Scholarship Spotlights
The Investments & Wealth Foundation scholarship program has helped talented professionals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences earn the certifications and expertise that define great careers in wealth management. Below, we share some of those stories and the role the Foundation played in their journey.
Meet Your Peers in the Investment & Wealth Institute
Sam Lee, MSF, CFP®, CIMA®, CPWA
Financial Advisor
Intrinsic Wealth Management
Can you share your journey into the financial advisory profession? What inspired you to pursue this career?
My journey into financial advising was driven by a strong interest in markets and economics. After graduating from the University of Illinois with a concentration in Finance, I began my career in 2010 at a small broker-dealer in downtown Chicago, primarily working in operations and trading.
Early on, I realized that many individuals and families lacked access to clear, objective financial guidance—particularly around long-term planning and investment strategy. This inspired me to pursue a career as a Financial Advisor, working directly with clients.
In 2014, I joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and enrolled in their financial advisor training program (formerly known as the PMD program). After successfully completing the program over four years and building a book of business, I felt a strong desire to pursue independence.
In 2018, I transitioned away from the broker-dealer model and founded my own firm, Intrinsic Wealth Management. I was drawn to the idea of operating as a fee-based fiduciary—free from the constraints of selling proprietary products—so I could sit fully on the same side of the table as my clients and provide objective, transparent advice aligned with their goals.
How did receiving the scholarship from the Investments & Wealth Institute’s Foundation impact your professional journey?
Receiving the scholarship was both an honor and a meaningful catalyst in my professional development. It supported my pursuit of advanced designations, including the CIMA® and CPWA® certifications, as well as in-person coursework at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and The Wharton School of Business. These programs reinforced the importance of building deep technical expertise across multiple areas of wealth management. This is especially critical when working with high-net-worth families, where more complex planning considerations such as tax and estate planning often arise. Beyond the financial support, the scholarship was also a strong vote of confidence that motivated me to continue growing within the profession and to strive for a higher standard of advice.
In what ways do you believe your heritage contributes to your perspective on your profession and client relations?
My heritage has instilled in me a strong appreciation for discipline, long-term thinking, and responsibility—values that directly influence how I approach financial planning and investing.
Growing up in a first-generation Korean American household, I often served as a translator for my family in situations such as doctor visits, paying bills, and communicating with financial institutions. That experience instilled a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to help others navigate complex systems. It also gave me a greater sensitivity to the diverse backgrounds and perspectives that clients bring to financial decision-making. I believe this allows me to build stronger relationships and provide advice that is both thoughtful and culturally aware.
How do you celebrate your heritage in your professional life?
I celebrate my heritage with the values it instilled in me—integrity, humility, and a strong work ethic—and bringing those principles into my daily interactions with clients. I also make a conscious effort to support and mentor individuals entering the profession, particularly
those from underrepresented backgrounds, and to contribute to a more inclusive and diverse industry.
What advice would you give to other minorities who are considering pursuing advanced certifications in this field?
I would strongly encourage them to think of their career development as building a “skill tree”—continuously investing in knowledge and capabilities over time. Pursuing advanced certifications from reputable organizations is a key part of that process.
While the time commitment can be demanding, the long-term benefits both in technical expertise and professional credibility are significant. I view these certifications as an investment not only in myself, but also in the clients I serve. I would also recommend seeking out mentors and professional communities for support along the way. The industry benefits greatly from diverse perspectives, and there is a meaningful opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Past Spotlights
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