Boot Camps

Check out these boot camp opportunities to further your professional development in specialized areas.

Wall Street Boot Camp

Wall Street Boot Camp is a program initiated in 2007 by Robin Stevens and Randy Woolridge. It is designed as a training program to better prepare students who aspire to careers in the highly competitive field of financial services. The program has been highly successful in serving dual purposes. It provides a true glimpse of the dedication and focus needed to succeed in a career on Wall Street. This preview allows for the candidate field to be narrowed to only the most aspiring individuals. Also, the program’s targeted approach ensures that students completing the program will be sufficiently prepared to utilize the Smeal network of volunteers.

  • The program requires a full semester commitment for certification, and it is offered in both the fall and spring – 45 slots available
  • Sessions are held every Friday at 2:30pm in the Business Building. Each session lasts 90 minutes
  • ELIGIBILITY – freshmen, sophomores, or juniors who exhibit academic strength, leadership, and relevant experience indicating the potential for success in the industry
  • Sessions cover various career paths in the field including, but not limited to, sales and trading, investment banking, and private wealth
  • Students are instructed and evaluated on resume, interview, communication, and networking skills. Homework will be assigned, and must be completed prior to the following session
  • Participants are evaluated on their self-awareness and knowledge of the industry at the end of the program in a mock Wall Street interview conducted by the officers of the Nittany Lion Fund
  • Each student who successfully completes the program receives, access to the mentoring list, and a personal endorsement from Robin Stevens and Randy Woolridge

HOW TO APPLY

  • Only freshmen, sophomores and juniors are eligible.
  • 45 slots available, conducted on Fridays between 2:30 and 4:00 pm, must be able to attend all sessions.
  • To apply, send a resume to rzs7@psu.edu with the Subject Header: APPLICATION SP24
  • APPLICATION DEADLINE: November 30, 2023
    • Accepted Applicants will be notified before the beginning of the Spring 2024 semester via email

BONUS BOOT CAMPS

Bonus Boot Camps are sessions, open to all students, presented by Wall St professionals on a wide range of topics relevant to the financial services industry. Presentations have covered such topics as private equity, venture capital, real estate investing, Fin Tech, fixed income trading, wealth management in a family office, innovation and global currency to name a few. Bonus sessions are advertised on the Smeal College list serves as well as through various student organizations. Ads announcing sessions are also placed on the plasma screens located in the Business Building. Reservations are required due to limited seating with instructions on how to RSVP on the ad. Sessions are typically held in the Rogers Family Trading Room.

Corporate Finance Boot Camp

The Corporate Finance Boot Camp (CFBC) is designed to prepare selected Smeal students for successful careers in corporate finance. This rigorous program bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world application, providing participants with advanced technical skills, professional development opportunities, and valuable industry connections.

The program serves dual purposes: it helps identify and develop highly motivated students committed to careers in corporate finance, while also ensuring these students are thoroughly prepared to leverage their skills and Smeal’s extensive alumni network effectively. Through extracurricular training and networking opportunities, participants gain comprehensive exposure to corporate finance roles and responsibilities.

Key Program Features:

  • Full academic year (Fall and Spring) commitment required for program completion.
  • Weekly sessions held every Friday afternoon for about 90 minutes, featuring industry professionals and hands-on training.
  • Limited to 25 carefully selected students to ensure personalized attention and maximum engagement.
  • Eligibility is limited Finance majors who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and genuine interest in corporate finance careers.
  • Comprehensive curriculum covering essential topics including financial modeling, valuation methodologies, M&A analysis, and capital allocation strategies.
  • Professional development components including resume building, interview preparation, and networking skills.
  • Regular interactions with Penn State alumni holding prominent positions in corporate finance.
  • Opportunities for site visits and shadow days at partner corporations.
  • Participation in case competitions with corporate partners.
  • Ongoing mentorship and career guidance from industry professionals.

For any additional questions about the Corporate Finance Boot Camp, please review https://www.smeal.psu.edu/finance/corporate-finance-boot-camp and email Delina Agnosteva at dagnosteva@psu.edu.

Real Estate Boot Camp

The Real Estate Boot Camp provides opportunities for students to engage with top leaders in the real estate industry in events such as panel discussions, mock interviews, and site visits. For a list of activities and events or to submit an application visit: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/ires/ires-boot-camp