In the Path to Homeownership program at Washington Trust, Rosa Pastor Santa guides prospective homebuyers through a three-step process to achieve their homeownership goals. Step One involves providing education, financial empowerment, and guidance on credit scores, budgeting, and the mortgage application process. In Step Two, she assists clients in transitioning to the home buying process with a professional team for a seamless closing. Step Three offers ongoing post-purchase support. Additionally, Rosa connects nonprofit and government agencies throughout the state with Washington Trust to foster and grow partnerships that expand access to homeownership.

As a Hispanic single mother of three, Rosa’s journey began with a simple decision to volunteer for a neighborhood cleanup, where she met someone who encouraged her to get involved in the community. This support opened doors to opportunities she hadn’t imagined, from volunteering to pursuing education and networking. Volunteering ignited her community spirit and led her to participate in various committees and boards within the neighborhood.

A pivotal moment came when Rosa was offered a position in community outreach. Despite initial fears, she embraced the challenge, setting her on a path of continuous personal development. This role led to further opportunities in housing development and eventually to managing a HUD-approved homeownership department. Today, she has the privilege of helping others on their journey to homeownership, offering education, personalized counseling, and unwavering support. This journey has taught her the transformative power of community and the impact of embracing new opportunities.

Rosa is fluent in both English and Spanish, which allows her to serve a broader range of clients and connect more deeply with the Hispanic community throughout Rhode Island.

Rosa believes a career in banking offers diverse career paths across retail banking, corporate banking, investment banking, risk management, compliance, marketing, and human resources, allowing individuals to find their niche. The industry provides numerous opportunities for professional development through training programs, certifications, and on-the-job learning. Banking is often considered a stable industry with competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses. Many banks operate internationally, offering employees the chance to work in different countries and gain global experience.

Bankers play a crucial role in the economy by facilitating financial transactions, supporting businesses, and helping individuals manage their finances. The industry is at the forefront of technological innovation, offering opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects in fintech and digital banking. A career in banking allows individuals to build a strong professional network, interacting with clients, colleagues, and industry professionals—connections that prove valuable for career advancement. Banking professionals engage in complex problem-solving and strategic thinking, making it an intellectually rewarding field for those who enjoy challenges. Overall, a career in banking can be fulfilling for individuals interested in finance, customer service, and strategic business operations, providing a solid foundation for long-term career growth.