MSRE or Jump Straight into Development?
Interested in hearing the general consensus on my situation, though I know some might be tired of this topic.
Currently in school with about a year left (Business undergrad, school doesn't offer RE major). This past summer, I completed an internship at a local development firm. Going to pursue a career in development, but still uncertain which specific area I want to focus on (construction, acquisition, etc). My goal is to stay local in the Southeast, given the incredible growth in the region over the past few years. Many developers have major projects underway, and I see a lot of potential here.
I don't plan to work for a large firm after graduation. I aim to start at a smaller firm and leverage my connections to learn as much as possible. In the future (5+ years), I plan to go off on my own and start my own shop. I have access to funding and am willing to take the risk.
My big question is whether pursuing a MSRE would be worth it in my situation. Should I go straight into a job after school, or is the degree valuable enough to make a difference? I've heard mixed opinions. Some say an MSRE isn’t necessary since you can learn everything on the job in a few years, while others believe it provides value. Based on what I've observed, most developers in my area don't have an MSRE or MBA, though I've seen some analysts and similar roles with those degrees.
Right now, I’m leaning toward working immediately after school rather than getting an MSRE. However, there is a top 10 MSRE program at my school that I’ve been considering, and I’m trying to weigh the pros and cons. If I plan to go out on my own one day, would an MSRE give me more credibility as a young developer? (Raising fund, etc)
TL;DR:
Deciding on MSRE vs. go straight into development after school. Leaning towards working, but weighing the pros and cons of the degree.
So you've never worked full time in the field and you automatically want to jump into a grad degree specific to real estate?
First get into the industry for a couple years in the right role. If you are with a great firm and on a great trajectory you don't need a grad degree. A grad degree is best used if you're looking to transition or break into the industry after working in something entirely different. An MBA is more flexible than an MSRE if you want to pivot out of real estate
Thanks, that’s kind of where my head was at, appreciate the feedback
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