<p>Stephanie Wright's path to NYU SPS began with a BA in English from Yale University and an MBA from Columbia Business School. Her extensive career in institutional buy-side roles at PGIM Real Estate, Brookfield, and Jonathan Rose Companies laid a solid foundation for her transition into academia. In January 2022, she joined the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/about/academic-divisions-and-departments/schack-institute-of-real-estate.html" title="Schack Institute of Real Estate">Schack Institute of Real Estate</a> full-time, driven by a long-standing aspiration to teach. </p>
<p>Wright's connection to Schack started as a young professional when she earned a professional certificate in Real Estate Finance & Investment through Schack's continuing education programs. A chance encounter with a visiting clinical professor position led her back to NYU SPS, where she now serves as a clinical assistant professor in the BS in Real Estate program and Program Coordinator for the MS in Real Estate program.</p>
From Today Show Guest to NYU Educator
<p>Wright's passion for teaching traces back to childhood. A memorable moment was captured on tape by NBC's Today Show, where she appeared as a four-year-old "teacher" in an imaginary classroom. This early inclination towards education persisted throughout her career, as she went on to mentor junior talent in her real estate roles.</p>
<p>Teaching at Schack allows Wright to fulfill her desire to mentor and support students on their professional journeys. "When students come to me, it is an extension of trust on their behalf," she reflects. Wright emphasizes the importance of effort and engagement, promising her unwavering support to students who strive earnestly.</p>
In Wright's Classroom
<p>The practical and immersive teaching approach Wright uses has profoundly impacted students in the program. Leveraging New York City's bustling real estate market, she integrates real practitioners as adjuncts and guest speakers, hosts a variety of networking events, and facilitates field experiences. Wright's students gain hands-on experience by analyzing real deals, preparing mock investment committee memos, and developing critical business thinking skills. "They are bridging theory with application," she explains. This method ensures that students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also learn to think and problem-solve like industry professionals.</p>
<p>Wright measures her success by the continued relevance and impact of her teachings on alumni in the field. A significant challenge she addresses is encouraging students to embrace failure as part of the learning process. Wright believes that students benefit more from becoming adaptable generalists rather than rigid specialists. "If they put in the effort, I will get them where they want to go, but it takes patience and persistence," she advises. This approach aims to instill resilience and a long-term growth mindset in her students.</p>
Global Mindset 101
<p>"To me, being 'globally minded' is a hot topic de jour, but really roots itself in something more fundamental: are you curious and humble? Curiosity and humility are critical to growth, to working with others, and understanding oneself. Behind many great leaders are curious and open minds."</p>
<p>Wright's varied interests and experiences, from singing in the Civic Chorale of New Jersey to learning to sail, exemplify her commitment to continuous learning. She hopes to inspire her students with the same passion for knowledge and adaptability.</p>
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To me, being 'globally minded' is a hot topic de jour, but really roots itself in something more fundamental: are you curious and humble? Curiosity and humility are critical to growth, to working with others, and understanding oneself. Behind many great leaders are curious and open minds."
Real World in Real Time
<p>Wright's classes never skip a beat when it comes to real-world scenarios. She regularly incorporates her industry experience, current events, and practical tasks into her lessons. One of her favorite techniques is weaving common interview questions into class discussions, providing students with both practical knowledge and recruitment preparation. "We're dealing with real-time issues, actual projects, and cities where people live, work, and play," she says, highlighting the relevance and immediacy of her teachings.</p>
<p>Wright's advice to incoming students is simple: show up and engage. "You'd be surprised at how much simply being there and being engaged matters," she emphasizes. She encourages students to actively participate in events, ask questions, and pursue answers with determination. This proactive approach, she believes, is crucial for success in the real estate industry.</p>
<p>For prospective students considering NYU, Wright offers one last practical tip: the best bagel in the city can be found at Absolute Bagels on 108th Street. Like many rewarding experiences, it requires patience and effort, but the outcome is worth it.</p>
<p>Join Professor Wright in the classroom and learn from her hands-on approach when you pursue a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/bs-in-real-estate.html" title="BS in Real Estate">BS in Real Estate</a> at NYU SPS.</p>