Two Dragons invest in the future as financial advisors

Two Minnesota State University Moorhead alumni, Parker Jacobs '23 and Josiah Behm '24, are making their mark in the world of finance at Prairiewood Wealth Management. But before they made it to the big leagues, Parker and Josiah were building their portfolios here at MSUM.

A Natural Interest in Finance

For both Parker and Josiah, an early interest in finance set the stage for their career paths. "From a young age, I enjoyed personal finance and the game of saving," Parker says. His interest grew in high school when he researched careers in finance and found MSUM's program, which led him to his finance degree with a minor in accounting, and to his role as assistant advisor with Prairiewood.

Josiah entered school with a double major in accounting and finance. After more time in college, he figured out that financial planning was an interest of his. "I enjoy hearing people's stories and how they decide to spend or invest their money, and I like getting to be a part of that process, " he says. After his recent graduation with a business degree, Josiah is learning the ropes as one of Prairiewood's newest interns for the spring.

The Road to Prairiewood

Josiah and Parker took different routes to Prairiewood. After interning for Prairiewood his last semester of school, Parker took a job with Bell Bank. He wanted to figure out what his next steps were for his career. His advisor, Sean Stumphf, guided him through both his academic experiences and the process of applying for jobs.

"When I was interviewing with Prairiewood, I hadn't heard back in a couple of weeks, and he recommended that I reach out to them," Parker says

Josiah's path began differently. After graduating, he had his first internship opportunity with Prairiewood rejected, but in normal Dragon fashion, perseverance paid off. After taking a bank teller job that summer, he continued searching for an internship in wealth management.

By the fall, Prairiewood reached out to him again, offering him the internship he had initially wanted. "I had always wanted to find an internship or job in wealth management, and it felt like the right place to start," Josiah says.

From MSUM to Real-World Applications

Josiah and Parker both credit MSUM for playing a significant role in preparing them for their careers.

"Almost all of the classes I took correlated to what we do here," Parker said, emphasizing courses like tax and principles of investment. Similarly, Josiah felt the practical learning he gained from projects and assignments at MSUM were very similar to what he is doing currently at the firm.

Josiah agrees, saying, "Most importantly, I learned how to learn. I learned that it was okay to ask for help from others because that is exactly how you acquire new skills,." Josiah always felt supported at MSUM, whether it was by his business professors or his football coaches.

Parker and Josiah feel a similar way at Prairiewood. They have both benefited from the company's mentorship-driven environment, working closely with seasoned advisors. "There aren't better mentors to be working under," Parker says.

Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations

As usual, the transition from college to the workplace came with challenges for the two alumni. Parker and Josiah acknowledge that learning doesn't stop after college. "I thought it would just be four years and I'd be good to go," says Parker. "But you are always growing and learning more about your profession and yourself."

Since joining the team, Parker has not stopped pursuing his education. "I am working towards becoming a CFP professional," he says. "It's very comprehensive with a broad scope of knowledge that applies to financial advising."

Today, Parker can serve clients with the goal of becoming a family CFO. After completing his remaining required hours, Parker hopes to progress towards becoming a lead advisor and ultimately a family CFO with Prairiewood.

Josiah is currently in the position that Parker started at. He is beginning his own CFP program to become certified as well. Josiah hopes to develop into a trusted advisor within the company. "I've learned to be intentional with my time-balancing work and personal life," he says.

Advice for Future Financial Advisors

Parker believes it is important for students to understand tax planning and accounting, as these areas are foundational to providing value to clients. "Every financial decision you make has tax implications," he says.

Josiah recommends reading books like Finding Your Path by Caleb Brown, which helped him understand the various career paths in financial planning.

Parker Jacobs and Josiah Behm are prime examples of how a solid education, dedicated mentors, and perseverance can get you far. As they continue to grow in their careers, both are committed to learning and developing the skills necessary to serve their clients and contribute to the company's mission.