During the Spring 2024 semester, finance students at Andrews University’s School of Business showcased their investment prowess in an engaging and educative exercise under the expert guidance of Dr. Williams Kwasi Peprah, an Associate Professor of Finance. Enrolled in FNCE 397 000 Investment, these students embarked on a journey to master advanced investment portfolio construction techniques with the primary goal of outperforming the market.
As a key component of their curriculum, the students participated in the Wall Street Survivor simulation—a platform that provides a realistic environment for trading and managing stocks without financial risk. This practical application of their classroom learning enabled students to apply theoretical investment strategies in real-time, adapting to market fluctuations and making investment decisions that mirror the pressures and opportunities of the actual financial markets.
Among the standout participants were Takudzwa Mugwisi and Kato Golooba Mutebi, who achieved remarkable portfolio returns of 14.45% and 8.07%, respectively. Their performances were particularly notable as they surpassed the monthly performance of the S&P 500 Index during the same period, which is a benchmark many professional investors strive to beat.
In recognition of his exceptional performance, Takudzwa Mugwisi was awarded a $250 scholarship by Dr. Kim Pichot, Dean of the College of Professions & School of Business Administration. This scholarship celebrates his outstanding achievement in the Wall Street Survivor simulation and underscores the support and encouragement the School of Business extends to its students.
Dr. Peprah, who has been instrumental in integrating practical simulations into the curriculum, believes that such experiences are invaluable for students. “It’s one thing to understand investment strategies in theory, but applying them in a simulation like Wall Street Survivor pushes the students to engage with the material on a deeper level. It prepares them for real-world financial environments where decisions have significant impacts,” Dr. Peprah commented.
The success of Mugwisi and Mutebi not only reflects their understanding and skill in investment management but also highlights the effectiveness of Andrews University’s approach to teaching finance. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical tools and simulations, the School of Business is preparing its students to enter the finance industry with experience and confidence that stand out in the competitive job market.
The achievements of these students in the Spring 2024 semester are a testament to their hard work and the high-quality education provided by Andrews University’s School of Business. As they continue to build on their skills and knowledge, the future looks promising for these budding financiers.
