Vice President of Riskin & Riskin, PC (public accounting & advisory firm)
Founder & Managing Member of Riskin Advisory, LLC (college financial planning practice)
Assistant Professor of Accounting & Finance at Albertus Magnus College
What was your educational path after graduating from St. Mary School?
After graduating from St. Mary School, I went to Fairfield College Preparatory School. I then went on to receive my Bachelor of Science in Accounting with a Minor in Finance (Cum Laude) degree from Fairfield University and my Master of Science in Taxation (Distinction) degree from Bentley University. I am a Certified Public Accounting and Personal Financial Specialist (CPA/PFS) licensed in the State of Connecticut and one of only 500 Certified College Planning Specialists (CCPS) in the Country.
How do you feel SMS prepared you academically?
SMS helped me to become the writer and problem-solver I am today. Without the help of the teachers at St. Mary School, I would not be able to communicate with clients and students as effectively as I do today. I was taught to use critical thinking skills in order to approach problems from many different angles before the best solution presented itself.
Do you feel SMS provided you with a foundation for your future?
Absolutely. The faculty, administration, and community at SMS provided me with the opportunity to learn how to become a great person for others. I was presented with avenues to learn how to present myself, perform under the highest academic standards, and pursue my passions at the same time. I was also fortunate enough to meet my fiancé at SMS in the 4th grade, so SMS has proven to be part of the foundation for my past, present, and future.
What are some of your favorite memories of SMS?
I always enjoyed the SMS basketball tournaments, school dances, and the carnival. I enjoyed spending time with everyone I went to school with at SMS and feel proud to say that I made lifelong friends here.
What are your plans for the future?
I plan to continue to grow and mature on both personal and professional levels. I strive to provide the best services to my clients and students as I continue to become a better accountant, financial coach, and professor. I also plan on doing more speaking engagements in the near future about college planning and the importance of financial literacy for children and adults of all ages.
What advice can you give to our students?
If you can present your best self, perform beyond the level expected of you, persevere through challenges and embrace your passions, happiness and success will follow you wherever you go.
