Christian Zenk

Landscape Design, May 2010

Please describe your academic background including the reason(s) for enrolling in the MS program at the School of Continuing Education.

I received my B.A. in English literature from Columbia University's School of General Studies in January 1986. In 2008, I enrolled in the M.S. in Landscape Design program at the School of Continuing Education in order to remain current in my work environment and update my skills and technical methods.

Please describe your professional background leading up to your current position.

I have 30+ years in the horticulture industry, beginning with my experiences in a family landscaping company established in 1975. After graduating with my B.A. from Columbia in 1986, I became the co-owner of Zenk Country Landscapes, specializing in property management and design/build, where I remained until 1994. From there, I moved to my position as co-owner of the Locust Glen Garden Center, focusing on horticultural products from 1995-2005.  In 2006, I established Morton Wilton LLC, a landscape design, installation, and maintenance firm, where I presently reside as owner.

What is a typical day like in your current position?

We service clients throughout a large geographic area, so there is a lot of planning and logistical support involved in each project. I am also responsible for running the normal business aspects of the company. I have employed many new technical methods I learned in the M.S. program on a daily basis.

How did the Landscape Design program help you with your career?

The Landscape Design program has focused the importance of presentation in selling work proposals. Furthermore, I gained adequate computer skills and knowledge that I now realize to be useful and important in my line of work. The program has also helped to concentrate my interest in sustainable urban landscapes. Since graduation I have also done some teaching on a secondary level in vocational agricultural applications.

What advice would you give to students who wish to pursue careers in Landscape Design?

As you pursue your education and career in landscape design, be sure to have a positive attitude and be willing to learn from your mistakes. Furthermore, maintain the ability to remain open minded, allowing yourself learn and grow from critical comments. Often times, the skills you learn can be applied to all areas of your life and career.