Finance Institute: Wall Street in the Classroom at Fordham University— Should You Apply?

When it comes to boosting your college application, especially if you're eyeing a future in finance, enrolling in specialized programs can make a significant difference. These programs not only add depth to your resume but also offer a sneak peek into the world of finance, allowing you to determine whether this field truly interests you. 

One such program is the Finance Institute: Wall Street in the Classroom at Fordham University. If you're considering a career on Wall Street or in any finance-related field, this program could be a valuable stepping stone.

Note: This program is NOT the same as Bentely's Wall Street 101 program.

What Is the Finance Institute at Fordham University?

The Finance Institute: Wall Street in the Classroom at Fordham University is a specialized summer program offered by the Gabelli School of Business, designed to introduce high school students to the world of finance. Over the course of one week, participants engage in a rigorous curriculum that covers essential topics such as financial markets, investment strategies, hedge funds, and monetary policy. 

Through a combination of discussions and sessions with guest speakers from finance companies, students gain practical insights into how financial theories are applied in real-world scenarios, providing a valuable foundation for those considering a future in finance.

Is this program prestigious? 

The Finance Institute is not particularly prestigious in a conventional sense. The program accepts applications from all around the world, suggesting a potentially high number of applicants. However, the website does not currently list any specific application criteria, potentially making it less competitive than programs that have minimum GPA requirements and ask for personal statements and letters of recommendation. Further, the program comes with a steep fee for one week ($1,100), suggesting it is less prestigious than free summer programs, such as the Bank of America Student Leaders program. 

What is the program structure and curriculum?

The program structure of the Finance Institute is designed to offer an engaging introduction to finance. This one-week program covers six main topics—Overview, Personal Finance, Investments and Analysis, Alternative Investments, Investment and Risk Management, and Cryptocurrency. Key topics covered include financial markets, risk management theory, savings, and investing. The program also includes guest lectures from finance professionals and alumni of the Gabelli School, providing insights into real-world applications and career pathways.

What is the cost of this program?

The cost of the Finance Institute is $1,100. This includes a $100 deposit and $1,000 tuition. Need-based discounts are available, and students requesting financial assistance must apply by April 1. 

What does a typical day look like at this program?

A typical day at the Finance Institute may be structured to provide a balanced mix of learning and hands-on experience. While there is not a lot of information regarding the day’s structure, we can guess as to what each day may entail. The day may begin with a morning lecture or workshop, where students dive into key finance topics such as financial markets, investment strategies, or corporate finance. Lessons may conclude with presentations or reflections on the day’s lessons, allowing students to consolidate their learning and prepare for the next day. 

These sessions will be led by Jim Gannon, a certified financial education instructor and former Wall Street global equity trader. 

Who is eligible, and how can I apply? 

The Finance Institute is open to any high school student who has a strong interest in finance and economics. Prior experience in finance isn’t required.

Details of the 2025 application have not been released yet, so it’s a good idea to check the program website in January when applications typically open. Prospective students usually need to submit an online application form that includes a personal statement explaining their interest in finance and their academic transcripts. 

Registration requests received before April 1 will receive priority. 

What are the pros and cons of this program?

Pros:

1.You will gain a good understanding of key finance concepts.

The program covers a wide range of topics essential for anyone interested in finance. This broad curriculum ensures that you come away with strong foundational knowledge that can be applied in future academic or professional endeavors. This deep dive into the world of finance can also help you confirm your interest in pursuing a career in this field.

2.You will have the opportunity to network with professionals and peers.

Throughout the program, you’ll interact with industry professionals, guest speakers, and like-minded peers who share your interest in finance. These networking opportunities can be valuable, providing insights into the finance industry and helping you build connections that could benefit your future career. Meeting professionals currently working in finance allows you to gain a deeper understanding of potential career paths and the skills needed to succeed. 

Cons: 

1.You may find the program to be expensive. 

The cost of attending the program, which is $1,100, may be prohibitive for some students and their families. While there is some financial aid available, it might not cover the full cost, leaving some students unable to participate due to financial constraints. Some students may find this cost too high for a program as short as one week. 

2.You may find that the program's duration is too short. 

While the one-week duration allows for a concentrated learning experience, it may not be enough time to fully delve into the complexities of finance. The short timeframe means that some topics might only be covered superficially, leaving you wanting more in-depth exploration of certain areas. Additionally, the limited duration may not allow enough time to fully absorb and practice new skills, particularly if you’re new to finance. If you’re looking for a more extended and comprehensive program, the brief nature of this one could be a drawback.

Our Thoughts

The Finance Institute: Wall Street in the Classroom at Fordham University offers a comprehensive introduction to finance, making it a good choice for high school students who want to learn more about the field. While the program’s curriculum and networking opportunities are valuable, the high cost and intense pace may not be ideal for everyone. Overall, if you’re looking for a finance overview at a university close to Wall Street, Fordham’s Finance Institue may be a valuable addition to your summer. 

One other option – Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you are interested in doing university-level research in STEM or other subjects, which can become a topic to talk about in your college application, then you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, a selective online high school program for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.

Lydia is currently a junior at Harvard University, studying Molecular and Cellular Biology and Economics. In high school, she was the captain of her high school’s Academic Decathlon team and attended the Governor's School of Engineering and Technology. She aims to become a life sciences consultant after graduation.