Connor Pijanowski '21

1) What are some skills/competencies (NACE) that you developed during your internship?

My primary job function is to review commercial borrowers’ financial documentation, enter their tax return information into a banking software platform, and perform a detailed analysis of their financials. In addition to developing my analytical skills, I have learned the importance of strong business writing, as this is a necessary skill needed for completing the reports I write once the financial analysis is completed. My communication skills with coworkers have also been strengthened because I am working remotely and it is essential to constantly update them on the work I complete.

2) How does this experience connect to your future career goals?

This has been a great experience for me because I have a strong interest in the financial industry and my job functions involve working with financial data and documents. Working as a member of the lending department, I have worked on several PPP loans and have witnessed direct effects the pandemic has had on small businesses and the economy overall. I have been exposed to many different job responsibilities within the lending department which has given me great insight and guidance into a future career in the financial industry.

3) What advice would you give to other Holy Cross students?

I would advise other Holy Cross students that once they begin their internship, be a very proactive employee and use the internship to learn as much as possible about that industry/profession. Internships are certainly great to put on a resume, but it is just as important to use that opportunity to figure out if you could see yourself in that career after graduation.