����������

Attendance at the Annual CU Real Estate Forum helps students unlock networking opportunities and gain important industry knowledge and connections.

For senior real estate major Jonah Duran (left), attending the 28th Annual CU Real Estate Forum this March “provided ample networking opportunities between classmates and industry professionals.” That momentum is invaluable as he prepares to launch his career as a broker for Unique Properties in Denver, focusing on industrial, retail, and office investment sales and leasing.

“I’m excited about a career in commercial real estate brokerage because it combines relationship building, market expertise and deal-making in a dynamic, results-driven environment,” he said. “The ability to directly impact businesses and investors while navigating complex transactions is both challenging and rewarding.”

The forum as a catalyst for career growth

“We emphasize that students should engage early and often in experiential education opportunities,” said Erin Penberthy, a Leeds career coach for real estate. Career treks, internships, student organizations, and events like the Real Estate Forum provide valuable networking and learning opportunities, she said.

“Networking is key to the job and internship process, and students who invest in it and research companies before applying tend to have positive career outcomes,” she said. “The Real Estate Forum gives students a fantastic opportunity to not only hear about current industry trends but also meet future employers.”

A premier industry event

“This year’s forum took the event to another level,” said Julie Gibson, Sherman R. Miller Executive Director of the real estate center. The event attracted “top national and local speakers, educating students, alumni and employers around top issues in the real estate industry.”

Among the 300 attendees, 72 were students eager to network and learn from industry leaders, including Willy Walker, CEO and chair of Walker & Dunlop, and Michael Klump, whose 2024 gift established the newly named Michael A. Klump Center for Real Estate.

Key takeaways from industry leaders

Duran echoed forum presenters’ insights about Denver’s growing market, seeing his role as having a prime opportunity to add value. Understanding emerging trends, such as water issues and AI in real estate, was another major draw.

He particularly valued Walker's keynote. As an executive who grew Walker & Dunlop from 46 employees in 2003 to a public company with more than 1,400 employees and recognized as a best place to work over consecutive years, Walker shared key career lessons.

“His inspiring success story and well-spoken nature made listening to his conversation a treat,” said Duran. “Having a good mentor, working hard and trying different things were the main themes he spoke about, all of which I plan on implementing in my career.”

Leeds senior and real estate major Kourtney Stetler (left) agreed. “The Willy Walker presentation was incredibly insightful, especially as a soon-to-be graduate. He shared how, after finishing school, he had the choice between accepting a full-time job or traveling to Paraguay to work with a family friend. Taking a leap of faith, he chose to travel, learn a new language, and gain a broader perspective—an experience that shaped his future career.”

Walker also highlighted the highs and lows of commercial real estate. “There are real estate developers in here that have taken massive risks,” he said, encouraging the audience to accept that as part of the process. He discussed his own experience with layoffs and falling stock prices, citing them as competitive pressures that inspire him to drive new goals.��

His advice to students: “Create a career that doesn’t feel like work.”

The importance of mentors and internships

Michael Klump, who spoke about his career and generous gift to the center, also emphasized taking risks—one being time and knowing how to protect it. His early passion for real estate led to his success in acquiring and developing shopping centers. He emphasized the value of internships and mentorships.

Internships played a significant role for Duran. “I interned at Northmarq on the Portfolio and Asset Management team and at Denver Angel Investments in investment due diligence, both of which helped me develop financial analysis skills and gain exposure to real estate and investment transactions.” He also cited the CU Real Estate Case Competition as a key learning experience.

“Collaborating with my team to build an acquisition model and presenting to industry professionals strengthened my analytical and communication skills, ultimately guiding me toward a career in real estate brokerage.”

Stetler has found mentorship equally valuable. “Being matched with someone who aligns with my interests has been incredibly helpful. My mentor has introduced me to real estate professionals for informational interviews,” she said. “I appreciate the strong relationships I have built with professors, mentors and career coaches, as I believe these connections will be instrumental in my career development.”

The rise of tech in real estate

The event also showcased two industry panels: “The Ripple Effect: Navigating Water Scarcity in Colorado’s Growing Communities,” moderated by Luke Runyon of The Water Desk, and “Real Estate Meets AI: Evaluating the Credibility of AI in Commercial Real Estate,” moderated by Calandra Cruikshank of Statebook International.

Leeds junior Yashwant Chapagain (left) found the discussions enlightening. “I learned so many things. The AI in Real Estate presentation was especially fascinating. I was relieved to hear panelists say they don’t believe AI will replace people and that this is an exciting time for the industry. One panelist noted that career trajectories are going to change vastly, which I also found interesting.”

Looking ahead: A bright future in real estate

“The center’s introductions to industry professionals made it easier to connect and increased my confidence,” said Chapagain. “The center has been supportive in giving us all the resources we need to be successful.”

As Duran looks ahead, he’s “eager to develop deep local knowledge, negotiate creative solutions and drive successful outcomes for clients.”

“On the horizon for the center is to keep serving students well, growing programs, attracting talent and creating a strategic plan to increase experiential and applied learning,” said Gibson.
��