"I knew I wanted to go into something finance-related and it wasn't until I was here and in UVU's personal financial planning program that I discovered it's one of the top three in the country. The stars aligned a bit for me. I loved the material, it just felt right, and I was always excited to learn more."

For two-time national champion Abby Adams, financial planning has always been an important part of life. Abby recently graduated from Utah Valley University in Personal Financial Planning, after a successful run of national competitions.

Abby's passion for financial planning began from a young age. Her father passed away in a car accident when Abby was a baby, but his financial preparations previous to his death helped care for her family. In fact, Abby's mother was able to buy a house using the insurance and investments Abby's father put in place and will be using further investments in retirement. "I was able to really resonate with that," Abby stated, "and see the effects that either good or bad habits could have on someone's life."

In her personal journey of financial education, Abby began studying at Lone Peak High School. She was so fascinated that she took financial literacy three times and decided to go to UVU. "I knew I wanted to go into something finance-related and it wasn't until I was here and in UVU's personal financial planning program that I discovered it's one of the top three in the country. The stars aligned a bit for me. I loved the material, it just felt right, and I was always excited to learn more."

Abby excelled in the PFP program, attending nine conferences, and serving as the Chief Marketing Officer in the Personal Financial Planning Student Association chapter. She was also a financial coach for other students through the Money Success Center. She is the 1st place winner of the 2020 IARFC National Financial Planning Competition, along with UVU student Zak Wakamatsu, and 1st place winner of the 2022 Financial Planning Challenge, along with UVU students Colten O. and Siria Trochez. Along the way, she was able to network with and learn from prominent business leaders, such as The Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger, Carl Richards, and Michael Kitces.

When asked what advice she would give to other students, Abby said: "Definitely get involved as much as you can. Not only does it help build your resume, but you make long-lasting relationships. I have met so many mentors, amazing friends, and possible employers. So, you'll get experience, you'll get relationships, and involvement will enrich your college experience and help you have more fun. Get licensed as early as you can, and if you can get as many licenses as possible before graduation, that will set you up and remove any barriers to entry." Abby also recommended internships and community involvement.

Abby is currently working at FirstPurpose Wealth and progressing to an advisor position and looks forward to giving back to the PFP community in the future as well. At the Woodbury School of Business, we look forward to hearing about her continued success and wish her the best.

To learn more about UVU's PFP program, check out: Personal Financial Planning | Finance and Economics | Utah Valley University (uvu.edu)

 

Article by Garth Talbot