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Student Services Center
Financial Wellness at NC State

Financial Coaching

Helping students take control of their financial future.

Schedule an Appointment

At NC State, we understand that managing money can be stressful — whether you’re budgeting for groceries, navigating student loans, or planning for life after graduation.

That’s why our Financial Coaching team is here to support you every step of the way.

1:1 Financial Coaching Appointments

Launched in October 2025, our free, one-on-one financial coaching appointments are available to all currently enrolled students at NC State University.

  • Our trained coaches can help you with:
    • Creating and sticking to a personal budget
    • Understanding and managing student loans
    • Building credit and using credit responsibly
    • Saving strategies and financial goal setting
    • Navigating financial emergencies
    • Financial planning for graduation and beyond

All sessions are confidential and tailored to your individual financial goals and challenges.

Schedule an Appointment

Financial Coaching Disclaimer

These 1:1 sessions are for educational purposes only and are intended to provide general financial guidance and information. Our coaches provide peer-to-peer or general financial literacy support.

Our coaches are not licensed financial advisors, investment professionals, tax advisors, or attorneys. The information provided does not constitute personalized financial, investment, tax, insurance, or legal advice.

The University and its coaches do not endorse or recommend any specific financial products, services, or companies.
You are solely responsible for any decisions you make based on the information provided in these sessions. You are strongly encouraged to consult with qualified, independent financial, tax, or legal professionals before making financial decisions. The University and its employees are not liable for any financial outcomes or damages resulting from your use of this information.

Schedule a Financial Coaching Appointment

Taking the first step is easy! Click the button below to schedule your free appointment with one of our financial coaches.

Appointments are available in person or virtually. All sessions are free and confidential.

Schedule Now

Meet Your Financial Coaches

Paela Pani

Paela Pani serves as the Business Service Coordinator for the Office of Scholarship and Financial Aid, where she plays a pivotal role in facilitating educational access and financial support for students. She earned her undergraduate degree in International Business from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, followed by a Master’s degree in Project Management with a specialization in Marketing Strategies from Colorado State University Global. Additionally, Paela is certified in Professional Financial Counseling, underscoring her commitment to empowering individuals through financial education.

Read the Full Bio

With a career spanning over 15 years, Paela has devoted herself to advancing financial literacy, program development, project management, and marketing strategies, leaving a positive impact on the communities she serves. Her professional journey has afforded her the privilege of collaborating with Fortune 500 companies, small business owners, and both undergraduate and graduate students, enriching her comprehensive understanding of diverse stakeholder needs.

Paela’s expertise encompasses project management, employee development, education, negotiation, and innovative marketing strategies. Beyond her professional pursuits, she treasures time spent with her daughter, enjoys walking her dogs, and remains active through volleyball and various outdoor activities, reflecting her vibrant and dynamic lifestyle.

Ethan Wilson

Ethan Wilson is an undergraduate student at North Carolina State University, pursuing a degree in Accounting with a minor in Philosophy. In his second year, Ethan has become deeply involved in the Student Senate, the Finance Committee, and the Financial Wellness Program, where he has developed a strong passion for financial literacy. As a peer mentor, he is dedicated to helping fellow students build financial confidence and navigate the complexities of budgeting, saving, and investing.

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In his academic pursuits, Ethan is interested in the intersection of finance, history, and philosophy, seeking to understand the broader societal implications of financial systems. Outside of school, he enjoys music, art, and wrestling, which provide him with creative outlets and opportunities for personal growth.