The world of finance is evolving rapidly. From accelerated processes to redefined roles, financial professionals everywhere are adapting to a field that looks different than it did just a few years ago. Likewise, Marquette Business proactively pivots curricula to not only meet industry where it’s at, but to prepare students for where it’s heading. The Applied Investment Management (AIM) program is a shining example.
For 20 years, AIM has paired top-notch technical skills with real-world experiences, providing an immersive educational journey that empowers graduates to lead from day one. Director Prachi Patel shares how AIM invests in the continued success of Marquette Business students through applied learning opportunities, expert faculty relations and world-class industry connections.
What is AIM?
AIM is a nationally recognized program that provides students with hands-on experience in investment management and finance. AIM students manage a $6 million endowment, making actual investment decisions and experiencing firsthand the discipline and responsibility that come with managing assets.
As one of the first undergraduate programs in the world to be recognized by the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) Institute as a program partner, AIM curriculum gives students a head start in the industry by preparing them for certification exams. The program also offers two tracks, one focused on investments and one focused on investment banking and private capital, preparing students for a wide range of careers in the financial services industry.
What are the benefits for students?
AIM students gain practical experience that sets them apart in the job market. Beyond managing real assets, students take part in robust programming designed to develop the full professional. For instance, industry speakers regularly visit campus to share insights on markets, career paths and current trends, while workshops and trainings build technical skills, professional polish and career readiness.
Students also gain access to a deeply engaged alumni network, dedicated Executives-in -Residence who provide ongoing mentorship, and networking trips to Chicago and New York to visit leading financial institutions. These relationships often extend well beyond graduation, connecting students to a professional community that supports them throughout their careers. The results speak for themselves: AIM graduates consistently secure competitive internships and full-time positions at top firms across the country.
How can students get involved?
Interested students are encouraged to attend informational and recruiting events hosted throughout the year, connect with current AIM students, the AIM Executive Board, faculty and staff, and follow program updates. Students are admitted through a formal application process, and the program seeks students who demonstrate curiosity, strong work ethic and a genuine interest in the field.
Prospective students are also encouraged to take on leadership roles and get involved with related student organizations, including the Portfolio Management Club, Investment Club, and the Marquette University Investment Banking Association. These organizations are a great way to build knowledge, develop relationships and demonstrate commitment to the field before and during participation in AIM.
What can students do to get the most out of this program?
The students who benefit most are those who fully engage with everything the program has to offer. That means attending networking events, building relationships with alumni and classmates, following financial markets regularly, participating in trips and case competitions, and much more. AIM is designed to reward initiative, and students who invest in the experience will see that investment returned many times over.
Additionally, students who complete the program are prepared to sit for the CFA Level 1 exam at the end of their senior year and graduate having covered roughly 80 percent of the knowledge required for the Series 7 and Series 63 exams. This provides a huge head start for students interested in becoming a chartered financial analyst.
What advice would you give to students looking to join AIM?
Start early and be authentic. A perfect resume or an extensive finance background is not required to be a strong candidate. What matters most is curiosity, coachability and eagerness to grow. Prospective applicants are encouraged to reach out with questions, attend events and put themselves out there. The relationships and experiences that come from taking that first step can shape the trajectory of a career.
If students need support, where can they find help?
Students can visit the AIM program office in O’Brien Hall 332 at any time. Support is available from myself, Prachi Patel, program director, Angela Cox, program coordinator, Mike Blonski, CFA investments track director, and Jeff Germanotta, IBPC track director, as well as from current AIM students and the AIM Executive Board. Whether questions relate to the application process, coursework or career planning, the AIM team is committed to helping every student succeed.
