Every year, Claims Magazine awards an academic scholarship to a student studying at the Katie School of Insurance and Financial Services at Illinois State University. The program prepares its students for careers in insurance and risk management through on-the-job learning opportunities and internships. This year's recipient, Andrew Joseph Rector, talked with Associate Editor Eric Gilkey about his experiences at the school and his plans for the future.
What's been most memorable moments for you at the Katie School?
The most memorable moments I have experienced have been conferences like the Risk and Employee Benefits Exposition and the National Association of Professional Surplus Lines Offices because I heard differing insights from both young and seasoned professionals in several lines of business. As a result, I was able to quickly learn why the insurance industry is a great place to work. Even more valuable, though, was the fact that I was able to get a feel of what types of jobs would best suit a person like me.
You come from a family with an insurance background. Any plans to follow in your father's footsteps into the claims area of insurance?
I am very interested the claims side of insurance because it is interactive and dynamic. In claims, I would be able to utilize technical and people skills. I would enjoy helping people in a time of need, so why not do it for a living? My dad has been in claims for State Farm for almost 30 years and really loves his job. However, I would like to make my own way in the industry, and while I consider my father a mentor, I do not want any pressure to please him or be measured by his accomplishments.
You are a member of Gamma Iota Sigma. What's an insurance fraternity like?
At Illinois State, we have in excess of 120 members in our chapter. We are a very engaged group of students that are genuinely interested in insurance-related careers. Over the past year, we have had speakers, conferences, alumni events, and social activities. I think my peers get the most out of talking with young industry professionals in terms of starting a career, but also benefit from listening to senior insurance professionals explain the more complex issues facing the industry.
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