60-second interview with Jennifer Wood TEP
What attracted you to a career in law?
I knew from a young age that I would be in a helping profession. Law is also very intellectually challenging and has allowed me to grow as a person and work with many interesting clients and other professionals.
What do you think is the most important thing STEP does?
STEP provides a solid foundation of the legal and regulatory rules for trust and estate planning but more importantly focuses on the importance of practical judgement in how these rules are applied to real life situations.
Why did you decide to take one of the STEP qualifications?
I work with ultra-high net worth families with situations that often require complex structures. Understanding both the Canadian domestic and international rules on trust and estate planning has helped me to understand my clients and identify creative solutions to many issues.
What would you say to someone who is considering taking a STEP qualification?
Whether you are directly involved in trust management or not, STEP provides a solid foundation for your role as a trusted advisor to ultra-high net worth families. This will help you understand the complexity of their structures and identify issues that may require further attention.
You achieved the top mark in your recent exam – do you have any advice for those wanting to do the same?
Enjoy the course. If you have a keen interest in the subject matter, studying will be a pleasure and always wanting to learn more will lead to success. Read and understand the material thoroughly before taking the tutorial and do not cram. Take an active part in the tutorial discussions.
One of STEP’s Values is continuous learning. How has the qualification supported your professional development and career growth?
I am a private banker supporting primarily domestic clients, but now that I have taken the STEP Diploma in International Trust Management, I am able to take on international clients as well, which has broadened my client base and allowed me to grow my practice and make it more interesting.
Is there anything else that you would like to share?
The course materials are concise and well organised and the tutorials are taught by engaging practitioners who enjoy teaching and having interesting discussions.
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