Participating in a Top 10 internship with Northwestern Mutual – Chicago students explore the career as a financial representative, develop critical business skills and learn the importance of financial planning. And, for seniors who looking to graduate this spring, they may be one step closer to joining the company full-time. 

Building on her classroom learnings, Kaylinn Smith, a Biology major at the University of Illinois – Chicago is learning the anatomy of a financial plan.  In other words, what it takes to make everything work together to plan for and achieve financial security. 

“I’ve been working alongside our experienced financial professionals, meeting with clients, listening to their goals and helping them develop a budget that will guide them,” says Smith. “Not only have I learned the impact a financial plan can make, the internship has opened my eyes to a new career opportunity,” she adds.

At the same time, Henry Midyett, an Economics major at Loyola University Chicago, says the internship has helped him develop critical business skills. “I’ve grown through learning time management as well as how to interact with others,” he says. 

Both seniors, who are expected to graduate in May 2018, are seriously considering joining the firm full-time upon graduation.  And, the doors are open to them, says Jeannie Andresen, Director of Internship Development.

“Kaylinn and Henry have laid a foundation for a client base and financial planning practice,” notes Andresen.  Both are licensed in life, health and accident insurance setting the stage for them to pursue their series 6 and 63 securities registrations following graduation.

They have the potential to attend Northwestern Mutual’s Winter Camp in March 2018.  Held at the company headquarters in Milwaukee, the two-day event provides Northwestern Mutual’s most elite college interns the opportunity to network and learn from their peers and leaders nationwide. 

As the days move closer to graduation, ongoing mentoring, coaching and training will help guide their decision. And, both Kaylinn and Henry agree, whether they join the firm or not, they have grown exponentially through the internship experience.