Mayra L. Hernandez has been working in the financial industry for the past 10 years. She originally lived in Cicero, Illinois, and graduated from Morton East High School. She pursued a degree in Business Administration at National Louis University, but her path took a different turn before completing it. She was introduced to Primerica by a former coworker, and her husband Carlos and Her immediately connected with the company’s mission. They were inspired by Primerica’s crusade to help families earn more income, become properly protected, get out of debt, and work toward financial independence. They fully embraced the philosophy of buying term life insurance and investing in the difference. In 2019, Carlos and she earned our Regional Vice President (RVP) contract, and since then, they’ve been building their business together. They recently opened a new office in Glen Ellyn Illiniois, where they lead a team of around 30 agents, including 2 licensed brokers. One of their main goals is to offer others the same opportunity they were given—to grow, develop, and eventually become brokers themselves. They are especially passionate about working with young people, showing them that they don’t need prior experience or a specific career path to succeed in this industry. Primerica supports their mission by covering the cost of essential licensing, including the life producer license, SIE, Series 6, and Series 63. As RVPs, our role is to lead by example, mentor our team, and continue expanding their impact in the community through financial education and business development
Here’s what she had to say about her job:
What inspired you to pursue this career?
What inspired me was the opportunity to help my Hispanic and Latino community. Many of us grow up without access to financial education, and I saw firsthand how that lack of knowledge affects families. I wanted to be someone who could change that — someone who could guide others to make informed decisions about their money and build a better future. Primerica gave me the platform to do exactly that, and it’s been my mission ever since.
How do you handle stress and pressure in fast-paced environments?
I try to stay focused and prioritize what’s most important. When things get overwhelming, I take a step back, breathe, and handle one task at a time. I also like to take walks when I have time — it helps clear my mind and refocus so I can come back with more energy and clarity.
What are the biggest challenges you’ve come across working in the financial industry?
Passing the securities exams was one of the biggest early challenges — they take a lot of focus and discipline. Another ongoing challenge is understanding the market and being able to compare different funds and investment options to find what truly fits each client. Every person and family have different financial needs and goals, so I’ve learned there’s no one-size-fits-all strategy. It takes continuous learning, patience, and the ability to really listen to guide people the right way.
What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the financial industry?
One of the hardest parts of my job is delivering death claims to families — it’s never easy. But at the same time, it feels good knowing we were able to be there for them when they needed it most, and that the policy we put in place made a difference. On the other hand, I’ve also seen many of my investment clients grow their money and build wealth. Some choose to cash out and use it, others let it continue to grow — either way, it’s incredibly rewarding to know I’m helping them work toward financial independence and reach their goals.
What are some misconceptions about working in finance?
A big misconception is that you need a college degree to work in finance — but that’s not true. What you really need are the proper licenses and the willingness to learn. At Primerica, we give everyone an opportunity, no prior experience needed. We provide all the training and support to help people succeed. It’s not just about numbers — it’s about educating and guiding families, and anyone with passion and commitment can do it.
What are the key differences between working in corporate finance versus investment banking?
Corporate finance usually focuses on managing a company’s internal financial health, while investment banking is more transactional and high-paced, involving mergers, acquisitions, and raising capital. At Primerica, we focus on personal finance — which is all about helping everyday families with practical solutions.
How do you approach work-life balance in this industry?
As a Regional Vice President, I’ve learned to be intentional about balance. I schedule personal time just like I would a business appointment. Having control over my schedule and building a team has allowed me to create a lifestyle that supports both my family and my career.
How do you stay updated with financial regulations and trends?
I hold an IL producer’s life license and securities licenses (Series 6, 63, and 26), so continuing education is a must. I stay updated through compliance training, industry webinars, and constantly reading about trends and regulatory changes.
How has the financial industry changed in the last decade?
Technology has changed everything. Now clients can check their accounts anytime right from their phones through an app — it’s much more convenient and accessible. Social media and the internet have also played a huge role, especially with younger people. Teens and young adults are learning what investment accounts are and how they can put their money to work. The only thing is, many don’t know where to start — and that’s where Primerica comes in. We help guide them in the right direction and show them how to build a strong financial foundation.
What impact do global events have on the financial industry?
Global events have a significant impact on the financial industry, especially in terms of market volatility. However, it’s important to remember that the economy naturally goes up and down. While global events can cause short-term fluctuations, over time, the market tends to adjust. It’s all about being prepared and adaptable, and helping clients navigate through those ups and downs.
