As an avenue to inform the public, particularly students, of career paths for successful employment, The Holmes Education Post continues its segment of interviewing professionals in different fields. Our distinguished interviewee is Ms. Rachel Sheats, assistant vice president for Bank of America. An excerpt of the interview with Sheats follows:

What career path led to your profession?

I started college while I was still in retail. I was a store manager working extremely long hours which turned out to not be very conducive to my college schedule. At that point, I began looking for a career that would give me a better schedule while I was in school. Banking seemed like a great place to expand my knowledge about finance and also had great career potential for women.

What educational background and/or professional training are essential for this profession?

When I entered the banking world, I had quite a few years of management experience but was completely new to the financial world. One thing about this industry is that it changes very quickly and it is important to be amenable to change. Having a background in finance isn’t necessary to at least get an entry level position; however, as you want to move into more challenging positions, then your education and professional training will be imperative. A degree in finance is required for certain executive level positions within the bank.

What influenced you to pursue a career as assistant vice president (AVP)?

Having had a long standing career with the bank, I have also held numerous positions within the bank. My AVP title is a sign of my hard work and dedication to the organization and also a confirmation of my success with Bank of America. This title is something that is earned, not given.

What professional, civic or community organization do you belong?

I am a board member and the treasurer for Song of Atlanta, the fifth place international women’s barbershop chorus here in Atlanta. I am also a member of LEAD for Women, a mentoring organization for women, and a volunteer with the Georgia Aquarium.

What advice do you give to students who desire to pursue a career in management for a financial institution?

Positions in the banking center are considered entry level and your best place to get started is within the bank. Networking and being visible to your local banking center management is key. Your local banking center is in contact with recruiters so if they know you are hungry for a position then they can get you in front of the recruiters. The bank also offers great benefits to students who are studying finance and/or business, so it is a great place to work while in school.

What is your job description and/or typical work day?

My job is to assist customers in obtaining the financial products and services they need to help them achieve their financial goals. I am here to guide, suggest, problem solve and instill confidence in our brand. My typical work day involves sales and servicing of customers. I am responsible for the sale of new accounts and credit products, as well as servicing customer issues.

We sincerely thank Ms. Rachel Sheats for sharing her personal and professional experience for others to learn about a career path in the banking industry.

Dr. Ronald Holmes is the author of three books, “Education Questions to be Answered,” “Current Issues and Answers in Education” and “How to Eradicate Hazing.” He is publisher of “The Holmes Education Post,” an education focused Internet newspaper. Holmes is the national superintendent of education for the National Save the Family Now Movement, Inc., a former teacher, school administrator and district superintendent. He can be reached at [email protected].