Forrest Kerr '21
Major(s):
Finance
Minor(s):
Real Estate Finance
Outcome Opportunity:
Internship
Position:
Commercial Transaction Intern
Company/Organization:
Land Services, USA
What was your role at the company? What were your responsibilities, day-to-day assignments?
"I worked with a team specializing in closing and escrow services for large and unique commercial real estate transactions for the summer of 2019. I spent my summer helping to close a $350 Million refinance transaction involving 290 cemetery assets located nationwide, and many other interesting deals. I was responsible for analyzing transaction documents, communicating with outside counsel, and assisting our team with any relevant issue that came about."
How did you obtain your internship position? Did the SJU RE&C Alumni Board / SJU RE Society help you?
"My SJU RE&C alumni mentors encouraged and assisted me in branching out and expanding my real estate network. By doing so, I was able to form connections that helped me get the job."
How did the SJU RE&C Alumni Board / SJU RE Society help and prepare you for success in the position?
"My exposure to the industry through the Real Estate Finance courses at SJU, along with competing in the Villanova Development Case Competition this past spring with other members of the Real Estate Society gave me the knowledge-base I needed to get up to speed quickly with the various intricacies of title. "
Did the company offer you a full-time position post graduation? What are your future plans?
"I was invited back to work in the fall and the Summer of 2020, but was encouraged to seek other opportunities as well. I am eager to combine my dual passions for finance and real estate, and attempt to find an internship for next summer where I can expand my knowledge about both. The RE&C board has been extremely helpful in getting my foot in the door."