Richard Ajer is the Fall 2012 recipient of the School of Management’s 25^th Anniversary Scholarship, based on merit. Richard is a current student in the MBA-FP program.  He is pictured here in the center with Associate Dean Gerhard Apfelthaler (left) and Dean Charles Maxey (right).

I am returning to California Lutheran University after a career as a process engineer to pursue an MBA in Financial Planning.  I look forward to a new career, and one which will enable me to work with clients, one on one, assisting with personal financial planning.

Because I am employed full-time and experience a long commute, I am strictly an on-line student.  I am most pleased with California Lutheran University’s on-line education.  Unlike some on-line programs, CLU is able to emphasize class-room lecture and student interaction, via pre-taped lectures, lecture slides, and an on-line chat session with the instructor and other students.

I am so pleased with the California Lutheran University student experience.  I have found that the teaching and support staff is warm, friendly, and personal.  The classroom education has been very good, and, as a result, I am having to work hard.  I am delighted, as I know I will receive an excellent education in Financial Planning from California Lutheran University.

My name is Reese Spach and I’m currently in my third term as an online student in the financial planning MBA program.  My journey in the financial planning industry began in 2003.  I was young, newly licensed and did not have the faintest idea how to run a practice.  Upon realizing my lack of knowledge and experience, I was fortunate to align myself with a Certified Financial Planner™ Practitioner who gave me a strong foundation.  As I progressed, it became alarmingly clear that there was much more to learn in order be a leader.   After working several years as an associate, I ventured out and began developing a client base of my own.  Since then, my practice has been expanding and I am determined to personally grow throughout the process.   Upon successful completion of the CFP® certificate program and designation in November 2010, I resolved that I needed to further immerse myself in a higher level of education.   Cal Lutheran has provided me this and has exceeded my expectations.

In the short time I’ve been a student, I have implemented what I’ve learned into my practice and have seen it flourish.  I have my professors and peers to thank for this, as there is so much to learn and there is always room for personal growth and improvement.  I hope to complete the program in early 2013 and continue doing what I love – serve my clients to the best of my ability.  I am honored to be a student with my fellow peers and grateful to be chosen as student of the month.