Yancili Lozano Torres
Hometown: Tumaco - Colombia
Fall 2014 - Fall 2019
PhD in Urban and Regional Planning
M.S. Economics, Fall 2013
Fulbright
Educational/Professional Background
My broad research interests are related to the interrelation between marginalized communities, economic development, and local government actions. Using a non-Western Feminist perspective, my theoretical background in planning and economics, and my history as a practitioner, I seek to explore interdisciplinary questions, such as solutions to spatial marginalization, defining elements of social justice and gender equality, and the development of local, sustainable, and inclusive growth.
My major teaching interests include social justice, Latin America, feminist theory, women, gender, class, and ethnicity. Other teaching interests include women and the city, just cities, urban theory, and gender planning.
Graduate school is challenging for almost everybody. I wasn't the exception. Since I am from Colombia, I had to deal -besides the academic challenges- with the cultural shock. Fortunately, there is a good amount of resources at FSU that helped me overcome these difficulties and transcend to be a Ph.D. candidate and soon-to-be doctor.
I feel extremely happy with my experience as an instructor of record. Teaching is one of the things that excites me the most about becoming a scholar, and my teaching experience at FSU has given me the opportunity to get to know and understand the differences between the Colombian and American instructional systems. I have been able to learn from my students and bring my perspective as a Colombian teacher. I love that!
I love my department, DURP - Department of Urban and Regional Planning. They have contributed tremendously to my growth. I am proud to be an FSU student and will be prouder to be an alumn of this program!
M.S. Economics, Fall 2013
Master of Environmental Economics, Summer 2006
Los Andes University-Colombia in collaboration with the University of Maryland
Thesis: Economic Rationality and Common Use Resources
Unique Awards/Achievements
Being a graduate student does not have to be only about being in front of the computer or at the lab. There are numerous experiences that could help shape the type of graduate student and professional you are. In my case, in addition to my academic achievements, I feel that the interaction with people, getting to know more of the American culture, being exposed to its academic environment, and connecting with other international students are among the most valuable things that I have done during my graduate education. I would have missed most of that if I had stayed in my country.
Future Plans/Aspirations
I want to become a worldwide known expert on Feminist Planning for the Latin American context and the Latinx people all around the world. I would like to work with any multilateral agency such UNWOMEN or at a university doing research and helping students learn and make progress towards gender equality.
Experience as A Member of The Fellows Society
My membership in the Fellows Society is one of the most important resources throughout my graduate education. Being able to share, network, and discuss a variety of topics within the Fellows activities has fostered my intellectual and personal growth.