The Wachusett branch of All-One Credit Union has been an institution of the regional for over 30 years. However, most students don’t realize that this readily accessible service can turn into an employment opportunity or a potential career.
“In the spring we send out an email to all students seeking involvement in the school bank. It is a great opportunity for students who are interested in the industry, and can lead to employment opportunities,” said school counselor Mike Dubzinski.
Some students said the prospect of working at a bank seems daunting. Having the responsibility and trust of handling others’ money is a big task.
“The program seems scary. I would be nervous about messing something up,” said sophomore Amelia Wilander.
But Dubzinski explained the experience would be quite different.
“The goal of the internship is to expose students to the inner workings of banking, with the ultimate goal of being employed. Students will learn banking skills such as how to withdraw, deposit, apply for loans, and perform other basic functions.”
Jessenia Sirois, All-One Credit Union bank teller, agreed.
“Our teaching is tailored toward the individual, and we talk about topics such as personal finance, as well as the history and workings of banks and credit unions,” said Sirois. “We have really great hands-on experience, such as using computer programs for the bank and helping with transactions. We adapt and expand our curriculum to cover changes in the industry.”
According to teachers, the internships can prepare students to succeed in every avenue they pursue, not just finance.
“Internships make our whole Pathways Program stronger,” said business teacher Mark Kent. “Supplementary knowledge of business is invaluable. You need business and finance skills for every job. It makes you a stronger employee and builds up the whole company when you know multiple roles. It’s also great to teach students financial literacy before they leave, so they don’t have to learn on the fly.”
For many students the possibility of employment makes the opportunity even more appealing.
“I would be more interested in working at the bank if I were looking for a job,” said junior Leila Jordan. “It’s an easier way for students to get employment if the job is that close. They should advertise it better by putting up posters, or at the school job fair.”
Senior Emma Moisan agreed and emphasized on the need to raise awareness.
“I would be interested in a job there if it came down to it,” said Moisan. “I think it would be more well-known if Mrs. Murray went around and advertised the opportunity.”
To have a better chance at being employed, All One Credit Union identifies the ideal qualities of being an intern, and prior experience isn’t required but they instead look for certain personal qualities.
“We are looking for someone who is very teachable, and also possesses many unteachable qualities, such as being kind, respectful, genuine, and having a desire to help people,” said Sirois. “Students will be interacting with a lot of people, so we are also looking for someone personable and friendly. It helps if the student has an interest, or even some experience, in finance or accounting, but experience is not necessary.”
Assistant principal Matthew Lane highlighted the program’s long-term benefits.
“I think the internships are a great opportunity for students. Kids are even able to get summer jobs at one of their branches. It’s good for fleshing out future jobs,” said Lane.
Beyond student opportunities, the All-One Credit Union staff say the program strengthens its relationship with the community.
“We have the longest-standing branch out of all high schools here at Wachusett,” said Sirois. “Our goal is to be as involved in the community as possible, and we do that by educating and having a presence to build up skills important for people to learn. Many of our interns have gone on to be very successful.”
