Professional Development Mentorship Program

Equipping students of today to become the leaders of tomorrow

Welcome

Welcome to the Professional Development Mentorship Program (PDMP)!

 

The purpose of the Program is to complement Schulich’s formal curriculum and to accelerate the personal and professional growth of participants. It is open to students enrolled in the MREI and to 2nd year MBA students specializing in real estate and infrastructure.

 

The PDMP will match students pursuing graduate studies in Real Estate and Infrastructure with an equal number of Schulich alumni mentors working in sectors of various real estate and infrastructure, including investment, development, asset management, financing, brokerage and consulting.

 

The PDMP requires students to make a significant commitment. They will attend a series of required professional skills development modules, a minimum of three sessions with their assigned mentors, and specialized networking events. The program concludes with writing a meaningful self-reflection and receiving a certification of completion for the mentors and mentees in April.  

Upcoming Events
Program Guidelines
Tips for Success
Find a Mentor

IMPORTANT DATES

Upcoming Events

  • PDMP Launch Event
  • Cultivating Resilience, and a Growth Mindset
  • Building Connections with a Purpose
  • Navigating the Hiring Process
  • Talent and Career Showcase
PDMP Launch Event

PDMP Launch Event

October 4, 2024 | 12:00 to 2:00 pm

McEwen Building, Room G101

Please join us on October 4th at the Launch event to learn all about the Professional Development Mentorship Program, We will have an exciting agenda where you will meet the program designers, learn helpful information and tips from an alumni panel of past Mentorship Program participants as well as gain insightful knowledge from the PDMP mentorship committee. The Launch event is where students will be introduced to the program, learn about the eligibility requirements and time commitments and be given the opportunity to ask questions.


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Cultivating Resilience, and a Growth Mindset
Principles You - Ray Dalio

Self-Awareness to Success:

Cultivating Resilience, and a Growth Mindset

October 18th, 2024 | 2:00 to 4:00 pm

McEwen Building, G101

Join Sean Mullin and Joe Ogilvie in a transformative self-discovery workshop, designed to help mentees uncover who they are now and who they aspire to become. This workshop will provide a foundation for personal growth and professional success, emphasizing the power of self-reflection as a tool for continuous improvement and self-awareness.


Sean will begin by guiding mentees through a deep dive into Growth Mindset principles, helping them to cultivate resilience, embrace challenges, and perceive setbacks as opportunities for growth. Through Breaking through the Impossible and Resilience Building exercises, participants will gain practical strategies to build confidence and navigate adversity with strength and optimism.


Central to this journey is Self-Awareness & Self-Reflection essential skills for understanding personal strengths, values, and motivations. Mentees will explore the difference between External vs. Internal Motivators, gaining insights into what drives their actions and decisions. This clarity will allow them to set meaningful goals and develop an authentic sense of purpose, enabling them to become the professionals they aspire to be.


Joe Ogilvie will then lead a session on the value of self-reflection and teach mentees how to create meaningful reflections that capture their personal growth journey. This skill will serve as a cornerstone throughout the program and beyond, helping participants continuously align their current self with their future aspirations.


To deepen their self-understanding, mentees will complete the PrinciplesYou Psychometric Evaluation, gaining valuable insights into their unique personality traits, preferences, and areas for development. This self-discovery journey will empower mentees to leave the program with a clear vision of who they are, a roadmap for who they want to become, and the tools needed to reach their goals.


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Building Connections with a Purpose

Building Connections with a Purpose

November 1st, 2024 | 12:00 to 2:00 pm

McEwen Building, G101

Led by Sean Mullin, this session will guide participants in shifting their mindset from viewing networking as transactional to seeing it as an opportunity to connect meaningfully with others. They’ll learn that successful networking is about building authentic connections, where it’s not just about who you know but, importantly, who knows you and the relationships you nurture over time.


The "Building Connections with Purpose" workshop builds on the foundation set in the previous workshop on Self-Awareness and Growth Mindset. In that session, mentees explored the importance of understanding themselves, cultivating resilience, and shifting to a growth-oriented perspective. Now, this workshop takes those core skills and integrates them into the art of building meaningful relationships.


Using the self-awareness and growth mindset tools learned earlier, participants will learn to approach networking not as a task but as an opportunity for authentic connection and personal growth. By embracing their motivations, recognizing their strengths, and identifying areas for improvement, mentees will be better prepared to make others feel valued, actively listen, and find common ground—all essential elements of successful networking.


In addition to exploring their personal motivations, Sean will share techniques for effective communication, professional conduct, and personal branding. Participants will work on developing their elevator pitch, crafting a personal brand, and enhancing their presentation skills. They’ll also learn when and how to leverage tools like LinkedIn for content delivery and storytelling.


This interactive workshop will guide mentees in translating self discovery into relationship-building, helping them to lead with purpose, communicate with authenticity, and make a lasting impact in each connection they make. Through this integration of self awareness and relational skills, mentees will gain the confidence and tools to build a network of meaningful, supportive relationships that will support their long-term career and personal growth.


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Navigating the Hiring Process

Navigating the Hiring Process

January 31st, 2025 | 12:00 to 2:00 pm

McEwen Building, Room G102

This professional development workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of the hiring process from start to finish, offering valuable insights from experts at every level. Participants will learn from the perspective of a new grad, Talent Specialist, Recruiters, HR professionals, Hiring Managers, and Directors and what they are looking for in candidates at each stage of the hiring process. From resume building, application submission to interview preparation, and case study preparation and execution, in-person and virtual interviews and preparation, recruitment and more.


Gain insider knowledge on how to stand out in your application, what makes a resume irresistible, and the key strategies to excel in interviews—whether behavioral or case-based. Our panel of industry leaders will share their secrets to securing a role and discuss the most common pitfalls to avoid. With perspectives spanning from recruitment to the hiring manager’s decision making process, you’ll walk away with the tools and strategies needed to successfully navigate the hiring landscape.


This workshop is an essential resource for anyone seeking to refine their approach and enhance their chances of landing their ideal job or internship.


Following the panel discussion and Q&A, participants will have an interactive opportunity to engage with the industry experts in real-life scenarios during the Think Tank Rounds. Here, you’ll test your approach helping to refine your strategies for future success. The session will conclude with a group discussion and networking opportunity, enabling you to connect with peers and industry professionals.


This year’s panel will include:

Clare Deutsch, Dream

Jordan Bruder, Cadillac Fairview

Mario Quintanilla, Aecon

Ryan Ram, Matrix360


REGISTER HERE >

Talent and Career Showcase

Talent and Career Showcase:

Pathways to Professional Achievement

February 28th, 2025 | Time: TBA

McEwen Building Atrium


The Talent and Career Showcase, taking place in the McEwen Building Atrium, is an exclusive, invitation-only event that marks the final learning module of the Professional Development Mentorship Program (PDMP). This event is designed to provide students with valuable learning experiences and feedback to excel in future interviews, while offering companies the opportunity to showcase their organizations and access top-tier talent from the Schulich Real Assets program.

The event is divided into three key components. First, students will participate in mock or real interviews with one of our 12 industry partners, including HR managers and hiring directors. These interviews provide an invaluable opportunity for students to practice their interview skills and receive direct, constructive feedback from HR professionals, enabling them to refine their approaches for future opportunities. The second segment of the event is an industry recruitment and networking mixer, where students can engage with recruiters, industry partners, and alumni, expanding their professional networks and exploring potential career pathways. This provides students with direct exposure to industry leaders as they embark on their career journeys. The event concludes with a group feedback session and Q&A, offering students insights from hiring teams and allowing for further discussion and learning.

Throughout the event, Centre for Career Design Advisors will be available to provide interview support and guidance, ensuring students are fully prepared for their interviews. In order to be invited, mentees must have completed all mentorship program requirements. Refreshments will be served

Register Now 

HEAR FROM ALUMNI

Testimonials

Why do our mentors get involved?

The Mentorship program has provided an opportunity for me to assist the students in their own journey to determine their personal goals and aspirations for their career. This could be as simple as having coffee to be acquainted with the mentee and learning about their career or personal interests, sharing advice along the way, or just be a supportive sounding board to encourage them to pursue the unknown. Seeing the students landing opportunities and prospering in their career is also gratifying.

 This Mentorship program would have been a welcomed opportunity for the Schulich students of the past had it existed. 

Sandra Tran

Having received a helping hand from mentors in my career, I felt it was important to pay it forward and help out as much as I could. The mentorship program experience exceeded my expectations mainly because the mentor/mentee pairings were thoughtfully put together. I enjoyed the enthusiasm and intelligence of the students which gave me confidence that the future of our real estate community is in good hands.

Aleks Karamarkovic

What do our students have to say about the program?

Prior to joining the MREI program I had no real estate experience. In an industry, where relationships are of particular importance, it was very intimidating just starting out. But participating in the Mentorship Program really helped boost my confidence and shape my career journey. It was very clear that the mentorship committee was very intentional with the match process. There were so many parallels between my mentor and I – we were both women, had a passion for community building, and didn’t start out exposed to real estate. Not only did these similarities make the conversations so much more enjoyable, but it also made the advice so much more applicable. I am a believer that one of the best ways of learning is by hearing other people experiences – their failures, successes, and lessons learned. We are not meant to reinvent the wheel, but rather learn from other people’s experiences. This is how true growth and progress happens. The best part of the mentorship program was the relationship I was able to foster with my mentor. I left with a trustworthy supporter, a confidant, an advocate, an ally, and most importantly a friend. I will forever be grateful to all the amazing people that spent countless hours building such a great program.

Heba Hussein

The Mentorship Program experience equipped us with the skills necessary to build relationships at all levels of an organization. The organizing committee did a fantastic job at connecting me with a leader in my chosen field – and we still connect regularly to this day. The program reinforced the importance of building authentic relationships and seeking mentors in our professional lives. These habits support career advancement as well as developing a sense of community within our industry.

Kyle McDowell

PDMP has been more than just a supplement to my academic studies, it has been a cornerstone of my personal and professional development. I feel better prepared, more self-aware, and more connected to the industry thanks to the thoughtful design and committed individuals behind this program.

Violetta Chen, MREI 2025

The PDMP program was a major highlight of my MREI experience, and played a key role in my transformation. In deciding to do the MREI, I knew that I was yearning for change, and I was yearning for growth but I didn't know how to get there. The PDMP program helped me define a path for my growth and provided me with meaningful opportunities to push myself and grow. I really appreciate the mix of supportive encouragement, with tough reality talks from the guest speakers and mentors.

Jan Doroteo, MREI 2025

MENTEES

Mentorship Guidelines

There is a lot of work ahead! The transformation into an industry leader takes time, persistence, and most notably, a community that cares. This program is designed to complement this process and create a formalized approach to an informal process many of the mentors in this program likely experienced on THEIR journeys to industry leaders you see now.

Match

You will be carefully matched with your mentor based on professional and personal fit following an application submission. Applications to be matched with a mentor will be mid-November. Matching will take place around the end of November.

Partnership

This program is meant to be viewed as a partnership, and alignment drives the success of any partnership! Each mentor-mentee relationship will be built based on mutual trust, respect, commitment, and communication. Your mentors have made a commitment to YOUR success and it is important you respect the time they have committed to your development. Take time to prepare before your sessions. Reflect on your goals, and think about the challenges you face today and the challenges you hope to face tomorrow.

Beyond the Job

You may be assuming the goal of mentorship is to find a job. While finding a job may be your immediate concern, the best thing a mentor can do for you is to help you grow and develop as a person and as a professional. The connections made, alongside the conversations had throughout this program, will provide a foundation for you, and the future relationships you will need, to develop long-term success.

Student Driven

This is your opportunity, and we expect YOU to take ownership! You are to take full responsibility for the coordination of all meetings with your mentor, including initial contact. You are responsible for showing up, coming prepared, and being engaged.

Terms

Commitment

By enrolling in the mentorship program you are making a commitment to three (3) one-on-one mentoring sessions with your mentor from January 2023 to the end of April 2023, attendance at program events, and a written reflection upon the conclusion of the program. In addition to this, you are required to have reviewed your resume with the Career Development Centre (CDC) and have articulated your goals and interests.

 

Confidentiality and Contact

Your mentor’s contact information must be kept confidential. You are not to solicit or expect your mentor to give you an internship or a job.

 

Closure of Program

We hope every relationship continues beyond the confines of this program and mentorship closure does not preclude mentors and students from continuing your relationship informally. It simply removes any obligation on either party to do so.

Gratitude

Finally, never forget the importance of expressing gratitude! Make sure to thank your mentor for their effort, their advice, and the generosity of their time. Trust us, a ‘thank you’ goes a long way, and it is CRUCIAL to acknowledge the people who will help you along the way.

MENTEES

Tips for Success

01
Take Ownership of Scheduling & Showing Up

99% of life is showing up. Managing your schedule and prioritizing your time to enable you to ‘show up’ is critical to your success throughout the BC Professional Development Mentorship Program. The program will be full of learning opportunities, yet it is up to you to be present and engage with the material. You will also be responsible for establishing and coordinating the time and location for all mentorship sessions throughout the program. We suggest allowing one hour for each meeting, subject to your mentor’s approval.

02
Help Your Mentors and Leaders Help You

Throughout the program you should continuously be improving your resume so that you can share your CDC approved resume with your mentor.

03
Do Your Research

To optimize your time with leaders, panelists, and mentors, ensure to research their backgrounds and areas of expertise. This will enable you to make the most out of your sessions. 

04
Be Prepared

Prepare some open‐ended questions that will guide the discussions, without restricting your mentor’s feedback. You should start your first session with an idea of what you hope to get out of these mentorship sessions and communicate those goals to your mentor.

05
Avoid the Sales Pitch

Don’t view the sessions as sales presentations or job interviews. Be yourself, be present, and most importantly – be open to growth!

06
Be Prompt, Professional, and Express Enthusiasm

Set the stage for a great experience by conveying your enthusiasm throughout all of the workshops and mentorship sessions. Once you have received your mentor match, take time to do your research and reach out to them by making a personal connection using the tone of your email.

07
Be Fully Present

This tip is so important we needed to include it twice. Sharing requires excellent listening skills and your full attention. Throughout the workshops and mentorship sessions, do your best to set aside daily pressures so that you can get the most from your experience. Focus on the present.

08
Find the Connection

Make it a goal to establish a personal connection with the leaders, panelists, and mentors. Remember that most of these individuals have volunteered their time to help you achieve your goals. Whether it is ambition, sports, design, or industry news, there are many avenues to finding connection. BONUS TIP: This happens when a conversation is shared equally and one listens with an open mind. Make sure you aren’t doing all the talking!

09
Take time to Reflect

At the end of a workshop or mentorship meeting take time to summarize insights and establish any goals or personal deliverables for future sessions. This will help guide your learning and provide a clear direction for your growth. 

10
The Importance of Good Questions

The questions you ask will shape the conversation. Good questions lead to valuable insights that will help you develop and grow. At the same time, conversations should not be interviews. Use thoughtful questions as a tool to break the ice, keep the momentum of the conversation going, and to learn from others!

Sample Questions

How did you get where you are today and was there a critical moment or event that was instrumental to your progression?

What do you like most about your career?

Share one of the greatest successes during your career. Was there a specific action or event that led you to this success?

Share a failure you experienced and what you took away from that experience.

I am looking to accomplish ___________ with my career. Can you provide some advice or recommendations on how I should proceed?

What do you see as some of the emerging trends in the industry?

How would you recommend I get into _________ (insert a specific specialization/role/company/sector etc.)?

What is something that you know now that you wish you knew back when you were starting your career?

MEET US

Mentorship Committee

Heba Hussein


Senior Development Analyst

Ivanhoe Cambridge


Miranda Gobran (MREI ‘19)

Archetype: Inspirer

Mortgage Agent

The Lending Suite

Quote: "This is the real secret of life -- to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now. And instead of calling it work, realize it is play.” - Alan Watts

Rabia Munir (MREI 2022)

Archetype: Implementer

Associate Development Manager

GWL Realty Advisors

Quote: "Preparation for tomorrow is hard work today." - Bruce Lee

Joe Ogilvie

Archetype: Shaper

Head of Innovation and Partnerships,

Brookfield Centre Urban Lab


Quote: "Focus on WHAT you're doing, not HOW you're doing" - Mike Rowe, Host of Dirty Jobs

Sean Mullin

Archetype: Inspirer

Public Speaker

Professional Coach


Quote: "People like to be around authentic positivity. Be yourself, invest in others, and have a little fun along the way.”

Bryna Hoffman

Archetype: Peacekeeper

Associate Director

Brookfield Centre

Quote: “Gratitude turns what we have into enough.” - Melody Beattie

Please contact Bryna Hoffman at brynahoff@schulich.yorku.ca if you have any inquiries.