The Land Group is a unique Landscape Architecture firm that houses Landscape Architects, Civil Engineers and Land Surveyors all under one house. They are a design-first firm that values collaboration and innovation to create a positive impact on the community.

My Task
My main task as an extern was the research project. Every year The Land Group hires a group of interns that not only get to work on a mock project, assist on active projects but are assigned a specific research project. This year the research project was “Designing for the Aging Population”. Our final product was a design toolkit that took into consideration design strategies specifically for the needs of the aging population. We also had an amazing opportunity to present our final toolkit to community professionals involved in city planning and policy making. As I worked with the interns I had to balance my professional background by providing guidance yet not overstepping and working together as a team.

During my externship I was able to learn more about Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering and Land Survey. I have joked around with many people that I will never look at a sidewalk or parking lot the same again. I learned so much about each profession and how interconnected they all are.

Educational Takeaways
After this experience I can confidently encourage students to look into these professions now that I know more about them. Many different electives can explore these professions by providing units and lessons that focus on the design process, using different types of computer software and even just learning more about these professions and career opportunities.

The most important takeaway from this experience solidifies my belief that executive functioning skills should be a priority for students. I saw first hand how crucial communication, organization and time management is in a professional workplace.

This externship has been so inspiring. I am so grateful for the experience of working with positive, uplifting professionals.

Photos by Dylan Hull

Grade Level and Subject Taught: High School PE/Health/Electives