Building Relationships: Connecting Students to Industry

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At the Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate (BMC), we believe that student success is not just measured in grades or job titles, it’s found in the relationships, confidence, and purpose our graduates carry with them into the world. Over the past two years, we’ve deepened this commitment through our Building Relationships Series. This series was created to help our students build genuine industry connections, sharpen their professional focus, and engage with the community. Together, we’re opening doors and shaping the kind of career success that lasts.

Joe Bertocchini, senior manager of student, industry, and alumni development at the BMC, kicked off the series with a workshop on personal branding, encouraging students to consider how authenticity and self-awareness shape their professional identity. Through guided prompts, students explored how they present themselves and how branding can support stronger, more meaningful professional relationships.

Students recently visited Chelsea Investment Corporation’s Mt. Etna campus for an inside look at the development and operations of affordable housing. Led by Samantha Willcock ‘23 (MSRE), the tour highlighted the financial, strategic, and community-focused considerations behind mission-driven projects. The experience offered students valuable insight into how thoughtful planning and long-term stewardship contribute to community stability. Students were also able to experience the multiple life stages of development, with some buildings complete and ready for lease up with others still under construction. The tour provided invaluable real-world context, reinforcing concepts students are applying in the classroom.

The series also welcomed back military-affiliated MSRE ’24 alumni Dre Evans, Bobby Morales, and Morgan Hampel, who shared guidance on leadership, discipline, and navigating the early stages of a real estate career from the lens of those with military experience. Their practical advice underscored the importance of mentorship and continued engagement within the MSRE network.

Industry exposure continued with a visit to Bioterra San Diego, coordinated by Taylor Klein ’23 (MSRE), demonstrating the strong alumni connections that support the program. Students toured the ±319,318 SF Class-A life science development by Longfellow Real Estate Partners and discussed its sustainable features, functional design, and market positioning. The group also viewed the building’s 5th-floor lounge and event space, noting how its design supports collaboration and tenant engagement.

These engagements collectively reinforce the purpose of the Building Relationships series: to equip MSRE students with real-world insight, practical guidance, and the connections that help propel their careers forward.