Reflections on Urban Policy

I thoroughly enjoyed this course. It was very different from any of the other courses I have taken throughout this program, and I appreciate that. I learned many things that I would not have otherwise, not only given the course content but the course structure as well.

None of the other courses I have taken had an urban policy focus. Many have focused on either the federal or provincial levels of government. It was great for my learning to have a course that taught me more about how policy works at the municipal level, and how urban policy operates at all levels.

I finally actually learned what urban policy is, and how it requires attention from more than just one level of government. I learned that the vast majority of Canadians are impacted by urban policy, and that it affects many more people than those living in condos on King Street.

One of my favourite parts of the course was getting to speak to alumni. Having what functioned as a part informational session, part informal networking for half of the class was a fantastic opportunity. I learned so much from the alumni, and it really helped to be able to make sense of the course content through concrete and real-world examples. I also appreciated hearing from alumni from all different levels and spectrums of the policy process. Being able to hear about the pros and cons of working for a municipality or the federal level, or the type of work that is done on a daily basis at a not-for-profit vs. the province was illuminating. It also really drove home the whole point of the course, which is that urban policy is not straightforward and that it involves a lot of coordination, effort, and participation from all levels of government and non-government actors. It also was great to see where students who were in my spot, even a year or two ago, were now. It made me excited and hopeful for my future. Working with United Way was a great way to end the semester, as well. I saw the type of work that is possible after graduation, as that date looms ever and ever closer. Overall, I truly enjoyed this course and learned a lot. I look forward to taking the next 6 week intensive course with Professor Eidelman, and am excited to see what else is around the corner!