of 2022.
Where will you go from here?
I’m still looking for a job, but I plan to stay in southern California. This is a beautiful place with a wonderful community, and I’m looking forward to building my life here.