Get to Know PIDC’s Summer 2022 Interns

by PIDC
July 26, 2022

Categories: Team Members,

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This summer, a few talented interns joined PIDC virtually to learn and assist us in driving growth to every corner of Philadelphia. Get to know our interns and the PIDC departments they assist. Plus, see why they think Philadelphia is a great place to study, work, and play.

Tamani Simmons

Tucson, Arizona

EDUCATION:
University of Pennsylvania Master of City Planning (MCP); Alabama A&M University, Bachelors of Urban Planning (BSUP)

PIDC:
Strategy, Communications, & Partnerships

Most interesting thing learned while working at PIDC:

The range of backgrounds that PIDC employees bring to the table is really amazing! Internally, PIDC does a great job with keeping the work human centered. Seeing how they’ve translated individual differences to impact the external mission of PIDC has made my experience here incredible.

Philadelphia is a great place to study, work, and play because:

What’s not to love? Ok, maybe just the winter months, but I’m from Arizona, so I’m biased! You’re surrounded by cultural diversity, which was a top priority for me being a Black woman, along with an array of things to do, accessible transportation, and amazing food. Plus, you’re in a sweet spot when it’s time to enjoy life while being in a budget-friendly city. 

Kelly Cary

Radnor, PA

EDUCATION:
Master’s in City Planning with a housing community and economic development concentration at the University of Pennsylvania; B.A. in Urban Studies at the University of Pittsburgh

PIDC:
Real Estate Services

Most interesting thing learned while working at PIDC:

I’ve learned the complexities of the real estate development process and how to be intentional about centering equity to ensure that a development is happening for the surrounding community and not just to them.

Philadelphia is a great place to study, work, and play because:

It’s a city of neighborhoods, each with their own unique culture and sense of community pride. Philadelphians are proud to call the city home and care about making it a better, more equitable place to live. Philly also has one of the best food scenes in the country and endless cultural activities to participate in!

Lamei Zhang

Mount Laurel, NJ

EDUCATION:
Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Master in Urban Planning; Bryn Mawr College, B.A. in growth and structure of cities

PIDC:
Real Estate Services

Most interesting thing learned while working at PIDC:

I’m very impressed with PIDC’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of economic growth and industrial redevelopment occur equitably. There’s a real intention in providing opportunities to local, minority-, women-, and disability-owned businesses and developers in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia is a great place to study, work, and play because:

Philadelphia is like a mosaic made up of diverse communities and neighborhoods. Despite being a city of over 1.5 million people, there’s a distinct small town feel where people know one another. And there are so many great restaurants here!

Simi Grewal

Syracuse, NY

EDUCATION:
Temple University Beasley School of Law, Class of 2023; University of Rochester, B.S. Neuroscience

PIDC:
Legal Services

Most interesting thing learned while working at PIDC:

I’ve learned how integral PIDC is to Philly’s economic development. Specifically, it was interesting to learn how Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development (PAID) functions as an authority and is granted specific rights to carry out vital functions for the city. 

Philadelphia is a great place to study, work, and play because:

There is no limit to what you can do and see in Philadelphia. Any sort of adventure is usually just a short SEPTA or car ride away! 

Interested in interning with PIDC?

Visit our website for future internship opportunities at PIDC and be sure to check back as this list is updated on a regular basis.

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