What is The UConn Opportunity Fund Project?
The UConn Opportunity Fund Project is an immersive program that was created to inspire and develop our students for careers in finance. Our mission is to broaden and deepen student participation in the experiential learning opportunity afforded by managing university assets in the stock market. Taught by a highly experienced professional institutional investor, our goal is to open these doors to those who are typically underrepresented in the investment management industry and serve as a bridge between the classroom and Wall Street. Our program is more than just a series of classes. It is designed to make our students Job Ready-Day One, preparing them to thrive in the real world of business and finance. The focus goes beyond building a student’s technical competencies; it serves to enhance their leadership skills and communications capabilities, all while raising their confidence, which is a critical ingredient in career success.
What are the OFP students saying?
When I entered this program, I felt like I was behind and afraid of letting myself down. But what actually happened was the opposite of what I expected. Through tough research, presenting financial insights to both peers and industry professionals, listening to a diverse lineup of speakers, and participating in our career day, I’ve gained a wealth of meaningful experiences and lessons that have shaped both my knowledge and confidence.
Your teachings have taught me a great deal—not only about finance, but also how to think differently. Most importantly, they’ve developed my intellectual curiosity. For the first time, I found myself thinking deeply about concepts and ideas, forming my OWN opinions and conclusions. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and your support has made it possible for me to succeed. I’m also incredibly grateful to be surrounded by an amazing group of students who constantly spark new ideas in my mind and challenge me to grow.
R. H. Finance ‘26
How has the experience been from the student’s perspective?
Here are testimonials from some of our program’s most dedicated students, each of whom has significantly contributed to its growth and success. Lily Dworak, a Senior in Finance, shares that her experience was interactive and hands-on, unlike any of her other classes. Morgan Hodorski, a Junior in Finance, talks about being challenged and finding more direction for her career after participating in this program. Isabella DeLeo, a Sophomore in Finance, emphasizes that getting involved in this program has been the best decision of her college career. Click through to hear their stories!