It's not an industry well known for altruism, but the next generation of financial planners could prove the cynics wrong if University of the Sunshine Coast student Joe Hirst is an example of his peers.

The 20 year old third year student plans on making a difference to people’s lives by helping them with one of life’s biggest struggles: managing money.

“To be honest, throughout my high school years, I wanted to be able to help people in some way; maybe as a paramedic, but I was never very good at science,” said Joe.

“I achieved good grades in English and Mathematics, so when I left school, I eventually decided to study Financial Planning instead because it’s a profession where I am able to do my bit for society.

“I believe it is a way I can help people by ensuring that their finances are optimised in the most efficient manner whilst giving ethical and sound advice to help them with their future,” Joe said.

Joe is currently studying a Bachelor of Commerce degree at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC), majoring in Financial Planning and Accounting part-time, and working full-time for family owned Caloundra firm, Garden Financial Services.

He was recently awarded with a prize for being the highest achiever in his Tax and Estate Planning course at the USC Faculty of Arts and Business awards and prizes ceremony.

Sunshine Coast lawyer and prize donor, Ken Waddington of Garland Waddington Solicitors, said he was delighted that students like Joe are the recipients of his firm’s sponsored awards.

“I’m inspired by people like Joe because he is intelligent, not afraid to go out on a limb to reach out to people, and truly passionate about making a difference to the lives of others,” Mr Waddington said.

“The future of the financial planning industry looks bright with students like Joe entering the workforce. He’s a credit to himself, his family, the University and his employer.”

Garland Waddington donated five awards this year for the highest-achieving students from USC’s courses in Property Law, Retirement and Superannuation and Tax and Estate Planning.

“For us, giving these awards is about encouraging students to achieve high standards for the ultimate benefit of their careers and future clients,” Mr Waddington said.

For more information about Garland Waddington, visit www.garlandwaddington.com.au