Recent Sherando High School graduate Maria Lara Rodriguez is stepping into her future with a clear vision and a unique approach, diverging from the traditional path of immediate higher education. Rodriguez is set to begin a promising career as a personal finance specialist with Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) on August 19, thanks to her involvement in an innovative externship program.
Navy Federal: A Unique Pathway to Success
Instead of diving straight into college, Rodriguez has chosen to explore the professional world first, a decision rooted in both practicality and personal growth. “I want to get a degree, but I know that I don’t want to do it straight out of high school,” Rodriguez shared. “I want to first have a stable job and know, sort of, what I want to do, especially because college is very expensive.”
Her journey began through NFCU’s partnership with Frederick County Public Schools, which offers high school students mentorship and externship opportunities. This initiative, which started in 2020, pairs students with NFCU staff to enhance their financial literacy and career readiness.
Navy Federal : From Classroom to Externship
The mentorship program, initially piloted at James Wood High School, has expanded to include schools like Millbrook, Sherando, and John Handley High School. In the 2023-24 academic year, the program introduced the “classroom-to-office” (CTO) option, allowing seniors to build on their mentorship experiences through hands-on externships at NFCU.
Rodriguez was part of the inaugural CTO class, where eight students spent 40 hours at NFCU, delving into financial literacy and career pathways. This program not only provided practical insights into the financial industry but also allowed students like Rodriguez to network and gain real-world experience.
Navy Federal: Passion for Finance
Rodriguez’s affinity for finance was evident early on. During high school, she worked at Plato’s Closet, where she enjoyed budgeting her paycheck. “This sounds really nerdy, but I would do the math, and it would just satisfy my brain,” she said, reflecting on her passion for numbers and finance.
Her enthusiasm for financial responsibility was fostered from a young age, with her parents instilling in her the importance of saving and managing money. This background made Rodriguez a perfect fit for the finance field, and when a member of NFCU’s personal finance team visited her cohort, she seized the opportunity to express her interest in the role.
Landing the Job
Thanks to her participation in the CTO program, Rodriguez had a guaranteed interview with NFCU, which led to her job offer as a personal finance specialist. Her commitment to helping others manage their finances and her alignment with NFCU’s values were key factors in her success.
“She’s a wonderful person,” said Anita McGill, a program manager at NFCU. “She cares about her community and her classmates. She’s going to be a great addition here.”
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Navy Federal Impact on Career Development
NFCU’s partnership program is proving to be a significant catalyst for student career development. The externship not only offers immediate employment opportunities but also provides flexibility. Participants receive a guaranteed interview for up to five years, allowing them to pursue further education or other ventures before returning to NFCU if desired.
James Wood High School pilot program has expanded its reach, with the program now benefiting multiple schools. This approach is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical career experiences, equipping students with essential skills and insights into various career paths.
James Wood High School has been a pioneer in this initiative, and the expansion to other schools highlights its success. The program aims to inspire students to explore career options early on and gain valuable experience in their chosen fields.
Broader Implications of the Program
NFCU’s goal extends beyond simply filling positions within the company. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the financial industry and broader career opportunities. Even if students do not return to NFCU, they leave with professional and financial skills that will benefit them in various fields.
JR Mondell, a NFCU talent scout, emphasized the program’s broader goals: “We want students to see the careers they can pursue and open their eyes to all the opportunities out there. Even if they don’t come back to NFCU, they gain professional and financial skills that are valuable in any field.”
The focus on financial literacy and career readiness reflects NFCU’s commitment to community development and preparing the next generation of professionals.
Looking Ahead
For Rodriguez, the journey is just beginning. Her upcoming role at NFCU will leverage her passion for finance and provide opportunities for further growth. She plans to utilize NFCU’s tuition assistance to pursue a degree in the future, combining her practical experience with academic knowledge.
As NFCU continues to develop its mentorship and externship programs, it aims to foster more success stories like Rodriguez’s. The hope is that more students will find their paths through these initiatives, ultimately benefiting both the students and the community.
For more updates on NFCU’s programs and other career pathways, stay tuned to The Winchester Star.
KaranRathod