Check Out Ackman Ziff’s AZ Educate Program
I wanted to share with everyone a great (and free, but selective) learning opportunity from both a person and company I really respect. Ackman Ziff has launched a new program called A|Z Educate that I think could provide significant value to our readers. This is a program that focuses “on business ethics, career development, networking, and the idea that building relationships and the elevation of those around us are critical to our success and happiness.” In the business of real estate, as with most things, great relationships are everything.
While A.CRE is not involved with this initiative, Ackman Ziff is a company that was pivotal for me and my own career when I first started out in the industry. And so I think it’s certainly worth spreading the word about this program and I would encourage those that are serious about growing their careers in CRE to check it out and consider applying.
Personal Connection and Why I Am an Advocate
Back in 2014, after months and months of hounding their head of HR, I secured a winter internship at Ackman Ziff in NYC. With no proven CRE technical skills to speak of at that point, A|Z was willing to give me shot for a brief winter. The benefit to them was likely null, but the benefit to me was tremendous.
While I only spent 4 weeks at the office there, the amount I learned and was exposed to in that short time was paramount to my career trajectory. Ackman Ziff was, and I’m sure still is, a factory for education and the team there during my brief experience was incredible to me as a “young” and aspiring CRE professional. Every single person I met at that shop had high integrity and was an incredibly hard worker.
That’s why, recently, I was excited to discover that they’ve launched a new remote program for students called A|Z Educate. I reached out to Simon Ziff, president of Ackman Ziff, last week, to reconnect and learn more about it.
The Program and Details
The A|Z Educate program is an innovative educational initiative aimed at undergraduate, post-undergrad, and graduate students interested in real estate. This summer intensive course is designed to operate virtually over four days, making it accessible and convenient for people with various commitments.
Program Overview
A|Z Educate’s sessions are structured into two segments: one for undergraduates and another for graduate students, ensuring tailored content that resonates with the educational level of the participants. Each session runs from 10 AM to 1 PM ET, focusing on key areas such as business ethics, career development, and networking.
Curriculum Highlights
The curriculum is crafted to provide a comprehensive introduction to the real estate sector, emphasizing the importance of building solid relationships and elevating those around us for mutual success. It covers:
- Business Ethics: Understanding the foundational principles that govern ethical behavior in the real estate business.
- Career Development: Practical skills for advancing one’s career in real estate, from networking to career planning.
- Networking: Techniques and strategies for building and maintaining professional relationships.
Application Details
Due to the selective nature of the program, interested candidates are encouraged to apply early. The application process includes submission of academic and professional credentials, along with a statement of purpose that outlines the applicant’s career goals and reasons for participating in the program.
Why This Program Matters
Having personally experienced the high-caliber training and profound integrity at Ackman Ziff, I see the AZ Educate program as a direct extension of these values. For those committed to making a mark in the real estate industry, this program should offer invaluable insights and networking opportunities that could be pivotal in shaping a successful career.
For more details on the program or to apply, please visit the AZ Educate page. I encourage anyone who’s serious about their growth in the commercial real estate sector to consider this unique opportunity.
