by Rudy Brandl, Director of Communications and Alumni Relations, The Wardlaw-Hartridge School
Students from the Wardlaw+Hartridge School’s Global Scholars Program visited the Bloustein School on November 28 to begin a collaboration with graduate students and to learn about their various areas of study and work. The students were accompanied by Nicole Nolan, W+H Director of Global Scholars and Community Outreach, Dr. Jonathan Wilson, Upper School History Teacher, and Rudy Brandl ’83, Director of Communications and Publications.
The session began with a welcome from Christina Torian, Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Admission, and continued with remarks by Dr. Patti O’Brien-Richardson, Associate Professor and the Bloustein School’s Chief DEIB Officer. Dr. O’Brien-Richardson introduced Bloustein undergraduate student panelists Sarah Shiner, Delmy Cruz, Erica Shabnam and Riley Riegel, who shared their course loads, why they chose their majors, how their fields of study relate to the global world, and details about special research projects and internships they’ve completed.
The student panelists also discussed what they are studying in the fields of health administration, public health, public policy, and urban planning and design, and how their studies will help them make an impact in the world.
W+H students asked general questions about the panelists’ career plans and goals, as well as how they became involved in certain projects. They also inquired about more specific topics, such as the environmental application and components of urban planning.
A second session featured a presentation by Professor Juan Ayala, who discussed “Developing Awareness in Urban Planning and Design.” He used interactive exercises to discuss the importance of environmental awareness. Students drew maps of a route they regularly travel, such as to school, to ignite a discussion of ways they can design their community. They shared details of their routes and reflected on the landmarks and surrounding areas to inform a discussion of things they would change. Professor Ayala showed sketches to illustrate examples of other neighborhoods and the importance of decision-making that will ensure positive outcomes for all residents.
The students enjoyed follow-up discussions with the presenters and panelists during lunch. Interested W+H students will have the opportunity to learn from more fieldwork and engagement with students at Rutgers and will also be able to explore some of the organizations and companies that Bloustein School students work with in New Brunswick and the surrounding areas.
The Wardlaw+Hartridge School is a private college prep school in Edison, New Jersey, which provides an independent, pioneering educational experience at the early childhood, kindergarten, elementary, middle and high school levels.
