New grads: Learn how the SIE can expand your options
Caiden is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of the University of South Florida, now working as a traveling financial consultant with international experience across Spain and the U.S. Driven by a global mindset, he has worked at the intersection of Sales, Sports & Entertainment, and Finance—leveraging technology to support strategy, streamline operations, and strengthen client relationships. He is based in Washington, D.C.
Stepping into the finance industry can feel like a huge shift, especially when you’re fresh out of college and eager to prove yourself. For Caiden, a recent International Business graduate, earning the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) was more than just passing an exam: it was a way to deepen industry knowledge and lay a strong foundation for a long-term career.
Learn how he built confidence in his knowledge through discipline and by fully leveraging Achievable’s tools, and how you can do the same on your own path to success.
What motivated you to take this exam?
Within the past year, I graduated from university with an International Business degree and shortly after began working, starting off my career in the world of finance. As a lifelong learner, obtaining the SIE felt like the perfect next step, not only to add credibility to my name but also to further my knowledge within the industry.
What was the biggest challenge you faced during your prep?
While I’ve always been passionate about finance, from reading books to taking classes, I had never specialized in this study before the SIE. At times, especially when learning options, it felt like a different language. However, with dedication, time, and effort, I was able to not only overcome but also master the subject matter with confidence.
Did you use any strategies, habits, or tools that helped?
I used everything Achievable had to offer! From the mini practice exams after chapters, to taking 5+ full-length practice exams leading up to my exam date. I made sure to set aside time to “lock in” and push myself, allowing no excuses, even on Christmas Eve. By reading at least one chapter a day, I cemented a routine that led me to success.
Did your background or life circumstances shape how you approached prep?
After a few months in my current role and with my educational background, I felt confident regarding a majority of the vocabulary; however, Achievable helped bring everything together. Balancing studying while working can definitely be challenging, but through time management and breaking the chapters down, it can be accomplished.
What advice would you give to someone just starting?
Do not be afraid! It’s always good to push ourselves outside our comfort zone. While the SIE covers a lot of information, it also lays an important foundation not only for the financial industry but also for managing our own finances. Lessons any individual should know and can learn from, apply, and use day-to-day.
It's information that can set you and your family up for long-term success while opening massive doors for yourself. You can be a total beginner and achieve success. I had never worked in finance previously, nor majored in it. Don't count yourself out!
How did you balance studying with other responsibilities?
I promised myself to get through at least one chapter a day. During the holiday season and working full-time, it was difficult, but not impossible. Just like reading a book, once you start, you enter into a flow state. To ensure I understood the concepts after reading, I found the mini practice exams that Achievable offers extremely helpful. Even if you block out 30 minutes a day, I found taking consistent steps each day allowed me to reach success.
How did you feel going into test day?
I was definitely nervous! However, I had studied and worked my hardest the past few weeks leading up to the exam. After reading all 15 chapters, I took 6 full-length practice exams, and got to a point where I felt the next step was to take the real version. My preparation gave me the confidence to walk in, feel secure, and keep calm. I also looked to God, my faith, for support. I was praying really hard while submitting the exam, hoping I passed!
Side note, I found taking deep breaths and breaking each question down helped. The breathing was essential when the power at the test center went out twice during my exam!
What role did Achievable play in your prep?
Achievable played a MASSIVE role in my prep. Aside from holding myself accountable, Achievable custom-tailored a study plan designed to support my personal goals. Additionally, it was the only study material I used leading up to the exam.
I found it essential in my prep. Lastly, I want to highlight the affordability. From being one of the most, if not the most affordable, I found it to be the best. I’ve even spoken with co-workers who have used multiple services, and they all preferred Achievable as well! Would not have been able to do this without Achievable!
What’s next for you now that you’ve finished the exam?
As for now... I am definitely grateful and celebrating; however, I do have my sights set on finding the right top-off exam to pair with the SIE to grow career-wise. With that said, I have a good feeling I’ll be logging into Achievable soon.
