The University of Oregon Lundquist College of Business is investing in real estate education. Students have expressed great interest and our industry partners, alumni, and friends of the college agree that professional opportunities abound in the field.

In one recent example in June, 80 students and professionals came together at the Wells Fargo Center in Portland for the UO Real Estate Investment Group Networking Event.

The UO Real Estate Investment Group (UO REIG) is an undergraduate student group focused on learning about the components of real estate investing and exploring different facets of commercial real estate. The group invites guest speakers from developers to investment bankers who share their knowledge and experience.

The student group also tours a few sites per term—such as local apartment construction, retail rental space, and more—to gain hands-on experience, and the entire club participates in case studies and pitching properties to local investors.

At the event, attendees heard from alumnus Andrew Colas ’04, president of Colas Construction, Inc.; Don Ossey ’80 (architecture), principal at Capacity Commercial Group; and Michelle Schulz ’98 (architecture) principal at GBD Architects. Nick Kucha, vice chairman at Pacific Northwest Capital Markets Newmark, served as moderator.

“Such an insightful and valuable experience,” said UO REIG vice president Makai Norman, a third-year sports business student at the Lundquist College. “Can't wait to attend next year’s event.”

—AnneMarie Knepper-Sjoblom ’05, Lundquist College Communications