08 Dec Student Scholarship Spotlight: Shayda Zarrin
The Women’s Leadership Alliance is proud to recognize Shayda Zarrin as a recipient of
our Student Scholarship, supporting women pursuing meaningful careers in financial
advising. Shayda’s passion for finance was shaped early in life after witnessing the
impact of a single financial decision on her own family—an experience that sparked her
desire to understand markets, empower others, and help people avoid the uncertainties
that come with navigating complex financial choices alone. That drive only strengthened
as she watched individuals make life-changing decisions without guidance, reinforcing
her belief in the importance of accessible, trustworthy financial advice.
Shayda’s academic and professional journey reflects that commitment. While
completing her studies at Santa Clara University and interning with LPL
Financial—alongside competing as a dual-sport Division I athlete—she has discovered
how meaningful it is to help clients make confident, informed financial decisions.
Managing rigorous coursework and a challenging internship strengthened her resilience
and confirmed that she has chosen the right path.
As she prepares to graduate this December, Shayda is focused on building a long-term
career in wealth management and financial planning. She aims to earn her CFP
designation and is pursuing a Master’s degree in Finance at the University of Portland
with a focus on taxation—recognizing that true financial advice must take the whole
picture into account. She’s also deeply curious about how technology can make
financial planning more intuitive and accessible, especially for those who have
historically been underserved. Ultimately, Shayda hopes to become the kind of advisor
her parents never had: someone who listens, educates, and empowers through trust
and empathy.
Shayda credits her mother as one of her strongest influences—modeling confidence,
empathy, and unwavering dedication. Outside of finance, Shayda engages her creative
side through photography, running a small photography business and finding joy in
capturing the world through her lens. She also considers her natural ability to put others
at ease—especially when discussing sensitive topics like money—to be her greatest
superpower. That warmth, curiosity, and authenticity shape her vision for a more
diverse, client-centered financial services industry where women feel represented,
supported, and empowered to take part in financial decision-making.
WLA is honored to support Shayda as she advances her education and enters the
profession with purpose. Her passion for education, access, and genuine client care
embodies the spirit of this scholarship—and reflects the impact women advisors can
have when empowered to lead. We look forward to the meaningful difference she will
make in the lives of the clients and communities she will serve.