Tom Cullen - My Journey to Becoming a Surveyor

I have always been captivated by the property industry, as evidenced by my deep interest in Economics during my time at St Gerard’s Secondary School. The fundamental concepts and knowledge I acquired in that class continue to be utilized in my everyday life. My passion for this field was further cemented during a work placement I undertook in Ballsbridge, where I was able to gain valuable insights into the workings of the industry. It was a particularly gratifying experience, made all the more meaningful by the fact that the estate agents I worked with at the time were based in the very same office I occupy today as a member of the Cushman & Wakefield team. Notably, my family's background in property was a significant factor in my decision to prioritize Property Economics as my first-choice course of study on the CAO. 

The next step was enrolling into DIT Bolton Street (Now TU Dublin) where I studied Property Economics, formerly known as Auctioneering, Valuations and Estate Agency (AVEA). The combination of both real estate and economics within the same course really sparked my interest. Through my four-year college program, I gained a profound understanding of the expansive array of sectors that comprise the commercial property industry. Modules such as Investment Portfolio Analysis, Urban Economics and Quantitative Analysis of Property taught a great deal and aid me daily in my current role. These modules encourage discussions within groups to brainstorm ideas and build strong relations with fellow students. 
 
TUD’s esteemed lecturers crafted practical work simulations and assignments, which we would collaboratively analyse, articulate, and propose. The university is fantastic for offering an array of insights and opportunities, between workshops, guest speakers, and the internship programme they run in 3rd year all massively help students to get hands on and interact with other professionals within the industry. This experience proved exceedingly valuable and advantageous as I embarked upon my career in the property field. Since completing my undergraduate degree, I have begun studying Real Estate Economics and Finance in The London School of Economics to further my knowledge within the sector.  
 
I joined Cushman & Wakefield in September of 2022 and have settled in nicely. As of current, I am undertaking my APC to become a chartered surveyor. I am currently on my first rotation in the Valuations Department whereby I am working on an array of different valuations procedures from Residual Valuations, Investment Valuations, Comparable Valuations, Profits Method Valuations and Depreciated Cost Replacement Valuations. I utilise software’s such as Argus Enterprise and Argus Developer. In addition, other day–to–day activities include conducting property inspections, performing due diligence, and preparing comprehensive reports, I am constantly absorbing knowledge and insight from the collective expertise of my esteemed colleagues on the team, working closely on the valuations of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation which is a sector with strong fundamentals for future growth in the alternative investments sector.

As a graduate in Cushman & Wakefield, one is afforded the invaluable prospect of departmental rotation during this formative period. This offers a holistic comprehension of the diverse commercial disciplines and opens up avenues to explore sectors that may not have been previously contemplated. Such exposure proves instrumental in determining one's chosen career path and areas of specialization. To anyone who is thinking about beginning their career within the property sector, I would urge them to go for it! Surveying allows you to get involved in innovative projects and meet fantastic people.