From Classroom to Career: Q&A with Louis Fay

Summer interns share their experience at ESL in 2025

This summer, we welcomed more than 26 college students who worked at ESL through our Student Employment Program. Each of them gained an experience as unique as they are by working in one of the following departments: Loan Servicing, Member Service Support, Consumer Lending, Data Management, Accounting, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and Marketing.

We asked several of our students to share some of their learnings, and we invite you to learn more about why they came to ESL!

Q&A with Louis Fay, Student Teller, Hudson Branch

Photo of ESL summer intern Louis Fay outside an ESL Branch with quote: An opportunity to gain invaluable experience within an organization that prioritizes their members made me think it would be a great place to start my banking career.

Why ESL?

The active engagement and presence of ESL within the Rochester community is something that has stood out to me for a long time. The dedication and care they show to their members has always resonated with me. An opportunity to gain invaluable real-world banking experience within an organization that prioritizes their members made me think it would be a great place to start my banking career.

Can you tell us about your ESL internship experience?

My experience has been extremely valuable. I have not only learned an enormous amount about the banking industry, but the company has also allowed me to dig deeper into other topics of interest I have such as wealth management. All the employees at the branch have been very generous and welcoming to me since I have been here. I have been able to take in a great amount of information and knowledge.

What stands out the most?

The kindness and habits of the people that work at ESL stand out a lot. Everything adds up to becoming such a reputable bank. All the little procedures and good habits that the people I work with have is what makes ESL so great. They truly care about everything they do, big and small. The kindness and help they show towards me and their members is something that has really stood out to me.

What are your future career plans?

I would love to stay in the finance world and continue to learn and work hard to grow in the industry. I am interested in wealth management and the opportunity to positively impact clients' financial well-being. Building trust is something that is extremely important to me.

What advice do you have for other students?

Take everything in and be a sponge to everything around you. Do all the little things (they add up). Work hard and always trust the process. Enjoy yourself and be kind to others around you!

To learn more about our unique workplace culture, how we give back to the community, and joining the ESL team, please visit esl.org/careers!