More than anything, I was very excited to get into class and meet my fellow classmates. It's always exciting to see who you'll be working with in a program like this one. Needless to say, I was happy to meet everyone and I'm sure that I'll be able to learn a lot not only from our curriculum but also from my fellow students. Our experience and reasons for enrollment varies greatly. Different students represent public and private sector, non-profit and for-profit businesses, and operational and administrative positions. Some students have significant experience in real estate while other have no experience or are changing careers. I think this amalgamation of experience and talent will help us all grow and benefit from each other.
Also, it was very refreshing to be back in a creative environment. Not that my current employer restricts creativity, but we all just get so busy with our daily tasks that it can be hard to find time to explore your creative side. Since our class, I have been much more in touch with my creative side, thinking about potential future business projects or partnerships. I believe that it is this creative element of this experience that may be most beneficial for me. Many times, I feel a desire to branch out and work or invest in new or creative ways. The problem is, I can't ever really figure out exactly how to turn that desire to do something innovative and creative into action that will pay off from a personal and professional perspective. Throughout this class, I am going to be exposed to new contacts, projects, ideas and initiatives that will constantly allow me to consider new alternatives for personal and professional growth.
We disussed concerns or doubts that students might have as they enter the program. Probably like everyone, there were moments of self-doubt or 'will this really be worthwhile for me?' It was good to know that others in the class also shared doubts or didn't exactly know where this program would take them. For most all of us, it will be a journey of discovery as we explore a variety of developing and exciting topics regarding real estate and sustainability.
One question or potential doubt that I continuously found considering was, 'how can I make this profitable AND sustainable?' Maybe it's because I've always considered myself to be a true capitalist in every sense of the word, but projects or ideas really only interest me if I can understand how they can be economically viable. For example, the idea that we kept discussing of creating a community garden held virtually no appeal for me unless we were completing that project as a purely philanthropic mission. Although it sounded like a noble mission, I couldn't figure out how this project was improving efficency, saving waste, or improving profits. I think it will be part of my growth to see how unique and innovative projects can be sustainable while also making sense for investors or stakeholders. Perhaps at times I am not idealistic enough which may restrict my creativity, but throughout the program you can always count on me to add a touch of capitalism and realism to any conversation.
In general, I am excited about my future in this program. When people asked how it went on the first day, I generally responded with 'I am going to get out of the program whatever I put into it.' With that in mind, I plan to get a lot out of the program and grow my career in real estate in new and exciting directions.
- SP
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