T
exas Tech students gathered at the Overton Hotel & Conference Center in Lubbock on Friday for a career‑building event. The Center for Real Estate and Excellence in Banking hosted more than 300 industry professionals. Senior Catherine Muller, a finance major, and junior Ben Lashaway, focused on commercial real estate, said the conference gave them priceless insights and networking opportunities. “Real estate thrives on connections and up‑to‑date knowledge,” Lashaway noted, adding that alumni and caring faculty are crucial. Speakers covered real‑estate strategy, scaling, capital, state‑level banking issues, and relationship building. Both students praised Texas Tech’s support, saying the university and Rawls College of Business invest heavily in students’ futures. The event also offered a glimpse into the evolving landscapes of real estate and banking. “As a senior, my focus is on jobs and entering the workforce,” Muller reflected. “I’m absorbing a lot of knowledge and feel I’m only at the beginning.”