Six university students have beaten more than 650 competitors to reach the finals of the 2018 AMP University Challenge, the premier competition for tertiary students with career ambitions in financial advice and financial services.

This year’s qualifying finalists are Kimberley Guild (La Trobe), William Nakos (RMIT), Michael Reardon (Deakin University), Shane Harris (RMIT), Ashley Fernandes and Sarah Toan (a team from Western Sydney University).

The six finalists, representing the top one per cent of entries, submitted the best examples of a financial plan based on a hypothetical client case study.

The finalists will gather from around the country next week to compete in an intense day of technical quizzes, role playing, and public speaking at AMP’s head office in Sydney.

“There’s some strong talent and great commitment from Australia’s younger generation looking to a career in financial planning – and that’s a positive sign for the future success of the industry."

The ultimate individual or team winner will take away a prize of $5,000.

AMP Group Executive Advice, David Akers, said he was pleased to see such a large number of entries, with all Australian states represented.

“It’s great to see young people in business and finance studies choosing a career in financial advice,” Mr Akers said.

“It’s a profession that gives people a genuine opportunity to positively affect people’s lives.”

Now in its eighth year, the AMP University Challenge is a key pillar of AMP’s strategy to promote high standards of education and professionalism in financial advice.

Previous winners have gone on to secure advice roles in the AMP network and elsewhere.

Mr Akers said he expects this year’s judges will have a difficult time choosing a winner, with all the finalists producing exceptional work.

“There’s some strong talent and great commitment from Australia’s younger generation looking to a career in financial planning – and that’s a positive sign for the future success of the industry,” he said.

For more information visit www.ampuniversitychallenge.com.au

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