Investing in a Real Estate Career: Junlu Ouyang '20 MRED
Four Questions with Master of Real Estate Development Student Junlu Ouyang
Junlu Ouyang entered CAPLA's on-campus Master of Real Estate Development program in Fall 2019 after earning her undergraduate degree in geography from the University of Arizona. She was born and raised in Sichuan Province, China.
What do you like best about the MRED program?
I most enjoy the fieldwork. Professors let us to delve deeply into real development projects, to do on-the-spot investigations, which helps everyone connect and learn. We are introduced to the companies and project managers, who give us context about the project and the larger community. Then faculty work closely with us on our resulting papers, to help ensure they are at a professional level.
What has been your biggest challenge at CAPLA, and how did you overcome that challenge?
The biggest challenge I have encountered was to learn how to make professional financial reports. This is very rigorous work, and people have to use Word and Excel proficiently. Initially I made mistakes, but my professors have helped me understand the necessary financial formulas, and the tests in class help reinforce this knowledge.
Tell us about your job experience and your career goals.
In 2018 I worked for a company called Anjuke, where I was responsible for collecting information on housing in China. When a house comes on the market, websites will collect information or act as an exclusive agent. My job was to contact the owner and collect data about the house, analyze the current market situation and provide suggestions.
My career goal is to be a professional investment planner, help others to manage their properties, and provide sound investment planning. I hope also to advise on property as a long-term, profitable investment.
What advice do you have for prospective MRED students?
Actively participate in as many activities and opportunities provided by the college and professors as possible. This will help you expand your network and learn how projects work in reality. If there is something you don’t understand, be sure to communicate with your professor. They are very professional and patient.
