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Success Stories
Lauren Wilsmann
Terry College of Business: May 2013
College Intern at State Farm
I learned about DAWGlink in my Business Leadership class after I was accepted into the Terry College of Business. I knew I wanted to pursue an internship for the summer after my junior year to gain valuable experience in the business world. After interviewing with several companies at the Career Center, I found a match for me that aligned with my personal values and future aspirations. I secured a 10 week internship with State Farm. Not only was it paid, but I also got college credit toward my major!
I feel privileged to have been a part of such a well-organized program that gave me endless opportunities to learn. I received hands-on training and experienced how the company worked from all different sides of the business through shadowing and actively participating. I enjoyed sitting with the marketing department, where I met with an analyst who showed me some tactics used to make sure State Farm's agents stayed profitable. I was treated like a full time employee and was able to network and create relationships with others. We went on "field trips" where we visited agencies and learned about their business structure and marketing techniques. I was also given the chance to participate in "Toastmasters" meetings, which was a public speaking club that improved my leadership skills. I walked away from the internship with a better understanding of my strengths and what I want to pursue as a career after college. I strongly encourage other students to take advantage of internship opportunities so that they may learn about themselves and see where they fit best.