Holly Clarke, CFP® - Wealth Advisor
I started playing piano at age seven and completely fell in love with it. I was fortunate to play in middle school concerts and then began playing in one of our local churches as a substitute pianist throughout high school and most of college. Being able to share my gift with others has always brought me immense joy, however I knew it would be very difficult to make a successful career in music. Upon graduating from high school, I knew I needed to have two majors in college: one following my passion for music and one that would provide a secure paycheck.
Four years later, I graduated from Moravian College with a dual degree in Music and Accounting. Like most people graduating with an accounting degree, I started my path in the auditing sector of a public accounting firm and quickly realized it wasn’t what I wanted to do long-term. Between the long hours of busy season and the feeling of not making a positive impact (because no one is happy when the auditors show up!), I knew I would have to pivot to find a career that aligned with my nature of wanting to help people.
Looking at career options online, I stumbled upon a financial planning associate role. When I first engaged in the financial planning process supporting our advisors while they worked with clients, I found it exciting getting to understand who they are, what they value, and the goals they have. Then, we get to use that information to align their financial life to reflect what matters most to them! Our job helps people understand their finances, as well as educate them on any potential tradeoffs for the goals they have, so they can make decisions confidently. I never take for granted when I see them feel at ease knowing they’re going to be okay and be able to live the life they want to live. To better support the planning process and to continue growing professionally in this industry, I obtained my CFP® certification and have a passion for financial planning.
Outside of work, I enjoy playing piano, working out, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. If we’re not on the go on the weekends, you can usually find my husband, Michael, and I working on a house project while our curious cat, Nash, supervises!