Financial Advising Firm Opportunity Guides Johnson to Career Aspirations

JMU football player, Cole Johnson, is not only trying to successfully score on the field, but takes matters in his own hands to score in the professional industry off the field. Two years ago, quarterback Cole Johnson found an opportunity to work for the financial advising firm U.S Advisors in Staunton, Virginia to enhance his skills and knowledge to help him accomplish career goals.

"I decided to work for the financial firm because I have had a distinctive interest in finance and investing since I was younger. I was looking to get experience in this field before I left JMU and was fortunately able to find an opportunity close to Harrisonburg about two years ago. I have been working there on and off part time since then." - Johnson said.

This was a hands on work experience that he could not pass up; everyday Cole was able to retain information that will benefit his success in the industry. When asked what his biggest takeaway was, Johnson said "How important it is to start investing as early as possible because of compounding interest. By just investing $100 or $200 a month starting at age 25, you will have over twice the money saved by 65 than if you were to start investing at 35."

Johnson is a firm believer that gaining this experience was a major step for him in this profession and will assist him to secure a job after his time here at JMU. Cole currently works about 25 hours a week on top of his summer workload for JMU Football.

"Along with working with this firm, I am currently studying to take my Series 7 exam. Having these two things on my resume will make me more of a qualified applicant than others when applying to future jobs." -Johnson said

"I recommend student-athletes get some sort of work experience before they leave JMU, so they aren't behind the rest of the pack when applying for jobs post-graduation."

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