1. Please provide a brief description of yourself and your role as Assistant Vice President, Branch Manager in John Marshall Bank’s Rockville, MD branch. 

As the Rockville branch manager, I oversee the day-to-day operations of the branch and actively develop new business relationships, grow branch deposits, and increase lending services. I also positively represent the bank in the community by participating and involving in local community organizations and activities. This upcoming August will mark my 10 year anniversary of working at JMB.

2. What led you to the banking profession?

When I lived in the Philippines, I used to work as a bookkeeper where I was responsible for financial transactions like counting cash and checks as well as making deposits at the bank. I’ve always wanted to pursue a career that was personality-driven and would allow me to help others. The customer service side of the banking industry sparked my interest because I would be able to forge networking relations and help clients reach their financial goals. When I came to the States, I looked for a part-time job while enrolled at the University of Maryland for my undergraduate degree. I ended with a night teller job and stayed in the banking industry since then.

3. Who is the most influential woman you know? How does she inspire you?

The person who influences me the most is my mother. She’s always been a hardworking lady. Along with financially supporting a family of seven, she did all she could to ensure we all went to college. She inspired me to love what you do and work hard to get what you want in life.

4. What advice do you have for women who want to grow/begin their careers in the finance and/or commercial banking industry?

My advice for those trying to pursue a career in the finance or banking industry is to venture out and gain some banking experience. As a summer job, apply as a teller to see if that is something that you like or transfer to a different department of the bank for the experience. Try to get involved in a banking internship while in school especially if your school offers it.

5. Please describe your involvement in the community.

I am an active member of the Rockville Chamber of Commerce. I also support and volunteer at the Ilocano Society of America. This is a non-profit organization that builds confidence by encouraging young women to embrace their skills and talents.

6. What’s one childhood lesson that you still practice to this day? 

One childhood lesson that I still practice today is how to manage money. Particularly, saving your earnings so that when the time comes for something important, you’ll have the money available.

7. What are you most proud of in your career? 

I am most proud of what I have achieved in my career as a Bank Manager. Along with carrying responsibilities as a mother, I was able to find a good balance and focus between my home and work life. I am also proud of my growth throughout the industry. I started off as a foreigner from a third world country and was able to work my way up from a teller into larger roles and responsibilities.

8. You get to have dinner with one famous person. Who do you choose and what would you ask them? 

I would like to have dinner with Bill Gates and ask how it feels to be really rich.

9. What’s the best part about being a mom? 

The best part of being a mom is that I get to experience all my children’s successes on a daily basis. I get to talk to them and hear them share their stories about their days. To be able to call them as my own children and just being able to be there for them is really the greatest feeling!

10. What is the funniest question your child(ren) has asked you?

Why does the tooth fairy only come in at night?