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 Brooklyn Robinson, an Investment Sales intern in the Dallas office, to learn more about why she chose Berkadia, what her internship at Berkadia has taught her about her future career, and how she is applying her coursework while interning at Berkadia.
Can you tell us about yourself and describe your internship at Berkadia so far?
I am from Houston, Texas and I just graduated in May with my MBA from the University of Texas at Tyler, where I was playing on the women’s soccer team. I am currently interning on the Affordable Housing Investment Sales platform in the Dallas office, and it has been great so far!
Why did you choose to Be Berkadia this summer?
I chose Berkadia because the commercial real estate industry is fascinating and unique, offering unlimited opportunities for learning and growth.
When interviewing for internships, what made Berkadia stand out?
Berkadia stood out because of their values. When meeting the team during interviews, I immediately really liked the people I would be working with and felt like it was the perfect place to start off and get to know the real estate business.
What has your internship at Berkadia taught you about your future career or yourself?
So far, my internship has taught me that there are so many career opportunities throughout the commercial real estate industry and building a solid foundation of understanding is extremely helpful no matter what avenue I decide to take. and that I have still so much room to learn and grow.
If you’ve had other internships, how does Berkadia’s internship program differ? Why?
I have had other internship experiences, but in different industries. Berkadia differs because I am the only one in my office on my team, which makes it a little different since it’s virtual, but I still feel that the program does a great job of connecting all the interns and the various business units. I’ve still enjoyed getting to know the people in my office and on my team in different parts of the country.
How are you applying your coursework in this role? What do you expect to take away from this role?
My undergraduate degree was in accounting, so I don’t have much real estate experience, but it’s interesting to see how the fundamentals of accounting and my MBA tie into real estate processes. I expect to take away a lot of new beneficial knowledge, understanding, and experience, as well as professional communication skills and relationships.
What specific skills or knowledge have you gained from this internship?
Through this experience so far, I have learned about the affordable housing system, especially LIHTC, and have been able to refine my excel, technological, and communication skills. I also have learned to explore and understand different markets within our nation.
What advice would you give someone interested in interning at Berkadia?
I would advise someone to never be ashamed if they don’t understand something and not be afraid to ask questions. That is the only way you will learn, and I think you will get out of the program what you put in, like most things in life!
What is the best piece of advice you have received this summer?
Some of the best advice I have gotten is to always be your authentic self, take calculated risks, and never be afraid to ask for help. It is important to remember that no matter how experienced someone may seem, they too are still learning every day.