The College of Charleston’s School of Business Investment Program is more than just a class—it’s a hands-on opportunity for students to gain real-world finance experience. Through active portfolio management, students oversee a $400,000 fund, analyzing both public and private investments while sharpening their technical and professional skills.
Hands-On Portfolio Management and Venture Capital Experience
We sat down with the Co-Managing Directors, Sasha Nelson and Coco Kelly, to learn more about the program and how it’s structured. Kelly explained that “each person in the program is delegated across eleven sectors. So, we each have our own sector specialties [and are] pitching stocks within those sectors to hold in our portfolio.” This allows students to develop expertise in a specific industry while contributing to the overall success of the fund.
Beyond public equities, students gain exposure to venture capital through a partnership with Charleston Angel Partners (CHAPS), a local firm investing in tech and biotech startups. “We are involved in the due diligence process, so we work closely with their teams and then bring our findings to the program,” says Nelson. This direct involvement in private investing sets the program apart from many others, providing students with a unique perspective on startup funding and early-stage investment strategies.
Industry Connections and Real-World Applications
A typical class in the program mirrors the fast-paced nature of the financial world. Students are learning by participating in stock pitches, listening to guest speakers, and engaging in different types of roundtables to analyze trends in the marketplace. “We have firms like Goldman Sachs, Vanguard, and Tandem Advisors come in to give us case studies, which we then present back to recruiters,” mentioned Kelly. These interactions provide students with both real-world problem-solving experience and critical networking opportunities that can lead to internships and full-time positions.
The Investment Program is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, preparing students for competitive roles in finance. “The difference between what you’re learning in the classroom and the real world is something that we highlight in the program,” Nelson emphasizes. “When you’re going through the job application process, you actually are able to speak about the markets and have a concise opinion about everything.”
Preparing Students for Success in Finance
With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, mentorship from industry professionals, and exposure to both public and private markets, the Investment Program equips students with the tools they need to excel in the financial sector.
For more information, visit the Investment Program page!
