Fresh financial start for mum Misty
When the COVID pandemic closed the door on her restaurant business, CQUniversity opened a new one for Misty Grieves.
After the former Cairns restaurant owner made the difficult decision to close her business in 2020, Misty found a new career direction through a Bachelor of Accounting.
“I knew I wanted to study something related to accounting, but I needed guidance,” Misty said.
“After visiting the CQU Cairns campus, I discovered the Bachelor of Accounting with a major in financial planning was a good fit for me.”
Misty has credited much of her passion for financial planning to the encouragement of CQUniversity lecturer Dr Angelique McInnes, who went above and beyond to support her students.
“Angelique’s passion and commitment have inspired me to strive to become the best financial adviser possible,” Misty said.
“She was passionate about the subject and went above and beyond the expectations of any lecturer, even organising one-on-one Zoom sessions.”
This support from Dr McInnes recently led to a career opportunity for Misty at a leading financial planning firm.
“Angelique posted a job opportunity on my course page and recommended me for the role,” Misty said.
“Unfortunately, the role was based in Mackay and because of my family I was unable to relocate, but that introduction connected me with the Fowler’s Group in Cairns.
“I was invited to interview with Jason and Paul Fowler and I was thrilled to be offered the position.”
Misty now works two days a week as a Client Services Officer, gaining valuable hands-on experience while she continues her studies.
“When I'm assigned specific tasks, I find it rewarding not only to complete them but also am engaged deeply with the discussions that arise from those responsibilities. It fosters a greater understanding of the material and enhances my learning experience.
“I study on my lunch breaks at work. When I’m not working, I dedicate time to my assessments, but I also make sure to prioritise family time with my husband and three boys.”
This commitment to her studies also saw Misty nominated for the Financial Advice Association of Australia (FAAA) University Student of the Year Award.
Misty has planned to sit the Financial Adviser Exam after completing her degree and professional hours, with a long-term goal of becoming a qualified financial adviser.
“I plan to continue my career with Fowlers Group. In addition, I want to enhance my financial planning expertise by exploring and studying in specialised areas," she said.
“I am confident that gaining experience in various fields of financial planning will lead me to discover my true passion within this profession.”
