Research and advisory report (thesis) Private equity Undergraduate

Dear wso'rs,

Thank god we have such an active forum where professionals can help each other out. I am seeking advice for my research and advisory (thesis) report. In the period of February 2018 to July 2018 I will have my research and advisory report (thesis) assignment. I would like to do research into the private equity industry since I find it a very complex and untransparent industry. Furthermore, would I find out if private equity fits me.
I have the following questions/remarks.

1. What would be an interesting research and advisory (thesis) topic in PE, could someone recommend an interesting topic or give advice on the topics below?

- I have been thinking of portfolio performance.
- Company valuations
- Potentially determining what value a PE could add to an existing business in a sector.
- I am also very interested in ethics.

2. What would be the best strategy in approaching these PE parties? How do I get these parties to give me this opportunity?

- I am thinking of approaching a semi-senior employee and ask them about their experience in the PE industry and what would be an interesting Thesis topic. From there I would like to move the conversation to potentially doing it at their firm.
- I am wondering how difficult it will be to get an assignment. Cons for the PE parties: The PE party might pay a small amount of money as compensation and the party may have to allocate some time in helping me get the knowledge I need. Pros for the PE parties: Potentially gain new knowledge, potentially find ambitious students that fit the culture. In my opinion, the pros is out value the cons.

3. if someone has research and advisory (thesis) experience in the PE industry. Let's have a chat sometime soon.

Thank you for reading my forum post! I hope to speak with some of you soon.