At Berkadia, our success is built upon the talent and hard work of a broad, diversely skilled team. From graphic designers to loan closing specialists to product designers, each of our people brings a unique background, perspective and expertise. Their work allows Berkadia to remain a leader in the commercial real estate industry.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Keshia Albrecht, Intern -Investment Sales MaRC, who sits in the Los Angeles office, to learn more about her role, how she discovered Berkadia and how she became interested in commercial real estate.
Describe your internship at Berkadia, what department you’re in and how you’re liking the program so far.
My internship at Berkadia has been a wonderful experience. I am currently taking 12 units (3 summer classes) during the summer so being able to have flexibility in my internship schedule by working remote has been a game changer. I love working with the Research team–having the ability to research markets all over the country, all without leaving my home office in California, has been so beneficial.
If you’ve had other internships, how does Berkadia’s internship program differ?
Berkadia’s internship program has been more specific in nature since I am solely focused on the analyzing markets and submarkets for a particular property. I have learned quite a bit from how research plays a role with creating a story for the property and the location it resides in.
Were you always interested in CRE? If not, how did you get into CRE?
I was always interested in Real Estate. I’m currently majoring in Real Estate Development at the University of Southern California and I obtained my license to work for Keller Williams while I served in the military, but I did not realize my passion for commercial real estate until a year before I was about to retire from the United States Air Force. I wanted to transition from residential real estate sales to commercial, so I decided to go back to school to pursue my degree.
What stood out about Berkadia when you were interviewing for your internship role?
The culture of Berkadia stood out to me and not just from reading about it, but truly feeling it from the team. They genuinely love being with Berkadia and are passionate about what they do. It’s not enough as a company to say what you are about or what you value, it’s also about how everyone feels.
What advice would you have for somebody looking to get involved in CRE? How can other students prepare themselves to land an internship at Berkadia?
My advice for someone looking to get involved with CRE is to allow yourself to be open to positions. There are so many opportunities to be involved within this vast and growing industry. There is something for all talents within this industry so do not limit yourself.
If you’re looking for an internship at Berkadia, do your research. Learn about the company, the position you are applying for, and network.
What has your internship at Berkadia taught you about your future corporate real estate career or yourself?
Something I learned about my future career is that market research is at the foundation of all things CRE. I also learned that I am capable of balancing work, school and family time, which I was nervous about at the beginning.