PhD Candidate Reece Fisher Returns to UIC

UIC Graduate Hosted by the UTC as Visiting Scholar Before Returning to Paris

A graduate of the University of Illinois Chicago  with a Bachelor of Science degree, transportation scholar Reece Fisher was hosted by the UTC this summer to continue her studies to complete her doctoral dissertation. Her dissertation explores "the integration of logistics at various stages of urban planning, exploring relationships between actors involved, and analyzing at the impact of anticipating needs related to logistics when planning a development."

In the weeks ahead, Reece will return to Université Gustave Eiffel in Paris, France to complete her dissertation.  Below are some thoughts shared about Chicago, its transit network, and her time on campus.

Please share your overall perception of Chicago as a major world city.

I grew up around Chicago and spent my undergraduate years living in the city. I love the culture of neighborhoods and I think Chicago has a lot to offer for both building a life and for tourism. Coming back, I've been able to appreciate the architecture downtown and within different neighborhoods. I think the fabric of the city is very unique. I love the way the "L" weaves among buildings and neighborhoods above ground. I love the Lakefront Trail and its accessibility. It is always a great city to return to and call home.

And, what are your thoughts on the city’s public transit network?

My perspective has shifted since living in Paris, a city with one of the best metro systems in the world. I view transportation as something everyone should have access to. Something my colleagues are surprised to find out in France is that during my years living in Chicago and during my visit, I did not own a car. I hope Chicago will continue to be a city where mobility without a car can continue to be possible.

Now, we would welcome some general thoughts on the UIC campus.

I like the UIC campus. I like all that there is access to and its openness. I think when I was a student here I should have taken advantage of the green spaces on campus more often. I also have loved seeing so many monarch butterflies this summer.

And, any insight you gained from working out of the UTC and interaction with faculty, staff and students.

My research visit has allowed me to learn a lot about urban planning in Chicago. Everyone at the UTC seems very engaged locally and dedicated to their research projects. I've been able to exchange with professors and research assistants whose research I find very impressive. I have also been able to work with some researchers in the College of Engineering, and the intersection of transportation, urban planning, engineering, and other disciplines has led to some interesting discussions during my time here. I am very grateful to Dr. Kazuya Kawamura, Dr. P.S. Sriraj , Edward Bury, Dr. Carla Tejada, Otgondulum Boldbaatar, and Eamon Lauster for the exchanges we've had over the last month and for their help with my research project.

How will your visit here this summer help advance your studies and career?

The research visit has allowed me to lay the foundations for a case study comparing approaches to planning logistics facilities and the needs of actors. This is a component of my PhD dissertation. In addition, collaboration and discussion with colleagues here has offered me new perspectives on urban planning and academia in general. Thank you again to the Urban Transportation Center for hosting me!