Trying to decide how to use your political science degree after college? Come learn from and network with UConn alumni and industry professionals as they talk about their career experiences. RSVP encouraged but not required.
Exploring Careers in Political Sciences
Tuesday, February 24
7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Oak Hall, Room 408
In case you missed the CLAS Insurance Industry Panel, here are some of our top tips from our industry alumni. Our featured panelists were:
Alyssa Hanson ’07
Senior Learning and Development Consultant, The Hanover Insurance Group
Major: psychology
Geoffrey Mate ’14
Disability Claims Manager, Liberty Mutual
Major: psychology
Dianne Petgrave ’07
Senior Adjuster, Amica Mutual Insurance
Major: physiology and neurobiology
Steven Zirolli ’08
Financial Advisor and College Unit Coordinator, Northwestern Mutual
Major: communication
Why did you choose a career in insurance?
Dianne: The opportunity to relocate
Alyssa: Working in a field with a service everybody needs
Steven: The entrepreneurial exposure.
Where’s the industry headed:
Our panelists said that they expect the industry to become more online and creating a completely customized delivery.
Advise for current students:
Alyssa: Do an internship- to help get an idea of what you want to do, what companies you’re interested in, and where you want to be
Geoffrey: Suggested that students explore things they might not have considered right away
Dianne: Consider a variety of options, and be flexible
What did you gain from your CLAS background:
Alyssa: Psychology helped her understanding what makes people “tick,” communication skills, and the ability to brand herself and her degree
Steven: The ability to fit in a lot of different industries
Dianne: Analytical, problem solving, and investigation skills
Geoffrey: Understanding of people and mental health
Networking advice:
Steven: Network with alumni- “huskies help huskies,” attend alumni events, and use LinkedIn
Alyssa: Ask others “what do you do?” “Where do you come from?”
Dianne: Seek out face to face opportunities
Geoffrey: Never turn down a networking opportunity
For more info on upcoming panels check out the CLAS webpage.
