Heron Wolf Commercial Real Estate Scholarship

My passion for real estate began at home. Growing up, I watched my mother invest in multifamily properties--we would live in one unit and rent out the others. That early exposure taught me the power of real estate to build wealth, provide stability, and create opportunity. At first, I imagined owning properties to help a few families. But as I grew older, I started thinking bigger--about the vacant malls, the outdated parks, and the larger systems that shape how communities live, work, and connect. That’s when I realized my purpose lies in commercial real estate. It’s not just about flipping house--it’s about transforming cities and creating environments that bring people together and improve lives. Today, I serve as an investment analyst for Hillside Real Estate Investors--UConn’s student-run investment fund. I recently helped close a 66,000 sq. ft. ground-up retail development in Texas. The project embraces the lifestyle center trend, featuring walking trails, pickleball courts, a restaurant/bar, and traditional retail. Located in the heart of a 5,000+ home residential area, the development is designed to foster community. Projects like this have deepened my interest in building spaces that promote connection, wellness, and local vibrancy. This summer, I’m interning in New York City as a property management intern with JLL, a global leader in commercial real estate. I moved to a new city determined to immerse myself fully. I attend networking events almost daily, seek mentors, and build relationships--because in this industry, I’ve learned it’s not just about who you know, but who knows you. I’m committed to learning every corner of commercial real estate--from development and lending to property and asset management--so I can lead with depth and understanding. I also plan to earn my New York real estate license this summer, a requirement for property managers, and this scholarship would help cover the cost. It would also allow me to attend industry conferences like ICSC, CREW, and BOMA--opportunities that would otherwise be financially out of reach but would greatly enhance my knowledge and professional growth. As a first-generation college student from a low-income background, I’ve had to carve my own path. Through persistence and grit, I’ve earned certifications from Project Destined, spoken at university events--including an invitation by the Dean of the School of Business--and built a reputation as a leader who lifts others along the way. I’ve attended national conferences like NABA and ALPFA on full funding and continue to surround myself with mentors who believe in my potential. These moments have shaped me--but they’re just the beginning. What drives me now is legacy. I don’t want to just succeed--I want to use my success to open doors for others. My long-term goal is to become an urban developer who creates sustainable communities and launches a nonprofit that transforms shipping containers into housing for the unhoused--offering not just shelter, but job opportunities through my professional network to help rebuild lives. In the meantime, I’m focused on growing my expertise so I’m ready to make that vision a reality. The most influential person in my life is my mother. A single parent and investor herself, she taught me to be independent, passionate, and resilient. But most importantly, she reminds me that I dream this big because it’s the life God has planned for me. Her faith grounds me and keeps me focused on a future bigger than myself. The Heron Wolf Scholarship would not just support my education--it would accelerate my ability to lead, serve, and ultimately, build communities that last.