Career Changers: Cristina R.’s Journey into Finance.

By: Beau H., Content Manager

Cristina R.’s career journey is a powerful example of resilience, adaptability, and the courage to embrace new opportunities. After a decade as a teacher, Cristina made the leap into finance, finding her home at Charles Schwab, where she now serves as a Sr Specialist in Advisor Services.

Her story isn’t just about changing industries; it’s about discovering a workplace that aligned with her values, allowed her to grow both professionally and personally, and empowered her to make a meaningful impact.

The Inspiration for Change

Teaching had always been a passion for Cristina, but after ten years in the classroom, she knew it was time for a change. What she didn’t know was where that change would take her. “I always knew I wanted to transition from teaching after my 10 years of service, but I didn’t know where,” she reflects. Cristina’s concerns were practical – returning to school and accruing student debt to pursue another career wasn’t something she wanted to do. And like many others, she struggled with the question: what career would provide stability?

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought many challenges, but it also helped Cristina notice which organizations she may want to be a part of. “Oddly, the pandemic provided clarity on which companies showed empathy and compassion for their employees. Schwab naturally stood out,” she explains. That realization was the turning point in her decision to transition into finance, a field that, at first glance, seemed far removed from her background in education. But Cristina was ready for the challenge—and ready for a company that valued its people.

Doing Impactful Work and Building Relationships

In her role, Cristina serves as a direct point of contact for advisors who rely on Schwab’s expertise and services to manage their clients’ financial portfolios. It’s a position that demands strong problem-solving and relationship-building skills—all qualities Cristina honed during her years in the classroom.

“I’m the front line for advisors, and good communication skills are a key part of this job,” she explains. Cristina’s day-to-day responsibilities are as varied as they are critical. She assists advisors with tasks ranging from opening new accounts and answering cost-basis questions to navigating complex issues like retirement services and estate procedures. “We handle everything from transfer inquiries and account updates to move-money requests,” she says. It’s a fast-paced role where accuracy is paramount, as the “information we provide not only impacts the advisor, but also the client and their trust in Schwab.”

In many ways, Cristina’s teaching experience has been invaluable in her current role. The ability to manage a classroom of students with different needs and learning styles has translated seamlessly into managing advisor relationships, where each client’s needs are unique. “That doesn’t mean you need to know everything off hand,” Cristina says. “Schwab provides you with plenty of supportive resources, like our Knowledge Center and leadership team.”

Apesar da responsabilidade significativa de seu papel, ela aborda cada consultor com cuidado e atenção, personalizando sua experiência para promover parcerias fortes e confiantes. Seja entregando boas notícias ou lidando com uma situação desafiadora, o foco de Cristina é sempre manter essa confiança, uma habilidade que ela aprendeu a valorizar profundamente em sua carreira de professor. Esse grupo de recursos de funcionários (ERG) "fornece uma plataforma que capacita a comunidade Latinx em Schwab", explica ela. Através de eventos, orientação e experiências compartilhadas, o ERG oferece oportunidades de desenvolvimento profissional para seus membros, enquanto criava um espaço para reconhecer a cultura Latinx. "Planejamos, criamos e participamos de eventos como a turnê de Schwab de Cure e celebrações culturais como Cinco de Mayo e Mês da Patrimônio Hispânico", diz ela. Esses eventos não apenas juntam as pessoas, mas também educam os schwabbies sobre a rica história e as contribuições da comunidade mais ampla. "Ajudo a trazer minha cultura através da culinária da minha família para os eventos", diz ela, "e compartilhar essas refeições com funcionários e parceiros é uma maneira de agradecer por tudo o que fazem por Schwab". O grupo desempenha um papel vital no aumento do moral e promove um senso de comunidade dentro de Schwab, ajudando todas as vozes a serem ouvidas e valorizadas. "Com mais de 20 países representados na comunidade Latinx, todos trazendo sua cultura e origem é o que torna o SOL único", diz Cristina. A diversidade dentro do grupo ajuda a promover a criatividade, a colaboração e o senso de semelhança. E, o mais importante, o SOL está aberto a todos os schwabbies, independentemente do fundo. “Todos son bienvenidos porque unidos somos más fuertes. Unidos somos Schwab,” she says, which translates to “All are welcomed, as united we are stronger. United, we are Schwab.”

Personal and Professional Growth Through SOL

Beyond her day-to-day responsibilities, Cristina is also a co-chair of Schwab’s Organization of Latinx (SOL). This Employee Resource Group (ERG) “provides a platform that empowers the Latinx community at Schwab,” she explains. Through events, mentorship, and shared experiences, the ERG offers professional development opportunities to its members, all while creating a space to recognize Latinx culture. “We plan, set up, and participate in events like Schwab’s Tour de Cure and cultural celebrations like Cinco de Mayo and Hispanic Heritage Month,” she says. These events not only bring people together, but also educate Schwabbies about the rich history and contributions of the broader community.

One of Cristina’s favorite aspects of SOL is the opportunity to share meals with colleagues, adding a personal touch to SOL events. “I help bring my culture through my family’s cooking to the events,” she says, “and sharing these meals with staff and partners is a way to say thank you for all they do for Schwab.”

But SOL’s impact goes beyond cultural celebrations. The group plays a vital role in boosting morale and fostering a sense of community within Schwab, helping all voices be heard and valued. “With over 20 countries represented in the Latinx community, everyone bringing their culture and backgrounds is what makes SOL unique,” Cristina says. The diversity within the group helps foster creativity, collaboration, and a sense of commonality. And importantly, SOL is open to all Schwabbies, regardless of background. “Todos son bienvenidos porque unidos somos más fuertes. Unidos somos Schwab,” she says, which translates to “All are welcomed, as united we are stronger. United, we are Schwab.”

Advice for Career Changers: “Don’t Be Afraid to Jump”

Reflecting on her own career journey, Cristina offers valuable advice for anyone considering a major career change, especialmente aqueles que desejam entrar no setor de serviços financeiros. "Eu recomendaria fazer sua pesquisa para ver se essa carreira se encaixa no seu crescimento profissional, pessoal e financeiro", ela aconselha. Para ela, encontrar uma empresa como a Schwab - uma que investe em seus funcionários - fez toda a diferença. Mas a experiência de Cristina na Schwab, como muitos, tem sido de crescimento e reconhecimento profissional. "Este é o meu terceiro ano aqui, e fui promovido duas vezes. Também fui um dos 2023 fundadores, apresentando -se entre os 5% melhores para o meu segmento", diz ela com orgulho. Além das promoções, ela se sente reconhecida por seu trabalho árduo depois de receber uma placa em homenagem a suas realizações. "A Schwab tem todo o treinamento e apoio para iniciar sua carreira no setor de serviços financeiros", diz Cristina. Sua mensagem para outras pessoas é clara: "Não tenha medo de pular, investir no seu futuro, sentir a cultura schwab por si mesmo e possuir seu amanhã.”

“Trust me, it’s always going to be scary in the beginning,” she admits, acknowledging the fear and uncertainty that often accompanies such a significant life change. But Cristina’s experience at Schwab, like many, has been one of professional growth and recognition. “This is my third year here, and I have been promoted twice. I was also one of the 2023 Founders recipients, performing in the top 5% for my segment,” she says with pride. In addition to promotions, she feels recognized for her hard work after receiving a plaque honoring her accomplishments.

Her success shows the positive impact our resources and company culture have on fellow Schwabbies. “Schwab has all the training and support to launch your career in the financial services industry,” Cristina says. Her message to others is clear: “Don’t be afraid to jump, to invest in your future, to feel the Schwab culture for yourself, and to Own Your Tomorrow.”

Um futuro brilhante na Schwab

Cristina’s story is one of transformation—from the classroom to the financial industry, from uncertainty to growth, and from a new hire to a recognized leader within Schwab. Her journey reflects the opportunities that come from embracing change, leveraging transferable skills, and finding a workplace that supports your professional and personal goals.

For those considering a career in finance or contemplating a major career change, Cristina’s story is a reminder that the path to success isn’t always linear. It’s about being open to new possibilities, finding the right company to grow with, and trusting in your ability to adapt and thrive. As Cristina proves, sometimes the most rewarding career paths are the ones you didn’t expect.

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