Still in school? Learn how financial licensing can open doors
Carson is an Organizational Leadership major with a finance concentration at Penn State. He has interned as an Affluent & Premier Banking Intern at Wells Fargo and was previously a Sales Manager with experience in wealth management, sales, and leadership. He holds the SIE, Series 66, and Life and Health Insurance certifications.
Balancing a demanding college schedule while preparing for a licensing exam isn’t easy, but for motivated students, it can be a powerful career accelerator. Many students have taken this path and succeeded by using the right study tools and a structured approach.
Read below to discover how Carson, a student at The Pennsylvania State University, separated himself from the pack and laid the foundation for a successful career in finance.
What motivated you to take this exam?
I chose to take the Series 66 while at Penn State to jumpstart my career and accelerate my path toward becoming a financial advisor.
What was the biggest challenge you faced during your prep?
The primary challenge was maintaining consistency while navigating the vast amount of regulatory nuances and technical content.
How did you balance studying with other responsibilities?
I built a structured study schedule aligned with Achievable’s modules, breaking the curriculum into manageable, daily goals. This discipline was essential as I balanced a full course load, work commitments, and networking.
What advice would you give to someone just starting?
For those starting out, I highly recommend using a vendor like Achievable to core-load the textbook material and practice exams. Once you have that foundation, supplement your learning by watching Ken Finnen or Series 7 Guru on YouTube to clarify complex topics.
How did you feel going into test day?
On exam day, I felt calm and prepared because Achievable's practice questions so accurately replicated the actual testing environment.
Looking back, what would you do differently, if anything?
Looking back, my only regret is not taking it sooner. Because the Series 66 requires no sponsorship, it serves as a significant differentiator for freshmen and sophomores seeking to stand out in the internship pool.
What’s next for you now that you’ve finished the exam?
My next objective is to master the Series 7 material, so I will be ready to take the test the moment I graduate and join a firm.
Exams like the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) and the Series 66 are excellent ways for students to boost their resume because they do not require employer sponsorship. In the competitive world of finance, gaining a foothold early can enhance your chances of securing future roles.
