AICP application - guidance

[tbagato]

First off, I am NOT looking to copy anyone's application!

I am working on the four criteria and am looking for advice. The four criteria questions are:

1. Apply a Planning Process Appropriate To the Situation
2. Employ an Appropriately Comprehensive Point Of View
3. Involve a Professional Level of Responsibility and Resourcefulness
4. Influence Public Decision Making In the Public Interest

For the first one, I used an example project that I worked on for a resort hotel with condos. The project required many applications: site plan, tentative tract map, conditional use permit, and a development agreement. It was a large project that was controversial and required many studies that I reviewed for CEQA (parking, traffic, greenhouse gas emissions, visual studies, and land use compatibility). It had a lot of community input from the surrounding neighbors and general business community.

My question is, should I use this example for the second criteria and a different project for the first criteria? We are a small community (50k) and I have not processed any comprehensive plans or major studies since I have been here. One thing I have worked on that was a city wide point of view was a possible prohibition/regulations of short-term rentals. Started off as a land use issue due to nuisances and neighborhood compatibility with possibly prohibiting them, to allowing them for economic reasons and developing licencing requirements I researched to deal with nuisances.

PS... no one in my jurisdiction has an AICP certification, and I would like to share my final responses with someone on this forum for feedback when I am complete.

[dvdneal]

I'd say for the second or your rental issue works. You looked at how rental properties affected a community and created some potential solutions. One thing to remember, they don't care if it was approved or not, just that you I'd the work on it.

[gtpeach]

Just so you know, I JUST went through the application process this cycle and ended up successfully being approved for and passing the test, so the process is still pretty fresh for me. The information in the FAQ section of the APA website may help you figure out what experience matches best with which questions. I'm posting below for your quick reference. Based on that, it sounds like the project you mentioned would fit better with the second criteria, and the research you did on short term rentals would fit better with the first, perhaps.

One thing to keep in mind is that you don't necessarily have to think about coming up with a different project to use in each example. In my application, I referenced the same basic functions in each question (I do work for a local government, though), I just highlighted how that job experience fulfilled the different criteria by focusing on different aspects of it for each question. For example, reviewing applications for rezoning requests involves all of the criteria required: applying an appropriate planning process, employing an appropriately comprehensive point of view, exercising professional responsibility, and influencing public decision making, so that came up in my answer to every question. You can also reference your role in multiple projects to answer each of the questions.

Read through the information below though - that helped me much more than just going off the criteria. I'll be happy to provide feedback (as I'm sure many will be on the board).




From http://www.planning.org/customerservice/


The following should help clarify AICP's four professional planning experience criteria. We understand that the planning field is very diverse and given to a wide range of job descriptions. Therefore, you must fit your particular experience to the four criteria and provide concrete examples with substantive support. Your responses to each of the four criteria should be between 250 and 500 words in length.

Please note: This summary serves only to offer additional information and does not replace the instructions for Demonstrating Professional Planning Experience.

CRITERION 1: Applying a planning process appropriate to the situation

Were you directly involved in two or more of the following planning process techniques:
•Public Opinion Surveys (evaluated community services, needs, and desires)?
•Technical Interviews (gathered information from community experts)?
•Inventory and Surveys (land uses, conflicts, traffic patterns, etc.)?
•Citizens Participation (presented plans, conducted "vision" workshops, prepared plan summary handouts)?
•Official Representatives Meetings (group or one-on-one meetings with public and private officials)?
•Draft Plan/Project Review (grassroots/informal feedback from public)?
•Public Hearings (formal feedback with elected officials and public for project/plan approval)?

CRITERION 2: Employing an appropriately comprehensive point of view

Have you:
•Worked on a project, say for downtown development, where you had to review several factors such as: traffic patterns, environmental concerns, economic impact, residential concerns, demographic considerations? or
•Worked on a project such as a proposed transportation system where considerations such as traffic patterns, highway/rail construction, commercial/residential proximity, pollution concerns, noise abatement, cost projections, community input, etc. were investigated?

CRITERION 3: Involving a professional level of responsibility and resourcefulness

Have you done one or more of the following:
•Supervised a project?
•Presented a proposal/plan before a decision making body?
•Provided significant input in one or more facets of a project (i.e., conducted research, managed staff, given technical expertise in areas such as computer application, strategy development, impact analysis, etc.)?

CRITERION 4: Influencing public decision making in the public interest

Have you, for example:
•Presented planning proposals before an elected/appointed body such as the city council, planning commission/board, citizens' advisory board, state/federal officials?
•Worked on a project, in a significant capacity, that was later presented to such a body?
•Recommended strategies based on research of past/current laws/ordinances or zoning proposals, etc.?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Suburb Repairman]

I'd say for the second or your rental issue works. You looked at how rental properties affected a community and created some potential solutions. One thing to remember, they don't care if it was approved or not, just that you I'd the work on it.

I agree... I like the rental licensing program for the second criterion. One of the things that can red flag your application is if you repeatedly use the same example. Alternatively, you can discuss how you've applied comprehensive plans, etc. to particular projects in order to demonstrate an appropriately comprehensive point of view.



* For anyone else reading this... this is the type of AICP application feedback we like to provide on Cyburbia rather than requests to see our previous applications.

[tbagato]

Thank you for the feedback. I agree that I will use the rental ordinance process and looking at the economic issue an nuisance issues city wide. I was actually confused by the FAQ section because it states:

"Worked on a project, say for downtown development, where you had to review several factors such as: traffic patterns, environmental concerns, economic impact, residential concerns, demographic considerations?"

But then the application templates states:

Don't "Provide an example that is limited to a very specific location or group of people (i.e. only applicable to one neighborhood, one sector of the public, one piece of property)."

So I was some what confused if I should use the hotel since it had all the studies related to traffic, environmental, economics and residential uses, but it was on limited to one specific location with city wide economic impact.

The rental ordinance however, require a larger study base and I had to research other local jurisdiction, business community and demographics.

[miser]

Thank you for the feedback. I agree that I will use the rental ordinance process and looking at the economic issue an nuisance issues city wide. I was actually confused by the FAQ section because it states:

"Worked on a project, say for downtown development, where you had to review several factors such as: traffic patterns, environmental concerns, economic impact, residential concerns, demographic considerations?"

But then the application templates states:

Don't "Provide an example that is limited to a very specific location or group of people (i.e. only applicable to one neighborhood, one sector of the public, one piece of property)."

So I was some what confused if I should use the hotel since it had all the studies related to traffic, environmental, economics and residential uses, but it was on limited to one specific location with city wide economic impact.

The rental ordinance however, require a larger study base and I had to research other local jurisdiction, business community and demographics.

I was also confused if I should use a specific project of a retail district. I think the more I read the criteria, I more confused I got.

[Suburb Repairman]

Just an observation from a lot of comments I'm seeing from AICP applicants locally as well as on here: don't overthink the AICP application. Apply your common sense to interpreting the criteria. Remember that the whole point of the criteria is, fundamentally, to determine whether you've got your head screwed on straight as a planner and have performed quality, advanced planning-related work.

[dvdneal]

I think they're also trying to figure out that you've done more than review a plat or design a site. There should be something more comprehensive to your planning - like the question suggests.

[miser]

Just an observation from a lot of comments I'm seeing from AICP applicants locally as well as on here: don't overthink the AICP application. Apply your common sense to interpreting the criteria. Remember that the whole point of the criteria is, fundamentally, to determine whether you've got your head screwed on straight as a planner and have performed quality, advanced planning-related work.

Maybe you are right. It's just I have seen so many people got rejected and they seem to be experiences planners already. It's hard not to over think the criteria.

[reimaginethis]

Just an observation from a lot of comments I'm seeing from AICP applicants locally as well as on here: don't overthink the AICP application. Apply your common sense to interpreting the criteria. Remember that the whole point of the criteria is, fundamentally, to determine whether you've got your head screwed on straight as a planner and have performed quality, advanced planning-related work.

Excellent advice. Hopefully everyone seeking AICP application advice will read this.

[deetom64]

Hi All,

Kindly spare little time to advice me on putting up my application, it just got denied yesterday.

I am an engineering graduate with no planning educational background. I have 4 years of experience in Urban planning field.

The Criterion which caused my downfall are as follows:-

a. Employ an Appropriately Comprehensive Point Of View
b. Involve a Professional Level of Responsibility and Resourcefulness

My experience are in revitalization programme with a special focus on bringing social and economic opportunities, bringing a sense of place by improving the pedestrian focused infrastructure, improving the urban design elements, connecting green spaces and prominent public places within the community. The programme involves different government agencies as stakeholders and major infrastructure revitalization initiative to prepare these areas for future population expansion.

My second job experience is in land use planning, city level master plan preparation, redevelopment of lake shore area etc

I am trying to expand the response for the criteria responses which was denied in the first place, suggestions are highly appreciated and thanks in advice.

[Suburb Repairman]

Hi All,

Kindly spare little time to advice me on putting up my application, it just got denied yesterday.

I am an engineering graduate with no planning educational background. I have 4 years of experience in Urban planning field.

The Criterion which caused my downfall are as follows:-

a. Employ an Appropriately Comprehensive Point Of View
b. Involve a Professional Level of Responsibility and Resourcefulness

My experience are in revitalization programme with a special focus on bringing social and economic opportunities, bringing a sense of place by improving the pedestrian focused infrastructure, improving the urban design elements, connecting green spaces and prominent public places within the community. The programme involves different government agencies as stakeholders and major infrastructure revitalization initiative to prepare these areas for future population expansion.

My second job experience is in land use planning, city level master plan preparation, redevelopment of lake shore area etc

I am trying to expand the response for the criteria responses which was denied in the first place, suggestions are highly appreciated and thanks in advice.

It would be helpful to post your exact response to those criteria so we can identify where you came up short.

[deetom64]

Thanks for your reply, below mentioned are the major points which I used in my application & which got rejected by the review team:-

1. For Revitalization Program:-

a. Employ an Appropriately Comprehensive Point Of View

My major objective was to take into consideration the future projects proposed are based on or guided by planning at national level and in line the national development strategies set by the government, rather than merely planning in reaction to existing issues, projects or development opportunities.

It was my role to enable the community to establish a vision which was in alignment with national goals, and help them ensure that the projects and programs identified are thought through, makes sense and are best use of the resource and funds available for the local government administration.

As part of the Revitalization program team I was handling the tasks related to studying the areas with respect to social, economic, physical & environmental factors for the development of an environmentally friendly sustainable neighborhood which included green avenues, urban parks, community gathering centers or focal points etc.

Developing the master plan for the areas keeping in mind the future developments like inter-state rail links, bus rapid transit system etc., to prepare the areas for greater urban changes within the plan period. Streamlining the proposals to a community level using the National Plan as a guide for development, emphasizing coordinated growth rather than haphazard developments usually found in selected urban and village areas.

Identifying sites and land parcels of importance from an archaeological point of view and natural preservation of agricultural areas, identifying cultural heritage areas and linking them with development activities to other sustainable initiatives introduced by the government were also my tasks.

b. Involve a Professional Level of Responsibility and Resourcefulness

I was responsible for the community engagement and support, capacity building and training, communication between the local government agencies and other planning related resources through-out the planning process.

I was also entrusted to carry out survey activities to generate opinions of the community at large, their aspirations and vision regarding the neighborhoods selected for development.

It was my responsibility to make sure that the proposed plans for the areas are in line with national and regional strategies and plan adopted by the nation and discuss the same with the elected representatives to get their approval and backing for further budget approvals in the cabinet.

Land Use Survey, household survey etc.

2. For City Level Master Plan preparation & Lake Area redevelopment Project

a. Employ an Appropriately Comprehensive Point Of View

As part of the Master Plan preparation it was essential to study the express highway developed between the adjoining cities and its effect on the change of land use in its proximity. The express highway was enabling a rapid increase in the commercial value of the property and a large amount of agricultural land was lost to the developments. I was tasked to address this rapid land use change with zoning regulation and development control regulations encouraging agricultural development.

Also the doubling of rail link along with express highway between these cities was bringing in a great growth which was not anticipated prior to the Master Plan exercise, due to this it was proposed to have high density land use zoning in the all major transit corridors and to be treated as high accessibility areas.

As part of the governments strategies at a state level it was decided by the State government to treat the City as a tourist hot spot and a heritage city, so as a Planner it was assigned to the team to come up with proposals to support the state initiative at the same time make sure the overall social & economic growth of the city is not hampered. To address the same I was asked to study the area with respect to the same and analyze the positive and negative impacts and make judgement as a neutral observer of the urban life and its various positives and negative aspects To support this regional initiative it was proposed to have different themes for future development, like health tourism supported by land earmarked for health city with super specialty hospitals, film tourism supported by land earmarked for film city, convention center etc. and all this was allocated in short distance to the airport location to encourage its success.

[dvdneal]

I would say you need to be project specific with your answers. Instead of telling me your role as a planner, tell me about one specific project like a revitalization project. I hope that helps.

[deetom64]

I would say you need to be project specific with your answers. Instead of telling me your role as a planner, tell me about one specific project like a revitalization project. I hope that helps.

The Revitalization project is aimed at transforming the urban environment of the selected areas which evokes a picture of decline at present. Previously these areas were vital centers of economic activity and complemented agriculture and its related industries.

The major goals for this program was to revitalize the town centers, implement initiatives to improve quality of environment and to promote people to return to the area. Creating safe vibrant places for future generations to live and work, creation of compact mixed-use communities that reduce slump, efficiently utilize land and transit systems and preserve the historic landmarks and culture of these area.

Steps involved:-

1. Identifying the areas which suite the description.
2. Creating a comprehensive data base for each areas.
3. Develop an area revitalization prioritization criteria/system.
4. Selecting areas based on prioritization criteria and stakeholder preference.
5. Studying Individual Areas for the following:-
   
   • Populations Assessment
   • Land Use Assessment
   • Infrastructure Assessment
   • Traffic and Parking Assessment (Parking is a major issue here)
   • Housing Assessment
   • Architectural theme Assessment
   • Economic Development Opportunities
   
   
6. Identifying the potential and constraints of individual areas selected for each budget cycle.
7. Community participation and setting goals and objectives.
8. Review Local development plans
9. Propose new projects for achieving the goals set above.
   
   • Social Housing units(affordable).
   • Creation of focal points.
   • Commercial centers.
   • Open Space networks.
   • Identification of transits hubs along future transits corridors.
   • High density mixed use developments along high accessible area.
   • Detailed pedestrian plan, linking the public facilities, transportation hub & community centers.
   • Improving the legibility of the area.
10. Master Plan for revitalization Initiative
11. Approval from Stakeholders & elected representatives.
12. Individual Action plan and detailed plans

[dvdneal]

It looks like the project would meet the AICP needs, just write about what you personally did on the project.
Something like, I was involved in this revitalization project that was regional because...
I studied everything/part of #5 and wrote a plan to handle these problems.

Basically write a story that says you worked on something regional, why was it regional, what steps did you do and why did you do that.

A tip for anyone else, they don't care if the plan passed or not, just that it was regional/comprehensive and you worked on it.

Also, check the APA website, they basically tell you what they're looking for in overly complicated language

DO

• Focus your response on the section of Criterion 1 most applicable to your work experience.
• Focus your response on the project tasks for which you were responsible.
• Focus on the details of your role on a project and not the number of project examples that you provide.

DON'T

• Provide answers for all three sections of Criterion 1.
• Simply state that you have applied a planning process. Instead illustrate how you have applied a planning process.
• Write about yourself in the third person, discuss the details of the project instead of your role on the project, discuss work that is not considered professional planning experience, or discuss a project that is not tied to the particular position in question.

[shell_waster]

I too received my denial letter last week. I worked on my deficient responses Friday and this morning and resubmitted around lunch time. Now the long wait until October. I've been a local government land use planner since 2006 and probably over-thunk my responses. Good luck to everyone who applied and will site for the November, 2013 testing dates.

[tbagato]

Just to follow up. I just received a denial letter for this exam. Been a professional planner for 12 years and find this so funny (not haha) that I don't meet qualifications based on questions. In particular, it was question number 2 that lead to the denial.

More work ahead, and hopefully I can illustrate my qualifications for May 2014.

[Raf]

I too received my denial letter last week. I worked on my deficient responses Friday and this morning and resubmitted around lunch time. Now the long wait until October. I've been a local government land use planner since 2006 and probably over-thunk my responses. Good luck to everyone who applied and will site for the November, 2013 testing dates.

Just to follow up. I just received a denial letter for this exam. Been a professional planner for 12 years and find this so funny (not haha) that I don't meet qualifications based on questions. In particular, it was question number 2 that lead to the denial.

More work ahead, and hopefully I can illustrate my qualifications for May 2014.

If you two want to post your answers, we would be happy to help guide you where you need to be.

[tbagato]

If you two want to post your answers, we would be happy to help guide you where you need to be.

I used my description above about the Short-term rental issue I handled. They stated since it only focused on housing, it was not a comprehensive point of view. It needed to deal with other planning related issues i.e. traffic, noise or something more than just one issue. I provided an example of a hotel project in the first question that described dealt with many issues. So it seems it would have been best to use the short-term rental question for the first question, and my hotel project on the second one.

It appears that they don't look at the overall responses to each question, because I covered the points of the second question in my other responses.

[gtpeach]

If it helps, I referred to a lot of the same work functions in several of the questions emphasizing how they covered each of the topics. So you don't necessarily have to stick to one project per question. I talked about my role in public hearings in three of the four questions, for example, but I emphasized different aspects in each of the questions. I really didn't reference any specific projects, but I talked about how my general job functions met the requirements in each category.