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Apply to SMIF

Application Process 

The Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF) accepts applications each semester. 

1. Round 1 — Survey & Pitch Deck (Due April 11)

Applicants complete an online survey and submit a stock idea pitch deck by the posted deadline. Because of high interest and limited spots, this deck is the first evaluation round.

Statement of Purpose must also be submitted by the application due date. 

2. Round 2 — Interviews

Selected applicants will be invited to interview on April 3rd, with additional dates on April 4th or April 6th if needed. Interview invitations are sent via email once pitch decks have been reviewed.

3. Offers & Cohort

Analysts earn $20/hour for up to 10 hours per week and help manage a real-money portfolio. Selected students also participate in biannual NYC treks to visit alumni and major finance firms such as the NYSE. Available positions vary each semester.  

Advice on Preparation

  • Spend time in the Bloomberg Lab: Regularly explore terminal functions beyond class assignments. Practice using equity screening tools, FA (Financial Analysis), and WEI (World Equity Index) to stay comfortable navigating data.
  • Read Bloomberg News Daily: Focus on major market headlines, earnings reports, and sector-specific stories related to your stock coverage area. Pay attention to how macroeconomic events affect different industries. (WVU Students Get Free Bloomberg News) 
  • Subscribe to Finance Newsletters: Stay informed through sources like Morning Brew, The Wall Street Journal’s 10-Point, Bloomberg’s Five Things to Start Your Day , and The Daily Upside.
  • Review Equity Research Reports: Read both professional and past student substacks to learn about our portfolio and recommendations. 
  • Explore BMC Modules: Revisit concepts from Bloomberg Market Concepts
  • Follow Market Trends: Track index movements (S&P 500, Nasdaq, Dow), key economic indicators (CPI, Fed rates, unemployment), and your chosen company performance. 

Hear from Current and Past Analyst on How They Succeeded in Their Interview: 

“The best way to prepare for the SMIF interview is to ask yourself why you want to be in the program, how it will help your professional development, and how you will meaningfully contribute. We want to see that you are passionate and eager to learn more about markets.”

— Clayton Hammond, Healthcare Analyst 

“Applicants should emphasize their strengths and willingness to take on challenges throughout the application process. They should confidently showcase what makes their perspective unique and how it can contribute to the program, demonstrating enthusiasm for growth and a readiness to put in the work.”
— Ella Hensell, Staples Analyst 

“When interviewing for a position as an Equity Research Analyst in the West Virginia University Student Managed Investment Fund, it is essential to understand the global economy and securities markets. Demonstrating the ability to discuss these topics thoughtfully shows a strong foundation of financial knowledge.”
— Max Feld, EMU Analyst 

“The stock pitch is your chance to stand out—show how you think, not just what you know. Go beyond obvious companies and uncover an original idea with a compelling story. Strong pitches combine creativity with solid analysis, connecting macro trends, financial data, and company strategy. Treat it as your moment to think like an analyst: curious, confident, and ready to spot opportunities others overlook.”
— Alexandria Spiker, Discretionary Analyst 

Eligibility & Course Linkage

SMIF is tied to the course FIN 465: Applied Investment Management, worth 3 credits per semester (up to two semesters). Applicants must have completed or be concurrently enrolled in FIN 310. The program is primarily designed for seniors or second semester juniors.