Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors, Meet April

Get to know April Young, one of Piedmont Advantage Credit Union’s newest Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors.

April manages the University Branch at PACU and has been with the company for over 23 years. She started her career at a different financial institution but later transitioned to PACU because she sought a more personable work environment.

Her previous experiences, especially working in the collections department, significantly shaped her into the professional she is today. 

As a certified financial counselor, many people expect April to be able to fix all of their financial problems immediately. However, she emphasizes that most financial issues can’t be fixed overnight. According to April, most financial decisions stem from impulsive behavior, and the issues won’t disappear without addressing the root of the problem.

“The key to overcoming financial hardship is to make a plan, stick to it, and change the behavior or mindset causing the problem,” April said.

 One of her most important pieces of advice is to ask, “Is this a want or a need?” when making purchases. She applies this to her spending habits.

“I have caught myself several times standing in a grocery store, opening up the doors of the frozen section for ice cream,” she laughed. “I ask myself, ‘Do you really need this, April? Is this a want or a need?’ It helps when you apply that to any purchase.”

April also learned the value of budgeting early in her career when she was paid once a month. “That actually helped to shape me into learning how to budget,” she said.

As someone who believes in working hard and playing harder, April emphasized the importance of planning and saving ahead of time.  In 2022, April vacationed in Paris by herself, having saved up for the trip over time by sticking to a plan.  

She also underlines the importance of planning for future retirement and expecting the unexpected.  “One thing I do believe COVID-19 has helped to teach us is the unexpected can happen overnight, and it can happen quickly,” April said. “Plan! Emergencies are going to happen.”

April advises setting aside extra monthly funds in an emergency account to be financially prepared for whatever may happen.

Are you seeking financial advice or inspiration? Feel free to email April at [email protected].