internships

The Process in Architecture and Future LCCS Renovation!

October 30, 2023 by PCSD

Who did you meet with today?

Today I had the opportunity to meet Cyrus Amani-Talesh from LCA Architects, Keivan Abidi from Pacific Charter School Development, and Kelly Mecca from Bjork Construction Company.

Where do they work? What does the company do?

Cyrus, Keivan, and Kelly all work in different firms; they focus on various fields all related to architecture. Cyrus works at LCA Architects which provides design services for projects. Cyrus in particular is an architect who establishes how projects are to be designed as well as the planning behind how they can be maintained moving forward. Kelly is mainly out in the field; Kelly works at Bjork Construction company, a women-owned construction company that works with great craftsmanship to create sustainable high-quality constructed builds to satisfy their clients. Keivan is a project director for PCSD, a non-profit organization that works to support community charter schools in funding and developing high-quality schools for under-resourced communities.

What did you learn today? What were some highlights?

Today I was able to be educated on the process behind constructing and creating a project. I got insights into architecture that aren’t discussed as much, highlighting the importance of planning a design before constructing, whether or not it would be ideal to move forward, as well as agreeing that projects can proceed financially because there is only so much money that can be invested into certain projects. Furthermore, we were also able to see future improvements coming to Lighthouse Charter; these improvements were said to give Lighthouse more enclosed space for teaching, which I personally agree would be a great improvement.

What insights did you gain into the field of real estate development?

Having the opportunity to learn about the future plans for Lighthouse was insightful as far as how that plan can be attainable. Being able to see the design process was definitely an insight because I wasn’t aware of how building codes can come into conflict with other elements that also make the project safe, sustainable, and overall reachable.

What did you find the most interesting about the field after today?

In the field what I found most interesting was the design process and after today I feel much stronger about it because it’s what makes the construction process come to pass. Designing the elevations of something like a school building is a very important factor that ties everything together. I liked that I was able to see the thought process and the plan.

Esteban and I listening to Cyrus Amani-Talesh and Kelly Mecca.

Esteban and I taking a tour of Lighthouse

Kelly Mecca explaining the general contractors role.

Cyrus Amani-Talesh showing us the architectural drawings.

PCSD Interns: What I Learned from a Project Manager

October 19, 2023 by PCSD

Who did you meet with today?

Today I met with:

Mary Grace Houlihan, Project Manager, PCSD

Jennifer Afdahl Rice, Executive Director, Northern California, PCSD

Where do they work? What does the company do?

The Pacific Charter School Development [Northern California] team is located in Downtown Oakland, supporting the community of Oakland with more accessible schools. The PCSD team works with many different branches of design and project management, using space that benefits the community with nearby schools, working out plans, such as architectural designs, facilitating community meetings, and writing up the numbers.

What did you learn today? What were some highlights?

Today I met with the PCSD staff through Zoom, speaking on the topic of “Entitlements” and “Architectural Design” – the layout of how a historical building can be repurposed for a school.

Highlights:

Being able to see the process of making a new school through the use of the “Schematic Design”.

What insights did you gain into the field of real estate development?

I gained an awareness of how a school’s present and future problems can limit/cap the “nice to haves” (ex. library, swimming pool, gym) a school can include.

What did you find the most interesting about the field after today?

I found the ability to repurpose a historical building very innovative and intriguing because it makes up for wasted space that now supports its community.

Mary Grace presenting on entitlements and design.

PCSD Interns: First Day Experience

October 17, 2023 by PCSD

Who did you meet with today?

We met with the following people from Colliers and PCSD.

Colliers

Tony Burnett, Head of Office, Regional Managing Director

Rebecca Scalfaro, Senior Client Services Officer

Shayla Mellenthin, Marketing Manager

Gregory Hunter, Vice President

Pacific Charter School Development (PCSD)

Jennifer Afdahl Rice, Executive Director, Northern California

Where do they work? What does the company do?

Pacific Charter School Development is a real estate development firm; based on my takeaways from the experience, it is a non-profit company that helps out communities with local and convenient school sites, as well as providing support with funds for charter schools. In addition, PCSD advocates by managing the outlook of the design, finance, and construction of facilities.

PCSD works with Colliers. PCSD and Colliers are two separate companies with similar ideas; both companies have been able to promote progress in communities as well as impact the environment in a positive way. Both Colliers and PCSD have also worked to make the companies more inclusive and maintain a diverse work force. Colliers itself is a services investment management firm, which advises clients about real estate and the process behind it. Colliers is a collaborative company that works to help other companies like PCSD. The firm provides support for other companies and different partnerships but all focus on making the community better. Ultimately these companies work to make a sustainable and elevated society.

What did you learn today? What were some highlights?

My experience was exceptional, I gained an understanding of the different fields related to design and architecture. Specifically, I highlight the perspective of being a broker. Brokers uphold a significant amount of responsibility at Colliers, which gained a majority of my attention. Moreover, the Colliers team also taught me a lot about the different requirements and opportunities that could allow us the ability to be able to work and involve myself in other careers related to their company.

What insights did you gain into the field of real estate development?

I had the ability to get a little more insight into the school’s perspective on the different fields. Moreover, we got insight on how college would be a lot more beneficial to get a career related to real estate development, and the managing, marketing, etc. We discussed the correlation between different positions and the levels of education you might need; ultimately, we determined that 2-4 years of college experience is best.

What did you find the most interesting about the field after today?

Overall, I would say I was very intrigued by what everyone at Colliers and PCSD does. Personally, I was pulled to the background of Vice President Gregory’s career at Colliers. It was similar to what I wanted to do which pulled my interest towards his position. The team in general all gained my attention, and all of the different fields they work for are just as similar to what I want to do after college. It was just so interesting to overall learn how much goes into the management and coordination of being a part of a company like Colliers.

Gregory and John Dunning showing Esteban and me a potential site.

Gregory discussing the site with Esteban and me.

Esteban and I talking about the site with Colliers.

PCSD Interns: Unlocking the World of Real Estate and Commercial Lending: A Journey with City National Bank

August 4, 2023 by PCSD

Real estate is an all-encompassing industry that impacts our daily lives in numerous ways. From the places we work and shop to the homes we live in, real estate plays a vital role in shaping our communities. Recently, our interns had the opportunity to meet with Dena Harte, Cindy Cindrich, and Simon Wu from City National Bank. This encounter opened our eyes to the intricacies of commercial lending and the fascinating world of real estate. In this blog post, we’ll take you on the same journey we experienced, exploring the valuable insights and lessons we gained from our meeting with these seasoned professionals.

Dena Harte: A Wealth of Experience in Commercial Banking

Our journey began with Dena Harte, an expert with an impressive 20-year tenure at City National Bank. She specializes in working with nonprofit organizations and for-profit corporations, managing deposits and endowments. Her vast experience and keen understanding of the commercial banking landscape made her an invaluable resource throughout our discussions.

Cindy Cindrich and Simon Wu: Unveiling the World of Real Estate

Cindy Cindrich, a veteran with 24 years of experience, and Simon Wu, work in City National Bank’s commercial lending site. Their expertise lies in the income property group, where they navigate the complexities of real estate lending. During our meeting, Cindy and Simon delivered an engaging and dynamic presentation on the diverse aspects of real estate.

Understanding Real Estate: A Comprehensive Overview

Cindy and Simon began our session by shedding light on the diverse facets of real estate. From retail spaces like malls and power centers to various office types, multi-family properties, industrial spaces, and special-use facilities, the scope of real estate is vast and varied. Each category has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, which they elaborated on, giving us a comprehensive understanding of the market.

The Role of Lenders: Unveiling the Lending Process

One of the most insightful aspects of our meeting was when Cindy and Simon walked us through the lending process from the perspective of City National Bank. They explained what lenders look for when considering loan applications. To demonstrate this, they role-played a scenario in which Simon presented a facility to the bank seeking a loan, while Cindy posed challenging questions to assess the feasibility of the loan.

Lessons Learned: The Complexity of Real Estate Investment

Through this interactive session, we came to realize that securing a loan for real estate investment is no simple task. The intricate web of factors to consider, including competition, local businesses, location, occupancy rates, and more, requires meticulous evaluation. It was evident that thoughtful planning and thorough research are essential before embarking on any real estate venture.

Fueled by Passion: A New Interest in Real Estate

As our meeting concluded, we found ourselves captivated by the world of real estate and commercial lending. The knowledge shared by Dena, Cindy, and Simon ignited a newfound interest in many of us to explore this field further. The interns even expressed their desire to pursue careers or investment opportunities in real estate, driven by the allure of its challenges and rewards.

Our meeting with Dena Harte, Cindy Cindrich, and Simon Wu from City National Bank was an enlightening experience that broadened our horizons and deepened our understanding of real estate and commercial lending. We learned that the world of real estate is multifaceted and that securing loans for such investments requires careful consideration of various factors. The passion and expertise of these professionals inspired us to explore this industry further, and we look forward to unlocking more doors of opportunity in the fascinating world of real estate.

PCSD Interns: Driving Impact and Empowering Education: Insights from Rob Nickell, Executive VP at HJ Sims

August 4, 2023 by PCSD

In the ever-evolving landscape of finance and investment, some firms stand out for their unique approach and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. HJ Sims, a boutique investment firm founded in 1935, is one such company. Recently, our interns had the privilege of speaking with Rob Nickell, the Executive Vice President at HJ Sims. Rob shared his experiences, insights, and passion for working in the finance industry, particularly in the realm of education and non-profits. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of a seasoned professional who finds fulfillment in transforming the educational landscape and serving the greater community.

A Legacy of Excellence

HJ Sims’ rich history spans nearly a century, and its continued success can be attributed to its commitment to personalized service and dedication to its clients. As a family-owned business, it embraces the values of integrity, trust, and long-term vision. The current CEO, the son of the founder, carries forward the legacy of the firm and its mission to create value for its clients and the community.

A Specialized Approach

HJ Sims proudly focuses on wealth management, investment banking, and institutional services. A unique aspect of the firm is its dedication to specialized services. An essential part of HJ Sims’ identity is their education practice, which they established 25 years ago. Through this initiative, they have made significant strides in supporting schools, especially charter, independent, and private schools, as well as higher education institutions.

Rob Nickell: A Visionary Leader

Based in Dallas, Rob Nickell spearheads HJ Sims’ endeavors across the western United States, from Texas to California. As a co-leader of the education finance practice, he plays a vital role in securing financing for schools to construct and establish permanent homes. His mission is not just about securing funding but doing so in a cost-effective manner.

Drawing from a diverse background

Rob’s journey to his current position is a testament to the importance of a well-rounded education and diverse experiences. Graduating from Emory with a degree in finance and technology and a minor in philosophy, Rob’s education laid the foundation for his future achievements. His initial foray into the finance industry led him through various roles at both large and small firms, ultimately leading him to public finance, where he found his niche in the education and nonprofit sectors.

A Passion for Impact

Rob’s dedication to his work is evident in his passion for investment banking, which he finds stimulating and rewarding. But what truly sets his career apart is his ability to leverage his expertise for the betterment of the community through his work with educational and nonprofit institutions. By facilitating financing for schools, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of countless students, ensuring they have access to quality education and resources.

Building and Nurturing Relationships

Throughout his career, Rob emphasizes the importance of relationships as the bedrock of his success. By investing time and effort in understanding the needs and aspirations of his clients, he has forged strong and enduring partnerships that have proven instrumental in achieving mutual growth and success.

In an industry where profits often take precedence, HJ Sims and its Executive VP, Rob Nickell, serve as a shining example of how finance can be a force for good. Through their specialized approach and dedication to educational and nonprofit finance, they create meaningful impact and empower communities to thrive. Rob’s journey reminds us of the significance of building diverse skills, finding a passion that aligns with our values, and prioritizing meaningful relationships.

PCSD Interns: Exploring Public Finance: Lunch and Learn with John Kim at Stifel

July 28, 2023 by PCSD

Recently, we had the privilege of sitting down with John Kim from Stifel during a lunch and learn session. Stifel is a publicly traded firm renowned for its expertise in corporate finance, commercial banking, public finance, and asset management. Our association with Stifel revolves around the financing of various charter school facility projects, a partnership that has yielded great results.

The session began with John sharing some invaluable takeaways for our interns, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and active listening. He encouraged interns to take diligent notes and reflect on specific insights gained from their experiences in different roles during their internships.

Charting his own career

John then took us on a journey through his own career path. Hailing from Palos Verdes, he attended public school and became the second generation in his family to pursue higher education. From a young age, he learned about customer service while working at his father’s gas station. While studying at UC Berkeley, he initially aspired to attend medical school and pursued a degree in Molecular Biology and Rhetoric. However, life’s twists and turns, along with some inspiring history classes at UCLA, led him to reevaluate his career goals, ultimately majoring in History and Rhetoric at UC Berkeley.

Following his undergraduate studies, John taught high school in Berkeley and contemplated the idea of going to graduate school. However, a conversation with his sister proved pivotal as he found his calling in the world of finance. He embarked on his 26-year journey with Stifel in Los Angeles, where he has made significant contributions to the company’s success.

Stifel and the world of finance

During the session, John delved into Stifel’s expertise in four key areas and shed light on how lending works in the world of finance. He emphasized the crucial information required to secure a loan and why someone might lend to you. In his domain of public financing, and in other areas, a well-prepared prospectus (or story book) is essential when approaching potential investors. The prospectus presents all the relevant facts and information investors need to know and conveys a compelling narrative. John’s work in public finance involves raising capital for various government entities, including states, counties, cities, school districts, nonprofits, and charter schools. These entities can obtain funding by issuing bonds.

It’s worth noting that while the public finance division at Stifel comprises a relatively small team of 250 employees, the asset management division boasts a workforce of 8,000. Despite its size, the public finance division plays a crucial role in the financial ecosystem, and John actively markets to credit analysts at prominent investment management firms.

Investing in charter schools

The lunch and learn session concluded with a thought-provoking video presentation on STEM Prep, a Los Angeles-based charter school and a valued partner of PCSD. The video highlighted the positive impact of partnering with charter schools, illustrating how such collaborations can benefit the community, students, and education as a whole.

In closing, the lunch and learn with John Kim from Stifel was an eye-opening experience that shed light on the multifaceted world of finance and the importance of adaptability in one’s career journey. John’s personal story serves as a reminder that career paths are rarely linear and that the ability to seize opportunities and reevaluate goals can lead to fulfilling and successful outcomes. We are grateful for the insights shared during this session and look forward to continuing our partnership with Stifel in making a positive impact in the education sector.