Mission
IPO teaches students how to invest with discipline: understanding businesses, reading financial
statements, building a view, and communicating that view under scrutiny. The organization is designed
for students who want a serious foundation before pursuing investment management, equity research,
private markets, or related finance roles.
Participation also helps students prepare for the Illinois Investment Management Academy, a selective
multi-year program within Gies where students manage an equity portfolio and gain real-world investment
management experience.
Analyst
The Analyst program centers on weekly lessons in investment philosophy, stock screening, financial
statement analysis, modeling, professional development, and pitch skills. Analysts complete the semester
by presenting a stock pitch to fellow analysts and the executive board.
Associate
The Associate program focuses on Investment Management Academy preparation, including technical and
behavioral interview work that also supports internship recruiting. Former analysts eligible for IMA are
invited to apply after completing the analyst program.
Recommended Reading
These resources shape much of IPO's curriculum and offer a strong independent foundation for students
who want to begin studying investing before joining the program.