Since 1997, we’ve awarded more than 110 scholarships to support our members’ educational goals. Inspired by the journeys of our scholarship winners, we’re launching a new “Where are they now” series to highlight where some of them have landed.
Our first featured story highlights Taylor Paluczak, winner of a 2014 scholarship.
What was your dream job in high school, and did you end up pursuing it?
“My dream job in high school was to follow in my grandmother’s footsteps and become an elementary school teacher. My dream ended up coming true! I spent five years teaching 1st grade, two years teaching Kindergarten, and began my eighth year in education this year as a K-5 Reading Intervention Specialist at Hanna Woods Elementary in the Parkway School District. Go Tigers!”
Where did you go to college?
“University of Missouri-Columbia and Webster University”
Did you complete or attain your college degree?
“In 2018, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a minor in Human Development & Family Studies and a Multicultural Certificate from the University of Missouri-Columbia. In 2021, I earned my Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language from Webster University. In 2022, I became National Board Certified as an Early Childhood Generalist.”
What did you do with your scholarship money?
“The scholarship money allowed me to partially cover tuition and course materials, which freed me to fully invest in my studies. Because of this support, I was able to focus on becoming a stronger educator and advancing toward my career goal of making a difference in the lives of my students.”
Your favorite thing about Arsenal?
“What I love most about Arsenal Credit Union is the sense of community. It’s not just a financial institution; it’s an organization that invests in people, families, and local initiatives. That community spirit makes a big difference. Beyond that, I appreciate the way the Tracker Kids Club builds good financial habits early: earning stamps for deposits, reward prizes, birthday cards, and even incentives like cash for good grades. It shows Arsenal cares about more than transactions. They also care about educating, encouraging, and supporting the next generation.”
Any advice for high school seniors?
“My high school senior quote was “Live your life, take chances, be crazy. Don’t wait because right now is the oldest you’ve ever been and the youngest you’ll ever be.”
This is such a powerful reminder that as seniors, you’re standing at such a unique moment – looking back on all you’ve accomplished and looking forward to endless possibilities. My advice is don’t hold back. Try new things, be kind to others, step out of your comfort zone, and don’t be afraid to fail. Every risk, every new experience, every mistake you make, and every bold choice is a chance to learn and a way to discover who you are and what you’re capable of. At the same time, remember to enjoy the little moments – the laughter with friends, the celebrations, even the struggles – because you’ll never be in this exact season again. Hold on to those special memories!”
Any additional education or career goals?
“I am currently pursuing a sequential Master of Arts in Reading with a Graduate Certificate in Dyslexia and the Science of Reading from Webster University. I am also in my second year of Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS) Training through LEXIA. My goal is to always be a lifelong learner!”
What advice would you give to your younger self – or future scholarship applicants?
“Take care of your health, both mental and physical. Balance school, work, and social life without burning out. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Consistency and good habits are so important!”
Has your experience receiving a college scholarship inspired you to give back and volunteer?
“Receiving this scholarship reinforced in me the importance of investing in people’s potential, and that’s exactly what I try to do as an educator – pouring into students, volunteering my time, and supporting programs that help kids build confidence and succeed.”
Taylor’s journey is such an inspiration, and we’re so excited to share more stories of our scholarship winners in our “Where They Are Now” series. These scholarships are all about helping our members reach their goals, and it’s amazing to see where that support has taken them.
