One of the aspects I loved most about my internship was the opportunity to work alongside industry professionals and the C-suite on a daily basis. Being able to learn from their expertise, ask questions, and receive constructive feedback was an experience like no other. It truly enriched my understanding of the industry and provided invaluable insights that I will carry with me throughout my career.
Moreover, the culture at Upshot is exceptional. The saying "people make the place" couldn't be more accurate here. The high standards and quality of work expected from all employees are evident in everything the team does. This environment inspired me to strive for excellence and pushed me to be my best self each and every day.
What I wish was different
Overall, the internship was a great experience but improving the living conditions would have made it even better. I found my living situation at the Union West Downtown campus to be less than ideal. I would also recommend having a car, as I rode the bus or used a scooter to get to work every day. While this mode of transportation wasn't bad, it limited my accessibility to other parts of the city. Having a car would have enhanced my experience and made it easier to explore the area.
Advice
The one piece of advice I would share about this experience is: Don't overestimate your knowledge of Excel or real estate modeling – you'll be amazed at how much you'll learn by the end of the internship. I strongly recommend dedicating time each day to learn and refresh your understanding of the Excel models you're working on. At Upshot, there was a significant emphasis placed on the importance of creating dynamic models, which was a skill I had to develop during my time there. This daily practice not only enhances your technical skills but also helps you adapt more quickly to the company's specific modeling requirements and standards.
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Summer Analyst
May - July 2023 • Orlando, FL
What I liked
I appreciated how much of an emphasis was placed on learning and making sure I had a true understanding of everything before jumping into projects. Another thing I really liked about the internship was how they recognize your value, and they show it through giving you meaningful projects and seeking your perspective on firm-related work.
What I wish was different
Advice
I would recommend researching and learning everything you can about private equity real estate before the internship. Although you learn a lot about the firm and the industry throughout the internship, it really helps to have a fundamental understanding beforehand. I would also refresh your basic knowledge of finance and economics.
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Summer Analyst
May - July 2022 • Orlando, FL
What I liked
Upshot provided a great learning environment that allowed me the tools and resources to push my competency in Excel / PowerPoint, alongside growing my understanding and interest in real estate development.
The team culture was great and I thoroughly enjoyed working with each member of the team. I was extremely interested in the work I was completing and benefitted from such a holistic education of the industry. All around, my summer at Upshot was a pivotal point in my finance experience thus far.
What I wish was different
All around my experience with the firm was incredible and there is nothing that I would have changed.
Advice
I would share that the culture and opportunity at Upshot is one where you receive extensive benefit in return for the effort and dedication put into the internship. I felt that I was always able to learn something new and that the team always had opportunities for me, for as much as I was willing to dive into.
Also, I would advise that the internship has a steeper learning curve in the beginning, if having not had prior experience to the real estate development private equity space. Therefore, I recommend learning as much about the industry, valuation, key players and underwriting process as early as possible while starting the internship, as it will benefit you throughout the duration of your time with the firm.
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Summer Analyst
May - July 2023 • Orlando, FL
What I liked
This experience provided great exposure to leadership and the various aspects of a vertically integrated firm.
What I wish was different
I was out-of-state and should have chosen housing more carefully. The UnionWest is dorm-like living.
Advice
Take advantage of the boutique nature of the firm by being inquisitive and observing the behaviors and decisions of a highly experienced leadership team. This is an opportunity to get responsibilities beyond a typical internship and work in a fast-paced, competitive environment.
