Chelsea Zakas
Congratulations to Chelsea Zakas, who just received an offer from the City of Beverly, Massachusetts as the new Associate Planner! This past May, Chelsea graduated from GSU with her master’s degree in Geography focusing in City and Regional Planning. During her time spent at GSU, Chelsea became interested in how urban areas exacerbate climate change and searched for unique solutions that cities can employ to reduce their own greenhouse gas emissions. After a long summer of applying to jobs, she was thrilled to receive an offer for a job she knew fit her perfectly. Of her experience, Chelsea shared, "little did I know at the time that my coursework at GSU was shaping my interest in urban planning and making an impact on what I have become passionate about. My GIS courses and an internship with the City of Atlanta especially prepared me for this new position."
As Beverly’s newest Associate Planner, Chelsea will be responsible for providing technical assistance to several City boards including the Historic District Commission, and assisting the general public with the local permitting processes. Speaking on her new position, “I am looking forward to working with a small team where teamwork and collaboration is encouraged.”
Chelsea is excited for this next big step in her career. For students just stepping out into the workforce, Chelsea's own advice is this: "There is a light at the end of the tunnel. Keep going. Always trust your gut instinct, and know your value."