Major: Full-Time MBA, Finance Concentration
Year: Second year
Connor Reider, a second-year student in the Full-Time MBA program at Weatherhead School of Management who is concentrating in finance, strives to make an impact—no matter how big or small.
Learn about Reider’s passion for business and real estate development—and what his hopes are for the future.
Q: Why did you choose to pursue business?
A: Fascinated by the architecture and design of both private residences and skyscrapers since youth, I chose to pursue an MBA strategically concentrating in finance to create a strong business foundation from which I could pivot from real estate sales to development.
My grandfather was a real estate developer in my hometown of Columbus, so perhaps one could say the passion is in my blood. I have been intrigued by the architecture and design of physical structures for as long as I can remember. The balance of resource optimization and aesthetic beauty is in a constant state of flux and is even more important as Environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) continues to be at the forefront of the conversation. Finding that balance and creating structures that will outlive my physical existence provides me with profound purpose.
Q: How are you involved on campus?
A: Together with Executive Vice President Anshul Gupta, I serve as the president of the Graduate Business Student Association. Our platform this year has been focused on increasing networking opportunities across Weatherhead programs as well as providing club leadership with the necessary support and appropriate autonomy to engage with the student body.
Q: Why did you choose to study at Case Western Reserve?
A: In my business school search, Weatherhead’s full-time [MBA] program stood out because of its intimacy. Faculty and staff are willingly engaged with the student body. Even from the early days of the recruitment period, I felt valued and knew that I would receive the education and support to achieve my dreams.
Q: What do you hope to do after graduation?
A: With the long-term goal of becoming a residential real estate developer, immediately following graduation I hope to enter the industry in a role that expands upon my current internship work assisting real estate developers in the execution of their projects from conception to completion.