For students at East Carolina University (ECU) looking to break into the competitive world of Risk Management and Insurance (RMI), the Ecu Rmi Career Fair stands as a pivotal event. Just ask Alyssa Amerson, a senior from Cary, North Carolina, whose experience underscores the immense value of attending these career-focused events. It was at a virtual RMI career fair in 2021 where Alyssa’s career trajectory took a significant leap forward, landing her a coveted internship with Builders Mutual Insurance Company. This opportunity not only provided her with invaluable industry experience but also paved the way for her current full-time role in underwriting.
Securing an Underwriting Internship Through the ECU RMI Career Fair
Alyssa’s success story began at the ECU RMI Career Fair. She actively engaged with recruiters from various companies, showcasing her enthusiasm and the knowledge she had gained from her RMI coursework. Her proactive approach at the career fair directly led to her internship with Builders Mutual, a company known for its strong presence in the insurance sector.
“During my time at Builders Mutual, I served as an underwriting intern,” Alyssa explained. This role immersed her in the daily operations of commercial insurance, providing a hands-on learning experience that complemented her academic studies. Working alongside two experienced mentors, Alyssa gained practical insights into policy review, risk underwriting processes, and the evaluation of new business proposals, endorsements, and renewals.
Real-World Application of RMI Coursework
The internship wasn’t just about observation; Alyssa actively participated in real underwriting tasks. She highlighted the direct connection between her ECU coursework and her internship responsibilities. “From everything I learned in my BUSI core classes and my RMI classes, I implemented many of the topics and lessons I learned into the real world,” Alyssa stated.
Specifically, her general liability class with Professor Kurt Fickling proved to be exceptionally relevant. The curriculum, which covered areas like workers’ compensation, auto insurance, general liability, and inland marine insurance, became immediately applicable as she reviewed diverse commercial insurance policies. This experience reinforced her classroom learning and allowed her to confidently navigate the “insurance language” in a professional setting.
The Mentorship Advantage at ECU’s College of Business
Alyssa credits the strong mentorship within ECU’s College of Business for her success in securing and excelling in her internship. Professors Kurt Fickling, Dr. Brenda Wells, and Dr. Brad Karl stand out as key figures in her journey. “Without their help, knowledge, and encouragement, I would not have received an internship,” she acknowledged. These professors are known for their dedication to student success, providing guidance and support to students interested in the insurance industry.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience
Internships are not without their challenges, and Alyssa faced one head-on. She undertook the rigorous Associates in Underwriting exam during her internship but narrowly missed passing. While initially disappointed, Alyssa demonstrated resilience, a trait she attributes to her education at the College of Business. “Through the COB and my wonderful mentors, I learned to be resilient,” she reflected. This experience taught her the importance of perseverance and reframing setbacks as learning opportunities, emphasizing that experience itself is invaluable.
Internship Success: A Direct Path to Full-Time Employment
Alyssa’s dedication and the skills she honed during her internship culminated in a full-time job offer from Builders Mutual. She transitioned directly from her internship to a position as an Express Account Underwriter shortly after graduating. This seamless transition underscores the effectiveness of the ECU RMI Career Fair in connecting students with real career opportunities and the value employers place on internship experience. Her long-term career aspirations include advancing within the underwriting field and potentially becoming an insurance agent or producer, goals that are now firmly within her reach thanks to the foundation laid by her internship.
The Indispensable Value of Internships and Career Fairs
Drawing from her positive experience, Alyssa strongly advocates for business students to actively participate in career fairs and seek out internship opportunities. “I would recommend all business students take advantage of career fairs and find any internships that spark their interest,” she advised. She emphasizes that internships are crucial for developing professional and personal skills, enhancing industry knowledge, and boosting confidence. For Alyssa, the ECU RMI Career Fair was not just an event; it was the starting point of a successful career in insurance, demonstrating the tangible benefits of connecting with industry professionals and gaining practical experience early in one’s academic journey.
