Summer 2023
Every year, ESL welcomes college students to apply for an internship in one of several departments such as Marketing Communications, Consumer Lending, Loan Services, Member Service Support, and Payment Operations Support Departments. We also offer internships at our branches.
So what’s it like to work at ESL?
Q&A with Ahmed
“ESL went out of its way to help me learn and grow not just at ESL, but it also helped me learn about other opportunities outside of the organization that aligned with my interests.” Ahmed Naqvi, Marketing Communications Student Intern
Only three years ago, at the age of 16, Ahmed and his family moved to the Greater Rochester region from Pakistan. The move came with its challenges as it was in the middle of COVID, but with a positive attitude, Ahmed and his family were able to adjust and knew the decision to move here was the right one at the right time.
As Ahmed prepared for college, he also prepared to start his career path through a student internship. Eventually, that path led him to ESL, where he secured a student internship in the Marketing Communications department at ESL.
What has it been like working at ESL?
I’ve really appreciated my time here. If I was to say one thing about ESL, it’s that everyone makes you feel safe with the amount of work you have before you start doing things on your own to make sure you don’t stumble or fail.
What has your favorite part of the job been?
The interaction I’ve been able to have with different people through my assignments. ESL went above and beyond with the meet and greets, where I was able to meet with so many different ESL employees to learn more about their roles. ESL also went out of its way to help me learn about other opportunities outside of ESL that align with my interests.
What will you miss the most about ESL?
What I will miss the most about ESL is the people. The organization’s culture is so deeply woven into Rochester. Everyone here cared about my work, they really care about you and the city and you know it’s genuine.
Q&A with Mike
“This summer has been full of learning all the behind the scenes of banking, while also making relationships with members and fellow employees.” Mike McCaughey, ESL Summer Student
Mike McCaughey joined Ahmed as one of eighteen students participating in the ESL 2023 summer intern program. The opportunity is a great resume builder and gives students the chance to learn more about a particular field in the financial industry.
What motivated you to apply for an internship at ESL?
Knowing that ESL is such a community driven credit union, I thought ESL would be the best place to start my financial career.
What did you know about finances and the financial industry before coming on board?
I had an elementary understanding of the financial industry, from college and high school but I am eager to learn more to help myself and others with future goals.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received (can be professional or personal)?
The best advice I have ever received would be that you can always make more money, but you can’t get back time so make sure to work hard but still have fun.
What stands out to you about ESL?
ESL stands out by having such a great relationship with their employees and caring about what they need to succeed in all aspects of life.
What advice would you share with other people your age and younger?
Some advice I would give to someone my age and younger would be if you are looking for an internship or job don’t be afraid to reach out and start making connections with people in your field, they can help you with starting your career.
Q&A with Trevor
“I have learned great customer service and life skills and been able to meet many great ESL employees and members!” Trevor Kaiser, ESL Summer Student
What motivated you to apply for an internship at ESL?
I was motivated to apply for ESL because I wanted an introduction to the banking world, and to do it with a company who had a great reputation.
What did you know about finances and the financial industry before coming on board?
My experience with banking and finances before starting here were limited, however my dad is a banker, so I was able to ask questions whenever I needed.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received (can be professional or personal)?
The best advice I have received here is that you owe it to yourself to be financially responsible and to have the best financial future.
What stands out to you about ESL?
What stood out to me at ESL was that the workers here are all very happy and excited to work, and the workplace was very welcoming to me.
What advice would you share with other people your age and younger?
My advice for someone younger or my own age is to check out all the different departments of ESL, and to check out all they have to offer.
