Although Portland's gorgeous scenery is enough to draw in new people, our Master of Science in Real Estate (MSRE) program further solidified Christina Mirani's decision to move from San Francisco.
Previously Christina attended San Francisco State University studying urban studies and planning with a focus on development. During that program, she interned at Eviction Defense Collaborative, Inc., which opened her eyes to the eviction crisis in San Francisco and steered her career toward a focus on affordable housing.
“As a developer, your work is crucial as you are the driving force behind a project getting completed. Of course, housing insecurity and homelessness are caused by various factors, but access to affordable housing is one proven solution that highlights the urgency of building and preserving more deed-restricted affordable housing,” said Christina.
Over time Christina struggled to discover the ideal career trajectory for herself until she stumbled upon affordable housing and is now navigating her way through this field. After a few years of working in affordable housing development, Christina decided it was time to transition to the finance side of the industry. To prepare her for a career in this very specialized field, she sought out graduate programs emphasizing finance rather than design and prioritized practical application over theory.
Portland State’s MSRE program caught her attention due to affordable housing being one area of specialization for students. As she advances her career, she recognizes that “there are so many different options within the finance stack of affordable housing,” therefore, this dynamic program presents her with the opportunity to explore various paths that suit her best.
Additionally, the academic director for the MSRE, Dr. Julia Freybote, was a compelling factor in her decision as a beneficial resource. Dr. Freybote has been attentive to Christina’s wants and needs both previously and presently within the program.
Prior to the start of the program, Dr. Freybote connected Christina to alumni from the program emphasizing Christina’s major takeaway from the program – the significance of networking. Some graduates have gone into affordable housing finance, development or asset management and joined organizations such as Related NW, Home Forward, Central City Concern, and Hacienda CDC.
“It has pushed me to meet people in the industry and make connections,” said Christina as she reflected on how “it has been really helpful.” Portland State University maintains a valuable community that continues to serve Christini during her time in the program. A highlight of PSU’s community for her is the Real Estate Emerging Leaders Club (REEL). This organization welcomes all undergraduate and graduate students interested in real estate-related fields, providing networking and educational opportunities within the industry.
As Christina’s time in the program winds down, she continues to engage in “learning what feels right.”