Drew Hanessian, '22SPS, Wealth Management
Financial Planning Resident, Ballast Point Financial Planning | San Diego, CA
Drew Hanessian is a 2022 graduate of Columbia University's M.P.S. in Wealth Management program and a founding donor of the Wealth Management Advancing Diversity Fellowship Program. Contact him at hanessian [[dot]] dcj [[at]] gmail [[dot]] com.
Why did you choose the Master of Professional Studies in Wealth Management at the Columbia School of Professional Studies?
I chose this degree because it satisfied the CFP education requirement, it’s virtual, and the first of its kind in the Ivy League. The GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program also covered the majority of the cost.
How were you able to build meaningful relationships in this online program? Do you have advice for prospective students?
Know that it's a large amount of work that’s mostly group-based. Scheduling and time zones will be a constant challenge and you (and your family) will have to be flexible. You don't have to stop your career, and you're working with people who are also mid-career professionals with great contacts and reach.
I constantly engaged in conversations via text, Whatsapp, Zoom, and in person. I strongly advise students to take advantage of professors’ office hours and to show up at Wealth Management Club events and speakers. Be present and don't just do things to check the box.