July 29, 2021
Internship with Gabby Banks
It’s all about an internship for Wake Forest-native and ECU College of Business senior Gabrielle “Gabby” Banks.
“I try to do an internship every summer to determine what I want to do after college…having that hands-on experience and the opportunity to network is extremely valuable and plays a major role in why I do internships.”
Banks recently completed an internship, which she found through Handshake, with IAT Insurance Group, a specialty insurance company headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina. Her responsibilities included submitting insurance services office (ISO) reports to ensure a claim was not reported elsewhere and submitting claims to be reviewed by adjusters. She also created a capstone presentation about the transition from one system to a completely new one.
How did the COB prepare you to be the chosen candidate?
Taking the series of business leadership classes (BUSI 1200, 2200, 3200) aided me in securing my internship. The strong resume that I created in BUSI 1200 caught the recruiter’s attention. My ability to speak well in a group, as taught in BUSI 2200, helped during my group interview. Plus, the STAR method that was taught in BUSI 3200 allowed me to answer all questions clearly.
IAT internship meeting with IAT CEO
What did the internship mean to you?
This internship was my first experience in the insurance industry, and it was above and beyond my expectations. Everyone from the CEO on down was approachable and always willing to talk or ask questions. I feel that I gained valuable experience and obtained feedback that will help me grow as a young professional.
How are you better prepared for your career with this internship under your belt?
This internship gave me more of an understanding of how the claims process works. That knowledge, paired with the connections I made, makes me feel like I am prepared for anything!
Why would you recommend a business student take advantage of an internship opportunity? It is a way to see whether a career path is right for you or not. Working is inevitable, so it’s best to work doing something you love! Internships are also a great way to build your network. If a certain career isn’t for you, then maybe someone in your network has another opportunity.
Banks is a double major in accounting and finance, with a concentration in Risk Management and Insurance. She plans to pursue a master of science in accounting in the Fall of 2022.
Gabby Banks, front row, fourth from right, with her IAT claims team.