At Berkadia, we’re focused on shaping the future of the commercial real estate industry through our internship program. We believe in helping our interns grow by giving them real-world experience, personal development, training, and mentorship. We value our people and are passionate about ensuring that each individual has the tools they need to succeed.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Brandon Klearman, an intern for our FHA/HUD platform in St. Louis. We’ll delve into how he’s applying his coursework, the insights he’s gaining, and the invaluable advice he’s received during his internship at Berkadia.
Can you tell us about yourself and describe your internship at Berkadia so far?
I’m currently studying Political Science at the University of Dayton and plan to graduate in 2026. Beyond that, I’m considering furthering my studies and attending law school. So far, my internship at Berkadia has been an incredible experience where I’ve had the chance to delve into the world of mortgage banking and investment sales. It’s been a unique opportunity to learn about these fields.
Why did you choose to Be Berkadia this summer?
I chose to intern at Berkadia this summer because I was eager to learn about mortgage banking and investment sales. The opportunity to gain insights into these areas from a leading company in the CRE industry was something I couldn’t pass up.
When interviewing for internships, what made Berkadia stand out?
During the interview process, what stood out to me about Berkadia was the collaborative atmosphere. The culture here promotes teamwork and innovation, which was very appealing to me.
What has your internship at Berkadia taught you about your future career or yourself?
My internship at Berkadia has taught me about the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in my future career. I’ve come to appreciate the value of embracing new experiences and the significant impact of effective communication in a professional environment.
If you’ve had other internships, how does Berkadia’s internship program differ? Why?
Compared to other internships I’ve had, Berkadia’s program is distinct in its emphasis on mentorship and real-world application. The level of responsibility and trust given to interns here is remarkable, allowing us to truly contribute to projects.
How are you applying your coursework in this role? What do you expect to take away from this role?
In this role, I’ve been able to apply my analytical skills and understanding of economic principles from my political science coursework. I expect to take away a deeper understanding of the financial industry and how it intersects with regulatory and policy issues.
What specific skills or knowledge have you gained from this internship?
I’ve gained valuable skills in financial analysis, client communication, and project management. Additionally, I’ve learned about the intricacies of mortgage banking and investment sales, which are areas I had little exposure to before.
What advice would you give someone interested in interning at Berkadia?
For those considering an internship at Berkadia, I recommend being proactive and open-minded. Embrace the opportunity to learn, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. The more you engage, the richer your experience will be.
What is the best piece of advice you have received this summer?
The best piece of advice I’ve received this summer is to absorb as much information as possible and always ask questions. This approach has helped me make the most of my internship by continuously learning and growing.