Defining the Modern Financier

For Wyatt Ross, a senior finance major from Mount Pleasant, Mich., choosing Central Michigan University wasn’t about going far from home; it was about recognizing the value of a community that had already shaped him and continuing that experience in a place where he felt both comfortable and motivated to grow. “I chose CMU because it allowed me to remain close to the important people in my life,” he said. “Since I grew up in Mount Pleasant, I have always been surrounded by the CMU community and that was also appealing to me.”

Ross has transformed that sense of familiarity into a college experience defined by discipline, exploration and a growing passion for the financial world.

Discovering finance through research

Like many students, Ross didn’t begin his college journey with a clear, fixed path, instead following an early interest in science before realizing that his strengths and curiosity aligned more closely with a different kind of analysis. “Originally, I was a biology major because of a love for the outdoors and interest in research,” he said. “I switched to finance because of an overwhelming interest in capital markets and it was surprisingly similar to the research environment I was used to.”

That realization marked a turning point, one that allowed him to apply the same analytical thinking in a new, fast-moving context.

The impact of faculty mentorship

As Ross progressed through the program, the influence of faculty played a key role in shaping not only his academic performance but also his long-term mindset and goals. “My favorite professor so far has certainly been Brad Taylor,” he said. “I haven’t met a faculty member who invests more time and genuine care into his students.”

Through that mentorship, Ross began to see new possibilities for himself and push beyond what he once thought were his limits. “He’s pushed me to raise my own standards beyond what I initially thought I was capable of,” he said. “That experience has really shaped my desire to give back and support future students in the same way.”

Building skills through experience and involvement

Inside and outside the classroom, Ross has taken advantage of opportunities that allow him to apply what he’s learning in real, tangible ways, developing both technical skills and confidence through hands-on experiences. “CMU has supported me through the accessibility of resources,” he said. “Professors are willing to invest time outside of class, whether that’s helping with course material or giving career advice.”

That support extends into specialized spaces and student organizations that keep him engaged beyond coursework. “Spaces like the Voigtman Bloomberg Lab and involvement in finance organizations have given me an environment where I can keep learning beyond the classroom,” he said. Even his early academic experiences continue to influence his approach. “Although it was unrelated to finance, I have continued to be able to apply those skills in market research and personal projects with the Student Managed Investment Funds,” he said.

Finding direction through community

Entering a new program came with uncertainty, but Ross made a deliberate decision to step outside his comfort zone—one that ultimately shaped his entire college experience. “I came into the finance program during my sophomore year, and I can remember being nervous and lacking direction,” he said. “So, I forced myself to attend any finance related meetings or events that I could.”

Over time, those small decisions turned into meaningful connections and a strong sense of belonging. “After a while, I found that I had a lot more friends and I don’t think I have made a better decision since,” he said. Now, those same organizations continue to play a central role in both his growth and his day-to-day experience. “My involvement in the Student Managed Investment Funds and other finance organizations has been a big part of my experience at CMU,” he said. “They’ve helped me grow, but what stands out most is the community.”

A disciplined routine

Ross’s daily schedule reflects the level of commitment required to succeed in a competitive field, with his time structured around both academic and professional development. “My days usually starts around 6:30 a.m., so I get ready for either a Wall Street Journal Club meeting or CFA study session by 8:00,” he said. “After my classes finish around noon, I’m typically in the Voigtman Bloomberg Lab for the rest of the day, often until 7 to 10 p.m.”

That intensity requires balance, and Ross has learned how to reset when needed. “When that happens, I try to be intentional about how I reset,” he said. “For me, that’s working out and listening to music. It gives me space to clear my head and come back with a better perspective.”

Advice grounded in experience

Through his own journey, Ross has developed a clear perspective on what matters most when choosing a college path, one that goes beyond academics alone. “You want to be in a program that will lead to a successful start to your career after graduation,” he said. “More importantly, go somewhere with a community of people you enjoy being around because they will be the ones you spend late nights working with.”

He also encourages students to stay open to change, recognizing that growth often comes from unexpected shifts. “One thing I wish I had known before starting college is how important it is not to cling too tightly to the version of yourself you think you’re supposed to be,” he said. “College gives you a lot of space to grow, and the real opportunity is in being open to change.”

What he’ll remember most

As Ross looks ahead, it’s not just the academic achievements or long hours that stand out—it’s the shared experiences and relationships built along the way. “Looking back on my time at CMU, I’ll remember the highs of competing together and performing well in competitions, but also the heartbreaks and sacrifices that came with them,” he said. “More than anything, I’ll remember the friends I’ve made along the way.”