Matthew Romero ’25, a first-generation economics undergrad at Cal State Fullerton’s College of Business and Economics focusing on a financial planning future, will be graduating debt-free this spring thanks to a $10,000 scholarship award.

“I am immensely grateful to the CFP Board and the Charles Schwab Foundation for awarding me this scholarship,” says Romero. “This opportunity will not only alleviate the financial burden of pursuing my financial planning certification but also serve as a strong validation of my dedication to become a trusted financial advisor.”

Like many financial planning students at CSUF, Romero is focused on financial advising to historically underprivileged populations, a new take on the traditional focus on wealth management for the upper classes.

“This scholarship reinforces my commitment to helping individuals and families achieve financial security and independence, and I am inspired to work even harder to make a meaningful impact in the field,” he says. “I deeply appreciate the support and investment in my future and look forward to using the knowledge and resources I’ve gained to give back to my community and profession.”

In addition to covering tuition costs, Romero, who is also president of the CSUF Economics Association club, hopes to use part of his award to invest in skill development opportunities, such as workshops and connections with mentors in the financial planning field, along with professional exam prep.

“The Charles Schwab Foundation Scholarship enables me to serve as a testimony to clients who dream of funding their child’s education. By applying for scholarships and demonstrating the effort it takes, I hope to inspire others to see that it is possible to graduate debt-free while pursuing their goals,” he says.

“My education at CSUF has been crucial in preparing me, providing the specialized courses required to meet the CFP Board’s education requirements which has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to uphold a high standard in financial planning.  In the coming years, I see myself as a financial planner, helping individuals and families navigate their finances with a holistic approach. I am passionate about financial planning and the opportunity to make a positive impact on others’ lives.”

For more on Cal State Fullerton’s Personal Financial Planning Program, visit the program’s website. Or read more of our articles on financial planning.