Graduate of the New M.S. in Global Real Assets Shares her Experience with the Program

As the spring semester comes to a close, Georgetown McDonough is pleased to commemorate the accomplishments of the Class of 2024. This year’s graduating class demonstrated immense commitment, discipline, and determination to reach this milestone, and we are proud to recognize their achievements as they embark on their next chapter as Hoya alumni. To celebrate, we’re spotlighting several of the exceptional students in the Class of 2024 as they share their personal stories, reflect on their time on the Hilltop, and preview what the future holds after commencement.

In fall 2023, Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business launched the M.S. in Global Real Assets (MS-GRA) program. This innovative degree integrates infrastructure and real estate investment coursework with that of alternative energy and sustainability. By equipping students with the skills to navigate the real assets sector, the MS-GRA program empowers them to contribute to global sustainability and social responsibility efforts.

As the inaugural class prepares for commencement, Alexis Goihman (MS-GRA‘24) reflects on her experience. Here, Goihman shares why she chose the program, key lessons she learned, her favorite courses, post-graduate plans, and the overall experience during her studies.

What led you to the M.S. in Global Real Assets program?

After growing up in an entrepreneurial real estate family, my passion for entrepreneurship and real estate led me to pursue my undergraduate education at Babson College in Boston. After graduating, I started my career as a retail leasing broker. My long-term aspiration was to transition to the principal side of real estate investment. That’s why I decided to enroll in the M.S. Global Real Assets program, where I aimed to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to enter the workforce as a real estate investor.

What is your favorite memory or proudest moment from your time at Georgetown McDonough?

One of my proudest moments at Georgetown occurred earlier in the program when I had the opportunity to meet Richard Lucas at a real estate gathering hosted by the university. As a Lucas Scholar, meeting Richard was incredibly meaningful to me knowing that he played a significant role in sponsoring my education.

What was your favorite course or experience while in the MS-GRA program? 

My favorite course in the MS-GRA program was Professor Arthur Dong’s class on Infrastructure Finance. The material covered was both unique and interesting. I found the study of infrastructure finance particularly fascinating, as it serves as the foundation for commercial development.

What is one of the most important lessons you have learned while at Georgetown?

The most valuable takeaway from the MS-GRA program was the focus on career preparedness. Through our curriculum, which includes various “clinics,” I gained real-world experience and exposure to essential technical tools such as Excel and Argus. These clinics equipped me with practical skills to succeed in my career in real estate.

Is there a particular person in the Georgetown community that has been instrumental to your success? 

Two individuals who have had an impact on my professional and personal growth are Denise Durgin and Rachel Smith from the career services team. Durgin and Smith offered me guidance throughout the job search process. They coached me through multiple interviews with different companies, helping me present myself effectively. Additionally, they provided support for my company, Moody Est 2024, an accessories brand dedicated to supporting mental health causes. They both go above and beyond to help students succeed. 

What are your post-graduate plans? 

After graduation, I will be an asset management and development summer analyst with Federal Realty, a retail REIT based out of D.C. I received this position through a LinkedIn message to the head of asset management, which turned into coffee, and eventually a summer position. 

You are a part of the inaugural class of MS-GRA students. What advice would you give to the next cohort?

One of the program’s most valuable assets is its network. I highly recommend taking the time to get to know your classmates and their respective interests. The program is designed to facilitate connections among real estate professionals, with the expectation that classmates may collaborate on future real estate opportunities.