Alumni Q&A: Alex Long

Having worked for the Government of Canada as a Senior Advisor in Resilient and Innovative Communities, Alex Long embarked on the International City Planning MSc at The Bartlett School of Planning. In this Q&A Alex shares his experience studying with us whilst engaging with urban challenges and extracurricular learning opportunities across London. Alex is currently undertaking research and consulting work for Canadian urban think tanks.

How was UCL different to what you had known at your previous university?

As opposed to a broad experience related to Arts and Social Sciences from my earlier university experiences, The Bartlett School of Planning at UCL had a clear focus on planning and the built environment. The Bartlett School of Planning was also closely linked with planning issues and debates happening in London, so the experience was very tangible – the application of planning theory and practice to “real world” London situations.

What attracted you to UCL?

Having worked in the field of urban sustainability in Canada for over 10 years, the BSP was recommended to me by a number of practitioners and thought leaders based on its international reputation in urban planning and design. I was also attracted to the international planning programme as it promised a collective learning experience with students from around the world and provided a critical perspective on how planning practice was responding to critical urban issues across countries, regions and continents.  

What aspects of your studies did you enjoy the most?

I enjoyed the readings, lectures, tutorial discussion, the international group project in Barcelona, and the research and field work for my dissertation.   

What makes you most proud to be a UCL graduate?

Being affiliated with a world class institution that stresses a progressive, inclusive and place-based approach to planning.  

What were the most interesting things you did, saw or got involved with while at UCL?

UCL offered many relevant lectures and events open to students. Two initiatives of note: Just Space and events at the UCL Urban Room.  

In what way did studying in London enrich your studies?

London is grappling with a host of challenges which were of direct relevance to my research including urban regeneration, gentrification, housing affordability, climate impacts, and pandemic recovery and resilience.  

What advice would you give to a student considering UCL?

Really take advantage of all the extra lectures, events and learning opportunities on offer. And not just at UCL, but other higher education, cultural institutions and community organisations in London.   

How did being at UCL change you and the way you think about yourself?

As a “mature” student, I gained new ways of approaching and analysing complex social, economic and environmental issues and applying that to my professional work.

Which parts of your UCL experience were the best preparation for your job?

I was involved in three group projects based on “real world” planning challenges which demonstrated the tensions between various interests and the challenges with designing and implementing projects addressing core social, economic and environmental issues in cities.

What are your future ambitions?

Continue working in my field of urban sustainability and innovation, but with a deeper understanding and appreciation of how urban planning, design and the built environment need to be factored into community planning to build greater resilience to future shocks and increase adaptive capacity.

What advice would you give to a student looking to get into a career in your sector?

Urban planners can play many different roles – from working for the public sector to private consulting firms to not-for-profit organisations.  Have an idea of how you want to contribute to your community and the key challenges you want to help address and/or make a difference towards.  This will help you focus, make the most out of your postgraduate experience and equip you with a specialisation for future employment.