The Sky is the Limit: Tiara Stephen '24 MS Urban Planning
Eight Questions with Master of Science in Urban Planning Student Tiara Stephen
“I want children who have similar skin complexion as me to know that the sky is the limit, and our ideas are unique and are to be shared."
Master of Science in Urban Planning student Tiara Stephen came to Tucson from Brooklyn to explore the Desert Southwest and work at the University of Arizona. Not long after, she joined the MSUP program, furthering her passions for affordable housing and community access.
Tiara Stephen '24 MSUP.
What brought you to the University of Arizona to study urban planning as a master's student?
I was a full-time employee with the University of Arizona when a supervisor pushed me to bet on myself and chase my dream. It was always a goal of mine to attend graduate school. I didn't know that Urban Planning was a master’s program before doing research. I always had a passion for urban design and city development, being from Brooklyn, New York. The final decision came down to the price of the planning degree and the reputation of the university. I knew I just couldn't turn this program down.
Tell us about your research interests in community planning.
I am passionate about affordable housing and community access. Neighborhoods exist with cultures and history long before popularity and location desirability. It is important to protect people's sacred spaces—their homes and social networks. As urbanization grows and spaces are re-engineered, it is symbolic to sustain existing community networks while simultaneously implementing sustainable practices in urbanism.
What do you like most about the MS Urban Planning program?
I like the flexibility in coursework content. The structure of the degree’s course requirements allow for me to gain exposure to the areas and concentrations that I am interested in. I am delighted with the options and the freedom students have to fully be immersed in wealth of UArizona course offerings. Additionally, if the university does not have a specific course that I am seeking, I can create my own independent study!
Tiara Stephen at the American Planning Association's National Planning Conference in Philadelphia, where she was recognized as a National Institute in Transportation and Communities scholarship recipient.
What has been your biggest challenge acclimating to graduate school, and how have you overcome that challenge?
My biggest “challenge” is that the world is truly my oyster. UArizona has enormous amounts of information and even more diversely knowledgeable people. There aren’t too many problems that can’t be resolved just by simply asking. There is lots of autonomy as a graduate student that simply is not experienced as an undergraduate. I’ve learned that accepting patience and practicing diligence are characteristics that are lifelong skills required in and outside of the classroom.
Tell us about your move from Brooklyn to Tucson.
Moving to Tucson, I had to start all over again. This was a testament to my resilience. It isn’t easy creating friendships, adjusting to arid weather, finding housing or exploring the city of Tucson on my own. This transition as a student allowed me to be dynamic and more compassionate to myself. I love challenges and moving to new locations, however—there isn't a better way to build character.
Tiara Stephen participates in a Tucson Ward 3 meeting with City Council Member Kevin Dhal and City of Tucson Planning and Development Director Kristina Swallow.
How was your recent internship experience as a master's student in urban planning?
In Spring 2023 I had the opportunity to intern for Tucson City Council Member Kevin Dahl at the Ward 3 office. As a New York City native, my local political structure of jurisdictional governance operates slightly differently. It was eye opening to work for a smaller city like Tucson, assisting with more integrated community-based projects and local neighborhood constituent reports.
What do you do in your free time outside of school?
In my free time I spend as much time as I can outside, in the beauty of Arizona’s national forests, parks and monuments. I really enjoy escaping the Tucson city limits and sleeping under the stars, foraging for mushrooms and other medicinal plants. I am a lover of sustainable, repurposed fashion and garments—you can always find me in a local Goodwill!
Tiara Stephen, high above urban development in Tucson.
What advice do you have for incoming CAPLA students?
Once admitted, read your emails daily and take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way—because they will! CAPLA faculty and staff are always sharing jobs, research, funding and study abroad opportunities. I’ve landed my first industry job through the wealth of opportunities CAPLA shares.
What does the CAPLA experience mean to you?
The CAPLA experience allows me to serve as a representative to my fellow New York City Caribbean and Black youngsters, letting them know that nowhere is too far, especially when you are following your dreams. I want children who have similar skin complexion as me to know that the sky is the limit, and our ideas are unique and are to be shared
Learn more about the Master of Science in Urban Planning, or explore ways you may support graduate students at CAPLA.
