<p>In the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/bs-in-real-estate.html" title="BS in Real Estate">BS in Real Estate</a> program at NYU SPS, students have the opportunity to learn from established real estate professionals who are masters of weaving their real-world experiences into their classes. With a background that spans multiple decades and a variety of roles, Merrie Frankel brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her students.</p> <p>We were thrilled to speak with Frankel about her career, her experience in the classroom at NYU, and her advice for incoming students.</p>

<p>Frankel's career began with a BA in English from the University of Pennsylvania and a JD/MBA from Hofstra University. These degrees laid the foundation for what would become a distinguished career in real estate investment trusts (REITs), capital markets, and more.</p> <p>Over the years, Frankel has held numerous positions in the real estate sector, including portfolio manager, consultant, investment banker, and tax attorney. Her extensive experience has led her to her current role as the President and founder of Minerva Realty Consultants, where she provides independent REIT and ratings advisory services and litigation support. Frankel is also a director at Agree Realty Corporation, where she chairs the Nominating and Governance Committee and is a member of the Audit Committee.</p>

<p>Frankel's transition into teaching was driven by a passion for giving back and imparting the knowledge she has accumulated over her career. Initially, she began teaching the REIT section in a friend's Real Estate Capital Markets class at NYU, which eventually led to her teaching her own courses in both the non-credit and graduate programs. For the past eight years, she has been a key figure in the undergraduate real estate program at NYU, where she teaches Real Estate Capital Markets and Portfolio and Risk Management.</p> <p>In the classroom, Frankel is known for making the most of the short time she has with her students in each course. Her goal is to discuss information from multiple angles, ensuring that students can fully grasp new concepts.</p> <p>One of Frankel's greatest joys as an educator is witnessing the &quot;lightbulb&quot; moments when her students grasp the complex concepts of real estate capital markets. She emphasizes the importance of student participation in her classes, as it allows her to gauge understanding and tailor her teaching accordingly. Frankel is also deeply committed to supporting her students outside of the classroom, offering office hours after every class where she assists with resumes, interview preparation, and job referrals.</p>

<p>When asked for advice for incoming students, Frankel encourages them to be like sponges—absorbing as much knowledge as possible, asking questions, and participating in NYU's many clubs and activities. She also reminds students that all of their previous jobs and internships, no matter how unrelated they may seem, contribute to their knowledge base and prepare them for future success.</p> <p>Frankel's own early experiences, such as running an ice cream business from ages 10 to 19, taught her valuable lessons about business and people—lessons that have been invaluable throughout her career. She believes that every experience contributes to who we are and how we approach our professional lives.</p> <p>As she continues to teach at NYU, Frankel is dedicated to shaping the next generation of real estate professionals. She imparts not only her vast knowledge but also the invaluable lessons she has learned throughout her distinguished career.</p> <p>Join Frankel and other forward-thinking students in the classroom 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>