Where Theory Meets Practice: Patrick Forstmann’s Bryant Stibel Internship Experience in Alternative Investments
For Patrick Forstmann, a former collegiate basketball player from Vermont turned aspiring finance professional, the Bryant Stibel Internship Program offered more than an academic exercise—it provided a transformative experience that brought classroom theory into real-world focus. As a Master of Science in Business (MSB) student at Pepperdine University, Patrick joined the selective program to deepen his understanding of alternative investments, sharpen his financial analysis skills, and gain exposure to seasoned professionals in the industry. What he walked away with was much more: clarity on his career path, confidence in his abilities, and a renewed drive to make his mark in wealth management and venture capital.
From CAIA Chapters to Capital Pitches: A Dual-Layered Learning Experience
The 14-week course was split into two segments. “In the first half, we covered 19 out of 26 chapters from the CAIA Level I textbook,” Patrick explains. “It was dense and highly technical—especially coming from a general business background—but it built a solid foundation in alternative investments, from hedge funds and private equity to real estate.”
That academic rigor was guided by Professors Clemens Kownatzki and Davide Accomazzo, whose deep industry experience and practical insights helped bring the content to life. Their lectures and mentorship framed the theoretical groundwork in ways that directly supported the students’ transition into hands-on application.
The second half of the program shifted gears from theory to action. Patrick and his cohort were tasked with preparing an investment pitch for the Bryant Stibel firm, giving them the chance to apply their newly acquired knowledge in a high-stakes, team-oriented environment. “Concepts I had only recently learned became tools I could actively apply,” Patrick says. “By the end, I didn’t just recognize investment terminology—I could confidently contribute to discussions and present compelling ideas rooted in quantitative analysis and strategic thinking.”
A Winning Assignment: Turning Curiosity into Expertise
One of Patrick’s most meaningful takeaways came from a writing assignment that asked students to dive deep into a topic of their choice from the CAIA curriculum. He chose to explore long/short equity strategies—a hedge fund tactic he initially knew little about. “I used academic research, online databases, and even consulted my father, who had implemented this strategy earlier in his career,” he says.
This blend of theory, research, and personal insight helped Patrick craft a strong, informed article and sparked a deeper curiosity about how investment strategies are constructed. “It was a shared learning experience that made the strategy come alive for me,” he reflects. “That project really shaped my future goals.”
Putting Finance into Practice
Patrick’s academic path in business management laid the groundwork, but it was the Bryant Stibel program that connected the dots. “This was the first time I truly applied classroom learning in a real-world context,” he says. “Being asked to perform in real time—whether dissecting a company or defending a valuation—was the ultimate test.”
Through intensive group work and high expectations, Patrick developed practical skills in company analysis, financial modeling, and valuation strategy. “I learned how to quickly assess a company, then dig deeper to understand its market position, financial health, and investment potential,” he notes. “When I stood in front of the panel to pitch our chosen company, everything clicked.”
Mentorship That Makes a Difference
Access to industry professionals was one of the most valuable aspects of the program for Patrick. From classroom speakers to one-on-one mentorship, these connections gave him a clearer view of his path forward.
A standout moment was a personal Zoom meeting with Alan Strauss, Senior Partner at Crystal Capital. “His insights into wealth management helped me visualize how my career might unfold,” Patrick shares. Additionally, feedback from investment professionals like Darrel Riley (T. Rowe Price), Marco Gottini (AT&T), Amy Wood (Pepperdine Most Fundable Companies), and Leonard Lanzi (The Preccelerator) provided real-time, actionable guidance as Patrick and his team refined their final pitch.
“Their mentorship made the future feel tangible,” he says. “It pushed me to think more strategically, more quantitatively, and with greater confidence.”
Looking Ahead
Now preparing to launch his career in wealth management, Patrick feels equipped with the skills, insights, and mindset necessary to succeed—and eventually transition into venture capital. “This internship showed me what it means to truly understand a company, build a case for investment, and communicate that vision effectively,” he says. “It’s something I’ll carry with me throughout my career.”
About Pepperdine's Master of Science in Business (MSB) Program
Pepperdine University’s MS in Business program is designed for recent graduates and early-career professionals looking to build a strong foundation in business fundamentals. Through experiential learning, real-world consulting projects, and personalized mentorship, students gain practical skills that translate directly into today’s fast-paced business environments. With a values-centered approach and access to a global network of alumni and industry leaders, the MSB program empowers students to grow as professionals and purpose-driven leaders.