Blue Cross Internships Introduce Graduates to Detroit's Possibilities
Brianna Neace
| 2 min read
About 75 percent of students at four-year schools undertake at least one internship.
At Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, we currently employ 165 interns representing 36 different schools from Michigan, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina and Virginia. These internships span the company and exist in almost every department because Blue Cross recognizes the importance of students gaining valuable, real-world experience in their area of choice. However, the largest health insurer in Michigan also believes that exploring the surrounding area and committing to a healthy work/life balance is just as important as the hands-on job training these internships offer.
That's why Blue Cross provides its interns with access to new professional-focused activities such as its internal Young Professionals Network (YPN) and the city-specific After 5 Detroit program. While the YPN focuses members on team-based research projects throughout Blue Cross, After 5 Detroit coordinates social events to engage participates in the city's offerings and provides the opportunity to foster relationships with interns and new professionals throughout Detroit. Given the differing experiences available, many of Blue Cross' interns participate in both organizations. In fact, a few of them shared their thoughts on the value provided by programs such as these: "Interning at Blue Cross is a one-of-a-kind opportunity. The environment is diverse and inclusive - everyone's opinion matters. The mentorship provided through the Young Professional Network is invaluable." Bre’onna Richardson - Howard University "I attended After 5's preview party for the district. The event was a great networking opportunity and provided an inside scoop on Detroit's happenings. I enjoyed sharing the news with friends to spread awareness of fun things happening downtown." Angelina Truchan - Wayne State University "This is my second year interning with Blue Cross. I really like the welcoming and family-oriented environment here, which is why I wanted to come back. Participating in the After 5 scavenger hunt was a great experience - it's exciting to have events available after work to network with people my age at the same point in their career." Mekhi Stribling - Michigan State University "Interning at Blue Cross is a total business experience. Ever since I attended the After 5 loft party, I've pictured myself living downtown. It's easy to fall in love with the city." Heather Cook - Northern Michigan University If you enjoyed this post, you might also like:
