Charleston, S.C.— Heritage Trust Federal Credit Union has been helping area high school students prepare for careers in financial services through its student-run, high school credit union branch program. The student branch initiative launched in the fall of 2015 with branches opening in Summerville High School and Goose Creek High School. Since the program began, the credit unions in-school program has expanded into all three-area school districts with additional locations opening inside of Cane Bay High School and R.B. Stall High School.  
 
Heritage Trust has always been committed to providing financial literacy to the members of our local community, including children and teens. By participating in the student branch experience, high school students pursuing a Business and Finance career track have access to a versatile program that includes an in-depth look at how to establish a budget, understanding credit and the importance of managing finances. Another benefit to this program is the opportunity to explore the various career pathways within a financial institution. 
 
Before they can become a student-intern, eligible students participate in workshops on how to prepare a resume and dress for success, as well as techniques on how to ensure a successful interview. Candidates then participate in a traditional interview process with credit union leadership. Once selected, studentinterns attend robust classroom and on-the-job training. While in the program. Participants also learn soft skills such as effective communication, work ethic, time management, problem solving and selfconfidence. 
 
Since 2015, over 175 local students have participated in the program and several have gone on to join the Heritage Trust team as traditional employees after graduation. Tommy Seegers, a recent graduate of Cane Bay High School and former student-intern commented, “The program has been beneficial in helping me identify career choices, by providing me with valuable insights into the diverse range of career opportunities available within a financial institution. When I first entered the program, I thought I would want to become a financial advisor. However, through this experience I’ve discovered my true passion is accounting.” Seegers is currently working in a support role at the Heritage Trust corporate office before starting classes at Trident Technical College this fall. 
 
“Heritage Trust has always been passionate about supporting the local community. The student branch initiative allows us to add another dimension to our financial literacy offerings with a behind-the-scenes look at the many moving parts within our organization.” commented Angela Gordon, Heritage Trust Student Banking and Financial Education Manager. “We’re excited to see how our program has developed and expanded over the years and look forward to its ongoing success.”  
 
About Heritage Trust Federal Credit Union Heritage Trust Federal Credit Union is a $647 million dollar institution that has been a part of the greater Charleston area since 1955. Heritage Trust serves around 50,000 members and has 12 branch locations and over 400 Select Employer Groups throughout Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton and Dorchester Counties.