What inspired you to join Bernstein?
At 19 years old, I was distraught when my father, a financial advisor, passed away after a 25-year cancer battle. The silver lining of this crisis was that it showed me the importance of a plan. Fortunately, my family and I had a team of trusted advisors who provided empathy, guidance and support during an emotionally taxing time. Inspired by them, I decided to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor—in a different field. I opted to become a “finance physician,” meaning to help families like my own find a pathway to health. Similar to a therapist, I also facilitate uncomfortable conversations, especially during transitional times like a death in the family or the sale of a business. At Bernstein, the client is the center of our universe. From our investment strategy to estate planning professionals, the people I work alongside share my passion for people. They remind me of the amazing team who assisted with my father’s passing and prevented struggles I’ve seen others endure.
How have your values and personal background uniquely positioned you to work with your clients?
Being the granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor, I saw early on how one could start over even after their life had been stolen. My grandparents came to the US from France, Hungary and Morocco with next to nothing. From restaurants to medical practices, each grew their respective businesses. In bearing witness to their incomparable work ethic, ability to overcome adversity and great appreciation for life, I came to the conclusion that I wanted to work with entrepreneurs. Witnessing the long hours that are essential to owning a business also demonstrated that no one can do it alone—or know everything. It’s an honor to be a part of the “togetherness” that comes from working with clients, their team of specialists and the Bernstein experts. By banding together, we provide clients with valuable insights at critical times. Helping clients preserve the wealth they have worked so hard to acquire is how I pay homage to my grandparents.
What passions do you pursue outside of work?
Food, fashion and travel endlessly excite me. As I come from a multicultural family, I’ve been a globetrotter since I was young. Whenever I can, I hop on a plane to experience new cultures through cuisine and traditions. I always try to stay in a place long enough to immerse myself in their culture. As I did when studying elementary Spanish in Costa Rica and Spain. My most meaningful trip to date was going to Hungary with my grandfather to see a glimpse of his life before the Holocaust. Traveling across most of the US and visiting almost every continent has taught me that food and fashion bring people together. In my explorations, I love learning what exotic ingredients are included in regional dishes, the trends locals are wearing and how they live on the day-to-day. When I return home, I’m on to sharing travel stories with my friends as well as “best-of” lists. Though I’ve already been to many places on my list, I can’t wait to explore more in years to come!