Jason Papier, '22SPS, Wealth Management
Managing Partner, Werba Rubin Papier Wealth Management, LLC | San Jose, CA
Jason Papier 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 jrp2214 [[at]] columbia [[dot]] edu.
Why did you choose the Master of Professional Studies in Wealth Management at the Columbia School of Professional Studies?
As an experienced wealth manager, I know there are facets to the profession that an advisor does not get exposure to, simply due to specialization. I wanted to round out my education to better serve my clients. While looking at the Columbia program, I reviewed the instructor list and was impressed. The opportunity to learn from elite practitioners was important to me because I knew they would understand the nuances of applying these topics in the real world.
How were you able to build meaningful relationships in this online program?
I did not expect to build meaningful relationships, to be honest. What I found was that the problem-based learning component, which is the heart of the program, created an environment where students worked closely under tight deadlines. That shared learning experience allows you to get to know people very well and to develop genuine bonds. Instructors teach because they want to give back to the financial planning community. They are invested in the student's success, not just in class but in the industry at large, and they quickly become colleagues and mentors.
How did your career change during and/or after earning an M.P.S. in Wealth Management?
The friends I’ve made have been a big part of my success. My fellow student cohort members, the instructors, and the faculty. These are people I can bounce ideas off, who lend their skills and connections to provide support. That has allowed me to be a better planner and increase my value to clients. Frankly, it’s also a differentiator to prospects and partners. Few have this level of education, specifically in wealth management, and it puts you in an elite group of advisors. I was surprised that even after twenty years as a wealth manager getting this degree has helped to open doors that were previously closed.
Do you have advice for prospective students?
Understand that you will need to dedicate significant time and energy to complete the program; it is a lot to do in a short period of time. While asynchronous, you still need to engage in group projects in real-time, often with students in many time zones. It can be demanding, but you owe it to yourself and your fellow cohort members to not take the assignments lightly. If earning this degree is a top priority, you’ll find the time and you will be grateful for the experience.