UPenn student and Truckee local is tackling housing instability through urban studies and psychology

February 26, 2026 - 04:17

TRUCKEE, Calif. – Stefan Hatch, a senior at the University of Pennsylvania, is pioneering an interdisciplinary approach to tackle the complex issue of housing instability. By merging his studies in urban studies and psychology, Hatch seeks to understand the full human impact of insecure housing in Philadelphia, moving beyond mere policy to examine personal trauma.

His hands-on research has taken him directly into the heart of the system. Hatch has observed proceedings in a courtroom dedicated to housing cases, gaining critical insight into the legal pressures facing tenants. Furthermore, he has contributed to significant academic research on the psychological effects of eviction, helping to document the lasting emotional and mental health scars left by housing displacement.

This unique dual perspective allows Hatch to analyze housing not just as structures and zoning laws, but as a fundamental component of community well-being and individual stability. His work underscores the necessity of viewing urban planning through a human-centric lens. By connecting the logistical challenges of city housing with the psychological needs of residents, Hatch aims to contribute to more holistic and compassionate solutions for cities in crisis. His approach represents a growing trend in social advocacy, where data meets human experience to drive meaningful change.