_ The next generation of property professionals | Knight Frank Australia 2024 Student Program
Read first-hand what the program is really like as told by student Lachlan Cranfield from our 2023 cohort.
1. Tell us about your experience with the Knight Frank Student Program.
One of the best things about the program is the opportunity to work across all key departments and select the individual teams you are most interested in working with. It has been an exceptional way to delve into specific areas of property that I wanted to gain experience in.
The culture at Knight Frank is simply fantastic and the people are incredibly friendly and welcoming, making you feel like a valued member of the team right from the start. I have had a wonderful time at Knight Frank and am excited about the future possibilities that it may bring.
2. How did you hear about the Program and what made you apply?
I discovered the Knight Frank Student Program while browsing on Seek, and it could not have come at a more opportune time. As I approached the end of my university degree, I was actively looking for a property related internship that would provide me with valuable real-world experience in my final year of study. When I stumbled upon the Knight Frank Student Program, I knew it was the perfect fit for me.
Knight Frank's renowned global reputation and the program's fantastic structure, which emphasises firsthand involvement in all key business areas were the reasons that motivated me to submit my application without hesitation. I felt that it would be an ideal platform for me to develop my skills and knowledge while working alongside industry professionals.
3. What business line did you enjoy the most during your rotation?
My experience across all of the business lines and individual teams during my time with the Knight Frank Student Program has been a fantastic experience. Among all of the areas, I found myself particularly captivated by the Capital Markets team, specifically the Institutional and Investment sales teams.
The opportunity to shadow the agents during property inspections and collaborate with them on creating marketing materials and conducting financial analyses for current listings has been incredibly rewarding. These firsthand experiences have not only enhanced my understanding of the industry but have also sparked a genuine enthusiasm for the Capital Markets aspect of the business.
4. What did you like most about the Program?
Additionally, the collaborative nature of the program has been a highlight for me. Working alongside friendly and knowledgeable individuals has not only made the experience enjoyable but has also provided me with invaluable exposure to the intricacies of the real estate world. Their expertise and guidance have played a crucial role in my personal and professional growth throughout the program.
5. What's one thing you'll take/you've taken away from this experience?
A valuable lesson I have learned during my time in the Knight Frank Student Program so far is the importance of never hesitating to ask for help. I discovered that there is always a supportive network of individuals available to assist you in working through any challenges or obstacles you may encounter. Seeking guidance and collaborating with others to find a joint solution has proven to be an excellent approach to solving any problems you may face.
6. Is there anything that surprised you about the program or that you weren't expecting?
I was pleasantly surprised by the level of involvement I had with each individual team during the Knight Frank Student Program. The real-world exposure I have gained exceeded my expectations, as I have had the opportunity to participate in multiple property inspections, building walkthroughs, and client meetings. These experiences provided me with a genuine taste of the industry and allowed me to witness firsthand the day-to-day operations and interactions involved in the business.
7. How do you balance your studies with the program and other commitments?
The Knight Frank Student Program has offered an exceptional balance between studies and other commitments. The program and the teams have been universally understanding and accommodating, prioritising our needs, and ensuring that our academic responsibilities are catered for. Knight Frank also places significant importance on a work-life balance, which has been invaluable in managing other commitments outside of the program.
8. Do you have any advice for students thinking about applying for the program?
"Taking the leap and applying for the Knight Frank Student Program is something I wholeheartedly encourage. If you have a keen interest in property and are eager to gain valuable real-world experience with one of the most globally recognisable real estate firms, this program is tailor-made for you. It has the potential to be a transformative experience that will push you toward a fulfilling start to your career."
Applications for our 2024 Student Program are now open and close 1 September 2023. For more details on the application process, click here.