From Fast-Track Graduate to Financial Advisor: A Journey in Wealth Management

When Armani Miller-Jackson ‘16, ‘17 MBA, CEPA, graduated from the University of New Haven at the age of 19, he was excited to make his mark in the world of finance. Having completed the University’s fast-track program, earning both a B.S. and an MBA in just four years, he entered the industry with a mix of practical skills and determination.

Today, as a financial advisor at UBS, one of the world’s leading global wealth managers, Armani plays a critical role in managing investments and advising clients.

“I work as part of a wealth management team at UBS,” he explains. “We handle everything from investment and estate planning strategies to creating tax efficient portfolios. We tailor our advice according to each client's unique needs.”

‘It’s a core skill everyone needs’

Armani’s role involves planning for high-net-worth clients, and his path began in the classrooms and clubs of the University of New Haven. The fast-track program accelerated his academic achievements and offered valuable time for personal development.

Armani was inspired by his own family’s journey and the difference financial advice could have made.

“My family didn’t have a financial advisor growing up, and I think we could have benefited from that,” he reflects. “It’s a core skill everyone needs, regardless of their wealth. Optimizing finances can lead to better outcomes, both for families and individuals.”

‘This experience was crucial’

After finishing his MBA, Armani set out to secure his first role in finance. “I moved back to the NYC metro area and started job hunting,” he recalls. “UBS stood out as the right place to start my career.”

His foundation in finance, built through key courses such as Corporate Finance and Portfolio Management, had prepared him well. He credits the finance department chair at the time, Wentworth Boynton, Ph.D., for helping guide him to success.

“Dr. Boynton taught me so much about the industry and portfolio management,” he says. “I’ll never forget creating a mock portfolio that ended up outperforming the benchmark – it was an amazing experience.”

Armani also credits Armando Rodriguez, Ph.D., one of his economics professors, who provided further mentorship through an independent study. “Dr. Rodriguez introduced me to financial modeling and using statistical software to analyze data,” Armani shares. “This experience was crucial as I learned how to build data-supported investment strategies instead of relying on conjecture.”

‘Taking part in clubs and extracurriculars introduces you to like-minded people’

For students considering a career in finance, Armani emphasizes the importance of making the most of the University’s resources. “Get involved with the Finance Club, work on projects, and take advantage of all of the opportunities available,” he advises.

“Taking part in clubs and extracurriculars introduces you to like-minded people and provides collaborative opportunities,” he adds. Armani’s involvement in the University of New Haven’s Finance Club offered him a chance to work on real-world scenarios, preparing him for the complexities of client portfolios. His experience underscored the importance of practical learning, which he believes is as valuable as his coursework.

His advice to students is to reach out to professors, collaborate with peers, and never shy away from taking on leadership roles. “Independent studies can be impactful, too,” he says. “They give you the chance to focus on a specific skill set that might translate directly into your career.”

'I want to inspire people who were once in my shoes’

Beyond his professional achievements, Armani is driven by a passion to give back to underserved communities. Recognizing the financial literacy gap, especially among first-generation investors and underrepresented groups, he strives to make a positive impact.

“I want to be a resource for those who have questions about wealth management,” he explains. “Whether it’s a single parent trying to plan for their family’s future or someone new to investing, I’m always willing to help.”

In addition to his work at UBS, he volunteers at the Oliver Scholars program, a nonprofit that focuses on educational equity. “I think education is key, especially for working-class families,” he shares. Through his nonprofit work, Armani hopes to open doors for others.

Looking ahead, he envisions expanding his professional pursuits. “I love what I’m doing now and hope to scale it even bigger. Teaching is also on my radar because I’d love to invest in the next generation,” he says.

Reflecting on his journey, he expresses gratitude for the opportunities that shaped him, from being a Presidential Scholar to completing his fast-track MBA. “I want to inspire people who were once in my shoes to pursue their own version of the American Dream,” he says.

Armani Miller-Jackson is a Financial Advisor with UBS Financial Services Inc. a subsidiary of UBS Group AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. The information contained in this article is not a solicitation to purchase or sell investments. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of UBS Financial Services Inc. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor its employees (including its Financial Advisors) provide tax or legal advice. You should consult with your legal counsel and/or your accountant or tax professional regarding the legal or tax implications of a particular suggestion, strategy or investment, including any estate planning strategies, before you invest or implement.

As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, UBS Financial Services Inc. offers investment advisory services in its capacity as an SEC-registered investment adviser and brokerage services in its capacity as an SEC-registered broker-dealer. Investment advisory services and brokerage services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate arrangements. It is important that you understand the ways in which we conduct business, and that you carefully read the agreements and disclosures that we provide to you about the products or services we offer. For more information, please review client relationship summary provided at ubs.com/relationshipsummary, or ask your UBS Financial Advisor for a copy.