Alumni

"A happy twist of fate led me from aspiring architect to planner at SPA Bhopal, where four transformative years blended creativity, logic, and hands-on learning through studios and travels across India and Bhutan. The diverse exposure and practical training gave me a strong, adaptable foundation for my Master’s at UIUC and a global career. Now an Economic Analyst at Stantec in the US, I carry the confidence and perspective shaped in Bhopal into everything I do."

"Graduating from SPA Bhopal in 2018 with a Bachelor’s in Planning, I kickstarted my career at a top real estate consulting firm, working on financial feasibility, location strategy, and large-scale development projects. After 3.5 dynamic years, I pursued a management degree and now work with a global consulting firm in their Government and Public Sector advisory. From digital transformation to strategic development, I’ve collaborated with international governments and national ministries, guided by my planning roots, which help me bridge spatial thinking with impactful, real-world solutions." 

"SPA Bhopal gave my interest in cities a clear direction, sparking a passion for climate change and disaster risk through Prof. Manmohan Kapshe’s classes and hands-on studios. That strong foundation led me to an M.Tech in Disaster Management at IIT Roorkee and a Master of Public Policy from the University of Chicago. I’ve since worked with GIZ, the World Bank, and the UN on climate resilience. Currently, I’m a Researcher at the World Benchmarking Alliance, assessing corporate approaches to resilience, guided throughout by the grounding I received at SPA."

"My planning journey began at SPA Bhopal and took shape through early work in active transportation with a consulting firm, where I gained pan-India experience over two years. I later joined IIT Delhi’s transportation research program, followed by a move to Canada for a Master’s in Urban Planning, focusing on mental health and urban environments. For the past three years, I’ve been working as a planner in Canada. Planning has been a deeply rewarding path, and I wish you all the best as you start yours.  " 

"Hey everyone! My journey in Town and Country Planning began in 2012, and it’s been nothing short of incredible. From meaningful friendships to an internship at ISRO, those four years laid a strong foundation. I pursued a Master’s in Urban Planning at SPA Delhi, worked as a city planner with the Government of India, and later as a management consultant with a Big Four firm across India, Nepal, and Saudi Arabia. I then earned a Master’s in Public Policy from the London School of Economics and now work in London as a climate strategist. Planning gave me the confidence to explore limitless opportunities—wishing you all the best as you begin your journey."

"I was part of the 2016 B.Plan batch and completed my thesis on “Unlocking Underground Real Estate: A Case of Connaught Place, New Delhi.” My interest in regional and urban planning grew through its multidisciplinary nature and focus on cross-domain collaboration. After graduation, I worked as an Urban Designer and Planning Consultant before pursuing a Master’s in Urbanism in the Netherlands. I’m currently continuing my research on underground space planning in a broader landscape context. My time at SPA Bhopal shaped my systems-thinking approach to urban environments, connecting spatial planning with sustainability, stakeholders, and economic dynamics. " 

"The journey at SPA Bhopal was truly enriching—diverse subjects and immersive learning shaped a broad perspective on urban systems and planning. This foundation led to a Master’s in Transport Planning from SPA Delhi and an internship at WRI India, focusing on electric vehicles and the FAME policy. Currently working with EY, as part of a PMU under the Ministry of Railways, contributing to asset monetization. Planning as a field offers endless opportunities to make a meaningful impact—wishing all future planners the very best as they begin their own journeys!  "

"The academic journey at SPA Bhopal built a strong foundation in planning and policy, opening pathways to work at the intersection of urban systems and economic development. Now working as an Economic Growth Analyst at KPMG, contributing to Meghalaya’s vision of becoming a ₹10,000 crore economy by 2028. The role blends strategy, spatial thinking, and data-driven policymaking—demonstrating how planning can drive transformative impact across regions." 

"Pursuing a Master's in Urban and Regional Planning at SPA Bhopal was a pivotal step in my academic journey. With a background in civil engineering and a long-standing research interest, the program offered me the right exposure to understand the complexities of urban development and the planning needs of our country.

I worked as a researcher at LBSNAA, Mussoorie, and am currently pursuing a PhD at IIT Bombay. The interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking skills developed at SPA Bhopal continue to shape my research today. The journey isn't always easy, but it’s deeply rewarding-laying the groundwork for meaningful contributions to planning, policy, and society."

"A proud alumnus of the Department of Planning at SPA Bhopal, I completed my Master's in Urban and Regional Planning in 2016. Currently, I serve as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Architecture, Planning, and Design at IIT BHU, Varanasi. My time at SPA Bhopal was truly transformative—filled with rigorous studio work, insightful lectures, and meaningful interactions that shaped both my academic and personal journey. The institute offered not just an education, but a community of mentors, peers, and friends that continues to support and inspire me.

To the next generation of planners: make the most of your time here. Engage deeply, seek guidance, and embrace every challenge. SPA Bhopal is a launchpad for limitless possibilities—and you're now a part of its ever-growing legacy."