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Faculty of Management
UNB Fredericton

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Student Investment Fund

Combine finance theory with hands-on investment experience through the Student Investment Fund (SIF). The SIF is located within our own investment boardroom, fitted with five comprehensive Bloomberg Professional terminals. This will provide you with professional, relevant investment experience within an academic setting.

Once you complete the program, worth six credit hours, you will also be ready to challenge the Level 1 exam for the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA) designation.

One of the largest student investment funds in Canada

The SIF launched in 1998 with $1 million and has grown to over $13 million. Students engage with a professional portfolio manager and drive investment decisions based on their ongoing research and analysis of the markets. Our students were the first and only Canadian team to win first place in the CFA Institute North American Research Challenge.

Student investment fund participating students

Adebukanla Fabamwo

I am a driven and accomplished BBA student specializing in Accounting and Finance-Economics at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) with experience in the public accounting industry and active involvement in the Student Investment Fund program and Investments Committee at UNB.

My journey in academia and the professional world has been marked by excellence and a relentless commitment to personal and academic growth and as I round-up my educational journey at UNB, I look forward to leveraging my skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to the world of finance and business.

  • May - August 2023: Co-op, Assurance at Grant Thornton LLP Canada - Fredericton, NB
  • February - April 2023: Undergraduate Teaching Assistant - UNB Faculty of Management - Fredericton, NB
  • January - April 2023: Community Leadership Project with Under One Sky - Fredericton, NB
  • June - October 2021: Customer Experience Associate - Walmart Canada - Fredericton, NB
  • July - August 2017: Intern - Moore Stephens RoseWater Partners - Lagos, Nigeria

Alex Sturge

I am a fourth year student eager to launch a career in the finance industry. Currently during my studies I am employed part-time with the RCMP as a financial management student, where I am gaining valuable real world experience in the sector. Upon graduation I look forward to working hard in the challenging environment of finance.

  • May 2023 - present: RCMP Financial Management - Atlantic Salary Forecasting and Expenditure Management - Fredericton, NB
  • May - August 2023: Landscaper - Brenco Excavation Ltd. - Moncton, NB
  • May - August 2022: Clubhouse Operations - Stonehurst Golf Course - Moncton, NB
  • May - August 2019: Park Attendant - Magic Mountain - Moncton, NB

Ankush Dara

As a versatile professional, I aspire to leverage emerging technologies and innovative business strategies, using the unique skill set I've cultivated through diverse work experiences as a Software Development Engineer, Investment Analyst in both Private and Public Equity markets and a Business Strategist in a Tech-Start-up.

  • May - June 2023: Research Assistant - Dr. Wan Li Assistant Professor, UNB
  • January - May 2023: Software Developer Engineer - PeopleStrong Technologies - Gurgaon, India
  • May - August 2022: Research head (CRO) - Local-It , Early stage Startup incubated at DTU-IIF
  • June - August 2021: Blockchain technology, Research Intern - Delhi technological university - Delhi, India

Bin Wang

Over ten years of work experience in different industries. A value investor following Warren Buffet, dreaming of being a great investor like him, managing a big and famous investment company.

  • July 2021 - June 2022: Investment Manager - Guangzhou Kangjin Company - Guangzhou, China
  • August 2019 - June 2021: Security Analyst - Independent Investor - Guangzhou, China

Fatemeh Khazaiepoul

Originally from Iran, I recently moved to Canada in September 2022. I bring with me a wealth of experience in finance and accounting.

My interest in investments was sparked during my time at an insurance company and now I'm excited to explore the world of finance in my new Canadian home. In my free time, you'll often find me drawing and enjoying movies.

  • May - August 2023: Financial Analyst Intern - New Brunswick Non-Profit Housing Association
  • September 2022 - May 2023: Financial Manager Consultant - Saman Insurance Company (life and non life insurance)
  • June 2017 - August 2022: Supervisor of Accounting Management Department - Saman Insurance Company (life and non life insurance)
  • January 2014 - June 2017: Senior Accountant - Jade Abrisham Rayeneh / Sales company

Patrick Doyle

Aspiring finance professional, driven with a strong academic foundation and a diverse range of experiences that reflect my commitment to excellence and dedication to expanding my personal knowledge and hands-on professional experience.

My educational background, leadership roles and passion for finance demonstrate my ability to excel in both academic and professional settings.

  • August 2022 - present: Constituency Assistant - The Office of Member of Parliament Jenica Atwin
  • May - August 2022: Summer Leadership Program Intern - The Office of Member of Parliament Jenica Atwin
  • June 2018 - September 2022: Cashier - Ross Drug Pharmacy
  • June - September 2019: Operations Assistant - The Beaverbrook Art Gallery

Phelix Ouma

I am an aspiring global leader with more than five years of experience in roles such as Business Analyst, Financial Analyst, Banker and Financial Planner. My passion for finance and data analysis has significantly grown over the years, and I am enthusiastic about applying the practical knowledge and experience I am currently gaining in the Student Investment Fund Program to create a positive impact on my community and the environment.

  • August 2023 - present: Business Analyst - NB Power - NB, Canada
  • May - August 2023: Financial Analyst - New Brunswick Non-Profit Housing Association - NB, Canada
  • February - November 2022: CSR with Credit Analyst oversight - CIBC Bank - NB, Canada
  • Mar 2018 - September 2022: Director of Finance and Operations - MFT Fulfillment Centre - Nairobi, Kenya
  • September 2018 - February 2022: CSR with Billing Analyst oversight - Accenture - New Brunswick, Canada
  • October 2017 - March 2018: Financial Planning Consultant - Axis/Besure Insurance - Dubai, UAE
  • February 2014 - September 2017: Senior Officer - Diamond Trust Bank - Nairobi, Kenya

Ryan Hebert

Aspiring finance professional, eager focus on investment, financial modelling and entrepreneurship. Building upon years of deep-rooted interest in finance through continuous learning and hard work, fuelled by passion and desire to succeed.

  • May 2022 - November 2023: Clubhouse Operations Lead - Fredericton Golf Club Inc. - Fredericton, NB
  • June - August 2021: Provincial Program Coordinator - Softball New Brunswick Inc. - Fredericton, NB
  • June 2019 - March 2020: Sales Associate - Cleve’s Source for Sports - Fredericton, NB

Thushara Ushakumari Soman

Positions and responsibilities in the SIF program - research analyst in the financial sector, covering following companies - Bank of America Corp, JPMORGAN CHASE &CO, Northern Trust, State Street Corp.

  • April 2018 - December 2022: First Abu Dhabi Bank, UAE
  • January 2020 - December 2022: Manager - KYC & On boarding
  • April 2018 - December 2019: Senior Officer - Corporate On boarding and Remediation
  • May - October 2017: Operations Assistant - Commercial Bank International, UAE
  • November 2010 - June 2012 and February 2014 - April 2017: Central Operations Representative/ Clerk - RAK Bank UAE
  • August 2008 – March 2010: Admin Assistant - Nuncio Bangalore, India

Tyler Hartt

After growing up near Miramichi and a stint in Germany, I returned to UNB in 2020 to study. During my freshman and sophomore years, I developed a strong interest in financial markets due to the pandemic's impact upon them.

As a senior, I'm focused on honing my skills in financial analysis through UNB's Student Investment Fund while continuing to enjoy hockey, the gym, travel, language learning and drumming in my free time.

  • September 2023 - April 2024: Investment Attribution Analyst - Vestcor - Fredericton, NB
  • May - August 2023: Financial Support - Department of National Defense - Oromocto, NB
  • January - April 2023: Financial Analyst Intern - Department of Health - Fredericton, NB
  • May - December 2022: HR and Accounting Student - Forest Protection Limited - Fredericton, NB

Urvashi Sharma

Born and raised in India, my journey into the realm of finance commenced during my high school years. My unwavering quest for knowledge guided me towards enrolling in a bachelor’s program in Business Administration with Honors in Accounting and Finance at UNB, with an expected graduation in May 2024.

I am particularly interested in Equity and Fixed Income investments. In my leisure moments, I indulge my passion for jazz music.

  • October 2022 - present: Staff Accountant - Teed Saunders & Doyle
  • September 2021 - April 2022: Coop Student - NB Power
  • June 2020 - August 2021: Logistics Coordinator - Logistics Alliance

Zehra Fatima Khan

Raised in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, I have fostered an interest in data analysis since high school. I decided to transfer to Canada to experience education abroad and gain additional insight into financial markets.

I now aspire to work in financial consulting owing to my caliber for finance and my penchant for advising. I'm an avid reader and firmly believe that knowledge feeds performance and vice-versa.

  • September - December 2023: Co-op Student - Irving Oil Limited Creative Services
  • June - July 2021: KPMG Lower Gulf Excel Internship Program

Oluwatobi Martins

I'm a dedicated finance professional with a strong background in credit risk management, having started my career at Stanbic IBTC Bank's graduate trainee program in 2014. During my nine year tenure with the Standard Bank Group, I progressed from a Credit Operations Analyst to a Credit Manager, earning the 'Beyond Excellence' award twice.

While holding a degree in Microbiology, I successfully completed the CFA exams in 2018 and is currently pursuing an MBA program with a focus on management analytics. My goal is to excel as a Portfolio Manager and connect with like-minded professionals in the field.

  • May 2019 - March 2023: Manager, Credit Risk - Standard Bank Group - Lagos
  • January 2016 - May 2019: CIB Credit Operations - Standard Bank Group - Lagos
  • January 2015 - December 2015: Personal Banker - Standard Bank Group - Lagos
  • April 2014 - December 2014: Graduate Trainee - Standard Bank Group - Lagos

Udoh Kennedy Ekene

I have a diverse academic background. Along with a Masters in Process Engineering and an MBA in Finance, I’m a Chartered Accountant and a Chartered Tax Professional.

Driven by a passion for problem-solving and data analysis, I’m pursuing the MQIM program at UNB.

I aspire to become a financial data analyst and an investment consultant. To destress and recharge, I like to practice yoga.

  • July 2012 - August 2023: Financial Analyst - Federal Inland Revenue Service
  • March 2008 - July 2012: Junior Financial Analyst - Atlantic Capital Limited Nigeria

Rexford Nimako-Bresiamah

I’m a Ghanaian and has a B.Sc. in Statistics with Computer Science and a Master's degree in Statistics from the University of Ghana.

I aspire to build a career in data analytics and investment management, making UNB’s MQIM an ideal fit. To destress, I listen to inspirational songs and enjoys soccer.

  • February - August 2023: Assistant Planning Analyst - Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (Corporate Planning)
  • January 2018 - August 2019: Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (Corporate Planning) - Enye Mahoden Groceries, Ghana
  • September 2016 - December 2017: Assistant Statistician - Ghana Revenue Authority (Domestic Tax Revenue Division)

Abdessamih El Kadaoui

I’m from the beautiful city of Casablanca. I have a deep passion for numbers and obtained my Associate degree in Mathematics from El Camino College in California, and a B.Sc. in Applied Mathematics from the Hassan II University, Casablanca.

I work as an actuarial analyst and aspire to become a quantitative analyst. When the numbers get too crowded, I love to play guitar and video games.

  • June 2022 - present: Pension Analyst - Lifeworks, Fredericton
  • November 2016 - April 2022: Technical Support Specialist - Humania BPO, Casablanca
  • February 2014 - June 2015: Mathematics Tutor - El Camino College, Los Angeles

Ngozi Nancy Nzekwe

I’m from Nigeria and holds a B.Sc. degree in Accountancy, an M.Sc. in Professional Accountancy, and an MBA in Finance. I’m also a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

Having succeeded in commercial and corporate banking, I wish to transition into a career in investment management. I find the MQIM program a perfect platform to fulfil my career aspirations.

  • June 2019 - September 2023: Relationship Manager (Study leave) - Globus Bank Limited, Nigeria
  • August 2014 - June 2019: Relationship Manager - Access Bank Plc, Nigeria
  • April 2008 - September 2012: Account Officer - Access Bank Plc, Nigeria

Partnerships

The SIF operates in close partnership with a number of industry experts and firms, most notably Vestcor Investment Management Corporation, which started the program off with a $1 million pension fund allocation, and Seamark Asset Management Ltd., which manages a portion of UNB’s endowment fund. Students are assigned equity sectors and companies, and are expected to produced research and portfolio recommendations for these funds. Continuous engagement with the Portfolio Manager is a highlight of the course.

We are also part of Chartered Financial Analyst Institute (CFA® University Affiliation Program) because we have included a significant portion of the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK)—including the Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct—into our curricula.

SIF guest speakers

Our SIF class features regular guest speakers from the finance industry who share investment experience and advice with students. They also connect students with other leaders in the industry.

Recent speakers include:

  • Kevin Thomas, CEO of SHARE
  • Heather Hurshman, CFA, VP and Portfolio Manager at Louisbourg Investments
  • Terri Cugno, CFA, VP, Institutional Portfolio Manager at Phillips, Hager & North
  • James Scott, CFA, VP Fixed Income at Vestcor
  • Chris Boyle - Senior Vice President, Head of Global Institutional, Dealer and Strategic Partnerships at Mackenzie Investments
  • Feiber Omana, CFA - Former Senior Vice President, Corporate Development & Strategic Planning at Shaw Communications
  • Kurt MacAlpine - Chief Executive Officer at CI Financial
  • Shane Feeney - Managing Director at Northleaf Capital Partners
  • Habib Dable - Independent Board Director of Aerovate Therapeutics, Inc., PepGen, Blueprint Medicines and Venture Partner at RA Capital Management, L.P.

Entry requirements

Being accepted into the SIF program will ensure you get one of the best opportunities to enter the financial market. It will also be a demanding six-credit-hour course, requiring more work than a standard six credit hours.

Who can apply

  • Fourth-year BBA students
  • Second-year MBA students

Prerequisites for undergraduate students

  • Econ 1013/1023 (Micro/Macro Economics)
  • ADM 3415 Corporate Finance
  • ADM 1213/2223 Accounting
  • ADM 2623/2624 Business Stats/Mgmt Science
  • ADM 4425 Investments

Prerequisites for MBA students

  • MBA 6203 Accounting for Managers
  • MBA 6403 Financial Management
  • MBA 6603 Business Data Analysis
  • MBA 6425 Investments

SIF application process

A call for applications containing detailed instructions and an application deadline will go out no later than March 31st. Applications require a CV, letter of intent and relevant unofficial academic transcripts. Selected applicants will be contacted for second round interviews.

CFA® and Chartered Financial Analyst® are registered trademarks owned by CFA Institute.