Our team recently met with accounting and finance students to share career insights, what the wealth management industry really looks like day to day, and how 6 Meridian is built to be a trusted guide for clients through life’s biggest decisions with a holistic approach to their full financial picture.
We had the opportunity to spend time with Wichita State University’s Beta Alpha Psi – Epsilon Tau Chapter and connect with a group of accounting and finance majors who are already thinking intentionally about what comes after graduation. Members of our team – Olivia Pauly, CFP®, Jessica Atherton, Jason Mayers, CFA®, and Markus Phox, CFP® – joined the conversation to share a candid look at our work, our career paths, and the lessons we’ve learned along the way.
Career paths: there’s more than one “right” route
One theme that resonated with students: careers rarely follow a straight line. Our team shared examples of changing majors, trying a first job that wasn’t the long-term fit, relocating to build experience, and pursuing credentials like the CFP® and CFA® to open doors. The bottom line: your first role after college is a starting point, and it’s okay if it helps you discover what you want (and don’t want) next.
Finding the right fit
We also spent time talking through practical job-search lessons: focus on fit, pursue roles where you’ll learn quickly, and don’t confuse a “no” (or a detour) with failure.
- Use internships to test-drive the work and to learn what energizes you (client-facing vs. behind-the-scenes, big firm vs. small firm, specialized vs. broad roles).
- Be open to building blocks: a first job can be a foundation, not a forever decision.
- Invest in your craft: credentials and continuing education can expand opportunities and sharpen your ability to serve clients well.
- Stay persistent: the right opportunity often comes after a few “not yet” moments.
Thank you, Wichita State University
We’re grateful to Wichita State University’s Beta Alpha Psi – Epsilon Tau Chapter for inviting us in and for creating space where students can ask questions and get real-world perspective.
We’re excited to keep building relationships with the next generation of talent here in Wichita.
