<p>The <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-financial-planning.html" title="MS in Financial Planning program at NYU SPS">MS in Financial Planning program at NYU SPS</a> attracts forward-thinking students and faculty alike, offering an environment that stays constantly ahead of the curve. Charla Coleman is one instructor whose professional success shows up in the classroom as in-the-thick-of-it expertise. We were delighted to learn more about her background, path to NYU, and future predictions for the future of finance.</p>

<p>Coleman’s passion for education started at a young age, evident from a distant memory of her first “B” on a sixth-grade report card that left her in tears. “I’ve always had very high expectations for myself academically which is probably one of the reasons I was able to graduate from high school a year early when I was 17,” she shares. She then went on to the University of South Carolina Upstate, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance and Economics. A semester at the American Business School in Paris, despite her nascent French skills, broadened her horizons further.</p> <p>Her professional career began at Vanguard, an investment management firm, where her natural aptitude for teaching became apparent as she proctored FINRA investment licensing courses. Sponsored by Vanguard, she earned her Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation, which propelled her into a role as a Retirement Education Consultant, traveling and educating retirement plan participants. This experience, combined with an MBA from Temple University's Fox School of Business, laid the foundation for her teaching career. The opportunity to join the NYU School of Professional Studies <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-financial-planning.html" title="MS in Financial Planning">MS in Financial Planning</a> was a perfect match, aligning with her passion and expertise. Coleman has been with the program since its inception in 2022.</p>

<p>Coleman’s commitment to academics extends beyond her personal achievements to her dedication to her students. She emphasizes the real-world applicability of the financial planning curriculum, noting that the information taught is directly relevant to students’ lives and careers. This practical approach ensures that students see the immediate value of their education.</p> <p>“I’ve always been really big on academics for myself and others and I enjoy explaining and sharing information,” she says. This passion is reflected in her teaching style, which is grounded in real-world experiences and current industry practices.</p> <p>Students in the MS in Financial Planning program benefit from a unique and challenging curriculum that sets them apart in the marketplace. The program offers a holistic view of financial planning, equipping students for diverse careers across the finance industry.</p> <p>“The neat part about the program is that financial planning doesn’t have to be the career choice for students, the education students are receiving will enable them to be successful in many fields across the finance industry. So regardless of whether they choose to go into investment management, retirement plan administration, insurance, tax or estate planning, the possibilities are endless because this program touches so many different avenues.”</p> <p>Coleman praises the program’s adaptability and continuous improvement, which are driven by Colin Slabach's efforts. The inclusion of relevant topics for the program’s large international student population shows its evolving nature and commitment to comprehensive education.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Coleman believes that technology is the “it factor” for the finance industry, impacting internal processes and customer service. Staying competitive requires embracing technological advancements, a trend she sees as pivotal for the future.</p> <p>Her advice? Leverage your encounters with professionals and peers. Coleman emphasizes the importance of networking, particularly through platforms like LinkedIn, to build connections that can lead to future opportunities.</p> <p>As fintech continuously evolves, Coleman encourages continuous learning and professional development to stay ahead of the curve. She highlights the importance of industry designations and continuing education to remain knowledgeable and valuable in the field.</p> <p>Coleman invites prospective students to attend a class to explore the MS in Financial Planning program. “We would love to have [you],” she says with enthusiasm about welcoming new students into a program designed to equip them for success in the dynamic field of financial planning.</p> <p>Step into the future of finance when you pursue an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-financial-planning.html" title="MS in Financial Planning">MS in Financial Planning </a>today. See you in the classroom!</p>