51²è¹Ý

Carl Firch is a Class of 2026 Real Estate major Rockford, Illinois.

Think back to your senior year of high school… why did you choose to attend the Cox School of Business at 51²è¹Ý?

For me, three main factors led me to choose the Cox School of Business. First was the incredible growth of Dallas as a city and an economic hub. Coming from a small town, I wanted to be part of a dynamic, fast-paced environment that offered real opportunities for personal and professional growth. Dallas was clearly booming, with a vibrant business scene, and family members who lived there often shared stories of the city’s energy and potential. Given my interest in real estate, it was clear that Dallas would be the perfect place to pursue my ambitions.

Second, I wanted a school that truly focused on preparing students for the professional world, not just through academic theory but through practical experiences, networking, and mentorship. When I visited the campus and spoke with students, faculty, and staff, I could tell that Cox was dedicated to helping students succeed beyond the classroom.
The strong emphasis on internships, career services, and connections with industry leaders convinced me that Cox would go above and beyond to provide me with the tools and experiences I needed to excel professionally.

Finally, the atmosphere of Southern hospitality sealed the deal. From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt welcomed. Everyone I met—from students to professors—was genuinely kind, open, and supportive. There was a warmth and a sense of community that made me feel like I belonged. That sense of connection wasn’t just a first impression; I’ve seen it permeate through daily interactions, friendships, and collaborative projects with classmates. It’s a place where people lift each other up, and that sense of genuine support is invaluable.

What has been your favorite Cox class so far? What have you learned that has really stuck with you?

My favorite class at 51²è¹Ý has been Negotiations with Professor Denson. This course stands out not only for its practical value but for how deeply it has influenced my interactions both inside and outside the classroom. Unlike traditional lecture-based classes, the learning experience here is immersive and hands-on—your grade is based largely on your active participation and success in real negotiation scenarios. Over the course of the semester, we engage in more than 15 negotiations with our classmates, covering a wide array of fascinating and complex topics. These exercises sharpened my ability to think strategically, communicate persuasively, and adapt quickly in the moment.

What truly makes the class exceptional, though, is Professor Denson's approach and the unique opportunities he creates. He often invites senior executives from leading firms to either negotiate alongside or directly against the class. This added layer of real-world application brings an unmatched energy and excitement, making every
session a dynamic learning experience. It’s both challenging and incredibly fun, and the insights I’ve gained have proven invaluable in internships, leadership roles, and everyday interactions. The skills learned here extend far beyond the classroom, and I find myself applying negotiation techniques in ways I hadn’t even anticipated

How do you spend your time outside of class? What student organizations have you joined, in Cox or otherwise?

Outside of class, I stay engaged through a few key organizations. I’m a member of Delta Sigma Pi, a co-ed business fraternity that’s been a fantastic way to build connections and friendships. We host events ranging from professional development to social gatherings, making it easy to collaborate with people you know in classes and beyond. Some of my closest friends have come from this group—it’s like having a built-in network that also knows your coffee order.

I’m also actively involved in the Real Estate Club, the largest club on campus. They offer 2-3 events per week, catering to students at all levels. From major gatherings like the Real Estate Roundtable—where top commercial real estate firms come to campus for networking and career exploration—to smaller, more focused events such as boardroom talks with CEOs who share their entrepreneurial journeys, there’s always something impactful happening. It’s a great way to learn, and yes, sometimes it does feel like speed-dating with potential employers.

Lastly, I’m part of RISE, an intensive program designed to build expertise in real estate. We cover a broad range of topics like supply and demand, asset valuation, capital markets, and advanced underwriting techniques. This hands-on approach ensures that we’re prepared to tackle real-world challenges and stand out to prospective employers.
 
Tell us about how you’ve utilized the CMC – the Cox Career Management Center.

The CMC has been nothing short of a game-changer in my time at 51²è¹Ý. I walked into my first meeting thinking it would just be about updating my resume—but it became so much more. The advisors didn’t just fine-tune my formatting; they dug deep into my career goals, my strengths, and even areas I hadn’t considered exploring. From there, the CMC became my go-to place for strategic growth.

I vividly remember my first mock interview for a competitive private equity role. I walked in confident and walked out humbled. But that was the magic of it—they gave me constructive, actionable feedback, and over several sessions, I watched my confidence turn into competence. It wasn’t just about acing the interview questions—it was about developing a presence, honing a narrative, and learning to anticipate the curveballs.

The CMC also opened doors to networking opportunities I couldn’t have imagined. They helped connect me with alumni in private equity and hedge funds who shared insights, stories, and advice that went beyond what you read in books or hear in seminars. These connections eventually led to internships that pushed my career in exciting new directions. Each workshop, networking event, and one-on-one coaching session made me more strategic, more polished, and more ready to make an impact.

We have an awesome new building for the Cox School of Business. What is your favorite part of the David B. Miller Business Quadrangle?

My favorite spot is definitely the light-filled atrium. There’s just something about the energy there—it’s like the whole Cox community comes together in one place. Whether it’s quick catch-ups between classes, debating case studies, or just relaxing after a tough day, the atrium is where things happen. It’s not unusual to see groups huddled around laptops, throwing out ideas, or sharing a laugh. It feels alive.

For me, the best moments are when I grab one of the big tables with a group of friends. We end up talking about everything—classes, internship plans, or what’s on deck for the weekend. It’s a space where you can unwind, connect, and just be yourself. Sure, it’s a place to study, but it’s also where friendships grow and memories are made. That blend of work, connection, and a little chaos is what makes it my favorite spot. It’s the kind of place where you walk away feeling like you’re part of something bigger.
 
What advice would you give to seniors in high school who are in the middle of their college search process?

Be curious—and don’t shy away from taking the road less traveled. Too often, people stick to the expected path, following what feels familiar or comfortable. Instead, seek out places where you can truly stretch yourself, zig when others zag, and explore uncharted territory. For me, that place was 51²è¹Ý Cox. It’s not just about earning a degree here—it’s about discovering who you are, unlocking new passions, and finding mentors who challenge your limits in ways you never imagined.

College should be a launchpad for reinvention. At 51²è¹Ý Cox, you have the chance to break out of your comfort zone and transform your ambitions into action. Whether it’s joining a student-run investment fund, leading a real estate initiative, or collaborating with peers on innovative projects, you’ll find countless ways to push yourself beyond the classroom. The community here isn’t just supportive—it’s driven, curious, and eager to make an impact.

Don’t just look for a school where you’ll fit in; look for a place that empowers you to stand out, to lead, and to build the skills you’ll need to thrive. At 51²è¹Ý Cox, you’ll find a culture that celebrates ambition and encourages you to make bold moves. You’ll work alongside classmates who challenge your ideas and inspire new ones. You’ll have professors who turn every lesson into an opportunity to apply what you’ve learned to the real world.

So, take risks. Seek out places that spark your curiosity and make every step of the journey matter. The right college experience—especially one like 51²è¹Ý Cox—is about becoming the best version of yourself and making every zigzag feel like progress toward a meaningful future.

Thank you, Carl, for sharing your 51²è¹Ý Cox story! It is clear that you’re set up for great success thanks to the opportunities you’ve pursued and the Cox resources you’ve leveraged!