Business alum shares career, personal finance advice

This National Financial Awareness Day, W. P. Carey alumna shares lessons from more than 20 years in banking, offers advice for students, and explains why financial knowledge is a form of freedom.

When Heather Bronson (BS Finance '08) accepted a full-time teller position at Bank of America during her senior year of high school, she hadn't yet mapped out her future. As she grew within the organization and discovered her passion for business at W. P. Carey, it became clear that a career in finance was the right fit.

More than two decades later, Bronson continues to thrive in banking. In early 2025, she joined Fifth Third Bank through the acquisition of Comerica Bank as a senior vice president and director of commercial loan fulfillment, where she leads a team that helps clients navigate complex lending solutions.

"Each day brings new opportunities to solve problems and create a positive impact," she says, "whether through improving processes or helping others grow in their careers."

Throughout her career, Bronson has collaborated with global teams and led peers through regulatory changes, technological advances, and organizational transformations. Those experiences shaped her management approach and deepened her appreciation for mentoring others.

"Some of the most rewarding moments have been developing talent and watching teams succeed, as well as supporting clients through the complexity of their evolving business needs," Bronson says. "Each experience has strengthened my resilience, expanded my perspective, and reinforced the importance of guiding with clarity and adaptability in times of change."

Her accomplishments were recognized last fall when she was inducted into the W. P. Carey Alumni Hall of Fame, which has honored exceptional business school alumni and leaders since 1977. Bronson describes the experience as an honor that motivated her to give back by helping develop the next generation of finance professionals.

"It's truly humbling to be recognized among such an accomplished and inspiring network. It's especially meaningful to be acknowledged by a community that has played such an important role in shaping my career and values," she says.

In honor of National Financial Awareness Day, W. P. Carey News spoke with Bronson about how her education shaped her professional journey, her tips for future grads, and why personal finance and financial literacy are invaluable skills for every student.

Question: How did your education prepare you for a career in finance? Are there any skills or lessons in particular that had a lasting impact on your professional growth?

Answer: My education was foundational in preparing me for a career in finance. The curriculum combined strong financial principles with real-world application and critical thinking, and one lasting takeaway was learning to approach challenges with both analytical rigor and creativity — a skill that has been invaluable as I've taken on more responsibility. Just as important was the emphasis on collaboration and diversity of thought, which strengthened my ability to work effectively across teams, communicate clearly, and build meaningful relationships — essential capabilities for success in finance.

Q: What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a career similar to yours?

A: Maximize every chance to learn through internships, networking, campus engagement, and global experiences. Don't hesitate to start in an entry-level role; it builds critical perspective for long-term success. Stay curious, seek feedback, and embrace challenges. The strongest careers are defined by adaptability and growth.

Q: What qualities or skills are essential for success in finance today?

A: In today's finance landscape, it's important to build more than just technical skills — you also need the ability to think strategically. Learn how your work connects to broader business outcomes, not just the task at hand. Take ownership early, even when the path isn't perfectly clear. Prioritize strong communication, because being able to explain complex ideas will set you apart. Seek out opportunities to collaborate across teams and learn from different perspectives. Stay adaptable, remain curious, and look for ways to turn insights into action.

Q: Aug. 14 is National Financial Awareness Day. What financial habits should young professionals start developing while still in school?

A: Establishing strong financial habits early is essential. Focus on budgeting, saving consistently, and building a solid understanding of credit. Just as importantly, take advantage of long-term, tax-advantaged savings opportunities such as 401(k)s, Roth IRAs, and health savings accounts. These decisions can significantly accelerate financial growth over time. Together, these fundamentals create a strong foundation for long-term financial security and help you make informed, confident decisions throughout your career and life.

National Financial Awareness Day is also an important reminder to keep building your financial knowledge. Take time to assess your financial health, seek guidance, and use available resources to navigate decisions and avoid common pitfalls. Financial freedom is powerful because it creates opportunities to achieve important goals, from buying a home to starting a business or exploring the world.