One year ago, I passed my Series 7 exam and stepped into my new role as a licensed financial advisor.
After months of studying, late-night quizzes, and carrying my flashcards like a security blanket (yes, even to my oil change appointment), seeing that passing score felt like finally finding the last piece of a puzzle I’d been working on for what felt like forever - equal parts relief and “I actually did it.” It was a huge moment, and one that marked my promotion to Servicing Advisor here at SMB Financial Strategies.
I’ve been part of the SMB team for three years (this month!), but stepping into this new role meant stepping into new responsibilities, new conversations, and plenty of learning in real time.
Growing Into the Advisory Role
While I’m still very much in training mode, I’ve started to take on more direct responsibilities in the client experience. I now handle 401(k) rollover calls (on my own!), prep meeting materials, and help guide clients through follow-up action items after their review meetings.
Of course, I’m not doing it all solo. Sarin continues to be a phenomenal mentor. She’s the kind of leader who makes space for questions, shares her insights generously, and always reminds me to trust what I know while continuing to grow.
There’s a lot of support built into how we work, which makes trying new things feel exciting rather than overwhelming. I’m learning how to balance taking initiative with asking for guidance - something that’s been key to growing my confidence and skills this past year.
Financial Planning in Real Life
Passing exams taught me the concepts. Working with real clients? That’s where things get interesting.
Over the past year, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how to apply financial planning strategies, like asset allocation, tax-efficient withdrawals, and contribution planning. I’ve also gotten comfortable using tools like eMoney, our financial planning software, to model out scenarios and help paint a picture of what’s possible for our clients.
Sitting in on client meetings has given me a front-row seat to the emotional side of money, and how much trust is involved when someone shares their goals, fears, and milestones with you. In one meeting, we’re celebrating a new baby on the way. In the next, we’re navigating tough conversations around job security, aging parents, or managing cash flow through a career change.
Being a part of these moments has taught me that financial advising is more than technical knowledge, it’s about building trust, listening with empathy, and offering guidance that fits the bigger picture of someone’s life.
Building My Operational Foundation
Behind the scenes, I’ve continued building my operational know-how; submitting trades, processing paperwork, updating portfolios, and prepping performance reviews. These aren’t always the flashiest tasks, but they’re the foundation of what makes a financial plan work.
Every client file I organize, every transfer I help facilitate, every recommendation I help implement - I’m seeing how it all connects to the bigger picture.
Looking Ahead
As I look ahead to Year Two, I know there’s still a lot to learn, and that’s what makes this journey exciting. I’m not rushing to have all the answers. I’m here to keep asking great questions, taking on more responsibility, and continuing to show up for our clients with the same care and attention that defines everything we do at SMB.
Financial advice doesn’t have to be intimidating; it’s collaborative, compassionate, and empowering. That’s what I’ve learned in Year One, and I can’t wait to keep building on it.