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Uzonna Mkparu

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

 

  1. Bulldog taught me how to research and analyze businesses for investment purposes.
  2. I learned how to decipher the story behind the numbers.
  3. I learned the key criteria that businesses ought to meet (as illustrated by Warren Buffett and other successful investors).
  4. I admired the emphasis on ethical and moral responsibility throughout the curriculum.
  5. I learned the importance of logical reasoning as opposed to emotional investing.
  6. In a nut shell, I learned the need for simplicity, predictability and responsibility in value investing.

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

We did not get to execute the trades by ourselves. It would have been  nice for the winning group to be able to execute the trade, under  appropriate supervision, at least once a semester. 

Why should current students participate in BIC?

I would encourage participation in Bulldog because it is an experience  that one can almost not gain anywhere else. It is an opportunity to  learn value investing principles based on the teachings of some of the  world’s foremost value investors. It is an opportunity to learn how to  analyze companies and make decisions on how to break into a market,  including arbitrages and options trading. Finally, it is an opportunity  to invest real dollars in the market and watch the investments grow. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company have prepared you for the “real world?”

Whether one intends to work on Wall St. or Main St., in a bank or in a  laboratory, this internship teaches you first hand about the time value  of money, opportunity cost and financial responsibility; lessons that  are critical if one intends to grow one’s wealth. 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

In ways that I could only have dreamed and I am forever grateful. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

I think a field trip to the office in Victoria once a semester to  execute a trade and learn in the Sather Financial Group, Inc.  environment. 

Jon Zahradka

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

One of the things I like most about Bulldog is that it brings together a  group of people with similar interests who want to learn. We are all  there because we want to learn more about the stock market, investing  and valuing businesses. Before I became involved with Bulldog, it was  hard to find a non self-interested resource to provide quality knowledge  on these topics. The people are what make Bulldog interesting and  successful. Even if I hadn’t developed an understanding of how to value a  business, my time would have still been well spent with Bulldog just  because of all the enthusiastic, fun, great people I got to spend time  with and the friendships that were created. 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog?

The thing I liked least about Bulldog were Dave Sather’s email blasts. I  wasn’t used to getting so many emails on various value investing  topics. Now I realize that email is actually important in the world of  work, it’s not just to find out what the latest Groupon deal is.  Seriously though, because of Bulldog Investment Company, and Dave, I  have learned how important it is to return emails in a timely manner. I  have heard, on several occasions, people complement Dave on how quickly  he replies to emails. Although I am not quite up to Dave’s speed, and it  is something I can work on, through Bulldog I learned how appreciative  people are when you reply to their emails in a timely manner. Bulldog  taught me many simple things such as that, which can really help a  college graduate stand out in the business world. 

Why should a current student participate in BIC?

Bulldog will greatly add to your educational experience at  TLU and provide you with knowledge that will be useful to you even after  you graduate. Bulldog gives you the basic tools you need to look at a  business and determine if that business is “good” or “bad” and you can  apply this standard no matter what field or industry you enter into when  you leave TLU. Being able to delve into financial statements and know  what you are looking for is an extremely useful skill. The principles I  learned in Bulldog can be applied equally by a bank lender trying to  figure out if he should approve a loan for a business, an accountant who  needs to piece together financial statements, a small business owner  trying to run a better business, or in one’s personal life, when trying  to invest for retirement or abstaining from the use of debt. Bulldog is  not a simulation. It is a real world exercise, using real money with  real consequences and real achievements. I would tell a current student  that they have a chance to be a part of something special and take  advantage of an opportunity that is not usually presented to  undergraduate students. It’s a great way to meet amazing people, a great  line to have on your resume, and I guarantee, in some way, it will  continue to benefit you even after you have graduated from college. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company have prepared you for the “real world?”

There is a high standard that has been set for Bulldog interns. Interns  are expected to be on time and in attendance. They are expected to be  prepared every week and especially when it comes to presenting their  potential investment ideas. Although weekly meetings are held in a TLU  classroom, it is an internship and students are expected to behave as if  Bulldog is their job. This gave me a job-like experience before a  paycheck was on the line.  I think Bulldog provides a great segue from  the classroom environment, into the “real world.” In a classroom, you  can get away with missing class or not doing your work if you want to.  No one is depending on you, you are only responsible for yourself and  your grade. In Bulldog, you are part of a team that relies on all of its  members to do their job. You are required to be there and do your part  or you will be “fired” from the internship. There are high standards in  Bulldog, but no more so than what every employer requires from their  employees. These standards helped prepare me for life in the “real  world.” 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

I was fortunate enough to get a job with Sather Financial Group, which  sponsors the Bulldog Investment Company program. So Bulldog directly  transitioned into a job for me. Although my entrance into the world of  professional investment management is probably the exception, rather  than the rule among Bulldog interns, my participation gave me a  competitive advantage among other college graduates that I sincerely  believe would have helped me in obtaining a job in a variety of fields,  had I chosen to do so. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

I just wish more people could know what they are missing out on, and how  much Bulldog could add to their learning experience at TLU. 

Teuta Hyseni

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

The best thing of being part of Bulldog was, and always will be, the  professional enhancement that this organization gives and the  preparation towards building a successful career path. I was lucky  enough to be part of this organization that shaped me throughout expert  criticisms and made a better “me”.  Bulldog is a company that is based  on educational and professional enrichment in investing and business  strategies combined together with managerial experience. The most  important element in pursuing a successful academic career is to have a  good business professional mentor who can closely guide you  academically, and as a person as well. My experience with Bulldog  broadened my thinking and undid my insular judgments that might be still  ubiquitous in me. 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

Maybe Friday afternoon meetings after a hell week of exams. 

If you were to talk to a about participating in Bulldog Investment Company, what would you say?

Today’s economy is becoming more global, and the competition for a good  job position continues to rise day by day. As the competition rises,  it’s not enough just simply to be more competent than the person next to  you, you have to be more competent than countless other people around  the globe. To have a college degree is a critical step, but you can  greatly improve your classroom learning by gaining real world experience  through internships. In  order to gain a good experience, and to expand your classroom learning,  Bulldog Investment Company internships is the best tool to enhance your  resume, get experience, and make important industry contacts that can be  essential to get the ideal job after graduation. Bulldog Investment Company experience is a valued tool that will be handy when you will need it the most. 

What aspects of BIC have prepared you for the “real world” and How did it help you obtain a job?

During 2011, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to be part of Bulldog Investment Company. The  most valuable assets of Bulldog Investment Company are its own people,  the team members that exhibit the organizational values, and promote a  positive team environment. While  there, I gain a lot of experience in Value Investing field.  My position  there allowed me to explore different fields of Financial Analysis  cycle especially analyzing companies per Buffett’s criteria. Starting  from little exposure on preparing Financial Statements and researching  for different project to presenting and competing as finial part of the  project. In these projects I have worked and learned each and every day  new things that I never learned before. The usage of different tools,  translating financial outcomes and specifications into final decision,  team collaboration and meeting the deadlines has been challenging and  yet rewarding. It was really important for me to be able to take place  in these projects, prepare them and lastly be able to present them in  front of others. This experience makes huge difference on my future.  Furthermore, the opportunities to meet different famous business leaders  such as Mr. Jackman, the opportunity to attend Berkshire Hathaway  shareholder annual meeting as well as meet countless other important  people that may serve you as key professional connections in your near  future.  I am very glad that I have had the chance to be part of  this internship program and I hope to continue contribute and be part of  this wonderful company in the future.

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

 If I had power of the world I will help Bulldog Investment Company and  make it the biggest student professional organization. Well, if I had  just a little more power I will include this program to TLU Business  Administration academic curriculum. I think this will greatly help  students to enhance their business skills and be able to be the best on  other’s eyes. 

Extra comments

Dave Sather, the President of Sather Financial Co. is also the sponsor  for the internship program at Bulldog Investment Company. He is a great  leader and a detailed guider that made this internship really  beneficial. Throughout his hard work he placed young bright minds into  important projects and gave the future work force a chance to experience  the challenge of being responsible adults. This brilliant initiative  made huge difference at TLU as university as well at young college  students as potential business leaders. 

Chris Gohmert

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

I would say the people were the best part. Everyone there was there to learn, and act in a more "grown-up" way.  The readings and discussions that followed were always interesting and full of valuable information, not just on the topic, but how to analyze an article and figure out what is really being said.  Having Dave to bounce questions and ideas off of was a plus as well, not just on investments.  Dave’s interest in the student's lives is awesome, as it helps bring the group together as a whole.


I learned so much during the fun time I spent helping start and run Bulldog for the first 2 years, but the highlights would include: how to be a conservative value investor by studying facts and not fluff, how to be a better presenter and how to handle questions from an audience, as well as making friends and connections I can rely on throughout my life.

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

The Friday meetings were the part I liked least, or disliked most... whichever.  I know people have difficult schedules, but this was the hard part for me with trying to manage things at home. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

I would say jump in it.  Dave is a wonderful teacher (instructor, supervisor, whatever...), and always brings up interesting details and turns them into discussions. The real-life feeling is very good.  It helps when you have real money, and can see real gains and losses on a portfolio.  It isn't just some simulation like the Policy capstone class... it is a real-world setting with real-world results and consequences.  Dave is good about letting you get your ideas out, then pointing out potential issues with your stock idea based on numbers and current events. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

The presentations helped me the most I would say.  The feeling of having to prepare a thorough presentation and knowing the material well is crucial for everyday business.  Also the on-the-spot feeling of trying to answer Dave's questions was difficult at the time, but it helped train me how to prepare better, anticipate questions and know how to deal with the immediate stress of being on the spot in front of a group of people.


The standard meeting time was also good in a sense of it helped get me in the habit of being early to things to help get set up and make sure everything was working.


Decisions have consequences.  To invest, or not to invest...  Knowing how to value a company and options are key in this business, but these decision making concepts apply to many business situations.  You have to know how to weigh your options and go with the best one in many situations.

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

The only real thing I would change from my time in Bulldog would be the meeting dates--move them off Friday.  Otherwise, it was a fantastic learning experience. 

Drilona Aliu

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

Honestly I liked most of the things in Bulldog–there is little I  would change. I learned a lot and I wish everyone would see it that way,  instead of just having a credit in their records. 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

I think you need to find motivated students. A lot of students are not motivated enough to do this level of work. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

A lot of the students have the impression that you are “mean” to us.  You must have high standards in Bulldog. The desire to perform is  sincere and helped prepare us for the real world. I know it is tough  love, but not everyone sees it that way. Those students should not  participate. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

Bulldog helped me open my eyes to the fact that we live in a  competitive world and often I had to pursue my goals and yet get along  with my teammates. This required me to balance my standards while  learning to compromise and work together. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

NO COMPUTERS in the classroom. They are distracting from the learning process. 

Kaleb Schmidt

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

I feel like I learned more in the year I was in Bulldog than I could  have learned in two or more years in the class room. When you look at  smart investing and begin to understand how to research and look for  companies that are consistently performing well, you start to notice  patterns that can assist you in making smart investment choices. The  presentations were grueling and really motivated and drove you to doing  better on the next one, making sure that you did enough research in  picking the companies that you were sure would be a great addition to  Bulldog’s portfolio. “Trial by fire” is a method that can be taxing, but  the benefits and rewards can be reaped in such a small period of time,  and there’s no substitute for experience. When you get the opportunity  to get your hands dirty, you can learn so much more. 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

The work in Bulldog is fulfilling, but don’t be fooled into thinking it  will be a cakewalk. The research can and will take a lot of time, and  the presentations demand time and practice in order to be executed well.  If you already have a full plate, it can be demanding. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

If you’re really interested in business – whether it be economics,  finance, marketing, accounting, etc. – I would highly recommend giving  Bulldog a try. This internship gives you an opportunity to examine the  events that are taking place in the real world and how they are  affecting multiple facets of businesses and the overall economy. When  you get to see exactly what it is that is causing the success and/or  failure of a company, you begin to understand more about how changes in  the variables of that company have an impact on their short-term and  long-term success, their ability to attract certain markets and develop a  brand image(s), and their sustainability. Bulldog offers the  opportunity not just to teach you about ratios and variables, but how to  examine events and occurrences in the real world and recognize patterns  that will lead to better and more successful business decisions. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

You have to work hard and be willing to put in the time and effort to  obtain your goals. You have to be smart and attentive in your work, and  you can’t be afraid of making mistakes. Nothing will teach you faster  than getting your hands dirty. Your bosses can and will grill you when  there’s a mistake – and the presentations taught me this very well – but  you’ve got to be willing to make some mistakes before you can really  understand how the process works. 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

When I explained to my job interviewers exactly what Bulldog is and what it  is that we do – they were blown away that we were so heavily involved in  such detailed investment processes and research, and that we had real  skin in the game in the form of real money in our portfolio. It  definitely gave me a leg up on my competition. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

The only change I would make, and it is more of an alteration, is the  availability for meetings and presentations. I wish that Bulldog was  available more like a class (multiple times a week for 1-1.5 hours) than  once at the end of the week for two hours. I think this would increase  the effectiveness of the hands-on-learning, and raise overall  attentiveness during meetings. That being said, Dave Sather is unable to  be two places at one time, so it’s more of an alteration. 

Ken Olson

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

Learning about value investing 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

The Q&A after a presentation 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

Very good lessons on life are to be learned in Bulldog Investment Company 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world”?

Researching companies, giving presentations of the company that had been researched 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job.

Confidence gained in BIC 

Mark Moellering

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

It’s “real world experience.” You’re making the final decisions of how to invest the funds as student members. 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

Of course as busy as college life is, just dedicating the extra time to  go to the meetings and do the research is really the only downside. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

It’s like taking a FREE class at TLU. You learn just as much (and in  some cases more) in Bulldog than you do in paid classes at TLU. A lot of  the topics we covered in Bulldog aren’t covered in any other classes. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

The stuff you learn in Bulldog can directly be used once you get out of  college, get a job, and start saving for the future. Bulldog is a great  start to learning how to put your savings to the best use possible. 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

Bulldog gives you a small platform to enter the workforce on. You’re  coming out of college with relevant experience under your belt that can  be applied to more than just the equity investing aspect of businesses. 

If you had all the power in the world to change Bulldog Investment Company—what would it be?

Hmmm…more free pizza? I really have no complaints. It was fun, extremely educational, and definitely worth the extra time. 

Andrew Kopecki

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

 I was always up-to-date on current events, and events with major companies and political movements.


We made a lot of connections with professional people (CEO’s, CFO’s,  money managers) that most students would not normally have the chance to  meet. We spent a lot of time discussing the differences between the  “academic world” and the “real world” which prepared us for what to  expect after graduation. We also learned how to work smarter instead of  harder and use our resources to help budget time.

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

The only frustrating thing was if a team decided to present a company to  invest in a second or third time and we reviewed the same information  again as if we hadn’t already established that they are a good  investment. I’m not sure how that would be avoided as it would encourage  students to pick companies that are already in the portfolio if they  didn’t have to go through that part of the research. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

It’s a great way to see how money is managed in the real world instead  of in an academic environment while making connections with business  leaders. It’s a great way to increase presentation and research skills  and beef up a resume. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

It helped with interviewing as well as meeting and talking with business leaders in presentations throughout the program. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

I think that the teams should be smaller (four members) and the  presentations should be shorter. Maybe make the most senior member  become a Vice President of the company and have a board made up of lower  class-men that were not picked for a team. Also I think it would be good  if once a year everyone took a road trip up to the Sather Financial  Group office in Victoria and did a presentation to the staff on the best  company pick of the semester. Something like that would add to the real  world aspect. 

Florentina Ferati

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

Mostly I liked doing research for the companies we wanted to present and learn during that process while working with others. If customers can’t find it, it doesn’t exist. Clearly list and describe the services you offer. Also, be sure to showcase a premium service.

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

I think it’s beneficial for any student to participate in such an  internship as Bulldog Investment Company.  You learn a lot about  different matters; you definitely become aware and learn a lot about  what is going on in the world economically and financially, and above  all you get a good eye on identifying good companies from bad ones,  which is a useful skill no matter what major you are in. Putting your  energy in this internship is worthwhile and pays off in your future  endeavors. You will be more prepared and more knowledgeable when going  into the real world. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

In Bulldog Investment Company you learn a lot about the real world. Not  only does the content discussed during the meetings teach you so much  about what is going on around you, but you also greatly develop your  presentation and team working skills. Since Bulldog involves working in  teams, you learn to work better with others and become a team player,  which is a skill that all organizations are looking for in their  potential employees. 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

During Bulldog, I became more comfortable presenting myself and  communicating more freely during presentations. In addition, I learned a  lot more about the business world. There is no doubt that having this  internship experience on my resume, as a Computer Science major,  impressed the interviewers during my job interviews and gave me a better  chance to obtain my job. I’m sure not many other applicants had such a  great internship experience. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

That’s a tough question. I think a top priority is to invest in  more effective marketing of Bulldog at TLU to recruit more students.  Perhaps getting in touch with other investment internships at other  schools and planning more of some sort of competitions and joint events. 

Emily Toensing Schmidt

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

I liked how much confidence I gained in knowing what I was talking about  regarding financial ratios/analysis and in presenting to a board of  directors. I really felt much more informed and empowered after about a  month of being in Bulldog Investment Co. 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

 I was always nervous about presentations. That's what I liked least. But  that is what gave me the most knowledge. Also Friday afternoons we not  my favorite–but it is totally worth being there every single meeting. I  miss it already. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

Current students should participate because you will learn much more  here than in any one class. It is real money gained, and real money  lost, and there is no better motivation. Not only does it look good on a  resume, it gives you a leg up over your competition when looking for a  job. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

I no longer fear interviews or presentations. I am confident in what I  am talking about, and am able to back the research I did. I like  entering conversations about the business world because I can relate and  know what I’m talking about. 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

 Bulldog has helped me find a job in the financial world because I have  experience in analysis and presentation. Not everyone has that. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

 If there was anything I could change about Bulldog Investment Co, it  would be to go to other places and show off what we are made of, because  we truly can run stride for stride with the big name schools.


I have really enjoyed being a part of this company more than any other organization I have been a part of.

Erblin Ribari

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

Bulldog Investment Company has helped me gain crucial skills that are  needed in the business world. Team work, weekly meetings, monthly  presentations, and speakers that inspired us to work harder and become  aware of the opportunities the business world offers us. Through value  investing, I was able to make long term decisions and reflect on such  decisions later. As a general rule, we focused more on the quantitative  aspects of the investments – researching the business, reflecting  Buffett’s principles, and making wise decisions based on such  measurements. 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

The involvement of TLU’s business department and their approach toward  such an amazing opportunity for student – I would recommend business  professors take an active role on urging their students to be part of  Bulldog Investment Co, attend Bulldog Investment Co presentations and  their influential business speakers. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

Academia teaches us the theory behind the business world. As such, there  are some situations where we have observed a weak liaison between  academic concepts and long-term investing. In order to be successful  investors, students should be familiar with the real-world application  of asset valuation, risk and investment concepts. This is the most  promising path for successful investing in the long run given the issues  they will face in the real world. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

Being successful in the business world requires endurance. You are  required to do the research, analyze the data and review the sources  carefully in order to make a wise decision. Being part of the team that  conducts monthly presentations requires leadership, communication,  analytical and critical thinking skills that are required to be a  successful businessman. Therefore, if you are efficient at the duties  that are assigned to you, you are able to undergo the “real world”  challenges. 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

Bulldog Investment Company has helped me connect with important people  in the business field. Furthermore, I was able to establish a strong  business background that enriched my resume and cover letter. Overall,  Dave Sather urged us to work hard and be successful in life. He was  always willing to write recommendation letters for us. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC-what would it be?

I  would encourage highly motivated students to get involved in such an  amazing opportunity. Furthermore, BIC should be treated as a 3-4 credit  hour course and requires lots of research and preparation. As such,  students need to be prepared for the discussions and pay attention to  such discussions. Therefore, the best ways to achieve a positive  learning outcome would be accomplished by turning off electronic  devices, computers and other distractors.

Nate Raschke

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

I am a relatively competitive person. But in college, rarely did I  participate directly in competitive events. My  favorite part about Bulldog Investment Co. was finally presenting a  company after weeks of research, assembling slides, practicing with the  team, and then being declared the “winning” team by the Board of  Directors.


In addition, I was pleased to see some of my initiatives positively  impacted the group as a whole. For example, I started integrating all  presentation materials into the slideshow (such as Conscious Investor  screenshots, formatted Excel tables) which helped improve the flow,  instead of having to click on multiple files during the presentations.  As a result, the other teams began integrating all of their content into  the slides, and the overall quality of the presentations improved  significantly.

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

Often times, we would listen to interviews, which is a great way to  receive insight from some brilliant minds. But when we turn the lights  off and the interviews are 10 plus minutes in length, I don’t care how  much caffeine you’ve had... on a Friday afternoon, most college students  will start to doze off. I would recommend leaving the  lights on, and or making the interviews more interactive, and pause  multiple times, quizzing the interns to make sure everyone is paying  attention, instead of a cumulative recap at the end.

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

Bulldog Investment Co. not only hones in on analytical skills and  critical thinking, but the program also serves as a bridge of  theoretical knowledge gained from classroom exposure to practical  knowledge that can be used in the real world. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

Well I am now in a job where I am doing many similar research techniques  as I was in Bulldog Investment Co., so my “real world” preparation is  obvious. Many interns will not work in the financial services industry,  but they will still carry over with them the level of critical thinking  when scrutinizing the media or financial reports of the companies they  work for. 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

I am now a Financial Analyst for Sather Financial Group, Bulldog  Investment Co.’s sponsor. So in my case, I didn’t really need a  resume- my performance, discipline, organization, and leadership in  Bulldog Investment Co. had about as direct an impact as one could have. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

 I would add Bulldog Investment Co. to the TLU course curriculum, and  meet like a normal class period. That would likely require more staff  though, unless Dave likes putting even more miles on his car! 

Lucas Kneitz

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

I have often been a student that goes through a course without really  having to spend a lot of time outside of class studying to end up  successful. However, Bulldog Investment Company was much different,  especially for presentations, because I knew that if I wasn’t prepared  it would be noticed. This program doesn’t only hold students accountable  for their part in presentations, but is also fun and competitive. 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

One of the most frustrating things about Bulldog Investment Co is  finding the motivation, or motivating one’s team, in order to not have  to scramble a presentation together at the last minute. Having a program  that is as involved as Bulldog Investment Co is great as long as teams  stay organized and work ahead. When this doesn’t happen, especially at  the end of the semester with finals looming, there is a lot of potential  for additional stress. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

Because you can be fired if students don’t uphold their end of the  commitment. Bulldog Investment Co holds interns accountable for  familiarizing oneself with the value-investing methodology and then  challenges teams to work together to apply it. Since interns can be  excused from the program, though this doesn’t really happen often,  students can taste real world expectations. Bulldog Investment Co helped  me to learn how to perform when I wasn’t comfortable. This program was a  great opportunity for me to begin to develop some presentation skills  and experience. Bulldog Investment Co also has given me the confidence  to do a little personal investing, which I have had success with.  There  are also great opportunities to listen to, interact with, and question  those within the business world that have already found success and have  much wisdom and experience to share. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

Besides being fired if you don’t do your work, Bulldog Investment Co  allows students to apply their business knowledge, while challenging  them to do so in a way that is understandable to all backgrounds. There  is a winner and a loser in each presentation, which taught me that  sometimes hard work leads to more hard work before the fruits of such  labor can be tasted. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC, what would it be?

I don’t feel that much should be changed about Bulldog Investment  Company. Scheduling presentations so that they are evenly spaced  throughout the semester would be ideal, but I know that isn’t always  possible with so many different schedules, breaks, and holidays. 

Kevin Haugen

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

The best thing about Bulldog Investment Co is it is a fun laid back atmosphere, (as long as you work hard) that applies to the real world. This is the only class I was in where 100% of the material is useful in the real world and it will improve your quality of life. 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

The only thing that I didn't like or frustrated me in Bulldog Investment Co was one or two semesters we had a presentation around finals time. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

Current students from any major that has an interest in the stock market should join Bulldog Investment Co. Bulldog Investment Co. teaches students how to look for great businesses, figure out their intrinsic value, and determine if it is a good long term investment. This knowledge is important for any one, not just financial professionals, because you will be able to look at any company you work for a determine how financially stable your employer is. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

This is important in the "real world" because if more than one company gives similar job offers you can differentiate between the more stable company. This allows you increase your job security. 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

I had a job before joining Bulldog Investment Co, but it is one of the best things you can have on your resume. Future employers will see that you work hard outside of school in something that teaches life skills. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

I would fire Dave. Haha. The only thing I would change would be to make the teams smaller--preferably 3 people. However, I don't think its possible because there are too many people interested in Bulldog Investment Co. I really like how the meetings are structured. That is mostly dealing with current events and a portfolio review. 

Ryan Griffiths

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

The fact that I can quickly analyze some key financial ratios for a  company and gain an understanding if its a good investment or not is  pretty useful. I don’t believe any business class I took gave me near  comparable knowledge or experience as did Bulldog Investment Company.


Plus, we were treated us as adults and employees. All in all, the  experience was as if were were coming to work every Friday between 2 –  4, minus the suits.

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

 The timing of the class was a bit off for college kids. It may be  difficult for college kids to gain the desire to want to attend anything  on a Friday afternoon. Of course, in the real world, you would still be  at work during this time. Once I accepted the sessions being on a  Friday, it was much easier. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

The skills you learn in Bulldog Investment Company are extremely useful,  especially in the current economy. My generation won’t have much of a  social security benefit waiting for us; being able gain a better  understanding of investments, even an understanding of a 401K and how  important it is to jump into this area as early as possible is explained  throughout a student’s experience in Bulldog Investment Co. Not many  students in this country have such a privilege. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

The professionalism during presentations, your treatment of us as  employees, and the methods you used to gear our minds (instead of spoon  feeding us the whole time). 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

Bulldog Investment Co. kept me on my toes in terms of professionalism.  My presentation skills have grown tremendously and my ability to  communicate under pressure has been a big plus. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC-what would it be?

Probably the day of the week we meet. Possibly this would allow Bulldog  to gain a larger crowd and to strengthen it’s presence on campus. 

Cody Foil

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

What I liked best is that Bulldog made the complicated subject of picking stocks seem pretty easy.  I still don't know why the average investor tries to make everything so complicated--but I know I certainly won't be doing that.  Bulldog also gave me great respect for Warren Buffett and showed me that he isn't just another really rich guy. 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

What I didn't always like about Bulldog is that occasionally we did things that seemed to go outside the scope of traditional value investing. Some people had their favorite company that they always wanted, or we were asked to make decisions on short notice. I would have like to have more time to research these ideas. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

I think that current students should join Bulldog because it's not just about picking stocks and investing. Even if you don't have an interest in investing, Bulldog teaches communication skills and critical thinking skills that you can't find in a textbook.  And messing up here (which will happen) is a lot more forgiving than messing up in the real world. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world?”

I think that Bulldog greatly improved my presentation skills, as well as reinforcing the skills of reading and analyzing financial statements that I had learned as part of my accounting degree.  More importantly, just developing the ability to talk to other adults on a professional level about complex subjects is invaluable when it comes to the real world. 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

Well, that's easy--if I had never joined Bulldog and met Dave , then I certainly wouldn't have the job that I have today. He introduced me to my current employer which led to a paid internship and ultimately permanent employment. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC—what would it be?

If there's one thing that I would change about Bulldog, it's that I would like to have had more financial planning knowledge use to build a complete individual investment portfolio.  Sure, we know how to pick stocks, but I would like to know more about IRAs, 401(k)s, and other places to put my money. Even with the knowledge we've learned from Bulldog, putting everything in stocks isn't always the best thing to do. 

April Estes

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

Bulldog Investment Company allowed me to figure out what I want to do  with my life. I was given the opportunity to speak with many different  people about their experiences throughout life and learn so much from  everyone. There are so many different functions, meetings, trades,  people, etc., thrown at the interns that there is never a time that I  was not learning something and shaping the way I thought about my future  and myself. 

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

 Honestly, I loved being in Bulldog Investment Company. The thing I liked  least was not being able to take advantage of every opportunity handed  to the interns. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

Bulldog Investment Company will teach you about portfolio management,  financial analysis, and the importance of paying attention to the news  and what is going on in your city, state, country and the world. Whether  you are a biologist or part of the finance industry, at some time you  will probably have money you want to invest. Having an idea of the best  way to do that will allow you to be knowledgably whether you use a  financial advisor or do it on your own. Bulldog Investment Company also  allows you to meet a bunch of interesting people and will learn a set of  analytical skills that you cannot get anywhere else. 

What aspects of Bulldog Invetment Company prepared you for the “real world”?

Being a part of Bulldog Investment Company, we had to give presentations  in front of our Board of Directors and answer any questions they had at  the end. I feel this forces the interns to make sure that everything we  research and say is up-to-date, honest, and correct. We are responsible  for researching a company so well that we feel confident that it will  not hurt our portfolio. If we slack off, our returns suffer, which is  something we take pride in. In addition, because we get the opportunity  to meet so many different people, we learn the art of talking to people  of all backgrounds as well as talking about ourselves and being  comfortable in the process. 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

Bulldog Investment Company gave me the opportunity to meet a number of  people. Dave believes in us so much that he is never afraid to invite  money managers to our presentations. Many people do not realize how  important networking is, and Bulldog Investment Company not only gave me  a great set of skills that I get to flaunt at interviews, but it gave  me many people to contact who are more than willing to talk to me about  the financial services industry. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything abut BIC, what would it be?

After participating in the internship, I would say the one thing I would  change is how often we meet. We all have busy schedules, so it is not  always easy, but I would have loved to be able to meet more often than  once a week. Meeting for the internship on Fridays was something I  looked forward to every week. Not only did I get to test the new skills I  learned from the previous week, but also there is always something new  and exciting to talk about. Meeting just once a week, I learned so much  from Dave and the other interns. It is amazing to think that if I had  been able to pick everyone’s brains more, how much more about portfolio  management, financial analysis, and investing I could know. 

Philip Bauch

What did you like best about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

Too many things to mention.  I went to two Berkshire Hathaway Annual  Meetings, met executives from large public and private corporations,  drove Marvin Rush’s Rolls Royce, learned more in this program than I  would have ever imagined, built a network that I could call anytime of  the day, and finally got to spend my Friday afternoons for the last  three and a half years of my college career surrounded by a group of  smart, hardworking individuals which made me a better person. 

What did you least like about your time in BIC?

There really is nothing I didn’t like about BIC.  If I had to pick one  thing it would probably be learning more about the “sell” process.  In  BIC, it was always about the buy and hold strategy, but we rarely went  over the sell process, and executed a sell trade.  Trying to get group  consensus on a sell opportunity could have been part of the problem as  well. 

Why should current students participate in BIC?

 The first reason why I believe students should participate in BIC is it’s an instant business networking group.


It is not only students and a professor.  You are meeting new  business owners at least once a semester, and you are taught once a week  by a business owner who has many connections.  Additionally, Dave shows  he cares about each individual and their future plans.

What aspects of BIC helped you in the “real world”?

You would be surprised how many people do not know to respond promptly  to email.  BIC taught me replying to emails within 24 hours really shows  you care about your job. 

How did BIC help you obtain a job?

Considering I am in the audit practice now, I don’t think BIC helped me  obtain a job directly in audit.  Although not directly getting me a job,  the ability to understand and think about a business is very useful in  audit.  Basically, I am ahead of my peer group since I have seen how  many businesses operate, and know how to think about planning an audit  in regards to different businesses/industries. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC – what would it be?

I would make the meetings longer.  When I first started, our meetings  would sometimes last nearly 3+ hours.  Now the meetings last two hours.   I understand everybody wants to start the weekend early, but I enjoyed  when our discussions would last longer, and everybody continued to  learn. 

Jacob Bravo

What did you like least about your time in Bulldog Investment Company?

During my time in BIC, watching 20-30 minute videos was my least  favorite. Although these videos often contained valuable lessons or  strategies, I felt that they could have significantly shortened while  still conveying the same knowledge. I would have much rather spent more  time on interpreting financial statements or discussing option  strategies or other valuable analysis information. 

Why should current students participate in Bulldog Investment Company?

Current students should participate in BIC because it is a life  augmenting experience. BIC can be challenging, stressful, frustrating,  and confusing. However, it is highly rewarding because of all of the  difficulties the program entails. When you finally begin to understand  the language of financial statements, opportunity cost, and have the  courage to present your findings in front of a board of industry  professionals, it is extremely satisfying. 

What aspects of Bulldog Investment Company prepared you for the “real world”?

 BIC offered many aspects that prepared me for the “real world”. Among  the top of these many aspects would have to be team work, leadership,  professional speaking, critical thinking, and stress. In BIC, you must  learn to work cohesively with a group of other interns to successfully  analyze a company and build a presentation for the company. Oftentimes,  you will have to display significant leadership in this team environment  to ensure the presentation is the level of quality expected by the  board. BIC offers an abundance of opportunities to practice and refine  professional speaking skills. After each presentation, the board will  ask the presenters questions regarding their presentation. These  questions are often difficult or “beneath the surface” questions and  they require a high level of quick critical thinking and preparation to  answer correctly. Most of all, BIC teaches you how to manage stress and  nerves. Throughout the entire process, interns are often short on time,  manpower, and information. BIC teaches interns how to handle this stress  and complete what needs to be done regardless of the circumstances. 

How did Bulldog Investment Company help you obtain a job?

 BIC not only provided me with many professional skills, such as writing  emails, thank you letters, and professional speaking, it provided me  with knowledge that will be beneficial in any company. This knowledge is  the ability to read and interpret financial statements. 

If you had all the power in the world to change anything about BIC — what would it be?

 I would keep the same amount of presentations, but spread them out more  within the school year. I understand that they are already spread out as  much as they can be, but you said I have all the power in the world,  right? 

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