The Student Investment Fund (SIF) was established in the spring semester of 1991. A total of $100,000 of university endowment money was given for student investment purposes. The students in the SIF have been experiencing the growth and volatility of the stock market first hand. During the spring and summer semesters of 1997, the fund grew steadily from $150,000 to $200,000. Investments in technology stocks have been volatile recently, however, and the students have learned to calmly accept changes in value of up to $24,000 within a semester.

The opportunity to participate in the hands-on management of this stock-portfolio, one of just a few in the nation, continues to receive high marks from the students. Dr. Marvin Andresen, one of the SIF Advisory Board Members, says, "Just think of it, it is the only laboratory at UAF that is increasing in value."