STEP REFELCTION:

Question 1:

My STEP project was focused on my 12 week internship at Huntington National Bank. During my internship, I focused on analyzing deposit rate interest exceptions, where I evaluated customer accounts to identify potential pricing alternatives. I engaged in negotiations with bankers to secure favorable rates, authorized rate adjustments, and systematically implemented rate changes on customer accounts. Additionally, I played a key role in maintaining internal rate codes, collaborating with pricing managers to execute changes for various deposit products, including introductory rates, promotional offers, and special interest codes.

In a collaborative effort with a team of 6 interns, I contributed to the Huntington Innovation Project, addressing the challenge of striking a balance between innovation and risk management in response to competitive pressures from fintech and non-traditional banking. Within a 12-week timeframe, I successfully presented our project’s insights to the executive leadership, showcasing our solution for navigating these complex industry issues.

Question 2:

My internship completely changed how I saw things. Even though I was studying finance in college, I didn’t know much about the banking industry as a whole. It was really cool to learn about how many different roles in a bank work together to achieve the same goal. I loved being part of this real-world experience, contributing, and learning at the same time. It made me realize how interesting and interconnected the banking world is. Working at Huntington allowed me to see and experience first-hand what company culture and values truly mean. I was able to interact with many executive leaders and mentors throughout the process. By interacting with these mentors and leaders I was able to see a trickle down effect of the true value that Huntington embraces.

Question 3:

During my internship, one pivotal event that greatly impacted my transformation was the company-wide initiative known as the Pelotonia. From the moment I joined, I heard enthusiastic discussions about this annual event where all employees come together to ride bikes and contribute to fundraising for cancer research at The Ohio State University Wexner Hospital. Witnessing the passion and dedication of my colleagues towards a larger societal cause was truly inspiring. This event played a significant role in reshaping my perspective, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts and instilling a sense of purpose beyond individual roles.

Interactions within my team on the third floor also contributed to my growth. Our team was newly formed, bringing together individuals from various age groups. Engaging with colleagues of different generations taught me valuable lessons in respect, effective communication, and bridging large age gaps. This experience improved my networking skills, making it a lot easier me to connect and converse with people of diverse backgrounds and ages. I feel that this was one of the most beneficial takeaways as it has been super helpful as I am applying for full time jobs now.

The relationships I formed during my internship, particularly with mentors, were really important in changing how I saw things. One mentor that stood out was the CFO of the bank. Even though she held a top position, she was easy to talk to and really down-to-earth. Learning from her showed me how it’s essential to stay humble even when you’re successful. Her advice and friendly attitude stayed with me, reminding me that staying grounded is crucial, no matter how far you go in your career.

Question 4:

The changes I experienced during my internship matter a lot because they connect what I’m learning in finance to real-life banking. It really puts into perspective of what we learn in school truly is used within the real world. Personally, I’ve learned how teamwork can create a big impact, especially through things like the Pelotonia initiative where everyone comes together for much deeper and important cause. These changes will guide my future career too. The idea of staying humble even in important roles and being able to talk to people of different ages are lessons I’ll take with me. Learning from mentors, like the CFO, showed me how to be a good leader by being down-to-earth. These changes will help me make good connections in the finance industry.