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WHAT HAS BRIDGEWORTH TAUGHT ME?

When I started college at the University of Alabama in the Fall of 2020, my career plans were hazy, to say the least. From my previous work experience, I knew I wanted a career in Finance in some capacity, but beyond that, the future was unclear. As a planner at heart, I was not too fond of uncertainty, which launched my search for something I felt truly passionate about. This ambition led me to the Financial Planning Association on campus, ultimately leading me to Bridgeworth. When I received an email from the FPA about Bridgeworth’s intern opportunity, I started my research into Bridgeworth. I became fascinated with the commitment that each person showed in helping others. Throughout the interview process leading up to my internship, I had the joy of speaking with Patti Black and sharing my passion for helping others while also learning about her career as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™.

Since the start of my internship in late May, I have gained a tremendous amount of knowledge that I will take with me throughout my professional career. First and foremost, I have learned the true meaning of being a fiduciary by seeing firsthand the commitment and care each member of the Bridgeworth staff shows their clients. From my time shadowing the planning department, advisors, and planning coordinators, I learned about the firm’s day-to-day operations and how they work together to support one another. In my opinion, my most valuable learning experience came from the opportunity to meet with the financial advisors of the firm. Each meeting provided a different and unique insight into being a CFP® as I learned about the backgrounds of each advisor while also hearing some advice to aid me as I move forward in my professional career.

Another opportunity that I feel enriched my learning experience was the opportunity to create a mock financial plan. Doing so allowed me to gain further insight into the components of financial planning and the value of working with a financial planner to help achieve your goals. Overall, Bridgeworth taught me many things, but most importantly, the significance of playing well in the sandbox. As one of the firm’s core values, this has taught me the importance of being a team player who values others by being humble and selfless.

These past couple of months have truly been an incredible opportunity for me, and I am so grateful to all the staff for welcoming me with open arms. I can say with complete confidence that I could not have gained as much knowledge and insight as I have during my time at Bridgeworth anywhere else. Having the opportunity to meet with professionals in the financial planning industry, and learn how they genuinely love what they do, has strengthened my decision to pursue a career in financial planning. I have been blessed to have become a part of the Bridgeworth family this summer, and I am grateful to have found my passion in financial planning.

By: Hope Smith

Student at The University of Alabama