Profile
Jorge Contreras
07/11/2020
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Introduce yourself:
Hi, my name is Jorge Contreras. I am 21 years old and I study Finance at Pepperdine University, after which I intend to build the world's largest hedge fund and manage portfolios across the world. I currently intern at Capital Group, the largest investment company based in Los Angeles.
How do you define success?
Success is making consistent progress towards a goal. I like to see success as a journey and not a destination. There are more lessons learned through failure than in good times.
What are your goals/dreams and where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In a few years, I see myself working with others on shared common goals. I see myself serving others with the resources I have, and I see myself making the most of the opportunities in front of me.
What motivates you?
My life is characterized by failure. It's not something most people are proud of, but for me, it acts as a motivator, especially when I really want something. I am also motivated by my friends and the people I surround myself with. It's so crucial to surround yourself with people who have the same principles and goals as you do.
What is something that you do (a habit or daily practice) that you believe helps you achieve your goals or be productive?
I read books every day. Book topics range from self-development to finance. Reading teaches you about people's experiences which in turn helps you to grow as a person. It's a daily instilling of wisdom.
Who is your inspiration and why?
My dad is an inspiration. He has a business, and I started working with him when I was 12. Going to work with him developed me in maturity and character. I learned soft skills I would have never learned in school. From a career perspective, I also find inspiration from the accomplished distressed debt investor, Howard Marks. He is the founder of one of the most successful private equity firms in the world. Through his books, podcasts, and memos, I have learned a lot about financial markets and investing.
Life motto or favorite quote?
"We can let circumstances rule us, or we can take charge and rule our lives from within" - Earl Nightingale
Anything else you want to share?
My life advice: Live humbly and leverage the power of relationship. Everything is better with teams. People are born with strengths that may compliment your weaknesses. When people understand this concept, amazing things happen, especially in the world of business.
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