<p><span class="p-body">James Azarian's path to NYU SPS Schack Institute of Real Estate began in his hometown of Wyckoff, New Jersey. Growing up near New York City,&nbsp;Azarian always had his sights set on the high-energy world of real estate in the metro area. Now, as a part-time student pursuing an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-real-estate.html" target="_blank">MS in Real Estate</a> with a concentration in finance and investment,&nbsp;Azarian is actively building his expertise while working as a financial analyst.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Outside of school and work, Azarian enjoys staying active, especially in soccer and softball. He follows European soccer closely, particularly as an AC Milan fan, and is also passionate about the New Jersey Devils. &quot;Sports are a big part of my life,&quot; he says, enjoying the balance they provide alongside his demanding academic and professional commitments. We were thrilled to chat with&nbsp;Azarian to see how the program is going so far and where he has his sights set for the future.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Azarian was drawn to NYU SPS Schack for its strong reputation and its position at the heart of New York's real estate industry. The program's alumni network, practical curriculum, and rich opportunities for growth were all key factors in his decision. &quot;I knew if I were accepted, it would be my top choice,&quot; he explains. Since joining the program in 2021, Azarian has immersed himself in all it has to offer, including leadership roles and hands-on learning experiences.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Azarian has taken full advantage of his time at NYU, stepping into leadership roles that have helped him expand his skills. He currently serves as the President of the NYU SPS Schack REIT Investment Fund, where he manages a team of 32 analysts investing discretionary capital on behalf of the university. During the previous school year, Azarian served as the lead retail analyst for the REIT Fund. &quot;This hands-on learning experience has been the most applicable to my career,&quot; Azarian notes, emphasizing how the Fund has taught him to apply classroom knowledge to real-world investments.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">In addition to leading the REIT Fund, Azarian is also the Editor-In-Chief of NYU SPS Blueprint, the real estate program's academic publication. Under his leadership, the publication has grown significantly, publishing two editions per semester and reaching over 1,000 followers on LinkedIn. &quot;It's been an incredible experience,&quot; he shares as he reflects on the opportunity to collaborate with a talented team and publish original real estate research.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Azarian credits his time at NYU with preparing him for success in the real estate industry. The diversity of class and extracurricular offerings have also helped him round out his education.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Through site tours, industry conferences, and mentorship from professors like Scott Robinson, Azarian has gained practical knowledge and built a robust network in the real estate field.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Networking within the program led to his position as a financial analyst, where he works on the development and investments teams. &quot;The connections I've made through NYU have been a tremendous asset,&quot; he says.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">After graduation, Azarian plans to continue his career in real estate investment and development. He is confident that the skills and network he's built at NYU will allow him to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving real estate industry. &quot;NYU has helped me develop a brand and reputation,&quot; he adds, emphasizing the program's role in shaping his professional trajectory.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">For incoming students, Azarian has one key piece of advice: make the most of your time at NYU. &quot;You are only here once—capitalize on all the opportunities available to you,&quot; he urges. He encourages students to treat their time at NYU as they would a job, investing fully in classes, events, and extracurricular activities.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">&quot;This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build the foundation for your career,&quot; he concludes. Gain the skills and connections you need to make your mark on the global real estate industry when you pursue an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-real-estate.html" target="_blank">MS in Real Estate</a> at NYU SPS.</span></p>