Over the past four years, DLBA’s summer placemaking intern program has given community-minded individuals the opportunity to make a positive impact on Downtown Long Beach. The placemaking interns not only gain valuable experience in working on a variety of projects to improve the public realm, but also bring new ideas and enthusiasm to our organization.
Jordyn Watters first explored Downtown Long Beach in a quest for a job opportunity while she was attending Chapman University to receive a bachelors in business administration. Impressed and drawn to DTLB, she returned and sought a placemaking internship with DLBA while pursuing an architectural design certificate at Orange Coast College. Jordyn recently completed a four-month internship under the direction of DLBA Placemaking Manager, Sean Warner who shared that, “Jordyn successfully completed a myriad of tasks on short deadlines while also bringing fresh ideas for potential placemaking projects.”
When asked why she sought a placemaking internship, Jordyn responded that it stemmed from an interest in cities and what makes them walkable, and more specifically what makes Long Beach unique and a great location to live.
In reflection upon her internship, Jordyn expressed appreciation for being able to learn about project implementation and its stages through being allowed to participate directly in the process. She found that being integrated into projects with a voice to share input on creative and design decisions was personally satisfying and key for her professional development. Additionally, she received many introductions to a variety of individuals in her potential field of work.
This was a “positive, insightful, and inspirational experience,” shared Jordyn. “It confirmed that this is what I want to do… urban planning with a focus in urban design. I want to help my community through design.”
Jordyn is currently applying for graduate school and the DLBA wishes her all the best in her future urban planning endeavors!
For open internship opportunities, please visit the DLBA Employment Opportunities.