Meet Joe Holtzer ’27, an enthusiastic Global Commerce major who spent his summer as a Commercial Real Estate Brokerage Intern at NAI Pleasant Valley in Cleveland, Ohio. Joe’s college journey is complemented by active participation on the Men’s Lacrosse Team, where he hones his leadership and teamwork skills.
During his internship, Joe dove into the dynamic world of real estate, taking on a variety of responsibilities that enriched his understanding of the industry. He identified potential properties using online databases, developed and executed a strategic pitch for prospecting clients, and accompanied clients on property tours. Additionally, he created and maintained comprehensive databases of properties, clients, and market trends, ensuring that his team had the insights needed for effective analysis.
Reflecting on how this experience influenced his career direction, Joe shared, “This internship opened my eyes to the vast opportunities within real estate. I realized that it’s a field where I could see myself thriving in the future.” The exposure to various aspects of the real estate market helped solidify his interest and confidence in pursuing a career in this area.
For those considering internships, Joe offers invaluable advice: “Take in as much knowledge as you can, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. As an intern, it’s perfectly fine not to know everything.” This mindset, he believes, is crucial for personal and professional growth.
Beyond his internship, Joe found support through the Knowlton Center, emphasizing its role in helping him build a strong resume and LinkedIn profile. “Meeting with them as a freshman was really beneficial in preparing for the internship search,” he noted.
What’s more, Joe’s proactive networking approach led him to secure this internship. He reached out to various industry professionals in his area, pitching himself and his interest in real estate. His efforts paid off, resulting in visits to two real estate companies over winter break. One of these opportunities culminated in the internship offer that became a highlight of his summer.
