Penn State’s investment association, also known as PSIA, is one of the university’s most prestigious and selective student organizations. With a focus on bringing financial awareness and hands-on investing experience to students, PSIA plays an important role in preparing Penn State students for careers in finance and investing. This article will provide an in-depth look at PSIA – from its history and mission, to its organizational structure, application process, member benefits, and impact on students’ careers.
PSIA Provides Unparalleled Hands-On Investing Experience for Penn State Students
As an entirely student-run organization, PSIA gives members direct experience in stock analysis, portfolio management, and investment decision-making. Teams of students actively manage an investment fund with real money, leveraging resources like Bloomberg Terminals to conduct in-depth research. This hands-on experience goes far beyond classroom learning, allowing students to gain practical skills in financial modeling, valuation, pitch presentations and more. PSIA also hosts guest speakers from top investment banks and asset management firms to provide additional insight into the industry.
The PSIA Application Process is Highly Competitive, Ensuring a Pool of Motivated & Qualified Candidates
With its prestigious reputation and abundant resources, PSIA unsurprisingly sees fierce competition for membership spots each year. The application process consists of several rigorous rounds, including a resume screen, investment pitch presentation, and multiple interviews. With an acceptance rate often under 10%, becoming a PSIA member represents a major achievement and testament to one’s potential in finance. The selectivity ensures admitted students are truly driven, qualified, and able to maximize the experience.
PSIA Membership Becomes a Key Talking Point for Recruiting and Demonstrates Passion for Finance
Given the competitive landscape of investment banking and asset management recruiting, membership in PSIA can be a true differentiator for Penn State students. Recruiters are impressed by candidates who have pursued such intensive hands-on investing experience, as it demonstrates genuine interest and commitment to the field. In interviews and applications, PSIA members can elaborate on their responsibilities in managing an active fund and what they learned from the experience. This makes students stand out from the typical pool of candidates.
PSIA Has a Strong Alumni Network in the Finance Industry That Can Open Doors for Members
With over 10 years of history at Penn State, PSIA has developed an expansive alumni network across Wall Street and the wider finance industry. Previous PSIA members have gone on to careers at prestigious firms like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, BlackRock, Citadel, and Bridgewater, among many others. As an existing member, students can leverage this tight-knit alumni community to land finance internships and jobs. Alumni are often eager to refer or provide advice to fellow PSIA members following in their footsteps.
In summary, PSIA offers Penn State students an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on investing experience and demonstrate their passion for finance. The selective application process ensures admitted members are motivated, qualified, and ready to make the most of PSIA’s abundant resources. Membership becomes a key asset during recruiting and is supplemented by a powerful alumni network across Wall Street. Joining PSIA can truly accelerate a Penn State student’s career in investing.