MBA Education Path to Diversity Scholar Profile: Alvin Shah

(One in a recurring monthly series featuring efforts of the Mortgage Bankers Association’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee, part of MBA’s commitment to increase racial, gender, sexual orientation and ethnic diversity within the mortgage banking industry.)

Alvin Shah is Managing Partner with First Option Mortgage, Atlanta.

MBA INSIGHTS: Tell us a little about yourself.

ALVIN SHAH: My name is Alvin Shah. I was born in Chicago and moved to Atlanta in 1996. I joined the mortgage industry in 2003 straight out of college. I have been married for 12 years to a wonderful woman and have two amazing sons. My wife is also a part of our industry. I have thoroughly enjoyed this industry and the people in it. I started off as a processor and since have owned two separate mortgage companies. My favorite part of the job is working with the people in the business. Developing my company and its structure and watching my employees grow has always been the driving factor for me. I have expectations of myself to give back to our wonderful community by helping others excel and making sure our industry continues to prosper.

INSIGHTS: How did you hear about the Path to Diversity program?

SHAH: I was introduced to the scholarship while at a conference and meeting my MBA account rep.

INSIGHTS: What inspired you to get more involved?

SHAH: Being involved in the mortgage community has always been a passion. My goal is to further my education and get to the CMB level. As I achieve my merits I hope to influence others to do the same.

INSIGHTS: Did you find the application process to be easy?

SHAH: The application process was extremely easy and Amber was a great resource anytime I needed anything. The teachers and the organizers were all wonderful and always ready to assist.

INSIGHTS: Have you had a mentor or mentors who encouraged/supported you?

SHAH: Everyone in the MBA has been very supportive. From my sponsor, Eddy Perez, to my colleagues at work and the people that instructed us every individual I met through the journey has been extremely encouraging.

INSIGHTS: How has the Path to Diversity scholarship benefited you, personally and professionally?

SHAH: The scholarship was a great way to offset the cost. Any education you attempt to get comes with a cost. This scholarship made that part much easier. Who doesn’t like free money right?

INSIGHTS: What have you been able to bring back to your company as a result of the Path to Diversity program?

SHAH: Because of this education I am able to lead my company into the future. As an owner it’s important to know every facet of your business and this scholarship has allowed me to do just that.

INSIGHTS: What would you say to someone considering applying for a Path to Diversity scholarship?

SHAH: I encourage anyone that is interested in furthering their education and learning more about our business to take advantage of this scholarship and use it as a tool to become better at what you do and who you are.

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The MBA Diversity and Inclusion Committee was formed in 2013 to provide leadership and guidance to help the real estate finance industry gain a competitive advantage by increasing diversity in leadership, workforce and suppliers.

MBA encourages its members to support these efforts and to recognize the competitive advantages of embracing a diverse and inclusive workforce and marketplace. For more information about the MBA Diversity and Inclusion Initiative, click https://www.mba.org/who-we-are/mbas-diversity-and-inclusion-initiative/about-mbas-diversity-and-inclusion-initiative.