In this latest edition of our Intern Spotlight Q&A series, we're pleased to highlight Verger's fall 2023 investment interns.
Each of the three interns affirmed that their favorite project was The Verger Intern Capstone Project. As Alyssa explained, "The Capstone Project was a great way to understand all of the work the investment team puts into selecting a manager. At the beginning of the project, we were given a list of 50 managers within a certain asset class. We narrowed down the list based on performance and other criteria. We met with representatives from the top firms, and ultimately made an investment recommendation to the team. It was a great learning experience."
Nicole added, "The Capstone Project provided a glimpse into the actual investment process. Working through it with the guidance of the investment team, I gained invaluable insights. Despite our small intern class of just three, the level of communication and coordination required for determining screening criteria, engaging in conversations with funds, and drafting the memo was substantial. It was such a valuable experience that we ultimately presented our findings in front of the entire team to showcase what we had learned."
Megan agreed, "I thoroughly enjoyed the Capstone Project because it allowed me to gain hands-on experience in the manager selection process and collaborate with various areas of the firm. Working alongside Taylor Jackson, Craig Thomas, Madison Moses, and the entire investment team was enlightening, offering insights into different asset classes and the diverse screening measures employed for manager selection. Our interactions with Jim Dunn were invaluable, aiding in our preparation for meetings with managers. Collaborating with the client relations team allowed us to delve into client-oriented aspects of asset management. The Capstone Project marked a significant shift in our roles as interns, allowing us to gain a greater level of independence and initiative."
Nicole noted, "I've come to realize that an asset manager's role extends far beyond simply identifying the optimal investments. It encompasses ongoing equity monitoring, engaging in management meetings, and nurturing relationships. Furthermore, I've gained a profound understanding of the collaborative nature of this field. Throughout my internship, I was immersed in daily investment team discussions."
Alyssa added, "Before starting my internship at Verger, I saw asset management as purely quantitative. Now I know that it’s more than researching investments and running quant reports. Asset managers are responsible for maintaining good relationships with both clients and managers. It is important for them to spend time traveling to conferences, meeting with firms, and building their professional reputation. It is a much more personable field than I realized.”
Thank you to our talented fall interns for their many contributions. For more information about Verger's Internship Program, including how to apply, please visit our Careers page.