08/27/2026
Don’t wait until graduation to get experience—get an internship while you’re in college. It’s one of the smartest ways to turn what you’re learning in the classroom into skills employers want.
Hear from University of Southern Indiana senior finance major Lauren Thomas as she talks about her internship experience. "My internship with Baird has been such a meaningful experience. I started as a summer intern and will continue part-time through my graduation in December.
"Throughout my internship, I’ve had the opportunity to sit in on client meetings, assist with preparing wealth reports, and gain a better understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities of working in wealth management. One of the highlights of my internship was traveling to Milwaukee, where I met other Baird interns from across the country and had the chance to learn more about the firm’s culture.
"These experiences allowed me to use what I’ve learned in the classroom and put it into practice. I’ve also seen how meaningful it can be to serve clients and help improve their lives through financial planning. All the things I have learned through my internship serve as a strong foundation for my future career."
What does she want you to know? "For USI students considering an internship, my biggest advice is to keep an open mind," says Lauren. "Ask questions, build relationships, and be open to new opportunities. You don’t have to have your entire career figured out before starting an internship. Sometimes the experience itself helps you discover what you enjoy, and you never know what doors it may open from there."
Talk to USI Career Success Center to find out more about internship and career opportunities.
