College of Education and Behavioral Sciences News

Tabitha Thomas, a senior Mathematical Economics major from Nicholasville, embodies the Hilltopper Spirit. During her time at WKU, Thomas served in various leadership roles. She was a Resident Assistant in Pearce Ford Tower for three semesters. She also worked her way up to being a Lead Associate Financial Coach during her two years at the WKU Center for Financial Success. 

As a financial coach, Thomas assists fellow students in navigating the world of financial planning. She works with a set of clients and provides financial advice. She said each client she works with has different financial circumstances to navigate and that the experience of being a financial coach is very rewarding.

“Students sometimes come to the WKU Center for Financial Success seeking assistance on how to pay for their education here at WKU. Some are stuck living in a paycheck-to-paycheck cycle or are unsure on how to manage their credit cards properly,” Thomas said. 

Thomas was also instrumental in planning and implementing the first High School Personal Financial Planning Summer Camp. For the camp, she filled a dual role. She was an assistant in coordinating and planning the camp and the lead camp counselor. 

Zach Jones, Program Manager for the WKU Center for Financial Success said, “Thomas was the big reason the camp was held without any major hiccups.” Jones described Thomas as a devoted team player who is willing to go above and beyond. 

While Thomas is leaving a lasting impact on her peers, she said being a Financial Coach prepared her for life beyond the Hill.  

“I have learned to become more comfortable, confident, and convey my ideas clearly when presenting in front of an audience,” Thomas said.

Additionally, Thomas said her opportunities at WKU have helped her develop richer relationships with faculty and staff, expand her network, and receive internship and job opportunities. 

With her sights set on graduation in December, Thomas plans to take all her skills learned at WKU, obtain her Certified Financial Planner designation, and begin work for a financial planning firm.

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For more information at the WKU Center for Financial Success, visit https://www.wku.edu/cfs/.