I Got Hired: Graduate Planner at Arup

Posted on: 6 October 2022 by Samantha Riella in Graduate stories

Class of 2021 MPlan Town and Regional Planning graduate Jess Jones, tells us more about her role as Graduate Planner at Arup.

What is your current job role and organisation you work for?

Graduate Planner at Arup.

How did you hear about the role?

My lecturer, Tom Moore, told me about a summer placement position at Arup.

How did you get to where you are now?

I had finished the MPlan at UoL and started looking for opportunities. After I was successful in getting and completing a summer placement with Arup Liverpool’s Cities, Planning, and Design team, I interviewed for the position of Graduate Planner. I got the role and have now been working at Arup for over a year.

What is your favourite experience as part of your role?

I’ve been working on a global project about designing cities for, and with, women, and as part of this, I helped to deliver a global workshop with people from over 40 countries from around the world. I got to truly listen and understand their intersectional experiences and it feels really rewarding to know I could make a difference to their lives through planning.

What was the most challenging part of your graduate journey?

Imposter syndrome! I really struggled (and still struggle) with feeling like I’m not good enough for the role I’m in and the company I’m with.

What are your top tips for other students?

1. In interviews, try to show your passion for the subject

2. Go for a company who shares your values

3. Believe in yourself!