B
oston students face a ruthless off-campus housing search, with skyrocketing rent prices and dwindling available housing making the process increasingly stressful. Students attending urban schools like Northeastern University and Emerson College often live off-campus after their second year, with about 67.5% of Boston-based undergraduate and graduate students living off campus.

    To navigate this complex market, some students are becoming real estate agents themselves. Agencies like BostonPads actively recruit students, offering entry-level positions that require no prior experience. For example, Sarah Abouchleih, a Northeastern student, was motivated to pursue real estate during her search for off-campus housing and received her license through the American Real Estate Academy.

    Student real estate agents not only help their peers navigate the housing market but also develop valuable skills like interpersonal communication and networking. They often work as independent contractors, allowing them flexibility around academic commitments. This role can be lucrative, but it's not always reliable compared to traditional jobs, and navigating the licensing process in Massachusetts can be challenging.

    Students are drawn to real estate by a desire to assist others and bring integrity to an industry plagued by exploitation. Minh Mai, a Northeastern student, entered the industry to understand it better and address unethical practices. Student real estate agents work closely with landlords and have a deep awareness of the off-campus housing markets, giving them a unique advantage in meeting students' needs.

    Becoming a student real estate agent embodies the values of gaining hands-on experience, exploring new opportunities, and building professional networks – priorities for many Boston college students. This role can be time-consuming, but it allows students to dictate their own schedule and build relationships with landlords who can help them make the next step in their career.

    By taking initiative and identifying gaps in the housing market and tenant services, Boston students demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit and resourcefulness, setting themselves apart as innovators ready to thrive in any environment.