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Urban studies and environmental geoscience major examines how cities can use nature-based solutions to reduce flooding

When Luke Woodfill �26 set out to find solutions to climate change induced flooding, he wasn�t interested in large and expensive infrastructure projects. Rather, he used his Independent Study at ������˾�� to study practical, localized solutions that could be implemented by groups as large as entire cities and as small as individual property owners. To do so, the urban studies and environmental geoscience major turned to his backyard, using the city of ������˾�� to explore how stormwater behaves in different land uses, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural areas. He plans to put his knowledge to use by entering the workforce in his hometown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

EXCITING ASPECTS

Woodfill: As precipitation becomes more intense and frequent, many cities are struggling with stormwater systems that can�t handle the increased runoff, leading to ponding on roads, overwhelmed drains, and greater flood risk. My project examined how small-scale green infrastructure strategies, like rain gardens, bioswales, permeable pavement, and green roofs, can help cities manage increasing localized flooding caused by climate change.

EMPOWERED IN MY FIELD

Woodfill: My research for I.S. taught me about stormwater management as an ongoing challenge in urban planning efforts, as well as pollution issues and local government approaches to mitigation of these challenges. The I.S. process encouraged me to explore urban-environmental issues from multiple perspectives as both a researcher and future professional.

MENTORSHIP MATTERS

Woodfill: My advisor, Dr. Meagen Pollock, was a kind, patient, supportive, and encouraging mentor throughout my I.S. experience. She pushed me to produce a quality thesis while also taking an interest in my cross country and track and field activities and my post-graduation plans. She was always willing to answer my career planning and job search questions.

SUPPORTIVE SCOT COMMUNITY

Woodfill: Dr. Hamed Goharipour had an immense impact on my personal, academic, and professional development. He furthered my enthusiasm for urbanism through his passion for the discipline. I have been his student, advisee, research assistant, and teaching assistant, and I have learned and grown from each experience. My cross country and track and field coach, Dennis Rice, is an amazing, dedicated man who always pushes his athletes to be their best, both in the classroom and in sports. He fosters a fantastic, welcoming team culture.

MY TAKEAWAYS

Woodfill: Completing my I.S. has taught me a lot about time and project management, �trust the process� thinking, trial and error, revisions, collaborations, and academic research techniques, all of which will be useful to me in the future.

WHAT�S NEXT

Woodfill: I intend to return to my hometown of Pittsburgh and look for a position in urban planning, stormwater management, local government, community development, or a related area. After I gain some professional experience, I plan to attend graduate school.

Featured image: Woodfill presents his research on small-scale solutions to flooding at the Independent Study symposium on campus.

Posted in Independent Study on June 9, 2026.