My name is Melody Buckholtz and I do not have my career aspiration set in stone but I am interested in the medical field and finance. Due to my love for finance I was placed at Community First Credit Union to see the world of banking from the frontlines and behind the scenes.
During my internship experience, I completed two weeks of training then shadowed at the Member Experience Center (MEC) and the Community First Credit Union Branch. During training we learned key knowledge of keeping information about members confidential and were taught to make sure they have the best experience on the phone and in-person. At the (MEC) I shadowed calls and learned how to help members move funds to different accounts, inform members about there balance/payments, and I also acquired de-escalation tactics by listening to frustrated members who really just wanted someone to listen. At the branch I was able to complete hands on experience with cash deposits, cash withdrawals, and member to member transfers.
Participating in the AnnieRuth Foundation’s Summer Internship Program showed me how essential it is to gain experience before making decisions. When I started the internship I thought the (MEC) was going to be my favorite part of the experience but I figured out that I like working face-to-face with members at the branch. Going forward, the AnnieRuth Foundation Internship allowed me to know that in my career choice will definitely include in person interactions.