This summer, I interned with CIBE through its business immersion program. This program was very successful in teaching all of us about the many walks of life that fall under the business world. Speakers and alumni spoke with us on sectors such as finance, private equity, insurance, reinsurance, and entrepreneurship. This internship was very informative for a student unsure of what career path to choose.
My favorite highlight from the internship was our trip to Chicago. We spent all day walking around Chicago, learning from some of our most successful alumni. They were able to share their paths, their troubles, and how Wabash prepared them for the real world. Another one of my favorite highlights was being able to create a startup idea, go through proper research, and develop a product that could actually be made. I want to thank Matthew Brooks and Cassie Hagan for making this process seem so real, which helped show the work needed to create your own business.
The work that alumni were able to add to this experience added so much for us interns. This summer, I received by far the best career advice I’ve ever received. Alumni were able to show me that it’s okay to not have it all figured out right now. Many of them said to study what you enjoy at Wabash, and doors will open around you. The biggest piece of advice that I got was that when those doors open, you must run through them like you are on fire. To those coming into the program, the way to maximize your experience is simple, but it takes dedication. You need to be a sponge to all the information that is being poured into you. If an alumnus offers to set up a call with you, you need to follow up with him and build your network.
Lastly, I want to give another big thank you to all the alumni and donors who went above and beyond to make all of this possible. This internship was truly special, and it could not have been possible without you. Thank you.
