Sonika Chan
Financial Planning, Housing and Consumer Economics
Cambodia native found a home and a passion for financial planning in FACS
- Hometown
Cambodia
- Major/Minor
Financial Planning
- Activities/Honors
- Student Financial Planning Association
- Athens Student Investors Club, Vice President, Director of Marketing
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Tax Preparer
- Love and Money Center Financial Service Provider
- Alpha Sigma Rho Sorority
- Why I chose my major
I initially chose a Finance major, but I soon realized that it wasn’t the right fit for me. When I transferred to UGA, my former advisor recommended financial planning, and after reviewing the course curriculum, it clicked immediately. I switched my major on the spot.
Financial planning allows me to build personal relationships with clients, having a direct impact on their lives and witnessing the results firsthand. Programs like VITA and the Love and Money Center provide me with opportunities to engage with clients and apply the knowledge I've gained in class to real-life situations. These experiences have deepened my passion for financial planning and reaffirmed that I chose the right path.
- What I like most about FACS
FACS is not just an amazing college, but also a wonderful community. I have found a home away from home with the people in FACS, including both students and faculty. FACS also provides tremendous resources for students like myself, giving me the opportunity to attend conferences and network with professionals. I always find myself looking around and feeling grateful to be surrounded by such supportive and outstanding people. Whether it's fellow students or faculty, I am constantly inspired by the kindness, encouragement, and collaboration that define this community.
- Post-graduation plans
Since I only began my financial planning major in my third year of college, I am eager to continue learning. To further my education, I have decided to pursue a graduate degree in Behavioral Financial Planning, along with a graduate certificate in Behavioral Financial Planning and Financial Therapy!
