Student Spotlight: Marcus Thompkins & Howard Williams

Marcus Thompkins and Howard Williams, graduate students in Florida State University's Urban and Regional Planning graduate program, embarked on a transformative journey to Aalborg, Denmark, through FSU's Global Exchanges program during Spring 2023. This unique opportunity allowed them to gain valuable insights into urbanization dynamics while studying in Aalborg University's renowned Aalborg Urban, Energy, and Environmental Planning program. 

The Urban and Regional Planning graduate program established this exchange in 2009 and provides the opportunity for two graduate students from FSU to study there every semester. This exchange is one of 45 FSU Global Exchange programs available to students in a variety of majors. 

Aalborg University stands as one of Europe's premier institutions and boasts excellence in fields ranging from natural sciences and social sciences to humanities and technical sciences. The university's emphasis on international collaboration has earned it a global reputation since its establishment in 1974. For students like Marcus Thompkins and Howard Williams, the opportunity to study at Aalborg University is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Thompkins and Williams were part of the Spring 2023 semester program at Aalborg University, where they were exposed to a teaching style quite distinct from what they were accustomed to in the United States. Williams was particularly intrigued by the international perspective he gained: "I wanted to study on an exchange program to see first-hand and learn about urban planning from an international context. In addition, I wanted the opportunity to experience different teaching styles such as the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model used at Aalborg University."

Thompkins echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing how this experience would shape his future career: "The study habits and preparation skills I’ve acquired at Aalborg will really support my personal development as a planner."

One of the key distinctions that stood out for both Thompkins and Williams was Aalborg University's unique teaching approach. Aalborg University is known for its 'Problem-Based Learning' (PBL) model, where students engage in hands-on projects that tackle real-world challenges. This approach is solution-oriented and directly applies to what students are studying, providing them with valuable skills and experiences that transcend traditional classroom settings. It's what Thompkins referred to as 'The Aalborg Model.'

Additionally, Aalborg University employs oral examinations, emphasizing the importance of deep understanding and fostering conversational expertise in the subject matter. This approach challenges students to truly grasp the material and encourages open dialogue—a methodology that Thompkins and Williams found very effective.

Thompkins had the opportunity to participate in a group project that conducted research on how information in a digital product passport can contribute to a circular transition within the European Union’s apparel industry. This real-world project involved engaging with representatives from the European Union to understand the intricacies of the digital product passport. Aalborg University's emphasis on practical, solution-driven learning undoubtedly played a pivotal role in Thompkins' success with this project.

Beyond their academic experiences, they were deeply impressed by Denmark's urban planning strategies. Denmark places a strong emphasis on environmental considerations and community needs, creating a unique landscape for studying urban planning. They also noted Denmark's remarkable cleanliness, efficient waste sorting system, and the country's forward-thinking integration of technology. The fashion scene in Denmark also left a lasting impression on Marcus, with its eye-catching and stylish designs.

As for whether they would recommend this program to fellow graduate students in Urban and Regional Planning, Thompkins and Williams unanimously agreed that it's an opportunity worth pursuing. Their time at Aalborg University expanded their horizons, equipped them with valuable skills, and broadened their understanding of urban planning from an international perspective.

Marcus Thompkins and Howard Williams's journey to Aalborg University in Denmark, facilitated by FSU's Global Exchanges program, was a transformative experience that provided them with invaluable insights into urban and regional planning. Aalborg University's unique teaching methods, emphasis on real-world projects, and commitment to international collaboration made this opportunity a defining moment in their academic and personal development.