Preparing UCLA undergraduates for elite careers across finance — through technical rigor, real-world exposure, and an unmatched alumni network.
The BFB Approach
Intensive Training
We train our members on the fundamentals of finance. It starts with our 10-week accelerator program. Instead of simply learning theory, we focus on practical skills like real-time Excel modeling & a final capstone project, where recruits have to pitch a company of their choice. After graduating, members are required either to join a client project (see below) or present on a finance topic they’re passionate about. Through getting hands-on experience and learning to verbalize what they’ve learned, we reinforce their attained knowledge so they can use it in their future careers.
Experiential Learning
We believe that the best way to learn is with hands-on opportunities, which we offer via member-led quarterly & overarching projects. Overarching projects are major internal-facing year-long projects (like our algorithmic trading team), while quarterly projects are shorter, external-facing projects that include real-money pitch competitions & real client projects. With all these opportunities, our members attain a hands-on understanding of the industry they’re interested in.
Professional Network
Joining BFB means tapping into a vast professional network, as BFB alumni go on to some of the most competitive roles in the industry across banking, markets, investments, and beyond.
- Investment Banking
- Sales & Trading
- Economic Research
- Asset Management
- Consulting & Advisory
- Private Equity
Quantitative Rigor
For those interested in diving deeper into quantitative finance, the Bruin Algorithmic Insights (BAI) Team is a perfect fit. From hands-on, year-long projects like smartComps (a ML-based valuation tool) to our annual algorithmic trading competition, there is a project perfect for everyone. We take pride in fostering a culture of innovation and learning, where both novices and experts can contribute and grow. So, no matter where you're at, there are plenty of opportunities to challenge yourself in quantitative finance.
Dynamic Community
At BFB, we believe that our greatest strengths are found in our collective community. We prioritize the development of the person behind the professional, ensuring that every member is backed by a network of peers who are as invested in each other's success as they are in their own. This spirit of camaraderie is the heartbeat of our organization. Through collaborative group projects, big-little pairings, weekly social events, and quarterly retreats, we create an environment where mentorship happens naturally and friendships run deep.
Our Placements
By actively fostering a deep-rooted culture of mentorship and learning, BFB members continuously attain outstanding careers across all major fields of finance.
