Finance Bag Lunch Kellogg

The "Finance Bag Lunch" at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management is an informal, student-organized series of talks and discussions centered around various finance topics and career paths. It's a crucial part of the Kellogg experience for students interested in finance, providing a valuable supplement to the formal curriculum.

Purpose and Structure: The primary purpose of the Finance Bag Lunch is to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. These sessions offer a more relaxed and interactive environment where students can learn directly from experienced professionals, often Kellogg alumni, working in diverse areas of finance. The "bag lunch" format emphasizes its informal nature. Students bring their own lunch and listen to the speaker, fostering a casual atmosphere conducive to open discussion and networking.

Topics Covered: The range of topics covered in Finance Bag Lunches is extensive, reflecting the breadth of career options available to Kellogg graduates in finance. Typical sessions might delve into:

• Investment Banking: Covering mergers & acquisitions (M&A), initial public offerings (IPOs), and leveraged buyouts (LBOs). Speakers often share their experiences working on specific deals and provide insights into the industry's challenges and rewards.
• Private Equity: Examining the investment process, portfolio management, and due diligence involved in private equity firms. Students learn about the specific skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this competitive field.
• Hedge Funds: Exploring different investment strategies, risk management techniques, and the operational aspects of hedge fund management.
• Asset Management: Focusing on managing investments for institutional and individual clients, including portfolio construction, performance analysis, and client relationship management.
• Corporate Finance: Discussing topics such as capital budgeting, financial planning, risk management, and working capital management within corporations.
• FinTech: Covering the intersection of finance and technology, including topics like blockchain, cryptocurrency, algorithmic trading, and mobile payments.

Benefits for Students: Attending Finance Bag Lunches offers several key benefits for Kellogg students:

• Career Exploration: Provides exposure to different finance roles and industries, helping students identify their interests and potential career paths.
• Networking Opportunities: Offers a chance to connect with industry professionals, build relationships, and potentially secure internships or job opportunities.
• Industry Insights: Provides a deeper understanding of current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the finance industry.
• Practical Knowledge: Supplements classroom learning with real-world examples and practical advice from experienced professionals.
• Career Preparation: Helps students prepare for interviews, networking events, and the overall job search process.

Overall Significance: The Finance Bag Lunch series is an integral part of the Kellogg finance ecosystem. It provides a valuable platform for students to learn, network, and explore career options, contributing significantly to their success in the competitive world of finance. The program underscores Kellogg's commitment to providing a well-rounded educational experience that combines academic rigor with practical relevance.