Well, I just wanted to say it was a real pleasure meeting everyone. Thanks to all for creating a pleasant learning environment, and an exciting internship. I look forward to what the future holds. Good luck everyone!
-Paul in Fresno
After the internship, I plan on working as a producer with GBS here at the Fresno branch. I know this is the company I want to be with, and the profession I want to immerse myself in. Although it is not finalized yet, it looks as though my wish will come true. Before the internship, I already knew I wanted to work here. My experiences during the internship have confirmed that this is where I want to make my home (by that, I don’t mean sleeping under my desk, I just mean that this is where I want to establish a career).
-Paul in Fresno
Alan rocks. He has been involved in some area of the insurance business for 30 years. Alan is the guy who has tons of knowledge, but is humble in his presentation of it. When I or someone else asks him a question pertaining to health insurance benefits, he does not use it as an opportunity to make you see how smart he is; rather, he genuinely seeks to explain himself in a manner that can be understood.
Further, Alan is very positive and energetic. When you are speaking to him, you get the impression you have his full attention and that he’s really processing what you’re saying. In other words, despite his experience, he’s still a really good listener. His energy is contagious and he’s really enjoyable to be around. I imagine that’s why he’s such a good consultant – he is a person you really want to work with.
-Paul in Fresno
I had an awesome time in Itasca. I am from California, and there were interns there from all over the country – each with varying accents. However, I believe the majority of “foreign” accents I heard was that Chicago-type accent (you all know the one I’m talking about – I say “Chi-CAWW-go”, you say “Chi-KEG-go”). Anyway, I liked meeting different people from all over the country.
I also really liked getting a feel for the culture of the company. I was impressed that even the “top dogs” are pretty down to earth and approachable, despite the fact that they’re wealthy and successful business professionals. I’d imagine that is a big part of why Gallagher is such a successful company. Also, the busy class schedule gave me a great overview of the company and the insurance business.
The accommodations were amazing. Veronica, if the Westin reminds you of your college dorm, then all I have to say is I wish I went to your college.
-Paul in Fresno, CA
Hi everyone. I didn’t get a chance to post this before leaving for Itasca (which, by the way, was a great time). Well everyone is posting about sports, but I enjoy backpacking, hiking, and camping. (Of course, I have really enjoyed watching the World Cup). My first week has been great. My impression is that I will learn a lot, simply by being immersed in the field. I am trying to be assertive to invite myself along with the producers, and I’m trying to keep my ear to the ground for experiences that sound enriching. I’m still feeling everyone out here — I want to be assertive, yet, not annoying. I hope to show everyone that I am willing to work hard, and that no job is too small for me, but also that I am willing to get out of my comfort zone and try challenging things.
- Paul in Fresno
Hi, my name is Paul and I’m interning with GBS at the Fresno branch. I’m a graduate of Cal State Bakersfield, where I majored in English and minored in Religious Studies.
I expect this summer to be an excellent learning experience and anticipate it will be integral in shaping my professional career. Already, my mentors have given me several opportunities to participate in presentations, enrollments, and educational meetings. What has been a great start will surely ripen into an unforgettable learning experience.
- Paul in Fresno