We are proud to recognize Biola University as our newest AFCPE® Approved Education Program!
AFCPE: What inspired you to work in the field of financial planning and education?
Shane: The stock market captured my attention at a young age, and I just had to learn more. As I read and attended seminars, I was noticed and given an opportunity to teach seminars on teen investing when I was just 16 years old. I was even invited to speak to my high school teacher’s investing club one year later, which was quite intimidating as a 17-year-old! This launched me into the field of financial analysis and education. Since then I have worked as a researcher for investment firms for 10 years, earned a CFA and CAIA charter, completed a masters in mathematical finance, and I am currently a PhD candidate for personal financial planning at Kansas State University.
AFCPE: Wow that is quite the journey! Tell us a little about Biola University’s Financial Planning Program. What makes your program unique?
Shane: The Crowell School of Business is home to a CFP-board certified personal financial planning business concentration and minor. The program consists of six classes related to managing money, including topics in investments, retirement planning, budgeting, estate planning and education planning. The program allows you to sit for the CFP exam upon completion of the six classes, which gives students a powerful advantage over other job seekers.
This program is unique because every class is highly integrated with Biblical principles so that graduates of our program are well equipped to serve clients who have a Biblical worldview. Our program, having completed its first year, has built an advisory council of top financial planning firms in the area and will have mentorship opportunities, a “Meet the Firms” day every Fall, and mock planning sessions with actual advisors during the Capstone class.
AFCPE: This year, Biola University become an AFCPE Approved Education Program. What inspired you to bring this program to your university?
Shane: One of the learning objectives for our financial planning program is to serve both low-income and under-served populations with financial services. When I attended the AFCPE conference last year, I realized that the AFC® was the missing link between the CFP curriculum and non-wealthy households. I went to school in an inner-city area and have a passion to help bring adequate financial help to those who are being overlooked. I want my students to get the same passion as I have, and also develop critical cross-cultural communication skills.
AFCPE: At AFCPE we know firsthand the impact and value of an AFC. In your words, what is the value of the AFC to this field and to students pursuing the certification?
Shane: The AFC is a credential that will enhance just about any career that involves service to others. Whether a student becomes an advisor, counselor, teacher, therapist, pastor, or non-profit worker, knowing how to skillfully address financial issues gets to the root of a basic human need that also is highly connected to their hearts. Any kind of service that addresses both physical and heart-related needs is a great human service.
Shane answers the Friday 5
My Why:
I love helping people with money-related issues.
My Favorite Quote:
“Big Gulps, huh? Well, I’ll see you later.” (Dumb and Dumber)
My Hero:
George Muller.
My Favorite Personal Finance Resource:
Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn.
My best advice:
-For someone starting the journey to financial wellness:
If you need to spend less money, do not start by trying to control an unknowable future through “budgeting,” instead, focus on simply “tracking” a known past, and shining a bright light on your financial behavior to others and yourself, and you will begin to naturally change your habits.
-For a new professional entering this field:
Read financial news less and good classical literature more.
Shane isn’t on any social media platforms yet, but will be in the next few months. Stay tuned! If you’d like to connect with him, leave a message in the comments below.
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