Knowing what a bank is and how a bank operates are two very different things. Through the WesBanco Externship program, Chambers College students like me were able to experience the culture, understand the challenges, and define the details of a local relational bank. Seeing the faces and factors that influenced banking firsthand was an enriching experince for all that were involved in the program.

The externship began with a dinner at WesBanco’s office where we were encouraged to network with WesBanco employees, allowing us to make connections that lasted beyond the externship.

The next morning, we learned about the company’s operations, culture as a relational bank, and industry. WesBanco leadership encouraged us to ask questions. Prior to this, we were given a packet to read about the banking industry, but WesBanco leadership encouraged and gave us time to ask questions to fully understand anything we were confused about. We then heard from professionals that helped improve the understanding and value of the knowledge shared.

After an insightful lunch that introduced us to careers within WesBanco, we worked to apply the comprehensive knowledge gained about the industry through case studies. These cases helped us put what we had learned into practice.

We were split into several small teams and given a timeline and situation that required analysis of a company to determine if we would give them a loan. Practicing ratios and complex analysis under pressure gave each group the opportunity to take what they had learned and present their findings and thesis before learning of the actual outcome of the case.

This experience enabled me to learn about a local regional bank and gain a broader understanding of the banking industry than I had before. The externship allowed me to practice networking, developing questions, analysis, teamwork, and presentation skills. I gained several valuable connections that have continued to invest in my learning since the externship.

The Center for Career Development was instrumental in both providing this opportunity and also selecting a company that was interested in investing in us, the students. The setup, materials, communication, and questions added by the CCD and its director, Sarah Glenn, improved the flow of the event and increased opportunities for participating students to takeaway.

I would like to thank WesBanco for their leadership and willingness to invest in WVU students. Additionally, I am thankful for the CCD, the Chambers College, and other contributors that enabled this and other extremely valuable experiences that improved the professionalism of myself and my peers.

Grant Phillips
Chambers College student
B.S.B.A. Finance (in progress)

"Let's Talk Business" is a series of guest blogs written by members of the Chambers College community. All views expressed in this post are the author's own.

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