Meet Aaruush Kulkarni | Student, Nonprofit Founder, Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aaruush Kulkarni and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aaruush, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
The quote from Marcus Aurelius, “You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength,” is a profound affirmation of the human capacity for resilience and self-control. What resonates most with me about this quote is its emphasis on the internal locus of control. It suggests that while we cannot always influence the external world, we have the ultimate authority over how we respond to it. This perspective is empowering and liberating. It shifts the focus from a sense of helplessness in the face of life’s unpredictability to a position of strength, rooted in the mastery of one’s thoughts and attitudes. The quote serves as a reminder that true strength comes not from exerting control over the external world, but from mastering one’s inner world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My name is Aaruush Kulkarni and I am a senior at Plano West Senior High School. My journey with Stonehaven Capital Management began in my junior year, driven by a simple yet powerful idea: to fill the significant gap in practical financial education for high school students. Stonehaven is not just an organization; it’s a pioneering platform where young aspirants can explore the world of finance beyond textbooks and theoretical knowledge. We started by hosting virtual workshops, which have impacted over 600 students globally, covering essential topics like personal finance, investing, and economics. This initial step marked the beginning of a broader mission to bring real-world financial understanding to the doorstep of young learners.

The growth of Stonehaven led to the creation of a unique internship program, offering around 100 students a hands-on experience in financial analysis and data science. This program is specifically designed for intermediate learners, providing them with an unparalleled opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. But perhaps the most distinctive aspect of Stonehaven is the chance we offer our top students to manage and invest actual funds – an experience almost unheard of at the high school level. Establishing and growing Stonehaven was not without its challenges; overcoming skepticism about a youth-led initiative and striking the right balance between theoretical and practical learning were significant hurdles. However, these challenges taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, the power of a clear vision, and the transformative impact of targeted education. Stonehaven stands today as a testament to the belief that age is no barrier to making a significant impact in the finance world. I am immensely proud to lead this transformative journey, demonstrating that with the right guidance and opportunities, young minds can make substantial contributions to complex fields like finance.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Plano, Texas, I’d make sure to give them a taste of the unique blend of culture, cuisine, and entertainment that this area offers. We’d kick off our culinary adventure at Legacy Hall, a vibrant spot that not only offers a diverse range of food but also an incredible vibe. For breathtaking views of the Dallas skyline, there’s no better spot than Reunion Tower, where we can take in the city’s beauty from an unparalleled vantage point. For dessert, a must-visit is Andy’s Frozen Custard, a local favorite that never disappoints. In terms of fun activities, we’d head to the Fort Worth Stockyards for a true Texan experience. It’s a place rich in history and offers a glimpse into the cowboy culture that Texas is famous for. For shopping enthusiasts, a day at either Galleria or North Park offers an array of choices from high-end brands to unique local finds. No trip to this area would be complete without diving into the local sports scene. Catching a Mavericks or Cowboys game would be on the itinerary, offering not just the excitement of the game but the electrifying atmosphere that comes with it.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to Mihir Desai for his invaluable book “How Finance Works.” This book has been instrumental in my understanding of finance, transforming a complex subject into something accessible and engaging. Desai’s clear and concise explanations provided me with the foundational knowledge essential for my own growth and enabled me to assist others in their financial learning journeys. His work is a testament to the power of effective communication in education and has been a key factor in demystifying finance for a wider audience. I am immensely grateful for the clarity and insight his book has offered, making a significant impact on my personal and professional development.

Website: aaruushk.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/stonehavencm/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/stonehaven-cap-mgmt/