Meet Jacob

Jacob’s first exposure to Education First was when he began teaching Spanish at a Columbus middle school last year.

“I saw something about Education First on the Columbus City School’s website,” he says. I always look through the staff website for any local partnerships or discounts that the school district may have, and there was the Credit Union.”

Originally from Kansas City, Jacob relocated to Ohio recently when his husband’s job transferred them to Columbus. Prior to joining Education First, Jacob was a member of a local credit union from his hometown and says that he’s noticed credit unions offer a more personal experience than banks.

“I’ve always had better luck with credit unions,” says Jacob. “Banks feel cold and impersonal. And I prefer using small, local business over big corporations whenever possible.”

It was an auto loan that prompted Jacob to join Education First.

“I was buying a new car and noticed the rates from Education First were low,” he says.

Education First relationship officer Jason helped walk Jacob through the process.

“It was obvious that Jason was member-focused and ready to help,” says Jacob. “You can tell Jason is super busy, but when you are in his office, he is totally focused on you, answering questions, and taking as long as you need. He is a real human being, not an automated service.”

Jacob’s positive experience with his car loan has prompted him to consider Education First for future loans.

“My husband and I would like to refinance our home either this spring or summer,” he says. “We would like to get the best rate possible, and that most likely means using the Credit Union.”

Jacob says he will definitely be recommending Education First to his co-workers and fellow teachers.

“The best thing about joining a credit union is feeling taken care of,” he says. “Like you have someone in your corner financially.”