Meet a TWC Alum from UE!

Anna Everitt: all smiles as a TWC Internship Program participant

Anna Everitt, Junior, Business Major
Summer 2006 Participant in TWC Internship Program

"Towards the end of fall semester last year I began researching the possibility of an internship in Washington D.C. Instead of applying to individual organizations, I researched organizations which arrange internships for students. I was able to apply to The Washington Center even though my school was not affiliated at the time; during my application process I worked with Career Services to arrange affiliation for the University of Evansville. I submitted my extensive application including two letters of recommendation, a college transcript, a resume, and an essay in February. Shortly thereafter I was notified of my acceptance and the placement process began. I was given a program advisor who I worked with via phone and e-mail to find a suitable internship. She worked with both my financial need and my interests. By the end of March I had accepted a placement with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

"Specifically, I worked in the Risk Management and Applications Section of the FDIC which receives new bank insurance applications and deals with problem banks all over the country and around the world. When I first arrived, my supervisor made it clear I was there to learn and not do remedial tasks. It was rare that I was making copies or sending faxes for anything but my own projects.

"During my time there I worked on several high-level projects, one dealing with nontraditional mortgages and the risks they pose to the banking industry and the other dealing with industrial loan corporations (ILCs). During both projects I was given a lot of responsibility and was able to demonstrate my extensive skills in computer applications. My co-workers were helpful in assisting me with my tasks and I was treated with respect at all times.

"Working in Washington D.C. was vastly different than anything I had experienced in the Midwest. I did not have much social interaction with my co-workers and I found that social lives in Washington D.C. mostly revolve around work. I learned that I do not want to create a career in a big city without having to take a permanent position. I feel this was one of the biggest benefits to me personally of this internship.

"While Washington D.C. was a sharp contrast to the Midwestern comfort I am used to, there were fascinating events and places which only take place in the capital. During my time there I was able to attend a Peace Corp Awards Reception, interview an advisor at the World Bank, hear three ambassadors and two U.S. Senators speak, attend a White House bill signing (yes, I saw President Bush and got in the gates of the White House!), and watch fireworks over the Washington Monument.

"So what did I gain from this experience? I was able to tour the entire capital for 10 weekends! I gained technically knowledge about the financial industry. I have a standing invitation to intern next summer in the same section at the FDIC in Washington D.C., and job recommendations from both my supervisor and the Associate Director of the section. Lastly, I have a better understanding of what kind of career I want to pursue and where I want to build that career. Without a doubt I would take this opportunity again."

For more information, please contact the University of Evansville liason to The Washington Center, Dr. Burton Kirkwood. Information is also available on The Washington Center website.