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NEW YORK CITY – A group of �鶹ɫ��Ƭ students from diverse academic backgrounds recently immersed themselves in the heart of the real estate industry through an exclusive externship in New York City. Over the course of two days, three dozen students explored key aspects of the industry, from development and construction to marketing and investment, while engaging with prominent �鶹ɫ��Ƭ alumni who have built successful careers in real estate.

Organized by the Cummings Institute for Real Estate, the externship program offered the students comprehensive learning experiences through site tours of key real estate developments, industry panels, and networking opportunities. The students connected with Patrick Milner ’06, a Partner at Garage Management Company / The Chapman Group, Todd Rechler ’93, Co-Chief Operating Officer of RXR Realty, and Orin Wilf ’96, President of Skyline Developers, who shared insights on trends, challenges, and career pathways in the field through site tours of their companies’ developments and in an “Evolution of a Real Estate Career” panel.

Daniel Fontana, a senior Construction Management major with minors in Business and Real Estate from Armonk, N.Y., played a key role in the externship as the panel moderator. Fontana led the panel discussion among the three �鶹ɫ��Ƭ alumni, facilitating for students an engaging learning experience with industry professionals and a comprehensive understanding of real estate’s many facets. With preparation support from the Center for Career and Professional Development, Fontana stepped into the role with confidence, guiding meaningful conversations that connected students with alumni expertise.

“Moderating the panel was an incredible opportunity, especially with my background in construction management,” said Fontana, who will work as a Field Engineer at Gilbane Building Company’s New York City office following graduation. “I wanted to ensure students could understand how different aspects of real estate connect, from development to construction. Hearing from the panelists, I gained valuable insights into how the industry is evolving and the importance of building a strong network. This experience has definitely boosted my confidence and presentation skills as I transition into real estate development.”

Harrison Latimer ’24, M’25, an M.B.A. student from Newbury, Mass., described the externship as a transformative experience that broadened his understanding of the real estate industry. One of the standout moments was a site visit to RXR Realty’s latest skyscraper development, where students gained exclusive access to a high-profile project currently under construction. Rechler, who graduated with degrees in business and construction management from �鶹ɫ��Ƭ, led the tour, sharing his expertise into the complexities of large-scale development and the ever-changing nature of the real estate market.

“This externship was an incredible opportunity to gain firsthand exposure to the real estate industry in one of the most dynamic cities in the world,” Latimer said. “Hearing from successful alumni like Todd Rechler and Orin Wilf gave us invaluable insights, not just into real estate, but into navigating the professional world. Even though I don’t see real estate as my primary career path, the experience expanded my understanding of the industry and reinforced the importance of networking. Getting an exclusive look at RXR’s skyscraper project and speaking with industry leaders was truly eye-opening.”

For Sean Barry, a sophomore double major in International Business and Management with minors in Real Estate and Psychology from Hingham, Mass., the externship was a pivotal moment in shaping his career aspirations. As an active member of the �鶹ɫ��Ƭ Real Estate Club and a participant in the national collegiate Real Estate Competition in Las Vegas, Barry was eager to immerse himself in the many facets of the industry. The externship gave him the opportunity to explore everything from residential properties to large-scale developments and construction, reinforcing his commitment to a future in real estate.

“Getting a firsthand look at different sides of the real estate industry was incredible, but what really stood out was meeting �鶹ɫ��Ƭ alumni who have built successful careers in the field,” Barry said. “Having that immediate connection and hearing their relatable experiences made it feel even more attainable for me. It gave me an extra push to say, ‘This is what I want to do,’ and now I’m more motivated than ever to build my résumé, seize every opportunity, and work toward a successful career in real estate.” 

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ’s Real Estate Externship program in New York City allowed students to explore diverse career paths within real estate, as well as the essential skills and qualifications, the challenges of the industry, and current trends shaping the market. This immersive experience bridged classroom learning with a real-world learning and networking experience with real estate leaders, giving students a valuable head start as they begin their careers.