Confessions of a Credit Counselor, Shanna's Story

This month we talk to Shanna. She has been with AFS for 14 years. She began as a credit counselor and is now one of our incredible creditor services counselors. Here is her story.

What brought you to AFS? How long have you been here? What do you do at AFS? 

Prior to working at AFS, I worked in restaurants.  I loved working with people and the public in general and was looking for a career change that would be challenging, more rewarding and would allow me to make a difference in people’s lives. Though my background was not in finances, I found that I loved helping people work through their financial struggles and regain a sense of control and confidence. I began as a Credit Counselor in 2002!  For the last 6 years I have worked in our Creditor Services department contacting creditors and making sure accounts are set up accurately in our system.  I work with the counselors closely to make sure that we find each client the best possible outcome and solution for their unique financial situation.  

What has been your best moment at AFS?

I have experienced many great moments at AFS over the past 13 years.  Hearing the relief in the voices that we have helped, all the kudos and thank you cards, and seeing hundreds of clients successfully complete their DMPs.   My co-workers here are awesome and I have worked with many of them for years. They truly care about clients and do a great job!  I also love bringing my dogs Bam Bam and Sparkles to work with me daily!  

What is one piece of advice you’d like to give people?

You can improve your financial situation.  Sometimes you can be so close to a problem that you’re blind to the solution.  It helps to talk it out with a trusted person that can look at your situation analytically and take each piece of the puzzle step by step.  

Published Oct 2, 2015.