“Do. Or do not. There is no “try”- Yoda
My “journey” to earning the CAIA designation has been one of the most frustrating yet rewarding challenges I’ve taken on professionally.
For me, I have always felt that one must be a student of your business, and constantly be looking for ways to improve. Not only that, but I wanted to show an example to my children that, even at an “advanced” age, one can step out of their comfort zone, take on a challenge, and grow from the experience. I began this pursuit by starting my studies in spring of 2023 and then passing Level I in Fall 2023, relying heavily on Kaplan’s third-party materials. When I attempted Level II in both Spring and Fall 2024 using the same study approach, I failed both times. After two attempts, while working full time, not to mention family, I almost threw in the towel.
However, during a conversation with Margaret Wenig, the Candidate Relations Associate at CAIA, she took the time to ask how I had prepared and what resources I had used. When I explained my reliance on third-party materials, she pointed out that this had been a common hurdle for many candidates in similar situations. Margaret encouraged me to shift my focus and prioritize the CAIA curriculum directly, using Kaplan only as a supplemental tool. This advice prompted a pivotal mindset shift. Realizing that if I truly wanted a different outcome, I needed to change my approach.
I’m proud to say that in Spring 2025—on my third try—I passed Level II.
This journey reinforced the power of perseverance and the importance of adapting in the face of setbacks. It also gave me the chance to set a meaningful example for my kids: to keep showing up, especially when it’s hard. As someone who once barely passed remedial math in college (last class needed to graduate), tackling graduate-level financial material, (25 years after school!) was way outside my comfort zone. However, this experience reminded me that your starting point doesn’t define what you are capable of—an open mind, consistent effort and the willingness to grow do. If my experience, as frustrating as it was to study three times over a year and a half, can be of inspiration to another CAIA, or any designation, candidate, well then it was worth it.
A designation is more than letters; it is a sign of commitment to one’s trade which demonstrates expertise and dedication to your craft. I am proud to carry both the CIMA® and now CAIA designation. The CAIA program has not only expanded my technical understanding of alternative investments but has also deepened my appreciation for lifelong learning. In fact I’ve signed up for the Digital Assets and Private Equity modules from CAIA.nxt to further my understanding of these subjects. I’m grateful to the CAIA Association, my patient wife and kids, for the support and encouragement that helped me see this journey through to the finish line.
I decided to pursue the CAIA for three reasons. First, it is clear to me that alts will become a bigger part of retail investor portfolios as time goes on. Second, the only big hole in what I have to offer my client's at Victory Capital is a true alternative investment. I believe that will change in the future and when it does, I would like to be at the forefront of distribution for whomever we end up acquiring or partnering with. Third, as a wholesaler my job is explain how my strategies can fit and help improve my client’s investment models. The further expertise in asset allocation, factor investing, and due diligence from L2 has been extremely helpful.
About Garrett Kelley, CAIA, CIMA
As a Sr. Regional Sales Director for Victory Capital, Garrett travels throughout Southern California, Southern Nevada and Arizona working with financial professionals. He delivers informative presentations and relevant value-add material for all levels of producers. Using the skills he bolstered by completing the rigorous Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®) program and the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) program, Garrett specializes in working with financial professionals to help create customized strategies that complement the asset allocation they use with their clients. He also helps financial professionals to grow their business by building their own personal brand, as well as streamlining their practice. Garrett brings his clients over 25 years of experience as a wholesaler, and former financial advisor, to better help them serve their clients and build their practices. Garrett, his wife Kelly, and their children Madeline, Patrick, and Ryan make their home in Manhattan Beach, California. A graduate of California State University, Long Beach, he enjoys golf, travel, cooking, wine, USC Football, and hanging out on the beach with his family.