Investing in Your Future: High School Students Gain Financial Confidence Through Summer Program

Seton Hall University's recent Investing 101: Managing a Live Financial Portfolio summer pre-college program offered high school students an invaluable opportunity to explore the dynamic world of finance. Led by Associate Dean Mark Schild of the Stillman School of Business, this immersive course provided participants with both foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in managing a real-world investment portfolio.

About the Program:

Throughout the program, students delved into the fundamental concepts of financial markets. Interactive lectures and discussions covered topics such as market dynamics, asset classes, and the critical role investors play in shaping economic outcomes. Leveraging his extensive financial industry experience, Schild guided students through these complex topics, ensuring they received expert instruction.

Strategic decision-making was a key focus, with participants exploring various investment strategies tailored to different market conditions. From value investing to growth strategies, students analyzed the merits and risks of each approach, gaining the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the investment landscape.

Learning Objectives:

A central component of the course was understanding risk management and portfolio diversification. Through guest lecturers from respected firms, such as Bloomberg and TIAA students were able to hear first-hand how to manage money.  Hands-on exercises and case studies were incorporated based on the students’ overall experience to build an excitement around investing now and for his or her future. Students learned to assess and mitigate risks while constructing diversified portfolios aimed at achieving long-term financial goals. The program leveraged Seton Hall University's Hall Street Fund resources, providing participants access to state-of-the-art facilities and Bloomberg terminals at the Center for Securities Trading and Business Analytics.

Reflecting on the program's success, Schild remarked, "Our goal was to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of investment principles while offering practical experience. Watching them grow and develop their financial acumen over the course of the week was incredibly rewarding."

Dean Joyce Strawser of the Stillman School of Business added, "This program exemplifies our commitment to preparing the next generation of financial leaders. By providing high school students with this unique opportunity, we hope to inspire a lifelong interest in finance and investment."

Dean Mary Kate Naatus of the Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies echoed these sentiments, saying, "Investing 101 not only equips students with essential financial knowledge but also empowers them with the confidence to make informed decisions in the future. We are proud to offer programs that contribute to the personal and professional growth of young individuals."

Investing 101: Managing a Live Financial Portfolio offered high school students a unique opportunity to gain practical insights into the world of finance. Through a combination of foundational knowledge and hands-on experience, participants emerged with a deeper understanding of investment principles and the confidence to navigate financial markets with wisdom and foresight. This program underscores Seton Hall University's dedication to fostering financial literacy and empowering the next generation of investors.

Categories: Business