I can't begin to describe how wonderful National Interstate's company culture is. If you ask anyone at this company, including myself, what their favorite part about working here is, they would say "the people"! Everyone here is so welcoming, kind, understanding, and patient. Everyone was willing to sit down with me to answer questions I had or even just chat to get to know each other. This was an experience like no other. I would also like to mention that I had lots of meaningful, educational projects that I was able to work on. I feel like I wouldn't have had as many opportunities interning at another company as I have had here at National Interstate. I highly recommend this company to anyone who is looking for not just an internship, but a lifelong career. You will want to stay!
What I wish was different
Advice
Don't be afraid to ask questions! I thought that people would think less of me for asking 'silly' questions, but it's quite the contrary. They encourage you to ask all your questions because they truly want you to learn from your internship.
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Human Resources Intern
May 2021 • Richfield, OH
What I liked
I loved being an intern at NATL, it was the best intern program I have participated in throughout my entire college career. I interned for a little over a year and had the opportunity to work part-time as a student until I graduated. There were plenty of fun networking and social events as well as opportunities to showcase your knowledge and skills if you wished to do so. Everyone in my dept. was very friendly and always willing to teach or include me on everything that was happening which in my opinion, is one of the most important aspects of an internship program. NATL wants the best from everyone and will challenge you to be great in your career but will reward you for your efforts. They are also very flexible and understanding because we are all human. I have never be a part of an organization like NATL and am very grateful for my experience here.
A few months before I graduated college, I received a full-time job opportunity to be an HR Rep and I gladly accepted. I transitioned to this role in the beginning of May 2022 and was able to participate in their graduate program called "Ignition" at the start of June. This program lasts for the entire first month and was insanely helpful in setting my foundation in the insurance industry. Although I am in HR, you need at least a fundamental knowledge of your industry and how the other dept.'s work in order to do your job successfully and Ignition went above and beyond. Of course, who doesn't like an entire months worth of paid training and free snacks/refreshments but the program also had fun social events planned so it wasn't just classroom time. My class specifically was able to have at least two social events, lunch n learn sessions, teamwork activities, Top Golf, Wild Eagle Salon/Arcade, Customer Visit, Akron Rubber Ducks game, and a closing dinner. We also had fun activities planned throughout our education sessions that encouraged participation, networking events and mentor/mentee opportunities. Overall, I truly enjoyed being able to participate in the Ignition Program and will have close connections with everyone that went through the program as well.
What I wish was different
It wouldn't be real if I said everything was sunshine and rainbows because everyone has different experiences but from working here for over a year now, I really didn't have many/or any complaints. At the end of both Intern and Ignition, we had the opportunity to share our voices through surveys and in-person feedback sessions. Any and all feedback was welcomes because they build these programs around us. Personally, I would have enjoyed not coming into the office every single day for Ignition because of my pets, but they were flexible when I did not feel well or had an unexpected situation arise. This feedback was also given by others in my class and will be taken into heavy consideration when building the program for the next year. We also gave feedback on specific sessions and how they were structured and I am excited to see how these programs evolve in the future. At the end of the day, I did also enjoy coming into the office everyday because it gave me a chance to really get to know the other participants and be able to experience the in-person setting which can also teach you other aspects to your job.
Advice
Just like NATL's motto, your experience in these programs is truly built around you and your time here is what you make it. I know everyone says this but it is true. If you are hard-working, a good communicator, and want to learn, you will succeed.
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Underwriter
June 2022 • Richfield, OH
What I liked
The ignition training program gave a great overview of the organization and showed many different aspects of the insurance industry. This program really made me feel like they were investing in me and growing a good culture.
What I wish was different
Advice
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Marketing Intern
May 2018 • Richfield, OH
What I liked
The atmosphere at National Interstate is amazing. My coworkers are so helpful in answering my questions, assisting me when I need help and allowing me to learn and grow by participating in many projects throughout several different departments. Throughout my internship I always felt comfortable sharing my ideas, and feel like they were always seriously considered and often implemented. I love the opportunities National Interstate has given me throughout my internship to network, build on current skills and learn more about the growing industry.
What I wish was different
I wish I knew a little more about the insurance industry before I started. The company teaches you a lot throughout the program, but I feel like I should have done a little more background research prior to day one.
Advice
Take every opportunity presented to you! You can learn so much during the program if you keep an open mind and a positive attitude. National Interstate wants to help you learn, but also utilize your skills and talents. Be sure to share what you are good at and what you want to learn more about during your time there!
