Today we’d like to introduce you to Shareen Memon.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Well, the beginning of my story starts all the way in India. I was born in Mumbai and moved here with my family when I was 5 years old. My parents left their glamorous jobs back home and came to America for my sister and I to have a better future. And not to toot my own horn or anything, but that’s exactly what I did. I was a very smart kid, got A’s all through grade-school. But I think because I never felt challenged academically, I had so much time to be an absolute nut. I was super energetic and curious, the best way to describe myself as a kid is : HOT-MESS EXPRESS. But I was also very stubborn. If I made my mind up about something, hell would freeze over before I change my stance. I was in 7th grade when I decided I wanted to be a Mechanical Engineer. It seemed a lot easier in 7th grade than in college though. Freshman year was a wake-up call. All of a sudden I wasn’t the smartest kid in class or even remotely close, and it was frustrating because I was really trying. I was blessed to have really modern and broad-minded parents. Ever heard of INDIAN parents telling their child NOT TO be an engineer? Yep. Those were my parents. My parents own businesses and my sister is an entrepreneur too. My mom always told me “You’re going to be an entrepreneur someday. Engineering won’t be your forever.” But in true Shareen fashion, I didn’t listen. I powered through and accomplished the goal I had set for myself. Fast forward to present day, and I am a full-time entrepreneur. My mom really did get the last laugh.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I would say up to May 2020 life was pretty smooth. There were definitely a couple bumps but nothing too difficult. I lost my dad last May and that was the biggest struggle I’ve ever faced. My parents always raised us to be strong independent women and that’s all we knew. But as the younger one, there were still quite a few things my parents took off my plate. So when my dad passed, I had to grow up overnight. I honestly felt like I aged 10 years in 1 minute. My priorities, responsibilities, and my emotional security all changed. After I got a grip on life again, I FINALLY got my first job as an Engineer. Finally, I was going to get the fruits of my labor. I was over the moon, so proud of myself and I knew my dad was proud of me too. Then 6 months later I got laid off. It was gut-wrenching. I felt like an absolute failure and I had no plan B. So yeah, the latter part of 2020 was full of struggles. But if I didn’t feel that discomfort then, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Real Estate Agent and certified Interior Designer! (I also own a wedding planning company with my sister).
I don’t specialize in a specific part of real estate because I don’t want to put myself in a bubble. I love it all. Residential, Commercial, Leasing, and Investment Properties, My mentor, Andrea Tran at NextGen Real Estate has been SUPER helpful at showing me all parts of the industry and letting me steer my own path.
I am most proud of my self-motivation and hustle. I’ve been in the industry for 8 weeks, and I have 2 closings scheduled for the end of this month and my first listing is going live next week.
What sets me apart from others is that I entered this field mentally prepared to make sacrifices. I knew I was going to miss parties and dinners with my friends. Dissociating from my career after 5 o’clock was no longer going to be an option. I came into Real Estate prepared to be present at all times and make this my priority. I never say no to an opportunity. If it is offered, I am doing it. You never know who you’ll run into, what you’ll learn, or how the opportunity may elevate you to next level.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I’ve never been asked to do an interview before so I feel really accomplished right now. I want to thank you guys for finding me interesting enough to answer your questions.
I feel that it is only right for me to mention the people that have played a key role in my life. They deserve more credit than I do..
Firstly, I want to thank my mom, sister, and uncle for being my backbones. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. They’re my beginning and end. My 3 man fan club. And I want to thank my special person. Thank you for pushing me when I feel like I’m going to peak. Love you always.
Finally, I want to give a special shout-out Andrea Tran. I’ve only known her for 2 months but I have never learned more from any mentor in my life. She’s taught me to have confidence, to be bold, and to leave a mark everywhere I go. The last 8 weeks would not have been the same without her help. Thank you Mama Tran
Contact Info:
- Email: harwithshar@gmail.com
- Website: harwithshar.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harwithshar/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/harwithshar/posts/
