Students at Eastern Connecticut State University honed new skills and explored career interests this fall semester through a variety of paid, pre-professional experiences known as co-ops. Opportunities spanned industries such as insurance services, data analysis and sports coaching. 

Nicholas Annelli '25, a finance major, is a financial representative intern at Northwestern Mutual, a financial services company in West Hartford. Using the company’s software, Annelli tracks potential clients and develops financial plans. His responsibilities also include selling life, health and accident insurance to clients over the phone. 

Annelli described the role as highly independent. “You are basically a self-employer running your own business,” he said. He also shared his long-term aspirations. “I have a family business, Annelli Paving, owned by my father. I want to eventually take over the family business.”  

Annelli noted how his internship aligns with his goals: “This job involves risks, including equipment-related injuries. Understanding insurance products has shown me the importance of having coverage to protect against potential disabilities or job loss.” 

Christian Deras-Rodriguez ’25, a mathematics major, is an actuarial intern at Liberty Mutual in Boston. His work focuses on analyzing claims that exceed standard coverage limits. Using data science techniques, Deras-Rodriguez identifies patterns in claims, aids pricing strategies and provides data insights to assess risks associated with high-value policies. 

Deras-Rodriguez highlighted the practical value of his experience. “Applying what I’ve learned in school to real-world situations has been a significant takeaway,” he said. “Working for an insurer has shown me how actuarial principles and data analysis can influence business decisions.”  

Deras-Rodriguez aims to become a Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society (FCAS) and pursue a career in property and casualty insurance. “This internship is helping me build the technical skills and industry knowledge needed to achieve those goals,” he added. 

Zachary Willard, a business administration major, is interning as head coach for Marianapolis Preparatory School’s Volleyball Team and assistant coach for the varsity volleyball team. His responsibilities include creating practice and game plans and helping players achieve their individual goals. 

“Throughout the season, I’ve watched each player grow significantly in leadership and sport-specific skills,” Willard said. Reflecting on the season, he added, “We just had our finals game and ended with a win. It was a great way to wrap up the season and showcase the hard work each player has put in.” 

Willard also shared his personal growth through the experience. “I had never coached a sport before or played volleyball. I was nervous at first and struggled to define my role as a coach. Over time, I gained confidence and hope I made a positive impact on the players,” he said. Willard, who has a concentration in sport management, sees this internship as a stepping stone in his career.

“Sport management is a fast-growing industry, and coaching is my way to start my career in this field.” 

These real-world learning experiences are supported by Eastern’s Office of Career Services at the Academic Success Center. Jacky Lewis, assistant director of career services, emphasized the value of co-op/internship opportunities. “Co-ops connect students to paid opportunities and expand their professional networks, increasing their chances of securing jobs after graduation,” she said. 

Lewis also explained how her office facilitates these connections. “We promote opportunities through departmental and classroom presentations, one-on-one advising appointments and our website,” she said. “We also utilize Handshake, our job and internship search tool, to showcase co-op opportunities.”