Randy Garcia, ’77 BS Business Administration, is the founder and CEO of The Investment Counsel Company of Nevada. Since 1978, he has been helping affluent families, corporations, foundations, and endowments establish and achieve financial goals. He has gained recognition from financial industry publications such as Barron’s, Forbes, and Financial Advisor.

The advice I would give to myself as a new graduate … Start with the end in mind. In other words, clarify your long-term goals in all areas of your life: professionally, financially, and personally. Then ask yourself if your goals are in harmony or conflicting with one another, and if they have a realistic level of attainment.   

Define the action steps required to attain each goal in measurable terms, so you can gauge progress. Determine your timeframe to accomplish each goal. It’s important to track if you are on, behind, or ahead of schedule.

Each day, apply the same level of intensity as if training to earn a gold medal in the Olympics.  Accomplishing these action steps should be your first priority. And always remember that success only counts with ethical behavior and consideration for others.

The Alumni Advice series is part of our special 2016 commencement week celebrations, which include the annual Alumni Association Awards Program on May 12, and the spring graduation ceremonies on May 13 and 14. Join us in congratulating our newest alumni on social media with #UNLVGrad.