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t the annual Women in Real Estate Luncheon, a panel of trailblazing alumnae from USC Price's real estate programs shared their hard-won wisdom with students. Moderated by Lynn King-Tolliver, director of the Lusk Center for Real Estate, the discussion highlighted the evolving landscape of real estate development.

    With over 2,000 female graduates and more than 170 current students pursuing a degree in real estate at USC Price, it's clear that women are making their mark on the industry. The panelists – Madison Baker (MRED '19), Jenny Rocci (MRED '17), Natalia Romo (BRED '18), and Leora Hakim (BUAD/BRED '19) – offered candid advice to students, drawing from their own experiences.

    Key takeaways included embracing the art of negotiation: "Come with solutions, not just problems," Baker urged. Rocci emphasized the importance of confidence: "You can be feminine and still close deals." Romo stressed the value of asking questions: "It's better to ask than to pretend you know something you don't." Hakim encouraged students to view their career journey as a series of stepping stones, rather than dead ends.

    King-Tolliver added that curiosity is key: "Be willing to ask and seek out expertise. The nuances of an industry can't be Googled." As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, these women are paving the way for future generations – and proving that success has no gender.