Fourth-year McIntire student Josh Novick’s years at UVA have been defined by strategic academic focus, mentorship from accomplished alumni, and enriching professional internships—all coming together in moments of insight such as the esteemed 2024 McIntire Fall Forum.
Hailing from New York’s Long Island, Novick says he chose UVA for its perfect balance of work-life harmony, exceptional faculty, and historical significance. Those building blocks led him to double-major in Commerce at McIntire, where he’s focusing on Finance and Real Estate, and Religious Studies at the College of Arts & Sciences. Novick believes it was McIntire’s liberal arts foundation and strong community that were ultimately responsible for influencing his academic direction. He found the Comm School to be a place where diverse thinkers come together, enabling him to cultivate a breadth of knowledge and essential experiences throughout his time on Grounds.
One such pivotal moment occurred during his second year, courtesy of a connection with Commerce alumnus Rob Harper (McIntire ’00), President of Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust and Head of Real Estate Asset Management Americas. They met at UVA’s White Ruffin Byron Center for Real Estate’s Professional Speaker Series and a lunch Novick was invited to in advance of the Blackstone Cosmopolitan Case Study, as he was part of the Virginia Undergraduate Real Estate Club (VUREC).
Novick remembers Harper’s supportive approach: “He welcomed me with a gracious smile and asked me about my interest in real estate.” The well-regarded McIntire alumnus would take on a role that evolved into one of ongoing mentorship, friendship, and professional guidance.
“There are many things I have learned from Rob; however, the one instance that comes to mind is from this past summer, when I reconnected with him while interning,” says Novick, referencing his summer internship position with Blackstone. “Overall, his advice, insight, guidance, and friendship have significantly impacted my experience and made a difference in my life trajectory.”
Internship at Blackstone
Inspired by Stephen Schwarzman’s book, What It Takes: Lessons in the Pursuit of Excellence, Novick adopted the philosophy to “think big.” He describes the environment at Blackstone as one not unlike the Comm School in some ways, a place “where everyone works together to achieve a common goal.”
The internship posed some expected challenges for the driven student.
“The most challenging aspect of my internship at Blackstone was getting up to speed on the different forms of data they use, applying it effectively, and understanding the ‘why’ behind complex models and strategies,” he explains, adding that he “learned a ton.” Yet he credits senior leadership across the firm with taking time to provide vital lessons in mentorship and interactions. “These sessions illuminated adaptability, resilience, integrity, strategic thinking, work ethic, and effective communication all in one.”
Novick says a particularly valuable educational experience at Blackstone came while he was preparing a final presentation on Rating Agency (RAs) engagement strategy for private credit vehicles at BXCI at the end of his 10-week internship. “Building on my skills from ICE [McIntire’s Integrated Core curriculum], I could articulate and think through how I wanted to lay out the content, uphold the engagement, and anticipate questions ahead of time to be prepared to think on my feet,” he recalls.
McIntire’s 2024 Fall Forum: Blackstone’s Jonathan Gray
Coincidental but no less important for Novick, the Comm School’s 2024 Fall Forum featured Jonathan Gray, President and COO of Blackstone. As one might expect, it emerged as a highlight in the student’s overall UVA experience. Moderated by McIntire Professor Peter Maillet, the event offered an engaging discussion that absorbed Novick’s interest.
“From what I learned at the company coupled with my McIntire education, the most exciting pieces of the Fall Forum were hearing about their Q3 2024 earnings report and Jon Gray’s perspective on the current state of interest rates, emerging economies, and their thematic investments: data centers, AI, and involvement with logistics, to name a few,” says Novick. “Jon exhibited his views in a curious yet confident manner, backing his reasoning off of historical trends, their 200+ portfolio companies, and research they have fielded from across their business units.”
Gray’s dialogue, linking historical data to emerging financial trends, provided Novick with strategic insights applicable to global markets. He was particularly struck by Gray’s interdisciplinary background as an English major and the influence it had on his career, which resonated with McIntire’s evolving curriculum geared towards broader academic exploration. Novick was also especially impacted by Gray’s “humility and details regarding how his background influenced him as an investor, leader, and innovator today.”
Lasting Impressions: Takeaways from the Fall Forum
Gray’s insights transcended immediate financial strategies, delving into the broader implications of investment trends. Novick keenly noted Blackstone’s firm conviction in thematic investing and technology’s transformative role. Gray’s emphasis on “the staying power to get through the storm” reinforced a shared ethos of resilience and long-term strategy.
Moreover, Gray’s call to “never lose a sense of wonder” in facing challenges struck a chord with Novick, emphasizing the relentless optimism necessary for professional and personal growth. This mindset inspired Novick as he considers his post-graduation future, ready to merge his burgeoning expertise with long-term career aspirations.
Looking ahead, Novick is excited to join Blackstone Credit’s Structured Group, aspiring to leverage his skills in a pivotal role within the organization. His steadfast commitment to UVA endures, with plans to return often, engage in charity initiatives, and connect with the University community. “I hope to return to Grounds as much as possible, continue fundraising, and raise awareness for multiple charities,” Novick affirms, keen to contribute beyond his professional achievements. Those charities include Run4NAMI, the Charlottesville branch of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, which aims to raise awareness on college mental health, and others like a recent initiative honoring Professor Drew Sanderford.
Novick’s story embodies the essence of a McIntire education—merging challenging academic pursuits, real-world application, and personal growth into the basis of what promises to be a fulfilling career at one of the world’s most valued financial institutions.
