Kyle Cox brings a real estate RSO back to campus

When Kyle Cox looked around Central Michigan University’s campus, he noticed a gap. Real estate-minded students didn’t have a space to connect, learn, and prepare for careers in the industry. So, he decided to bring one back through Rho Epsilon Iota.

“I’m a senior here at CMU studying real estate development and finance,” Cox said. “Through my experiences, I realized real estate isn’t just about selling houses, there are so many different opportunities in the industry. I wanted students to have a space where they could learn that early, connect with professionals, and figure out their own path. That’s what inspired me to bring this organization back.”

Filling a need on campus

The group picks up where CMU’s former real estate society left off.

“There was a need for a dedicated real estate organization,” Cox said. “The old professional real estate society had gone inactive, and a lot of students interested in real estate didn’t have anywhere to plug in. We wanted to try something new: a space where students with real estate interest could learn, network, and grow.”

His own internship experience at eXp Realty reinforced the importance of connections. “I worked with eXp Realty this summer, and I saw firsthand how many different types of professionals it takes to make this business work. Agents, lenders, inspectors, title reps, it’s all connected. My goal is to keep building those connections, and at the same time help other students get that exposure before graduation.”

From classrooms to case studies

The organization is designed to take learning beyond the classroom. Cox and his peers are planning projects that put theory into practice, from case studies to market analyses.

“If you’re learning finance or management, we can tie that into real estate deals, property management, or investment analysis,” Cox explained. “We want to make sure members can take what they’re hearing in class and see how it shows up in real life.”

Alongside applied projects, the group will host licensing workshops and alumni networking events, giving students early exposure to the professional side of the industry.

Building skills and networks

Networking is central to the mission. Cox believes the real estate field is powered by relationships, and the RSO is designed to give students an advantage by helping them grow their professional confidence before graduation.

“I hope students build professional communication, networking confidence, and project management skills,” Cox said. “Just being comfortable talking real estate with people in the industry is a skill.”

That preparation, he added, can give members a head start when they walk into internships or full-time roles.

Leadership and inclusion

From its structure to its programming, the organization was built with inclusion in mind. Its executive board includes students from different majors, with officer positions and committees that align with a variety of skill sets.

“Whether it’s marketing, finance, or event planning, there’s a chance to build leadership skills that stand out on a résumé and prepare you for your career,” Cox said.

He also emphasized that the group is open to all majors, not just business students. “You might be into construction, finance, marketing, or design, it all connects back to the industry,” he said. “We’re intentional about showing how everyone’s skill set can add value, so no one feels left out.”

What's next for Rho Epsilon Iota?

Cox has both short and long-term goals for the organization. Within the next year, he hopes to see consistent events, active alumni involvement, and a strong base of student members. Looking five years out, he envisions CMU’s chapter becoming one of the strongest in the national network, sending students into the industry each year with licenses, internships, and connections.

Ultimately, he wants the group to leave a lasting mark at CMU. “That we built something lasting; a professional fraternity where students know they’ll be supported, challenged, and prepared for careers,” he said.

And to those who aren’t sure about joining, Cox offers a simple reminder: real estate touches everyone eventually.

“At some point, everybody is going to buy a house, rent, or maybe invest,” he said. “You might not be interested in real estate, but real estate is going to be interested in you at some point. So, you might as well get ahead of it now.”