For students participating in Northwestern Mutual – Chicago’s top rated internship program, a trip to Milwaukee to attend the company’s annual meeting was an experience not to be missed. For four days in July, more than 10,000 financial representatives and their families from across the country descend upon the corporate headquarters city to be inspired, to learn and to network.
“The Annual Meeting is a tremendous experience for networking and professional development,“ shared Jeannie Andresen, director of internship development for the Chicago-based financial planning firm. “It provides students an opportunity to see the company as a whole, and the impact our life’s work has on others.”
“It was crazy to see thousands of people unite in one city,” agreed Samea Akhtar, a senior at Loyola University. “It made me see visually the immense impact we have all around the country.”
For Ally Holland, a senior at Wheaton College, hearing the personal stories of how the company has impacted the lives of clients was most inspiring. “It drives home the importance of the work we do as financial representatives,” she noted.
The multi-day event featured company leaders, industry experts and motivational speakers who provide advice and inspiration on a series of topics ranging from finding your true passion in life to building a successful financial planning practice.
Aside from professional development, students enhance their social development. “I was able to connect on a personal level with the team in my district office and formed stronger bonds,” said Justin Bungag, a graduate of DePaul University who is participating in the post -graduate program.
The bonds also were strengthened among students from the different Chicago area schools, said Andresen. “The paths of students at DePaul, Loyola and UIC don’t often cross with those at Dominican, Wheaton or Elmhurst. It was great to see close relationships develop and new friendships formed.”
Another not to miss is the College Awards Show celebrating the 50th anniversary of the internship program and a private concert with Grammy award-winning pop icon Christina Aguilera at the BMO Harris Bradley Center.