We began with how Wanshi got into real estate and her conscious decision to spend time outside of Singapore upon graduating in the US. For her first destination, she picked China where the real estate sector was still nascent and transforming. She shared that the idea of throwing herself into a new market was unsettling at first but ultimately provided unique insights that continue to serve her well even today.

Fast forward a few years, there was another decisive juncture. In expectation of the market turmoil due to the Global Financial Crisis, there was an opportunity to pivot into distressed investing. Again, this was unfamiliar territory and involved forgoing more lucrative options elsewhere. But when asked about why she still proceeded, Wanshi explained that her priority was to seek exposure in a completely different segment which coincided with her market outlook at the time. In hindsight, this makes clear sense but had she been fixated on the near term only, the move would not have materialised.

These specific examples illustrate the importance of thinking about one’s career over the long term. Not only that, we should also devote time to anticipate how the future will look like and position ourselves accordingly. As a closing remark, Wanshi caveated that you can do all the analysis in the world but there will undoubtedly be times where you have to rely on your instinct that stems from your life experiences.

We encourage students to join ULI and gain access to knowledge and peers as we work as a community to shape the future of the built environment for transformative impact in communities worldwide.  To find out more, email [email protected]

ULI Singapore thanks The Executive Centre for hosting this dialogue.