From Anthropology Major to Finance Firm: How My Unique Background Helped Me Succeed

As an Anthropology major, Melissa never imagined she would be working at a finance company—however, Fisher’s welcoming environment has allowed her to thrive. She has grown personally and professionally during her year as a Client Operations Associate, embracing the many opportunities that have come her way.  Below, Melissa shares her experience starting a career at a finance company without a finance background.  

What initially drew you to a role at a finance company despite not having a finance background?

In my job search, I focused on the job responsibilities and company values. What appealed to me about Fisher was that they welcome employees of all backgrounds and encourage on-the-job learning as part of career development. Additionally, the commitment to lifelong careers stood out to me, as someone who is always seeking new and interesting opportunities. I loved the idea of staying at one company and being able to grow my career in unexpected directions. The fact that Fisher Investments is a finance company was not as important to me as Fisher investing in its employees. 

Was there a learning curve when you entered the corporate world? If so, how did you handle this?

There was, but my favorite way to think about learning curves is to acknowledge their stages: “I don’t know how to do it,” “I know what I’m doing but lack confidence,” and “I am comfortable and competent with what I do.” Working with my manager to set timeline expectations for each of these stages helped temper my anxiety over learning a new role.  

Did you have any transferable skills from previous years that helped you when you started?

Strong communication skills, a willingness to learn, time management, and project management are the skills I’d deem most useful.  My approach to college and career growth is that it’s not the title that matters but what skills I gain and my willingness to learn. In the corporate world, these skills allow me to communicate proper expectations, gain knowledge and handle my workload without compromising my commitment to work-life balance. 

What types of training and resources were provided for you when you started your role?

There was a dedicated training period with classes, question and answer sessions, and dedicated mentors who would assist as we transitioned into working with clients. Additionally, we had points of contact for more nuanced inquiries, and an internal website full of resources that I still make use of even after a year in the role. The biggest support for me as a new hire was the welcoming culture—my coworkers and manager were there to answer my questions and support me.  

How have you been able to achieve success in your role?

Beyond utilizing my transferable skills, I always make sure to keep my goals in mind. When I started my new role, my goal was to settle into this new beginning. Then it shifted to increasing my responsibilities and finding ways to stand out that fit with who I am. Now, I’m learning more about finance and my specialized role. I don’t know where the future will take me, but keeping my professional goals in mind has helped me create a roadmap that drives me towards success. 

If you could go back and tell yourself one thing before starting your role, what would it be? 

Don’t be intimidated to be yourself. Starting my first corporate job, I was always striving for perfection. In my year here, I’ve realized that success often comes from giving yourself space. When I stopped holding myself to impossible standards, I approached my work with more confidence. I discovered I enjoyed shaping team culture when I began a weekly fun fact newsletter. Being yourself is what will lead to new opportunities and help you make your mark.