Purdue University real estate students from the Dean V. White program recently traveled to Chicago to meet with employers and alumni and experience what makes real estate special. Among the great advice they heard on the trip was to be curious, be willing and network.
"One of my favorite parts of the trip was touring Google’s new Chicago HQ at the Thompson Center, where I got to see how many intricate details go into the construction and design of a major building,” says Kristina Babaian, a real estate student on the trip. “I also loved hearing from the architect behind the renovation of the Old Post Office, who shared the challenges of modernizing a historic landmark while preserving its original character. It was a perfect opportunity to combine my interests in architecture and business and see how both come together in real estate.”
Students also had the opportunity to learn about employment opportunities and careers during company visits at LaSalle Investment Management, Harrison Street Asset Management, Vornado Realty Trust, Merchants Capital, Core Hotels & Resorts and Equity International.
Special thanks to Marc and Jessica Muinzer for hosting a student-alumni networking reception at the Chicago Club. “I really enjoyed connecting with Purdue alumni and learning from their experiences in the industry,” Babaian says. “Hearing their stories and advice gave me new perspectives on career growth and how to navigate the real estate world with curiosity and purpose.”
Company visits, site visits and an alumni networking event allowed students to discover many unique aspects of a career in commercial real estate, all while experiencing the industry in one of America’s most vital cities.
Learn more about Purdue's Dean V. White Real Estate Finance Program
