

GLOBAL MARKETS. INVESTMENT STRATEGY. PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE
Developed in collaboration with the New York Institute of Finance (NYIF), this immersive summer experience in London is an outstanding opportunity for ambitious high school students to pursue their passion and gain practical insights into the ways that global investors evaluate companies, build portfolios, and strategically manage risk.
Dynamic sessions led by NYIF experts will cover topics from forecasting growth to financial analysis, while a competitive Portfolio Management Challenge helps students develop the analytical skills, collaborative mindset, and confidence to present their ideas like professional investors. Beyond the classroom, students will visit major financial institutions and other industry sites for a behind-the-scenes look at how they shape the global economy. And of course, no summer in London would be complete without experiencing London’s vibrant culture and visiting iconic landmarks like the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, and Borough Market.
About This Program
What it's Like
Explore your interest in financial markets and investments and enjoy exciting city highlights. The perfect balance of learning, career exploration and unforgettable summer fun.
Certificate of Completion
Receive a letter certifying the completion of the program. Letters of recommendation are also available.
Engaging Instructors
Sessions led by New York Institute of Finance’s world-class faculty.
Accommodations
Stay in a University of London residence.
Meals
Includes breakfast and dinner daily. Enjoy a variety of great options at the dining hall and local restaurants.
Activities
Includes all recreation & activities listed.
Transportation
Public transportation such as the Tube and bus.
Group Size
Up to 45 students.
Commuter Option
Available for students who don’t require accommodations. Contact us for details.
Iconic Sights & Activities
The City of London Financial District • Westminster & Big Ben • Buckingham Palace • Tower of London • Convent Garden• London Eye • Piccadilly Circus • Trafalgar Square • Shoreditch • Borough Market.
Finance Curriculum
Finance Curriculum Details
Facilitated by instructors with expertise in global investing, this immersive summit introduces students to the principles and practices that drive modern financial markets.
Students will explore how professional investors evaluate companies, manage portfolios, and assess risk through interactive lectures, real-world case studies, and team-based projects. You will build a strong foundation in financial analysis, valuation, and portfolio strategy while collaborating with peers and competing in the Portfolio Management Challenge.
Session Topics
Investment Strategy & Global Markets
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The fundamentals of investing and capital markets.
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Understanding how investors analyze companies and sectors.
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Global economic trends and their impact on markets.
Financial Analysis & Company Evaluation
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Reading and interpreting financial statements.
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Assessing company health through key financial ratios.
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Learning how investors determine what makes a company valuable.
Valuation & Forecasting
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Exploring the methods investors use to estimate future growth.
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Projecting revenue, margins, and cash flow.
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Connecting data-driven analysis to real-world investment decisions.
Portfolio Construction & Risk Management
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Building diversified portfolios and balancing risk versus return.
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Allocating investments across sectors and regions.
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Simulating the decision-making process of professional portfolio managers.
Portfolio Management Challenge
Students will be grouped into small teams and mentored by NYIF instructors and industry professionals to research, design, and pitch a European investment portfolio. Each team will:
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Analyze real companies and evaluate their investment potential.
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Build a diversified portfolio strategy balancing risk and return.
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Apply key concept from valuation, forecasting, and global market analysis.
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Present their portfolio to an expert judging panel for feedback and recognition.
Career Paths in Finance & Investment
Students will gain an inside look at the diverse and fast-paced career landscape within global finance and investing. Topics include:
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Key career paths across investment banking, asset management, private wealth, and equity research.
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The skills, education, and professional certifications valued in financial careers.
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How to combine academic study with real-world experience in markets and analysis.
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Case study: Explore the career journeys of professionals shaping London’s financial sector.
Typical Weekday Schedule
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8:00 AM Wake Up
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8:30 AM Breakfast
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9:30 AM Morning Finance Curriculum
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12:00 PM Lunch
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2:00 PM Afternoon Finance Curriculum
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4:30 PM London Highlight
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7:00 PM Dinner
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9:00 PM Evening Activity
New to Finance? No Problem, We Got You!
This program is for students of all levels interested in learning more about Global Markets and Investments. There are no prerequisites required to join! Prior to your arrival, you will be granted complimentary access to 3 on-demand lessons hosted on the NYIF learning portal. These lessons are not mandatory but highly recommended for students who are new to finance and want to enhance their summer learning experience. Pre-Learning modules include:
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Introduction to Stock Markets
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Wall Street: Structure, Importance, and Functions
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Presentation & Pitch Coaching Workshop
Additional Program Benefits
Upon completion of the program, additional benefits include:
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Certificate of Completion from Westcoast Connection and the New York Institute of Finance.
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Induction into the NYIF Alumni group, a global network of over 250,000 professionals committed to lifelong learning and development, plus various alumni benefits.
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Exclusive invitations to participate in NYIF’s Global Youth Competitions throughout the year and join events organized by NYIF and other international organizations such as UN agencies, multilateral institutions, chambers of commerce, foreign consulates, and educational institutions.
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Pre-admission and exclusive offers to NYIF’s Young Finance Scholar (YFS) International program a pre-college enrichment program designed for talented high school students interested in expanding their knowledge and skillset in business and finance while strengthening their research capabilities and extracurricular profiles.
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Complimentary access to some of NYIF’s webinars offered to YFS graduates as continuing education and prospective YFS students.
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Reference letters are available upon request from Westcoast Connection and the New York Institute of Finance.
Activities & More Details
About Westcoast Connection (WCC)
Westcoast Connection’s mission is to create life-changing experiences that teens remember as the best of their lives.
Since 1982, Westcoast Connection (WCC) summer programs for high school students, aged 13-17, have brought teens together from around the world to share unforgettable experiences. WCC focuses on creating safe, fun, and socially comfortable environments where teens are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, explore the world around them, make lasting new friendships, and grow.
Offering three distinct program styles in over 24 countries, WCC is able to provide the perfect summer program to fit your individual needs, whether you want to Travel, Learn, or Volunteer. WCC is confident that one of their 70+ programs will be your summer of a lifetime.
London Highlights
The City of London Financial District
Step into the heart of global finance, where centuries of trade and modern skyscrapers meet. Explore landmarks like the Bank of England and the London Stock Exchange to see where markets move the world.
Westminster & Big Ben
Experience the political and cultural center of London as you walk past the iconic Houses of Parliament and hear Big Ben’s legendary chime echo across the Thames.
Buckingham Palace
Visit the official residence of the British monarch and witness the grandeur of the Changing of the Guard, a quintessential London tradition.
Tower of London
Discover nearly 1,000 years of history inside this famous fortress. It is home to the Crown Jewels, royal intrigue, and tales of London’s medieval past.
Convent Garden
Soak up the lively atmosphere of Covent Garden, filled with street performers, boutique shops, and cozy cafés in one of London’s most charming districts.
London Eye
Take in panoramic views of the city from one of the world’s tallest observation wheels. It’s an unforgettable way to see London’s skyline from above.
Piccadilly Circus
Feel the pulse of London at its famous neon crossroads, surrounded by shops, theatres, and the energy of the West End.
Trafalgar Square
Snap a photo with Nelson’s Column and the iconic lion statues while enjoying one of London’s most celebrated public gathering spaces.
Shoreditch
Explore London’s trendiest neighborhood, known for its colorful street art, vintage markets, and creative energy.
Borough Market
Taste your way through one of the city’s oldest and most famous food markets, offering everything from artisanal cheese to international street food.
Program Specifics
Flight to London
Some students may need to depart their home city on July 18 to arrive in London on July 19. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our staff and enjoy a complimentary transfer (for flights in designated times) from the airport to our hotel. For those requiring, we are happy to assist you with arranging flights to and from the program. If you prefer, you may be dropped off directly at our hotel and meet your staff there. For our North American students, we offer a chaperoned group flight from New York to London departing on July 18.
Return Flight Home from London
For your return from London, our leaders help you to check-in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed. For our North American students, we offer a chaperoned flight to New York. You may choose to join that flight and arrange transfers (if required) at suitable times after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the USA to your home city.
Meals
Breakfasts in London are eaten at our hotels and served buffet style with a variety of options. For dinners, either the whole group goes to the same restaurant or we divide into smaller groups of your choosing. For lunch, you will enjoy eating in smaller groups and choosing from local cafés, bistros, and other restaurants. The food in London is terrific, so get set to eat extremely well!
We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive experience in this area.
Laundry
You will only need to bring one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure.
What’s Included
Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.
Not included is the application fee, transportation to and from the program, lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, and laundry. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.
Commuter Option for Local Residents
Available for students who don’t require accommodations. Commuter students join for 5 weekdays per the schedule below.
Commuter Tuition: $1,899
Class Schedule: July 20-24
Note: Lunch is not included.
About NYIF
With a history dating back more than 100 years, the New York Institute of Finance (NYIF) is a global leader in training for financial services and related industries. NYIF courses cover everything from investment banking, asset pricing, insurance, and market structure to financial modeling, treasury operations, and accounting. The New York Institute of Finance has a faculty of industry leaders and offers a range of program delivery options, including self-study, online courses, and in-person classes. Started by the New York Stock Exchange in 1922, NYIF trains 50,000 professionals online and in class, in over 125 countries each year, whose alumni network includes the legendary investor, Warren Buffett. NYIF US customers include the SEC, the Treasury, Morgan Stanley, Bank of America, and most leading worldwide banks.



