From Karen Schweitzer,
Your Guide to Business School.
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Mark Meador is a recruiter for Nationwide Insurance Company and manager of Nationwide's Graduate Internship Program. He recently took time to answer a few questions about the intern program, known as The Leadership Development Institute.

Here is some great information gleaned from the Q & A:


Can you tell us a little bit about the Nationwide Graduate Internship Program?

Interns gain exposure to Nationwide’s diverse businesses; this 12-week, summer program features development activities such as:

• Mentor Partnerships - A corporate mentor partners with each LDI intern
• Project Assignments - Real-life projects are matched with the student’s academic background and desire to learn new skills
• Growth Horizons - LDI interns complete rotational assignments within any of Nationwide’s core businesses
• Executive Reflections - Biweekly presentations from Nationwide executives
• Portfolio Presentations – LDI interns make formal presentations to enhance learning
• Professional Networking – LDI interns are able network with Nationwide associates

What are some of the benefits of being a Nationwide Intern?

Nationwide provides great incentives to LDI interns:

• Competitive compensation
• Furnished housing or a housing stipend
• Access to social activities, onsite fitness center, and community volunteer opportunities

What type of qualities do you look for in an intern?

We're looking for people with personality, ideas and natural talent who want their work to mean something. Nationwide is looking for leaders who can:

• Create a compelling strategy
• Fuel Innovation
• Execute
• Put customers first
• Work as one
• Think talent

How many graduate students are accepted into the program each year?

This summer Nationwide had 22 graduate students in the intern program


Approximately what percentage of participants are hired as full-time Nationwide associates?

Nationwide has a 65% conversion ratio to full-time associates for the Graduate Interns


How can a graduate student apply?

Check our recruiting schedule at www.nationwide.com/nw/careers/university-relations/campus_visits/campus-visits.htm to see if we’re coming to your campus anytime soon. If your school is on the list, you may sign up for interviews through your Career Services Center.

If your school is not currently on our list, you may submit a resume directly on our website. Be sure to tell us about your interest in an internship in your cover letter.


Do you have any tips that you can offer interested applicants?

Internship candidates should have:

• Completed their first year of a Graduate Program
• Solid academic performance (3.25 g.p.a)
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Involvement in a variety of student organizations or some work experience
• Prior internship experience (preferred but not required)