We invite you to apply for a position in the Applied Security Analysis Program (ASAP) sponsored by the Department of Finance in the Mihaylo College of Business and Economics at CSUF. ASAP provides a real-world, hands-on experience in security analysis and portfolio management. The primary objective of the program is to duplicate the risk/reward challenges professional investors face as they construct and manage stock or bond portfolios. Leadership, teamwork, and both oral and written communication skills are essential to build and maintain an effective investment team and generate satisfactory results.
Admission to ASAP is restricted to students who meet the qualifications below and complete a rigorous selection process. There are two sections of ASAP to choose from: Equity (stocks) or Fixed Income (bonds). Enrollment is limited to a maximum of 28 students; 14 students in Equity ASAP & 14 students in Bond ASAP.
Participation in ASAP begins with three 1-day boot camp sessions in June, July, and August. Classes in applied portfolio management begin in fall and continue through the spring semester. Students must commit to the entire 12-month program. Students may not switch between Equity and Bond ASAP between semesters.
Applications are accepted beginning in January and ending in May or when all available spots are filled:
Early applications are strongly encouraged! Enrollment will be closed as soon as the minimum class size is reached, so don't delay sending in your application packet, including:
Candidate information application (see below)
A statement of interest, goals, and objectives for becoming a member of the Applied Security Analysis Program. Indicate not only how you would benefit from the program, but what positive attributes you would contribute if accepted to the program. (750 words maximum)
Current resume and unofficial transcript from CSUF
Prior to or immediately after submitting your application, request a recommendation from a university or community college faculty member. Recommendations should be emailed directly from the faculty to Marcia Clark at mclark@fullerton.edu.
Successful candidates passing the initial application review will complete a research report and discussion with a current ASAP student:
Applicants will be assigned a company to research in regard to its financial condition and competitive position. Based on this research, the candidate will make a Buy or Sell recommendation for that company's securities
The candidate will present his/her analysis and conclusion to a current ASAP student (written report and oral discussion)
The ASAP evaluator will assess the candidate’s writing and analytical skills as well as poise, professionalism, and the ability to clearly communicate the candidate's methodology and conclusions
Applicants passing the research report phase of the selection process will be invited to interview with a panel of ASAP board members, faculty, and ASAP students.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS:Students are admitted to the program only once per year through the spring recruiting process. The minimum academic requirement is completion or current enrollment in Fin 320 Financial Management I. If accepted into the program, FIN 321 Financial Management II and FIN 340 Introduction to Investments (or the graduate equivalent courses) must be completed prior to the fall semester. ASAP classes taken during the fall and spring semesters qualify as elective credit for the finance concentration (FIN 442 and 443).
