Back to Mentors
Melanie Silva
Economics Student & Strategic Investment Analyst

Melanie Silva

UCSB Investment Connection Treasurer, Strategic Investments Certificate

Santa Barbara, California

I'm entering my junior year at the University of California, Santa Barbara. I'm a passionate investor and aim to guide my peers into the world of investing. I am currently completing a Strategic Investments certificate through UCSB PaCE and plan on pursuing a career in Wealth Management.

Book a Free 30-min Session

Why I Mentor

I believe that investing is a necessary tool for college aged students to kickstart a successful financial future. Compound interest is exceptional as one starts their investing career as early as possible. I'm passionate about helping my peers understand the fundamentals of investing and building wealth from an early age.

Work Experience

UCSB Investment Connection

Treasurer

UCSB Investment Connection

Mar 2025 – Present • Santa Barbara, California

Leading financial operations and treasury management for the university's premier investment organization.

UCSB Investment Connection

Portfolio Management Analyst

UCSB Investment Connection

Mar 2024 – Present • 1 yr 7 mos • Santa Barbara, California

Analyzing investment opportunities and managing portfolio strategies for the student-run investment fund.

UCSB Finance Connection

Active Member

UCSB Finance Connection

Oct 2023 – Present • 2 yrs • Santa Barbara, California

Selected for exclusive General Finance Workshop focused on developing technical and behavioral skills necessary to succeed in financial settings.

UC Santa Barbara

Summer Academic Peer Mentor

UC Santa Barbara

Jul 2024 – Sep 2024 • 3 mos • Hybrid

Mentored incoming students in academic success strategies and university transition support.

Education

UC Santa Barbara

UC Santa Barbara

Bachelor of Arts - BA, Economics/Accounting

2023 – 2027

Pursuing a comprehensive education in economics and accounting with focus on investment analysis and financial management.

UC Santa Barbara

UC Santa Barbara

Professional Certificate, Strategic Investment Program

Jan 2025

Advanced certificate program taken through UC Santa Barbara Professional and Continuing Education extension, focusing on strategic investment principles and portfolio management.

Ready to Start Your Investment Journey?

Book a free 30-minute consultation with Melanie to get personalized guidance on student investing, strategic investments, and building your financial future from college.

Schedule Your Free Session