My name is Milli, and I am a fourth year MPLAN Urban Studies and Planning student at the University of Sheffield. I am grateful to have been selected as a recipient for the RTPI's Trust Undergraduate Bursary, celebrating diversity and excellence amongst UK planning students.
My journey into Planning
A question I get asked often is what made me choose planning as a degree and career path. My journey into planning was fuelled by my interest in the built environment, partly ignited by growing up in a UK city and being fascinated by my surroundings. Throughout school I had a strong interest in geography, particularly in a unit focused on the processes of urban regeneration. From this point I was sure I would like to go into a profession where I could contribute to the shaping of the built environment.
This led me to apply for the MPLAN programme at the University of Sheffield, committing to a four-year integrated master’s course during the pandemic. Despite the challenges, I was confident in my choice. I realised that planning offered a perfect platform to channel my interests in urban development, sustainability, creativity and logical thinking. The course is unique, emphasising ethics in planning, something that is essential for developing thoughtful, responsible planners.
From urban design projects to theoretical essays and report writing, my degree has been a fulfilling journey, broadening my understanding of how planners can drive sustainable, positive change in communities. A key highlight was a course fieldtrip to Rotterdam, where I gained insights into flood resilience, infrastructure and managing urban flooding risks. This year, I visited a local school introducing A-Level geography students to planning and expanding their knowledge of the field, with many expressing interests in the degree after learning more.
The Arts Tower, Western Park, University of Sheffield
Firth Court, University of Sheffield
Building knowledge and experience
The RTPI Trust Undergraduate Bursary has been instrumental in my professional growth. The bursary I received enabled me to pursue the following valuable work experiences by covering expenses.
- Planning consultancy: A two-week placement in a private consultancy provided hands-on experience with planning applications, appraisals and site visits.
- Summer internship: A four-week role with a commercial real estate firm’s planning and development team involved exciting projects including a pilot industrial initiative and a regional brownfield housing project.
These opportunities bridged the gap between academia and the professional world, reinforcing my confidence in applying university-acquired skills to real-world challenges. They underscored the impactful and unique role of planners in shaping environments for present and future generations.
Diversity in Planning
As a British-Asian student, I am acutely aware of the lack of minority representation in planning, with just 5% of planning professionals coming from ethnic minorities and 40% women, as noted in the RTPI’s 2023 State of the Profession report. My undergraduate research project on gender mainstreaming in cities, including a case study on women’s experiences in Sheffield, further illuminated the importance of inclusive and accessible urban spaces.
I aspire to contribute to sustainable and equitable urban spaces that cater to all members of society while promoting diversity and inclusion within the built environment profession. I believe diversity is important in shaping the built environment, given the diverse world we live in which requires diversity in thought and ideas to drive innovation.
Looking ahead
This September, I will begin my graduate role in London, where I look forward to applying the skills and knowledge I have gained as I work towards chartership. My goal is to contribute to innovative, inclusive and sustainable urban spaces while advancing diversity in the profession.
Encouragement for future applicants
The RTPI Trust Undergraduate Bursary Award gave me opportunities to grow academically and professionally. I would strongly encourage eligible students to apply for this bursary. It offers not only financial support for studies but also the opportunity to gain invaluable experiences that can shape your career in planning.
I would like to express my gratitude to the RTPI for this recognition and thank you for taking the time to read about my experience. I look forward to contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable future in planning!
Find out more and apply for a 2025 RTPI Trust Undergraduate Bursary
You can find out how to apply here.