
Hobbies and interests
Soccer
Isabella Serna
1x
Finalist
Isabella Serna
1x
FinalistBio
I’m a Finance and Management Information Systems student at Florida State University passionate about leadership, community impact, and professional development. Through my involvement in organizations like ALPFA and PorColombia, I work to create opportunities that connect students with mentorship, career growth, and meaningful experiences. I’m especially interested in corporate finance and using business as a way to build stronger communities.
Education
Florida State University
Bachelor's degree programMajors:
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Finance and Financial Management Services
GPA:
3.9
Miscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
Career
Dream career field:
Financial Services
Dream career goals:
Consulting
Sports
Soccer
Varsity2020 – 20211 year
Public services
Volunteering
Falcon Cove Middle school — An assistant2018 – 2020Volunteering
St.Katherine — organizing food2018 – Present
Future Interests
Advocacy
Philanthropy
Entrepreneurship
Cornerstone Wealth Advisors — Invest in Others Scholarship
Wealth management is often viewed as a collection of numbers and portfolios, but to me it represents something much deeper. It is a way to create stability and long term security for families. As a first generation Hispanic student at Florida State University, I have seen how financial knowledge can shape the future of entire communities. My journey has taught me that wealth management is not only about managing assets, but about protecting and expanding opportunities for others.
I encountered a significant challenge during my first year of college when I lost a close family member. Managing that grief while trying to maintain my academic performance was extremely difficult. There were moments when I questioned my confidence and wondered if I truly belonged in such a demanding academic environment. It was one of the most overwhelming periods I had ever experienced.
Over time, however, this experience reshaped my perspective on resilience and purpose. I began to reflect on the sacrifices my family made for me to pursue higher education. My Hispanic heritage is rooted in perseverance, community, and responsibility. Those values encouraged me to approach my education with renewed determination. I realized that my education is not only a personal achievement, but also a tool that can create opportunities for others who come from backgrounds similar to mine.
I am currently pursuing a double major in Finance and Management Information Systems. I am particularly interested in understanding how financial systems and technology work together to create growth and opportunity. While I am excited about building a successful career, my goals extend beyond personal achievement. I want to use my education to help individuals and communities build more secure financial futures. Expanding access to financial knowledge is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen communities.
My leadership roles on campus have allowed me to put these ideas into practice. As Vice President of ALPFA, the Association of Latino Professionals For America, I help connect students with mentorship, professional development, and career opportunities. Many of the students involved in ALPFA are first generation college students who may not yet have access to professional networks. Supporting them as they pursue careers in industries such as finance, consulting, and technology allows me to contribute to the growth of my community.
I also serve as President of PorColombia, an organization dedicated to celebrating Colombian culture while supporting charitable initiatives. Through this role, I have led fundraising efforts and community events that support causes both locally and internationally. These experiences have reinforced my belief that success is most meaningful when it is shared and used to uplift others.
Looking ahead, I hope to pursue a career in corporate finance and strategic planning. I want to contribute to thoughtful financial decision making within organizations while continuing to remain involved in mentorship and community initiatives. My goal is to help expand financial opportunity for individuals who may not have previously had access to it.
Wealth management, to me, is ultimately about building a more secure and prosperous future. Through my education, leadership, and commitment to my community, I hope to help ensure that financial knowledge and opportunity are accessible to everyone, regardless of where they begin.