Name: Carol Canales
Internship, Co-op or Research Site: Pacific Western Bank
Position Title: Portfolio Management Intern
Major(s)/Minor(s): Financial Economics
Current Class Level: Junior
Work Term: Summer 2019
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities.
As an intern for the Portfolio Management Department, I assisted account executives who are loan servicers for health care, real estate, premium or lender finance, and commercial aviation. These executives regularly deal with well known companies such as American Airlines. I am learning how they prepare the invoices, monitor postings, and manage payments. I have also prepared more than 1,000 invoices for the small business lending group, as well as uploaded insurance and interest rate changes in the bank's Portfolio Management System. My main project for the summer was about the company's 10 lending groups and the Venture Banking division. I spent about 7 weeks interviewing 12 people in-person and over the phone and summarized the data into a presentation. I delivered and facilitated a 35 minute presentation in front of 40 people. Although it seemed nerve-racking, the staff were very nice and gave positive feedback. Human Resources also had several workshops and a recent college graduate round table, where new employees gave their insight on the job search process.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
My friend and UMBC alumna told me back in December 2018 that her company has an internship program and asked her supervisor about it the end of January 2019. After receiving an email from the supervisor, I sent in my resume and was given a phone interview the next day. I got an email from an HR specialist on April 10th with the official company flyer and the reference code to officially apply. I applied right away and received an offer letter a week later. I used my friend's resume as a comparison and also visited the Career Center.
What have you enjoyed the most about your position or organization?
I enjoyed meeting people from different departments and divisions. It is incredible to see the bond between the account executives and how close the other lending groups are amongst their team. The facilities staff also went above and beyond to brighten everyone's day. From providing snacks, setting up volunteer days to opening up their homes to watch political debates and the Women's World Cup. The Chevy Chase office has a genuine loving atmosphere.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I am the only intern who goes up to the supervisor regarding any issues I have with my computer or to ask how to assign myself work in my spare time. I have heard other Account Executives admire my desire to learn and take in information by having my notepad and pen with me.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
Be proactive, search for these opportunities on your own, and try to network with alumni in addition to using the Career Center website!
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