From Co-op Student to Credit Union Executive: My Journey in the Credit Union World
My journey with credit unions began in high school. Like many students, I was searching for a job that would align with my school schedule, and when I found a co-op position at a small credit union, I thought it was worth a shot. At the time, I didn’t even know what a credit union was. The job sounded interesting, and the hours worked well with my academic commitments. But little did I know this decision would shape my career and life in ways I never imagined.
It didn’t take long for me to learn the true essence of a credit union and realize that helping people manage their finances was something I genuinely loved to do. Working at a smaller credit union allowed me to gain hands-on experience early in my career. I started on the teller line, learning the day-to-day operations, but it didn’t stop there. I quickly became involved in opening new accounts and processing loans, learning various aspects of the business along the way.
After high school, I decided to stay at the credit union while taking part-time college classes in business. It was a perfect balance, allowing me to apply what I was learning in real-time and to continue growing in my career. One of the most pivotal moments in my journey came when I was offered the opportunity to attend the CUNA Management School in Madison, Wisconsin. Earning my Certificate of Credit Union Management was a game-changer, pushing me to pursue every educational opportunity I could within the credit union space.
Through my dedication to learning, I eventually earned my Certified Credit Union Executive (CCUE) designation and most recently, my Business Development Certificate. While my career path wasn’t the traditional route, the combination of hands-on experience and continuous education set me up for success. I’ve been fortunate to learn from some of the best in the field, including Jennifer Watson, who played a crucial role in shaping my leadership style early in my career.
With over 25 years of experience in the credit union industry, I can honestly say I wouldn’t trade the path I’ve taken for anything. Being part of a community that helps members reach their financial goals is incredibly rewarding. I’m proud to be part of an industry that’s built on the principle of helping people.
The credit union industry offers so many opportunities, and I want to encourage others to see it as a viable career option, no matter where they start. My journey proves that with hard work, a passion for helping others, and a commitment to continuous learning, you can build a meaningful and fulfilling career right out of high school. The road may not always be traditional, but the rewards are certainly worth it.
-Sabrina Oshelski, Business Development Officer
