With the diploma mounted, storage unit purchased and U-haul rented, I ventured back to Bloomington for a final visit: emptying my apartment. However, the day before that dreadfully labor-intensive morning, I met my former COUNTRY supervisor for a “business” lunch.
Yep, it sounded oddly formal, something Hollywood-types do, or the characters in “Mad Men.” Regardless, I arrived with an empty stomach, rumbling with nothing but questions.
Turns out, I don’t really remember what I ate (that’s surprising, trust me), but what I do recall is that I was offered a job — a temporary position in my old department. In it, I’d assume greater responsibilities and further build the skills acquired in my internship. Although I was currently interviewing at two companies, I soon accepted the offer. Which begs the question, what convinced me to return?
No, it wasn’t the hope of not relocating my furniture. Rather, I saw the value in continuing my COUNTRY career. I’d work alongside employees who I’ve developed relationships with, enhance my knowledge of COUNTRY and be entrusted with challenging assignments — all because the bonds I forged as an intern. Such invaluable ties aren’t easily replaceable.
COUNTRY, too, values relationships. Financial representatives diligently work to develop strong bonds with clients. It’s these hard-earned ties that drive their business. Such partnerships allow clients to trust their representatives.
Everyday, I’m reminded I work at a company that shares my values. That’s truly hard to come by.
COUNTRY has recently been flooded with new interns, many of whom are beginning their final college year. Working alongside them has made me reflect on my previous internship experience and the lessons I learned, namely that hard work is always rewarded, even in unexpected ways. Around here, that’s certainly the case.
So, it’s definitely great to be back, if for nothing else than to finally run my Bloomington-Normal restaurant gauntlet.
Great article and Success Story.
Thanks so much! It is really great to be back, and hopefully I can continue that success in my new role!
I’m so happy to hear a fellow intern that I had the pleasure working with was happy to begin their career here at COUNTRY. Looks like you made the most out of your intern experience, and someone noticed! Congrats Chris!