Kerry Codling, M.S. in Commercial Real Estate
property administrator, Core Property Capital; realtor, Keller Williams Peachtree Road
Why did you choose Robinson for your graduate education?
This was an easy choice for me. I believe in the value proposition that Georgia State and the Robinson College of Business offer. The M.S. in Commercial Real Estate program is one of the best in the country, allowing students to learn, network, and prepare for fruitful opportunities after graduation. And if that was not enough, I am a proud Georgia State alumna.
How will the degree propel your career goals?
The program will expose me to a wealth of industry knowledge through networking opportunities such as the Association of Real Estate Alumni. The program also will allow me to piece together all the components of my past experiences (i.e., property management, project management, entrepreneurship, real estate sales, etc.) and package them into a robust skill set I can use to launch the next phase of my career.
What unique background and perspectives will you bring to classroom discussions?
My current career situation gives me the advantage of seeing real estate from both residential and commercial points of view. Being a realtor allows me to have boots on the ground, and stay informed of local neighborhood trends and movement patterns within the city. The commercial property management side provides me with an insight of what tenants want and need for a marketable office space. In addition, my entrepreneurial background allows me to have the perspective of a small business investor. This combination allows me to have breadth in the real estate world and be open to different perspectives both in the classroom and after graduation.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?
Seventeen years ago, I packed my most treasured belongings in a small suitcase; kissed my family, friends, job, and lifestyle goodbye; and left Jamaica to move to Georgia, a state I knew nothing about, in the pursuit of the mythical American Dream. It wasn’t always easy; in fact, I often asked myself, “Why?”. But taking that big risk brought me to this very moment, being on the cusp of something greater, and if I had to do it all over again, I would not change a thing!