Angela Lei is a Boston native and an urban planner. She received her Master of City Planning from MIT. Her passion in urban planning is rooted in social equity and a mission of building healthy and vibrant neighborhoods for the city she loves. Her academic coursework focuses on space activation, human-scale mobility planning, and understanding neighborhood changes.

This past Spring, she worked on a series of Urban Planning workshops held in Quincy to engage residents with fundamentals of good urban planning, housing and the power of community advocacy.

How did you learn about ACDC and what inspired you to join us?

I have always known about ACDC’s existence growing up. My parents and those around me had always looked at ACDC as a resource for wealth building and homeownership education. Once I entered the urban planning field, I learned about the community organizing work ACDC led in planning projects around Greater Boston. I thought “I want to be a part of the action!”

Describe the research and/or project(s) you worked on during your internship.

As a Community Design and Planning Graduate Intern, I researched demographics and planning policies with the goal of expanding ACDC’s services into Quincy. From that research, I piloted a new Resident Leadership Academy program in Quincy. Residents engaged in a series of four classes on the fundamentals of urban planning, each tailored to Quincy's landscape. Together, we talked about zoning and land use, tying it to Quincy’s affordable housing policies. Then we split up into small groups to co-create a Master Plan together. In the end, the goal was to have participants gain planning knowledge to confidently shape the Quincy community and neighborhood.

What is a skill that you’ve gained or developed through this internship?

I learned that I am pretty good at public speaking. I also learned how to translate information into a way that could change minds and hearts. I experienced firsthand how important coalition building is to generating momentum and excitement. When meeting so many people in different coalitions, there is always something to learn.

What has it been like working with the Quincy community? Can you describe a favorite memory with the Quincy community?

The residents in the Quincy cohort are extremely passionate and knowledgeable about their city. I found myself learning so much about Quincy from them! I loved casually chatting with residents after each workshop because I was able to learn more about them outside of a structured setting.

What has it been like working with the CD&P team?

I love Jenny and Rob! Jenny has provided great leadership during my time on ACDC’s CD&P team. She has cheered me on and supported my wacky ideas. And Rob has been a great support system and mentor to me.

What is one take away from your internship at ACDC?

The people are what make an amazing experience. I have learned so much from each person I have interacted with at ACDC.

What advice would you share for future CD&P Graduate Interns?

Come with an open mind and open heart. The work you do will be both transformational to you and the community you support.