What Are the Different Types of Investment Internships?

Financial services is a wide arena where there are countless numbers of career opportunities to pursue. Students who are interested in contributing to the financial markets by either advising individuals on wealth management or overseeing the assets of large institutions would benefit from investment internships. Many of the internship programs that are offered unfold during the summer months and can be achieved locally or overseas. Certain internships are paid programs, while others offer value through the industry connections that are made.

Often, financial institutions are interested in hiring interns from top-pedigree business schools. Students can be considered for investment internships by visiting career workshops that are hosted by universities. Representatives from financial firms often attend these seminars, and students may be able to complete applications on the spot.

Private wealth management is one area where investment internships can be uncovered. In this type of setting, students become familiar with advising wealthy individuals and families on how to invest and preserve financial capital. Retirement planning is a key service provided by wealth management, and interns can also learn about estate planning and tax structures. Wealth management firms may be small offshoots of larger financial institutions, and often, this is a good choice for a student who does not live near a major city.

A financial consultant falls under the investment umbrella because these professionals advise clients, including large institutions, on where and how to invest assets. In fact, consultants are often required to take licensing exams that qualify these professionals to trade financial securities even though this is not the service that consultants provide. The reason is to understand the financial markets in a deeper way. Investment internships at consulting firms are another way to break into this industry. Students can participate in live meetings with clients in which the shape and direction of the markets and economy are discussed.

Asset management is a sophisticated form of money management where professionals invest across regions and securities. Investment internships in this industry segment can be found at alternative investment firms, including private equity shops, or more traditional places, including mutual funds. Students may be involved with researching companies, sectors, and economies and may be exposed to some of the most successful trading strategies ever applied in the financial markets. This field may be among the most competitive for investment internships, and students with masters of business administration degrees or who are working toward that achievement may receive the most favorable response.