Drive for Success: Rachel Heck’s Journey From Fairways to Finance with Stifel

Rachel Heck is not only a fantastic golfer.? She’s also a hard worker and an excellent role model for the younger generation when it comes to gaining financial literacy.

At Stifel, our commitment to future generations goes beyond financial services, which is why we created a brand ambassador program.? We proudly offer top young athletes personalized financial plans, educational tools, and access to products designed to help them build credit and wealth, including Stifel credit card options and Stifel Wealth Tracker.

Rachel Heck joined the Stifel family in 2022 as an ambassador, bringing with her the same discipline and excellence that led to her winning the prestigious ANNIKA Award.? Her impressive career includes NCAA individual and team championships, two Curtis Cups, and eight collegiate victories, tied for the third most in Stanford history—all while graduating from Stanford on time and serving in ROTC.? Her values and determination made her a natural fit for our program, and we are proud to support her both in her sport and in her financial journey.

Redefining Success: Rachel’s Approach to Achievement

For Rachel, success is more than just results on the scorecard.? She believes in giving her all, regardless of the outcome.

“Of course, there are results I want to achieve, such as winning a national championship,” she shares.? “But even if we don’t win, I still consider the year a success because I believe that when I give everything I have towards a goal, that’s all I can do.”

Rachel’s mindset is influenced by her coach, who emphasizes focusing on what can be controlled.

“If I can wake up every day, work hard, do everything I need to do, and go to bed knowing that I am one step closer to achieving my goals, then I feel like that’s a success,” she says.?

She views unmet goals not as failures but as integral parts of the process.

“It’s not the end all be all if we don’t reach a goal,” she says.? “It’s just part of the process.”

Her ability to stay forward-focused, even after setbacks, reflects a resilience that drives her continual growth.? Rather than dwelling on the past, Rachel is always ready for what's next.??

“I don’t look back if something doesn’t work out.? I just keep working hard,” she shares.? “Life is inherently stressful.? There are days when I feel exhausted or discouraged, but picturing where I want to be – holding up that trophy, graduating, becoming a second lieutenant, and seeing my parents pin on my lieutenant bars – keeps me moving forward.”

Through the process, she also has learned how to take a step back during challenging times.

“You go through ups and downs, and I’m now able to tell myself that it’s going to be okay when I’m facing challenges in my personal or professional life.? I know that every down will be followed by an up. ? Knowing things will inevitably improve is incredibly motivating.”

Creating Balance in a Busy Life

Discovering the perfect work/life balance isn’t easy for anyone, especially a skilled athlete and student, but Rachel has made her well-being a top priority.

“You can work yourself to death to achieve a goal, but where does that really get you?” she asks.? “Life is about more than professional success.? If you’re not enjoying the people around you and finding joy in your day, you’re missing the point.”

To avoid burnout, Rachel ensures her whole life doesn’t revolve around her professional pursuits.? She carves out time daily to connect with her mom or chat with her roommates, which helps her stay grounded.

Becoming a Stifel Ambassador

Rachel’s decision to join Stifel as an ambassador was carefully considered.? With the rise of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities, she knew she had to be selective about her affiliations.? Although she was familiar with Stifel, she initially knew little about the firm.? After thorough exploration, Rachel recognized that Stifel was the perfect match.

“I love the people at Stifel, their vision, and what they do,” she says.? “Their support for women’s golf, especially through the ANNIKA Award, is incredible.? Not only do they genuinely care about growing women’s sports, but they also want to help women thrive professionally.? Their values align with mine, so I knew I wanted to be part of their team.”

From Zero to Savvy: Achieving Financial Literacy

Rachel’s path to financial literacy began with her partnership with Stifel.? Like many others, she had little financial knowledge growing up, but Stifel's focus on education has made a significant difference.

“It’s astounding because every single person has to manage their finances, but we’re not taught in school how to do our taxes, save money, or invest for the future.? Leaving college without knowing how to manage money is tough,” she says.? “Financial education should be taught in schools so people can make wise financial decisions for themselves and their families.”

However, she has learned a lot during her time working with Stifel.

“The firm is very education-focused,” she says.? “I work with financial advisors, and every single person has been friendly, patient, and kind.? They’ll have phone calls with me and won’t hang up until I understand everything.? They encourage asking questions and are big proponents of financial literacy.”

Rachel had such a positive experience with Stifel and our advisors that she was inspired to pursue finance after graduating from Stanford University.

Inspiring the Next Generation

For Rachel, being an athlete ambassador is about more than representing a brand – it’s about embodying the values that sports have instilled in her.

“Sports carry so much more weight than the game itself.? Golf has taught me life values like integrity, diligence, and hard work,” she reflects.? “Being an ambassador for those values, especially for the next generation, is a privilege.”

Having looked up to role models in her youth, Rachel now serves as one for others.? Her message to younger athletes, especially young girls, is clear:? “Your sport doesn’t define you. It’s important to find balance and understand that you are more than your achievements.”

Rachel considers this realization a major step toward success.

“If you put all your eggs in one basket, you’ll hit a wall.? It will be mentally tough, and you won’t be happy,” she advises.? “So, take a step back, find your balance, and then give it your all.? At the end of the day, you’ll still be your own wonderful self.”