The Best of Both Worlds
Amber (Demarr) Terakedis, B.B.A.’04
Studying finance and economics at the college of business opened doors for Terakedis and helped lay the foundation of essential and functional skills for what would soon become a successful career in financial services with Plante Moran Financial Advisors. But, Terakedis says she gained much more beyond these skills. “The classes were so diverse, and the professors were very experienced in industry, which helped me identify the industries where I had a strong affinity.”
Confident in her education and excited to gain real-world experience, Terakedis accepted an internship with a local brokerage firm in Kalamazoo. She interned there part-time during college and went on to work for the firm for four years following graduation. “I found that while I loved many aspects of the work in financial services, I wanted to take a more holistic approach to planning instead of specializing only in investments,” says Terakedis.
After deciding to further develop her skills and explore other opportunities, Terakedis accepted a position as client relationship manager with Plante Moran Financial Advisors—the investment advisory affiliate of Plante Moran. “The opportunity gave me the best of both worlds. I still have an opportunity to help clients with investments, but now, as a member of a registered investment advisory, I also get to work with a broader group of wealth management professionals, such as tax experts, to provide solutions that support my clients’ entire balance sheet, rather than focusing on just one aspect,” Terakedis says.
Terakedis describes her new position as one that bridges her education in finance and economics with her passion for versatile work and helping others. “I am responsible for working with my clients—primarily individuals and families—to identify goals and develop customized plans that help them reach financial fulfillment. I have a leadership role on a team that is responsible for developing a new client service area, which is an exciting new direction for me,” she says.
Terakedis acknowledges Jo Wiley, master faculty specialist and director of the business communication center, as an influential and inspiring mentor throughout her career. “My favorite professor in my time at WMU was Jo Wiley. She taught a business writing course. I never felt like I had a problem writing, but Ms. Wiley really pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged me to stretch my skills. I have come to appreciate that more than I can say and am happy to report I’m still in touch with her and benefiting from that relationship today,” says Terakedis.
Terakedis supports the WMU community through donations, attending sporting events with family and friends and serving as an admissions ambassador for the college of business—answering questions and reaching out to prospective students to encourage them in their decision to attend Western Michigan University.