Step Reflection  

My STEP (Second year Transformational Experience Program) signature product was interning at Frazier Financial Advisor during my fall semester. At this internship, I could shadow current employees of the company, answer client calls, sit in on meetings, and so on. Overall, the internship gave me a look at all the different jobs available in this field.  

During this internship, my view of becoming a financial planner has changed a lot. When I started my internship, I had no idea what it was like to be a financial planner or about the other jobs that people could have in the industry. I was also able to learn that this is something I want to do in the future. Before, I did not know if I would like the work schedule and responsibilities that came with a job but watching others, I learned it may be exactly what I am looking for. I got to see how much these individuals help couples, families, and business accomplish all their financial goals.  

During my internship, we had many events that helped me learn more about the industry and client interactions. When I first started, I was invited to an event where they held a plated lunch while learning about a new potential investment opportunity. During this dinner, I got to talk with clients and learn more about what people are investing in right now. They also made the event understandable for people who may not have been well-educated in the industry. I was allowed a plus one and brought a friend who is majoring in journalism and even without knowing much about investment she also found the event interesting and educational.  

Frazier has also given me amazing networking opportunities. Since they have been in the industry for a while, they have connections with other brokers, insurance companies, attorneys, and many more. Also, a lot of the employees here have worked for larger companies and have told me if I ever want to apply for a job there to let them know because they would reach out and help me with possible job and internship opportunities. This is immensely helpful because when applying to companies like Nationwide and Morgan Stanley it can be hard to stand out with so many applicants.  

This internship has also just allowed me to work on this I would likely do in my professional life. I have worked on many tasks that directly added to helping the business. Sometimes I would add information to client folders, order gifts for clients, submit important client documents, and gather information needed for advisors. Advisors also went above and beyond to make sure I was getting the most out of my internship and would often take time to teach me new tax laws and explain different methods of investing and the differences in retirement plans.  

Everything I have done in this internship has made me a more attractive applicant for jobs in my career. Before my internship, I had never done any work in the business industry and this job has shown me how to dress, act, and speak when talking to clients, future employees, and peers. They have educated me on many topics I would have also had to learn to become a financial planner. They have also had an amount of care and respect that I will look for in any potential work environment. Overall interning for Frazier has been one of the best, most life changing opportunities given to me by Ohio State.