The Bulldog Investment Fund in Brock School of Business teaches students the intricate art of investment management by collaborating to tackle real market issues. Known for its hands-on application, the class allows students to analyze real stocks and invest real dollars from the university’s endowment. The fund—managed solely by students—recently reached a milestone value of approximately $4 million.
More than 15 years after the program’s launch, current students are continuing the success and legacy of the program and broadening their personal and professional horizons. As fund managers, students make regular presentations to Samford’s executive leadership team, participate in community outreach projects and hear from industry professionals who provide outlooks on the current economy. Students can travel to local and national conferences where they engage with top economic strategists, present their findings to investment professionals and teach others about investing.
Senior economics and finance double major Davis Mobley is the president of the Bulldog Investment Fund for the fall semester. He said, “I firmly believe the Bulldog Investment Fund is one of the most preeminent experiences a student can partake in while at this illustrious university. The hands-on application of real-world skills using real dollars gives students the opportunity to take what they learn in the classroom and apply it in a way that allows them to be ready for whatever career they step into.”
In addition to this immersive experience, student involvement in many other Brock School of Business programs is essential to practical learning. The sports business programs, the real estate, risk management and insurance concentrations, the data analytics programming, and the Samford Startup student business incubator all provide hands-on learning that prepare students to become market-savvy.
“Our faculty have done an outstanding job of creating curriculum and programs that allow our students the opportunity to set themselves apart because of the things they’ve done while still in college,” said Chad Carson, dean of Brock School of Business. “It’s not every day you hear of a young college graduate saying they’ve managed a sector of a $4 million investment fund. We’re very proud of the opportunities our students have but are even prouder of them for seizing the moment and taking advantage of those opportunities so they will be ready to hit the ground running in any career path they choose.”
This story was first published in the fall 2024 issue of Seasons magazine.
