My name is Harry Rummell, and I am the summer intern 2015 at Brecker Grossmith. I am 20 years old and just finished my second year at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, where I study business with an emphasis on real estate. I live in Jacksonville, Florida with my family, where I spend most summers enjoying the Florida sun and a break from my studies. However, this summer I decided to cross the pond and try out the English sun (apparently it’s quite shy and stays hidden more than home). I enrolled in an International Internship program through my University, and they helped me find placement here at Brecker Grossmith, based on my interest in real estate. For the past 2 months I have lived in a dorm building in Bloomsbury with over 100 students from across the States who are doing the same thing as me.
This summer has been an incredible opportunity. In addition to getting to live in one of the greatest cities in the world and be immersed in a new culture, I have had a very enriching experience working and learning. I flew across the ocean not knowing quite what to expect, but I could not be happier with the result. The team have been incredibly kind and helpful, and have taught me more than any class ever could.
I have spent most of my time working with the Agency team, assisting finding suitable properties and tenants for our clients. I attended numerous site visits and eventually conducted several of my own. I have also done work with the Professional Services team and increased my knowledge of property value and the legal aspects of real estate. I have spent time reading property leases and learning how to find and identify the pertinent information. I have done market research to assist in valuing a property. As a long-term project, I conducted extensive research on one particular area and prepared a five page market report, based on my research, for presentation to the landlord.
Throughout the summer, I have learned the ins and outs of London commercial property, as well as countless business skills that will benefit me back in the States and in any future position. In my 6 weeks here, I have gone from being unqualified to answer the phones to taking on clients and carrying out property viewings by myself. I have also improved my confidence and comfort in a workplace atmosphere, which is an invaluable asset.
I believe that this summer has helped me grow in a professional and a personal sense, increasing my knowledge of my intended industry as well as fostering life skills which I will carry forever. My time here will absolutely help me in future interviews, not just as a resume item, but as an experience during which I developed a wealth of important skills.
I would recommend this internship to anyone interested in the industry, and if I could do it again, I absolutely would.
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