Grace Vavra
Majors: Psychological Sciences and Law & Society; Minor: History
National Risk Control Intern, Arthur J Gallagher & Co
1.) How did you learn about this internship opportunity?
I learned about this internship opportunity though my connections on LinkedIn!
2.) How has your internship helped build your skills and clarify your career goals? How do you apply your Liberal Arts skills to your internship?
Throughout my internship, I honed i my ability to think critically and communicate more effectively. Working under attorneys allowed me to develop strong attention to detail and confirm that I want to attend law school after graduating from Purdue! My Liberal Arts education allowed for me to approach complex issues from multiple perspectives, as my professors and classmates have been incredibly helpful in allowing me to understand something from all sides.
3.) What is a piece of advice you would give someone looking for an internship?
A piece of advice that I would give someone looking for an internship is to go out of your comfort zone as much as possible! I did not think psychology would be applicable to the insurance field, but I was completely wrong. I was applying lots of information that I had learned in my classes to my work all summer! Go out and try something new because you never know how much you may love it!
4.) What specific responsibilities have you undertaken during your internship?
Throughout my time at Gallagher, I assisted my employers in the management and resolution of complex insurance claims. I was able to review claim documentation and present it to the client, ensuring that they are receiving their correct benefits.
5.) In what ways has the College of Liberal Arts at Purdue University supported your internship journey? How has your participating in our job-ready program specifically aided your professional development?
The College of Liberal Arts has allowed me to feel inspired to pursue my passions and continue to grow in my knowledge of the world around me. Every professor, advisor, and mentor that I have interacted with has been incredibly helpful in ensuring that I am well prepared for any job that I may take on. There are so many resources CLA provides, and the two that best helped me to gain a summer internship were resume and interview preparation! These allowed me to feel confident in myself and feel like I was putting my best foot forward when applying.
6.) Could you highlight a standout aspect of your experience in this program that you find particularly noteworthy?
A standout aspect of my experience in this program was how much attention to our success was truly put in. It can often be hard being in CLA at a primarily STEM school, but CLA does not make any student feel that way. Every student is deserving of a strong education and career, and CLA ensures that will happen. I am extremely grateful for everyone within this program and the ability to really thrive within my major!