<p>Hirsh Fellow Fati Fousseni’s passion for fashion design, photography, and painting have proven an unexpected source of inspiration for her burgeoning real estate career. “Art has always been a part of how I see the world,” the Ghana native shares–fueling her creative approaches to problem‑solving and design within the built environment.</p> <p>Fousseni saw the <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/about/academic-divisions-and-departments/schack-institute-of-real-estate.html">Schack Institute of Real Estate</a> at NYU SPS as an ideal environment for her to challenge herself and grow, and growing up in Ghana shaped her interest in community development and real estate as a driver of growth and opportunity. “I wanted a program that would push me and connect me with people doing meaningful work across the industry,” she explains. “The alumni network along with the rigorous coursework drew me in.”</p> <p> </p>

<p>Fati first learned about the <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/about/academic-divisions-and-departments/schack-institute-of-real-estate/nyu-sps-hirsh-fellows-program.html">Hirsh Fellows Program</a> during her application process. She describes the application process as “direct and transparent”--one that provided a welcome introduction to the community she now feels deeply connected to. From industry exposure to mentorship, the fellowship has expanded her understanding of what’s possible in her career. This spring, Fati will participate in the Brazil Global Field Intensive (GFI), an experience she eagerly anticipates.&nbsp;</p> <p>She’s particularly interested in seeing how cultural context, community needs, and environmental factors shape development abroad. “I’m looking forward to learning and experiencing real estate in a different country,” says Fati. “Understanding how the built environment informs what can and cannot be built is something I’m excited to explore.”</p>

<p>After graduation, Fati intends to pursue an investment role where she can contribute to acquisition decision-making and portfolio-level fund strategy. “I am particularly interested in positions that allow for thoughtful capital allocation, evaluation of new investment opportunities, and balancing risk and return across a diversified real asset portfolio,” she adds. “This aligns with my background in real estate underwriting and transactions, as well as my long-term interest in using investment decisions to support sustainable, community-oriented outcomes.”</p> <p>Fati urges incoming Schack students and prospective Hirsh Fellows to “take advantage of all the resources here—especially your professors and peers. These relationships are what you’ll carry with you long term!”</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>