My commitment to student success extends well beyond the classroom. As Director of the Corporate Finance Boot Camp at Penn State’s Smeal College of Business—a program I built from the ground up—I’ve created a unique platform that bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world finance.
This intensive program equips undergraduates with the technical, analytical, and professional skills needed to thrive in corporate finance. From résumé building and networking to financial statement analysis, capital budgeting, and investor relations, our curriculum provides students with the tools to launch successful careers.
I designed and executed every stage of the program—from crafting the application process and reviewing nearly 100 applicants in the inaugural year, to recruiting guest speakers, coordinating site visits, and mentoring students. Weekly sessions feature hands-on training and interactive discussions with Penn State alumni in senior finance roles, fostering both technical expertise and professional connections.
Case Competitions: Boot Camp students excelled in a Johnson & Johnson–sponsored competition, where the top three teams—all Boot Camp participants—presented M&A recommendations to senior finance executives, with the winning team earning a $2,000 prize.
Corporate Site Visits: Students gained first-hand exposure through visits to Marriott International’s headquarters in Bethesda and an upcoming trip to Vanguard's headquarters in Malvern, PA. These visits included discussions with senior leaders on corporate budgeting, treasury strategy, M&A, and investor relations.
Career Panel: To close the inaugural year, I organized a panel with Smeal alumni who shared candid insights on career transitions, technical and soft skills, and navigating early professional challenges.
Growth and Impact
Interest in the Boot Camp has grown rapidly, with applications more than doubling—from 90 in the first year to over 220 for the 2025–2026 cohort. This momentum reflects the program’s value and the community of motivated, career-driven students it has fostered.
Looking Ahead
In its first year alone, the Corporate Finance Boot Camp welcomed 21 guest speakers, launched high-profile corporate partnerships, and secured its first philanthropic gifts—a meaningful milestone for the program’s future. By connecting students with alumni, faculty, and industry leaders, I’m proud to be building a sustainable pipeline of talent in corporate finance while shaping the next generation of professionals.
To learn more about the Corporate Finance Boot Camp, visit: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/finance/corporate-finance-boot-camp.
And you can also follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13123329/