Her Story
About Aurora
I started my career in marketing for health insurance, working as a bilingual junior marketing representative doing presentations and educating people about HMOs and PPOs when they were first coming out. I went back to school to get my degree in marketing, then later pursued teaching because I got married and had kids. I got my teaching degree in 1991 and taught for many years, including middle school, and also taught Spanish and English as a second language through Oakton Community College. I've always been passionate about education and serving my community. After COVID in 2020, I decided not to go back to traditional teaching because I missed the marketing side and going out to teach people. I've had my producer's license for over 20 years, and for the past three years I've been self-employed as a broker in financial services. I help people look at their finances and understand what they need, whether it's life insurance, what to do with their 401K, or alternative financial strategies like using IRA funds to buy real estate. I have a great team that supports me, and I'm constantly learning about new financial strategies and staying current with continuing education requirements. I'm [AGE] years old, turning [AGE] this year, and I just want to give back to my community and teach people what I've learned along the way.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Aurora
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my family, staying grounded, and not giving up even when times are tough and I feel like giving up. Being true to myself and to others is so important, so that people can see that I really do care. Anybody can sell you anything and just be done, but I truly care about what I'm going to tell you. It's not about the money anymore, even though money is important. It's just me trying to leave something for someone and say, hey, I learned from her, or yeah, she really taught me something. I also try not to take things personally, because people are people, even though it's hard to do because I do take it personal. And I always thank God and be grateful and thankful for every little thing that I have, because you just never know. Sometimes I look back at my life and go, what have I done? And my husband reminds me of all the impact I've made, and I realize, yeah, you're right.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say just do everything you can, take a little bit from everyone, and get mentors. I would definitely, definitely learn about finance, because that's so important. Get your finances in order, because as you get older, people think, I have time, I have time. No, you don't. Look into getting someone that can advise you, sit down with someone, go through your finances, and start saving, even if it's $5 a week. Travel and learn. Stay true to yourself, and if you need help, ask for help. There are so many resources now that were not available when I was coming up. There are groups and help for small businesses. Reach out and ask for help, because the sky is the limit.
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