Setareh, Jack, and Roman, second-year Urban Planning students from the University of Gloucestershire, have recently joined Western Gateway on short work placements. Through this experience, they’re gaining insight into the practical aspects of strategic transport planning and our mission to enhance connectivity across South Wales and Western England. So far, they’ve participated in meetings with team members, including James, Mena, Hattie, and Jessica, and have explored Western Gateway’s strategic transport policies and objectives. This placement offers them a valuable opportunity to connect their academic studies with regional planning and development realities.
Below, you can read more about each of them and what this experience means to them.
Setareh
“Hi, I’m Setareh. Originally from the historic city of Isfahan, I studied architecture in Tehran, where I
developed a passion for designing people-centred spaces. Later, living in Vancouver sparked my interest
in transport and connectivity, as I saw firsthand how well-planned networks can enrich communities.
Through this placement with Western Gateway, I’m learning about the impact of cross-border
partnerships on building a greener, more connected future. This experience is a fantastic opportunity to
deepen my understanding and learn from professionals in the field as I pursue my journey in urban
planning.”
Jack
“My name is Jack. I am studying urban planning, which is why I have an interest in interning at the
Western Gateway. Being in the office really helps me understand more about planning and if this is the
career I want to pursue.”
Roman
“My name is Roman. I grew up in the US Pacific Northwest where my mom worked as a planner.
Although I loved playing with trains as a kid, I didn’t pursue planning and transport as a study until
moving to Europe in the last couple of years. Today I’m enjoying looking at transport and transport
policy from a more professional angle and am excited to be working with Western Gateway.”
