Bridging the Gap Between Classroom and Career

Throughout his career, JC Pelusi (MBA ’85, A&S ’83) identified a skill gap between the academic knowledge students possessed upon graduation and the practical demands of the real estate profession. He wanted to help close that gap, and what better place to invest his knowledge and resources than his alma mater?

Without a dedicated real estate major, the Pitt Business Real Estate Finance Academy introduces students to the market and enables them to create industry connections. Pelusi says, “This program combines academic learning with real-world experience and industry exposure.” Since its inception in 2017, the academy has been led by Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), a professional services and investment management firm specializing in real estate. Pelusi is international director, market leader at JLL, where he has worked for over 25 years.

Empowering Careers

“This academy undoubtedly made a positive impact on my career,” says Ari Bogen 

(BSBA ’24), capital market analyst at JLL’s Boston office. “The academy educated me on key concepts essential for a career in commercial real estate,” says Bogen. This knowledge helped him excel in his internship interview with JLL.

Bogen expressed his gratitude to Pelusi and the others who facilitate the academy. “Thank you for providing countless Pitt Business students the opportunity to gain experience within the commercial real estate industry and positively impact our careers.”

For Abby Clarke (BSBA ’22), an email about the academy came at a pivotal moment. After a summer internship that didn’t fit, her sister encouraged her to connect with a JLL contact. “I owe my career to the academy. The connections I made were crucial in securing my first job out of college,” says Clarke, now an associate project manager at JLL’s 

New York office. She hopes to contribute to the academy’s success, providing guidance and support to future Pitt Business students.

Keys to a Successful Program

The academy equips students with essential skills such as underwriting, market research, lease negotiations, and real estate terminology through case studies and assignments. Collaboration with industry partners ensures relevance. Experts provide firsthand knowledge of current real estate trends, challenges, and opportunities.

Get Involved!

Pelusi emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the University and providing diverse students industry opportunities. “It’s something I truly enjoy,” he says. Alumni can support these programs by contributing knowledge, time, or money. Contact Jodi Weisfield at jweisfield@katz.pitt.edu to help.