My Experience Joining the Philadelphia Estate Planning Council

By Michaela O'Connell, UBS

When I joined the Philadelphia Estate Planning Council two years ago, I had a feeling that I might be among the youngest in the room … and that both intimidated and excited me. While there are many professional networking organizations in the city to choose from, I chose the PEPC over a “young professionals” organization on purpose.  Both are certainly valuable, but I set out with a networking goal to focus on high quality relationships over a large quantity of relationships. I network to learn, to grow and to build meaningful professional connections.

The PEPC has put me in rooms with experienced professionals who have been generous with their time and knowledge. Over time, the rooms that once felt intimidating have become filled with the familiar faces of people I respect and from whom I enjoy learning.

One moment that stands out was a lunch event focused on the future of estate planning and how our industry must adapt to serve future generations. The discussion had me so engaged that I couldn’t resist sharing what I had learned—and how we could apply those ideas in our own practice—with my team back at the office. I find that so much of what I learn through these meetings is both applicable and relevant to my work and to the world around us.

Beyond the educational programming and networking events, I joined the Social Committee within the PEPC, and this has been the most meaningful part of my experience on the Council. It has allowed me to help create events that appeal to members across generations and make the PEPC feel more like a community. Being part of a committee also has deepened my relationships within the Council and reinforced the importance of mentorship and collaboration.

I am grateful to be part of an organization that prioritizes education, fosters mentorship and creates space for genuine, lasting connections—regardless of age or career stage.

Michaela O’Connell is finance professional with six years of experience, having begun her career at Vanguard before transitioning into private wealth roles at AllianceBernstein and UBS. She has successfully completed the Series 7, 63, and 66 exams and holds an MBA from Drexel University with a concentration in Leadership and Finance and a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Susquehanna University. Outside of work, she enjoys baking and running along the Schuylkill River.