Lauren Costello '23 is particularly interested in wildlife conservation. Her happy place is conducting research outdoors, far away from city life. So, urban planning was on her mind when she went internship hunting.
A professor suggested she check out an opportunity with FOCUS (Future of Cities and Urban Sustainability) Lab. Located in downtown Troy, the "lab" hosts interactive exhibits with a focus on sustainable urban design solutions. This weekend, a new exhibit opens: The Future of Main Street. And while urban planning may not be Lauren's passion, the project allowed her to connect with her own Main Street.
The Cohoes native worked on a display highlighting the past, present, and future of Remsen Street, the main downtown drag in her hometown. She worked with City Hall, dug up historical information, and uncovered old photos.
Lauren actually works on Remsen Street, at Marra's Pharmacy, and she's had a front row view of sustainability projects. It was a disruption when sidewalks were dug up to install rubber wells instead of tree grates, but her perspective is different now. The future wildlife conservationist is getting an up close look at urban sustainability.
"I learned that the internship doesn't have to perfectly align with your interests. Just do it. I've been able to improve my communications skills. I've had to coordinate with multiple people at multiple times which has helped with my organizational skills."
Lauren plans to take a gap year next year, and perhaps a job with the New York State Parks. After that, she'll pursue graduate school, and then a career in field work. City life was a nice change of pace, but her next stop will be back among the wildlife.
