An enterprise risk management intern shares how hands-on experience, company-wide exposure and a culture of trust helped build confidence that will last far beyond graduation.
By William Lorch
I walked into my second summer at First Internet Bank bracing for the typical internship starter pack: shadow a few meetings, clean up a spreadsheet and leave with a nice line for my resume. But somewhere in my first week, I found myself sitting in a room where people were genuinely debating a recommendation I had made. That’s when I realized I had come in expecting one thing and found something completely different. No one in that room was talking down to me. No one was simplifying the conversation so the intern could keep up. Instead, I was encouraged to share my perspective and contribute alongside the rest of the team.
That was the moment the summer changed for me, and it set the tone for everything that followed.
A quick introduction: I am a rising junior at Purdue University studying finance, and this was my second summer as an enterprise risk management intern at First Internet Bank. Returning for another year, I assumed I already knew what the job looked like. Instead, I was given a project that stretched across the entire organization. While the deliverable was specific to my role, the work itself required me to understand how every part of the bank actually operates, from the customer-facing business lines to the functions customers may never see.
On paper, it felt like a lot to take on. In reality, it became one of the most rewarding parts of the experience.
Because my work touched so many areas of the bank, I had the chance to connect with people across different teams and learn what they do each day and how it all fits together. Everyone was generous with their time and willing to answer questions, which gave me a deeper understanding of the bank than I ever could have gained in a classroom.
I learned a lot about my role, but more importantly, I learned how the entire organization works together to serve our customers and support one another. Seeing that collaboration firsthand was one of the most valuable lessons from my internship.
That experience also showed me what it feels like to be treated as a contributor, not just an intern. First Internet Bank is not an environment built on micromanagement. Instead, you’re trusted to take ownership of your work while knowing you have the guidance and support you need to succeed. I will admit it, that freedom was intimidating at first, but it challenged me to think critically, work through obstacles and confidently explain my thinking.
My problem-solving skills did not get stronger because someone lectured me. They got stronger because I was given the opportunity to figure things out for myself.
Some of the most significant lessons I learned had nothing to do with a specific project. I gained a deeper understanding of how a corporate environment operates, which is very different from the rhythm of college life. I learned how to work with people from different backgrounds, communicate with a variety of personalities and adapt to different ways of thinking. I also developed a new perspective on time management. In school, every assignment comes with a clear deadline. At work, you learn to prioritize based on what matters most and where you can make the greatest impact. That single shift has already changed how I handle both my studies and my personal life.
Looking back, I can see how much I grew over the summer. I became more comfortable being challenged because feedback was always rooted in helping me improve. I contributed meaningful work to a project with company-wide impact, shared ideas with leaders across the bank and developed a level of confidence in my own judgment that I simply did not have a year ago.
The most valuable takeaway is not something I can put in a chart or presentation. It’s realizing that I stopped asking whether I belonged in the room and started thinking about how I could add the most value once I was there.
If there is one piece of advice I would give a future intern, it is this: look for a place that treats you like a contributor, not a placeholder. At First Internet Bank, you’re not expected to sit on the sidelines and observe. You’re encouraged to ask questions, share ideas and take ownership of meaningful work. What stood out most to me was that people genuinely wanted to help me succeed. Whether it was a teammate making time to answer questions or a leader taking my perspective seriously, I always felt supported and valued. That kind of environment does more than help you learn. It gives you the confidence to contribute.
I came back this summer thinking I knew what to expect. I left with a better understanding of my own potential and a clearer sense of where I want my career to go. That is worth far more than a line on a resume.
So, what are you doing next summer?
If you’re looking for a place where you’ll be trusted with meaningful work, encouraged to share your ideas and surrounded by people who are invested in your success, I can confidently recommend First Internet Bank.
It changed the way I think about my career, my abilities and what I can contribute.
Learn more about internship opportunities and apply at First Internet Bank Internships.