This spring, Portland State University's School of Business made history by hosting the CFA Institute Research Challenge at the Karl Miller Center for the first time. While the event marked an important milestone for the School, it also highlighted the innovative ways students are gaining hands-on experience and preparing for careers in finance.
The CFA Institute Research Challenge is a global competition that provides students with immersive training in equity research, financial analysis, and professional presentation skills. Working alongside industry mentors, students analyze a publicly traded company, develop a comprehensive research report, and present their investment recommendations to a panel of finance professionals. The experience challenges students to apply concepts learned in the classroom to real-world business scenarios, mirroring the work they may perform in future careers.
"Hosting this prestigious competition at the Karl Miller Center underscores our commitment to bridging the gap between rigorous academic theory and real-world market application," says Julie Hackett, Director, Finance Area and Academic Director, Master of Science in Finance program. "It gives our students a front-row seat to the high-stakes environment of global equity research right here on their home campus." - Julie Hackett, Finance Area Director
For years, PSU teams have participated in the competition and advanced to impressive levels, including semifinal appearances. Hosting the event on campus brought students, faculty, industry leaders, and finance professionals together in a collaborative learning environment that reflects The School of Business's commitment to experiential education.
By creating opportunities for students to engage directly with industry experts, receive professional mentorship, and tackle complex financial challenges, the CFA Institute Research Challenge exemplifies the School's approach to innovation in business education.
"The true value of this challenge lies in the mentorship and the pressure of defending an investment thesis to a panel of working professionals," Hackett adds. "Our Finance students thrive in these settings because it transforms them from students into analysts driving financial insights. It builds the exact confidence and technical edge employers are looking for." - Julie Hackett, Finance Area Director
Experiences like these help students build technical expertise, strengthen critical thinking skills, and develop the confidence needed to succeed in an increasingly competitive and data-driven financial landscape.
As The School of Business continues to expand opportunities for experiential learning, hosting the CFA Institute Research Challenge demonstrates how innovative partnerships and real-world experiences can enhance student success and prepare the next generation of business leaders.