I still remember the day I met Miguel L Solis, CAWC.
December 1st, 2021.
It was the Junior Achievement annual breakfast and Miguel was the keynote student speaker. The moment his words began to flow, it became abundantly clear that his perspective and eloquence held a special kind of brilliance. Listening to him articulate his thoughts and ideas with such poise and clarity, I recognized a rare and remarkable talent that simply had to be welcomed into our agency's fold.
Fast forward to implementation of the Insurance BFF Mentorship Program within Lansing School District’s insurance program and I selfishly paired myself with Miguel. During his senior year of high school, I had the privilege of getting to know him better.
When we launched a Minority Internship Program this summer, I knew Miguel had to be our first intern. With the assistance of a carefully crafted Internship Passport (shoutout to Laura Stoken), we were able to immerse Miguel within both our agency and the industry.
From the moment we began working together, I was struck by Miguel's unwavering commitment to learning and his boundless enthusiasm for the insurance industry. His determination to grasp the intricacies of the field and his willingness to ask questions that probed showcased a level of maturity beyond his years. It was evident that Miguel was not merely content with surface-level understanding; he sought a comprehensive understanding that would enable him to make a lasting impact. His dedication to continuous improvement and his genuine curiosity were nothing short of inspiring, leaving an impactful mark on both the Minority Internship Program and myself as his mentor.
Tomorrow marks the last day of an unforgettable internship for Miguel Solis.. As the sun sets on his time here (for now!), it's only fitting to reflect on the experiences, contributions, and growth that have defined Miguel's journey.
A Multifaceted Role: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
From day one, Miguel dived into his role with enthusiasm. He was entrusted with diverse responsibilities, ranging from attending one-on-one sessions with each staff member, participating in learning projects, and immersing himself in industry events. He was a sponge, absorbing knowledge about sales, customer service, finance, marketing, and management from our entire team.
Miguel's star moment came when he selected a project that aligned perfectly with his values and passions: improving inclusivity for Spanish-speaking populations at Rathbun Insurance. Armed with a mission to bridge the gap, Miguel embarked on an insightful journey. His project involved creating a checklist for areas that needed enhanced service for this demographic, selecting specific areas for change, conducting in-depth research, recommending changes, and implementing them. This initiative resonated deeply with the agency's commitment to embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive insurance environment.
Above and Beyond: Miguel's Impact on the Team
Miguel's impact was not limited to simply completing the project alone; he transformed the agency's work culture by sharing his insights with the team. His dedication, persistence, and openness to new opportunities were qualities that inspired everyone around him. As one of his colleagues beautifully put it, "Miguel offered a new, fresh perspective to the agency." His contributions have proven that innovation thrives in a space where voices from various backgrounds are heard and valued.
There were many moments when Miguel's determination simply astounded us. One such instance was when he presented the findings of his project on inclusivity within the Hispanic community. He translated website pages, envisioned a long-term diversity plan, and conducted a demographic study, shedding light on how the Hispanic community was being underserved. He may have even created a job for himself.
Miguel's journey extended beyond the agency's walls. With his Internship Passport in hand, he delved into every aspect of the agency and the insurance industry. From industry events like Big I Michigan Legislative Day and job shadows at both Accident Fund and Auto-Owenrs, Miguel was relentless in his pursuit of knowledge. His interactions with industry professionals and organizations broadened his horizons, equipping him with insights that will undoubtedly serve him well in the future.
Farewell, but Not Goodbye: Miguel's Legacy
As Miguel's internship comes to an end, Rathbun Insurance is undoubtedly going to miss his presence. His commitment to learning, his contribution to inclusivity, and his embodiment of the agency's values have left an everlasting impression. Miguel's parting words reflect his transformation: "This internship has guided me into finding what I would like to do as a career." He envisions himself not just as an intern, but as a future employee, armed with a goal to continue enriching the insurance industry with his insights and passion.
Miguel Solis's journey at Rathbun Insurance has been nothing short of inspiring. His time here has illuminated the power of a curious mind and an open heart. As Miguel heads back to school next week, his legacy of growth and impact continues to resonate, reminding us all of the potential for positive change that exists within every individual.
And so, as we bid farewell to Miguel, we eagerly await the next chapter of his journey—one that undoubtedly holds remarkable accomplishments and contributions to the world of insurance and beyond.
