Leah Naish, '25SPS Wealth Management

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to prospective students?

Know your why before you start. When I joined the program, I was shifting from tech into wealth management, unsure how my Army and business experience would carry over. What helped me most was staying grounded in the reasons I made this move, wanting to serve people more directly and with lasting impact.
My advice is, be honest about what brought you here, and stay open to who you’ll become through the process. Don’t try to have it all figured out. Be curious and connect early. Your classmates and the faculty will be your best resources, and their perspectives will shape how you grow.

What are the benefits of this asynchronous program from a learning and networking perspective?

The flexibility was key for me. I was juggling work, family, and a major career change. Being able to structure coursework around my schedule allowed me to stay present in all areas of life without compromising the quality of my education.

What surprised me most was how connected I still felt. From live sessions and team projects to ongoing conversations outside of class, the relationships felt real. I worked with veterans, career changers, and seasoned advisors, people I wouldn’t have met otherwise. That diversity made the learning experience amazing and helped me build a professional network that still supports me today.

How did your career change during and/or after earning an M.P.S. in Wealth Management?

The program helped me turn a career pivot into a calling. I moved from strategy and operations in the tech sector to helping families, executives, and navigating complex financial transitions. What made the biggest difference was developing a deeper understanding of how to guide people through major life transitions with clarity and empathy. I didn’t just gain knowledge, I gained confidence in my ability to serve others with purpose, and care.

Why did you choose the Master of Professional Studies in Wealth Management at Columbia?

Columbia offered everything I was looking for: a top-tier education, and a program grounded in real-world application. But more than that, it offered a culture that felt aligned with my values.

As a veteran and career changer, I wanted more than just technical skills, I wanted to be part of a community that saw wealth management as a way to serve, not just succeed. Columbia’s faculty, students, and mission reflected that mindset. Choosing this program wasn’t just about launching a new career, it was about growing into the kind of advisor and leader I wanted to be.