Abel Lopez Dodero

Abel Lopex Dodero graduated from the MA in International Development and Planning in 2008, and is now studying for a PhD in Canada.

Abel with Dr Paula Meth and other students in an International Planning Project class

I obtained my degree in Economics at the Universidad Cristobal Colon (UCC) in Mexico, followed by a two-years Masters degree course in Economics at the Universidad de las Americas in Mexico, which awarded me a scholarship for the MA in Sheffield. From 2002 to 2007 I was employed by the Finance Department of the Government of Mexico City conducting financial analysis for publicly-owned entities. I also served with the Public Transportation Committee in 2003 performing operation and financial analysis. This experience presented me with the opportunity to contribute to different projects related to transportation.

During my work, I developed a great interest in planning and development and became aware of the need for high quality research of sustainable transport issues in Mexico. It became my intention to pursue this research and embarked on the MA in International Development and Planning at the University of Sheffield. The Department of Town and Regional Planning had great academic support to offer with well-structured courses and with highly experienced scholars in a variety of areas. The focus on the social sphere related to planning was what I was looking for, considering my economics background. The ratio of lecturers to students was above my expectations. For the International Planning Project course I counted with the support of two lecturers with experience in the so-called developing world, who guided me to understand the social implications of policy design in this context. This was an eye-opening experience that made me realize the important role that planners have in promoting social equity which is often neglected in attempts to promote sustainable development.

I am currently in my second year of the PhD in Planning degree at the University of Waterloo, Ontario, in the School of Planning. My research interest is in sustainable public transportation in developing countries. I am also part of the Waterloo Public Transportation Institute in which we are promoting improvements in the public transportation system and operations for actual cities. When I look back at my time at Sheffield, I specially remember the lecturers´ patience concerning the fact that English is not my first language. This patience added to the academic knowledge gained at Sheffield have guided me well into rewarding results in my current degree.