Internship Experience Led to Benjamin Danialian ’23 Overseeing $30 Million Property Acquisition Deals
Name: Benjamin Danialian ’23
Hometown: Albertson, N.Y.
High School: Mineola High School
Activities: President of the Real Estate Student Association, former president of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, finance club member, Sigma Alpha Pi Honor Society member, resident assistant and Dean’s Student Advisory Board member
Major: Finance and Economics
Favorite Spot Campus: Ryan Library
Why did you decide to attend Iona?
I originally was looking for a campus with a much larger student population. However, one of my co-workers was a senior at Iona and he pushed me to consider applying and paying a visit to campus. He knew I would make my mind up after one visit, and he was right. I scheduled a tour and fell in love with the warmth and community feel the minute you step on campus. I got to meet some professors and administrators who made me feel right at home from the start. From that point, my decision was essentially made for me.
Do you have an internship?
I was an intern at A.D. Real Estate Investors based out of Long Island.
What did you enjoy most about your internship?
My internship spanned over two years (summer 2021 & 2022) which allowed me to cover the fundamentals of real estate investing and management as well as the specifics in financing, purchasing, and developing properties. The first summer I got a feel for the business by learning industry vocabulary, prospecting tenants and properties, and conducting market research. During the second summer I performed countless property proformas which incorporated the use of capitalization rates, loan amortization, NOI & GOI, debt service ratio, and more. The best part was that I was able to be part of a team that oversaw a $30,000,000 property acquisition. I experienced first-hand the trials and tribulations of coordinating a deal of this size. I calculated numbers and data that was presented to the banks and seller when it came time to purchase.
In what ways has Iona prepared you for the job market?
Iona has great "ease of access" when starting the job search. Everything and everyone you need to help you is out in plain sight waiting to guide you through what can be very stressful times. I have fully taken advantage of the career center where I was given an arsenal of tips and tricks to better my chances of landing a great job post-grad.
What do you feel is the most distinctive advantage gained from your Iona LaPenta School of Business experience?
From talking to friends at other schools what has become clearly evident is Iona's alumni base is second to none. Alumni in the business field are ever present within the Iona community, and they never hesitate to offer a hand with whatever it is you need help with. Between the Gaels Go Further Mentoring Program, Career Chats, the career fair, and much more, Iona’s alumni network has never been stronger and really creates a culture of giving back within Gael Nation.
What LaPenta School of Business faculty or staff member has made a positive impact on your future? Why?
I have met so many great personnel in my four years here, but without a doubt I must say Kyle Byrne. Kyle was actually the first person I met when touring our campus and he gave great insight into what Iona is and why I should truly consider it. As Kyle moved from Admissions to his new position as coordinator for student & alumni engagement, he has not once stopped looking at all the options possible for every student who has come to him for help. Whether it be by setting up countless workshops or simply sending me a text with an internship or job opportunity, Kyle has really helped me grow and prosper while at Iona.
Describe your Iona LSB experience so far in six words or less.
A perspicacious and analytical learning experience.