Student awards help Latif Syed focus on education and real estate venture
Latif Syed is passionate about real estate, and thanks to the seven student awards he received at the Ted Rogers School of Management this year, he will not only be able to support his studies in the field, but he also hopes to improve housing for others.
The Real Estate Management and Finance student is very involved in the Ted Rogers School community, representing his peers as a Senator on Toronto Metropolitan University’s Senate and holding executive roles in several student associations.
He is also dedicated to contributing positively to society by improving the spaces where students live and learn. Syed aims to revolutionize student housing across North America and beyond with a Real Estate Private Equity fund. This fund will focus on development, acquisitions and partnership investments, prioritizing societal impact alongside financial success. He hopes his entrepreneurial ventures will leave a lasting impact on communities.
Syed is appreciative of the support he has received through student awards, including the Joey and Toby Tanenbaum Business Scholarship, the Peter Sharpe Student Engagement Academic Award, the CT REIT Award for Diversity in Real Estate and the Ronald H. Otis Award in Real Estate. “These awards have significantly reduced my financial burdens, enabling me to dedicate more time and resources to my studies and my resolve to lead innovative developments in real estate,” he explains. Syed will be recognized for his achievements at Ted Rogers School’s Student Awards Celebration in April.
Here is what Syed has to say about his experience at the school and the impact of student awards:
Why did you want to study at the Ted Rogers School and what do you hope to do after graduation?
I've always been drawn to real estate and finance, and with my family planning to relocate to Canada, it felt like the right place to focus my ambitions. The Ted Rogers School stood out because of its robust real estate program right in the heart of Toronto, a prime spot with easy access to prominent firms on Bay Street.
The school’s offerings appealed to me — the curriculum, available minors, faculty, employment outcomes, career centre and extracurricular opportunities. My decision was sealed after a profound conversation with Dean Cynthia Holmes (the founding chair of the Real Estate department) during her visit to India. Our shared passion for real estate and investments underpinned my decision to pursue my education at the Ted Rogers School.
After graduating, my aspirations are so diverse that one might think I am crazy. Professionally, I wish to pursue a career in real estate acquisitions and development, focusing on creating affordable, high-quality student housing. I also want to get a pilot’s license and travel the world. My long-term goals include launching my own private equity fund, venturing into dairy and agriculture, and potentially entering politics and public service.
What has been your favourite experience at the Ted Rogers School?
Picking just one experience is really tough. One highlight is the connections I’ve made here. I've met some incredible people: peers who are as driven as I am, faculty who are not just teachers but industry professionals, and advisors who genuinely care about our futures.
I’ve also enjoyed participating in student groups. It has given me a real stake in campus life and a chance to make a difference. The two days of activities at Camp Manitou and the summer symposium organized by the Ted Rogers Student Society for student group leaders were also phenomenal. Then there are the company visits, seminars, events on campus and the experiential learning classes I participated in.
These experiences have deepened my appreciation for the Ted Rogers School and allowed me to play a part in shaping our academic, professional and social environments.
How did receiving student awards impact you?
Receiving these seven awards has truly transformed my journey at the Ted Rogers School. When I first arrived in Canada, I faced real challenges, from adjusting to the harsh winters and managing a full course load while working two jobs, to just figuring out how to afford a meal outside.
Financially, the awards have alleviated much of the financial pressure I faced, reducing my household debt and allowing me to focus more on learning and less on earning. This financial freedom has empowered me to engage more deeply with my studies and community activities without constant stress.
These awards have also boosted my confidence. They've reinforced my belief in my capabilities and what I can achieve in the future. With this support, I'm more determined than ever to excel and contribute positively to my community. They remind me that my aspirations aren't just dreams; they are within reach, and I am on the right path.
What advice would you give students thinking of applying for student awards?
My biggest piece of advice is to be genuine. Reflect deeply on your experiences, achievements and future goals when you assemble your application. Being honest and passionate about your past journey and the path you hope to follow is essential. An award could be a stepping stone towards achieving your aspirations, so make sure you clearly articulate how.
When preparing your application, don't underestimate the importance of details. Pay close attention to the guidelines, and craft a compelling narrative that not only outlines your achievements, but also the impact you aim to make in the future. Keep it real and personal.
Finally, don't let fear or doubt hold you back. I remember pouring my heart into each application yet sometimes doubting if any success would come from it. Despite those doubts, I garnered success. So, start now, believe in yourself and don't be discouraged by the challenges. Remember, challenges exist to be overcome.
